Secretion of proteins into host cells by Apicomplexan parasites

Traffic. 2008 May;9(5):647-56. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0854.2008.00723.x. Epub 2008 Feb 11.

Abstract

The phylum Apicomplexa consists of a diverse group of obligate, intracellular parasites. The distinct evolutionary pressures on these protozoans as they have adapted to their respective niches have resulted in a variety of methods that they use to interact with and modify their hosts. One of these is the secretion and trafficking of parasite proteins into the host cell. We review this process for Theileria, Toxoplasma and Plasmodium. We also present what is known about the mechanisms by which parasite proteins are exported into the host cell, as well as information on their known and putative functions once they have reached their final destination.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigens, Protozoan / metabolism
  • Apicomplexa* / metabolism
  • Apicomplexa* / pathogenicity
  • Host-Parasite Interactions
  • Humans
  • Plasmodium / metabolism
  • Plasmodium / pathogenicity
  • Protozoan Proteins / genetics
  • Protozoan Proteins / metabolism*
  • Theileria / metabolism
  • Theileria / pathogenicity
  • Toxoplasma / metabolism
  • Toxoplasma / pathogenicity

Substances

  • Antigens, Protozoan
  • Protozoan Proteins