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Rosado D, Intriago B, Loor E, Alcívar F, Avila J, Sotomayor M, Villacres L, Faytong-Haro M. Associations between Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity and psychopathological manifestations in schizophrenic patients: A single-center study from Ecuador. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297523. [PMID: 38394236 PMCID: PMC10890741 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schizophrenia, a complex neuropsychiatric disorder, is believed to be influenced by various factors including environmental exposures. A potential environmental factor is the infection by the obligate intracellular parasitic protozoan, Toxoplasma gondii which affects neurotransmitter levels, which could potentially exacerbate, trigger symptoms of schizophrenia or make them worst. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity and psychopathological presentation in persons with schizophrenia in Ecuador. METHODS This study was conducted at the Neuroscience Institute of Guayaquil, Ecuador. Among 368 inpatients, 104 were selected based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Descriptive statistics captured patient characteristics and mental health outcomes. Logistic regression models estimated the effect of toxoplasmosis on various mental health outcomes, controlling for demographic and health-related variables. RESULTS 86.5% of participants were seropositive for toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasma-seropositive schizophrenic patients had a lower risk of depression but a significantly higher risk of disorientation. The most prevalent mental health outcomes were Language Impairments (70.2%) and Bizarre Behavior (76.0%). CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity may have specific effects on mental functions in schizophrenic patients, particularly reducing the risk of depression but increasing the risk of disorientation. Further studies are required to clarify these associations and the potential underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego Rosado
- School of Health, Universidad de Especialidades Espíritu Santo, Guayas, Samborondón, Ecuador
| | - Belen Intriago
- School of Health, Universidad de Especialidades Espíritu Santo, Guayas, Samborondón, Ecuador
| | - Evelyn Loor
- School of Health, Universidad de Especialidades Espíritu Santo, Guayas, Samborondón, Ecuador
| | - Flor Alcívar
- School of Health, Universidad de Especialidades Espíritu Santo, Guayas, Samborondón, Ecuador
| | - Jorge Avila
- Internal Medicine, Elizabeth’s Medical Center, Tufts University, St, Hospital, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Mario Sotomayor
- Gastroenterology Department, Hospital Universitario Puerta del Mar, Cadiz, Spain
| | - Larissa Villacres
- School of Health, Universidad de Especialidades Espíritu Santo, Guayas, Samborondón, Ecuador
| | - Marco Faytong-Haro
- Universidad Estatal de Milagro, Cdla. Universitaria “Dr. Rómulo Minchala Murillo”, Guayas, Milagro, Ecuador
- Laboratorio para Investigación para el Desarrollo del Ecuador, Guayas, Guayaquil, Ecuador
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Mohammadzadeh N, Tung GA, Prakash P, Alhusaini S. Parkinsonism: A Rare Complication of Cerebral Toxoplasmosis. Ann Neurol 2023; 94:917-918. [PMID: 37646361 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nahid Mohammadzadeh
- Neurology Department, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Glenn A Tung
- Diagnostic Imaging Department, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Prarthana Prakash
- Neurology Department, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Saud Alhusaini
- Neurology Department, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
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Rahdar M, Farbod Y, Seydinejad S, Zarrin M. The effect of chronic experimental toxoplasmosis on some brain neurotransmitters level and behavior changes. Exp Parasitol 2023:108575. [PMID: 37394088 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2023.108575] [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: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma is capable of causing long-lasting brain cysts in its hosts, which can lead to physiological disturbances in brain neurotransmitters and result in changes in the host's behavior. This study aimed to investigate these changes using an experimental model. Twenty-five female Wistar rats, weighing 220-220 g and six weeks old, were selected for the study. The rats were divided into two control and experimental groups. The experimental group was injected with 5 × 105 tachyzoites of Toxoplasma gondii (virulent RH strain) intra-peritoneally. Four months after the injection, the rats were subjected to behavioral tests, including learning, memory, depression, and locomotor activity tests. The rats were then euthanized, and their brain and serum samples were analyzed for dopamine and serotonin levels. To ensure the presence of cysts in the brain tissue, a PCR test and preparation of pathological slides from the brain tissue were performed. The results showed that the amount of dopamine in the brain of the infected group was significantly higher than that of the control group, while the level of serotonin in brain of the infected group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P < 0.05). However, no significant difference was observed in the amount of these neurotransmitters in the blood of the two groups (P > 0.05). Behavioral changes were evaluated, and it was found that the learning and memory levels of the infected rats were significantly lower than those of the control group (P < 0.05), but no difference was observed in locomotor activity between the two groups (P > 0.05). This experimental infection model indicated that changes in neurotransmitter levels lead to behavior changes. CONCLUSION: The presence of parasite cysts in the brain can affect some of the host's behaviors through changes in neurotransmitter levels. Therefore, there is a possibility that there is a relationship between the presence of Toxoplasma cysts in the brain and neurological disorders. The results of this study suggest that chronic toxoplasmosis may play a role in behavior changes in psychotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Rahdar
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Yaghoub Farbod
- Department of Medical Physiology Department, Medical School, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Samira Seydinejad
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Medical School, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Majid Zarrin
- Department of Medical Mycology, Medical School, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Alvarado-Esquivel C, Estrada-Martínez S, Pérez-Álamos AR, Ramos-Nevárez A, Botello-Calderón K, Alvarado-Félix ÁO, Vaquera-Enríquez R, Alvarado-Félix GA, Sifuentes-Álvarez A, Guido-Arreola CA, Rábago-Sánchez E, Saenz-Soto L. Toxoplasma gondii infection and insomnia: A case control seroprevalence study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0266214. [PMID: 35679264 PMCID: PMC9182222 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0266214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We determined the association between Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection and insomnia. Through an age-and gender-matched case-control study, 577 people with insomnia (cases) and 577 people without insomnia (controls) were tested for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies using commercially available enzyme-immunoassays. Anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies were found in 71 (12.3%) of 577 individuals with insomnia and in 46 (8.0%) of 577 controls (OR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.09–2.39; P = 0.01). Men with insomnia had a higher (16/73: 21.9%) seroprevalence of T. gondii infection than men without insomnia (5/73: 6.8%) (OR: 3.81; 95% CI: 1.31–11.06; P = 0.009). The rate of high (>150 IU/ml) anti-T. gondii IgG antibody levels in cases was higher than the one in controls (OR = 2.21; 95% CI: 1.13–4.31; P = 0.01). Men with insomnia had a higher (8/73: 11.0%) rate of high anti-T. gondii IgG antibody levels than men without insomnia (0/73: 0.0%) (P = 0.006). The rate of high anti-T. gondii IgG antibody levels in cases >50 years old (11/180: 6.1%) was higher than that (3/180: 1.7%) in controls of the same age group (OR: 3.84; 95% CI: 1.05–14.00; P = 0.05). No difference in the rate of IgM seropositivity between cases and controls was found (OR = 1.33; 95% CI: 0.57–3.11; P = 0.50). Results of this seroepidemiology study suggest that infection with T. gondii is associated with insomnia. Men older than 50 years with T. gondii exposure might be prone to insomnia. Further research to confirm the association between seropositivity and serointensity to T. gondii and insomnia is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosme Alvarado-Esquivel
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
- * E-mail:
| | - Sergio Estrada-Martínez
- Institute for Scientific Research “Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm”, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Alma Rosa Pérez-Álamos
- Institute for Scientific Research “Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm”, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Agar Ramos-Nevárez
- Clínica de Medicina Familiar, Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado, Durango, Mexico
| | - Karina Botello-Calderón
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Ángel Osvaldo Alvarado-Félix
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Raquel Vaquera-Enríquez
- Health Center No. 2 “Dr. Carlos Santamaría”, Servicios de Salud de Durango, Durango, Durango, Mexico
| | - Gustavo Alexis Alvarado-Félix
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Antonio Sifuentes-Álvarez
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Carlos Alberto Guido-Arreola
- Clínica de Medicina Familiar, Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado, Durango, Mexico
| | - Elizabeth Rábago-Sánchez
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Leandro Saenz-Soto
- Clínica de Medicina Familiar, Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado, Durango, Mexico
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Esenkaya Taşbent F, Beder D, Özdemir M, Doğan M, Feyzioğlu B. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Different Patient Groups in Our Hospital. TURKIYE PARAZITOLOJII DERGISI 2022; 46:1-6. [PMID: 35232698 DOI: 10.4274/tpd.galenos.2021.25733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an obligate intracellular parasite. It is regarded as an important cause of morbidity and mortality in congenital contamination and immunosuppressive patients. This study aimed to determine the seropositivity of T. gondii in various ages and patient groups, as well as to reveal the current immune status, especially in risk groups. METHODS Results of T. gondii serology conducted between 2015 and 2019 in the medical microbiology laboratory in a university hospital were retrospectively analyzed. In the study, anti-T. gondii IgM, anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies, and anti-T. gondii IgG avidity test results were investigated by the enzyme-linked fluorescent assay method. Additionally, seropositivity rates among immunosuppressed patients and pregnant women, which are risk groups for toxoplasmosis, were revealed. In the identification of the immunosuppressed patients, groups with significant immunosuppression were retrospectively determined by examining their files. RESULTS The serology of T. gondii was investigated in serum samples of a total of 20.875 individuals, among which 6.220 (29.8%) are males and 14.655 (70.2%) are females. Anti-T. gondii IgM and IgG positivity rates were significantly higher in women than in men. When all years are evaluated, IgM positivity in 16.448 patients and IgG positivity in 4.427 patients were investigated. In the 5-year period, T. gondii IgM seropositivity and T. gondii IgG seropositivity was among all the patients was 2.4% and 24.1%, respectively. While the rate of T. gondii IgG seropositivity in women of childbearing age was 36.1%, it was 42.4% in pregnant women and 14.6% in immunosuppressed patients. CONCLUSION T. gondii serology follow-up of pregnant women and immunosuppressed patients in terms of reactivity of latent infection should be advised and toxoplasmosis should be considered in suspicious clinical cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatma Esenkaya Taşbent
- Necmettin Erbakan Üniversitesi Meram Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dalı, Konya, Türkiye
| | - Duygu Beder
- Necmettin Erbakan Üniversitesi Meram Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dalı, Konya, Türkiye
| | - Mehmet Özdemir
- Necmettin Erbakan Üniversitesi Meram Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dalı, Konya, Türkiye
| | - Metin Doğan
- Necmettin Erbakan Üniversitesi Meram Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dalı, Konya, Türkiye
| | - Bahadır Feyzioğlu
- Necmettin Erbakan Üniversitesi Meram Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dalı, Konya, Türkiye
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Detección molecular de Toxoplasma gondii en carnes para consumo humano en Ibagué, Colombia. BIOMÉDICA 2022; 42:136-146. [PMID: 35471176 PMCID: PMC9075112 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.6251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Introducción. Toxoplasma gondii es un parásito con gran potencial zoonótico que puede infectar un amplio rango de huéspedes de sangre caliente, incluidos los animales del sector pecuario, lo que causa pérdidas a la industria. En el humano, es patógeno en personas inmunosuprimidas y afecta el desarrollo del feto en infecciones congénitas. Además, se asocia con diversos trastornos del comportamiento en personas sanas. El humano puede adquirir T. gondii al consumir carnes contaminadas mal cocidas.Objetivo. Determinar la positividad de T. gondii en carnes de consumo humano (res, pollo y cerdo) en Ibagué, Colombia.Materiales y métodos. Se utilizó la PCR convencional anidada y la secuencia del gen B1 de T. gondii como blanco de amplificación. Se tomaron 186 muestras de carne comercializada en la zona urbana de Ibagué (62 de res, 62 de pollo y 62 de cerdo) y se obtuvo el porcentaje de positividad en cada tipo de carne evaluada.Resultados. Se encontró un porcentaje de positividad de 18,8 % en las muestras, siendo la carne de cerdo la del mayor porcentaje (22,5 %; 14/62), seguida por las muestras de carne de res (19,3 %; 12/62) y de pollo (14,5 %; 9/62). Los mejores productos amplificados fueron secuenciados en Macrogen, y alineados con las secuencias del gen B1 depositadas en el GenBank, con lo que se confirmó su identidad.Conclusiones. Este es el primer estudio sobre prevalencia de T. gondii en carnes para consumo humano en Ibagué y el departamento del Tolima. Se demostró que los tres tipos de carne representan un riesgo para la infección en humanos a nivel local.
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Nayeri T, Sarvi S, Daryani A. Toxoplasmosis: Targeting neurotransmitter systems in psychiatric disorders. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 37:123-146. [PMID: 34476718 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00824-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The most common form of the disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is latent toxoplasmosis due to the formation of tissue cysts in various organs, such as the brain. Latent toxoplasmosis is probably a risk factor in the development of some neuropsychiatric disorders. Behavioral changes after infection are caused by the host immune response, manipulation by the parasite, central nervous system (CNS) inflammation, as well as changes in hormonal and neuromodulator relationships. The present review focused on the exact mechanisms of T. gondii effect on the alteration of behavior and neurotransmitter levels, their catabolites and metabolites, as well as the interaction between immune responses and this parasite in the etiopathogenesis of psychiatric disorders. The dysfunction of neurotransmitters in the neural transmission is associated with several neuropsychiatric disorders. However, further intensive studies are required to determine the effect of this parasite on altering the level of neurotransmitters and the role of neurotransmitters in the etiology of host behavioral changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tooran Nayeri
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shahabeddin Sarvi
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
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Detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts on organic and conventionally grown produce. Food Microbiol 2021; 99:103798. [PMID: 34119093 DOI: 10.1016/j.fm.2021.103798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2021] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infection can result in toxoplasmosis and potential psychological effects. Research commonly focuses on infection through contact with cat fecal matter or consumption of contaminated meat. However, T. gondii oocysts can persist in the environment for years and may be present in soils and on soil-grown produce. Rates of oocyst DNA recovery from produce were high, with 18% of vegetable samples testing positive for T. gondii via PCR test and melt curve analysis. Radishes had significantly higher oocyst counts than arugula, collard greens, kale, lettuce, and spinach. There were no significant differences in oocyst detection rates between samples taken from organic farmer's markets and conventional grocery stores. This study demonstrates that these oocysts can transfer to produce grown both conventionally and using organic techniques.
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Vigasova D, Nemergut M, Liskova B, Damborsky J. Multi-pathogen infections and Alzheimer's disease. Microb Cell Fact 2021; 20:25. [PMID: 33509204 PMCID: PMC7844946 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-021-01520-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease associated with the overproduction and accumulation of amyloid-β peptide and hyperphosphorylation of tau proteins in the brain. Despite extensive research on the amyloid-based mechanism of AD pathogenesis, the underlying cause of AD is not fully understood. No disease-modifying therapies currently exist, and numerous clinical trials have failed to demonstrate any benefits. The recent discovery that the amyloid-β peptide has antimicrobial activities supports the possibility of an infectious aetiology of AD and suggests that amyloid-β plaque formation might be induced by infection. AD patients have a weakened blood-brain barrier and immune system and are thus at elevated risk of microbial infections. Such infections can cause chronic neuroinflammation, production of the antimicrobial amyloid-β peptide, and neurodegeneration. Various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites have been associated with AD. Most research in this area has focused on individual pathogens, with herpesviruses and periodontal bacteria being most frequently implicated. The purpose of this review is to highlight the potential role of multi-pathogen infections in AD. Recognition of the potential coexistence of multiple pathogens and biofilms in AD's aetiology may stimulate the development of novel approaches to its diagnosis and treatment. Multiple diagnostic tests could be applied simultaneously to detect major pathogens, followed by anti-microbial treatment using antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-biofilm agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Vigasova
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne’s University Hospital Brno, Pekarska 53, 656 91 Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Experimental Biology and RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Loschmidt Laboratories, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Nemergut
- Department of Experimental Biology and RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Loschmidt Laboratories, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Liskova
- Department of Experimental Biology and RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Loschmidt Laboratories, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jiri Damborsky
- International Clinical Research Center, St. Anne’s University Hospital Brno, Pekarska 53, 656 91 Brno, Czech Republic
- Department of Experimental Biology and RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Loschmidt Laboratories, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, 625 00 Brno, Czech Republic
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Baggiani M, Dell’Anno MT, Pistello M, Conti L, Onorati M. Human Neural Stem Cell Systems to Explore Pathogen-Related Neurodevelopmental and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Cells 2020; 9:E1893. [PMID: 32806773 PMCID: PMC7464299 DOI: 10.3390/cells9081893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Building and functioning of the human brain requires the precise orchestration and execution of myriad molecular and cellular processes, across a multitude of cell types and over an extended period of time. Dysregulation of these processes affects structure and function of the brain and can lead to neurodevelopmental, neurological, or psychiatric disorders. Multiple environmental stimuli affect neural stem cells (NSCs) at several levels, thus impairing the normal human neurodevelopmental program. In this review article, we will delineate the main mechanisms of infection adopted by several neurotropic pathogens, and the selective NSC vulnerability. In particular, TORCH agents, i.e., Toxoplasma gondii, others (including Zika virus and Coxsackie virus), Rubella virus, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpes simplex virus, will be considered for their devastating effects on NSC self-renewal with the consequent neural progenitor depletion, the cellular substrate of microcephaly. Moreover, new evidence suggests that some of these agents may also affect the NSC progeny, producing long-term effects in the neuronal lineage. This is evident in the paradigmatic example of the neurodegeneration occurring in Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Baggiani
- Unit of Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Maria Teresa Dell’Anno
- Cellular Engineering Laboratory, Fondazione Pisana per la Scienza ONLUS, 56017 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Mauro Pistello
- Retrovirus Center and Virology Section, Department of Translational Research, University of Pisa and Virology Division, Pisa University Hospital, 56100 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Luciano Conti
- Department of Cellular, Computational and Integrative Biology—CIBIO, University of Trento, 38122 Trento, Italy;
| | - Marco Onorati
- Unit of Cell and Developmental Biology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
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Fan CK. Pathogenesis of cerebral toxocariasis and neurodegenerative diseases. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:233-259. [PMID: 32381200 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Toxocara canis belongs to one of zoonotic parasites that commonly infects canines worldwide, and its eggs in host faeces may contaminate the food, water, soil and their fur as well as the larvae entrapped in the granuloma can infect paratenic hosts including mice and humans. Survivability of T. canis embryonated eggs under moist, cool conditions may be as long as 2-4 years or more. In paratenic hosts such as mice and humans, T. canis L3 larvae neither moult, grow, nor replicate and will wander through a number of internal organs in humans so as to cause Th2-dominant pathology in various internal organs as leading to neurotoxocariasis (NT), ocular toxocariasis (OT), or visceral larva migrans (VLM). Although the systemic immune response to T. canis has been widely reported, the immune response in the brain has received little attention. Differential cytokine expression and other brain injury-associated biomarkers or neurodegeneration-associated factors have been observed in infected versus uninfected outbred and inbred mice. Preliminary data have also suggested a possible link between significant memory impairment and cytokine production associated with T. canis infection in the hippocampus which has been long recognised as being responsible for learning and memory functions. Notably, it remains an enigma concerning cerebral invasion by T. canis larvae rarely induces a recognisable neurological syndrome or its involvement in neuropathological disorders in humans. Exploration of the relationship between host and parasite in the brain may elucidate the cryptic symptoms of human cerebral toxocariasis, with patients presenting with mental retardation, epilepsy, neurodegeneration and other central nervous system (CNS) disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Kwung Fan
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Research Center of International Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Tropical Medicine Division, International PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Rodriguez N, Morer A, González-Navarro EA, Gassó P, Boloc D, Serra-Pagès C, Lafuente A, Lazaro L, Mas S. Human-leukocyte antigen class II genes in early-onset obsessive-compulsive disorder. World J Biol Psychiatry 2019; 20:352-358. [PMID: 28562177 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2017.1327669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Objective: The exact aetiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is unknown, although there is evidence to suggest a gene-environment interaction model. Several lines of evidence support a possible role of the immune system in this model. Methods: The present study explores the allele variability in HLA genes of class II (HLA-DRB1, HLA-DQB1) in a sample of 144 early-onset OCD compared with reference samples of general population in the same geographical area. Results: None of the 39 alleles identified (allele frequency >1%) showed significant differences between OCD and reference populations. Pooling the different alleles that comprised HLA-DR4 (including DRB1*04:01, DRB1*04:04 and DRB1*04:05 alleles) we observed a significantly higher frequency (X21 = 5.53, P = 0.018; OR = 1.64, 95% CI 1.08-2.48) of these alleles in the early-onset OCD sample (10.8%) than in the reference population (6.8%). Conclusions: Taking into account the role of HLA class II genes in the central nervous system, the results presented here support a role of the immune system in the pathophysiological model of OCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Rodriguez
- a Dept. Anatomic Pathology, Pharmacology and Microbiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,b Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM) , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Astrid Morer
- b Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM) , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain.,d Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Institute of Neurosciences , Hospital Clinic de Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain
| | - E Azucena González-Navarro
- c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain.,e Immunology Service , Centre de Diagnostic Biomèdic, Hospital Clínic Dept , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Patricia Gassó
- a Dept. Anatomic Pathology, Pharmacology and Microbiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Daniel Boloc
- a Dept. Anatomic Pathology, Pharmacology and Microbiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Carles Serra-Pagès
- c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain.,e Immunology Service , Centre de Diagnostic Biomèdic, Hospital Clínic Dept , Barcelona , Spain.,f Dept. Biomedicine , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Amalia Lafuente
- a Dept. Anatomic Pathology, Pharmacology and Microbiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,b Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM) , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Luisa Lazaro
- b Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM) , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain.,d Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology, Institute of Neurosciences , Hospital Clinic de Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,g Psychiatry and Clinical Psychobiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain
| | - Sergi Mas
- a Dept. Anatomic Pathology, Pharmacology and Microbiology , University of Barcelona , Barcelona , Spain.,b Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM) , Barcelona , Spain.,c Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS) , Barcelona , Spain
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13
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Lack of circulating toxoplasma gondii DNA in seropositive patients with bipolar or schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Psychiatry Res 2019; 273:706-711. [PMID: 31207856 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.01.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis has been previously associated with an increased risk of having Schizophrenia or Bipolar disorder in several epidemiological studies. The aim of this observational, cross-sectional study was to examine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma infection in a cohort of Italian psychiatric inpatients and to verify the presence of circulating Toxoplasma gondii DNA in the seropositive subjects. Sixty-three patients affected by bipolar or schizoaffective disorders according to DSM-5 criteria were enrolled. The presence of Toxoplasma infection was firstly examined using an indirect serological method (ELFA), and three different direct PCR-based methods were performed to detect circulating DNA in the seropositive patients. The seroprevalence of infection was 28.6%, with a significant association between higher age and the infection status. PCR, nested-PCR and Real-Time PCR revealed no positive samples for Toxoplasma gondii. This result is in contrast with recent data from case-control studies that detected parasite genome in patients with different neuropsychiatric diagnosis without clinical evidence of acute toxoplasmosis. Our findings are to be interpreted with caution, because of the small sample size, the heterogeneity of enrolled patients and the observational nature of the study. Further studies are needed to better define the clinical features correlated to the seropositive status in neuropsychiatric patients.
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14
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Bouscaren N, Pilleron S, Mbelesso P, Ndamba-Bandzouzi B, Dartigues JF, Clément JP, Preux PM, Dardé ML, Guerchet M. Prevalence of toxoplasmosis and its association with dementia in older adults in Central Africa: a result from the EPIDEMCA programme. Trop Med Int Health 2018; 23:1304-1313. [PMID: 30284355 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed at estimating the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection in older adults living in Central Africa and investigating its association with dementia using data from the Epidemiology of Dementia in Central Africa (EPIDEMCA) programme. METHODS A cross-sectional multicentre population-based study was carried out among participants aged 73 (±7) years on average, living in rural and urban areas of the Central African Republic and the Republic of Congo between November 2011 and December 2012. Blood samples were collected from each consenting participant. The detection of anti-T. gondii immunoglobulin G antibodies was performed in 2014 in France using a commercially available ELISA kit. Participants were interviewed using a standardised questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics. DSM-IV criteria were required for a diagnosis of dementia. Multivariate binary logistic regression models were used to assess the association between toxoplasmosis infection and dementia. RESULTS Among 1662 participants, the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis was 63.0% (95% confidence interval (CI): 60.7-65.3) overall, 66.6% (95%CI: 63.4-69.8) in Central African Republic and 59.4% (95%CI: 56.1-62.7) in the Republic of Congo. In multivariate analyses, toxoplasmosis status was significantly associated with increasing age (P = 0.006), Republic of Congo (P = 0.002), urban area (P = 0.001) and previous occupation (P = 0.002). No associations between dementia and toxoplasmosis status or anti-T. gondii IgG titres were found. CONCLUSION Toxoplasma gondii infection was not associated with dementia among older adults in Central Africa. Our findings are consistent with previous studies and add to the knowledge on the relationship between T. gondii infection and neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Bouscaren
- INSERM UMR1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital of Limoges, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
| | - Sophie Pilleron
- INSERM UMR1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital of Limoges, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France
| | - Pascal Mbelesso
- INSERM UMR1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital of Limoges, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France.,Department of Neurology, Amitié Hospital, Bangui, Central African Republic
| | | | | | - Jean-Pierre Clément
- INSERM UMR1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital of Limoges, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France.,Hospital and University Federation of Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry, Limoges, France
| | - Pierre-Marie Preux
- INSERM UMR1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital of Limoges, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France.,Centre of Epidemiology, Biostatistic, and Research Methodology, University Hospital of Limoges, CEBIMER, Limoges, France
| | - Marie-Laure Dardé
- INSERM UMR1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital of Limoges, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France.,Department of Parasitology and Biological Resource Centre for Toxoplasma, CHU Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Maëlenn Guerchet
- INSERM UMR1094, Tropical Neuroepidemiology, Limoges, France.,Faculty of Medicine, University Hospital of Limoges, Institute of Neuroepidemiology and Tropical Neurology, CNRS FR 3503 GEIST, Limoges, France.,King's College London, Centre for Global Mental Health, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, London, UK
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15
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Martinez VO, de Mendonça Lima FW, de Carvalho CF, Menezes-Filho JA. Toxoplasma gondii infection and behavioral outcomes in humans: a systematic review. Parasitol Res 2018; 117:3059-3065. [PMID: 30109417 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-6040-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Studies suggest that the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii can disturb human behavior. This study aimed to systematically review the scientific literature on the possible associations between Toxoplasma gondii infection and neurobehavioral abnormalities in humans. We reviewed and summarized the studies published since 1990. The descriptors used were related to T. gondii infection and behavioral outcomes in humans; the main databases of the medical literature were accessed. The results of eight original articles published between 1994 and 2016 were evaluated and described. The most common serological method was the enzyme immunoassay. Most of the researchers used validated instruments for behavioral evaluation. Seven studies reported some association between the prevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies and some altered behavioral aspects in adult humans; these studies focused on adult population in Europe and the USA. The most reported behavioral deviations are related to greater impulsivity and aggressiveness. There are very few studies on this subject, which present some limitations for inference and conclusions: most were cross-sectional studies, with a small sample size and in similar populations. Investigations with a larger sample size of different population groups should be performed to evaluate multiple factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor Otero Martinez
- Immunology Service of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Bahia, Rua Barão de Jeremoabo, 147, Ondina, Salvador, Bahia, 40170-115, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Washington de Mendonça Lima
- Immunology Service of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Bahia, Rua Barão de Jeremoabo, 147, Ondina, Salvador, Bahia, 40170-115, Brazil.
| | - Chrissie Ferreira de Carvalho
- Laboratory of Interdisciplinary Research in Human Neurodevelopment, Catholic University of Salvador, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
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16
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Cummins D, Waters D, Aggar C, O'Connor CC. Potential impacts of poor communication on early diagnosis of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder. J Adv Nurs 2018; 74:1342-1348. [PMID: 29364535 DOI: 10.1111/jan.13533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
AIM To ascertain whether community-based healthcare providers were collecting appropriate information to identify patients at risk of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder and whether related documentation was complete. BACKGROUND HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder is a treatable neurological condition that can affect more than 20% of those infected with the HIV. Signs and symptoms of cognitive impairment may be subtle; therefore, documentation of medical and social information could be beneficial in identifying those at risk. DESIGN Cross-sectional descriptive study. METHODS An audit of patient records was completed by two community-based interdisciplinary teams with particular attention to the documentation of clinical and social indicators for those at risk of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder. Data were collected over weeks during 2015. RESULTS Data were retrieved from both electronic medical record systems and hard copy patient records. Documentation was incomplete in every patient record (N = 262), including the absence of important clinical data relating to nadir CD4 + T-cell count (91%), HIV viral load (36%), current caregiver (19%), and living circumstances (14%). Up to 40% of recorded medications and results were unconfirmed by the person's medical practitioner. CONCLUSION Poor documentation can lead to incomplete information, which can delay early intervention for those at risk of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder. Collection and recording of patient data needs to be consistent, as complete documentation is essential for integrating care, provision of clinical support and, importantly, for identifying those at risk of developing HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise Cummins
- Sydney Nursing School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.,Sydney District Nursing, Community Health, Sydney Local Health District, Campise, NSW, Australia
| | - Donna Waters
- Sydney Nursing School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Christina Aggar
- School of Health and Human Sciences, Southern Cross University, Bilinga, Qld, Australia
| | - Catherine C O'Connor
- Community Health, Sydney Local Health District, Campise, NSW, Australia.,The Kirby Institute, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia.,Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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17
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Bonnart C, Feuillet G, Vasseur V, Cenac N, Vergnolle N, Blanchard N. Protease-activated receptor 2 contributes to Toxoplasma gondii
-mediated gut inflammation. Parasite Immunol 2017; 39. [DOI: 10.1111/pim.12489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/01/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- C. Bonnart
- Institut de Recherche en Santé Digestive (IRSD); Université de Toulouse; INSERM, INRA, ENVT, UPS; Toulouse France
| | - G. Feuillet
- Institut de Recherche en Santé Digestive (IRSD); Université de Toulouse; INSERM, INRA, ENVT, UPS; Toulouse France
| | - V. Vasseur
- Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan (CPTP); Université de Toulouse; INSERM, CNRS, UPS; Toulouse France
| | - N. Cenac
- Institut de Recherche en Santé Digestive (IRSD); Université de Toulouse; INSERM, INRA, ENVT, UPS; Toulouse France
| | - N. Vergnolle
- Institut de Recherche en Santé Digestive (IRSD); Université de Toulouse; INSERM, INRA, ENVT, UPS; Toulouse France
| | - N. Blanchard
- Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan (CPTP); Université de Toulouse; INSERM, CNRS, UPS; Toulouse France
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18
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Bipolar Disorder With Psychotic Features and Ocular Toxoplasmosis: A Possible Pathogenetic Role of the Parasite? J Nerv Ment Dis 2017; 205:192-195. [PMID: 27741079 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000000496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests the involvement of Toxoplasma gondii infection in the emergence of psychotic and affective disorders. In this report, we describe the case of a young Brazilian woman affected by recurrent ocular toxoplasmosis and presenting with a manic episode with psychotic features in the context of a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder (BD), type I. We observed a relationship between ocular manifestations and the clinical course of bipolar illness, confirmed by molecular analyses (nested-PCR), as well as by the high level of T. gondii specific IgG. This case report is the first showing the presence of circulating parasite DNA at the time of occurrence of psychiatric symptoms, thus providing further support for a possible role of the parasite in the pathogenesis of some cases of BD.
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19
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Del Grande C, Galli L, Schiavi E, Dell'Osso L, Bruschi F. Is Toxoplasma gondii a Trigger of Bipolar Disorder? Pathogens 2017; 6:pathogens6010003. [PMID: 28075410 PMCID: PMC5371891 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens6010003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, a ubiquitous intracellular parasite, has a strong tropism for the brain tissue, where it forms intracellular cysts within the neurons and glial cells, establishing a chronic infection. Although latent toxoplasmosis is generally assumed to be asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals, it is now clear that it can induce behavioral manipulations in mice and infected humans. Moreover, a strong relation has emerged in recent years between toxoplasmosis and psychiatric disorders. The link between T. gondii and schizophrenia has been the most widely documented; however, a significant association with bipolar disorder (BD) and suicidal/aggressive behaviors has also been detected. T. gondii may play a role in the etiopathogenesis of psychiatric disorders affecting neurotransmitters, especially dopamine, that are implicated in the emergence of psychosis and behavioral Toxoplasma-induced abnormalities, and inducing brain inflammation by the direct stimulation of inflammatory cytokines in the central nervous system. Besides this, there is increasing evidence for a prominent role of immune dysregulation in psychosis and BD. The aim of this review is to describe recent evidence suggesting a link between Toxoplasma gondii and BD, focusing on the interaction between immune responses and this infectious agent in the etiopathogenesis of psychiatric symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Del Grande
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Luca Galli
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Elisa Schiavi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Liliana Dell'Osso
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Psychiatry, University of Pisa, Via Roma 67, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Bruschi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
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20
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Toxoplasma infection in individuals in central Italy: does a gender-linked risk exist? Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2016; 36:739-746. [PMID: 27942885 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-016-2857-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
An accurate estimate of the impact of toxoplasmosis on the population in Italy is not available. We performed a cross-sectional study on individuals living in Italy to assess: (1) differences in access to Toxo testing and in the prevalence of recent and past Toxoplasma gondii infection according to gender and age, and (2) the clinical impact of disease burden on the male patient subset. Reason for testing, condition of in- or outpatient and clinical data were analysed. Between-gender differences were observed in access to the test. Immunoglobulin M (IgM) prevalence was increased in males in the age range 5-34 years [odds ratio (OR) = 2.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.18-3.49, p = 0.01), with a peak at 25-34 years. In females, it decreased in the age range 20-39 years (OR = 0.49, 95% CI 0.32-0.74, p = 0.0008). The attack rate of recent infection was twice as high for males than for females. Estimates pointed out 3.3 and 1.7 events in 1000 at-risk person-years in the male and female cohorts, respectively. Most IgM-positive subjects did not experience severe forms of toxoplasmosis, with 35% having lymphadenopathy. Chorioretinitis, systemic and neurological manifestations were also observed. Our findings suggest that the acute phase of toxoplasmosis is largely unapparent or clinically mild in this area. It is also possible that the disease burden for Toxoplasma infection in Italy is underestimated. Further study should focus on information acquisition and Toxo test access in hospital units for a better estimation of the real burden of mild and severe forms of the disease.
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21
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Kramer P, Bressan P. Humans as Superorganisms: How Microbes, Viruses, Imprinted Genes, and Other Selfish Entities Shape Our Behavior. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2016; 10:464-81. [PMID: 26177948 DOI: 10.1177/1745691615583131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Psychologists and psychiatrists tend to be little aware that (a) microbes in our brains and guts are capable of altering our behavior; (b) viral DNA that was incorporated into our DNA millions of years ago is implicated in mental disorders; (c) many of us carry the cells of another human in our brains; and (d) under the regulation of viruslike elements, the paternally inherited and maternally inherited copies of some genes compete for domination in the offspring, on whom they have opposite physical and behavioral effects. This article provides a broad overview, aimed at a wide readership, of the consequences of our coexistence with these selfish entities. The overarching message is that we are not unitary individuals but superorganisms, built out of both human and nonhuman elements; it is their interaction that determines who we are.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Kramer
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padua, Italy
| | - Paola Bressan
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padua, Italy
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22
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Ramezani M, Shojaii M, Asadollahi M, Karimialavijeh E, Gharagozli K. Seroprevalence ofToxoplasma gondiiin Iranian patients with idiopathic Parkinson's disease. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/cen3.12329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mahtab Ramezani
- Department of Neurology; Loghman Hakim Hospital; Shaid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Maziar Shojaii
- Department of Neurology; Loghman Hakim Hospital; Shaid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | - Marjan Asadollahi
- Department of Neurology; Loghman Hakim Hospital; Shaid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
| | | | - Koorosh Gharagozli
- Department of Neurology; Loghman Hakim Hospital; Shaid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences; Tehran Iran
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23
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Ibrahim I, Salah H, El Sayed H, Mansour H, Eissa A, Wood J, Fathi W, Tobar S, Gur RC, Gur RE, Dickerson F, Yolken RH, El Bahaey W, Nimgaonkar V. Hepatitis C virus antibody titers associated with cognitive dysfunction in an asymptomatic community-based sample. J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 2016; 38:861-8. [PMID: 27269819 DOI: 10.1080/13803395.2016.1168780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with cognitive dysfunction in clinic-based studies. The risk could be attributed to factors such as antiviral medications, substance abuse, or coincidental infection. AIM The aim was to evaluate cognitive function in relation to HCV antibody titers in a community-based sample of asymptomatic individuals at low risk for substance abuse. METHOD Adults were ascertained from a community in Mansoura, Egypt, where HCV is endemic (n = 258). Cognitive performance was evaluated using the Arabic version of the Penn Computerized Neurocognitive Battery. Substance abuse and psychopathology were also assessed. Antibodies to HCV and Toxoplasma gondii (TOX), a common protozoan that can affect cognition, were estimated using serological IgG assays. RESULTS The prevalence of HCV and TOX infection was 17.6% and 52.9%, respectively. HCV antibody titers were significantly associated with worse function in four cognitive tests for accuracy and three tests for speed, after adjusting for covariates (p < .05, beta coefficients, 2.1-3.2). TOX antibody titers were associated with impaired accuracy in one test. CONCLUSIONS The association between HCV antibody titers and cognitive impairment is not mediated by antiviral treatment or substance abuse in this sample. Whether HCV has a causal role in the cognitive dysfunction should be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibtihal Ibrahim
- b Department of Psychiatry , Mansoura University School of Medicine , Mansoura , Egypt
| | - Hala Salah
- b Department of Psychiatry , Mansoura University School of Medicine , Mansoura , Egypt
| | - Hanan El Sayed
- b Department of Psychiatry , Mansoura University School of Medicine , Mansoura , Egypt
| | - Hader Mansour
- a Department of Psychiatry , University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic , Pittsburgh , PA , USA.,b Department of Psychiatry , Mansoura University School of Medicine , Mansoura , Egypt
| | - Ahmed Eissa
- b Department of Psychiatry , Mansoura University School of Medicine , Mansoura , Egypt
| | - Joel Wood
- a Department of Psychiatry , University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic , Pittsburgh , PA , USA
| | - Warda Fathi
- b Department of Psychiatry , Mansoura University School of Medicine , Mansoura , Egypt
| | - Salwa Tobar
- b Department of Psychiatry , Mansoura University School of Medicine , Mansoura , Egypt
| | - Ruben C Gur
- d Neuropsychiatry Section, Department of Psychiatry , University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - Raquel E Gur
- d Neuropsychiatry Section, Department of Psychiatry , University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine , Philadelphia , PA , USA
| | - Faith Dickerson
- e Department of Pediatrics , Johns Hopkins School of Medicine , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Robert H Yolken
- f Department of Pediatrics , Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology , Baltimore , MD , USA
| | - Wafaa El Bahaey
- b Department of Psychiatry , Mansoura University School of Medicine , Mansoura , Egypt
| | - Vishwajit Nimgaonkar
- a Department of Psychiatry , University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic , Pittsburgh , PA , USA.,c Department of Human Genetics , Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh , PA , USA
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24
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Celik T, Gokcen C, Aytas O, Ozcelik A, Celik M, Coban N. The prevalence of anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in stutterers is higher than in the control group. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2015; 62. [DOI: 10.14411/fp.2015.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Abstract
Toxocara canis and T. cati are highly prevalent nematode infections of the intestines of dogs and cats. In paratenic hosts, larvae do not mature in the intestine but instead migrate through the somatic tissues and organs of the body. The presence of these migrating larvae can contribute to pathology. Toxocara larvae can invade the brains of humans, and while case descriptions of cerebral toxocariasis are historically rare, improved diagnosis and greater awareness have contributed to increased detection. Despite this, cerebral or neurological toxocariasis (NT) remains a poorly understood phenomenon. Furthermore, our understanding of cognitive deficits due to toxocariasis in human populations remains particularly deficient. Recent data describe an enhanced expression of biomarkers associated with brain injury, such as GFAP, AβPP, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), NF-L, S100B, tTG, and p-tau, in mice receiving even low doses of Toxocara ova. Finally, this review outlines a hypothesis to explore the relationship between the presence of T. canis larvae in the brain and the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) due to enhanced AD-associated neurodegenerative biomarker expression.
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Murray KJ, Cummins D, Batterham M, Trotter G, Healey L, O'Connor CC. Does the informal caregiver notice HIV associated mild cognitive impairment in people living with HIV? AIDS Care 2015; 28:221-7. [PMID: 26489931 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2015.1084989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
HIV associated minor neurocognitive disorder (MND) may be difficult to identify as key signs and symptoms (S & S) may be due to other clinical conditions. Using a self-assessment booklet "HIV and associated MND" we recruited 123 people living with HIV (PLHIV) from three sites: two hospital HIV clinics and a sexual health clinic in Sydney, Australia. Patients may down play S & S. Caregivers may notice subtle changes. By including caregivers, we aimed to find whether the caregivers noticed S & S undetected by the PLHIV. This is a sub-study of a prospective observational multi-site study aimed to validate the usefulness of a patient self-assessment tool (HIV-associated MND booklet). Using the booklet, participants and their caregivers subsequently identified S & S of MND. Sixty-four per cent (79) did not nominate a caregiver to be contacted. Participants from 2 sites 44 (36%) nominated caregivers to be contacted. Twenty-five caregivers identified more than four S & S of MND. S & S reported most by caregivers related to participants being more tired at the end of the day (76%). Participants agreed (77%). Participants also reported that they found it more difficult to remember things such as taking medications or attending medical appointments (67%). The most agreed on symptom was the requirement for increased concentration to get the same things done (Kappa P 0.599 <0.001 and McNemar 0.289). For each question at least one caregiver identified a symptom when the PLHIV did not. Caregivers were more likely than participants to report irritability and communication difficulties. It is important to include caregivers when investigating PLHIV for MND, as caregivers may validate the experience of the patient, and may also be uniquely placed to identify S & S not otherwise identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth J Murray
- a HIV & Related Programs Unit, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District , NSW , Australia
| | - Denise Cummins
- b Sydney District Nursing, Sydney Local Health District , NSW , Australia
| | - Marijka Batterham
- c Statistical Consulting Centre, University of Wollongong , NSW , Australia
| | | | - Loretta Healey
- e R P A Sexual Health, Sydney Local Health District , NSW , Australia
| | - Catherine C O'Connor
- e R P A Sexual Health, Sydney Local Health District , NSW , Australia.,f Kirby Institute, UNSW , Kensington , NSW , Australia.,g Central Clinical School , University of Sydney , Sydney , NSW , Australia
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Parlog A, Schlüter D, Dunay IR. Toxoplasma gondii-induced neuronal alterations. Parasite Immunol 2015; 37:159-70. [PMID: 25376390 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 134] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2014] [Accepted: 10/31/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The zoonotic pathogen Toxoplasma gondii infects over 30% of the human population. The intracellular parasite can persist lifelong in the CNS within neurons modifying their function and structure, thus leading to specific behavioural changes of the host. In recent years, several in vitro studies and murine models have focused on the elucidation of these modifications. Furthermore, investigations of the human population have correlated Toxoplasma seropositivity with changes in neurological functions; however, the complex underlying mechanisms of the subtle behavioural alteration are still not fully understood. The parasites are able to induce direct modifications in the infected cells, for example by altering dopamine metabolism, by functionally silencing neurons as well as by hindering apoptosis. Moreover, indirect effects of the peripheral immune system and alterations of the immune status of the CNS, observed during chronic infection, might also contribute to changes in neuronal connectivity and synaptic plasticity. In this review, we will provide an overview and highlight recent advances, which describe changes in the neuronal function and morphology upon T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Parlog
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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Fabiani S, Pinto B, Bonuccelli U, Bruschi F. Neurobiological studies on the relationship between toxoplasmosis and neuropsychiatric diseases. J Neurol Sci 2015; 351:3-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2015.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2014] [Revised: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 02/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Gutiérrez-Fernández J, Luna Del Castillo JDD, Mañanes-González S, Carrillo-Ávila JA, Gutiérrez B, Cervilla JA, Sorlózano-Puerto A. Different presence of Chlamydia pneumoniae, herpes simplex virus type 1, human herpes virus 6, and Toxoplasma gondii in schizophrenia: meta-analysis and analytical study. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2015; 11:843-52. [PMID: 25848282 PMCID: PMC4384747 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s79285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study we have performed both a meta-analysis and an analytical study exploring the presence of Chlamydia pneumoniae, herpes simplex virus type 1, human herpes virus 6, and Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in a sample of 143 schizophrenic patients and 143 control subjects. The meta-analysis was performed on papers published up to April 2014. The presence of serum immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin A was performed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test. The detection of microbial DNA in total peripheral blood was performed by nested polymerase chain reaction. The meta-analysis showed that: 1) C. pneumoniae DNA in blood and brain are more common in schizophrenic patients; 2) there is association with parasitism by T. gondii, despite the existence of publication bias; and 3) herpes viruses were not more common in schizophrenic patients. In our sample only anti-Toxoplasma immunoglobulin G was more prevalent and may be a risk factor related to schizophrenia, with potential value for prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Blanca Gutiérrez
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Neurosciences and CIBERSAM, School of Medicine and Biohealth Research Institute (Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria) IBS-Granada, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Jorge A Cervilla
- Department of Psychiatry, Institute of Neurosciences and CIBERSAM, School of Medicine and Biohealth Research Institute (Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria) IBS-Granada, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
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Möhle L, Parlog A, Pahnke J, Dunay IR. Spinal cord pathology in chronic experimental Toxoplasma gondii infection. Eur J Microbiol Immunol (Bp) 2014; 4:65-75. [PMID: 24678407 DOI: 10.1556/eujmi.4.2014.1.6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2014] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection with the protozoan Toxoplasma (T.) gondii causes chronic infection of the central nervous system and can lead to life-threatening encephalomyelitis in immunocompromised patients. While infection with T. gondii has long time been considered asymptomatic in immunocompetent hosts, this view is challenged by recent reports describing links between seropositivity and behavioral alterations. However, past and current researches are mainly focused on the brain during Toxoplasma encephalitis, neglecting the spinal cord as a key structure conveying brain signals into motion. Therefore, our study aimed to fill the gap and describes the spinal cord pathology in an experimental murine model of toxoplasmosis. In the spinal cord, we found distinct histopathological changes, inflammatory foci and T. gondii cysts similar to the brain. Furthermore, the recruitment of immune cells from the periphery was detected. Moreover, resident microglia as well as recruited monocytes displayed an increased MHC classes I and II expression. Additionally, the expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines was enhanced in the brain as well as in the spinal cord. In summary, the pathology observed in the spinal cord was similar to the previously described changes in the brain during the infection. This study provides the first detailed description of histopathological and immunological alterations due to experimental T. gondii induced myelitis in mice. Thus, our comparison raises awareness of the importance of the spinal cord in chronic T. gondii infection.
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Parlog A, Harsan LA, Zagrebelsky M, Weller M, von Elverfeldt D, Mawrin C, Korte M, Dunay IR. Chronic murine toxoplasmosis is defined by subtle changes in neuronal connectivity. Dis Model Mech 2014; 7:459-69. [PMID: 24524910 PMCID: PMC3974456 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.014183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies correlate chronic Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection with behavioral changes in rodents; additionally, seropositivity in humans is reported to be associated with behavioral and neuropsychiatric diseases. In this study we investigated whether the described behavioral changes in a murine model of chronic toxoplasmosis are associated with changes in synaptic plasticity and brain neuronal circuitry. In mice chronically infected with T. gondii, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data analysis displayed the presence of heterogeneous lesions scattered throughout all brain areas. However, a higher density of lesions was observed within specific regions such as the somatosensory cortex (SSC). Further histopathological examination of these brain areas indicated the presence of activated resident glia and recruited immune cells accompanied by limited alterations of neuronal viability. In vivo diffusion-tensor MRI analysis of neuronal fiber density within the infected regions revealed connectivity abnormalities in the SSC. Altered fiber density was confirmed by morphological analysis of individual, pyramidal and granule neurons, showing a reduction in dendritic arbor and spine density within the SSC, as well as in the hippocampus. Evaluation of synapse efficacy revealed diminished levels of two key synaptic proteins, PSD95 and synaptophysin, within the same brain areas, indicating deficits in functionality of the synaptic neurotransmission in infected mice. Our results demonstrate that persistent T. gondii infection in a murine model results in synaptic deficits within brain structures leading to disturbances in the morphology of noninfected neurons and modified brain connectivity, suggesting a potential explanation for the behavioral and neuropsychiatric alterations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandru Parlog
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Otto-von-Guericke University, 39120-Magdeburg, Germany
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Teixeira AL, Rodrigues DH, Marques AH, Miguel EC, Fontenelle LF. Searching for the immune basis of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Neuroimmunomodulation 2014; 21:152-8. [PMID: 24557049 DOI: 10.1159/000356554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The etiopathogenesis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) remains elusive. Clinical observation of the elevated frequency of obsessive-compulsive symptoms in patients with rheumatic fever, a post-streptococcal autoimmune disease, prompted the study of immune parameters in OCD. Anti-basal ganglia antibodies have been described in a subset of OCD patients. The assessment of circulating cytokines and immune cells confirmed unequivocal changes in at least some patients, although it is difficult to establish a particular immune profile in OCD. Several factors, including the use of psychotropic drugs and the presence of comorbid conditions, seem to influence these immune parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Lucio Teixeira
- Laboratório Interdisciplinar de Investigação Médica, Faculdade de Medicina, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Lilly EL, Wortham CD. High prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii oocyst shedding in stray and pet cats (Felis catus) in Virginia, United States. Parasit Vectors 2013; 6:266. [PMID: 24330950 PMCID: PMC3849917 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2013] [Accepted: 08/14/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The protozoan Toxoplasma gondii is the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, with complications varying from mental disease to death. While human infection can occur via ingestion of tissue cysts from infected meat, most human infection comes from oocysts. Cats are the only definitive host, and thus shedding of oocysts by cats provides the ultimate source of toxoplasmosis. Methods While most studies in the area use seroprevalence to monitor Toxoplasma incidence in cat populations, this provides only a history of infection. This study used PCR detection of oocysts from cat feces to more accurately estimate the numbers of cats producing oocysts and thus posing an active health risk. DNA sequencing was use to confirm the identity of the PCR products. Results Of the 49 cats tested, 9 yielded PCR products of the expected size. Six of the nine were determined by sequence analysis to be false positives, while three products were true positives. Overall, 6% of cats examined were found to be actively shedding oocysts. Conclusions The incidence of oocyst shedding in the cat population studied was significantly higher than expected and higher than found in most cat populations world-wide. Of equal importance, the primers tested were shown to produce PCR products of multiple sizes and non-target products of expected size. We detected false positives at a higher rate than true positives, emphasizing the need for confirmatory analysis. Further research may produce better protocols for Toxoplasma detection from cat fecal samples.
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Muñoz-Zanzi C, Williams-Nguyen J, Belongia EA. A sero-survey of toxoplasmosis in farm and non-farm children from Wisconsin, United States, 1997-1999. BMC Public Health 2013; 13:837. [PMID: 24025220 PMCID: PMC3847651 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-13-837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 08/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasmosis is among the most widespread and prevalent zoonosis in the world. People can become infected through ingestion of oocysts shed by felids or of tissue cysts contained in meat from infected animals. Acute infection can result in a wide spectrum of consequences, including flu-like illness and retinitis, as well as congenital infection in pregnant women. Severe disease can occur, especially if people are immunocompromised. Frequency of human infection varies substantially by region due to ecological, social, and cultural factors. The most recent nationwide prevalence estimates in children from United States were 3.6% in 6-11 year olds and 5.8% in 12-19 year olds. Because of the limited knowledge of the occurrence of common zoonotic pathogens in children in the United States, the objective of this study was to estimate the sero-prevalence of T. gondii-specific antibodies in children from the Marshfield area in Wisconsin and to examine the association between sero-positivity and farm living. METHODS Banked sera from 342 Wisconsin children collected in 1997-1999, aged 2 to 18 years, were tested for Toxoplasma gondii-specific IgG antibodies using ELISA. Recorded information included age, sex, and whether the child resided on a farm. Impact of assay accuracy, sensitivity and specificity, on sero-prevalence was examined using Bayesian methods. RESULTS Observed prevalence of T. gondii-specific antibodies was 10.8% (37/347). Adjusting for sensitivity and specificity of the assays yielded a prevalence estimate of 8.0% (95% probability interval: 4%-12.4%). Children living on a farm had a 5 times higher odds of T. gondii-specific antibodies than children not living on a farm (OR=5.08, 95% CI: 2.2-11.6). CONCLUSION Results suggest that even in apparently low-risk populations, the true extent of the infection in children is significant. In this study population, children living on farms were differentially exposed, with earlier and higher infection risk than children not living on farms. Findings highlight the need to increase awareness about toxoplasmosis acquired early in life and to improve our understanding of the ecology of T. gondii in rural environments from developed and developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Muñoz-Zanzi
- Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South Second St,, Suite 300, 55454 Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA.
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Abdoli A. Toxoplasma gondii and neuropsychiatric diseases: strain hypothesis. Neurol Sci 2012; 34:1697-8. [PMID: 23224584 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-012-1264-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2012] [Accepted: 11/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Amir Abdoli
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Science, Kashan, Iran,
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