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Host cell invasion by apicomplexans: what do we know?
Daniel Bargieri1, Vanessa Lagal, Isabelle Tardieux
1Institut Pasteur, Unité de Biologie et Génétique du Paludisme, 75015 Paris, France.
Trends in Parasitology
|February 14, 2012
Summary
Apicomplexan parasites invade host cells via a transient tight junction (TJ). We critically examine the established AMA1-RON protein model for TJ structure and propose alternative mechanisms for apicomplexan invasion.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Apicomplexan zoites invade host cells through a transient tight junction (TJ) formed between parasite and host cell surfaces.
- The molecular mechanisms of TJ formation and function are difficult to characterize due to the process's rapid, seconds-long duration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically discuss the current model of the apicomplexan TJ, focusing on the AMA1-RON protein association.
- To propose alternative models for the AMA1-RON interaction and the structure of the apicomplexan TJ.
Main Methods:
- Critical review and discussion of existing literature on apicomplexan invasion.
- Analysis of recent experimental findings that challenge the current TJ model.
Main Results:
- The established model, where AMA1 and RON proteins bridge host and parasite cytoskeletons to structure the TJ, is questioned by recent data.
- The transient nature of the TJ complicates definitive molecular characterization.
Conclusions:
- Alternative models for the AMA1-RON association and apicomplexan TJ structure are needed.
- Further research is required to fully elucidate the molecular dynamics of apicomplexan host cell invasion.
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