Popularizing the intracellular biochemistry of parasites

• Grant number: 24/00666-3
• 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: Larissa Maria Matos Vilas Boas
• 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 more than 20 species of parasites, is responsible for leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease transmitted by phlebotomine sandflies. Leishmaniasis can manifest in cutaneous forms (localized cutaneous, mucocutaneous, diffuse cutaneous, or disseminated) or visceral form (VL), the latter of which can be fatal if untreated. The global impact of leishmaniasis is substantial, with millions of estimated cases annually, and Brazil is considered an endemic region. The project "Popularizing Intracellular Biochemistry of Parasites" aims to disseminate, in an accessible manner for the general public, the results of research conducted in our research group, focusing on the intracellular biochemistry of parasites causing leishmaniasis. In addition to presenting the results, we also propose to disseminate the techniques used in the research, basic content in biochemistry, and the biology of the parasite, aiming to provide high-quality content for the education of the general population and motivation for those interested in research. Thus, with the population informed about this parasitic infection and its health risks, we can contribute to the dissemination and implementation of preventive measures. Our motivation for this project arose when we understood its overall objectives of discovering new pharmacological targets for the treatment of leishmaniasis. This project utilizes advanced biochemical and molecular biology tools to understand the intracellular biochemistry of parasites, determining their activities during the infection of mammalian cells. We seek to comprehend the role of a refined intracellular protein degradation system called the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System (UPS), which regulates 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 and an interesting pharmacological target for leishmaniasis treatment. Therefore, this project, under the "Communicating Science" grant, will provide us with the necessary training to efficiently communicate our research, produce quality content, inform the population, and demonstrate the importance of research in addressing societal issues.