Figure 6.

Loss of TgLaforin attenuates tachyzoite virulence and cyst burden in mice. Equal numbers of male and female CBA/J mice were infected i.p. with 100 tachyzoites from each group and monitored for both symptom progression and mortality.

A, Symptomology throughout the acute (< day 20) and early chronic phases of infection (day 21–28). Mice were monitored 1–2x/day and assigned a body score index ranging from asymptomatic (Stage 0) to moribund/deceased. Staging of disease progression is discussed in (52). B, Kaplan-Meier curve of mouse survival throughout acute and early chronic infection following tachyzoite infection. C, A cohort of mice that survived 4-weeks were euthanized, and the cyst burden determined as done previously described (70). Error bars depict SD from the mean. Statistical comparison for Kaplan Meier curves is indicated on plot, and statistical comparison of cyst burden was done using unpaired two-tailed t-tests. Statistical significance: *p<0.05, ***p<0.0002.