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Elucidating the structure of complex II from the parasite Toxoplasma gondii using cryo-electron microscopy

Funder: Wellcome TrustProject code: 227121
Funded under: Pathogen Biology and Disease Transmission

Elucidating the structure of complex II from the parasite Toxoplasma gondii using cryo-electron microscopy

Description

Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite which causes the disease toxoplasmosis. This usually does not cause serious symptoms but can be extremely dangerous for immunocompromised people or when contracted during pregnancy. The mitochondrial electron transport chain (mETC) is essential for survival of T. gondii. The mETC is composed of multiple large membrane-bound complexes, labelled from complex I to complex IV, which generates adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the cell. The clinical drug atovaquone targets the mETC, showing the mETC is a viable drug target. My project will focus on complex II. Previous research on T. gondii complex II has revealed it to be much larger and contain more subunits than complex II from other organisms such as mammals or bacteria. My aim will be to optimize purification of T. gondii complex II and solve its structure using cryo-electron microscopy. This will allow me to understand the mechanism of the complex further. Researching complex II will further the biological understanding of the parasite Toxoplasma gondii as well as contributing to the mitochondrial biology field by looking at this evolutionary diverse species. Having a structure would aid in further research, such as drug development against the parasite.

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