Ehrlichia chaffeensis Transcriptome in Mammalian and Arthropod Hosts Reveals Differential Gene Expression and Post Transcriptional Regulation
2011

Ehrlichia chaffeensis Gene Expression in Hosts

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Kuriakose Jeeba A., Miyashiro Simone, Luo Tian, Zhu Bing, McBride Jere W.

Primary Institution: University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America

Hypothesis

Differences in the E. chaffeensis transcriptome in mammalian and arthropod hosts are unknown.

Conclusion

E. chaffeensis gene expression is highly active in tick cells, with differential expression profiles observed between human and tick cells.

Supporting Evidence

  • 80% of E. chaffeensis genes were expressed during infection in human and tick cells.
  • 405 E. chaffeensis genes were differentially expressed between human and tick cells.
  • TRP32 and TRP47 were highly upregulated in human monocytes but not detected in tick cells.

Takeaway

This study looked at how a germ called E. chaffeensis behaves differently in humans and ticks, finding that it acts more actively in ticks.

Methodology

The study analyzed E. chaffeensis gene expression in human monocytes and tick cell lines using a whole genome microarray.

Limitations

The study did not synchronize the infection to evaluate specific phases of the developmental cycle.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.005

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0024136

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication