In-depth comparative analysis of Tritrichomonas foetus transcriptomics reveals genes linked to host-adaptation

Abstract BACKGROUND: Tritrichomonas foetus is a protozoa flagellated that reside as a parasite or commensal in organ cavities such as the gastrointestinal and reproductive tracts of their hosts. While this parasite is an important venereal pathogen in cattle and the causative agent of chronic diarrhea in the domestic cat, the mechanisms that define the host specificity of this parasite are still unknown. METHODS: Here, we integrate the genomic and transcriptomic information of the parasites obtained from different hosts (bovine, feline and porcine), to determine the gene expression profiles of T. foetus associated with host adaptation. RESULTS: We demonstrated the existence of patterns of co-expressed genes specific to each strain and related to known transcription factors (Myb DNA-binding proteins), proteases and genes related to protein phosphorylation process. Also, the genes related to Myb DNA-binding proteins and protein kinases were differentially expressed between strains being those genes different for each strain.CONCLUSIONS: On the basis of the expression profile variability of genes involved in transcription, intracellular signaling and proteases between the strains (pathogenic and non‐pathogenic), we propose that these genes have roles in T. foetus adaptation to different hosts. This integrated approach will serve as a useful resource for future studies about the host-parasite interaction and for the future identification of new targets for diagnosis, vaccines and therapeutic intervention to control the bovine and feline tritrichomonosis.