The Toxoplasma gondii Parasitophorous Vacuole Membrane. A Multifunctional Organelle in the Infected Cell

Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that lives within its host cells within a membrane-bound vacuole. The parasitophorous vacuole membrane is host-derived, yet extensively modified by the parasite to facilitate nutrient acquisition and avoid host defenses. Formation of the vacuole also is accompanied by extensive host cell cytoskeletal rearrangement and organellar recruitment to the vacuole. This chapter reviews recent experimental insights into the biology and composition of this critical and dynamic host-parasite interface.