Orchestrating a heist: uptake and storage of metals by apicomplexan parasites

Sloan, M. A. , Aghabi, D. and Harding, C. R. (2021) Orchestrating a heist: uptake and storage of metals by apicomplexan parasites. Microbiology, 167(12), 001114. (doi: 10.1099/mic.0.001114) (PMID:34898419) (PMCID:PMC7612242)

Abstract

The acquisition and storage of metals has been a preoccupation of life for millennia. Transition metals, in particular iron, copper and zinc, have vital roles within cells. However, metals also make dangerous cargos; inappropriate uptake or storage of transition metals leads to cell death. This paradox has led to cells developing elegant and frequently redundant mechanisms for fine-tuning local metal concentrations. In the context of infection, pathogens must overcome further hurdles, as hosts act to weaponize metal availability to prevent pathogen colonization and spread. Here, we detail the methods used by the Apicomplexa, a large family of eukaryotic parasites, to obtain and store essential metals.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Harding, Dr Clare and Sloan, Dr Megan and Aghabi, Ms Dana
• Authors: Sloan, M. A., Aghabi, D., and Harding, C. R.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity
• Journal Name: Microbiology
• Publisher: Microbiology Society
• ISSN: 1350-0872
• ISSN (Online): 1465-2080
• Published Online: 13 December 2021
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2021 The Authors
• First Published: First published in Microbiology 167(12): 001114
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy

Project Code	Award No	Project Name	Principal Investigator	Funder's Name	Funder Ref	Lead Dept
304336		Iron usage in the eukaryotic parasite Toxoplasma gondii	Clare Harding	Wellcome Trust (WELLCOTR)	213455/Z/18/Z	III - Parasitology