The GPI sidechain of inhibits parasite pathogenesis.

Glycosylphosphatidylinositols (GPIs) are highly conserved anchors for eukaryotic cell surface proteins. The apicomplexan parasite, , is a widespread intracellular parasite of warm-blooded animals whose plasma membrane is covered with GPI-anchored proteins, and free GPIs called GIPLs. While the glycan portion is conserved, species differ in sidechains added to the triple mannose core.

Genetic mapping reveals Nfkbid as a central regulator of humoral immunity to Toxoplasma gondii.

Protective immunity to parasitic infections has been difficult to elicit by vaccines. Among parasites that evade vaccine-induced immunity is Toxoplasma gondii, which causes lethal secondary infections in chronically infected mice. Here we report that unlike susceptible C57BL/6J mice, A/J mice were highly resistant to secondary infection.