Research uncovers innovative strategy used by Toxoplasma gondii parasite to evade drug treatment through protein production

A captivating microscopic glimpse into the world of Toxoplasma gondii. Credit: Michael Holmes

An⁢ intriguing study conducted by researchers at Indiana University School of Medicine has uncovered a new perspective on how Toxoplasma gondii parasites generate the⁢ proteins necessary to enter a ‌dormant phase, enabling them to resist drug therapy. This groundbreaking research has been documented in the Journal of Biological ⁤Chemistry.

Toxoplasma gondii is‍ a tiny ⁤parasite that humans can contract from cat feces, unwashed fruits and vegetables, or undercooked meat. With an infection rate ⁢reaching up to one-third of the global population, this parasite initially causes mild symptoms‌ before entering a dormant state within cysts scattered throughout the‌ body, including the brain.

These cysts ‌have been associated with alterations in behavior and ‌neurological conditions such as schizophrenia. Moreover, they can reactivate during periods of weakened immunity, leading to severe organ damage.

Although medications exist to⁣ suppress toxoplasmosis, completely eradicating the infection remains elusive. A deeper comprehension of how this parasite transitions into cysts could pave the way for discovering a cure.

After years of collaborative research efforts, ⁢Showalter Professors Bill Sullivan, Ph.D., and Ronald C. Wek, Ph.D., from IU School of Medicine have‌ demonstrated⁤ that Toxoplasma forms cysts ⁤by manipulating protein synthesis pathways. Proteins play a crucial role in determining cell fate and are produced based on messenger RNAs (mRNAs).

“However,” Sullivan explained,” mRNAs may exist within cells without being translated into proteins. Our findings‌ reveal that Toxoplasma alters‌ its protein production by selectively utilizing specific mRNAs when transitioning into cysts.”

2024-12-10 09:15:02
Link sourced from phys.org