Overexpression of a G-protein coupled receptor-like gene affects encystment of Acanthamoeba castellanii

Acanthamoeba castellanii is an amphizoic free-living amoeba as it can be found in humans and in the environment. This amoeba represents an important reservoir of pathogenic microorganisms. Persistence of A. castellanii in the environment or in humans is allowed by the ability of the vegetative form to differentiate under cysts when surrounding conditions are unfavorable. In this study, we investigate the role of the ACA1_383450 gene during encystment of A. castellanii. This gene encodes a putative G-protein coupled receptor, which shares homology with human GPR107 and murine GPR108. Expression of the ACA1_383450 gene is transiently repressed at the early phase of encystment and its overexpression affects encystment of A. castellanii. This study reveals a new Acanthamoeba gene which could affect the encystment process.