Publications by authors named "Yessica Ortega"
Introduction: Upon infection, Trypanosoma cruzi, a protozoan parasite, crosses the placental barrier and causes congenital Chagas disease. Ex vivo infection of human placental explants (HPEs) with the parasite induces apoptotic cell death. This cellular process involves changes in gene expression, which are partially regulated by miRNAs.
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- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that control gene expression by binding to target mRNAs, influencing their stability and function.
- These molecules play critical roles in various biological processes such as cell development, metabolism, and immune response.
- The review specifically explores how miRNAs are involved in infections caused by helminths (parasitic worms), highlighting their potential in diagnosing diseases, predicting outcomes, and developing new treatments.
Trypanosoma cruzi and Toxoplasma gondii are two zoonotic parasites that constitute significant human and animal health threats, causing a significant economic burden worldwide. Both parasites can be transmitted congenitally, but transmission rates for T. gondii are high, contrary to what has been observed for T.
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- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by interacting with mRNAs, affecting processes like cell death and development.
- Dysregulation of miRNAs is linked to diseases, including those caused by parasites, influencing infection and disease progression.
- The review examines miRNAs' roles in parasitic diseases and suggests their potential as targets for drug development and as markers for diagnosis and prognosis.
Congenital Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan parasite , is responsible for 22.5% of new cases each year. However, placental transmission occurs in only 5% of infected mothers and it has been proposed that the epithelial turnover of the trophoblast can be considered a local placental defense against the parasite.
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