In-depth Glycomics and Glycoproteomics of Trichomonads

Trichomonas vaginalis and Tritrichomonas foetus are major single-cell parasites that respectively infect the urogenital tract of human and bovine hosts, causing globally the most common curable sexually transmitted diseases. These infections are often associated with mild symptoms (e.g., debilitating effects, painful urination, bacterial vaginitis, discomfort during intercourse, vaginal or penis itching, discharges and irritations), but more seriously with increased risk of infertility, cancer and adverse pregnancy outcome. Unfortunately, no vaccine is available and drugs have been less efficient due to resistant isolates. Tritrichomonas foetus is also able to infect the gastrointestinal tract of swine and feline hosts with a faecal - oral route of spread characterized by chronic diarrhoea and tissue infections ; this demonstrates an incredible adaptability to various host environments as well as huge veterinarian impact. Therefore, further research is required to understand the host-parasite interactions of the Trichomonadida in order to develop future eradication strategies relevant to human and animal health. Hereby, we presume that binding to host cells depends on parasite surface protein-linked carbohydrate structures known as glycans. In this project, we aim to characterise the N-glycans and O-glycans present on the parasite cell surface at the molecular level emphasizing on the structural identification of rare glycans and associated glycoproteins as well as examining their interactions with immune innate carbohydrate binding proteins of the host. A mix of mass spectrometry and immobilisation of glycans to arrays will be employed. Overall , this project research will elucidate potential mechanisms of carbohydrate-dependent virulence relevant to these widespread parasitic infections of mammals.