1
|
Chen KM, Lai SC. Curative effects and mechanisms of AG1296 and LY294002 co-therapy in Angiostrongylus cantonensis-induced neurovascular unit dysfunction and eosinophilic meningoencephalitis. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2024:S1684-1182(24)00104-X. [PMID: 38839542 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2024.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Co-therapy with albendazole and steroid is commonly used in patients with eosinophilic meningoencephalitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis infections. However, anthelminthics often worsen symptoms, possibly due to the inflammatory reaction to antigens released by dying worms. Therefore, the present study was to investigate the curative effects and probable mechanisms of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor-beta (PDGFR-β) inhibitor AG1296 (AG) and the phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibitor (PI3K) LY294002 (LY) in A. cantonensis-induced neurovascular unit dysfunction and eosinophilic meningoencephalitis. METHODS Western blots were used to detect matrix protein degradation and the expressions of PDGFR-β/PI3K signaling pathway. The co-localization of PDGFR-β and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), and metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and VSMCs on the blood vessels were measured by confocal laser scanning immunofluorescence microscopy. Sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were used to test S100B, interleukin (IL)-6, and transforming growth factor beta in the cerebrospinal fluid to determine their possible roles in mouse resistance to A. cantonensis. RESULTS The results showed that AG and LY cotherapy decreased the MMP-9 activity and inflammatory reaction. Furthermore, S100B, IL-6 and eosinophil counts were reduced by inhibitor treatment. The localization of PDGFR-β and MMP-9 was observed in VSMCs. Furthermore, we showed that the degradation of the neurovascular matrix and blood-brain barrier permeability were reduced in the mouse brain. CONCLUSIONS These findings demonstrate the potential of PDGFR-β inhibitor AG and PI3K inhibitor LY co-therapy as anti-A. cantonensis drug candidates through improved neurovascular unit dysfunction and reduced inflammatory response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Min Chen
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chan Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 402, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lu CY, Chen KM, Kuo WW, Lai SC, Ho TJ, Lai PT, Huang CY, Wang TF. Calycosin attenuates Angiostrongylus cantonensis-induced parasitic meningitis through modulation of HO-1 and NF- κB activation. Parasitology 2022; 150:1-10. [PMID: 36341547 PMCID: PMC10090627 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182022001408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis causes a form of parasitic meningitis in humans. Albendazole (ABZ) kills nematode larvae in the brain. However, dead larvae can trigger a severe inflammatory response, resulting in brain damage. Accumulating evidence suggests that calycosin represents a potential anti-inflammatory therapeutic candidate. In this study, we investigated the combined effects of ABZ and calycosin in angiostrongyliasis caused by A. cantonensis in BALB/c mice. Inflammatory mediators (such as phospho-nuclear factor-κB, cyclooxygenase-2, matrix metalloproteinase-9, tumour necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β) are associated with the development of meningitis and immune inflammatory reactions. We found that A. cantonensis significantly induces inflammatory mediator production and increases the blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability. However, co-administration of both ABZ and calycosin markedly suppressed meningitis and inflammatory mediator production and decreased the BBB permeability compared to treatment with a single drug. Furthermore, calycosin and ABZ plus calycosin treatment facilitated production of the antioxidant haem oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Moreover, co-therapy with ABZ and calycosin failed to mitigate angiostrongyliasis in the presence of tin-protoporphyrin IX, an HO-1-specific inhibitor. This finding suggests that the beneficial effects of ABZ plus calycosin treatment on the regulation of inflammation are mediated by the modulation of HO-1 activation. The present results provide new insights into the treatment of human angiostrongyliasis using co-therapy with ABZ and calycosin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-You Lu
- Department of Post-Baccalaureate Medicine, College of Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ke-Min Chen
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Wen Kuo
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Ph.D. Program for Biotechnology Industry, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chan Lai
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tsung-Jung Ho
- Integration Center of Traditional Chinese and Modern Medicine, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
- School of Post Baccalaureate Chinese Medicine, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Po-Tang Lai
- Division of Endodontics and Periodontology, Department of Stomatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Dentistry, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Yang Huang
- Cardiovascular and Mitochondrial Related Disease Research Center, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, Asia University, Taichung, Taiwan
- Center of General Education, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Tzu Chi University of Science and Technology, Hualien, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Research, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Tso-Fu Wang
- Department of Hematology and Oncology, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Hualien, Taiwan
- College of Medicine, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Chen KM, Lan KP, Lai SC. Heme oxygenase-1 modulates brain inflammation and apoptosis in mice with angiostrongyliasis. Parasitol Int 2021; 87:102528. [PMID: 34942361 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102528] [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: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The rat nematode lungworm Angiostrongylus cantonensis undergoes obligatory intracerebral migration in its hosts and causes eosinophilic meningitis or meningoencephalitis. Heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) has several cytoprotective properties such as anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. HO-1 in brain tissues was induced in A. cantonensis-infected group and showed positive modulation in cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP)-treated groups. Assay methods for the therapeutic effect include western blot analysis, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, gelatin zymography, blood-brain barrier permeability evaluation and eosinophil count in cerebrospinal fluid. The combination of albendazole (ABZ) and CoPP significantly decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-5, and IL-33 but significantly increased anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 and transforming growth factor-β. In addition, worm recovery, matrix metalloproteinase-9, BBB permeability, and eosinophil counts were decreased in the ABZ and CoPP co-treated groups. Induction of HO-1 with CoPP strongly inhibited the protein levels of caspase-3 and increased the induction of annexin-V and B-cell leukemia 2. Thus, co-treatment with ABZ and CoPP prevented A. cantonensis-induced eosinophilic meningoencephalitis and its anti-apoptotic effect by promoting HO-1 signaling prior to BBB dysfunction. HO-1 induction might be a therapeutic modality for eosinophilic meningoencephalitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Min Chen
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Ping Lan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chan Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan; Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 402, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Chen KM, Peng CY, Shyu LY, Lan KP, Lai SC. Peroxisome-Proliferator Activator Receptor γ in Mouse Model with Meningoencephalitis Caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. J Parasitol 2021; 107:205-213. [PMID: 33684197 DOI: 10.1645/19-182] [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: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome-proliferator activator receptor γ (PPARγ) has an anti-inflammatory role that inhibits the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway and regulates the expressions of pro-inflammatory proteins, whereas its role in parasitic meningoencephalitis remains unknown. In this study we investigated the role of PPARγ and related mechanisms in eosinophilic meningoencephalitis caused by the rat lungworm Angiostrongylus cantonensis. We observed increased protein NF-κB expression in mouse brain tissue using GW9662, which is the specific antagonist of PPARγ, in a mouse model of angiostrongyliasis. Then we investigated NF-κB-related downstream proteins, such as COX-2, NOSs, and IL-1β, with Western blot or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and found that the protein expression was upregulated. The results of gelatin zymography also showed that the MMP-9 activities were upregulated. Treatment with GW9662 increased the permeability of the blood-brain barrier and the number of eosinophils in cerebrospinal fluid. These results suggested that in angiostrongyliasis, PPARγ may play an anti-inflammation role in many inflammatory mediators, including NOS-related oxidative stress, cytokines, and matrix metalloproteinase cascade by decreasing the NF-κB action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Min Chen
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Yang Peng
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Ling-Yuh Shyu
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Kuang-Pin Lan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science and Biotechnology, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Tainan 717, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chan Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan.,Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lam HYP, Chen CC, Chen TTW, Chang KC, Wu WJ, Yang TH, Liang TR, Cheng PC, Peng SY. Mitochondrial dynamics in Angiostrongylus cantonensis-infected mouse brain. Parasitol Int 2020; 80:102231. [PMID: 33147498 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2020.102231] [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: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis is one of the most widespread parasites causing central nervous system (CNS) diseases in mammals. Since the mitochondrion is an essential cell organelle responsible for both physiological and pathological processes, its dysfunction might lead to inflammation and multiple disorders. In this study we aimed to investigate the changes in mitochondrial dynamics that occur in the mouse brain upon infection with A. cantonensis, using molecular biology techniques such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR), western blot analysis, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and different staining methods. Here, we show that mouse brain infected with A. cantonensis exhibits altered mitochondrial dynamics, including fission, fusion, and biogenesis. Additionally, we demonstrate that caspases and B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2) were significantly upregulated in A. cantonensis-infected brain. These results are indicative of the occurrence of apoptosis during A. cantonensis infection, which was further confirmed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining. These findings suggest the change in mitochondrial dynamics in A. cantonensis-infected brain, providing another point of view on the pathogenesis of meningoencephalitis caused by A. cantonensis infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ho Yin Pekkle Lam
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan; Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Chi Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan; Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Tina Tu-Wen Chen
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Chih Chang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Jui Wu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Hua Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Ruei Liang
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan
| | - Po-Ching Cheng
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Shih-Yi Peng
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan; Institute of Medical Sciences, Tzu Chi University, Hualien 97004, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Shyu LY, Chen KM, Lu CY, Lai SC. Regulation of Proinflammatory Enzymes by Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma in Astroglia Infected with Toxoplasma gondii. J Parasitol 2020; 106:564-571. [PMID: 32916705 DOI: 10.1645/18-184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) regulates neuroinflammation, and its agonists act as neuroprotective agents. This study aims to investigate the correlation between PPARγ and proinflammatory enzyme expression in astroglia infected with Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoite in vitro. Our results showed that matrix metalloprotease (MMP)-2, MMP-9, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin (PGE)-2, inducible nitric-oxide synthase (iNOS), and nitric oxide (NO) were significantly increased in T. gondii-infected astroglia. Furthermore, the expression levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, COX-2, PGE-2, iNOS, and NO were significantly decreased by rosiglitazone-a PPARγ agonist. By contrast, the treatment with GW9662, a PPARγ antagonist, efficiently increased the expression levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, COX-2, PGE-2, iNOS, and NO. These results suggested that the treatment with rosiglitazone offers a potential strategy for controlling the inflammatory factors in T. gondii infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Yuh Shyu
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Ke-Min Chen
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-You Lu
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chan Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan.,Clinical Laboratory, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection induces MMP-9 and causes tight junction protein disruption associated with Purkinje cell degeneration. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:3433-3441. [PMID: 32789733 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06840-y] [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: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis causes a human central nervous system (CNS) infection characterized by eosinophilic meningitis or meningoencephalitis. Individuals infected with A. cantonensis exhibit unbalanced walking. The mechanism of extensive neurological impairments of hosts caused by A. cantonensis larvae remains unclear. Tight junction proteins (e.g., claudin-5 and zonula occludens-1) are the most important regulators of paracellular permeability and cellular adhesion. In a previous study, we found that increased matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity may be associated with blood-CNS barrier disruption and/or the degeneration of Purkinje cells in eosinophilic meningitis caused by A. cantonensis. In the present study, the co-localization of MMP-9 and tight junction proteins on the degeneration of Purkinje cells was measured via confocal laser scanning immunofluorescence microscopy. The statistical evidence indicated that MMP-9 correlated between tight junction protein disruption and Purkinje cell degeneration at 20 days post-infection with A. cantonensis. In conclusion, Purkinje cell degeneration is highly correlated with tight junction protein disruption via the MMP-9 activation pathway.
Collapse
|
8
|
Chen AC, Shyu LY, Lin YC, Chen KM, Lai SC. Proteasome serves as pivotal regulator in Angiostrongylus cantonensis-induced eosinophilic meningoencephalitis. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0220503. [PMID: 31415587 PMCID: PMC6695157 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0220503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteasome primarily degrades the unneeded or damaged proteins by proteolysis. Disruption of the brain barrier and its resulting meningoencephalitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis are important pathological events in non-permissive hosts. In this study, the results showed upregulated proteasome during A. cantonensis infection. Occludin degradation and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity were significantly increased in infected mice than in uninfected mice. Moreover, confocal immunoflourescence microscopy showed that occludin was co-localized with MMP-9. The infected-mice were treated with proteasomal activity inhibitor MG132 by 1.5 and 3.0 mg/kg/day, which resulted in significantly reduced protein levels of phosphorylated IκBα (P<0.05) compared with the untreated control. The phosphorylated nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) showed similar result. In addition, MMP-9 activity and occludin degradation were reduced because of MG132 treatment. These results suggested that the proteasome in A. cantonensis infection degraded phosphorylated IκBα, modulated phosphorylated NF-κB, and then regulated the activation of MMP-9 and occludin degradation. Proteasome alterations were presented in eosinophilic meningitis of BALB/c mice and may contribute to the pathophysiology of eosinophilic meningitis by increasing occludin degradation. This molecule would serve as pivotal regulator in A. cantonensis-induced eosinophilic meningoencephalitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- An-Chih Chen
- Department of Neurology, Chung-Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ling-Yuh Shyu
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chieh Lin
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Ke-Min Chen
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chan Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Exogenous GDF11 attenuates non-canonical TGF-β signaling to protect the heart from acute myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury. Basic Res Cardiol 2019; 114:20. [PMID: 30900023 DOI: 10.1007/s00395-019-0728-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11) is a member of the transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) superfamily that reverses age-related cardiac hypertrophy, improves muscle regeneration and angiogenesis, and maintains progenitor cells in injured tissue. Recently, targeted myocardial delivery of the GDF11 gene in aged mice was found to reduce heart failure and enhance the proliferation of cardiac progenitor cells after myocardial ischemia-reperfusion (I-R). No investigations have as yet explored the cardioprotective effect of exogenous recombinant GDF11 in acute I-R injury, despite the convenience of its clinical application. We sought to determine whether exogenous recombinant GDF11 protects against acute myocardial I-R injury and investigate the underlying mechanism in Sprague-Dawley rats. We found that GDF11 reduced arrhythmia severity and successfully attenuated myocardial infarction; GDF11 also increased cardiac function after I-R, enhanced HO-1 expression and decreased oxidative damage. GDF11 activated the canonical TGF-β signaling pathway and inactivated the non-canonical pathways, ERK and JNK signaling pathways. Moreover, administration of GDF11 prior to reperfusion protected the heart from reperfusion damage. Notably, pretreatment with the activin-binding protein, follistatin (FST), inhibited the cardioprotective effects of GDF11 by blocking its activation of Smad2/3 signaling and its inactivation of detrimental TGF-β signaling. Our data suggest that exogenous GDF11 has cardioprotective effects and may have morphologic and functional recovery in the early stage of myocardial I-R injury. GDF11 may be an innovative therapeutic approach for reducing myocardial I-R injury.
Collapse
|
10
|
Fibronectin changes in eosinophilic meningitis with blood–CSF barrier disruption. Exp Parasitol 2015; 151-152:73-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2015.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2014] [Revised: 01/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
11
|
Dexamethasone downregulated the expression of CSF 14-3-3β protein in mice with eosinophilic meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection. Acta Trop 2014; 131:98-103. [PMID: 24361722 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2013.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2013] [Revised: 10/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis is the main causative agent of human eosinophilic meningitis in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. A previous study demonstrated that the 14-3-3β protein is a neuropathological marker in monitoring neuronal damage in meningitis. Steroids are commonly used in patients with eosinophilic meningitis caused by A. cantonensis infection. However, the mechanism by which steroids act in eosinophilic meningitis is unknown. We hypothesized that the beneficial effect of steroids on eosinophilic meningitis is partially mediated by the down-regulation of 14-3-3β protein expression in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). In this animal study, we determined the dynamic changes of 14-3-3β protein in mice with eosinophilic meningitis. The 14-3-3β protein in serum and CSF was increased in week 2 and 3 after infections. Dexamethasone administration significantly decreased the amounts of CSF 14-3-3β protein. By developing an in-house ELISA to measure 14-3-3β protein, it was found that the amounts of 14-3-3β protein in the CSF and serum increased over a three-week period after infection. There was a remarkable reduction of 14-3-3β protein in the CSF after 2 weeks of dexamethasone treatment. In conclusion, the administration of corticosteroids in mice with eosinophilic meningitis decreased the expression of 14-3-3β protein in the CSF.
Collapse
|
12
|
Tsai HC, Huang YL, Chen YS, Yen CM, Tsai R, Lee SSJ, Tai MH. 14-3-3β protein expression in eosinophilic meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection. BMC Res Notes 2014; 7:97. [PMID: 24555778 PMCID: PMC3932789 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-7-97] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a parasite endemic in the Southeast Asian and Pacific regions. Humans are incidentally infected either by eating uncooked intermediate hosts or by consuming vegetables containing the living third-stage larvae. The 14-3-3β protein is a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) marker of neuronal damage during the development of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease. In addition, increased 14-3-3β protein is also found in CSF from patients with a variety of neurological disorders. The goal of this study is to determine the roles of serum/CSF14-3-3β protein in patients with eosinophilic meningitis. Methods In a cohort study among nine Thai laborers with eosinophilic meningitis due to eating raw snails (Pomacea canaliculata), we examined the CSF weekly while patients were still hospitalized and followed up the serum for 6 months. The levels of 14-3-3β protein in CSF were analyzed by western blot and an in-house 14-3-3β enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) measurement was established and tested in an animal model of eosinophilic meningitis. Results The elevated 14-3-3β level was detected in the CSF from eight out of nine (81%) patients After 2 weeks of treatment, all patients showed a declined level or cleared of 14-3-3β protein in the CSF. By developing an in-house ELISA for measurement of 14-3-3β protein, it was found that the serum 14-3-3β level was significantly increased in patients during initial visit. . This finding was consistent to the animal experiment result in which there was severe blood brain barrier damage three weeks after infection and increased 14-3-3β protein expression in the CSF and serum by western blot and in house ELISA. After treatment, the serum 14-3-3β level in meningitis patients was rapidly returned to normal threshold. There was a correlation between initial CSF 14-3-3β level with severity of headache (r = 0.692, p = 0.039), CSF pleocytosis (r = 0.807, p = 0.009) and eosinophilia (r = 0.798, p = 0.01) in the CSF of patients with eosinophilic meningitis (Spearman’s correlation test). Conclusions The serum 14-3-3β concentrations may constitute a useful marker for blood brain barrier damage severity and follow up in patients with eosinophilic meningitis caused by A. cantonensis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Chin Tsai
- Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, 386, Ta-Chung 1st Road, Kaohsiung 813, Taiwan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Lu CY, Lai SC. Induction of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 via Erk1/2-NF-κB pathway in human astroglia infected with Toxoplasma gondii. Acta Trop 2013; 127:14-20. [PMID: 23517828 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2013.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Revised: 02/18/2013] [Accepted: 03/03/2013] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 can cleave fibronectin, allowing leukocyte migration to the site of Toxoplasma gondii infection during toxoplasmic encephalitis. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk)1/2-nuclear factor (NF)-κB pathway and MMP-2/-9 expression in astroglia infected with T. gondii tachyzoite in vitro. Our results showed that phosphorylated (p)-Erk1/2 transiently increased 1h post-infection (PI) and p-NF-κB significantly increased from 1h PI to 12h PI in cell homogenates. NF-κB was bound directly to oligonucleotides containing putative NF-κB binding sites for the MMP-9 promoter. Additionally, expression of p-NF-κB, MMP-2, and MMP-9 was significantly decreased by MG132, an indirect NF-κB inhibitor. Treatment with PD98059, an Erk kinase inhibitor, efficiently reduced p-Erk1/2, p-NF-κB, MMP-2, and MMP-9 expression. These results suggest that suppression of the Erk1/2-NF-κB signaling pathway causes reductions in MMP-2 and MMP-9 activities in astroglia response to T. gondii infection. Thus, inhibiting this signaling intermediate involved in MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression may be a potential method for controlling inflammatory development of T. gondii-induced encephalitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-You Lu
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Wang MF, Lai SC. Fibronectin degradation by MMP-2/MMP-9 in the serum of pregnant women and umbilical cord withToxoplasma gondiiinfection. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2013; 33:370-4. [DOI: 10.3109/01443615.2013.769501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
15
|
Wang MF, Lu CY, Lai SC. Up-regulation of matrix metalloproteinases-2 and -9 via an Erk1/2/NF-κB pathway in murine mast cells infected with Toxoplasma gondii. J Comp Pathol 2013; 149:146-55. [PMID: 23664424 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2013.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2013] [Revised: 01/30/2013] [Accepted: 03/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Mast cells are key effectors in inflammation and contain proteinases that are released on activation. This study investigates associations between extracellular signal-regulated kinase (Erk)1/2, nuclear factor (NF)-κB, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 in mast cells infected with Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites. T. gondii infection led to increased mast cell degranulation. Phosphorylated (p)-Erk1/2 and p-NF-κB were increased significantly in mast cells infected with T. gondii. Pretreatment with the Erk kinase inhibitor PD98059 significantly decreased the expression of p-Erk1/2, p-NF-κB, MMP-2 and MMP-9. Treatment with MG132, an indirect NF-κB inhibitor, effectively reduced p-IκBα, p-NF-κB, MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression. Collectively, these data show that suppression of an Erk1/2/NF-κB signalling pathway caused a reduction in MMP-2 and -9 activities. Inhibiting this signalling pathway for MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression might offer a potential way to control early T. gondii infection. This pathway for the generation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 is important for mast cell secretion and the NF-κB/Erk1/2 signalling pathway may be key in MMP-2 and MMP-9 production in host defense against toxoplasmosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M-F Wang
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lu CY, Lai SC. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 lead to fibronectin degradation in astroglia infected with Toxoplasma gondii. Acta Trop 2013. [PMID: 23201304 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2012.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic parasite and its infection in human can induce toxoplasmic encephalitis in immune disorders. In this study, astroglia were infected with the TS-4 strain of T. gondii tachyzoite in vitro to investigate the changes of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, MMP-9 and their substrate fibronectin. MMP-2 and MMP-9 were significantly increased at 1 h, 6 h and 12 h post-infection (PI) in the cell homogenates, and increased at 6 h, 12 h, 24 h and 48 h PI in the cell-cultured supernatants. Fibronectin degradation also occurred at the same time points. In addition, immunocytochemistry showed that MMP-2 and MMP-9 localized in the cytoplasm, and confocal scanning laser microscopy revealed co-labeled patterns of MMP-2 and MMP-9 with fibronectin. MMP-2 and MMP-9 interacted with fibronectin, respectively. These results suggest that MMP-2 and MMP-9 induction from astroglia may contribute to extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation occurring in toxoplasmosis. Thus, we hypothesize that MMP-2 and MMP-9 cleave fibronectin and may contribute to the astroglia reaction and leukocyte migration to the sites of T. gondii replication during toxoplasmic encephalitis.
Collapse
|
17
|
Bruschi F, Pinto B. The significance of matrix metalloproteinases in parasitic infections involving the central nervous system. Pathogens 2013; 2:105-29. [PMID: 25436884 PMCID: PMC4235708 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens2010105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2012] [Revised: 01/30/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) represent a large family of over twenty different secreted or membrane-bound endopeptidases, involved in many physiological (embryogenesis, precursor or stem cell mobilization, tissue remodeling during wound healing, etc.), as well as pathological (inflammation, tumor progression and metastasis in cancer, vascular pathology, etc.) conditions. For a long time, MMPs were considered only for the ability to degrade extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules (e.g., collagen, laminin, fibronectin) and to release hidden epitopes from the ECM. In the last few years, it has been fully elucidated that these molecules have many other functions, mainly related to the immune response, in consideration of their effects on cytokines, hormones and chemokines. Among others, MMP-2 and MMP-9 are endopeptidases of the MMP family produced by neutrophils, macrophages and monocytes. When infection is associated with leukocyte influx into specific organs, immunopathology and collateral tissue damage may occur. In this review, the involvement of MMPs and, in particular, of gelatinases in both protozoan and helminth infections will be described. In cerebral malaria, for example, MMPs play a role in the pathogenesis of such diseases. Also, trypanosomosis and toxoplasmosis will be considered for protozoan infections, as well as neurocysticercosis and angiostrongyloidosis, as regards helminthiases. All these situations have in common the proteolytic action on the blood brain barrier, mediated by MMPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizio Bruschi
- Department of Translational Research, N.T.M.S., University of Pisa, School of Medicine, Via Roma, 55, 56126, Italy.
| | - Barbara Pinto
- Department of Translational Research, N.T.M.S., University of Pisa, School of Medicine, Via Roma, 55, 56126, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Lunn JA, Lee R, Smaller J, MacKay BM, King T, Hunt GB, Martin P, Krockenberger MB, Spielman D, Malik R. Twenty two cases of canine neural angiostrongylosis in eastern Australia (2002-2005) and a review of the literature. Parasit Vectors 2012; 5:70. [PMID: 22480148 PMCID: PMC3361490 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-5-70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2011] [Accepted: 04/05/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cases of canine neural angiostrongylosis (NA) with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) evaluations in the peer-reviewed literature were tabulated. All cases were from Australia. A retrospective cohort of 59 dogs was contrasted with a series of 22 new cases where NA was diagnosed by the presence of both eosinophilic pleocytosis and anti-Angiostrongylus cantonensis immunloglobulins (IgG) in CSF, determined by ELISA or Western blot. Both cohorts were drawn from south east Queensland and Sydney. The retrospective cohort comprised mostly pups presented for hind limb weakness with hyperaesthesia, a mixture of upper motor neurone (UMN) and lower motor neurone (LMN) signs in the hind limbs and urinary incontinence. Signs were attributed to larval migration through peripheral nerves, nerve roots, spinal cord and brain associated with an ascending eosinophilic meningo-encephomyelitis. The contemporary cohort consisted of a mixture of pups, young adult and mature dogs, with a wider range of signs including (i) paraparesis/proprioceptive ataxia (ii) lumbar and tail base hyperaesthesia, (iii) multi-focal central nervous system dysfunction, or (iv) focal disease with neck pain, cranial neuropathy and altered mentation. Cases were seen throughout the year, most between April and July (inclusive). There was a preponderance of large breeds. Often littermates, or multiple animals from the same kennel, were affected simultaneously or sequentially. A presumptive diagnosis was based on consistent signs, proximity to rats, ingestion/chewing of slugs or snails and eosinophilic pleocytosis. NA was diagnosed by demonstrating anti-A. cantonensis IgG in CSF. Detecting anti-A. cantonensis IgG in serum was unhelpful because many normal dogs (20/21 pound dogs; 8/22 of a hospital population) had such antibodies, often at substantial titres. Most NA cases in the contemporary series (19/22) and many pups (16/38) in the retrospective cohort were managed successfully using high doses of prednisolone and opioids. Treatment often included antibiotics administered in case protozoan encephalomyelitis or translocated bacterial meningitis was present. Supportive measures included bladder care and physiotherapy. Several dogs were left with permanent neural deficits. Dogs are an important sentinel species for NA. Human cases and numerous cases in tawny frogmouths were reported from the same regions as affected dogs over the study period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julian A Lunn
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
- Veterinary Specialist Services, Corner Lexington & Logan Roads, Underwod, QLD 4119 Australia
| | - Rogan Lee
- ICMPR, Westmead Clinical School, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2065 Australia
| | - Joanna Smaller
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Bruce M MacKay
- Veterinary Specialist Services, Corner Lexington & Logan Roads, Underwod, QLD 4119 Australia
| | - Terry King
- Veterinary Specialist Services, Corner Lexington & Logan Roads, Underwod, QLD 4119 Australia
| | - Geraldine B Hunt
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Patricia Martin
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Mark B Krockenberger
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Derek Spielman
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| | - Richard Malik
- Centre for Veterinary Education, The University of Sydney, B22, Sydney, NSW 2006 Australia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Wei PC, Tsai CH, Chiu PS, Lai SC. Matrix metalloproteinase-12 leads to elastin degradation in BALB/c mice with eosinophilic meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Int J Parasitol 2011; 41:1175-83. [PMID: 21856305 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2011.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Revised: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 07/08/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The rat lugworm Angiostrongylus cantonensis can cause eosinophilic meningitis. The purpose of this study was to determine whether matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-12 and its substrate elastin participate in this inflammatory response. We showed that the MMP-12/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 ratio was significantly increased in the CSF of A. cantonensis-infected mice from day 10 p.i., and reached high levels on days 20 and 25 p.i. MMP-12 production was correlated with elastin degradation, eosinophil count, blood-CSF barrier permeability and pathological changes in the subarachnoid space. Also, MMP-12 might contribute to elastin degradation in the meningeal vessel of the subarachnoid space. Simultaneous administration of albendazole and doxycycline significantly reduced the levels of MMP-12, elastin and Evans blue in mice with meningitis. These results imply that MMP-12 contributes to the elastin degradation that occurs in angiostrongyliasis meningitis, and doxycycline can reverse related inflammatory events by inhibition of MMP-12.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P C Wei
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Lin K, Chen K, Lan K, Lee H, Lai S. Alterations of myelin proteins in inflammatory demyelination of BALB/c mice caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Vet Parasitol 2010; 171:74-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2009] [Revised: 03/08/2010] [Accepted: 03/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
21
|
Efficacy of combined treatment with albendazole and baicalein against eosinophilic meningitis induced by Angiostrongylus cantonensis in mice. J Helminthol 2010; 85:92-9. [PMID: 20587113 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x10000337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection causes eosinophilic meningitis in humans. Baicalein is a flavonoid originally isolated from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. In this study we evaluated the efficacy of the combination of albendazole and baicalein for treating eosinophilic meningitis in BALB/c mice. Therapeutic efficacy included the survival time, body weight, neurological function, leucocyte and eosinophil counts, eotaxin concentration, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity, larval recovery and histopathological examination. The results showed that the combination of albendazole and baicalein was more effective than either drug administered singly. Combination therapy increased the survival time, decreased body weight loss, neurological dysfunction, leucocyte response, eotaxin concentration and MMP-9 activity. Our results suggest that the combination of albendazole and baicalein may exhibit synergistic beneficial effects in the treatment of eosinophilic meningitis induced by A. cantonensis.
Collapse
|
22
|
Lin K, Lai S. Induction of 2′,3′-Cyclic Nucleotide 3′-Phosphodiesterase in Demyelination of BALB/c Mice Caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. J Comp Pathol 2009; 141:248-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2009.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2009] [Revised: 05/01/2009] [Accepted: 05/17/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
23
|
Lan KP, Lai SC. Differences of proteolytic enzymes and pathological changes in permissive and nonpermissive animal hosts for Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection. Vet Parasitol 2009; 165:265-72. [PMID: 19671486 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2009.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2009] [Revised: 07/03/2009] [Accepted: 07/15/2009] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study, mice (nonpermissive hosts) infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis showed significant worm degeneration and eosinophil degranulation, whereas infected rats (permissive hosts) showed lower worm degeneration and eosinophil degranulation. Pathophysiological changes developed to a lesser extent in rat than in the mouse strains. Neurological evaluation of A. cantonensis-infected mice showed mechanical damage caused by worms migrating to the brain. A significant correlation between the proteolytic enzymes, plasminogen activator (PA) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and pathological changes was found in hosts with eosinophilic meningitis or meningoencephalitis. Also, the ratio of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to serum albumin was consistently increased in hosts with angiostrongyliasis as compared with control. These data clearly indicate that PA and MMP-9 proteolytic enzymes as well as pathological changes are different in permissive and nonpermissive hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K P Lan
- Department of Laboratory, CiShan Hospital, 60 Chung-Hsueh Road, CiShan Chen, Kaohsiung County 842, Taiwan
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Lai SC, Chen KM, Chang YH, Lee HH. Comparative efficacies of albendazole and the Chinese herbal medicine long-dan-xie-gan-tan, used alone or in combination, in the treatment of experimental eosinophilic meningitis induced by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2008; 102:143-50. [PMID: 18318936 DOI: 10.1179/136485908x252304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the rat lungworm, is the principal cause of human eosinophilic meningitis or meningoencephalitis world-wide. In the present study, the efficacies of early-stage treatment with the Chinese herbal medicine long-dan-xie-gan-tan (LDXGT) and albendazole, used alone or in combination, were evaluated in BALB/c mice with A. cantonensis-induced dysfunction of the blood-central-nervous-system barrier and eosinophilic meningo-encephalitis. Indicators of the therapeutic effect included worm recovery, histopathological scores for the meningitis, assays of tissue-type plasminogen activator (PA), urokinase-type PA and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in the brain, the ratio between albumin concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum, and counts of eosinophils in the CSF. Combined treatment with albendazole and LDXGT gave better results than monotherapy based on either drug, apparently inhibiting eosinophilic meningitis via antagonists of the PA/MMP-9 system. LDXGT may have a therapeutic role in reducing inflammatory reaction in the subarachnoid space. Monotherapy with such an anti-inflammatory drug may relieve the symptoms of mild infection and the host's immune responses to A. cantonensis larvae. In severe infection, however, co-therapy with an anthelmintic (to kill the larvae) and an anti-inflammatory agent (to provide symptomatic relief) is probably a better approach. The therapeutic strategy should be tailored to the severity of the illness and the numbers of eosinophils in the CSF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Chen KM, Lee HH, Lai SC, Hsu LS, Wang CJ, Liu JY. Apoptosis in meningoencephalitis of Angiostrongylus cantonensis-infected mice. Exp Parasitol 2008; 119:385-90. [PMID: 18472098 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2008.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2007] [Revised: 03/25/2008] [Accepted: 03/26/2008] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A hallmark of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis is infiltration of leukocytes into brain parenchyma and subarachnoid space infected by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Apoptosis, a process that eliminates useless cells and counterbalances tissue homeostasis, is important for homeostasis of the immune system. In this study, we investigated the characteristics of cell death induced in BABL/c mice infected with A. cantonensis. We observed increased expression of the apoptotic proteins, caspase-3, caspase-8, caspase-9, and cytochrome c, and decreased expression of anti-apoptotic proteins, B-cell leukemia 2 and inhibitor of apoptosis protein 1. On immunohistochemistry, apoptotic proteins were localized within the leukocytes infiltrate. A terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine 5-triphosphate nick-end labeling assay to detect DNA fragmentation confirmed these observations. The infiltration of leukocytes present in the brain parenchyma and subarachnoid space in vivo may also express these apoptotic regulatory molecules, which demonstrates the capacity of these cells to undergo apoptosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ke-Min Chen
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Hsu CC, Lai SC. Matrix metalloproteinase-2, -9 and -13 are involved in fibronectin degradation of rat lung granulomatous fibrosis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Int J Exp Pathol 2007; 88:437-43. [PMID: 18039280 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2613.2007.00554.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary granuloma formation and fibrosis were experimentally induced in Sprague-Dawley strain rats by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Increased protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, -9, -13 and the imbalance between these enzymes and metalloproteinase inhibitors, tissue inhibitors of MMPs (TIMP-1 and -2), occur during granulomatous fibrosis. Activation of proteolytic enzymes (MMP-2, -9 and -13) and fibronectin degradation occur simultaneously. Furthermore, the present study demonstrated that fibronectin avidly binds MMP-2, -9 or -13. Immunohistochemical observations also showed the localization of MMP-13, TIMP-1 and -2 within the infiltrating leucocytes. These results suggest that MMP-2, -9 and -13 may participate in the fibronectin degradation of A. cantonensis-induced granulomatous fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Chin Hsu
- School of Nutrition, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lai SC, Chen KM. Changes to plasminogen activators and matrix metalloproteinase-9 in dogs with toxocarosis. Vet Parasitol 2007; 150:122-7. [PMID: 17913363 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2007.08.023] [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: 06/01/2007] [Revised: 08/06/2007] [Accepted: 08/22/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between proteolytic enzymes and hematological response to infection was studied in five 1-month-old dogs inoculated experimentally with 2000 eggs of Toxocara canis. Moderate leukocytosis and marked eosinophilia occurred 14 days post-infection with T. canis. Plasminogen activators (PAs) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity in serum was significantly different in dogs infected with T. canis, compared with controls. Urokinase-type PA (uPA) activity was positively correlated with eosinophilia, and tissue-type PA (tPA) and MMP-9 activity was negatively correlated with eosinophilia. However, there was no correlation between inflammation and MMP-2. The use of uPA, tPA or MMP-9 proteolytic enzymes as laboratory reference markers for toxocarosis requires further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110 Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan.
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Angiostrongylus cantonensis: induction of urokinase-type PA and degradation of type IV collagen in rat lung granulomatous fibrosis. Exp Parasitol 2007; 118:472-7. [PMID: 18022622 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2007.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2007] [Revised: 07/27/2007] [Accepted: 10/10/2007] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Granuloma formation and subsequent fibrosis around Angiostrongylus cantonensis larvae in the lungs were induced experimentally in Sprague-Dawley strain rats. Casein zymogram analysis demonstrated that urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) activity was increased during lung inflammation and fibrosis. Granulomatous fibrosis, type IV collagen degradation and activation of uPA occur simultaneously. Furthermore, the present study demonstrated that collagen avidly binds uPA. Immunohistochemical observations showed localization of uPA within the infiltrating leucocytes. We propose that uPA may participate in A. cantonensis-induced granulomatous fibrosis.
Collapse
|
29
|
Hsu LS, Lee HH, Chen KM, Chou HL, Lai SC. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 in the granulomatous fibrosis of rats infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2005; 99:61-70. [PMID: 15701257 DOI: 10.1179/136485905x19919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The histomorphology of granuloma formation and gelatinase production were investigated in the brains, hearts, lungs and livers of Sprague-Dawley rats infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis. The relationships between two gelatinases and granulomatous fibrosis were explored, following infection of each rat with 60 infective larvae of the nematode. Worm recovery from the brain was maximal on day 15 post-inoculation whereas peak recovery from the lungs was maximal 75 days later, on day 90. The granulomatous reactions and fibrosis were marked in the lungs but only mild, if present at all, in the brain, heart and liver. Gelatin zymography revealed that matrix metalloproteinase2 (MMP-2) was present, at all time-points, in the heart and lungs, although only in the lungs was there partial conversion of the 72-kDa pro-enzyme to the 64-kDa active form during granulomatous fibrosis. The activity of the MMP-9 pro-enzyme was significantly higher at the time-points when granuloma formation was observed than at other times. Immuno-histochemistry revealed MMP-2 and MMP-9 within the lung granulomas, around infiltrating leucocytes and the epithelial cells of the alveoli. As the granulomatous fibrosis appeared to be strongly associated with MMP-2 and MMP-9, these enzymes may be useful markers in the lungs of rats infected with A. cantonensis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L S Hsu
- Institute of Biochemistry, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Lai SC, Chen KM, Chen HC, Lee HH. Induction of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in mice during Toxocara canis larvae migration. Parasitol Res 2005; 95:193-200. [PMID: 15645290 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-004-1271-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2004] [Accepted: 10/14/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The relationships between inflammation in organs with Toxocara canis larval migration and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) were investigated following the infection of mice with 1,000 infective eggs. Gelatinase activity was defined by gelatin zymography, optimum pH, inhibitor specificity and Western blot analysis. MMP-9 activity was present in the lungs, liver, muscles, and brain during T. canis larval migration. This enzyme had a molecular weight of about 94 kDa and showed maximum activity in the pH range of 6-8. The increased MMP-9 proteinases coincided with larval recovery and the degree of inflammation among the four organs. These results suggest that MMP-9 may be associated with the inflammatory reaction to larval toxocariasis during early migration, and may therefore be a useful marker during T. canis larvae migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, 402, Taichung , Taiwan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|