mRNA cap-binding protein eIF4E1 is a novel regulator of <i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> latency

Abstract

<i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> is an opportunistic pathogen important to global human and animal health. There are currently no chemotherapies targeting the encysted form of the parasite. Consequently, a better understanding of the mechanisms controlling encystation is required. Here we show that the mRNA cap-binding protein, eIF4E1, regulates the encystation process. Encysted parasites reduce eIF4E1 levels, and depletion of eIF4E1 decreases the translation of ribosome-associated machinery and drives <i>Toxoplasma</i> encystation. Together, these data reveal a new layer of mRNA translational control that regulates parasite encystation and latency.