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Epigenetics: A New Model for Intracellular Parasite-Host Cell Regulation
W Robert McMaster1, Charlotte J Morrison1, Michael S Kobor2
1Immunity and Infection Research Centre, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute, Department of Medical Genetics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.
Trends in Parasitology
|May 5, 2016
Summary
Protozoan parasites like Leishmania may use epigenetics to inactivate host macrophages, promoting pathogen survival. This epigenetic manipulation of host cells offers a potential target for treating Leishmania infections.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Immunology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Intracellular protozoan parasites cause significant human and animal diseases.
- Pathogens, including protozoa, viruses, and prokaryotes, can manipulate host cells epigenetically.
- Epigenetic modifications alter host genome transcription and signaling pathways, influencing host-pathogen interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of epigenetics in Leishmania-mediated downregulation of host macrophages.
- To explore how Leishmania manipulates host epigenetics to favor its survival and disease progression.
Main Methods:
- This study examines the epigenetic mechanisms employed by Leishmania.
- Analysis focuses on the downregulation of host macrophage functions.
Main Results:
- Leishmania infection leads to epigenetic modifications in host macrophages.
- These modifications result in the downregulation and potential permanent inactivation of macrophages.
- This inactivation benefits parasite survival and facilitates disease progression.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic reprogramming of host macrophages by Leishmania is a key mechanism for pathogen persistence.
- Understanding these epigenetic interactions is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies against Leishmania infections.
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