Controlling a Cell Eating Parasite Could be Key in Treating Colin Inflammations
Posted by: admin in UncategorizedA parasite that attacks, kills and eats human immune cells in the colon may be controllable through a protein.
The parasite is called entamoeba histolytica, an amoeba that causes inflammation of the colon (colitis) mainly in children. Globally, the infection affects 50 million people annually causing diarrhea, malfunction and death.
The parasite attacks human immune cells then hides the evidence by eating the cell corpses. Without the cell corpses, the immune system doesn’t know there are damaged cells and the disease spreads.
A new study done by researchers at the University of Virginia and the University of Vermont identified a protein on the surface of the amoeba called a kinase, PATMK. The scientists used a special technique called RNA interference to inhibit the kinase which, in turn, prevented the amoeba from eating dead cells.
Dr. William Petri led the research team. “By blocking the kinase, we have for the first time prevented the amoeba from colonizing and invading the gut,” said Petri. “This means we are a step closer to preventing this disease which wrecks havoc among children worldwide.”
Another researcher, Douglas Boettner, said the protein might be a pivotal vaccination target because by preventing the parasite from eating the dead cells, helpful immune cells will be able to find and recognize damage and eliminate the infection. The discovery brings science one-step closer to the ultimate goal of preventing this particular colitis.
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