Exploring Toxoplasma gondii virulence using quantitative proteomics

Toxoplasma gondii is a pathogen of cats that can infect a wide variety of species including humans and sheep. Although there is only one species of T. gondii, there are many strains of the parasite with varying degrees of severity resulting in different disease outcome. When a human or animal is infected, the host may not feel sick at all, may have mild flu-like symptoms, or may die from serious complications. The goal of this internship is to contribute to a larger grant focused on understanding how different strains of T. gondii interact with different hosts. This project will specifically investigate proteins produced by the host and different strains of the pathogen to help identify factors associated with more severe disease. Doing this will teach us more about how the pathogen causes diseases but also perhaps tell us if specific proteins are involved. Knowing information like this is important in helping humans and animals affected by this pathogen.

Faculty Supervisor:

Heather Wilson

Student:

Partner:

Moredun Research Institute

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Agriculture and Food; Other; Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

University of Saskatchewan

Program: