0
0
Auburn, Alabama – A groundbreaking study conducted by researchers from Auburn University, in collaboration with Brazil’s Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), has shed light on the intricate mechanisms by which the Chagas Disease parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi, invades human cells. Published in the journal Biochemistry, the research offers crucial insights that could lead to the development of effective treatments for this neglected tropical disease.
Chagas Disease, traditionally endemic to Latin America, is increasingly becoming a global health concern due to increased international travel and migration. “With international travel and migration pushing the disease beyond its original borders, it’s becoming a silent threat in regions like the US and Europe where it often goes unrecognized due to nonspecific early symptoms,” explained Dr. Bernardi, lead researcher at Auburn University.
The collaborative study employed advanced molecular dynamics simulations to examine the interaction between the parasite’s protein gp82 and the human receptor LAMP2. This interaction is critical for the parasite’s entry into human cells. By modeling this interaction at an unprecedented atomic detail, the researchers identified potential targets for therapeutic intervention, potentially paving the way for drugs that can block the infection process.
“This research is not just about scientific discovery,” emphasized Dr. Bernardi. “It’s about addressing a major, yet neglected global health issue. Chagas Disease affects millions and poses a significant burden on public health systems, particularly in Latin America. However, its spread to the US and Europe—where data on its prevalence remains scarce—highlights the urgent need for increased surveillance and research.”
The partnership with FIOCRUZ, a leading research institution on Chagas Disease, underscores the global effort to combat this disease. “Collaborating with Auburn University allows us to blend cutting-edge technology with decades of expertise in Chagas research,” stated Dr. Leal da Silva, co-author and professor at both FIOCRUZ and Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro. “This study is a critical step toward a more comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms of Chagas Disease, which is essential for the development of effective treatments.”
Raissa Rosa, a graduate student at both FIOCRUZ and Auburn University, highlighted the significance of the collaboration. “This collaboration has been incredibly enlightening. It allowed us to connect known experimental results with computational work that enabled us to visualize the interaction at the atomistic level. We were able to see things that not only explain the experimental results but also go beyond, revealing new aspects of the parasite-host interaction that we could never see before.”
The study also underscores the power of international research collaborations in tackling complex health challenges. “Chagas Disease has been neglected for far too long,” Dr. Bernardi added. “But with the combined efforts of institutions like Auburn and FIOCRUZ, we are making significant strides in understanding and eventually mitigating this disease.”
More information: Raissa S. L. Rosa et al, Atomistic Insights into gp82 Binding: A Microsecond, Million-Atom Exploration of Trypanosoma cruzi Host-Cell Invasion, Biochemistry (2025). DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.4c00710
Journal information: Biochemistry
Disclaimer: This article is based on information provided and should not be taken as medical advice. The research discussed is a step towards potential treatments, and further clinical trials and studies are necessary before any new drugs or therapies can be made available to the public. The information provided is for educational purposes only, and readers should consult with healthcare professionals for any health concerns.
