Microarray analysis reveals previously unknown changes in Toxoplasma gondii-infected human cells.

Cells infected with the intracellular protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii undergo up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, organelle redistribution, and protection from apoptosis. To examine the molecular basis of these and other changes, gene expression profiles of human foreskin fibroblasts infected with Toxoplasma were studied using human cDNA microarrays consisting of approximately 22,000 known genes and uncharacterized expressed sequence tags. Early during infection (1-2 h), <1% of all genes show a significant change in the abundance of their transcripts. Of the 63 known genes in this group, 27 encode proteins associated with the immune response. These genes are also up-regulated by secreted, soluble factors from extracellular parasites indicating that the early response does not require parasite invasion. Later during infection, genes involved in numerous host cell processes, including glucose and mevalonate metabolism, are modulated. Many of these late genes are dependent on the direct presence of the parasite; i.e. secreted products from either the parasite or infected cells are insufficient to induce these changes. These results reveal several previously unknown effects on the host cell and lay the foundation for detailed analysis of their role in the host-pathogen interaction.

How the host 'sees' pathogens: global gene expression responses to infection.

Innate immune responses to pathogens are believed to be patterned and stereotyped. Adaptive responses display variety but in relatively few types of products and with limited numbers of mechanisms. Is this apparent disparity between microbial pathogen diversity and a restricted set of host responses an accurate picture of infection or is it the result of a limited collection of analytic tools? DNA microarray technology permits one to address simple descriptive questions about global gene expression inside cells. In particular, it offers an opportunity to examine the relationship between host and pathogen in much greater detail than has been possible previously. One can now ask, firstly, how a host cell or organism 'sees' a microbial pathogen from the viewpoint of gene expression responses and, secondly, at what level it is able to discriminate between different agents. Other potential insights to be reaped include the identification of microbial determinants of the host response, the temporal features of the 'conversation' between host and pathogen, novel strategies for therapeutic and prophylactic intervention and prognostic markers of outcome.

The surface of Toxoplasma tachyzoites is dominated by a family of glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored antigens related to SAG1.

Toxoplasma gondii is an Apicomplexan parasite with a complex life cycle that includes a rapidly dividing asexual stage known as the tachyzoite. The tachyzoite surface has been reported to comprise five major antigens, the most abundant of which is designated SAG1 (for surface antigen 1). At least one of the other four (SAG3) and another recently described minor antigen (SRS1 [for SAG1-related sequence 1]) have previously been shown to be structurally related to SAG1. To determine if further SAG1 homologs exist, we searched a Toxoplasma expressed sequence tag (EST) database and found numerous ESTs corresponding to at least three new genes related to SAG1. Like SAG1, these new SRS genes encode apparently glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins that share several motifs and a set of conserved cysteine residues. This family appears to have arisen by divergence from a common ancestor under selection for the conservation of overall topology. The products of two of these new genes (SRS2 and SRS3) are shown to be expressed on the surface of Toxoplasma tachyzoites by immunofluorescence. We also identified strain-specific differences in relative expression levels. A total of 10 members of the SAG1 gene family have now been identified, which apparently include three of the five major surface antigens previously described and one antigen expressed only in bradyzoites. The function of this family may be to provide a redundant system of receptors for interaction with host cells and/or to direct the immune responses that limit acute T. gondii infections.

Expressed sequence tag analysis of the bradyzoite stage of Toxoplasma gondii: identification of developmentally regulated genes.

Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite responsible for widespread infections in humans and animals. Two major asexual forms are produced during the life cycle of this parasite: the rapidly dividing tachyzoite and the more slowly dividing, encysted bradyzoite. To further study the differentiation between these two forms, we have generated a large number of expressed sequence tags (ESTs) from both asexual stages. Previously, we obtained data on approximately 7,400 ESTs from tachyzoites (J. Ajioka et al., Genome Res. 8:18-28, 1998). Here, we report the results from analysis of approximately 2,500 ESTs from bradyzoites purified from the cysts of infected mice. We also report the results from analysis of 760 ESTs from parasites induced to differentiate from tachyzoites to bradyzoites in vitro. Comparison of the data sets from bradyzoites and tachyzoites reveals many previously uncharacterized sequence clusters which are largely or completely specific to one or other developmental stage. This class includes a bradyzoite-specific form of enolase. Combined with the previously identified bradyzoite-specific form of lactate dehydrogenase, this finding suggests significant differences in flux through the lower end of the glycolytic pathway in this stage. Thus, the generation of this data set provides valuable insights into the metabolism and growth of the parasite in the encysted form and represents a substantial body of information for further study of development in Toxoplasma.

The surface of Toxoplasma: more and less.

As for any intracellular parasite, the surface of the Apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii must fulfil many functions including a role in attachment, signalling, invasion, transport and interaction with the immune response of the host. In this review, we describe the current state of knowledge on the molecules that are found on the surface of the different developmental stages of this parasite and speculate as to how at least some of these multiple functions are fulfilled. Special emphasis is given to the growing family of surface antigens that are related to the tachyzoite-specific surface antigen 1. We conclude that the surface (of tachyzoites, at least) is both more and less complex than previously thought: there are more proteins present but their sequences suggest that the majority may share a similar overall structure typified by surface antigen 1.

Gene discovery by EST sequencing in Toxoplasma gondii reveals sequences restricted to the Apicomplexa.

To accelerate gene discovery and facilitate genetic mapping in the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii, we have generated >7000 new ESTs from the 5' ends of randomly selected tachyzoite cDNAs. Comparison of the ESTs with the existing gene databases identified possible functions for more than 500 new T. gondii genes by virtue of sequence motifs shared with conserved protein families, including factors involved in transcription, translation, protein secretion, signal transduction, cytoskeleton organization, and metabolism. Despite this success in identifying new genes, more than 50% of the ESTs correspond to genes of unknown function, reflecting the divergent evolutionary status of this parasite. A newly recognized class of genes was identified based on its similarity to sequences known only from other members of the same phylum, therefore identifying sequences that are apparently restricted to the Apicomplexa. Such genes may underlie pathways common to this group of medically important parasites, therefore identifying potential targets for intervention.

Identification of a nuclear protein in Trypanosoma brucei with homology to RNA-binding proteins from cis-splicing systems.

Gene expression in trypanosomes is controlled at the level of pre-mRNA maturation via trans-splicing and polyadenylation and through changes in mRNA stability. To identify the trans- acting factors involved in this regulation, we have used a degenerate PCR approach to clone genes encoding the RNA recognition motif (RRM) consensus. We have identified a single-copy gene encoding a protein (designated RRM1) which contains three consensus RRM motifs, two tandem copies of a retroviral gag-like CCHC 'zinc finger' and an arginine-serine (RS) rich region. Western blotting indicates that RRM1 is expressed in both procyclic and bloodstream-form trypanosomes and has an apparent mobility on SDS-PAGE of ca. 70 Kd. RRM1 is localized in the trypanosome nucleus in substructures which may be functionally analogous to the 'speckles' associated with cis-splicing in higher eukaryotic cells. The structure of RRM1, its pattern of expression and its intracellular location suggest that it may play a role in trans-splicing.

Genetic and biochemical analysis of development in Toxoplasma gondii.

Toxoplasma gondii has recently come under intense study as a model for intracellular parasitism because it has a number of properties that facilitate experimental manipulation. Attention is now being turned towards understanding the developmental biology of this complex parasite. The differentiation between the two asexual stages, the rapidly growing tachyzoites and the more slowly dividing, encysted bradyzoites, is of particular interest. Progression from the former to the latter is influenced by the host's immune response. This paper describes current progress on a number of research fronts, all aimed at understanding the triggers that push the tachyzoite-bradyzoite equilibrium in one or other direction and the changes that occur in gene expression (and ultimately metabolism and function). Chief among the techniques used for these studies are genetics and molecular genetics. Recent progress in these areas is described.

Genetic analysis in Toxoplasma: gene discovery with expressed sequence tags and rapid mapping of natural polymorphisms.

Genetic analysis of the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii has undergone a rapid expansion in recent years. This is due to effort in a number of laboratories that have worked on the development of molecular genetic techniques. It is also due, however, to the natural biology of this system (including a well-described sexual cycle) that makes possible genetic mapping of the F1 progeny from a cross. In this article, we present a detailed methodology for rapidly mapping natural polymorphisms between the ME49 and CEP strains for which extensive restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis has already been performed. The example we present shows that the failure to detect expression of bradyzoite-specific surface antigens in the CEP strain under conditions that promote differentiation in vitro is not a result of a general failure to express such genes; instead, it is apparently due to antigenic polymorphism in the gene products concerned. This conclusion was reached rapidly and definitively by genetic mapping, whereas molecular approaches would have taken considerably longer. We also show how the recent effort to create an extensive database of expressed sequence tags for this parasite can promote the very rapid discovery of genes that reveal much about the biology of Toxoplasma. The example presented deals with the expression of a family of closely related surface antigens in the tachyzoite stage.

Analysis of carbohydrate-protein interactions with synthetic N-linked neoglycoconjugate probes.

Recently we have describe a simple efficient chemical method of generating an asparagine side-chain linker with beta-stereochemistry at the anomeric position of neutral oligosaccharides. We now report the 1-N-glycyl beta-derivatization of sialylated saccharides. Several neoglycoconjugates formed using these N-linked inter-mediates were investigated for their usefulness in probing carbohydrate-protein interactions. First, biotinyl derivatives of two xylose/fucose class plant-type oligosaccharides purified from horseradish peroxidase were effective in demonstrating the carbohydrate specificity of polyclonal anti-(horseradish peroxidase) antibodies. Secondly, a fluorescein-labelled asialo- and digalactosylated biantennary complex sugar was synthesized and shown to bind to a Ricinus communis agglutinin column. This galactose-specific recognition was abolished by treating this fluorescein-labelled oligosaccharide with jack bean beta-galactosidase. Finally, two 1-N-glycyl beta-saccharide derivatives were modified with thiophosgene to form their corresponding isothiocyanate derivatives. Coupling of these isothiocyanate derivatives of sugars to BSA, amino-derivatized polystyrene plates and glass-fibre discs resulted in multiple sugar presentation. The binding of an anti-N-acetylglucosamine monoclonal antibody to N,N'-diacetylchitobiose residues presented on BSA and solid supports was shown by e.l.i.s.a. Similarly the binding of concanavalin A to asialo-, agalactosylated biantennary complex oligosaccharide residues attached to BSA was demonstrated by a competitive e.l.i.s.a. Our results demonstrate that N-linked neoglycoconjugates could be made readily available and they are valuable tools for the detailed analyses of carbohydrates and carbohydrate-binding proteins.

Enzymatic characterization of beta-D-galactoside alpha 2,3-trans-sialidase from Trypanosoma cruzi.

The substrate specificity, physico-chemical, and kinetic properties of the trans-sialidase from Trypanosoma cruzi have been investigated. The enzyme demonstrates activity towards a wide range of saccharide, glycolipid, and glycoprotein acceptors which terminate with a beta-linked galactose residue, and synthesizes exclusively an alpha 2-3 sialosidic linkage. Oligosaccharides which terminate in Gal beta 1-4(Fuc alpha 1-3)GlcNAc, Gal beta 1-3(Fuc alpha 1-4)GlcNAc, or Gal alpha 1- are not acceptor-substrates. The enzyme utilizes alpha 2,3-linked sialic acid when the donor species is an oligosaccharide and can also transfer, at a low rate, sialic acid from synthetic alpha-sialosides such as p-nitrophenyl-alpha-N-acetylneuraminic acid, but NeuAc alpha 2-3Gal beta 1-4(Fuc alpha 1-3)Glc is not a donor-substrate. The trans-sialidase has an apparent pH optimum of 7.9 and a temperature optimum of 13 degrees C. The kinetic properties of the enzyme suggest that the trans-sialylation reaction may occur via a rapid equilibrium random or steady-state ordered mechanism. A method for immobilizing the enzyme is described together with examples of its use for the synthesis of oligosaccharide and glycoprotein precursors of sialyl-Lewis and sialyl-Lewis.

1-N-glycyl beta-oligosaccharide derivatives as stable intermediates for the formation of glycoconjugate probes.

Incubation of reducing sugars in ammonium bicarbonate was found to be a simple procedure for the formation of beta-D-glycosylamines of purified complex oligosaccharides in 70-80% yield. These provide valuable intermediates for the synthesis of a wide range of oligosaccharide probes and derivatives by acylation of the 1-amino function. The 1-amino function showed different rates of reactivity with different reagents. In general, interactions with large ring systems such as the fluorophores dansyl chloride and carboxyfluorescein gave 10-20% yields of products, which consisted of mixtures of both anomeric forms, whereas smaller acylating reagents gave near-quantitative yields of the desired beta-D-derivatives. Steric effects may explain differences in reactivity. N-Chloroacetamido derivatives could be obtained in high yield with retention of the beta-anomeric configuration. Subsequent ammonolysis of the chloroacetamido function afforded the corresponding N-glycyl beta-derivatives. The linker thereby introduced retains the amino function, possesses the useful properties of fixed anomeric configuration, improved stability, and uniform reactivity with a variety of reagents, and is structurally analogous to an asparagine side chain. The potential therefore exists for the generation of oligosaccharide derivatives tailored for different applications.

Synthesis of 1-N-glycyl beta-oligosaccharide derivatives. Reactivity of Lens culinaris lectin with a fluorescent labeled streptavidin pseudoglycoprotein and immobilized neoglycolipid.

The lectin from Lens culinaris (lentil) has a binding specificity for glycopeptides bearing 6-O-linked fucose on the reducing terminus on complex-type N-linked oligosaccharides. Lentil lectin therefore provides an excellent example of a carbohydrate binding protein in which high-affinity interactions are dependent on the integrity of the oligosaccharide core structure. We report here the synthesis of the 1-N-glycyl beta-derivative of Gal beta 4GlcNAc beta 2Man alpha 6(Gal beta 4GlcNAc beta 2Man alpha 3)Man beta 4GlcNAc beta 4(Fuc alpha 6)-GlcNAc (Gal-2F) and its subsequent biotinylation and palmitoylation. The biotin derivative when bound to a streptavidin-fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) conjugate was able to bind to both concanavalin A (ConA) and lentil lectin affinity columns. In contrast, synthesis of the biotin derivative of the glycamine derivative of Gal-2F and subsequent binding to streptavidin-FITC afforded reactivity to a ConA affinity column but not to a lentil lectin affinity column. Lentil lectin also bound to plastic microtiter plates containing the adsorbed palmitoyl-1-N-glycyl beta-derivative. No binding occurred when the homologous glycamine neoglycolipid was used. These results suggest the 1-N-glycyl beta-derivative of oligosaccharides may have general utility as an intermediate in the synthesis of novel glycoconjugate probes.

Viral glycoprotein heterogeneity-enhancement of functional diversity.

Variations in the amino acid sequence of RNA virus envelope glycoproteins can cause changes in their antigenicity and can alter the host-cell tropism of the virus and the degree of virulence which it exhibits. Such changes may alter the course and outcome of viral diseases, either directly because of changes in the biological properties of the glycoproteins or indirectly through effects on immune surveillance and vaccine efficacy. The nature and extent of glycosylation of the surface glycoproteins of RNA viruses have also been implicated in such phenotypic alterations. It follows therefore that the 'plasticity' of the viral genome and the host-encoded glycosylation machinery combine to create populations of highly diverse viruses. This diversity is considered to be responsible for survival of these viruses in a variety of biological niches and for their ability to overcome the inhibitory effects of neutralizing antibodies and antiviral agents. In this article we discuss the implications of the inter-relationship between these two mechanisms for the generation of diversity.