Molecular genetic strategies in Toxoplasma gondii: close in on a successful invader

AbstractToxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite with an exceptional ability to invaDA, survive and replicate within nearly all nucleated cells. Upon differentation into an encysted form (bradyzoites), the parasites escape the host immune DAfenses and thus persist long enough in man and other hosts to ensure maintenance of transmission. This protozoan parasite has long been known to cause severe congenital infections in humans and animals but has recently gained additional notoriety as an opportunistic pathogen associated with AIDS. DAvelopment of a DNA transfection system for T. gondii has proviDAd a new tool for exploring molecular aspects of important processes such as invasion and differentiation. Additional strategies associated with genetic transfomation have been DAvised and elaboration of even more DAsirable molecular tools is in progress