Apicomplexan Parasites, Pathogen Genome Informatics, and the Evolution of Eukaryotic Organelles by David S. Roos, May 2008 - Part 1: How to build a parasite

There are more than 5000 species of single-celled eukaryotes in the biological phylum known as the Apicomplexa,... » More

There are more than 5000 species of single-celled eukaryotes in the biological phylum known as the Apicomplexa, including the parasites responsible for malaria, neurological birth defects, and opportunistic infections associated with HIV/AIDS. These ancient protozoa provide a unique window into the evolution of subcellular organelles that have long fascinated cell biologists. Familiar features help to elucidate the origins, functions and design parameters for the secretory pathway, endosymbiotic organelles, the cytoskeleton, and cell cycle control. Conversely, parasite-specific organelles highlight the evolutionary diversity of eukaryotes, and suggest novel targets for treating disease.

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