Elucidation of mechanisms by which host immune cells kill protozoan parasites and development of antiparasitic peptides

2016 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 15K20840
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Integrative animal science; Veterinary medical science
• Research Institution: Hokkaido University
• Principal Investigator: Terkawi Alaa 北海道大学, 医学研究科, 助教 (00723074)
• Research Collaborator: Kato Kentaro 原虫病研究センター帯広畜産大学 ; Takano Ryo 原虫病研究センター帯広畜産大学
• Project Period (FY): 2015-04-01 – 2017-03-31
• Keywords: Macrophages / Neutrophils / Phagocytes / Effector molecules

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Understanding the molecular defense mechanism of phagocytes and identifying their effector molecules against malarial parasites may provide important clues for the discovery of new therapies. Macrophages and neutrophils are professional phagocytes that play key role in the innate immune response against infection through their ability to rapidly recognize and kill microorganisms. An attempt was made to identify the host effector molecules derived from macrophages and neutrophils that kill malaria parasites using DNA microarray technology.
Results suggested that DEFB130 from macrophages and CTSL from neutrophils are involved in the clearance mechanism of malarial parasites. The data obtained from this project broaden our knowledge on the immunological response of macrophages and neutrophils to malaria parasites and shed light on a new target for therapeutic intervention.

Free Research Field

Immunology