51
|
Antischistosomal Activity of Origanum majorana, Ziziphus spina-christi, and Salvia fruticosa Plant Extracts on Hamster Infected with Schistosoma haematobium. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:5545331. [PMID: 34235218 PMCID: PMC8216798 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5545331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
World Health Organization (WHO) has approved only one treatment for schistosomiasis, praziquantel (PZQ), but some poor efficacy was noticed in patients during the early stage of infection. Therefore, researchers have intensified their efforts to research new alternative medicines to treat schistosomiasis. In the present study, in vitro as well as in vivo studies have been accomplished to evaluate the effect of Origanum majorana, Ziziphus spina-christi, and Salvia fruticosa extracts in a different concentration 500, 250, 125, 62.5, and 31.25 μg/ml on golden hamster infected by Egyptian strains of schistosome (Schistosoma haematobium). In vitro, the adult worms and schistosomula of S. haematobium were investigated in RPMI-1640 medium for 48 hrs. The results showed that the concentration 500, 250, and 125 μg/ml of Origanum majorana, and Ziziphus spina-christi caused dead of 100% of Egyptian Schistosoma strains of adult worm and schistosomula of S. haematobium within 6 to 12 hrs of incubation. On the other hand, the extract of Salvia fruticosa at concentrations 500, 250, and 125 μg/ml showed death 100% parasites after 12 to 24 hrs of incubation. Inclusion, Origanum majorana, and Ziziphus spina-christi showed effectiveness against Egyptian Schistosoma strains (S. haematobium), a slight decrease in Salvia fruticosa was observed. Therefore, these medical plant extracts may be used as a safe and effective treatment for schistosomiasis.
Collapse
|
52
|
Review: Schistosoma mansoni phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 256:110632. [PMID: 34119651 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2021.110632] [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: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Schistosoma mansoni worms are under a milieu of external and internal signaling pathways. The life-cycle stages are exposed to enormous stimuli within the mammalian and the snail hosts and as free-living stages in the fresh water. Furthermore, there is a unique interplay between the male and the female worms involving many stimuli from the male essential for full development of the female. PI3K/Akt/mTOR is an evolutionarily divergent signal transduction pathway universal to nearly every multicellular organism. This work reviews the Schistosoma mansoni PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathways and the involvement of the signal in the worms' physiology concerning the uptake of glucose, reproduction and survival. The inhibitors of the signal pathway used against Schistosoma mansoni were summarized. Given the importance of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signal pathway, its inhibition could be a promising control strategy against schistosomiasis.
Collapse
|
53
|
Abou-El-Naga IF, El-Temsahy MM, Mogahed NMFH, Sheta E, Makled S, Ibrahim EI. Effect of celecoxib against different developmental stages of experimental Schistosoma mansoni infection. Acta Trop 2021; 218:105891. [PMID: 33773944 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.105891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Due to the high prevalence of schistosomiasis and the wide use of praziquantel solely for mass drug administration to control the disease, there is a great concern about the potential emergence of reduced susceptibility strains. This, together with the concern that praziquantel is ineffective against juvenile worms highlight the importance of developing an alternative anti-schistosomal drug. Using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs against schistosome infection is considerable. The present study evaluated the effect of oral administration of five days celecoxib regimen (20 mg/kg/day) against different developmental stages of Schistosoma mansoni infection. This regimen induced significant reduction in worm burden, tissue egg count, individual female fecundity and the mean percentage of immature and mature eggs with increased mean percentage of dead eggs. More importantly, celecoxib was more potent than praziquantel in all these parasitological parameters (except in the worm burden when given against the adult stage where the difference was statistically non-significant). Scanning and transmission electron microscopy of the adult worms revealed severe tegumental damage, laceration of the muscular layers and oedema of the syncytial layer. There was disruption of the testicular, ovarian and vitelline glandular tissues with signs of apoptosis and abnormalities of the spermatozoa and the oocytes. Additionally, celecoxib induced reduction in the number and the size of the hepatic granulomata and also amelioration of the hepatic tissue pathology.
Collapse
|
54
|
Moreira-Filho JT, Silva AC, Dantas RF, Gomes BF, Souza Neto LR, Brandao-Neto J, Owens RJ, Furnham N, Neves BJ, Silva-Junior FP, Andrade CH. Schistosomiasis Drug Discovery in the Era of Automation and Artificial Intelligence. Front Immunol 2021; 12:642383. [PMID: 34135888 PMCID: PMC8203334 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.642383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by trematode worms of the genus Schistosoma and affects over 200 million people worldwide. The control and treatment of this neglected tropical disease is based on a single drug, praziquantel, which raises concerns about the development of drug resistance. This, and the lack of efficacy of praziquantel against juvenile worms, highlights the urgency for new antischistosomal therapies. In this review we focus on innovative approaches to the identification of antischistosomal drug candidates, including the use of automated assays, fragment-based screening, computer-aided and artificial intelligence-based computational methods. We highlight the current developments that may contribute to optimizing research outputs and lead to more effective drugs for this highly prevalent disease, in a more cost-effective drug discovery endeavor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José T. Moreira-Filho
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Arthur C. Silva
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Rafael F. Dantas
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Barbara F. Gomes
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lauro R. Souza Neto
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jose Brandao-Neto
- Diamond Light Source Ltd., Didcot, United Kingdom
- Research Complex at Harwell, Didcot, United Kingdom
| | - Raymond J. Owens
- The Rosalind Franklin Institute, Harwell, United Kingdom
- Division of Structural Biology, The Wellcome Centre for Human Genetic, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Furnham
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bruno J. Neves
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Floriano P. Silva-Junior
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carolina H. Andrade
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
55
|
Probst A, Chisanga K, Dziwornu GA, Haeberli C, Keiser J, Chibale K. Expanding the Activity Profile of Pyrido[1,2- a]benzimidazoles: Synthesis and Evaluation of Novel N1-1-Phenylethanamine Derivatives against Schistosoma mansoni. ACS Infect Dis 2021; 7:1032-1043. [PMID: 32786285 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.0c00278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Praziquantel is the only widely available drug to treat schistosomiasis. With very few candidates currently in the drug development pipeline, there is an urgent need to discover and develop novel antischistosomal drugs. In this regard, the pyrido[1,2-a]benzimidazole (PBI) scaffold has emerged as a promising chemotype in hit-to-lead efforts. Here, we report a novel series of antischistosomal PBIs with potent in vitro activity (IC50 values of 0.08-1.43 μM) against Schistosoma mansoni newly transformed schistosomula and adult worms. Moreover, the current PBIs demonstrated good hepatic microsomal stability (>70% of drug remaining after 30 min) and were nontoxic to the Chinese hamster ovarian and human liver HepG2 cells, though toxicity (selectivity index, SI < 10) against the rat L6 myoblast cell line was observed. The compounds showed a small therapeutic window but were efficacious in vivo, exhibiting moderate to high worm burden reductions of 35.8-89.6% in S. mansoni-infected mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Probst
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstrasse 57, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, P.O. Box CH-4003, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kelly Chisanga
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | | | - Cécile Haeberli
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstrasse 57, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, P.O. Box CH-4003, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Socinstrasse 57, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, P.O. Box CH-4003, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kelly Chibale
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council Drug Discovery Unit, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
56
|
Lu DB, Yu QF, Zhang JY, Sun MT, Gu MM, Webster JP, Liang YS. Extended survival and reproductive potential of single-sex male and female Schistosoma japonicum within definitive hosts. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:887-891. [PMID: 33905765 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2021.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is caused by dioecious helminths of the genus Schistosoma. Recent work indicated that unpaired female and male schistosomes can survive within their definitive host for at least 1 year, although the viability or fertility of these worms after subsequent pairing remained untested. We performed two experiments on laboratory mice, one with female Schistosoma japonicum exposure first and male schistosomes second and another vice versa. After surviving as single-sex unpaired forms for up to 1 year, 58.5% of male and 70% of female schistosomes were able to mate and produce viable eggs. This highlights an additional biological challenge in achieving elimination of schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Da-Bing Lu
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Key Laboratory of National Health and Family Planning Commission on Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, China.
| | - Qiu-Fu Yu
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Key Laboratory of National Health and Family Planning Commission on Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, China
| | - Jie-Ying Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Key Laboratory of National Health and Family Planning Commission on Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, China
| | - Meng-Tao Sun
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Key Laboratory of National Health and Family Planning Commission on Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, China
| | - Man-Man Gu
- Department of Epidemiology and Statistics, School of Public Health, Soochow University, Suzhou, China; Key Laboratory of National Health and Family Planning Commission on Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, China
| | - Joanne P Webster
- Key Laboratory of National Health and Family Planning Commission on Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, China; Centre for Emerging, Endemic and Exotic Diseases (CEEED), Department of Pathology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - You-Sheng Liang
- Key Laboratory of National Health and Family Planning Commission on Parasitic Disease Control and Prevention, Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory on Parasite and Vector Control Technology, Jiangsu Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Wuxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
57
|
Validation of a human-serum-based in vitro growth method for drug screening on juvenile development stages of Schistosoma mansoni. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009313. [PMID: 33784302 PMCID: PMC8034724 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis affects over 200 million people worldwide but only praziquantel is available for treatment and control. Drug discovery is often based on phenotypic drug screening, involving different parasite stages retrieved from infected mice. Aiming to reduce animal use, we validated an in vitro growth method for juvenile Schistosoma mansoni for the purpose of drug sensitivity assays. Methodology/Principal findings We compared inter–batch variability of serum, worm size and organ development, gender distribution, and drug sensitivity between in vitro and in vivo grown worms over different life stages. In vitro developed S. mansoni in Hybridoma medium supplemented with 20% human serum were similar in size as in vivo worms until 28 days of incubation (males 1.4 ± 0.2 mm, females 1.1 ± 0.5 mm long). qPCR analysis revealed similar gender distribution both on newly transformed schistosomula and worms grown for 21 days. Worms developed in vitro and in vivo were similarly sensitive to praziquantel from 7 to 35 days of development with the exception of 21 days of development, where a slightly lower activity was observed for the in vitro grown worms (IC50: 0.54 μM in vitro, 0.14 μM in vivo 72 hours post-incubation). The evaluation of five additional drugs revealed a similar sensitivity on worms developed for 21 days, with the exception of mefloquine, where we observed a 10-fold lower sensitivity on in vitro developed schistosomes when compared to in vivo grown (IC50: 4.43 μM in vitro, 0.48 μM in vivo). Conclusion A large number of juvenile S. mansoni worms can be grown in vitro, which show similar drug sensitivity, gender distribution, size and morphology as the worms recovered from rodents, supporting the use of this method in drug screening efforts. Schistosomiasis is a water-borne disease affecting over 200 million people worldwide and praziquantel is the only drug available for treatment. Although this drug is effective on all Schistosoma species on the adult stage of development, its activity is only partial against early infection stages. In addition, this has been the only drug in use for over 40 years, a situation that poses selective pressure towards resistant worms and highlights the urgent need of new drugs. The discovery and development of new drugs is often based on drug screenings, performed on worms collected from infected mammals. In line with animal welfare recommendations and aiming to increase throughput and reduce the assay costs, we validated a recently established in vitro method to grow juvenile S. mansoni as a drug screening tool. The in vitro established worms have similar gender distribution, size and drug sensitivity as worms collected from mice.
Collapse
|
58
|
da Costa JMC, Gouveia MJ, Rinaldi G, Brindley PJ, Santos J, Santos LL. Control Strategies for Carcinogenic-Associated Helminthiases: An Integrated Overview. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:626672. [PMID: 33842386 PMCID: PMC8025785 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.626672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Helminthiases are extremely prevalent in the developing world. In addition, the chronic infection with some parasitic worms are classified as carcinogenic. Therefore, it is utmost importance to understand the parasite-host interactions, the mechanisms underlay carcinogenesis and how they could be counteracted. This knowledge may ultimately guide novel control strategies that include chemotherapy-based approaches targeting these pathogens and associated pathologies caused by their infections. Little is known on how some helminthiases are associated with cancer; however, it has been hypothesized that chemical carcinogenesis may be involved in the process. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on chemical carcinogenesis associated with helminthiases, along with available therapeutic options and potential therapeutic alternatives including chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy. Ideally, the treatment of the carcinogenic helminthiases should target both the parasite and associated pathologies. The success of any chemotherapeutic regimen often depends on the host immune response during the infection and nutritional status among other factors. The close association between chemotherapy and cell-mediated immunity suggests that a dual therapeutic approach would be advantageous. In addition, there is a pressing need for complementary drugs that antagonize the carcinogenesis process associated with the helminth infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- José Manuel Correia da Costa
- Centre for the Study in Animal Science (CECA/ICETA), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Parasite Immunology and Biology, Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Health Dr Ricardo Jorge, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria João Gouveia
- Centre for the Study in Animal Science (CECA/ICETA), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Centre for Parasite Immunology and Biology, Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Health Dr Ricardo Jorge, Porto, Portugal
- REQUIMTE, Department of Chemical Sciences, Laboratory of Bromatology and Hydrology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Paul J. Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, and Research Centre for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Júlio Santos
- Deparment of Urology, Clínica da Sagrada Esperança, Luanda, Angola
| | - Lúcio Lara Santos
- Experimental Pathology and Therapeutics Group, Research Center of Instituto Português de Oncologia, Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
59
|
Abou El-Nour MF, Kenawy SH, El-Bassyouni GT, Hamzawy EMA. A Novel Treatment of Schistosomiasis: Nano-Calcium Silicate Incorporating 5% Copper Oxide. Adv Pharm Bull 2021; 11:68-76. [PMID: 33747853 PMCID: PMC7961221 DOI: 10.34172/apb.2021.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: Praziquantel (PZQ) is a well-known drug accredited by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the treatment of schistosomiasis. It shows poor efficiency in patients during the earliest infection phases. Therefore, the search for new alternative drugs was the intention of many researchers. Methods: In the current study, the effect of different concentrations (ranging from 0.07-10 μg∕mL) of calcium silicate (CS) containing 5% copper oxide [CS-5%CuO] on golden hamster infected by Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma haematobium (Egyptian strains) was evaluated in both in vitro and in vivo. To the best of our knowledge, this is a novel study in investigating the efficiency of CS-5%CuO against both strains of schistosomes. The worms of S. mansoni and S. haematobium were tested in RPMI-1640 medium in vitro. Results: The results declare that CS-5% CuO exhibited excellent anti-schistosomal activities on both in vitro and in vivo experiments for both Egyptians Schistosoma strains. The most potential effect of the CS-5% CuO was exhibited after 6 h by 10 μg∕mL with significant activity of (P value = 0.001). Conclusion: Therefore, CS-5%CuO may become an innovative treatment for the schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sayed Hamed Kenawy
- Refractories, Ceramics and Building Materials Department, National Research Centre, El-Buhouth St., Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt.,Imam Mohamed Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Collage of Science, Chemistry Dept. Riyadh 11623, Saudi Arabia
| | - Gehan T El-Bassyouni
- Refractories, Ceramics and Building Materials Department, National Research Centre, El-Buhouth St., Dokki, Cairo, 12622, Egypt
| | | |
Collapse
|
60
|
Maharjan S, Kirk RS, Lawton SP, Walker AJ. Further evaluation and validation of HybridoMed Diff 1000 and its comparison to Basch medium for the cell-free culture of Schistosoma mansoni juvenile worm stages. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:613-619. [PMID: 33771520 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomules of the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni are vital for research focusing on the fundamental functional/developmental biology of schistosomes and many anti-schistosomal drug discovery programmes. Through the further evaluation and validation of a recently tested media, HybridoMed Diff 1000 (HM), for the cell-free culture of juvenile schistosomules, we show that while Basch medium was superior to HM for the survival/development of schistosomules, HM represents a viable and attractive alternative for somule culture, particularly to the early liver stage. Adoption of HM for schistosomule culture could facilitate more standardised approaches, which for drug screening should enable improved multi-centre target-hit evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shradha Maharjan
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE, UK
| | - Ruth S Kirk
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE, UK
| | - Scott P Lawton
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE, UK; Epidemiology Research Unit, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), An Lòchran, 10 Inverness Campus, Inverness IV2 5NA, UK
| | - Anthony J Walker
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
61
|
Siqueira LMV, Senra C, de Oliveira ÁA, Carneiro NFDF, Gomes LI, Rabello A, Coelho PMZ, Oliveira E. A Real-Time PCR Assay for the Diagnosis of Intestinal Schistosomiasis and Cure Assessment After the Treatment of Individuals With Low Parasite Burden. Front Immunol 2021; 11:620417. [PMID: 33815351 PMCID: PMC8010660 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.620417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The laboratorial diagnosis of the intestinal schistosomiasis is always performed using Kato-Katz technique. However, this technique presents low sensitivity for diagnosis of individuals with low parasite burden, which constitutes the majority in low endemicity Brazilian locations for the disease. The objective of this study was developed and to validate a real-time PCR assay (qPCR) targeting 121 bp sequence to detect Schistosoma spp. DNA for the diagnosis of intestinal schistosomiasis and a sequence of the human β-actin gene as internal control. Firstly, the qPCR was standardized and next it was evaluated for diagnosis and cure assessment of intestinal schistosomiasis in the resident individuals in Tabuas and Estreito de Miralta, two locations in Brazil endemic for intestinal schistosomiasis. The qPCR assay results were compared with those of the Kato-Katz (KK) test, examining 2 or 24 slides, Saline Gradient (SG) and “reference test” (24 KK slides + SG). The cure assessment was measured by these diagnostic techniques at 30, 90, and 180 days post-treatment. In Tabuas, the positivity rates obtained by the qPCR was 30.4% (45/148) and by “reference test” was of 31.0% (46/148), with no statistical difference (p = 0.91). The presumed cure rates at 30, 90, and 180 days post-treatment were 100, 94.4, and 78.4% by the analysis of 24 KK slides, 100, 94.4, and 78.4% by the SG, and 100, 83.3, and 62.1% by the qPCR assay. In Estreito de Miralta, the positivity obtained by qPCR was 18.3% (26/142) and with “reference test” was 24.6% (35/142), with no statistical difference (p = 0.20). The presumed cure rates were 93.3, 96.9, and 96.5% by the KK, 93.3, 96.9, and 100% by the SG, and 93.3, 93.9, and 96.5% by the qPCR at 30, 90, and 180 days post-treatment, respectively. This study showed that the diagnostic techniques presented different performance in the populations from the two districts (Tabuas and Estreito de Miralta) and reinforces the need of combining techniques to improve diagnosis accuracy, increasing the detection of individuals with low parasite burden. This combination of techniques consists an important strategy for controlling the disease transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liliane Maria Vidal Siqueira
- Diagnosis and Therapy of Infectious and Oncologic Diseases, Instituto René Rachou, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Carolina Senra
- Clinical Research and Public Politics in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Instituto René Rachou, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Áureo Almeida de Oliveira
- Diagnosis and Therapy of Infectious and Oncologic Diseases, Instituto René Rachou, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Luciana Inácia Gomes
- Clinical Research and Public Politics in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Instituto René Rachou, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ana Rabello
- Clinical Research and Public Politics in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Instituto René Rachou, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Paulo Marcos Zech Coelho
- Diagnosis and Therapy of Infectious and Oncologic Diseases, Instituto René Rachou, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Edward Oliveira
- Clinical Research and Public Politics in Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Instituto René Rachou, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
62
|
Fukushige M, Chase-Topping M, Woolhouse MEJ, Mutapi F. Efficacy of praziquantel has been maintained over four decades (from 1977 to 2018): A systematic review and meta-analysis of factors influence its efficacy. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009189. [PMID: 33730095 PMCID: PMC7968639 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The antihelminthic drug praziquantel has been used as the drug of choice for treating schistosome infection for more than 40 years. Although some epidemiological studies have reported low praziquantel efficacy in cure rate (CR) and/or egg reduction rate (ERR), there is no consistent robust evidence of the development of schistosome resistance to praziquantel (PZQ). There is need to determine factors that lead to variable treatment CR and/or ERR. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to review CR and ERR as well as identify their predictors. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS In this systematic review and meta-analysis, a literature review was conducted using Biosis Citation Index, Data Citation Index, MEDLINE, and Web of Science Core Collection all of which were provided through Web of Science. Alongside these, EMBASE, and CAB abstracts were searched to identify relevant articles. Random effect meta-regression models were used to identify the factors that influence CR and/or ERR by considering differences in host characteristics and drug dose. In total, 12,127 potential articles were screened and 146 eligible articles (published from 1979 to 2020) were identified and included for the meta-analysis. We found that there has been no significant reduction in CR or ERR over the study period. The results showed more variability in CR, compared with ERR which was more consistent and remained high. The results showed a positive effect of "PZQ treatment dose" with the current recommended dose of 40 mg/kg body weight achieving 57% to 88% CR depending on schistosome species, age of participants, and number of parasitological samples used for diagnosis, and ERR of 95%. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Based on a review of over 40 years of research there is no evidence to support concerns about schistosomes developing resistance to PZQ. These results indicate that PZQ remains effective in treating schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mizuho Fukushige
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, Centre for Immunity, Infection & Evolution, Edinburgh Medical School: Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Margo Chase-Topping
- Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | - Francisca Mutapi
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, Centre for Immunity, Infection & Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- NIHR Global Health Research Unit Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa (TIBA), University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
63
|
Antischistosomal Activity of Zingiber officinale, Piper nigrum, and Coriandrum sativum Aqueous Plant Extracts on Hamster Infected with Schistosoma mansoni. J Parasitol Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1155/2021/6628787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis continues to affect the health and quality of life of millions of people around the world. Schistosomiasis has been ranked the second disease after malaria in terms of importance as a targeted tropical disease. Praziquantel (PZQ) is the only drug approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) for the treatment of schistosomiasis. Being the only drug, parasite resistance to this drug has developed. Therefore, the search for new alternatives has been the goal of many researchers. In this study, the effects of aqueous extracts of Zingiber officinale, Piper nigrum, and Coriandrum sativum on Schistosoma mansoni infected golden hamsters (Egyptian strain) were evaluated in vitro and in vivo at different doses of 500, 250, 125, 62.5, and 31.25 μg/ml. In vitro, adult worms of S. mansoni were tested in RPMI-1640 medium for 48 hrs. The results showed that the concentrations 500, 250, and 125 μg/ml of Zingiber officinale and Piper nigrum caused dead of 100% of adult worms within 6 and 12 hrs of incubation, respectively. Although, aqueous extract of Coriandrum sativum at concentrations 500, 250, and 125 μg/ml resulted dead of 100% parasites after 12 to 24 hrs of incubation. In conclusion, Zingiber officinale and Piper nigrum showed efficacy against schistosomiasis in both in vitro and biological experiments of Egyptian schistosome strain, while Coriandrum sativum gave less effective results than the previous ones. Therefore, Zingiber officinale and Piper nigrum may become an innovative treatment for schistosomiasis.
Collapse
|
64
|
Antiparasitic effects of ethanolic extracts of Piper arboreum and Jatropha gossypiifolia leaves on cercariae and adult worms of Schistosoma mansoni. Parasitology 2020; 147:1689-1699. [DOI: 10.1017/s003118202000181x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
AbstractNew treatment strategies for schistosomiasis should be evaluated, since resistant strains to the only available drug, Praziquantel, have already been described. Thus, we demonstrated antiparasitic effects of ethanolic extracts of Jatropha gossypiifolia and Piper arboreum on cercariae and adult worms of Schistosoma mansoni. The bioassays were performed at 0–10 000 μg mL−1 concentration for 0–72 h. Adult worms were stained with carmine to assess external and internal damage. The chemical screening was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography. P. arboreum displayed the best cercaricidal effect, with a 100% reduction in viability in just 60 min. The extract of J. gossypiifolia was more effective against adult worms, with 100% viability reduction of male and female worms after 12 and 24 h, respectively. P. arboreum and J. gossypiifolia were equally effective in inhibiting the oviposition of S. mansoni (93% reduction) and causing damage to internal and external structures in adult worms. Flavonoids were identified in both the extracts and phenolic compounds and amides only in P. arboreum. Thus, for the first time, it was proven that ethanolic extracts of P. arboreum and J. gossypiifolia leaves are biologically active against cercariae and adult worms of S. mansoni in vitro.
Collapse
|
65
|
Human serum activates the tegument of female schistosomes and supports recovery from Praziquantel. Parasitol Res 2020; 120:209-221. [PMID: 33263166 PMCID: PMC7846515 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06968-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is one of the most devastating parasitic disease in the world. Schistosoma spp. survive for decades within the vasculature of their human hosts. They have evolved a vast array of mechanisms to avoid the immune reaction of the host. Due to their sexual dimorphism, with the female worm lying within the gynecophoric canal of the male worm, it is the male that is exposed to the immediate environment and the soluble parts of the host’s immune response. To understand how the worms are so successful in fending off the immune attacks of the host, comparative analyses of both worm sexes in human serum (with or without Praziquantel) were performed using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and immunohistochemistry. Further, gene expression analyses of tegument-specific genes were performed. Following the incubation in human serum, males and females out of pairs show morphological changes such as an altered structure of the pits below the surface and an increased number of pits per area. In addition, female schistosomes presented a marked tuft-like repulsion of their opsonized surface. The observed resistance of females to Praziquantel seemed to depend on active proteins in the human serum. Moreover, different expression profiles of tegument-specific genes indicate different functions of female_single and male_single teguments in response to human serum. Our results indicate that female schistosomes developed different evasion strategies toward the host’s immune system in comparison to males that might lead to more robustness and has to be taken into account for the development of new anti-schistosomal drugs.
Collapse
|
66
|
Ammar AI, Afifi AF, Essa A, Galal-Khallaf A, Mokhtar MM, Shehab-Eldeen S, Rady AA. Cucurbita pepo Seed Oil Induces Microsatellite Instability and Tegumental Damage to Schistosoma mansoni Immature and Adult Worms In vitro. Infect Drug Resist 2020; 13:3469-3484. [PMID: 33116667 PMCID: PMC7549022 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s265699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis is a tropical parasitic disease treated exclusively with praziquantel (PZQ). However, PZQ has low efficacy against schistosomula and juveniles. In addition, the emergence of PZQ resistance has prompted the search for new drugs. Methods This study investigated the effects of pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo)-seed oil (PSO) on Schistosoma mansoni adults, juveniles, and newly formed schistosomula in vitro by exposing the parasites to increasing concentrations of PSO (20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 µl/mL) with variable incubation periods (24, 48, and 72 hours). Dose-response effects of PSO on mortality rate, worm activity, and tegumental changes were studied. Also, effect on DNA were assessed with microsatellite analysis. Results All tested stages of S. mansoni were susceptible to PSO, which was more effective than PZQ on juvenile worms and schistosomula. Juveniles and schistosomula S. mansoni were more sensitive to the antischistosomal activity of PSO than adult worms. PSO showed evident changes in the integuments of adults, juveniles, and schistosomula. These changes were more evident with increased concentrations. At the genomic level, PSO induced clear qualitative and quantitative changes in the microsatellite loci R95529 and SMD57 of S. mansoni adults and schistosomula. This microsatellite instability is being reported through the current study for S. mansoni in response to PSO for the first time. Conclusion This study suggested that PSO possesses effective antischistosomal activity against various stages of S. mansoni. Further investigations are needed to figure out the mechanism of action of PSO on this parasite.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amany Ibrahim Ammar
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Amira Fathy Afifi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Abdallah Essa
- Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El Kom, Menoufia, Egypt.,Internal Medicine Department, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsaa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asmaa Galal-Khallaf
- Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, Shebin El- Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Mostafa Mohamed Mokhtar
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Egypt
| | - Somaia Shehab-Eldeen
- Tropical Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El Kom, Menoufia, Egypt.,Internal Medicine Department, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsaa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amany Ahmed Rady
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
67
|
In vivo assessment of the antischistosomal activity of curcumin loaded nanoparticles versus praziquantel in the treatment of Schistosoma mansoni. Sci Rep 2020; 10:15742. [PMID: 32978497 PMCID: PMC7519097 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-72901-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a serious parasitic infection affecting millions worldwide. This study aimed to explore the anti-schistosomal activity of curcumin and curcumin loaded gold-nanoparticles (Cur-GNPs) with or without praziquantel (PZQ). We used six groups of the C57BL/6 mice in which five groups were infected with Schistosoma Mansoni (S. mansoni) cercariae and exhibited, separately, to different treatment regimens of curcumin, curcumin loaded nanoparticle, and PZQ, in addition to one untreated group which acts as a control. Mice were sacrificed at the 8th week where both worms and eggs were counted in the hepatic and porto-mesenteric vessels in the liver and intestine, respectively, in addition to a histopathological examination of the liver granuloma. Curcumin caused a significant reduction in the worms and egg count (45.45%) at the 3rd week. A significant schistosomicidal effect of PZQ was found in all groups. Cur-GNPs combined with PZQ 97.4% reduction of worm burden in the 3rd week and the highest reduction in the intestinal and hepatic egg content, as well, besides 70.1% reduction of the granuloma size. The results suggested the curcumin in combination with PZQ as a strong schistosomicidal regimen against S. mansoni as it alters the hematological, biochemical, and immunological changes induced.
Collapse
|
68
|
Use of kinase inhibitors against schistosomes to improve and broaden praziquantel efficacy. Parasitology 2020; 147:1488-1498. [PMID: 32741402 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020001250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug of choice for schistosomiasis. The potential drug resistance necessitates the search for adjunct or alternative therapies to PZQ. Previous functional genomics has shown that RNAi inhibition of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) gene in Schistosoma adult worms significantly improved the effectiveness of PZQ. Here we tested the in vitro efficacy of 15 selective and non-selective CaMK inhibitors against Schistosoma mansoni and showed that PZQ efficacy was improved against refractory juvenile parasites when combined with these CaMK inhibitors. By measuring CaMK activity and the mobility of adult S. mansoni, we identified two non-selective CaMK inhibitors, Staurosporine (STSP) and 1Naphthyl PP1 (1NAPP1), as promising candidates for further study. The impact of STSP and 1NAPP1 was investigated in mice infected with S. mansoni in the presence or absence of a sub-lethal dose of PZQ against 2- and 7-day-old schistosomula and adults. Treatment with STSP/PZQ induced a significant (47-68%) liver egg burden reduction compared with mice treated with PZQ alone. The findings indicate that the combination of STSP and PZQ dosages significantly improved anti-schistosomal activity compared to PZQ alone, demonstrating the potential of selective and non-selective CaMK/kinase inhibitors as a combination therapy with PZQ in treating schistosomiasis.
Collapse
|
69
|
Rugel AR, Guzman MA, Taylor AB, Chevalier FD, Tarpley RS, McHardy SF, Cao X, Holloway SP, Anderson TJC, Hart PJ, LoVerde PT. Why does oxamniquine kill Schistosoma mansoni and not S. haematobium and S. japonicum? Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2020; 13:8-15. [PMID: 32315953 PMCID: PMC7167500 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Human schistosomiasis is a disease which globally affects over 229 million people. Three major species affecting humans are Schistosoma mansoni, S. haematobium and S. japonicum. Previous treatment of S. mansoni includes the use of oxamniquine (OXA), a prodrug that is enzymatically activated in S. mansoni but is ineffective against S. haematobium and S. japonicum. The OXA activating enzyme was identified and crystallized, as being a S. mansoni sulfotransferase (SmSULT). S. haematobium and S. japonicum possess homologs of SmSULT (ShSULT and SjSULT) begging the question; why does oxamniquine fail to kill S. haematobium and S. japonicum adult worms? Investigation of the molecular structures of the sulfotransferases indicates that structural differences, specifically in OXA contact residues, do not abrogate OXA binding in the active sites as previously hypothesized. Data presented argue that the ability of SULTs to sulfate and thus activate OXA and its derivatives is linked to the ability of OXA to fit in the binding pocket to allow the transfer of a sulfur group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia R Rugel
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Meghan A Guzman
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Alexander B Taylor
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA; X-ray Crystallography Core Laboratory, Institutional Research Cores, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Frédéric D Chevalier
- Department of Genetics, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, 78245, USA
| | - Reid S Tarpley
- Center for Innovative Drug Discovery, Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Stanton F McHardy
- Center for Innovative Drug Discovery, Department of Chemistry, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78249, USA
| | - Xiaohang Cao
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Stephen P Holloway
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Timothy J C Anderson
- Department of Genetics, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX, 78245, USA
| | - P John Hart
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA; X-ray Crystallography Core Laboratory, Institutional Research Cores, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA; Department of Veterans Affairs, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA
| | - Philip T LoVerde
- Department of Biochemistry and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA; Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
70
|
Schultz MD, Dadali T, Jacques SA, Muller-Steffner H, Foote JB, Sorci L, Kellenberger E, Botta D, Lund FE. Inhibition of the NAD salvage pathway in schistosomes impairs metabolism, reproduction, and parasite survival. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008539. [PMID: 32459815 PMCID: PMC7252647 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
NAD, a key co-enzyme required for cell metabolism, is synthesized via two pathways in most organisms. Since schistosomes apparently lack enzymes required for de novo NAD biosynthesis, we evaluated whether these parasites, which infect >200 million people worldwide, maintain NAD homeostasis via the NAD salvage biosynthetic pathway. We found that intracellular NAD levels decline in schistosomes treated with drugs that block production of nicotinamide or nicotinamide mononucleotide–known NAD precursors in the non-deamidating salvage pathway. Moreover, in vitro inhibition of the NAD salvage pathway in schistosomes impaired egg production, disrupted the outer membranes of both immature and mature parasites and caused loss of mobility and death. Inhibiting the NAD salvage pathway in schistosome-infected mice significantly decreased NAD levels in adult parasites, which correlated with reduced egg production, fewer liver granulomas and parasite death. Thus, schistosomes, unlike their mammalian hosts, appear limited to one metabolic pathway to maintain NAD-dependent metabolic processes. Schistosomiasis (snail fever) is a deadly parasitic disease that affects more than 200 million people worldwide and, if not treated, can lead to death. This disease is caused by parasitic worms called schistosomes that feed on the host blood and lay hundreds of eggs each day that damage the liver and kidneys. Therapies to treat schistosomiasis are limited. The most widely-used anti-schistosomal drug, praziquantel, is not effective against immature parasites and adult worms can, in some cases, become resistant to this drug. It is therefore important to find new therapies to treat this deadly disease. In this study, we observed that schistosomes cannot use amino acids to make Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD)–a key cellular metabolite found in all living organisms. Instead, these parasites salvage NAD by scavenging vitamins from the host. We observed that disruption of this NAD salvage pathway negatively impacts metabolism, reproduction and survival of both adult and immature worms. As such, targeting the parasite’s NAD salvage pathway is a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of snail fever.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. Schultz
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Tulin Dadali
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Sylvain A. Jacques
- Laboratoire d’Innovation Thérapeutique, LIT UMR 7200 CNRS-Université de Strasbourg, MEDALIS Drug Discovery Center, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France
| | - Hélène Muller-Steffner
- Laboratoire des Systèmes Chimiques Fonctionnels, CAMB UMR 7199 CNRS-Université de Strasbourg, MEDALIS Drug Discovery Center, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France
| | - Jeremy B. Foote
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Leonardo Sorci
- Department of Materials, Environmental Sciences and Urban Planning, Division of Bioinformatics and Biochemistry, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Esther Kellenberger
- Laboratoire d’Innovation Thérapeutique, LIT UMR 7200 CNRS-Université de Strasbourg, MEDALIS Drug Discovery Center, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France
| | - Davide Botta
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Frances E. Lund
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
71
|
Effect of Praziquantel on Schistosoma mekongi Proteome and Phosphoproteome. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9060417. [PMID: 32471184 PMCID: PMC7350297 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9060417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosoma mekongi causes schistosomiasis in southeast Asia, against which praziquantel (PZQ) is the only treatment option. PZQ resistance has been reported, thus increasing the requirement to understand mechanism of PZQ. Herein, this study aimed to assess differences in proteome and phosphoproteome of S. mekongi after PZQ treatment for elucidating its action. Furthermore, key kinases related to PZQ effects were predicted to identify alternative targets for novel drug development. Proteomes of S. mekongi were profiled after PZQ treatment at half maximal inhibitory concentration and compared with untreated worms. A total of 144 proteins were differentially expressed after treatment. In parallel, immunohistochemistry indicated a reduction of phosphorylation, with 43 phosphoproteins showing reduced phosphorylation, as identified by phosphoproteomic approach. Pathway analysis of mass spectrometric data showed that calcium homeostasis, worm antigen, and oxidative stress pathways were influenced by PZQ treatment. Interestingly, two novel mechanisms related to protein folding and proteolysis through endoplasmic reticulum-associated degradation pathways were indicated as a parasiticidal mechanism of PZQ. According to kinase–substrate predictions with bioinformatic tools, Src kinase was highlighted as the major kinase related to the alteration of phosphorylation by PZQ. Interfering with these pathways or applying Src kinase inhibitors could be alternative approaches for further antischistosomal drug development.
Collapse
|
72
|
Three monthly doses of 60 mg/kg praziquantel for Schistosoma haematobium infection is a safe and effective treatment regimen. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:323. [PMID: 32375658 PMCID: PMC7204294 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05053-z] [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: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Praziquantel (PZQ) is the standard treatment for Schistosomiasis in sub-Saharan Africa. However, there is evidence suggesting praziquantel treatment failure in Schistosome infections with associated potential renal impairment. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of three monthly doses of 60 mg/kg/day PZQ on schistosome egg count, liver and renal function during the treatment of urinary schistosomiasis in Ghana. Methods A nested case-control study was designed from a cohort screened for schistosomiasis; 28 schistosomiasis positive cases by microscopy matched with 53 healthy controls by age and gender. The study population was urban dwellers from the Asokwa sub-metropolitan area, Kumasi in Ghana. Participants were within the age range of 6 to 30 years. We assessed Schistosoma haematobium egg counts in urine and its associated impact on liver and renal function at baseline, treatment and post-treatment phases using serum. Results Of the 28 cases and 53 controls, 78.6% and 81.1% were males respectively. Globulin levels before treatment was higher in cases [36.7 (32.8, 40.1) vrs 30.5 (22.4, 33.8), p = 0.005] at pre-treatment but not at post-treatment [35.8 (31.2, 39.1) vrs 37.4 (29.7, 43.0), p = 0.767]. Estimated cure rate was 42.9, 46.4 and 96.4% after first, second and third dose respectively. Schistosome egg counts dropped significantly (p = 0.001) from before second dose to post-treatment. Similarly, levels of alanine aminotransferase (p = 0.001), aspartate aminotransferase (p = 0.028) and gamma glutamyl transferase (p = 0.001) significantly declined towards post-treatment. Estimated glomerular filtration rate significantly improved from before second dose to post-treatment using both the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Program (p = 0.001) and 4-variable Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (p = 0.002) equations. Conclusion Treatment of urinary Schistosoma hematobium infections with a repeated high monthly dose of 60 mg/kg of praziquantel for 3 months is safe and effective.
Collapse
|
73
|
Tesfie A, Getnet G, Abere A, Yihenew G, Belete Y, Kassa M, Gize A. Praziquantel is an effective drug for the treatment of Schistosoma Mansoni infection among school-aged children in Northwest Ethiopia. Trop Med Health 2020; 48:28. [PMID: 32368183 PMCID: PMC7189710 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-020-00204-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The appropriate drug for the treatment of schistosomiasis is praziquantel. However, low cure rate and existence of drug resistance both in vivo and in vitro were reported in different endemic areas. Hence, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of praziquantel for Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) treatment. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in Sanja General Primary School, North Gondar Zone, Amhara region, Northwest of Ethiopia, from March to April, 2017. A total of 245 participants were selected using systematic random sampling. A stool specimen was collected from each participant and examined for S. mansoni ova load count using Kato–Katz technique. Two hundred four infected participants were treated with a single oral dose of praziquantel 40 mg/kg. Four weeks later post-treatment, stool specimens were collected from 176 study participants. The samples were collected using similar procedures like the pre-treatment phase to see egg reduction and cure status. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 Pearson chi-square (χ2) was used to determine the association of effectiveness of the drug with the average egg count, age group, and sex. P value ≤ 0.05 at 95% CI was considered statistically significant. Results Pre-treatment prevalence of S. mansoni infection was 83.3% (204/245) with geometric mean egg count of 357.8. In those not cured post-treatment, the prevalence and egg per gram in geometric mean egg count were 13.1% and 77.6 respectively. After 4 weeks of administration of praziquantel, the cure rate was 86.9% with egg reduction rate of 78.3%. Effectiveness of the drug was not statistically associated with sex, age group, and pre-treatment intensity of infection. Conclusion S. mansoni prevalence was high. Praziquantel is an effective drug for the treatment of S. mansoni. This high prevalence of S. mansoni requires mass drug administration of praziquantel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Addisu Tesfie
- Amhara Public Health Institute-Dessie Branch, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
| | - Gebeyaw Getnet
- 2School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Aberham Abere
- 2School of Biomedical Science, College of Medicine and Health Science, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Gebeyehu Yihenew
- 3Department of Microbiology, St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Yerega Belete
- 3Department of Microbiology, St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Melkayehu Kassa
- 3Department of Microbiology, St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Addisu Gize
- 3Department of Microbiology, St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
74
|
Matos JL, da Silva KR, de Lima Paula LA, Cunha WR, Ramos SB, Rodrigues V, Cabral FJ, Magalhães LG. Molluscicidal and cercaricidal activities of curcumin on Biomphalaria glabrata and Schistosoma mansoni cercariae. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2020; 76:1228-1234. [PMID: 31587497 DOI: 10.1002/ps.5631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis control in endemic areas depends on several factors, including chemotherapy, snail control and adequate sanitation. In this context, the employment of compounds isolated from plants is an important issue regarding infection and snail control. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the effects of curcumin (CUR), a compound isolated from Curcuma longa, against snails and embryos of Biomphalaria glabrata, which is the most important intermediate host of schistosomiasis in the Americas, as well as in cercariae, the infecting larval stage of Schistosoma mansoni. RESULTS CUR presented high activity against B. glabrata embryos and moderate activity against newborn and adult snails. The lethal concentration (LC50 ) values after being exposed for 24 h and evaluated for 7 days were 6.54 (95% confidence interval (CI) 5.86-7.30) μg mL-1 for the embryos and 42.29 (95% CI 33.82-52.87) μg mL-1 and 87.69 (95% CI 68.82-111.7) μg mL-1 for the newborn and adult snails, respectively. Moreover, CUR inhibited the development of embryos and egg hatching, and decreased the fecundity rates of adult snails. CUR also demonstrated cercaricidal activity with LC50 values lower than 10 μg mL-1 at 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 h, respectively. CONCLUSION Our data show that CUR has potential molluscicidal and cercaricidal activities. Moreover, as a nutraceutical compound that is toxic to both invertebrate host and parasite, CUR has the potential to be explored as a safe new agent to combat schistosomiasis. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaqueline L Matos
- Research Group on Natural Products, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
| | - Karen R da Silva
- Research Group on Natural Products, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
| | - Lucas A de Lima Paula
- Research Group on Natural Products, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
| | - Wilson R Cunha
- Research Group on Natural Products, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
| | - Salvador B Ramos
- Department of Health Promotion, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
| | - Vanderlei Rodrigues
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, College of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Fernanda J Cabral
- Department of Animal Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Lizandra G Magalhães
- Research Group on Natural Products, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, University of Franca, Franca, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
75
|
Lobo-Silva J, Cabral FJ, Amaral MS, Miyasato PA, de Freitas RP, Pereira ASA, Khouri MI, Barbosa MMF, Ramos PIP, Leite LCC, Asojo OA, Nakano E, Verjovski-Almeida S, Farias LP. The antischistosomal potential of GSK-J4, an H3K27 demethylase inhibitor: insights from molecular modeling, transcriptomics and in vitro assays. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:140. [PMID: 32178714 PMCID: PMC7077139 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-4000-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis chemotherapy is largely based on praziquantel (PZQ). Although PZQ is very safe and tolerable, it does not prevent reinfection and emerging resistance is a primary concern. Recent studies have shown that the targeting of epigenetic machinery in Schistosoma mansoni may result in severe alterations in parasite development, leading to death. This new route for drug discovery in schistosomiasis has focused on classes of histone deacetylases (HDACs) and histone acetyltransferases (HATs) as epigenetic drug targets. Schistosoma histone demethylases also seem to be important in the transition of cercariae into schistosomula, as well as sexual differentiation in adult worms. Methods The Target-Pathogen database and molecular docking assays were used to prioritize the druggability of S. mansoni histone demethylases. The transcription profile of Smp_03400 was re-analyzed using available databases. The effect of GSK-J4 inhibitor in schistosomula and adult worms’ motility/viability/oviposition was assessed by in vitro assays. Ultrastructural analysis was performed on adult worms exposed to GSK-J4 by scanning electron microscopy, while internal structures and muscle fiber integrity was investigated by confocal microscopy after Langeronʼs carmine or phalloidin staining. Results The present evaluation of the potential druggability of 14 annotated S. mansoni demethylase enzymes identified the S. mansoni ortholog of human KDM6A/UTX (Smp_034000) as the most suitable druggable target. In silico analysis and molecular modeling indicated the potential for cofactor displacement by the chemical probe GSK-J4. Our re-analysis of transcriptomic data revealed that Smp_034000 expression peaks at 24 h in newly transformed schistosomula and 5-week-old adult worms. Moreover, this gene was highly expressed in the testes of mature male worms compared to the rest of the parasite body. In in vitro schistosome cultures, treatment with GSK-J4 produced striking effects on schistosomula mortality and adult worm motility and mortality, as well as egg oviposition, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Unexpectedly, western blot assays did not demonstrate overall modulation of H3K27me3 levels in response to GSK-J4. Confocal and scanning electron microscopy revealed the loss of original features in muscle fibers and alterations in cell-cell contact following GSK-J4 treatment. Conclusions GSK-J4 presents promising potential for antischistosomal control; however, the underlying mechanisms warrant further investigation.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Lobo-Silva
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores e Inflamação, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Fernanda J Cabral
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Murilo S Amaral
- Laboratório de Expressão Gênica em Eucariotos, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Adriana S A Pereira
- Laboratório de Expressão Gênica em Eucariotos, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana I Khouri
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores e Inflamação, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Mayra M F Barbosa
- Laboratório Especial de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Pablo I P Ramos
- Centro de Integração de Dados e Conhecimentos para Saúde (CIDACS), Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Luciana C C Leite
- Laboratório Especial de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Oluwatoyin A Asojo
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Hampton University, Hampton, VA, USA
| | - Eliana Nakano
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Sergio Verjovski-Almeida
- Laboratório de Expressão Gênica em Eucariotos, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leonardo P Farias
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores e Inflamação, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
76
|
Thomas CM, Timson DJ. The Mechanism of Action of Praziquantel: Can New Drugs Exploit Similar Mechanisms? Curr Med Chem 2020; 27:676-696. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180926145537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Revised: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug of choice for treating infection with worms from the
genus Schistosoma. The drug is effective, cheap and has few side effects. However, despite its
use in millions of patients for over 40 years its molecular mechanism of action remains elusive.
Early studies demonstrated that PZQ disrupts calcium ion homeostasis in the worm and
the current consensus is that it antagonises voltage-gated calcium channels. It is hypothesised
that disruption of these channels results in uncontrolled calcium ion influx leading to uncontrolled
muscle contraction and paralysis. However, other experimental studies have suggested
a role for myosin regulatory light chains and adenosine uptake in the drug’s mechanism of
action. Assuming voltage-gated calcium channels do represent the main molecular target of
PZQ, the precise binding site for the drug remains to be identified. Unlike other commonly
used anti-parasitic drugs, there are few definitive reports of resistance to PZQ in the literature.
The lack of knowledge about PZQ’s molecular mechanism(s) undermines our ability to predict
how resistance might arise and also hinder our attempts to develop alternative antischistosomal
drugs which exploit the same target(s). Some PZQ derivatives have been identified
which also kill or paralyse schistosomes in culture. However, none of these are in widespread
clinical use. There is a pressing need for fundamental research into the molecular mechanism(
s) of action of PZQ. Such research would enable new avenues for antischsistosomal
drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte M. Thomas
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| | - David J. Timson
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast BT9 7BL, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
77
|
Lyu H, Petukhov PA, Banta PR, Jadhav A, Lea WA, Cheng Q, Arnér ESJ, Simeonov A, Thatcher GRJ, Angelucci F, Williams DL. Characterization of Lead Compounds Targeting the Selenoprotein Thioredoxin Glutathione Reductase for Treatment of Schistosomiasis. ACS Infect Dis 2020; 6:393-405. [PMID: 31939288 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.9b00354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a widespread human parasitic disease currently affecting over 200 million people. Chemotherapy for schistosomiasis relies exclusively on praziquantel. Although significant advances have been made in recent years to reduce the incidence and intensity of schistosome infections, these gains will be at risk should drug-resistant parasites evolve. Thioredoxin glutathione reductase (TGR) is a selenoprotein of the parasite essential for the survival of schistosomes in the mammalian host. Several high-throughput screening campaigns have identified inhibitors of Schistosoma mansoni TGR. Follow up analyses of select active compounds form the basis of the present study. We identified eight compounds effective against ex vivo worms. Compounds 1-5 are active against all major species and development stages. The ability of these compounds to target immature worms is especially critical because praziquantel is poorly active against this stage. Compounds 1-5, 7, and 8 displayed schistosomicidal activity even after only 1 h incubation with the worms. Compounds 1-4 meet or exceed standards set by the World Health Organization for leads for schistosomiasis therapy activity. The mechanism of TGR inhibition was studied further with wild-type and mutant TGR proteins. Compounds 4-6 were found to induce an nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase activity in TGR, leading to the production of superoxide and hydrogen peroxide. Collectively, this effort has identified several active compound series that may serve as the basis for the development of new schistosomicidal compounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haining Lyu
- Department of Microbial Pathogens and Immunity, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Pavel A. Petukhov
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Paul R. Banta
- Department of Microbial Pathogens and Immunity, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Ajit Jadhav
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Wendy A. Lea
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Qing Cheng
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Elias S. J. Arnér
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 77 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anton Simeonov
- National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, United States
| | - Gregory R. J. Thatcher
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Francesco Angelucci
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy
| | - David L. Williams
- Department of Microbial Pathogens and Immunity, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| |
Collapse
|
78
|
Sebastian-Perez V, García-Rubia A, Seif El-Din SH, Sabra ANA, El-Lakkany NM, William S, Blundell TL, Maes L, Martinez A, Campillo NE, Botros SS, Gil C. Deciphering the enzymatic target of a new family of antischistosomal agents bearing a quinazoline scaffold using complementary computational tools. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2020; 35:511-523. [PMID: 31939312 PMCID: PMC7717570 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2020.1712595] [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] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
A previous phenotypic screening campaign led to the identification of a quinazoline derivative with promising in vitro activity against Schistosoma mansoni. Follow-up studies of the antischistosomal potential of this candidate are presented here. The in vivo studies in a S. mansoni mouse model show a significant reduction of total worms and a complete disappearance of immature eggs when administered concomitantly with praziquantel in comparison with the administration of praziquantel alone. This fact is of utmost importance because eggs are responsible for the pathology and transmission of the disease. Subsequently, the chemical optimisation of the structure in order to improve the metabolic stability of the parent compound was carried out leading to derivatives with improved drug-like properties. Additionally, the putative target of this new class of antischistosomal compounds was envisaged by using computational tools and the binding mode to the target enzyme, aldose reductase, was proposed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Samia William
- Parasitology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Tom L Blundell
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Louis Maes
- Laboratory for Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene (LMPH), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Ana Martinez
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Sanaa S Botros
- Pharmacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
| | - Carmen Gil
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
79
|
Ehrenkaufer G, Li P, Stebbins EE, Kangussu-Marcolino MM, Debnath A, White CV, Moser MS, DeRisi J, Gisselberg J, Yeh E, Wang SC, Company AH, Monti L, Caffrey CR, Huston CD, Wang B, Singh U. Identification of anisomycin, prodigiosin and obatoclax as compounds with broad-spectrum anti-parasitic activity. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008150. [PMID: 32196500 PMCID: PMC7112225 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Parasitic infections are a major source of human suffering, mortality, and economic loss, but drug development for these diseases has been stymied by the significant expense involved in bringing a drug though clinical trials and to market. Identification of single compounds active against multiple parasitic pathogens could improve the economic incentives for drug development as well as simplifying treatment regimens. We recently performed a screen of repurposed compounds against the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica, causative agent of amebic dysentery, and identified four compounds (anisomycin, prodigiosin, obatoclax and nithiamide) with low micromolar potency and drug-like properties. Here, we extend our investigation of these drugs. We assayed the speed of killing of E. histolytica trophozoites and found that all four have more rapid action than the current drug of choice, metronidazole. We further established a multi-institute collaboration to determine whether these compounds may have efficacy against other parasites and opportunistic pathogens. We found that anisomycin, prodigiosin and obatoclax all have broad-spectrum antiparasitic activity in vitro, including activity against schistosomes, T. brucei, and apicomplexan parasites. In several cases, the drugs were found to have significant improvements over existing drugs. For instance, both obatoclax and prodigiosin were more efficacious at inhibiting the juvenile form of Schistosoma than the current standard of care, praziquantel. Additionally, low micromolar potencies were observed against pathogenic free-living amebae (Naegleria fowleri, Balamuthia mandrillaris and Acanthamoeba castellanii), which cause CNS infection and for which there are currently no reliable treatments. These results, combined with the previous human use of three of these drugs (obatoclax, anisomycin and nithiamide), support the idea that these compounds could serve as the basis for the development of broad-spectrum anti-parasitic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gretchen Ehrenkaufer
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Pengyang Li
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Erin E. Stebbins
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
| | - Monica M. Kangussu-Marcolino
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Anjan Debnath
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Corin V. White
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Matthew S. Moser
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Joseph DeRisi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Jolyn Gisselberg
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford Medical School, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Ellen Yeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Stanford Medical School, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Steven C. Wang
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Ana Hervella Company
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Ludovica Monti
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Conor R. Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States of America
| | - Christopher D. Huston
- Department of Medicine, University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Bioengineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
- Department of Developmental Biology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| | - Upinder Singh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
80
|
Famakinde DO. Public health concerns over gene-drive mosquitoes: will future use of gene-drive snails for schistosomiasis control gain increased level of community acceptance? Pathog Glob Health 2020; 114:55-63. [PMID: 32100643 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2020.1731667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
With the advent of CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat)-based gene drive, present genetic research in schistosomiasis vector control envisages the breeding and release of transgenic schistosome-resistant (TSR) snail vectors to curb the spread of the disease. Although this approach is still in its infancy, studies focussing on production of genetically modified (GM) mosquitoes (including gene-drive mosquitoes) are well advanced and set the pace for other transgenic vector research. Unfortunately, as with other GM mosquitoes, open field release of gene-drive mosquitoes is currently challenged in part by some concerns such as gene drive failure and increased transmission potential for other mosquito-borne diseases among others, which might have adverse effects on human well-being. Therefore, not only should we learn from the GM mosquito protocols, frameworks and guidelines but also appraise the applicability of its current hurdles to other transgenic vector systems, such as the TSR snail approach. Placing these issues in a coherent comparative perspective, I argue that although the use of TSR snails may face similar technical, democratic and diplomatic challenges, some of the concerns over gene-drive mosquitoes may not apply to gene-drive snails, proposing a theory that community consent will be no harder and possibly easier to obtain for TSR snails than the experience with GM mosquitoes. In the future, these observations may help public health practitioners and policy makers in effective communication with communities on issues regarding the use of TSR snails to interrupt schistosomiasis transmission, especially in sub-Saharan Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Damilare O Famakinde
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Lagos, Lagos, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
81
|
Park SK, Marchant JS. The Journey to Discovering a Flatworm Target of Praziquantel: A Long TRP. Trends Parasitol 2020; 36:182-194. [PMID: 31787521 PMCID: PMC6937385 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2019.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 11/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Infections caused by parasitic flatworms impose a considerable worldwide health burden. One of the most impactful is schistosomiasis, a disease caused by parasitic blood flukes. Treatment of schistosomiasis has relied on a single drug - praziquantel (PZQ) - for decades. The utility of PZQ as an essential medication is, however, intertwined with a stark gap in our knowledge as to how this drug works. No flatworm target has been identified that readily explains how PZQ paralyzes and damages schistosomes. Recently, a schistosome ion channel was discovered that is activated by PZQ and displays characteristics which mirror key features of PZQ action on schistosomes. Here, the journey to discovery of this target, properties of this ion channel, and remaining questions are reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang-Kyu Park
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Jonathan S Marchant
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
82
|
Tasdemir D, MacIntosh AJJ, Stergiou P, Kaiser M, Mansour NR, Bickle Q, Huffman MA. Antiprotozoal and antihelminthic properties of plants ingested by wild Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata yakui) in Yakushima Island. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 247:112270. [PMID: 31589965 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Primates forage on a variety of plant parts to balance their dietary intake to meet requirements of energy, nutrition and maintenance, however the reason(s) leading them to ingest some plants which have no nutritional value and/or contain bioactive or even toxic secondary metabolites is recently gaining closer attention. The growing literature suggests that primates consume plants for medicinal purposes (self-medication) as well, particularly when infected with parasites and pathogens (bacteria, viruses, microbes). Interestingly, some of the plants they consume are also used by humans for similar purposes or may have potential uses for humans. MATERIALS AND METHODS As part of a 16-month study of the parasite ecology of a sub-species of Japanese macaques (Macaca fuscata yakui) on the island of Yakushima, we surveyed their feeding habits and collected a subset of plants and plant parts observed being ingested by macaques. The ethnomedicinal value of these plants was surveyed and methanolic extracts of 45 plant parts were tested in vitro against important parasites of humans, including four protozoan parasites Plasmodium falciparum, Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, T. cruzi and Leishmania donovani, and the trematode flatworm Schistosoma mansoni. Potential toxicity of the extracts was also assessed on mammalian cells. RESULTS A wide range of ethnomedicinal uses in Asia for these plants is noted, with 37% associated with the treatment of parasites, pathogens and related symptoms. Additionally, the 45 extracts tested showed broad and significant activity against our test organisms. All extracts were active against T. b. rhodesiense. The majority (over 80%) inhibited the growth of P. falciparum and L. donovani. Half of the extracts also displayed antiprotozoal potential against T. cruzi while only several extracts were active against both larval and adult stages of S. mansoni. Cytotoxicity was generally low, although several extracts lacked specific toxicity to test parasites. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicated a number of plants and their parts to have antiparasitic activity not previously reported in the ethnopharmacological literature. Enhanced understanding of the primate diets, particularly during periods of intensified parasite infection risk may help to further narrow down plants of interest for lead compound development. The study of animal self-medication is a complementary approach, with precedence, to drug discovery of new lead drug compounds against human parasitic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Tasdemir
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Chemistry, Centre for Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, School of Pharmacy, University of London, London, WC1N 1AX, UK; GEOMAR Centre for Marine Biotechnology, Research Unit Marine Natural Products Chemistry, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, 24106, Kiel, Germany; Kiel University, Christian-Albrechts-Platz 4, 24118, Kiel, Germany.
| | - Andrew J J MacIntosh
- Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Kanrin 41-2, 484-8506, Inuyama, Japan
| | - Polyxeni Stergiou
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biological Chemistry, Centre for Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, School of Pharmacy, University of London, London, WC1N 1AX, UK
| | - Marcel Kaiser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, CH-4051, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, 4003, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Nuha R Mansour
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Disease, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Quentin Bickle
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Disease, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Michael A Huffman
- Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Kanrin 41-2, 484-8506, Inuyama, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
83
|
Nawaz M, Malik I, Hameed M, Hussain Kuthu Z, Zhou J. Modifications of histones in parasites as drug targets. Vet Parasitol 2020; 278:109029. [PMID: 31978703 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Post-translational modifications of histones and histone modifying enzymes play important roles in gene regulations and other physiological processes in parasites. Inhibitors of such modifying enzymes could be useful as novel therapeutics against parasitic diseases or as chemical probes for investigation of epigenetics. Development of parasitic histone modulators has got rapid expansion in the last few years. A number of highly potent and selective compounds have been reported, together with extensive preclinical studies of their biological activity. Some of these compounds have been widely used in humans targeting cancer and are found non-toxic. This review summarizes the antiparasitic activities of histone and histone modifying enzymes inhibitors evaluated in last few years. As the current chemotherapy against parasites is still not satisfactory, therefore, such compounds represents good starting points for the discovery of effective antiparasitic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohsin Nawaz
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Irfan Malik
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Mudassar Hameed
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Zulfiqar Hussain Kuthu
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Jinlin Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China.
| |
Collapse
|
84
|
Saccoccia F, Brindisi M, Gimmelli R, Relitti N, Guidi A, Saraswati AP, Cavella C, Brogi S, Chemi G, Butini S, Papoff G, Senger J, Herp D, Jung M, Campiani G, Gemma S, Ruberti G. Screening and Phenotypical Characterization of Schistosoma mansoni Histone Deacetylase 8 ( SmHDAC8) Inhibitors as Multistage Antischistosomal Agents. ACS Infect Dis 2020; 6:100-113. [PMID: 31661956 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.9b00224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis (also known as bilharzia) is a neglected tropical disease caused by platyhelminths of the genus Schistosoma. The disease is endemic in tropical and subtropical areas of the world where water is infested by the intermediate parasite host, the snail. More than 800 million people live in endemic areas and more than 200 million are infected and require treatment. Praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug of choice for schistosomiasis treatment and transmission control being safe and very effective against adult worms of all the clinically relevant Schistosoma species. Unfortunately, it is ineffective on immature, juvenile worms; therefore, it does not prevent reinfection. Moreover, the risk of development and spread of drug resistance because of the widespread use of a single drug in such a large population represents a serious threat. Therefore, research aimed at identifying novel drugs to be used alone or in combination with PZQ are needed. Schistosoma mansoni histone deacetylase 8 (SmHDAC8) is a class I zinc-dependent HDAC, which is abundantly expressed in all stages of its life cycle, thus representing an interesting target for drug discovery. Through virtual screening and phenotypical characterization of selected hits, we discovered two main chemical classes of compounds characterized by the presence of a hydroxamate-based metal binding group coupled to a spiroindoline or a tricyclic thieno[3,2-b]indole core as capping groups. Some of the compounds of both classes were deeply investigated and showed to impair viability of larval, juvenile, and adult schistosomes, to impact egg production in vitro and/or to induce morphological alterations of the adult schistosome reproductive systems. Noteworthy, all of them inhibit the recombinant form of SmHDAC8 enzyme in vitro. Overall, we identified very interesting scaffolds, paving the way to the development of effective antischistosomal agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fulvio Saccoccia
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council (CNR), Campus A. Buzzati-Traverso, via E. Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo (Rome), Italy
| | - Margherita Brindisi
- Department of Excellence of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Roberto Gimmelli
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council (CNR), Campus A. Buzzati-Traverso, via E. Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo (Rome), Italy
| | - Nicola Relitti
- Department of Excellence of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Guidi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council (CNR), Campus A. Buzzati-Traverso, via E. Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo (Rome), Italy
| | - A Prasanth Saraswati
- Department of Excellence of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Caterina Cavella
- Department of Excellence of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Simone Brogi
- Department of Excellence of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, via Bonanno 6, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giulia Chemi
- Department of Excellence of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefania Butini
- Department of Excellence of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Giuliana Papoff
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council (CNR), Campus A. Buzzati-Traverso, via E. Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo (Rome), Italy
| | - Johanna Senger
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Freiburg, Albertstraße 25, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Herp
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Freiburg, Albertstraße 25, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Manfred Jung
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Freiburg, Albertstraße 25, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Giuseppe Campiani
- Department of Excellence of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Sandra Gemma
- Department of Excellence of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, via Aldo Moro 2, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Giovina Ruberti
- Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology (IBBC), National Research Council (CNR), Campus A. Buzzati-Traverso, via E. Ramarini 32, 00015 Monterotondo (Rome), Italy
| |
Collapse
|
85
|
In vitro activity of usnic acid potassium salt against different developmental stages of Schistosoma mansoni: An ultrastructural study. Acta Trop 2020; 201:105159. [PMID: 31491401 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 08/08/2019] [Accepted: 09/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Currently, the control of schistosomiasis is based on a single drug, praziquantel, which is effective against all species of Schistosoma but only in the adult stage, presenting a schistosomicidal deficit at the other developmental stages of the parasites. Recently our research group has demonstrated that the potassium salt of usnic acid (PS-UA) presented schistosomicidal property against couples of adult worms of S. mansoni. Thus, the present study seeks to report for the first time the in vitro activity of PS-UA against different developmental stages of S. mansoni (schistosomules and young worms). As schistosomicide parameters, we evaluated motility, mortality, cell viability of the worms and tegument changes by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). After 3 h exposure, PS-UA was lethal to schistosomules at concentrations of 100 and 50 μM, whereas for concentrations 25 and 12.5 μM, 38 and 18% of mortality and 62 and 24% changes in motility, respectively, were reached. Yet for schistosomules, concentration of 25 μM caused 90 and 100% of death after 6 and 12 h, respectively. In the concentration of 12.5 μM at intervals of 12 and 24 h mortality was 68 and 100%, respectively. For young worms, after 3 h of exposure at concentrations of 200 and 100 μM caused 57 and 27% mortality, respectively. After 12 and 24 h, these concentrations caused mortality of 90 and 100% and 47 and 60% respectively. After 24 h, concentrations of 50 and 25 μM caused 80 and 30% change in motility, respectively. However, at the 12.5 μM concentration no change was observed. In addition, PS-UA reduced the cellular viability of young worms by 50.98% and 85.87% at concentrations of 100 and 200 μM, respectively. In both stages of worms and at different exposure intervals, PS-UA caused alterations such as: dorsoventral contraction, peeling, swelling, blisters, erosion, exposure of subtegumental tissue and disintegration of tegument. According to the results, changes in motility and mortality caused by PS-UA against schistosomules and young worms were concentration and time-dependents, also PS-UA even at low concentration, was able to cause profound ultrastructural changes in the integument of the worms. PS-UA is a promising candidate as prophylactic agent in the control of schistosomiasis mansoni.
Collapse
|
86
|
Botros SS, El-Lakkany NM, Seif el-Din SH, William S, Sabra AN, Hammam OA, de Koning HP. The phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor roflumilast impacts Schistosoma mansoni ovipositing in vitro but displays only modest antischistosomal activity in vivo. Exp Parasitol 2020; 208:107793. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.107793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
87
|
de Almeida Júnior ASA, de Oliveira JF, da Silva AL, da Rocha RET, Junior NCP, Gouveia ALA, da Silva RMF, de Azevedo Albuquerque MCP, Brayner FA, Alves LC, do Carmo Alves de Lima M. In vitro activity, ultrastructural studies and in silico pharmacokinetic properties of indol-3-yl-thiosemicarbazones derivatives and analogues against juvenile and adult worms of S. mansoni. Eur J Pharm Sci 2019; 138:104985. [PMID: 31283945 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2019.104985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The present work aimed to carry out in vitro biological assays of indol-3-yl derivatives thiosemicarbazones (2a-e) and 4-thiazolidinones (3a-d) against juvenile and adult worms of S. mansoni, as well as the in silico determination of pharmacokinetic parameters for the prediction of the oral bioavailability of these derivatives. All compounds were initially screened at a concentration of 200 μM against S. mansoni adult worms and the results evidenced the good activity of compounds 2b, 2d and 3b, which caused 100% mortality after 24, 48 and 72 h, respectively. Subsequent studies with these same compounds revealed that compound 2b was able to reduce the viability of the parasites by 85% and 83% at concentrations of 200 and 100 μM, respectively. In relation to the juvenile worms, all compounds (2b, 2d and 3b) were able to cause mortality, but compound 2b demonstrated better activity causing 100% mortality in 48 h. Additionally, it was possible to observe reduction in the viability of juvenile worms of 85%, 81% and 64% at concentrations of 200, 100 and 50 μM, respectively. Several ultrastructural damages were observed when adult and juvenile S. mansoni worms were exposed to compound 2b (200 μM) that was characterized by extensive destruction by the integument, which may justify the mortality rate of cultured parasites. In the DNA interaction assay, fragmentation of the genetic material of adult worms when treated with compound 2b (200 μM) was evidenced, indicating the apoptosis process as mechanism of parasite death. Regarding pharmacokinetic properties, all derivatives are according to the required parameters, predicting good oral bioavailability for the studied compounds. The results presented in this study reveal the good activity of compound 2b in both adult and juvenile worms of S. mansoni, pointing this compound as promising in the development of further studies on schistosomicidal activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antônio Sérgio Alves de Almeida Júnior
- Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Departamento de Antibióticos, 50670-901 Recife, PE, Brazil; Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IAM-FIOCRUZ), 50670-420 Recife, PE, Brazil
| | | | - Anekécia Lauro da Silva
- Universidade Federal do Vale do São Francisco (UNIVASF), Departamento de Medicina, 48607-190 Paulo Afonso, BA, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Fábio André Brayner
- Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IAM-FIOCRUZ), 50670-420 Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Luiz Carlos Alves
- Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IAM-FIOCRUZ), 50670-420 Recife, PE, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
88
|
Crystal structure and chemical inhibition of essential schistosome host-interactive virulence factor carbonic anhydrase SmCA. Commun Biol 2019; 2:333. [PMID: 31508507 PMCID: PMC6728359 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-019-0578-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The intravascular parasitic worm Schistosoma mansoni is a causative agent of schistosomiasis, a disease of great global public health significance. Here we identify an α-carbonic anhydrase (SmCA) that is expressed at the schistosome surface as determined by activity assays and immunofluorescence/immunogold localization. Suppressing SmCA expression by RNAi significantly impairs the ability of larval parasites to infect mice, validating SmCA as a rational drug target. Purified, recombinant SmCA possesses extremely rapid CO2 hydration kinetics (kcat: 1.2 × 106 s-1; kcat/Km: 1.3 × 108 M-1s-1). The enzyme’s crystal structure was determined at 1.75 Å resolution and a collection of sulfonamides and anions were tested for their ability to impede rSmCA action. Several compounds (phenylarsonic acid, phenylbaronic acid, sulfamide) exhibited favorable Kis for SmCA versus two human isoforms. Such selective rSmCA inhibitors could form the basis of urgently needed new drugs that block essential schistosome metabolism, blunt parasite virulence and debilitate these important global pathogens. Akram Da’dara et al. report the biochemical characterization of an α-carbonic anhydrase (SmCA) expressed at the surface of the parasitic worm Schistosoma mansoni. Along with the crystal structure of SmCA, they show the function of selective inhibitors in blocking essential schistosome metabolism.
Collapse
|
89
|
Guegan H, Fillaux J, Charpentier E, Robert-Gangneux F, Chauvin P, Guemas E, Boissier J, Valentin A, Cassaing S, Gangneux JP, Berry A, Iriart X. Real-time PCR for diagnosis of imported schistosomiasis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007711. [PMID: 31509538 PMCID: PMC6756557 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis of schistosomiasis currently relies on microscopic detection of schistosome eggs in stool or urine samples and serological assays. The poor sensitivity of standard microscopic procedures performed in routine laboratories, makes molecular detection methods of increasing interest. The aim of the study was to evaluate two in-house real-time Schistosoma PCRs, targeting respectively S. mansoni [Sm] and S. haematobium [Sh] in excreta, biopsies and sera as potential tools to diagnose active infections and to monitor treatment efficacy. METHODS Schistosoma PCRs were performed on 412 samples (124 urine, 86 stools, 8 biopsies, 194 sera) from patients with suspected schistosomiasis, before anti-parasitic treatment. Results were compared to microscopic examination and serological assays (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), indirect haemagglutination (HA) and Western Blot (WB) assay). RESULTS Compared to microscopy, PCRs significantly increased the sensitivity of diagnosis, from 4% to 10.5% and from 33.7% to 48.8%, for Sh in urine and Sm in stools, respectively. The overall sensitivity of PCR on serum samples was 72.7% and reached 94.1% in patients with positive excreta (microscopy). The specificity of serum PCR was 98.9%. After treatment, serum PCR positivity rates slowly declined from 93.8% at day 30 to 8.3% at day 360, whereas antibody detection remained positive after 1 year. CONCLUSION Schistosoma PCRs clearly outperform standard microscopy on stools and urine and could be part of reference methods combined with WB-based serology, which remains a gold standard for initial diagnosis. When serological assays are positive and microscopy is negative, serum PCRs provide species information to guide further clinical exploration. Biomarkers such as DNA and antibodies are of limited relevance for early treatment monitoring but serum PCR could be useful when performed at least 1 year after treatment to help confirm a cured infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Guegan
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé Environnement et Travail) – UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Judith Fillaux
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Eléna Charpentier
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
- Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan (CPTP), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INSERM, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Florence Robert-Gangneux
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé Environnement et Travail) – UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Pamela Chauvin
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Emilie Guemas
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Jérôme Boissier
- Université de Perpignan Via Domitia, IHPE UMR 5244, CNRS, IFREMER, Université de Montpellier, Perpignan, France
| | - Alexis Valentin
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Sophie Cassaing
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Pierre Gangneux
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, IRSET (Institut de Recherche en Santé Environnement et Travail) – UMR_S 1085, Rennes, France
| | - Antoine Berry
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
- Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan (CPTP), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INSERM, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Xavier Iriart
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, CHU Toulouse, Toulouse, France
- Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan (CPTP), Université de Toulouse, CNRS, INSERM, UPS, Toulouse, France
| |
Collapse
|
90
|
Gouveia MJ, Brindley PJ, Azevedo C, Gärtner F, da Costa JMC, Vale N. The antioxidants resveratrol and N-acetylcysteine enhance anthelmintic activity of praziquantel and artesunate against Schistosoma mansoni. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:309. [PMID: 31221193 PMCID: PMC6585032 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3566-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment of schistosomiasis has relied on the anthelmintic drug praziquantel (PZQ) for more than a generation. Despite its celebrated performance for treatment and control of schistosomiasis and other platyhelminth infections, praziquantel has some shortcomings and the inability of this drug to counteract disease sequelae prompts the need for novel therapeutic strategies. METHODS Using a host-parasite model involving Biomphalaria glabrata and Schistosoma mansoni we established mechanical transformation of S. mansoni cercariae into newly transformed schistosomula (NTS) and characterized optimal culture conditions. Thereafter, we investigated the antischistosomal activity and ability of the antioxidants N-acetylcysteine (NAC) and resveratrol (RESV) to augment the performance of praziquantel and/or artesunate (AS) against larval stages of the parasite. Drug effects were evaluated by using an automated microscopical system to study live and fixed parasites and by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). RESULTS Transformation rates of cercariae to schistosomula reached ~ 70% when the manipulation process was optimized. Several culture media were tested, with M199 supplemented with HEPES found to be suitable for S. mansoni NTS. Among the antioxidants studied, RESV alone or combined with anthelminthic drugs achieved better results rather N-acetylcysteine (NAC). TEM observations demonstrated that the combination of AS + RESV induced severe, extensive alterations to the tegument and subtegument of NTS when compared to the constituent compounds alone. Two anthelmintic-antioxidant combinations, praziquantel-resveratrol [combination index (CI) = 0.74] and artesunate-resveratrol (CI = 0.34) displayed moderate and strong synergy, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The use of viability markers including staining with propidium iodide increased the accuracy of drug screening assays against S. mansoni NTS. The synergies observed might be the consequence of increased action by RESV on targets of AS and PZQ and/or they may act through concomitantly on discrete targets to enhance overall antischistosomal action. Combinations of active agents, preferably with discrete modes of action including activity against developmental stages and/or the potential to ameliorate infection-associated pathology, might be pursued in order to identify novel therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria João Gouveia
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
- i3S, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS-UP, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-343 Porto, Portugal
| | - Paul J. Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, 20037 Washington, DC USA
| | - Carlos Azevedo
- Laboratory of Cell Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS/UP), University of Porto, Rua Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fátima Gärtner
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS-UP, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-343 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho, 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - José M. C. da Costa
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, CECA-ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
- National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA), Rua Alexandre Herculano, 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Vale
- i3S, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen, 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS-UP, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira, 228, 4050-343 Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho, 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
91
|
Matos-Rocha TJ, Lima MCAD, Veras DL, Santos AF, Silva AL, Almeida Júnior ASA, Pitta-Galdino MR, Pitta IR, Pitta MGR, Alves LC, Brayner FA. In vivo study of schistosomicidal action of (Z)-1-(2-chloro-6-fluoro-benzyl)-5-thioxo-4-(2,4,6-trimethoxy-benzylidene)-imidazolidin-2-one. BRAZ J BIOL 2019; 80:187-189. [PMID: 31166369 DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.190062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/28/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- T J Matos-Rocha
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Departamento de Parasitologia, Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães, Recife, PE, Brasil.,Laboratório de Imunopatologia Keizo Asami, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco - UFPE, Recife, Pernambuco, Brasil
| | - M C Alves de Lima
- Laboratório de Planejamento e Síntese de Fármacos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - D L Veras
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Departamento de Parasitologia, Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - A F Santos
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Departamento de Parasitologia, Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - A L Silva
- Laboratório de Planejamento e Síntese de Fármacos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - A S A Almeida Júnior
- Laboratório de Planejamento e Síntese de Fármacos, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - M R Pitta-Galdino
- Laboratório de Imunomodulação e Novas Abordagens Terapêuticas, Núcleo de Pesquisa em Inovação Terapêutica Suely Galdino, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - I R Pitta
- Laboratório de Imunomodulação e Novas Abordagens Terapêuticas, Núcleo de Pesquisa em Inovação Terapêutica Suely Galdino, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - M G R Pitta
- Laboratório de Imunomodulação e Novas Abordagens Terapêuticas, Núcleo de Pesquisa em Inovação Terapêutica Suely Galdino, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - L C Alves
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Departamento de Parasitologia, Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães, Recife, PE, Brasil
| | - F A Brayner
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Molecular, Departamento de Parasitologia, Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães, Recife, PE, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
92
|
El-Beshbishi SN, Saleh NE, Abd el-mageed SA, El-nemr HEDE, Abdalla HA, Shebl AM, Taman A. Effect of omega-3 fatty acids administered as monotherapy or combined with artemether on experimental Schistosoma mansoni infection. Acta Trop 2019; 194:62-68. [PMID: 30910394 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is on the top list of endemic diseases in sub-Saharan Africa. Praziquantel is the drug of choice for treatment of human schistosomiasis. Yet, the sole dependence on the drug raises concerns about the potential for increased drug resistance, which would subsequently result in searching for alternative preventive chemotherapy options, ideally among natural compounds. Therefore, we conducted this work to assess the effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids [(ω-3) PUFAs] monotherapy or combined therapy with artemether (ART) against Schistosoma mansoni infection in a mouse model. A total of 42 mice were divided into 4 groups and infected with 50 ± 5 S. mansoni cercariae for 10 weeks. Mice were treated orally with either (ω-3) PUFAs as 273 mg/ kg, 4 times/ week throughout the experiment, ART as a single dose of 400 mg/ kg, 3 weeks post-infection, or combined ART + (ω-3) PUFAs using the same respective treatment regimen, while infected untreated mice were served as controls. The study explored that combined administration of (ω-3) PUFAs and ART has the best schistosomicidal efficacy as it significantly reduced liver and spleen indices, worm count, egg burdens, and granulomas count as well as diameter. Besides, the combined regimen was associated with a significant decrease in both hepatic nitric oxide and serum interleukin-4 level. The results highlighted the possibility of using (ω-3) PUFA combined with ART as a novel anti-schistosomal combination therapy. However, further researches should be conducted to clarify the possible synergistic mechanism/s between the two natural compounds.
Collapse
|
93
|
El-Beshbishi SN, El Bardicy S, Tadros M, Ayoub M, Taman A. Biological activity of artemisinin-naphthoquine phosphate on Schistosoma haematobium stages and the vector Bulinus truncatus. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2019; 113:320-325. [PMID: 30668820 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/try144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Revised: 12/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosoma haematobium infection is a major public health problem in most of Africa and the Middle East and praziquantel remains the only drug used for schistosomiasis control, therefore emergence of drug resistance is unavoidable. The antimalarial artemisinin-naphthoquine phosphate combination (co-ArNp) was recently documented to have promising effects on Schistosoma mansoni and its snail host. METHODS We conducted this in vitro study to assess the bioactivity of co-ArNp on S. haematobium and its snail vector Bulinus truncatus. RESULTS Treatment of S. haematobium worms with 1 μg/ml co-ArNp for 24 h reduced worm motility, while 20 μg/ml resulted in 25-100% mortality of adult flukes within 48-72 h. Incubation of S. haematobium miracidia and cercariae with the molluscicidal co-ArNp (50% lethal concentration 7.5 μg/ml) killed all the free larval stages within 40 and 15 min, respectively. Also, exposure of B. truncatus adult snails to 20 ppm of the combined regimen caused a mortality rate of 100% within 24 h. CONCLUSIONS Co-ArNp therapy has also shown encouraging activity against the other major human schistosome, S. haematobium, as well as its vector.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samar N El-Beshbishi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Samia El Bardicy
- Department of Medical Malacology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El Hadar, Imbaba, Giza, Egypt
| | - Menerva Tadros
- Department of Medical Malacology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El Hadar, Imbaba, Giza, Egypt
| | - Magda Ayoub
- Department of Medical Malacology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El Hadar, Imbaba, Giza, Egypt
| | - Amira Taman
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
94
|
Wang X, Yu D, Li C, Zhan T, Zhang T, Ma H, Xu J, Xia C. In vitro and in vivo activities of DW-3-15, a commercial praziquantel derivative, against Schistosoma japonicum. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:199. [PMID: 31053083 PMCID: PMC6500042 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3442-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis is a debilitating neglected tropical disease that affects approximately 190 million people around the world. Praziquantel (PZQ) is the only drug available for use against all Schistosoma species. Although PZQ has a high efficacy, recognized concerns have prompted the development of new, alternative drugs for repeated use in endemic areas where PZQ efficacy against strains of Schistosoma is reduced. A hybrid drug containing different pharmacophores within a single molecule is a promising strategy. Our earlier in vivo studies showed the significant antiparasitic activity of a praziquantel derivative, DW-3-15, against Schistosoma japonicum. In the present study, DW-3-15 was synthesized in large amounts by a pharmaceutical company and its schistosomicidal efficacy and stability were further confirmed. Parameters such as parasite viability, pairing and oviposition were evaluated in vitro. An in vivo study was conducted to assess the effect of commercial DW-3-15 on worm burden, egg production and diameter of granulomas. Additionally, to gain insight into the mechanism of action for DW-3-15, morphological changes in the tegument of S. japonicum were also examined. Results The in vitro study showed the antiparasitic activity of DW-3-15 against S. japonicum, with significant reductions in viability of adult and juvenile worms, worm pairings and egg output. Compared to PZQ, DW-3-15 induced similar ultrastructural changes and evident destruction of the tegument surface in male worms. In vivo, the oral administration of DW-3-15 at a dose of 400 mg/kg per day for five consecutive days in mice significantly reduced the total worm burden and number of eggs in the liver. Histological analysis of the livers showed a marked reduction in the average diameter of the egg granuloma. Conclusions Our findings suggest that DW-3-15, a PZQ derivative with the prospect of commercial production, can be developed as a potential promising schistosomicide. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-019-3442-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Wang
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China.,Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Road, Bengbu, 233030, China
| | - Dan Yu
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Chunxiang Li
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Tingzheng Zhan
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China.,Department of Parasitology, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021, China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Huihui Ma
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Chaoming Xia
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123, China.
| |
Collapse
|
95
|
Botros SS, William S, Sabra ANA, El-Lakkany NM, Seif El-Din SH, García-Rubia A, Sebastián-Pérez V, Blaazer AR, de Heuvel E, Sijm M, Zheng Y, Salado IG, Munday JC, Maes L, de Esch IJP, Sterk GJ, Augustyns K, Leurs R, Gil C, De Koning HP. Screening of a PDE-focused library identifies imidazoles with in vitro and in vivo antischistosomal activity. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2019; 9:35-43. [PMID: 30669086 PMCID: PMC6350229 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
We report the evaluation of 265 compounds from a PDE-focused library for their antischistosomal activity, assessed in vitro using Schistosoma mansoni. Of the tested compounds, 171 (64%) displayed selective in vitro activity, with 16 causing worm hypermotility/spastic contractions and 41 inducing various degrees of worm killing at 100 μM, with the surviving worms displaying sluggish movement, worm unpairing and complete absence of eggs. The compounds that did not affect worm viability (n = 72) induced a complete cessation of ovipositing. 82% of the compounds had an impact on male worms whereas female worms were barely affected. In vivo evaluation in S. mansoni-infected mice with the in vitro 'hit' NPD-0274 at 20 mg/kg/day orally for 5 days resulted in worm burden reductions of 29% and intestinal tissue egg load reduction of 35% at 10 days post-treatment. Combination of praziquantel (PZQ) at 10 mg/kg/day for 5 days with NPD-0274 or NPD-0298 resulted in significantly higher worm killing than PZQ alone, as well as a reduction in intestinal tissue egg load, disappearance of immature eggs and an increase in the number of dead eggs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanaa S Botros
- Pharmacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. Box 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | - Samia William
- Parasitology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. Box 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | - Abdel-Nasser A Sabra
- Pharmacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. Box 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | - Naglaa M El-Lakkany
- Pharmacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. Box 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | - Sayed H Seif El-Din
- Pharmacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. Box 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | | | | | - Antoni R Blaazer
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | - Erik de Heuvel
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | - Maarten Sijm
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | - Yang Zheng
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | | | - Jane C Munday
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
| | | | - Iwan J P de Esch
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | - Geert J Sterk
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | | | - Rob Leurs
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | - Carmen Gil
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Harry P De Koning
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
96
|
de Oliveira Barbosa M, de Oliveira SA, Filho CALM, Oliveira AR, Fernandes CJB, Lucena JP, de Sousa FA, de Barros Dias MCH, Brayner FA, Alves LC, Leite ACL. Schistosomicidal and prophylactic activities of phthalimido-thiazoles derivatives on schistosomula and adult worms. Eur J Pharm Sci 2019; 133:15-27. [PMID: 30877068 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 03/06/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a major public health problem worldwide, especially in poor communities. Praziquantel is currently the only drug available to treat schistosomiasis and it shows low efficacy against schistosomula and juveniles stages of Schistosoma mansoni, allowing lower cure rate in areas with high endemicity. There is an urgent need to identify new antischistosomal drugs. Previous works identified phthalimido-thiazoles as privileged structures acting as schistossomicidal agent. In this way, a phthalimido-thiosemicarbazide intermediate and eight phthalimido-thiazoles derivatives were evaluated concerning the in vitro antischistosomal activity compounds in adult phase of Schistosoma mansoni and examined alterations on the tegumental surface. The results revealed that compounds 2f, 2 l and 2 m caused significant mortality in adult worms at concentrations range of 20 μg/mL to 100 μg/mL. These compounds were also selected in view to verify the activity against the schistosomula. Compound 2 m promoted 100% of mortality of larval forms until doses of 2.5 μg/mL within 48 h. In addition, when compound 2 m was administered orally at dose of 200 mg/kg for 5 consecutive days to the infected mouse with adult schistosomes, a reduction in the parasite burden was observed. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy revealed that compound 2 m kill the parasite by tegumental damage and bubbles generation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miria de Oliveira Barbosa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, S/N - Campus da UFPE, Recife, PE CEP: 50740-520, Brazil; Department of Immunology, Laboratory of Immunopathology and Molecular Biology, IAM/FIOCRUZ, Recife, PE CEP: 50670-420, Brazil.
| | - Sheilla Andrade de Oliveira
- Department of Immunology, Laboratory of Immunopathology and Molecular Biology, IAM/FIOCRUZ, Recife, PE CEP: 50670-420, Brazil
| | | | - Arsênio Rodrigues Oliveira
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, S/N - Campus da UFPE, Recife, PE CEP: 50740-520, Brazil
| | - Camila Juliet Barbosa Fernandes
- Department of Immunology, Laboratory of Immunopathology and Molecular Biology, IAM/FIOCRUZ, Recife, PE CEP: 50670-420, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Paula Lucena
- Department of Immunology, Laboratory of Immunopathology and Molecular Biology, IAM/FIOCRUZ, Recife, PE CEP: 50670-420, Brazil
| | - Fabiano Amaro de Sousa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, S/N - Campus da UFPE, Recife, PE CEP: 50740-520, Brazil
| | | | - Fábio André Brayner
- Keizo Asami Immunopathology Laboratory (LIKA), Av. Professor Moraes Rego, S/N - Campus da UFPE, Recife, PE CEP: 50670-420, Brazil
| | - Luiz Carlos Alves
- Keizo Asami Immunopathology Laboratory (LIKA), Av. Professor Moraes Rego, S/N - Campus da UFPE, Recife, PE CEP: 50670-420, Brazil
| | - Ana Cristina Lima Leite
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, S/N - Campus da UFPE, Recife, PE CEP: 50740-520, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
97
|
In Vitro and In Vivo Studies of Spironolactone as an Antischistosomal Drug Capable of Clinical Repurposing. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2019; 63:AAC.01722-18. [PMID: 30559137 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01722-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic flatworm disease that infects over 200 million people worldwide, especially in poor communities. Treatment and control of the disease rely on just one drug, praziquantel. Since funding for drug development for poverty-associated diseases is very limited, drug repurposing is a promising strategy. In this study, from a screening of 13 marketed diuretics, we identified that spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, had potent antischistosomal effects on Schistosoma mansoni in vitro and in vivo in a murine model of schistosomiasis. In vitro, spironolactone at low concentrations (<10 µM) is able to alter worm motor activity and the morphology of adult schistosomes, leading to parasitic death. In vivo, oral treatment with spironolactone at a single dose (400 mg/kg) or daily for five consecutive days (100 mg/kg/day) in mice harboring either patent or prepatent infections significantly reduced worm burden, egg production, and hepato- and splenomegaly (P < 0.05 to P < 0.001). Taken together, with the safety profile of spironolactone, supported by its potential to affect schistosomes, these results indicate that spironolactone could be a potential treatment for schistosomiasis and make it promising for repurposing.
Collapse
|
98
|
Abstract
Schistosomiasis affects millions globally. There is no vaccine, and treatment depends entirely on praziquantel (PZQ). Field isolates exhibit reduced susceptibility to PZQ, and resistance has been experimentally induced, suggesting that reliance on a single treatment is particularly dangerous. The present study investigated the value of cinnarizine and griseofulvin against Schistosoma mansoni through their in vitro effects on adult worms and oviposition as well as in vivo evaluation in early and late infection, compared to PZQ, in a preliminary experimental model. In vitro, both cinnarizine and griseofulvin showed uncoupling, sluggish worm movement and complete absence of ova at 100 μg/ml. In early infection, cinnarizine showed a significant reduction in the number of porto-mesenteric couples compared to the griseofulvin and control groups, a finding similar to PZQ. Remarkably, cinnarizine significantly exceeded PZQ and griseofulvin in reducing the total worm burden. In late infection, cinnarizine and griseofulvin showed results similar to PZQ by significantly reducing the numbers of hepatic and porto-mesenteric couples and total worm burden compared to controls. Cinnarizine performed better than griseofulvin by reducing hepatic and intestinal ovum counts, and it led to complete disappearance of the first two immature stages. The current work suggests the possibility of using cinnarizine and griseofulvin, mainly in late S. mansoni infection, especially cinnarizine, which showed similar results to PZQ and surpassed it in early infection. Further studies are required to elucidate their exact mechanisms of action and particularly their synergistic effect with PZQ.
Collapse
|
99
|
Abou El Dahab MM, Shahat SM, Mahmoud SSM, Mahana NA. In vitro effect of curcumin on Schistosoma species viability, tegument ultrastructure and egg hatchability. Exp Parasitol 2019; 199:1-8. [PMID: 30790572 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Revised: 01/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis remains a severe problem of public health in developing countries. The development of resistance to praziquantel (PZQ) has justified the search for new alternative chemotherapies with new formulations, more effective, and without adverse effects. Curcumin (CUR), the major phenolic compound present in rhizome of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), has been traditionally used against various diseases including parasitic infections. Here, the antischistosomal activity of CUR (50-500 μM), evaluated in parallel against S. mansoni and S. haematobium adult worms, appeared significant (P < 0.05 to < 0.0001) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Two h incubation with CUR (500 μM) caused 100% irreversible killing of both schistosomal species. CUR (250 μM) caused the death of S. haematobium and S. mansoni worms after 2 h and 4 h, respectively. As CUR concentration decreases (50 μM), all coupled adult worms were separated into individual male and female but the worms remained viable up to 4 h. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy revealed that S. haematobium are more sensitive than S. mansoni to CUR schistosomicidal effects. In support, CUR was found to affect the antigenicity of surface membrane molecules of S. haematobium, but not S. mansoni. Of importance, CUR significantly (P < 0.05 to < 0.0001) affected S. mansoni eggs hatchability and viability, a ground for its use in chemotherapy of schistosomiasis mansoni and japonicum because of its increased bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract. The data together emphasize that CUR is a promising potential schistosomicidal drug.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antigens, Helminth/immunology
- Antigens, Helminth/isolation & purification
- Antigens, Surface/immunology
- Antigens, Surface/isolation & purification
- Cricetinae
- Curcumin/pharmacology
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
- Female
- Intestine, Small/parasitology
- Liver/parasitology
- Male
- Mesocricetus
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Microscopy, Electron, Scanning
- Microscopy, Electron, Transmission
- Ovum/drug effects
- Ovum/physiology
- Schistosoma haematobium/drug effects
- Schistosoma haematobium/immunology
- Schistosoma haematobium/physiology
- Schistosoma haematobium/ultrastructure
- Schistosoma mansoni/drug effects
- Schistosoma mansoni/immunology
- Schistosoma mansoni/physiology
- Schistosoma mansoni/ultrastructure
- Schistosomicides/pharmacology
- Time Factors
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marwa M Abou El Dahab
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt; Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Ain Shams University, Cairo, 11566, Egypt
| | - Sondos M Shahat
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt
| | | | - Noha A Mahana
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza, 12613, Egypt.
| |
Collapse
|
100
|
The ABL kinase inhibitor imatinib causes phenotypic changes and lethality in adult Schistosoma japonicum. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:881-890. [PMID: 30729300 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06224-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis caused by different species of schistosome parasites is one of the most debilitating helminthic diseases of humans worldwide. For decades, chemotherapy is the main method of controlling schistosomiasis. However, the fear of drug resistance has motivated the search for alternatives. It has been demonstrated that the ABL kinase inhibitor imatinib affected the development and survival of Schistosoma mansoni in vitro; however, there is still lack of information on whether imatinib also affects other schistosome species such as Schistosoma japonicum. In the present study, the anti-schistosomal potency of imatinib on adult S. japonicum was investigated in vitro, and the results showed that imatinib had a significant impact on various physiological processes of S. japonicum adult worms. Besides its negative effects on worm motility, pairing stability, and gonad development, imatinib caused pathological changes in the gastrodermis as well as the death of the parasite. Our findings suggest that imatinib is an intriguing candidate for further development as an option to fight S. japonicum.
Collapse
|