Sexual development in apicomplexan parasites: past and future

Sexual development is an important process in eukaryotic organisms that involves the fusion of gametes to produce genetically diverse offspring. In apicomplexan parasites, sexual development is crucial for their life cycle and transmission. This paper reviews historical advancements in the understanding of sexual development in these parasites and discusses future research directions. Key discoveries related to gamete production, fertilization, and the formation of infectious stages are explored. Additionally, potential avenues for further investigation are proposed, including the molecular mechanisms governing sexual development, the role of host factors, and the influence of environmental cues. This review aims to help future research and improve our understanding of the complex sexual development processes in apicomplexan parasites by highlighting past achievements and outlining future research directions. • Sexual development is a key step in the life cycle of apicomplexan parasites. • Sexual development in the Apicomplexa parasites involves many factors. • The mechanisms of sexual development in the parasites are not yet fully understood. • Research on sexual development helps to interrupt the transmission of these parasites.