A novel encystation specific protein kinase regulates chitin synthesis in Entamoeba invadens

In this study, we have identified a novel protein kinase named as EiCSpk ( Entamoeba invadens cyst specific protein kinase) which expressed almost exclusively during encystation. It is an active Protein kinase C with a characteristic substrate phosphorylation and auto-phosphorylation property. Gene silencing study has unveiled its role as a regulator of chitin synthesis through transcriptional activation of the chitin synthesis pathway genes along with glycogen phosphorylases that are involved in the influx of glucose from glycogen breakdown for chitin synthesis.

Source: Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology - February 12, 2018 Category: Parasitology Source Type: research