Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2026
RNA Purification from Intracellularly Grown Listeria monocytogenes in Macrophage Cells
Published on: June 4, 2016
scRNA-seq reveals transcriptional dynamics of Encephalitozoon intestinalis parasites in human macrophages
Pattana Jaroenlak1,2, Kacie L McCarty1,3, Bo Xia4
1Department of Cell Biology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York 10016, USA.
Abstract:
Microsporidia are single-celled intracellular parasites that cause opportunistic diseases in humans. Encephalitozoon intestinalis is a prevalent human-infecting species that invades the small intestine. Dissemination to other organ systems is also observed, and is potentially facilitated by macrophages. The macrophage response to infection and the developmental trajectory of the parasite are not well studied. Here we use single cell RNA sequencing to investigate transcriptional changes in both the host and parasite during infection. While a small population of infected macrophages mount a response, most remain transcriptionally unchanged, suggesting that the majority of parasites may avoid host detection. The parasite transcriptome reveals large transcriptional changes throughout the life cycle, providing a blueprint for parasite development. The stealthy microsporidian lifestyle likely allows these parasites to harness macrophages for replication and dissemination. Together, our data provide insights into the host response in primary human macrophages and the E. intestinalis developmental program.
Insights
Microsporidia parasites like Encephalitozoon intestinalis infect humans, often evading host detection within macrophages. This study maps the parasite
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Microsporidia are opportunistic intracellular parasites causing human disease.
- Encephalitozoon intestinalis infects the small intestine and can disseminate.
- Macrophage roles in microsporidian infection and parasite development are poorly understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate host and parasite transcriptional changes during Encephalitozoon intestinalis infection.
- Elucidate the macrophage response to infection.
- Characterize the parasite's developmental trajectory.
Main Methods:
- Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of infected human macrophages.
- Analysis of host and parasite transcriptomes.
Main Results:
- Most infected macrophages showed minimal transcriptional response, suggesting parasite immune evasion.
- A small subset of macrophages mounted a transcriptional response.
- The parasite transcriptome revealed significant changes across its life cycle.
Conclusions:
- Encephalitozoon intestinalis employs a stealthy lifestyle, evading host detection.
- Macrophages may be harnessed by the parasite for replication and dissemination.
- The study provides a blueprint for parasite development and host response insights.
