Protein helps parasites live in host cells

In a study published in the Journal of Cells and Bacteria, the scientists said that ROP18 protein loses the ability of stem cell proteins and forms a protective parasite bubble.

By forming a surrounding membrane, the parasite protects itself from hostile environments when it penetrates into host cells.

Molecular microbiology professor L. David Sibley said: ' If we can find ROP18 isolation therapies and parasitic proteins, it could give host cells an advantage in the anti-battle. infection again . "

Toxoplasma infection or Toxoplasmosis is one of the most common opportunistic infections in the community, especially when pregnant women have a very high chance of getting it. This disease is caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii , which can threaten the health of the fetus in the womb.

This type of parasite is most often found in cats, it can produce very quickly and much in cat gut, cat feces. In addition, if pregnant women eat unripe foods (such as re-beef) or interact with animals infected with the parasite, chances are they will have an opportunistic infection. Therefore, it is important to discover the exact role of ROP18 and related proteins in human diseases.

In this new study, the scientists showed that the ROP18 protein binds to a host of immune-related host cells called GTPases. Tests in host cell structures in humans and animals show that this link causes the GTPases to lose their ability to function. Thus, humans will have no immune-related GTPases.

However, the researchers also said: ' We have a group of similar immune-function proteins called guanylate-binding proteins and we are currently testing whether ROP18 is ineffective. Is this protein in the cells of the human body? '

The researchers said the finding could be applied to the study of parasites and other pathogens.

Toxoplasmosis belongs to the parasite family, including the Plasmodium parasite that causes malaria. These parasites are surrounded by protective membranes when they penetrate into host cells.

According to them, Plasmodium does not create ROP18 but they contain similar proteins called FIKK and may also work to undermine the defense mechanisms of host cells such as GTPases and guanylate-bindin proteins.