Intracellular Signaling Pathways Involved in Cell Differentiation in Trypanosomatids
Angela H. Lopes, *
, 1
Marta T. Gomes2
Fernando L. Dutra1
Alane B. Vermelho1
José R. Meyer-Fernandes
Mário A. C. Silva-Neto2
Thaïs Souto-Padrón1
Danielle P. Vieira1
Authors Info & Affiliations
, 1
Marta T. Gomes2
Fernando L. Dutra1
Alane B. Vermelho1
José R. Meyer-Fernandes
Mário A. C. Silva-Neto2
Thaïs Souto-Padrón1
Danielle P. Vieira1
Authors Info & Affiliations
The Open Parasitology Journal
•
10 December 2010 •
RESEARCH ARTICLE
•
DOI: 10.2174/1874421401004010102
Abstract
Knowledge of cell signaling pathways in trypanosomatids is crucial for the future design of new drugs to treat diseases caused by these parasites. The publication of the complete genome sequences of three pathogenic trypanosomatids, Trypanosoma brucei, T. cruzi and Leishmania major, revealed numerous protein members of signaling pathways that modulate important processes, such as cell differentiation. Even so, little is known about the role that these proteins play in the physiology of trypanosomatids. This review aims to stimulate discussion on this subject to encourage further studies of the signaling pathways involved in the cell differentiation of trypanosomatids.
Keywords: Cellular differentiation, signaling pathways, protein kinases, Trypanosoma cruzi, Trypanosoma brucei, Leishmania.
