The transcriptome from asexual to sexual in vitro development of Cystoisospora suis (Apicomplexa: Coccidia)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Parasitology
• Molecular Biology
• Apiscience

Background:

• Cystoisospora suis is a globally prevalent enteropathogen affecting suckling piglets.
• The parasite's lifecycle involves asexual multiplication and sexual development, but sexual stages are poorly understood.
• Limited knowledge of C. suis sexual development hinders the development of effective control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the transcriptional profiles of C. suis during asexual, immature sexual, and mature sexual stages.
• To identify key genes and proteins involved in the sexual development of C. suis.
• To explore potential targets for interrupting parasite transmission.

Main Methods:

• RNA sequencing (RNASeq) was employed to analyze transcriptional profiles at three distinct developmental time points in vitro.
• Gene expression patterns were analyzed to identify genes crucial for gamete biology, oocyst wall formation, DNA replication, and axoneme development.
• An antiserum against a specific oocyst wall protein homologue was used to evaluate inhibition of sexual development.

Main Results:

• Transcriptional analysis revealed genes essential for gamete formation, oocyst wall biosynthesis, DNA replication, and axoneme assembly.
• A homologue of a Toxoplasma gondii oocyst wall tyrosine-rich protein was found to be expressed in C. suis macrogametes and oocysts.
• Antiserum against this protein showed potential for inhibiting sexual development in host-free cultures.

Conclusions:

• The study identified critical molecular players in the sexual development of C. suis.
• A specific oocyst wall protein homologue presents a promising candidate for developing novel control strategies.
• These findings provide a basis for future interventions targeting parasite transmission during sexual stages.