Toxoplasma gondii is capable of exogenous folate transport: A likely expansion of the BT1 family of transmembrane proteins

摘要: Folates are key elements in eukaryotic biosynthetic processes. The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii possesses the enzymes necessary for de novo folate synthesis and has been suggested to lack alternative mechanisms acquisition. In this paper, we present a different view by providing evidence that is capable of salvaging exogenous folates. By monitoring uptake radiolabeled folates parasites axenic conditions, our studies revealed common transporter high affinity folic acid. Transport compound across plasma membrane rapid, biphasic, temperature dependent, bi-directional, concentration dependent specific. addition, morphological demonstrates fluorescent methotrexate, analog, internalized shows localization reminiscent mitochondrion. presence putative genes genome, which homologous BT1 family proteins, suggests may encode proteins involved transport. Interestingly, genome analysis exists not only Toxoplasma, but other Apicomplexan as well. Altogether, results have implications current therapeutic regimens against T. gondii, they also allude transport mechanism represent novel target development new drugs.