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Monomorphic Trypanozoon: towards reconciling phylogeny and pathologies
Guy Oldrieve1, Mylène Verney2, Kamil S Jaron3
1Institute for Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK.
Microbial Genomics
|August 16, 2021
Summary
Genomic analysis reveals distinct evolutionary paths for Trypanosoma brucei evansi and T. brucei equiperdum, challenging current classifications. One isolate, IVM-t1, is reassigned, suggesting potential spread outside Africa.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Parasitology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Trypanosoma brucei evansi and T. brucei equiperdum are animal trypanosomes with debated classifications.
- They are non-tsetse transmitted and morphologically uniform (monomorphic).
- Genomic studies indicate polyphyletic origins, not fully reflected in current taxonomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To re-analyze genomic data to define monomorphic trypanosome clades.
- To identify and account for lineage-specific variation.
- To investigate the evolutionary position of the IVM-t1 isolate.
Main Methods:
- Re-analysis of publicly available genomic data.
- Phylogenetic analysis to define clades.
- Comparative analysis of lineage-specific variation.
Main Results:
- Identification of at least four distinct monomorphic Trypanosoma brucei clades.
- Evidence of lineage-specific variation in selection efficacy and heterozygosity.
- Reassignment of the IVM-t1 isolate to the T. brucei evansi type B clade.
Conclusions:
- Monomorphic trypanosomes exhibit distinct evolutionary histories.
- The classification of T. brucei evansi and T. brucei equiperdum requires revision.
- The reassignment of IVM-t1 suggests potential expansion outside Africa, impacting disease diagnosis.
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