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Makouloutou-Nzassi P, Bouchedi B, Mangombi-Pambou JB, Longo-Pendy NM, N’dilimabaka N, Bangueboussa F, Koumba S, Matoumba AM, Boundenga L, Maganga GD, Mintsa-Nguema R. Prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. infection in rodents and chickens in Franceville, Gabon. Vet World 2024; 17:1523-1529. [PMID: 39185057 PMCID: PMC11344106 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.1523-1529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Cryptosporidium spp. members of the phylum Apicomplexa are obligate protozoan parasites capable of infecting various vertebrate hosts, including rodents and chickens. Infection caused by these parasites may lead to zoonotic diseases in humans. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in rodents and domestic chickens sampled in Franceville, Gabon. Materials and Methods Two hundred and eighty-five samples were collected, of which 185 samples were from rodents and 100 from domestic chickens. Microscopy after modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining and nested polymerase chain reaction targeting the small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene were used to examine Cryptosporidium spp. Results The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium oocysts was 55.8%, with a prevalence of 72.4% in rodents and 25.0% in domestic chickens. Molecular analysis showed that Cryptosporidium spp. were present in 4.0% of the samples. No significant correlation was observed between Cryptosporidium spp. carriage and sex or location in this study. These results indicate that Cryptosporidium spp. persist and circulate in the studied animal species in Franceville, Gabon. Conclusion Infection with Cryptosporidium is very common in rodents and chickens in Franceville. The potential risk of human contamination cannot be ruled out. More research should be conducted to characterize Cryptosporidium species circulating in rodents and chickens in Gabon. Such studies are essential to better understand the epidemiology of this protozoan and its potential impact on public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrice Makouloutou-Nzassi
- Unité de Recherche en Ecologie de la Santé, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
- Département de Biologie et Ecologie Animale, Institut de Recherche en Ecologie Tropicale (IRET/CENAREST), Libreville, Gabon
| | - Bernie Bouchedi
- Unité de Recherche en Ecologie de la Santé, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
- Department of Environment and Surveillance of Emerging and re-emerging diseases, Ecole Doctorale Régionale d’Infectiologie de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
| | - J. B. Mangombi-Pambou
- Unité Emergence des Maladies Virales, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Neil Michel Longo-Pendy
- Unité de Recherche en Ecologie de la Santé, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Nadine N’dilimabaka
- Unité Emergence des Maladies Virales, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
- Département de Biologie, Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Félicien Bangueboussa
- Unité de Recherche en Ecologie de la Santé, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Schedy Koumba
- Unité Emergence des Maladies Virales, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Anicet Mouity Matoumba
- Unité Emergence des Maladies Virales, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Larson Boundenga
- Unité de Recherche en Ecologie de la Santé, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
- Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham, England, UK
| | - Gael Darren Maganga
- Unité Emergence des Maladies Virales, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
- Department of Zootechnology, Institut National Supérieur d’ Agronomie et de Biotechnologies, Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Rodrigue Mintsa-Nguema
- Département de Biologie et Ecologie Animale, Institut de Recherche en Ecologie Tropicale (IRET/CENAREST), Libreville, Gabon
- Department of Health and Environment, Université Libreville Nord, Libreville, Gabon
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Khan A, Alves-Ferreira EVC, Vogel H, Botchie S, Ayi I, Pawlowic MC, Robinson G, Chalmers RM, Lorenzi H, Grigg ME. Phylogenomic reconstruction of Cryptosporidium spp. captured directly from clinical samples reveals extensive genetic diversity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.17.589752. [PMID: 38659886 PMCID: PMC11042339 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.17.589752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a leading cause of severe diarrhea and mortality in young children and infants in Africa and southern Asia. More than twenty Cryptosporidium species infect humans, of which C. parvum and C. hominis are the major agents causing moderate to severe diarrhea. Relatively few genetic markers are typically applied to genotype and/or diagnose Cryptosporidium. Most infections produce limited oocysts making it difficult to perform whole genome sequencing (WGS) directly from stool samples. Hence, there is an immediate need to apply WGS strategies to 1) develop high-resolution genetic markers to genotype these parasites more precisely, 2) to investigate endemic regions and detect the prevalence of different genotypes, and the role of mixed infections in generating genetic diversity, and 3) to investigate zoonotic transmission and evolution. To understand Cryptosporidium global population genetic structure, we applied Capture Enrichment Sequencing (CES-Seq) using 74,973 RNA-based 120 nucleotide baits that cover ~92% of the genome of C. parvum. CES-Seq is sensitive and successfully sequenced Cryptosporidium genomic DNA diluted up to 0.005% in human stool DNA. It also resolved mixed strain infections and captured new species of Cryptosporidium directly from clinical/field samples to promote genome-wide phylogenomic analyses and prospective GWAS studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Khan
- Molecular Parasitology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - E V C Alves-Ferreira
- Molecular Parasitology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - H Vogel
- Molecular Parasitology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Comparative Biomedical Scientist Training Program, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - S Botchie
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - I Ayi
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - M C Pawlowic
- Wellcome Centre for Anti-Infectives Research, Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, University of Dundee, Dundee, DD1 5EH, Scotland, UK
| | - G Robinson
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales, Microbiology and Health Protection, Singleton Hospital, Swansea, SA2 8QA, UK
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - R M Chalmers
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales, Microbiology and Health Protection, Singleton Hospital, Swansea, SA2 8QA, UK
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - H Lorenzi
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biosciences Branch, Office of Cyber Infrastructure and Computational Biology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - M E Grigg
- Molecular Parasitology Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Shalaby NE, Shoheib ZS, Yassin NA, El-Kaliny HH, Hasby Saad MA. Pyroptosis Tuning in Intestinal Cryptosporidiosis via the Natural Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Romidepsin. Parasite Immunol 2024; 46:e13032. [PMID: 38497997 DOI: 10.1111/pim.13032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an opportunistic protozoan, with many species of cross-human infectivity. It causes life-threatening diarrhoea in children and CD4-defective patients. Despite its limited efficacy, nitazoxanide remains the primary anti-cryptosporidial drug. Cryptosporidium infects the intestinal brush border (intracellular-extracytoplasmic) and down-regulates pyroptosis to prevent expulsion. Romidepsin is a natural histone deacetylase inhibitor that triggers pyroptosis. Romidepsin's effect on cryptosporidiosis was assessed in immunocompromised mice via gasdermin-D (GSDM-D) immunohistochemical expression, IFN-γ, IL-1β and IL-18 blood levels by ELISA, and via parasite scanning by modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Oocyst deformity and local cytokines were also assessed in ex vivo ileal explants. Following intraperitoneal injection of romidepsin, oocyst shedding significantly reduced at the 9th, 12th and 15th d.p.i. compared with infected-control and drug-control (nitazoxanide-treated) mice. H&E staining of intestinal sections from romidepsin-treated mice showed significantly low intestinal scoring with marked reduction in epithelial hyperplasia, villous blunting and cellular infiltrate. SEM revealed marked oocyst blebbing and paucity (in vivo and ex vivo) after romidepsin compared with nitazoxanide. Regarding pyroptosis, romidepsin triggered significantly higher intestinal GSDM-D expression in vivo, and higher serum/culture IFN-γ, IL-1β and IL-18 levels in romidepsin-treated mice than in the control groups. Collectively, in cryptosporidiosis, romidepsin succeeded in enhancing pyroptosis in the oocysts and infected epithelium, reducing infection and shifting the brush border towards normalisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha E Shalaby
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Zeinab S Shoheib
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Nabila A Yassin
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Heba H El-Kaliny
- Histology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
- Anatomy and Histology Department, Mutah University, Mutah, Jordan
| | - Marwa A Hasby Saad
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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4
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Allam NAT, Hamouda RAEF, Sedky D, Abdelsalam ME, El-Gawad MEHA, Hassan NMF, Aboelsoued D, Elmaaty AMA, Ibrahim MA, Taie HAA, Hakim AS, Desouky HM, Megeed KNA, Abdel-Hamid MS. Medical prospects of cryptosporidiosis in vivo control using biofabricated nanoparticles loaded with Cinnamomum camphora extracts by Ulva fasciata. Vet World 2024; 17:108-124. [PMID: 38406364 PMCID: PMC10884584 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.108-124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Global efforts are continuing to develop preparations against cryptosporidiosis. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of biosynthesized Ulva fasciata loading Cinnamomum camphora oil extract on new zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs shorten to ZnNPs) and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as alternative treatments for Cryptosporidium parvum experimental infection in rats. Materials and Methods Oil extract was characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, loaded by U. fasciata on ionic-based ZnO and NPs, and then characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Biosafety and toxicity were investigated by skin tests. A total of 105 C. parvum oocysts/rat were used (n = 81, 2-3 W, 80-120 g, 9 male rats/group). Oocysts shedding was counted for 21 d. Doses of each preparation in addition to reference drug were administered daily for 7 d, starting on post-infection (PI) day (3). Nitazoxanide (100 mg) was used as the reference drug. After 3 weeks, the rats were sacrificed for postmortem examination and histopathological examination. Two blood samples/rat/group were collected on the 21st day. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid blood samples were also used for analysis of biochemistry, hematology, immunology, micronucleus prevalence, and chromosomal abnormalities. Results C. camphora leaves yielded 28.5 ± 0.3 g/kg oil and 20 phycocompounds were identified. Spherical and rod-shaped particles were detected at 10.47-30.98 nm and 18.83-38.39 nm, respectively. ZnNPs showed the earliest anti-cryptosporidiosis effect during 7-17 d PI. Other hematological, biochemical, immunological, histological, and genotoxicity parameters were significantly fruitful; hence, normalized pathological changes induced by infestation were observed in the NPs treatments groups against the infestation-free and Nitazoxanide treated group. Conclusion C. camphora, U. fasciata, ZnNPs, and AgNPs have refluxed the pathological effects of infection as well as positively improved host physiological condition by its anticryptosporidial immunostimulant regenerative effects with sufficient ecofriendly properties to be proposed as an alternative to traditional drugs, especially in individuals with medical reactions against chemical commercial drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nesreen Allam Tantawy Allam
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth Street, Dokki, P.O. Box: 12622, Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ragaa Abd El-Fatah Hamouda
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, University of Sadat City, 5 Zone, Sadat City, Munofia, Egypt
| | - Doaa Sedky
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth Street, Dokki, P.O. Box: 12622, Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mahinour Ezzeldin Abdelsalam
- Department of General Biology, Center of Basic Sciences, Misr University for Science and Technology, Al Motamayez District, 6 of October, Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Noha Mahmoud Fahmy Hassan
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth Street, Dokki, P.O. Box: 12622, Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dina Aboelsoued
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth Street, Dokki, P.O. Box: 12622, Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amal M. Abou Elmaaty
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth Street, Dokki, P.O. Box: 12622, Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Muhammad A. Ibrahim
- Cytogenetics and Animal Cell Culture Lab., National Gene Bank, Agriculture Research Center, 9 Gamaa Street, Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hanan Anwar Aly Taie
- Department of Plant Biochemistry, Agriculture and Biological Researches Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El-Bohouth St. (Former El-Tahrir St.), Dokki, P.O. 12622, Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ashraf Samir Hakim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth Street, Dokki, P.O. Box: 12622, Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hassan Mohamed Desouky
- Department of Animal Reproduction and Artificial Insemination, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth Street, Dokki, P.O. Box: 12622, Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Kadria Nasr Abdel Megeed
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, 33 El Buhouth Street, Dokki, P.O. Box: 12622, Giza, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa Salah Abdel-Hamid
- Department of Microbial Biotechnology, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute, University of Sadat City, 5 Zone, Sadat City, Munofia, Egypt
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Zhang P, Gong J, Jiang Y, Long Y, Lei W, Gao X, Guo D. Application of Silver Nanoparticles in Parasite Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:1783. [PMID: 37513969 PMCID: PMC10384186 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15071783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are ultra-small silver particles with a size from 1 to 100 nanometers. Unlike bulk silver, they have unique physical and chemical properties. Numerous studies have shown that AgNPs have beneficial biological effects on various diseases, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiparasitic, and antiviruses. One of the most well-known applications is in the field of antibacterial applications, where AgNPs have strong abilities to kill multi-drug resistant bacteria, making them a potential candidate as an antibacterial drug. Recently, AgNPs synthesized from plant extracts have exhibited outstanding antiparasitic effects, with a shorter duration of use and enhanced ability to inhibit parasite multiplication compared to traditional antiparasitic drugs. This review summarizes the types, characteristics, and the mechanism of action of AgNPs in anti-parasitism, mainly focusing on their effects in leishmaniasis, flukes, cryptosporidiosis, toxoplasmosis, Haemonchus, Blastocystis hominis, and Strongylides. The aim is to provide a reference for the application of AgNPs in the prevention and control of parasitic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, Jinling Institute of Technology, 99 Hongjing Road, Nanjing 211169, China
| | - Jiahao Gong
- Engineering Center of Innovative Veterinary Drugs, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yan Jiang
- Animal, Plant and Food Inspection Center of Nanjing Customs District, 39 Chuangzhi Road, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Yunfeng Long
- Animal, Plant and Food Inspection Center of Nanjing Customs District, 39 Chuangzhi Road, Nanjing 210000, China
| | - Weiqiang Lei
- College of Animal Science and Food Engineering, Jinling Institute of Technology, 99 Hongjing Road, Nanjing 211169, China
| | - Xiuge Gao
- Engineering Center of Innovative Veterinary Drugs, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Dawei Guo
- Engineering Center of Innovative Veterinary Drugs, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing 210095, China
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Baptista RDP, Xiao R, Li Y, Glenn TC, Kissinger JC. New T2T assembly of Cryptosporidium parvum IOWA annotated with reference genome gene identifiers. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.13.544219. [PMID: 37398184 PMCID: PMC10312629 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.13.544219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum is a significant pathogen causing gastrointestinal infections in humans and animals, that is spread through the ingestion of contaminated food and water. Despite its global impact on public health, generating a C. parvum genome sequence has always been challenging due to a lack of in vitro cultivation systems and challenging sub-telomeric gene families. A gapless telomere to telomere genome assembly has been created for Cryptosporidium parvum IOWA obtained from Bunch Grass Farms, named here as CpBGF. There are 8 chromosomes that total 9,259,183 bp. The new hybrid assembly which was generated with Illumina and Oxford Nanopore resolves complex sub-telomeric regions of chromosomes 1, 7 and 8. To facilitate ease of use and consistency with the literature, whenever possible, chromosomes have been oriented and genes in this annotation have been given the same gene IDs used in the current reference genome sequence generated in 2004. The annotation of this assembly utilized considerable RNA expression evidence, thus, untranslated regions, long noncoding RNAs and antisense RNAs are annotated. The CpBGF genome assembly serves as a valuable resource for understanding the biology, pathogenesis, and transmission of C. parvum, and it facilitates the development of diagnostics, drugs, and vaccines against cryptosporidiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo de Paula Baptista
- Center for tropical and emerging global diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA
- Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030 USA
| | - Rui Xiao
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA
| | - Yiran Li
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA
| | - Travis C. Glenn
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA
- Environmental Health Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA
| | - Jessica C. Kissinger
- Center for tropical and emerging global diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA
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7
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Ogbuigwe P, Roberts JM, Knox MA, Heiser A, Pita A, Haack NA, Garcia-Ramirez J, Velathanthiri N, Biggs P, French NP, Hayman DTS. A novel, stain-free, natural auto-fluorescent signal, Sig M, identified from cytometric and transcriptomic analysis of infectivity of Cryptosporidium hominis and Cryptosporidium parvum. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1178576. [PMID: 37284498 PMCID: PMC10239843 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1178576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is a worldwide diarrheal disease caused by the protozoan Cryptosporidium. The primary symptom is diarrhea, but patients may exhibit different symptoms based on the species of the Cryptosporidium parasite they are infected with. Furthermore, some genotypes within species are more transmissible and apparently virulent than others. The mechanisms underpinning these differences are not understood, and an effective in vitro system for Cryptosporidium culture would help advance our understanding of these differences. Using COLO-680N cells, we employed flow cytometry and microscopy along with the C. parvum-specific antibody Sporo-Glo™ to characterize infected cells 48 h following an infection with C. parvum or C. hominis. The Cryptosporidium parvum-infected cells showed higher levels of signal using Sporo-Glo™ than C. hominis-infected cells, which was likely because Sporo-Glo™ was generated against C. parvum. We found a subset of cells from infected cultures that expressed a novel, dose-dependent auto-fluorescent signal that was detectable across a range of wavelengths. The population of cells that expressed this signal increased proportionately to the multiplicity of infection. The spectral cytometry results confirmed that the signature of this subset of host cells closely matched that of oocysts present in the infectious ecosystem, pointing to a parasitic origin. Present in both C. parvum and C. hominis cultures, we named this Sig M, and due to its distinct profile in cells from both infections, it could be a better marker for assessing Cryptosporidium infection in COLO-680N cells than Sporo-Glo™. We also noted Sig M's impact on Sporo-Glo™ detection as Sporo-Glo™ uses fluoroscein-isothiocynate, which is detected where Sig M also fluoresces. Lastly, we used NanoString nCounter® analysis to investigate the transcriptomic landscape for the two Cryptosporidium species, assessing the gene expression of 144 host and parasite genes. Despite the host gene expression being at high levels, the levels of putative intracellular Cryptosporidium gene expression were low, with no significant difference from controls, which could be, in part, explained by the abundance of uninfected cells present as determined by both Sporo-Glo™ and Sig M analyses. This study shows for the first time that a natural auto-fluorescent signal, Sig M, linked to Cryptosporidium infection can be detected in infected host cells without any fluorescent labeling strategies and that the COLO-680N cell line and spectral cytometry could be useful tools to advance the understanding of Cryptosporidium infectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Ogbuigwe
- School of Veterinary Science, Hopkirk Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | | | - Matthew A. Knox
- School of Veterinary Science, Hopkirk Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Axel Heiser
- Animal Health Solutions, Hopkirk Research Institute, AgResearch Ltd., Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Anthony Pita
- School of Veterinary Science, Hopkirk Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Neville A. Haack
- Animal Health Solutions, Hopkirk Research Institute, AgResearch Ltd., Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Juan Carlos Garcia-Ramirez
- School of Veterinary Science, Hopkirk Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Niluka Velathanthiri
- School of Veterinary Science, Hopkirk Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Patrick J. Biggs
- School of Veterinary Science, Hopkirk Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Nigel P. French
- School of Veterinary Science, Hopkirk Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - David T. S. Hayman
- School of Veterinary Science, Hopkirk Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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8
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Yin YL, Yang X, Huang S, Hu GR, Yao Q, Song JK, Zhao GH. Circular RNA ciRS-7 affects the propagation of Cryptosporidium parvum in HCT-8 cells via regulating miR-135a-5p/stat1 axis. Acta Trop 2023; 243:106927. [PMID: 37080266 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106927] [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: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. are protozoan parasites that mainly inhabit intestinal epithelial cells, causing diarrheal diseases in humans and a great number of animals. Cryptosporidium parvum is the most common zoonotic species, responsible for nearly 45% of human cryptosporidiosis worldwide. Understanding the interaction mechanisms between C. parvum and host gastrointestinal epithelial cells has significant implications to control cryptosporidiosis. One up-regulated circRNA ciRS-7 was found previously by our group to promote in vitro propagation of C. parvum in HCT-8 cells. In the present study, miR-135a-5p, was found to be a miRNA target of ciRS-7. Cryptosporidium parvum infection induced significantly down-regulation of miR-135a-5p and dramatic up-regulation of its potential target stat1 gene at mRNA and protein levels. Dual luciferase reporter assays validated the physical interactions between miR-135a-5p and stat1, and between ciRS-7 and miR-135a-5p. Further study revealed that ciRS-7 could sponge miR-135a-5p to positively regulate the protein levels of STAT1 and phosphorylated STAT1 (p-STAT1) and thus promote C. parvum propagation in HCT-8 cells. Our findings further reveal the mystery of regulatory roles of host circRNAs during Cryptosporidium infection, and provide a novel insight to develop strategies to control cryptosporidiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ling Yin
- Key Laboratory of Ruminant Disease Prevention and Control (West), College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China; Chongqing Three Gorges Vocational College, Chongqing 404155, China
| | - Xin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Ruminant Disease Prevention and Control (West), College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Shuang Huang
- Key Laboratory of Ruminant Disease Prevention and Control (West), College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Gui-Rong Hu
- Key Laboratory of Ruminant Disease Prevention and Control (West), College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Qian Yao
- Key Laboratory of Ruminant Disease Prevention and Control (West), College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Jun-Ke Song
- Key Laboratory of Ruminant Disease Prevention and Control (West), College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China
| | - Guang-Hui Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Ruminant Disease Prevention and Control (West), College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.
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9
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Hassan ZR, Salama DEA, Ibrahim HF. Apoptotic changes in the intestinal epithelium of Cryptosporidium-infected mice after silver nanoparticles treatment versus nitazoxanide. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:1011-1020. [PMID: 36457780 PMCID: PMC9606195 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-022-01520-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium has been identified as one of the prevalent opportunistic parasites that cause diarrhea, which may be persistent and fatal. Current chemotherapeutic agents, including nitazoxanide (NTZ), are frequently associated with therapeutic failure, and their roles in the induction of apoptosis in cryptosporidiosis remain to be a topic of debate. Thus, this study aimed to assess the apoptotic changes in cryptosporidiosis in immunocompetent (IC) and immunosuppressed (IS) mice after treatment with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and NTZ either alone or after loading. In total, 120 laboratory-bred Swiss albino mice were divided into two groups. Group A included IC mice, while Group B included IS mice. Both groups were divided into six subgroups: noninfected nontreated, infected nontreated, infected AgNP-treated, infected NTZ-treated, infected AgNP-loaded NTZ (full-dose)-treated, and infected AgNP-loaded NTZ (half-dose)-treated. The assessment was achieved through parasitological, histopathological, and apoptotic marker expression evaluation. AgNP-loaded NTZ (different doses) treatment showed the highest oocyst shedding reduction and remarkable improvement in histopathological changes, followed by individual treatment with NTZ and then AgNPs in IC and IS mice. Results of apoptotic marker expression revealed that AgNP-loaded NTZ treatment exhibited a promising role in regulating apoptotic changes in cryptosporidiosis through the expression of the lowest levels of cytochrome C and caspase-3 in IC and IS mice at the end of the experiment. Therefore, AgNP-loaded NTZ can be a potential therapeutic agent against cryptosporidiosis for IC and IS mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab R. Hassan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Doaa E. A. Salama
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hanan F. Ibrahim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine for Girls, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
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10
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Pandya N, Kumar A. A multi-epitope vaccine candidate developed from unique immunogenic epitopes against Cryptosporidium hominis by utilizing an immunoinformatics-driven approach. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2022:1-18. [PMID: 35510602 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2022.2070284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
An immunoinformatics-based strategy is being investigated to identify prospective multi-subunit vaccine candidates against Cryptosporidium hominis (C. hominis). We used a systematic technique based on protein structure to create a competent multi-subunit vaccine candidate against C. hominis, with the likelihood of antigenicity, allergenicity, and transmembrane helices as the screening criteria. Using the suitable linkers, the best-screened epitopes such as B-cell epitopes (BCL), Helper T-lymphocytes (HTL), and cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTL) were linked together to intensify and develop the presentation and processing of the antigenic molecules. The greatest 3 D model of the component protein was created with the help of modeling software called Raptorax. The validation of the modeled protein was accomplished via the use of PROCHECK. Furthermore, using the ClusPro web server, the projected modeled structure was docked with known receptor TLR-4 to determine their interactions. A molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was used to investigate the stability of the multi-subunit vaccine bound with TLR-4 based on the docking score. Aside from that, the codon optimization and in silico expression demonstrate the possibility of high expression and simple purification of the vaccine product resulting from codon optimization. The overall findings indicated that the multi-subunit vaccine might be a viable vaccination candidate against C. hominis.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirali Pandya
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, India
| | - Amit Kumar
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, India
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11
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Hu RS, Hesham AEL, Zou Q. Machine Learning and Its Applications for Protozoal Pathogens and Protozoal Infectious Diseases. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:882995. [PMID: 35573796 PMCID: PMC9097758 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.882995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, massive attention has been attracted to the development and application of machine learning (ML) in the field of infectious diseases, not only serving as a catalyst for academic studies but also as a key means of detecting pathogenic microorganisms, implementing public health surveillance, exploring host-pathogen interactions, discovering drug and vaccine candidates, and so forth. These applications also include the management of infectious diseases caused by protozoal pathogens, such as Plasmodium, Trypanosoma, Toxoplasma, Cryptosporidium, and Giardia, a class of fatal or life-threatening causative agents capable of infecting humans and a wide range of animals. With the reduction of computational cost, availability of effective ML algorithms, popularization of ML tools, and accumulation of high-throughput data, it is possible to implement the integration of ML applications into increasing scientific research related to protozoal infection. Here, we will present a brief overview of important concepts in ML serving as background knowledge, with a focus on basic workflows, popular algorithms (e.g., support vector machine, random forest, and neural networks), feature extraction and selection, and model evaluation metrics. We will then review current ML applications and major advances concerning protozoal pathogens and protozoal infectious diseases through combination with correlative biology expertise and provide forward-looking insights for perspectives and opportunities in future advances in ML techniques in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui-Si Hu
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Yangtze Delta Region Institute (Quzhou), University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Quzhou, China
| | - Abd El-Latif Hesham
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Quan Zou
- Institute of Fundamental and Frontier Sciences, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China
- Yangtze Delta Region Institute (Quzhou), University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Quzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Quan Zou,
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12
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Pane S, Putignani L. Cryptosporidium: Still Open Scenarios. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11050515. [PMID: 35631036 PMCID: PMC9143492 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11050515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is increasingly identified as a leading cause of childhood diarrhea and malnutrition in both low-income and high-income countries. The strong impact on public health in epidemic scenarios makes it increasingly essential to identify the sources of infection and understand the transmission routes in order to apply the right prevention or treatment protocols. The objective of this literature review was to present an overview of the current state of human cryptosporidiosis, reviewing risk factors, discussing advances in the drug treatment and epidemiology, and emphasizing the need to identify a government system for reporting diagnosed cases, hitherto undervalued.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Pane
- Department of Diagnostic and Laboratory Medicine, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Unit of Microbiology and Diagnostic Immunology, Unit of Microbiomics, 00146 Rome, Italy;
| | - Lorenza Putignani
- Department of Diagnostic and Laboratory Medicine, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, Unit of Microbiology and Diagnostic Immunology, Unit of Microbiomics and Multimodal Laboratory Medicine Research Area, Unit of Human Microbiome, 00146 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
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13
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El-Refai SA, Helwa MA, Rakha EB, Atia AF. Autophagy - related 16 - like 1 single nucleotide gene polymorphism increases the risk and severity of Cryptosporidium parvum infection. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2021; 245:111407. [PMID: 34358586 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2021.111407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum) is an intracellular parasite of the intestinal cells. It causes cryptosporidiosis that can be fatal in immunosuppressed individuals. Autophagy is a process to eliminate intracellular microbes. The autophagy-related 16 - like 1 (ATG16L1) gene encodes proteins involved in the autophagy pathway. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in this gene increases the invasion and survival of the intracellular microbes. This study aimed to assess whether SNP in the ATG16L1 gene influences the risk and severity of cryptosporidiosis. Group I: cases with C. parvum infection (C. parvum, n = 40) and group II: healthy control (HC, n = 120) were included. Genotyping of the ATG16L1 gene was done for all participants to determine the polymorphism status as AA, GG, or AG genotype. A significant association between C. parvum infection and ATG16L1 genotypes was detected. C. parvum group had a significantly higher frequency of GG genotype and G allele when compared to HC group. The genotypes (AG + GG) and G allele had 2.428 and 2.13 folds risk of C. parvum infection when compared to the AA genotype and the A allele. Patients with the AG + GG genotype had statistically significant higher Cryptosporidium oocyst counts in stool, higher infection intensity, more frequency of vomiting and dehydration, longer disease duration, and more recurrence. The GG or AG genotypes were independent risk factors in the disease severity (p- value = 0.013). In conclusion, ATG16L1 SNP increased the risk and severity of cryptosporidiosis. Thus, individuals with such SNP can benefit from autophagy up-regulating approaches in decreasing the risk and controlling C. parvum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar A El-Refai
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, 32511, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed A Helwa
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, 32511, Egypt.
| | - Ehab B Rakha
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, 60, El Gomhoria Sreet, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt.
| | - Amany F Atia
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, 32511, Egypt.
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14
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Baptista RP, Cooper GW, Kissinger JC. Challenges for Cryptosporidium Population Studies. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:894. [PMID: 34200631 PMCID: PMC8229070 DOI: 10.3390/genes12060894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is ranked sixth in the list of the most important food-borne parasites globally, and it is an important contributor to mortality in infants and the immunosuppressed. Recently, the number of genome sequences available for this parasite has increased drastically. The majority of the sequences are derived from population studies of Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium hominis, the most important species causing disease in humans. Work with this parasite is challenging since it lacks an optimal, prolonged, in vitro culture system, which accurately reproduces the in vivo life cycle. This obstacle makes the cloning of isolates nearly impossible. Thus, patient isolates that are sequenced represent a population or, at times, mixed infections. Oocysts, the lifecycle stage currently used for sequencing, must be considered a population even if the sequence is derived from single-cell sequencing of a single oocyst because each oocyst contains four haploid meiotic progeny (sporozoites). Additionally, the community does not yet have a set of universal markers for strain typing that are distributed across all chromosomes. These variables pose challenges for population studies and require careful analyses to avoid biased interpretation. This review presents an overview of existing population studies, challenges, and potential solutions to facilitate future population analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo P. Baptista
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA;
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Garrett W. Cooper
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA;
| | - Jessica C. Kissinger
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA;
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA;
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15
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Yin YL, Wang Y, Lai P, Yao Q, Li Y, Zhang LX, Yang X, Song JK, Zhao GH. Establishment and preliminary application of nanoparticle-assisted PCR assay for detection of Cryptosporidium spp. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:1837-1844. [PMID: 33649965 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07101-2] [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: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an important intestinal protozoan parasite that causes diarrhoea in humans and animals. To rapidly and specifically detect Cryptosporidium spp., we designed a pair of primers based on the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene of Cryptosporidium spp. to be used in a new nanoparticle-assisted PCR (nano-PCR) assay. The minimum detectable concentration (1.02 pg) of this nano-PCR was 10 times more sensitive than conventional PCR using the same primer pair. The DNA samples of C. parvum, C. baileyi, C. xiaoi, C. ryanae, and C. andersoni were successfully detected by the nano-PCR. No amplifications were evident with DNA samples of some common intestinal pathogens, including Eimeria tenella, Blastocystis sp., Giardia lamblia, Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Balantidium coli. To validate the clinical usefulness of the novel nano-PCR, a total of 40 faecal samples from goats, camels, calves, and chickens were examined. The positive rate of Cryptosporidium spp. was 27.5% (11/40), which was consistent with that of an established nested PCR. These results indicate that the novel nano-PCR assay enables the rapid, specific, and accurate detection of Cryptosporidium infection in animals. The findings provide a technical basis for the clinical diagnosis, prevention, and control of cryptosporidiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Ling Yin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Lai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Qian Yao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Long-Xian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Ke Song
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Guang-Hui Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, People's Republic of China.
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16
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Sammarro Silva KJ, Sabogal-Paz LP. Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. (oo)cysts as target-organisms in sanitation and environmental monitoring: A review in microscopy-based viability assays. WATER RESEARCH 2021; 189:116590. [PMID: 33166919 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.116590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Cysts and (oo)cysts are the infective forms of parasitic protozoa, as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, which are widespread and associated to worldwide waterborne diseases outbreaks. These microorganisms pose a challenge to public health, as they are resistant to conventional disinfection methods, which make them important parameters when evaluating inactivation efficiency. However, when (oo)cysts are targets, it is challenging to infer inactivation efficacy, as it may require infectivity tests that are not often an option for laboratory routine analysis. In this scene, (oo)cyst viability based on induced excystation, membrane integrity and enzyme activity evaluated by dye inclusion and/or exclusion, as well as fluorescence reduction consist on microscopy-based techniques that may be options to estimate inactivation in the environmental context. This scoping review presents applications, advantages and limitations of these methodologies for viability assessment, in order to shed light on the (oo)cyst viability topic and provide insight strategies for choosing protocols in the environmental and sanitation field, in laboratory applications and novel research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamila Jessie Sammarro Silva
- Department of Hydraulics and Sanitation, São Carlos School of Engineering, University of São Paulo, Avenida Trabalhador São-carlense 400, São Carlos, São Paulo, 13566-590, Brazil
| | - Lyda Patricia Sabogal-Paz
- Department of Hydraulics and Sanitation, São Carlos School of Engineering, University of São Paulo, Avenida Trabalhador São-carlense 400, São Carlos, São Paulo, 13566-590, Brazil.
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17
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Abstract
Biofilms are increasingly implicated as playing a major role in waterborne cryptosporidiosis. This review aims to synthesize all currently available data on interactions between Cryptosporidium oocysts and biofilms. Initially described following a waterborne outbreak, the integration of Cryptosporidium oocysts in biofilm has been well demonstrated. Biofilms appear important in the dissemination/protection of oocysts in the environment. Consequently, it has been suggested that substrate-associated biofilms should be systematically considered in oocyst water quality assessment. The influence of physicochemical parameters has been studied on oocyst biofilm retention. Biofilm surface roughness, ionic concentration (especially Ca2+), laminar/turbulent flow, shear stress, and electrostatic repulsion forces appear important to consider regarding oocyst release from biofilm. However, data analysis carried out during this review also revealed important gaps in biological interactions within biofilms, offering many perspectives for future work.
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18
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Zhang Q, Shao Q, Guo Y, Li N, Li Y, Su J, Xu R, Zhang Z, Xiao L, Feng Y. Characterization of Three Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinases of Cryptosporidium parvum. Front Microbiol 2021; 11:622203. [PMID: 33510735 PMCID: PMC7835281 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.622203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
In Cryptosporidium spp., calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) are considered promising targets for the development of pharmaceutical interventions. Whole-genome sequencing has revealed the presence of 11 CDPKs in Cryptosporidium parvum (CpCDPKs). In this study, we expressed recombinant CpCDPK4, CpCDPK5, and CpCDPK6 in Escherichia coli. The biological characteristics and functions of these CpCDPKs were examined by using quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR), immunofluorescence microscopy, and an in vitro neutralization assay. The expression of the CpCDPK4 gene peaked at 12 h post-infection, the CpCDPK5 gene peaked at 12 and 48 h, and the CpCDPK6 gene peaked at 2–6 h. CpCDPK4 protein was located in the anterior and mid-anterior regions of sporozoites, and CpCDPK5 protein was located over the entire sporozoites, while CpCDPK6 protein was expressed in a spotty pattern. Immune sera of CpCDPK4 and CpCDPK6 exhibited significant inhibitory effects on host cell invasion, while the immune sera of CpCDPK5 had no effects. These differences in protein localization, gene expressions, and neutralizing capacities indicated that the CpCDPK proteins may have different roles during the lifecycle of Cryptosporidium spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resource and Environmental, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Shao
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resource and Environmental, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaqiong Guo
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Na Li
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiayuan Su
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resource and Environmental, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resource and Environmental, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziding Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resource and Environmental, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.,Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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Bhalchandra S, Lamisere H, Ward H. Intestinal organoid/enteroid-based models for Cryptosporidium. Curr Opin Microbiol 2020; 58:124-129. [PMID: 33113480 PMCID: PMC7758878 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2020.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a leading cause of diarrhea and death in young children and untreated AIDS patients in resource-poor settings, and of waterborne outbreaks of disease in developed countries. However, there is no consistently effective treatment for vulnerable populations. Progress towards development of therapeutics for cryptosporidiosis has been hampered by lack of optimal culture systems to study it. New advances in organoid/enteroid technology have contributed to improved platforms to culture and propagate Cryptosporidium. Here we discuss recent breakthroughs in the field and highlight different models for functional ex vivo organoid or enteroidderived culture systems. These systems will lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms of host-parasite interactions in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Bhalchandra
- Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Hymlaire Lamisere
- Tufts University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Honorine Ward
- Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Tufts University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Boston, MA, USA
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20
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Stryiński R, Łopieńska-Biernat E, Carrera M. Proteomic Insights into the Biology of the Most Important Foodborne Parasites in Europe. Foods 2020; 9:E1403. [PMID: 33022912 PMCID: PMC7601233 DOI: 10.3390/foods9101403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Foodborne parasitoses compared with bacterial and viral-caused diseases seem to be neglected, and their unrecognition is a serious issue. Parasitic diseases transmitted by food are currently becoming more common. Constantly changing eating habits, new culinary trends, and easier access to food make foodborne parasites' transmission effortless, and the increase in the diagnosis of foodborne parasitic diseases in noted worldwide. This work presents the applications of numerous proteomic methods into the studies on foodborne parasites and their possible use in targeted diagnostics. Potential directions for the future are also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Stryiński
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Elżbieta Łopieńska-Biernat
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Mónica Carrera
- Department of Food Technology, Marine Research Institute (IIM), Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), 36-208 Vigo, Spain
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21
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Cellular Identification and In Silico Characterization of Protein Phosphatase 2C (PP2C) of Cryptosporidium parvum. Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:704-715. [PMID: 32347536 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-020-00209-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cryptosporidium parvum is an Apicomplexa parasite that causes watery diarrhea (cryptosporidiosis), especially in children and immunocompromised adults (the latter in a very severe form). No effective treatment exists against infection by this parasite. Phosphatases participate in the regulation of various cellular functions and are thus considered potential therapeutic targets in many diseases. The aim of the present study was to indirectly identify and in silico characterize a protein phosphatase 2C of C. parvum. METHODS Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence microscopy were performed with a polyclonal antibody against Leishmania major PP2C. Possible cross-reactivity with LmPP2C was assessed by in silico sequence homology to analyze phylogenetic relationships between distinct C. parvum PP2Cs. In addition, another bioinformatics approach was used to predict the possible relationship and function of C. parvum PP2C in the regulation of several cellular processes. RESULTS Western blotting showed a protein of approximately 72 kDa. With immunofluorescence, PP2C was localized in the nucleus of oocysts (with some additional labeling in the cytoplasm) and at the apical region of sporozoites. By aligning C. parvum PP2C with known ortholog sequences and carrying out PPI analysis, a determination could be made of the degree of conservation of these enzymes, their possible relationship, and their function in the regulation of several cellular processes associated with a likely nuclear location. CONCLUSION Microscopic localization by immunofluorescence identified CpPP2C at the nucleus in oocysts and at the apical end of the sporozoite body. Hence, this enzyme could be associated with proteins that have an important role in the regulation of transcription and other processes orchestrated by MAPK kinases, according to in silico analysis.
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22
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Copro-microscopical and immunological diagnosis of cryptosporidiosis in Egyptian buffalo-calves with special reference to their cytokine profiles. J Parasit Dis 2020; 44:654-660. [PMID: 32801520 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-020-01244-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is considered to be one of the most devasting gastrointestinal diseases in calves. The aim of this study was to investigate Cryptosporidium parvum infection (C. parvum) in buffalo-calves with both copro-microscopic examination and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using two C. parvum prepared antigens with regards to their cytokines profile; interferon- γ (IFN-γ), interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-14 to achieve a proper diagnosis. All collected buffalo- calves' fecal samples were examined by modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique. ELISA was performed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the two C. parvum prepared antigens; crude whole oocyst (CWO) and crude sonicated oocyst (CSO) in detection of anti-C. parvum IgG in buffalo-calves' sera. As well, concentrations of INF-γ, IL-12 and IL-14 in the buffalo-calves' serum samples were estimated. The results revealed that the overall parasitological incidence of cryptosporidiosis was 40%. However, the serological diagnosis by ELISA assay showed 53.75% and 27.5% when using CWO and CSO antigen, respectively. Also, the diagnostic efficacy parameters of both antigens; CWO and CSO showed a significant high specificity (83.3%) achieved by CSO antigen and a high sensitivity (71.8%) by CWO antigen. The levels of INF-γ, IL-12 and IL-14 were significantly increased in positive Cryptosporidium infected group by both coprological and serological assays followed by the group which was positive for cryptosporidiosis by copro-microscopic examination only. The present study concluded that a combination of coprological and serological examination with reference to the cytokines profile is needed for proper diagnosis of cryptosporidiosis in buffalo-calves.
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Hares MF, Tiffney EA, Johnston LJ, Luu L, Stewart CJ, Flynn RJ, Coombes JL. Stem cell-derived enteroid cultures as a tool for dissecting host-parasite interactions in the small intestinal epithelium. Parasite Immunol 2020; 43:e12765. [PMID: 32564379 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii and Cryptosporidium spp. can cause devastating pathological effects in humans and livestock, and in particular to young or immunocompromised individuals. The current treatment plans for these enteric parasites are limited due to long drug courses, severe side effects or simply a lack of efficacy. The study of the early interactions between the parasites and the site of infection in the small intestinal epithelium has been thwarted by the lack of accessible, physiologically relevant and species-specific models. Increasingly, 3D stem cell-derived enteroid models are being refined and developed into sophisticated models of infectious disease. In this review, we shall illustrate the use of enteroids to spearhead research into enteric parasitic infections, bridging the gap between cell line cultures and in vivo experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam F Hares
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Ellen-Alana Tiffney
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Luke J Johnston
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Lisa Luu
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Robin J Flynn
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Janine L Coombes
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Gunasekera S, Zahedi A, O’Dea M, King B, Monis P, Thierry B, M. Carr J, Ryan U. Organoids and Bioengineered Intestinal Models: Potential Solutions to the Cryptosporidium Culturing Dilemma. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8050715. [PMID: 32403447 PMCID: PMC7285185 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8050715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a major cause of severe diarrhea-related disease in children in developing countries, but currently no vaccine or effective treatment exists for those who are most at risk of serious illness. This is partly due to the lack of in vitro culturing methods that are able to support the entire Cryptosporidium life cycle, which has led to research in Cryptosporidium biology lagging behind other protozoan parasites. In vivo models such as gnotobiotic piglets are complex, and standard in vitro culturing methods in transformed cell lines, such as HCT-8 cells, have not been able to fully support fertilization occurring in vitro. Additionally, the Cryptosporidium life cycle has also been reported to occur in the absence of host cells. Recently developed bioengineered intestinal models, however, have shown more promising results and are able to reproduce a whole cycle of infectivity in one model system. This review evaluates the recent advances in Cryptosporidium culturing techniques and proposes future directions for research that may build upon these successes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Gunasekera
- Vector and Waterborne Pathogens Research Group, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Western Australia, Australia;
- Correspondence: (S.G.); (U.R.); Tel.: +61-8-9360-2495 (S.G.); +61-8-9360-2482 (U.R.)
| | - Alireza Zahedi
- Vector and Waterborne Pathogens Research Group, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Western Australia, Australia;
| | - Mark O’Dea
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Western Australia, Australia; m.o’
| | - Brendon King
- South Australian Water Corporation, Adelaide 5000, South Australia, Australia; (B.K.); (P.M.)
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, South Australia, Australia;
| | - Paul Monis
- South Australian Water Corporation, Adelaide 5000, South Australia, Australia; (B.K.); (P.M.)
- Future Industries Institute and ARC Centre of Excellence for Convergent Bio and Nano Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5095, South Australia, Australia;
| | - Benjamin Thierry
- Future Industries Institute and ARC Centre of Excellence for Convergent Bio and Nano Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5095, South Australia, Australia;
| | - Jillian M. Carr
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, South Australia, Australia;
| | - Una Ryan
- Vector and Waterborne Pathogens Research Group, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Western Australia, Australia;
- Correspondence: (S.G.); (U.R.); Tel.: +61-8-9360-2495 (S.G.); +61-8-9360-2482 (U.R.)
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Zhang Q, Guo Y, Li N, Li Y, Su J, Xu R, Zhang Z, Feng Y, Xiao L. Characterization of Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinases 3, a Protein Involved in Growth of Cryptosporidium parvum. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:907. [PMID: 32457733 PMCID: PMC7225609 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) are considered promising targets for pharmaceutical intervention of cryptosporidiosis. Whole-genome sequencing has revealed the presence of several CDPKs (CpCDPKs) in Cryptosporidium parvum. In this study, we expressed recombinant CpCDPK3 encoded by the cgd5_820 gene in Escherichia coli. The biologic characteristics and functions of CpCDPK3 were examined using qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence microscopy, and in vitro neutralization assay. The expression of the cgd5_820 gene peaked in merozoites during in vitro culture while the CpCDPK3 protein was expressed in both sporozoites and merozoites. Polyclonal antibodies against CpCDPK3 showed no significant inhibitory effects on host invasion by the parasites. We assessed the inhibitory effects of 46 candidate compounds from molecular docking of CpCDPK3 on both C. parvum development and CpCDPK3 enzyme activities. One compound was identified to be effective. Results of these analyses suggest that CpCDPK3 might play an important role in the growth of C. parvum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resource and Environmental, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yaqiong Guo
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Na Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jiayuan Su
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resource and Environmental, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resource and Environmental, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Ziding Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Bioreactor Engineering, School of Resource and Environmental, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China.,Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
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Rueckert S, Betts EL, Tsaousis AD. The Symbiotic Spectrum: Where Do the Gregarines Fit? Trends Parasitol 2019; 35:687-694. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2019.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 06/24/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Pignata C, Bonetta S, Bonetta S, Cacciò SM, Sannella AR, Gilli G, Carraro E. Cryptosporidium Oocyst Contamination in Drinking Water: A Case Study in Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E2055. [PMID: 31185673 PMCID: PMC6604028 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16112055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 06/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in a drinking water treatment plant (DWTP) located in a rural area of northern Italy. Influent and effluent samples were collected at the DWTP over three years (2013-2016). In parallel, tap water samples from a public drinking fountain were collected as well. All samples were analyzed for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts by a common method based on an immunomagnetic separation (IMS)/immunofluorescence assay (IFA), complemented by 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining. A reverse transcriptase-PCR (RT-PCR) protocol was added to evaluate oocyst viability. The results highlighted a high variability of oocyst concentrations across all samples (mean 4.3 ± 5.8/100 L) and a high variability in the percentage of DAPI-positive specimens (mean 48.2% ± 40.3%). Conversely, RT-PCR did not reveal the presence of viable C. parvum and C. hominis oocysts. A nested PCR targeting Cryptosporidium 18S ribosomal DNA, carried out in two water samples, confirmed the presence of a Cryptosporidium genotype associated with wild animals in the river and in tap water. The results obtained underline the vulnerability of the investigated surface water to Cryptosporidium spp. contamination. Although the recovered Cryptosporidium genotype is not a human pathogen, its presence demonstrates the existence of a potential pathogen Cryptosporidium spp. contamination risk. Moreover, these results underline the importance of also considering unconventional (not bacterial) biological contaminations (protozoa) in water resources in rural areas, including those of developed countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Pignata
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Torino, Via Santena 5bis, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Silvia Bonetta
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Torino, Via Santena 5bis, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Sara Bonetta
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Torino, Via Santena 5bis, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Simone M Cacciò
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Roma, Italy.
| | - Anna R Sannella
- Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Roma, Italy.
| | - Giorgio Gilli
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Torino, Via Santena 5bis, 10126 Torino, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Carraro
- Department of Public Health and Pediatrics, University of Torino, Via Santena 5bis, 10126 Torino, Italy.
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Miller CN, Panagos CG, Mosedale WRT, Kváč M, Howard MJ, Tsaousis AD. NMR metabolomics reveals effects of Cryptosporidium infections on host cell metabolome. Gut Pathog 2019; 11:13. [PMID: 30984292 PMCID: PMC6446323 DOI: 10.1186/s13099-019-0293-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptosporidium is an important gut microbe whose contributions towards infant and immunocompromise patient mortality rates are steadily increasing. Over the last decade, we have seen the development of various tools and methods for studying Cryptosporidium infection and its interactions with their hosts. One area that is sorely overlooked is the effect infection has on host metabolic processes. Results Using a 1H nuclear magnetic resonance approach to metabolomics, we have explored the nature of the mouse gut metabolome as well as providing the first insight into the metabolome of an infected cell line. Statistical analysis and predictive modelling demonstrated new understandings of the effects of a Cryptosporidium infection, while verifying the presence of known metabolic changes. Of note is the potential contribution of host derived taurine to the diarrhoeal aspects of the disease previously attributed to a solely parasite-based alteration of the gut environment, in addition to other metabolites involved with host cell catabolism. Conclusion This approach will spearhead our understanding of the Cryptosporidium-host metabolic exchange and provide novel targets for tackling this deadly parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher N Miller
- 1Laboratory of Molecular & Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Charalampos G Panagos
- 2Biomolecular NMR Facility, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK.,5Present Address: Complex Carbohydrate Research Center, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602 USA
| | - William R T Mosedale
- 1Laboratory of Molecular & Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Martin Kváč
- 3Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre CAS, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.,4Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Mark J Howard
- 2Biomolecular NMR Facility, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK.,6Present Address: School of Chemistry, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT UK
| | - Anastasios D Tsaousis
- 1Laboratory of Molecular & Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
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29
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Lalle M, Grinberg A, Ortega Pierres G. Editors' commentary on the special issue on the "VI International Giardia and Cryptosporidium Conference (VI IGCC)". Exp Parasitol 2019; 199:38-39. [PMID: 30802447 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marco Lalle
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Foodborne and Neglected Diseases Unit, European Reference Laboratory for Parasites, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, viale Regina Elena 299, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Alex Grinberg
- Infectious Diseases Group, School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Guadalupe Ortega Pierres
- Departamento de Genética y Biología Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Mexico City, Mexico
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