The RESTRICTION checkpoint: a window of opportunity governing developmental transitions in Toxoplasma gondii

Anthony P. Sinai, Elena S. Suvorova

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

The life cycle of Toxoplasma gondii is characterized by active replication alternating with periods of rest. Encysted dormant sporozoites and bradyzoites initiate active replication as tachyzoites and merozoites. Here we explore the role of the cell cycle with a focus on the canonical G1 RESTRICTION checkpoint (R-point) as the integrator governing developmental decisions in T. gondii. This surveillance mechanism, which licenses replication, creates a window of opportunity in G1 for cellular reorganization in the execution of developmental transitions. We also explore the unique status of the bradyzoite, the only life cycle stage executing both a forward (entry into the sexual cycle) and reverse (recrudescence) developmental transitions as a multipotent cell. These opposing decisions are executed through the common machinery of the RESTRICTION checkpoint.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)99-105
Number of pages7
JournalCurrent Opinion in Microbiology
Volume58
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2020

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2020

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Microbiology
  • Microbiology (medical)
  • Infectious Diseases

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