Cryptosporidium: molecular basis of host-parasite interaction

Host-parasite interactions occur at a number of stages during the process of infection with Cryptosporidium. Until recently, very little was known about the molecular basis of these interactions or of specific parasite and host molecules involved in them. Within the past decade significant advances have been made in our understanding of Cryptosporidium host-parasite interactions and in identifying molecules involved in them. However, with most interactions the story is far from complete and a number of gaps remain to be filled. This chapter reviews the existing knowledge of the molecular basis of various host-parasite interactions and of specific molecules that may be involved in them, and identifies areas in which further investigation is necessary. Identification of these molecules and elucidation of molecular mechanisms underlying the host-parasite interaction are of vital importance in developing strategies to combat cryptosporidiosis by targeted chemo- and immunotherapy.