Theileria secretes proteins to subvert its host leukocyte.

Abstract

Theileria parasites are classified in the phylum Apicomplexa that includes several genera of medical and veterinary importance such as Plasmodium, Babesia, Toxoplasma and Cryptosporidium. These protozoans have evolved subtle ways to reshape their intracellular niche for their own benefit and Theileria is no exception. This tick transmitted microorganism is unique among all eukaryotes in that its intracellular schizont stage is able to transform its mammalian host leukocytes into an immortalised highly disseminating cell that phenocopies tumour cells. Here, we describe what is known about secreted Theileria-encoded host cell manipulators.