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Effect of cytochalasin D on Toxoplasma gondii cell entry
Abstract:
Cytochalasin D did not prevent attachment but did prevent entry of Toxoplasma gondii into peritoneal macrophages and bladder tumor 4934 cells. Inhibition of entry of T. gondii into peritoneal macrophages by cytochalasin D was dose related and comparable to inhibition of phagocytosis. Prevention of entry of T. gondii into bladder tumor 4934 cells by cytochalasin D followed a dose response identical to that observed with peritoneal macrophages. After removal of the medium containing cytochalasin D, its effect was completely reversible, and the kinetics of the loss of inhibition followed a similar time course for both phagocytic and "nonphagocytic" cell types. The studies support the concept that the host cells actively participate in the process by which T. gondii gains entry into cells.
Insights
Cytochalasin D inhibited Toxoplasma gondii entry into cells but not attachment. This effect was dose-dependent, reversible, and suggests host cells actively participate in parasite invasion.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Parasitology
- Infectious diseases
Background:
- Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular parasite.
- Understanding host cell invasion mechanisms is crucial for developing interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of host cell actin cytoskeleton in Toxoplasma gondii entry.
- To determine if cytochalasin D affects parasite attachment or invasion.
Main Methods:
- Treatment of peritoneal macrophages and bladder tumor cells with varying concentrations of cytochalasin D.
- Assessment of Toxoplasma gondii attachment and entry into treated cells.
- Evaluation of the reversibility of cytochalasin D's effects.
Main Results:
- Cytochalasin D inhibited Toxoplasma gondii entry into both phagocytic (macrophages) and non-phagocytic (tumor) cells.
- Inhibition was dose-dependent and comparable to the inhibition of phagocytosis.
- The inhibitory effect of cytochalasin D was fully reversible upon removal of the drug.
Conclusions:
- Host cell active participation is essential for Toxoplasma gondii invasion.
- The actin cytoskeleton plays a critical role in mediating parasite entry into host cells.