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Ten Hoeve AL, Rodriguez ME, Säflund M, Michel V, Magimel L, Ripoll A, Yu T, Hakimi MA, Saeij JPJ, Ozata DM, Barragan A. Hypermigration of macrophages through the concerted action of GRA effectors on NF-κB/p38 signaling and host chromatin accessibility potentiates Toxoplasma dissemination. mBio 2024:e0214024. [PMID: 39207098 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02140-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Mononuclear phagocytes facilitate the dissemination of the obligate intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Here, we report how a set of secreted parasite effector proteins from dense granule organelles (GRA) orchestrates dendritic cell-like chemotactic and pro-inflammatory activation of parasitized macrophages. These effects enabled efficient dissemination of the type II T. gondii lineage, a highly prevalent genotype in humans. We identify novel functions for effectors GRA15 and GRA24 in promoting CCR7-mediated macrophage chemotaxis by acting on NF-κB and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling pathways, respectively, with contributions by GRA16/18 and counter-regulation by effector TEEGR. Furthermore, GRA28 boosted chromatin accessibility and GRA15/24/NF-κB-dependent transcription at the Ccr7 gene locus in primary macrophages. In vivo, adoptively transferred macrophages infected with wild-type T. gondii outcompeted macrophages infected with a GRA15/24 double mutant in migrating to secondary organs in mice. The data show that T. gondii, rather than being passively shuttled, actively promotes its dissemination by inducing a finely regulated pro-migratory state in parasitized human and murine phagocytes via co-operating polymorphic GRA effectors. IMPORTANCE Intracellular pathogens can hijack the cellular functions of infected host cells to their advantage, for example, for intracellular survival and dissemination. However, how microbes orchestrate the hijacking of complex cellular processes, such as host cell migration, remains poorly understood. As such, the common parasite Toxoplasma gondii actively invades the immune cells of humans and other vertebrates and modifies their migratory properties. Here, we show that the concerted action of a number of secreted effector proteins from the parasite, principally GRA15 and GRA24, acts on host cell signaling pathways to activate chemotaxis. Furthermore, the protein effector GRA28 selectively acted on chromatin accessibility in the host cell nucleus to selectively boost host gene expression. The joint activities of GRA effectors culminated in pro-migratory signaling within the infected phagocyte. We provide a molecular framework delineating how T. gondii can orchestrate a complex biological phenotype, such as the migratory activation of phagocytes to boost dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arne L Ten Hoeve
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Matias E Rodriguez
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Säflund
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Valentine Michel
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lucas Magimel
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Albert Ripoll
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tianxiong Yu
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Mohamed-Ali Hakimi
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Jeroen P J Saeij
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of California Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Deniz M Ozata
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Antonio Barragan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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2
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Huet D, Jeffers V. Seeing the unseen: illuminating Toxoplasma gondii's metabolic manipulation. mBio 2024; 15:e0121124. [PMID: 38995035 PMCID: PMC11323485 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01211-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Intracellular infection by a pathogen induces significant rewiring of host cell signaling and biological processes. Understanding how an intracellular pathogen such as Toxoplasma gondii modulates host cell metabolism with single-cell resolution has been challenged by the variability of infection within cultures and difficulties in separating host and parasite metabolic processes. A new study from Gallego-Lopez and colleagues (G. M. Gallego-López, E. C. Guzman, D. E. Desa, L. J. Knoll, M. C. Skala, mBio e00727-24, 2024, https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.00727-24) applies a quantitative imaging approach to evaluate the host cell metabolism during intracellular infection with Toxoplasma. This study provides important insights into host metabolic responses to Toxoplasma infection and offers a valuable tool to dissect the mechanisms underlying parasite infection and pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Huet
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Victoria Jeffers
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA
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3
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Nayeri T, Sarvi S, Daryani A. Effective factors in the pathogenesis of Toxoplasmagondii. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31558. [PMID: 38818168 PMCID: PMC11137575 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a cosmopolitan protozoan parasite in humans and animals. It infects about 30 % of the human population worldwide and causes potentially fatal diseases in immunocompromised hosts and neonates. For this study, five English-language databases (ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus) and the internet search engine Google Scholar were searched. This review was accomplished to draw a global perspective of what is known about the pathogenesis of T. gondii and various factors affecting it. Virulence and immune responses can influence the mechanisms of parasite pathogenesis and these factors are in turn influenced by other factors. In addition to the host's genetic background, the type of Toxoplasma strain, the routes of transmission of infection, the number of passages, and different phases of parasite life affect virulence. The identification of virulence factors of the parasite could provide promising insights into the pathogenesis of this parasite. The results of this study can be an incentive to conduct more intensive research to design and develop new anti-Toxoplasma agents (drugs and vaccines) to treat or prevent this infection. In addition, further studies are needed to better understand the key agents in the pathogenesis of T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tooran Nayeri
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Dezful University of Medical Sciences, Dezful, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shahabeddin Sarvi
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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4
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Chen Z, Cheng S, Chen X, Zhang Z, Du Y. New advances in immune mechanism and treatment during ocular toxoplasmosis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1403025. [PMID: 38799473 PMCID: PMC11116678 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1403025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Ocular toxoplasmosis (OT) is an intraocular infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. OT is manifested as retinal choroiditis and is the most common infectious cause of posterior uveitis. Invasion of the retina by T. gondii leads to disruption of the blood-ocular barrier and promotes the migration of immune cells to the ocular tissues. Cytokines such as IFN-γ and IL-1β are effective for controlling parasite growth, but excessive inflammatory responses can cause damage to the host. In this review, we will discuss in detail the latest advances in the immunopathology and treatment of OT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijian Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Shizhou Cheng
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaoming Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Zuhai Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
| | - Yanhua Du
- Physical Examination Department, The First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, China
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5
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Lüder CGK. IFNs in host defence and parasite immune evasion during Toxoplasma gondii infections. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1356216. [PMID: 38384452 PMCID: PMC10879624 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1356216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Interferons (IFNs) are a family of cytokines with diverse functions in host resistance to pathogens and in immune regulation. Type II IFN, i.e. IFN-γ, is widely recognized as a major mediator of resistance to intracellular pathogens, including the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii. More recently, IFN-α/β, i.e. type I IFNs, and IFN-λ (type III IFN) have been identified to also play important roles during T. gondii infections. This parasite is a widespread pathogen of humans and animals, and it is a model organism to study cell-mediated immune responses to intracellular infection. Its success depends, among other factors, on the ability to counteract the IFN system, both at the level of IFN-mediated gene expression and at the level of IFN-regulated effector molecules. Here, I review recent advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying IFN-mediated host resistance and immune regulation during T. gondii infections. I also discuss those mechanisms that T. gondii has evolved to efficiently evade IFN-mediated immunity. Knowledge of these fascinating host-parasite interactions and their underlying signalling machineries is crucial for a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of toxoplasmosis, and it might also identify potential targets of parasite-directed or host-directed supportive therapies to combat the parasite more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carsten G. K. Lüder
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Virology, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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6
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Ten Hoeve AL, Rodriguez ME, Säflund M, Michel V, Magimel L, Ripoll A, Yu T, Hakimi MA, Saeij JPJ, Ozata DM, Barragan A. Hypermigration of macrophages through the concerted action of GRA effectors on NF-κB/p38 signaling and host chromatin accessibility potentiates Toxoplasma dissemination. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.06.579146. [PMID: 38370679 PMCID: PMC10871220 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.06.579146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Mononuclear phagocytes facilitate the dissemination of the obligate intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Here, we report how a set of secreted parasite effector proteins from dense granule organelles (GRA) orchestrates dendritic cell-like chemotactic and pro-inflammatory activation of parasitized macrophages. These effects enabled efficient dissemination of the type II T. gondii lineage, a highly prevalent genotype in humans. We identify novel functions for effectors GRA15 and GRA24 in promoting CCR7-mediated macrophage chemotaxis by acting on NF-κB and p38 MAPK signaling pathways, respectively, with contributions of GRA16/18 and counter-regulation by effector TEEGR. Further, GRA28 boosted chromatin accessibility and GRA15/24/NF-κB-dependent transcription at the Ccr7 gene locus in primary macrophages. In vivo, adoptively transferred macrophages infected with wild-type T. gondii outcompeted macrophages infected with a GRA15/24 double mutant in migrating to secondary organs in mice. The data show that T. gondii, rather than being passively shuttled, actively promotes its dissemination by inducing a finely regulated pro-migratory state in parasitized human and murine phagocytes via co-operating polymorphic GRA effectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arne L Ten Hoeve
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Matias E Rodriguez
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Säflund
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Valentine Michel
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lucas Magimel
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Albert Ripoll
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tianxiong Yu
- Program in Bioinformatics and Integrative Biology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Mohamed-Ali Hakimi
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Jeroen P J Saeij
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616 California, USA
| | - Deniz M Ozata
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Antonio Barragan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
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7
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Yoon C, Ham YS, Gil WJ, Yang CS. Exploring the potential of Toxoplasma gondii in drug development and as a delivery system. Exp Mol Med 2024; 56:289-300. [PMID: 38297164 PMCID: PMC10907749 DOI: 10.1038/s12276-024-01165-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Immune-mediated inflammatory diseases are various groups of conditions that result in immune system disorders and increased cancer risk. Despite the identification of causative cytokines and pathways, current clinical treatment for immune-mediated inflammatory diseases is limited. In addition, immune-mediated inflammatory disease treatment can increase the risk of cancer. Several previous studies have demonstrated that Toxoplasma gondii manipulates the immune response by inhibiting or stimulating cytokines, suggesting the potential for controlling and maintaining a balanced immune system. Additionally, T. gondii also has the unique characteristic of being a so-called "Trojan horse" bacterium that can be used as a drug delivery system to treat regions that have been resistant to previous drug delivery therapies. In this study, we reviewed the potential of T. gondii in drug development and as a delivery system through current research on inflammation-regulating mechanisms in immune-mediated inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanjin Yoon
- Department of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
- Institute of Natural Science & Technology, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
| | - Yu Seong Ham
- Department of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
- Center for Bionano Intelligence Education and Research, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
| | - Woo Jin Gil
- Department of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
- Center for Bionano Intelligence Education and Research, Ansan, 15588, South Korea
| | - Chul-Su Yang
- Department of Molecular and Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea.
- Center for Bionano Intelligence Education and Research, Ansan, 15588, South Korea.
- Department of Medicinal and Life Science, Hanyang University, Ansan, 15588, South Korea.
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8
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John SV, Seim GL, Erazo-Flores BJ, Steill J, Freeman J, Votava JA, Arp NL, Qing X, Stewart R, Knoll LJ, Fan J. Macrophages undergo functionally significant reprograming of nucleotide metabolism upon classical activation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.27.573447. [PMID: 38234794 PMCID: PMC10793465 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.27.573447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
During an immune response, macrophages systematically rewire their metabolism in specific ways to support their diversve functions. However, current knowledge of macrophage metabolism is largely concentrated on central carbon metabolism. Using multi-omics analysis, we identified nucleotide metabolism as one of the most significantly rewired pathways upon classical activation. Further isotopic tracing studies revealed several major changes underlying the substantial metabolomic alterations: 1) de novo synthesis of both purines and pyrimidines is shut down at several specific steps; 2) nucleotide degradation activity to nitrogenous bases is increased but complete oxidation of bases is reduced, causing a great accumulation of nucleosides and bases; and 3) cells gradually switch to primarily relying on salvaging the nucleosides and bases for maintaining most nucleotide pools. Mechanistically, the inhibition of purine nucleotide de novo synthesis is mainly caused by nitric oxide (NO)-driven inhibition of the IMP synthesis enzyme ATIC, with NO-independent transcriptional downregulation of purine synthesis genes augmenting the effect. The inhibition of pyrimidine nucleotide de novo synthesis is driven by NO-driven inhibition of CTP synthetase (CTPS) and transcriptional downregulation of thymidylate synthase (TYMS). For the rewiring of degradation, purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP) and uridine phosphorylase (UPP) are transcriptionally upregulated, increasing nucleoside degradation activity. However, complete degradation of purine bases by xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) is inhibited by NO, diverting flux into nucleotide salvage. Inhibiting the activation-induced switch from nucleotide de novo synthesis to salvage by knocking out the purine salvage enzyme hypoxanthine-guanine phosporibosyl transferase (Hprt) significantly alters the expression of genes important for activated macrophage functions, suppresses macrophage migration, and increases pyroptosis. Furthermore, knocking out Hprt or Xor increases proliferation of the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii in macrophages. Together, these studies comprehensively reveal the characteristics, the key regulatory mechanisms, and the functional importance of the dynamic rewiring of nucleotide metabolism in classically activated macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven V John
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Gretchen L Seim
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Billy J Erazo-Flores
- Cellular and Molecular Pathology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - John Steill
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI
| | | | | | - Nicholas L Arp
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Xin Qing
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Ron Stewart
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI
| | - Laura J Knoll
- Cellular and Molecular Pathology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Jing Fan
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, WI
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Graduate Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
- Lead contact
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9
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Wang X, Qu L, Chen J, Jin Y, Hu K, Zhou Z, Zhang J, An Y, Zheng J. Toxoplasma rhoptry proteins that affect encephalitis outcome. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:439. [PMID: 38049394 PMCID: PMC10696021 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01742-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, a widespread obligate intracellular parasite, can infect almost all warm-blooded animals, including humans. The cellular barrier of the central nervous system (CNS) is generally able to protect the brain parenchyma from infectious damage. However, T. gondii typically causes latent brain infections in humans and other vertebrates. Here, we discuss how T. gondii rhoptry proteins (ROPs) affect signaling pathways in host cells and speculate how this might affect the outcome of Toxoplasma encephalitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlei Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Lai Qu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Yufen Jin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Kaisong Hu
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Zhengjie Zhou
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jiaqi Zhang
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Yiming An
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jingtong Zheng
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China.
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10
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May DA, Taha F, Child MA, Ewald SE. How colonization bottlenecks, tissue niches, and transmission strategies shape protozoan infections. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:1074-1086. [PMID: 37839913 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Protozoan pathogens such as Plasmodium spp., Leishmania spp., Toxoplasma gondii, and Trypanosoma spp. are often associated with high-mortality, acute and chronic diseases of global health concern. For transmission and immune evasion, protozoans have evolved diverse strategies to interact with a range of host tissue environments. These interactions are linked to disease pathology, yet our understanding of the association between parasite colonization and host homeostatic disruption is limited. Recently developed techniques for cellular barcoding have the potential to uncover the biology regulating parasite transmission, dissemination, and the stability of infection. Understanding bottlenecks to infection and the in vivo tissue niches that facilitate chronic infection and spread has the potential to reveal new aspects of parasite biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana A May
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology at the Carter Immunology Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA
| | - Fatima Taha
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Matthew A Child
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, London SW7 2AZ, UK.
| | - Sarah E Ewald
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Cancer Biology at the Carter Immunology Center, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22908, USA.
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11
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TAKASHIMA Y. Visualization of parasite dynamics in the host tissues: application of tissue transparency technology to parasite research. J Vet Med Sci 2023; 85:1146-1150. [PMID: 37766567 PMCID: PMC10686769 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Many parasite species migrate to another site of infection after entering the host body. Such parasite dynamics are closely related to pathogenicity, but it is not easy to observe such parasite behavior deep within the organs. In recent years, technology that can make organs transparent has been developed that enables us to observe deep within organs ex vivo while maintaining their three-dimensional structure. This review describes a series of attempts to apply this technology to understand the behavior of Toxoplasma gondii in the host body. A series of studies has shown that T. gondii tachyzoites that infect leukocytes can reach target organs far from the site of invasion via the circulatory system. In addition, infected leukocytes in the bloodstream adhere more readily to vascular endothelial cells than uninfected leukocytes and are more likely to remain inside the target organs. When infected leukocytes adhere to the vascular endothelial cells of the target organ, the tachyzoites inside the cells immediately escape and infect the parenchyma of the organs. As described above, organ transparency technology is a powerful tool for understanding the internal dynamics of parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro TAKASHIMA
- Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
- Center for One Medicine Innovative Translational Research (COMIT), Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
- Joint Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
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12
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Orchanian SB, Lodoen MB. Monocytes as primary defenders against Toxoplasma gondii infection. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:837-849. [PMID: 37633758 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Monocytes are recruited from the bone marrow to sites of infection where they release cytokines and chemokines, function in antimicrobial immunity, and differentiate into macrophages and dendritic cells to control infection. Although many studies have focused on monocyte-derived macrophages and dendritic cells, recent work has examined the unique roles of monocytes during infection to promote immune defense. We focus on the effector functions of monocytes during infection with the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, and discuss the signals that mobilize monocytes to sites of infection, their production of inflammatory cytokines and antimicrobial mediators, their ability to shape the adaptive immune response, and their immunoregulatory functions. Insights from other infections, including Plasmodium and Listeria are also included for comparison and context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie B Orchanian
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA; Institute for Immunology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Melissa B Lodoen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA; Institute for Immunology, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA.
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13
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Xie L, Xing Y, Yang J, Liu M, Cai Y. Toxoplasma gondii Reactivation Aggravating Cardiac Function Impairment in Mice. Pathogens 2023; 12:1025. [PMID: 37623985 PMCID: PMC10458591 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12081025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) reactivation is common, especially among immunocompromised individuals, such as AIDS patients. The cardiac involvement associated with toxoplasmosis, however, is usually obscured by neurological deterioration. The aim of this study was to observe the alterations in cardiac functions in various landmark periods after infection and to assess whether reactivation more seriously damages the heart. METHODS We established three infection models in mice using TgCtwh6, a major strain of T. gondii prevalent in China. The groups included an acute group, chronic latent group, and reactivation group. We evaluated the cardiac function impairment via H & E staining, Masson staining, echocardiography, myocardial enzyme profiles, and cardiac troponin, and detected the expression of inflammatory factors and antioxidant factors with Western blotting. Immunofluorescence was used to detect the expression of the macrophage marker F4/80. RESULTS Our results showed that damage to the heart occurred in the acute and reactivation groups. Impaired cardiac function manifested as a decrease in heart rate and a compensatory increase in left ventricular systolic function. Serum levels of cardiac enzymes also increased dramatically. In the chronic phase, myocardial fibrosis developed, diastolic functions became severely impaired, inflammation persisted, and macrophage expression was slightly reduced. Ultimately, reactivation infection exacerbated damage to cardiac function in mice, potentially leading to diastolic heart failure. Macrophages were strongly activated, and myocardial fibrosis was increased. In addition, the antioxidant capacity of the heart was severely affected by the infection. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these results suggested that the reactivation of T. gondii infection could aggravate injury to the heart, which could be associated with a host-cell-mediated immune response and strong cytokine production by macrophages, thus representing a novel insight into the pathogenic mechanism of toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linding Xie
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, the Provincial Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Anhui, and the Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yien Xing
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, the Provincial Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Anhui, and the Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, the Provincial Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Anhui, and the Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, the Provincial Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Anhui, and the Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yihong Cai
- Department of Health Inspection and Quarantine, School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, the Provincial Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Anhui, and the Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
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14
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Arafa FM, Said H, Osman D, Rezki N, Aouad MR, Hagar M, Osman M, Elwakil BH, Jaremko M, Tolba MM. Nanoformulation-Based 1,2,3-Triazole Sulfonamides for Anti- Toxoplasma In Vitro Study. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:401. [PMID: 37624339 PMCID: PMC10460005 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8080401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is deemed a successful parasite worldwide with a wide range of hosts. Currently, a combination of pyrimethamine and sulfadiazine serves as the first-line treatment; however, these drugs have serious adverse effects. Therefore, it is imperative to focus on new therapies that produce the desired effect with the lowest possible dose. The designation and synthesis of sulfonamide-1,2,3-triazole hybrids (3a-c) were performed to create hybrid frameworks. The newly synthesized compounds were loaded on chitosan nanoparticles (CNPs) to form nanoformulations (3a.CNP, 3b.CNP, 3c.CNP) for further in vitro investigation as an anti-Toxoplasma treatment. The current study demonstrated that all examined compounds were active against T. gondii in vitro relative to the control drug, sulfadiazine. 3c.CNP showed the best impact against T. gondii with the lowest IC50 value of 3.64 µg/mL. Using light microscopy, it was found that Vero cells treated with the three nanoformulae showed remarkable morphological improvement, and tachyzoites were rarely seen in the treated cells. Moreover, scanning and transmission electron microscopic studies confirmed the efficacy of the prepared nanoformulae on the parasites. All of them caused parasite ultrastructural damage and altered morphology, suggesting a cytopathic effect and hence confirming their promising anti-Toxoplasma activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fadwa M. Arafa
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21577, Egypt
| | - Heba Said
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Doaa Osman
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Nadjet Rezki
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawarah 30002, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed R. Aouad
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Taibah University, Al Madinah Al Munawarah 30002, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Hagar
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21321, Egypt
| | - Mervat Osman
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
| | - Bassma H. Elwakil
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Health Sciences Technology, Pharos University in Alexandria, Alexandria 21526, Egypt
| | - Mariusz Jaremko
- Smart-Health Initiative (SHI) and Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona Mohamed Tolba
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21561, Egypt
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15
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Wang Q, Zhong Y, Chen N, Chen J. From the immune system to mood disorders especially induced by Toxoplasma gondii: CD4+ T cell as a bridge. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1078984. [PMID: 37077528 PMCID: PMC10106765 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1078984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), a ubiquitous and obligatory intracellular protozoa, not only alters peripheral immune status, but crosses the blood-brain barrier to trigger brain parenchymal injury and central neuroinflammation to establish latent cerebral infection in humans and other vertebrates. Recent findings underscore the strong correlation between alterations in the peripheral and central immune environment and mood disorders. Th17 and Th1 cells are important pro-inflammatory cells that can drive the pathology of mood disorders by promoting neuroinflammation. As opposed to Th17 and Th1, regulatory T cells have inhibitory inflammatory and neuroprotective functions that can ameliorate mood disorders. T. gondii induces neuroinflammation, which can be mediated by CD4+ T cells (such as Tregs, Th17, Th1, and Th2). Though the pathophysiology and treatment of mood disorder have been currently studied, emerging evidence points to unique role of CD4+ T cells in mood disorder, especially those caused by T. gondii infection. In this review, we explore some recent studies that extend our understanding of the relationship between mood disorders and T. gondii.
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16
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Faral-Tello P, Pagotto R, Bollati-Fogolín M, Francia ME. Modeling the human placental barrier to understand Toxoplasma gondii´s vertical transmission. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1130901. [PMID: 36968102 PMCID: PMC10034043 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1130901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous apicomplexan parasite that can infect virtually any warm-blooded animal. Acquired infection during pregnancy and the placental breach, is at the core of the most devastating consequences of toxoplasmosis. T. gondii can severely impact the pregnancy’s outcome causing miscarriages, stillbirths, premature births, babies with hydrocephalus, microcephaly or intellectual disability, and other later onset neurological, ophthalmological or auditory diseases. To tackle T. gondii’s vertical transmission, it is important to understand the mechanisms underlying host-parasite interactions at the maternal-fetal interface. Nonetheless, the complexity of the human placenta and the ethical concerns associated with its study, have narrowed the modeling of parasite vertical transmission to animal models, encompassing several unavoidable experimental limitations. Some of these difficulties have been overcome by the development of different human cell lines and a variety of primary cultures obtained from human placentas. These cellular models, though extremely valuable, have limited ability to recreate what happens in vivo. During the last decades, the development of new biomaterials and the increase in stem cell knowledge have led to the generation of more physiologically relevant in vitro models. These cell cultures incorporate new dimensions and cellular diversity, emerging as promising tools for unraveling the poorly understood T. gondii´s infection mechanisms during pregnancy. Herein, we review the state of the art of 2D and 3D cultures to approach the biology of T. gondii pertaining to vertical transmission, highlighting the challenges and experimental opportunities of these up-and-coming experimental platforms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Faral-Tello
- Laboratory of Apicomplexan Biology, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Romina Pagotto
- Cell Biology Unit, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | | | - Maria E. Francia
- Laboratory of Apicomplexan Biology, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Departamento de Parasitología y Micología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
- *Correspondence: Maria E. Francia,
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Giuliano CJ, Wei KJ, Harling FM, Waldman BS, Farringer MA, Boydston EA, Lan TCT, Thomas RW, Herneisen AL, Sanderlin AG, Coppens I, Dvorin JD, Lourido S. Functional profiling of the Toxoplasma genome during acute mouse infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.05.531216. [PMID: 36945434 PMCID: PMC10028831 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.05.531216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Within a host, pathogens encounter a diverse and changing landscape of cell types, nutrients, and immune responses. Examining host-pathogen interactions in animal models can therefore reveal aspects of infection absent from cell culture. We use CRISPR-based screens to functionally profile the entire genome of the model apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii during mouse infection. Barcoded gRNAs were used to track mutant parasite lineages, enabling detection of bottlenecks and mapping of population structures. We uncovered over 300 genes that modulate parasite fitness in mice with previously unknown roles in infection. These candidates span multiple axes of host-parasite interaction, including determinants of tropism, host organelle remodeling, and metabolic rewiring. We mechanistically characterized three novel candidates, including GTP cyclohydrolase I, against which a small-molecule inhibitor could be repurposed as an antiparasitic compound. This compound exhibited antiparasitic activity against T. gondii and Plasmodium falciparum, the most lethal agent of malaria. Taken together, we present the first complete survey of an apicomplexan genome during infection of an animal host, and point to novel interfaces of host-parasite interaction that may offer new avenues for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kenneth J. Wei
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA
- Biology Department, MIT, Cambridge, MA
| | - Faye M. Harling
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA
- Biology Department, MIT, Cambridge, MA
| | | | - Madeline A. Farringer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Biological Sciences in Public Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | - Raina W. Thomas
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA
- Biology Department, MIT, Cambridge, MA
| | - Alice L. Herneisen
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA
- Biology Department, MIT, Cambridge, MA
| | | | - Isabelle Coppens
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD
| | - Jeffrey D. Dvorin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sebastian Lourido
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA
- Biology Department, MIT, Cambridge, MA
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18
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Macrophage to dendritic cell transitioning induced by Toxoplasma. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:10-11. [PMID: 36470783 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2022.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii exploits the migratory properties of monocytes and dendritic cells to promote tissue dissemination. Recently, ten Hoeve et al. reported that the parasite effector protein GRA28 conspires with host chromatin modifiers to confer dendritic cell-like features that convert sessile macrophages into migratory cells that transport infection to distal organs.
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19
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Toxoplasma gondii Dissemination in the Brain Is Facilitated by Infiltrating Peripheral Immune Cells. mBio 2022; 13:e0283822. [PMID: 36445695 PMCID: PMC9765297 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02838-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recent advances in our understanding of pathogenic access to the central nervous system (CNS), the mechanisms by which intracellular pathogens disseminate within the dense cellular network of neural tissue remain poorly understood. To address this issue, longitudinal analysis of Toxoplasma gondii dissemination in the brain was conducted using 2-photon imaging through a cranial window in living mice that transgenically express enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP)-claudin-5. Extracellular T. gondii parasites were observed migrating slowly (1.37 ± 1.28 μm/min) and with low displacement within the brain. In contrast, a population of highly motile infected cells transported vacuoles of T. gondii significantly faster (6.30 ± 3.09 μm/min) and with a higher displacement than free parasites. Detailed analysis of microglial dynamics using CX3CR1-GFP mice revealed that T. gondii-infected microglia remained stationary, and infection did not increase the extension/retraction of microglial processes. The role of infiltrating immune cells in shuttling T. gondii was examined by labeling of peripheral hematopoietic cells with anti-CD45 antibody. Infected CD45+ cells were found crawling along the CNS vessel walls and trafficked T. gondii within the brain parenchyma at significantly higher speeds (3.35 ± 1.70 μm/min) than extracellular tachyzoites. Collectively, these findings highlight a dual role for immune cells in neuroprotection and in facilitating parasite dissemination within the brain. IMPORTANCE T. gondii is a foodborne parasite that infects the brain and can cause fatal encephalitis in immunocompromised individuals. However, there is a limited understanding of how the parasites disseminate through the brain and evade immune clearance. We utilized intravital imaging to visualize extracellular T. gondii tachyzoites and infected cells migrating within the infected mouse brain during acute infection. The infection of motile immune cells infiltrating the brain from the periphery significantly increased the dissemination of T. gondii in the brain compared to that of free parasites migrating using their own motility: the speed and displacement of these infected cells would enable them to cover nearly 1 cm of distance per day! Among the infiltrating cells, T. gondii predominantly infected monocytes and CD8+ T cells, indicating that the parasite can hijack immune cells that are critical for controlling the infection in order to enhance their dissemination within the brain.
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20
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Ten Hoeve AL, Braun L, Rodriguez ME, Olivera GC, Bougdour A, Belmudes L, Couté Y, Saeij JPJ, Hakimi MA, Barragan A. The Toxoplasma effector GRA28 promotes parasite dissemination by inducing dendritic cell-like migratory properties in infected macrophages. Cell Host Microbe 2022; 30:1570-1588.e7. [PMID: 36309013 PMCID: PMC9710525 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Upon pathogen detection, macrophages normally stay sessile in tissues while dendritic cells (DCs) migrate to secondary lymphoid tissues. The obligate intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii exploits the trafficking of mononuclear phagocytes for dissemination via unclear mechanisms. We report that, upon T. gondii infection, macrophages initiate the expression of transcription factors normally attributed to DCs, upregulate CCR7 expression with a chemotactic response, and perform systemic migration when adoptively transferred into mice. We show that parasite effector GRA28, released by the MYR1 secretory pathway, cooperates with host chromatin remodelers in the host cell nucleus to drive the chemotactic migration of parasitized macrophages. During in vivo challenge studies, bone marrow-derived macrophages infected with wild-type T. gondii outcompeted those challenged with MYR1- or GRA28-deficient strains in migrating and reaching secondary organs. This work reveals how an intracellular parasite hijacks chemotaxis in phagocytes and highlights a remarkable migratory plasticity in differentiated cells of the mononuclear phagocyte system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arne L Ten Hoeve
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Laurence Braun
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Matias E Rodriguez
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gabriela C Olivera
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alexandre Bougdour
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France
| | - Lucid Belmudes
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM, CEA, UMR BioSanté U1292, CNRS, CEA, FR2048, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Yohann Couté
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, INSERM, CEA, UMR BioSanté U1292, CNRS, CEA, FR2048, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Jeroen P J Saeij
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Mohamed-Ali Hakimi
- Institute for Advanced Biosciences, INSERM U1209, CNRS UMR5309, Université Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble, France.
| | - Antonio Barragan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
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21
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Casagrande L, Pastre MJ, Trevizan AR, Cuman RKN, Bersani-Amado CA, Garcia JL, Gois MB, de Mello Gonçales Sant'Ana D, Nogueira-Melo GDA. Moderate intestinal immunopathology after acute oral infection with Toxoplasma gondii oocysts is associated with expressive levels of serotonin. Life Sci 2022; 309:120985. [PMID: 36150462 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Invasion of the intestinal mucosa by T. gondii elicits a local immune response of variable intensity. These reactions can be lethal in C57BL/6 mice. The tissue damage caused by inflammation and the functional effects depend on the host immunity, strain, and developmental form of the parasite. We investigated the effects of acute oral infection with T. gondii on histoarchitecture, enteric nervous system (ENS), and inflammatory markers in the jejunum and ileum of mice. METHODS Female C57BL/6 mice were divided into a control group and a group orally infected with 1000 sporulated T. gondii oocysts (ME-49 strain). After 5 days, jejunum and ileum were collected and processed for analyzes (e.g., histological and histopathological examinations, ENS, cytokine dosage, myeloperoxidase, nitric oxide activity). MAIN RESULTS In infected mice, we observed a significant increase in serotonin-immunoreactive cells (5-HT IR) in the intestinal mucosa, as well as cellular infiltrates in the lamina propria, periganglionitis, and ganglionitis in the myenteric plexus. We also noted decreased neuron density in the jejunum, increased population of enteric glial cells in the ileum, histomorphometric changes in the intestinal wall, villi, and epithelial cells, remodeling of collagen fibers, and increased myeloperoxidase activity, cytokines, and nitric oxide in the intestine. CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES Acute infection of female mice with T. gondii oocysts resulted in changes in ENS and a marked increase in 5-HT. These changes are consistent with its modulatory role in the development of moderate acute inflammation. The use of this experimental model may lend itself to studies aimed at understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of intestinal inflammation in humans involving ENS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Casagrande
- Biosciences and Pathophysiology Postgraduate Program, State University of Maringá, Brazil
| | - Maria José Pastre
- Biosciences and Pathophysiology Postgraduate Program, State University of Maringá, Brazil
| | - Aline Rosa Trevizan
- Biosciences and Pathophysiology Postgraduate Program, State University of Maringá, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Marcelo Biondaro Gois
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Federal University of Rondonópolis, Brazil; Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
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22
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Yan Z, Yuan H, Wang J, Yang Z, Zhang P, Mahmmod YS, Wang X, Liu T, Song Y, Ren Z, Zhang XX, Yuan ZG. Four Chemotherapeutic Compounds That Limit Blood-Brain-Barrier Invasion by Toxoplasma gondii. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27175572. [PMID: 36080339 PMCID: PMC9457825 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27175572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Toxoplasma gondii, an intracellular protozoan parasite, exists in the host brain as cysts, which can result in Toxoplasmic Encephalitis (TE) and neurological diseases. However, few studies have been conducted on TE, particularly on how to prevent it. Previous proteomics studies have showed that the expression of C3 in rat brains was up-regulated after T. gondii infection. Methods: In this study, we used T. gondii to infect mice and bEnd 3 cells to confirm the relation between T. gondii and the expression of C3. BEnd3 cells membrane proteins which directly interacted with C3a were screened by pull down. Finally, animal behavior experiments were conducted to compare the differences in the inhibitory ability of TE by four chemotherapeutic compounds (SB290157, CVF, NSC23766, and Anxa1). Results: All chemotherapeutic compounds in this study can inhibit TE and cognitive behavior in the host. However, Anxa 1 is the most suitable material to inhibit mice TE. Conclusion: T. gondii infection promotes TE by promoting host C3 production. Anxa1 was selected as the most appropriate material to prevent TE among four chemotherapeutic compounds closely related to C3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijing Yan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Hao Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultual University, Urumqi 830052, China
| | - Junjie Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zipeng Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Pian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yasser S. Mahmmod
- Infectious Diseases, Department of Animal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig 44511, Egypt
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Al Ain Men’s College, Higher Colleges of Technology, Al Ain 17155, United Arab Emirates
| | - Xiaohu Wang
- Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Tanghui Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yining Song
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zhaowen Ren
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiu-Xiang Zhang
- College of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Correspondence: (X.-X.Z.); (Z.-G.Y.)
| | - Zi-Guo Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Correspondence: (X.-X.Z.); (Z.-G.Y.)
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Vertical transmission and pathological findings in the mother, the placenta and the offspring, during first and last thirds of gestation in a mouse model of congenital toxoplasmosis. Parasitol Int 2022; 91:102640. [PMID: 35933034 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2022.102640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
We performed a study of congenital toxoplasmosis of the first and third gestation periods in mice, and determined its effects on the embryos/fetuses, the placentae and the maternal organs. We infected pregnant BALB/c mice by i.v. injection of 2.5-10.0 × 106 tachyzoites of the ME49 T. gondii strain and euthanized them 72 h later. The tissues were analyzed by histopathology, immunohistochemistry and parasite-specific qPCR. Infections with the lowest dose induced remarkably different changes in the two thirds: a) all doses diminished the number of products/litter, the lowest dose only by 14%; but most embryos still visible were degenerated in the case of the first period, while the fetuses of the last third were perfectly preserved; b) the transmission rate in the first third was relatively high, but with a very low parasite burden; c) with the lowest dose, strong vascular changes (congestion, thrombosis and hemorrhage) predominated in the placentas of the first period, while they were absent in the last third; d) necrosis caused by T. gondii to maternal organs was much stronger during the last gestation period than in the first. Our results suggest that the vascular alterations at the placenta of the first third of pregnancy prevent embryo from large parasite burden, but provoke its death by starvation. In the last gestation period, there was poor control of parasite dissemination to the placenta and the fetus, but there was greater capacity of the product to defend itself from T. gondii.
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Ross EC, Hoeve ALT, Saeij JPJ, Barragan A. Toxoplasma effector-induced ICAM-1 expression by infected dendritic cells potentiates transmigration across polarised endothelium. Front Immunol 2022; 13:950914. [PMID: 35990682 PMCID: PMC9381734 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.950914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The obligate intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii makes use of infected leukocytes for systemic dissemination. Yet, how infection impacts the processes of leukocyte diapedesis has remained unresolved. Here, we addressed the effects of T. gondii infection on the trans-endothelial migration (TEM) of dendritic cells (DCs) across polarised brain endothelial monolayers. We report that upregulated expression of leukocyte ICAM-1 is a feature of the enhanced TEM of parasitised DCs. The secreted parasite effector GRA15 induced an elevated expression of ICAM-1 in infected DCs that was associated with enhanced cell adhesion and TEM. Consequently, gene silencing of Icam-1 in primary DCs or deletion of parasite GRA15 reduced TEM. Further, the parasite effector TgWIP, which impacts the regulation of host actin dynamics, facilitated TEM across polarised endothelium. The data highlight that the concerted action of the secreted effectors GRA15 and TgWIP modulate the leukocyte-endothelial interactions of TEM in a parasite genotype-related fashion to promote dissemination. In addition to the canonical roles of endothelial ICAM-1, this study identifies a previously unappreciated role for leukocyte ICAM-1 in infection-related TEM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C. Ross
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Arne L. ten Hoeve
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jeroen P. J. Saeij
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Antonio Barragan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden,*Correspondence: Antonio Barragan,
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25
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Kim H, Hong SH, Jeong HE, Han S, Ahn J, Kim JA, Yang JH, Oh HJ, Chung S, Lee SE. Microfluidic model for in vitro acute Toxoplasma gondii infection and transendothelial migration. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11449. [PMID: 35794197 PMCID: PMC9259589 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15305-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) causes one of the most common human zoonotic diseases and infects approximately one-third of the global population. T. gondii infects nearly every cell type and causes severe symptoms in susceptible populations. In previous laboratory animal studies, T. gondii movement and transmission were not analyzed in real time. In a three-dimensional (3D) microfluidic assay, we successfully supported the complex lytic cycle of T. gondii in situ by generating a stable microvasculature. The physiology of the T. gondii-infected microvasculature was monitored in order to investigate the growth, paracellular and transcellular migration, and transmission of T. gondii, as well as the efficacy of T. gondii drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunho Kim
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.,Center for Systems Biology, Massachusetts General Hospital Research Institute, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sung-Hee Hong
- Division of Vectors and Parasitic Diseases, Korea Diseases Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyo Eun Jeong
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Jinchul Ahn
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-A Kim
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Hyun Jeong Oh
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Seok Chung
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea. .,KU-KIST Graduate School of Converging Science and Technology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sang-Eun Lee
- Division of Vectors and Parasitic Diseases, Korea Diseases Control and Prevention Agency, Cheongju, Republic of Korea.
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26
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Shallberg LA, Phan AT, Christian DA, Perry JA, Haskins BE, Beiting DP, Harris TH, Koshy AA, Hunter CA. Impact of secondary TCR engagement on the heterogeneity of pathogen-specific CD8+ T cell response during acute and chronic toxoplasmosis. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010296. [PMID: 35727849 PMCID: PMC9249239 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Initial TCR engagement (priming) of naive CD8+ T cells results in T cell expansion, and these early events influence the generation of diverse effector and memory populations. During infection, activated T cells can re-encounter cognate antigen, but how these events influence local effector responses or formation of memory populations is unclear. To address this issue, OT-I T cells which express the Nur77-GFP reporter of TCR activation were paired with the parasite Toxoplasma gondii that expresses OVA to assess how secondary encounter with antigen influences CD8+ T cell responses. During acute infection, TCR stimulation in affected tissues correlated with parasite burden and was associated with markers of effector cells while Nur77-GFP- OT-I showed signs of effector memory potential. However, both Nur77-GFP- and Nur77-GFP+ OT-I from acutely infected mice formed similar memory populations when transferred into naive mice. During the chronic stage of infection in the CNS, TCR activation was associated with large scale transcriptional changes and the acquisition of an effector T cell phenotype as well as the generation of a population of CD103+ CD69+ Trm like cells. While inhibition of parasite replication resulted in reduced effector responses it did not alter the Trm population. These data sets highlight that recent TCR activation contributes to the phenotypic heterogeneity of the CD8+ T cell response but suggest that this process has a limited impact on memory populations at acute and chronic stages of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey A. Shallberg
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Anthony T. Phan
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - David A. Christian
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Joseph A. Perry
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Breanne E. Haskins
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Daniel P. Beiting
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Tajie H. Harris
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Anita A. Koshy
- Department of Neurology, Department of Immunobiology, and BIO5 Institute, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Christopher A. Hunter
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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27
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López-Ortega O, Moreno-Corona NC, Cruz-Holguin VJ, Garcia-Gonzalez LD, Helguera-Repetto AC, Romero-Valdovinos M, Arevalo-Romero H, Cedillo-Barron L, León-Juárez M. The Immune Response in Adipocytes and Their Susceptibility to Infection: A Possible Relationship with Infectobesity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116154. [PMID: 35682832 PMCID: PMC9181511 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The current obesity pandemic has been expanding in both developing and developed countries. This suggests that the factors contributing to this condition need to be reconsidered since some new factors are arising as etiological causes of this disease. Moreover, recent clinical and experimental findings have shown an association between the progress of obesity and some infections, and the functions of adipose tissues, which involve cell metabolism and adipokine release, among others. Furthermore, it has recently been reported that adipocytes could either be reservoirs for these pathogens or play an active role in this process. In addition, there is abundant evidence indicating that during obesity, the immune system is exacerbated, suggesting an increased susceptibility of the patient to the development of several forms of illness or death. Thus, there could be a relationship between infection as a trigger for an increase in adipose cells and the impact on the metabolism that contributes to the development of obesity. In this review, we describe the findings concerning the role of adipose tissue as a mediator in the immune response as well as the possible role of adipocytes as infection targets, with both roles constituting a possible cause of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orestes López-Ortega
- Université Paris Cité, INSERM UMR-S1151, CNRS UMR-S8253, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, 75015 Paris, France;
| | - Nidia Carolina Moreno-Corona
- Laboratory of Human Lymphohematopoiesis, Imagine Institute, INSERM UMR 1163, Université de Paris, 75015 Paris, France;
| | - Victor Javier Cruz-Holguin
- Departamento de Immunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico; (V.J.C.-H.); (L.D.G.-G.); (A.C.H.-R.)
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, San Pedro Zacatenco, Mexico City 07360, Mexico;
| | - Luis Didier Garcia-Gonzalez
- Departamento de Immunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico; (V.J.C.-H.); (L.D.G.-G.); (A.C.H.-R.)
| | - Addy Cecilia Helguera-Repetto
- Departamento de Immunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico; (V.J.C.-H.); (L.D.G.-G.); (A.C.H.-R.)
| | - Mirza Romero-Valdovinos
- Departamento de Biología Molecular e Histocompatibilidad, Hospital General “Dr. Manuel Gea González”, Calzada de Tlalpan 4800, Col. Sección XVI, Ciudad de México 14080, Mexico;
| | - Haruki Arevalo-Romero
- Laboratorio de Inmunología y Microbiología Molecular, División Académica Multidisciplinaria de Jalpa de Méndez, Jalpa de Méndez 86205, Mexico;
| | - Leticia Cedillo-Barron
- Departamento de Biomedicina Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Av. Instituto Politécnico Nacional 2508, San Pedro Zacatenco, Mexico City 07360, Mexico;
| | - Moisés León-Juárez
- Departamento de Immunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico; (V.J.C.-H.); (L.D.G.-G.); (A.C.H.-R.)
- Correspondence:
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28
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Humayun M, Ayuso JM, Park KY, Martorelli Di Genova B, Skala MC, Kerr SC, Knoll LJ, Beebe DJ. Innate immune cell response to host-parasite interaction in a human intestinal tissue microphysiological system. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm8012. [PMID: 35544643 PMCID: PMC9075809 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm8012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Protozoan parasites that infect humans are widespread and lead to varied clinical manifestations, including life-threatening illnesses in immunocompromised individuals. Animal models have provided insight into innate immunity against parasitic infections; however, species-specific differences and complexity of innate immune responses make translation to humans challenging. Thus, there is a need for in vitro systems that can elucidate mechanisms of immune control and parasite dissemination. We have developed a human microphysiological system of intestinal tissue to evaluate parasite-immune-specific interactions during infection, which integrates primary intestinal epithelial cells and immune cells to investigate the role of innate immune cells during epithelial infection by the protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, which affects billions of people worldwide. Our data indicate that epithelial infection by parasites stimulates a broad range of effector functions in neutrophils and natural killer cell-mediated cytokine production that play immunomodulatory roles, demonstrating the potential of our system for advancing the study of human-parasite interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mouhita Humayun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jose M. Ayuso
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Morgridge Institute for Research, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Dermatology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Keon Young Park
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | | | - Melissa C. Skala
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Morgridge Institute for Research, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Sheena C. Kerr
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Laura J. Knoll
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - David J. Beebe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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29
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Constant O, Maarifi G, Blanchet FP, Van de Perre P, Simonin Y, Salinas S. Role of Dendritic Cells in Viral Brain Infections. Front Immunol 2022; 13:862053. [PMID: 35529884 PMCID: PMC9072653 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.862053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To gain access to the brain, a so-called immune-privileged organ due to its physical separation from the blood stream, pathogens and particularly viruses have been selected throughout evolution for their use of specific mechanisms. They can enter the central nervous system through direct infection of nerves or cerebral barriers or through cell-mediated transport. Indeed, peripheral lymphoid and myeloid immune cells can interact with the blood-brain and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barriers and allow viral brain access using the "Trojan horse" mechanism. Among immune cells, at the frontier between innate and adaptive immune responses, dendritic cells (DCs) can be pathogen carriers, regulate or exacerbate antiviral responses and neuroinflammation, and therefore be involved in viral transmission and spread. In this review, we highlight an important contribution of DCs in the development and the consequences of viral brain infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orianne Constant
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), University of Montpellier, Etablissement Français du Sang, Montpellier, France
| | - Ghizlane Maarifi
- Institut de Recherche en Infectiologie de Montpellier, Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Fabien P. Blanchet
- Institut de Recherche en Infectiologie de Montpellier, Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Philippe Van de Perre
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), University of Montpellier, Etablissement Français du Sang, Montpellier, France
| | - Yannick Simonin
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), University of Montpellier, Etablissement Français du Sang, Montpellier, France
| | - Sara Salinas
- Pathogenesis and Control of Chronic and Emerging Infections, Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale (INSERM), University of Montpellier, Etablissement Français du Sang, Montpellier, France
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30
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Idro R, Ogwang R, Barragan A, Raimondo JV, Masocha W. Neuroimmunology of Common Parasitic Infections in Africa. Front Immunol 2022; 13:791488. [PMID: 35222377 PMCID: PMC8866860 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.791488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic infections of the central nervous system are an important cause of morbidity and mortality in Africa. The neurological, cognitive, and psychiatric sequelae of these infections result from a complex interplay between the parasites and the host inflammatory response. Here we review some of the diseases caused by selected parasitic organisms known to infect the nervous system including Plasmodium falciparum, Toxoplasma gondii, Trypanosoma brucei spp., and Taenia solium species. For each parasite, we describe the geographical distribution, prevalence, life cycle, and typical clinical symptoms of infection and pathogenesis. We pay particular attention to how the parasites infect the brain and the interaction between each organism and the host immune system. We describe how an understanding of these processes may guide optimal diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to treat these disorders. Finally, we highlight current gaps in our understanding of disease pathophysiology and call for increased interrogation of these often-neglected disorders of the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Idro
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Centre of Tropical Neuroscience, Kitgum, Uganda.,Nuffield Department of Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Rodney Ogwang
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Centre of Tropical Neuroscience, Kitgum, Uganda.,Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) - Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Antonio Barragan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joseph Valentino Raimondo
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Willias Masocha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait
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31
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Tan S, Tong WH, Vyas A. Impact of Plant-Based Foods and Nutraceuticals on Toxoplasma gondii Cysts: Nutritional Therapy as a Viable Approach for Managing Chronic Brain Toxoplasmosis. Front Nutr 2022; 9:827286. [PMID: 35284438 PMCID: PMC8914227 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.827286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that mainly infects warm-blooded animals including humans. T. gondii can encyst and persist chronically in the brain, leading to a broad spectrum of neurological sequelae. Despite the associated health threats, no clinical drug is currently available to eliminate T. gondii cysts. In a continuous effort to uncover novel therapeutic agents for these cysts, the potential of nutritional products has been explored. Herein, we describe findings from in vitro and in vivo studies that support the efficacy of plant-based foods and nutraceuticals against brain cyst burden and cerebral pathologies associated with chronic toxoplasmosis. Finally, we discuss strategies to increase the translatability of preclinical studies and nutritional products to address whether nutritional therapy can be beneficial for coping with chronic T. gondii infections in humans.
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32
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Day CJ, Hardison RL, Spillings BL, Poole J, Jurcisek JA, Mak J, Jennings MP, Edwards JL. Complement Receptor 3 Mediates HIV-1 Transcytosis across an Intact Cervical Epithelial Cell Barrier: New Insight into HIV Transmission in Women. mBio 2022; 13:e0217721. [PMID: 35012346 PMCID: PMC8749410 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02177-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Transmission of HIV across the mucosal surface of the female reproductive tract to engage subepithelial CD4-positive T cells is not fully understood. Cervical epithelial cells express complement receptor 3 (CR3) (integrin αMβ2 or CD11b/CD18). In women, the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae uses CR3 to invade the cervical epithelia to cause cervicitis. We hypothesized that HIV may also use CR3 to transcytose across the cervical epithelia. Here, we show that HIV-1 strains bound with high affinity to recombinant CR3 in biophysical assays. HIV-1 bound CR3 via the I-domain region of the CR3 alpha subunit, CD11b, and binding was dependent on HIV-1 N-linked glycans. Mannosylated glycans on the HIV surface were a high-affinity ligand for the I-domain. Man5 pentasaccharide, representative of HIV N-glycans, could compete with HIV-1 for CR3 binding. Using cellular assays, we show that HIV bound to CHO cells by a CR3-dependent mechanism. Antibodies to the CR3 I-domain or to the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein blocked the binding of HIV-1 to primary human cervical epithelial (Pex) cells, indicating that CR3 was necessary and sufficient for HIV-1 adherence to Pex cells. Using Pex cells in a Transwell model system, we show that, following transcytosis across an intact Pex cell monolayer, HIV-1 is able to infect TZM-bl reporter cells. Targeting the HIV-CR3 interaction using antibodies, mannose-binding lectins, or CR3-binding small-molecule drugs blocked HIV transcytosis. These studies indicate that CR3/Pex may constitute an efficient pathway for HIV-1 transmission in women and also demonstrate strategies that may prevent transmission via this pathway. IMPORTANCE In women, the lower female reproductive tract is the primary site for HIV infection. How HIV traverses the epithelium to infect CD4 T cells in the submucosa is ill-defined. Cervical epithelial cells have a protein called CR3 on their surface. We show that HIV-1 binds to CR3 with high affinity and that this interaction is necessary and sufficient for HIV adherence to, and transcytosis across, polarized, human primary cervical epithelial cells. This suggests a unique role for CR3 on epithelial cells in dually facilitating HIV-1 attachment and entry. The HIV-CR3 interaction may constitute an efficient pathway for HIV delivery to subepithelial lymphocytes following virus transmission across an intact cervical epithelial barrier. Strategies with potential to prevent transmission via this pathway are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Day
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rachael L. Hardison
- Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Jessica Poole
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Joseph A. Jurcisek
- Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Johnson Mak
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael P. Jennings
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jennifer L. Edwards
- Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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33
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Yin K, Xu C, Zhao G, Xie H. Epigenetic Manipulation of Psychiatric Behavioral Disorders Induced by Toxoplasma gondii. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:803502. [PMID: 35237531 PMCID: PMC8882818 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.803502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is known to have a complex life cycle and infect almost all kinds of warm-blooded animals around the world. The brain of the host could be persistently infected by cerebral cysts, and a variety of psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and suicide have been reported to be related with latent toxoplasmosis. The infected animals showed fear reduction and a tendency to be preyed upon. However, the mechanism of this “parasites manipulation” effects have not been elucidated. Here, we reviewed the recent infection prevalence of toxoplasmosis and the evidence of mental and behavioral disorders induced by T. gondii and discussed the related physiological basis including dopamine dysregulation and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) pathway and the controversial opinion of the necessity for cerebral cysts existence. Based on the recent advances, we speculated that the neuroendocrine programs and neurotransmitter imbalance may play a key role in this process. Simultaneously, studies in the evaluation of the expression pattern of related genes, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and mRNAs of the host provides a new point for understanding the mechanism of neurotransmitter dysfunction induced by parasite manipulation. Therefore, we summarized the animal models, T. gondii strains, and behavioral tests used in the related epigenetic studies and the responsible epigenetic processes; pinpointed opportunities and challenges in future research including the causality evidence of human psychiatric disorders, the statistical analysis for rodent-infected host to be more vulnerable preyed upon; and identified responsible genes and drug targets through epigenetics.
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34
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Ross EC, Olivera GC, Barragan A. Early passage of Toxoplasma gondii across the blood–brain barrier. Trends Parasitol 2022; 38:450-461. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2022.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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35
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Figueiredo CA, Steffen J, Morton L, Arumugam S, Liesenfeld O, Deli MA, Kröger A, Schüler T, Dunay IR. Immune response and pathogen invasion at the choroid plexus in the onset of cerebral toxoplasmosis. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:17. [PMID: 35027063 PMCID: PMC8759173 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-021-02370-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a highly successful parasite being able to cross all biological barriers of the body, finally reaching the central nervous system (CNS). Previous studies have highlighted the critical involvement of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) during T. gondii invasion and development of subsequent neuroinflammation. Still, the potential contribution of the choroid plexus (CP), the main structure forming the blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier (BCSFB) have not been addressed. METHODS To investigate T. gondii invasion at the onset of neuroinflammation, the CP and brain microvessels (BMV) were isolated and analyzed for parasite burden. Additionally, immuno-stained brain sections and three-dimensional whole mount preparations were evaluated for parasite localization and morphological alterations. Activation of choroidal and brain endothelial cells were characterized by flow cytometry. To evaluate the impact of early immune responses on CP and BMV, expression levels of inflammatory mediators, tight junctions (TJ) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) were quantified. Additionally, FITC-dextran was applied to determine infection-related changes in BCSFB permeability. Finally, the response of primary CP epithelial cells to T. gondii parasites was tested in vitro. RESULTS Here we revealed that endothelial cells in the CP are initially infected by T. gondii, and become activated prior to BBB endothelial cells indicated by MHCII upregulation. Additionally, CP elicited early local immune response with upregulation of IFN-γ, TNF, IL-6, host-defence factors as well as swift expression of CXCL9 chemokine, when compared to the BMV. Consequently, we uncovered distinct TJ disturbances of claudins, associated with upregulation of MMP-8 and MMP-13 expression in infected CP in vivo, which was confirmed by in vitro infection of primary CP epithelial cells. Notably, we detected early barrier damage and functional loss by increased BCSFB permeability to FITC-dextran in vivo, which was extended over the infection course. CONCLUSIONS Altogether, our data reveal a close interaction between T. gondii infection at the CP and the impairment of the BCSFB function indicating that infection-related neuroinflammation is initiated in the CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Andreeta Figueiredo
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Otto-Von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Steffen
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Otto-Von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Lorena Morton
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Otto-Von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Sushmitha Arumugam
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Otto-Von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Liesenfeld
- Institute for Microbiology and Hygiene, Charité Medical School, Berlin, Germany
| | - Mária A Deli
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, 6726, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Andrea Kröger
- Institute for Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Medical Faculty, Otto-Von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Schüler
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Otto-Von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ildiko Rita Dunay
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Otto-Von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany. .,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, CBBS, Magdeburg, Germany.
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Kalogeropoulos D, Sakkas H, Mohammed B, Vartholomatos G, Malamos K, Sreekantam S, Kanavaros P, Kalogeropoulos C. Ocular toxoplasmosis: a review of the current diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Int Ophthalmol 2022; 42:295-321. [PMID: 34370174 PMCID: PMC8351587 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-021-01994-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This review aims to summarize the current knowledge concerning the clinical features, diagnostic work-up and therapeutic approach of ocular toxoplasmosis focusing mainly on the postnatally acquired form of the disease. METHODS A meticulous literature search was performed in the PubMed database. A supplementary search was made in Google Scholar to complete the collected items. RESULTS Ocular toxoplasmosis is one of the most frequent infectious etiologies of posterior uveitis. It typically presents with retinochoroiditis. Setting an accurate diagnosis depends to a considerable degree on detecting characteristic clinical characteristics. In addition to the evaluation of clinical features, the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis relies at a large degree on serologic testing. The detection of the parasite DNA in the aqueous or vitreous humor can provide evidence for a definitive diagnosis. The current mainstay for the treatment, if necessary, is the use of oral antibiotic with systemic corticosteroids. Recent evidence suggests other therapeutic approaches, such as intravitreal antibiotics can be used. CONCLUSION Recent developments in the diagnostic and therapeutic approach have contributed to preventing or limiting vision loss of patients suffering from ocular toxoplasmosis. Further studies are required to provide a better understanding of epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment with a significant impact on the management of this challenging clinical entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Kalogeropoulos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Stavros Niarchos Ave, 45500, Ioannina, Greece.
| | - Hercules Sakkas
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | | | - Georgios Vartholomatos
- Hematology Laboratory, Unit of Molecular Biology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Malamos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Stavros Niarchos Ave, 45500, Ioannina, Greece
| | | | - Panagiotis Kanavaros
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Chris Kalogeropoulos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Stavros Niarchos Ave, 45500, Ioannina, Greece
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Olivera GC, Ross EC, Peuckert C, Barragan A. Blood-brain barrier-restricted translocation of Toxoplasma gondii from cortical capillaries. eLife 2021; 10:e69182. [PMID: 34877929 PMCID: PMC8700292 DOI: 10.7554/elife.69182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The cellular barriers of the central nervous system proficiently protect the brain parenchyma from infectious insults. Yet, the single-celled parasite Toxoplasma gondii commonly causes latent cerebral infection in humans and other vertebrates. Here, we addressed the role of the cerebral vasculature in the passage of T. gondii to the brain parenchyma. Shortly after inoculation in mice, parasites mainly localized to cortical capillaries, in preference over post-capillary venules, cortical arterioles or meningeal and choroidal vessels. Early invasion to the parenchyma (days 1-5) occurred in absence of a measurable increase in blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, perivascular leukocyte cuffs or hemorrhage. However, sparse focalized permeability elevations were detected adjacently to replicative parasite foci. Further, T. gondii triggered inflammatory responses in cortical microvessels and endothelium. Pro- and anti-inflammatory treatments of mice with LPS and hydrocortisone, respectively, impacted BBB permeability and parasite loads in the brain parenchyma. Finally, pharmacological inhibition or Cre/loxP conditional knockout of endothelial focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a BBB intercellular junction regulator, facilitated parasite translocation to the brain parenchyma. The data reveal that the initial passage of T. gondii to the central nervous system occurs principally across cortical capillaries. The integrity of the microvascular BBB restricts parasite transit, which conversely is exacerbated by the inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela C Olivera
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
| | - Emily C Ross
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
| | - Christiane Peuckert
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
| | - Antonio Barragan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm UniversityStockholmSweden
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Long RKM, Piatti L, Korbmacher F, Bernabeu M. Understanding parasite-brain microvascular interactions with engineered 3D blood-brain barrier models. Mol Microbiol 2021; 117:693-704. [PMID: 34837419 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Microbial interactions with the blood-brain barrier (BBB) can be highly pathogenic and are still not well understood. Among these, parasites present complex interactions with the brain microvasculature that are difficult to decipher using experimental animal models or reductionist 2D in vitro cultures. Novel 3D engineered blood-brain barrier models hold great promise to overcome limitations in traditional research approaches. These models better mimic the intricate 3D architecture of the brain microvasculature and recapitulate several aspects of BBB properties, physiology, and function. Moreover, they provide improved control over biophysical and biochemical experimental parameters and are compatible with advanced imaging and molecular biology techniques. Here, we review design considerations and methodologies utilized to successfully engineer BBB microvessels. Finally, we highlight the advantages and limitations of existing engineered models and propose applications to study parasite interactions with the BBB, including mechanisms of barrier disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rory K M Long
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Livia Piatti
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Maria Bernabeu
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Frickel EM, Hunter CA. Lessons from Toxoplasma: Host responses that mediate parasite control and the microbial effectors that subvert them. J Exp Med 2021; 218:212714. [PMID: 34670268 PMCID: PMC8532566 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20201314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii has long provided a tractable experimental system to investigate how the immune system deals with intracellular infections. This review highlights the advances in defining how this organism was first detected and the studies with T. gondii that contribute to our understanding of how the cytokine IFN-γ promotes control of vacuolar pathogens. In addition, the genetic tractability of this eukaryote organism has provided the foundation for studies into the diverse strategies that pathogens use to evade antimicrobial responses and now provides the opportunity to study the basis for latency. Thus, T. gondii remains a clinically relevant organism whose evolving interactions with the host immune system continue to teach lessons broadly relevant to host–pathogen interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Frickel
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Christopher A Hunter
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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Abstract
Toxoplasmosis affects one-third of the human population worldwide. Humans are accidental hosts and are infected after consumption of undercooked meat and water contaminated with Toxoplasma gondii cysts and oocysts, respectively. Neutrophils have been shown to participate in the control of T. gondii infection in mice through a variety of effector mechanisms, such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation. However, few studies have demonstrated the role of neutrophils in individuals naturally infected with T. gondii. In the current study, we evaluated the activation status of neutrophils in individuals with acute or chronic toxoplasmosis and determined the role of T. gondii-induced NET formation in the amplification of the innate and adaptive immune responses. We observed that neutrophils are highly activated during acute infection through increased expression of CD66b. Moreover, neutrophils from healthy donors (HDs) cocultured with tachyzoites produced ROS and formed NETs, with the latter being dependent on glycolysis, succinate dehydrogenase, gasdermin D, and neutrophil elastase. Furthermore, we observed elevated levels of the chemokines (CXC motif) CXCL8 and (CC motif) CCL4 ligands in plasma from patients with acute toxoplasmosis and production by neutrophils from HDs exposed to T. gondii. Finally, we showed that T. gondii-induced NETs activate neutrophils and promote the recruitment of autologous CD4+ T cells and the production of interferon gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin 6 (IL-6), IL-17, and IL-10 by peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In conclusion, we demonstrated that T. gondii activates neutrophils and promotes the release of NETs, which amplify human innate and adaptive immune responses.
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Daher D, Shaghlil A, Sobh E, Hamie M, Hassan ME, Moumneh MB, Itani S, El Hajj R, Tawk L, El Sabban M, El Hajj H. Comprehensive Overview of Toxoplasma gondii-Induced and Associated Diseases. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10111351. [PMID: 34832507 PMCID: PMC8625914 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a prevalent protozoan parasite of medical and veterinary significance. It is the etiologic agent of toxoplasmosis, a neglected disease in which incidence and symptoms differ between patients and regions. In immunocompetent patients, toxoplasmosis manifests as acute and chronic forms. Acute toxoplasmosis presents as mild or asymptomatic disease that evolves, under the host immune response, into a persistent chronic disease in healthy individuals. Chronic toxoplasmosis establishes as latent tissue cysts in the brain and skeletal muscles. In immunocompromised patients, chronic toxoplasmosis may reactivate, leading to a potentially life-threatening condition. Recently, the association between toxoplasmosis and various diseases has been shown. These span primary neuropathies, behavioral and psychiatric disorders, and different types of cancer. Currently, a direct pre-clinical or clinical molecular connotation between toxoplasmosis and most of its associated diseases remains poorly understood. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview on Toxoplasma-induced and associated diseases with a focus on available knowledge of the molecular players dictating these associations. We will also abridge the existing therapeutic options of toxoplasmosis and highlight the current gaps to explore the implications of toxoplasmosis on its associated diseases to advance treatment modalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darine Daher
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Ahmad Shaghlil
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, R. Hariri Campus, Lebanese University, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (A.S.); (E.S.)
| | - Eyad Sobh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, R. Hariri Campus, Lebanese University, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (A.S.); (E.S.)
| | - Maguy Hamie
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Malika Elhage Hassan
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Mohamad Bahij Moumneh
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Shaymaa Itani
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Rana El Hajj
- Department of Biological Sciences, Beirut Arab University, Beirut 1107 2809, Lebanon;
| | - Lina Tawk
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, Beirut 1100 2807, Lebanon;
| | - Marwan El Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon;
| | - Hiba El Hajj
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +961–1-350000 (ext. 4897)
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Effect of 17β-Estradiol, Progesterone, and Tamoxifen on Neurons Infected with Toxoplasma gondii In Vitro. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9102174. [PMID: 34683495 PMCID: PMC8541540 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9102174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is the causal agent of toxoplasmosis, which produces damage in the central nervous system (CNS). Toxoplasma-CNS interaction is critical for the development of disease symptoms. T. gondii can form cysts in the CNS; however, neurons are more resistant to this infection than astrocytes. The probable mechanism for neuron resistance is a permanent state of neurons in the interface, avoiding the replication of intracellular parasites. Steroids regulate the formation of Toxoplasma cysts in mice brains. 17β-estradiol and progesterone also participate in the control of Toxoplasma infection in glial cells in vitro. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 17β-estradiol, progesterone, and their specific agonists-antagonists on Toxoplasma infection in neurons in vitro. Neurons cultured were pretreated for 48 h with 17β-estradiol or progesterone at 10, 20, 40, 80, or 160 nM/mL or tamoxifen 1 μM/mL plus 17β-estradiol at 10, 20, 40, 80, and 160 nM/mL. In other conditions, the neurons were pretreated during 48 h with 4,4',4″-(4-propyl-[1H] pyrozole-1,3,5-triyl) trisphenol or 23-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl) propionitrile at 1 nM/mL, and mifepristone 1 µM/mL plus progesterone at 10, 20, 40, 80, and 160 nM/mL. Neurons were infected with 5000 tachyzoites of the T. gondii strain RH. The effect of 17β estradiol, progesterone, their agonists, or antagonists on Toxoplasma infection in neurons was evaluated at 24 and 48 h by immunocytochemistry. T. gondii replication was measured with the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide reduction assay. 17β-Estradiol alone or plus tamoxifen reduced infected neurons (50%) compared to the control at 48 h. Progesterone plus estradiol decreased the number of intracellular parasites at 48 h of treatment compared to the control (p < 0.001). 4,4',4″-(4-propyl-[1H] pyrozole-1,3,5-triyl) trisphenol and 23-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl) propionitrile reduced infected neurons at 48 h of treatment significantly compared to the control (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively). The Toxoplasma infection process was decreased by the effect of 17β-estradiol alone or combined with tamoxifen or progesterone in neurons in vitro. These results suggest the essential participation of progesterone and estradiol and their classical receptors in the regulation of T. gondii neuron infection.
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Pastre MJ, Gois MB, Casagrande L, Pereira-Severi LS, de Lima LL, Trevizan AR, Miqueloto CA, Garcia JL, Costa SL, Nogueira-Melo GDA, Sant'Ana DDMG. Acute infection with Toxoplasma gondii oocysts preferentially activates non-neuronal cells expressing serotonin in the jejunum of rats. Life Sci 2021; 283:119872. [PMID: 34352261 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The interaction of Toxoplasma gondii with the gastrointestinal tract of its host is highly regulated. Once ingested, the parasite crosses the epithelium without altering the permeability of the intestinal barrier. Nevertheless, many studies report alterations ranging from structural to functional damage in cells and tissues that make up the wall of the small and large intestine. Although the immune response to the parasite has been extensively studied, the role of serotonin (5-HT) in toxoplasmosis is poorly understood. Here we investigate the distribution of cells expressing 5-HT and its effects on cells and tissues of the jejunal wall of rats after 2, 3, or 7 days of T. gondii infection. KEY RESULTS: Our results show that transposition of the jejunal epithelium by T. gondii leads to ruptures in the basement membrane and activation of the immune system, as confirmed by the decrease in laminin immunostaining and the increase in the number of mast cells, respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND INFERENCES: We showed an increase in the number of enterochromaffin cells and mast cells expressing 5-HT in the jejunal wall. We also observed that the percentage of serotonergic mast cells increased in the total population. Thus, we can suggest that oral infection by T. gondii oocysts preferentially activates non-neuronal cells expressing 5-HT. Together, these results may explain both the changes in the extracellular matrix and the morphology of the enteric ganglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria José Pastre
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Biondaro Gois
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia and Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Santo Antônio de Jesus, BA, Brazil.
| | - Lucas Casagrande
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Lainy Leiny de Lima
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil
| | - Aline Rosa Trevizan
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Biociências e Fisiopatologia, Universidade Estadual de Maringá, Maringá, PR, Brazil
| | | | - João Luís Garcia
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Silvia Lima Costa
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, BA, Brazil
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Kalogeropoulos D, Kalogeropoulos C, Sakkas H, Mohammed B, Vartholomatos G, Malamos K, Sreekantam S, Kanavaros P, de-la-Torre A. Pathophysiological Aspects of Ocular Toxoplasmosis: Host-parasite Interactions. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2021; 30:560-569. [PMID: 34242103 DOI: 10.1080/09273948.2021.1922706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: This review aims to present the state of the art to understand the pathophysiology of ocular toxoplasmosis (OT), providing further foundations that would help to improve the future treatment and prognosis of this potentially blinding disease.Methods: A thorough literature search was performed in PubMed database. An additional search was made in Google Scholar to complete the collected items.Results: Toxoplasma gondii ocular infection is one of the most frequent causes of posterior uveitis. Despite the ocular barriers, the parasite reaches the eye through different mechanisms. Once inside, it remains encysted livelong within the retina, and recurrences cannot be completely avoided. The complexity of host-parasite interactions, leading to the success of this parasite, encompasses host factors such as genetic predisposition, immune status, and age; and parasite factors such as strain diversity, virulence, phylogenetic origin, and geographical distribution. These factors influence the clinical presentation, course, and progression of the disease. Additional elements, such as pregnancy, eating behavior, and environmental, social, and cultural factors may also contribute to this complex balance.Conclusions: The host-parasite interaction in OT is a complex and multifactorial relationship, with the parasite always on the driving edge of the game. There are still multiple incompletely understood fields to be investigated. Future research would permit further insight into the immune-biology of the parasite and recognition of the host-parasite interplay to improve the diagnostic and management performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Kalogeropoulos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Greece
| | - Chris Kalogeropoulos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Greece
| | - Hercules Sakkas
- Microbiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Bashar Mohammed
- Department of Ophthalmology, Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre, Birmingham, UK
| | - Georgios Vartholomatos
- Hematology Laboratory, Unit of Molecular Biology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Malamos
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Greece
| | | | - Panagiotis Kanavaros
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Alejandra de-la-Torre
- Immunology Unit, NeURos Research Group, NeuroVitae Research Center, Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
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Petermann M, Orfanos Z, Sellau J, Gharaibeh M, Lotter H, Fleischer B, Keller C. CCR2 Deficiency Impairs Ly6C lo and Ly6C hi Monocyte Responses in Orientia tsutsugamushi Infection. Front Immunol 2021; 12:670219. [PMID: 34290699 PMCID: PMC8287586 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.670219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Orientia (O.) tsutsugamushi, the causative agent of scrub typhus, is a neglected, obligate intracellular bacterium that has a prominent tropism for monocytes and macrophages. Complications often involve the lung, where interstitial pneumonia is a typical finding. The severity of scrub typhus in humans has been linked to altered plasma concentrations of chemokines which are known to act as chemoattractants for myeloid cells. The trafficking and function of monocyte responses is critically regulated by interaction of the CC chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) and its CC chemokine receptor CCR2. In a self-healing mouse model of intradermal infection with the human-pathogenic Karp strain of O. tsutsugamushi, we investigated the role of CCR2 on bacterial dissemination, development of symptoms, lung histology and monocyte subsets in blood and lungs. CCR2-deficient mice showed a delayed onset of disease and resolution of symptoms, higher concentrations and impaired clearance of bacteria in the lung and the liver, accompanied by a slow infiltration of interstitial macrophages into the lungs. In the blood, we found an induction of circulating monocytes that depended on CCR2, while only a small increase in Ly6Chi monocytes was observed in CCR2-/- mice. In the lung, significantly higher numbers of Ly6Chi and Ly6Clo monocytes were found in the C57BL/6 mice compared to CCR2-/- mice. Both wildtype and CCR2-deficient mice developed an inflammatory milieu as shown by cytokine and inos/arg1 mRNA induction in the lung, but with delayed kinetics in CCR2-deficient mice. Histopathology revealed that infiltration of macrophages to the parenchyma, but not into the peribronchial tissue, depended on CCR2. In sum, our data suggest that in Orientia infection, CCR2 drives blood monocytosis and the influx and activation of Ly6Chi and Ly6Clo monocytes into the lung, thereby accelerating bacterial replication and development of interstitial pulmonary inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Petermann
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Zacharias Orfanos
- Institute of Virology, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Julie Sellau
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mohammad Gharaibeh
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Basic Veterinary Medical Science, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Hannelore Lotter
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bernhard Fleischer
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christian Keller
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- Institute of Virology, University Hospital Giessen and Marburg, Marburg, Germany
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Matta SK, Rinkenberger N, Dunay IR, Sibley LD. Toxoplasma gondii infection and its implications within the central nervous system. Nat Rev Microbiol 2021; 19:467-480. [PMID: 33627834 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-021-00518-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite that infects a wide range of animals and causes zoonotic infections in humans. Although it normally only results in mild illness in healthy individuals, toxoplasmosis is a common opportunistic infection with high mortality in individuals who are immunocompromised, most commonly due to reactivation of infection in the central nervous system. In the acute phase of infection, interferon-dependent immune responses control rapid parasite expansion and mitigate acute disease symptoms. However, after dissemination the parasite differentiates into semi-dormant cysts that form within muscle cells and neurons, where they persist for life in the infected host. Control of infection in the central nervous system, a compartment of immune privilege, relies on modified immune responses that aim to balance infection control while limiting potential damage due to inflammation. In response to the activation of interferon-mediated pathways, the parasite deploys an array of effector proteins to escape immune clearance and ensure latent survival. Although these pathways are best studied in the laboratory mouse, emerging evidence points to unique mechanisms of control in human toxoplasmosis. In this Review, we explore some of these recent findings that extend our understanding for proliferation, establishment and control of toxoplasmosis in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit K Matta
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Nicholas Rinkenberger
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ildiko R Dunay
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - L David Sibley
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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Korshoj LE, Shi W, Duan B, Kielian T. The Prospect of Nanoparticle Systems for Modulating Immune Cell Polarization During Central Nervous System Infection. Front Immunol 2021; 12:670931. [PMID: 34248952 PMCID: PMC8260670 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.670931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The blood-brain barrier (BBB) selectively restricts the entry of molecules from peripheral circulation into the central nervous system (CNS) parenchyma. Despite this protective barrier, bacteria and other pathogens can still invade the CNS, often as a consequence of immune deficiencies or complications following neurosurgical procedures. These infections are difficult to treat since many bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, encode a repertoire of virulence factors, can acquire antibiotic resistance, and form biofilm. Additionally, pathogens can leverage virulence factor production to polarize host immune cells towards an anti-inflammatory phenotype, leading to chronic infection. The difficulty of pathogen clearance is magnified by the fact that antibiotics and other treatments cannot easily penetrate the BBB, which requires extended regimens to achieve therapeutic concentrations. Nanoparticle systems are rapidly emerging as a promising platform to treat a range of CNS disorders. Nanoparticles have several advantages, as they can be engineered to cross the BBB with specific functionality to increase cellular and molecular targeting, have controlled release of therapeutic agents, and superior bioavailability and circulation compared to traditional therapies. Within the CNS environment, therapeutic actions are not limited to directly targeting the pathogen, but can also be tailored to modulate immune cell activation to promote infection resolution. This perspective highlights the factors leading to infection persistence in the CNS and discusses how novel nanoparticle therapies can be engineered to provide enhanced treatment, specifically through modulation of immune cell polarization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee E. Korshoj
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Wen Shi
- Mary & Dick Holland Regenerative Medicine Program, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Bin Duan
- Mary & Dick Holland Regenerative Medicine Program, Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Tammy Kielian
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
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Subauste CS. Recent Advances in the Roles of Autophagy and Autophagy Proteins in Host Cells During Toxoplasma gondii Infection and Potential Therapeutic Implications. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:673813. [PMID: 34179003 PMCID: PMC8220159 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.673813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan that can cause encephalitis and retinitis in humans. The success of T. gondii as a pathogen depends in part on its ability to form an intracellular niche (parasitophorous vacuole) that allows protection from lysosomal degradation and parasite replication. The parasitophorous vacuole can be targeted by autophagy or by autophagosome-independent processes triggered by autophagy proteins. However, T. gondii has developed many strategies to preserve the integrity of the parasitophorous vacuole. Here, we review the interaction between T. gondii, autophagy, and autophagy proteins and expand on recent advances in the field, including the importance of autophagy in the regulation of invasion of the brain and retina by the parasite. We discuss studies that have begun to explore the potential therapeutic applications of the knowledge gained thus far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos S Subauste
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
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Ross EC, Ten Hoeve AL, Barragan A. Integrin-dependent migratory switches regulate the translocation of Toxoplasma-infected dendritic cells across brain endothelial monolayers. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 78:5197-5212. [PMID: 34023934 PMCID: PMC8254729 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-03858-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Multiple cellular processes, such as immune responses and cancer cell metastasis, crucially depend on interconvertible migration modes. However, knowledge is scarce on how infectious agents impact the processes of cell adhesion and migration at restrictive biological barriers. In extracellular matrix, dendritic cells (DCs) infected by the obligate intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii undergo mesenchymal-to-amoeboid transition (MAT) for rapid integrin-independent migration. Here, in a cellular model of the blood–brain barrier, we report that parasitised DCs adhere to polarised endothelium and shift to integrin-dependent motility, accompanied by elevated transendothelial migration (TEM). Upon contact with endothelium, parasitised DCs dramatically reduced velocities and adhered under both static and shear stress conditions, thereby obliterating the infection-induced amoeboid motility displayed in collagen matrix. The motility of adherent parasitised DCs on endothelial monolayers was restored by blockade of β1 and β2 integrins or ICAM-1, which conversely reduced motility on collagen-coated surfaces. Moreover, parasitised DCs exhibited enhanced translocation across highly polarised primary murine brain endothelial cell monolayers. Blockade of β1, β2 integrins, ICAM-1 and PECAM-1 reduced TEM frequencies. Finally, gene silencing of the pan-integrin-cytoskeleton linker talin (Tln1) or of β1 integrin (Itgb1) in primary DCs resulted in increased motility on endothelium and decreased TEM. Adding to the paradigms of leukocyte diapedesis, the findings provide novel insights in how an intracellular pathogen impacts the migratory plasticity of leukocytes in response to the cellular environment, to promote infection-related dissemination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily C Ross
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Arne L Ten Hoeve
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Antonio Barragan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Yu Z, Ding W, Aleem MT, Su J, Liu J, Luo J, Yan R, Xu L, Song X, Li X. Toxoplasma gondii Proteasome Subunit Alpha Type 1 with Chitosan: A Promising Alternative to Traditional Adjuvant. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13050752. [PMID: 34069589 PMCID: PMC8161231 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13050752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
As an important zoonotic protozoan, Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) has spread around the world, leading to infections in one-third of the population. There is still no effective vaccine or medicine against T. gondii, and recombinant antigens entrapped within nanospheres have benefits over traditional vaccines. In the present study, we first expressed and purified T. gondii proteasome subunit alpha type 1 (TgPSA1), then encapsulated the recombinant TgPSA1 (rTgPSA1) in chitosan nanospheres (CS nanospheres, rTgPSA1/CS nanospheres) and incomplete Freund’s adjuvant (IFA, rTgPSA1/IFA emulsion). Antigens entrapped in CS nanospheres reached an encapsulation efficiency of 67.39%, and rTgPSA1/CS nanospheres showed a more stable release profile compared to rTgPSA1/IFA emulsion in vitro. In vivo, Th1-biased cellular and humoral immune responses were induced in mice and chickens immunized with rTgPSA1/CS nanospheres and rTgPSA1/IFA emulsion, accompanied by promoted production of antibodies, IFN-γ, IL-4, and IL-17, and modulated production of IL-10. Immunization with rTgPSA1/CS nanospheres and rTgPSA1/IFA emulsion conferred significant protection, with prolonged survival time in mice and significantly decreased parasite burden in chickens. Furthermore, our results also indicate that rTgPSA1/CS nanospheres could be used as a substitute for rTgPSA1/IFA emulsion, with the optimal administration route being intramuscular in mass vaccination. Collectively, the results of this study indicate that rTgPSA1/CS nanospheres represent a promising vaccine to protect animals against acute toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengqing Yu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210000, China; (Z.Y.); (W.D.); (M.T.A.); (J.S.); (R.Y.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Wenxi Ding
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210000, China; (Z.Y.); (W.D.); (M.T.A.); (J.S.); (R.Y.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Muhammad Tahir Aleem
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210000, China; (Z.Y.); (W.D.); (M.T.A.); (J.S.); (R.Y.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Junzhi Su
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210000, China; (Z.Y.); (W.D.); (M.T.A.); (J.S.); (R.Y.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Junlong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730046, China; (J.L.); (J.L.)
| | - Jianxun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730046, China; (J.L.); (J.L.)
| | - Ruofeng Yan
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210000, China; (Z.Y.); (W.D.); (M.T.A.); (J.S.); (R.Y.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Lixin Xu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210000, China; (Z.Y.); (W.D.); (M.T.A.); (J.S.); (R.Y.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Xiaokai Song
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210000, China; (Z.Y.); (W.D.); (M.T.A.); (J.S.); (R.Y.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Xiangrui Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210000, China; (Z.Y.); (W.D.); (M.T.A.); (J.S.); (R.Y.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-025-84399000
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