Analysis of the pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic targets of Acanthamoeba Keratitis

Acanthamoeba can form cysts under unfavorable conditions, making clinical treatment challenging. However, the detailed molecular mechanisms of encystation remain poorly understood. In this study, we identified that the sodium P-type ATPase (ACA1_065450) gene plays a critical role in the encystation process of Acanthamoeba. The expression of P-type ATPase was significantly upregulated under encystation-inducing conditions, such as treatment with MgCl₂ or NaCl. Moreover, when treated with ouabain, an ATPase inhibitor, the cyst formation rate was markedly reduced, suggesting that the Na⁺/K⁺ ion pump is essential for cyst development. Given that PHMB alone is less effective against some drug-resistant strains, we propose a novel therapeutic strategy combining ouabain and PHMB to more effectively target Acanthamoeba survival mechanisms. This research not only advances our understanding of Acanthamoeba's encystation mechanisms but also provides a promising direction for developing more effective AK treatments, with potential clinical benefits for improving patient outcomes.