title: The Apicomplexan CDC/MACPF-like pore-forming proteins.
abstract: Pore-forming proteins (PFPs) encompass a broad family of proteins that are used for virulence or immune defense. Members of the cholesterol-dependent cytolysins (CDCs) and membrane attack complex/perforin (MACPF) family of PFPs form large β-barrel pores in the membrane. The CDC/MACPF proteins contain a characteristic four-stranded β-sheet that is flanked by two α-helical bundles, which unfold to form two transmembrane β-hairpins. Apicomplexan eukaryotic parasites express CDC/MACPFs termed perforin-like proteins (PLPs). Here we review recent studies that provide key insights into the assembly and regulation of the Apicomplexan PLP (ApiMACPF) molecular pore-forming mechanisms, which are necessary for the osmotically driven rupture of the parasitophorous vacuole and host cell membrane, and cell traversal by these parasites.
authors.affiliation: Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA.
authors.forename: Kristin R
authors.initials: KR
authors.lastname: Wade
authors.affiliation: Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK 73104, USA. Electronic address: Rod-Tweten@ouhsc.edu.
authors.forename: Rodney K
authors.initials: RK
authors.lastname: Tweten
mesh_terms: D016782:Apicomplexa / Q000378:metabolism*; D054884:Host-Pathogen Interactions; D046911:Macromolecular Substances; D054353:Perforin / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism*; D011487:Protein Conformation; D055503:Protein Multimerization
chemical_list: D046911:Macromolecular Substances; D054353:Perforin