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Lamminpää I, Boem F, Amedei A. Health-promoting worms? Prospects and pitfalls of helminth therapy. Bioessays 2024:e2400080. [PMID: 39263744 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202400080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 08/28/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/13/2024]
Abstract
In this manuscript, we explore the potential therapeutic use of helminths. After analyzing helminths' role in connection with human health from the perspective of their symbiotic and evolutionary relationship, we critically examine some studies on their therapeutic applications. In doing so, we focus on some prominent mechanisms of action and potential benefits, but also on the exaggerations and theoretical and methodological difficulties of such proposals. We conclude that further studies are needed to fully explore the potential benefits of this perspective, and we encourage the scientific community in doing so.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Lamminpää
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Federico Boem
- Institut für Philosophie I, Ruhr-Universität Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Amedeo Amedei
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Interdisciplinary Internal Medicine Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Florence, Italy
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2
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Szuba M, Stachera W, Piwko A, Misiak M, Rutkevich R, Sota M, Atrushi L, Bennacer L, Nzekea D, Wu YC, Kim AT, Yu S, Ribeiro N, Dybicz M. Geohelminths: Use in the Treatment of Selected Human Diseases. Pathogens 2024; 13:703. [PMID: 39204303 PMCID: PMC11356798 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13080703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Research on the therapeutic use of parasites has been ongoing since the development of the "hygiene hypothesis". Parasites can stimulate the Th2-dependent response and suppress the Th1-dependent response, which is intensified in many diseases, especially allergic and autoinflammatory ones. In this review, we present the types of parasites used in helminth therapy and the range of diseases in which they may be useful. We also present the results of clinical trials conducted so far, which confirm the safety of such therapy and provide promising outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Monika Dybicz
- Department of General Biology and Parasitology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-004 Warsaw, Poland; (M.S.); (W.S.); (A.P.); (M.M.); (R.R.); (M.S.); (L.A.); (L.B.); (D.N.); (Y.C.W.); (A.T.K.); (S.Y.); (N.R.)
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3
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Wu Y, Gao H, Yu H, Wang X, Li H, Jin Q, Zhu X, Li Q, Kong N, Tang Y, Han S, Xu X, Zhan B, Li F, Yang X, Wu Q. Schistosoma japonicum cystatin alleviates paraquat poisoning caused acute lung injury in mice through activating regulatory macrophages. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 281:116615. [PMID: 38905933 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 06/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Paraquat (PQ) is a widely used herbicide that poisons human by accident or intentional ingestion. PQ poisoning causes systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) resulting in acute lung injury (ALI) with an extremely high mortality rate. Blood trematode Schistosoma japonicum-produced cystatin (Sj-Cys) is a strong immunomodulatory protein that has been experimentally used to treat inflammation related diseases. In this study, Sj-Cys recombinant protein (rSj-Cys) was used to treat PQ-induced lung injury and the immunological mechanism underlying the therapeutic effect was investigated. METHODS PQ-induced acute lung injury mouse model was established by intraperitoneally injection of 20 mg/kg of paraquat. The poisoned mice were treated with rSj-Cys and the survival rate was observed up to 7 days compared with the group without treatment. The pathological changes of PQ-induced lung injury were observed by examining the histochemical sections of affected lung tissue and the wet to dry ratio of lung as a parameter for inflammation and edema. The levels of the inflammation related cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α and regulatory cytokines IL-10 and TGF-β were measured in sera and in affected lung tissue using ELISA and their mRNA levels in lung tissue using RT-PCR. The macrophages expressing iNOS were determined as M1 and those expressing Arg-1 as M2 macrophages. The effect of rSj-Cys on the transformation of inflammatory M1 to regulatory M2 macrophages was measured in affected lung tissue in vivo (EKISA and RT-PCR) and in MH-S cell line in vitro (flow cytometry). The expression levels of TLR2 and MyD88 in affected lung tissue were also measured to determine their role in the therapy of rSj-Cys on PQ-induced lung injury. RESULT We identified that treatment with rSj-Cys significantly improved the survival rate of mice with PQ-induced lung injury from 30 % (untreated) to 80 %, reduced the pathological damage of poisoning lung tissue, associated with significantly reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 from 1490 to 590 pg/ml, TNF-α from 260 to 150 pg/ml) and increased regulatory cytokines (IL-10 from360 to 550 pg/ml, and TGF-β from 220 to 410 pg/ml) in both sera (proteins) and affected lung tissue (proteins and mRNAs). The polarization of macrophages from M1to M2 type was found to be involved in the therapeutic effect of rSj-Cys on the PQ-induced acute lung injury, possibly through inhibiting TLR2/MyD88 signaling pathway. CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrated the therapeutic effect of rSj-Cys on PQ poisoning caused acute lung injury by inducing M2 macrophage polarization through inhibiting TLR2/MyD88 signaling pathway. The finding in this study provides an alternative approach for the treatment of PQ poisoning and other inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhi Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China; Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Hongyu Gao
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Haidong Yu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China; Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Xiaoli Wang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China; Basic Medical College of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Huihui Li
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China; Basic Medical College of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Qiwang Jin
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China; Basic Medical College of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Xinguang Zhu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Qianqian Li
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Nuocheng Kong
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Yifan Tang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Shuo Han
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Xinlong Xu
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China
| | - Bin Zhan
- National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Fang Li
- Bengbu Hospital of Shanghai General Hospital (The Second Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University), Bengbu 233000, China.
| | - Xiaodi Yang
- Anhui Key Laboratory of Infection and Immunity of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China; Basic Medical College of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China.
| | - Qiang Wu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu 233000, China; Bengbu Hospital of Shanghai General Hospital (The Second Affiliated Hospital of Bengbu Medical University), Bengbu 233000, China.
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Manurung MD, Sonnet F, Hoogerwerf MA, Janse JJ, Kruize Y, Bes-Roeleveld LD, König M, Loukas A, Dewals BG, Supali T, Jochems SP, Roestenberg M, Coppola M, Yazdanbakhsh M. Controlled human hookworm infection remodels plasmacytoid dendritic cells and regulatory T cells towards profiles seen in natural infections in endemic areas. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5960. [PMID: 39013877 PMCID: PMC11252261 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50313-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Hookworm infection remains a significant public health concern, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where mass drug administration has not stopped reinfection. Developing a vaccine is crucial to complement current control measures, which necessitates a thorough understanding of host immune responses. By leveraging controlled human infection models and high-dimensional immunophenotyping, here we investigated the immune remodeling following infection with 50 Necator americanus L3 hookworm larvae in four naïve volunteers over two years of follow-up and compared the profiles with naturally infected populations in endemic areas. Increased plasmacytoid dendritic cell frequency and diminished responsiveness to Toll-like receptor 7/8 ligand were observed in both controlled and natural infection settings. Despite the increased CD45RA+ regulatory T cell (Tregs) frequencies in both settings, markers of Tregs function, including inducible T-cell costimulatory (ICOS), tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2), and latency-associated peptide (LAP), as well as in vitro Tregs suppressive capacity were higher in natural infections. Taken together, this study provides unique insights into the immunological trajectories following a first-in-life hookworm infection compared to natural infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikhael D Manurung
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Friederike Sonnet
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marie-Astrid Hoogerwerf
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jacqueline J Janse
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Yvonne Kruize
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Laura de Bes-Roeleveld
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Marion König
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Benjamin G Dewals
- Laboratory of Immunology-Vaccinology, FARAH, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Taniawati Supali
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Simon P Jochems
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Meta Roestenberg
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Mariateresa Coppola
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Leiden University Center for Infectious Diseases (LU-CID), Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Chakraborty A, Bayry J, Mukherjee S. Helminth-derived biomolecules as potential therapeutics against ulcerative colitis. Immunotherapy 2024; 16:635-640. [PMID: 38888436 PMCID: PMC11404699 DOI: 10.1080/1750743x.2024.2360382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Chakraborty
- Integrative Biochemistry & Immunology Laboratory (IBIL), Department of Animal Science, Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol, West Bengal, 713340, India
| | - Jagadeesh Bayry
- Department of Biological Sciences & Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Palakkad, Palakkad, Kerala, 678623, India
| | - Suprabhat Mukherjee
- Integrative Biochemistry & Immunology Laboratory (IBIL), Department of Animal Science, Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol, West Bengal, 713340, India
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Mules TC, Lavender B, Maclean K, Vacca F, Noble SL, Yumnam B, Te Kawa T, Cait A, Tang J, O’Sullivan D, Gasser O, Stanley J, Le Gros G, Camberis M, Inns S. Controlled Hookworm Infection for Medication-free Maintenance in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: A Pilot, Double-blind, Randomized Control Trial. Inflamm Bowel Dis 2024; 30:735-745. [PMID: 37318363 PMCID: PMC11063543 DOI: 10.1093/ibd/izad110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human hookworm has been proposed as a treatment for ulcerative colitis (UC). This pilot study assessed the feasibility of a full-scale randomized control trial examining hookworm to maintain clinical remission in patients with UC. METHODS Twenty patients with UC in disease remission (Simple Clinical Colitis Activity Index [SCCAI] ≤4 and fecal calprotectin (fCal) <100 ug/g) and only on 5-aminosalicylate received 30 hookworm larvae or placebo. Participants stopped 5-aminosalicylate after 12 weeks. Participants were monitored for up to 52 weeks and exited the study if they had a UC flare (SCCAI ≥5 and fCal ≥200 µg/g). The primary outcome was difference in rates of clinical remission at week 52. Differences were assessed for quality of life (QoL) and feasibility aspects including recruitment, safety, effectiveness of blinding, and viability of the hookworm infection. RESULTS At 52 weeks, 4 of 10 (40%) participants in the hookworm group and 5 of 10 (50%) participants in the placebo group had maintained clinical remission (odds ratio, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.11-3.92). Median time to flare in the hookworm group was 231 days (interquartile range [IQR], 98-365) and 259 days for placebo (IQR, 132-365). Blinding was quite successful in the placebo group (Bang's blinding index 0.22; 95% CI, -0.21 to 1) but less successful in the hookworm group (0.70; 95% CI, 0.37-1.0). Almost all participants in the hookworm group had detectable eggs in their faeces (90%; 95% CI, 0.60-0.98), and all participants in this group developed eosinophilia (peak eosinophilia 4.35 × 10^9/L; IQR, 2.80-6.68). Adverse events experienced were generally mild, and there was no significant difference in QoL. CONCLUSIONS A full-scale randomized control trial examining hookworm therapy as a maintenance treatment in patients with UC appears feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C Mules
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
- Department of Medicine, Otago University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | - Kate Maclean
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Francesco Vacca
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Sophia-Louise Noble
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
- Department of Medicine, Otago University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Bibek Yumnam
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Tama Te Kawa
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Alissa Cait
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Jeffry Tang
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | - Olivier Gasser
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - James Stanley
- Biostatistics Group, Otago University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Graham Le Gros
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Mali Camberis
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Stephen Inns
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
- Department of Medicine, Otago University, Wellington, New Zealand
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Šmídová B, Majer M, Novák J, Revalová A, Horák P, Macháček T. The neurotropic schistosome vs experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis: are there any winners? Parasitology 2024; 151:412-420. [PMID: 38443998 PMCID: PMC11044066 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182024000210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
The incidences of multiple sclerosis have risen worldwide, yet neither the trigger nor efficient treatment is known. Some research is dedicated to looking for treatment by parasites, mainly by helminths. However, little is known about the effect of helminths that infect the nervous system. Therefore, we chose the neurotropic avian schistosome Trichobilharzia regenti, which strongly promotes M2 polarization and tissue repair in the central nervous system, and we tested its effect on the course of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in mice. Surprisingly, the symptoms of EAE tended to worsen after the infection with T. regenti. The infection did not stimulate tissue repair, as indicated by the similar level of demyelination. Eosinophils heavily infiltrated the infected tissue, and the microglia number increased as well. Furthermore, splenocytes from T. regenti-infected EAE mice produced more interferon (IFN)-γ than splenocytes from EAE mice after stimulation with myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein. Our research indicates that the combination of increased eosinophil numbers and production of IFN-γ tends to worsen the EAE symptoms. Moreover, the data highlight the importance of considering the direct effect of the parasite on the tissue, as the migrating parasite may further tissue damage and make tissue repair even more difficult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbora Šmídová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martin Majer
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jan Novák
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Prague, Czechia
| | - Alena Revalová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Petr Horák
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Tomáš Macháček
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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Arneth B. Regulatory T Cells in Multiple Sclerosis Diagnostics-What Do We Know So Far? J Pers Med 2023; 14:29. [PMID: 38248730 PMCID: PMC10821144 DOI: 10.3390/jpm14010029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 12/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that affects the central nervous system (CNS) through inflammation. MS symptoms become acute if the disease progresses to the relapsing phase. AIM This review aimed to evaluate the role played by regulatory T cells (Tregs) in the pathogenesis of MS. METHODS This review used scholarly journal articles obtained from PubMed, PsycINFO, and CINAHL with different search parameters such as 'regulatory T cells', 'multiple sclerosis', and 'current knowledge'. The process of searching for articles was limited to those that had publication dates falling between 2010 and 2020. RESULTS Tregs play a role in the pathogenesis of MS. This conclusion is supported by animal disease models and environmental factors that can underlie Treg alterations in MS. Despite the knowledge of the role played by Tregs in MS pathogenesis, the specific subsets of Tregs involved in MS development remain incompletely understood. DISCUSSION This review provides an essential link between Tregs and MS activity. Targeting Tregs could be an efficient way to establish new treatment methods for MS management. CONCLUSION MS is a complex condition affecting many people worldwide. Research has shown that Tregs can influence MS development and progression. More investigations are needed to understand how Tregs affect the pathogenesis of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borros Arneth
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Philipps University Marburg, 35043 Marburg, Germany;
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany
- Hospital of the Universities of Giessen and Marburg, 35392 Giessen, Germany
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9
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Kujawa D, Laczmanski L, Budrewicz S, Pokryszko-Dragan A, Podbielska M. Targeting gut microbiota: new therapeutic opportunities in multiple sclerosis. Gut Microbes 2023; 15:2274126. [PMID: 37979154 PMCID: PMC10730225 DOI: 10.1080/19490976.2023.2274126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) causes long-lasting, multifocal damage to the central nervous system. The complex background of MS is associated with autoimmune inflammation and neurodegeneration processes, and is potentially affected by many contributing factors, including altered composition and function of the gut microbiota. In this review, current experimental and clinical evidence is presented for the characteristics of gut dysbiosis found in MS, as well as for its relevant links with the course of the disease and the dysregulated immune response and metabolic pathways involved in MS pathology. Furthermore, therapeutic implications of these investigations are discussed, with a range of pharmacological, dietary and other interventions targeted at the gut microbiome and thus intended to have beneficial effects on the course of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Kujawa
- Laboratory of Genomics & Bioinformatics, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology & Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Lukasz Laczmanski
- Laboratory of Genomics & Bioinformatics, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology & Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | | | - Maria Podbielska
- Laboratory of Microbiome Immunobiology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology & Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland
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10
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Tanasescu R, Frakich N, Chou IJ, Filippini P, Podda G, Xin G, Muraleedharan R, Jerca O, Onion D, Constantinescu CS. Natalizumab Treatment of Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis Has No Long-Term Effects on the Proportion of Circulating Regulatory T Cells. Neurol Ther 2023; 12:2041-2052. [PMID: 37715885 PMCID: PMC10630259 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00539-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Natalizumab (NTZ), a monoclonal antibody against the integrin α4β1 (VLA-4) found on activated T cells and B cells, blocks the interaction of this integrin with adhesion molecules of central nervous system (CNS) endothelial cells and lymphocyte migration through the blood-brain barrier, effectively preventing new lesion formation and relapses in multiple sclerosis (MS). Whether NTZ treatment has additional effects on the peripheral immune system cells, and how its actions compare with other MS disease-modifying treatments, have not been extensively investigated. In particular, its effect on the proportions of circulating regulatory T cells (Treg) is unclear. METHODS In this study, we investigated the effect of NTZ treatment in 12 patients with relapsing MS, at 6 and 12 months after the start of treatment. We evaluated the proportions of regulatory T cells (Treg), defined by flow cytometry as CD4+ CD25++ FoxP3+ cells and CD4+ CD25++ CD127- cells at these intervals. As an exploratory study, we also investigated the NTZ effects on the proportions of bulk T and B lymphocyte populations, and of those expressing novel the markers CD195 (CCR5), CD196 (CCR6), or CD161 (KLRB1), which are involved in MS pathogenesis but have been studied less in the context of MS treatment. The effects of NTZ were compared to those obtained with 11 patients under interferon-beta-1a (IFN-β1a) treatment, and against 9 healthy volunteers. RESULTS We observed a transient increment in the proportion of Treg cells at 6 months, which was not sustained at 12 months. We observed a reduction in the proportion of T cells expressing CD195 (CCR5) and CD161 (KLRB1) subsets of T cells. CONCLUSION We conclude that NTZ does not have an effect on the proportion of Treg cells over 1 year, but it may affect the expression of molecules important for some aspects MS pathogenesis, in a manner that is not shared with IFN-β1a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radu Tanasescu
- Academic Unit of Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
- Department of Neurology, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
- Nottingham Centre for MS and Neuroinflammation, Nottingham University Hospital NHS Trust, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Nanci Frakich
- Academic Unit of Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - I-Jun Chou
- Academic Unit of Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linko Branch, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Perla Filippini
- Academic Unit of Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Giulio Podda
- Academic Unit of Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
- Wye Valley NHS Trust, Hereford, England, UK
| | - Gao Xin
- Academic Unit of Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Ranjithmenon Muraleedharan
- Academic Unit of Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
- Broad Institute of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Oltita Jerca
- Academic Unit of Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
- Medizinisches Zentrum Harz, Halberstadt, Germany
| | - David Onion
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Cris S Constantinescu
- Academic Unit of Mental Health and Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK.
- Nottingham Centre for MS and Neuroinflammation, Nottingham University Hospital NHS Trust, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK.
- Department of Neurology, Cooper Neurological Institute, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, 2339 Route 70 West, Cherry Hill, Camden, NJ, 08002, USA.
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11
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Mules TC, Inns S, Le Gros G. Helminths' therapeutic potential to treat intestinal barrier dysfunction. Allergy 2023; 78:2892-2905. [PMID: 37449458 DOI: 10.1111/all.15812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The intestinal barrier is a dynamic multi-layered structure which can adapt to environmental changes within the intestinal lumen. It has the complex task of allowing nutrient absorption while limiting entry of harmful microbes and microbial antigens present in the intestinal lumen. Excessive entry of microbial antigens via microbial translocation due to 'intestinal barrier dysfunction' is hypothesised to contribute to the increasing incidence of allergic, autoimmune and metabolic diseases, a concept referred to as the 'epithelial barrier theory'. Helminths reside in the intestinal tract are in intimate contact with the mucosal surfaces and induce a range of local immunological changes which affect the layers of the intestinal barrier. Helminths are proposed to prevent, or even treat, many of the diseases implicated in the epithelial barrier theory. This review will focus on the effect of helminths on intestinal barrier function and explore whether this could explain the proposed health benefits delivered by helminths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas C Mules
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
- University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | - Graham Le Gros
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
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12
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De Looze K, Tanasescu R, Vonck K. The gut-microbiota-brain axis: An introduction to a special issue on its role in neurological disorders. Eur J Neurol 2023; 30:3411-3416. [PMID: 37817414 DOI: 10.1111/ene.16080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Katrien De Looze
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Radu Tanasescu
- Department of Neurology, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK
- Academic Clinical Neurology, Mental Health, and Clinical Neurosciences Academic Unit, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Kristl Vonck
- Department of Neurology, 4Brain, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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13
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Etebar F, Hosseini SH, Borhani Zarandi M, Moghadasi AN, Jalousian F. The immunomodulatory effects of the C-type lectin protein of Toxocara canis on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Parasite Immunol 2023; 45:e13010. [PMID: 37718988 DOI: 10.1111/pim.13010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Toxocara canis is a global zoonosis infection that can cause chronic and long-term toxocariasis in their paratenic host. The excretory-secretory (ES) products of T. canis larvae are considered to be responsible for the Th2 polarization and regulatory immune responses in toxocariasis. The C-type lectin family is one of the most prominent components of ES products of T. canis infective larvae. This study aimed to investigate the ameliorative effect of a T. canis C-type lectin recombinant protein (rCTL), on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) which is a T-cell-mediated autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. C57BL/6 mice were subcutaneously treated with 30 μg rCTL, three times at an interval of 1 week. EAE was induced by myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein 35-55 peptide (MOG35-55 peptide) immunization, and weight and clinical scores were evaluated. Real time polymerase chain reaction was performed to evaluate the expression levels of T-bet, Gata3, and Foxp3 in splenocytes. In addition, the levels of interleukin 4, interferon gamma, and tumour growth factor-β (TGF-β) were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in splenocyte culture supernatants. The results indicated that the rCTL decreased clinical disability scores and delayed the onset of EAE. Furthermore, the data showed that rCTL treatment modulated the immune response, which was associated with upregulation of the mRNA expression of the Foxp3 gene and higher production of TGF-β in rCTL-treated mice. This study demonstrated that rCTL might be a potential agent to ameliorate EAE symptoms by stimulating anti-inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazeleh Etebar
- Faculty of Health, Centre for Immunology and Infection Control, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Hossein Hosseini
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
- Iranian Museum of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Borhani Zarandi
- State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Abdorreza Naser Moghadasi
- Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Neuroscience institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fateme Jalousian
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Arjmandi D, Graeili Z, Mohammadi P, Arshadi M, Jafari Tadi M, Ardekani A, Naeimi R, Abbasi F, Marhoommirzabak E, Mahjour S, Sartip B, Prasa H, Fallah Omrani V, Rostami A. Chlamydia pneumonia infection and risk of multiple sclerosis: A meta-analysis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2023; 77:104862. [PMID: 37442074 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2023.104862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of infectious agents, including Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cpn), in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS), is still a matter of major contention. OBJECTIVE This meta-analysis study aimed to assess the actual involvement of Cpn in MS development. METHODS We undertook a search of international scientific databases to identify eligible studies. We used a random-effects meta-analysis model (REM) to generate the pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Heterogeneity was calculated using the I2 statistic. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were applied to assess the effects of study characteristics and socio-demographic variables on the pooled OR. RESULTS We identified 37 studies comprising 51 datasets that satisfied the inclusion criteria. Considering diagnostic methods for Cpn, 26 and 25 datasets used PCR- and serological-based methods, respectively. In PCR-based datasets, REM showed a significant positive association between Cpn infection and the development of MS (OR, 5.29; 95% CI, 3.12-8.97), while a non-significant positive association was achieved in serological-based datasets (OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 0.88-2.03). In subgroup analyses on PCR-based datasets, results were significant for both CSF (OR, 5.70) and serum (OR, 4.84) samples; both healthy (OR, 16.11) and hospital-based (OR, 2.88) controls; and both moderate (OR, 5.14) and high (OR, 5.48) quality studies. In serological-based datasets, only those that used CSF samples yielded significant results (OR, 3.41). CONCLUSIONS Our findings verify the significant positive relationship between Cpn infection and MS. We advocate prospective cohort studies with lifelong follow-ups and also experimental studies to better understand the role of Cpn in MS development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delaram Arjmandi
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Zahra Graeili
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Parisa Mohammadi
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Arshadi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Mehrdad Jafari Tadi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Ali Ardekani
- School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Naeimi
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Abbasi
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Elika Marhoommirzabak
- Department of Neurology, University of Visayas, Gullas College of Medicine, Cebu city, 600 Cebu, Philippines
| | - Sanaz Mahjour
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Behnam Sartip
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Hamid Prasa
- Department of Neurology, University of Visayas, Gullas College of Medicine, Cebu city, 600 Cebu, Philippines
| | - Vahid Fallah Omrani
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
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15
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Pierce DR, McDonald M, Merone L, Becker L, Thompson F, Lewis C, Ryan RYM, Hii SF, Zendejas-Heredia PA, Traub RJ, Field MA, Rahman T, Croese J, Loukas A, McDermott R, Giacomin PR. Effect of experimental hookworm infection on insulin resistance in people at risk of type 2 diabetes. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4503. [PMID: 37495576 PMCID: PMC10372076 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40263-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The reduced prevalence of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes in countries with endemic parasitic worm infections suggests a protective role for worms against metabolic disorders, however clinical evidence has been non-existent. This 2-year randomised, double-blinded clinical trial in Australia of hookworm infection in 40 male and female adults at risk of type 2 diabetes assessed the safety and potential metabolic benefits of treatment with either 20 (n = 14) or 40 (n = 13) Necator americanus larvae (L3) or Placebo (n = 13) (Registration ACTRN12617000818336). Primary outcome was safety defined by adverse events and completion rate. Homoeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance, fasting blood glucose and body mass were key secondary outcomes. Adverse events were more frequent in hookworm-treated participants, where 44% experienced expected gastrointestinal symptoms, but completion rates were comparable to Placebo. Fasting glucose and insulin resistance were lowered in both hookworm-treated groups at 1 year, and body mass was reduced after L3-20 treatment at 2 years. This study suggests hookworm infection is safe in people at risk of type 2 diabetes and associated with improved insulin resistance, warranting further exploration of the benefits of hookworms on metabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris R Pierce
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Malcolm McDonald
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Lea Merone
- College of Health Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Luke Becker
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Fintan Thompson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
- University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Chris Lewis
- College of Health Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Rachael Y M Ryan
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Sze Fui Hii
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Patsy A Zendejas-Heredia
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Traub
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Science, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Matthew A Field
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
- College of Public Health, Medical & Vet Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
- Immunogenomics Laboratory, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
| | - Tony Rahman
- The Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - John Croese
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Robyn McDermott
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
- University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Paul R Giacomin
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia.
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16
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Chakraborty P, Aravindhan V, Mukherjee S. Helminth-derived biomacromolecules as therapeutic agents for treating inflammatory and infectious diseases: What lessons do we get from recent findings? Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 241:124649. [PMID: 37119907 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.124649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
Despite the tremendous progress in healthcare sectors, a number of life-threatening infectious, inflammatory, and autoimmune diseases are continuously challenging mankind throughout the globe. In this context, recent successes in utilizing helminth parasite-derived bioactive macromolecules viz. glycoproteins, enzymes, polysaccharides, lipids/lipoproteins, nucleic acids/nucleotides, and small organic molecules for treating various disorders primarily resulted from inflammation. Among the several parasites that infect humans, helminths (cestodes, nematodes, and trematodes) are known as efficient immune manipulators owing to their explicit ability to modulate and modify the innate and adaptive immune responses of humans. These molecules selectively bind to immune receptors on innate and adaptive immune cells and trigger multiple signaling pathways to elicit anti-inflammatory cytokines, expansion of alternatively activated macrophages, T-helper 2, and immunoregulatory T regulatory cell types to induce an anti-inflammatory milieu. Reduction of pro-inflammatory responses and repair of tissue damage by these anti-inflammatory mediators have been exploited for treating a number of autoimmune, allergic, and metabolic diseases. Herein, the potential and promises of different helminths/helminth-derived products as therapeutic agents in ameliorating immunopathology of different human diseases and their mechanistic insights of function at cell and molecular level alongside the molecular signaling cross-talks have been reviewed by incorporating up-to-date findings achieved in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pritha Chakraborty
- Integrative Biochemistry & Immunology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol 713340, India
| | | | - Suprabhat Mukherjee
- Integrative Biochemistry & Immunology Laboratory, Department of Animal Science, Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol 713340, India.
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17
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Atagozli T, Elliott DE, Ince MN. Helminth Lessons in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD). Biomedicines 2023; 11:1200. [PMID: 37189818 PMCID: PMC10135676 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11041200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Helminths are multicellular invertebrates that colonize the gut of many vertebrate animals including humans. This colonization can result in pathology, which requires treatment. It can also lead to a commensal and possibly even a symbiotic relationship where the helminth and the host benefit from each other's presence. Epidemiological data have linked helminth exposure to protection from immune disorders that include a wide range of diseases, such as allergies, autoimmune illnesses, and idiopathic inflammatory disorders of the gut, which are grouped as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Treatment of moderate to severe IBD involves the use of immune modulators and biologics, which can cause life-threatening complications. In this setting, their safety profile makes helminths or helminth products attractive as novel therapeutic approaches to treat IBD or other immune disorders. Helminths stimulate T helper-2 (Th2) and immune regulatory pathways, which are targeted in IBD treatment. Epidemiological explorations, basic science studies, and clinical research on helminths can lead to the development of safe, potent, and novel therapeutic approaches to prevent or treat IBD in addition to other immune disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tyler Atagozli
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52246, USA
| | - David E. Elliott
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52246, USA
- Iowa City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA 52246, USA
| | - Mirac Nedim Ince
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, IA 52246, USA
- Iowa City Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Iowa City, IA 52246, USA
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18
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Arjmandi D, Abdollahi A, Ardekani A, Razavian I, Razavian E, Sartip B, Mahjour S, Parsa H, Kyvanani NA, Marhoommirzabak E, Kountouras J, Rostami A. Helicobacter pylori infection and risk of multiple sclerosis: An updated meta-analysis. Helicobacter 2022; 27:e12927. [PMID: 36046943 DOI: 10.1111/hel.12927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is considerable controversy around the question as to whether Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection has a protective or causative role in the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). This study evaluated published information to assess the association between H. pylori infection and MS. METHODS We conducted a comprehensive systematic review of relevant observational studies in international databases. A random-effects model was used to calculate pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). I2 statistic was used to assess the between-study heterogeneity. Subgroup and meta-regression analyses were applied to identify the source of heterogeneity. RESULTS In total, 22 studies (25 datasets) were eligible for the meta-analysis: 17 datasets had prevalence data and eight datasets had data on the mean titer of anti-H. pylori IgG. The pooled prevalence of H. pylori was 44.1% (908/2606) in the MS patients and 46.1% (1016/2200) in the controls, indicating a non-significant protective effect of H. pylori on MS (OR, 0.82; 95%CI, 0.58-1.17). In the subgroup analysis, studies that used ELISA yielded a significant protective association (OR, 0.59; 95%CI, 0.46-0.77), while a positive non-significant association (OR, 1.33; 95%CI, 0.83-2.15) was found from studies that used other serological methods; interestingly, a significant positive association (OR, 6.64; 95%CI, 2.40-13.76) was found from studies that used histological methods to detect H. pylori infection. CONCLUSIONS Our findings do not support the hypothesis that H. pylori infection represents a protective factor against the development of MS; however, the results varied depending on the diagnostic method(s). Particularly, a significant positive association was identified when studies introduced results based on histological examination, suggesting that active H. pylori infection might be a risk factor for development of MS. Thus, further studies are needed utilizing accurate diagnostic methods to elucidate the association between active H. pylori infection and MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delaram Arjmandi
- Immunoregulation Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Ali Abdollahi
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Ardekani
- School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Iman Razavian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elnaz Razavian
- Department of Neurology, Tehran Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behnam Sartip
- Department of Internal Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Sanaz Mahjour
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Hamid Parsa
- Department of Neurology, University of Visayas, Gullas College of Medicine, Cebu City, Philippines
| | - Nastaran Azizi Kyvanani
- Independent Researcher in the Field of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Erfurt, Germany
| | - Elika Marhoommirzabak
- Department of Neurology, University of Visayas, Gullas College of Medicine, Cebu City, Philippines
| | - Jannis Kountouras
- Second Medical Clinic, School of Medicine, Ippokration Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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19
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Rostami A, Riahi SM, Mollalo A, Razavian I, Akbari N, Marhoommirzabak E, Mahjour S, Sartip B, Arshadi M, Razavian E, Ardekani A. Does latent Toxoplasma infection have a protective effect against developing multiple sclerosis? Evidence from an updated meta-analysis. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2022; 116:996-1006. [PMID: 35696089 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trac053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous epidemiologic evidence suggests a protective effect of Toxoplasma gondii infection against multiple sclerosis (MS) development; however, inconsistent findings have been reported in this regard. Therefore, we performed an updated meta-analysis of observational studies to investigate the association of To. gondii infection with MS development. We searched all articles published in PubMed, Scopus, Embase and Web of Science databases as of 20 December 2021. A random effects meta-analysis model was used to generate the pooled OR at 95% CIs. The heterogeneity between studies was assessed using I2 and Cochran's Q statistics. Moreover, the likelihood of publication bias was determined by Egger's regression test. A total of 11 studies were eligible for meta-analysis, including 1172 MS cases and 1802 controls. Our findings indicated that 29.8% (95% CI 22.8 to 37.2%) of MS patients were seropositive for To. gondii infection, compared with 34.2% (95% CI 21.9 to 47.6%) of control subjects. The estimated pooled OR was 0.79 (95% CI 0.49 to 1.26), suggesting a non-significant negative association between To. gondii infection and MS development (p>0.05). The current study does not support the significant protective role of To. gondii infection on MS development. Our findings imply that further well-designed epidemiological and mechanistic studies are warranted to ascertain the possible association between To. gondii infection and MS and to exclude the potential confounders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Riahi
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Mollalo
- Department of Public Health and Prevention Science, School of Health Sciences, Baldwin Wallace University, Berea, Ohio, USA
| | - Iman Razavian
- Department of Neurosurgery, Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nahid Akbari
- Department of Genetic, Faculty of Basic Science, Islamic Azad University, Varamin Pishva Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elika Marhoommirzabak
- Department of Neurology, University of Visayas, Gullas College of Medicine, Cebu city, 600 Cebu, Philippines
| | - Sanaz Mahjour
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Behnam Sartip
- Department of Internal Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Mahdi Arshadi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Elnaz Razavian
- Department of Neurology, Tehran Medical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Ardekani
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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20
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Chapman PR, Llewellyn S, Jennings H, Becker L, Giacomin P, McDougall R, Robson J, Loukas A, McCarthy J. The production of Necator americanus larvae for use in experimental human infection. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:242. [PMID: 35804460 PMCID: PMC9264692 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05371-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although there is unprecedented interest in experimental human hookworm infection, details of hookworm manufacture and characterisation have been sparsely reported. In this report, we detail the production and characterisation of Necator americanus larvae for use in a recently published clinical trial. Methods Faeces was obtained from an experimentally infected donor. Faecal hookworm DNA was determined by quantitative PCR. Paired samples were incubated in either sterile water or sterile water mixed with antimicrobials (amphotericin and gentamicin). Coproculture was performed by modified Harada-Mori method. The harvested larvae were then processed in either sterile water or antiseptic solution. Larval yield was then calculated (larvae per gram), larval viability was determined by thermally induced motility assay and microbial burden was determined at the day of harvest, at 48 h and at 7 days. Results Twenty-eight faecal cultures were performed over 16 months. The faecal hookworm DNA content was variable over this time. There was no association of larval yield with faecal hookworm DNA content. Pre-treatment of faeces with antimicrobials did not influence larval yield. Larval motility was 85.3% (95% CI 79.3–91.3%). Incubation of larvae in antiseptics did not reduce viability at 14 days with a marginal mean of 68.6% (95% CI 59.1–78.1%) washed in water vs. 63.3% (95% CI 53.8 – 72.9%) when incubated in betadine (p = 0.38). Larvae washed in sterile water did not meet microbial bioburden criteria. Incubation in antiseptic resulted in acceptable microbial bioburden at 48 h but not at 7 days. Although the addition of gentamicin did reduce the microbial bio-burden acceptable levels, it was found to significantly lower larval motility at 7 days compared to incubation in sterile water and motility at 7 days 37.8% (95% CI 4.7–70.9%) vs. 67.3% (95% CI 35.2–99.3%, p < 0.001), respectively. Conclusions Despite standardised culture methodologies and the use of a single donor, larval yield varied considerably between batches and had no association with faecal hookworm DNA. Larval viability decreases over time and the age of larvae at time of use are likely to be important. Microbial bioburden maybe temporarily reduced by incubation in antiseptics and has little effect on viability. Incubation of larvae in gentamicin is effective at reducing microbial bioburden but is deleterious to larval viability. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-022-05371-y.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul R Chapman
- Clinical Tropical Medicine, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia. .,RBWH Infectious Diseases, Bowen Hills and Herston, Australia.
| | - Stacey Llewellyn
- Statistics Unit, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Helen Jennings
- Clinical Tropical Medicine, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD, Australia
| | - Luke Becker
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Paul Giacomin
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Rodney McDougall
- Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology, Bowen Hills and Herston, Australia
| | - Jennifer Robson
- Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology, Bowen Hills and Herston, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - James McCarthy
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
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21
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Abstract
It is well established that by modulating various immune functions, host infection may alter the course of concomitant inflammatory diseases, of both infectious and autoimmune etiologies. Beyond the major impact of commensal microbiota on the immune status, host exposure to viral, bacterial, and/or parasitic microorganisms also dramatically influences inflammatory diseases in the host, in a beneficial or harmful manner. Moreover, by modifying pathogen control and host tolerance to tissue damage, a coinfection can profoundly affect the development of a concomitant infectious disease. Here, we review the diverse mechanisms that underlie the impact of (co)infections on inflammatory disorders. We discuss epidemiological studies in the context of the hygiene hypothesis and shed light on the sometimes dual impact of germ exposure on human susceptibility to inflammatory disease. We then summarize the immunomodulatory mechanisms at play, which can involve pleiotropic effects of immune players and discuss the possibility to harness pathogen-derived compounds to the host benefit.
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Dumitrescu L, Papathanasiou A, Coclitu C, Constantinescu CS, Popescu BO, Tanasescu R. Beta interferons as immunotherapy in multiple sclerosis: a new outlook on a classic drug during the COVID-19 pandemic. QJM 2021; 114:691-697. [PMID: 33486513 PMCID: PMC7928608 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcaa348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Beta interferons (IFN-β) are pleiotropic cytokines with antiviral properties. They play important roles in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS), an incurable immune-mediated disorder of the central nervous system. The clinical expression of MS is heterogeneous, with relapses of neuroinflammation and with disability accrual in considerable part unrelated to the attacks. The injectable recombinant IFN-β preparations are the first approved disease-modifying treatments for MS. They have moderate efficacy in reducing the frequency of relapses, but good long-term cost-efficacy and safety profiles, so are still widely used. They have some tolerability and adherence issues, partly mitigated in recent years by the introduction of a PEGylated formulation and use of 'smart' autoinjector devices. Their general impact on long-term disability is modest but could be further improved by developing accurate tools for identifying the patient profile of best responders to IFN-β. Here, we present the IFN-β-based immunomodulatory therapeutic approaches in MS, highlighting their place in the current coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. The potential role of IFN-β in the treatment of COVID-19 is also briefly discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Dumitrescu
- From the Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - A Papathanasiou
- Department of Neurology, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, UK
| | - C Coclitu
- Department of Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology, CHU Grenoble, Grenoble, France
| | - C S Constantinescu
- Department of Neurology, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, UK
- Academic Clinical Neurology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, C Floor, South Block, Queen's Medical Centre, Derby Road, NG7 2UH, Nottingham, UK
| | - B O Popescu
- From the Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Hospital, Bucharest, Romania
| | - R Tanasescu
- Department of Neurology, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals, Nottingham, UK
- Academic Clinical Neurology, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, C Floor, South Block, Queen's Medical Centre, Derby Road, NG7 2UH, Nottingham, UK
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23
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Chapman PR, Giacomin P, Loukas A, McCarthy JS. Experimental human hookworm infection: a narrative historical review. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009908. [PMID: 34882670 PMCID: PMC8659326 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009908] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In 1896, a serendipitous laboratory accident led to the understanding that hookworms propagate infection by penetrating skin, a theory that was then confirmed with the first experimental human infection, reported in 1901. Experimental human infections undertaken in the 20th century enabled understanding of the natural history of infection and the immune response. More recently, experimental hookworm infection has been performed to investigate the immunomodulatory potential of hookworm infection and for the evaluation of hookworm vaccines and chemotherapeutic interventions. Experimental human hookworm infection has been proven to be safe, with no deaths observed in over 500 participants (although early reports predate systematic adverse event reporting) and no serious adverse events described in over 200 participants enrolled in contemporary clinical trials. While experimental human hookworm infection holds significant promise, as both a challenge model for testing anti-hookworm therapies and for treating various diseases of modernity, there are many challenges that present. These challenges include preparation and storage of larvae, which has not significantly changed since Harada and Mori first described their coproculture method in 1955. In vitro methods of hookworm larval culture, storage, and the development of meaningful potency or release assays are required. Surrogate markers of intestinal infection intensity are required because faecal egg counts or hookworm faecal DNA intensity lack the fidelity required for exploration of hookworm infection as a vaccine/drug testing platform or as a regulated therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul R. Chapman
- Clinical Tropical Medicine, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Australia
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Herston, Australia
| | - Paul Giacomin
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - James S. McCarthy
- Clinical Tropical Medicine, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Australia
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Herston, Australia
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Popple SJ, Burrows K, Mortha A, Osborne LC. Remote regulation of type 2 immunity by intestinal parasites. Semin Immunol 2021; 53:101530. [PMID: 34802872 DOI: 10.1016/j.smim.2021.101530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The intestinal tract is the target organ of most parasitic infections, including those by helminths and protozoa. These parasites elicit prototypical type 2 immune activation in the host's immune system with striking impact on the local tissue microenvironment. Despite local containment of these parasites within the intestinal tract, parasitic infections also mediate immune adaptation in peripheral organs. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on how such gut-tissue axes influence important immune-mediated resistance and disease tolerance in the context of coinfections, and elaborate on the implications of parasite-regulated gut-lung and gut-brain axes on the development and severity of airway inflammation and central nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Popple
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - K Burrows
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - A Mortha
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - L C Osborne
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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25
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Schroeter CB, Huntemann N, Bock S, Nelke C, Kremer D, Pfeffer K, Meuth SG, Ruck T. Crosstalk of Microorganisms and Immune Responses in Autoimmune Neuroinflammation: A Focus on Regulatory T Cells. Front Immunol 2021; 12:747143. [PMID: 34691057 PMCID: PMC8529161 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.747143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are the major determinant of peripheral immune tolerance. Many Treg subsets have been described, however thymus-derived and peripherally induced Tregs remain the most important subpopulations. In multiple sclerosis, a prototypical autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system, Treg dysfunction is a pathogenic hallmark. In contrast, induction of Treg proliferation and enhancement of their function are central immune evasion mechanisms of infectious pathogens. In accordance, Treg expansion is compartmentalized to tissues with high viral replication and prolonged in chronic infections. In friend retrovirus infection, Treg expansion is mainly based on excessive interleukin-2 production by infected effector T cells. Moreover, pathogens seem also to enhance Treg functions as shown in human immunodeficiency virus infection, where Tregs express higher levels of effector molecules such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4, CD39 and cAMP and show increased suppressive capacity. Thus, insights into the molecular mechanisms by which intracellular pathogens alter Treg functions might aid to find new therapeutic approaches to target central nervous system autoimmunity. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the role of pathogens for Treg function in the context of autoimmune neuroinflammation. We discuss the mechanistic implications for future therapies and provide an outlook for new research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina B Schroeter
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Niklas Huntemann
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefanie Bock
- Department of Neurology With Institute of Translational Neurology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Christopher Nelke
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - David Kremer
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Klaus Pfeffer
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sven G Meuth
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Tobias Ruck
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
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26
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Zarghami A, Li Y, Claflin SB, van der Mei I, Taylor BV. Role of environmental factors in multiple sclerosis. Expert Rev Neurother 2021; 21:1389-1408. [PMID: 34494502 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1978843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Environmental factors play a significant role in the pathogenesis and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS), either acting alone or by interacting with other environmental or genetic factors. This cumulative exposure to external risk factors is highly complex and highly variable between individuals. AREAS COVERED We narratively review the current evidence on the role of environment-specific risk factors in MS onset and progression, as well as the effect of gene-environment interactions and the timing of exposure We have reviewed the latest literature, by Ovid Medline, retrieving the most recently published systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses and more recent studies not previously included in meta-analyses or systematic reviews. EXPERT OPINION There is some good evidence supporting the impact of some environmental risk factors in increasing the risk of developing MS. Tobacco smoking, low vitamin D levels and/or low sun exposure, Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) seropositivity and a history of infectious mononucleosis may increase the risk of developing MS. Additionally, there is some evidence that gene-smoking, gene-EBV, and smoking-EBV interactions additively affect the risk of MS onset. However, the evidence for a role of other environmental factors in MS progression is limited. Finally, there is some evidence that tobacco smoking, insufficient vitamin D levels and/or sun exposure have impacts on MS phenotypes and various markers of disease activity including relapse, disability progression and MRI findings. Clearly the effect of environmental factors on MS disease course is an area that requires significantly more research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Zarghami
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Ying Li
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Suzi B Claflin
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Ingrid van der Mei
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Bruce V Taylor
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
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Cicero CE, Allibrio FE, Giuliano L, Luna J, Preux PM, Nicoletti A. Toxoplasma gondii and multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Neurol 2021; 28:4251-4257. [PMID: 34374174 DOI: 10.1111/ene.15055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE According to the hygiene hypothesis, infections by agents such as parasites have a protective role against the risk of developing multiple sclerosis (MS). Among parasites, Toxoplasma gondii, an intracellular parasite, showed evidence of a protective effect. This study was undertaken to summarize the available evidence on the association between T. gondii infection and MS. METHODS A systematic review of all the available articles published up to November 2020 has been conducted independently by two investigators in the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, Lissa, and SciELO. The association between T. gondii infection and MS has been pooled with a random effects model. RESULTS From 562 articles, seven were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis for a global population of 752 MS cases and 1282 controls. T. gondii infection was associated with MS with a pooled odds ratio of 0.68 (95% confidence interval = 0.50-0.93). CONCLUSIONS The available evidence supports the hypothesis that T. gondii infection represents a protective factor against the development of MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calogero Edoardo Cicero
- Section of Neurosciences, Department of Medical, Surgical, and Advanced Technologies G. F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Francesca Elsa Allibrio
- Section of Neurosciences, Department of Medical, Surgical, and Advanced Technologies G. F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Loretta Giuliano
- Section of Neurosciences, Department of Medical, Surgical, and Advanced Technologies G. F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Jaime Luna
- IRD, U1094 Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, INSERM, University of Limoges, Limoges University Hospital Center, Limoges, France
| | - Pierre-Marie Preux
- IRD, U1094 Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Institute of Epidemiology and Tropical Neurology, GEIST, INSERM, University of Limoges, Limoges University Hospital Center, Limoges, France
| | - Alessandra Nicoletti
- Section of Neurosciences, Department of Medical, Surgical, and Advanced Technologies G. F. Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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28
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Li S, Rajeev S, Wang A, McKay DM. Infection with Hymenolepis diminuta Blocks Colitis and Hastens Recovery While Colitis Has Minimal Impact on Expulsion of the Cestode from the Mouse Host. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10080994. [PMID: 34451458 PMCID: PMC8401575 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10080994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Two experimental paradigms were adopted to explore host-helminth interactions involved in the regulation of colitis and to understand if colitis affects the outcome of helminth infection. First, male BALB/c mice infected with H. diminuta were challenged 4 days later with dinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (DNBS) and necropsied 3 days later. Second, mice were infected with H. diminuta 3 days after DNBS treatment and necropsied 11 or 14 days post-DNBS. Mice were assessed for colitic disease severity and infectivity with H. diminuta upon necropsy. Supporting the concept of helminth therapy, mice are protected from DNBS-colitis when infected with H. diminuta only 4 days previously, along with parallel increases in splenic production of Th2 cytokines. In the treatment regimen, H. diminuta infection produced a subtle, statistically significant, enhanced recovery from DNBS. Mice regained body weight quicker, had normalized colon lengths, and showed no overt signs of disease, in comparison to the DNBS-only mice, some of which displayed signs of mild disease at 14 days post-DNBS. Unexpectedly, colitis did not affect the hosts' anti-worm response. The impact of inflammatory disease on helminth infection is deserving of study in a variety of models as auto-inflammatory diseases emerge in world regions where parasitic helminths are endemic.
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29
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Pritchard DI, Diemert D, Bottazzi ME, Hawdon JM, Correa-Oliveira R, Bethony JM. Controlled Infection of Humans with the Hookworm Parasite Necator americanus to Accelerate Vaccine Development : The Human Hookworm Vaccination/Challenge Model (HVCM). Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2021. [PMID: 34328562 DOI: 10.1007/82_2021_237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
In this chapter, we describe the scientific, technical, clinical and regulatory aspects of establishing a controlled human hookworm infection (CHHI) model in non-endemic and endemic geographical regions, to facilitate a pathway towards accelerated vaccine development. The success achieved in establishing the CHHI platform specifically allows the Human Hookworm Vaccine Initiative (HHVI) to accelerate its progress by establishing a human hookworm vaccination/challenge model (HVCM) in a hookworm endemic area of Brazil. The HVCM will permit the rapid and robust determination of clinical efficacy in adults, allowing for early selection of the most efficacious human hookworm vaccine (HHV) candidate(s) to advance into later-stage pivotal paediatric clinical trials and reduce the overall number of participants required to assess efficacy (Diemert et al. 2018).
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Affiliation(s)
- David I Pritchard
- Parasite Immunology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
- HIC-Vac, London, UK.
| | - David Diemert
- Department of Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Maria Elena Bottazzi
- Department of Pediatrics, Section of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - John M Hawdon
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Jeffrey M Bethony
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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30
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Jafari AA, Keikha M, Mirmoeeni S, Rahimi MT, Jafari R. Parasite-based interventions in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): A systematic review. Autoimmun Rev 2021; 20:102896. [PMID: 34274545 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2021.102896] [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: 05/08/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hygiene hypothesis proposed in 1989 expresses that allergic and infectious diseases are inversely related. Accordingly, it has been demonstrated that infection with some microorganisms such as parasites and helminths can provide a potential immunity and prevent the onset of some life-threatening autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Therefore, in this comprehensive study, we systematically reviewed and discussed the use of live parasites or parasitic products in the treatment of mouse models of SLE. METHODS The present systematic review was performed using the following search terms: ("systemic lupus erythematosus" OR "SLE" OR "lupus") AND ("parasite" OR "protozoa" OR "helminths" OR "worms" OR "helminth" OR "worm") in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science online databases. We included studies reporting the effect of any intervention using parasites or parasitic-based products on animal models of SLE, which were published until January 20th, 2021 without any language or date restrictions. For each included study, we extracted the authors' names, publication year, type of animal, number of groups, types of intervention, sample size, changes in immunologic cells, auto-Abs, cytokines, and blood cells count, urine analysis, histological analysis of kidney/spleen/liver, outcome and survival. (PROSPERO CRD42020160460). RESULTS A total of 17 eligible articles were included in this systematic review. Sixteen out of the 17 studies reported immunomodulating changes in immunologic cells, cytokines, and/or auto-Abs in mouse models of SLE after using parasitic interventions compared to not-infected or control groups. Moreover, 14 studies reported decreased level of proteinuria and/or favorable kidney, liver, or spleen histological changes. CONCLUSION In conclusion, we have demonstrated that parasites like Hymenolepis microstoma, TPC and ES-62 from Acanthocheilonema viteae, Plasmodium chabaudi, Schistosoma mansoni, and Toxoplasma gondii have favorable immunomodulating effects on SLE outcomes in lupus-prone mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amirhossein Azari Jafari
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Keikha
- Department of Public Health, Sirjan School of Medical Sciences, Sirjan, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Taghi Rahimi
- Center for Health Related Social and Behavioral Sciences Research, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran
| | - Reza Jafari
- School of Medicine, Shahroud University of Medical Sciences, Shahroud, Iran.
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Randomized, Placebo Controlled Trial of Experimental Hookworm Infection for Improving Gluten Tolerance in Celiac Disease. Clin Transl Gastroenterol 2021; 11:e00274. [PMID: 33512796 PMCID: PMC7678792 DOI: 10.14309/ctg.0000000000000274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where intestinal immunopathology arises after gluten consumption. Previous studies suggested that hookworm infection restores gluten tolerance; however, these studies were small (n = 12) and not placebo controlled. METHODS: We undertook a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of hookworm infection in 54 people with celiac disease. The 94-week study involved treatment with either 20 or 40 Necator americanus third-stage larvae (L3-20 or L3-40) or placebo, followed by escalating gluten consumption (50 mg/d for 12 weeks, 1 g intermittent twice weekly for 12 weeks, 2 g/d sustained for 6 weeks, liberal diet for 1 year). RESULTS: Successful study completion rates at week 42 (primary outcome) were similar in each group (placebo: 57%, L3-20: 37%, and L3-40: 44%; P = 0.61), however gluten-related adverse events were significantly reduced in hookworm-treated participants: Median (range) adverse events/participant were as follows: placebo, 4 (1–9); L3-20, 1 (0–9); and L3-40, 0 (0–3) (P = 0.019). Duodenal villous height:crypt depth deteriorated similarly compared with their enrolment values in each group (mean change [95% confidence interval]: placebo, −0.6 [−1.3 to 0.2]; L3-20, −0.5 [−0.8 to 0.2]; and L3-40, −1.1 [−1.8 to 0.4]; P = 0.12). A retrospective analysis revealed that 9 of the 40 L3-treated participants failed to establish hookworm infections. Although week 42 completion rates were similar in hookworm-positive vs hookworm-negative participants (48% vs 44%, P = 0.43), quality of life symptom scores were lower in hookworm-positive participants after intermittent gluten challenge (mean [95% confidence interval]: 38.9 [33.9–44] vs 45.9 [39.2–52.6]). DISCUSSION: Hookworm infection does not restore tolerance to sustained moderate consumption of gluten (2 g/d) but was associated with improved symptom scores after intermittent consumption of lower, intermittent gluten doses.
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Kim G, Kim W, Lim S, Lee H, Koo J, Nam K, Kim S, Park S, Choi J. In Vivo Induction of Regulatory T Cells Via CTLA-4 Signaling Peptide to Control Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis and Prevent Disease Relapse. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2004973. [PMID: 34306974 PMCID: PMC8292875 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202004973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Regulatory T cells play a key role in immune tolerance to self-antigens, thereby preventing autoimmune diseases. However, no drugs targeting Treg cells have been approved for clinical trials yet. Here, a chimeric peptide is generated by conjugation of the cytoplasmic domain of CTLA-4 (ctCTLA-4) with dNP2 for intracellular delivery, dNP2-ctCTLA-4, and evaluated Foxp3 expression during Th0, Th1, Treg, and Th17 differentiation dependent on TGF-β. The lysine motif of ctCTLA-4, not tyrosine motif, is required for Foxp3 expression for Treg induction and amelioration of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Transcriptome analysis reveals that dNP2-ctCTLA-4-treated T cells express Treg transcriptomic patterns with properties of suppressive functions. In addition, the molecular interaction between the lysine motif of ctCTLA-4 and PKC-η is critical for Foxp3 expression. Although both CTLA-4-Ig and dNP2-ctCTLA-4 treatment in vivo ameliorated EAE progression, only dNP2-ctCTLA-4 requires Treg cells for inhibition of disease progression and prevention of relapse. Furthermore, the CTLA-4 signaling peptide is able to induce human Tregs in vitro and in vivo as well as from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of multiple sclerosis patients. These results collectively suggest that the chimeric CTLA-4 signaling peptide can be used for successful induction of regulatory T cells in vivo to control autoimmune diseases, such as multiple sclerosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil‐Ran Kim
- Department of Life ScienceCollege of Natural SciencesHanyang UniversityResearch institute for Natural SciencesHanyang UniversitySeoul04763Republic of Korea
| | - Won‐Ju Kim
- Department of Life ScienceCollege of Natural SciencesHanyang UniversityResearch institute for Natural SciencesHanyang UniversitySeoul04763Republic of Korea
| | - Sangho Lim
- Hubrecht Institute for Developmental Biology and Stem Cell Research‐KNAW, University Medical Centre UtrechtUtrecht3584 CTNetherland
| | - Hong‐Gyun Lee
- Department of Life ScienceCollege of Natural SciencesHanyang UniversityResearch institute for Natural SciencesHanyang UniversitySeoul04763Republic of Korea
| | - Ja‐Hyun Koo
- Department of Life ScienceCollege of Natural SciencesHanyang UniversityResearch institute for Natural SciencesHanyang UniversitySeoul04763Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung‐Ho Nam
- Department of Life ScienceCollege of Natural SciencesHanyang UniversityResearch institute for Natural SciencesHanyang UniversitySeoul04763Republic of Korea
| | - Sung‐Min Kim
- Department of NeurologyCollege of MedicineSeoul National UniversitySeoul National University HospitalSeoul03080Republic of Korea
| | - Sung‐Dong Park
- Department of Life ScienceCollege of Natural SciencesHanyang UniversityResearch institute for Natural SciencesHanyang UniversitySeoul04763Republic of Korea
| | - Je‐Min Choi
- Department of Life ScienceCollege of Natural SciencesHanyang UniversityResearch institute for Natural SciencesResearch Institute for Convergence of Basic SciencesHanyang UniversitySeoul04763Republic of Korea
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Eosinophils and helminth infection: protective or pathogenic? Semin Immunopathol 2021; 43:363-381. [PMID: 34165616 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-021-00870-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the earliest descriptions of this enigmatic cell, eosinophils have been implicated in both protective and pathogenic immune responses to helminth infection. Nevertheless, despite substantial data from in vitro studies, human infections, and animal models, their precise role in helminth infection remains incompletely understood. This is due to a number of factors, including the heterogeneity of the many parasites included in the designation "helminth," the complexity and redundancy in the host immune response to helminths, and the pleiotropic functions of eosinophils themselves. This review examines the consequences of helminth-associated eosinophilia in the context of protective immunity, pathogenesis, and immunoregulation.
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Murdaca G, Greco M, Borro M, Gangemi S. Hygiene hypothesis and autoimmune diseases: A narrative review of clinical evidences and mechanisms. Autoimmun Rev 2021; 20:102845. [PMID: 33971339 DOI: 10.1016/j.autrev.2021.102845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Since the start of the "modern era", characterized by the increase in urbanization, a progressive attention to hygiene and autoimmune conditions has considerably grown. Although these diseases are often multifactorial, it was demonstrated that environment factors such as pollution, diet and lifestyles may play a crucial role together with genetic signature. Our research, based on the newest and most significant literature of this topic, highlights that the progressive depletion of microbes and parasites due to increased socioeconomic improvement, may lead to a derangement of immunoregulatory mechanisms. Moreover, special attention was given to the complex interplay between microbial agents, as gut microbiome, diet and vitamin D supplementation with the aim of identifying promising future therapeutic options. In conclusion, autoimmunity cannot be limited to hygiene-hypothesis, but from the point of view of precision medicine, this theory represents a fundamental element together with the study of genomics, the microbiome and proteomics, in order to understand the complex functioning of the immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Murdaca
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Genoa and IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy.
| | - Monica Greco
- Internal Medicine Department, San Paolo Hospital, 17100 Savona, Italy
| | - Matteo Borro
- Internal Medicine Department, San Paolo Hospital, 17100 Savona, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Gangemi
- School and Operative Unit of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy
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Jenkins TP, Pritchard DI, Tanasescu R, Telford G, Papaiakovou M, Scotti R, Cortés A, Constantinescu CS, Cantacessi C. Experimental infection with the hookworm, Necator americanus, is associated with stable gut microbial diversity in human volunteers with relapsing multiple sclerosis. BMC Biol 2021; 19:74. [PMID: 33853585 PMCID: PMC8048248 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-021-01003-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helminth-associated changes in gut microbiota composition have been hypothesised to contribute to the immune-suppressive properties of parasitic worms. Multiple sclerosis is an immune-mediated autoimmune disease of the central nervous system whose pathophysiology has been linked to imbalances in gut microbial communities. RESULTS In the present study, we investigated, for the first time, qualitative and quantitative changes in the faecal bacterial composition of human volunteers with remitting multiple sclerosis (RMS) prior to and following experimental infection with the human hookworm, Necator americanus (N+), and following anthelmintic treatment, and compared the findings with data obtained from a cohort of RMS patients subjected to placebo treatment (PBO). Bacterial 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing data revealed significantly decreased alpha diversity in the faecal microbiota of PBO compared to N+ subjects over the course of the trial; additionally, we observed significant differences in the abundances of several bacterial taxa with putative immune-modulatory functions between study cohorts. Parabacteroides were significantly expanded in the faecal microbiota of N+ individuals for which no clinical and/or radiological relapses were recorded at the end of the trial. CONCLUSIONS Overall, our data lend support to the hypothesis of a contributory role of parasite-associated alterations in gut microbial composition to the immune-modulatory properties of hookworm parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy P. Jenkins
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Present address: Department of Biotechnology and Biomedicine, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | | | - Radu Tanasescu
- Division of Clinical Neurology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Nottingham, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Gary Telford
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Marina Papaiakovou
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- National History Museum, London, UK
| | - Riccardo Scotti
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alba Cortés
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Departament de Farmàcia i Tecnologia Farmacèutica i Parasitologia, Facultat de Farmàcia, Universitat de València, València, Spain
| | - Cris S. Constantinescu
- Division of Clinical Neurology, School of Clinical Sciences, University of Nottingham, Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK
| | - Cinzia Cantacessi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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36
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Chopra S, Myers Z, Sekhon H, Dufour A. The Nerves to Conduct a Multiple Sclerosis Crime Investigation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2498. [PMID: 33801441 PMCID: PMC7958632 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052498] [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: 02/01/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory neurodegenerative autoimmune disease characterized by the aberrant infiltration of immune cells into the central nervous system (CNS) and by the loss of myelin. Sclerotic lesions and various inhibitory factors hamper the remyelination processes within the CNS. MS patients typically experience gradual cognitive and physical disabilities as the disease progresses. The etiology of MS is still unclear and emerging evidence suggests that microbiome composition could play a much more significant role in disease pathogenesis than was initially thought. Initially believed to be isolated to the gut microenvironment, we now know that the microbiome plays a much broader role in various tissues and is essential in the development of the immune system. Here, we present some of the unexpected roles that the microbiome plays in MS and discuss approaches for the development of next-generation treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameeksha Chopra
- McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; (S.C.); (Z.M.); (H.S.)
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Zoë Myers
- McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; (S.C.); (Z.M.); (H.S.)
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Henna Sekhon
- McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; (S.C.); (Z.M.); (H.S.)
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Antoine Dufour
- McCaig Institute for Bone and Joint Health, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada; (S.C.); (Z.M.); (H.S.)
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 4N1, Canada
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Douglas B, Oyesola O, Cooper MM, Posey A, Tait Wojno E, Giacomin PR, Herbert DR. Immune System Investigation Using Parasitic Helminths. Annu Rev Immunol 2021; 39:639-665. [PMID: 33646858 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-immunol-093019-122827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Coevolutionary adaptation between humans and helminths has developed a finely tuned balance between host immunity and chronic parasitism due to immunoregulation. Given that these reciprocal forces drive selection, experimental models of helminth infection are ideally suited for discovering how host protective immune responses adapt to the unique tissue niches inhabited by these large metazoan parasites. This review highlights the key discoveries in the immunology of helminth infection made over the last decade, from innate lymphoid cells to the emerging importance of neuroimmune connections. A particular emphasis is placed on the emerging areas within helminth immunology where the most growth is possible, including the advent of genetic manipulation of parasites to study immunology and the use of engineered T cells for therapeutic options. Lastly,we cover the status of human challenge trials with helminths as treatment for autoimmune disease, which taken together, stand to keep the study of parasitic worms at the forefront of immunology for years to come.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie Douglas
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA; ,
| | - Oyebola Oyesola
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA; ,
| | - Martha M Cooper
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia; ,
| | - Avery Posey
- Parker Institute for Cancer Immunotherapy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA; .,Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.,Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA
| | - Elia Tait Wojno
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington 98109, USA; ,
| | - Paul R Giacomin
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia; ,
| | - De'Broski R Herbert
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA; ,
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Yordanova IA, Ebner F, Schulz AR, Steinfelder S, Rosche B, Bolze A, Paul F, Mei HE, Hartmann S. The Worm-Specific Immune Response in Multiple Sclerosis Patients Receiving Controlled Trichuris suis Ova Immunotherapy. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:life11020101. [PMID: 33572978 PMCID: PMC7912101 DOI: 10.3390/life11020101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Considering their potent immunomodulatory properties, therapeutic applications of Trichuris suis ova (TSO) are studied as potential alternative treatment of autoimmune disorders like multiple sclerosis (MS), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Clinical phase 1 and 2 studies have demonstrated TSO treatment to be safe and well tolerated in MS patients, however, they reported only modest clinical efficacy. We therefore addressed the cellular and humoral immune responses directed against parasite antigens in individual MS patients receiving controlled TSO treatment (2500 TSO p.o. every 2 weeks for 12 month). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of MS patients treated with TSO (n = 5) or placebo (n = 6) were analyzed. A continuous increase of serum IgG and IgE antibodies specific for T. suis excretory/secretory antigens was observed up to 12 months post-treatment. This was consistent with mass cytometry analysis identifying an increase of activated HLA-DRhigh plasmablast frequencies in TSO-treated patients. While stable and comparable frequencies of total CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were detected in placebo and TSO-treated patients over time, we observed an increase of activated HLA-DR+CD4+ T cells in TSO-treated patients only. Frequencies of Gata3+ Th2 cells and Th1/Th2 ratios remained stable during TSO treatment, while Foxp3+ Treg frequencies varied greatly between individuals. Using a T. suis antigen-specific T cell expansion assay, we also detected patient-to-patient variation of antigen-specific T cell recall responses and cytokine production. In summary, MS patients receiving TSO treatment established a T. suis-specific T- and B-cell response, however, with varying degrees of T cell responses and cellular functionality across individuals, which might account for the overall miscellaneous clinical efficacy in the studied patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivet A. Yordanova
- Institute of Immunology, Center for Infection Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, D-14163 Berlin, Germany; (I.A.Y.); (F.E.)
| | - Friederike Ebner
- Institute of Immunology, Center for Infection Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, D-14163 Berlin, Germany; (I.A.Y.); (F.E.)
| | - Axel Ronald Schulz
- German Rheumatism Research Center Berlin (DRFZ), a Leibniz Institute, D-10117 Berlin, Germany; (A.R.S.); (H.E.M.)
| | | | - Berit Rosche
- Department of Neurology and Experimental Neurology, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, D-10117 Berlin, Germany;
- Clinical and Experimental Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, D-10117 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Anna Bolze
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, D-10117 Berlin, Germany;
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, D-10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Friedemann Paul
- Clinical and Experimental Multiple Sclerosis Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, D-10117 Berlin, Germany;
- NeuroCure Clinical Research Center, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, D-10117 Berlin, Germany;
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, Charité—Universitätsmedizin Berlin, D-10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Henrik E. Mei
- German Rheumatism Research Center Berlin (DRFZ), a Leibniz Institute, D-10117 Berlin, Germany; (A.R.S.); (H.E.M.)
| | - Susanne Hartmann
- Institute of Immunology, Center for Infection Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, D-14163 Berlin, Germany; (I.A.Y.); (F.E.)
- Correspondence:
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"Begging the Question"-Does Toxocara Infection/Exposure Associate with Multiple Sclerosis-Risk? Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9110938. [PMID: 33187271 PMCID: PMC7696196 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9110938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the cause of multiple sclerosis (MS) is unclear, infectious agents, including some parasitic roundworms (nematodes), have been proposed as possible risk factors or contributors. Here, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of published observational studies to evaluate whether there is a possible association between infection with, or exposure to, one or more members of the genus Toxocara (phylum Nematoda; superfamily Ascaridoidea) and MS. We undertook a search of public literature databases to identify relevant studies and then used a random-effects meta-analysis model to generate the pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). This search identified six of a total of 1371 articles that were relevant to the topic; these published studies involved totals of 473 MS patients and 647 control subjects. Anti-Toxocara IgG serum antibodies were detected in 62 MS patients and 37 controls, resulting in respective seroprevalences of 13.1% (95% CI: 8.2-20.3) and 4.8% (95% CI: 2.5-9.2), indicating an association (pooled OR, 3.01; 95% CI: 1.46-6.21). Because of the publication bias identified (six eligible studies), well-designed and -controlled studies are required in the future to rigorously test the hypothesis that Toxocara infection/exposure has an association with MS.
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Maple PAC, Gran B, Tanasescu R, Pritchard DI, Constantinescu CS. An Absence of Epstein-Barr Virus Reactivation and Associations with Disease Activity in People with Multiple Sclerosis Undergoing Therapeutic Hookworm Vaccination. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8030487. [PMID: 32872342 PMCID: PMC7564729 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030487] [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: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection is strongly associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Helminth infection can downregulate antiviral immune responses, potentially protecting against MS, but with a theoretical risk for reactivating latent EBV infection. Objective: To investigate parameters of EBV infection and their relationship with disease activity in people with MS (PwMS) therapeutically vaccinated with Necator americanus (hookworm). Methods: Sequential serum samples from 51 PwMS; 26 therapeutically infected (25 larvae) with N. americanus and 25 controls were tested for EBV virus capsid antigen (VCA) IgG and IgM, EBV nuclear antigen-1 (EBNA-1) IgG, and EBV early antigen (EA) IgG. Disease activity was assessed by periodic MRI. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: All PwMS were EBV VCA IgG and EBNA-1 IgG positive, and 35.2% were EBV EA IgG positive. EBV antibody levels were generally stable, and EBV reactivation in PwMS was not demonstrated by significant increases in IgG titre over 12 months. Disease activity was most frequent in PwMS possessing high levels of EBV VCA IgG (>600 units/mL) or EBNA-1 IgG (>150 units/mL); however, there was no association with hookworm treatment. Interpretation: Therapeutic hookworm vaccination was not associated with EBV reactivation. Multiple sclerosis disease activity was associated with high levels of EBV VCA IgG or EBNA-1 IgG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A. C. Maple
- Clinical Neurology Research Group, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham School of Medicine; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (B.G.); (R.T.); (C.S.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-115-8231443; Fax: +44-115-9709738
| | - Bruno Gran
- Clinical Neurology Research Group, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham School of Medicine; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (B.G.); (R.T.); (C.S.C.)
- Department of Neurology, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Radu Tanasescu
- Clinical Neurology Research Group, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham School of Medicine; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (B.G.); (R.T.); (C.S.C.)
- Department of Neurology, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, 021172 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Hospital, 021172 Bucharest, Romania
| | - David I. Pritchard
- Immune Regulation Research Group (D.P.), University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
| | - Cris S. Constantinescu
- Clinical Neurology Research Group, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham School of Medicine; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (B.G.); (R.T.); (C.S.C.)
- Department of Neurology, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
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