The recent development of new drug molecules against the protozoa ‘Entamoeba histolytica’, that causes amoebiasis, by researchers from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has sparked interest. This article delves into the challenges the protozoa face in high oxygen levels, the synthesis of Cysteine, the JNU research, the nature of Protozoa, and Entamoeba histolytica.
The Protozoa and High Oxygen Level
Protozoa is inherently anaerobic or microaerophilic, meaning it doesn’t survive well in high concentrations of oxygen. Such organisms exist in environments devoid of free oxygen. A microaerophilic atmosphere with reduced oxygen and increased carbon dioxide levels is perfect for their growth. Yet during an infection, they are subjected to a high surge of oxygen inside the human body. They respond by synthesizing large quantities of cysteine to deal with this oxidative stress.
Synthesis of Cysteine
Cysteine acts as a key molecule in the defence mechanism of this pathogen against high oxygen levels. Two crucial enzymes for cysteine synthesis are expressed by it. These enzymes, cysteines, degrade proteins in the body. For the survival of E. histolytica and other similar protozoan parasites, cysteine biosynthesis is of paramount importance.
JNU Research
The JNU research team has successfully characterized the molecular structures of these crucial enzymes. They have also identified potent inhibitors for one of the enzymes, O-acetyl L-serine sulfhydrylase (OASS). Some of these inhibitors could potentially control the growth of this organism by targeting their pathways effectively. The molecules identified could lead to the creation of effective drug molecules.
About Protozoa
Protozoans are single-celled eukaryotes. These organisms feed on organic matter, such as other microorganisms or organic tissues and debris, and can be either free-living or parasitic. They are mainly aerobic (survive with oxygen) but a few are anaerobic (survive without oxygen) and are found in the rumen or human intestine. Protozoans can vary greatly in size and shape, ranging from microbial to large enough to be seen by the naked eye. They are heterotrophs and observe holozoic nutrition, a process involving the ingestion of complex organic substances.
Entamoeba histolytica
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), Entamoeba histolytica is the third leading cause of morbidity and mortality due to parasitic diseases in humans. Mostly affecting humans and other primates, E. histolytica is estimated to have infected about 35-50 million people across the globe. The disease it causes, amoebiasis, or amoebic dysentery, is highly prevalent in developing countries.
Amoebiasis
Amoebiasis is a disease triggered by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica. This infection is most commonly found in tropical areas with untreated water, such as India. It spreads through the consumption of uncooked food or drinking water that’s possibly contaminated. Symptoms, if any, might be mild including cramping and diarrhoea. Antibiotics can effectively treat this condition.
Source: PIB
Last Modified: February 7, 2024