Recombinant Toxoplasma gondii MIC 3 protein

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

The Toxoplasma gondii MIC 3 protein also known as microneme protein 3 plays a role in the adhesion process during the parasite's invasion of host cells. It appears in the micronemes a specialized secretory organelle of T. gondii. MIC 3 has a molecular mass of approximately 60 kDa. The protein expresses itself on the surface of the parasite facilitating its interaction with host cell receptors. MIC 3 achieves this by binding to components in the extracellular matrix contributing significantly to the parasite's ability to invade host cells.

Biological function summary

The MIC 3 protein assists in establishing infection by the T. gondii parasite. MIC 3 functions as part of a complex with other microneme proteins such as MIC 1 and MIC 4. This complex collectively enhances the adhesion and motility of the parasite. These actions allow T. gondii to efficiently invade and traverse host tissues spreading the infection. The binding affinity of MIC 3 for host cells highlights its significant function in the parasite's life cycle.

Pathways

MIC 3 is central to the invasion pathway of T. gondii. It plays a role in the parasite's attachment and entry into host cells which involves transient interactions with host cell surface receptors and subsequent internalization. The interaction of MIC 3 with other microneme proteins like MIC 1 and MIC 4 enables it to fit into this pathway effectively. These proteins act together to modulate the invasion machinery of the parasite ensuring successful host cell entry and initiation of infection.

The Toxoplasma gondii MIC 3 protein associates mostly with toxoplasmosis. This disease affects humans and animals presenting significant health concerns particularly in immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women. MIC 3 through its interaction with host cell receptors and its role in facilitating parasite invasion contributes to the pathogenesis of toxoplasmosis. Additionally MIC 3's function may connect with other T. gondii microneme proteins in exacerbating the disease’s severity highlighting the importance of these proteins in understanding and potentially managing toxoplasmosis.