RNA sequencing analysis of Toxoplasma gondii parasites with altered expression of IF1

The goal of the study was to better understand the role of an ATP synthase regulator, ATPase inhibitory factor 1 (IF1), in Toxoplasma gondii parasites. To this end, we performed cellular and molecular characterization, including RNA sequencing analysis, of genetically modified Toxoplasma gondii parasites lacking TgIF1 and over-expressing TgIF1. The study is of relevance because Toxoplasma gondii is a member of the Apicomplexan phylum, a phylum which contains pathogens responsible for significant global morbidity and mortality. A better understanding of how TgIF1 regulates ATP synthase activity, a critical enzyme for parasite survival, could help to inform therapeutic and disease control strategies for toxoplasmosis and other diseases caused by Apicomplexan parasites, such as malaria.