Genetic crosses reveal genomic loci responsible for virulence in <i>Cryptosporidium parvum</i> infection.

ABSTRACT: The relationship between parasite genotype and pathogenesis is largely unknown for Cryptosporidium, a leading cause of diarrheal disease in children. An array of parasites with similar genomes produces varied disease outcomes in different hosts. Here, we isolate and characterize Cryptosporidium parvum strains that show marked differences in virulence and persistence in mice. Taking advantage of the sexual lifecycle of this eukaryotic pathogen, we use genetic crosses to discover the underlying chromosomal loci. Whole-genome sequencing and bulk segregant analysis of infection selected progeny mapped three loci on chromosomes 2, 6, and 7 associated with the ability to colonize and persist in mice and the positions of drug resistance genes. The chromosome 6 locus encodes the hype

SUBMITTER: Shaw S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12139775 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature