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Rao K, Abdullah M, Ahmed U, Wehelie HI, Shah MR, Siddiqui R, Khan NA, Alawfi BS, Anwar A. Self-assembled micelles loaded with itraconazole as anti-Acanthamoeba nano-formulation. Arch Microbiol 2024; 206:134. [PMID: 38433145 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-024-03854-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba castellanii are opportunistic pathogens known to cause infection of the central nervous system termed: granulomatous amoebic encephalitis, that mostly effects immunocompromised individuals, and a sight threatening keratitis, known as Acanthamoeba keratitis, which mostly affects contact lens wearers. The current treatment available is problematic, and is toxic. Herein, an amphiphilic star polymer with AB2 miktoarms [A = hydrophobic poly(ℇ-Caprolacton) and B = hydrophilic poly (ethylene glycol)] was synthesized by ring opening polymerization and CuI catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition. Characterization by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, size-exclusion chromatography and fluorescence spectroscopy was accomplished. The hydrophobic drug itraconazole (ITZ) was incorporated in self-assembled micellar structure of AB2 miktoarms through co-solvent evaporation. The properties of ITZ loaded (ITZ-PCL-PEG2) and blank micelles (PCL-PEG2) were investigated through zeta sizer, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Itraconazole alone (ITZ), polymer (DPB-PCL), empty polymeric micelles (PCL-PEG2) alone, and itraconazole loaded in polymeric micelles (ITZ-PCL-PEG2) were tested for anti-amoebic potential against Acanthamoeba, and the cytotoxicity on human cells were determined. The polymer was able to self-assemble in aqueous conditions and exhibited low value for critical micelle concentration (CMC) 0.05-0.06 µg/mL. The maximum entrapment efficiency of ITZ was 68%. Of note, ITZ, DPB, PCL-PEG2 and ITZ-PCL-PEG2 inhibited amoebae trophozoites by 37.34%, 36.30%, 35.77%, and 68.24%, respectively, as compared to controls. Moreover, ITZ-PCL-PEG2 revealed limited cytotoxicity against human keratinocyte cells. These results are indicative that ITZ-PCL-PEG2 micelle show significantly better anti-amoebic effects as compared to ITZ alone and thus should be investigated further in vivo to determine its clinical potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Komal Rao
- International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, Karachi University, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Abdullah
- International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, Karachi University, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Usman Ahmed
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hashi Isse Wehelie
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhammad Raza Shah
- International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, HEJ Research Institute of Chemistry, Karachi University, Karachi, 75270, Pakistan
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, UK
- Microbiota Research Center, Istinye University, 34010, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Naveed A Khan
- Microbiota Research Center, Istinye University, 34010, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Bader S Alawfi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, 42353, Madinah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayaz Anwar
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Simau FA, Ahmed U, Khan KM, Khan NA, Siddiqui R, Alharbi AM, Alfahemi H, Anwar A. Lactase can target cellular differentiation of Acanthamoeba castellanii belonging to the T4 genotype. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:117. [PMID: 38294565 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08131-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
The free living Acanthamoeba spp. are ubiquitous amoebae associated with potentially blinding disease known as Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) and a fatal central nervous system infection granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (GAE). With the inherent ability of cellular differentiation, it can phenotypically transform to a dormant cyst form from an active trophozoite form. Acanthamoeba cysts are highly resistant to therapeutic agents as well as contact lens cleaning solutions. One way to tackle drug resistance against Acanthamoeba is by inhibiting the formation of cysts from trophozoites. The biochemical analysis showed that the major component of Acanthamoeba cyst wall is composed of carbohydrate moieties such as galactose and glucose. The disaccharide of galactose and glucose is lactose. In this study, we analyzed the potential of lactase enzyme to target carbohydrate moieties of cyst walls. Amoebicidal assessment showed that lactase was ineffective against trophozoite of A. castellanii but enhanced amoebicidal effects of chlorhexidine. The lactase enzyme did not show any toxicity against normal human keratinocyte cells (HaCaT) at the tested range. Hence, lactase can be used for further assessment for development of potential therapeutic agents in the management of Acanthamoeba infection as well as formulation of effective contact lens disinfectants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fathimath Afaaf Simau
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Usman Ahmed
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Khalid Mohammed Khan
- International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, H. E. J. Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Microbiota Research Center, Istinye University, Istanbul, 34010, Turkey.
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Microbiota Research Center, Istinye University, Istanbul, 34010, Turkey
- Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS, UK
| | - Ahmad M Alharbi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, 21944, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hasan Alfahemi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Baha University, 65799, Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ayaz Anwar
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, 47500, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Haapanen S, Barker H, Carta F, Supuran CT, Parkkila S. Novel Drug Screening Assay for Acanthamoeba castellanii and the Anti-Amoebic Effect of Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2024; 67:152-164. [PMID: 38150360 PMCID: PMC10788897 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01020] [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: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba castellanii is an amoeba that inhabits soil and water in every part of the world. Acanthamoeba infection of the eye causes keratitis and can lead to a loss of vision. Current treatment options are only moderately effective, have multiple harmful side effects, and are tedious. In our study, we developed a novel drug screening method to define the inhibitory properties of potential new drugs against A. castellanii in vitro. We found that the clinically used carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, acetazolamide, ethoxzolamide, and dorzolamide, have promising antiamoebic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Haapanen
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, FI-33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Harlan Barker
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, FI-33520 Tampere, Finland
- Fimlab
Ltd, Tampere University Hospital, FI-33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Fabrizio Carta
- Neurofarba
Department, Sezione di Chimica Farmaceutica e Nutraceutica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Via U. Schiff 6, Sesto Fiorentino, I-50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Claudiu T. Supuran
- Neurofarba
Department, Sezione di Chimica Farmaceutica e Nutraceutica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Via U. Schiff 6, Sesto Fiorentino, I-50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Seppo Parkkila
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, FI-33520 Tampere, Finland
- Fimlab
Ltd, Tampere University Hospital, FI-33520 Tampere, Finland
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Siddiqui R, Khan NA. Contact lens disinfectants against Acanthamoeba keratitis: an overview of recent patents and future needs. Pharm Pat Anal 2023; 12:87-89. [PMID: 37650775 DOI: 10.4155/ppa-2023-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts & Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, 26666, United Arab Emirates
- Microbiota Research Center, Istinye University, Istanbul, 34010, Turkey
| | - Naveed A Khan
- Microbiota Research Center, Istinye University, Istanbul, 34010, Turkey
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Siddiqui R, Makhlouf Z, Akbar N, Khamis M, Ibrahim T, Khan AS, Khan NA. Antiamoebic properties of Methyltrioctylammonium chloride based deep eutectic solvents. Cont Lens Anterior Eye 2023; 46:101758. [PMID: 36243521 DOI: 10.1016/j.clae.2022.101758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This aim of this study was to assess anti-parasitic properties of deep eutectic solvents against eye pathogen, Acanthamoeba, often associated with the use of contact lens. METHODS Assays were performed to investigate the effects of various Methyltrioctylammonium chloride-based deep eutectic solvents on Acanthamoeba castellanii, comprising amoebicidal assays, encystment assays, excystment assays, cytotoxicity assays by measuring lactate dehydrogenase release from human cells, and cytopathogenicity assays to determine parasite-mediated host cell death. RESULTS In a 2 h incubation period, DES-B, DES-C, DES-D, and DES-E exhibited up to 85 % amoebicidal activity at micromolar doses, which was enhanced further following 24 h incubation. When tested in encystment assays, selected deep eutectic solvents abolished cyst formation and were able to block excystment of A. castellanii. All solvents exhibited minimal human cell cytotoxicity except DES-D. Finally, all tested deep eutectic solvents inhibited amoeba-mediated cytopathogenicity, except DES-B. CONCLUSIONS Deep eutectic solvents show potent antiamoebic effects. These findings are promising and could lead to the development of novel contact lens disinfectants, as well as opening several avenues to explore the molecular mechanisms, various doses and incubation periods, and use of different bases against Acanthamoeba castellanii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates; Istinye Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zinb Makhlouf
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Noor Akbar
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mustafa Khamis
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Taleb Ibrahim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, American University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amir Sada Khan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, American University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Department of Chemistry, University of Science & Technology, Banuu 28100, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, C
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, University, City, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Istinye Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey..
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Wang Y, Jiang L, Zhao Y, Ju X, Wang L, Jin L, Fine RD, Li M. Biological characteristics and pathogenicity of Acanthamoeba. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1147077. [PMID: 37089530 PMCID: PMC10113681 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1147077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba is an opportunistic protozoa, which exists widely in nature and is mainly distributed in soil and water. Acanthamoeba usually exists in two forms, trophozoites and cysts. The trophozoite stage is one of growth and reproduction while the cyst stage is characterized by cellular quiescence, commonly resulting in human infection, and the lack of effective monotherapy after initial infection leads to chronic disease. Acanthamoeba can infect several human body tissues such as the skin, cornea, conjunctiva, respiratory tract, and reproductive tract, especially when the tissue barriers are damaged. Furthermore, serious infections can cause Acanthamoeba keratitis, granulomatous amoebic encephalitis, skin, and lung infections. With an increasing number of Acanthamoeba infections in recent years, the pathogenicity of Acanthamoeba is becoming more relevant to mainstream clinical care. This review article will describe the etiological characteristics of Acanthamoeba infection in detail from the aspects of biological characteristic, classification, disease, and pathogenic mechanism in order to provide scientific basis for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Acanthamoeba infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuehua Wang
- College of Laboratory Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin City, China
| | - Linzhe Jiang
- General Surgery, Jilin People’s Hospital, Jilin City, China
| | - Yitong Zhao
- College of Laboratory Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin City, China
| | - Xiaohong Ju
- College of Laboratory Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin City, China
| | - Le Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jilin Hospital of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Jilin City, China
| | - Liang Jin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Jilin Hospital of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Jilin City, China
| | - Ryan D. Fine
- Center for Human Genetics and Genomics, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Mingguang Li
- College of Laboratory Medicine, Jilin Medical University, Jilin City, China
- *Correspondence: Mingguang Li,
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Antiamoebic Activity of Imidazothiazole Derivatives against Opportunistic Pathogen Acanthamoeba castellanii. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11091183. [PMID: 36139962 PMCID: PMC9494960 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11091183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined the antiamoebic effect of several imidazothiazole derivatives on Acanthamoeba castellanii of the T4 genotype. Trypan blue exclusion assays and haemocytometer counting were used to determine the reduction in A. castellanii trophozoite proliferation, in response to treatment with these compounds. To determine the effects of these compounds on host cells, lactate dehydrogenase assay was performed using HeLa cell lines. Amoebicidal assays revealed that the tested compounds at concentrations of 50 µM significantly inhibited amoebae trophozoites compared to controls. Compounds 1m and 1zb showed the highest amoebicidal effects eradicating 70% and 67% of A. castellanii, respectively. The compounds blocked both the encystation and excystation process in A. castellanii. Compounds 1m and 1zb blocked 61% and 55%, respectively, of amoeba binding to human cells. Moreover, the compounds showed minimal cytotoxic effects against host cells and considerably reduced amoeba-mediated host cell death. Overall, our study revealed that compounds 1m and 1zb have excellent antiamoebic potential, and should be considered in the development of curative antiamoebic medications in future studies. Further work is critical to determine the translational value of these findings.
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Boonhok R, Sangkanu S, Phumjan S, Jongboonjua R, Sangnopparat N, Kwankaew P, Tedasen A, Lim CL, Pereira MDL, Rahmatullah M, Wilairatana P, Wiart C, Dolma KG, Paul AK, Gupta M, Nissapatorn V. Curcumin effect on Acanthamoeba triangularis encystation under nutrient starvation. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13657. [PMID: 35811814 PMCID: PMC9261923 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Curcumin is an active compound derived from turmeric, Curcuma longa, and is known for its benefits to human health. The amoebicidal activity of curcumin against Acanthamoeba triangularis was recently discovered. However, a physiological change of intracellular pathways related to A. triangularis encystation mechanism, including autophagy in the surviving amoeba after curcumin treatment, has never been reported. This study aims to investigate the effect of curcumin on the survival of A. triangularis under nutrient starvation and nutrient-rich condition, as well as to evaluate the A. triangularis encystation and a physiological change of Acanthamoeba autophagy at the mRNA level. Methods In this study, A. triangularis amoebas were treated with a sublethal dose of curcumin under nutrient starvation and nutrient-rich condition and the surviving amoebas was investigated. Cysts formation and vacuolization were examined by microscopy and transcriptional expression of autophagy-related genes and other encystation-related genes were evaluated by real-time PCR. Results A. triangularis cysts were formed under nutrient starvation. However, in the presence of the autophagy inhibitor, 3-methyladenine (3-MA), the percentage of cysts was significantly reduced. Interestingly, in the presence of curcumin, most of the parasites remained in the trophozoite stage in both the starvation and nutrient-rich condition. In vacuolization analysis, the percentage of amoebas with enlarged vacuole was increased upon starvation. However, the percentage was significantly declined in the presence of curcumin and 3-MA. Molecular analysis of A. triangularis autophagy-related (ATG) genes showed that the mRNA expression of the ATG genes, ATG3, ATG8b, ATG12, ATG16, under the starvation with curcumin was at a basal level along the treatment. The results were similar to those of the curcumin-treated amoebas under a nutrient-rich condition, except AcATG16 which increased later. On the other hand, mRNA expression of encystation-related genes, cellulose synthase and serine proteinase, remained unchanged during the first 18 h, but significantly increased at 24 h post treatment. Conclusion Curcumin inhibits cyst formation in surviving trophozoites, which may result from its effect on mRNA expression of key Acanthamoeba ATG-related genes. However, further investigation into the mechanism of curcumin in A. triangularis trophozoites arrest and its association with autophagy or other encystation-related pathways is needed to support the future use of curcumin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachasak Boonhok
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Suthinee Sangkanu
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team) and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Suganya Phumjan
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Ramita Jongboonjua
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Nawarat Sangnopparat
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Pattamaporn Kwankaew
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Aman Tedasen
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Chooi Ling Lim
- Division of Applied Biomedical Science and Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials and Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mohammed Rahmatullah
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Development Alternative, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Polrat Wilairatana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Rachathewee, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Christophe Wiart
- The Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Karma G. Dolma
- Department of Microbiology, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences, Sikkim, India
| | - Alok K. Paul
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Madhu Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi, India
| | - Veeranoot Nissapatorn
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team) and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Thai Buri, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
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Ziaei Hezarjaribi H, Toluee E, Saberi R, Dadi Moghadam Y, Fakhar M, Akhtari J. In vitro anti- Acanthamoeba activity of the commercial chitosan and nano-chitosan against pathogenic Acanthamoeba genotype T4. J Parasit Dis 2021; 45:921-929. [PMID: 34789973 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01380-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a rare but serious infection of the eye and can lead to blindness. The effective and safe medical therapy remains unclear for AK until present. Antimicrobial activity and biological characteristic of chitosan encourage screening of it against Acanthamoeba. Thus, in vitro anti-amoebic activities of commercial chitosan and nano-chitosan were tested on pathogenic Acanthamoeba genotype T4, a causative agent of human AK. The Acanthamoeba spp. was isolated from the keratitis patient. The Acanthamoeba genotype T4 was approved using PCR method followed by sequencing technique. Chitosan nanoparticles was prepared using ionic gelation method and characterized by their physicochemical properties. In the present study, the in vitro activity of serial dilutions (12.5, 25, 50, 100, and 200 µL/mL) of commercial chitosan and nano-chitosan were evaluated against Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts. The finding of nano-chitosan particle size by DLS was 118 nm with a PDI of about 0.134. Zeta potential value was found to be 42.7 mV. The obtained results showed that the tested chitosan and nano-chitosan presented anti-amoebic activities dependent to time and concentration. The inhibitory effect of the chitosan and nano-chitosan is enhanced by increasing the concentration and incubation time. The inhibitory effect of nano-chitosan on both trophozoites and cyst was more than chitosan. According to the results, nano-chitosan shows the potent activity against Acanthamoeba T4 and could be used for the development of novel and safe therapeutic approaches in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajar Ziaei Hezarjaribi
- Department of Parasitology, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Department of Parasitology, Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 48471-91971, Sari, Iran
| | - Elahe Toluee
- Department of Parasitology, Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Reza Saberi
- Department of Parasitology, Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 48471-91971, Sari, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Yousef Dadi Moghadam
- Department of Parasitology, Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 48471-91971, Sari, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mahdi Fakhar
- Department of Parasitology, Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 48471-91971, Sari, Iran.,Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Javad Akhtari
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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10
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Shing B, Balen M, McKerrow JH, Debnath A. Acanthamoeba Keratitis: an update on amebicidal and cysticidal drug screening methodologies and potential treatment with azole drugs. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2021; 19:1427-1441. [PMID: 33929276 PMCID: PMC8551003 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2021.1924673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Acanthamoeba encompasses several species of free-living ameba encountered commonly throughout the environment. Unfortunately, these species of ameba can cause opportunistic infections that result in Acanthamoeba keratitis, granulomatous amebic encephalitis, and occasionally systemic infection.Areas covered: This review discusses relevant literature found through PubMed and Google scholar published as of January 2021. The review summarizes current common Acanthamoeba keratitis treatments, drug discovery methodologies available for screening potential anti-Acanthamoeba compounds, and the anti-Acanthamoeba activity of various azole antifungal agents.Expert opinion: While several biguanide and diamidine antimicrobial agents are available to clinicians to effectively treat Acanthamoeba keratitis, no singular treatment can effectively treat every Acanthamoeba keratitis case.Efforts to identify new anti-Acanthamoeba agents include trophozoite cell viability assays, which are amenable to high-throughput screening. Cysticidal assays remain largely manual and would benefit from further automation development. Additionally, the existing literature on the effectiveness of various azole antifungal agents for treating Acanthamoeba keratitis is incomplete or contradictory, suggesting the need for a systematic review of all azoles against different pathogenic Acanthamoeba strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Shing
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Division, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0685, La Jolla, CA 92093-0756, USA
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0756, La Jolla, CA 92093-0756, USA
| | - Mina Balen
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0756, La Jolla, CA 92093-0756, USA
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0346, La Jolla, CA 92093-0756, USA
| | - James H. McKerrow
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0756, La Jolla, CA 92093-0756, USA
| | - Anjan Debnath
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC 0756, La Jolla, CA 92093-0756, USA
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11
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Akbar N, Siddiqui R, Khamis M, Ibrahim T, Khan NA. Cationic Surfactant-Natural Clay Complex as a Novel Agent Against Acanthamoeba castellanii Belonging to the T4 Genotype. Eye Contact Lens 2021; 47:592-597. [PMID: 34173368 DOI: 10.1097/icl.0000000000000810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acanthamoeba is a protozoan pathogen that is widely distributed in the environment. Given the opportunity, it can cause a serious eye infection known as Acanthamoeba keratitis as well as a fatal brain infection known as granulomatous amoebic encephalitis. Inappropriate use of contact lenses can contribute to contracting Acanthamoeba keratitis, and contact lens disinfectants are not always effective in eradicating Acanthamoeba. Therefore, there is a need to develop novel antimicrobial agents with efficient antiamoebic properties. OBJECTIVE In this study, we tested octadecyltrimethylammonium (ODTMA)-clay (montmorillonite) complex as a novel antiamoebic agent. METHODS Using A. castellanii belonging to the T4 genotype of keratitis origin, amobicidal assays were performed to determine the effects of ODTMA-cay complex on the viability of parasites at various concentrations ranging from 10 to 100 μg. Adhesion and cytopathogenicity assays were performed to investigate ODTMA effects on A. castellanii-mediated binding and damage to human cells. Encystation and excystation assays were conducted to establish ODTMA-mediated inhibitory effects against the cyst stage of A. castellanii. RESULTS Using cell survival assays, the results revealed that ODTMA-clay complex exhibited amobicidal activity against keratitis-causing A. castellanii in a dose-dependent manner. Pretreatment of A. castellanii with ODTMA-clay complex inhibited parasite adhesion to as well as parasite-mediated human cell damage. Using encystation and excystation assays, it was revealed that ODTMA-clay complex inhibited A. castellanii cysts at 100 μg (P<0.05). CONCLUSION To the best of our knowledge, for the first time, it was shown that ODTMA-clay complex exhibited anti-Acanthamoebic activities. The possibility of adding ODTMA-clay in a contact lens cleaning solution to formulate effective disinfectants is discussed further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Akbar
- College of Arts and Sciences (N.A., R.S., M.K.); College of Engineering (T.I.), American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; and Department of Clinical Sciences (N.A.K.), College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, Unites Arab Emirates
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12
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Boonhok R, Sangkanu S, Chuprom J, Srisuphanunt M, Norouzi R, Siyadatpanah A, Mirzaei F, Mitsuwan W, Wisessombat S, de Lourdes Pereira M, Rahmatullah M, Wilairatana P, Wiart C, Ling LC, Dolma KG, Nissapatorn V. Peganum harmala Extract Has Antiamoebic Activity to Acanthamoeba triangularis Trophozoites and Changes Expression of Autophagy-Related Genes. Pathogens 2021; 10:842. [PMID: 34357992 PMCID: PMC8308471 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10070842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Peganum harmala, a well-known medicinal plant, has been used for several therapeutic purposes as it contains numerous pharmacological active compounds. Our study reported an anti-parasitic activity of P. harmala seed extract against Acanthamoeba triangularis. The stress induced by the extract on the surviving trophozoites for Acanthamoeba encystation and vacuolization was examined by microscopy, and transcriptional expression of Acanthamoeba autophagy-related genes was investigated by quantitative PCR. Our results showed that the surviving trophozoites were not transformed into cysts, and the number of trophozoites with enlarged vacuoles were not significantly different from that of untreated control. Molecular analysis data demonstrated that the mRNA expression of tested AcATG genes, i.e., ATG3, ATG8b, and ATG16, was at a basal level along the treatment. However, upregulation of AcATG16 at 24 h post treatment was observed, which may indicate an autophagic activity of this protein in response to the stress. Altogether, these data revealed the anti-Acanthamoeba activity of P. harmala extract and indicated the association of autophagy mRNA expression and cyst formation under the extract stress, representing a promising plant for future drug development. However, further identification of an active compound and a study of autophagy at the protein level are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachasak Boonhok
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; (R.B.); (M.S.); (S.W.)
| | - Suthinee Sangkanu
- Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team) and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; (S.S.); (J.C.)
| | - Julalak Chuprom
- Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team) and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; (S.S.); (J.C.)
| | - Mayuna Srisuphanunt
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; (R.B.); (M.S.); (S.W.)
| | - Roghayeh Norouzi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz 5166616471, Iran;
| | - Abolghasem Siyadatpanah
- Ferdows School of Paramedical and Health, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand 9717853577, Iran;
| | - Farzaneh Mirzaei
- Department Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd 14188-15971, Iran;
| | - Watcharapong Mitsuwan
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College and Research Center of Excellence in Innovation of Essential Oil, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand;
| | - Sueptrakool Wisessombat
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; (R.B.); (M.S.); (S.W.)
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials and Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Mohammed Rahmatullah
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, University of Development Alternative, Lalmatia, Dhaka 1209, Bangladesh;
| | - Polrat Wilairatana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Christophe Wiart
- School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, Selangor 43500, Malaysia;
| | - Lim Chooi Ling
- Division of Applied Biomedical Science and Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Malaysia;
| | - Karma G. Dolma
- Department of Microbiology, Sikkim Manipal Institute of Medical Sciences (SMIMS), Sikkim 737102, India;
| | - Veeranoot Nissapatorn
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; (R.B.); (M.S.); (S.W.)
- Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team) and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; (S.S.); (J.C.)
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Mungroo MR, Tong T, Khan NA, Anuar TS, Maciver SK, Siddiqui R. Development of anti-acanthamoebic approaches. Int Microbiol 2021; 24:363-371. [PMID: 33754231 DOI: 10.1007/s10123-021-00171-3] [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: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis is a sight-endangering eye infection, and causative organism Acanthamoeba presents a significant concern to public health, given escalation of contact lens wearers. Contemporary therapy is burdensome, necessitating prompt diagnosis and aggressive treatment. None of the contact lens disinfectants (local and international) can eradicate Acanthamoeba effectively. Using a range of compounds targeting cellulose, ion channels, and biochemical pathways, we employed bioassay-guided testing to determine their anti-amoebic effects. The results indicated that acarbose, indaziflam, terbuthylazine, glimepiride, inositol, vildagliptin and repaglinide showed anti-amoebic effects. Compounds showed minimal toxicity on human cells. Therefore, effects of the evaluated compounds after conjugation with nanoparticles should certainly be the subject of future studies and will likely lead to promising leads for potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ridwane Mungroo
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Tommy Tong
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Tengku Shahrul Anuar
- Centre for Medical Laboratory Technology Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Sutherland K Maciver
- Centre for Discovery Brain Science, Biomedical Sciences, Edinburgh Medical School, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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14
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Establishment of an Acanthamoeba keratitis mouse model confirmed by amoebic DNA amplification. Sci Rep 2021; 11:4183. [PMID: 33603075 PMCID: PMC7892866 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-83738-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba castellanii, the causative agent of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), occurs mainly in contact lens users with poor eye hygiene. The findings of many in vitro studies of AK, as well as the testing of therapeutic drugs, need validation in in vivo experiments. BALB/c mice were used in this study to establish in vivo AK model. A. castellanii cell suspensions (equal mixtures of trophozoites and cysts) were loaded onto 2-mm contact lens pieces and inserted into mouse eyes that were scratched using an ophthalmic surgical blade under anesthesia and the eyelids of the mice were sutured. The AK signs were grossly observed and PCR was performed using P-FLA primers to amplify the Acanthamoeba 18S-rRNA gene from mouse ocular tissue. The experimental AK mouse model was characterized by typical hazy blurring and melting of the mouse cornea established on day 1 post-inoculation. AK was induced with at least 0.3 × 105 A. castellanii cells (optimal number, 5 × 104), and the infection persisted for two months. The PCR products amplified from the extracted mouse eye DNA confirmed the development of Acanthamoeba-induced keratitis during the infection periods. In conclusion, the present AK mouse model may serve as an important in vivo model for the development of various therapeutic drugs against AK.
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15
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Lacerda AG, Lira M. Acanthamoeba
keratitis: a review of biology, pathophysiology and epidemiology. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2020; 41:116-135. [DOI: 10.1111/opo.12752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Madalena Lira
- Centre of Physics University of Minho Braga Portugal
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16
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17
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Wekerle M, Engel J, Walochnik J. Anti-Acanthamoeba disinfection: hands, surfaces and wounds. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2020; 56:106122. [PMID: 32739477 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2020.106122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 07/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoebae are facultative parasites causing rare but serious infections such as keratitis and encephalitis and are also known as vectors for several bacterial pathogens, including legionellae and pseudomonads. Acanthamoeba cysts are particularly resilient and enable the amoebae to withstand desiccation and to resist disinfection and therapy. While the search for new therapeutic options has been intensified in the past years, hand and surface disinfectants as well as topical antiseptics for preventing infections have not been studied in detail to date. The aim of this study was to screen well-known and commonly used antimicrobial products in various formulations and different concentrations for their efficacy against Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts, including aliphatic alcohols, quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), peracetic acid (PAA), potassium peroxymonosulfate sulfate (PPMS) and octenidine dihydrochloride (OCT). Of all products tested, OCT and QACs showed the highest efficacy, totally eradicating both trophozoites and cysts within 1 min. The determined 50% effective concentration (EC50) for cysts was 0.196 mg/mL for OCT and 0.119 mg/mL for QACs after 1 min of exposure. PAA and PPMS showed reliable cysticidal efficacies only with prolonged incubation times of 30 min and 60 min, respectively. Aliphatic alcohols generally had limited efficacy, and only against trophozoites. In conclusion, OCT and QACs are potent actives against Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts at concentrations used in commercially available products, within contact times suitable for surface and hand disinfection as well as topical antisepsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Wekerle
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Jan Engel
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Walochnik
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Kinderspitalgasse 15, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
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18
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Antiamoebic activity of 3-aryl-6,7-dimethoxyquinazolin-4(3H)-one library against Acanthamoeba castellanii. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:2327-2335. [PMID: 32476058 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06710-7] [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: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba castellanii is a free-living amoeba which can cause a blinding keratitis and fatal granulomatous amoebic encephalitis. The treatment of Acanthamoeba infections is challenging due to formation of cyst. Quinazolinones are medicinally important scaffold against parasitic diseases. A library of nineteen new 3-aryl-6,7-dimethoxyquinazolin-4(3H)-one derivatives was synthesized to evaluate their antiamoebic activity against Acanthamoeba castellanii. One-pot synthesis of 3-aryl-6,7-dimethoxyquinazolin-4(3H)-ones (1-19) was achieved by reaction of 2-amino-4,5-dimethoxybenzoic acid, trimethoxymethane, and different substituted anilines. These compounds were purified and characterized by standard chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. Antiacanthamoebic activity of these compounds was determined by amoebicidal, encystation, excystation and host cell cytopathogenicity in vitro assays at concentrations of 50 and 100 μg/mL. The IC50 was found to be between 100 and 50 μg/mL for all the compounds except compound 5 which did not exhibit amoebicidal effects at these concentrations. Furthermore, lactate dehydrogenase assay was also performed to evaluate the in vitro cytotoxicity of these compounds against human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells. The results revealed that eighteen out of nineteen derivatives of quinazolinones significantly decreased the viability of A. castellanii. Furthermore, eighteen out of nineteen tested compounds inhibited the encystation and excystation, as well as significantly reduced the A. castellanii-mediated cytopathogenicity against human cells. Interestingly, while tested against human normal cell line HaCaT keratinocytes, all compounds did not exhibit any overt cytotoxicity. Furthermore, a detailed structure-activity relationship is also studied to optimize the most potent hit from these synthetic compounds. This report presents several potential lead compounds belonging to 3-aryl-6,7-dimethoxyquinazolin-4(3H)-one derivatives for drug discovery against infections caused by Acanthamoeba castellanii.
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19
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Siddiqui R, Roberts SK, Ong TYY, Mungroo MR, Anwar A, Khan NA. Novel insights into the potential role of ion transport in sensory perception in Acanthamoeba. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:538. [PMID: 31727139 PMCID: PMC6857129 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3785-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acanthamoeba is well known to produce a blinding keratitis and serious brain infection known as encephalitis. Effective treatment is problematic, and can continue up to a year, and even then, recurrence can ensue. Partly, this is due to the capability of vegetative amoebae to convert into resistant cysts. Cysts can persist in an inactive form for decades while retaining their pathogenicity. It is not clear how Acanthamoeba cysts monitor environmental changes, and determine favourable conditions leading to their emergence as viable trophozoites. Methods The role of ion transporters in the encystation and excystation of Acanthamoeba remains unclear. Here, we investigated the role of sodium, potassium and calcium ion transporters as well as proton pump inhibitors on A. castellanii encystation and excystation and their effects on trophozoites. Results Remarkably 3′,4′-dichlorobenzamil hydrochloride a sodium–calcium exchange inhibitor, completely abolished excystation of Acanthamoeba. Furthermore, lanthanum oxide and stevioside hydrate, both potassium transport inhibitors, resulted in the partial inhibition of Acanthamoeba excystation. Conversely, none of the ion transport inhibitors affected encystation or had any effects on Acanthamoeba trophozoites viability. Conclusions The present study indicates that ion transporters are involved in sensory perception of A. castellanii suggesting their value as potential therapeutic targets to block cellular differentiation that presents a significant challenge in the successful prognosis of Acanthamoeba infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates.
| | | | - Timothy Yu Yee Ong
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Ridwane Mungroo
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Areeba Anwar
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Bandar Sunway, Malaysia
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Khan NA, Anwar A, Siddiqui R. Acanthamoeba Keratitis: Current Status and Urgent Research Priorities. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:5711-5726. [DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180510125633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background:First discovered in the early 1970s, Acanthamoeba keratitis has remained a major eye infection and presents a significant threat to the public health, especially in developing countries. The aim is to present a timely review of our current understanding of the advances made in this field in a comprehensible manner and includes novel concepts and provides clear directions for immediate research priorities.Methods:We undertook a search of bibliographic databases for peer-reviewed research literature and also summarized our published results in this field.Results:The present review focuses on novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in details which can provide access to management and treatment of Acanthamoeba keratitis. This coupled with the recently available genome sequence information together with high throughput genomics technology and innovative approaches should stimulate interest in the rational design of preventative and therapeutic measures. Current treatment of Acanthamoeba keratitis is problematic and often leads to infection recurrence. Better understanding of diagnosis, pathogenesis, pathophysiology and therapeutic regimens, would lead to novel strategies in treatment and prophylaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ayaz Anwar
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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21
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayaz Anwar
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
- * E-mail:
| | - Naveed A. Khan
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
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Anwar A, Numan A, Siddiqui R, Khalid M, Khan NA. Cobalt nanoparticles as novel nanotherapeutics against Acanthamoeba castellanii. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:280. [PMID: 31159839 PMCID: PMC6545699 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3528-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Species of Acanthamoeba are facultative pathogens which can cause sight threatening Acanthamoeba keratitis and a rare but deadly brain infection, granulomatous amoebic encephalitis. Due to conversion of Acanthamoeba trophozoites to resistant cyst stage, most drugs are found to be ineffective at preventing recurrence of infection. This study was designed to test the antiacanthamoebic effects of different cobalt nanoparticles (CoNPs) against trophozoites and cysts, as well as parasite-mediated host cell cytotoxicity. Methods Three different varieties of CoNPs were synthesized by utilizing hydrothermal and ultrasonication methods and were thoroughly characterized by X-ray diffraction and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Amoebicidal, encystation, excystation, and host cell cytopathogenicity assays were conducted to study the antiacanthamoebic effects of CoNPs. Results The results of the antimicrobial evaluation revealed that cobalt phosphate Co3(PO4)2 hexagonal microflakes, and 100 nm large cobalt hydroxide (Co(OH)2) nanoflakes showed potent amoebicidal activity at 100 and 10 µg/ml against Acanthamoeba castellanii as compared to granular cobalt oxide (Co3O4) of size 35–40 nm. Furthermore, encystation and excystation assays also showed consistent inhibition at 100 µg/ml. CoNPs also inhibited amoebae-mediated host cell cytotoxicity as determined by lactate dehydrogenase release without causing significant damage to human cells when treated alone. Conclusions To our knowledge, these findings determined, for the first time, the effects of composition, size and morphology of CoNPs against A. castellanii. Co3(PO4)2 hexagonal microflakes showed the most promising antiamoebic effects as compared to Co(OH)2 nanoflakes and granular Co3O4. The results reported in the present study hold potential for the development of antiamoebic nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayaz Anwar
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Arshid Numan
- Graphene and Advanced 2D Materials Research Group, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Mohammad Khalid
- Graphene and Advanced 2D Materials Research Group, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, 47500, Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
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Lazuana T, Astuty H, Sari IP. Effect of Cellulase Enzyme Treatment on Cyst Wall Degradation of Acanthamoeba sp. J Parasitol Res 2019; 2019:8915314. [PMID: 31032112 PMCID: PMC6458855 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8915314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM The goal of this study is to know the potential of cellulase in the degradation of cyst wall Acanthamoeba sp. METHODS Sample of Acanthamoeba sp. obtained from isolate collection of Department of Parasitology FKUI of which two samples come from patient and one sample is from environment. All three samples were cultured using non-nutrient agar (NNA) media and identified by PCR and sequencing. The concentration of cellulase concentration used was 50 U, 100 U, 150 U, 200 U, 250 U, and 300 U with the incubation time used being 2 hours, 4 hours, 6 hours, 8 hours, and 24 hours. Furthermore, treatment results with the most optimum concentration and incubation time were observed by using SEM to see changes in the surface of the walls of the cyst. A cysticidal test was performed to determine the effectiveness cysticidal action of disinfectant solution, cellulase, and the combination of disinfectant solution and cellulase in killing Acanthamoeba sp. cyst assessed by their viability value. RESULTS The most optimal cellulase concentration in killing Acanthamoeba sp. cysts was 300 U with an incubation time of 24 hours. Percentage of viability of Acanthamoeba sp. which was exposed to a disinfectant solution for 24 hours was 95%, cellulase alone for 24 hours 75%, and the combination of cellulase and disinfectant solution for 24 hours 25%. CONCLUSIONS Cellulase is capable of degrading Acanthamoeba sp. cyst wall. Optimal cellulase concentration in degrading Acanthamoeba sp. cyst wall is 300 U with an optimal incubation time being 24 hours. The addition of cellulase to the disinfectant solution has the potential to increase the effectiveness of the disinfectant solution because cellulase is capable of degrading the cyst wall allowing the disinfectant solution to enter and kill Acanthamoeba sp. cysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tisha Lazuana
- Master Program in Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia
| | - Hendri Astuty
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia
| | - Ika Puspa Sari
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Universitas Indonesia, Indonesia
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Hernández-Martínez D, Reyes-Batlle M, Castelan-Ramírez I, Hernández-Olmos P, Vanzzini-Zago V, Ramírez-Flores E, Sifaoui I, Piñero JE, Lorenzo-Morales J, Omaña-Molina M. Evaluation of the sensitivity to chlorhexidine, voriconazole and itraconazole of T4 genotype Acanthamoeba isolated from Mexico. Exp Parasitol 2019; 197:29-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
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Jeyamogan S, Khan NA, Anwar A, Shah MR, Siddiqui R. Cytotoxic effects of Benzodioxane, Naphthalene diimide, Porphyrin and Acetamol derivatives on HeLa cells. SAGE Open Med 2018; 6:2050312118781962. [PMID: 30034805 PMCID: PMC6048657 DOI: 10.1177/2050312118781962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To synthesize novel compounds belonging to Benzodioxane, Naphthalene diimide,
Aminophenol derivatives and Porphyrin classes and test their potential
anticancer properties. Methods: Several compounds were synthesized and their molecular identity was confirmed
using nuclear magnetic resonance. Potential anticancer properties were
determined using cytopathogenicity assays and growth inhibition assays using
cervical cancer cells (HeLa). Cells were incubated with different
concentrations of compounds belonging to Benzodioxane, Naphthalene diimide,
Aminophenol derivatives and Porphyrins and effects were determined. HeLa
cells cytopathogenicity was determined by measuring lactate dehydrogenase
release using cytotoxicity detection assay. Growth inhibition assays were
performed by incubating 50% semi-confluent HeLa cells with Benzodioxane,
Naphthalene diimide, Aminophenol derivatives and Porphyrin compounds and
HeLa cell proliferation was observed. Growth inhibition and host cell death
were compared in the presence and absence of drugs. Results: Cytopathogenicity assays showed that the selected compounds were cytotoxic
against HeLa cells, killing up to 90% of cells. Growth inhibition assays
exhibited 100% growth inhibition. These effects are likely via oxidative
stress, production of reactive oxygen species, changes in cytosolic and
intracellular calcium/adenine nucleotide homeostasis, inhibition of
ribonucleotide reductase/cyclooxygenase and/or glutathione depletion. Conclusions: Benzodioxane, Naphthalene diimide, Aminophenol derivatives and Porphyrins
exhibited potent anticancer properties. These findings are promising and
should pave the way in the rationale development of anticancer drugs. Using
different cancer cell lines, future studies will determine their potential
as anti-tumour agents as well as their precise molecular mode of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shareni Jeyamogan
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Ayaz Anwar
- International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, Hussain Ebrahim Jamal Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Raza Shah
- International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences, Hussain Ebrahim Jamal Research Institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
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Contact Lenses and Infectious Keratitis. CURRENT OPHTHALMOLOGY REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40135-018-0172-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Anwar A, Khan NA, Siddiqui R. Combating Acanthamoeba spp. cysts: what are the options? Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:26. [PMID: 29316961 PMCID: PMC5759203 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2572-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. are protist pathogens and causative agents of serious infections including keratitis and granulomatous amoebic encephalitis. Its ability to convert into dormant and highly resistant cysts form limits effectiveness of available therapeutic agents and presents a pivotal challenge for drug development. During the cyst stage, Acanthamoeba is protected by the presence of hardy cyst walls, comprised primarily of carbohydrates and cyst-specific proteins, hence synthesis inhibition and/or degradation of cyst walls is of major interest. This review focuses on targeting of Acanthamoeba cysts by identifying viable therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayaz Anwar
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia.
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
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Abjani F, Khan NA, Jung SY, Siddiqui R. Status of the effectiveness of contact lens disinfectants in Malaysia against keratitis-causing pathogens. Exp Parasitol 2017; 183:187-193. [PMID: 28919333 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Revised: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was (i) to assess the antimicrobial effects of contact lens disinfecting solutions marketed in Malaysia against common bacterial eye pathogens and as well as eye parasite, Acanthamoeba castellanii, and (ii) to determine whether targeting cyst wall would improve the efficacy of contact lens disinfectants. Using ISO 14729 Stand-Alone Test for disinfecting solutions, bactericidal and amoebicidal assays of six different contact lens solutions including Oxysept®, AO SEPT PLUS, OPTI-FREE® pure moist®, Renu® fresh™, FreshKon® CLEAR and COMPLETE RevitaLens™ were performed using Manufacturers Minimum recommended disinfection time (MRDT). The efficacy of contact lens solutions was determined against keratitis-causing microbes, namely: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Acanthamoeba castellanii. In addition, using chlorhexidine as an antiamoebic compound and cellulase enzyme to disrupt cyst wall structure, we determined whether combination of both agents can enhance efficacy of marketed contact lens disinfectants against A. castellanii trophozoites and cysts, in vitro. The results revealed that all contact lens disinfectants tested showed potent bactericidal effects exhibiting 100% kill against all bacterial species tested. In contrast, none of the contact lens disinfectants had potent effects against Acanthamoeba cysts viability. When tested against trophozoites, two disinfectants, Oxysept Multipurpose and AO-sept Multipurpose showed partial amoebicidal effects. Using chlorhexidine as an antiamoebic compound and cellulase enzyme to disrupt cyst wall structure, the findings revealed that combination of both agents in contact lens disinfectants abolished viability of A. castellanii cysts and trophozoites. Given the inefficacy of contact lens disinfectants tested in this study, these findings present a significant concern to public health. These findings revealed that targeting cyst wall by using cyst wall degrading molecules in contact lens disinfecting solutions will enhance their efficacy against this devastating eye infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhat Abjani
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Malaysia
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Malaysia
| | - Suk Yul Jung
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Namseoul University, South Korea
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Science and Technology, Sunway University, Malaysia.
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Abstract
For the past several decades, there has been little improvement in the morbidity and mortality associated with Acanthamoeba keratitis and Acanthamoeba encephalitis, respectively. The discovery of a plethora of antiacanthamoebic compounds has not yielded effective marketed chemotherapeutics. The rate of development of novel antiacanthamoebic chemotherapies of translational value and the lack of interest of the pharmaceutical industry in developing such chemotherapies have been disappointing. On the other hand, the market for contact lenses/contact lens disinfectants is a multi-billion-dollar industry and has been successful and profitable. A better understanding of drugs, their targets, and mechanisms of action will facilitate the development of more-effective chemotherapies. Here, we review the progress toward phenotypic drug discovery, emphasizing the shortcomings of useable therapies.
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