Trogocytosis: revealing new insights into parasite–host interactions

Shen, Jia; Li, Xuesong; Hide, Geoff; Lun, Zhao-Rong; Wu, Zhongdao

Abstract

Trogocytosis – a process whereby cells physically nibble and ingest membrane fragments and other components from neighboring cells – plays a critical role in host–parasite interactions by modulating parasite survival and host immune responses. This review explores trogocytosis in parasitic infections, revealing its dual roles: parasites use it for nutrient acquisition and immune evasion, whereas hosts use it for pathogen clearance. We analyze the molecular machinery driving this process, its impact on infection outcomes, and parallels in tumors/transplantation. Emerging therapeutic opportunities and unresolved challenges are critically evaluated, providing a roadmap for future research to harness trogocytosis in disease control.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: May 12, 2025
• Online Publication Date: Jun 3, 2025
• Publication Date: 2025-06
• Deposit Date: Jun 4, 2025
• Publicly Available Date: Jun 3, 2025
• Journal: Trends in Parasitology
• Print ISSN: 1471-4922
• Electronic ISSN: 1471-5007
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• ISBN: 1471-4922
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pt.2025.05.008
• Keywords: trogocytosis Entamoeba Naegleria Trichomonas Trypanosoma Schistosoma
• Publisher URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pt.2025.05.008
• Additional Information: This article is maintained by: Elsevier; Article Title: Trogocytosis: revealing new insights into parasite–host interactions; Journal Title: Trends in Parasitology; CrossRef DOI link to publisher maintained version: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pt.2025.05.008; Content Type: article; Copyright: © 2025 Elsevier Ltd. All rights are reserved, including those for text and data mining, AI training, and similar technologies.
• Other Repo URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pt.2025.05.008