The approximately 30% of the world's population is infected with Toxoplasma gondii. However, its virulence including the strength of symptoms, greatly varies depending on the region. There has been few detailed genome research on Toxoplasma gondii in Japan, and its danger and origin are not well understood.

Using the innovative analysis tool POPSICLE, a research team led by Masahiro Yamamoto (WPI-IFReC/RIMD/CiDER, Osaka University) analyzed the whole genome structure of Toxoplasma gondii originating from Japan and China. They revealed that the highly virulent Toxoplasma population in Japan has undergone unique genetic admixture with lineages from Eurasia and the Americas.

Contact

Prof. MasahiroYamamoto

myamamotobiken.osaka-u.ac.jp

Immunoparasitology