Procyclin Null Mutants of Trypanosoma brucei and Their Role in Transmission by Tsetse Flies
Author Information
Author(s): Vassella Erik, Oberle Michael, Urwyler Simon, Renggli Christina Kunz, Studer Erwin, Hemphill Andrew, Fragoso Cristina, Bütikofer Peter, Brun Reto, Roditi Isabel
Primary Institution: Institut für Zellbiologie, Universität Bern, Bern, Switzerland
Hypothesis
Are procyclins essential for the survival and transmission of Trypanosoma brucei?
Conclusion
Procyclin null mutants can complete the life cycle and are transmissible by tsetse flies, although with reduced efficiency.
Supporting Evidence
- Procyclin null mutants can establish midgut infections at rates comparable to wild type.
- The prevalence of salivary gland infections was significantly lower in procyclin null mutants.
- Procyclin expression enhances the competitive fitness of trypanosomes in mixed infections.
Takeaway
This study shows that even without a specific protein coat, trypanosomes can still infect flies and complete their life cycle, but they do it less effectively.
Methodology
The study involved creating procyclin null mutants and testing their ability to infect tsetse flies and complete their life cycle.
Limitations
The study did not explore the long-term fitness of the mutants in natural environments.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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