Publication Date:
2016-06-03
Description:
Leishmania infantum is a protozoan parasite that is phagocytized by human macrophages. The host macrophages kill the parasite by generating oxidative compounds that induce DNA damage. We have identified, purified and biochemically characterized a DNA polymerase from L. infantum ( Li Pol), demonstrating that it is a DNA-dependent DNA polymerase involved in translesion synthesis of 8oxoG, abasic sites and thymine glycol lesions. Stably transfected L. infantum parasites expressing Li Pol were significantly more resistant to oxidative and interstrand cross-linking agents, e.g. hydrogen peroxide, cisplatin and mitomycin C. Moreover, Li Pol-overexpressing parasites showed an increased infectivity toward its natural macrophage host. Therefore, we propose that Li Pol is a translesion synthesis polymerase involved in parasite DNA damage tolerance, to confer resistance against macrophage aggression.
Print ISSN:
0305-1048
Electronic ISSN:
1362-4962
Topics:
Biology