Investigation of the molecular target of an early lead anti-Toxoplasma compound
Advisor Information
Paul Davis
Location
UNO Criss Library, Room 231
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Start Date
6-3-2015 2:00 PM
End Date
6-3-2015 2:15 PM
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an extremely common parasite of both animals and humans, infecting an estimated up to 40% of the United States human population, but as much as 50% to 80% of the population in much of South America and continental Europe. In a healthy adult, infection with T. gondii generally results in minimal or no clinical symptoms due to immune system suppression of the motile form of the parasite. Shortly after infection, however, the parasite forms cysts to protect itself from the immune system, which permits future reactivation in the event of immune system depression. T. gondii infection has been identified as a leading cause of severe illness amongst immune compromised individuals and pregnant women. Given these global health concerns, effective methods for treatment and control of T. gondii are critical. The goal of this study is to investigate the mechanism of action of the novel drug against Toxoplasma gondii infection. We have utilized mutagenesis coupled with genomic sequencing techniques to help identify the gene targeted by KG7 to restrict T. gondii growth. Such information will be beneficial not only for the clinical use of this drug in treating patients worldwide for T. gondii infection, but will also progress our understanding of the parasite for future studies.
Investigation of the molecular target of an early lead anti-Toxoplasma compound
UNO Criss Library, Room 231
Toxoplasma gondii is an extremely common parasite of both animals and humans, infecting an estimated up to 40% of the United States human population, but as much as 50% to 80% of the population in much of South America and continental Europe. In a healthy adult, infection with T. gondii generally results in minimal or no clinical symptoms due to immune system suppression of the motile form of the parasite. Shortly after infection, however, the parasite forms cysts to protect itself from the immune system, which permits future reactivation in the event of immune system depression. T. gondii infection has been identified as a leading cause of severe illness amongst immune compromised individuals and pregnant women. Given these global health concerns, effective methods for treatment and control of T. gondii are critical. The goal of this study is to investigate the mechanism of action of the novel drug against Toxoplasma gondii infection. We have utilized mutagenesis coupled with genomic sequencing techniques to help identify the gene targeted by KG7 to restrict T. gondii growth. Such information will be beneficial not only for the clinical use of this drug in treating patients worldwide for T. gondii infection, but will also progress our understanding of the parasite for future studies.
Additional Information (Optional)
Winner of Best Graduate Oral Presentation