Chapter 10 - Trypanosomatid surface and secreted carbohydrates

Abstract

Trypanosomatid parasites have evolved unique lifestyles, shuttling between their insect vectors and vertebrate hosts, encountering extremely inhospitable environments specifically designed to keep such microbial intruders in check. Their survival tactics often involve glycoconjugates that form a protective obstacle against unwelcoming forces. A general trait of the parasite's cell surface architecture is an intricate and often highly structured glycocalyx that allows the parasite to interact with and respond to its external environment. The variety of the glycoconjugate structures and, accordingly the array of functions that are attributed to these molecules, from host cell invasion to deception of the host's immune system, are astonishing. The observation of parallels and similarities in structure that underscore evolutionary relationships among the various parasites is also remarkable. In this chapter the structures and functions of the major glycoconjugates of trypanosomatid parasites and glycosylphosphatidyl inositol anchors are highlighted.