Accession Number:

ADA166799

Title:

Biochemistry of Trypanosomatidae of Importance in Africa.

Descriptive Note:

Annual rept. 1 Jan-31 Dec 83,

Corporate Author:

MASSACHUSETTS UNIV AMHERST DEPT OF MICROBIOLOGY

Personal Author(s):

• Nolan,Linda L.

Report Date:

1983-12-01

Pagination or Media Count:

46.0

Abstract:

A comparison of the enzymes of pathogenic protozoa to those of man is of fundamental importance to the search for much needed chemotherapeutic agents. The enzymes involved in purine salvage are of particular interest because most pathogenic protozoa lack the ability to synthesize purines de novo and consequently are obligate salvagers of performed purines. This project involves an investigation of purine and pyrimidine metabolism of Leishmania. Comparisons of their biochemistry will be made within the parasitic group and to their host cells. Basic information regarding metabolic capacities of these organisms will be obtained. Attention will be given to the mechanisms by which these organisms absorb nutrients from their environment. These mechanisms involve enzymes excreted into their surroundings, enzymes located on the cell surface, and enzymes located within the cell. Enzyme and transport mechanisms which exhibit differences from those of host cells will offer targets for chemotherapeutic exploitation. Inhibitors will be sought

Descriptors:

• *BIOCHEMISTRY
• *ENZYMES
• *LEISHMANIA
• *ANTIPARASITIC DRUGS
• *TRYPANOSOMA
• SYNTHESIS
• TARGETS
• METABOLISM
• NUTRIENTS
• SURFACES
• TRANSPORT PROPERTIES
• ANIMALS
• INHIBITION
• CELLS(BIOLOGY)
• PATHOGENIC MICROORGANISMS
• HOSTS(BIOLOGY)
• NUCLEIC ACIDS
• BIOASSAY
• PROTOZOA
• CHEMOTHERAPEUTIC AGENTS
• POTENTIAL THEORY
• PURINES
• PYRIMIDINES

Subject Categories:

• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Pharmacology

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE