Chitin binding protein as a possible RNA binding protein in Leishmania parasites

Pathog Dis. 2020 Feb 1;78(1):ftaa007. doi: 10.1093/femspd/ftaa007.

Abstract

Leishmaniasis includes a broad spectrum of pathological outcomes in humans caused by protozoan parasites from the genus Leishmania. In recent years, proteomic techniques have introduced novel proteins with critical functions in Leishmania parasites. Based on our report of a Chitin binding protein (CBP) in our previous immunoproteomic study, this article suggests that CBP might be an RNA binding protein (RBP) in Leishmania parasites. RBPs, as key regulatory factors, have a role in post-transcriptional gene regulation. The presence of RBPs in Leishmania parasites has not been considered so far; however, this study aims to open a new venue regarding RBPs in Leishmania parasites. Confirming CBP as an RBP in Leishmania parasites, exploring other RBPs and their functions might lead to interesting issues in leishmaniasis. In fact, due to the regulatory role of RBPs in different diseases including cancers and their further classification as therapeutic targets, the emerging evaluation of CBP and RBPs from Leishmania parasites may allow the discovery of novel and effective drugs against leishmaniasis.

Keywords: Leishmania; RNA binding protein; chitin binding protein; therapeutic target.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antiprotozoal Agents / pharmacology
  • Antiprotozoal Agents / therapeutic use
  • Carrier Proteins / metabolism*
  • Chitin / metabolism*
  • Disease Susceptibility
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Humans
  • Leishmania / drug effects
  • Leishmania / genetics
  • Leishmania / metabolism*
  • Leishmaniasis / parasitology
  • Protein Binding
  • Protozoan Proteins / genetics
  • Protozoan Proteins / metabolism
  • RNA-Binding Proteins / metabolism*

Substances

  • Antiprotozoal Agents
  • Carrier Proteins
  • Protozoan Proteins
  • RNA-Binding Proteins
  • Chitin