Loss of NcBPK1 impairs bradyzoite differentiation and enhances virulence in Neospora caninum.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Neospora caninum is an apicomplexan parasite responsible for bovine neosporosis, a disease that leads to substantial economic losses in cattle due to abortion and reduced productivity. The pathogenesis of N. caninum is shaped by complex host-parasite interactions, and virulence is known to vary between strains. BPK1 (Bradyzoite pseudokinase 1), a pseudokinase previously identified as a potential virulence factor in Toxoplasma gondii, has not yet been functionally characterized in N. caninum.

Methods

To investigate the role of NcBPK1 in parasite virulence, a knockout strain (NcΔBPK1) was generated using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. The virulence of the mutant was evaluated in a pregnant mouse model by assessing neonatal survival and parasite burden in dam tissues. I

SUBMITTER: Amieva R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12542182 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature