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Castelletto ML, Akimori D, Patel R, Schroeder NE, Hallem EA. Introduction to Strongyloides stercoralis Anatomy. J Nematol 2024; 56:20240019. [PMID: 38855080 PMCID: PMC11162604 DOI: 10.2478/jofnem-2024-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Strongyloides stercoralis, commonly known as the human threadworm, is a skin-penetrating gastrointestinal parasitic nematode that infects hundreds of millions of people worldwide. Like other Strongyloides species, S. stercoralis is capable of cycling through a single free-living generation. Although S. stercoralis and the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans are evolutionarily distant, the free-living adults of S. stercoralis are similar enough in size and morphology to C. elegans adults that techniques for generating transgenics and knockouts in C. elegans have been successfully adapted for use in S. stercoralis. High-quality genomic and transcriptomic data are also available for S. stercoralis. Thus, one can use a burgeoning array of functional genomic tools in S. stercoralis to probe questions about parasitic nematode development, physiology, and behavior. Knowledge gained from S. stercoralis will inform studies of other parasitic nematodes such as hookworms that are not yet amenable to genetic manipulation. This review describes the basic anatomy of S. stercoralis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L. Castelletto
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095
| | - Damia Akimori
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095
- Molecular Biology Interdepartmental Ph.D. Program, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095
| | - Ruhi Patel
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095
| | - Nathan E. Schroeder
- Department of Crop Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL61801
| | - Elissa A. Hallem
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095
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Kounosu A, Sun S, Maeda Y, Dayi M, Yoshida A, Maruyama H, Hunt V, Sugimoto A, Kikuchi T. Syntenic relationship of chromosomes in Strongyloides species and Rhabditophanes diutinus based on the chromosome-level genome assemblies. Philos Trans R Soc Lond B Biol Sci 2024; 379:20220446. [PMID: 38008120 PMCID: PMC10676810 DOI: 10.1098/rstb.2022.0446] [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: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The Strongyloides clade, to which the parasitic nematode genus Strongyloides belongs, contains taxa with diverse lifestyles, ranging from free-living to obligate vertebrate parasites. Reproductive strategies are also diverse in this group of nematodes, employing not only sexual reproduction but also parthenogenesis, making it an attractive group to study genome adaptation to specific conditions. An in-depth understanding of genome evolution, however, has been hampered by fragmented genome assemblies. In this study, we generated chromosome-level genome assemblies for two Strongyloides species and the outgroup species Rhabditophanes diutinus using long-read sequencing and high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C). Our synteny analyses revealed a clearer picture of chromosome evolution in this group, suggesting that a functional sex chromosome has been maintained throughout the group. We further investigated sex chromosome dynamics in the lifecycle of Strongyloides ratti and found that bivalent formation in oocytes appears to be important for male production in the mitotic parthenogenesis. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Strongyloides: omics to worm-free populations'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asuka Kounosu
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba 277-8562, Japan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, 5200 Kihara, Miyazaki 889-1692, Japan
| | - Simo Sun
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba 277-8562, Japan
| | - Yasunobu Maeda
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba 277-8562, Japan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, 5200 Kihara, Miyazaki 889-1692, Japan
| | - Mehmet Dayi
- Forestry Vocational School, Duzce University, 81620 Duzce, Türkiye
| | - Akemi Yoshida
- Frontier Science Research Center, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-1692, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Maruyama
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Miyazaki, 5200 Kihara, Miyazaki 889-1692, Japan
| | - Vicky Hunt
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath BA27AY, UK
| | - Asako Sugimoto
- Laboratory of Developmental Dynamics, Graduate School of Life Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8577, Japan
| | - Taisei Kikuchi
- Department of Integrated Biosciences, Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Chiba 277-8562, Japan
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Borrás P, Pérez MG, Repetto S, Barrera JP, Risso MG, Montoya A, Miró G, Fernandez F, Telesca L, Britton C, Ruybal P. First identification of Strongyloides stercoralis infection in a pet dog in Argentina, using integrated diagnostic approaches. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:389. [PMID: 37891629 PMCID: PMC10605978 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06022-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Strongyloides stercoralis is a soil-transmitted intestinal nematode with a complex life cycle that primarily affects humans, non-human primates, dogs, and occasionally cats. This study presents, to the best of our knowledge, the first case of S. stercoralis infection and its genotyping in a domestic dog from Argentina. METHODS The patient was a female wired-haired Teckel dog exhibiting recurrent coughing. Coproparasitological analysis using the Baermann technique revealed the presence of rhabditiform larvae morphologically compatible with S. stercoralis. To confirm this finding, molecular diagnosis (18S ribosomal RNA) and analysis of the cox1 gene were performed. RESULTS We identified a haplotype (HP20) that has previously only been related to S. stercoralis infection in dogs, but was found in the present study to be highly related to the haplotype (HP16) of a zoonotic variant and divergent from those previously described from human patients in Argentina. Furthermore, unlike in human cases following treatment with ivermectin, the dog was negative after moxidectin treatment according to polymerase chain reaction of the sampled faeces. CONCLUSIONS This case report shows the importance of further investigation into potential transmission events and prevalences of S. stercoralis in dogs and humans in South America. The results reported here should also encourage future work that examines different scenarios of infection with S. stercoralis in dogs and humans with the aim of integrating clinical management, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up strategies in the quest for new approaches for the treatment of this disease in animals and humans. The findings support the adoption of a One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness between animal and human health, in addressing parasitic infections such as strongyloidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Borrás
- Centro de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Maimonides, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Matías Gastón Pérez
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Silvia Repetto
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Hospital de Clínicas "José de San Martín", Universidad de Buenos Aires, División Infectología, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Pedro Barrera
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marikena Guadalupe Risso
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Montoya
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Guadalupe Miró
- Animal Health Department, Veterinary Faculty, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Laura Telesca
- Private Practice, Veterinaria a Domicilio, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Collette Britton
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Paula Ruybal
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Microbiología, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Sultana Y, Kong F, Mukutmoni M, Fahria L, Begum A, Lee R. Internal transcribed spacer region 1 as a promising target for detection of intra-specific polymorphisms for Strongyloides stercoralis. Trop Parasitol 2022; 12:48-53. [PMID: 35923272 PMCID: PMC9341138 DOI: 10.4103/tp.tp_13_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Strongyloides stercoralis, the causative agent of strongyloidiasis, is a parasitic worm that has larvae capable of reinfecting the same host. This nematode infection is therefore difficult to treat and to achieve total cure. Information about genetic variation and differences in drug susceptibility between strains is needed to improve treatment outcomes. Aim: To develop a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to identify the intra-species variation among 13 S. stercoralis isolates collected from Bangladesh, USA and Australia. Material & Methods: PCR assays were designed by using primers targeting S. stercoralis internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions 1 and 2. Sequence data generated by these PCR products were compared to the existing ITS1/2, 18S and 28S rRNA gene sequences in GenBank for phylogenetic analysis. Results: Intra-species single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified in ITS1 and in the 5.8S rRNA gene. The generated phylogram grouped the 13 isolates into dog, Orangutan and human clusters. Conclusion: This method could be used as an epidemiological tool to study strain differences in larger collections of S. stercoralis isolates. The study forms the basis for further development of an ITS-based assay for S. stercoralis molecular epidemiological studies
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Kalantari N, Chehrazi M, Ghaffari S, Gorgani-Firouzjaee T. Serological assays for the diagnosis of Strongyloides stercoralis infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis of diagnostic test accuracy. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 114:459-469. [PMID: 32052848 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trz135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The standard method for the diagnosis of Strongyloides stercoralis, stool examinations, is inconvenient and, therefore, serological methods have been proposed. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of serological assays for the diagnosis of strongyloidiasis using a systematic review and meta-analysis model. Four electronic databases were reviewed. We used a random effects model and 95% CIs to determine the overall sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR). Heterogeneity was intended with Cochran Q χ2 test and I2 statistic. The accuracy of serological assays resulted in a sensitivity of 71.7% (95% CI: 56.07 to 83.4%), a specificity of 89.9% (95% CI: 80.8 to 94.9%) and a DOR of 22.5 (95% CI: 10.8 to 46.9). The forest plot showed high heterogeneity regarding sensitivity (I2=90.4%, 95% CI: 87.4 to 93.3%; Q=228.1, p=0.000) and specificity (I2=98.9%, 95% CI: 98.8 to 99.1%; Q=2066.4, p=0.000). Fagan's nomogram showed that the probability of someone having the infection and with a positive test result was 49%. Deeks' funnel plots showed no evidence of potential publication bias for the studies (p=0.26). The current review suggests that serological techniques have acceptable sensitivity and specificity and therefore can be recommended for the screening of S. stercoralis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narges Kalantari
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Ganj Afrooz Ave., Babol 47176-47745, I. R. Iran
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedical Sciences, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Ganj Afrooz Ave., Babol 47176-47745, I.R. Iran
| | - Mohammad Chehrazi
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Ganj Afrooz Ave., Babol 47176-47745, I. R. Iran
| | - Salman Ghaffari
- Department of Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Ganj Afrooz Ave., Babol 47176-47745, I.R. Iran
| | - Tahmineh Gorgani-Firouzjaee
- Department of Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Ganj Afrooz Ave., Babol 47176-47745, I.R. Iran
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Ganj Afrooz Ave., Babol 47176-47745, I.R. Iran
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Gunathilaka N, Chandrasena N, Wijerathna T, Fuji Y, Gunasekara D, Gunatilaka RP, Premaratna R. Descriptive Investigation of Strongyloidiasis Infection and Characterization of Strongyloides stercoralis Using Morphological and Molecular-Based Methods. Case Rep Infect Dis 2020; 2020:5431491. [PMID: 32884851 PMCID: PMC7455842 DOI: 10.1155/2020/5431491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Strongyloidiasis is caused by the nematode Strongyloides stercoralis which has the unique ability to reproduce and complete its entire life cycle within the human host through its autoinfection cycle. Diagnosis of this infection is important because of its potential to cause fatal hyperinfection syndrome or disseminated infections in those with defective cellular immunity. Parasitological methods based on faecal microscopy and culture often fail to detect low-intensity infections. A multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay was developed for the detection of S. stercoralis, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Enterobius vermicularis by designing primers specific for the ITS1 region of ribosomal DNA of S. stercoralis and A. lumbricoides and 18S region of rRNA of E. vermicularis. A 61-year-old patient presented with chronic gastrointestinal and respiratory symptoms and weight loss with a stool microscopy positive for helminth larvae. Stool cultures with the Harada-Mori technique yielded L3 larvae which were identified as S. stercoralis based on morphology. The multiplex PCR performed on DNA extracted from stool elicited the expected band at 129 bp on gel electrophoresis of the PCR yield providing molecular evidence of intestinal strongyloidiasis. The patient's gastrointestinal symptoms improved with a six-day course of albendazole (400 mg twice daily). Negative posttreatment stool microscopy, culture, and PCR confirmed successful clearance of infection. Molecular-based PCR assay is a promising tool to diagnose and assess the therapeutic efficacy of anthelmintics in intestinal helminthiases such as strongyloidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nayana Gunathilaka
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Nilmini Chandrasena
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Tharaka Wijerathna
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Yoshito Fuji
- Visiting Scholar, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - Deepa Gunasekara
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | | | - Ranjan Premaratna
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
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Abstract
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an important sensory cue for many animals, including both parasitic and free-living nematodes. Many nematodes show context-dependent, experience-dependent and/or life-stage-dependent behavioural responses to CO2, suggesting that CO2 plays crucial roles throughout the nematode life cycle in multiple ethological contexts. Nematodes also show a wide range of physiological responses to CO2. Here, we review the diverse responses of parasitic and free-living nematodes to CO2. We also discuss the molecular, cellular and neural circuit mechanisms that mediate CO2 detection in nematodes, and that drive context-dependent and experience-dependent responses of nematodes to CO2.
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Javanian M, Gorgani-Firouzjaee T, Kalantrai N. Comparison of ELISA and PCR of the 18S rRNA gene for detection of human strongyloidiasis using serum sample. Infect Dis (Lond) 2019; 51:360-367. [PMID: 30773081 DOI: 10.1080/23744235.2019.1575978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Strongyloides stercoralis infection is a neglected tropical disease with global distribution which is fatal in immunosuppressed patients. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of strongyloidiasis in immunocompromised individuals and cases with infectious diseases, as well as comparing ELISA and conventional PCR with coprological examination, in the central parts of Mazandaran province, northern Iran. METHODS A single serum and a fresh stool samples were obtained from 272 and 220 patients, respectively. Serum was tested by ELISA and PCR of the 18S rRNA gene, and stool samples were examined with various parasitological methods. The optimum point for ELISA reaction and cut-off points were recognized by receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC). RESULTS Out of 220 stool specimens, 14(6.3%) cases were positive for S. stercoralis larvae. The overall seroprevalence rate was 27.9% (76/272). The seroprevalence rate was 25.2% and 30.1% in immunocompromised group and patients with infection, respectively. Based on the ROC curve of ELISA compared with microscopy, the optimum cut-off point was 12.74 with 79% sensitivity and 76% specificity. The optimum cut-off point was 10.42 with 69% sensitivity and specificity using ROC curve of ELISA compared with PCR. CONCLUSIONS This study seroprevalence rate for Strongyloides infection in the studied group. It also observed that the ELISA technique and the PCR used here have 100 demonstrated a high % sensitivity and acceptable specificity compared with coprological examination. It seems that the ELISA technique is a good screening assay in ruling out strongyloidiasis in such patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Javanian
- a Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center , Babol University of Medical Science , Babol , Iran
| | - Tahmineh Gorgani-Firouzjaee
- b Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine , Babol University of Medical Science , Babol , Iran
| | - Narges Kalantrai
- c Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Health Research Institute , Babol University of Medical Sciences , Babol , Iran
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Ofori E, Ramai D, Khan A, Xiao P, Reddy M, Shahzad G. Hepatobiliary strongyloidiasis presenting as an ampullary lesion on esophagogastroduodenoscopy/endoscopic ultrasound. Gastroenterol Rep (Oxf) 2018; 7:367-370. [PMID: 31687157 PMCID: PMC6821160 DOI: 10.1093/gastro/goy002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Revised: 12/06/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Strongyloidiasis is an intestinal infection caused by the parasitic nematodes of the Strongyloides species, most commonly Strongyloides stercoralis. We report a case of a 66-year-old immigrant male from Haiti who presented with complaints of diarrhea and an unintentional 80-lb weight loss over the past 5 years. Stool examination was positive for strongyloidiasis. Following albendazole therapy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) showed a unique ampullary lesion. Histopathology of the ampullary lesion showed reactive epithelium with Strongyloides larva. In addition, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) detected a large pancreatic cyst. Both these findings were absent on EGD 5 years previously, prior to the onset of his symptoms. This paper documents a rare case of an ampullary lesion and pancreatic cyst secondary to hepatobiliary strongyloidiasis in a non-Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) patient. We review the epidemiology, life cycle, clinical presentation and treatment of strongyloidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Ofori
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, Academic Affiliate of The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Clinical Affiliate of The Mount Sinai Hospital, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Daryl Ramai
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, Academic Affiliate of The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Clinical Affiliate of The Mount Sinai Hospital, Brooklyn, NY, USA.,St. George's University School of Medicine, True Blue, Grenada, WI
| | - Alisha Khan
- St. George's University School of Medicine, True Blue, Grenada, WI
| | - Philip Xiao
- Department of Pathology, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, Academic Affiliate of The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Clinical Affiliate of The Mount Sinai Hospital, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Madhavi Reddy
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, Academic Affiliate of The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Clinical Affiliate of The Mount Sinai Hospital, Brooklyn, NY, USA
| | - Ghulamullah Shahzad
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, The Brooklyn Hospital Center, Academic Affiliate of The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Clinical Affiliate of The Mount Sinai Hospital, Brooklyn, NY, USA
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Liu D, Hunt M, Tsai IJ. Inferring synteny between genome assemblies: a systematic evaluation. BMC Bioinformatics 2018; 19:26. [PMID: 29382321 PMCID: PMC5791376 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-018-2026-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genome assemblies across all domains of life are being produced routinely. Initial analysis of a new genome usually includes annotation and comparative genomics. Synteny provides a framework in which conservation of homologous genes and gene order is identified between genomes of different species. The availability of human and mouse genomes paved the way for algorithm development in large-scale synteny mapping, which eventually became an integral part of comparative genomics. Synteny analysis is regularly performed on assembled sequences that are fragmented, neglecting the fact that most methods were developed using complete genomes. It is unknown to what extent draft assemblies lead to errors in such analysis. RESULTS We fragmented genome assemblies of model nematodes to various extents and conducted synteny identification and downstream analysis. We first show that synteny between species can be underestimated up to 40% and find disagreements between popular tools that infer synteny blocks. This inconsistency and further demonstration of erroneous gene ontology enrichment tests raise questions about the robustness of previous synteny analysis when gold standard genome sequences remain limited. In addition, assembly scaffolding using a reference guided approach with a closely related species may result in chimeric scaffolds with inflated assembly metrics if a true evolutionary relationship was overlooked. Annotation quality, however, has minimal effect on synteny if the assembled genome is highly contiguous. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that a minimum N50 of 1 Mb is required for robust downstream synteny analysis, which emphasizes the importance of gold standard genomes to the science community, and should be achieved given the current progress in sequencing technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dang Liu
- Genome and Systems Biology Degree Program, National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Biodiversity Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Martin Hunt
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, Experimental Medicine Division, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 1NF UK
- European Bioinformatics Institute (EMBL-EBI), Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SD UK
| | - Isheng J Tsai
- Genome and Systems Biology Degree Program, National Taiwan University and Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Biodiversity Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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Paradies P, Iarussi F, Sasanelli M, Capogna A, Lia RP, Zucca D, Greco B, Cantacessi C, Otranto D. Occurrence of strongyloidiasis in privately owned and sheltered dogs: clinical presentation and treatment outcome. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:345. [PMID: 28728589 PMCID: PMC5520385 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2275-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing number of reports of human infections by Strongyloides stercoralis from a range of European countries over the last 20 years has spurred the interest of the scientific community towards this parasite and, in particular, towards the role that infections of canine hosts may play in the epidemiology of human disease. Data on the epidemiology of canine strongyloidiasis is currently limited, most likely because of the inherent limitations of current diagnostic methods. METHODS Faecal samples were collected directly from the rectal ampulla of 272 animals of varying age and both genders living in Apulia, southern Italy. Dogs included were either privately owned (n = 210), living in an urban area but with unrestricted outdoor access (Group 1), or shelter dogs (n = 62 out of ~400) hosted in a single shelter in the province of Bari in which a history of diarrhoea, weight loss, reduced appetite and respiratory symptoms had been reported (Group 2). Strongyloides stercoralis infection was diagnosed by coproscopy on direct faecal smear and via the Baermann method. RESULTS Six of 272 dogs were positive for S. stercoralis at the Baermann examination; all but one were from the shelter (Group 2) and displayed gastrointestinal clinical signs. The only owned dog (Group 1) infected with S. stercoralis, but clinically healthy, had been adopted from a shelter 1 year prior to sampling. Five infected dogs were treated with fenbendazole (Panacur®, Intervet, Animal Health, 50 mg/kg, PO daily for 5 days), or with a combination of fenbendazole and moxidectin plus imidacloprid spot-on (Im/Mox; Advocate® spot-on, Bayer). Post-treatment clearance of infection was confirmed in three dogs by Baermann examination, whereas treatment failure was documented in two dogs by Baermann and/or post-mortem detection of adult parasites. CONCLUSIONS This study describes, for the first time, the presence of S. stercoralis infection in sheltered dogs from southern Italy. Data indicate that S. stercoralis infection may pose a concern for sheltered animals and raise questions on potential risks of infection for staff of municipal shelters in southern European countries. Given that a single course of treatment with fenbendazole, associated or not with Im/Mox spot-on, may not eliminate the infection, effective treatment protocols should be investigated and control strategies targeting the environment considered for reducing the risk of zoonotic infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Paradies
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantations, Veterinary Section, University of Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Iarussi
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantations, Veterinary Section, University of Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Mariateresa Sasanelli
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantations, Veterinary Section, University of Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Antonio Capogna
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantations, Veterinary Section, University of Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Riccardo Paolo Lia
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Daniele Zucca
- Institute of Animal Health, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain
| | - Beatrice Greco
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantations, Veterinary Section, University of Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Bari, Italy
| | - Cinzia Cantacessi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, 70010, Valenzano, Bari, Italy.
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Thanchomnang T, Intapan PM, Sanpool O, Rodpai R, Tourtip S, Yahom S, Kullawat J, Radomyos P, Thammasiri C, Maleewong W. First molecular identification and genetic diversity of Strongyloides stercoralis and Strongyloides fuelleborni in human communities having contact with long-tailed macaques in Thailand. Parasitol Res 2017; 116:1917-1923. [PMID: 28500375 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-017-5469-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 05/02/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The parasitic nematodes, Strongyloides stercoralis and Strongyloides fuelleborni, can infect humans and non-human primates. We amplified and sequenced a portion of the 18S ribosomal RNA gene (rRNA) and of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene of Strongyloides from humans in the study area in Thailand, where people have frequent contact with long-tailed macaques. Fresh stool samples were obtained from 213 people and were examined using the agar plate culture method. The overall prevalence of Strongyloides infection was 8.92% (19/213). From a total of 19 worms (one per infected person), 18 adult males had 18S rRNA sequences identical with that of S. stercoralis and one adult female had a sequence almost identical with that of S. fuelleborni. A median-joining network of cox1 sequences revealed nine new haplotypes from S. stercoralis, and an overall haplotype diversity (Hd) of 0.9309. The single haplotype of S. fuelleborni was also new and contributed to an overall haplotype diversity for that species of 0.9842. This is the first molecular identification of S. stercoralis and S. fuelleborni in a human community having contact with long-tailed macaques in Thailand. It is also the first report of S. fuelleborni infecting a human in Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tongjit Thanchomnang
- Faculty of Medicine, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham, Thailand.,Research and Diagnostic Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Mekong Health Science Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Pewpan M Intapan
- Research and Diagnostic Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Mekong Health Science Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Oranuch Sanpool
- Faculty of Medicine, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham, Thailand.,Research and Diagnostic Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Mekong Health Science Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Rutchanee Rodpai
- Research and Diagnostic Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Mekong Health Science Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | | | - Sujitra Yahom
- Faculty of Medicine, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham, Thailand
| | - Jitsuda Kullawat
- Faculty of Medicine, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham, Thailand
| | - Prayong Radomyos
- Faculty of Medicine, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham, Thailand
| | - Chalida Thammasiri
- Primary Care Unit, Kumpawapi Hospital, Kumpawapi District, Udon Thani, Thailand
| | - Wanchai Maleewong
- Research and Diagnostic Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Mekong Health Science Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand. .,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.
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13
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Jannasch M, Groeber F, Brattig NW, Unger C, Walles H, Hansmann J. Development and application of three-dimensional skin equivalents for the investigation of percutaneous worm invasion. Exp Parasitol 2015; 150:22-30. [PMID: 25592729 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2015.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2014] [Revised: 12/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Investigation of percutaneous helminth infection is generally based on animal models or excised skin. As desirable replacement of animal experiments, tissue-engineered skin equivalents have recently been applied in microbial and viral in vitro infection models. In the present study, the applicability of tissue-engineered skin equivalents for the investigation of percutaneous helminth invasion was evaluated. Epidermal and a full-thickness skin equivalents that suit the requirements for helminth invasion studies were developed. Quantitative invasion assays were performed with the skin-invading larvae of the helminths Strongyloides ratti and Schistosoma mansoni. Both skin equivalents provided a physical barrier to larval invasion of the nematode S. ratti, while these larvae could invade and permeate a cell-free collagen scaffold and ex vivo epidermis. In contrast, the epidermal and full-thickness skin equivalents exhibited a human host-specific susceptibility to larvae of trematode S. mansoni, which could well penetrate. Invasion of S. mansoni in cell-free collagen scaffold was lowest for all experimental conditions. Thus, reconstructed epidermis and full-thickness skin equivalents confirmed a high degree of accordance to native tissue. Additionally, not only tailless schistosomula but also cercariae could permeate the skin equivalents, and thus, delayed tail loss hypothesis was supported. The present study indicates that the limitations in predictive infection test systems for human-pathogenic invading helminths can be overcome by tissue-engineered in vitro skin equivalents allowing a substitution of the human skin for analysis of the interaction between parasites and their hosts' tissues. This novel tissue-engineered technology accomplishes the endeavor to save animal lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Jannasch
- Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - F Groeber
- Department of Cell and Tissue Engineering, Fraunhofer Institute of Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology (IGB), Stuttgart, Germany
| | - N W Brattig
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - C Unger
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - H Walles
- Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - J Hansmann
- Chair Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany.
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14
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Craig JM, Scott AL. Helminths in the lungs. Parasite Immunol 2014; 36:463-74. [PMID: 25201409 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2013] [Accepted: 01/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic helminths infect well over one billion people and typically cause chronic and recurrent infections that exert a considerable toll on human health and productivity. A significant number of important intestinal- and tissue-dwelling helminth parasites have evolved a scripted migration through select organ systems. Of specific interest here are the helminth parasites that interact with respiratory tissues and the pulmonary immune system. This review will consider the nature of the interactions between helminth parasites and the lung environment, as well as the consequences of these interactions on the evolution of parasitism and host immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Craig
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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15
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16
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How to become a parasite without sex chromosomes: a hypothesis for the evolution of Strongyloides spp. and related nematodes. Parasitology 2014; 141:1244-54. [PMID: 24829037 DOI: 10.1017/s003118201400064x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic lifestyles evolved many times independently. Just within the phylum Nematoda animal parasitism must have arisen at least four times. Switching to a parasitic lifestyle is expected to lead to changes in various life history traits including reproductive strategies. Parasitic nematode worms of the genus Strongyloides represent an interesting example to study these processes because they are still capable of forming facultative free-living generations in between parasitic ones. The parasitic generation consists of females only, which reproduce parthenogenetically. The sex in the progeny of the parasitic worms is determined by environmental cues, which control a, presumably ancestral, XX/XO chromosomal sex determining system. In some species the X chromosome is fused with an autosome and one copy of the X-derived sequences is removed by sex-specific chromatin diminution in males. Here I propose a hypothesis for how today's Strongyloides sp. might have evolved from a sexual free-living ancestor through dauer larvae forming free-living and facultative parasitic intermediate stages.
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Strongyloides stercoralis: Global Distribution and Risk Factors. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2288. [PMID: 23875033 PMCID: PMC3708837 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 451] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2012] [Accepted: 05/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The soil-transmitted threadworm, Strongyloides stercoralis, is one of the most neglected among the so-called neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). We reviewed studies of the last 20 years on S. stercoralis's global prevalence in general populations and risk groups. METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A literature search was performed in PubMed for articles published between January 1989 and October 2011. Articles presenting information on infection prevalence were included. A Bayesian meta-analysis was carried out to obtain country-specific prevalence estimates and to compare disease odds ratios in different risk groups taking into account the sensitivities of the diagnostic methods applied. A total of 354 studies from 78 countries were included for the prevalence calculations, 194 (62.4%) were community-based studies, 121 (34.2%) were hospital-based studies and 39 (11.0%) were studies on refugees and immigrants. World maps with country data are provided. In numerous African, Asian and South-American resource-poor countries, information on S. stercoralis is lacking. The meta-analysis showed an association between HIV-infection/alcoholism and S. stercoralis infection (OR: 2.17 BCI: 1.18-4.01; OR: 6.69; BCI: 1.47-33.8), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Our findings show high infection prevalence rates in the general population in selected countries and geographical regions. S. stercoralis infection is prominent in several risk groups. Adequate information on the prevalence is still lacking from many countries. However, current information underscore that S. stercoralis must not be neglected. Further assessments in socio-economic and ecological settings are needed and integration into global helminth control is warranted.
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Chaisson KE, Hallem EA. Chemosensory behaviors of parasites. Trends Parasitol 2012; 28:427-36. [PMID: 22921895 PMCID: PMC5663455 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2012.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2012] [Revised: 07/21/2012] [Accepted: 07/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Many multicellular parasites seek out hosts by following trails of host-emitted chemicals. Host seeking is a characteristic of endoparasites such as parasitic worms as well as of ectoparasites such as mosquitoes and ticks. For host location, many of these parasites use CO(2), a respiration byproduct, in combination with host-specific chemicals. Recent work has begun to elucidate the behavioral responses of parasites to CO(2) and other host chemicals, and to unravel the mechanisms of these responses. Here we discuss recent findings that have greatly advanced our understanding of the chemosensory behaviors of host-seeking parasites. We focus primarily on well-studied parasites such as nematodes and insects, but also note broadly relevant findings in a few less well studied parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keely E Chaisson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA
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19
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Hartmann W, Eschbach ML, Breloer M. Strongyloides ratti infection modulates B and T cell responses to third party antigens. Exp Parasitol 2012; 132:69-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2011.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2011] [Revised: 06/08/2011] [Accepted: 06/14/2011] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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20
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KOLBAUM J, ESCHBACH ML, STEEG C, JACOBS T, FLEISCHER B, BRELOER M. Efficient control of Plasmodium yoelii infection in BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice with pre-existing Strongyloides ratti infection. Parasite Immunol 2012; 34:388-93. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2012.01369.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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21
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Peeters L, Janssen T, De Haes W, Beets I, Meelkop E, Grant W, Schoofs L. A pharmacological study of NLP-12 neuropeptide signaling in free-living and parasitic nematodes. Peptides 2012; 34:82-7. [PMID: 22019590 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2011.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2011] [Revised: 10/06/2011] [Accepted: 10/06/2011] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
NLP-12a and b have been identified as cholecystokinin/sulfakinin-like neuropeptides in the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. They are suggested to play an important role in the regulation of digestive enzyme secretion and fat storage. This study reports on the identification and characterization of an NLP-12-like peptide precursor gene in the rat parasitic nematode Strongyloides ratti. The S. ratti NLP-12 peptides are able to activate both C. elegans CKR-2 receptor isoforms in a dose-dependent way with affinities in the same nanomolar range as the native C. elegans NLP-12 peptides. The C-terminal RPLQFamide sequence motif of the NLP-12 peptides is perfectly conserved between free-living and parasitic nematodes. Based on systemic amino acid replacements the Arg-, Leu- and Phe- residues appear to be critical for high-affinity receptor binding. Finally, a SAR analysis revealed the essential pharmacophore in C. elegans NLP-12b to be the pentapeptide RPLQFamide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Peeters
- Functional Genomics and Proteomics Lab, K.U.Leuven, Naamsestraat 59, Leuven, Belgium.
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22
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Bonne-Année S, Hess JA, Abraham D. Innate and adaptive immunity to the nematode Strongyloides stercoralis in a mouse model. Immunol Res 2011; 51:205-14. [PMID: 22101674 PMCID: PMC6707741 DOI: 10.1007/s12026-011-8258-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Mice have been used to the study the mechanisms of protective innate and adaptive immunity to larval Strongyloides stercoralis. During primary infection, neutrophils and eosinophils are attracted by parasite components and kill the larvae by release of granule products. Eosinophils also function as antigen-presenting cells for the induction of a Th2 response. B cells produce both IgM and IgG that collaborate with neutrophils to kill worms in the adaptive immune response. Vaccine studies have identified a recombinant diagnostic antigen that induced high levels of immunity to infection with S. stercoralis in mice. These studies demonstrate that there are redundancies in the mechanisms used by the immune response to kill the parasite and that a vaccine with a single antigen may be suitable as a prophylactic vaccine to prevent human strongyloidiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Bonne-Année
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Jessica A. Hess
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - David Abraham
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19104
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23
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Garg G, Ranganathan S. In silico secretome analysis approach for next generation sequencing transcriptomic data. BMC Genomics 2011; 12 Suppl 3:S14. [PMID: 22369360 PMCID: PMC3333173 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-12-s3-s14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Excretory/secretory proteins (ESPs) play a major role in parasitic infection as they are present at the host-parasite interface and regulate host immune system. In case of parasitic helminths, transcriptomics has been used extensively to understand the molecular basis of parasitism and for developing novel therapeutic strategies against parasitic infections. However, none of transcriptomic studies have extensively covered ES protein prediction for identifying novel therapeutic targets, especially as parasites adopt non-classical secretion pathways. RESULTS We developed a semi-automated computational approach for prediction and annotation of ES proteins using transcriptomic data from next generation sequencing platforms. For the prediction of non-classically secreted proteins, we have used an improved computational strategy, together with homology matching to a dataset of experimentally determined parasitic helminth ES proteins. We applied this protocol to analyse 454 short reads of parasitic nematode, Strongyloides ratti. From 296231 reads, we derived 28901 contigs, which were translated into 20877 proteins. Based on our improved ES protein prediction pipeline, we identified 2572 ES proteins, of which 407 (1.9%) proteins have classical N-terminal signal peptides, 923 (4.4%) were computationally identified as non-classically secreted while 1516 (7.26%) were identified by homology to experimentally identified parasitic helminth ES proteins. Out of 2572 ES proteins, 2310 (89.8%) ES proteins had homologues in the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and 2220 (86.3%) in parasitic nematodes. We could functionally annotate 1591 (61.8%) ES proteins with protein families and domains and establish pathway associations for 691 (26.8%) proteins. In addition, we have identified 19 representative ES proteins, which have no homologues in the host organism but homologous to lethal RNAi phenotypes in C. elegans, as potential therapeutic targets. CONCLUSION We report a comprehensive approach using freely available computational tools for the secretome analysis of NGS data. This approach has been applied to S. ratti 454 transcriptomic data for in silico excretory/secretory proteins prediction and analysis, providing a foundation for developing new therapeutic solutions for parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gagan Garg
- Dept. of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney NSW 2109, Australia
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Soblik H, Younis AE, Mitreva M, Renard BY, Kirchner M, Geisinger F, Steen H, Brattig NW. Life cycle stage-resolved proteomic analysis of the excretome/secretome from Strongyloides ratti--identification of stage-specific proteases. Mol Cell Proteomics 2011; 10:M111.010157. [PMID: 21964353 PMCID: PMC3237078 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m111.010157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A wide range of biomolecules, including proteins, are excreted and secreted from helminths and contribute to the parasite's successful establishment, survival, and reproduction in an adverse habitat. Excretory and secretory proteins (ESP) are active at the interface between parasite and host and comprise potential targets for intervention. The intestinal nematode Strongyloides spp. exhibits an exceptional developmental plasticity in its life cycle characterized by parasitic and free-living generations. We investigated ESP from infective larvae, parasitic females, and free-living stages of the rat parasite Strongyloides ratti, which is genetically very similar to the human pathogen, Strongyloides stercoralis. Proteomic analysis of ESP revealed 586 proteins, with the largest number of stage-specific ESP found in infective larvae (196), followed by parasitic females (79) and free-living stages (35). One hundred and forty proteins were identified in all studied stages, including anti-oxidative enzymes, heat shock proteins, and carbohydrate-binding proteins. The stage-selective ESP of (1) infective larvae included an astacin metalloproteinase, the L3 Nie antigen, and a fatty acid retinoid-binding protein; (2) parasitic females included a prolyl oligopeptidase (prolyl serine carboxypeptidase), small heat shock proteins, and a secreted acidic protein; (3) free-living stages included a lysozyme family member, a carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzyme, and saponin-like protein. We verified the differential expression of selected genes encoding ESP by qRT-PCR. ELISA analysis revealed the recognition of ESP by antibodies of S. ratti-infected rats. A prolyl oligopeptidase was identified as abundant parasitic female-specific ESP, and the effect of pyrrolidine-based prolyl oligopeptidase inhibitors showed concentration- and time-dependent inhibitory effects on female motility. The characterization of stage-related ESP from Strongyloides will help to further understand the interaction of this unique intestinal nematode with its host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanns Soblik
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
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25
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Genetic characterization of Strongyloides spp. from captive, semi-captive and wild Bornean orangutans (Pongo pygmaeus) in Central and East Kalimantan, Borneo, Indonesia. Parasitology 2011; 138:1417-22. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182011001284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARYOrangutans (Pongo spp.), Asia's only great apes, are threatened in their survival due to habitat loss, hunting and infections. Nematodes of the genus Strongyloides may represent a severe cause of death in wild and captive individuals. In order to better understand which Strongyloides species/subspecies infect orangutans under different conditions, larvae were isolated from fecal material collected in Indonesia from 9 captive, 2 semi-captive and 9 wild individuals, 18 captive groups of Bornean orangutans and from 1 human working with wild orangutans. Genotyping was done at the genomic rDNA locus (part of the 18S rRNA gene and internal transcribed spacer 1, ITS1) by sequencing amplicons. Thirty isolates, including the one from the human, could be identified as S. fuelleborni fuelleborni with 18S rRNA gene identities of 98·5–100%, with a corresponding published sequence. The ITS1 sequences could be determined for 17 of these isolates revealing a huge variability and 2 main clusters without obvious pattern with regard to attributes of the hosts. The ITS1 amplicons of 2 isolates were cloned and sequenced, revealing considerable variability indicative of mixed infections. One isolate from a captive individual was identified as S. stercoralis (18S rRNA) and showed 99% identity (ITS1) with S. stercoralis sequences from geographically distinct locations and host species. The findings are significant with regard to the zoonotic nature of these parasites and might contribute to the conservation of remaining orangutan populations.
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KOLBAUM J, RITTER U, ZIMARA N, BREWIG N, ESCHBACH ML, BRELOER M. Efficient control of Leishmania and Strongyloides despite partial suppression of nematode-induced Th2 response in co-infected mice. Parasite Immunol 2011; 33:226-35. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2010.01273.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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27
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Blankenhaus B, Klemm U, Eschbach ML, Sparwasser T, Huehn J, Kühl AA, Loddenkemper C, Jacobs T, Breloer M. Strongyloides ratti infection induces expansion of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells that interfere with immune response and parasite clearance in BALB/c mice. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2011; 186:4295-305. [PMID: 21335490 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1001920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
To escape expulsion by their host's immune system, pathogenic nematodes exploit regulatory pathways that are intrinsic parts of the mammalian immune system, such as regulatory T cells (Tregs). Using depletion of Treg mice, we showed that Foxp3(+) Treg numbers increased rapidly during infection with the nematode Strongyloides ratti. Transient depletion of Tregs during the first days of infection led to dramatically reduced worm burden and larval output, without aggravation of immune pathology. The transient absence of Tregs during primary infection did not interfere with the generation of protective memory. Depletion of Tregs at later time points of infection (i.e., day 4) did not improve resistance, suggesting that Tregs exert their counterregulatory function during the priming of S. ratti-specific immune responses. Improved resistance upon early Treg depletion was accompanied by accelerated and prolonged mast cell activation and increased production of types 1 and 2 cytokines. In contrast, the blockade of the regulatory receptor CTLA-4 specifically increased nematode-specific type 2 cytokine production. Despite this improved immune response, resistance to the infection was only marginally improved. Taken together, we provide evidence that Treg expansion during S. ratti infection suppresses the protective immune response to this pathogenic nematode and, thus, represents a mechanism of immune evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Birte Blankenhaus
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
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28
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Eschbach ML, Klemm U, Kolbaum J, Blankenhaus B, Brattig N, Breloer M. Strongyloides ratti infection induces transient nematode-specific Th2 response and reciprocal suppression of IFN-gamma production in mice. Parasite Immunol 2010; 32:370-83. [PMID: 20500666 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2010.01199.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Over one-third of the world population is infected with parasitic helminths, Strongyloides ssp. accounting for approximately 30-100 million infected people. In this study, we employ the experimental system of murine Strongyloides ratti infection to investigate the interaction of this pathogenic nematode with its mammalian host. We provide a comprehensive kinetic description of the immune response to S. ratti infection that was reflected by induction of antigen-specific IgM and IgG1, mast cell activation and a Th2-like cytokine response. T cells derived from infected mice displayed an increased IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13 and IL-10 response to CD3-engagement in comparison with T cells derived from naïve mice. The IFN-gamma response to CD3-engagement that was well detectable in T cells derived from naïve mice, however, was suppressed in T cells derived from infected mice. Both, the induction of the S. ratti-specific Th2 response and the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines were transient and observed in strict correlation to the course of infection and the number of infective larvae used. Finally, comparing artificial infections induced by subcutaneous injection of larvae to natural infections, we observed similar antigen-specific T cell responses although the natural infection led to a significantly lower worm burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-L Eschbach
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, ). Hamburg, Germany
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29
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Molecular and functional characterisation of the heat shock protein 10 of Strongyloides ratti. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2009; 168:149-57. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2009.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2009] [Revised: 07/14/2009] [Accepted: 07/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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30
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Nemetschke L, Eberhardt AG, Viney ME, Streit A. A genetic map of the animal-parasitic nematode Strongyloides ratti. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2009; 169:124-7. [PMID: 19887089 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2009.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2009] [Revised: 10/26/2009] [Accepted: 10/27/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Classical genetic approaches are rarely used with metazoan endo-parasites, largely because the adult stages are usually hidden within hosts, making controlled crosses difficult. The nematode Strongyloides ratti is a parasite of the small intestine of rats, and is a relative of the parasite of humans S. stercoralis. The life-cycle of Strongyloides spp. has a facultative free-living adult generation. Here we describe procedures for genetic mapping, and a genetic map, for S. ratti. This is, as far as we are aware, the first genetic map of an animal parasitic nematode. This significantly improves the usefulness of S. ratti as experimentally tractable system for parasitological investigations and for comparative studies with the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Nemetschke
- Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
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Montes M, Sanchez C, Verdonck K, Lake JE, Gonzalez E, Lopez G, Terashima A, Nolan T, Lewis DE, Gotuzzo E, White AC. Regulatory T cell expansion in HTLV-1 and strongyloidiasis co-infection is associated with reduced IL-5 responses to Strongyloides stercoralis antigen. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2009; 3:e456. [PMID: 19513105 PMCID: PMC2686100 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0000456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2008] [Accepted: 05/14/2009] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human strongyloidiasis varies from a chronic but limited infection in normal hosts to hyperinfection in patients treated with corticosteroids or with HTLV-1 co-infection. Regulatory T cells dampen immune responses to infections. How human strongyloidiasis is controlled and how HTLV-1 infection affects this control are not clear. We hypothesize that HTLV-1 leads to dissemination of Strongyloides stercoralis infection by augmenting regulatory T cell numbers, which in turn down regulate the immune response to the parasite. OBJECTIVE To measure peripheral blood T regulatory cells and Strongyloides stercoralis larval antigen-specific cytokine responses in strongyloidiasis patients with or without HTLV-1 co-infection. METHODS Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from newly diagnosed strongyloidiasis patients with or without HTLV-1 co-infection. Regulatory T cells were characterized by flow cytometry using intracellular staining for CD4, CD25 and FoxP3. PBMCs were also cultured with and without Strongyloides larval antigens. Supernatants were analyzed for IL-5 production. RESULTS Patients with HTLV-1 and Strongyloides co-infection had higher parasite burdens. Eosinophil counts were decreased in the HTLV-1 and Strongyloides co-infected subjects compared to strongyloidiasis-only patients (70.0 vs. 502.5 cells/mm(3), p = 0.09, Mann-Whitney test). The proportion of regulatory T cells was increased in HTLV-1 positive subjects co-infected with strongyloidiasis compared to patients with only strongyloidiasis or asymptomatic HTLV-1 carriers (median = 17.9% vs. 4.3% vs. 5.9 p<0.05, One-way ANOVA). Strongyloides antigen-specific IL-5 responses were reduced in strongyloidiasis/HTLV-1 co-infected patients (5.0 vs. 187.5 pg/ml, p = 0.03, Mann-Whitney test). Reduced IL-5 responses and eosinophil counts were inversely correlated to the number of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ cells. CONCLUSIONS Regulatory T cell counts are increased in patients with HTLV-1 and Strongyloides stercoralis co-infection and correlate with both low circulating eosinophil counts and reduced antigen-driven IL-5 production. These findings suggest a role for regulatory T cells in susceptibility to Strongyloides hyperinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Montes
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru.
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Itoh N, Kanai K, Hori Y, Nakao R, Hoshi F, Higuchi S. Fenbendazole treatment of dogs with naturally acquired Strongyloides stercoralis
infection. Vet Rec 2009; 164:559-60. [DOI: 10.1136/vr.164.18.559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- N. Itoh
- First Department of Small Animal Internal Medicine
| | - K. Kanai
- First Department of Small Animal Internal Medicine
| | - Y. Hori
- Third Department of Small Animal Internal Medicine
| | - R. Nakao
- Second Department of Small Animal Internal Medicine; School of Veterinary Medicine; Kitasato University; 23-35-1 Higashi, Towada Aomori 034-8628 Japan
| | - F. Hoshi
- Second Department of Small Animal Internal Medicine; School of Veterinary Medicine; Kitasato University; 23-35-1 Higashi, Towada Aomori 034-8628 Japan
| | - S. Higuchi
- First Department of Small Animal Internal Medicine
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The ubiquitin–proteasome system in Strongyloididae. Biochemical evidence for developmentally regulated proteolysis in Strongyloides venezuelensis. Parasitol Res 2009; 105:567-76. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-009-1430-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2008] [Accepted: 03/23/2009] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Eberhardt AG, Mayer WE, Bonfoh B, Streit A. The Strongyloides (Nematoda) of sheep and the predominant Strongyloides of cattle form at least two different, genetically isolated populations. Vet Parasitol 2008; 157:89-99. [PMID: 18760537 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2008.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2007] [Revised: 06/27/2008] [Accepted: 07/15/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Strongyloides sp. (Nematoda) are very wide spread small intestinal parasites of vertebrates that can form a facultative free-living generation. Most authors considered all Strongyloides of farm ruminants to belong to the same species, namely Strongyloides papillosus (Wedl, 1856). Here we show that, at least in southern Germany, the predominant Strongyloides found in cattle and the Strongyloides found in sheep belong to separate, genetically isolated populations. While we did find mixed infections in cattle, one form clearly dominated. This variety, in turn, was never found in sheep, indicating that the two forms have different host preferences. We also present molecular tools for distinguishing the two varieties, and an analysis of their phylogenetic relationship with the human parasite Strongyloides stercoralis and the major laboratory model species Strongyloides ratti. Based on our findings we propose that Strongyloides from sheep and the predominant Strongyloides from cattle should be considered separate species as it had already been proposed by [Brumpt, E., 1921. Recherches sur le determinisme des sexes et de l'evolution des Anguillules parasites (Strongyloides). Comptes rendu hebdomadaires des séances et mémoires de la Société de Biologie et de ses filiales 85, 149-152], but was largely ignored by later authors. For nomenclature, we follow [Brumpt, E., 1921. Recherches sur le determinisme des sexes et de l'evolution des Anguillules parasites (Strongyloides). Comptes rendu hebdomadaires des séances et mémoires de la Société de Biologie et de ses filiales 85, 149-152] and use the name S. papillosus for the Strongyloides of sheep and the name Strongyloides vituli for the predominant Strongyloides of cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander G Eberhardt
- Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Spemannstrasse 35, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
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Abstract
SUMMARYNematodes of the genusStrongyloidesparasitize the small intestines of vertebrates. In addition to a parasitic life-cycle, which is generally considered to be parthenogenetic,Strongyloidescan also have a facultative, free-living generation involving male and female worms. The purpose of the present article was to review the literature on the modes of reproduction, the routes of development in the two generations ofStrongyloides, discuss the controversial opinions in the literature regarding these aspects and point to new opportunities for addressing key questions in relation to the biology of reproduction of members of the genus employing genetic and genomic tools.
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Liu QL, Thomas VP, Williamson VM. Meiotic parthenogenesis in a root-knot nematode results in rapid genomic homozygosity. Genetics 2007; 176:1483-90. [PMID: 17483427 PMCID: PMC1931544 DOI: 10.1534/genetics.107.071134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Many isolates of the plant-parasitic nematode Meloidogyne hapla reproduce by facultative meiotic parthenogenesis. Sexual crosses can occur, but, in the absence of males, the diploid state appears to be restored by reuniting sister chromosomes of a single meiosis. We have crossed inbred strains of M. hapla that differ in DNA markers and produced hybrids and F(2) lines. Here we show that heterozygous M. hapla females, upon parthenogenetic reproduction, produce progeny that segregate 1:1 for the presence or absence of dominant DNA markers, as would be expected if sister chromosomes are rejoined, rather than the 3:1 ratio typical of a Mendelian cross. Codominant markers also segregate 1:1 and heterozygotes are present at low frequency (<3%). Segregation patterns and recombinant analysis indicate that a homozygous condition is prevalent for markers flanking recombination events, suggesting that recombination occurs preferentially as four-strand exchanges at similar locations between both pairs of non-sister chromatids. With this mechanism, meiotic parthenogenesis would be expected to result in rapid genomic homozygosity. This type of high negative crossover interference coupled with positive chromatid interference has not been observed in fungal or other animal systems in which it is possible to examine the sister products of a single meiosis and may indicate that meiotic recombination in this nematode has novel features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingli L Liu
- Department of Nematology, University of California, Davis, California 95616, USA
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Eberhardt AG, Mayer WE, Streit A. The free-living generation of the nematode Strongyloides papillosus undergoes sexual reproduction. Int J Parasitol 2007; 37:989-1000. [PMID: 17324432 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2007.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2006] [Revised: 01/17/2007] [Accepted: 01/17/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The nematode genus Strongyloides consists of parasites that live as parthenogenetic females in the small intestines of their hosts. They can also form a facultative free-living generation with males and females. Recently, research on Strongyloides cellular and molecular biology has concentrated on Strongyloides ratti and Strongyloides stercoralis. We propose that the related nematode Strongyloides papillosus, a common parasite of ruminants, is well suited for comparative and evolutionary studies and we show that it is phylogentically basal to S. ratti and S. stercoralis. Based on cytological observations several reports have proposed that Strongyloides males do not contribute genetically to the next generation, leaving open the question of why males still exist. In contrast, the only study employing molecular markers showed that S. ratti males do pass on genetic material. Here, we demonstrate that in S. papillosus males also contribute molecular genetic markers to the next generation. This is interesting for two reasons. First, it shows that S. papillosus is amenable to genetic analysis and second, it indicates that sexual reproduction is more common in Strongyloides than previously assumed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander G Eberhardt
- Max Planck Institute for Developmental Biology, Department IV, Spemannstrasse 37, D-72076 Tübingen, Germany
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