# Serum Proteomics Reveals Systemic Responses in Didelphis aurita Naturally Infected with Hepatozoon sp

## TL;DR

This study identifies serum proteins in a marsupial infected with Hepatozoon sp., revealing how the host responds systemically to the parasite.

## Contribution

The first characterization of the serum proteome in Didelphis aurita naturally infected with Hepatozoon sp.

## Key findings

- 33 unique proteins were found exclusively in infected animals, including fibrinogen and plasminogen.
- Functional analysis showed roles in coagulation, protease inhibition, and antioxidant defense.
- Key proteins suggest an integrated host response involving hemostasis and tissue remodeling.

## Abstract

Didelphis aurita is a widely distributed neotropical marsupial frequently found in peri-urban environments and known to harbor various pathogens, including hemoparasites of the genus Hepatozoon. However, the systemic physiological responses of naturally infected individuals remain poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the serum proteomic profile of Didelphis aurita naturally infected with Hepatozoon sp., providing insights into host–parasite interactions and potential biomarkers of infection. Serum samples were analyzed using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), followed by functional annotation based on Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway enrichment. A total of 67 proteins were identified, 33 of which were exclusive to infected animals. The most abundant proteins included albumin, hemoglobin subunits, and venom metalloproteinase inhibitors (DM43 and DM64). Functional enrichment revealed significant involvement in complement and coagulation cascades, protease inhibition, antioxidant defense, and extracellular vesicle localization. Key proteins such as fibrinogen, plasminogen, antithrombin, SERPIN family members, vitronectin, and fibronectin suggest an integrated host response involving hemostasis, inflammation control, and tissue remodeling. This is the first report of the serum proteome of Didelphis aurita naturally infected with Hepatozoon sp. Despite the absence of protein validation, the findings provide novel insights into marsupial immunophysiology and offer a foundation for future biomarker research and ecoimmunological surveillance in synanthropic species.