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Tripathi J, Stoklasa M, Nayak S, En Low K, Qian Hui Lee E, Duong Tien QH, Rénia L, Malleret B, Bozdech Z. The artemisinin-induced dormant stages of Plasmodium falciparum exhibit hallmarks of cellular quiescence/senescence and drug resilience. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7485. [PMID: 39209862 PMCID: PMC11362153 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51846-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Recrudescent infections with the human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, presented traditionally the major setback of artemisinin-based monotherapies. Although the introduction of artemisinin combination therapies (ACT) largely solved the problem, the ability of artemisinin to induce dormant parasites still poses an obstacle for current as well as future malaria chemotherapeutics. Here, we use a laboratory model for induction of dormant P. falciparum parasites and characterize their transcriptome, drug sensitivity profile, and cellular ultrastructure. We show that P. falciparum dormancy requires a ~ 5-day maturation process during which the genome-wide gene expression pattern gradually transitions from the ring-like state to a unique form. The transcriptome of the mature dormant stage carries hallmarks of both cellular quiescence and senescence, with downregulation of most cellular functions associated with growth and development and upregulation of selected metabolic functions and DNA repair. Moreover, the P. falciparum dormant stage is considerably more resistant to antimalaria drugs compared to the fast-growing asexual stages. Finally, the irregular cellular ultrastructure further suggests unique properties of this developmental stage of the P. falciparum life cycle that should be taken into consideration by malaria control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaishree Tripathi
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, 637551, Singapore.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Immunology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore, 117597, Singapore.
| | - Michal Stoklasa
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Sourav Nayak
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Kay En Low
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Erica Qian Hui Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Immunology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Quang Huy Duong Tien
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, 637551, Singapore
| | - Laurent Rénia
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, 637551, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, 636921, Singapore
- A*STAR Infectious Diseases Labs (A*STAR ID Labs), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore, 138648, Singapore
| | - Benoit Malleret
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Immunology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore, 117597, Singapore
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore, 117597, Singapore
| | - Zbynek Bozdech
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, 637551, Singapore.
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2
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Micchelli CE, Percopo C, Traver M, Brzostowski J, Amin SN, Prigge ST, Sá JM, Wellems TE. Progressive heterogeneity of enlarged and irregularly shaped apicoplasts in P. falciparum persister blood stages after drug treatment. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.03.574077. [PMID: 38410435 PMCID: PMC10896342 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.03.574077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Morphological modifications and shifts in organelle relationships are hallmarks of dormancy in eukaryotic cells. Communications between altered mitochondria and nuclei are associated with metabolic quiescence of cancer cells that can survive chemotherapy. In plants, changes in the pathways between nuclei, mitochondria, and chloroplasts are associated with cold stress and bud dormancy. Plasmodium falciparum parasites, the deadliest agent of malaria in humans, contain a chloroplast-like organelle (apicoplast) derived from an ancient photosynthetic symbiont. Antimalarial treatments can fail because a small fraction of the blood stage parasites enter dormancy and recrudesce after drug exposure. Altered mitochondrial-nuclear interactions in these persisters have been described for P. falciparum , but interactions of the apicoplast remained to be characterized. In the present study, we examined the apicoplasts of persisters obtained after exposure to dihydroartemisinin (a first-line antimalarial drug) followed by sorbitol treatment, or after exposure to sorbitol treatment alone. As previously observed, the mitochondrion of persisters was consistently enlarged and in close association with the nucleus. In contrast, the apicoplast varied from compact and oblate, like those of active ring stage parasites, to enlarged and irregularly shaped. Enlarged apicoplasts became more prevalent later in dormancy, but regular size apicoplasts subsequently predominated in actively replicating recrudescent parasites. All three organelles, nucleus, mitochondrion, and apicoplast, became closer during dormancy. Understanding their relationships in erythrocytic-stage persisters may lead to new strategies to prevent recrudescences and protect the future of malaria chemotherapy. Significance Statement Dormancy of blood-stage malaria parasites (as persister forms) frequently undermines treatment and may facilitate the evolution of drug resistance. Here, we examine changes that occur in dormancy with two P. falciparum organelles relative to the nucleus: the mitochondrion and the plastid-like apicoplast. As previously reported, the mitochondrion of persisters is consistently enlarged, irregularly shaped, and shifted into close apposition with the nucleus. However, apicoplasts exhibit a greater variety of shapes, volumes, and relative positioning during dormancy: some persisters maintain a regular appearing apicoplast, while others show dramatically altered apicoplasts, reminiscent of the chloroplast swelling and degradation that occurs with death from reactive oxygen species in various plant cells. Improved understanding of these processes will support new approaches in antimalarial chemotherapy.
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3
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Sheokand PK, Pradhan S, Maclean AE, Mühleip A, Sheiner L. Plasmodium falciparum Mitochondrial Complex III, the Target of Atovaquone, Is Essential for Progression to the Transmissible Sexual Stages. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9239. [PMID: 39273187 PMCID: PMC11394760 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The Plasmodium falciparum mitochondrial electron transport chain (mETC) is responsible for essential metabolic pathways such as de novo pyrimidine synthesis and ATP synthesis. The mETC complex III (cytochrome bc1 complex) is responsible for transferring electrons from ubiquinol to cytochrome c and generating a proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane, which is necessary for the function of ATP synthase. Recent studies have revealed that the composition of Plasmodium falciparum complex III (PfCIII) is divergent from humans, highlighting its suitability as a target for specific inhibition. Indeed, PfCIII is the target of the clinically used anti-malarial atovaquone and of several inhibitors undergoing pre-clinical trials, yet its role in parasite biology has not been thoroughly studied. We provide evidence that the universally conserved subunit, PfRieske, and the new parasite subunit, PfC3AP2, are part of PfCIII, with the latter providing support for the prediction of its divergent composition. Using inducible depletion, we show that PfRieske, and therefore, PfCIII as a whole, is essential for asexual blood stage parasite survival, in line with previous observations. We further found that depletion of PfRieske results in gametocyte maturation defects. These phenotypes are linked to defects in mitochondrial functions upon PfRieske depletion, including increased sensitivity to mETC inhibitors in asexual stages and decreased cristae abundance alongside abnormal mitochondrial morphology in gametocytes. This is the first study that explores the direct role of the PfCIII in gametogenesis via genetic disruption, paving the way for a better understanding of the role of mETC in the complex life cycle of these important parasites and providing further support for the focus of antimalarial drug development on this pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Kumar Sheokand
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Sabyasachi Pradhan
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Andrew E Maclean
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Alexander Mühleip
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Lilach Sheiner
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
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4
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Gallego-López GM, Contreras Guzman E, Desa DE, Knoll LJ, Skala MC. Metabolic changes in Toxoplasma gondii-infected host cells measured by autofluorescence imaging. mBio 2024; 15:e0072724. [PMID: 38975793 PMCID: PMC11323734 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00727-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, is an obligate intracellular parasite that infects warm-blooded vertebrates across the world. In humans, seropositivity rates of T. gondii range from 10% to 90% across communities. Despite its prevalence, few studies address how T. gondii infection changes the metabolism of host cells. In this study, we investigate how T. gondii manipulates the host cell metabolic environment by monitoring the metabolic response over time using noninvasive autofluorescence lifetime imaging of single cells, metabolite analysis, extracellular flux analysis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Autofluorescence lifetime imaging indicates that infected host cells become more oxidized and have an increased proportion of bound NAD(P)H compared to uninfected controls. Over time, infected cells also show decreases in levels of intracellular glucose and lactate, increases in oxygen consumption, and variability in ROS production. We further examined changes associated with the pre-invasion "kiss and spit" process using autofluorescence lifetime imaging, which also showed a more oxidized host cell with an increased proportion of bound NAD(P)H over 48 hours compared to uninfected controls, suggesting that metabolic changes in host cells are induced by T. gondii kiss and spit even without invasion.IMPORTANCEThis study sheds light on previously unexplored changes in host cell metabolism induced by T. gondii infection using noninvasive, label-free autofluorescence imaging. In this study, we use optical metabolic imaging (OMI) to measure the optical redox ratio (ORR) in conjunction with fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) to noninvasively monitor single host cell response to T. gondii infection over 48 hours. Collectively, our results affirm the value of using autofluorescence lifetime imaging to noninvasively monitor metabolic changes in host cells over the time course of a microbial infection. Understanding this metabolic relationship between the host cell and the parasite could uncover new treatment and prevention options for T. gondii infections worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina M. Gallego-López
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | | | | | - Laura J. Knoll
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Melissa C. Skala
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
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5
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Campanella M, Kannan B. Mitochondrial sites of contact with the nucleus. J Cell Biol 2024; 223:e202305010. [PMID: 38669038 PMCID: PMC11046832 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202305010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Membrane contact sites (MCS) between mitochondria and the nucleus have been recently described. Termed nucleus associated mitochondria (NAM), they prime the expression of genes required for cellular resistance to stressors, thus offering a tethering mechanism for homeostatic communication. Here, we discuss the composition of NAM and their physiological and pathological significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelangelo Campanella
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Institute Gustave Roussy, Villejuif, France
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Brindha Kannan
- William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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6
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Small-Saunders JL, Sinha A, Bloxham TS, Hagenah LM, Sun G, Preiser PR, Dedon PC, Fidock DA. tRNA modification reprogramming contributes to artemisinin resistance in Plasmodium falciparum. Nat Microbiol 2024; 9:1483-1498. [PMID: 38632343 PMCID: PMC11153160 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-024-01664-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Plasmodium falciparum artemisinin (ART) resistance is driven by mutations in kelch-like protein 13 (PfK13). Quiescence, a key aspect of resistance, may also be regulated by a yet unidentified epigenetic pathway. Transfer RNA modification reprogramming and codon bias translation is a conserved epitranscriptomic translational control mechanism that allows cells to rapidly respond to stress. We report a role for this mechanism in ART-resistant parasites by combining tRNA modification, proteomic and codon usage analyses in ring-stage ART-sensitive and ART-resistant parasites in response to drug. Post-drug, ART-resistant parasites differentially hypomodify mcm5s2U on tRNA and possess a subset of proteins, including PfK13, that are regulated by Lys codon-biased translation. Conditional knockdown of the terminal s2U thiouridylase, PfMnmA, in an ART-sensitive parasite background led to increased ART survival, suggesting that hypomodification can alter the parasite ART response. This study describes an epitranscriptomic pathway via tRNA s2U reprogramming that ART-resistant parasites may employ to survive ART-induced stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L Small-Saunders
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Center for Malaria Therapeutics and Antimicrobial Resistance, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Ameya Sinha
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Antimicrobial Resistance IRG, Singapore MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Talia S Bloxham
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
- Center for Malaria Therapeutics and Antimicrobial Resistance, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Laura M Hagenah
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Guangxin Sun
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Peter R Preiser
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
- Antimicrobial Resistance IRG, Singapore MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Peter C Dedon
- Antimicrobial Resistance IRG, Singapore MIT Alliance for Research and Technology, Singapore, Singapore
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - David A Fidock
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Center for Malaria Therapeutics and Antimicrobial Resistance, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA.
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7
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Rosenthal PJ, Asua V, Conrad MD. Emergence, transmission dynamics and mechanisms of artemisinin partial resistance in malaria parasites in Africa. Nat Rev Microbiol 2024; 22:373-384. [PMID: 38321292 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-024-01008-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Malaria, mostly due to Plasmodium falciparum infection in Africa, remains one of the most important infectious diseases in the world. Standard treatment for uncomplicated P. falciparum malaria is artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT), which includes a rapid-acting artemisinin derivative plus a longer-acting partner drug, and standard therapy for severe P. falciparum malaria is intravenous artesunate. The efficacy of artemisinins and ACT has been threatened by the emergence of artemisinin partial resistance in Southeast Asia, mediated principally by mutations in the P. falciparum Kelch 13 (K13) protein. High ACT treatment failure rates have occurred when resistance to partner drugs is also seen. Recently, artemisinin partial resistance has emerged in Rwanda, Uganda and the Horn of Africa, with independent emergences of different K13 mutants in each region. In this Review, we summarize our current knowledge of artemisinin partial resistance and focus on the emergence of resistance in Africa, including its epidemiology, transmission dynamics and mechanisms. At present, the clinical impact of emerging resistance in Africa is unclear and most available evidence suggests that the efficacies of leading ACTs remain excellent, but there is an urgent need to better appreciate the extent of the problem and its consequences for the treatment and control of malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Victor Asua
- Infectious Diseases Research Collaboration, Kampala, Uganda
- University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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8
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Ovciarikova J, Shikha S, Lacombe A, Courjol F, McCrone R, Hussain W, Maclean A, Lemgruber L, Martins-Duarte ES, Gissot M, Sheiner L. Two ancient membrane pores mediate mitochondrial-nucleus membrane contact sites. J Cell Biol 2024; 223:e202304075. [PMID: 38456969 PMCID: PMC10923651 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202304075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Coordination between nucleus and mitochondria is essential for cell survival, and thus numerous communication routes have been established between these two organelles over eukaryotic cell evolution. One route for organelle communication is via membrane contact sites, functional appositions formed by molecular tethers. We describe a novel nuclear-mitochondrial membrane contact site in the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. We have identified specific contacts occurring at the nuclear pore and demonstrated an interaction between components of the nuclear pore and the mitochondrial protein translocon, highlighting them as molecular tethers. Genetic disruption of the nuclear pore or the TOM translocon components, TgNup503 or TgTom40, respectively, result in contact site reduction, supporting their potential involvement in this tether. TgNup503 depletion further leads to specific mitochondrial morphology and functional defects, supporting a role for nuclear-mitochondrial contacts in mediating their communication. The discovery of a contact formed through interaction between two ancient mitochondrial and nuclear complexes sets the ground for better understanding of mitochondrial-nuclear crosstalk in eukaryotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Ovciarikova
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Shikha Shikha
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Alice Lacombe
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Flavie Courjol
- CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019—UMR 9017—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, University of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Rosalind McCrone
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Wasim Hussain
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Andrew Maclean
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Leandro Lemgruber
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Erica S. Martins-Duarte
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Mathieu Gissot
- CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019—UMR 9017—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, University of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Lilach Sheiner
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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9
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Plazzi F, Le Cras Y, Formaggioni A, Passamonti M. Mitochondrially mediated RNA interference, a retrograde signaling system affecting nuclear gene expression. Heredity (Edinb) 2024; 132:156-161. [PMID: 37714959 PMCID: PMC10923801 DOI: 10.1038/s41437-023-00650-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Several functional classes of short noncoding RNAs are involved in manifold regulatory processes in eukaryotes, including, among the best characterized, miRNAs. One of the most intriguing regulatory networks in the eukaryotic cell is the mito-nuclear crosstalk: recently, miRNA-like elements of mitochondrial origin, called smithRNAs, were detected in a bivalve species, Ruditapes philippinarum. These RNA molecules originate in the organelle but were shown in vivo to regulate nuclear genes. Since miRNA genes evolve easily de novo with respect to protein-coding genes, in the present work we estimate the probability with which a newly arisen smithRNA finds a suitable target in the nuclear transcriptome. Simulations with transcriptomes of 12 bivalve species suggest that this probability is high and not species specific: one in a hundred million (1 × 10-8) if five mismatches between the smithRNA and the 3' mRNA are allowed, yet many more are allowed in animals. We propose that novel smithRNAs may easily evolve as exaptation of the pre-existing mitochondrial RNAs. In turn, the ability of evolving novel smithRNAs may have played a pivotal role in mito-nuclear interactions during animal evolution, including the intriguing possibility of acting as speciation trigger.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Plazzi
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, via Selmi, 3 - 40126, Bologna, BO, Italy.
| | - Youn Le Cras
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, via Selmi, 3 - 40126, Bologna, BO, Italy
- Magistère Européen de Génétique, Université Paris Cité, 85 Boulevard Saint Germain, 75006, Paris, Italy
| | - Alessandro Formaggioni
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, via Selmi, 3 - 40126, Bologna, BO, Italy
| | - Marco Passamonti
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, via Selmi, 3 - 40126, Bologna, BO, Italy
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10
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Sun S, Zhao G, Jia M, Jiang Q, Li S, Wang H, Li W, Wang Y, Bian X, Zhao YG, Huang X, Yang G, Cai H, Pastor-Pareja JC, Ge L, Zhang C, Hu J. Stay in touch with the endoplasmic reticulum. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2024; 67:230-257. [PMID: 38212460 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-023-2443-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum (ER), which is composed of a continuous network of tubules and sheets, forms the most widely distributed membrane system in eukaryotic cells. As a result, it engages a variety of organelles by establishing membrane contact sites (MCSs). These contacts regulate organelle positioning and remodeling, including fusion and fission, facilitate precise lipid exchange, and couple vital signaling events. Here, we systematically review recent advances and converging themes on ER-involved organellar contact. The molecular basis, cellular influence, and potential physiological functions for ER/nuclear envelope contacts with mitochondria, Golgi, endosomes, lysosomes, lipid droplets, autophagosomes, and plasma membrane are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sha Sun
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Gan Zhao
- The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Mingkang Jia
- The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Qing Jiang
- The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Shulin Li
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Haibin Wang
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Wenjing Li
- Laboratory of Computational Biology & Machine Intelligence, School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yunyun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China
| | - Xin Bian
- State Key Laboratory of Medicinal Chemical Biology, College of Life Sciences, Nankai University, Tianjin, 300071, China.
| | - Yan G Zhao
- Brain Research Center, Department of Biology, School of Life Sciences, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Xun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Developmental Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Innovation Academy for Seed Design, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Ge Yang
- Laboratory of Computational Biology & Machine Intelligence, School of Artificial Intelligence, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Huaqing Cai
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Jose C Pastor-Pareja
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
- Institute of Neurosciences, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientfflcas-Universidad Miguel Hernandez, San Juan de Alicante, 03550, Spain.
| | - Liang Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Membrane Biology, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| | - Chuanmao Zhang
- The Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Proliferation and Differentiation, College of Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| | - Junjie Hu
- National Laboratory of Biomacromolecules, Institute of Biophysics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
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11
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Platon L, Ménard D. Plasmodium falciparum ring-stage plasticity and drug resistance. Trends Parasitol 2024; 40:118-130. [PMID: 38104024 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Malaria is a life-threatening tropical disease caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium, of which Plasmodium falciparum is the most lethal. Malaria parasites have a complex life cycle, with stages occurring in both the Anopheles mosquito vector and human host. Ring stages are the youngest form of the parasite in the intraerythrocytic developmental cycle and are associated with evasion of spleen clearance, temporary growth arrest (TGA), and drug resistance. This formidable ability to survive and develop into mature, sexual, or growth-arrested forms demonstrates the inherent population heterogeneity. Here we highlight the role of the ring stage as a crossroads in parasite development and as a reservoir of surviving cells in the human host via TGA survival mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucien Platon
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Malaria Genetics and Resistance Unit, INSERM U1201, F-75015 Paris, France; Sorbonne Université, Collège Doctoral ED 515 Complexité du Vivant, F-75015 Paris, France; Université de Strasbourg, Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, UR7292 Dynamics of Host-Pathogen Interactions, F-67000 Strasbourg, France.
| | - Didier Ménard
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Malaria Genetics and Resistance Unit, INSERM U1201, F-75015 Paris, France; Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Malaria Parasite Biology and Vaccines Unit, F-75015 Paris, France; Université de Strasbourg, Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, UR7292 Dynamics of Host-Pathogen Interactions, F-67000 Strasbourg, France; CHU Strasbourg, Laboratory of Parasitology and Medical Mycology, F-67000 Strasbourg, France.
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12
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Kobpornchai P, Imwong M, Kulkeaw K. Trio fluorophore-based phenotypic assay for the detection of artemisinin-induced growth-arrested Plasmodium falciparum in human erythrocytes. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1802. [PMID: 38245618 PMCID: PMC10799909 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52414-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin combination therapy remains effective for the treatment of falciparum malaria. However, Plasmodium falciparum can escape the effects of artemisinin by arresting their growth. The growth-arrested parasites cannot be distinguished from nonviable parasites with standard microscopy techniques due to their morphological similarities. Here, we demonstrated the efficacy of a new laboratory assay that is compatible with the artemisinin susceptibility test. As a result of the differential cell permeabilities of two DNA-binding fluorophores, growth-arrested P. falciparum can be distinguished from parasites killed by artemisinin, since the latter lose cell membrane permeability. This fluorescence-based assay increased the sensitivity and specificity of the ring survival assay in the assessment of artemisinin susceptibility. When combined with a third fluorophore-conjugated anti-human leukocyte antibody, this trio fluorophore assay became more useful in identifying growth-arrested parasites in mock human blood samples. This novel assay is a simple and rapid technique for monitoring artemisinin resistance with greater sensitivity and accuracy compared with morphology-based observations under a light microscope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Porntida Kobpornchai
- Siriraj Integrative Center for Neglected Parasitic Diseases, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
- Siriraj-Long Read Lab, Department of Bioinformatics, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Mallika Imwong
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Kasem Kulkeaw
- Siriraj Integrative Center for Neglected Parasitic Diseases, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
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13
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Reyser T, Paloque L, Nguyen M, Augereau JM, Fuchter MJ, Lopez M, Arimondo PB, Hassell-Hart S, Spencer J, Di Stefano L, Benoit-Vical F. Epidrugs as Promising Tools to Eliminate Plasmodium falciparum Artemisinin-Resistant and Quiescent Parasites. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2440. [PMID: 37896200 PMCID: PMC10610379 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15102440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of artemisinin and its derivatives has helped reduce the burden of malaria caused by Plasmodium falciparum. However, artemisinin-resistant parasites are able, in the presence of artemisinins, to stop their cell cycles. This quiescent state can alter the activity of artemisinin partner drugs leading to a secondary drug resistance and thus threatens malaria eradication strategies. Drugs targeting epigenetic mechanisms (namely epidrugs) are emerging as potential antimalarial drugs. Here, we set out to evaluate a selection of various epidrugs for their activity against quiescent parasites, to explore the possibility of using these compounds to counter artemisinin resistance. The 32 chosen epidrugs were first screened for their antiplasmodial activity and selectivity. We then demonstrated, thanks to the specific Quiescent-stage Survival Assay, that four epidrugs targeting both histone methylation or deacetylation as well as DNA methylation decrease the ability of artemisinin-resistant parasites to recover after artemisinin exposure. In the quest for novel antiplasmodial drugs with new modes of action, these results reinforce the therapeutic potential of epidrugs as antiplasmodial drugs especially in the context of artemisinin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibaud Reyser
- LCC-CNRS, Laboratoire de Chimie de Coordination, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, 31077 Toulouse, France
- MAAP, New Antimalarial Molecules and Pharmacological Approaches, Inserm ERL 1289, 31077 Toulouse, France
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier (UPS), 31077 Toulouse, France
| | - Lucie Paloque
- LCC-CNRS, Laboratoire de Chimie de Coordination, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, 31077 Toulouse, France
- MAAP, New Antimalarial Molecules and Pharmacological Approaches, Inserm ERL 1289, 31077 Toulouse, France
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier (UPS), 31077 Toulouse, France
| | - Michel Nguyen
- LCC-CNRS, Laboratoire de Chimie de Coordination, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, 31077 Toulouse, France
- MAAP, New Antimalarial Molecules and Pharmacological Approaches, Inserm ERL 1289, 31077 Toulouse, France
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier (UPS), 31077 Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Michel Augereau
- LCC-CNRS, Laboratoire de Chimie de Coordination, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, 31077 Toulouse, France
- MAAP, New Antimalarial Molecules and Pharmacological Approaches, Inserm ERL 1289, 31077 Toulouse, France
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier (UPS), 31077 Toulouse, France
| | - Matthew John Fuchter
- Department of Chemistry, Molecular Sciences Research Hub, Imperial College London, White City Campus, London W12 0BZ, UK
| | - Marie Lopez
- Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron (IBMM), CNRS, Université de Montpellier, ENSCM UMR 5247, 34293 Montpellier, France
| | - Paola B Arimondo
- Epigenetic Chemical Biology, Department of Structural Biology and Chemistry, Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris-Cité, UMR 3523 CNRS, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Storm Hassell-Hart
- Department of Chemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer BN1 9QJ, UK
| | - John Spencer
- Department of Chemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer BN1 9QJ, UK
| | - Luisa Di Stefano
- MCD, Centre de Biologie Intégrative (CBI), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, 31062 Toulouse, France
| | - Françoise Benoit-Vical
- LCC-CNRS, Laboratoire de Chimie de Coordination, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, 31077 Toulouse, France
- MAAP, New Antimalarial Molecules and Pharmacological Approaches, Inserm ERL 1289, 31077 Toulouse, France
- Institut de Pharmacologie et de Biologie Structurale (IPBS), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Université Toulouse III-Paul Sabatier (UPS), 31077 Toulouse, France
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14
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Siqueira-Neto JL, Wicht KJ, Chibale K, Burrows JN, Fidock DA, Winzeler EA. Antimalarial drug discovery: progress and approaches. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2023; 22:807-826. [PMID: 37652975 PMCID: PMC10543600 DOI: 10.1038/s41573-023-00772-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Recent antimalarial drug discovery has been a race to produce new medicines that overcome emerging drug resistance, whilst considering safety and improving dosing convenience. Discovery efforts have yielded a variety of new molecules, many with novel modes of action, and the most advanced are in late-stage clinical development. These discoveries have led to a deeper understanding of how antimalarial drugs act, the identification of a new generation of drug targets, and multiple structure-based chemistry initiatives. The limited pool of funding means it is vital to prioritize new drug candidates. They should exhibit high potency, a low propensity for resistance, a pharmacokinetic profile that favours infrequent dosing, low cost, preclinical results that demonstrate safety and tolerability in women and infants, and preferably the ability to block Plasmodium transmission to Anopheles mosquito vectors. In this Review, we describe the approaches that have been successful, progress in preclinical and clinical development, and existing challenges. We illustrate how antimalarial drug discovery can serve as a model for drug discovery in diseases of poverty.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathryn J Wicht
- Holistic Drug Discovery and Development (H3D) Centre, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council Drug Discovery and Development Research Unit, Department of Chemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | - Kelly Chibale
- Holistic Drug Discovery and Development (H3D) Centre, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council Drug Discovery and Development Research Unit, Department of Chemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa
| | | | - David A Fidock
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology and Center for Malaria Therapeutics and Antimicrobial Resistance, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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15
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Tarannum A, Rodríguez-Almonacid CC, Salazar-Bravo J, Karamysheva ZN. Molecular Mechanisms of Persistence in Protozoan Parasites. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2248. [PMID: 37764092 PMCID: PMC10534552 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11092248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Protozoan parasites are known for their remarkable capacity to persist within the bodies of vertebrate hosts, which frequently results in prolonged infections and the recurrence of diseases. Understanding the molecular mechanisms that underlie the event of persistence is of paramount significance to develop innovative therapeutic approaches, given that these pathways still need to be thoroughly elucidated. The present article provides a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in the investigation of protozoan persistence in vertebrate hosts. The focus is primarily on the function of persisters, their formation within the host, and the specific molecular interactions between host and parasite while they persist. Additionally, we examine the metabolomic, transcriptional, and translational changes that protozoan parasites undergo during persistence within vertebrate hosts, focusing on major parasites such as Plasmodium spp., Trypanosoma spp., Leishmania spp., and Toxoplasma spp. Key findings of our study suggest that protozoan parasites deploy several molecular and physiological strategies to evade the host immune surveillance and sustain their persistence. Furthermore, some parasites undergo stage differentiation, enabling them to acclimate to varying host environments and immune challenges. More often, stressors such as drug exposure were demonstrated to impact the formation of protozoan persisters significantly. Understanding the molecular mechanisms regulating the persistence of protozoan parasites in vertebrate hosts can reinvigorate our current insights into host-parasite interactions and facilitate the development of more efficacious disease therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Zemfira N. Karamysheva
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA; (A.T.); (C.C.R.-A.); (J.S.-B.)
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16
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Gallego-López GM, Guzman EC, Knoll LJ, Skala M. Metabolic changes to host cells with Toxoplasma gondii infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.10.552811. [PMID: 37609172 PMCID: PMC10441426 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.10.552811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, is an obligate intracellular parasite that infects warm-blooded vertebrates across the world. In humans, seropositivity rates of T. gondii range from 10% to 90%. Despite its prevalence, few studies address how T. gondii infection changes the metabolism of host cells. Here, we investigate how T. gondii manipulates the host cell metabolic environment by monitoring metabolic response over time using non-invasive autofluorescence lifetime imaging of single cells, seahorse metabolic flux analysis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and metabolomics. Autofluorescence lifetime imaging indicates that infected host cells become more oxidized and have an increased proportion of bound NAD(P)H with infection. These findings are consistent with changes in mitochondrial and glycolytic function, decrease of intracellular glucose, fluctuations in lactate and ROS production in infected cells over time. We also examined changes associated with the pre-invasion "kiss and spit" process using autofluorescence lifetime imaging, which similarly showed a more oxidized host cell with an increased proportion of bound NAD(P)H over 48 hours. Glucose metabolic flux analysis indicated that these changes are driven by NADH and NADP+ in T. gondii infection. In sum, metabolic changes in host cells with T. gondii infection were similar during full infection, and kiss and spit. Autofluorescence lifetime imaging can non-invasively monitor metabolic changes in host cells over a microbial infection time-course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gina M. Gallego-López
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, 53706
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706
| | | | - Laura J. Knoll
- Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, 53706
| | - Melissa Skala
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI, 53706
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin- Madison, WI 53706, USA
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17
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Ring stage dormancy of Plasmodium falciparum tolerant to artemisinin and its analogues - A genetically regulated "Sleeping Beauty". Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2023; 21:61-64. [PMID: 36708651 PMCID: PMC9883618 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The appearance in 2008 in western Cambodia of Plasmodium falciparum tolerant to artemisinin, defined by longer parasite clearance time following drug administration and in vitro by a slightly higher survival rate of the ring stage after a 3-h treatment with 700 nM artemisinin (or analogues, collectively termed ART), has raised concerns of the possible loss of this frontline antimalarial [used in the form of an artemisinin combination therapy (ACT)], with its low IC50 value against the ring stage and pleiotropic pro-drug/poison property. The key genetic marker of ART tolerance phenotype is a number of non-synonymous mutations in Pfkelch13 propeller domain. This results in defective assembly at the ring stage of a cytostome structure located at cytoplasmic side of the parasite membrane required for invagination of a double-membrane endosome carrying host cytosol haemoglobin to the digestive vacuole. The consequential deprivation of amino acids initiates ring stage parasites bearing the causal mutations in PfK13 (or other key cytostome components) entry into a dormant state ("Sleeping Beauty"), which, after a duration longer than that the short-lived ART, "Sleeping Beauty" ring parasite resumes its normal, but accelerated, development to maintain the 48-h intra-erythrocytic life-cycle. We posit that when ART-tolerant P. falciparum has acquired under ART stress the causative PfK13 mutation (not obligatory if mutations occur in other critical cytostome components), together with other necessary mutations to adjust to the new normalcy and to provide survival competitiveness, ART-tolerant parasite has now evolved into a genetically programmed "Sleeping Beauty". The onus of preventing the spread of ART-tolerant P. falciparum lies with the efficacy of ACT partner drug, hence the recommendation of a triple ACT (TACT). Nevertheless, attention should also be focussed on understanding the mechanisms of dormancy, such as induction, maintenance and recovery, to enable discovery and development of novel antimalarials targeting this unique parasite stage.
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18
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Keroack CD, Duraisingh MT. Molecular mechanisms of cellular quiescence in apicomplexan parasites. Curr Opin Microbiol 2022; 70:102223. [PMID: 36274498 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2022.102223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Quiescence is a reversible nonproliferative cellular state that allows organisms to persist through unfavorable conditions. Quiescence can be stimulated by a wide range of external or intrinsic factors. Cells undergo a coordinated molecular program to enter and exit from the quiescent state, which is governed by signaling, transcriptional and translational changes, epigenetic mechanisms, metabolic switches, and changes in cellular architecture. These mechanisms have been extensively studied in model organisms, and a growing number of studies have identified conserved mechanisms in apicomplexan parasites. Quiescence in the context of a parasitic infection has significant clinical impact: quiescent forms may underlie treatment failures, relapsing infections, and stress tolerance. Here, we review the latest understanding of quiescence in apicomplexa, synthesizing these studies to highlight conserved mechanisms, and identifying technologies to assist in further characterization of quiescence. Understanding conserved mechanisms of quiescence in apicomplexans will provide avenues for transmission prevention and radical cure of infections.
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19
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Ward KE, Fidock DA, Bridgford JL. Plasmodium falciparum resistance to artemisinin-based combination therapies. Curr Opin Microbiol 2022; 69:102193. [PMID: 36007459 PMCID: PMC9847095 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2022.102193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Multidrug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum parasites are a major threat to public health in intertropical regions. Understanding the mechanistic basis, origins, and spread of resistance can inform strategies to mitigate its impact and reduce the global burden of malaria. The recent emergence in Africa of partial resistance to artemisinins, the core component of first-line combination therapies, is particularly concerning. Here, we review recent advances in elucidating the mechanistic basis of artemisinin resistance, driven primarily by point mutations in P. falciparum Kelch13, a key regulator of hemoglobin endocytosis and parasite response to artemisinin-induced stress. We also review resistance to partner drugs, including piperaquine and mefloquine, highlighting a key role for plasmepsins 2/3 and the drug and solute transporters P. falciparum chloroquine-resistance transporter and P. falciparum multidrug-resistance protein-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt E Ward
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - David A Fidock
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA; Center for Malaria Therapeutics and Antimicrobial Resistance, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Jessica L Bridgford
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
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20
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The Plasmodium falciparum Nuclear Protein Phosphatase NIF4 Is Required for Efficient Merozoite Invasion and Regulates Artemisinin Sensitivity. mBio 2022; 13:e0189722. [PMID: 35938722 PMCID: PMC9426563 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01897-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin resistance in Plasmodium falciparum has been associated with a mutation in the NLI-interacting factor-like phosphatase PfNIF4, in addition to the mutations in the Kelch13 protein as the major determinant. We found that PfNIF4 was predominantly expressed at the schizont stage and localized in the nuclei of the parasite. To elucidate the functions of PfNIF4 in P. falciparum, we performed PfNIF4 knockdown (KD) using the inducible ribozyme system. PfNIF4 KD attenuated merozoite invasion and affected gametocytogenesis. PfNIF4 KD parasites also showed significantly increased in vitro susceptibility to artemisinins. Transcriptomic and proteomic analysis revealed that PfNIF4 KD led to the downregulation of gene categories involved in invasion and artemisinin resistance (e.g., mitochondrial function, membrane, and Kelch13 interactome) at the trophozoite and/or schizont stage. Consistent with PfNIF4 being a protein phosphatase, PfNIF4 KD resulted in an overall upregulation of the phosphoproteome of infected erythrocytes. Quantitative phosphoproteomic profiling identified a set of PfNIF4-regulated phosphoproteins with functional similarity to FCP1 substrates, particularly proteins involved in chromatin organization and transcriptional regulation. Specifically, we observed increased phosphorylation of Ser2/5 of the tandem repeats in the C-terminal domain (CTD) of RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) upon PfNIF4 KD. Furthermore, using the TurboID-based proteomic approach, we identified that PfNIF4 interacted with the RNAPII components, AP2-domain transcription factors, and chromatin-modifiers and binders. These findings suggest that PfNIF4 may act as the RNAPII CTD phosphatase, regulating the expression of general and parasite-specific cellular pathways during the blood-stage development.
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21
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Ovciarikova J, Oliveira Souza RO, Arrizabalaga G, Sheiner L. Protein control of membrane and organelle dynamics: Insights from the divergent eukaryote Toxoplasma gondii. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2022; 76:102085. [PMID: 35569259 PMCID: PMC9586877 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2022.102085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Integral membrane protein complexes control key cellular functions in eukaryotes by defining membrane-bound spaces within organelles and mediating inter-organelles contacts. Despite the critical role of membrane complexes in cell biology, most of our knowledge is from a handful of model systems, primarily yeast and mammals, while a full functional and evolutionary understanding remains incomplete without the perspective from a broad range of divergent organisms. Apicomplexan parasites are single-cell eukaryotes whose survival depends on organelle compartmentalisation and communication. Studies of a model apicomplexan, Toxoplasma gondii, reveal unexpected divergence in the composition and function of complexes previously considered broadly conserved, such as the mitochondrial ATP synthase and the tethers mediating ER–mitochondria membrane contact sites. Thus, Toxoplasma joins the repertoire of divergent model eukaryotes whose research completes our understanding of fundamental cell biology.
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22
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Anwar O, Islam M, Thakur V, Kaur I, Mohmmed A. Defining ER-mitochondria contact dynamics in Plasmodium falciparum by targeting component of phospholipid synthesis pathway, Phosphatidylserine synthase (PfPSS). Mitochondrion 2022; 65:124-138. [PMID: 35623558 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2022.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The malaria parasite completes the asexual cycle inside the host erythrocyte, which requires extensive membrane biogenesis for its development and multiplication. Metabolic pathways for the synthesis of membrane phospholipids (PL), including phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylserine (PS), are crucial for parasite survival. Here, we have studied the P. falciparum enzyme responsible for PS synthesis, Phosphatidylserine synthase (PfPSS), GFP targeting approach confirmed it to be localized in the parasite ER as well as in ER-protrusions. Detailed high resolution microscopy, using these transgenic parasites expressing PfPSS-GFP, redefined the dynamics of ER during the intraerythrocytic life cycle and its association with the mitochondria. We report for the first time presence of ER-mitochondria contact (ERMC) in Plasmodium; ERMC is formed by PfPSS containing ER-protrusions, which associate with the mitochondria surface throughout the parasite growth cycle. Further, ERMC is found to be stable and refractory to ER and mitochondrial stresses, suggesting that it is formed through strong tethering complexes. PfPSS was found to interact with other major key enzyme involved in PL synthesis, choline/Etn-phosphotransferase (CEPT), which suggest that ER is the major site for PL biosynthesis. Overall, this study defines the morphological organisation of ERMC which mediates PL synthesis/transport in the Plasmodium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omair Anwar
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi 110 067, India
| | - Muzahidul Islam
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi 110 067, India
| | - Vandana Thakur
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi 110 067, India
| | - Inderjeet Kaur
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi 110 067, India
| | - Asif Mohmmed
- International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, New Delhi 110 067, India.
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23
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Ovciarikova J, Shikha S, Sheiner L. Nuclear Interactions: A Spotlight on Nuclear Mitochondrial Membrane Contact Sites. CONTACT (THOUSAND OAKS (VENTURA COUNTY, CALIF.)) 2022; 5:25152564221096217. [PMID: 36338149 PMCID: PMC9623421 DOI: 10.1177/25152564221096217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Membrane contact sites (MCS) are critical for cellular functions of eukaryotes, as they enable communication and exchange between organelles. Research over the last decade unravelled the function and composition of MCS between a variety of organelles including mitochondria, ER, plasma membrane, lysosomes, lipid droplets, peroxisome and endosome, to name a few. In fact, MCS are found between any pair of organelles studied to date, with common functions including lipid exchange, calcium signalling and organelle positioning in the cell. Work in the past year has started addressing the composition and function of nuclear-mitochondrial MCS. Tether components mediating these contacts in yeast have been identified via comprehensive phenotypic screens, which also revealed a possible link between this contact and phosphatidylcholine metabolism. In human cells, and in the protozoan parasites causing malaria, proximity between these organelles is proposed to promote cell survival via a mitochondrial retrograde response. These pioneering studies should inspire the field to explore what cellular processes depend on the exchange between the nucleus and the mitochondrion, given that they play such central roles in cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Ovciarikova
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Shikha Shikha
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Lilach Sheiner
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, UK
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24
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Endo T, Takemae H, Sharma I, Furuya T. Multipurpose Drugs Active Against Both Plasmodium spp. and Microorganisms: Potential Application for New Drug Development. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:797509. [PMID: 35004357 PMCID: PMC8740689 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.797509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria, a disease caused by the protozoan parasites Plasmodium spp., is still causing serious problems in endemic regions in the world. Although the WHO recommends artemisinin combination therapies for the treatment of malaria patients, the emergence of artemisinin-resistant parasites has become a serious issue and underscores the need for the development of new antimalarial drugs. On the other hand, new and re-emergences of infectious diseases, such as the influenza pandemic, Ebola virus disease, and COVID-19, are urging the world to develop effective chemotherapeutic agents against the causative viruses, which are not achieved to the desired level yet. In this review article, we describe existing drugs which are active against both Plasmodium spp. and microorganisms including viruses, bacteria, and fungi. We also focus on the current knowledge about the mechanism of actions of these drugs. Our major aims of this article are to describe examples of drugs that kill both Plasmodium parasites and other microbes and to provide valuable information to help find new ideas for developing novel drugs, rather than merely augmenting already existing drug repurposing efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takuro Endo
- Laboratory of Veterinary Infectious Diseases, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hitoshi Takemae
- Center for Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention Research, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Indu Sharma
- Department of Biological Sciences, Hampton University, Hampton, VA, United States
| | - Tetsuya Furuya
- Laboratory of Veterinary Infectious Diseases, Cooperative Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan
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