Schistosome regulatory myosin light chain (SmMLC)

The **schistosome regulatory myosin light chain** (SmMLC) is a small protein subunit of the class II myosin motor complex found in the parasitic flatworm Schistosoma mansoni and related species[6]. It plays a **critical regulatory role in parasite muscle contraction** by facilitating phosphorylation-dependent activation of myosin, enabling the muscular movements required for survival, host migration, and tissue invasion[6][2]. SmMLC is differentially expressed across the parasite’s lifecycle, most abundantly in schistosomula and adults, and is a key modulator in parasite motility[4][6]. The anti-schistosomal drug **praziquantel** binds directly to SmMLC, altering its function and phosphorylation, which likely contributes to the drug’s mechanism by inducing lethal paralysis in the parasite[4][6]. SmMLC has also been identified as a potential immunogen and vaccine target, with anti-SmMLC antibody formation observed in immunized mice[6]. As a non-human muscle contractile protein, it is considered a promising **therapeutic target for schistosomiasis**[4][6].

Other names

Regulatory myosin light chain of Schistosoma mansoniSmMLCSchistosome myosin RLCSchistosoma regulatory MLC

Disruption of Schistosome muscle function via altered phosphorylation of regulatory myosin light chain, leading to paralysis and death of the parasite[4][6]