1
|
Ali M, Xu C, Nawaz S, Ahmed AE, Hina Q, Li K. Anti-Cryptosporidial Drug-Discovery Challenges and Existing Therapeutic Avenues: A "One-Health" Concern. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:80. [PMID: 38255695 PMCID: PMC10820218 DOI: 10.3390/life14010080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is the leading cause of life-threatening diarrheal infection, especially in infants. Oocysts contaminate the environment, and also, being a zoonotic disease, cryptosporidiosis is a threat to One Health. Nitazoxanide is the only FDA-approved drug, effective only in immunocompetent adults, and is not safe for infants. The absence of mitochondria and apicoplast, the presence of an electron-dense band (ED band), hindrances in its genetic and phenotypic manipulations, and its unique position inside the host cell are some challenges to the anti-cryptosporidial drug-discovery process. However, many compounds, including herbal products, have shown efficacy against Cryptosporidium during in vitro and in vivo trials. Still, the "drug of choice" against this protozoan parasite, especially in immunocompromised individuals and infants, has not yet been explored. The One-Health approach addresses this issue, focusing on the intersection of animal, human, and environmental health. The objective of this review is to provide knowledge about novel anti-cryptosporidial drug targets, available treatment options with associated limitations, and possible future shifts toward natural products to treat cryptosporidiosis. The current review is organized to address the treatment and prevention of cryptosporidiosis. An anti-cryptosporidial drug that is effective in immunocompromised individuals and infants is a necessity of our time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Munwar Ali
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.A.); (C.X.)
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Chang Xu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.A.); (C.X.)
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Shah Nawaz
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China;
| | - Ahmed Ezzat Ahmed
- Biology Department, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 61413, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Qazal Hina
- Department of Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan;
| | - Kun Li
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.A.); (C.X.)
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Aboelsoued D, Abdel Megeed KN. Diagnosis and control of cryptosporidiosis in farm animals. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:1133-1146. [PMID: 36457776 PMCID: PMC9606155 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-022-01513-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a pathogenic protozoan parasite infecting the gastrointestinal epithelium of human and animal hosts. In farm animals, cryptosporidiosis causes significant economic losses including deaths in newborn animals, retarded growth, increased labor involved and high cost of drugs. The detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts in fecal samples is traditionally dependent on examination of stained slides by light microscope or by advanced microscopical tools such as: electron microscopy and phase contrast microscopy. Immunological diagnosis using either antibody or antigen detection could offer high sensitivity and specificity. Examples for these tests are Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Immunochromatographic tests, Immunochromatographic lateral flow (ICLF), Immunofluorescence assays (IFA) and Flow cytometry coupled with cell sorting. Molecular methods could differentiate species and genotypes of Cryptosporidium and help in studying the epidemiological features of this parasite with rapid, simple and sensitive procedures. Nanotechnology-based platforms could improve the sensitivity and specificity of other detection methods like: ELISA, ICLF, IFA and polymerase chain reaction. As the available prophylactic and therapeutic drugs or natural products treatments are insufficient and no approved vaccines are available, the best approach to control this parasite is by following firm hygienic measures. Many vaccine attempts were performed using hyperimmune colostrum, live or attenuated vaccines, recombinant and Deoxyribonucleic acid vaccines. Also, Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/Cas9 technology could help in Cryptosporidium genome editing to improve drug and vaccine discovery. Another approach that could be useful for assigning drug targets is metabolomics. Probiotics were also used successfully in the treatment of acute diarrhea and they proved a limiting effect on cryptosporidiosis in animal models. In addition, nanotherapy-based approaches could provide a good strategy for improving the potency of any type of drugs against Cryptosporidium and give good anti-cryptosporidial effects. In conclusion, accurate diagnosis using advanced techniques is the key to the control and prevention of cryptosporidiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dina Aboelsoued
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, El Buhouth St., Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Kadria Nasr Abdel Megeed
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, El Buhouth St., Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gaber M, Galal LAA, Farrag HMM, Badary DM, Alkhalil SS, Elossily N. The Effects of Commercially Available Syzygium aromaticum, Anethum graveolens, Lactobacillus acidophilus LB, and Zinc as Alternatives Therapy in Experimental Mice Challenged with Cryptosporidium parvum. Infect Drug Resist 2022; 15:171-182. [PMID: 35087280 PMCID: PMC8789248 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s345789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Waterborne cryptosporidiosis is the second cause of diarrhea in young children and immunocompromised hosts after rotavirus. Except for nitazoxanide (NTZ), there is no accredited cryptosporidiosis treatment to date. Therefore, there is an urgent need to find an effective and safe treatment for cryptosporidiosis. This study aimed to investigate the possible anti-protozoal effects of Syzygium aromaticum (clove) oil, Anethum graveolens (dill) seeds oil, Lactobacillus acidophilus LB, and zinc against Cryptosporidium parvum in comparison to NTZ. METHODS Besides the negative control, mice from six experimental groups (T1-T6) were infected with Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts. On the seventh day post-infection (PID), mice from five groups were treated for 8 consecutive days with NTZ, clove oil, dill seed oil, Lactobacillus acidophilus LB, and zinc commercial forms (T2-T5). Oocysts shedding rate, differences of mice body weight, serum IL10, and TNF-α, cryptosporidial antigen, and cd3 at the intestinal mucosa were evaluated at the end of the experiment. RESULTS The mean of the C. parvum oocysts' shedding rate was significantly lower in all treated groups than in the non-treated group. The oocysts reduction rate was the highest in zinc-treated mice (98.3%), Lactobacillus acidophilus LB and dill-treated groups (95.77%), and the NTZ-treated group (91.55%). Clove oil was the least effective, with a 74.65% reduction rate. Excluding the clove oil-treated group, immunohistochemical analysis revealed the clearance of the Cryptosporidium antigen in the intestinal tissue in all treated groups. CONCLUSION The study has provided a rational basis for using these safe, cheap, and commercially available alternatives in treating cryptosporidiosis combined with NTZ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mona Gaber
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt,Correspondence: Mona Gaber Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, 71515, EgyptTel +2088360163 Email ;
| | - Lamia Ahmed A Galal
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Haiam Mohamed Mahmoud Farrag
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt,Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Dalia M Badary
- Department of Medical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Samia S Alkhalil
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Nahed Elossily
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mahajan E, Sinha S, Bhatia A, Sehgal R, Medhi B. Evaluation of the effect of probiotic as add-on therapy with conventional therapy and alone in malaria induced mice. BMC Res Notes 2021; 14:246. [PMID: 34193269 PMCID: PMC8244208 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-021-05661-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Chloroquine is used as a conventional drug therapy for the treatment of malaria. The existence of resistance to chloroquine shown among various species of Plasmodium leads to the search for more efficacious therapy to treat malaria. Probiotic (Lactobacillus casei) has been tried as an add-on therapy with chloroquine. Probiotics are ingested microorganisms associated with a beneficial effect on humans and other species. The study was done to check the efficacy of L. casei as an add-on therapy along with conventional drug therapy (chloroquine) to treat malaria. RESULTS Probiotic in combination with chloroquine showed complete suppression in parasitemia rate. Representation of parasitemia rate was done using mean ± SD. p < 0.05 is considered as statistically significant. The results showed a reduction in parasitemia with probiotic treatment, which was further confirmed through histological observation of two major organs, the liver and spleen. Interestingly, further suppression of parasitemia and hemosiderosis was observed when probiotic was given along with chloroquine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eshani Mahajan
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Research Block B, 4th Floor, Room no 4043, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Shweta Sinha
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Alka Bhatia
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Rakesh Sehgal
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Bikash Medhi
- Department of Pharmacology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Research Block B, 4th Floor, Room no 4043, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hares MF, Tiffney EA, Johnston LJ, Luu L, Stewart CJ, Flynn RJ, Coombes JL. Stem cell-derived enteroid cultures as a tool for dissecting host-parasite interactions in the small intestinal epithelium. Parasite Immunol 2020; 43:e12765. [PMID: 32564379 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii and Cryptosporidium spp. can cause devastating pathological effects in humans and livestock, and in particular to young or immunocompromised individuals. The current treatment plans for these enteric parasites are limited due to long drug courses, severe side effects or simply a lack of efficacy. The study of the early interactions between the parasites and the site of infection in the small intestinal epithelium has been thwarted by the lack of accessible, physiologically relevant and species-specific models. Increasingly, 3D stem cell-derived enteroid models are being refined and developed into sophisticated models of infectious disease. In this review, we shall illustrate the use of enteroids to spearhead research into enteric parasitic infections, bridging the gap between cell line cultures and in vivo experiments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam F Hares
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ellen-Alana Tiffney
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Luke J Johnston
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Lisa Luu
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Robin J Flynn
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Janine L Coombes
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fecal Indole as a Biomarker of Susceptibility to Cryptosporidium Infection. Infect Immun 2016; 84:2299-306. [PMID: 27245413 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00336-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 05/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium causes significant diarrhea worldwide, especially among children and immunocompromised individuals, and no effective drug treatment is currently available for those who need it most. In this report, previous volunteer infectivity studies have been extended to examine the association between fecal indole and indole-producing (IP) gut microbiota on the outcome of a Cryptosporidium infection. Fecal indole concentrations (FICs) of 50 subjects and 19 taxa of common gut microbiota, including six IP taxa (11 subjects) were determined in stool samples collected before and after a challenge with Cryptosporidium oocysts. At the baseline, the mean FIC (± the standard deviation) was 1.66 ± 0.80 mM in those who became infected after a challenge versus 3.20 ± 1.23 mM in those who remained uninfected (P = 0.0001). Only 11.1% of the subjects with a FIC of >2.5 mM became infected after a challenge versus 65.2% of the subjects with a FIC of <2.5 mM. In contrast, the FICs of infected subjects at the baseline or during diarrhea were not correlated with infection intensity or disease severity. The relative abundances (percent) of Escherichia coli, Bacillus spp., and Clostridium spp. were greater ≥2.5-fold in volunteers with a baseline FIC of >2.5 mM, while those of Bacteroides pyogenes, B. fragilis, and Akkermansia muciniphila were greater in those with a baseline FIC of <2.5 mM. These data indicate that some IP bacteria, or perhaps indole alone, can influence the ability of Cryptosporidium to establish an infection. Thus, preexisting indole levels in the gut join the oocyst dose and immune status as important factors that determine the outcome of Cryptosporidium exposure.
Collapse
|
7
|
Del Coco VF, Sparo MD, Sidoti A, Santín M, Basualdo JA, Córdoba MA. Effects of Enterococcus faecalis CECT 7121 on Cryptosporidium parvum infection in mice. Parasitol Res 2016; 115:3239-44. [PMID: 27193238 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-016-5087-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an opportunistic protozoan parasite of humans and animals worldwide and causes diarrheal disease that is typically self-limiting in immunocompetent hosts but often life threatening to immunocompromised individuals. However, there is a lack of completely efficient therapy available. Probiotics have attracted the attention as potential antiparasite compounds against protozoa involved in intestinal infections. This study investigated the effects of administration of probiotic Enterococcus faecalis CECT 7121 on Cryptosporidium parvum infection in immunosuppressed mice. Effects on C. parvum infection at the intestinal mucosa were studied and scored at each portion of the gut. It was demonstrated that Ef CECT 7121 interfered with C. parvum infection when both probiotic and parasite were present in the same intestinal location suggesting that Ef CECT 7121 supplementation can alleviate the negative effects of C. parvum infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valeria F Del Coco
- Centro de Estudios Microbiológicos y Parasitológicos (CUDEMyP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, 60 y 120, La Plata, 1900, Argentina. .,Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Mónica D Sparo
- Centro de Estudios Microbiológicos y Parasitológicos (CUDEMyP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, 60 y 120, La Plata, 1900, Argentina
| | - Alicia Sidoti
- Cátedra de Patología B, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mónica Santín
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Juan Angel Basualdo
- Centro de Estudios Microbiológicos y Parasitológicos (CUDEMyP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, 60 y 120, La Plata, 1900, Argentina
| | - María Alejandra Córdoba
- Centro de Estudios Microbiológicos y Parasitológicos (CUDEMyP), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, 60 y 120, La Plata, 1900, Argentina.,Comisión de Investigaciones Científicas de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Delafosse A, Chartier C, Dupuy MC, Dumoulin M, Pors I, Paraud C. Cryptosporidium parvum infection and associated risk factors in dairy calves in western France. Prev Vet Med 2015; 118:406-12. [PMID: 25623968 PMCID: PMC7172863 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2015.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 01/07/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to determine the prevalence and risk factors for Cryptosporidium infection in calf neonates on dairy farms in Normandy. Fecal samples were randomly collected between July 2010 and September 2011 from 968 calves (7–21 days old) on 97 farms. Up to 10 calves were selected and sampled per farm, and feces examined for oocysts by microscopy. C. parvum oocyst shedding was scored semi-quantitatively (0–5). A questionnaire about calf-level care and management was completed, and mortality rates were obtained from the French national registration database (BDNI). Bivariable and multivariable analyses of potential risk factors for C. parvum oocyst shedding were conducted using generalized estimating equation (GEE) models (family = Binomial).Overall, 402 out of 968 calves (41.5%) were positive for oocysts, and 25.1% of animals had a shedding score >2. Seven of the 97 farms (7%) were negative for oocysts in all fecal samples. At the time of collection, 375 calves (39%) had diarrhea, and its prevalence strongly correlated with the score for C. parvum oocyst shedding (p < 0.0001). The mortality rate at 90 days was significantly greater for calves with high combined scores of diarrhea and shedding. Factors associated with the shedding of C. parvum were the Normande breed (odds ratio = 1.49; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.93–2.37), dispensing of colostrum using a bucket (odds ratio = 1.37; 95% CI: 1.00–1.89), treatment with halofuginone (odds ratio = 0.46; 95% CI: 0.19–1.15) and feeding with fermented milk (odds ratio = 0.32; 95% CI: 0.17–0.63). C. parvum is widespread among calves under 21 days old in dairy herds of western France. Shedding of C. parvum is associated with a high incidence of diarrhea and increased risk of mortality in young calves. This study identified some associated calf-level factors, although further investigations are necessary to determine appropriate measures that farmers and veterinary practitioners should take to reduce the prevalence of C. parvum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Delafosse
- Groupement de Défense Sanitaire de l'Orne, BP 138, Alençon F-61004, France.
| | - C Chartier
- LUNAM University, ONIRIS, Nantes-Atlantic College of Veterinary Medicine, Food Science and Engineering, UMR 1300 BIOEPAR, Nantes F-44307, France
| | - M C Dupuy
- Groupement de Défense Sanitaire de l'Orne, BP 138, Alençon F-61004, France
| | - M Dumoulin
- Groupement de Défense Sanitaire de l'Orne, BP 138, Alençon F-61004, France
| | - I Pors
- ANSES, Niort Laboratory, CS 28440, Niort F-79024, France
| | - C Paraud
- ANSES, Niort Laboratory, CS 28440, Niort F-79024, France
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Human toxocariasis: current advances in diagnostics, treatment, and interventions. Trends Parasitol 2014; 30:456-64. [PMID: 25089038 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2014.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Revised: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a neglected zoonosis caused by the nematodes Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati. This disease is widespread in many countries, reaching high prevalence independently of the economic conditions. However, the true number of cases of toxocariasis is likely to be underestimated owing to the lack of adequate surveillance programs. Although some diagnostic tests are available, their sensitivity and specificity need to be improved. In addition, treatment options for toxocariasis are limited and are non-specific. Toxocariasis is listed as one of the five most important neglected diseases by the CDC. This review presents recent advances related to the control of toxocariasis, including new immunodiagnostics, therapies, and drug formulations, as well as novel interventions using DNA vaccines, immunomodulators, and probiotics.
Collapse
|
10
|
Avila LFDCD, Telmo PDL, Martins LHR, Glaeser TA, Conceição FR, Leite FPL, Scaini CJ. Protective effect of the probiotic Saccharomyces boulardii in Toxocara canis infection is not due to direct action on the larvae. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2014; 55:363-5. [PMID: 24037293 PMCID: PMC4105076 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652013000500012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In a previous study our group found that the probiotic
Saccharomyces boulardii was capable of reducing the
intensity of infection in mice with toxocariasis. In order to assess whether the
mechanism involved would be a direct action of the probiotic on Toxocara
canis larvae, this study was designed. Both probiotics were singly
cultivated in plates containing RPMI 1640 medium and T. canis
larvae. S. boulardii and B. cereus var. toyoi
cultures presented 97.6% and 95.7% of larvae with positive motility,
respectively, and absence of color by the dye trypan blue, not representing
significant difference to the control group (p > 0.05). We
conclude that none of the probiotics showed in vitro effects on
T. canis larvae and that the interaction with the
intestinal mucosa is necessary for the development of the protective effect of
S. boulardii.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Farias da Costa de Avila
- Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900PelotasRSBrazilPost-Graduate Program in Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Pelotas (UFPEL); Campus Universitário, Caixa Postal 354, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. Tel.: 55.53.3275-7350, Fax: 55.53.3275-7350
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Al-Mathal EM, Alsalem AA. Pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel is effective in a murine model of experimental Cryptosporidium parvum ultrastructural studies of the ileum. Exp Parasitol 2013; 134:482-94. [PMID: 23684569 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2013.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2012] [Revised: 03/27/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The current treatments for cryptosporidiosis are ineffective, and there is an urgent need to search for more effective and safer alternatives. One such alternative may be treatments derived from natural resources. The pomegranate peel has been used effectively in traditional medicine to cure diarrhea and dysentery. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of a Punica granatum (pomegranate) peel suspension as a treatment for Cryptosporidium parvum infection. In this study, the effects of this treatment on the ultrastructure of both the intestinal epithelial layer of infected nursling mice and the parasite were observed with a transmission electron microscope. The histological study focused on the examination of the microvilli, columnar epithelium, goblet cells, lamina propria, and crypts of Lieberkuhn. Examination of the ileums of infected mice that received the pomegranate peel suspension demonstrated that the general structure of the ileal tissue of these mice was similar to that of the control group. In the infected mice treated with the suspension, but not the infected/untreated mice, there was an improvement in all ultrastructure aspects at 28days post-inoculation. The study of the ultrastructure of the parasite (C. parvum) in mice treated with the suspension showed that there was decomposition in the parasite to the extent that in some cases we were unable to identify the stage of the parasite due to the severe degeneration. Significant decomposition of the nutrition organ was also observed. Additionally, microgamonte and macrogamonte were not observed in the suspension-treated group, explaining the disappearance of the sexual phases of the parasite in the lumens of this group. In all, this examination demonstrated the restoration of the normal structures of villi and the disappearance of acute symptoms in the suspension-treated mice and showed that the suspension directly affected the parasite at various stages of its development and led to its decomposition and death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ebtisam M Al-Mathal
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Dammam, Dammam 31311, Saudi Arabia.
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wumba R, Longo-Mbenza B, Menotti J, Mandina M, Kintoki F, Situakibanza NH, Kakicha MK, Zanga J, Mbanzulu-Makola K, Nseka T, Mukendi JP, Kendjo E, Sala J, Thellier M. Epidemiology, clinical, immune, and molecular profiles of microsporidiosis and cryptosporidiosis among HIV/AIDS patients. Int J Gen Med 2012; 5:603-11. [PMID: 22924007 PMCID: PMC3422901 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s32344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites, with special emphasis on microsporidia and Cryptosporidium, as well as their association with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) symptoms, risk factors, and other digestive parasites. We also wish to determine the molecular biology definitions of the species and genotypes of microsporidia and Cryptosporidium in HIV patients. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, carried out in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, stool samples were collected from 242 HIV patients (87 men and 155 women) with referred symptoms and risk factors for opportunistic intestinal parasites. The analysis of feces specimen were performed using Ziehl-Neelsen stainings, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), immunofluorescence indirect monoclonal antibody, nested PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism, and PCR amplification and sequencing. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals were used to quantify the risk. RESULTS Of the 242 HIV patients, 7.8%, 0.4%, 5.4%, 0.4%, 2%, 10.6%, and 2.8% had Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Encephalitozoon intestinalis, Cryptosporidium spp., Isospora belli, pathogenic intestinal protozoa, nonpathogenic intestinal protozoa, and helminths, respectively. We found five genotypes of E. bieneusi: two older, NIA1 and D, and three new, KIN1, KIN2, and KIN3. Only 0.4% and 1.6% had Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium hominis, respectively. Of the patients, 36.4%, 34.3%, 31%, and 39% had asthenia, diarrhea, a CD4 count of <100 cells/mm(3), and no antiretroviral therapy (ART), respectively. The majority of those with opportunistic intestinal parasites and C. hominis, and all with C. parvum and new E. bieneusi genotypes, had diarrhea, low CD4+ counts of <100 cells/mm(3), and no ART. There was a significant association between Entamoeba coli, Kaposi sarcoma, herpes zoster, chronic diarrhea, and asthenia, and the presence of 28 cases with opportunistic intestinal parasites. Rural areas, public toilets, and exposure to farm pigs were the univariate risk factors present in the 28 cases with opportunistic intestinal parasites. In logistic regression analysis, a CD4 count of <100 cells/mm(3) (OR = 4.60; 95% CI 1.70-12.20; P = 0.002), no ART (OR = 5.00; 95% CI 1.90-13.20; P < 0.001), and exposure to surface water (OR = 2.90; 95% CI 1.01-8.40; P = 0.048) were identified as the significant and independent determinants for the presence of opportunistic intestinal parasites. CONCLUSION E. bieneusi and Cryptosporidium are becoming more prevalent in Kinshasa, Congo. Based on the findings, we recommend epidemiology surveillance and prevention by means of hygiene, the emphasis of sensitive PCR methods, and treating opportunistic intestinal parasites that may be acquired through fecal-oral transmission, surface water, normal immunity, rural area-based person-person and animal-human infection, and transmission of HIV. Therapy, including ART and treatment with fumagillin, is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roger Wumba
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Department of Parasitology, University Clinic of Kinshasa, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kinshasa, Kinshasa, Congo
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Al-Mathal EM, Alsalem AM. Pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel is effective in a murine model of experimental Cryptosporidium parvum. Exp Parasitol 2012; 131:350-7. [PMID: 22580265 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2012.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2011] [Revised: 04/12/2012] [Accepted: 04/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis, a major health issue for neonatal calves, is caused by the parasite Cryptosporidium parvum, which is highly resistant to drug treatments. To date, many anti-parasitic drugs have been tested, but only a few have been shown to be partially effective in treating cryptosporidiosis. Previous studies have indicated that pomegranate (Punica granatum) possesses anti-plasmodium, anti-cestode, and anti-nematode activities. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of P. granatum peel on suckling mice infected with experimental C. parvum. At 4days of age, 72 neonatal albino mice were randomly divided into five groups: G1: healthy controls, G2: infected/untreated controls, G3: uninfected/distilled water-treated, G4: uninfected/P. granatum peel-treated, and G5: infected/P. granatum peel-treated. Mice were experimentally-infected by oral administration of 1×10(3)C. parvum oocysts per animal. On day 7 post-inoculation (pi), treated mice received an aqueous suspension of P. granatum peel orally (3g/kg body weight). The presence of diarrhea, oocyst shedding, and weight gain/loss, and the histopathology of ileal sections were examined. Infected mice treated with the P. granatum peel suspension showed improvement in all parameters examined. Additionally, these mice did not exhibit any clinical symptoms and no deaths occurred. Oocyst shedding was very significantly reduced in the P. granatum-treated mice by day 14 pi (P<.05), and was completely eliminated by day 28 pi. The mean weight gain of the P. granatum-treated mice was significantly higher than that of the infected/untreated controls throughout the study (P<.01). Histopathological analysis of ileal sections further supported the clinical and parasitological findings. The histological architecture of villi from the P. granatum-treated mice on day 14 pi showed visible improvement in comparison with the infected/untreated controls, including renewed brush borders, reduced numbers of C. parvum trophozoites, and reduced lymphatic infiltration. On day 28 pi, tissues of the P. granatum-treated mice were very similar to those of healthy control mice. These results suggest that P. granatum peel is a promising anti-coccidial therapeutic treatment that lacks negative side effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ebtisam M Al-Mathal
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Dammam, Dammam, Saudi Arabia.
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Travers MA, Florent I, Kohl L, Grellier P. Probiotics for the control of parasites: an overview. J Parasitol Res 2011; 2011:610769. [PMID: 21966589 PMCID: PMC3182331 DOI: 10.1155/2011/610769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2011] [Revised: 07/11/2011] [Accepted: 07/11/2011] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Probiotics are defined as live organisms, which confer benefits to the host. Their efficiency was demonstrated for the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory infections, and allergic symptoms, but their use is mostly limited to bacterial and viral diseases. During the last decade, probiotics as means for the control of parasite infections were reported covering mainly intestinal diseases but also some nongut infections, that are all of human and veterinary importance. In most cases, evidence for a beneficial effect was obtained by studies using animal models. In a few cases, cellular interactions between probiotics and pathogens or relevant host cells were also investigated using in vitro culture systems. However, molecular mechanisms mediating the beneficial effects are as yet poorly understood. These studies indicate that probiotics might indeed provide a strain-specific protection against parasites, probably through multiple mechanisms. But more unravelling studies are needed to justify probiotic utilisation in therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Agnès Travers
- Team Adaptation of Protozoa to their Environment, UMR 7245 CNRS, National Museum of Natural History, CP52, 61 rue Buffon, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Isabelle Florent
- Team Adaptation of Protozoa to their Environment, UMR 7245 CNRS, National Museum of Natural History, CP52, 61 rue Buffon, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Linda Kohl
- Team Adaptation of Protozoa to their Environment, UMR 7245 CNRS, National Museum of Natural History, CP52, 61 rue Buffon, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France
| | - Philippe Grellier
- Team Adaptation of Protozoa to their Environment, UMR 7245 CNRS, National Museum of Natural History, CP52, 61 rue Buffon, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Asemi Z, Jazayeri S, Najafi M, Samimi M, Mofid V, Shidfar F, Foroushani AR, Shahaboddin ME. Effects of daily consumption of probiotic yoghurt on inflammatory factors in pregnant women: a randomized controlled trial. Pak J Biol Sci 2011; 14:476-482. [PMID: 21936251 DOI: 10.3923/pjbs.2011.476.482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that inflammatory factors increases in pregnancy and is associated with several complications of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to assess effects of daily consumption of probiotic yoghurt on inflammatory factors in pregnant women. In a randomized clinical trial, seventy primigravid (the first pregnancy) and singleton pregnant women aged 18-30 years were assigned to two groups. Subjects consumed daily 200 g probiotic yoghurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus La5 and Bifidobacterium animalis BB12 (10(7) CFU g(-1) for each) or 200 g conventional yoghurt for 9 weeks. Fasting blood samples were collected at baseline (28 weeks of gestation) and after intervention (37 weeks of gestation). Inflammatory factors, hs-CRP and TNF-alpha, were measured by Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Independent t-test was used to compare the two groups after intervention and paired-sample t-test compared variables before and after treatment. The results showed that the probiotic yogurt brought about a decrease in the serum hs-CRP level, from 10.44 +/- 1.56 to 7.44 +/- 1.03 microg mL(-1) (p = 0.041). There was no significant change in the conventional yogurt group in the serum hs-CRP level (12.55 +/- 1.57 to 14.51 +/- 1.62 microg mL(-1), p = 0.202). The probiotic yogurt had no effect on TNF-alpha (from 73.75 +/- 6.59 to 77.91 +/- 5.61 pg mL(-1), p = 0.633). Serum TNF-alpha did not change in the conventional yogurt group (p = 0.134). In conclusion probiotic yogurt significantly decreased hs-CRP in pregnant women but had no effect on TNF-alpha.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zatollah Asemi
- Department of Nutrition and Biochemistry, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Chiodo PG, Sparo MD, Pezzani BC, Minvielle MC, Basualdo JA. In vitro and in vivo effects of Enterococcus faecalis CECT7121 on Toxocara canis. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2011; 105:615-20. [PMID: 20835606 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762010000500003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2009] [Accepted: 05/12/2010] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present paper was to evaluate the larvicidal effect of Enterococcus faecalis CECT7121 (Ef7121) on the Toxocara canis cycle both in vitro and in vivo. For the in vitro experiments, T. canis larvae were incubated with the supernatants of Ef7121 (EI) and mutant Ef7121 (EIm), in a pre-culture of Ef7121 (EII) and in a fresh culture with Ef7121 (EIII) and the Ef7121 mutant strain (EIIIm). The viability of the larvae was calculated after a 48 h incubation. A significant reduction of the viability of T. canis larvae was observed in EI, EII and EIII. A decrease of this inhibitory effect was observed in EIm and EIIIm (p = 0.008). In the in vivo experiments, mice were orally inoculated with three doses of Ef7121. To study the probiotic persistence in the intestine, the animals were sacrificed every four days and their intestines were dissected. The initial average bacterial levels were 9.7 x 10(4) for Ef7121 (colony forming units/g). At the end of the assay the levels were 1.46 x 10(4). No bacterial translocation was detected in mesenteric lymphatic nodules and spleen. Ef7121 interference with the biological cycle was evaluated in mice challenged with T. canis. The interference was significant when the mice were challenged with probiotic and T. canis simultaneously (p = 0.001), but it was not significant when the challenge was performed 15 days after administration of the bacterial inoculum (p = 0.06). In conclusion, Ef7121 possessed in vitro and in vivo larvicidal activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula G Chiodo
- Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Role of probiotic in preventing acute diarrhoea in children: a community-based, randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled field trial in an urban slum. Epidemiol Infect 2010; 139:919-26. [PMID: 20670468 DOI: 10.1017/s0950268810001780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute diarrhoea remains a major public health challenge in developing countries. We examined the role of a probiotic in the prevention of acute diarrhoea to discover if there was an effect directed towards a specific aetiology. A double-blind, randomized, controlled field trial involving 3758 children aged 1-5 years was conducted in an urban slum community in Kolkata, India. Participants were given either a probiotic drink containing Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota or a nutrient drink daily for 12 weeks. They were followed up for another 12 weeks. The primary outcome of this study was the occurrence of first episodes of diarrhoea. We assessed this during 12 weeks of intake of study agent and also for 12 weeks of follow-up. There were 608 subjects with diarrhoea in the probiotic group and 674 subjects in the nutrient group during the study period of 24 weeks. The level of protective efficacy for the probiotic was 14% (95% confidence interval 4-23, P<0·01 in adjusted model). The reduced occurrence of acute diarrhoea in the probiotic group compared to nutrient group was not associated with any specific aetiology. No adverse event was observed in children of either probiotic or nutrient groups. The study suggests that daily intake of a probiotic drink can play a role in prevention of acute diarrhoea in young children in a community setting of a developing country.
Collapse
|
18
|
Rossignol JF. Cryptosporidium and Giardia: Treatment options and prospects for new drugs. Exp Parasitol 2010; 124:45-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2009.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2008] [Revised: 06/02/2009] [Accepted: 07/03/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
19
|
Xiao L. Overview of Cryptosporidium presentations at the 10th International Workshops on Opportunistic Protists. EUKARYOTIC CELL 2009; 8:429-36. [PMID: 19168753 PMCID: PMC2669211 DOI: 10.1128/ec.00295-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Xiao
- Division of Parasitic Diseases, National Center for Zoonotic, Vector-Borne, and Enteric Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dea-Ayuela MA, Rama-Iñiguez S, Bolás-Fernandez F. Enhanced susceptibility to Trichuris muris infection of B10Br mice treated with the probiotic Lactobacillus casei. Int Immunopharmacol 2008; 8:28-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2007.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2007] [Revised: 09/16/2007] [Accepted: 10/03/2007] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|