Investigating the Phagocytosis of <em>Leishmania</em> using Confocal Microscopy

Amanda R. Paix&#227;o; Beatriz R. S. Dias; Luana C. Palma; Nat&#225;lia M. Tavares; Cl&#225;udia I. Brodskyn; Juliana P. B de Menezes; Patricia S. T. Veras

doi:10.3791/62459

Investigating the Phagocytosis of Leishmania using Confocal Microscopy

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Immunology and Infection
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JoVE Journal Immunology and Infection

Investigating the Phagocytosis of Leishmania using Confocal Microscopy

Investigating the Phagocytosis of Leishmania using Confocal Microscopy

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08:41 min

July 29, 2021

DOI: 10.3791/62459-v

Amanda R. Paixão*¹, Beatriz R. S. Dias*¹, Luana C. Palma¹, Natália M. Tavares¹, Cláudia I. Brodskyn¹, Juliana P. B de Menezes¹, Patricia S. T. Veras^1,2

¹Laboratory of Host-Parasite Interaction and Epidemiology,Gonçalo Moniz Institute, ²National Institute of Science and Technology of Tropical Diseases - National Council for Scientific Research and Development (CNPq)

Overview

The mechanism associated with phagocytosis in Leishmania infection remains poorly understood. This study describes methods to evaluate the early events occurring during Leishmania interaction with host cells.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

Microbiology
Cell Biology
Infectious Diseases

Background

Phagocytosis is a critical process in host-pathogen interactions.
Leishmania is a protozoan parasite that causes significant disease.
Understanding phagocytosis can aid in developing therapeutic strategies.
Current knowledge of the mechanisms involved is limited.

Purpose of Study

To evaluate early events in Leishmania-host cell interactions.
To explore the role of various proteins in phagocytosis.
To provide a technique applicable to other types of infections.

Methods Used

Evaluation of phagocytosis using specific techniques.
Assessment of protein participation in the process.
Testing transfection with plasmids.
Monitoring exposure times to Nucleofector solution.

Main Results

Identification of different states of Leishmania phagocytosis.
Insights into the role of proteins during the interaction.
Potential for extending the technique to other pathogens.
Recommendations for optimizing experimental conditions.

Conclusions

The study provides valuable insights into Leishmania phagocytosis.
Methods described can enhance understanding of host-pathogen dynamics.
Future research can build on these findings to explore other infections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is phagocytosis?

Phagocytosis is the process by which cells engulf and digest particles or pathogens.

Why is Leishmania infection significant?

Leishmania causes serious diseases in humans and animals, making it a public health concern.

What techniques are used in this study?

The study employs methods to evaluate phagocytosis and protein interactions.

Can this technique be applied to other infections?

Yes, the technique can be extended to study infections by bacteria and yeasts.

What precautions should be taken during experiments?

Care should be taken regarding exposure times to Nucleofector solution and plasmid numbers.

What are the main findings of the study?

The study identifies different states of phagocytosis and the involvement of various proteins.

How can this research impact future studies?

It provides a foundation for understanding host-pathogen interactions and developing therapies.

The mechanism associated with phagocytosis in Leishmania infection remains poorly understood. Here, we describe methods to evaluate the early events occurring during Leishmania interaction with the host cells.

The mechanism associated with phagocytosis in Leishmania infection remain poorly understood. Here we describe methods to evaluate the early states of curing during Leishmania interaction to the host cells. This technique presents as the main advantage, allowing the study of different states of Leishmania phagocytosis and the participation of several proteins.

It is worth noting that this technique can also be extended to other types of studies, including infection by bacteria, yeasts, or be it engulfment by other types of cells. People trying this technique should take care of the exposure time of the cells to the Nucleofector solution. In addition, we suggest start testing transfection using a maximum of two plasmids.

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