**SSA** Functional biology of small RNAs secreted by the parasitic nematode Trichinella spiralis

Much of the research on host-parasite communication has focussed on the role of proteins, but recently small RNAs have emerged as a novel class of molecules which might participate in these events. One class in particular, microRNAs (miRNAs), have been posited to play a role in parasite manipulation of host function. I will explore the role that miRNAs play in communication between the parasitic nematode Trichinella spiralis and its mammalian host. This nematode parasite is well suited as a model for host-parasite communication in that it occupies a pseudo-intracellular niche in the gut epithelium during the adult phase of its life cycle, and a true intracellular niche in skeletal muscle during its larval phase. It is known to modulate host immunity and also induce remodelling of skeletal muscle, although the agents responsible for the latter phenomenon are unknown.

I will investigate potential roles for miRNAs in parasite-host communication using T. spiralis infection of rodents as a model system. The aim of the project is characterise miRNAs secreted by different stages of the parasite, investigate their pathway of secretion and mode of entry into host cells, and determine whether and how they are incorporated into the host small RNA pathway. I will aim to determine the targets of selected parasite secreted miRNAs and examine their possible role in remodelling of skeletal muscle. This project will address fundamental mechanistic questions on secretory RNAs, providing insight into potential roles in host-parasite interactions.