Book
The Apicoplast.
| Title: | The Apicoplast. |
|---|---|
| Authors: | GOVINDJEE, Wise, Robert R., Hoober, J. Kenneth, Funes, Soledad, Pérez-Martínez, Xochitl, Reyes-Prieto, Adrián, González-Halphen, Diego |
| Source: | Structure & Function of Plastids; 2006, p475-505, 31p |
| Abstract: | The apicoplast is an essential organelle characteristic of the apicomplexan parasites. It harbors its own genome and it is believed to be a chloroplast-derived organelle that originated by secondary endosymbiosis. Here, we address the more relevant properties of this organelle, an evolutionary relict of a once fully-functional algal chloroplast. We address how its highly-reduced plastid genome replicates and segregates, and how it gets transcribed and translated. We also describe the particular metabolism of the apicoplast, limited to certain pathways, including fatty acid and lipid biosynthesis, the non-mevalonate isoprenoid synthesis pathway, the biosynthesis of iron-sulfur clusters, and the de novo synthesis of heme groups. These metabolic pathways are of relevance as a preferred target for anti-parasitic drugs. The organelle also exhibits peculiar protein-import mechanisms. Numerous genes encoding apicoplast proteins are located in the nucleus, and the encoded proteins are targeted to the organelle in a process mediated by bipartite N-terminal extensions present in the protein precursors. The nature of the alga that was phagocytized and retained by the apicomplexan ancestor through a secondary endosymbiotic event remains controversial. We critically address the obscure evolutionary origin of the apicoplast and we review the evidence that has given rise to the so-called rhodophyte versus chlorophyte debate. The apicoplast is a fascinating organelle that has attracted many research groups in the last years. Our current knowledge about it its certainly limited, and its study is essential to understand the physiology and evolution of the apicomplexan parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| DOI: | 10.1007/1-4020-4061-X24 |
| Database: | Supplemental Index |
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