Journal
PARASITOLOGY
Volume 128, Issue -, Pages 53-67Publisher
CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESS
DOI: 10.1017/S0031182003004256
Keywords
SIF; differentiation; delay differential equation
Categories
Ask authors/readers for more resources
We propose a new model for the Stumpy Induction Factor-induced slender to stumpy transformation of Trypanosoma brucei gambiense cells in immunosuppressed mice. The model is a set of delay differential equations that describe the time-course of the infection. We fit the model, using a maximum-likelihood method, to previously published data on parasitaemia in four mice. The model is shown to be a good fit and parameter estimates and confidence intervals are derived. Our estimated parameter values are consistent with estimates from previous experimental studies. The model predicts the following. Slender cells can be classified as uncommitted, committed and dividing, and committed and non-dividing. A committed slender cell undergoes about 5 divisions before exiting the cell-cycle. Committed slender cells must produce SIF, and stumpy cells must not produce SIF. There are two mechanisms for differentiation, a background differentiation rate, and a SIF-concentration-dependent differentiation rate, which is proportional to SIF concentration. SIF has a half-life of about 1.4 h in mice. We also show, with suitable changes in the parameter values, that the model reflects behaviours seen in other host species and trypanosome strains.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available