The cytoskeleton and motor proteins of human schistosomes and their roles in surface maintenance and host-parasite interactions.
Schistosomes are parasitic blood flukes, responsible for significant human disease in tropical and developing nations. Here we review information on the organization of the cytoskeleton and associated motor proteins of schistosomes, with particular reference to the organization of the syncytial tegument, a unique cellular adaptation of these and other neodermatan flatworms. Extensive EST databases show that the molecular constituents of the cytoskeleton and associated molecular systems are likely to be similar to those of other eukaryotes, although there are potentially some molecules unique to schistosomes and platyhelminths. The biology of some components, particular those contributing to host-parasite interactions as well as chemotherapy and immunotherapy are discussed. Unresolved questions in relation to the structure and function of the tegument relate to dynamic organization of the syncytial layer.
Jones
Malcolm K
MK
Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Herston, Queensland, Australia. malcolmJ@qimr.edu.au
Gobert
Geoffrey N
GN
Zhang
Lihua
L
Sunderland
Philip
P
McManus
Donald P
DP
D000818:Animals; D003599:Cytoskeleton / Q000737:chemistry / Q000187:drug effects / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism*; D006790:Host-Parasite Interactions; D006801:Humans; D034582:Integumentary System / Q000502:physiology; D020409:Molecular Motor Proteins / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism*; D012547:Schistosoma / Q000166:cytology* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D014612:Vaccines / Q000276:immunology
D020409:Molecular Motor Proteins; D014612:Vaccines