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[Antigenic variation of African trypanosomes]
1Département de Biologie Moléculaire, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgique.
Annales De Parasitologie Humaine Et Comparee
|January 1, 1990
Summary
Trypanosome parasites precisely control antigen gene expression, switching between hundreds of genes using specific telomeric sites. This regulated process, involving transcriptional and post-transcriptional controls, enables antigenic variation crucial for parasite survival.
Area of Science:
- Molecular biology
- Parasitology
- Genetics
Context:
- Trypanosome parasites possess a large repertoire of antigen genes.
- Antigen gene expression is tightly regulated, with only one gene typically active at any given time.
- Expression is confined to specific telomeric regions within the genome.
Purpose:
- To investigate the mechanisms regulating trypanosome antigen gene expression.
- To understand how parasites achieve antigenic variation.
- To elucidate the characteristics of antigen gene transcription and its control.
Summary:
- Trypanosome antigen gene expression is restricted to single, telomeric sites.
- Transcription involves a unique RNA polymerase resistant to alpha-amanitin and includes multiple genes.
- Post-transcriptional regulation and mechanisms like alternative expression site activation or gene recombination drive antigenic variation.
Impact:
- Provides insights into the complex gene regulation strategies of parasitic protozoa.
- Highlights the molecular basis of antigenic variation, a key factor in host-parasite interactions.
- Informs potential targets for antiparasitic drug development by understanding parasite survival mechanisms.