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Migration of Apicomplexa Across Biological Barriers: The Toxoplasma and Plasmodium Rides
Author(s) -
Tardieux Isabelle,
Ménard Robert
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
traffic
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.677
H-Index - 130
eISSN - 1600-0854
pISSN - 1398-9219
DOI - 10.1111/j.1600-0854.2008.00703.x
Subject(s) - biology , apicomplexa , plasmodium (life cycle) , protozoa , virology , parasite hosting , microbiology and biotechnology , malaria , genetics , immunology , protozoal disease , world wide web , computer science
The invasive stages of Apicomplexa parasites, called zoites, have been largely studied in in vitro systems, with a special emphasis on their unique gliding and host cell invasive capacities. In contrast, the means by which these parasites reach their destination in their hosts are still poorly understood. We summarize here our current understanding of the cellular basis of in vivo parasitism by two well‐studied Apicomplexa zoites, the Toxoplasma tachyzoite and the Plasmodium sporozoite. Despite being close relatives, these two zoites use different strategies to reach their goal and establish infection.