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Karimi A, Kheirandish F, Javadi Mamaghani A, Taghipour N, Mousavi SF, Aghajani A, Zebardast N, Faraji M, Fallahi S. Identification and genotyping of Acanthamoeba spp. in the water resources of western Iran. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2023; 22:e00308. [PMID: 37638113 PMCID: PMC10450349 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2023.e00308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Acanthamoeba spp. is opportunistic amoeba that resides in water, soil, and air. Some pathogenic genotypes of the genus of Acanthamoeba can cause granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (GAE) in people with a defective immune system. The parasite can also cause Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) among contact lens users. This study was conducted to isolate and identify the Acanthamoeba genotypes in water resources in Lorestan province, western Iran. Methods Collected 72 water samples from surface and groundwater (springs and aqueducts) in Lorestan province. Samples were filtered and cultured in non-nutrient 1.5% agar medium covered with Escherichia coli (E. coli) at 25 °C. DNA extraction was done and the PCR reaction was performed to detect the Acanthamoeba spp. The positive PCR products were sequenced to determine the genotypes of Acanthamoeba. Results Out of 72 examined water samples, 23.61% were positive for Acanthamoeba sp. by PCR. From PCR-positive samples, 8 (47.05%) samples were T4 genotypes and others were other Acanthamoeba genotypes (T1-T23). Therefore, approximately half of the genotypes belong to the pathogenic T4 genotype. Conclusions The water examined samples in western provinces of Iran have the potential risk factor for public health. Therefore, the efforts of healthcare providers are needed to identify, train, and prevention from human infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Karimi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Farnaz Kheirandish
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Amirreza Javadi Mamaghani
- Hepatitis Research Center, Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Niloofar Taghipour
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Syedeh Fatemeh Mousavi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Ali Aghajani
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, faculty of medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Nozhat Zebardast
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Majid Faraji
- MSc in Parasitology, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Shirzad Fallahi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
- Razi Herbal Medicines Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
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2
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Chomicz L, Szaflik JP, Szostakowska B, Izdebska J, Baltaza W, Łazicka-Gałecka M, Kuligowska A, Machalińska A, Zawadzki PJ, Szaflik J. Successive Acanthamoeba Corneal Isolates Identified in Poland Monitored in Terms of In Vitro Dynamics. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1174. [PMID: 37317148 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051174] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amoebae of the genus Acanthamoeba cause a sight-threatening infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis. It is considered a rare disease in humans but poses an increasing threat to public health worldwide, including in Poland. We present successive isolates from serious keratitis preliminary examined in terms of the identification and monitoring of, among others, the in vitro dynamics of the detected strains. METHODS Clinical and combined laboratory methods were applied; causative agents of the keratitis were identified at the cellular and molecular levels; isolates were cultivated in an axenic liquid medium and regularly monitored. RESULTS In a phase-contrast microscope, Acanthamoeba sp. cysts and live trophozoites from corneal samples and in vitro cultures were assessed on the cellular level. Some isolates that were tested at the molecular level were found to correspond to A. mauritanensis, A. culbertsoni, A. castellanii, genotype T4. There was variability in the amoebic strain dynamics; high viability was expressed as trofozoites' long duration ability to intense multiply. CONCLUSIONS Some strains from keratitis under diagnosis verification and dynamics assessment showed enough adaptive capability to grow in an axenic medium, allowing them to exhibit significant thermal tolerance. In vitro monitoring that was suitable for verifying in vivo examinations, in particular, was useful to detect the strong viability and pathogenic potential of successive Acanthamoeba strains with a long duration of high dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Chomicz
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-575 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek P Szaflik
- Department of Ophthalmology, Independent Public Clinical Ophthalmology Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-576 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata Szostakowska
- Department of Tropical Parasitology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Justyna Izdebska
- Department of Ophthalmology, Independent Public Clinical Ophthalmology Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-576 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wanda Baltaza
- Department of Public Health, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Łazicka-Gałecka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Independent Public Clinical Ophthalmology Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-576 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kuligowska
- First Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Anna Machalińska
- First Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Paweł J Zawadzki
- Clinic of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial and Oral Surgery and Implantology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-005 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jerzy Szaflik
- Laser Eye Microsurgery Centre Clinic of Prof. Jerzy Szaflik, Brand Med Medical Research Centre, 00-215 Warsaw, Poland
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Nageeb MM, Eldeek HEM, Attia RAH, Sakla AA, Alkhalil SS, Farrag HMM. Isolation and morphological and molecular characterization of waterborne free-living amoebae: Evidence of potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba and Vahlkampfiidae in Assiut, Upper Egypt. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267591. [PMID: 35802617 PMCID: PMC9269480 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Free-living amoebae (FLA) are gaining attention due to the increasing number of related grave central nervous system (CNS) and sight-threatening eye infections and their role as Trojan horses for many bacteria and viruses. This study was conducted in Assiut City, Egypt to detect the presence of FLA in different water sources using morphological and molecular approaches and determine their potential pathogenicity. A total of 188 water samples (100 tap, 80 tank, and 8 swimming pool samples) were collected, cultivated on non-nutrient agar seeded with Escherichia coli, and inspected for FLA. Thermo- and osmo-tolerance assays were performed to determine their pathogenicity. Polymerase chain reaction and sequence analysis were performed to confirm the identification and analyze the genotype. Overall, 52 samples (27.7%) were positive for FLA. Of these, 20.7% were identified as Acanthamoeba, 1.6% as Vahlkampfiidae, and 5.3% as mixed Acanthamoeba and Vahlkampfiidae. Seven species of Acanthamoeba were recognized, of which A. triangularis, A. polyphaga, A. lenticulata, and A. culbertsoni are thermo- and osmo-tolerant, and A. astronyxis, A. comandoni, and A. echinulata are non-thermo- and non-osmo-tolerant. The phylogeny analysis revealed T4 and T7 genotypes. Among Vahlkampfiids, 61.5% were identified as thermo- and osmo-tolerant Vahlkampfia, and 30.8% were identified as non-pathogenic Naegleria. One isolate (7.7%) was identified as potentially pathogenic Allovahlkampfia, as confirmed by sequencing. This is the first report documenting the occurrence and phylogeny of waterborne FLA (Acanthamoeba/Vahlkampfiidae) in Assiut, Egypt. The presence of potentially pathogenic FLA highlights the possible health hazards and the need for preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina M. Nageeb
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Hanan E. M. Eldeek
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Rasha A. H. Attia
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Atef A. Sakla
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Samia S. Alkhalil
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Saudi Arabia
| | - Haiam Mohamed Mahmoud Farrag
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Saudi Arabia
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Bellini NK, Thiemann OH, Reyes-Batlle M, Lorenzo-Morales J, Costa AO. A history of over 40 years of potentially pathogenic free-living amoeba studies in Brazil - a systematic review. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2022; 117:e210373. [PMID: 35792751 PMCID: PMC9252135 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760210373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Free-living amoeba (FLA) group includes the potentially pathogenic genera Acanthamoeba, Naegleria, Balamuthia, Sappinia, and Vermamoeba, causative agents of human infections (encephalitis, keratitis, and disseminated diseases). In Brazil, the first report on pathogenic FLA was published in the 70s and showed meningoencephalitis caused by Naegleria spp. FLA studies are emerging, but no literature review is available to investigate this trend in Brazil critically. Thus, the present work aims to integrate and discuss these data. Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science were searched, retrieving studies from 1974 to 2020. The screening process resulted in 178 papers, which were clustered into core and auxiliary classes and sorted into five categories: wet-bench studies, dry-bench studies, clinical reports, environmental identifications, and literature reviews. The papers dating from the last ten years account for 75% (134/178) of the total publications, indicating the FLA topic has gained Brazilian interest. Moreover, 81% (144/178) address Acanthamoeba-related matter, revealing this genus as the most prevalent in all categories. Brazil’s Southeast, South, and Midwest geographic regions accounted for 96% (171/178) of the publications studied in the present work. To the best of our knowledge, this review is the pioneer in summarising the FLA research history in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natália Karla Bellini
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Farmácia, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
| | - Otavio Henrique Thiemann
- Universidade de São Paulo, Instituto de Física de São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brasil.,Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Departamento de Genética e Evolução, São Carlos, SP, Brasil
| | - María Reyes-Batlle
- Universidad de La Laguna, Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Departamento de Obstetricia, Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Red de Investigación Cooperativa en Enfermedades Tropicales, Tenerife, Islas Canarias, Spain
| | - Jacob Lorenzo-Morales
- Universidad de La Laguna, Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Departamento de Obstetricia, Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Red de Investigación Cooperativa en Enfermedades Tropicales, Tenerife, Islas Canarias, Spain.,Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red MP de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Madrid, Spain
| | - Adriana Oliveira Costa
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Faculdade de Farmácia, Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
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Chan LL, Toh HC, Jaikwang K, Loo EM, Wong JH, Liew YK, Ong KH, Ooi SS. Report of rare genotypes of Acanthamoeba from soil source of the Payeh Maga Highland forest, North-eastern Sarawak, Malaysia. Acta Trop 2022; 229:106372. [PMID: 35182491 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Pathogenic Acanthamoeba species are the causative agents of Acanthamoeba keratitis and granulomatous amoebic encephalitis. Members of this amoeba genus are ubiquitous in the environments. In Malaysia, most environmental studies performed to date have targeted the detection and characterisation of Acanthamoeba sp. in different water sources, dust and soil samples collected near human habitats. However, no local study has yet to examine these amoebae in a forest, an isolated terrestrial environment, where human activity is relatively scarce. Further, there are also limited studies to investigate the same globally. The current study reported the isolation, morphological and genotypic characterisations of eleven Acanthamoeba sp. isolated from soils of the Payeh Maga Highland forest, Sarawak, Malaysia. Morphological analysis revealed that nine isolates belonged to Group II, whereas two isolates belonged to Group III as defined by the criteria of Pussard and Pons. The phylogenetic analysis based on complete 18S rRNA gene sequences showed that the isolates belonged to the rare T1 (six isolates), T6 (two isolates) and T13 (three isolates) genotypes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report about the detection of T6 Acanthamoeba sp. in this country. Overall, the current findings have enriched the knowledge pertaining to the occurrence, morphological and genotypic characteristics of Acanthamoeba sp. in an isolated terrestrial environment of Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Li Chan
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Pathology Division, School of Medicine, International Medical University, 126, Jalan Jalil Perkasa 19, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.
| | - Hiu-Ching Toh
- Biomedical Science, School of Health Sciences, International Medical University, 126, Jalan Jalil Perkasa 19, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
| | - Kantiya Jaikwang
- Biomedical Science, School of Health Sciences, International Medical University, 126, Jalan Jalil Perkasa 19, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
| | - Ee-Mun Loo
- Biomedical Science, School of Health Sciences, International Medical University, 126, Jalan Jalil Perkasa 19, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
| | - Jia-Haw Wong
- Biomedical Science, School of Health Sciences, International Medical University, 126, Jalan Jalil Perkasa 19, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
| | - Yun-Khoon Liew
- Life Science, School of Pharmacy, International Medical University, 126, Jalan Jalil Perkasa 19, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
| | - Kian-Huat Ong
- Faculty of Agricultural Science and Forestry, Universiti Putra Malaysia Bintulu Sarawak Campus, Jalan Nyabau, 97008 Bintulu, Sarawak Malaysia
| | - Soo-Shen Ooi
- Institute for Research, Development and Innovation, International Medical University, 126, Jalan Jalil Perkasa 19, Bukit Jalil, 57000 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
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Kim MJ, Chu KB, Lee HA, Quan FS, Kong HH, Moon EK. Detection of Acanthamoeba spp. using carboxylesterase antibody and its usage for diagnosing Acanthamoeba-keratitis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262223. [PMID: 34986189 PMCID: PMC8730387 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Contact lens usage has contributed to increased incidence rates of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a serious corneal infection that can lead to blindness. Since symptoms associated with AK closely resemble those incurred by bacterial or fungal keratitis, developing a diagnostic method enabling rapid detection with a high degree of Acanthamoeba-specificity would be beneficial. Here, we produced a polyclonal antibody targeting the carboxylesterase (CE) superfamily protein secreted by the pathogenic Acanthamoeba and evaluated its diagnostic potential. Western blot analysis revealed that the CE antibody specifically interacts with the cell lysates and conditioned media of pathogenic Acanthamoeba, which were not observed from the cell lysates and conditioned media of human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells, Fusarium solani, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. High titers of A. castellanii-specific antibody production were confirmed sera of immunized mice via ELISA, and these antibodies were capable of detecting A. castellanii from the cell lysates and their conditioned media. The specificity of the CE antibody was further confirmed on A. castellanii trophozoites and cysts co-cultured with HCE cells, F. solani, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa using immunocytochemistry. Additionally, the CE antibody produced in this study successfully interacted with 7 different Acanthamoeba species. Our findings demonstrate that the polyclonal CE antibody specifically detects multiple species belong to the genus Acanthamoeba, thus highlighting its potential as AK diagnostic tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jeong Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Back Chu
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Ahm Lee
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate school, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate school, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Hee Kong
- Department of Parasitology, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Kyung Moon
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
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Rosa MD, Andrade JPD, Costa AO, Conti R, Bastida J, Borges WDS, Furst C. Anti-Acanthamoeba castellanii activity of alkaloid-enriched extracts and lycorine from the Amaryllidaceae species. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/s2175-97902022e20459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
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8
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Contact lenses contamination by Acanthamoeba spp. in Upper Egypt. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259847. [PMID: 34780533 PMCID: PMC8592476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acanthamoeba spp. are one of the free-living amoeba that spread worldwide causing keratitis. Owing to the increase in the use of lenses, whether for medical or cosmetic purposes, the incidence of disease increases every year. Contamination of the lenses with the Acanthamoeba trophozoites or cysts may lead to eye infection and cause sight-threatening keratitis in human. We isolated Acanthamoeba spp. from new lenses, used lenses, and contact lens disinfecting solutions and identified them based on morphological characteristics and molecular test. Methods New and used lenses and contact lens disinfecting solutions were cultured on monogenic media. Light and scanning electron microscope was used to identify Acanthamoeba spp. morphological features. Genotype identification was also evaluated using PCR sequencing of 18S rRNA gene specific primer pair JDP1 and JDP2. Results A hundred samples were examined, 29 (29%) were infected with Acanthamoeba spp. That belonged to two strains of Acanthamoeba (Acanthamoeba 41 and Acanthamoeba 68). 18S rRNA of the Acanthamoeba 41 had 99.69% sequence identity to Acanthamoeba castellanii clone HDU-JUMS-2, whereas Acanthamoeba 68 had 99.74% similar pattern to that of Acanthamoeba sp. isolate T4 clone ac2t4 that are morphologically identified as Acanthamoeba polyphaga. The obtained data revealed that the isolated strains belong to T4 genotype that was evolutionarily similar to strains isolated in Iran. Conclusions Cosmetic lenses and disinfectant solutions are a major transmissible mode for infection. This genotype is common as the cause of Acanthamoeba keratitis. To avoid infection, care must be taken to clean the lenses and their preservative solutions and prevent contamination with the parasite.
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Efficient nested-PCR-based method development for detection and genotype identification of Acanthamoeba from a small volume of aquatic environmental sample. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21740. [PMID: 34741041 PMCID: PMC8571327 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00968-2] [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: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. are opportunistic human pathogens that cause granulomatous amoebic encephalitis and keratitis, and their accurate detection and enumeration in environmental samples is a challenge. In addition, information regarding the genotyping of Acanthamoeba spp. using various PCR methods is equally critical. Therefore, considering the diverse niches of habitats, it is necessary to develop an even more efficient genotyping method for Acanthamoeba spp. detection. This study improved the sensitivity of detection to avoid underestimation of Acanthamoeba spp. occurrence in aquatic environmental samples, and to accurately define the pathogenic risk by developing an efficient PCR method. In this study, a new nested genotyping method was established and compared with various PCR-based methods using in silico, lab, and empirical tests. The in silico test showed that many PCR-based methods could not successfully align specific genotypes of Acanthamoeba, except for the newly designed nested PCR and real-time PCR method. Furthermore, 52 water samples from rivers, reservoirs, and a river basin in Taiwan were analysed by six different PCR methods and compared for genotyping and detection efficiency of Acanthamoeba. The newly developed nested-PCR-based method of genotyping was found to be significantly sensitive as it could effectively detect the occurrence of Acanthamoeba spp., which was underestimated by the JDP-PCR method. Additionally, the present results are consistent with previous studies indicating that the high prevalence of Acanthamoeba in the aquatic environment of Taiwan is attributed to the commonly found T4 genotype. Ultimately, we report the development of a small volume procedure, which is a combination of recent genotyping PCR and conventional real-time PCR for enumeration of aquatic Acanthamoeba and acquirement of biologically meaningful genotyping information. We anticipate that the newly developed detection method will contribute to the precise estimation, evaluation, and reduction of the contamination risk of pathogenic Acanthamoeba spp., which is regularly found in the water resources utilised for domestic purposes.
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Diehl MLN, Paes J, Rott MB. Genotype distribution of Acanthamoeba in keratitis: a systematic review. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:3051-3063. [PMID: 34351492 PMCID: PMC8339388 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07261-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. are among the most worldwide prevalent protozoa. It is the causative agent of a disease known as Acanthamoeba keratitis, a painful and severe sight-threatening corneal infection that can lead to blindness. In recent years, the prevalence of Acanthamoeba keratitis has rapidly increased, growing its importance to human health. This systematic review aims to assess the distribution of Acanthamoeba sp. genotypes causing keratitis around the world, considering the sample collected type and the used identification method. Most of the cases were found in Asia and Europe. Not surprisingly, the T4 genotype was the most prevalent worldwide, followed by T3, T15, T11, and T5. Furthermore, the T4 genotype contains a higher number of species. Given the differences in pathology, susceptibility to treatment, and clinical outcome between distinct genotypes, it is essential to genotype isolates from Acanthamoeba keratitis cases to help to establish a better correlation between in vitro and in vivo activities, resulting in better drug therapies and successful treatment in cases of this important ocular infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luisa Nunes Diehl
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia E Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências, Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Júlia Paes
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia E Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências, Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil
| | - Marilise Brittes Rott
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia E Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências, Básicas da Saúde, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Rua Sarmento Leite, 500, Porto Alegre, RS, 90050-170, Brazil.
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Costa AO, Chagas IAR, de Menezes-Neto A, Rêgo FD, Nogueira PM, Torrecilhas AC, Furst C, Fux B, Soares RP. Distinct immunomodulatory properties of extracellular vesicles released by different strains of Acanthamoeba. Cell Biol Int 2021; 45:1060-1071. [PMID: 33448518 DOI: 10.1002/cbin.11551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 12/08/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Free living amoeba of the genus Acanthamoeba are opportunist protozoan involved in corneal, systemic, and encephalic infections in humans. Most of the mechanisms underlying intraspecies variations and pathogenicity are still unknown. Recently, the release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) by Acanthamoeba was reported. However, comparative characterization of EVs from distinct strains is not available. The aim of this study was to evaluate EVs produced by Acanthamoeba from different genotypes, comparing their proteases profile and immunomodulatory properties. EVs from four environmental or clinical strains (genotypes T1, T2, T4, and T11) were obtained by ultracentrifugation, quantitated by nanoparticle tracking analysis and analyzed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Proteases profile was determined by zymography and functional properties of EVs (measure of nitrite and cytokine production) were determined after peritoneal macrophage stimulation. Despite their genotype, all strains released EVs and no differences in size and/or concentration were detected. EVs exhibited a predominant activity of serine proteases (pH 7.4 and 3.5), with higher intensity in T4 and T1 strains. EVs from the environmental, nonpathogenic T11 strain exhibited a more proinflammatory profile, inducing higher levels of Nitrite, tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-6 via TLR4/TLR2 than those strains with pathogenic traits (T4, T1, and T2). Preincubation with EVs treated with protease inhibitors or heating drastically decreased nitrite concentration production in macrophages. Those data suggest that immunomodulatory effects of EVs may reflect their pathogenic potential depending on the Acanthamoeba strains and are dependent on protease integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Oliveira Costa
- Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Armando de Menezes-Neto
- Instituto René Rachou, FIOCRUZ, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.,Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Felipe Dutra Rêgo
- Instituto René Rachou, FIOCRUZ, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Claudia Torrecilhas
- Departamento de Ciências Farmacêuticas, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Campus Diadema, Diadema, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Cinthia Furst
- Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Blima Fux
- Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
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Carvalho-Silva AC, Coelho CH, Cirelli C, Crepaldi F, Rodrigues-Chagas IA, Furst C, Pimenta DC, Toledo JSD, Fernandes AP, Costa AO. Differential expression of Acanthamoeba castellanii proteins during amoebic keratitis in rats. Exp Parasitol 2020; 221:108060. [PMID: 33338467 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2020.108060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Amoebic keratitis (AK) is a sight-threatening infection characterized by a severe inflammation of the cornea, caused by the free-living protozoan of the genus Acanthamoeba. Identification of amoebic proteins involved in AK pathogenesis may help to elucidate molecular mechanisms of infection and contribute to indicate diagnostic and therapeutic targets. In this study, we evaluated changes in the expression profile of Acanthamoeba proteins triggered by the invasive process, using an approach involving two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2DE PAGE), followed by mass spectrometry identification (ESI-IT-TOF LC-MSn). AK was induced by intrastromal inoculation in Wistar rats, using trophozoites from a T4 genotype, human case-derived A. castellanii strain under prolonged axenic culture. Cultures re-isolated from the lesions after two successive passages in the animals were used as biological triplicate for proteomic experiments. Analysis of the protein profile comparing long-term and re-isolated cultures indicated 62 significant spots, from which 27 proteins could be identified in the Acanthamoeba proteome database. Five of them (Serpin, Carboxypeptidase A1, Hypothetical protein, Calponin domain-containing protein, aldo/keto reductase) were exclusively found in the re-isolated trophozoites. Our analysis also revealed that a concerted modulation of several biochemical pathways is triggered when A. castellanii switches from a free-living style to a parasitic mode, including energetic metabolism, proteolytic activity, control of gene expression, protein degradation and methylation of DNA, which may be also involved in gain of virulence in an animal model of AK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Carolina Carvalho-Silva
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Camila H Coelho
- Laboratory of Malaria Immunology and Vaccinology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Cecília Cirelli
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Frederico Crepaldi
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Cinthia Furst
- Department of Pathology, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil
| | | | - Juliano Simões de Toledo
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ana Paula Fernandes
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Adriana Oliveira Costa
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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Gabr NS, Mohamed RM, Belal US, Abdel-Fatah MM, Ahmed RF, Abdel Gaber NAT, Abdel-Hafeez EH. Isolation and Identification of Pathogenic Acanthamoeba Species from Air Conditioning Systems, Egypt. Jpn J Infect Dis 2020; 74:180-186. [PMID: 32999181 DOI: 10.7883/yoken.jjid.2020.049] [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] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba are free-living amoebae that cause granulomatous amoebic encephalitis and keratitis. In this study, we aimed to isolate and identify Acanthamoeba from air conditioning systems using in vitro cell culture and polymerase chain reaction assays. We also estimated the pathogenicity of the isolates by measuring their thermotolerance and studying mice models inoculated with these isolates. Of the 80 dust samples acquired, 41 (51.25%) were found to be positive for Acanthamoeba spp. using in vitro cell culture and the results were validated using PCR. Out of these 41 samples, 27 (65.9%) were thermotolerant and 16 (39%) samples could infect mice and cause histopathological effects. Highly pathogenic Acanthamoeba isolates were characterized by their thermotolerance and the ability to disseminate in all organs after infection, causing early death of infected animals. Our study thus validated the presence of pathogenic isolates of Acanthamoeba in air conditioners that may be potentially infectious to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabil Shokrany Gabr
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Deraya University, Egypt.,Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Egypt
| | | | - Usama Salah Belal
- Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Egypt
| | | | - Rasha Fouad Ahmed
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Egypt
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Acanthamoeba spp. monoclonal antibody against a CPA2 transporter: a promising molecular tool for acanthamoebiasis diagnosis and encystment study. Parasitology 2020; 147:1678-1688. [PMID: 32951614 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020001778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Free-living amoeba of the genus Acanthamoeba are ubiquitous protozoa involved in opportunistic and non-opportunistic infection in humans, such as granulomatous amoebic encephalitis and amoebic keratitis. Both infections have challenging characteristics such as the formation of the resistant cysts in infected tissues, hampering the treatment and most usual diagnosis depending on time-consuming and/or low sensitivity techniques. The use of monoclonal antibodies presents itself as an opportunity for the development of more effective alternative diagnostic methods, as well as an important and useful tool in the search for new therapeutic targets. This study investigated the possibility of using a previously produced monoclonal antibody (mAb3), as a diagnostic tool for the detection of Acanthamoeba trophozoites by direct and indirect flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. Immunoprecipitation assay and mass spectrometry allowed the isolation of the antibody's target and suggested it is a transporter part of the CPA (cation: proton antiporter) superfamily. In vitro tests indicate an important role of this target in Acanthamoeba's encystment physiology. Our results support the importance of studying the role of CPA2 transporters in the context of acanthamoebiasis, as this may be a way to identify new therapeutic candidates.
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de Faria LV, do Carmo PHF, da Costa MC, Peres NTA, Rodrigues Chagas IA, Furst C, Ferreira GF, Costa AO, Santos DA. Acanthamoeba castellanii as an alternative interaction model for the dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum. Mycoses 2020; 63:1331-1340. [PMID: 32869415 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13173] [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: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trichophyton rubrum (Tr) is the main aetiological agent of human dermatophytosis, being isolated from the environment and keratinised tissues. In the environment, Tr can interact with other organisms, such as free-living amoebas (FLA), which can act as an alternative host system to study the interaction between microbes and phagocytic cells. OBJECTIVES To characterise the Acanthamoeba castellanii (ALX)-Tr interaction. METHODS Interaction was characterised in three conditions: trophozoites (PYG), late (PYG/NES) and early (NES) encystation stimulus, evaluating encystation kinetics, phagocytosis, exocytosis and fungicidal activity dynamics. RESULTS Tr was able to induce ALX encystation and be internalised by ALX. The number of internalised conidia was high at 1 hour, and ALX presented fungicidal activity with increased intracellular ROS production and exocytosis. In PYG/NES, phagocytosis and ROS production were reduced, with decreased ALX's fungicidal activity. However, in NES there was an increased fungal engulfment, and a reduced ROS production and higher fungal burden. Furthermore, exogenous mannose decreased phagocytosis of Tr conidia, and divalent cations induced ROS production and increased ALX's fungicidal activity. Interestingly, phagocytosis was reduced in the presence of cytoskeleton inhibitor, but exocytosis was increased, suggesting that Tr conidia may have alternative pathways to escape ALX's cells. CONCLUSION A castellanii is a proper model for studying Tr-FLA interaction, since ALX can engulf, produce ROS and kill Tr, and all these parameters are influenced by an encystation stimulus and divalent cations. Moreover, this interaction is likely to occur in the environment implicating in the adaptation to environmental stressful conditions in both organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas V de Faria
- Laboratório de Micologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Paulo H F do Carmo
- Laboratório de Micologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marliete C da Costa
- Laboratório de Micologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Nalu T A Peres
- Laboratório de Micologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Isabela A Rodrigues Chagas
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Cinthia Furst
- Departamento de Patologia, Centro Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitoria, Brazil
| | - Gabriella F Ferreira
- Programa Multicêntrico de Pós Graduação em Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Governador Valadares, Brazil
| | - Adriana O Costa
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Daniel A Santos
- Laboratório de Micologia, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Species, Sequence Types and Alleles: Dissecting Genetic Variation in Acanthamoeba. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9070534. [PMID: 32630775 PMCID: PMC7400246 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9070534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Species designations within Acanthamoeba are problematic because of pleomorphic morphology. Molecular approaches, including DNA sequencing, hinted at a resolution that has yet to be fully achieved. Alternative approaches were required. In 1996, the Byers/Fuerst lab introduced the concept of sequence types. Differences between isolates of Acanthamoeba could be quantitatively assessed by comparing sequences of the nuclear 18S rRNA gene, ultimately producing 22 sequence types, designated T1 through T22. The concept of sequence types helps our understanding of Acanthamoeba evolution. Nevertheless, substantial variation in the 18S rRNA gene differentiates many isolates within each sequence type. Because the majority of isolates with sequences in the international DNA databases have been studied for only a small segment of the gene, designated ASA.S1, genetic variation within this hypervariable region of the 18S rRNA gene has been scrutinized. In 2002, we first categorized variation in this region in a sample of T3 and T4 isolates from Hong Kong, observing ten “alleles” within type T4 and five “alleles” within T3. Subsequently, confusion occurred when different labs applied redundant numerical labels to identify different alleles. A more unified approach was required. We have tabulated alleles occurring in the sequences submitted to the international DNA databases, and determined their frequencies. Over 150 alleles have occurred more than once within 3500+ isolates of sequence type T4. Results from smaller samples of other sequence types (T3, T5, T11 and T15, and supergroup T2/6) have also been obtained. Our results provide new insights into the evolutionary history of Acanthamoeba, further illuminating the degree of genetic separation between significant taxonomic units within the genus, perhaps eventually elucidating what constitutes a species of Acanthamoeba.
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Genotyping by Sequencing of Acanthamoeba and Naegleria Isolates from the Thermal Pool Distributed Throughout Turkey. Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:174-186. [PMID: 31797194 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-019-00148-3] [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: 07/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The main goal of this study was genotyping of free-living parasites and sub-grouping of pathogenic or non-pathogenic amebae obtained from Turkey's thermal springs. In so doing, distribution and abundance of possible pathogenic or causative strain for humans, which are caused by Acanthamoeba and Naegleria strains, would be elaborated. The number of extensive studies on the general occurrence and distribution of parasitic strains is very high worldwide, but there has been a paucity of information with regard to Turkey. METHODS From a total of 434 obtained thermal pool samples, free-living amebas were isolated from 148 water samples using the non-nutrient agar (NNA) culture method. Subsequently, the cultivated samples were used for DNA isolation; then 102 obtained DNA samples were subjected to PCR amplification using various primers for samples of genera Acanthamoeba and Naegleria. Ultimately, estimation of genotype or subtype was evaluated by sequencing. RESULTS About 29 samples that belong to Acanthamoeba and Naegleria were estimated from a total of 102 amplified PCR samples. These eukaryotic PCR products which have Acanthamoeba genus appearance, generated 26 subtypes and 3 Naegleria samples. Among the 26 Acanthamoeba genotypes, 22 aligned sequences were matched with various GenBank reference samples, while the 4 divergent genotypes were not elaborated and marked as ND. Most of the Acanthamoeba genera were determined as likely dominating groups and clustered as T form within totally eight groups. Eight, seven and three subtypes were found as T4A, T15 and T11 genotypes, respectively while the remainings were ultimately found in four groups. Results confirming the predominance of T4A, which is known the most causative form, the presence in the pools. Despite being uncommon, N. fowleri, lovaniensis and australiensis were also observed among the surveyed pools. CONCLUSION The present study is descriptive and is not unique. However, this is the most comprehensive study of the molecular distribution sampling of thermophilic Acanthamoeba and Naegleria that confirmed and demonstrated their ubiquitous presence throughout Turkey. By this estimation, in some spas, the most and likely causative form Acanthamoeba including T4 and Naegleria fowleri has also been confirmed.
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Cirelli C, Mesquita EIS, Chagas IAR, Furst C, Possamai CO, Abrahão JS, dos Santos Silva LK, Grossi MF, Tagliati CA, Costa AO. Extracellular protease profile of Acanthamoeba after prolonged axenic culture and after interaction with MDCK cells. Parasitol Res 2019; 119:659-666. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06562-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Li W, Wang Z, Qu J, Zhang Y, Sun X. Acanthamoeba keratitis related to contact lens use in a tertiary hospital in China. BMC Ophthalmol 2019; 19:202. [PMID: 31533675 PMCID: PMC6751601 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-019-1210-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To report the clinical and microbiological features of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) related to contact lens use in a tertiary hospital in China. Methods In this retrospective study, the medical results of 61 cases of AK related to contact lens use from January 2000 to December 2017 were reviewed. The data included patients’ demographics, lens type, history, risk factors, disease stages, corneal scraping and culture reports, and treatments. Moreover, genotypic identification of some of the isolates was carried out with a PCR assay and sequence analysis of the 18S ribosomal DNA gene. Results There were 64 eyes included in the study. A total of 32.8% of the patients wore soft contact lenses, and 67.2% of patients used overnight orthokeratology. In the cases (20 eyes) in the early stage, 65% (13 eyes) had positive results according to Giemsa-stained smears, and 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl) wet mounts revealed trophozoites in 7 eyes (35%). Six eyes (30%) were diagnosed by confocal microscopy combined with clinical signs. In the orthokeratology patients, 87.8% (36/41) rinsed their lenses and/or cases with tap water; 55% of soft-lens wearers wore their lenses while showering. The genotype of 9 isolates was determined, and all the strains belonged to genotype T4. In the orthokeratology group, the number of patients who required therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty after 2005 was less than that before 2005 (chi-square test, χ2 = 4.209, P = 0.04). Conclusions More than two-thirds of the cases were associated with orthokeratology. Examinations with Giemsa-stained smears, 0.9% NaCl wet mounts and confocal microscopy should be performed for patients who are highly suspected of having early-stage AK to help with early diagnosis. In the orthokeratology group, the rate of therapeutic keratoplasty after 2005 was less than that before 2005. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12886-019-1210-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Li
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Ophthalmology and Visual Development Key Laboratory, Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Address: 4, Gansu Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Zhiqun Wang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Address: 17 Hou Gou Lane, Chong Nei Street, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Jinghao Qu
- Tianjin Eye Hospital, Tianjin Ophthalmology and Visual Development Key Laboratory, Clinical College of Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Address: 4, Gansu Road, Heping District, Tianjin, 300020, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Address: 17 Hou Gou Lane, Chong Nei Street, Beijing, 100005, China
| | - Xuguang Sun
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Beijing Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Key Laboratory, Capital Medical University, Address: 17 Hou Gou Lane, Chong Nei Street, Beijing, 100005, China.
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Possamai CO, Loss AC, Costa AO, Falqueto A, Furst C. Acanthamoeba of three morphological groups and distinct genotypes exhibit variable and weakly inter-related physiological properties. Parasitol Res 2018. [PMID: 29532218 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-5824-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Free-living amoeba of the genus Acanthamoeba can eventually act as parasites, causing infections in humans. Some physiological characteristics of Acanthamoeba have been related to the grade of pathogenicity, allowing inferences about the pathogenic potential. The main goal of this study was to characterize isolates of Acanthamoeba obtained in Brazil and evaluate properties associated with their pathogenicity. A total of 39 isolates obtained from keratitis cases (n = 16) and environmental sources (n = 23) were classified into morphological groups and genotyped by sequencing the 18S rDNA fragments ASA.S1 and GTSA.B1. Samples were also tested regarding their thermo-tolerance, osmo-tolerance, and cytopathogenicity in MDCK cells. Isolates were identified and classified as follows: group I (T17, T18); group II (T1, T3, T4, T11); and group III (T5, T15), with the predominance of genotype T4 (22/39). Clinical isolates were genotyped as T3 (1/16), T4 (14/16) and T5 (1/16). The majority of isolates (38/39) were able to grow at 37 °C, but tolerance to 40 °C was more frequent among environmental samples. The tolerance to 1 M mannitol was infrequent (4/39), with three of these corresponding to clinical samples. The variable ability to cause cytopathic effects was observed among isolates of distinct genotypes and origins. This study identified, for the first time, T1 and T18 in Brazil. It also indicated a weak association between the clinical origin of the isolates and tolerance to high temperatures, high osmolarity, and cytopathogenicity, demonstrating that some in vitro parameters do not necessarily reflect a higher propensity of Acanthamoeba to cause a disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynara Oliveira Possamai
- Departamento de Patologia, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos, 1468, Vitória, ES, CEP 29043-900, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Loss
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Centro de Ciências Humanas e Naturais, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Fernando Ferrari, 514, Vitória, ES, CEP 29075-900, Brazil
| | - Adriana Oliveira Costa
- Departamento de Análises Clínicas e Toxicológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte, MG, CEP 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Aloisio Falqueto
- Departamento de Medicina Social, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos, 1468, Vitória, ES, CEP 29043-900, Brazil
| | - Cinthia Furst
- Departamento de Patologia, Centro de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Av. Marechal Campos, 1468, Vitória, ES, CEP 29043-900, Brazil.
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Ng SL, Nordin A, Abd Ghafar N, Suboh Y, Ab Rahim N, Chua KH. Acanthamoeba-mediated cytopathic effect correlates with MBP and AhLBP mRNA expression. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:625. [PMID: 29282148 PMCID: PMC5745754 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2547-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, the concern of Acanthamoeba keratitis has increased since the infection is often associated with contact lens use. Partial 18S rRNA genotypic identification of Acanthamoeba isolates is important to correlate with pathophysiological properties in order to evaluate the degree of virulence. This is the first report of genotypic identification for clinical isolates of Acanthamoeba from corneal scrapings of keratitis in Malaysia. This study is also the first to correlate the mRNA expression of MBP and AhLBP as virulent markers for axenic strains of Acanthamoeba. RESULTS In this study, ten clinical isolates were obtained from corneal scrapings. Rns genotype and intra-genotypic variation at the DF3 region of the isolates were identified. Results revealed that all clinical isolates belonged to the T4 genotype, with T4/6 (4 isolates), T4/2 (3 isolates), T4/16 (2 isolates) and one new genotype T4 sequence (T4/36), being determined. The axenic clinical isolates were cytopathogenic to rabbit corneal fibroblasts. MBP and AhLBP mRNA expression are directly correlated to Acanthamoeba cytopathic effect. CONCLUSIONS All ten Malaysian clinical isolates were identified as genotype T4 which is predominantly associated with AK. Measuring the mRNA expression of Acanthamoeba virulent markers could be useful in the understanding of the pathogenesis of Acanthamoeba keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sook-Luan Ng
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Bandar Tun Razak, Malaysia
| | - Anisah Nordin
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Bandar Tun Razak, Malaysia
| | - Norzana Abd Ghafar
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Bandar Tun Razak, Malaysia
| | - Yusof Suboh
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Bandar Tun Razak, Malaysia
| | - Noraina Ab Rahim
- Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Bandar Tun Razak, Malaysia
| | - Kien-Hui Chua
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latif, 56000, Kuala Lumpur, Bandar Tun Razak, Malaysia.
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Juárez MM, Tártara LI, Cid AG, Real JP, Bermúdez JM, Rajal VB, Palma SD. Acanthamoeba in the eye, can the parasite hide even more? Latest developments on the disease. Cont Lens Anterior Eye 2017; 41:245-251. [PMID: 29273391 DOI: 10.1016/j.clae.2017.12.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. is a free living protozoan in the environment, but can cause serious diseases. Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a severe and painful eye infection, must be treated as soon as possible to prevent ulceration of the cornea, loss of visual acuity, and eventually blindness or enucleation. Although the disease affects principally contact lens (CLs) wearers, it is recognized nowadays as a cause of keratitis also in non-CLs wearers. Although the number of infections caused by these amoebae is low, AK is an emerging disease presenting an extended number of cases each year worldwide mostly due to the increasing use of CLs, but also to better diagnostic methods and awareness. There are two principal causes that lead to severe outcomes: misdiagnosis or late diagnosis of the causal agent, and lack of a fully effective therapy due to the existence of a highly resistant cyst stage of Acanthamoeba. Recent studies have reported different genotypes that have not been previously associated with this disease. In addition, Acanthamoeba can act as a reservoir for phylogenetically diverse microorganisms. In this regard, recently giant viruses called Pandoravirus have been found within genotypes producing keratitis. What potential risk this poses is not yet known. This review focuses on an overview of the present status and future prospects of this re-emerging pathology, including features of the parasite, epidemiology, clinical aspects, diagnosis, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Juárez
- Instituto de Investigaciones para la Industria Química (INIQUI, CONICET - Universidad Nacional de Salta), Av. Bolivia 5150, 4400, Salta, Argentina; Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional de Salta, Av. Bolivia 5150, 4400, Salta, Argentina; Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de Salta, Av. Bolivia 5150, 4400, Salta, Argentina
| | - L I Tártara
- Unidad de Investigación y Desarrollo en Tecnología Farmacéutica (UNITEFA, CONICET - Departamento de Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba), Ciudad Universitaria, 5000, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - A G Cid
- Instituto de Investigaciones para la Industria Química (INIQUI, CONICET - Universidad Nacional de Salta), Av. Bolivia 5150, 4400, Salta, Argentina; Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional de Salta, Av. Bolivia 5150, 4400, Salta, Argentina
| | - J P Real
- Unidad de Investigación y Desarrollo en Tecnología Farmacéutica (UNITEFA, CONICET - Departamento de Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba), Ciudad Universitaria, 5000, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - J M Bermúdez
- Instituto de Investigaciones para la Industria Química (INIQUI, CONICET - Universidad Nacional de Salta), Av. Bolivia 5150, 4400, Salta, Argentina; Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional de Salta, Av. Bolivia 5150, 4400, Salta, Argentina
| | - V B Rajal
- Instituto de Investigaciones para la Industria Química (INIQUI, CONICET - Universidad Nacional de Salta), Av. Bolivia 5150, 4400, Salta, Argentina; Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional de Salta, Av. Bolivia 5150, 4400, Salta, Argentina; Singapore Centre on Environmental Life Sciences Engineering (SCELSE), School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - S D Palma
- Unidad de Investigación y Desarrollo en Tecnología Farmacéutica (UNITEFA, CONICET - Departamento de Ciencias Farmacéuticas, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba), Ciudad Universitaria, 5000, Córdoba, Argentina.
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Casero RD, Mongi F, Laconte L, Rivero F, Sastre D, Teherán A, Herrera G, Ramírez JD. Molecular and morphological characterization of Acanthamoeba isolated from corneal scrapes and contact lens wearers in Argentina. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2017; 54:170-175. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2017.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 06/20/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Update on Acanthamoeba jacobsi genotype T15, including full-length 18S rDNA molecular phylogeny. Parasitol Res 2017; 116:1273-1284. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-017-5406-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Fukumoto T, Matsuo J, Okubo T, Nakamura S, Miyamoto K, Oka K, Takahashi M, Akizawa K, Shibuya H, Shimizu C, Yamaguchi H. Acanthamoeba containing endosymbiotic chlamydia isolated from hospital environments and its potential role in inflammatory exacerbation. BMC Microbiol 2016; 16:292. [PMID: 27978822 PMCID: PMC5160005 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-016-0906-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Environmental chlamydiae belonging to the Parachlamydiaceae are obligate intracellular bacteria that infect Acanthamoeba, a free-living amoeba, and are a risk for hospital-acquired pneumonia. However, whether amoebae harboring environmental chlamydiae actually survive in hospital environments is unknown. We therefore isolated living amoebae with symbiotic chlamydiae from hospital environments. RESULTS One hundred smear samples were collected from Hokkaido University Hospital, Sapporo, Japan; 50 in winter (February to March, 2012) and 50 in summer (August, 2012), and used for the study. Acanthamoebae were isolated from the smear samples, and endosymbiotic chlamydial traits were assessed by infectivity, cytokine induction, and draft genomic analysis. From these, 23 amoebae were enriched on agar plates spread with heat-killed Escherichia coli. Amoeba prevalence was greater in the summer-collected samples (15/30, 50%) than those of the winter season (8/30, 26.7%), possibly indicating a seasonal variation (p = 0.096). Morphological assessment of cysts revealed 21 amoebae (21/23, 91%) to be Acanthamoeba, and cultures in PYG medium were established for 11 of these amoebae. Three amoebae contained environmental chlamydiae; however, only one amoeba (Acanthamoeba T4) with an environmental chlamydia (Protochlamydia W-9) was shown the infectious ability to Acanthamoeba C3 (reference amoebae). While Protochlamydia W-9 could infect C3 amoeba, it failed to replicate in immortal human epithelial, although exposure of HEp-2 cells to living bacteria induced the proinflammatory cytokine, IL-8. Comparative genome analysis with KEGG revealed similar genomic features compared with other Protochlamydia genomes (UWE25 and R18), except for a lack of genes encoding the type IV secretion system. Interestingly, resistance genes associated with several antibiotics and toxic compounds were identified. CONCLUSION These findings are the first demonstration of the distribution in a hospital of a living Acanthamoeba carrying an endosymbiotic chlamydial pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuya Fukumoto
- Hokkaido University Hospital, Nishi-5 Kita-14 Jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8648 Japan
| | - Junji Matsuo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Nishi-5 Kita-12 Jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0812 Japan
| | - Torahiko Okubo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Nishi-5 Kita-12 Jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0812 Japan
| | - Shinji Nakamura
- Division of Biomedical Imaging Research, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8421 Japan
| | - Kentaro Miyamoto
- Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 2-3-13-209, Minami, Wako-shi, Saitama 351-0104 Japan
| | - Kentaro Oka
- Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 2-3-13-209, Minami, Wako-shi, Saitama 351-0104 Japan
| | - Motomichi Takahashi
- Miyarisan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., 2-3-13-209, Minami, Wako-shi, Saitama 351-0104 Japan
| | - Kouji Akizawa
- Hokkaido University Hospital, Nishi-5 Kita-14 Jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8648 Japan
| | - Hitoshi Shibuya
- Hokkaido University Hospital, Nishi-5 Kita-14 Jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8648 Japan
| | - Chikara Shimizu
- Hokkaido University Hospital, Nishi-5 Kita-14 Jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-8648 Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yamaguchi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Health Sciences, Nishi-5 Kita-12 Jo, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0812 Japan
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Shokri A, Sarvi S, Daryani A, Sharif M. Isolation and Genotyping of Acanthamoeba spp. as Neglected Parasites in North of Iran. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2016; 54:447-53. [PMID: 27658596 PMCID: PMC5040085 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2016.54.4.447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Revised: 05/03/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba, a free-living amoeba, is widely distributed in the environment, water sources, soil, dust, and air. It can cause keratitis in contact lens wearers with poor hygiene and also fatal granulomatous amebic encephalitis (GAE) in immunocompromised hosts. The aim of this study was to gain some insights into the distribution and genotypes of the potentially pathogenic species of Acanthamoeba present in water sources in north of Iran. Total 43 Acanthamoeba species were isolated from 77 water samples taken from different water sources within the Mazandaran province in Northern Iran (Sari city and suburbs). Isolates were identified based on cyst and trophozoite morphological characteristics as well genetics. PCR fragments corresponding to the small-subunit 18S rRNA gene were sequenced for 20 of 43 positive isolates. The results revealed that 83.3% of sequenced isolates belonged to the T4 genotype and the rest belonged to the T2 genotype. Our results indicated that Acanthamoeba is widely distributed in Sari city. As the incidence in Iran of amoebic keratitis has increased in recent years, the exact estimation of the prevalence of this amoeba and its predominant genotype may play a crucial role in prevention of the disease. Sari city has several rivers, seashores, and natural recreational amenities, which attract visitors during the year. This is the first report of Acanthamoeba genotypes from water sources in Sari city, Mazandaran province of Iran, and the results suggest that more attention is needed to protect the visiting population and immunocompromised individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azar Shokri
- Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Mazandaran Province, 48175-1683, Iran
| | - Shahabeddin Sarvi
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center (TRC), Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Mazandaran Province, 48175-1665, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center (TRC), Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Mazandaran Province, 48175-1665, Iran
| | - Mehdi Sharif
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center (TRC), Sari Medical School, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Mazandaran Province, 48175-1665, Iran
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Fabres LF, Rosa Dos Santos SP, Benitez LB, Rott MB. Isolation and identification of Acanthamoeba spp. from thermal swimming pools and spas in Southern Brazil. Acta Parasitol 2016; 61:221-7. [PMID: 27078644 DOI: 10.1515/ap-2016-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Free-living amoebae (FLA) are widely distributed in soil and water. A few number of them are implicated in human disease: Acanthamoeba spp., Naegleria fowleri, Balamuthia mandrillaris and Sappinia diploidea. Species of Acanthamoeba can cause keratitis and brain infections. In this study, 72 water samples were taken from both hot tubs and thermal swimming pools in the city of Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil, to determine the presence of Acanthamoeba in the water as well as perform the phenotypic and genotypic characterization of the isolates. The identification of the isolates was based on the cysts morphology and PCR amplification using genus-specific oligonucleotides. When the isolates were submitted to PCR reaction only 8 were confirmed as belonging to the genus Acanthamoeba. The sequences analysis when compared to the sequences in the GenBank, showed genotype distribution in group T3 (12,5%), T5 (12,5%), T4 (25%) and T15 (50%). The results of this study confirmed the presence of potentially pathogenic isolates of free living amoebae in hot swimming pool and spas which can present risks to human health.
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28
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Derda M, Solarczyk P, Cholewiński M, Hadaś E. Genotypic characterization of amoeba isolated from Acanthamoeba keratitis in Poland. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:1233-7. [PMID: 25604673 PMCID: PMC4336404 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4319-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Free-living amoebae belonging to the genus Acanthamoeba are the causative factor of many diseases. Among others, they cause Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a condition that usually occurs in contact lens wearers, though it is also observed in non-wearers. The number of diagnosed cases of AK increased more than eightfold during 8 years in the USA, and a proportional increase in frequency also occurred in Poland and Europe. Cases of AK are usually diagnosed late, and their therapy is difficult and rarely successful. AK is an uncommon diagnosis in Poland. The increased number of positive cases observed in our laboratory may reflect the growing at-risk population of contact lens wearers. Acanthamoeba as a genus of facultative human parasites is currently classified into 17 genotypes. Isolates belonging to seven genotypes were found to be associated with AK. One genotype in particular, T4, was found to be overrepresented in human disease. The main finding of our study is that in Poland, AK is almost always associated with the T4 genotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Derda
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland,
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Cruz ARS, Rivera WL. Genotype analysis of Acanthamoeba isolated from human nasal swabs in the Philippines. ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2014; 7S1:S74-8. [PMID: 25312195 DOI: 10.1016/s1995-7645(14)60206-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2014] [Revised: 03/08/2014] [Accepted: 04/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the genotypes of Acanthamoeba species isolated from human nasal swabs in the Philippines. METHODS Human nasal swabs were collected from two groups: a low exposure group composed of students of the University of the Philippines-Diliman and a high exposure group composed of laborers frequently exposed to garbage, soil and dust. After isolation using non-nutrient agar plate lawned with Escherichia coli and DNA extraction using Chelex-100 resin, the ASA.S1 region of the gene (Rns) coding for nuclear, small subunit ribosomal RNA of Acanthamoeba was amplified through polymerase chain reaction. Purified polymerase chain reaction products were then sequenced. Neighbor-joining, maximum parsimony, and maximum likelihood phylogenetic trees were then constructed. RESULTS In the low exposure group, 1 out of 70 (1.43%) students and 7 out of 110 (6.36%) in the high exposure group were culture-positive. Four soil samples were also obtained for comparison, all of which were tested culture-positive. Of the 12 Acanthamoeba isolates, only 9 were successfully sequenced. The basic local alignment search tool of the US National Center for Biotechnology Information was used to identify most similar sequences. Five isolates were identified as genotype T5, and 3 isolateds were genotype T4. Genotype T11 was also isolated from soil, the first to be reported in the Philippines. CONCLUSIONS Genotype T11 is a possible pathogenic strain and both T4 and T5 can be pathogenic to human, hence, healthy provisions, especially for high exposure groups, should be given more attention and reevaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Rafael S Cruz
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, the Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, the Philippines; Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, the Philippines.
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