Microevolution of Trypanosoma cruzi reveals hybridization and clonal mechanisms driving rapid genome diversification.

ABSTRACT: Protozoa and fungi are known to have extraordinarily diverse mechanisms of genetic exchange. However, the presence and epidemiological relevance of genetic exchange in Trypanosoma cruzi, the agent of Chagas disease, has been controversial and debated for many years. Field studies have identified both predominantly clonal and sexually recombining natural populations. Two of six natural T. cruzi lineages (TcV and TcVI) show hybrid mosaicism, using analysis of single-gene locus markers. The formation of hybrid strains in vitro has been achieved and this provides a framework to study the mechanisms and adaptive significance of genetic exchange. Using whole genome sequencing of a set of experimental hybrids strains, we have confirmed that hybrid formation initially results in tetr

SUBMITTER: Matos GM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9098224 | biostudies-literature | 2022 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature