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Shukla M, Rathi K, Hassam M, Yadav DK, Karnatak M, Rawat V, Verma VP. An overview on the antimalarial activity of 1,2,4-trioxanes, 1,2,4-trioxolanes and 1,2,4,5-tetraoxanes. Med Res Rev 2024; 44:66-137. [PMID: 37222435 DOI: 10.1002/med.21979] [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: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
The demand for novel, fast-acting, and effective antimalarial medications is increasing exponentially. Multidrug resistant forms of malarial parasites, which are rapidly spreading, pose a serious threat to global health. Drug resistance has been addressed using a variety of strategies, such as targeted therapies, the hybrid drug idea, the development of advanced analogues of pre-existing drugs, and the hybrid model of resistant strains control mechanisms. Additionally, the demand for discovering new potent drugs grows due to the prolonged life cycle of conventional therapy brought on by the emergence of resistant strains and ongoing changes in existing therapies. The 1,2,4-trioxane ring system in artemisinin (ART) is the most significant endoperoxide structural scaffold and is thought to be the key pharmacophoric moiety required for the pharmacodynamic potential of endoperoxide-based antimalarials. Several derivatives of artemisinin have also been found as potential treatments for multidrug-resistant strain in this area. Many 1,2,4-trioxanes, 1,2,4-trioxolanes, and 1,2,4,5-tetraoxanes derivatives have been synthesised as a result, and many of these have shown promise antimalarial activity both in vivo and in vitro against Plasmodium parasites. As a consequence, efforts to develop a functionally straight-forward, less expensive, and vastly more effective synthetic pathway to trioxanes continue. This study aims to give a thorough examination of the biological properties and mode of action of endoperoxide compounds derived from 1,2,4-trioxane-based functional scaffolds. The present system of 1,2,4-trioxane, 1,2,4-trioxolane, and 1,2,4,5-tetraoxane compounds and dimers with potentially antimalarial activity will be highlighted in this systematic review (January 1963-December 2022).
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Shukla
- Department of Chemistry, Banasthali University, Newai, Rajasthan, India
| | - Komal Rathi
- Department of Chemistry, Banasthali University, Newai, Rajasthan, India
| | - Mohammad Hassam
- Department of Chemistry, Chemveda Life Sciences Pvt Ltd, Hyderabad, Telangana, India
| | - Dinesh Kumar Yadav
- Department of Chemistry, Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Manvika Karnatak
- Department of Chemistry, Banasthali University, Newai, Rajasthan, India
| | - Varun Rawat
- School of Chemistry, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Ved Prakash Verma
- Department of Chemistry, Banasthali University, Newai, Rajasthan, India
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2
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Diao Y, Yao Y, El-Ashram S, Bian M. Egress Regulatory Factors: How Toxoplasma Exits from Infected Cells? Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12050679. [PMID: 37242349 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12050679] [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: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligatory intracellular protozoan in the family Apicomplexa. It infects almost one-third of the world's population and causes toxoplasmosis, a prevalent disease. The parasite's egress from infected cells is a key step in the pathology caused by T. gondii. Moreover, T. gondii's continuous infection relies heavily on its capacity to migrate from one cell to another. Many pathways are involved in T. gondii egress. Individual routes may be modified to respond to various environmental stimuli, and many paths can converge. Regardless of the stimuli, the relevance of Ca2+ as a second messenger in transducing these signals, and the convergence of various signaling pathways in the control of motility and, ultimately, egress, is well recognized. This review attempts to outline intra- and extra-parasitic regulators that mediate T. gondii egress, and provides insight into potential clinical interventions and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujie Diao
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Yong Yao
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
| | - Saeed El-Ashram
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, 18 Jiangwan Street, Foshan 528231, China
- Faculty of Science, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr El-Sheikh 33516, Egypt
| | - Maohong Bian
- Department of Blood Transfusion, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230032, China
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3
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Santos BMD, Przyborski JM, Garcia CRS. Changes in K + Concentration as a Signaling Mechanism in the Apicomplexa Parasites Plasmodium and Toxoplasma. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087276. [PMID: 37108438 PMCID: PMC10138558 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087276] [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: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
During their life cycle, apicomplexan parasites pass through different microenvironments and encounter a range of ion concentrations. The discovery that the GPCR-like SR25 in Plasmodium falciparum is activated by a shift in potassium concentration indicates that the parasite can take advantage of its development by sensing different ionic concentrations in the external milieu. This pathway involves the activation of phospholipase C and an increase in cytosolic calcium. In the present report, we summarize the information available in the literature regarding the role of potassium ions during parasite development. A deeper understanding of the mechanisms that allow the parasite to cope with ionic potassium changes contributes to our knowledge about the cell cycle of Plasmodium spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedito M Dos Santos
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Jude M Przyborski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Interdisciplinary Research Center, Justus-Liebig University, 35390 Gießen, Germany
| | - Célia R S Garcia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Interdisciplinary Research Center, Justus-Liebig University, 35390 Gießen, Germany
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4
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Müller J, Hemphill A. Toxoplasma gondii infection: novel emerging therapeutic targets. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:293-304. [PMID: 37212443 PMCID: PMC10330558 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2217353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Toxoplasmosis constitutes a challenge for public health, animal production, and welfare. So far, only a limited panel of drugs has been marketed for clinical applications. In addition to classical screening, the investigation of unique targets of the parasite may lead to the identification of novel drugs. AREAS COVERED Herein, the authors describe the methodology to identify novel drug targets in Toxoplasma gondii and review the literature with a focus on the last two decades. EXPERT OPINION Over the last two decades, the investigation of essential proteins of T. gondii as potential drug targets has fostered the hope of identifying novel compounds for the treatment of toxoplasmosis. Despite good efficacies in vitro, only a few classes of these compounds are effective in suitable rodent models, and none has cleared the hurdle to applications in humans. This shows that target-based drug discovery is in no way better than classical screening approaches. In both cases, off-target effects and adverse side effects in the hosts must be considered. Proteomics-driven analyses of parasite- and host-derived proteins that physically bind drug candidates may constitute a suitable tool to characterize drug targets, irrespectively of the drug discovery methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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5
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Wang XC, Li TT, Elsheikha HM, Zheng XN, Zhao DY, Wang JL, Wang M, Zhu XQ. Effect of deleting four Toxoplasma gondii calcium-binding EGF domain-containing proteins on parasite replication and virulence. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:441-450. [PMID: 36471092 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07739-6] [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: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Several calcium-binding proteins including calcium-dependent protein kinases play important roles in several facets of the intracellular infection cycle of the apicomplexan protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. However, the role of the calcium-binding epidermal growth factor (EGF) domain-containing proteins (CBDPs) remains poorly understood. In this study, we examined the functions of four CBDP genes in T. gondii RH strain of type I by generating knock-out strains using CRISPR-Cas9 system. We investigated the ability of mutant strains deficient in CBDP1, CBDP2, CBDP3, or CBDP4 to form plaques, replicate intracellularly, and egress from the host cells. The results showed that no definite differences between any of these four CBDP mutant strains and the wild-type strain in terms of their ability to form plaques, intracellular replication, and egress. Additionally, CBDP mutants did not exhibit any significant attenuated virulence compared to the wild-type strain in mice. The expression profiles of CBDP2-4 genes were conserved among T. gondii strains of different genotypes, life cycle stages, and developmental forms. Whether other CBDP genes play any roles in the pathogenicity of T. gondii strains of different genotypes remains to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Cheng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting-Ting Li
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Urban Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610213, People's Republic of China
| | - Hany M Elsheikha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Xiao-Nan Zheng
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province, 030801, People's Republic of China
| | - Dan-Yu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin-Lei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Urban Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610213, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China
- Institute of Urban Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, 610213, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu Province, 730046, People's Republic of China.
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province, 030801, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Higher Education of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, People's Republic of China.
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6
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Fu Y, Brown KM, Jones NG, Moreno SNJ, Sibley LD. Toxoplasma bradyzoites exhibit physiological plasticity of calcium and energy stores controlling motility and egress. eLife 2021; 10:e73011. [PMID: 34860156 PMCID: PMC8683080 DOI: 10.7554/elife.73011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii has evolved different developmental stages for disseminating during acute infection (i.e., tachyzoites) and establishing chronic infection (i.e., bradyzoites). Calcium ion (Ca2+) signaling tightly regulates the lytic cycle of tachyzoites by controlling microneme secretion and motility to drive egress and cell invasion. However, the roles of Ca2+ signaling pathways in bradyzoites remain largely unexplored. Here, we show that Ca2+ responses are highly restricted in bradyzoites and that they fail to egress in response to agonists. Development of dual-reporter parasites revealed dampened Ca2+ responses and minimal microneme secretion by bradyzoites induced in vitro or harvested from infected mice and tested ex vivo. Ratiometric Ca2+ imaging demonstrated lower Ca2+ basal levels, reduced magnitude, and slower Ca2+ kinetics in bradyzoites compared with tachyzoites stimulated with agonists. Diminished responses in bradyzoites were associated with downregulation of Ca2+-ATPases involved in intracellular Ca2+ storage in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and acidocalcisomes. Once liberated from cysts by trypsin digestion, bradyzoites incubated in glucose plus Ca2+ rapidly restored their intracellular Ca2+ and ATP stores, leading to enhanced gliding. Collectively, our findings indicate that intracellular bradyzoites exhibit dampened Ca2+ signaling and lower energy levels that restrict egress, and yet upon release they rapidly respond to changes in the environment to regain motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Fu
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis, School of MedicineSt LouisUnited States
| | - Kevin M Brown
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis, School of MedicineSt LouisUnited States
| | - Nathaniel G Jones
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis, School of MedicineSt LouisUnited States
| | - Silvia NJ Moreno
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases and Department of Cellular Biology, University of GeorgiaAthensUnited States
| | - L David Sibley
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis, School of MedicineSt LouisUnited States
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7
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de Oliveira LS, Alborghetti MR, Carneiro RG, Bastos IMD, Amino R, Grellier P, Charneau S. Calcium in the Backstage of Malaria Parasite Biology. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:708834. [PMID: 34395314 PMCID: PMC8355824 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.708834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The calcium ion (Ca2+) is a ubiquitous second messenger involved in key biological processes in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. In Plasmodium species, Ca2+ signaling plays a central role in the parasite life cycle. It has been associated with parasite development, fertilization, locomotion, and host cell infection. Despite the lack of a canonical inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate receptor gene in the Plasmodium genome, pharmacological evidence indicates that inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate triggers Ca2+ mobilization from the endoplasmic reticulum. Other structures such as acidocalcisomes, food vacuole and mitochondria are proposed to act as supplementary intracellular Ca2+ reservoirs. Several Ca2+-binding proteins (CaBPs) trigger downstream signaling. Other proteins with no EF-hand motifs, but apparently involved with CaBPs, are depicted as playing an important role in the erythrocyte invasion and egress. It is also proposed that a cross-talk among kinases, which are not members of the family of Ca2+-dependent protein kinases, such as protein kinases G, A and B, play additional roles mediated indirectly by Ca2+ regulation. This statement may be extended for proteins directly related to invasion or egress, such as SUB1, ERC, IMC1I, IMC1g, GAP45 and EBA175. In this review, we update our understanding of aspects of Ca2+-mediated signaling correlated to the developmental stages of the malaria parasite life cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas Silva de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Protein Chemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
- UMR 7245 MCAM, Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes, Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Équipe Parasites et Protistes Libres, Paris, France
| | - Marcos Rodrigo Alborghetti
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Protein Chemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
- Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory, Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Renata Garcia Carneiro
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Protein Chemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Izabela Marques Dourado Bastos
- Laboratory of Host-Pathogen Interaction, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Rogerio Amino
- Unité Infection et Immunité Paludéennes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Grellier
- UMR 7245 MCAM, Molécules de Communication et Adaptation des Micro-organismes, Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, CNRS, Équipe Parasites et Protistes Libres, Paris, France
| | - Sébastien Charneau
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Protein Chemistry, Department of Cell Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasilia, Brazil
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8
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Venestatin from parasitic helminths interferes with receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE)-mediated immune responses to promote larval migration. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1009649. [PMID: 34081755 PMCID: PMC8205142 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic helminths can reside in humans owing to their ability to disrupt host protective immunity. Receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), which is highly expressed in host skin, mediates inflammatory responses by regulating the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and endothelial adhesion molecules. In this study, we evaluated the effects of venestatin, an EF-hand Ca2+-binding protein secreted by the parasitic helminth Strongyloides venezuelensis, on RAGE activity and immune responses. Our results demonstrated that venestatin bound to RAGE and downregulated the host immune response. Recombinant venestatin predominantly bound to the RAGE C1 domain in a Ca2+-dependent manner. Recombinant venestatin effectively alleviated RAGE-mediated inflammation, including footpad edema in mice, and pneumonia induced by an exogenous RAGE ligand. Infection experiments using S. venezuelensis larvae and venestatin silencing via RNA interference revealed that endogenous venestatin promoted larval migration from the skin to the lungs in a RAGE-dependent manner. Moreover, endogenous venestatin suppressed macrophage and neutrophil accumulation around larvae. Although the invasion of larvae upregulated the abundance of RAGE ligands in host skin tissues, mRNA expression levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, cyclooxygenase-2, endothelial adhesion molecules vascular cell adhesion protein-1, intracellular adhesion molecule-1, and E-selectin were suppressed by endogenous venestatin. Taken together, our results indicate that venestatin suppressed RAGE-mediated immune responses in host skin induced by helminthic infection, thereby promoting larval migration. The anti-inflammatory mechanism of venestatin may be targeted for the development of anthelminthics and immunosuppressive agents for the treatment of RAGE-mediated inflammatory diseases. Parasitic helminths have evolved smart strategies to thrive in diverse hosts. For example, parasitic helminths secrete various immunomodulators in the host to establish successful tissue migration to their reproductive niche and chronic parasitism. Identification and functional analyses have revealed these immunomodulators may have potential therapeutic effects in the treatment of immune-related diseases. However, few immunomodulators from parasitic helminths have been identified and analyzed to date. In this study, we determined that venestatin, an EF-hand Ca2+-binding protein secreted by the parasitic nematode Strongyloides venezuelensis, bound to receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), a host pro-inflammatory receptor, which downregulated RAGE-mediated inflammatory responses. S. venezuelensis larvae successfully migrated to their niche owing to the anti-inflammatory functions of venestatin. Venestatin could provide a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of RAGE-mediated inflammatory diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, ulcerative colitis, and diabetes.
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9
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Ghartey-Kwansah G, Yin Q, Li Z, Gumpper K, Sun Y, Yang R, Wang D, Jones O, Zhou X, Wang L, Bryant J, Ma J, Boampong JN, Xu X. Calcium-dependent Protein Kinases in Malaria Parasite Development and Infection. Cell Transplant 2021; 29:963689719884888. [PMID: 32180432 PMCID: PMC7444236 DOI: 10.1177/0963689719884888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Apicomplexan parasites have challenged researchers for nearly a century. A major challenge to developing efficient treatments and vaccines is the parasite's ability to change its cellular and molecular makeup to develop intracellular and extracellular niches in its hosts. Ca2+ signaling is an important messenger for the egress of the malaria parasite from the infected erythrocyte, gametogenesis, ookinete motility in the mosquito, and sporozoite invasion of mammalian hepatocytes. Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) have crucial functions in calcium signaling at various stages of the parasite's life cycle; this therefore makes them attractive drug targets against malaria. Here, we summarize the functions of the various CDPK isoforms in relation to the malaria life cycle by emphasizing the molecular mechanism of developmental progression within host tissues. We also discuss the current development of anti-malarial drugs, such as how specific bumped kinase inhibitors (BKIs) for parasite CDPKs have been shown to reduce infection in Toxoplasma gondii, Cryptosporidium parvum, and Plasmodium falciparum. Our suggested combinations of BKIs, artemisinin derivatives with peroxide bridge, and inhibitors on the Ca(2+)-ATPase PfATP6 as a potential target should be inspected further as a treatment against malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Ghartey-Kwansah
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest of China, Shaanxi Normal University College of Life Sciences, Xi'an, China.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.,Authors contributed equally to this article
| | - Qinan Yin
- Clinical Center of National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Authors contributed equally to this article
| | - Zhongguang Li
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest of China, Shaanxi Normal University College of Life Sciences, Xi'an, China.,Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA.,Authors contributed equally to this article
| | - Kristyn Gumpper
- Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA.,Authors contributed equally to this article
| | - Yuting Sun
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest of China, Shaanxi Normal University College of Life Sciences, Xi'an, China
| | - Rong Yang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest of China, Shaanxi Normal University College of Life Sciences, Xi'an, China
| | - Dan Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest of China, Shaanxi Normal University College of Life Sciences, Xi'an, China
| | - Odell Jones
- University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Animal Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Xin Zhou
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest of China, Shaanxi Normal University College of Life Sciences, Xi'an, China.,Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Liyang Wang
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest of China, Shaanxi Normal University College of Life Sciences, Xi'an, China.,Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joseph Bryant
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jianjie Ma
- Ohio State University School of Medicine, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Johnson Nyarko Boampong
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Xuehong Xu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Resource Development of Endangered Crude Drugs in Northwest of China, Shaanxi Normal University College of Life Sciences, Xi'an, China
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10
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Scarpelli PH, Pecenin MF, Garcia CRS. Intracellular Ca 2+ Signaling in Protozoan Parasites: An Overview with a Focus on Mitochondria. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22010469. [PMID: 33466510 PMCID: PMC7796463 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22010469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ca2+ signaling has been involved in controling critical cellular functions such as activation of proteases, cell death, and cell cycle control. The endoplasmatic reticulum plays a significant role in Ca2+ storage inside the cell, but mitochondria have long been recognized as a fundamental Ca2+ pool. Protozoan parasites such as Plasmodium falciparum, Toxoplasma gondii, and Trypanosoma cruzi display a Ca2+ signaling toolkit with similarities to higher eukaryotes, including the participation of mitochondria in Ca2+-dependent signaling events. This review summarizes the most recent knowledge in mitochondrial Ca2+ signaling in protozoan parasites, focusing on the mechanism involved in mitochondrial Ca2+ uptake by pathogenic protists.
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11
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Abstract
Malaria is one of the most impacting public health problems in tropical and subtropical areas of the globe, with approximately 200 million cases worldwide annually. In the absence of an effective vaccine, rapid treatment is vital for effective malaria control. However, parasite resistance to currently available drugs underscores the urgent need for identifying new antimalarial therapies with new mechanisms of action. Among potential drug targets for developing new antimalarial candidates, protein kinases are attractive. These enzymes catalyze the phosphorylation of several proteins, thereby regulating a variety of cellular processes and playing crucial roles in the development of all stages of the malaria parasite life cycle. Moreover, the large phylogenetic distance between Plasmodium species and its human host is reflected in marked differences in structure and function of malaria protein kinases between the homologs of both species, indicating that selectivity can be attained. In this review, we describe the functions of the different types of Plasmodium kinases and highlight the main recent advances in the discovery of kinase inhibitors as potential new antimalarial drug candidates.
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12
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Govindasamy K, Bhanot P. Overlapping and distinct roles of CDPK family members in the pre-erythrocytic stages of the rodent malaria parasite, Plasmodium berghei. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008131. [PMID: 32866196 PMCID: PMC7485973 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasion of hepatocytes by Plasmodium sporozoites initiates the pre-erythrocytic step of a malaria infection. Subsequent development of the parasite within hepatocytes and exit from them is essential for starting the disease-causing erythrocytic cycle. Identification of signaling pathways that operate in pre-erythrocytic stages provides insight into a critical step of infection and potential targets for chemoprotection from malaria. We demonstrate that P. berghei homologs of Calcium Dependent Protein Kinase 1 (CDPK1), CDPK4 and CDPK5 play overlapping but distinct roles in sporozoite invasion and parasite egress from hepatocytes. All three kinases are expressed in sporozoites. All three are required for optimal motility of sporozoites and consequently their invasion of hepatocytes. Increased cGMP can compensate for the functional loss of CDPK1 and CDPK5 during sporozoite invasion but cannot overcome loss of CDPK4. CDPK1 and CDPK5 expression is downregulated after sporozoite invasion. CDPK5 reappears in a subset of late stage liver stages and is present in all merosomes. Chemical inhibition of CDPK4 and depletion of CDPK5 in liver stages implicate these kinases in the formation and/or release of merosomes from mature liver stages. Furthermore, depletion of CDPK5 in merosomes significantly delays initiation of the erythrocytic cycle without affecting infectivity of hepatic merozoites. These data suggest that CDPK5 may be required for the rupture of merosomes. Our work provides evidence that sporozoite invasion requires CDPK1 and CDPK5, and suggests that CDPK5 participates in the release of hepatic merozoites. The malaria-parasite Plasmodium begins its mammalian cycle by infecting hepatocytes in the liver. A single parasite differentiates into tens of thousands of hepatic merozoites which exit the host cell in vesicles called merosomes. Hepatic merozoites initiate the first round of erythrocytic infection that eventually causes disease. We show that optimal invasion of liver cells by Plasmodium requires the action of three closely-related parasite kinases, CDPK1, 4 and 5. Loss of any of the three enzymes in the parasite significantly reduces infection of liver cells. Furthermore, CDPK5 is likely required for release of hepatic merozoites from merosomes and therefore for initiation of the erythrocytic cycle. A better understanding of how these kinases function could lead to drugs that prevent malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavitha Govindasamy
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Newark, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Purnima Bhanot
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Newark, New Jersey, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Mekonnen GG, Tedla BA, Pickering D, Becker L, Wang L, Zhan B, Bottazzi ME, Loukas A, Sotillo J, Pearson MS. Schistosoma haematobium Extracellular Vesicle Proteins Confer Protection in a Heterologous Model of Schistosomiasis. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E416. [PMID: 32722279 PMCID: PMC7563238 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Helminth parasites release extracellular vesicles which interact with the surrounding host tissues, mediating host-parasite communication and other fundamental processes of parasitism. As such, vesicle proteins present attractive targets for the development of novel intervention strategies to control these parasites and the diseases they cause. Herein, we describe the first proteomic analysis by LC-MS/MS of two types of extracellular vesicles (exosome-like, 120 k pellet vesicles and microvesicle-like, 15 k pellet vesicles) from adult Schistosoma haematobium worms. A total of 57 and 330 proteins were identified in the 120 k pellet vesicles and larger 15 k pellet vesicles, respectively, and some of the most abundant molecules included homologues of known helminth vaccine and diagnostic candidates such as Sm-TSP2, Sm23, glutathione S-transferase, saponins and aminopeptidases. Tetraspanins were highly represented in the analysis and found in both vesicle types. Vaccination of mice with recombinant versions of three of these tetraspanins induced protection in a heterologous challenge (S. mansoni) model of infection, resulting in significant reductions (averaged across two independent trials) in liver (47%, 38% and 41%) and intestinal (47%, 45% and 41%) egg burdens. These findings offer insight into the mechanisms by which anti-tetraspanin antibodies confer protection and highlight the potential that extracellular vesicle surface proteins offer as anti-helminth vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gebeyaw G. Mekonnen
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Bemnet A. Tedla
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Darren Pickering
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Luke Becker
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Lei Wang
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatrics and National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.W.); (B.Z.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Bin Zhan
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatrics and National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.W.); (B.Z.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Maria Elena Bottazzi
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatrics and National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.W.); (B.Z.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Javier Sotillo
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mark S. Pearson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
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Dhal AK, Pani A, Yun SI, Mahapatra RK. In-silico analysis of Calcium Dependent Protein Kinase 6 of Cr yptosporidium parvum through molecular modeling, docking, and dynamics simulation study. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2020; 39:5461-5470. [PMID: 32633680 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2020.1790036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Calcium Dependent Protein Kinases are found in the Apicomplexan, algae, and plants; however, they are not reported in vertebrates and are regarded as excellent drug targets for pharmaceutical interventions. Calcium Dependent Protein Kinases of Cryptosporidium are probably involved in the regulation of invasion and egress process during the infection of the host cells. The previous study reported that after the Calcium Dependent Protein Kinase 1 gene, Calcium Dependent Protein Kinase 6 of Cryptosporidium parvum is expressed in all stages of the parasite (merozoites/schizonts as well as sexual stages) at a comparable level and makes it as a valid drug target. In this study, an attempt is made to address the similarity in sequences and phylogenetic study of Calcium Dependent Protein Kinase 6 (CDPK6) among Calcium Dependent Protein Kinases of Apicomplexans. Further, the three-dimensional structure determination of CDPK6 of C. parvum was performed through a molecular modeling approach followed by virtual screening of small-molecule inhibitors from different datasets. The best inhibitor from Tres Cantos Antimalarial Set with ID 11730 reported a binding affinity of -8.2 kcal/mol against CDPK6 of C. parvum. Furthermore, the reliability of the binding mode of the inhibitor is validated through a complex molecular dynamics simulation study for a time interval of 100 ns. The simulation study advocates that the inhibitor Tres Cantos Antimalarial Set_11730 formed a stable interaction with the predicted active site residues and can be considered for industrial pharmaceutical research in future.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajit Kumar Dhal
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Alok Pani
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
| | - Soon-Il Yun
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, South Korea
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Thapsigargins and induced chemical defence in Thapsia garganica. CHEMOECOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s00049-020-00315-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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16
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Lima MNN, Cassiano GC, Tomaz KCP, Silva AC, Sousa BKP, Ferreira LT, Tavella TA, Calit J, Bargieri DY, Neves BJ, Costa FTM, Andrade CH. Integrative Multi-Kinase Approach for the Identification of Potent Antiplasmodial Hits. Front Chem 2019; 7:773. [PMID: 31824917 PMCID: PMC6881481 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2019.00773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is a tropical infectious disease that affects over 219 million people worldwide. Due to the constant emergence of parasitic resistance to the current antimalarial drugs, the discovery of new antimalarial drugs is a global health priority. Multi-target drug discovery is a promising and innovative strategy for drug discovery and it is currently regarded as one of the best strategies to face drug resistance. Aiming to identify new multi-target antimalarial drug candidates, we developed an integrative computational approach to select multi-kinase inhibitors for Plasmodium falciparum calcium-dependent protein kinases 1 and 4 (CDPK1 and CDPK4) and protein kinase 6 (PK6). For this purpose, we developed and validated shape-based and machine learning models to prioritize compounds for experimental evaluation. Then, we applied the best models for virtual screening of a large commercial database of drug-like molecules. Ten computational hits were experimentally evaluated against asexual blood stages of both sensitive and multi-drug resistant P. falciparum strains. Among them, LabMol-171, LabMol-172, and LabMol-181 showed potent antiplasmodial activity at nanomolar concentrations (EC50 ≤ 700 nM) and selectivity indices >15 folds. In addition, LabMol-171 and LabMol-181 showed good in vitro inhibition of P. berghei ookinete formation and therefore represent promising transmission-blocking scaffolds. Finally, docking studies with protein kinases CDPK1, CDPK4, and PK6 showed structural insights for further hit-to-lead optimization studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marilia N N Lima
- LabMol-Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Gustavo C Cassiano
- Laboratory of Tropical Diseases-Prof. Dr. Luiz Jacintho da Silva, Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Kaira C P Tomaz
- Laboratory of Tropical Diseases-Prof. Dr. Luiz Jacintho da Silva, Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Arthur C Silva
- LabMol-Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Bruna K P Sousa
- LabMol-Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Leticia T Ferreira
- Laboratory of Tropical Diseases-Prof. Dr. Luiz Jacintho da Silva, Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Tatyana A Tavella
- Laboratory of Tropical Diseases-Prof. Dr. Luiz Jacintho da Silva, Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Juliana Calit
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniel Y Bargieri
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruno J Neves
- Laboratory of Cheminformatics, University Center of Anápolis/UniEVANGELICA, Anápolis, Brazil
| | - Fabio T M Costa
- Laboratory of Tropical Diseases-Prof. Dr. Luiz Jacintho da Silva, Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Carolina Horta Andrade
- LabMol-Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil.,Laboratory of Tropical Diseases-Prof. Dr. Luiz Jacintho da Silva, Department of Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
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Ribeiro-Andrade M, de Crasto Souza Carvalho J, Amorim da Silva R, da Conceição Carvalho M, Nascimento Porto WJ, Mota RA. Inter- and intra-genotype differences in induced cystogenesis of recombinant strains of Toxoplasma gondii isolated from chicken and pigs. Exp Parasitol 2019; 207:107775. [PMID: 31628896 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.107775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 09/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The ability to differentiate from the proliferative (tachyzoite) to the latent (bradyzoite) stage of isolates of Toxoplasma gondii recombinant genotypes (I/II/III and I/III) and reference strains from a clonal line (RH and ME49) was investigated in this study. Two isolates from chicken (#114 and #277; ToxoDB) and 3 from pigs (#114; ToxoDB) were the subjects for evaluation. The isolates were grown in cell culture under 2 different conditions: culture medium at pH 7.0 (neutral, without stress induction) or pH 8.0 (alkaline, stress inducing). After 4 days, the cultures were fixed and the events resulting from infection and induction were labeled. T. gondii cysts were labeled using Dolichos biflorus-FITC lectin (DBL-cysts) and free tachyzoites or vacuolar were labeled using an anti-T. gondii polyclonal antibody followed by an Alexa 594-conjugated secondary antibody (DBL-negative structures compatible with parasite structures - lysis plaques or vacuole). Differences in DBL-cysts formation in vitro in response to exogenous stress were observed between recombinant genotype isolates and the typical genotypes. The differences in conversion rates and the patterns of lysis plate production between genotype I/III isolates (#114) indicate that care should be taken when extrapolating the in vitro phenotypic characteristics of parasites from the same genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Müller Ribeiro-Andrade
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases of Domestic Animals, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Roraima, Boa Vista, RR, Brazil.
| | - Jéssica de Crasto Souza Carvalho
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases of Domestic Animals, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Renato Amorim da Silva
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases of Domestic Animals, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Maria da Conceição Carvalho
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases of Domestic Animals, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | | | - Rinaldo Aparecido Mota
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases of Domestic Animals, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
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Toxoplasma gondii secretory proteins and their role in invasion and pathogenesis. Microbiol Res 2019; 227:126293. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2019.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Adeoye AO, Olanlokun JO, Tijani H, Lawal SO, Babarinde CO, Akinwole MT, Bewaji CO. Molecular docking analysis of apigenin and quercetin from ethylacetate fraction of Adansonia digitata with malaria-associated calcium transport protein: An in silico approach. Heliyon 2019; 5:e02248. [PMID: 31687530 PMCID: PMC6819832 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The investigation and knowledge of calcium handling mechanisms in the plasmodium has been considered as a potential biological target against malaria. Objective This study deals with the evaluation of inhibitory activity of secondary metabolites of ethylacetate partitioned-fraction of Adansonia digitata stem bark extract on malaria-associated protein using in silico docking studies. Materials and methods Molecular docking and virtual screening was performed to understand the mechanism of ligand binding and to identify potent calcium transporter inhibitors. The stem bark extracts of A. digitata contains rich sources of phytochemicals. The secondary metabolites were determined by HPLC-DAD and HRGC-MS analysis. The major chemical constituent present in the ethylacetate partitioned-fraction of A. digitata stem bark extract were examined for their antiplasmodial activity and were also involved in docking study. Results The secondary metabolites, quercetin and apigenin inhibited the formation of β-hematin. The results showed that all the selected compounds in the A. digitata showed binding energy ranging between -6.5 kcal/mol and -7.1 kcal/mol. Among the two chemical constituents, apigenin has the highest docking score along with the highest number of hydrogen bonds formed when compared to quercetin. Analysis of the results suggests that apigenin and quercetin could act as an anti-malaria agent. Conclusion Molecular docking analysis could lead to further development of potent calcium transporter inhibitors for the prevention and treatment of malaria and related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akinwunmi O Adeoye
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University Oye Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
| | - John O Olanlokun
- Biomembrane and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Habib Tijani
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
| | - Segun O Lawal
- Biomembrane and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Cecilia O Babarinde
- Biomembrane and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Mobolaji T Akinwole
- Biomembrane and Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biochemistry, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Clement O Bewaji
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
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Dubois DJ, Soldati-Favre D. Biogenesis and secretion of micronemes in Toxoplasma gondii. Cell Microbiol 2019; 21:e13018. [PMID: 30791192 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Revised: 02/11/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
One of the hallmarks of the parasitic phylum of Apicomplexa is the presence of highly specialised, apical secretory organelles, called the micronemes and rhoptries that play critical roles in ensuring survival and dissemination. Upon exocytosis, the micronemes release adhesin complexes, perforins, and proteases that are crucially implicated in egress from infected cells, gliding motility, migration across biological barriers, and host cell invasion. Recent studies on Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium species have shed more light on the signalling events and the machinery that trigger microneme secretion. Intracellular cyclic nucleotides, calcium level, and phosphatidic acid act as key mediators of microneme exocytosis, and several downstream effectors have been identified. Here, we review the key steps of microneme biogenesis and exocytosis, summarising the still fractal knowledge at the molecular level regarding the fusion event with the parasite plasma membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Dubois
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Geneva CMU, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dominique Soldati-Favre
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, University of Geneva CMU, Geneva, Switzerland
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Zhang NZ, Gao Q, Wang M, Hou JL, Zhang FK, Hu LY, Zhu XQ. Protective Efficacy Against Acute and Chronic Toxoplasma gondii Infection Induced by Immunization With the DNA Vaccine TgDOC2C. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:2965. [PMID: 30564214 PMCID: PMC6288300 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.02965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous intracellular apicomplexan parasite that can cause zoonotic toxoplasmosis. Effective vaccines against T. gondii infection are necessary to prevent and control the spread of toxoplasmosis. The present study analyzed the B-linear epitopes of T. gondii DOC2 (TgDOC2) protein and then cloned the C-terminus of the TgDOC2 gene (TgDOC2C) to construct the pVAX-TgDOC2C eukaryotic vector. After intramuscular injection of pVAX-TgDOC2C, immune responses were monitored. Two weeks after the last immunization, the protective effects of pVAX-TgDOC2C against acute and chronic toxoplasmosis were evaluated by challenges with T. gondii RH tachyzoites (genotype I) and PRU cysts (genotype II). The DNA vaccine elicited strong humoral and cellular immune responses with high levels of IgG antibody, IL-2 and IFN-γ production compared to those of the controls. The percentage of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in mice immunized with pVAX-TgDOC2C was significantly increased compared to that of mice injected with empty pVAX I or PBS. After acute infection with 103 lethal tachyzoites, mice immunized with pVAX-TgDOC2C survived longer (12.5 days) than mice treated with pVAX I (8 days) and PBS (7.5 days). Mice immunized with pVAX-TgDOC2C had significantly less brain cysts (1600.83 ± 284.61) compared to mice immunized with pVAX I (3016.67 ± 153.84) or PBS (3100 ± 246.98). Together, these results demonstrated that TgDOC2C confers protective immunity against T. gondii infection and may be a promising candidate antigen for further development of an effective multicomponent vaccine for veterinary use against toxoplasmosis in livestock animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nian-Zhang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qi Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Hunan Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau, Changsha, China
| | - Meng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jun-Ling Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Fu-Kai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ling-Ying Hu
- Fujian Yongcheng Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Sci-Tech Group, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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Acar İE, Saçar Demirci MD, Groß U, Allmer J. The Expressed MicroRNA—mRNA Interactions of Toxoplasma gondii. Front Microbiol 2018; 8:2630. [PMID: 29354114 PMCID: PMC5759179 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in post-transcriptional modulation of gene expression and thereby have a large influence on the resulting phenotype. We have previously shown that miRNAs may be involved in the communication between Toxoplasma gondii and its hosts and further confirmed a number of proposed specific miRNAs. Yet, little is known about the internal regulation via miRNAs in T. gondii. Therefore, we predicted pre-miRNAs directly from the type II ME49 genome and filtered them. For the confident hairpins, we predicted the location of the mature miRNAs and established their target genes. To add further confidence, we evaluated whether the hairpins and their targets were co-expressed. Such co-expressed miRNA and target pairs define a functional interaction. We extracted all such functional interactions and analyzed their differential expression among strains of all three clonal lineages (RH, PLK, and CTG) and between the two stages present in the intermediate host (tachyzoites and bradyzoites). Overall, we found ~65,000 expressed interactions of which ~5,500 are differentially expressed among strains but none are significantly differentially expressed between developmental stages. Since miRNAs and target decoys can be used as therapeutics we believe that the list of interactions we provide will lead to novel approaches in the treatment of toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- İlhan E. Acar
- Biotechnology, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, Turkey
| | | | - Uwe Groß
- Medical Microbiology, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Uwe Groß
| | - Jens Allmer
- Molecular Biology and Genetics, Izmir Institute of Technology, Izmir, Turkey
- Jens Allmer
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In vitro growth inhibition of Theileria equi by bumped kinase inhibitors. Vet Parasitol 2018; 251:90-94. [PMID: 29426483 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2017.12.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Theileria equi, an etiologic agent of equine piroplasmosis, is a tick-transmitted hemoprotozoan of the phylum Apicomplexa. Recent outbreaks of piroplasmosis in the United States have renewed interest in safe and effective treatment options. Although imidocarb dipropionate (IMD) is the drug of choice for clearance of T. equi, adverse reactions and recently documented resistance support the need for alternative therapeutic strategies. The recently described bumped kinase inhibitors (BKIs) are a new class of compounds that could potentially be used as safe and effective alternatives to IMD. In an initial effort to evaluate this potential, herein we determined the T. equi growth inhibitory activity of 11 BKIs relative to that of IMD and the previously tested BKI 1294. Because some BKIs have known human ether-à-go-go related gene (hERG) channel activity, we also assessed the hERG activity of each compound with the goal to identify those with the highest potency against T. equi coupled with the lowest potential for cardiotoxicity. RESULTS Six BKIs inhibited T. equi growth in vitro, including the previously evaluated BKI 1294 which was used as a positive control. All six compounds were significantly less potent (higher 50% effective concentration (EC50)) than IMD. Two of those compounds were more potent than BKI 1294 control but had similar hERG activity. Although the remaining three compounds had similar to lower potency than BKI 1294, hERG EC50 was higher for three of them (BKI 1735, BKI 1369 and BKI 1318). CONCLUSIONS The BKI compounds evaluated in this study inhibited T. equi in vitro and had diverse hERG activity. Based on these considerations, three compounds would be suitable for further evaluation. While these results provide a foundation for future work, in vivo pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamics, and safety studies are needed before BKI compounds can be recommended for clinical use in T. equi infected horses.
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Abstract
The apicomplexan protozoan parasites include the causative agents of animal and human diseases ranging from malaria (Plasmodium spp.) to toxoplasmosis (Toxoplasma gondii). The complex life cycle of T. gondii is regulated by a unique family of calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) that have become the target of intensive efforts to develop new therapeutics. In this review, we will summarize structure-based strategies, recent successes and future directions in the pursuit of specific and selective inhibitors of T. gondii CDPK1.
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Gaur S, Kuhlenschmidt TB, Kuhlenschmidt MS, Andrade JE. Effect of oregano essential oil and carvacrol on Cryptosporidium parvum infectivity in HCT-8 cells. Parasitol Int 2017; 67:170-175. [PMID: 29155281 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum is the second leading cause of persistent diarrhea among children in low-resource settings. This study examined the effect of oregano essential oil (OEO) and carvacrol (CV) on inhibition of C. parvum infectivity in vitro. HCT-8 cells were seeded (1×106) in 96-well microtiter plates until confluency. Cell viability and infectivity were assessed by seeding HCT-8 cell monolayers with C. parvum oocysts (1×104) in two modalities: 1) 4h co-culture with bioactive (0-250μg/mL) followed by washing and incubation (48h, 37°C, 5% CO2) in bioactive-free media; and 2) 4h co-culture of C. parvum oocysts followed by washing and treatment with bioactive (0-250μg/mL) during 48-h incubation. Cell viability was tested using Live/Dead™ assay whereas infectivity was measured using C. parvum-specific antibody staining via immunofluorescence detection. Loss of cell viability was observed starting at 125μg/mL and 60μg/mL for OEO and CV, respectively. Neither OEO nor CV modulated the invasion of C. parvum sporozoites in HCT-8 cells. Treatment with bioactive after invasion reduced relative C. parvum infectivity in a dose-dependent manner to 55.6±10.4% and 45.8±4.1% at 60 and 30μg/mL of OEO and CV, respectively. OEO and CV are potential bioactives to counteract C. parvum infection in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shashank Gaur
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Theresa B Kuhlenschmidt
- Department of Pathobiology, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Mark S Kuhlenschmidt
- Department of Pathobiology, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Division of Nutritional Sciences, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Juan E Andrade
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA; Division of Nutritional Sciences, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA.
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Aubusson-Fleury A, Balavoine G, Lemullois M, Bouhouche K, Beisson J, Koll F. Centrin diversity and basal body patterning across evolution: new insights from Paramecium. Biol Open 2017; 6:765-776. [PMID: 28432105 PMCID: PMC5483020 DOI: 10.1242/bio.024273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
First discovered in unicellular eukaryotes, centrins play crucial roles in basal body duplication and anchoring mechanisms. While the evolutionary status of the founding members of the family, Centrin2/Vfl2 and Centrin3/cdc31 has long been investigated, the evolutionary origin of other members of the family has received less attention. Using a phylogeny of ciliate centrins, we identify two other centrin families, the ciliary centrins and the centrins present in the contractile filaments (ICL centrins). In this paper, we carry on the functional analysis of still not well-known centrins, the ICL1e subfamily identified in Paramecium, and show their requirement for correct basal body anchoring through interactions with Centrin2 and Centrin3. Using Paramecium as well as a eukaryote-wide sampling of centrins from completely sequenced genomes, we revisited the evolutionary story of centrins. Their phylogeny shows that the centrins associated with the ciliate contractile filaments are widespread in eukaryotic lineages and could be as ancient as Centrin2 and Centrin3. Summary: Functional and phylogenetic analyses reveal the existence of five centrin families and show that basal body patterning in Paramecium requires a third centrin present in many eukaryote lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Aubusson-Fleury
- Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), Cell Biology Department, CEA, CNRS, Université Paris Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, 1 Avenue de la Terrasse, Gif sur Yvette 91198, France
| | - Guillaume Balavoine
- Institut Jacques Monod, Evolution and development of Metazoa, UMR 7592, CNRS/Université Paris Diderot, 15 rue Hélène Brion, Paris 75013, France
| | - Michel Lemullois
- Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), Cell Biology Department, CEA, CNRS, Université Paris Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, 1 Avenue de la Terrasse, Gif sur Yvette 91198, France
| | - Khaled Bouhouche
- INRA, UMR 1061 Unité de Génétique Moléculaire Animale, Université de Limoges, IFR 145, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Limoges 87060, France
| | - Janine Beisson
- Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), Cell Biology Department, CEA, CNRS, Université Paris Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, 1 Avenue de la Terrasse, Gif sur Yvette 91198, France
| | - France Koll
- Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), Cell Biology Department, CEA, CNRS, Université Paris Sud, Université Paris-Saclay, 1 Avenue de la Terrasse, Gif sur Yvette 91198, France
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Tsubokawa D, Hatta T, Kikuchi T, Maeda H, Mikami F, Alim MA, Maruyama H, Tsuji N. Venestatin, a Ca ++-binding protein from the parasitic nematode Strongyloides venezuelensis, is involved in the larval migration process. Int J Parasitol 2017; 47:501-509. [PMID: 28347664 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2017.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The secretory EF-hand Ca++-binding proteins act as calcium signaling molecules for control of cell functions, but those proteins from parasitic helminths are poorly understood. Here, we have identified and characterized an EF-hand Ca++-binding protein from the rodent nematode, Strongyloides venezuelensis, termed 'venestatin', which is highly conserved in Strongyloides spp. Canonical two EF-hand domains and a signal peptide are present in venestatin. A gel mobility shift assay and Ruthenium red staining indicated that the recombinant venestatin possesses binding ability with Ca++ ions. Endogenous venestatin was seemingly localized in the hypodermis and gut of the worms and was found in the excretory-secretory products. Quantitative reverse transcription-PCR data showed that venestatin-specific transcript was upregulated in the parasitic stages of S. venezuelensis, and the upregulation occurred promptly after larval invasion through the host's skin, but not in the case of in vitro incubation. Immunization of mice with recombinant venestatin caused a 55% reduction in larval migration to the lungs, and lung hemorrhaging was mild compared with non-immunized groups, suggesting that anti-venestatin sera may interfere with larval migration from skin to lung. Our results suggest that venestatin is secreted from the hypodermis and gut of S. venezuelensis, and has pivotal roles in larval migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daigo Tsubokawa
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Parasitology, Kitasato University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0373, Japan; Department of Parasitology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0374, Japan
| | - Takeshi Hatta
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Parasitology, Kitasato University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0373, Japan; Department of Parasitology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0374, Japan
| | - Taisei Kikuchi
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, 5200 Kihara Kiyotake, Miyazaki 899-1692, Japan
| | - Hiroki Maeda
- Department of Parasitology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0374, Japan; Department of Pathological and Preventive Veterinary Science, The United Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yoshida, Yamaguchi 753-8515, Japan
| | - Fusako Mikami
- Department of Parasitology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0374, Japan
| | - M Abdul Alim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh
| | - Haruhiko Maruyama
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, 5200 Kihara Kiyotake, Miyazaki 899-1692, Japan
| | - Naotoshi Tsuji
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Parasitology, Kitasato University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0373, Japan; Department of Parasitology, Kitasato University School of Medicine, 1-15-1 Kitasato, Minami, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-0374, Japan.
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Rai P, Sharma D, Soni R, Khatoon N, Sharma B, Bhatt TK. Plasmodium falciparum apicoplast and its transcriptional regulation through calcium signaling. J Microbiol 2017; 55:231-236. [DOI: 10.1007/s12275-017-6525-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Revised: 12/23/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Yakubu RR, Silmon de Monerri NC, Nieves E, Kim K, Weiss LM. Comparative Monomethylarginine Proteomics Suggests that Protein Arginine Methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) is a Significant Contributor to Arginine Monomethylation in Toxoplasma gondii. Mol Cell Proteomics 2017; 16:567-580. [PMID: 28143887 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m117.066951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Arginine methylation is a common posttranslational modification found on nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins that has roles in transcriptional regulation, RNA metabolism and DNA repair. The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii has a complex life cycle requiring transcriptional plasticity and has unique transcriptional regulatory pathways. Arginine methylation may play an important part in transcriptional regulation and splicing biology in this organism. The T. gondii genome contains five putative protein arginine methyltransferases (PRMTs), of which PRMT1 is important for cell division and growth. In order to better understand the function(s) of the posttranslational modification monomethyl arginine (MMA) in T. gondii, we performed a proteomic analysis of MMA proteins using affinity purification employing anti-MMA specific antibodies followed by mass spectrometry. The arginine monomethylome of T. gondii contains a large number of RNA binding proteins and multiple ApiAP2 transcription factors, suggesting a role for arginine methylation in RNA biology and transcriptional regulation. Surprisingly, 90% of proteins that are arginine monomethylated were detected as being phosphorylated in a previous phosphoproteomics study which raises the possibility of interplay between MMA and phosphorylation in this organism. Supporting this, a number of kinases are also arginine methylated. Because PRMT1 is thought to be a major PRMT in T. gondii, an organism which lacks a MMA-specific PRMT, we applied comparative proteomics to understand how PRMT1 might contribute to the MMA proteome in T. gondii We identified numerous putative PRMT1 substrates, which include RNA binding proteins, transcriptional regulators (e.g. AP2 transcription factors), and kinases. Together, these data highlight the importance of MMA and PRMT1 in arginine methylation in T. gondii, as a potential regulator of a large number of processes including RNA biology and transcription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rama R Yakubu
- From the ‡Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Natalie C Silmon de Monerri
- §Department of Medicine- Division of Infectious Diseases, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Edward Nieves
- ¶Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York.,‖Department of Developmental and Molecular Biology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Kami Kim
- From the ‡Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York; .,§Department of Medicine- Division of Infectious Diseases, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York.,**Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Louis M Weiss
- From the ‡Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York; .,§Department of Medicine- Division of Infectious Diseases, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
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Yao JY, Xu Y, Yuan XM, Yin WL, Yang GL, Lin LY, Pan XY, Wang CF, Shen JY. Proteomic analysis of differentially expressed proteins in the two developmental stages of Ichthyophthirius multifiliis. Parasitol Res 2016; 116:637-646. [PMID: 27864673 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-016-5328-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Ichthyophthirius is a severe disease of farmed freshwater fish caused by the parasitic ciliate Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ich). This disease can lead to considerable economic loss, but the protein profiles in different developmental stages of the parasite remain unknown. In the present study, proteins from trophonts and theronts of Ich were identified by isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ). A total of 2300 proteins were identified in the two developmental stages, of which 1520 proteins were differentially expressed. Among them, 84 proteins were uniquely expressed in the theronts stage, while 656 proteins were expressed only in trophonts. The differentially expressed proteins were catalogued (assorted) to various functions of Ich life cycle, including biological process, cellular component, and molecular function that occur at distinct stages. Using a 1.5-fold change in expression as a physiologically significant benchmark, a lot of differentially expressed proteins were reliably quantified by iTRAQ analysis. Two hundred forty upregulated and 57 downregulated proteins in the trophonts stage were identified as compared with theronts. The identified proteins were involved in various functions of the I. multifiliis life cycle, including binding, catalytic activity, structural molecule activity, and transporter activity. Further investigation of the transcriptional levels of periplasmic immunogenic protein, transketolase, zinc finger, isocitrate dehydrogenase, etc., from the different protein profiles using quantitative RT-PCR showed identical results to the iTRAQ analysis. This work provides an effective resource to further our understanding of Ich biology, and lays the groundwork for the identification of potential drug targets and vaccines candidates for the control of this devastating fish pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Yun Yao
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Healthy Freshwater Aquaculture, Key Laboratory of Fish Health and Nutrition of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Institute of Freshwater Fisheries, Huzhou, 313001, China
| | - Yang Xu
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Healthy Freshwater Aquaculture, Key Laboratory of Fish Health and Nutrition of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Institute of Freshwater Fisheries, Huzhou, 313001, China
| | - Xue-Mei Yuan
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Healthy Freshwater Aquaculture, Key Laboratory of Fish Health and Nutrition of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Institute of Freshwater Fisheries, Huzhou, 313001, China
| | - Wen-Lin Yin
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Healthy Freshwater Aquaculture, Key Laboratory of Fish Health and Nutrition of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Institute of Freshwater Fisheries, Huzhou, 313001, China
| | - Gui-Lian Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Provincial Engineering Research Center of Animal Probiotics, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China
| | - Ling-Yun Lin
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Healthy Freshwater Aquaculture, Key Laboratory of Fish Health and Nutrition of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Institute of Freshwater Fisheries, Huzhou, 313001, China
| | - Xiao-Yi Pan
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Healthy Freshwater Aquaculture, Key Laboratory of Fish Health and Nutrition of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Institute of Freshwater Fisheries, Huzhou, 313001, China
| | - Chun-Feng Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Provincial Engineering Research Center of Animal Probiotics, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China.
| | - Jin-Yu Shen
- Agriculture Ministry Key Laboratory of Healthy Freshwater Aquaculture, Key Laboratory of Fish Health and Nutrition of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Institute of Freshwater Fisheries, Huzhou, 313001, China.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite the fact that diseases caused by protozoan parasites represent serious challenges for public health, animal production and welfare, only a limited panel of drugs has been marketed for clinical applications. AREAS COVERED Herein, the authors investigate two strategies, namely whole organism screening and target-based drug design. The present pharmacopoeia has resulted from whole organism screening, and the mode of action and targets of selected drugs are discussed. However, the more recent extensive genome sequencing efforts and the development of dry and wet lab genomics and proteomics that allow high-throughput screening of interactions between micromolecules and recombinant proteins has resulted in target-based drug design as the predominant focus in anti-parasitic drug development. Selected examples of target-based drug design studies are presented, and calcium-dependent protein kinases, important drug targets in apicomplexan parasites, are discussed in more detail. EXPERT OPINION Despite the enormous efforts in target-based drug development, this approach has not yet generated market-ready antiprotozoal drugs. However, whole-organism screening approaches, comprising of both in vitro and in vivo investigations, should not be disregarded. The repurposing of already approved and marketed drugs could be a suitable strategy to avoid fastidious approval procedures, especially in the case of neglected or veterinary parasitoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- a Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty , University of Bern , Bern , Switzerland
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- a Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty , University of Bern , Bern , Switzerland
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Xiao B, Kuang Z, Zhan Y, Chen D, Gao Y, Li M, Luo S, Hao W. A Novel Polyclonal Antiserum against Toxoplasma gondii Sodium Hydrogen Exchanger 1. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2016; 54:21-9. [PMID: 26951975 PMCID: PMC4792324 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2016.54.1.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2015] [Revised: 12/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The sodium hydrogen exchanger 1 (NHE1), which functions in maintaining the ratio of Na+ and H+ ions, is widely distributed in cell plasma membranes. It plays a prominent role in pH balancing, cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, and migration. However, its exact subcellular location and biological functions in Toxoplasma gondii are largely unclear. In this study, we cloned the C-terminal sequence of T. gondii NHE1 (TgNHE1) incorporating the C-terminal peptide of NHE1 (C-NHE1) into the pGEX4T-1 expression plasmid. The peptide sequence was predicted to have good antigenicity based on the information obtained from an immune epitope database. After induction of heterologous gene expression with isopropyl-b-D-thiogalactoside, the recombinant C-NHE1 protein successfully expressed in a soluble form was purified by glutathione sepharose beads as an immunogen for production of a rabbit polyclonal antiserum. The specificity of this antiserum was confirmed by western blotting and immunofluorescence. The antiserum could reduce T. gondii invasion into host cells, indicated by the decreased TgNHE1 expression in T. gondii parasites that were pre-incubated with antiserum in the process of cell entry. Furthermore, the antiserum reduced the virulence of T. gondii parasites to host cells in vitro, possibly by blocking the release of Ca2+. In this regard, this antiserum has potential to be a valuable tool for further studies of TgNHE1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenzhan Kuang
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanli Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Daxiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming Li
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuhong Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenbo Hao
- State Key Laboratory of Organ Failure, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Research, School of Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, People's Republic of China
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Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is the clinical and pathological consequence of acute infection with the obligate intracellular apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Symptoms result from tissue destruction that accompanies lytic parasite growth. This review updates current understanding of the host cell invasion, parasite replication, and eventual egress that constitute the lytic cycle, as well as the ways T. gondii manipulates host cells to ensure its survival. Since the publication of a previous iteration of this review 15 years ago, important advances have been made in our molecular understanding of parasite growth and mechanisms of host cell egress, and knowledge of the parasite's manipulation of the host has rapidly progressed. Here we cover molecular advances and current conceptual frameworks that include each of these topics, with an eye to what may be known 15 years from now.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ira J Blader
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York 14127;
| | - Bradley I Coleman
- Department of Biology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts 02467; , ,
| | - Chun-Ti Chen
- Department of Biology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts 02467; , ,
| | - Marc-Jan Gubbels
- Department of Biology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts 02467; , ,
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Hui R, El Bakkouri M, Sibley LD. Designing selective inhibitors for calcium-dependent protein kinases in apicomplexans. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2015; 36:452-60. [PMID: 26002073 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2015.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2015] [Revised: 04/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Apicomplexan parasites cause some of the most severe human diseases, including malaria (caused by Plasmodium), toxoplasmosis, and cryptosporidiosis. Treatments are limited by the lack of effective drugs and development of resistance to available agents. By exploiting novel features of protein kinases in these parasites, it may be possible to develop new treatments. We summarize here recent advances in identifying small molecule inhibitors against a novel family of plant-like, calcium-dependent kinases that are uniquely expanded in apicomplexan parasites. Analysis of the 3D structure, activation mechanism, and sensitivity to small molecules had identified several attractive chemical scaffolds that are potent and selective inhibitors of these parasite kinases. Further optimization of these leads may yield promising new drugs for treatment of these parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond Hui
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, MaRS South Tower, 101 College St, Toronto, ON, M5G 1L7, Canada; Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, 610 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 2M9, Canada
| | - Majida El Bakkouri
- Structural Genomics Consortium, University of Toronto, MaRS South Tower, 101 College St, Toronto, ON, M5G 1L7, Canada
| | - L David Sibley
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, 660 S. Euclid Ave., Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63130, USA.
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Giganti D, Bouillon A, Tawk L, Robert F, Martinez M, Crublet E, Weber P, Girard-Blanc C, Petres S, Haouz A, Hernandez JF, Mercereau-Puijalon O, Alzari PM, Barale JC. A novel Plasmodium-specific prodomain fold regulates the malaria drug target SUB1 subtilase. Nat Commun 2014; 5:4833. [PMID: 25204226 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms5833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2014] [Accepted: 07/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The Plasmodium subtilase SUB1 plays a pivotal role during the egress of malaria parasites from host hepatocytes and erythrocytes. Here we report the crystal structure of full-length SUB1 from the human-infecting parasite Plasmodium vivax, revealing a bacterial-like catalytic domain in complex with a Plasmodium-specific prodomain. The latter displays a novel architecture with an amino-terminal insertion that functions as a 'belt', embracing the catalytic domain to further stabilize the quaternary structure of the pre-protease, and undergoes calcium-dependent autoprocessing during subsequent activation. Although dispensable for recombinant enzymatic activity, the SUB1 'belt' could not be deleted in Plasmodium berghei, suggesting an essential role of this domain for parasite development in vivo. The SUB1 structure not only provides a valuable platform to develop new anti-malarial candidates against this promising drug target, but also defines the Plasmodium-specific 'belt' domain as a key calcium-dependent regulator of SUB1 during parasite egress from host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Giganti
- 1] Institut Pasteur, Unité de Microbiologie Structurale, Département de Biologie Structurale et Chimie, F-75015 Paris, France [2] CNRS UMR 3528, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Anthony Bouillon
- 1] Institut Pasteur, Unité d'Immunologie Moléculaires des Parasites, Département de Parasitologie et de Mycologie, F-75015 Paris, France [2] CNRS URA 2581, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Lina Tawk
- 1] Institut Pasteur, Unité d'Immunologie Moléculaires des Parasites, Département de Parasitologie et de Mycologie, F-75015 Paris, France [2] CNRS URA 2581, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Fabienne Robert
- 1] Institut Pasteur, Unité d'Immunologie Moléculaires des Parasites, Département de Parasitologie et de Mycologie, F-75015 Paris, France [2] CNRS URA 2581, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Mariano Martinez
- 1] Institut Pasteur, Unité de Microbiologie Structurale, Département de Biologie Structurale et Chimie, F-75015 Paris, France [2] CNRS UMR 3528, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Elodie Crublet
- Institut Pasteur, Proteopole &CNRS UMR 3528, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Patrick Weber
- Institut Pasteur, Proteopole &CNRS UMR 3528, F-75015 Paris, France
| | | | - Stéphane Petres
- Institut Pasteur, Proteopole &CNRS UMR 3528, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Ahmed Haouz
- Institut Pasteur, Proteopole &CNRS UMR 3528, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Jean-François Hernandez
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Institut des Biomolécules Max Mousseron, UMR5247, CNRS, Universités Montpellier 1 &2, 15 avenue Charles Flahault, 34093 Montpellier cedex 5, France
| | - Odile Mercereau-Puijalon
- 1] Institut Pasteur, Unité d'Immunologie Moléculaires des Parasites, Département de Parasitologie et de Mycologie, F-75015 Paris, France [2] CNRS URA 2581, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Pedro M Alzari
- 1] Institut Pasteur, Unité de Microbiologie Structurale, Département de Biologie Structurale et Chimie, F-75015 Paris, France [2] CNRS UMR 3528, F-75015 Paris, France [3] Institut Pasteur, Proteopole &CNRS UMR 3528, F-75015 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Christophe Barale
- 1] Institut Pasteur, Unité d'Immunologie Moléculaires des Parasites, Département de Parasitologie et de Mycologie, F-75015 Paris, France [2] CNRS URA 2581, F-75015 Paris, France
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The apical complex provides a regulated gateway for secretion of invasion factors in Toxoplasma. PLoS Pathog 2014; 10:e1004074. [PMID: 24743791 PMCID: PMC3990729 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1004074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2013] [Accepted: 03/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The apical complex is the definitive cell structure of phylum Apicomplexa, and is the focus of the events of host cell penetration and the establishment of intracellular parasitism. Despite the importance of this structure, its molecular composition is relatively poorly known and few studies have experimentally tested its functions. We have characterized a novel Toxoplasma gondii protein, RNG2, that is located at the apical polar ring--the common structural element of apical complexes. During cell division, RNG2 is first recruited to centrosomes immediately after their duplication, confirming that assembly of the new apical complex commences as one of the earliest events of cell replication. RNG2 subsequently forms a ring, with the carboxy- and amino-termini anchored to the apical polar ring and mobile conoid, respectively, linking these two structures. Super-resolution microscopy resolves these two termini, and reveals that RNG2 orientation flips during invasion when the conoid is extruded. Inducible knockdown of RNG2 strongly inhibits host cell invasion. Consistent with this, secretion of micronemes is prevented in the absence of RNG2. This block, however, can be fully or partially overcome by exogenous stimulation of calcium or cGMP signaling pathways, respectively, implicating the apical complex directly in these signaling events. RNG2 demonstrates for the first time a role for the apical complex in controlling secretion of invasion factors in this important group of parasites.
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Tao Q, Xiao J, Wang Y, Fang K, Li N, Hu M, Zhou Y, Zhao J. Identification of genes expressed during Toxoplasma gondii infection by in vivo-induced antigen technology (IVIAT) with positive porcine sera. J Parasitol 2014; 100:470-9. [PMID: 24646180 DOI: 10.1645/13-240.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection of pigs with Toxoplasma gondii is a common source of human toxoplasmosis and causes serious economic losses. In vivo-induced antigen technology (IVIAT) is an effective immunological technique to identify the antigens that a pathogen specifically expressed during infection. To discover the genes that are important in T. gondii infection of pigs, we employed IVIAT using sera from infected pigs. Fourteen antigens were identified including microneme protein 11 (MIC11), dense granule protein 5 (GRA5), 18 kDa cyclophilin (C-18), serine proteinase inhibitor (PI), calmodulin (CaM), leucine-rich repeat protein ( LRRP), D-3-phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (D3PD), elongation factor 1-gamma (EF1), and 6 hypothetical proteins. The increased transcription levels of 5 (MIC11, GRA5, C-18, PI, and CaM) of the 14 molecules identified by IVIAT were confirmed by real-time PCR. The full length or partial proteins encoded by these 5 genes were expressed in Escherichia coli , and their immunogenicity was confirmed by Western blot analysis with positive porcine sera. Further functional studies were conducted with CaM. Suppression of CaM expression by RNA interference decreased T. gondii tachyzoites cell attachment, invasion, and egress but did not influence their replication. The proteins identified in this study are predicted to be involved in cell invasion, ion-protein binding, protein folding, biosynthesis, and metabolism. The results of the functional analysis support the hypothesis that CaM contributes to parasite pathogenesis during infection. These results may have significant implications for the discovery of candidate molecules for the development of potential therapies and preventive measures against toxoplasmosis in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, P. R. China
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Expression of the essential Kinase PfCDPK1 from Plasmodium falciparum in Toxoplasma gondii facilitates the discovery of novel antimalarial drugs. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2014; 58:2598-607. [PMID: 24550330 DOI: 10.1128/aac.02261-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
We have previously shown that genetic disruption of Toxoplasma gondii calcium-dependent protein kinase 3 (TgCDPK3) affects calcium ionophore-induced egress. We examined whether Plasmodium falciparum CDPK1 (PfCDPK1), the closest homolog of TgCDPK3 in the malaria parasite P. falciparum, could complement a TgCDPK3 mutant strain. PfCDPK1 is essential and plays critical roles in merozoite development, motility, and secretion. We show that expression of PfCDPK1 in the TgCDPK3 mutant strain rescues the egress defect. This phenotypic complementation requires the localization of PfCDPK1 to the plasma membrane and kinase activity. Interestingly, PfCDPK1-expressing Toxoplasma becomes more sensitive to egress inhibition by purfalcamine, a potent inhibitor of PfCDPK1 with low activity against TgCDPK3. Based on this result, we tested eight small molecules previously determined to inhibit the kinase activity of recombinant PfCDPK1 for their abilities to inhibit ionophore-induced egress in the PfCDPK1-expressing strain. While two of these chemicals did not inhibit egress, we found that six drugs affected this process selectively in PfCDPK1-expressing Toxoplasma. Using mutant versions of PfCDPK1 and TgCDPK3, we show that the selectivities of dasatinib and PLX-4720 are regulated by the gatekeeper residue in the ATP binding site. Importantly, we have confirmed that the three most potent inhibitors of egress in the PfCDPK1-expressing strain effectively kill P. falciparum. Thus, we have established and validated a recombinant strain of Toxoplasma that can be used as a surrogate for the discovery and analysis of PfCDPK1-specific inhibitors that can be developed as antimalarials.
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Abstract
A wide spectrum of pathogenic bacteria and protozoa has adapted to an intracellular life-style, which presents several advantages, including accessibility to host cell metabolites and protection from the host immune system. Intracellular pathogens have developed strategies to enter and exit their host cells while optimizing survival and replication, progression through the life cycle, and transmission. Over the last decades, research has focused primarily on entry, while the exit process has suffered from neglect. However, pathogen exit is of fundamental importance because of its intimate association with dissemination, transmission, and inflammation. Hence, to fully understand virulence mechanisms of intracellular pathogens at cellular and systemic levels, it is essential to consider exit mechanisms to be a key step in infection. Exit from the host cell was initially viewed as a passive process, driven mainly by physical stress as a consequence of the explosive replication of the pathogen. It is now recognized as a complex, strategic process termed "egress," which is just as well orchestrated and temporally defined as entry into the host and relies on a dynamic interplay between host and pathogen factors. This review compares egress strategies of bacteria, pathogenic yeast, and kinetoplastid and apicomplexan parasites. Emphasis is given to recent advances in the biology of egress in mycobacteria and apicomplexans.
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Castellanos-Gonzalez A, White AC, Ojo KK, Vidadala RSR, Zhang Z, Reid MC, Fox AMW, Keyloun KR, Rivas K, Irani A, Dann SM, Fan E, Maly DJ, Van Voorhis WC. A novel calcium-dependent protein kinase inhibitor as a lead compound for treating cryptosporidiosis. J Infect Dis 2013; 208:1342-8. [PMID: 23878324 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jit327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parasites infect intestinal cells, causing cryptosporidiosis. Despite its high morbidity and association with stunting in the developing world, current therapies for cryptosporidiosis have limited efficacy. Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) are essential enzymes in the biology of protozoan parasites. CDPK1 was cloned from the genome of Cryptosporidium parvum, and potent and specific inhibitors have been developed based on structural studies. In this study, we evaluated the anti-Cryptosporidium activity of a novel CDPK1 inhibitor, 1294, and demonstrated that 1294 significantly reduces parasite infection in vitro, with a half maximal effective concentration of 100 nM. Pharmacokinetic studies revealed that 1294 is well absorbed, with a half-life supporting daily administration. Oral therapy with 1294 eliminated Cryptosporidium parasites from 6 of 7 infected severe combined immunodeficiency-beige mice, and the parasites did not recur in these immunosuppressed mice. Mice treated with 1294 had less epithelial damage, corresponding to less apoptosis. Thus, 1294 is an important lead for the development of drugs for treatment of cryptosporidiosis.
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Prophylactic and therapeutic effects of a novel granulated formulation of Artemisia extract on broiler coccidiosis. Trop Anim Health Prod 2013; 46:43-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s11250-013-0444-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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Abstract
Early in evolution, Ca(2+) emerged as the most important second messenger for regulating widely different cellular functions. In eukaryotic cells Ca(2+) signals originate from several sources, i.e. influx from the outside medium, release from internal stores or from both. In mammalian cells, Ca(2+)-release channels represented by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors and ryanodine receptors (InsP3R and RyR, respectively) are the most important. In unicellular organisms and plants, these channels are characterised with much less precision. In the ciliated protozoan, Paramecium tetraurelia, 34 molecularly distinct Ca(2+)-release channels that can be grouped in six subfamilies, based on criteria such as domain structure, pore, selectivity filter and activation mechanism have been identified. Some of these channels are genuine InsP3Rs and some are related to RyRs. Others show some--but not all--features that are characteristic for one or the other type of release channel. Localisation and gene silencing experiments revealed widely different--yet distinct--localisation, activation and functional engagement of the different Ca(2+)-release channels. Here, we shall discuss early evolutionary routes of Ca(2+)-release machinery in protozoa and demonstrate that detailed domain analyses and scrutinised functional analyses are instrumental for in-depth evolutionary mapping of Ca(2+)-release channels in unicellular organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helmut Plattner
- Faculty of Biology, University of Konstanz, 78457 Konstanz, Germany.
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43
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Frénal K, Soldati-Favre D. [The glideosome, a unique machinery that assists the Apicomplexa in gliding into host cells]. Med Sci (Paris) 2013; 29:515-22. [PMID: 23732101 DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2013295015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Protozoan parasites belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa are of considerable medical and veterinary significance. These obligate intracellular parasites use a unique form of locomotion to traverse biological barriers and actively invade in and egress from host cells. An actin-myosin-based complex named "glideosome" drives this unusual substrate-dependent motility, which is essential for the establishment of the infection. The mechanisms involved in motility, invasion and egress are conserved throughout the phylum. This article describes the current knowledge on the invasion process of two experimentally tractable apicomplexan parasites: Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium falciparum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karine Frénal
- Département de microbiologie et médecine moléculaire, faculté de médecine, université de Genève, centre médical universitaire, 1 rue Michel Servet, 1211 Genève, Suisse.
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Abstract
There is an urgent need for the development of new antimalarial drugs with novel modes of actions. The malarial parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, has a relatively small kinome of <100 kinases, with many members exhibiting a high degree of structural divergence from their host counterparts. A number of Plasmodium kinases have recently been shown by reverse genetics to be essential for various parts of the complex parasitic life cycle, and are thus genetically validated as potential targets. Implementation of mass spectrometry-based phosphoproteomics approaches has informed on key phospho-signalling pathways in the parasite. In addition, global phenotypic screens have revealed a large number of putative protein kinase inhibitors with antimalarial potency. Taken together, these investigations point to the Plasmodium kinome as a rich source of potential new targets. In this review, we highlight recent progress made towards this goal.
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Pulcini S, Staines HM, Pittman JK, Slavic K, Doerig C, Halbert J, Tewari R, Shah F, Avery MA, Haynes RK, Krishna S. Expression in yeast links field polymorphisms in PfATP6 to in vitro artemisinin resistance and identifies new inhibitor classes. J Infect Dis 2013; 208:468-78. [PMID: 23599312 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jit171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mechanism of action of artemisinins against malaria is unclear, despite their widespread use in combination therapies and the emergence of resistance. RESULTS Here, we report expression of PfATP6 (a SERCA pump) in yeast and demonstrate its inhibition by artemisinins. Mutations in PfATP6 identified in field isolates (such as S769N) and in laboratory clones (such as L263E) decrease susceptibility to artemisinins, whereas they increase susceptibility to unrelated inhibitors such as cyclopiazonic acid. As predicted from the yeast model, Plasmodium falciparum with the L263E mutation is also more susceptible to cyclopiazonic acid. An inability to knockout parasite SERCA pumps provides genetic evidence that they are essential in asexual stages of development. Thaperoxides are a new class of potent antimalarial designed to act by inhibiting PfATP6. Results in yeast confirm this inhibition. CONCLUSIONS The identification of inhibitors effective against mutated PfATP6 suggests ways in which artemisinin resistance may be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Pulcini
- Division of Clinical Sciences, St. George's, University of London, UK
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46
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Roiko MS, Carruthers VB. Functional dissection of Toxoplasma gondii perforin-like protein 1 reveals a dual domain mode of membrane binding for cytolysis and parasite egress. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:8712-8725. [PMID: 23376275 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m113.450932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The recently discovered role of a perforin-like protein (PLP1) for rapid host cell egress by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii expanded the functional diversity of pore-forming proteins. Whereas PLP1 was found to be necessary for rapid egress and pathogenesis, the sufficiency for and mechanism of membrane attack were yet unknown. Here we further dissected the PLP1 knock-out phenotype, the mechanism of PLP1 pore formation, and the role of each domain by genetic complementation. We found that PLP1 is sufficient for membrane disruption and has a conserved mechanism of pore formation through target membrane binding and oligomerization to form large, multimeric membrane-embedded complexes. The highly conserved, central MACPF domain and the β-sheet-rich C-terminal domain were required for activity. Loss of the unique N-terminal extension reduced lytic activity and led to a delay in rapid egress, but did not significantly decrease virulence, suggesting that small amounts of lytic activity are sufficient for pathogenesis. We found that both N- and C-terminal domains have membrane binding activity, with the C-terminal domain being critical for function. This dual mode of membrane association may promote PLP1 activity and parasite egress in the diverse cell types in which this parasite replicates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marijo S Roiko
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5630; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5630
| | - Vern B Carruthers
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5630.
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Glushakova S, Lizunov V, Blank PS, Melikov K, Humphrey G, Zimmerberg J. Cytoplasmic free Ca2+ is essential for multiple steps in malaria parasite egress from infected erythrocytes. Malar J 2013; 12:41. [PMID: 23363708 PMCID: PMC3564835 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-12-41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2012] [Accepted: 01/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Egress of Plasmodium falciparum, from erythrocytes at the end of its asexual cycle and subsequent parasite invasion into new host cells, is responsible for parasite dissemination in the human body. The egress pathway is emerging as a coordinated multistep programme that extends in time for tens of minutes, ending with rapid parasite extrusion from erythrocytes. While the Ca2+ regulation of the invasion of P. falciparum in erythrocytes is well established, the role of Ca2+ in parasite egress is poorly understood. This study analysed the involvement of cytoplasmic free Ca2+ in infected erythrocytes during the multistep egress programme of malaria parasites. Methods Live-cell fluorescence microscopy was used to image parasite egress from infected erythrocytes, assessing the effect of drugs modulating Ca2+ homeostasis on the egress programme. Results A steady increase in cytoplasmic free Ca2+ is found to precede parasite egress. This increase is independent of extracellular Ca2+ for at least the last two hours of the cycle, but is dependent upon Ca2+ release from internal stores. Intracellular BAPTA chelation of Ca2+ within the last 45 minutes of the cycle inhibits egress prior to parasitophorous vacuole swelling and erythrocyte membrane poration, two characteristic morphological transformations preceding parasite egress. Inhibitors of the parasite endoplasmic reticulum (ER) Ca2+-ATPase accelerate parasite egress, indicating that Ca2+ stores within the ER are sufficient in supporting egress. Markedly accelerated egress of apparently viable parasites was achieved in mature schizonts using Ca2+ ionophore A23187. Ionophore treatment overcomes the BAPTA-induced block of parasite egress, confirming that free Ca2+ is essential in egress initiation. Ionophore treatment of immature schizonts had an adverse effect inducing parasitophorous vacuole swelling and killing the parasites within the host cell. Conclusions The parasite egress programme requires intracellular free Ca2+ for egress initiation, vacuole swelling, and host cell cytoskeleton digestion. The evidence that parasitophorous vacuole swelling, a stage of unaffected egress, is dependent upon a rise in intracellular Ca2+ suggests a mechanism for ionophore-inducible egress and a new target for Ca2+ in the programme liberating parasites from the host cell. A regulatory pathway for egress that depends upon increases in intracellular free Ca2+ is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svetlana Glushakova
- Program in Physical Biology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
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Islam MK, Alim MA, Tsuji N. Longistatin, an EF-hand Ca2+-binding protein from vector tick: identification, purification, and characterization. Methods Mol Biol 2013; 963:127-146. [PMID: 23296609 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-62703-230-8_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
EF-hand Ca(2+)-binding motif, a structural component of the EF-hand protein, functions as a calcium sensor and/or buffer in the cytosol of the cell. However, in a few exceptional cases, the EF-hand proteins are secreted from cells and play crucial roles extracellularly. We have identified longistatin, an EF-hand Ca(2+)-binding protein, from the salivary glands of the tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis. Longistatin possesses an N-terminal sequence of unknown structure and two EF-hand motifs in the C-terminus, which conserve a calmodulin-like canonical structure. Longistatin shows distinct changes in its migration during electrophoresis through SDS-PAGE gel containing calcium or ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Both recombinant and endogenous forms of longistatin can be stained with rutheninum red, demonstrating that longistatin is a Ca(2+)-binding protein.
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Müller J, Hemphill A. New approaches for the identification of drug targets in protozoan parasites. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2013; 301:359-401. [PMID: 23317822 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-407704-1.00007-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Antiparasitic chemotherapy is an important issue for drug development. Traditionally, novel compounds with antiprotozoan activities have been identified by screening of compound libraries in high-throughput systems. More recently developed approaches employ target-based drug design supported by genomics and proteomics of protozoan parasites. In this chapter, the drug targets in protozoan parasites are reviewed. The gene-expression machinery has been among the first targets for antiparasitic drugs and is still under investigation as a target for novel compounds. Other targets include cytoskeletal proteins, proteins involved in intracellular signaling, membranes, and enzymes participating in intermediary metabolism. In apicomplexan parasites, the apicoplast is a suitable target for established and novel drugs. Some drugs act on multiple subcellular targets. Drugs with nitro groups generate free radicals under anaerobic growth conditions, and drugs with peroxide groups generate radicals under aerobic growth conditions, both affecting multiple cellular pathways. Mefloquine and thiazolides are presented as examples for antiprotozoan compounds with multiple (side) effects. The classic approach of drug discovery employing high-throughput physiological screenings followed by identification of drug targets has yielded the mainstream of current antiprotozoal drugs. Target-based drug design supported by genomics and proteomics of protozoan parasites has not produced any antiparasitic drug so far. The reason for this is discussed and a synthesis of both methods is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Berne, Berne, Switzerland.
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50
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Agarwal S, Singh MK, Garg S, Chitnis CE, Singh S. Ca2+-mediated exocytosis of subtilisin-like protease 1: a key step in egress ofPlasmodium falciparummerozoites. Cell Microbiol 2012; 15:910-21. [DOI: 10.1111/cmi.12086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2012] [Revised: 10/30/2012] [Accepted: 11/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shalini Agarwal
- Malaria Group; International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB); New Delhi; India
| | - Maneesh Kumar Singh
- Malaria Group; International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB); New Delhi; India
| | - Swati Garg
- Malaria Group; International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB); New Delhi; India
| | - Chetan E. Chitnis
- Malaria Group; International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB); New Delhi; India
| | - Shailja Singh
- Malaria Group; International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB); New Delhi; India
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