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Khan NU, Usman T, Sarwar MS, Ali H, Gohar A, Asif M, Rabbani F, Khan RU, Sultana N, Khan NA, Mobashar M, Shah AA, Wanapat M. The prevalence, risk factors analysis and evaluation of two diagnostic techniques for the detection of Cryptosporidium infection in diarrheic sheep from Pakistan. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269859. [PMID: 35802622 PMCID: PMC9269430 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Cryptosporidium spp. is recognized as an opportunistic zoonotic parasite that infects humans as well as wild and domestic animals. This enteric protozoan is a major cause of diarrhea in humans and animals and often result in death due to severe dehydration. The present study was designed to investigate the prevalence, identification of various risk factors and evaluation of sensitivity of the two diagnostic techniques for rapid and correct detection of Cryptosporidium infection in diarrheic sheep in Pakistan.
Methods
A total of 360 fecal samples were collected and processed for detection of Cryptosporidium infection after proper preservation. These samples were properly stained with modified Ziehl-Neelsen acid staining and then examined under simple microscope at 100x magnification for confirmation of Cryptosporidium oocysts. The same samples were again processed through simple PCR for confirmation of the Cryptosporidium spp.
Results
The age wise prevalence was detected through simple microscopy and PCR. We found highest prevalence at the age of ≤1 year followed by 1–2 years of age while the lowest prevalence was recorded at the age of ≥ 2–3 years of sheep and found significant difference between different ages (P<0.05). The sex wise prevalence showed the highest prevalence in male (♂) animals detected compared to female (♀). The overall prevalence was detected 27.08% and 18.80% through PCR and simple microscopy, respectively, and significant difference between two diagnostic techniques were observed (P<0.05). Considering the seasonality, the highest prevalence was recorded through simple microscopy in autumn, summer, and spring, while the lowest in winter. These results were confirmed through PCR.
Conclusion
It was concluded that molecular detection is the most efficient, specific and sensitive technique for detection of Cryptosporidium infection than simple microscopy. Moreover sheep is the major potential source of infection to other wild and domestic animals including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naimat Ullah Khan
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Tahir Usman
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Mian Saeed Sarwar
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Hazrat Ali
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Ali Gohar
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Asif
- Institute of Continuing Education and Extension, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Fazli Rabbani
- College of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Rifat Ullah Khan
- College of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Nighat Sultana
- Department of Biochemistry, Hazara University Mansehra, Mansehra, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Nazir Ahmad Khan
- Department of Animal Nutrition, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Mobashar
- Department of Animal Nutrition, The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Assar Ali Shah
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tropical Feed Resources Research and Development Center (TROFREC), Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
- * E-mail: (AAS); (MW)
| | - Metha Wanapat
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tropical Feed Resources Research and Development Center (TROFREC), Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
- * E-mail: (AAS); (MW)
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Mthethwa NP, Amoah ID, Reddy P, Bux F, Kumari S. Fluorescence and colorimetric LAMP-based real-time detection of human pathogenic Cryptosporidium spp. from environmental samples. Acta Trop 2022; 235:106606. [DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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3
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Development and evaluation of a molecular based protocol for detection and quantification of Cryptosporidium spp. In wastewater. Exp Parasitol 2022; 234:108216. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2022.108216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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4
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Genotyping of Cryptosporidium Species and Their Clinical Manifestations in Patients with Renal Transplantation and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection. J Pathog 2016; 2016:2623602. [PMID: 26981284 PMCID: PMC4769749 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2623602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2015] [Accepted: 12/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present study we aimed to determine (i) frequency of Cryptosporidium species among patients with renal transplantation (RT) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and (ii) relationship of the nature, severity, and duration of symptoms with different species and load of Cryptosporidium. Stool samples from 70 (42 RT and 28 HIV) and 140 immunocompromised patients with and without cryptosporidiosis by modified Kinyoun's staining were subjected to qPCR-melting curve analysis for identification of parasite species. qPCR detected one microscopically negative sample to be positive for cryptosporidiosis. C. hominis, C. parvum, and mixed infection were detected in 50/71 (70.4%), 19/71 (26.8%), and 2/71 (2.8%) patients, respectively. Patients with cryptosporidiosis had higher stool frequency (median, IQR: 4, 3–6/d versus 3, 2–4/d; P = 0.017) and watery stool (52/71 [73%] versus 64/139 [46%]; P = 0.003). Parasite load (median, IQR: Log10 6.37 (5.65–7.12), Log10 5.81 (4.26–6.65); P = 0.046) and nausea/vomiting (29/50 [58%] versus 5/19 [26%]; P = 0.032) were more frequent with C. hominis than with C. parvum infection. Thus, Cryptosporidium spp. (mainly C. hominis) is a common cause of diarrhoea in RT and HIV patients.
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Al-Mathal EM, Alsalem AA. Pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel is effective in a murine model of experimental Cryptosporidium parvum ultrastructural studies of the ileum. Exp Parasitol 2013; 134:482-94. [PMID: 23684569 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2013.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2012] [Revised: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The current treatments for cryptosporidiosis are ineffective, and there is an urgent need to search for more effective and safer alternatives. One such alternative may be treatments derived from natural resources. The pomegranate peel has been used effectively in traditional medicine to cure diarrhea and dysentery. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a Punica granatum (pomegranate) peel suspension as a treatment for Cryptosporidium parvum infection. In this study, the effects of this treatment on the ultrastructure of both the intestinal epithelial layer of infected nursling mice and the parasite were observed with a transmission electron microscope. The histological study focused on the examination of the microvilli, columnar epithelium, goblet cells, lamina propria, and crypts of Lieberkuhn. Examination of the ileums of infected mice that received the pomegranate peel suspension demonstrated that the general structure of the ileal tissue of these mice was similar to that of the control group. In the infected mice treated with the suspension, but not the infected/untreated mice, there was an improvement in all ultrastructure aspects at 28days post-inoculation. The study of the ultrastructure of the parasite (C. parvum) in mice treated with the suspension showed that there was decomposition in the parasite to the extent that in some cases we were unable to identify the stage of the parasite due to the severe degeneration. Significant decomposition of the nutrition organ was also observed. Additionally, microgamonte and macrogamonte were not observed in the suspension-treated group, explaining the disappearance of the sexual phases of the parasite in the lumens of this group. In all, this examination demonstrated the restoration of the normal structures of villi and the disappearance of acute symptoms in the suspension-treated mice and showed that the suspension directly affected the parasite at various stages of its development and led to its decomposition and death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebtisam M Al-Mathal
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Dammam, Dammam 31311, Saudi Arabia.
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6
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Al-Mathal EM, Alsalem AM. Pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel is effective in a murine model of experimental Cryptosporidium parvum. Exp Parasitol 2012; 131:350-7. [PMID: 22580265 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2012.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2011] [Revised: 04/12/2012] [Accepted: 04/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis, a major health issue for neonatal calves, is caused by the parasite Cryptosporidium parvum, which is highly resistant to drug treatments. To date, many anti-parasitic drugs have been tested, but only a few have been shown to be partially effective in treating cryptosporidiosis. Previous studies have indicated that pomegranate (Punica granatum) possesses anti-plasmodium, anti-cestode, and anti-nematode activities. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of P. granatum peel on suckling mice infected with experimental C. parvum. At 4days of age, 72 neonatal albino mice were randomly divided into five groups: G1: healthy controls, G2: infected/untreated controls, G3: uninfected/distilled water-treated, G4: uninfected/P. granatum peel-treated, and G5: infected/P. granatum peel-treated. Mice were experimentally-infected by oral administration of 1×10(3)C. parvum oocysts per animal. On day 7 post-inoculation (pi), treated mice received an aqueous suspension of P. granatum peel orally (3g/kg body weight). The presence of diarrhea, oocyst shedding, and weight gain/loss, and the histopathology of ileal sections were examined. Infected mice treated with the P. granatum peel suspension showed improvement in all parameters examined. Additionally, these mice did not exhibit any clinical symptoms and no deaths occurred. Oocyst shedding was very significantly reduced in the P. granatum-treated mice by day 14 pi (P<.05), and was completely eliminated by day 28 pi. The mean weight gain of the P. granatum-treated mice was significantly higher than that of the infected/untreated controls throughout the study (P<.01). Histopathological analysis of ileal sections further supported the clinical and parasitological findings. The histological architecture of villi from the P. granatum-treated mice on day 14 pi showed visible improvement in comparison with the infected/untreated controls, including renewed brush borders, reduced numbers of C. parvum trophozoites, and reduced lymphatic infiltration. On day 28 pi, tissues of the P. granatum-treated mice were very similar to those of healthy control mice. These results suggest that P. granatum peel is a promising anti-coccidial therapeutic treatment that lacks negative side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ebtisam M Al-Mathal
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
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Richter B, Nedorost N, Maderner A, Weissenböck H. Detection of Cryptosporidium species in feces or gastric contents from snakes and lizards as determined by polymerase chain reaction analysis and partial sequencing of the 18S ribosomal RNA gene. J Vet Diagn Invest 2012; 23:430-5. [PMID: 21908271 DOI: 10.1177/1040638711403415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is a well-known gastrointestinal disease of snakes and lizards. In the current study, 672 samples (feces and/or gastric contents or regurgitated food items) of various snakes and lizards were examined for the presence of cryptosporidia by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay targeting a part of the 18S ribosomal RNA gene. A consecutive sequencing reaction was used to identify the cryptosporidian species present in PCR-positive samples. Cryptosporidium varanii (saurophilum) was detected in 17 out of 106 (16%) samples from corn snakes (Pantherophis guttatus) and in 32 out of 462 (7%) samples from leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius). Cryptosporidium serpentis was found in 8 out of 462 (2%) leopard gecko samples, but in no other reptile. The Cryptosporidium sp. "lizard genotype" was present in 1 leopard gecko sample, and 1 sample from a corn snake showed a single nucleotide mismatch to this genotype. Pseudoparasitic cryptosporidian species were identified in 5 out of 174 (3%) ophidian samples, but not in lizards. Other sequences did not show complete similarity to previously published Cryptosporidium sequences. The results stress the importance for diagnostic methods to be specific for Cryptosporidium species especially in snakes and show a relatively high prevalence of C. varanii in leopard geckos and corn snakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Richter
- Institute of Pathology and Forensic Veterinary Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinaerplatz 1, 1210 Vienna, Austria.
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8
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Theron J, Eugene Cloete T, de Kwaadsteniet M. Current molecular and emerging nanobiotechnology approaches for the detection of microbial pathogens. Crit Rev Microbiol 2010; 36:318-39. [DOI: 10.3109/1040841x.2010.489892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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9
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Yu JR, Lee SU, Park WY. Comparative sensitivity of PCR primer sets for detection of Cryptosporidium parvum. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2009; 47:293-7. [PMID: 19724705 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2009.47.3.293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2009] [Revised: 04/22/2009] [Accepted: 05/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Improved methods for detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts in environmental and clinical samples are urgently needed to improve detection of cryptosporidiosis. We compared the sensitivity of 7 PCR primer sets for detection of Cryptosporidium parvum. Each target gene was amplified by PCR or nested PCR with serially diluted DNA extracted from purified C. parvum oocysts. The target genes included Cryptosporidium oocyst wall protein (COWP), small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA), and random amplified polymorphic DNA. The detection limit of the PCR method ranged from 10(3) to 10(4) oocysts, and the nested PCR method was able to detect 10(0) to 10(2) oocysts. A second-round amplification of target genes showed that the nested primer set specific for the COWP gene proved to be the most sensitive one compared to the other primer sets tested in this study and would therefore be useful for the detection of C. parvum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Ran Yu
- Department of Environmental and Tropical Medicine, Konkuk University, School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
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10
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Lindergard G, Nydam DV, Wade SE, Schaaf SL, Mohammed HO. The sensitivity of PCR detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts in fecal samples using two DNA extraction methods. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 7:147-53. [PMID: 15068384 DOI: 10.1007/bf03260031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The implementation of cost-effective intervention strategies for zoonotic protozoa relies on the development of sensitive and accurate diagnostic methods. We carried out a study to evaluate the accuracy of a PCR method for the detection of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in fecal samples from cattle. METHODS Fecal samples were spiked with different numbers of oocysts and the limit of detection of the method was determined. Two methods of DNA extraction were assessed: glass beads and freeze-thawing using liquid nitrogen. A nested PCR approach was developed targeting the Cryptosporidium SSU rRNA and TRAP-C2 genes. Agreement between the diagnosis of Cryptosporidium spp. at the SSU rRNA and TRAP-C2 loci was quantified using the kappa-coefficient. RESULTS Compared with the freeze-thawing method, the glass beads method was found to be a better way of extracting DNA from Cryptosporidium oocysts (sensitivities were 83 and 100%, respectively). The limits of detection for glass beads and freeze-thaw were low, 1 and 10 oocyst/g fecal samples, respectively. Forty-six percent of the field samples previously classified as negative for Cryptosporidium parvum by the flotation-concentration and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods showed DNA with the PCR protocol. CONCLUSION Primers for SSU rRNA are more successful in producing an amplification than primers for the TRAP-C2 gene which makes the former PCR protocol the approach of choice for detecting Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts in field samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Lindergard
- Section of Epidemiology, Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Science, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
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11
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Wang Z, Vora GJ, Stenger DA. Detection and genotyping of Entamoeba histolytica, Entamoeba dispar, Giardia lamblia, and Cryptosporidium parvum by oligonucleotide microarray. J Clin Microbiol 2004; 42:3262-71. [PMID: 15243091 PMCID: PMC446233 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.42.7.3262-3271.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia, and Cryptosporidium parvum are the most frequently identified protozoan parasites causing waterborne disease outbreaks. The morbidity and mortality associated with these intestinal parasitic infections warrant the development of rapid and accurate detection and genotyping methods to aid public health efforts aimed at preventing and controlling outbreaks. In this study, we describe the development of an oligonucleotide microarray capable of detecting and discriminating between E. histolytica, Entamoeba dispar, G. lamblia assemblages A and B, and C. parvum types 1 and 2 in a single assay. Unique hybridization patterns for each selected protozoan were generated by amplifying six to eight diagnostic sequences/organism by multiplex PCR; fluorescent labeling of the amplicons via primer extension; and subsequent hybridization to a set of genus-, species-, and subtype-specific covalently immobilized oligonucleotide probes. The profile-based specificity of this methodology not only permitted for the unequivocal identification of the six targeted species and subtypes, but also demonstrated its potential in identifying related species such as Cryptosporidium meleagridis and Cryptosporidium muris. In addition, sensitivity assays demonstrated lower detection limits of five trophozoites of G. lamblia. Taken together, the specificity and sensitivity of the microarray-based approach suggest that this methodology may provide a promising tool to detect and genotype protozoa from clinical and environmental samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wang
- Center for Bio/Molecular Science & Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory, 4555 Overlook Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20375, USA.
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WU ZHILIANG, NAGANO ISAO, BOONMARS THIDARUT, TAKAHASHI YUZO. FURTHER EVIDENCE THAT GENOTYPE I AND GENOTYPE II OF CRYPTOSPORIDIUM PARVUM ARE DISTINCT. Trop Med Health 2004. [DOI: 10.2149/tmh.32.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
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Dimicoli S, Bensoussan D, Latger-Cannard V, Straczek J, Antunes L, Mainard L, Dao A, Barbe F, Araujo C, Clément L, Feugier P, Lecompte T, Stoltz JF, Bordigoni P. Complete recovery from Cryptosporidium parvum infection with gastroenteritis and sclerosing cholangitis after successful bone marrow transplantation in two brothers with X-linked hyper-IgM syndrome. Bone Marrow Transplant 2003; 32:733-7. [PMID: 13130323 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bmt.1704211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
We describe two brothers who suffered from hyper-IgM syndrome (HIGM1) with similar clinical features: recurrent infections, especially cryptosporidium gastroenteritis with cholangitis. Their activated T cells did not express CD40L. Nucleotide sequencing revealed a mutation in both boys with respect to intron 4 and exon 5 boundaries of the CD40L gene in Xq26. They underwent successful bone marrow transplantation (BMT) from HLA-geno-identical siblings. The Cryptosporidium infection and cholangitis resolved thereafter. At 6 months after BMT, expression of CD40L on activated T lymphocytes was normal. After 1 year, both boys are well, and immune reconstitution has improved. Based on these two successful experiences, BMT with a genoidentical sibling seems a reasonable therapeutic approach for HIGM1, if Cryptosporidium infection occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Dimicoli
- Unité de Thérapie Cellulaire et Tissus, CHU de Nancy, Allée du Morvan, 54511 Vandoeuvre les Nancy, France
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Wu Z, Nagano I, Boonmars T, Nakada T, Takahashi Y. Intraspecies polymorphism of Cryptosporidium parvum revealed by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) and RFLP-single-strand conformational polymorphism analyses. Appl Environ Microbiol 2003; 69:4720-6. [PMID: 12902263 PMCID: PMC169079 DOI: 10.1128/aem.69.8.4720-4726.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A glycoprotein (Cpgp40/15)-encoding gene of Cryptosporidium parvum was analyzed to reveal intraspecies polymorphism within C. parvum isolates. Forty-one isolates were collected from different geographical origins (Japan, Italy, and Nepal) and hosts (humans, calves, and a goat). These isolates were characterized by means of DNA sequencing, PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), and RFLP-single-strand conformational polymorphism (RFLP-SSCP) analyses of the gene for Cpgp40/15. The sequence analysis indicated that there was DNA polymorphism between genotype I and II, as well as within genotype I, isolates. The DNA and amino acid sequence identities between genotypes I and II differed, depending on the isolates, ranging from 73.3 to 82.9% and 62.4 to 80.1%, respectively. Those among genotype I isolates differed, depending on the isolates, ranging from 69.0 to 85.4% and 54.8 to 79.2%, respectively. Because of the high resolution generated by PCR-RFLP and RFLP-SSCP, the isolates of genotype I could be subtyped as genotypes Ia1, Ia2, Ib, and Ie. The isolates of genotype II could be subtyped as genotypes IIa, IIb, and IIc. The isolates from calves, a goat, and one Japanese human were identified as genotype II. Within genotype II, the isolates from Japan were identified as genotype IIa, those from calves in Italy were identified as genotype IIb, and the goat isolate was identified as genotype IIc. All of the genotype I isolates were from humans. The Japanese isolate (code no. HJ3) and all of the Nepalese isolates were identified as genotypes Ia1 and Ia2, respectively. The Italian isolates were identified as genotype Ib, and the Japanese isolate (code no. HJ2) was identified as genotype Ie. Thus, the PCR-RFLP-SSCP analysis of this glycoprotein Cpgp40/15 gene generated a high resolution that has not been achieved by previous methods of genotypic differentiation of C. parvum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiliang Wu
- Department of Parasitology, Gifu University School of Medicine, Tsukasa 40, Gifu 500-8705, Japan
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15
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Abstract
The objective of this study was to compare a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay and a monoclonal antibody-based immunofluorescence assay (IFA) for detection of Cryptosporidium parvum in cat feces. Eight C. parvum-naive DSH cats were orally inoculated with 1 x 10(6) oocysts of a C. parvum human isolate. Fecal samples were collected before inoculation, daily for the next 30 days, and twice weekly until day 85. Methylprednisolone acetate was administered at 20 mg/kg i.m. on days 85, 92, and 99. From days 86 to 115, feces were collected daily and then up to twice weekly until day 126. Immunofluorescence assay was performed after collection of the samples, and then the samples were frozen at -70 C until assayed by PCR. Cryptosporidium parvum was detected by PCR in 101 of 353 samples and by IFA in 52 of 353 samples: 27 samples were PCR positive, IFA positive; 74 samples were PCR positive, IFA negative; 25 samples were PCR negative, IFA positive; and 227 samples were PCR negative, IFA negative. The percentage of concordance between IFA and PCR was 72%. Results of this study suggest that this PCR assay is more sensitive than IFA for detection of C. parvum in cat feces.
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Affiliation(s)
- A V Scorza
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523, USA.
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Nakada T, Nagano I, Wu Z, Takahashi Y. Molecular cloning and expression of the full-length tropomyosin gene from Trichinella spiralis. J Helminthol 2003; 77:57-63. [PMID: 12590666 DOI: 10.1079/joh2002153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
A clone, designated as TsTM, was selected from the cDNA library of newborn larvae (NBL) of Trichinella spiralis through immunoscreening against infected sera. The clone contained a cDNA transcript of 855 bp in length with a single open reading frame, which encoded 285-amino acids (33 kDa in the estimated molecular weight). A sequence analysis revealed that the clone TsTM encoded the full-length of tropomyosin gene. The phylogenetic analysis of the tropomyosin gene was in good agreement with the classical taxonomical position of T. spiralis. The fusion proteins encoded by the clone TsTM were produced in an Escherichia coli expression system and affinity purified, and the antibody was raised against the protein for the following studies. The antibody against the fusion protein positively bound to the hypodermal muscle layer in immunolocalization analysis, and the 35 kDa band in crude extracts of muscle larvae but not in excretory and secretory (ES) products on Western blots. The antigenicity of the clone TsTM was recognized by host mice but exhibited little species specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Nakada
- Department of Parasitology, Gifu University School of Medicine, Tsukasa 40, 500-8705, Japan
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17
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Theron J, Cloete TE. Emerging waterborne infections: contributing factors, agents, and detection tools. Crit Rev Microbiol 2002; 28:1-26. [PMID: 12003038 DOI: 10.1080/1040-840291046669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Because microorganisms are easily dispersed, display physiological diversity, and tolerate extreme conditions, they are ubiquitous and may contaminate and grow in water. The presence of waterborne enteric pathogens (bacteria, viruses, and protozoa) in domestic water supplies represents a potentially significant human health risk. Even though major outbreaks of waterborne disease are comparatively rare, there is substantial evidence that human enteric pathogens that are frequently present in domestic water supplies are responsible for low-level incidence of waterborne microbial disease. Although these diseases are rarely debilitating to healthy adults for more than a few hours to a few days, enteric pathogens can cause severe illness, even death, for young children, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems. As the epidemiology of waterborne diseases is changing, there is a growing global public health concern about new and reemerging infectious diseases that are occurring through a complex interaction of social, economic, evolutionary, and ecological factors. New microbial pathogens have emerged, and some have spread worldwide. Alternative testing strategies for waterborne diseases should significantly improve the ability to detect and control the causative pathogenic agents. In this article, we provide an overview of the current state of knowledge of waterborne microbial pathogens, their detection, and the future of new methods in controlling these infectious agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Theron
- Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, University of Pretoria, South Africa
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Abe N, Kimata I, Iseki M. Identification of genotypes of Cryptosporidium parvum isolates from a patient and a dog in Japan. J Vet Med Sci 2002; 64:165-8. [PMID: 11913556 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.64.165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum) is recognized as a significant pathogen in humans and animals, primarily as a cause of diarrheal illness. Recent genetic and biological studies indicate that C. parvum is not a single species but composed of genetically distinct multiple genotypes. Thus, it is valuable to distinguish between genotypes in the epidemiology of Cryptosporidium infection in humans and animals. Although C. parvum has been detected in humans and animals in Japan, the genotype of isolates remains unclear because identification has been performed only by conventional microscopy. We report herein the genotypes of C. parvum isolates distinguished by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based diagnostic method. C. parvum isolates, originally obtained from a patient and a pet dog, were found to have cattle and dog genotypes, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niichiro Abe
- Department of Microbiology, Osaka City Institute of Public Health and Environmental Sciences, Japan
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Chen W, Chadwick V, Tie A, Harp J. Cryptosporidium parvum in intestinal mucosal biopsies from patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Am J Gastroenterol 2001; 96:3463-4. [PMID: 11774987 DOI: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2001.05359.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Abstract
Over the past 15 years, there has been a dramatic evolution in molecular approaches to study parasites and parasitic diseases. Many of these advancements have been brought about through the development of new applications of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Enhancements in sensitivity that can be achieved using PCR now permit scientists to investigate changes at the level of a single cell, far below what is often needed for parasite-derived applications. PCR has had a substantial impact on advances made in the areas of parasite systematics and epidemiology, immunology and host-parasite interactions, recombinant DNA vaccine development and most recently, the analysis of whole genomes either through directly sequencing the DNA, the analysis of expressed sequence tags (ESTs) or through the rapidly growing field of functional genomics. This paper, however, focuses on the application of PCR methodology to parasite detection and differentiation, and the diagnosis of disease. Specific attention is given to advances provided by multiplex PCR, fluorescence-based "real-time" PCR, and the utilization of PCR as a quantitative technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- D S Zarlenga
- Immunology and Disease Resistance Laboratory, US Department of Agriculture (USDA), ARS, ANRI, Building 1180, BARC-East, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA.
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Fayer R, Morgan U, Upton SJ. Epidemiology of Cryptosporidium: transmission, detection and identification. Int J Parasitol 2000; 30:1305-22. [PMID: 11113257 DOI: 10.1016/s0020-7519(00)00135-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 464] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
There are 10 valid species of Cryptosporidium and perhaps other cryptic species hidden under the umbrella of Cryptosporidium parvum. The oocyst stage is of primary importance for the dispersal, survival, and infectivity of the parasite and is of major importance for detection and identification. Because most oocysts measure 4-6 microm, appear nearly spherical, and have obscure internal structures, there are few or no morphometric features to differentiate species and in vitro cultivation does not provide differential data as for bacteria. Consequently, we rely on a combination of data from three tools: morphometrics, molecular techniques, and host specificity. Of 152 species of mammals reported to be infected with C. parvum or an indistinguishable organism, very few oocysts have ever been examined using more than one of these tools. This paper reviews the valid species of Cryptosporidium, their hosts and morphometrics; the reported hosts for the human pathogen, C. parvum; the mechanisms of transmission; the drinking water, recreational water, and food-borne outbreaks resulting from infection with C. parvum; and the microscopic, immunological, and molecular methods used to detect and identify species and genotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Fayer
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Institute, LPSI, 10300 Baltimore Avenue, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA.
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