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Horizontal and vertical transfer of mouse endogenous retroviral DNA sequences in schistosomes
A Imase1, K Kobayashi, H Ohmae
1Center for Arts and Humanities, Faculty of Medical Health, Ibaraki Prefectural University of Health Sciences, Inashiki, Japan.
Abstract:
The in situ polymerase chain reaction (PCR) results revealed that mouse type A and type C retroviral sequences were transmitted horizontally from the host to schistosomes. The signals to these retroviral sequences were observed in the nuclei of the mesenchymal and reproductive cells of 8-week Schistosoma japonicum. These signals were also detected in the nuclei of the mesenchymal and reproductive cells and in the cytoplasm of the tegumental tubercles of 24-week S. mansoni. Furthermore, mouse type A retroviral sequence was detected in the DNA extracted from the cercariae of both species. However, mouse type C retroviral sequence and mouse type 2 Alu sequence (B2) were difficult to detect in the cercarial DNA of either species. These findings may indicate that some host sequences are propagated in the schistosome progeny, that is to say, not only horizontal but also vertical transfer of the host gene may occur in schistosomes.
Insights
Host retroviral sequences were horizontally transferred to schistosomes, appearing in various cell types and even in cercariae. This suggests potential vertical gene transfer from host to parasite progeny.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Schistosomes are parasitic flatworms that cause significant human disease.
- Understanding host-parasite interactions at a molecular level is crucial for developing control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and transmission of host retroviral sequences within schistosome parasites.
- To determine if host genetic material can be transferred to schistosome progeny.
Main Methods:
- In situ polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect retroviral sequences in schistosome tissues.
- DNA was extracted from cercariae for sequence analysis.
Main Results:
- Mouse type A and C retroviral sequences were detected in the nuclei of mesenchymal, reproductive cells, and tegumental tubercles of Schistosoma japonicum and Schistosoma mansoni.
- Mouse type A retroviral sequence was found in cercarial DNA, indicating transmission to offspring.
- Mouse type C retroviral sequence and mouse type 2 Alu sequence (B2) were difficult to detect in cercarial DNA.
Conclusions:
- Host retroviral sequences can be horizontally transferred to schistosomes.
- Findings suggest the possibility of vertical gene transfer from host to schistosome, potentially impacting parasite evolution and biology.