The FAR protein family of parasitic nematodes
Sophia C. Parks, Susan Nguyen, Martin J. Boulanger, Adler R. Dillman
Abstract
Fatty acid-and retinol-binding proteins (FARs) belong to a unique family of excreted/secreted proteins (ESPs) found exclusively in nematodes. Much of our understanding of these proteins, however, is limited to their in vitro binding characteristics toward various fatty acids and retinol and has provided little insight into their in vivo functions or mechanisms. Recent research, however, has shown that FARs elicit an immunomodulatory role in plant and animal model systems, likely by sequestering lipids involved in immune signaling. This alludes to the intricate relationship between parasitic nematode effectors and their hosts.
Topics & Concepts
EffectorNematodeBiologyImmune systemRetinol binding proteinIn vivoIn vitroCell biologyBiochemistryRetinolImmunologyGeneticsEcologyVitaminNematode management and characterization studiesParasite Biology and Host InteractionsParasites and Host Interactions