James J. Collins

Conservation of Nuclear Receptor DAF-12 with Evidence for Ligand Diversification in Plant-Parasitic Nematodes

The paper investigates DAF-12 receptor ligand responsiveness in plant-parasitic nematodes and finds structural diversity in ligand recognition.

An injury-responsive bHLH is required for regenerative responses following mechanical injury in adult Schistosoma mansoni

This study identifies an injury-responsive bHLH transcription factor essential for regenerative responses to mechanical injury in adult Schistosoma mansoni.

Loss of vitamin C biosynthesis protects from a parasitic infection

This study shows that ascorbate deficiency protects mice from schistosomiasis by impairing schistosome egg production and reducing disease severity.

Horizontal gene transfer of a functional cki homolog in the human pathogen Schistosoma mansoni

The paper identifies a functional cki homolog in Schistosoma mansoni, showing it acts as a tumor suppressor and suggests its origin via horizontal gene transfer from free-living ancestors.

A genome-scale drug discovery pipeline uncovers new therapeutic targets and a unique p97 allosteric binding site in Schistosoma mansoni

This paper identifies new drug targets in Schistosoma mansoni using a genome-scale pipeline and discovers a p97 allosteric binding site that could lead to species-selective inhibitors.

A Kruppel-like factor establishes cellular heterogeneity during schistosome tegumental maintenance

The paper identifies klf4's role in maintaining tegumental cell heterogeneity in schistosomes through bulk and single-cell RNAseq, showing its necessity for lineage maintenance and molecular balance.

A niche-derived non-ribosomal peptide triggers planarian sexual development

The paper identifies a non-ribosomal peptide from niche cells that triggers sexual development in planarians, revealing its role in germ cell regulation and reproductive organ formation.