Differences in Resistance to Human Serum in Trypanosoma brucei gambiense Groups 1 and 2
Author Information
Author(s): Capewell Paul, Veitch Nicola J., Turner C. Michael R., Raper Jayne, Berriman Matthew, Hajduk Stephen L., MacLeod Annette
Primary Institution: University of Glasgow
Hypothesis
Do groups 1 and 2 T. b. gambiense share a common mechanism of human serum resistance?
Conclusion
Group 1 T. b. gambiense avoids TLF-1 uptake, while group 2 T. b. gambiense is innately resistant to APOL1, indicating different mechanisms of resistance.
Supporting Evidence
- Group 1 T. b. gambiense has reduced uptake of TLF-1 due to lower expression of the HpHbR receptor.
- Group 2 T. b. gambiense shows variable resistance to APOL1, indicating a different resistance mechanism.
- Both groups of T. b. gambiense can internalize TLF-1, but only group 1 avoids lysis.
Takeaway
There are two types of T. b. gambiense that react differently to human blood; one type avoids being harmed, while the other type can resist harm but in a variable way.
Methodology
Isogenic resistant and sensitive group 2 T. b. gambiense were derived and compared to other T. brucei parasites using assays for human serum resistance and APOL1 lysis.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the selection of strains and interpretation of resistance mechanisms.
Limitations
The study may not account for all genetic variations within T. b. gambiense populations.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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