Publication: DECIPHERING HOST-PARASITE INTERACTIONS: A SYSTEMS BIOLOGY COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MICE INFECTED WITH TOXOPLASMA GONDII AND TRYPANOSOMA BRUCEI BRUCEI
Date
2024
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Publisher
IMU University
Abstract
To address gaps in the understanding of host-parasite interactions, this study employed a systems biology approach to investigate system biological responses in
Balb/c mice infected with Toxoplasma gondii and Trypanosoma brucei brucei. The study found distinct histopathological changes in Balb/e mouse organs post-
infection. Spleen hyperplasia, chronic inflammation, and immune cell infiltrations were apparent in both infected arms. Cytokine profiling identified key players like
tumour necrosis factor alpha, interferon-gamma, interleukin-2 in T. gondii group interleukin-6, and interleukin-IO in T. b. brucei group, providing insights into their
roles in host defence or immunomodulation. Nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomics profiling was used to identify potential parasitic infection biomarkers,
revealing alterations in metabolic profiles indicative of metabolic adaptations and gut microbiota dynamics during infection. Notably, short-chain fatty acids like
acetate and butyrate, aromatic amino acid derivatives like phenylacetylglycine and tyrosine, and metabolites such as sueeinate and creatine were implicated in immune regulation and host-parasite interactions. This study also explores interactions between the gut microbiota and parasitic pathogens, highlighting their impact on disease outcomes. Specifically, Lactobacillus species were identified as key players in modulating the host's immune response and metabolic processes during parasitic infections. In conclusion, the systems biology approach enhances our understanding of host-pathogen interactions in Balb,/c mice, revealing potential therapeutic targets. While the findings are specific to the mouse model, they offer valuable insights that could inform strategies for managing parasitic infections in
humans. This study thus lays a strong foundation for future research aimed at developing targeted interventions across various host systems, potentially bridging
the gap from animal models to human disease management.
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Keywords
Cytokines, Toxoplasma, Trypanosoma brucei brucei, Inflammation