APEX2 Proximity Proteomics Resolves Flagellum Subdomains and Identifies Flagellum Tip-Specific Proteins in Trypanosoma brucei.

is the protozoan parasite responsible for sleeping sickness, a lethal vector-borne disease. has a single flagellum (cilium) that plays critical roles in transmission and pathogenesis. An emerging concept is that the flagellum is organized into subdomains, each having specialized composition and function.

Regulation of Acetyl Coenzyme A Carboxylase by Environmental Lipids.

To satisfy its fatty acid needs, the extracellular eukaryotic parasite relies on two mechanisms: uptake of fatty acids from the host and synthesis. We hypothesized that modulates fatty acid synthesis in response to environmental lipid availability. The first committed step in fatty acid synthesis is catalyzed by acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl-CoA) carboxylase (ACC) and serves as a key regulatory point in other organisms.

Parasite motility is critical for virulence of African trypanosomes.

African trypanosomes, Trypanosoma brucei spp., are lethal pathogens that cause substantial human suffering and limit economic development in some of the world's most impoverished regions. The name Trypanosoma ("auger cell") derives from the parasite's distinctive motility, which is driven by a single flagellum.

Effects of the green tea catechin (-)-epigallocatechin gallate on Trypanosoma brucei.

The current pharmacopeia to treat the lethal human and animal diseases caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei remains limited. The parasite's ability to undergo antigenic variation represents a considerable barrier to vaccine development, making the identification of new drug targets extremely important. Recent studies have demonstrated that fatty acid synthesis is important for growth and virulence of Trypanosoma brucei brucei, suggesting this pathway may have therapeutic potential.