Structural and regulatory principles underlying apicomplexan conoid function.

Zeng et al. and Qian et al. reveal in their cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) studies how apicomplexan parasites extensively remodel tubulin to construct the conoid, a specialized invasion organelle. Distinct microtubule assemblies integrate mechanical support, force generation, and secretion control, providing a structural framework that underpins parasite motility and host cell entry.