Popularizing the intracellular biochemistry of parasites

• Grant number: 24/00625-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Journalism
• Start date: May 01, 2024
• End date: October 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biochemistry - Biochemistry of Microorganisms
• Principal Investigator: Felipe Roberti Teixeira
• Grantee: Fernanda Goulart Moraes
• Host Institution: Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde (CCBS). Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCAR). São Carlos , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/02933-3 - Role of the ubiquitin proteasome system in proliferation, differentiation and infectivity of Leishmania infantum, AP.PNGP.PI

Abstract

The genus Leishmania, composed of over 20 species of parasites, is responsible for leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease transmitted by sandfly vectors. Leishmaniasis can manifest in cutaneous forms (localized, mucocutaneous, diffuse, or disseminated) or visceral form (VL), the latter being potentially fatal if left untreated. The global impact of leishmaniasis is substantial, with millions of estimated cases annually, particularly in Brazil, an endemic region. The project "Popularizing Intracellular Biochemistry of Parasites" aims to disseminate, in an accessible manner to the general public, the research findings from our group, focusing on the intracellular biochemistry of parasites causing leishmaniasis. In addition to results, we propose to share research techniques, basic biochemistry, and parasite biology content, aiming to provide high-quality educational material for the general population and motivate those interested in research. By informing the population about this parasitic disease and its health risks, we aim to contribute to the dissemination and application of preventive measures. Our motivation for this project arose when we understood its overall goals of discovering new pharmacological targets for leishmaniasis treatment. Using advanced biochemical and molecular biology tools, we seek to comprehend the intracellular biochemistry of parasites, determining their activities during mammalian cell infection. We focus on understanding the role of a sophisticated intracellular protein degradation system called the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System (UPS), responsible for regulating the cell cycle in eukaryotic cells. Little is known about this system in parasites, and our hypothesis is that it is essential for the parasite, representing an interesting pharmacological target for leishmaniasis treatment. Thus, this project, under the Communicating Science grant, will provide the necessary training to effectively communicate our research, produce quality content, inform the public, and demonstrate the importance of research in addressing societal issues.