To survive in the human bloodstream, the African trypanosome parasite wears a 'cloak' made of proteins known as a variant surface glycoprotein (VSG).
University of YorkMar 30 2026 To survive in the human bloodstream, the African trypanosome parasite wears a "cloak" made of proteins known as a variant surface glycoprotein . The study, published in Nature Microbiology , identifies the protein that allows the parasite to fine-tune this "cloak".
The newly discovered ESB2 protein acts as a "molecular shredder", allowing the parasite to avoid detection by destroying specific parts of its genetic instructions with surgical precision as they are being produced. By understanding how the parasite manages to do this with such incredible precision, researchers can now identify new vulnerabilities in its life cycle. This opens the door for future treatments for Sleeping Sickness, a disease that continues to have a devastating impact on communities across sub-Saharan Africa. Transmitted by the bite of the tsetse fly, if left untreated the parasites invade the central nervous system, causing neurological issues including severe sleep disruptions, confusion, and coma. We've discovered that the parasite's secret to staying invisible isn't just what it prints, but what it chooses to redact. By placing a "molecular shredder" directly inside its "protein factory", the parasite can edit its genetic manual in real-time. This suggests a fundamental shift in how we view infection: survival for many organisms may depend less on how they issue genetic instructions and more on how they destroy them at the source." The discovery provides an answer to a bizarre quirk in the parasite's biology that has baffled scientists for 40 years. The genetic manual for the "cloak" also contains several "helper genes" needed for survival and immune evasion. Logic suggests that when the parasite follows these genetic instructions, it should produce equal amounts of each protein. However, the parasite somehow produces a mountain of cloak proteins but only a tiny amount of helper proteins. By identifying the ESB2 protein, the York team discovered that the parasite controls its genetic messages through destruction rather than just production. Related StoriesESB2 sits directly inside the parasite's protein factory, known as the Expression Site Body. As the genetic manual is being printed, ESB2 acts as a "molecular blade" that instantly shreds the helper sections while leaving the cloak instructions intact. This real-time redaction ensures the parasite expresses exactly what it needs to remain hidden from the host's immune system. The breakthrough marks the first major output for Dr Faria's new laboratory at the University of York, representing a significant addition to the city's growing reputation as a global hub for life sciences. The project was funded by a Sir Henry Dale Fellowship – a partnership between the Wellcome Trust and the Royal Society – and brought together expertise from the United Kingdom, Portugal, the Netherlands, Germany, Singapore and Brazil. Lianne Lansink, first author of the study, said: "When we first saw the molecular shredder localised in the microscope, we knew we had found something special." Dr Faria added: "This discovery is a real full-circle moment for me. The mystery of how this parasite manages the asymmetric expression of its genetic manual has been a cold case in the back of my mind since my days as a postdoc. To finally solve it now, as the first major output of my own lab here at York, is incredibly rewarding. It's a testament to what a fresh lab and a diverse group of scientists can achieve when they look at an old problem from a completely new angle."Journal reference:Lansink, L. I. M., et al. . Specialized RNA decay fine-tunes monogenic antigen expression in Trypanosoma brucei. Nature Microbiology. DOI: 10.1038/s41564-026-02289-4. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41564-026-02289-4
Glycoprotein Microbiology Protein
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Study Reveals Significant Decline in Daily Conversations and Word UsageA new study indicates a notable decrease in daily spoken words, with Gen Z showing the largest decline. Researchers link this to increased loneliness and the rise of digital communication.
Read more »
Model stabbed to death by her own son who she was 'sleeping with'WARNING: DISTRESSING CONTENT Barbara Daly Baekeland, a former model married to plastics heir Brooks Baekeland, was stabbed to death by her son Tony at their London home in a tragic case involving allegations of abuse and manipulation
Read more »
Top vintage baby names making a comeback and perfect for springA study spanning 100 years shows nostalgic baby names are soaring back into the top 25
Read more »
Veron Mosengo-Omba: Caf general secretary resigns amid Afcon final falloutVeron Mosengo-Omba, a controversial figure, leaves at a turbulent time for African football.
Read more »
I'm A Celebrity All-Stars Line-Up Revealed: Return to the South African JungleThe second series of I'm A Celebrity All-Stars is set to launch on Monday 6th April, bringing back memorable campmates to the South African jungle. Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly will host the series, and for the first time, the public will decide the ultimate legend. The line-up includes Gemma Collins, Beverley Callard, Harry Redknapp, Sir Mo Farah, Jimmy Bullard, and Sinitta.
Read more »
Undiagnosed Heart Failure Common in Diabetics, Study FindsResearch indicates that many people with diabetes may have undiagnosed heart failure. A screening blood test could easily detect this, potentially leading to earlier treatment and improved outcomes. The TARTAN-HF trial found a significant prevalence of undiagnosed heart failure in diabetic patients with other risk factors.
Read more »