Understanding Cell Communication Among Protozoan Parasites

Abstract

Infections caused by single-celled protozoan parasites affect countless individuals around the world, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Despite the significant impact on global health, available therapeutic intervention strategies are still limited. Gaining insight into the mechanisms of infection is essential for developing new vaccines and drug therapies. While host-parasite interactions are well-recognized as critical factors in disease, recent evidence highlights the growing importance of communication among parasites. Various studies indicate that protozoans can interact and communicate with one another, facilitating coordinated behaviors and the emergence of specialized roles within their populations. These interactions help optimize survival strategies and strengthen their response to infections. This review explores how communication among parasites influences social activities, physiological processes, and disease progression.

Keywords: cell communication; extracellular vesicles; parasites; pathogenesis.