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You H, Jones MK, Gordon CA, Arganda AE, Cai P, Al-Wassiti H, Pouton CW, McManus DP. The mRNA Vaccine Technology Era and the Future Control of Parasitic Infections. Clin Microbiol Rev 2023; 36:e0024121. [PMID: 36625671 PMCID: PMC10035331 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00241-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite intensive long-term efforts, with very few exceptions, the development of effective vaccines against parasitic infections has presented considerable challenges, given the complexity of parasite life cycles, the interplay between parasites and their hosts, and their capacity to escape the host immune system and to regulate host immune responses. For many parasitic diseases, conventional vaccine platforms have generally proven ill suited, considering the complex manufacturing processes involved and the costs they incur, the inability to posttranslationally modify cloned target antigens, and the absence of long-lasting protective immunity induced by these antigens. An effective antiparasite vaccine platform is required to assess the effectiveness of novel vaccine candidates at high throughput. By exploiting the approach that has recently been used successfully to produce highly protective COVID mRNA vaccines, we anticipate a new wave of research to advance the use of mRNA vaccines to prevent parasitic infections in the near future. This article considers the characteristics that are required to develop a potent antiparasite vaccine and provides a conceptual foundation to promote the development of parasite mRNA-based vaccines. We review the recent advances and challenges encountered in developing antiparasite vaccines and evaluate the potential of developing mRNA vaccines against parasites, including those causing diseases such as malaria and schistosomiasis, against which vaccines are currently suboptimal or not yet available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong You
- Department of Infection and Inflammation, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Malcolm K. Jones
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Catherine A. Gordon
- Department of Infection and Inflammation, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Alexa E. Arganda
- Department of Infection and Inflammation, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Pengfei Cai
- Department of Infection and Inflammation, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Harry Al-Wassiti
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Colin W. Pouton
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Donald P. McManus
- Department of Infection and Inflammation, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
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2
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Wu S, Wang X, Xing W, Li F, Liang M, Li K, He Y, Wang J. An update on animal models of liver fibrosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1160053. [PMID: 37035335 PMCID: PMC10076546 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1160053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of liver fibrosis primarily determines quality of life as well as prognosis. Animal models are often used to model and understand the underlying mechanisms of human disease. Although organoids can be used to simulate organ development and disease, the technology still faces significant challenges. Therefore animal models are still irreplaceable at this stage. Currently, in vivo models of liver fibrosis can be classified into five categories based on etiology: chemical, dietary, surgical, transgenic, and immune. There is a wide variety of animal models of liver fibrosis with varying efficacy, which have different implications for proper understanding of the disease and effective screening of therapeutic agents. There is no high-quality literature recommending the most appropriate animal models. In this paper, we will describe the progress of commonly used animal models of liver fibrosis in terms of their development mechanisms, applications, advantages and disadvantages, and recommend appropriate animal models for different research purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- ShuTing Wu
- Institute of Regenerative and Translational Medicine, Tianyou Hospital, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - XinXin Wang
- Institute of Regenerative and Translational Medicine, Tianyou Hospital, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - WenBo Xing
- Institute of Regenerative and Translational Medicine, Tianyou Hospital, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - FenYao Li
- Institute of Regenerative and Translational Medicine, Tianyou Hospital, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ming Liang
- Institute of Regenerative and Translational Medicine, Tianyou Hospital, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - KeShen Li
- Institute of Regenerative and Translational Medicine, Tianyou Hospital, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan He
- Institute of Regenerative and Translational Medicine, Tianyou Hospital, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- *Correspondence: Yan He,
| | - JianMing Wang
- Institute of Regenerative and Translational Medicine, Tianyou Hospital, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Hepatobiliary and Pancreatic Surgery, Tianyou Hospital, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- JianMing Wang,
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Wang S, Zhang J, Chen H, Zhan X, Nie H, Wang C, Zhang Y, Zheng B, Gong Q. MicroRNA-181b promotes schistosomiasis-induced hepatic fibrosis by targeting Smad7. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2022; 252:111523. [PMID: 36195241 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2022.111523] [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: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a common parasitic disease. Hepatosplenic schistosomiasis, caused by Schistosoma japonicum and Schistosoma mansoni, involves pathological changes, including worm egg-induced hepatic granuloma and fibrosis, which can markedly affect the liver's physiological functions. Although the drug praziquantel (PZQ) is used to treat schistosomiasis, drugs against schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis are rare in the clinical setting. Therefore, developing effective strategies to prevent and treat schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis is crucial. Previous studies have shown that miRNAs are involved in various liver diseases. In this study, we found a gradual increase in miR-181b expression in the murine liver as S. japonicum infection progressed, while the expression of Smad7 decreased. Down-regulating miR-181b significantly alleviated S. japonicum-induced hepatic granuloma and liver fibrosis. In vitro experiments showed that treatment with TGF-β1 upregulated miR-181b levels in the hepatic stellate cell (HSC) line LX2 in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Downregulation of miR-181b significantly decreased collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1) expression in TGF-β1-stimulated LX2 cells. These findings indicate that miR-181b promotes HSC activation by down-regulating Smad7 expression, activating the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway, and leading to excess collagen expression and deposition. Our findings suggest that miR-181b might be a potentially novel therapeutic target for schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Jianqiang Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China; Department of Nephrology, Ezhou Central Hospital, Ezhou, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China; Department of Laboratory Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Xiang Zhan
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Hao Nie
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China; Clinical Molecular Immunology Center, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Chao Wang
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China; Clinical Molecular Immunology Center, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Yanxiang Zhang
- Clinical Molecular Immunology Center, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China
| | - Bing Zheng
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China; Clinical Molecular Immunology Center, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China.
| | - Quan Gong
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China; Clinical Molecular Immunology Center, School of Medicine, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, China.
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McManus DP. The Search for a Schistosomiasis Vaccine: Australia's Contribution. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9080872. [PMID: 34451997 PMCID: PMC8402410 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9080872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic flatworms of the genus Schistosoma, results in considerable human morbidity in sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, but also parts of the Middle East, South America, and Southeast Asia. The anti-schistosome drug praziquantel is efficacious and safe against the adult parasites of all Schistosoma species infecting humans; however, it does not prevent reinfection and the development of drug resistance is a constant concern. The need to develop an effective vaccine is of great importance if the health of many in the developing world is to be improved. Indeed, vaccination, in combination with other public health measures, can provide an invaluable tool to achieve lasting control, leading to schistosomiasis elimination. Australia has played a leading role in schistosomiasis vaccine research over many years and this review presents an overview of some of the significant contributions made by Australian scientists in this important area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald P McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane 4006, Australia
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5
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Masamba P, Kappo AP. Immunological and Biochemical Interplay between Cytokines, Oxidative Stress and Schistosomiasis. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22137216. [PMID: 34281269 PMCID: PMC8268096 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22137216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The host–parasite schistosome relationship relies heavily on the interplay between the strategies imposed by the schistosome worm and the defense mechanisms the host uses to counter the line of attack of the parasite. The ultimate goal of the schistosome parasite entails five important steps: evade elimination tactics, survive within the human host, develop into adult forms, propagate in large numbers, and transmit from one host to the next. The aim of the parasitized host on the other hand is either to cure or limit infection. Therefore, it is a battle between two conflicting aspirations. From the host’s standpoint, infection accompanies a plethora of immunological consequences; some are set in place to defend the host, while most end up promoting chronic disease, which ultimately crosses paths with oxidative stress and cancer. Understanding these networks provides attractive opportunities for anti-schistosome therapeutic development. Hence, this review discusses the mechanisms by which schistosomes modulate the human immune response with ultimate links to oxidative stress and genetic instability.
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Mu Y, McManus DP, Hou N, Cai P. Schistosome Infection and Schistosome-Derived Products as Modulators for the Prevention and Alleviation of Immunological Disorders. Front Immunol 2021; 12:619776. [PMID: 33692793 PMCID: PMC7937812 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.619776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic helminths, comprising the flatworms (tapeworms and flukes) and nematodes (roundworms), have plagued humans persistently over a considerable period of time. It is now known that the degree of exposure to these and other pathogens inversely correlates with the incidence of both T helper 1 (Th1)-mediated autoimmunity and Th2-mediated allergy. Accordingly, there has been recent increased interest in utilizing active helminth worm infections and helminth-derived products for the treatment of human autoimmune and inflammatory diseases and to alleviate disease severity. Indeed, there is an accumulating list of novel helminth derived molecules, including proteins, peptides, and microRNAs, that have been shown to exhibit therapeutic potential in a variety of disease models. Here we consider the blood-dwelling schistosome flukes, which have evolved subtle immune regulatory mechanisms that promote parasite survival but at the same time minimize host tissue immunopathology. We review and discuss the recent advances in using schistosome infection and schistosome-derived products as therapeutics to treat or mitigate human immune-related disorders, including allergic asthma, arthritis, colitis, diabetes, sepsis, cystitis, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Mu
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Donald P McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Nan Hou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Pengfei Cai
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
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McCarthy MW. Harnessing the potential of CRISPR-based platforms to advance the field of hospital medicine. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2020; 18:799-805. [PMID: 32366131 PMCID: PMC7212535 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2020.1761333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) are segments of nucleic acid that play a role in prokaryotic defense and form the basis of a genome editing technology that allows permanent alteration of genetic material. This methodology, known as CRISPR-Cas9, is poised to revolutionize molecular biology, but no literature yet exists on how these advances will affect hospitalists. AREAS COVERED These specialists in inpatient medicine care for a wide variety of hospitalized patients, including those with infectious disease, cancer, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, hematologic disease, and a variety of other conditions that may soon be impacted by advances in gene-modifying technology provided by CRISPR-Cas9. A Literature search was performed using PubMed [1 December 2019-17 April 2020]. EXPERT OPINION This paper reviews the remarkable diagnostic and therapeutic potential of the CRISPR-Cas9 platform and concludes with a look at ethical issues and technical hurdles pertaining to the implementation of permanent gene modification in the practice of Hospital Medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew W. McCarthy
- Weill Cornell Medical College, Division of General Internal Medicine, New York-Presbyterian Hospital, New York, NY, USA
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8
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Schistosomiasis-from immunopathology to vaccines. Semin Immunopathol 2020; 42:355-371. [PMID: 32076812 PMCID: PMC7223304 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-020-00789-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis (bilharzia) is a neglected tropical disease caused by trematode worms of the genus Schistosoma. The transmission cycle involves human (or other mammalian) water contact with surface water contaminated by faeces or urine, as well as specific freshwater snails acting as intermediate hosts. The main disease-causing species are S. haematobium, S. mansoni and S. japonicum. According to the World Health Organisation, over 250 million people are infected worldwide, leading to considerable morbidity and the estimated loss of 1.9 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), a likely underestimated figure. Schistosomiasis is characterised by focal epidemiology and an over-dispersed population distribution, with higher infection rates in children. Complex immune mechanisms lead to the slow acquisition of immune resistance, but innate factors also play a part. Acute schistosomiasis, a feverish syndrome, is most evident in travellers following a primary infection. Chronic schistosomiasis affects mainly individuals with long-standing infections residing in poor rural areas. Immunopathological reactions against schistosome eggs trapped in host tissues lead to inflammatory and obstructive disease in the urinary system (S. haematobium) or intestinal disease, hepatosplenic inflammation and liver fibrosis (S. mansoni and S. japonicum). An effective drug—praziquantel—is available for treatment but, despite intensive efforts, no schistosomiasis vaccines have yet been accepted for public use. In this review, we briefly introduce the schistosome parasites and the immunopathogenic manifestations resulting from schistosomiasis. We then explore aspects of the immunology and host-parasite interplay in schistosome infections paying special attention to the current status of schistosomiasis vaccine development highlighting the advancement of a new controlled human challenge infection model for testing schistosomiasis vaccines.
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Gao YR, Mei D, He YB, Chen RX, Gao J, Liu HX, Zhang Y, Yu WH, Wang LX. Effects of programmed cell death protein 10 on the Schistosoma japonicum female reproductive system. Acta Trop 2020; 202:105253. [PMID: 31678234 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105253] [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: 03/21/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the effects of programmed cell death protein 10 (PCDP10) on the female reproductive system of Schistosoma japonicum, one of the major infectious agents of schistosomiasis. We found that PCDP10 was widely distributed in the integument, the worm parenchymal area, and the vitellarium of the female worm, but was localized to a lesser extent in the ovary and testicles. RNAi experiments successfully achieved gene knockdown, and the ultrastructural morphology of the adult reproductive organs was observed. The results demonstrated that, compared with those of the negative control group, the number of cortical granules around oocytes decreased and the number of immature oocyte cells increased. Fusion of yolk globules occurred, and the number and the diameter of yolk droplets decreased significantly. Real-time PCR showed that the expression of yolk glands reached its peak before ovulation and then decreased. The TUNEL assay results showed that apoptosis in the RNAi group was significantly higher than that in the negative control group. These results suggested that SjPCDP10 plays an important role in the female reproductive system. In conclusion, PCD10 is involved in oocyte growth and development, especially in eggshell formation, which may provide a reference for further elucidating the molecular mechanism of PCDP10 involved in egg formation and embryo development in Schistosoma japonicum.
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10
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The role of microRNAs in the pathogenesis, grading and treatment of hepatic fibrosis in schistosomiasis. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:611. [PMID: 31888743 PMCID: PMC6937654 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3866-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a prevalent parasitic disease worldwide. The main pathological changes of hepatosplenic schistosomiasis are hepatic granuloma and fibrosis due to worm eggs. Portal hypertension and ascites induced by hepatic fibrosis are usually the main causes of death in patients with chronic hepatosplenic schistosomiasis. Currently, no effective vaccine exists for preventing schistosome infections. For quite a long time, praziquantel (PZQ) was widely used for the treatment of schistosomiasis and has shown benefit in treating liver fibrosis. However, drug resistance and chemical toxicity from PZQ are being increasingly reported in recent years; therefore, new and effective strategies for treating schistosomiasis-induced hepatic fibrosis are urgently needed. MicroRNA (miRNA), a non-coding RNA, has been proved to be associated with the development of many human diseases, including schistosomiasis. In this review, we present a balanced and comprehensive view of the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis, grading, and treatment of schistosomiasis-associated hepatic fibrosis. The multiple regulatory roles of miRNAs, such as promoting or inhibiting the development of liver pathology in murine schistosomiasis are also discussed in depth. Additionally, miRNAs may serve as candidate biomarkers for diagnosing liver pathology of schistosomiasis and as novel therapeutic targets for treating schistosomiasis-associated hepatic fibrosis.![]()
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Sm16, A Schistosoma mansoni Immunomodulatory Protein, Fails to Elicit a Protective Immune Response and Does Not Have an Essential Role in Parasite Survival in the Definitive Host. J Immunol Res 2019; 2019:6793596. [PMID: 31886307 PMCID: PMC6915009 DOI: 10.1155/2019/6793596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Sm16 is an immunomodulatory protein that seems to play a key role in the suppression of the cutaneous inflammatory response during Schistosoma mansoni penetration of the skin of definitive hosts. Therefore, Sm16 represents a potential target for protective immune responses induced by vaccination. In this work, we generated the recombinant protein rSm16 and produced polyclonal antibodies against this protein to evaluate its expression during different parasite life-cycle stages and its location on the surface of the parasite. In addition, we analyzed the immune responses elicited by immunization with rSm16 using two different vaccine formulations, as well as its ability to induce protection in Balb/c mice. In order to explore the biological function of Sm16 during the course of experimental infection, RNA interference was also employed. Our results demonstrated that Sm16 is expressed in cercaria and schistosomula and is located in the schistosomula surface. Despite humoral and cellular immune responses triggered by vaccination using rSm16 associated with either Freund's or alum adjuvants, immunized mice presented no reduction in either parasite burden or parasite egg laying. Knockdown of Sm16 gene expression in schistosomula resulted in decreased parasite size in vitro but had no effect on parasite survival or egg production in vivo. Thus, our findings demonstrate that although the vaccine formulations used in this study succeeded in activating immune responses, these failed to promote parasite elimination. Finally, we have shown that Sm16 is not vital for parasite survival in the definitive host and hence may not represent a suitable target for vaccine development.
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12
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Young ND, Gasser RB. Opisthorchis viverrini Draft Genome - Biomedical Implications and Future Avenues. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2018; 101:125-148. [PMID: 29907252 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2018.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Opisthorchiasis is a neglected tropical disease of major proportion, caused by the carcinogenic, Asian liver fluke, Opisthorchis viverrini. This hepatobiliary disease is known to be associated with malignant cancer (cholangiocarcinoma, CCA) and affects millions of people in Southeast Asia. No vaccine is available, and only one drug (praziquantel) is routinely employed against the parasite. Despite technological advances, little is known about the molecular biology of the fluke itself and the disease complex that it causes in humans. The advent of high-throughput nucleic acid sequencing and bioinformatic technologies is enabling researchers to gain global insights into the molecular pathways and processes in parasites. The principal aims of this chapter are to (1) review molecular research of O. viverrini and opisthorchiasis; (2) provide an account of recent advances in the sequencing and characterization of the genome and transcriptomes of O. viverrini; (3) describe the complex life of this worm in the biliary system of the definitive (human) host and how the fluke interacts with this host and causes disease at the molecular level; (4) discuss the implications of systems biological research and (5) consider how progress in genomics and informatics might enable explorations of O. viverrini and related worms and the discovery of new interventions against opisthorchiasis and CCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil D Young
- The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Huang S, Pengsakul T, Cao Y, Lu M, Peng W, Lin J, Tang C, Tang L. Biological activities and functional analysis of macrophage migration inhibitory factor in Oncomelania hupensis, the intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2018; 74:133-140. [PMID: 29305986 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2017.12.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Revised: 12/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a destructive parasitic zoonosis caused by agents of the genus Schistosoma, which afflicts more than 250 million people worldwide. The freshwater amphibious snail Oncomelania hupensis serves as the obligate intermediate host of Schistosoma japonicum. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has been demonstrated to be a pleiotropic immunoregulatory cytokine and a key signaling molecule involved in adaptive and innate immunity. In the present study, we obtained the full-length cDNA of OhMIF and analyzed the characteristics of the ORF and the peptide sequence in O. hupensis. Next we have successfully expressed and purified the recombinant OhMIF protein (rOhMIF) together with a site-directed mutant rOhMIFP2G, in which the N-terminal Proline (Pro2) was substituted by a Gly. Our results indicated that rOhMIF displayed the conserved D-dopachrome tautomerase activity which is dependent on Pro2, and this enzymatic activity can be significantly inhibited by the MIF antagonist ISO-1. Moreover, we also measured and compared the steady state kinetic values for D-dopachrome tautomerase activity of rOhMIF and rHsMIF, and the results showed that the reaction rate, catalytic efficiency and substrate affinity of rOhMIF are significantly lower than those of rHsMIF. Additionally, we also showed that rOhMIF had the oxidoreductase activity which can utilize DTT as reductant to reduce insulin. Furthermore, the results obtained from the in vitro injection assay demonstrated that rOhMIF and its mutant rOhMIFP2G can also induce the phosphorylation and activation of ERK1/2 pathway in O. hupensis circulating hemocytes, indicating that the tautomerase activity is not required for this biological function. These results are expected to produce a better understanding of the internal immune defense system in O. hupensis, and help to further explore the interaction between O. hupensis and its natural parasite S. japoniucm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaiqin Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Parasitology Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
| | - Theerakamol Pengsakul
- Faculty of Medical Technology, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Yunchao Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Parasitology Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Mingke Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Parasitology Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Wenfeng Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Parasitology Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Jiaojiao Lin
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology, Ministry of Agriculture of China, Shanghai, China
| | - Chongti Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Parasitology Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Liang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China; Parasitology Research Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
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14
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Signalling pathways in schistosomes: novel targets for control interventions against schistosomiasis. Emerg Top Life Sci 2017; 1:633-639. [PMID: 33525854 DOI: 10.1042/etls20170093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Over the last decade, there has been accumulating evidence showing that signalling pathways are involved in extensive biological and physiological processes in the human blood fluke schistosomes, playing essential roles in environmental sensing, host penetration, growth, development, maturation, embryogenesis, tissue self-renewal and survival. Owing to the likelihood of resistance developing against praziquantel, the only drug currently available that is effective against all the human schistosome species, there is an urgent requirement for an alternative treatment, arguing for continuing research into novel or repurposed anti-schistosomal drugs. An increasing number of anticancer drugs are being developed which block abnormal signalling pathways, a feature that has stimulated interest in developing novel interventions against human schistosomiasis by targeting key cell signalling components. In this review, we discuss the functional characterization of signal transduction pathways in schistosomes and consider current challenges and future perspectives in this important area of research.
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Cai P, Liu S, Piao X, Hou N, You H, McManus DP, Chen Q. A next-generation microarray further reveals stage-enriched gene expression pattern in the blood fluke Schistosoma japonicum. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:19. [PMID: 28069074 PMCID: PMC5223471 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1947-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis is caused by infection with blood flukes of the genus Schistosoma, and ranks, in terms of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), as the third most important neglected tropical disease. Schistosomes have several discrete life stages involving dramatic morphological changes during their development, which require subtle gene expression modulations to complete the complex life-cycle. RESULTS In the current study, we employed a second generation schistosome DNA chip printed with the most comprehensive probe array for studying the Schistosoma japonicum transcriptome, to explore stage-associated gene expression in different developmental phases of S. japonicum. A total of 328, 95, 268 and 532 mRNA transcripts were enriched in cercariae, hepatic schistosomula, adult worms and eggs, respectively. In general, genes associated with transcriptional regulation, cell signalling and motor activity were readily expressed in cercariae; the expression of genes involved in neuronal activities, apoptosis and renewal was modestly upregulated in hepatic schistosomula; transcripts involved in egg production, nutrition metabolism and glycosylation were enriched in adult worms; while genes involved in cell division, microtubule-associated mobility, and host-parasite interplay were relatively highly expressed in eggs. CONCLUSIONS The study further highlights the expressional features of stage-associated genes in schistosomes with high accuracy. The results provide a better perspective of the biological characteristics among different developmental stages, which may open new avenues for identification of novel vaccine candidates and the development of novel control interventions against schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Cai
- MOH Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China. .,Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Shuai Liu
- MOH Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xianyu Piao
- MOH Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Nan Hou
- MOH Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong You
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland, Australia
| | - Donald P McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Qijun Chen
- MOH Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People's Republic of China. .,Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Shenyang Agriculture University, Shenyang, People's Republic of China.
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Ono Y, Saido TC, Sorimachi H. Calpain research for drug discovery: challenges and potential. Nat Rev Drug Discov 2016; 15:854-876. [PMID: 27833121 DOI: 10.1038/nrd.2016.212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 191] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Calpains are a family of proteases that were scientifically recognized earlier than proteasomes and caspases, but remain enigmatic. However, they are known to participate in a multitude of physiological and pathological processes, performing 'limited proteolysis' whereby they do not destroy but rather modulate the functions of their substrates. Calpains are therefore referred to as 'modulator proteases'. Multidisciplinary research on calpains has begun to elucidate their involvement in pathophysiological mechanisms. Therapeutic strategies targeting malfunctions of calpains have been developed, driven primarily by improvements in the specificity and bioavailability of calpain inhibitors. Here, we review the calpain superfamily and calpain-related disorders, and discuss emerging calpain-targeted therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuko Ono
- Calpain Project, Department of Advanced Science for Biomolecules, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science (IGAKUKEN), 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan
| | - Takaomi C Saido
- Laboratory for Proteolytic Neuroscience, RIKEN Brain Science Institute, 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Sorimachi
- Calpain Project, Department of Advanced Science for Biomolecules, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medical Science (IGAKUKEN), 2-1-6 Kamikitazawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 156-8506, Japan
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Tebeje BM, Harvie M, You H, Loukas A, McManus DP. Schistosomiasis vaccines: where do we stand? Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:528. [PMID: 27716365 PMCID: PMC5045607 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1799-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, caused mainly by S. mansoni, S. haematobium and S. japonicum, continues to be a serious tropical disease and public health problem resulting in an unacceptably high level of morbidity in countries where it is endemic. Praziquantel, the only drug currently available for treatment, is unable to kill developing schistosomes, it does not prevent re-infection and its continued extensive use may result in the future emergence of drug-resistant parasites. This scenario provides impetus for the development and deployment of anti-schistosome vaccines to be used as part of an integrated approach for the prevention, control and eventual elimination of schistosomiasis. This review considers the present status of candidate vaccines for schistosomiasis, and provides some insight on future vaccine discovery and design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Biniam Mathewos Tebeje
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia. .,School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. .,Department of Immunology and Molecular Biology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Marina Harvie
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Hong You
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
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Abstract
A population of stems cells continuously rejuvenates the outer surface of a human parasitic flatworm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Pearson
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
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