Work

Host-directed therapeutic strategies against apicomplexan parasites: targeting purinergic P2 receptors

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Apicomplexan parasites establish intracellular infections that profoundly alter host cell physiology and elicit complex immune responses. The long-standing coevolution between these parasites and vertebrate hosts has resulted in extensive overlap between parasite and host metabolic pathways, limiting the feasibility of conventional parasite-centered therapeutic approaches. Increasing evidence indicates that host-derived signals generated during infection play a decisive role in shaping parasite survival and dissemination. Among these signals, extracellular nucleotides released in response to cellular stress and tissue damage have emerged as key modulators of innate immune responses. These molecules are sensed by purinergic P2 receptors, which integrate danger signals with inflammatory and microbicidal pathways. This review examines how purinergic signaling contributes to host-parasite interactions during apicomplexan infections, with particular emphasis on Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium spp. We discuss the dual role of P2 receptors in coordinating immune responses and directly affecting parasite viability, highlighting their potential as targets for host-directed therapeutic strategies.

Source: Purinergic Signalling

DOI: 10.1007/s11302-026-10145-7

Authors: Mariana M. Chaves, Nayara Carvalho-Barbosa, Luiz Eduardo Baggio Savio, Robson Coutinho-Silva

Institutions: Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho

Language: English

Topic: Adenosine and Purinergic Signaling

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,690