MicroRNA profiling and regulatory network analysis in the definitive host intestine upon Toxoplasma gondii infection

Description

This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of microRNA (miRNA) expression dynamics in the feline small intestine during Toxoplasma gondii infection. Through small RNA sequencing of ileal epithelium from infected cats across primary (6, 10, 14 days post-infection) and secondary infection time points, 2,666 miRNAs were identified, including 91 novel candidates. A temporally dynamic pattern of differentially expressed miRNAs was observed, with peaks coinciding with active oocyst shedding. Key miRNAs such as hsa-miR-199b-5p and ssc-miR-199b-5p were persistently downregulated, and their interactions with target genes like CYTH1 and COQ7 were predicted. Functional enrichment analysis revealed significant involvement of miRNA targets in critical pathways including Rap1 and AMPK signaling, which are associated with cell adhesion, metabolism, and developmental processes. Experimental validation confirmed the novel_538-CNN2 interaction via dual-luciferase assay, and qPCR corroborated sequencing results. These findings suggest that T. gondii orchestrates a sophisticated post-transcriptional regulatory program in its definitive host to modify the intestinal environment, facilitating oocyst production and shedding, thereby providing new insights into host-parasite interactions and potential intervention strategies.

Categories

Funders

• Longyuan Youth Innovation and Entrepreneurship Talents Project

  Grant ID: Grant No.2024QNTD41
• the Youth Science and Technology Fund Program of Gansu Province

  Grant ID: 23JRRA562

Licence