Blastocystis Isolate B Exhibits Multiple Modes of Resistance against Antimicrobial Peptide LL-37.

ABSTRACT: Blastocystis is one of the most common eukaryotic organisms found in humans and many types of animals. Several reports have identified its role in gastrointestinal disorders, although its pathogenicity is yet to be clarified. Blastocystis is transmitted via the fecal-to-oral route and colonizes the large intestines. Epithelial cells lining the intestine secrete antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), including beta-defensins and cathelicidin, as a response to infection. This study explores the effects of host colonic antimicrobial peptides, particularly LL-37, a fragment of cathelicidin, on different Blastocystis subtypes. Blastocystis is composed of several subtypes that have genetic, metabolic, and biological differences. These subtypes also have various outcomes in terms of drug treatment and im

SUBMITTER: Yason JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4962628 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature