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Published on: March 29, 2020
Cytochrome P450 in fluke Opisthorchis felineus: identification and characterization
Maria Y Pakharukova1, Nikita I Ershov, Elena V Vorontsova
1Institute of Cytology and Genetics SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia. pmaria@yandex.ru
Abstract:
Infection with the human liver fluke Opisthorchis felineus is a serious public health problem in Russia and other Eastern Europe countries. The aim of this work was to identify and sequence cytochrome P450 mRNA from O. felineus and to analyze its expression at different developmental stages. We found only one cytochrome P450 in O. felineus. It contains a conserved Pfam00067 domain which was typical of the CYP450 II eukaryotic microsomal type, and a putative transmembrane domain. Additionally, we identified a high degree of homology between a 3D model of O. felineus CYP450 and mammalian CYP2 structures. The level of O. felineus CYP mRNA expression in maritae (adult stage in definitive mammal host) is significantly higher than in metacercaria. This fact indicates an important role of this biotransformation enzyme in the biochemistry of the parasite at the maritae stage.
Insights
The human liver fluke Opisthorchis felineus has one cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzyme. Its expression is higher in adult flukes, suggesting a key role in parasite biochemistry.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Opisthorchis felineus infection is a significant public health concern in Eastern Europe.
- Understanding parasite molecular mechanisms is crucial for developing control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and sequence cytochrome P450 (CYP450) mRNA from Opisthorchis felineus.
- To analyze the expression of this CYP450 across different developmental stages of the parasite.
Main Methods:
- Cytochrome P450 mRNA identification and sequencing from O. felineus.
- Bioinformatic analysis of conserved domains and homology modeling.
- Quantitative analysis of gene expression at different life stages (metacercaria and adult).
Main Results:
- A single cytochrome P450 (CYP450) gene was identified in O. felineus.
- The identified CYP450 possesses a conserved Pfam00067 domain (microsomal CYP450 II type) and a transmembrane domain.
- Significant homology was observed between O. felineus CYP450 and mammalian CYP2 structures.
- O. felineus CYP mRNA expression was markedly higher in the adult (maritae) stage compared to the metacercaria stage.
Conclusions:
- The identified O. felineus CYP450 enzyme likely plays a critical role in the parasite's biochemistry during the adult stage.
- This biotransformation enzyme represents a potential target for future anti-parasitic interventions.
