Molecular basis of invasive stages formation in Apicomplexan parasites

2015 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 25460515
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Research Field: Parasitology (including sanitary zoology)
• Research Institution: Mie University
• Principal Investigator: Kaneko Izumi 三重大学, 医学(系)研究科(研究院), 助教 (20515720)
• Project Period (FY): 2013-04-01 – 2016-03-31
• Keywords: マラリア

Outline of Final Research Achievements

AP2-O is an AP2 family transcription factor that is expressed in the mosquito midgut-invading stage, called the ookinete, and is essential for normal morphogenesis of this stage. In this study, we identified the genome-wide target genes of AP2-O by chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing and elucidate how this AP2 family transcription factor contributes to the formation of this motile stage. The analysis revealed that AP2-O binds specifically to the upstream genomic regions of more than 500 genes, suggesting that approximately 10% of the parasite genome is directly regulated by AP2-O. These genes are involved in distinct biological processes such as morphogenesis, locomotion, midgut penetration, protection against mosquito immunity and preparation for subsequent oocyst development.

Free Research Field

寄生虫学