Comparative analysis of metacyclogenesis and infection curves in different discrete typing units of Trypanosoma cruzi

Abstract Chagas disease (CD), caused by the complex life cycle parasite Trypanosoma cruzi , is a global health concern and impacts millions globally. T. cruzi ’s genetic variability is categorized into discrete typing units (DTUs). Despite their widespread presence in the Americas, a comprehensive understanding of their impact on CD is lacking. This study aims to analyze life cycle traits across life cycle stages, unraveling DTU dynamics. Metacyclogenesis curves were generated, inducing nutritional stress in epimastigotes of five DTUs (TcI (MG), TcI (DA), TcII(Y), TcIII, TcIV, and TcVI), resulting in metacyclic trypomastigotes. Infection dynamics in Vero cells from various DTUs were evaluated, exploring factors like amastigotes per cell, cell-derived trypomastigotes, and infection percentage. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA tests, identified significant differences. Varying onset times for metacyclogenesis converged on the 7th day. TcI (MG) exhibited the highest metacyclogenesis potential. TcI (DA) stood out, infecting 80% of cells within 24 h. TcI demonstrated the highest potential in both metacyclogenesis and infection among the strains assessed. Intra-DTU diversity was evident among TcI strains, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of Trypanosoma cruzi dynamics and genetic diversity.