Expansion microscopy of apicomplexan parasites

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Parasitology
• Microscopy

Background:

• Apicomplexan parasites are significant pathogens with complex cell biology.
• Studying these small organisms requires advanced microscopy techniques.
• Ultrastructure-expansion microscopy (U-ExM) physically expands samples for enhanced visualization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review insights into apicomplexan cell biology using U-ExM.
• To focus on Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, and Cryptosporidium.
• To summarize emerging expansion microscopy techniques and their future impact.

Main Methods:

• Review of studies utilizing ultrastructure-expansion microscopy (U-ExM).
• Focus on applications in Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, and Cryptosporidium.
• Summary of recent advancements in expansion microscopy.

Main Results:

• U-ExM has proven highly effective for studying apicomplexan cell biology.
• Significant insights have been gained into the cell biology of key apicomplexan parasites.
• Emerging U-ExM modifications promise further advancements.

Conclusions:

• U-ExM is a transformative technique for apicomplexan research.
• Continued development of expansion microscopy will advance parasite cell biology.
• This review highlights the utility and future potential of U-ExM in parasitology.