The cell division cycle of T. gondii is driven by cyclically expressed ApiAP2 transcription factors (AP2s) that promote gene sets (regulons) associated with specific biological functions. AP2s drive other AP2s, thereby propelling the progressive gene expression waves defining the lytic cycle. AP2s can act as dimers by themselves, in combination with other AP2s (constitutive or cyclical) or in complexes with epigenetic factors. Exit from the cell cycle into either the extracellular state or differentiation into bradyzoites results in major changes in gene expression. Surprisingly, both transitions lead to expression of a shared set of unique AP2s that suggest a shared stress response that, governed by the specific conditions, leads to different outcomes.

弓形虫的细胞分裂周期由循环表达的 ApiAP2 转录因子 (AP2) 驱动，这些转录因子促进与特定生物功能相关的基因组（调节子）。AP2 驱动其他 AP2，从而推动定义裂解周期的进行性基因表达波。AP2 本身可以作为二聚体，与其他 AP2（组成型或循环型）组合或与表观遗传因子形成复合物。退出细胞周期进入细胞外状态或分化为缓殖子会导致基因表达的重大变化。令人惊讶的是，这两种转变都会导致一组共享的独特 AP2 的表达，这表明共享的应激反应在特定条件的控制下会导致不同的结果。