ENDOCYTOSIS AND SECRETION IN TRYPANOSOMATID PARASITES TUMULTUOUS TRAFFIC IN A POCKET

Trypanosomatids are flagellated protozoan parasites of invertebrates, vertebrates and plants. Some species, found in the subtropics and trop ics, cause chronic diseases in humans and domestic animals. The surfac e of the trypanosomatid provides a shield against environmental challe nges, ligands for interaction with host cells, as well as receptors an d transporters for the uptake of nutrients. Communication between the parasite and its environment is confined to the flagellar pocket, an i nvagination of the plasma membrane around the base of the flagellum. I n this review, the authors discuss endocytosis, secretion and membrane trafficking in Trypanosoma and Leishmania.