Vital intertwining
A study on a blood parasite's genome has led to the development of a new material with unusual properties. The material combines toughness and softness, characteristics that are typically not found in the same substance.
Parasite Genomes
Articles tagged with Parasite Genomes
Life Sciences
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Tackling neglected tropical diseases among migrant populations
A study published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases has shown that combining country-level information with individual-level variables can improve the identification of soil-transmitted helminth infections among migrant populations. Researchers found that country-level indicators are stronger predictors than individual-level variable...
Wily parasite kills human cells and wears their remains as disguise
The single-celled parasite Entamoeba histolytica infects 50 million people each year and can kill nearly 70,000. Researchers have discovered that it damages tissue through a process called trogocytosis, where it takes bites out of human cells and ingests their fragments to evade the immune system.
The capsid of the virus-derived retrotransposon Copia, a parasitic genome element, mediates synaptic plasticity at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction
Researchers found that Copia's capsid plays a crucial role in controlling structural synaptic plasticity at the Drosophila neuromuscular junction. The study suggests that this parasitic genome element influences neuronal communication and behavior.
Essential genome of malaria parasite Plasmodium knowlesi mapped
A comprehensive map of Plasmodium knowlesi genes essential for blood infections has been generated, providing insights into drug resistance and informing the development of new therapeutics. The study identified molecular requirements for parasite growth and pinpointed specific genes causing resistance to current antimalarials.
Fly vs. wasp: Stealing a defense move helps thwart a predator
Researchers found that fruit flies have stolen a toxin-producing gene from bacteria to defend against parasitic wasps, which can turn fly larvae into surrogate wombs for baby wasps. This discovery highlights the importance of horizontal gene transfer in animal evolution and suggests it may be more common than previously thought.
One genomic test can diagnose nearly any infection
A groundbreaking metagenomic sequencing test has proven effective in rapidly diagnosing almost any kind of pathogen, including viruses, bacteria, fungus or parasite. The test analyzes all nucleic acids present in a sample, replacing multiple tests with a single one and speeding up diagnosis.
Deep-sea corals are home to previously unknown bacteria with extremely small genomes
Researchers have discovered two previously unknown bacterial species in deep-sea corals from the Gulf of Mexico. These bacteria have extremely reduced genomes and lack the ability to break down carbohydrates, surviving on amino acids instead. The discovery provides insights into the unique adaptations of deep-sea organisms.
City microbes surviving on disinfectants, research reveals
A new study has identified novel strains of microbes that have adapted to use limited resources in cities, including those found in Hong Kong's subways and skin. These microbes can metabolize manufactured products, posing health risks if they are pathogenic.
The first spatial map of malaria infection in the liver opens new possibilities for more effective malaria treatments
Researchers have created the first spatial map of malaria infection in the mouse liver using Spatial Transcriptomics and single-cell RNA-sequencing. This discovery sheds light on the parasite's lifecycle, revealing changes in host cell gene expression near infected areas.
Ancient microbes offer clues to how complex life evolved
Researchers found ancient giant viruses woven into single-celled organism's genetic code, sparking new understanding of virus-host interaction and potential evolutionary benefits.
Fight against malaria takes a step forward
Scientists at the University of California, Riverside, have identified 898 RNA-dependent proteins in the deadliest human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. These findings could lead to novel therapeutic targets against malaria and highlight the importance of RNAs in biological pathways in the parasite.
This parasitic plant convinces hosts to grow into its own flesh—it’s also an extreme example of genome shrinkage
Balanophora and Sapria have lost 38% and 28% of their genomes respectively, evolving into holoparasites with record shrinkages. The parasites shed genes related to photosynthesis, root development, and stress responses, retaining only essential genes.
Malaria-causing parasites resistant to both treatment and detection have emerged in Ethiopia
Scientists have detected new strains of malaria-causing parasites in Ethiopia that are resistant to current treatments and escape detection by common diagnostic tests. The prevalence of these double-resistant parasites is a concern for malaria control and elimination efforts in Africa, where the disease remains endemic.
Virus-like transposons wage war on the species barrier
Researchers from IMBA identify a family of virus-like transposons called Mavericks that facilitate horizontal gene transfer (HGT) between reproductively isolated worm species. The study reveals the role of Mavericks in overcoming the species barrier, with potential applications in pathogen control and genomic innovation.
In sync? Malaria parasite and human time clocks do align
A study by Florida Atlantic University and Duke University reveals that the malaria parasite's biological clock is 'in sync' with its human host's circadian clock. The researchers discovered a 'coupling' mechanism between the parasite and its host, which could lead to new treatments for this deadly disease.
Researchers warn of tick-borne disease babesiosis
A recent study reveals the first high-quality nuclear genome sequence and assembly of Babesia duncani, a neglected species until now. The parasite's evolution and mechanism of virulence have been identified, providing leads for the development of effective therapies.
UMD-led team deciphers comprehensive black-legged tick genome
A University of Maryland-led team deciphered the first comprehensive genome for a parasite responsible for transmitting Lyme disease and other serious infections. The researchers identified thousands of novel genes and new protein functions, including proteins associated with tick immunity and disease transmission.
Discovery of 119-million-year-old selfish genes in yeast potentially alters our understanding of how parasitic DNA impacts genome evolution
Researchers have discovered a family of selfish genes, wtf, that have survived for over 100 million years in yeast, contradicting established beliefs on their longevity. These 'killer meiotic drivers' transmit themselves to half of offspring and destroy reproductive cells without being suppressed by natural selection.
A new study gives an important understanding of how molecular motor proteins are involved in malaria transmission
A new study published in PLOS Biology reveals the significance of kinesins in basic cellular processes needed for malaria parasite development, multiplication and invasion. Researchers found that eight out of nine kinesins present in the parasite genome are required for cell proliferation to cell movement in mosquito hosts.
How globalization could be making human parasites more virulent
Researchers found that different lineages of Cryptosporidium parvum are increasingly exchanging their DNA, which helps the parasite evolve faster and potentially result in more virulent strains. The study suggests that globalization and close contact with animals increase the rate of genetic exchange.
Can a parasitic wasp save your fruit crops?
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba have created a genetic toolkit to investigate the molecular mechanisms of a parasitic wasp, Asobara japonica. By analyzing its genome and using RNA interference, they identified key genes involved in venom production and found that suppressing these genes can lead to phenotypic changes.
Hybrid strains make insidious parasite more dangerous
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have mapped the formation of hybrid strains in Trypanosoma cruzi, a parasite causing chronic infection and severe symptoms. These hybrids are more effective at evading the immune system and causing disease, but understanding their formation can help develop new diagnostic and treatment methods.
Silencing tool quashes gene activity across generations
Scientists have developed a gene-silencing tool that can quash gene activity across generations using small noncoding RNA molecules. This technique, called piRNAi, has expanded the molecular toolkit for gene manipulations and allows for more detailed investigations in nematode worms.
Catching malaria evolution in the act
Scientists have developed a technique to sequence individual malaria parasites' genomes, allowing for the detection of new mutations. These mutations are often targeting a gene family controlling transcription in malaria, suggesting potential avenues for developing more effective treatments and vaccines.
How to become 'ant-i-social'
Researchers sequenced the genomes of three socially parasitic ant species, finding evidence of widespread genomic rearrangements and gene losses. The study sheds light on the evolutionary consequences of transitioning from social to parasitic behavior, with significant impacts on sensory capabilities and behavioral repertoire.
Open data on malaria genomes will help combat drug resistance
The world's largest resource of genomic data on malaria parasite evolution and drug resistance has been released, providing benchmark data for new drugs and vaccines. The dataset includes over 7,000 malaria parasites from 28 endemic countries, offering insights into the evolutionary processes of Plasmodium falciparum.
The flax wilt agent has been sequenced
The Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lini genome has been fully assembled, providing insights into the parasite's adaptation to flax and its potential for breeding resistant crop varieties. The study aims to elucidate specific mechanisms of Fusarium adaptation to different hosts and find genes responsible for its preferences.
Decoding the complex life of a simple parasite
The study provides key insight into the parasites' lifestyle, which is more complex than previously thought. Dicyemids eliminate genes to conserve energy and change their reproductive methods, highlighting their unique genetic organization.
Modified HIV-1 virus can integrate into genome of parasitic flatworm
A modified HIV-1 virus can integrate into the genome of the parasitic flatworm Schistosoma mansoni, a major species of schistosomiasis-causing flatworm. This finding could aid research into potential new treatments for schistosomiasis and related neglected tropical diseases.
Genome-wide Toxoplasma screen reveals mechanisms of parasitic infections
A genome-wide CRISPR screen in Toxoplasma identifies essential apicomplexan genes contributing to parasite fitness during human cell infection. The study also reveals a protein called claudin-like apicomplexan microneme protein (CLAMP) with a strong effect on the parasite's invasion of host cells.
Penn and UGA awarded $23.4 million contract for pathogen genomics database
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease has awarded a new contract to develop the Eukaryotic Pathogen Genomics Database, providing free access to genomic data related to pathogens important to human health. The database encompasses disease-causing eukaryotes and includes over 3,000 genomes from more than 300 species.
Researchers unlock the genetic code of cancer-causing liver fluke parasite
The study provides a comprehensive understanding of the liver fluke's molecular pathways, which may lead to the development of powerful diagnostic tools and effective treatments for parasite-specific diseases. The findings offer new insights into the life cycle of the parasitic fluke in the human bile duct.
Cell biologist to begin work on discovering structure of malaria parasite genome
A team led by UC Riverside's Karine Le Roch will study the 3-D structure of the malaria parasite's genome during its erythrocytic cycle, which could lead to insights into how parasite genes are regulated. This information is crucial for designing new drugs and novel lines of defense against malaria.
Worm genome offers clues to evolution of parasitism
The Pristionchus pacificus worm genome is substantially larger and more complex than C. elegans, containing nearly 170,000 chemical bases and 23,500 protein-coding genes. The genome supports the theory that P. pacificus might be a precursor to parasitic worms.
One species' entire genome discovered inside another's
Researchers found a copy of the entire Wolbachia genome within the genome of its host, Drosophila ananassae, suggesting frequent gene transfer between bacteria and multicellular organisms. The discovery raises implications for evolution and genome sequencing projects.
UCLA and NYU microbiologists crack genome of a parasite that causes a common STD
The team of scientists deciphered the genome of Trichomonas vaginalis, a single-celled parasite causing trichomoniasis, which affects an estimated 170 million people annually. The large genome contains nearly 26,000 confirmed genes, providing new insights into pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.
Scientists sequence genome of parasite responsible for common sexually transmitted infection
Researchers have decoded the genetic makeup of T. vaginalis, a parasite causing trichomoniasis, revealing potential pathways for new treatments, diagnostics, and a vaccine strategy. The large genome comprises nearly 26,000 predicted genes, with many repetitive genes accounting for 65% of its structure.
Trypanosome genomes may reveal new drug, vaccine targets
Researchers have identified gene sequences involved in the host-parasite relationship and parasite metabolism, providing potential vaccine candidates. The sequencing of trypanosome genomes has significant challenges due to repetitive sequences but promises to advance tropical medicine by helping develop new drugs against these diseases.
Genome sequences for three deadly parasites provide foundation for new drugs
The genome sequences of Trypanosoma brucei, Trypanosoma cruzi, and Leishmania major have been completed, providing a blueprint for developing new drugs. The shared core of genes among the three parasites offers potential targets for a class of drugs that can target all three diseases.
US/African project deciphers deadly parasite genome
The study has given clues to pursue in understanding human cancers, with the parasite's genome providing information on its ability to induce cancer-like cells. The genome sequence also reveals key pathways that differ between T. parva and the malaria parasite.
NC State gets $1.59M grant to map genome of parasitic worm
The root-knot nematode causes more than half of $100 billion in annual crop and plant damage worldwide. Researchers will sequence its genome for a better understanding of its attack mechanisms.
TIGR posts sequence data for parasite that causes trichomoniasis
The Institute for Genomic Research has released sequence data for the Trichomonas vaginalis parasite, which causes trichomoniasis and is linked to increased HIV transmission. The larger-than-expected genome holds promise for finding new treatments and prevention strategies.
Scientists decipher genetic code of malaria parasite
The Institute for Genomic Research has published a paper analyzing the genome of Plasmodium falciparum, a malaria parasite. The analysis identified about 200 genes producing proteins involved in immune evasion and revealed metabolic pathways, including enzymes that could be targeted by chemotherapy.
New University of Georgia study indicates possible ancient origin for retroviruses, the class to which HIV belongs
A recent University of Georgia study suggests that retroviruses, including HIV, may have an ancient origin. Researchers analyzed the genome of a worm called Caenorhabditis elegans and found evidence of retroviral-like elements in its DNA. This finding challenges previous assumptions about the evolution of complex retroviruses.
Scientists Identify Retrovirus-Like Components In Corn Genome
Researchers have identified mobile DNA segments in the maize genome that are similar to retroviruses, which could provide a mechanism for plants to resist certain viruses. These 'selfish DNAs' can replicate and transmit to future generations without harming their hosts.