How does Toxoplama gondii invade host cells?

Abstract

Toxoplasma gondii is a highly prevalent protozoon that can infect all warm-blooded animals, including humans. It is frequently used as an Apicomplexan parasite model in research. In this review, the invasion mechanism of T. gondii is described as a representative Apicomplexan parasite. The invasion machinery of T. gondii consists of the moving junction and the glideosome, which is a specific motor system for Apicomplexan parasites. I provide details about the moving junction, parasite-secreted proteins and host adhesion receptors, the glideosome, and calcium signaling, which generates the power for the gliding mobility of T. gondii. A detailed understanding of parasite invasion can be useful for the development of new effective drugs to inhibit this event and disrupt the Apicomplexan life cycle.