1
|
Eslami E, Siamian H, Rezaei Orimi J, Aghabeiglooei Z, Salimi-Sabour E, Amrollahi-Sharifabadi M. Pattern of bioterrorism in ancient times: lessons to be learned from the microbial and toxicological aspects. Wien Med Wochenschr 2024; 174:288-298. [PMID: 38194199 DOI: 10.1007/s10354-023-01029-1] [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: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
The current research aimed to analyze the history of bioterrorism in antiquity and to adapt the data to modern medical knowledge. To this end, a thorough evaluation of the literature related to the ancient history of bioterrorism and modern data was done using the Web of Sciences, Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar. Results showed that knowledge of bioterrorism has existed since antiquity in different civilizations. Biological and toxicological agents were used as an instrument of legal execution, as a warfare tool in battles, or to eliminate political rivals across nations. Ancient people researched bioterrorism to apply it against enemies and at the same time provide countermeasures in favor of themselves and allies. Despite the existence of the principles of bioterrorism since ancient times, adaptation of the data to modern research can assist in planning countermeasure efforts, preventive actions, and treatments in the framework of modern counterterrorism medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elaheh Eslami
- Department of History of Medical Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hasan Siamian
- Department of History of Medical Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Jamal Rezaei Orimi
- Department of History of Medical Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Zahra Aghabeiglooei
- Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Salimi-Sabour
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Traditional Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Learoyd TP. Underreporting or Failed Notification? Global Botulism Reporting, 2000-2022. Health Secur 2024; 22:203-209. [PMID: 38768418 DOI: 10.1089/hs.2023.0081] [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] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Botulism is a rare, potentially fatal illness caused by botulinum toxins produced by Clostridium bacteria. There are no coordinated worldwide reporting mechanisms for botulism cases and therefore few reliable case frequency estimates. This study aimed to establish an international benchmark for case frequency to determine estimated global rates of underreporting of botulism cases. To this end, a comprehensive, multilingual search of major global and national databases, including gray data and government sources, was performed. Data from case series were pooled, standardized against United Nations midyear population estimates, and analyzed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests to identify normally distributed data series. National incidence rates of normally distributed series were compared with that of the United States, which was considered the gold standard due to its extensive data reported for 2004-2018. A total of 6,932 botulism cases from 59 nations were identified in the literature, with a global case fatality rate of 1.37%. The national mean incidence rate ranged from 0.00 to 8.04 cases per million people, with an international mean incidence rate of 0.62 cases per million people. At the continent level, incidence rates tended toward normal distributions, although few countries outside of North America and Europe exhibited normal distributions. Based on comparisons with the US standard, an estimated 88.71% of botulism cases worldwide were unreported in 2016. Better awareness of botulism among healthcare professionals, coordinated global reporting mechanisms, and research on additional contributing factors to underreporting would enable better understanding of global case frequency, thereby potentially reducing the global incidence of botulism and improving outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tristan P Learoyd
- Tristan P. Learoyd, MPharm, PGCE, GradDipLaw, MA, MBA, MSc, PhD, MRPharmS, FHEA, is Director of Global Health Programs, Emergent BioSolutions UK Ltd, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Adams LJ, Raju S, Ma H, Gilliland T, Reed DS, Klimstra WB, Fremont DH, Diamond MS. Structural and functional basis of VLDLR usage by Eastern equine encephalitis virus. Cell 2024; 187:360-374.e19. [PMID: 38176410 PMCID: PMC10843625 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.11.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The very-low-density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR) comprises eight LDLR type A (LA) domains and supports entry of distantly related alphaviruses, including Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) and Semliki Forest virus (SFV). Here, by resolving multiple cryo-electron microscopy structures of EEEV-VLDLR complexes and performing mutagenesis and functional studies, we show that EEEV uses multiple sites (E1/E2 cleft and E2 A domain) to engage more than one LA domain simultaneously. However, no single LA domain is necessary or sufficient to support efficient EEEV infection. Whereas all EEEV strains show conservation of two VLDLR-binding sites, the EEEV PE-6 strain and a few other EEE complex members feature a single amino acid substitution that enables binding of LA domains to an additional site on the E2 B domain. These structural and functional analyses informed the design of a minimal VLDLR decoy receptor that neutralizes EEEV infection and protects mice from lethal challenge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas J Adams
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Saravanan Raju
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Hongming Ma
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Theron Gilliland
- The Center for Vaccine Research and Department of Immunology, The University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Douglas S Reed
- The Center for Vaccine Research and Department of Immunology, The University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - William B Klimstra
- The Center for Vaccine Research and Department of Immunology, The University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Daved H Fremont
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
| | - Michael S Diamond
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Andrew M. and Jane M. Bursky Center for Human Immunology and Immunotherapy Programs, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Center for Vaccines and Immunity to Microbial Pathogens, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Adams LJ, Raju S, Ma H, Gilliland T, Reed DS, Klimstra WB, Fremont DH, Diamond MS. Structural and functional basis of VLDLR receptor usage by Eastern equine encephalitis virus. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.15.567188. [PMID: 38014196 PMCID: PMC10680733 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.15.567188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
The very low-density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR) is comprised of eight LDLR type A (LA) domains and supports entry of distantly related Eastern equine encephalitis (EEEV) and Semliki Forest (SFV) alphaviruses. Here, by resolving multiple cryo-electron microscopy structures of EEEV-VLDLR complexes and performing mutagenesis and functional studies, we show that EEEV uses multiple sites (E1/E2 cleft and E2 A domain) to engage different LA domains simultaneously. However, no single LA domain is necessary or sufficient to support efficient EEEV infection, highlighting complexity in domain usage. Whereas all EEEV strains show conservation of two VLDLR binding sites, the EEEV PE-6 strain and other EEE complex members feature a single amino acid substitution that mediates binding of LA domains to an additional site on the E2 B domain. These structural and functional analyses informed the design of a minimal VLDLR decoy receptor that neutralizes EEEV infection and protects mice from lethal challenge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucas J. Adams
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Saravanan Raju
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Hongming Ma
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Theron Gilliland
- The Center for Vaccine Research and Department of Immunology, The University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Douglas S. Reed
- The Center for Vaccine Research and Department of Immunology, The University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - William B. Klimstra
- The Center for Vaccine Research and Department of Immunology, The University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Daved H. Fremont
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Michael S. Diamond
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Andrew M. and Jane M. Bursky Center for Human Immunology and Immunotherapy Programs, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity to Microbial Pathogens, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63110, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ou Y, Guo S. Safety risks and ethical governance of biomedical applications of synthetic biology. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1292029. [PMID: 37941726 PMCID: PMC10628459 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1292029] [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: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: In recent years, biomedicine has witnessed rapid advancements in applying synthetic biology. While these advancements have brought numerous benefits to patients, they have also given rise to a series of safety concerns. Methods: This article provides a succinct overview of the current research on synthetic biology's application in biomedicine and systematically analyzes the safety risks associated with this field. Based on this analysis, the article proposes fundamental principles for addressing these issues and presents practical recommendations for ethical governance. Results: This article contends that the primary safety risks associated with the application of synthetic biology in biomedicine include participant safety, biosafety risks, and biosecurity risks. In order to effectively address these risks, it is essential to adhere to the principles of human-centeredness, non-maleficence, sustainability, and reasonable risk control. Guided by these fundamental principles and taking into account China's specific circumstances, this article presents practical recommendations for ethical governance, which include strengthening ethical review, promoting the development and implementation of relevant policies, improving legal safeguards through top-level design, and enhancing technical capabilities for biocontainment. Conclusion: As an emerging field of scientific technology, synthetic biology presents numerous safety risks and challenges in its application within biomedicine. In order to address these risks and challenges, it is imperative that appropriate measures be implemented. From a Chinese perspective, the solutions we propose serve not only to advance the domestic development of synthetic biology but also to contribute to its global progress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yakun Ou
- School of Marxism, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Center for Bioethics, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shengjia Guo
- School of Marxism, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Amezcua M, Cruz RS, Ku A, Moran W, Ortega ME, Salzameda NT. Discovery of Dipeptides as Potent Botulinum Neurotoxin A Light-Chain Inhibitors. ACS Med Chem Lett 2021; 12:295-301. [PMID: 33603978 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.0c00674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The botulinum neurotoxin, the caustic agent that causes botulism, is the most lethal toxin known to man. The neurotoxin composed of a heavy chain (HC) and a light chain (LC) enters neurons and cleaves SNARE proteins, leading to flaccid paralysis, which, in severe occurrences, can result in death. A therapeutic target for botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) intoxication is the LC, a zinc metalloprotease that directly cleaves SNARE proteins. Herein we report dipeptides containing an aromatic connected to the N-terminus via a sulfonamide and a hydroxamic acid at the C-terminus as BoNT/A LC inhibitors. On the basis of a structure-activity relationship study, 33 was discovered to inhibit the BoNT/A LC with an IC50 of 21 nM. X-ray crystallography analysis of 30 and 33 revealed that the dipeptides inhibit through a competitive mechanism and identified several key intermolecular interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Amezcua
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United States
| | - Ricardo S. Cruz
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United States
| | - Alex Ku
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United States
| | - Wilfred Moran
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United States
| | - Marcos E. Ortega
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United States
| | - Nicholas T. Salzameda
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, Fullerton, California 92831, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Thompson JC, Dao WT, Ku A, Rodriguez-Beltran SL, Amezcua M, Palomino AY, Lien T, Salzameda NT. Synthesis and activity of isoleucine sulfonamide derivatives as novel botulinum neurotoxin serotype A light chain inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem 2020; 28:115659. [PMID: 32828426 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2020.115659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) is the most lethal protein known to man causing the deadly disease botulinum. The neurotoxin, composed of a heavy (HC) and light (LC) chain, work in concert to cause muscle paralysis. A therapeutic strategy to treat individuals infected with the neurotoxin is inhibiting the catalytic activity of the BoNT LC. We report the synthesis, inhibition study and computational docking analysis of novel small molecule BoNT/A LC inhibitors. A structure activity relationship study resulted in the discovery of d-isoleucine functionalized with a hydroxamic acid on the C-terminal and a biphenyl with chlorine at C- 2 connected by a sulfonamide linker at the N-terminus. This compound has a measured IC50 of 0.587 µM for the BoNT/A LC. Computational docking analysis indicates the sulfonamide linker adopts a geometry that is advantageous for binding to the BoNT LC active site. In addition, Arg363 is predicted to be involved in key binding interactions with the scaffold in this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan C Thompson
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, 800 N. State College, Fullerton, CA, 92834, USA
| | - Wendy T Dao
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, 800 N. State College, Fullerton, CA, 92834, USA
| | - Alex Ku
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, 800 N. State College, Fullerton, CA, 92834, USA
| | - Sandra L Rodriguez-Beltran
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, 800 N. State College, Fullerton, CA, 92834, USA
| | - Martin Amezcua
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, 800 N. State College, Fullerton, CA, 92834, USA
| | - Alejandra Y Palomino
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, 800 N. State College, Fullerton, CA, 92834, USA
| | - Thanh Lien
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, 800 N. State College, Fullerton, CA, 92834, USA
| | - Nicholas T Salzameda
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, California State University, 800 N. State College, Fullerton, CA, 92834, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Gaisina IN, Peet NP, Wong L, Schafer AM, Cheng H, Anantpadma M, Davey RA, Thatcher GRJ, Rong L. Discovery and Structural Optimization of 4-(Aminomethyl)benzamides as Potent Entry Inhibitors of Ebola and Marburg Virus Infections. J Med Chem 2020; 63:7211-7225. [PMID: 32490678 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.0c00463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The recent Ebola epidemics in West Africa underscore the great need for effective and practical therapies for future Ebola virus outbreaks. We have discovered a new series of remarkably potent small molecule inhibitors of Ebola virus entry. These 4-(aminomethyl)benzamide-based inhibitors are also effective against Marburg virus. Synthetic routes to these compounds allowed for the preparation of a wide variety of structures, including a conformationally restrained subset of indolines (compounds 41-50). Compounds 20, 23, 32, 33, and 35 are superior inhibitors of Ebola (Mayinga) and Marburg (Angola) infectious viruses. Representative compounds (20, 32, and 35) have shown good metabolic stability in plasma and liver microsomes (rat and human), and 32 did not inhibit CYP3A4 nor CYP2C9. These 4-(aminomethyl)benzamides are suitable for further optimization as inhibitors of filovirus entry, with the potential to be developed as therapeutic agents for the treatment and control of Ebola virus infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina N Gaisina
- UICentre (Drug Discovery @ UIC) and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 South Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States.,Chicago BioSolutions Inc., 2242 W Harrison Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Norton P Peet
- Chicago BioSolutions Inc., 2242 W Harrison Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Letitia Wong
- Chicago BioSolutions Inc., 2242 W Harrison Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Adam M Schafer
- College of Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Han Cheng
- College of Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Manu Anantpadma
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, 8715 W Military Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78227, United States.,Department of Microbiology, Boston University, 620 Albany Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02118, United States
| | - Robert A Davey
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, 8715 W Military Drive, San Antonio, Texas 78227, United States.,Department of Microbiology, Boston University, 620 Albany Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02118, United States
| | - Gregory R J Thatcher
- UICentre (Drug Discovery @ UIC) and Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 South Wood Street, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| | - Lijun Rong
- College of Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago, 909 S Wolcott Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60612, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Singleton CD, Humby MS, Yi HA, Rizzo RC, Jacobs A. Identification of Ebola Virus Inhibitors Targeting GP2 Using Principles of Molecular Mimicry. J Virol 2019; 93:e00676-19. [PMID: 31092576 PMCID: PMC6639268 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00676-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
A key step in the Ebola virus (EBOV) replication cycle involves conformational changes in viral glycoprotein 2 (GP2) which facilitate host-viral membrane fusion and subsequent release of the viral genome. Ebola GP2 plays a critical role in virus entry and has similarities in mechanism and structure to the HIV gp41 protein for which inhibitors have been successfully developed. In this work, a putative binding pocket for the C-terminal heptad repeat in the N-terminal heptad repeat trimer was targeted for identification of small molecules that arrest EBOV-host membrane fusion. Two computational structure-based virtual screens of ∼1.7 M compounds were performed (DOCK program) against a GP2 five-helix bundle, resulting in 165 commercially available compounds purchased for experimental testing. Based on assessment of inhibitory activity, cytotoxicity, and target specificity, four promising candidates emerged with 50% inhibitory concentration values in the 3 to 26 μM range. Molecular dynamics simulations of the two most potent candidates in their DOCK-predicted binding poses indicate that the majority of favorable interactions involve seven highly conserved residues that can be used to guide further inhibitor development and refinement targeting EBOV.IMPORTANCE The most recent Ebola virus disease outbreak, from 2014 to 2016, resulted in approximately 28,000 individuals becoming infected, which led to over 12,000 causalities worldwide. The particularly high pathogenicity of the virus makes paramount the identification and development of promising lead compounds to serve as inhibitors of Ebola infection. To limit viral load, the virus-host membrane fusion event can be targeted through the inhibition of the class I fusion glycoprotein of Ebolavirus In the current work, several promising small-molecule inhibitors that target the glycoprotein GP2 were identified through systematic application of structure-based computational and experimental drug design procedures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Courtney D Singleton
- Department of Molecular & Cellular Pharmacology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Monica S Humby
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Hyun Ah Yi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Robert C Rizzo
- Department of Applied Mathematics & Statistics, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Institute of Chemical Biology & Drug Discovery, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Laufer Center for Physical & Quantitative Biology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Amy Jacobs
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bowman S, Casares-de-Cal MÁ, Alvarez-Dios J, Gomez Tato A, Roffey P, Richardson A, McNevin D, Gahan ME. Identification of Bacillus and Yersinia species and hoax agents by protein profiling using microfluidic capillary electrophoresis with peak detection algorithms. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2019.1629020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sorelle Bowman
- National Centre for Forensic Studies, Faculty of Science & Technology, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australia
| | | | - Jose Alvarez-Dios
- School of Mathematics, University of Santiago de Compostela (Campus Vida), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Antonio Gomez Tato
- School of Mathematics, University of Santiago de Compostela (Campus Vida), Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Paul Roffey
- Forensics, Specialist Operations, Australian Federal Police, Canberra, Australia
| | - Alice Richardson
- National Centre for Epidemiology & Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Dennis McNevin
- National Centre for Forensic Studies, Faculty of Science & Technology, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australia
- Centre for Forensic Science, School of Mathematical & Physical Sciences (MaPS), Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michelle E. Gahan
- National Centre for Forensic Studies, Faculty of Science & Technology, University of Canberra, Bruce, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Differential Response Following Infection of Mouse CNS with Virulent and Attenuated Vaccinia Virus Strains. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:vaccines7010019. [PMID: 30759813 PMCID: PMC6466266 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7010019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral infections of the central nervous system (CNS) lead to a broad range of pathologies. CNS infections with Orthopox viruses have been mainly documented as an adverse reaction to smallpox vaccination with vaccinia virus. To date, there is insufficient data regarding the mechanisms underlying pathological viral replication or viral clearance. Therefore, informed risk assessment of vaccine adverse reactions or outcome prediction is limited. This work applied a model of viral infection of the CNS, comparing neurovirulent with attenuated strains. We followed various parameters along the disease and correlated viral load, morbidity, and mortality with tissue integrity, innate and adaptive immune response and functionality of the blood–brain barrier. Combining these data with whole brain RNA-seq analysis performed at different time points indicated that neurovirulence is associated with host immune silencing followed by induction of tissue damage-specific pathways. In contrast, brain infection with attenuated strains resulted in rapid and robust induction of innate and adaptive protective immunity, followed by viral clearance and recovery. This study significantly improves our understanding of the mechanisms and processes determining the consequence of viral CNS infection and highlights potential biomarkers associated with such outcomes.
Collapse
|
12
|
Jenkinson SP, Grandgirard D, Heidemann M, Tscherter A, Avondet MA, Leib SL. Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Neurons Grown on Multi-Electrode Arrays as a Novel In vitro Bioassay for the Detection of Clostridium botulinum Neurotoxins. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:73. [PMID: 28280466 PMCID: PMC5322221 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Clostridium botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are the most poisonous naturally occurring protein toxins known to mankind and are the causative agents of the severe and potentially life-threatening disease botulism. They are also known for their application as cosmetics and as unique bio-pharmaceuticals to treat an increasing number of neurological and non-neurological disorders. Currently, the potency of biologically active BoNT for therapeutic use is mainly monitored by the murine LD50-assay, an ethically disputable test causing suffering and death of a considerable number of mice. The aim of this study was to establish an in vitro assay as an alternative to the widely used in vivo mouse bioassay. We report a novel BoNT detection assay using mouse embryonic stem cell-derived neurons (mESN) cultured on multi-electrode arrays (MEAs). After 21 days in culture, the mESN formed a neuronal network showing spontaneous bursting activity based on functional synapses and express the necessary target proteins for BoNTs. Treating cultures for 6 h with 16.6 pM of BoNT serotype A and incubation with 1.66 pM BoNT/A or 33 Units/ml of Botox® for 24 h lead to a significant reduction of both spontaneous network bursts and average spike rate. This data suggests that mESN cultured on MEAs pose a novel, biologically relevant model that can be used to detect and quantify functional BoNT effects, thus accelerating BoNT research while decreasing animal use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen P Jenkinson
- Neuroinfection Laboratory, Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of BernBern, Switzerland; Biology Division, Spiez Laboratory, Swiss Federal Office for Civil ProtectionSpiez, Switzerland; Cluster for Regenerative Neuroscience, Department for Clinical Research, University of BernBern, Switzerland; Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of BernBern, Switzerland
| | - Denis Grandgirard
- Neuroinfection Laboratory, Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of BernBern, Switzerland; Cluster for Regenerative Neuroscience, Department for Clinical Research, University of BernBern, Switzerland
| | | | - Anne Tscherter
- Department of Physiology, University of Bern Bern, Switzerland
| | - Marc-André Avondet
- Biology Division, Spiez Laboratory, Swiss Federal Office for Civil Protection Spiez, Switzerland
| | - Stephen L Leib
- Neuroinfection Laboratory, Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of BernBern, Switzerland; Cluster for Regenerative Neuroscience, Department for Clinical Research, University of BernBern, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Dittmann C, Han HM, Grabenbauer M, Laue M. Dormant Bacillus spores protect their DNA in crystalline nucleoids against environmental stress. J Struct Biol 2015; 191:156-64. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsb.2015.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2014] [Revised: 06/10/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
14
|
Hill TM, Gilchuk P, Cicek BB, Osina MA, Boyd KL, Durrant DM, Metzger DW, Khanna KM, Joyce S. Border Patrol Gone Awry: Lung NKT Cell Activation by Francisella tularensis Exacerbates Tularemia-Like Disease. PLoS Pathog 2015; 11:e1004975. [PMID: 26068662 PMCID: PMC4465904 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1004975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The respiratory mucosa is a major site for pathogen invasion and, hence, a site requiring constant immune surveillance. The type I, semi-invariant natural killer T (NKT) cells are enriched within the lung vasculature. Despite optimal positioning, the role of NKT cells in respiratory infectious diseases remains poorly understood. Hence, we assessed their function in a murine model of pulmonary tularemia—because tularemia is a sepsis-like proinflammatory disease and NKT cells are known to control the cellular and humoral responses underlying sepsis. Here we show for the first time that respiratory infection with Francisella tularensis live vaccine strain resulted in rapid accumulation of NKT cells within the lung interstitium. Activated NKT cells produced interferon-γ and promoted both local and systemic proinflammatory responses. Consistent with these results, NKT cell-deficient mice showed reduced inflammatory cytokine and chemokine response yet they survived the infection better than their wild type counterparts. Strikingly, NKT cell-deficient mice had increased lymphocytic infiltration in the lungs that organized into tertiary lymphoid structures resembling induced bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (iBALT) at the peak of infection. Thus, NKT cell activation by F. tularensis infection hampers iBALT formation and promotes a systemic proinflammatory response, which exacerbates severe pulmonary tularemia-like disease in mice. NKT cells are innate-like lymphocytes with a demonstrated role in a wide range of diseases. Often cited for their ability to rapidly produce a variety of cytokines upon activation, they have long been appreciated for their ability to “jump-start” the immune system and to shape the quality of both the innate and adaptive response. This understanding of their function has been deduced from in vitro experiments or through the in vivo administration of highly potent, chemically synthesized lipid ligands, which may not necessarily reflect a physiologically relevant response as observed in a natural infection. Using a mouse model of pulmonary tularemia, we report that intranasal infection with the live vaccine strain of F. tularensis rapidly activates NKT cells and promotes systemic inflammation, increased tissue damage, and a dysregulated immune response resulting in increased morbidity and mortality in infected mice. Our data highlight the detrimental effects of NKT cell activation and identify a potential new target for therapies against pulmonary tularemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy M. Hill
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Pavlo Gilchuk
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Veterans Administration Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Basak B. Cicek
- Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Maria A. Osina
- Department of Psychology and Human Development, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Kelli L. Boyd
- Veterans Administration Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Douglas M. Durrant
- Center for Immunology and Microbial Disease, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, United States of America
| | - Dennis W. Metzger
- Center for Immunology and Microbial Disease, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, United States of America
| | - Kamal M. Khanna
- Department of Immunology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Sebastian Joyce
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- Veterans Administration Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Clinton TR, Weinstock MT, Jacobsen MT, Szabo-Fresnais N, Pandya MJ, Whitby FG, Herbert AS, Prugar LI, McKinnon R, Hill CP, Welch BD, Dye JM, Eckert DM, Kay MS. Design and characterization of ebolavirus GP prehairpin intermediate mimics as drug targets. Protein Sci 2015; 24:446-63. [PMID: 25287718 PMCID: PMC4380977 DOI: 10.1002/pro.2578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Ebolaviruses are highly lethal filoviruses that cause hemorrhagic fever in humans and nonhuman primates. With no approved treatments or preventatives, the development of an anti-ebolavirus therapy to protect against natural infections and potential weaponization is an urgent global health need. Here, we describe the design, biophysical characterization, and validation of peptide mimics of the ebolavirus N-trimer, a highly conserved region of the GP2 fusion protein, to be used as targets to develop broad-spectrum inhibitors of ebolavirus entry. The N-trimer region of GP2 is 90% identical across all ebolavirus species and forms a critical part of the prehairpin intermediate that is exposed during viral entry. Specifically, we fused designed coiled coils to the N-trimer to present it as a soluble trimeric coiled coil as it appears during membrane fusion. Circular dichroism, sedimentation equilibrium, and X-ray crystallography analyses reveal the helical, trimeric structure of the designed N-trimer mimic targets. Surface plasmon resonance studies validate that the N-trimer mimic binds its native ligand, the C-peptide region of GP2. The longest N-trimer mimic also inhibits virus entry, thereby confirming binding of the C-peptide region during viral entry and the presence of a vulnerable prehairpin intermediate. Using phage display as a model system, we validate the suitability of the N-trimer mimics as drug screening targets. Finally, we describe the foundational work to use the N-trimer mimics as targets in mirror-image phage display, which will be used to identify D-peptide inhibitors of ebolavirus entry.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tracy R Clinton
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake City, Utah, 84112-5650
| | - Matthew T Weinstock
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake City, Utah, 84112-5650
| | - Michael T Jacobsen
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake City, Utah, 84112-5650
| | - Nicolas Szabo-Fresnais
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake City, Utah, 84112-5650,Cardiology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake City, Utah, 84148
| | - Maya J Pandya
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake City, Utah, 84112-5650
| | - Frank G Whitby
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake City, Utah, 84112-5650
| | - Andrew S Herbert
- U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort DetrickFrederick, Maryland, 21702-5011
| | - Laura I Prugar
- U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort DetrickFrederick, Maryland, 21702-5011
| | - Rena McKinnon
- D-Peptide Research Division, Navigen, Inc.Salt Lake City, Utah, 84108
| | - Christopher P Hill
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake City, Utah, 84112-5650
| | - Brett D Welch
- D-Peptide Research Division, Navigen, Inc.Salt Lake City, Utah, 84108
| | - John M Dye
- U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort DetrickFrederick, Maryland, 21702-5011
| | - Debra M Eckert
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake City, Utah, 84112-5650,*Correspondence to: Debra M. Eckert; Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, 15 N. Medical Drive East, Rm 4100, Salt Lake City, UT 84112. E-mail: or Michael S. Kay; Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, 15 N. Medical Drive East, Rm 4100, Salt Lake City, UT 84112. E-mail:
| | - Michael S Kay
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of MedicineSalt Lake City, Utah, 84112-5650,*Correspondence to: Debra M. Eckert; Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, 15 N. Medical Drive East, Rm 4100, Salt Lake City, UT 84112. E-mail: or Michael S. Kay; Department of Biochemistry, University of Utah School of Medicine, 15 N. Medical Drive East, Rm 4100, Salt Lake City, UT 84112. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wurtz N, Grobusch MP, Raoult D. Negative impact of laws regarding biosecurity and bioterrorism on real diseases. Clin Microbiol Infect 2015; 20:507-15. [PMID: 24909400 DOI: 10.1111/1469-0691.12709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Revised: 05/28/2014] [Accepted: 06/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Research on highly pathogenic microorganisms in biosafety level 3 and 4 laboratories is very important for human public health, as it provides opportunities for the development of vaccines and novel therapeutics as well as diagnostic methods to prevent epidemics. However, in recent years, after the anthrax and World Trade Center attacks in 2001 in the USA, the threat of bioterrorism has grown for both the public and the authorities. As a result, technical and physical containment measures and biosafety and biosecurity practices have been implemented in laboratories handling these dangerous pathogens. Working with selected biological agents and toxins is now highly regulated, owing to their potential to pose a threat to public health and safety, despite the fact that the anthrax attack was found to be the result of a lack of security at a US Army laboratory. Thus, these added regulations have been associated with a large amount of fruitless investment. Herein, we describe the limitations of research in these facilities, and the multiple consequences of the increased regulations. These limitations have seriously negatively impacted on the number of collaborations, the size of research projects, and, more generally, scientific research on microbial pathogens. Clearly, the actual number of known victims and fatalities caused by the intentional use of microorganisms has been negligible as compared with those caused by naturally acquired human infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Wurtz
- URMITE, CNRS UMR 7278, IRD 198, Inserm 1095, Aix Marseille Université, Marseille, France
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Wang H, Jiang N, Shao S, Zheng T, Sun J. A Comprehensive Evaluation System for Military Hospitals' Response Capability to Bio-terrorism. Cell Biochem Biophys 2015; 72:147-52. [PMID: 25605265 DOI: 10.1007/s12013-014-0426-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to establish a comprehensive evaluation system for military hospitals' response capacity to bio-terrorism. Literature research and Delphi method were utilized to establish the comprehensive evaluation system for military hospitals' response capacity to bio-terrorism. Questionnaires were designed and used to survey the status quo of 134 military hospitals' response capability to bio-terrorism. Survey indicated that factor analysis method was suitable to for analyzing the comprehensive evaluation system for military hospitals' response capacity to bio-terrorism. The constructed evaluation system was consisted of five first-class and 16 second-class indexes. Among them, medical response factor was considered as the most important factor with weight coefficient of 0.660, followed in turn by the emergency management factor with weight coefficient of 0.109, emergency management consciousness factor with weight coefficient of 0.093, hardware support factor with weight coefficient of 0.078, and improvement factor with weight coefficient of 0.059. The constructed comprehensive assessment model and system are scientific and practical.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- General Hospital of Beijing Military Command, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Nan Jiang
- General Hospital of Beijing Military Command, Beijing, 100700, China
| | - Sicong Shao
- Cognitive and Mental Health Research Center, Beijing Institute of Basic Medical Science, Beijing, 100850, China
| | - Tao Zheng
- Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, 100071, China.
| | - Jianzhong Sun
- Department of S&T, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100850, China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Tobudic S, Nedomansky K, Poeppl W, Müller M, Faas A, Mooseder G, Allerberger F, Stanek G, Burgmann H. Seroprevalence for Coxiella burnetii, Francisella tularensis, Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis in Austrian adults: a cross-sectional survey among military personnel and civilians. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2014; 5:315-7. [PMID: 24572607 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2013.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2013] [Revised: 12/15/2013] [Accepted: 12/17/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of Coxiella burnetii, Francisella tularensis, Brucella abortus, and Brucella melitensis infections in Austria and the exposure risk of military personnel were assessed in an exploratory nationwide cross-sectional seroprevalence survey in 526 healthy adult individuals, 222 of which were soldiers and 304 were civilians. Screening for IgA/IgG antibodies to C. burnetii (Phase I) and IgG/IgM antibodies to C. burnetii (Phase II), and to F. tularensis was done with commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. To detect antibodies against B. abortus and B. melitensis, an in-house complement fixation test was used. Overall, 11 individuals (2.0%) showed antibodies to C. burnetii, 3 individuals (0.5%) were seropositive for F. tularensis, and one (0.3%) individual was borderline positive. All individuals positive or borderline for F. tularensis tested negative for antibodies against C. burnetii. All individuals tested negative for antibodies against B. melitensis/B. abortus. There were no significant differences between the seroprevalence of C. burnetii and F. tularensis among military personnel and civilians. Our data demonstrate serological evidence of a low rate of exposure to C. burnetii and F. tularensis among the Austrian adult population and military personnel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Selma Tobudic
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Klara Nedomansky
- Fachhochschule Campus Wien, University of Applied Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Poeppl
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Department of Dermatology and Tropical Medicine, Military Hospital Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maria Müller
- Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety, Vienna, Austria
| | - Angelus Faas
- Institute for Medical Support, Military Hospital Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerhard Mooseder
- Department of Dermatology and Tropical Medicine, Military Hospital Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Gerold Stanek
- Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heinz Burgmann
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Burtea A, Salzameda NT. Discovery and SAR study of a sulfonamide hydroxamic acid inhibitor for the botulinum neurotoxin serotype A light chain. MEDCHEMCOMM 2014. [DOI: 10.1039/c4md00053f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Through the use of chemical synthesis and high throughput screening, we discovered a sulfonamide hydroxamic acid inhibitor for the botulinum neurotoxin serotype A light chain. A structure activity relationship study of the parent inhibitor resulted in the synthesis of a new inhibitor with an IC50of 0.95 ± 0.60 μM for the BoNT/A LC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Burtea
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry
- California State University
- Fullerton, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Rumah KR, Linden J, Fischetti VA, Vartanian T. Isolation of Clostridium perfringens type B in an individual at first clinical presentation of multiple sclerosis provides clues for environmental triggers of the disease. PLoS One 2013; 8:e76359. [PMID: 24146858 PMCID: PMC3797790 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0076359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2013] [Accepted: 08/26/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We have isolated Clostridium perfringens type B, an epsilon toxin-secreting bacillus, from a young woman at clinical presentation of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) with actively enhancing lesions on brain MRI. This finding represents the first time that C. perfringens type B has been detected in a human. Epsilon toxin's tropism for the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and binding to oligodendrocytes/myelin makes it a provocative candidate for nascent lesion formation in MS. We examined a well-characterized population of MS patients and healthy controls for carriage of C. perfringens toxinotypes in the gastrointestinal tract. The human commensal Clostridium perfringens type A was present in approximately 50% of healthy human controls compared to only 23% in MS patients. We examined sera and CSF obtained from two tissue banks and found that immunoreactivity to ETX is 10 times more prevalent in people with MS than in healthy controls, indicating prior exposure to ETX in the MS population. C. perfringens epsilon toxin fits mechanistically with nascent MS lesion formation since these lesions are characterized by BBB permeability and oligodendrocyte cell death in the absence of an adaptive immune infiltrate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kareem Rashid Rumah
- Tri-Institutional M.D.-Ph.D. Program of Weill Cornell Medical College, Rockefeller University and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Hospital, New York, New York, United States of America
- The Brain and Mind Research Institute and the Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
- The Laboratory of Bacterial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Linden
- The Brain and Mind Research Institute and the Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Vincent A. Fischetti
- The Laboratory of Bacterial Pathogenesis and Immunology, Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Timothy Vartanian
- The Brain and Mind Research Institute and the Department of Neurology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Rapid and reliable detection of bacterial endospores in environmental samples by diagnostic electron microscopy combined with X-ray microanalysis. J Microbiol Methods 2013; 94:13-21. [PMID: 23603002 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2013.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2013] [Revised: 03/28/2013] [Accepted: 03/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Diagnostic negative staining electron microscopy is a front-line method for the rapid investigation of environmental and clinical samples in emergency situations caused by bioterrorism or outbreaks of an infectious disease. Spores of anthrax are one of the diagnostic targets in case of bioterrorism, because they have been used as a bio-weapon in the past and their production and transmission are rather simple. With negative staining electron microscopy bacterial spores can be identified based on their morphology at the single cell level. However, because of their particular density, no internal structures are visible which sometimes makes it difficult to distinguish spores from particles with a similar size and shape that are frequently present in environmental samples. Spores contain a high concentration of calcium ions besides other elements, which may allow a proper discrimination of spores from other suspicious particles. To investigate this hypothesis, negative staining electron microscopy, using either transmission or scanning electron microscopes, was combined with energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis, which reveals the element content of individual nanoparticles. A peak pattern consisting of calcium, sulphur and phosphorus was found as a typical signature within the X-ray spectrum of spores in various Clostridium and Bacillus species, including all strains of anthrax (Bacillus anthracis) tested. Moreover, spores could be reliably identified by this combined approach in environmental samples, like household products, soil or various presumed bioterrorist samples. In summary, the use of X-ray spectroscopy, either directly in the transmission electron microscope, or in a correlative approach by using scanning electron microscopy, improves the emergency diagnostics of suspicious environmental samples.
Collapse
|
22
|
Chromy BA, Elsheikh M, Christensen TL, Livingston D, Petersen K, Bearinger JP, Hoeprich PD. Repurposing screens identify rifamycins as potential broad-spectrum therapy for multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and select agent microorganisms. Future Microbiol 2012; 7:1011-20. [DOI: 10.2217/fmb.12.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Aims: Estimates suggest that the drug discovery and development processes take between 10 and 15 years, with costs ranging between US$500 million and $2 billion. A growing number of bacteria have become resistant to approved antimicrobials. For example, the Gram-negative bacterium Acinetobacter baumannii has become multidrug resistant (MDR) and is now an important pathogen to the US military in terms of wound infections. Industry experts have called for a ‘disruptive’ transformation of the drug discovery process to find new chemical entities for treating drug-resistant infections. One such attempt is drug ‘repurposing’ or ‘repositioning’ – that is, identification and development of new uses for existing or abandoned pharmacotherapies. Materials & methods: Using a novel combination of screening technologies based on cell growth and cellular respiration, we screened 450 US FDA-approved drugs from the NIH National Clinical Collection against a dozen clinical MDR A. baumannii (MDRAb) isolates from US soldiers and Marines. We also screened the collection against a diverse set of select agent surrogate pathogens. Results: Seventeen drugs showed promising antimicrobial activity against all MDRAb isolates and select agent surrogates; three of these compounds – all rifamycins – were found to be effective at preventing growth and preventing cellular respiration of MDRAb and select agent surrogate bacteria when evaluated in growth prevention assays, highlighting the potential for repurposing. Conclusion: We report the discovery of a class of known compounds whose repurposing may be useful in solving the current problem with MDRAb and may lead to the discovery of broad-spectrum antimicrobials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brett A Chromy
- University of California Davis School of Medicine, Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Tupper Hall, Room 3440, Davis, CA 95616, USA
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Avenue, PO Box 808, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Maher Elsheikh
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Avenue, PO Box 808, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Tova L Christensen
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Avenue, PO Box 808, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Doug Livingston
- Evotec San Francisco, Oyster Point Boulevard, South San Francisco, CA 94080, USA
| | - Kyle Petersen
- Naval Medical Research Center, 503 Robert Grant Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910, USA
| | - Jane P Bearinger
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Avenue, PO Box 808, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| | - Paul D Hoeprich
- Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Avenue, PO Box 808, Livermore, CA 94550, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Chromy BA, Fodor IK, Montgomery NK, Luciw PA, McCutchen-Maloney SL. Cluster analysis of host cytokine responses to biodefense pathogens in a whole blood ex vivo exposure model (WEEM). BMC Microbiol 2012; 12:79. [PMID: 22607329 PMCID: PMC3430575 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2180-12-79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2011] [Accepted: 05/20/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Rapid detection and therapeutic intervention for infectious and emerging diseases is a major scientific goal in biodefense and public health. Toward this end, cytokine profiles in human blood were investigated using a human whole blood ex vivo exposure model, called WEEM. Results Samples of whole blood from healthy volunteers were incubated with seven pathogens including Yersinia pseudotuberculosis, Yersinia enterocolitica, Bacillus anthracis, and multiple strains of Yersinia pestis, and multiplexed protein expression profiling was conducted on supernatants of these cultures with an antibody array to detect 30 cytokines simultaneously. Levels of 8 cytokines, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IP-10, MCP-1 and TNFα, were significantly up-regulated in plasma after bacterial exposures of 4 hours. Statistical clustering was applied to group the pathogens based on the host response protein expression profiles. The nearest phylogenetic neighbors clustered more closely than the more distant pathogens, and all seven pathogens were clearly differentiated from the unexposed control. In addition, the Y. pestis and Yersinia near neighbors were differentiated from the B. anthracis strains. Conclusions Cluster analysis, based on host response cytokine profiles, indicates that distinct patterns of immunomodulatory proteins are induced by the different pathogen exposures and these patterns may enable further development into biomarkers for diagnosing pathogen exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brett A Chromy
- Physical and Life Sciences Directorate, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, 7000 East Avenue, Livermore, CA 94550, USA.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Whitemarsh RCM, Strathman MJ, Chase LG, Stankewicz C, Tepp WH, Johnson EA, Pellett S. Novel application of human neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells for highly sensitive botulinum neurotoxin detection. Toxicol Sci 2012; 126:426-35. [PMID: 22223483 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfr354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) hold great promise for providing various differentiated cell models for in vitro toxigenicity testing. For Clostridium botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) detection and mechanistic studies, several cell models currently exist, but none examine toxin function with species-specific relevance while exhibiting high sensitivity. The most sensitive cell models to date are mouse or rat primary cells and neurons derived from mouse embryonic stem cells, both of which require significant technical expertise for culture preparation. This study describes for the first time the use of hiPSC-derived neurons for BoNT detection. The neurons used in this study were differentiated and cryopreserved by Cellular Dynamics International (Madison, WI) and consist of an almost pure pan-neuronal population of predominantly gamma aminoisobutyric acidergic and glutamatergic neurons. Western blot and quantitative PCR data show that these neurons express all the necessary receptors and substrates for BoNT intoxication. BoNT/A intoxication studies demonstrate that the hiPSC-derived neurons reproducibly and quantitatively detect biologically active BoNT/A with high sensitivity (EC(50) ∼0.3 U). Additionally, the quantitative detection of BoNT serotypes B, C, E, and BoNT/A complex was demonstrated, and BoNT/A specificity was confirmed through antibody protection studies. A direct comparison of BoNT detection using primary rat spinal cord cells and hiPSC-derived neurons showed equal or increased sensitivity, a steeper dose-response curve and a more complete SNARE protein target cleavage for hiPSC-derived neurons. In summary, these data suggest that neurons derived from hiPSCs provide an ideal and highly sensitive platform for BoNT potency determination, neutralizing antibody detection and for mechanistic studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Regina C M Whitemarsh
- Department of Bacteriology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
Bioterrorism is defined as the intentional use of biological, chemical, nuclear, or radiological agents to cause disease, death, or environmental damage. Early recognition of a bioterrorist attack is of utmost importance to minimize casualties and initiate appropriate therapy. The range of agents that could potentially be used as weapons is wide, however, only a few of these agents have all the characteristics making them ideal for that purpose. Many of the chemical and biological weapons can cause neurological symptoms and damage the nervous system in varying degrees. Therefore, preparedness among neurologists is important. The main challenge is to be cognizant of the clinical syndromes and to be able to differentiate diseases caused by bioterrorism from naturally occurring disorders. This review provides an overview of the biological and chemical warfare agents, with a focus on neurological manifestation and an approach to treatment from a perspective of neurological critical care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katharina M Busl
- Department of Neurological Sciences, Rush Medical College, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Microchip Capillary electrophoresis of multi-locus VNTR analysis for genotyping of Bacillus anthracis and Yersinia pestis in microbial forensic cases. Methods Mol Biol 2011. [PMID: 22139674 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-61779-461-2_26] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Bacillus anthracis and Yersinia pestis are etiological agents of anthrax and plague respectively, and are also considered among the most feared potential bioterrorism agents. These microorganisms show intraspecies genome homogeneity, making strains differentiation difficult, while strains identification and comparison with known genotypes may be crucial for naturally occurring outbreaks vs. bioterrorist events discrimination.Here an MLVA application for B. anthracis and Y. pestis strains differentiation is described on Microchip Capillary electrophoresis apparatus. The platform is a candidate for on-site MLVA genotyping of biothreat agents as well as other bacterial pathogens. This microfluidics-based electrophoresis analysis system represents an alternative to the more expensive and demanding capillary electrophoresis methods, and to the less expensive but more time-consuming standard agarose gel approach.
Collapse
|
27
|
Cutaneous manifestations of category A bioweapons. J Am Acad Dermatol 2011; 65:1213.e1-1213.e15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2010.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2009] [Revised: 08/06/2010] [Accepted: 08/06/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
|
28
|
Jacob D, Wahab T, Edvinsson B, Peterzon A, Boskani T, Farhadi L, Barduhn A, Grunow R, Sandström G. Identification and subtyping of Francisella by pyrosequencing and signature matching of 16S rDNA fragments. Lett Appl Microbiol 2011; 53:592-5. [PMID: 21967285 DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-765x.2011.03158.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To analyse the V1 region of the 16S rDNA gene by a universal pyrosequencing protocol to identify and subtype Francisella in 31 strains from a repository collection and 96 patient isolates. METHODS AND RESULTS Pyrosequencing was used to determine the nucleotide sequence of PCR amplification products of the variable region (V1) of the 16S rDNA from 31 repository strains and 96 isolates from Swedish patients with ulceroglandular tularaemia. Pyrosequencing resulted in a 37 nucleotide sequence, specific for Francisella sp., for all repository strains and patient samples analysed. In addition, the isolates could be divided into two groups based on the analysis of a single nucleotide polymorphism in the sequence: one group included Francisella tularensis ssp. tularensis, ssp. holarctica and ssp. mediasiatica, whereas the other group included Francisella tularensis ssp. novicida and other species of Francisella. The analysis of samples taken from patients suffering from ulceroglandular tularaemia revealed that all isolates belonged to the first group comprising subspecies of F. tularensis virulent for humans. CONCLUSIONS The pyrosequencing analysis of the 16S rDNA V1 is a useful molecular tool for the rapid identification of suspected isolates of Francisella sp. in clinical or environmental samples. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Virulent F. tularensis ssp. causing ulceroglandular tularaemia, or those with a potential to be used in a bioterrorism event, could rapidly be discriminated from subspecies less virulent for humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D Jacob
- Center for Biological Security (ZBS 2), Robert Koch-Institut, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Addanki KC, Sheraz M, Knight K, Williams K, Pace DG, Bagasra O. Detection of anthrax toxin genetic sequences by the solid phase oligo-probes. Indian J Med Microbiol 2011; 29:372-8. [DOI: 10.4103/0255-0857.90169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
|
30
|
Lamont EA, He L, Warriner K, Labuza TP, Sreevatsan S. A single DNA aptamer functions as a biosensor for ricin. Analyst 2011; 136:3884-95. [PMID: 21748194 DOI: 10.1039/c1an15352h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The use of microorganisms or toxins as weapons of death and fear is not a novel concept; however, the modes by which these agents of bioterrorism are deployed are increasingly clever and insidious. One mechanism by which biothreats are readily disseminated is through a nation's food supply. Ricin, a toxin derived from the castor bean plant, displays a strong thermostability and remains active at acidic and alkaline pHs. Therefore, the CDC has assigned ricin as a category B reagent since it may be easily amendable as a deliberate food biocontaminate. Current tools for ricin detection utilize enzymatic activity, immunointeractions and presence of castor bean DNA. Many of these tools are confounded by complex food matrices, display a limited dynamic range of detection and/or lack specificity. Aptamers, short RNA and single stranded DNA sequences, have increased affinity to their selected receptors, experience little cross-reactivity to other homologous compounds and are currently being sought after as biosensors for bacterial contaminants in food. This paper describes the selection and characterization of a single, dominant aptamer, designated as SSRA1, against the B-chain of ricin. SSRA1 displays one folding conformation that is stable across 4-63 °C (ΔG = -5.05). SSRA1 is able to concentrate at least 30 ng mL(-1) of ricin B chain from several liquid food matrices and outcompetes a currently available ELISA kit and ricin aptamer. Furthermore, we show detection of 25 ng mL(-1) of intact ricin A-B complex using SSRA1 combined with surface enhanced Raman scattering technique. Thus, SSRA1 would serve well as pre-analytical tool for processing of ricin from liquid foods to aid current diagnostics as well as a sensor for direct ricin detection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elise A Lamont
- Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Room 301E, 1971 Commonwealth Avenue, Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Beadle JR, Hostetler KY. Alkoxyalkyl Ester Prodrugs of Antiviral Nucleoside Phosphates and Phosphonates. ANTIVIRAL DRUG STRATEGIES 2011. [DOI: 10.1002/9783527635955.ch8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
|
32
|
Smee DF, Bailey KW, Wong MH, Tarbet EB. Topical treatment of cutaneous vaccinia virus infections in immunosuppressed hairless mice with selected antiviral substances. Antivir Chem Chemother 2011; 21:201-8. [PMID: 21566266 DOI: 10.3851/imp1734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Certain nucleoside, nucleotide and pyrophosphate analogues may be useful for treating severe complications arising as a result of virus dissemination following smallpox (live vaccinia virus) vaccinations, especially in immunocompromised individuals. We used an immunosuppressed hairless mouse model to study the effects of 10 antiviral agents on progressive vaccinia infections. METHODS Hairless mice were immunosuppressed by treatment with cyclophosphamide (100 mg/kg) every 4 days starting 1 day prior to vaccinia virus (WR strain) infection of wounded skin. Topical treatments with antiviral agents were applied twice a day for 7 days starting 5 days after virus exposure. RESULTS Topical 1% cidofovir cream treatment was effective in significantly reducing primary lesion severity and decreasing the number of satellite lesions. Topical 1% cyclic HPMPC and 1% phosphonoacetic acid were not quite as active as cidofovir. Ribavirin (5%) treatment reduced lesion severity and diminished the numbers of satellite lesions, but the mice died significantly sooner than placebos. 2-Amino-7-[(1,3,-dihydroxy-2-propoxy)methyl]purine (compound S2242; 1%) moderately reduced primary lesion sizes. Ineffective treatments included 5% arabinosyladenine, 1% arabinosylcytosine, 1% 5-chloro-arabinosylcytosine, 5% arabinosylhypoxanthine 5-monophosphate and 5% viramidine. CONCLUSIONS Of the compounds tested, topically applied cidofovir was the most effective treatment of cutaneous vaccinia virus infections in immunosuppressed mice. Topical treatment with cidofovir could be considered as an adjunct to intravenous drug therapy for serious infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donald F Smee
- Institute for Antiviral Research, Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ruge DR, Dunning FM, Piazza TM, Molles BE, Adler M, Zeytin FN, Tucker WC. Detection of six serotypes of botulinum neurotoxin using fluorogenic reporters. Anal Biochem 2011; 411:200-9. [PMID: 21216216 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2011.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2010] [Revised: 01/03/2011] [Accepted: 01/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
|
34
|
Tarbet EB, Larson D, Anderson BJ, Bailey KW, Wong MH, Smee DF. Evaluation of imiquimod for topical treatment of vaccinia virus cutaneous infections in immunosuppressed hairless mice. Antiviral Res 2011; 90:126-33. [PMID: 21439326 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2011.03.181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2010] [Revised: 03/03/2011] [Accepted: 03/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Imiquimod is an immune response modifier prescribed as a topical medication for a number of viral and neoplastic conditions. We evaluated the antiviral activity of imiquimod against vaccinia virus (WR strain) cutaneous infections in immunosuppressed (with cyclophosphamide) hairless mice when administered after virus exposure. Primary lesions progressed in severity, satellite lesions developed, and infection eventually killed the mice. Once daily topical treatment with 1% imiquimod cream for 3, 4, or 5 days were compared to twice daily topical treatment with 1% cidofovir cream for 7 days. Survival time of mice in all treated groups was significantly prolonged compared to placebo controls. The mean day of death for the placebo group, 3-day imiquimod, 4-day imiquimod, 5-day imiquimod, and cidofovir groups were 15.5, 20.0, 20.5, 19.5, and 20.5 days post-infection, respectively. All treatment groups showed significant reductions in primary lesion size and in the number of satellite lesions. The cidofovir and 4-day imiquimod treatments delayed the appearance of lung virus titers by 3 and 6 days, respectively, although cutaneous lesion and snout virus titers were not as affected by treatment. Benefits in survival and lesion reduction were observed when imiquimod treatment was delayed from 24, 48, and 72 h post-infection. However, increasing the treatment dose of imiquimod from 1% to 5% led to a significant decrease in antiviral efficacy. These results demonstrate the protective effects of topically administered imiquimod against a disseminated vaccinia virus infection in this mouse model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Bart Tarbet
- Institute for Antiviral Research and Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, Utah 84322-5600, United States.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Caruana DJ. Detection and analysis of airborne particles of biological origin: present and future. Analyst 2011; 136:4641-52. [DOI: 10.1039/c1an15506g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
36
|
Knutsson R. A tracing tool portfolio to detect Bacillus anthracis, Clostridium botulinum and Noroviruses: bioterrorism is a food safety and security issue. Int J Food Microbiol 2010; 145 Suppl 1:S121-2. [PMID: 21324542 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2010.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rickard Knutsson
- Department of Bacteriology, National Veterinary Institute, SVA, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
London NR, Zhu W, Bozza FA, Smith MCP, Greif DM, Sorensen LK, Chen L, Kaminoh Y, Chan AC, Passi SF, Day CW, Barnard DL, Zimmerman GA, Krasnow MA, Li DY. Targeting Robo4-dependent Slit signaling to survive the cytokine storm in sepsis and influenza. Sci Transl Med 2010; 2:23ra19. [PMID: 20375003 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.3000678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The innate immune system provides a first line of defense against invading pathogens by releasing multiple inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, which directly combat the infectious agent and recruit additional immune responses. This exuberant cytokine release paradoxically injures the host by triggering leakage from capillaries, tissue edema, organ failure, and shock. Current medical therapies target individual pathogens with antimicrobial agents or directly either blunt or boost the host's immune system. We explored a third approach: activating with the soluble ligand Slit an endothelium-specific, Robo4-dependent signaling pathway that strengthens the vascular barrier, diminishing deleterious aspects of the host's response to the pathogen-induced cytokine storm. This approach reduced vascular permeability in the lung and other organs and increased survival in animal models of bacterial endotoxin exposure, polymicrobial sepsis, and H5N1 influenza. Thus, enhancing the resilience of the host vascular system to the host's innate immune response may provide a therapeutic strategy for treating multiple infectious agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nyall R London
- Department of Oncological Sciences, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Pelletier N, La Scola B. Détection moléculaire et immunologique des bactéries dans le cadre du bioterrorisme. Med Mal Infect 2010; 40:506-16. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medmal.2010.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2009] [Revised: 02/04/2010] [Accepted: 03/08/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
|
39
|
Cardi T, Lenzi P, Maliga P. Chloroplasts as expression platforms for plant-produced vaccines. Expert Rev Vaccines 2010; 9:893-911. [PMID: 20673012 DOI: 10.1586/erv.10.78] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
Production of recombinant subunit vaccines from genes incorporated in the plastid genome is advantageous because of the attainable expression level due to high transgene copy number and the absence of gene silencing; biocontainment as a consequence of maternal inheritance of plastids and no transgene presence in the pollen; and expression of multiple transgenes in prokaryotic-like operons. We discuss the core technology of plastid transformation in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, a unicellular alga, and Nicotiana tabacum (tobacco), a flowering plant species, and demonstrate the utility of the technology for the production of recombinant vaccine antigens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teodoro Cardi
- CNR-IGV, Institute of Plant Genetics, Portici, Italy.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Smith CR, Smith GK, Yang Z, Xu D, Guo H. Quantum mechanical/molecular mechanical study of anthrax lethal factor catalysis. Theor Chem Acc 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s00214-010-0765-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
41
|
Abstract
There has been an abundance of different bioterrorist attack scenarios and consequently an unclear biodefense strategy so far. We present a framework for bioterrorism risk assessment that we believe would be useful for policymakers and understandable without needing to be an expert in this field. We retrieved the Medline database via PubMed (from January 1987 to January 2009) and cross-referenced and reviewed the terms biological weapons, biological attacks, bioterror, bio(defense), bio(strategy) and epidemiologic models, and risk assessment. Additionally, we conducted an internet search with the same terms and strategy. We divided bioterrorist attacks into 3 categories: strategical (large-scale), operational (middle-scale), and tactical (small-scale). A bioterrorist attack is presented as a 4-component chain model, including perpetrators, agents, means of delivery, and targets. For any of these 4 components, we propose quantitative and qualitative risk assessment parameters. Here we present a simple scoring system within our model applied to the 2001 U.S. anthrax attacks.
Collapse
|
42
|
Salzameda NT, Barbieri JT, Janda KD. Synthetic substrate for application in both high and low throughput assays for botulinum neurotoxin B protease inhibitors. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2009; 19:5848-50. [PMID: 19747823 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2009.08.079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2009] [Revised: 08/20/2009] [Accepted: 08/24/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A FRET peptide substrate was synthesized and evaluated for enzymatic cleavage by the BoNT/B light chain protease. The FRET substrate was found to be useful in both a high throughput assay to uncover initial 'hits' and a low throughput HPLC assay to determine kinetic parameters and modes of inhibition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas T Salzameda
- Department of Chemistry and The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Kennedy R, Pankratz VS, Swanson E, Watson D, Golding H, Poland GA. Statistical approach to estimate vaccinia-specific neutralizing antibody titers using a high-throughput assay. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2009; 16:1105-12. [PMID: 19535540 PMCID: PMC2725542 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00109-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2009] [Revised: 05/19/2009] [Accepted: 06/08/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Because of the bioterrorism threat posed by agents such as variola virus, considerable time, resources, and effort have been devoted to biodefense preparation. One avenue of this research has been the development of rapid, sensitive, high-throughput assays to validate immune responses to poxviruses. Here we describe the adaptation of a beta-galactosidase reporter-based vaccinia virus neutralization assay to large-scale use in a study that included over 1,000 subjects. We also describe the statistical methods involved in analyzing the large quantity of data generated. The assay and its associated methods should prove useful tools in monitoring immune responses to next-generation smallpox vaccines, studying poxvirus immunity, and evaluating therapeutic agents such as vaccinia virus immune globulin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Kennedy
- Mayo Vaccine Research Group, Mayo Clinic, Guggenheim 611C, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Capková K, Salzameda NT, Janda KD. Investigations into small molecule non-peptidic inhibitors of the botulinum neurotoxins. Toxicon 2009; 54:575-82. [PMID: 19327377 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2009.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2008] [Revised: 03/03/2009] [Accepted: 03/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs), proteins secreted by the bacteria genus Clostridium, represent a group of extremely lethal toxins and a potential bioterrorism threat. As the current therapeutic options are of a predominantly prophylactic nature and cannot be used en masse, new strategies and ultimately potential treatments are desperately needed to combat any widespread release of these neurotoxins. In these regards, our laboratory has been working on developing new alternatives to treat botulinum intoxication through the development of inhibitors of the light chain proteases, the etiological agent which causes BoNT intoxication. Such a strategy has required the construction of two high-throughput screens and small molecule non-peptidic libraries; excitingly, inhibitors of the BoNT/A protease have been uncovered and are being optimized via structure activity relationship studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Capková
- Departments of Chemistry and Immunology, and The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, The Scripps Research Institute, 10550 North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Biological Agents and Terror Medicine. ESSENTIALS OF TERROR MEDICINE 2009. [PMCID: PMC7121165 DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-09412-0_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
In the last decade, terror has become an increasingly global problem. More people have become radicalized, the know-how to use weapons of mass destruction (WMD) is easily accessible by Internet and electronic media, and precursors and basic ingredients are easily purchased. Terrorists are innovative and we now face a new era of nonconventional terrorism: chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear (CBRN), as well as cyber terrorism. The deliberate use of (WMD–CBRN) by hostile states or terrorists and of naturally emerging infectious diseases that have a potential to cause illness on a massive scale could pose a national security threat.1 Resulting panic and economic damage could paralyze a country.
Collapse
|
46
|
Kman NE, Nelson RN. Infectious agents of bioterrorism: a review for emergency physicians. Emerg Med Clin North Am 2008; 26:517-47, x-xi. [PMID: 18406986 DOI: 10.1016/j.emc.2008.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The terrorist attacks on the United States in 2001 and the anthrax release soon after brought the issue of bioterrorism to the forefront in the medical community. Bioterrorism is the use of a biologic weapon to create terror and panic. Biologic weapons, or bioweapons, can be bacteria, fungi, viruses, or biologic toxins. Because the emergency department represents the front line of defense for the recognition of agents of bioterrorism, it is essential that emergency physicians have the ability to quickly diagnose victims of bioterrorism. This review examines the most deadly and virulent category A agents of bioterrorism, that is, anthrax, smallpox, plague, botulism, hemorrhagic fever viruses, and tularemia. The focus is on epidemiology, transmission, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas E Kman
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The Ohio State University Medical Center, 146 Means Hall, 1654 Upham Drive, Columbus, OH 43210-1228, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Ciammaruconi A, Grassi S, De Santis R, Faggioni G, Pittiglio V, D'Amelio R, Carattoli A, Cassone A, Vergnaud G, Lista F. Fieldable genotyping of Bacillus anthracis and Yersinia pestis based on 25-loci Multi Locus VNTR Analysis. BMC Microbiol 2008; 8:21. [PMID: 18230125 PMCID: PMC2257963 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2180-8-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2007] [Accepted: 01/29/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anthrax and plague are diseases caused by Bacillus anthracis and Yersinia pestis respectively. These bacteria are etiological agents for worldwide zoonotic diseases and are considered among the most feared potential bioterror agents. Strain differentiation is difficult for these microorganisms because of their high intraspecies genome homogeneity. Moreover, fast strain identification and comparison with known genotypes may be crucial for naturally occurring outbreaks versus bioterrorist events discrimination. RESULTS Thirty-nine B. anthracis and ten Y. pestis strains, representative of the species genetic diversity, were genotyped by Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer using previously described Multiple Locus VNTR Analysis assays (MLVA). Results were compared to previous data obtained by standard genotyping system (capillary electrophoresis on automatic sequencer) and, when necessary, direct amplicon sequencing. A reference comparison table containing actual fragment sizes, sequencer sizes and Agilent sizes was produced. CONCLUSION In this report an automated DNA electrophoresis apparatus which provides a cheaper alternative compared to capillary electrophoresis approaches was applied for genotyping of B. anthracis and Y. pestis. This equipment, uses pre-cast gels and provides easy transportation, low maintenance and overall general logistic requirements and costs, is easy to set up and provides rapid analysis. This platform is a candidate for on-site MLVA genotyping of biothreat agents as well as other bacterial pathogens. It is an alternative to the more expensive and demanding capillary electrophoresis methods, and to the less expensive but more time-consuming classical gel electrophoresis approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Ciammaruconi
- Histology and Molecular Biology Section, Army Medical Research Center, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo 4, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | - Saverio Grassi
- Histology and Molecular Biology Section, Army Medical Research Center, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo 4, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo De Santis
- Histology and Molecular Biology Section, Army Medical Research Center, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo 4, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Faggioni
- Histology and Molecular Biology Section, Army Medical Research Center, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo 4, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Pittiglio
- Histology and Molecular Biology Section, Army Medical Research Center, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo 4, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele D'Amelio
- Direzione Generale della Sanità Militare, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo 4, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, II Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia Università "La Sapienza", Via di Grottarossa 1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Carattoli
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic, and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Cassone
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic, and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Gilles Vergnaud
- Division of Analytical Microbiology, Centre d'Etudes du Bouchet, BP3, 91710 Vert le Petit (France)
- Institut de Génétique et Microbiologie, Univ Paris-Sud Orsay, F-91405, France; CNRS, Orsay, F-91405, France
| | - Florigio Lista
- Histology and Molecular Biology Section, Army Medical Research Center, Via Santo Stefano Rotondo 4, 00184 Rome, Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche, II Facoltà di Medicina e Chirurgia Università "La Sapienza", Via di Grottarossa 1039, 00189 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Dodd D, Reese JG, Louer CR, Ballard JD, Spies MA, Blanke SR. Functional comparison of the two Bacillus anthracis glutamate racemases. J Bacteriol 2007; 189:5265-75. [PMID: 17496086 PMCID: PMC1951872 DOI: 10.1128/jb.00352-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2007] [Accepted: 05/01/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Glutamate racemase activity in Bacillus anthracis is of significant interest with respect to chemotherapeutic drug design, because L-glutamate stereoisomerization to D-glutamate is predicted to be closely associated with peptidoglycan and capsule biosynthesis, which are important for growth and virulence, respectively. In contrast to most bacteria, which harbor a single glutamate racemase gene, the genomic sequence of B. anthracis predicts two genes encoding glutamate racemases, racE1 and racE2. To evaluate whether racE1 and racE2 encode functional glutamate racemases, we cloned and expressed racE1 and racE2 in Escherichia coli. Size exclusion chromatography of the two purified recombinant proteins suggested differences in their quaternary structures, as RacE1 eluted primarily as a monomer, while RacE2 demonstrated characteristics of a higher-order species. Analysis of purified recombinant RacE1 and RacE2 revealed that the two proteins catalyze the reversible stereoisomerization of L-glutamate and D-glutamate with similar, but not identical, steady-state kinetic properties. Analysis of the pH dependence of L-glutamate stereoisomerization suggested that RacE1 and RacE2 both possess two titratable active site residues important for catalysis. Moreover, directed mutagenesis of predicted active site residues resulted in complete attenuation of the enzymatic activities of both RacE1 and RacE2. Homology modeling of RacE1 and RacE2 revealed potential differences within the active site pocket that might affect the design of inhibitory pharmacophores. These results suggest that racE1 and racE2 encode functional glutamate racemases with similar, but not identical, active site features.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Dodd
- Department of Microbiology, Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|