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Bussmann AJC, Santos LFS, Ferreira RN, Pires BG, Gerez JR, Bracarense APFRL, Filho SCFG, Verri WA, Borghi SM. Leishmania spp. amastigotes surrounding sensory nerve fibers in human painless skin ulcers: Evidence of pathogen-neuron proximity and absence of neuronal apoptosis. Acta Trop 2024; 256:107265. [PMID: 38772434 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
In this present study, carried out between November 2020 and July 2023 at Londrina's University Hospital, patients with active lesions of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) were analyzed regarding pain perception and anatomopathological aspects of the ulcers. Pain was assessed using a numerical rating scale (NRS) to compare five patients diagnosed with CL with four control patients diagnosed with vascular skin ulcers. Histopathological evaluations were used to investigate the nociceptor neuron-Leishmania interface. Patients with CL ulcers reported less pain compared to patients with vascular ulcers (2.60 ± 2.30 and 7.25 ± 0.95, respectively, p = 0.0072). Histopathology evidenced Leishmania spp. amastigote forms nearby sensory nerve fibers in profound dermis. Schwann cells marker (S100 protein) was detected, and caspase-3 activation was not evidenced in the in the nerve fibers of CL patients' samples, suggesting absence of apoptotic activity in nerve endings. Additionally, samples taken from the active edge of the lesion were negative for bacilli acid-alcohol resistant (BAAR), which excludes concomitant leprosy, in which painless lesions are also observed. Thus, the present data unveil for the first time anatomopathological and microbiological details of painless ulcers in CL patients, which has important clinical implications for a better understanding on the intriguing painless clinical characteristic of CL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allan J C Bussmann
- Laboratory of Pain, Inflammation, Neuropathy, and Cancer, Department of Pathology, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, 86057-970, Brazil; Laboratory of Pathologic Anatomy, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, 86038-350, Brazil
| | - Luis Felipe S Santos
- Resident doctor in dermatology at the University Hospital, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, 86038-350, Brazil
| | - Renan N Ferreira
- Laboratory of Pathologic Anatomy, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, 86038-350, Brazil
| | - Bárbara G Pires
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Juliana R Gerez
- Laboratory of Animal Pathology, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, 86057-970, Brazil
| | | | - Silvio Cesar F G Filho
- Laboratory of Pathologic Anatomy, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, 86038-350, Brazil
| | - Waldiceu A Verri
- Laboratory of Pain, Inflammation, Neuropathy, and Cancer, Department of Pathology, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, 86057-970, Brazil
| | - Sergio M Borghi
- Laboratory of Pain, Inflammation, Neuropathy, and Cancer, Department of Pathology, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, 86057-970, Brazil; Center for Research in Health Sciences, University of Northern Paraná, Londrina, Paraná, 86041-140, Brazil.
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2
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Menezes SA, Tasca T. Extracellular vesicles in parasitic diseases - from pathogenesis to future diagnostic tools. Microbes Infect 2024; 26:105310. [PMID: 38316376 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2024.105310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Parasitic diseases are still a major public health problem especially among individuals of low socioeconomic status in underdeveloped countries. In recent years it has been demonstrated that parasites can release extracellular vesicles that participate in the host-parasite communication, immune evasion, and in governing processes associated with host infection. Extracellular vesicles are membrane-bound structures released into the extracellular space that can carry several types of biomolecules, including proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, and metabolites, which directly impact the target cells. Extracellular vesicles have attracted wide attention due to their relevance in host-parasite communication and for their potential value in applications such as in the diagnostic biomarker discovery. This review of the literature aimed to join the current knowledge on the role of extracellular vesicles in host-parasite interaction and summarize its molecular content, providing information for the acquisition of new tools that can be used in the diagnosis of parasitic diseases. These findings shed light to the potential of extracellular vesicle cargo derived from protozoan parasites as novel diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saulo Almeida Menezes
- Faculdade de Farmácia e Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90610-000, RS, Brazil.
| | - Tiana Tasca
- Faculdade de Farmácia e Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre 90610-000, RS, Brazil.
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3
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Amane M, El Mazini S, Echchakery M, Hafidi M, Lemrani M, Boussaa S. Entomological, parasitological and molecular investigations in a new focus of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Youssoufia region, Morocco. Zoonoses Public Health 2024; 71:248-257. [PMID: 38105536 DOI: 10.1111/zph.13105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical infection caused by Leishmania parasite that affect human and animal. In Morocco, the cutaneous leishmaniasis has spread substantially to the new areas. The surveillance limited to active foci may underestimate the occurrence of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). This study aims to investigate the local transmission of CL in rural districts of Youssoufia province, central Morocco, as a potential focus of CL. METHODS For this purpose, parasitological, molecular and entomological investigations were carried out in this area. Data collection concerns potential vectors and human cases. Thus, 402 patients were examined for suspected leishmaniasis lesions in three localities of the province of Youssoufia. In these same localities, 983 sand flies were collected by CDC light traps and sticky paper during one-night per month during 6 months. These sand flies were all identified morphologically using the Moroccan identification key. RESULTS The results showed that among the 25 skin lesions detected in a population of 402 individuals, 18 were confirmed by kDNA nested PCR as CL positive patients, of which only 25% were positive by direct examination. Leishmania tropica and Leishmania major were identified as causative agents of CL in the study area. Direct parasitological examination showed a low sensitivity (27.78%), especially for L. major, although its specificity was evaluated at 100%. Regarding entomological results, both genera of the Moroccan sand fly were collected in the study area: Genus/Phlebotomus (75.28%) and Sergentomyia (24.72%). Phlebotomus (P) papatasi, the proven vector of L. major, was the most abundant species (33.98%), followed by Paralongicollum sergenti (22.58%), the confirmed vector of L. tropica; while Sergentomyia (S) minuta, P. longicuspis, S. fallax and P. kazeruni were collected with, respectively, 17.60%, 16.99%, 7.12% and 1.73%. CONCLUSION This study constitutes the first report of CL in the study areas, as well as the coexistence of L. tropica and L. major in these rural localities. Local transmission of CL is highly probable, as indicated by the prevalence of the two proven vectors of L. major and L. tropica. To control the spread of this disease, our results suggest the use of highly sensitive molecular methods to detect CL cases in potential leishmaniasis foci, which will improve surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mounia Amane
- Microbial Biotechnologies, Agrosciences and Environment Laboratory (BioMAgE), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - Sara El Mazini
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Vector-Borne-Diseases, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
- Laboratory of Microbial Biotechnology and Bioactive Molecules, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies, Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdellah University, Fes, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Echchakery
- Microbial Biotechnologies, Agrosciences and Environment Laboratory (BioMAgE), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco
- Epidemiology and Biomedical Unit, Laboratory of Sciences and Health Technologies, Higher Institute of Health Sciences, Hassan First University, Settat, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Hafidi
- Microbial Biotechnologies, Agrosciences and Environment Laboratory (BioMAgE), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco
| | - Meryem Lemrani
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Vector-Borne-Diseases, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Samia Boussaa
- Microbial Biotechnologies, Agrosciences and Environment Laboratory (BioMAgE), Faculty of Sciences Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakesh, Morocco
- ISPITS-Higher Institute of Nursing and Technical Health Occupations, Ministry of Health and Social Protection, Rabat, Morocco
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4
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Uribe-Querol E, Rosales C. Neutrophils versus Protozoan Parasites: Plasmodium, Trichomonas, Leishmania, Trypanosoma, and Entameoba. Microorganisms 2024; 12:827. [PMID: 38674770 PMCID: PMC11051968 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12040827] [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: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Neutrophils are the most abundant polymorphonuclear granular leukocytes in human blood and are an essential part of the innate immune system. Neutrophils are efficient cells that eliminate pathogenic bacteria and fungi, but their role in dealing with protozoan parasitic infections remains controversial. At sites of protozoan parasite infections, a large number of infiltrating neutrophils is observed, suggesting that neutrophils are important cells for controlling the infection. Yet, in most cases, there is also a strong inflammatory response that can provoke tissue damage. Diseases like malaria, trichomoniasis, leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, and amoebiasis affect millions of people globally. In this review, we summarize these protozoan diseases and describe the novel view on how neutrophils are involved in protection from these parasites. Also, we present recent evidence that neutrophils play a double role in these infections participating both in control of the parasite and in the pathogenesis of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eileen Uribe-Querol
- Laboratorio de Biología del Desarrollo, División de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Carlos Rosales
- Departamento de Inmunología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
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Khairnar P, Saathoff JM, Cook DW, Hochstetler SR, Pandya U, Robinson SJ, Satam V, Donsbach KO, Gupton BF, Jin LM, Shanahan CS. Practical Synthesis of 6-Amino-1-hydroxy-2,1-benzoxaborolane: A Key Intermediate of DNDI-6148. Org Process Res Dev 2024; 28:1213-1223. [PMID: 38660377 PMCID: PMC11036395 DOI: 10.1021/acs.oprd.4c00031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2024] [Revised: 03/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a parasitic, poverty-linked, neglected disease, is endemic across multiple regions of the world and fatal if untreated. There is an urgent need for a better and more affordable treatment for VL. DNDI-6148 is a promising drug candidate being evaluated for the treatment of VL; however, the current process for producing the key intermediate of DNDI-6148, 6-amino-1-hydroxy-2,1-benzoxaborolane, is expensive and difficult to scale up. Herein, we describe two practical approaches to synthesizing 6-amino-1-hydroxy-2,1-benzoxaborolane from inexpensive and readily available raw materials. Starting with 4-tolunitrile, the first approach is a five-step sequence involving a Hofmann rearrangement, resulting in an overall yield of 40%. The second approach utilizes 2-methyl-5-nitroaniline as the starting material and features borylation of aniline and continuous flow hydrogenation as the key steps, with an overall yield of 46%. Both routes bypass the nitration of 1-hydroxy-2,1-benzoxaborolane, which is challenging and expensive to scale. In particular, the second approach is more practical and scalable because of the mild operating conditions and facile isolation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj
V. Khairnar
- Medicines
for All Institute, Virginia Commonwealth
University, Richmond, Virginia 23284-3068, United States
| | - John M. Saathoff
- Medicines
for All Institute, Virginia Commonwealth
University, Richmond, Virginia 23284-3068, United States
| | - Daniel W. Cook
- Medicines
for All Institute, Virginia Commonwealth
University, Richmond, Virginia 23284-3068, United States
| | - Samuel R. Hochstetler
- Medicines
for All Institute, Virginia Commonwealth
University, Richmond, Virginia 23284-3068, United States
| | - Urvish Pandya
- Drugs
for Neglected Diseases initiative, 15 Chemin Camille-Vidart, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Stephen J. Robinson
- Drugs
for Neglected Diseases initiative, 15 Chemin Camille-Vidart, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Vijay Satam
- Drugs
for Neglected Diseases initiative, 15 Chemin Camille-Vidart, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kai O. Donsbach
- Medicines
for All Institute, Virginia Commonwealth
University, Richmond, Virginia 23284-3068, United States
| | - B. Frank Gupton
- Medicines
for All Institute, Virginia Commonwealth
University, Richmond, Virginia 23284-3068, United States
| | - Li-Mei Jin
- Medicines
for All Institute, Virginia Commonwealth
University, Richmond, Virginia 23284-3068, United States
| | - Charles S. Shanahan
- Medicines
for All Institute, Virginia Commonwealth
University, Richmond, Virginia 23284-3068, United States
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6
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Peixoto JF, Gonçalves-Oliveira LF, Souza-Silva F, de Castro Côrtes LM, Finkelstein LC, Dias-Lopes G, Patricio BFDC, Lima CGDS, Rocha HVA, da Silva FDC, Ferreira VF, Pereira BAS, Alves CR. Efficacy of the treatment using a microemulsion loaded with epoxy-α-lapachone in combination with meglumine antimoniate against murine infection by Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2024; 24:100525. [PMID: 38359731 PMCID: PMC10875245 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2024.100525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by Leishmania spp., affecting millions of people around the world. For decades, its treatment has been based on pentavalent antimonials, which notoriously cause toxic side effects in patients. In this study, epoxy-α-lapachone incorporated into an oil-in-water-type microemulsion (ELAP-ME) and meglumine antimoniate (MA) were assayed in monotherapy and in combination (ELAP-ME/MA) in BALB/c mice infected with Leishmania (Leishmania) amazonensis. In general, there was a reduction in paw lesion size (up to 37% reduction) and decreases of parasite loads in the footpad (∼40%) and lymph nodes (∼31%) of animals treated with ELAP-ME/MA, when compared to the non-treated control groups. Analyses of serum biochemical parameters revealed that the ELAP-ME/MA showed lower renal and hepatic toxicity when compared to MA 2-doses/week monotherapy. These findings indicate that the ELAP-ME/MA combination may be a promising approach for the treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Figueiredo Peixoto
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas - Avenida Brasil 4365, CEP 21040-900, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Luiz Filipe Gonçalves-Oliveira
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas - Avenida Brasil 4365, CEP 21040-900, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Franklin Souza-Silva
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Saúde, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - Avenida Brasil, 4365, CEP 21040-900, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Universidade Iguaçu - Avenida Abílio Augusto Távora 2134, CEP 26260-045, Dom Rodrigo, Nova Iguaçu, RJ, Brazil
| | - Luzia Monteiro de Castro Côrtes
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas - Avenida Brasil 4365, CEP 21040-900, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Léa Cysne Finkelstein
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia - Avenida Brasil 4365, CEP 21040-900, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Geovane Dias-Lopes
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas - Avenida Brasil 4365, CEP 21040-900, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Beatriz Ferreira de Carvalho Patricio
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Farmanguinhos, Laboratório de Micro e Nanotecnologia - Avenida Brasil 4036, CEP 21040361, Bonsucesso, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto Biomédico, Laboratório de Farmacologia - Rua Frei Caneca 94, CEP 20211040, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Carolina Guimarães de Souza Lima
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Química, Departamento de Química Orgânica - Outeiro de São João Batista s/n, CEP 24020-141, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Helvécio Vinícius Antunes Rocha
- Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto Biomédico, Laboratório de Farmacologia - Rua Frei Caneca 94, CEP 20211040, Centro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Fernando de Carvalho da Silva
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Química, Departamento de Química Orgânica - Outeiro de São João Batista s/n, CEP 24020-141, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Vitor Francisco Ferreira
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Química, Departamento de Química Orgânica - Outeiro de São João Batista s/n, CEP 24020-141, Niterói, RJ, Brazil; Universidade Federal Fluminense, Faculdade de Farmácia, Departamento de Tecnologia Farmacêutica - Rua Dr. Mario Vianna 523, Santa Rosa, CEP 24241-002, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Bernardo Acácio Santini Pereira
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas - Avenida Brasil 4365, CEP 21040-900, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Universidade Federal Fluminense, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Patologia - Avenida Marquês do Paraná, 303, CEP 24033-900, Centro, Niterói, RJ, Brazil
| | - Carlos Roberto Alves
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas - Avenida Brasil 4365, CEP 21040-900, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
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7
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Borges AP, Obata MMS, Libardi SH, Trevisan RO, Deflon VM, Abram U, Ferreira FB, Costa LAS, Patrocínio AOT, da Silva MV, Borges JC, Maia PIS. Gold(I) and Silver(I) Complexes Containing Hybrid Sulfonamide/Thiourea Ligands as Potential Leishmanicidal Agents. Pharmaceutics 2024; 16:452. [PMID: 38675113 PMCID: PMC11053681 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics16040452] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a group of parasitic diseases with the potential to infect more than 1 billion people; however, its treatment is still old and inadequate. In order to contribute to changing this view, this work consisted of the development of complexes derived from MI metal ions with thioureas, aiming to obtain potential leishmanicidal agents. The thiourea ligands (HLR) were obtained by reactions of p-toluenesulfohydrazide with R-isothiocyanates and were used in complexation reactions with AgI and AuI, leading to the formation of complexes of composition [M(HLR)2]X (M = Ag or Au; X = NO3- or Cl-). All compounds were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR, UV-vis, emission spectroscopy and elemental analysis. Some representatives were additionally studied by ESI-MS and single-crystal XRD. Their properties were further analyzed by DFT calculations. Their cytotoxicity on Vero cells and the extracellular leishmanicidal activity on Leishmania infantum and Leishmania braziliensis cells were evaluated. Additionally, the interaction of the complexes with the Old Yellow enzyme of the L. braziliensis (LbOYE) was examined. The biological tests showed that some compounds present remarkable leishmanicidal activity, even higher than that of the standard drug Glucantime, with different selectivity for the two species of Leishmania. Finally, the interaction studies with LbOYE revealed that this enzyme could be one of their biological targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice P. Borges
- Bioactive Compounds Development Research Group, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Av. Dr. Randolfo Borges 1400, Uberaba 38025-440, MG, Brazil;
| | - Malu M. S. Obata
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Av. Getúlio Guarita, Uberaba 38025-440, MG, Brazil; (M.M.S.O.); (R.O.T.); (M.V.d.S.)
| | - Silvia H. Libardi
- São Carlos Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av. Trabalhador São Carlense, 400, São Carlos 13566-590, SP, Brazil; (S.H.L.); (V.M.D.); (J.C.B.)
| | - Rafael O. Trevisan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Av. Getúlio Guarita, Uberaba 38025-440, MG, Brazil; (M.M.S.O.); (R.O.T.); (M.V.d.S.)
| | - Victor M. Deflon
- São Carlos Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av. Trabalhador São Carlense, 400, São Carlos 13566-590, SP, Brazil; (S.H.L.); (V.M.D.); (J.C.B.)
| | - Ulrich Abram
- Institute of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Freie Universität Berlin, Fabeckstr. 34/36, 14195 Berlin, Germany;
| | - Francis B. Ferreira
- Associated Faculties of Uberaba, Av. do Tutuna 720, Uberaba 38061-500, MG, Brazil;
| | - Luiz Antônio S. Costa
- Computational Chemistry Research Group, Institute of Exact Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Campus Universitário s/n Martelos, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil;
| | - Antonio O. T. Patrocínio
- Laboratory of Photochemistry and Material Science, Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. João Naves de Ávila 2121, Uberlândia 38400-902, MG, Brazil;
| | - Marcos V. da Silva
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Av. Getúlio Guarita, Uberaba 38025-440, MG, Brazil; (M.M.S.O.); (R.O.T.); (M.V.d.S.)
| | - Júlio C. Borges
- São Carlos Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Av. Trabalhador São Carlense, 400, São Carlos 13566-590, SP, Brazil; (S.H.L.); (V.M.D.); (J.C.B.)
| | - Pedro I. S. Maia
- Bioactive Compounds Development Research Group, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Av. Dr. Randolfo Borges 1400, Uberaba 38025-440, MG, Brazil;
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8
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Brito C, Silva JV, Gonzaga RV, La-Scalea MA, Giarolla J, Ferreira EI. A Review on Carbon Nanotubes Family of Nanomaterials and Their Health Field. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:8687-8708. [PMID: 38434894 PMCID: PMC10905599 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c08824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
The use of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which are nanometric materials, in pathogen detection, protection of environments, food safety, and in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, as efficient drug delivery systems, is relevant for the improvement and advancement of pharmacological profiles of many molecules employed in therapeutics and in tissue bioengineering. It has contributed to the advancement of science due to the development of new tools and devices in the field of medicine. CNTs have versatile mechanical, physical, and chemical properties, in addition to their great potential for association with other materials to contribute to applications in different fields of medicine. As, for example, photothermal therapy, due to the ability to convert infrared light into heat, in tissue engineering, due to the mechanical resistance, flexibility, elasticity, and low density, in addition to many other possible applications, and as biomarkers, where the electronic and optics properties enable the transduction of their signals. This review aims to describe the state of the art and the perspectives and challenges of applying CNTs in the medical field. A systematic search was carried out in the indexes Medline, Lilacs, SciELO, and Web of Science using the descriptors "carbon nanotubes", "tissue regeneration", "electrical interface (biosensors and chemical sensors)", "photosensitizers", "photothermal", "drug delivery", "biocompatibility" and "nanotechnology", and "Prodrug design" and appropriately grouped. The literature reviewed showed great applicability, but more studies are needed regarding the biocompatibility of CNTs. The data obtained point to the need for standardized studies on the applications and interactions of these nanostructures with biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles
L. Brito
- Department
of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, Bloco 13, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - João V. Silva
- Department
of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, Bloco 13, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo V. Gonzaga
- Department
of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, Bloco 13, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Mauro A. La-Scalea
- Department
of Chemistry, Federal University of São
Paulo, Diadema 09972-270, Brazil
| | - Jeanine Giarolla
- Department
of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, Bloco 13, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Elizabeth I. Ferreira
- Department
of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes, 580, Bloco 13, São Paulo CEP 05508-000, Brazil
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Shmueli M, Ben-Shimol S. Review of Leishmaniasis Treatment: Can We See the Forest through the Trees? PHARMACY 2024; 12:30. [PMID: 38392937 PMCID: PMC10892631 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy12010030] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
There are three known clinical syndromes of leishmaniasis: cutaneous (CL), mucocutaneous (MCL), and visceral disease (VL). In MCL and VL, treatment must be systemic (either oral or intravenous), while CL treatment options vary and include observation-only localized/topical treatment, oral medications, or parenteral drugs. Leishmaniasis treatment is difficult, with several factors to be considered. First, the efficacy of treatments varies among different species of parasites prevalent in different areas on the globe, with each species having a unique clinical presentation and resistance profile. Furthermore, leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease (NTD), resulting in a lack of evidence-based knowledge regarding treatment. Therefore, physicians often rely on case reports or case series studies, in the absence of randomized controlled trials (RCT), to assess treatment efficacy. Second, defining cure, especially in CL and MCL, may be difficult, as death of the parasite can be achieved in most cases, while the aesthetic result (e.g., scars) is hard to predict. This is a result of the biological nature of the disease, often diagnosed late in the course of disease (with possible keloid formation, etc.). Third, physicians must consider treatment ease of use and the safety profile of possible treatments. Thus, topical or oral treatments (for CL) are desirable and promote adherence. Fourth, the cost of the treatment is an important consideration. In this review, we aim to describe the diverse treatment options for different clinical manifestations of leishmaniasis. For each currently available treatment, we will discuss the various considerations mentioned above (efficacy, ease of use, safety, and cost).
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Affiliation(s)
- Moshe Shmueli
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
| | - Shalom Ben-Shimol
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva 8410501, Israel
- Pediatric Infectious Disease Unit, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer Sheva 8410115, Israel
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10
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Nath M, Bhowmik D, Saha S, Nandi R, Kumar D. Identification of potential inhibitor against Leishmania donovani mitochondrial DNA primase through in-silico and in vitro drug repurposing approaches. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3246. [PMID: 38332162 PMCID: PMC10853515 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53316-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Leishmania donovani is the causal organism of leishmaniasis with critical health implications affecting about 12 million people around the globe. Due to less efficacy, adverse side effects, and resistance, the available therapeutic molecules fail to control leishmaniasis. The mitochondrial primase of Leishmania donovani (LdmtPRI1) is a vital cog in the DNA replication mechanism, as the enzyme initiates the replication of the mitochondrial genome of Leishmania donovani. Hence, we target this protein as a probable drug target against leishmaniasis. The de-novo approach enabled computational prediction of the three-dimensional structure of LdmtPRI1, and its active sites were identified. Ligands from commercially available drug compounds were selected and docked against LdmtPRI1. The compounds were chosen for pharmacokinetic study and molecular dynamics simulation based on their binding energies and protein interactions. The LdmtPRI1 gene was cloned, overexpressed, and purified, and a primase activity assay was performed. The selected compounds were verified experimentally by the parasite and primase inhibition assay. Capecitabine was observed to be effective against the promastigote form of Leishmania donovani, as well as inhibiting primase activity. This study's findings suggest capecitabine might be a potential anti-leishmanial drug candidate after adequate further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitul Nath
- Department of Microbiology, Assam University, Silchar, Assam, 788011, India
| | - Deep Bhowmik
- Department of Microbiology, Assam University, Silchar, Assam, 788011, India
| | - Satabdi Saha
- Department of Microbiology, Assam University, Silchar, Assam, 788011, India
| | - Rajat Nandi
- Department of Microbiology, Assam University, Silchar, Assam, 788011, India
| | - Diwakar Kumar
- Department of Microbiology, Assam University, Silchar, Assam, 788011, India.
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11
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Pérez-Pertejo Y, García-Estrada C, Martínez-Valladares M, Murugesan S, Reguera RM, Balaña-Fouce R. Polyamine Metabolism for Drug Intervention in Trypanosomatids. Pathogens 2024; 13:79. [PMID: 38251386 PMCID: PMC10820115 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13010079] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases transmitted by trypanosomatids include three major human scourges that globally affect the world's poorest people: African trypanosomiasis or sleeping sickness, American trypanosomiasis or Chagas disease and different types of leishmaniasis. Different metabolic pathways have been targeted to find antitrypanosomatid drugs, including polyamine metabolism. Since their discovery, the naturally occurring polyamines, putrescine, spermidine and spermine, have been considered important metabolites involved in cell growth. With a complex metabolism involving biosynthesis, catabolism and interconversion, the synthesis of putrescine and spermidine was targeted by thousands of compounds in an effort to produce cell growth blockade in tumor and infectious processes with limited success. However, the discovery of eflornithine (DFMO) as a curative drug against sleeping sickness encouraged researchers to develop new molecules against these diseases. Polyamine synthesis inhibitors have also provided insight into the peculiarities of this pathway between the host and the parasite, and also among different trypanosomatid species, thus allowing the search for new specific chemical entities aimed to treat these diseases and leading to the investigation of target-based scaffolds. The main molecular targets include the enzymes involved in polyamine biosynthesis (ornithine decarboxylase, S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase and spermidine synthase), enzymes participating in their uptake from the environment, and the enzymes involved in the redox balance of the parasite. In this review, we summarize the research behind polyamine-based treatments, the current trends, and the main challenges in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yolanda Pérez-Pertejo
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Campus de Vegazana s/n, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (Y.P.-P.); (C.G.-E.); (R.M.R.)
- Instituto de Biomedicina (IBIOMED), Campus de Vegazana s/n, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Carlos García-Estrada
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Campus de Vegazana s/n, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (Y.P.-P.); (C.G.-E.); (R.M.R.)
- Instituto de Biomedicina (IBIOMED), Campus de Vegazana s/n, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
| | | | - Sankaranarayanan Murugesan
- Medicinal Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Birla Institute of Technology and Science-Pilani, Pilani 333031, India;
| | - Rosa M. Reguera
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Campus de Vegazana s/n, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (Y.P.-P.); (C.G.-E.); (R.M.R.)
- Instituto de Biomedicina (IBIOMED), Campus de Vegazana s/n, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Rafael Balaña-Fouce
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Campus de Vegazana s/n, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain; (Y.P.-P.); (C.G.-E.); (R.M.R.)
- Instituto de Biomedicina (IBIOMED), Campus de Vegazana s/n, Universidad de León, 24071 León, Spain
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12
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Cruz MGFDML, Santi AMM, de Morais-Teixeira E, Caldeira ASP, de Siqueira EP, Oliveira E, Alves TMDA, Murta SMF. Anti- Leishmania compounds can be screened using Leishmania spp. expressing red fluorescence ( tdTomato). Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2024; 68:e0050923. [PMID: 38063403 PMCID: PMC10777850 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00509-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024] Open
Abstract
The main challenges associated with leishmaniasis chemotherapy are drug toxicity, the possible emergence of resistant parasites, and a limited choice of therapeutic agents. Therefore, new drugs and assays to screen and detect novel active compounds against leishmaniasis are urgently needed. We thus validated Leishmania braziliensis (Lb) and Leishmania infantum (Li) that constitutively express the tandem tomato red fluorescent protein (tdTomato) as a model for large-scale screens of anti-Leishmania compounds. Confocal microscopy of Lb and Li::tdTomato revealed red fluorescence distributed throughout the entire parasite, including the flagellum, and flow cytometry confirmed that the parasites emitted intense fluorescence. We evaluated the infectivity of cloned promastigotes and amastigotes constitutively expressing tdTomato, their growth profiles in THP-1 macrophages, and susceptibility to trivalent antimony, amphotericin, and miltefosine in vitro. The phenotypes of mutant and wild-type parasites were similar, indicating that the constitutive expression of tdTomato did not interfere with the evaluated parameters. We applied our validated model to a repositioning strategy and assessed the susceptibility of the parasites to eight commercially available drugs. We also screened 32 natural plant and fungal extracts and 10 pure substances to reveal new active compounds. The infectivity and Glucantime treatment efficacy of BALB/c mice and golden hamsters infected with Lb and Li::tdTomato mutant lines, respectively, were very similar compared to animals infected with wild-type parasites. Standardizing our methodology would offer more rapid, less expensive, and easier assays to screen of compounds against L. braziliensis and L. infantum in vitro and in vivo. Our method could also enhance the discovery of active compounds for treating leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariza Gabriela Faleiro de Moura Lodi Cruz
- Genômica Funcional de Parasitos, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz FIOCRUZ Minas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Química de Produtos Naturais Bioativos, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz FIOCRUZ Minas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Murta Santi
- Genômica Funcional de Parasitos, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz FIOCRUZ Minas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Eliane de Morais-Teixeira
- Pesquisa Clínica e Políticas Públicas em Doenças Infecto-Parasitárias, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz FIOCRUZ Minas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Alisson Samuel Portes Caldeira
- Química de Produtos Naturais Bioativos, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz FIOCRUZ Minas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ezequias Pessoa de Siqueira
- Química de Produtos Naturais Bioativos, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz FIOCRUZ Minas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Edward Oliveira
- Genômica Funcional de Parasitos, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz FIOCRUZ Minas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Tânia Maria de Almeida Alves
- Química de Produtos Naturais Bioativos, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz FIOCRUZ Minas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Silvane Maria Fonseca Murta
- Genômica Funcional de Parasitos, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz FIOCRUZ Minas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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13
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Volpedo G, Oljuskin T, Cox B, Mercado Y, Askwith C, Azodi N, Bernier M, Nakhasi HL, Gannavaram S, Satoskar AR. Leishmania mexicana promotes pain-reducing metabolomic reprogramming in cutaneous lesions. iScience 2023; 26:108502. [PMID: 38125023 PMCID: PMC10730346 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is characterized by extensive skin lesions, which are usually painless despite being associated with extensive inflammation. The molecular mechanisms responsible for this analgesia have not been identified. Through untargeted metabolomics, we found enriched anti-nociceptive metabolic pathways in L. mexicana-infected mice. Purines were elevated in infected macrophages and at the lesion site during chronic infection. These purines have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties by acting through adenosine receptors, inhibiting TRPV1 channels, and promoting IL-10 production. We also found arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism enriched in the ear lesions compared to the non-infected controls. AA is a metabolite of anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These endocannabinoids act on cannabinoid receptors 1 and 2 and TRPV1 channels to exert anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. Our study provides evidence of metabolic pathways upregulated during L. mexicana infection that may mediate anti-nociceptive effects experienced by CL patients and identifies macrophages as a source of these metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Volpedo
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Pathology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Timur Oljuskin
- Animal Parasitic Disease Lab, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Blake Cox
- Department of Pathology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Yulian Mercado
- Department of Pathology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Candice Askwith
- Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Nazli Azodi
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Matthew Bernier
- Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Hira L. Nakhasi
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Sreenivas Gannavaram
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Abhay R. Satoskar
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Pathology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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14
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Ivănescu L, Andronic BL, Grigore-Hristodorescu S, Martinescu GV, Mîndru R, Miron L. The immune response in canine and human leishmaniasis and how this influences the diagnosis- a review and assessment of recent research. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1326521. [PMID: 38149009 PMCID: PMC10749942 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1326521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a widespread but still underdiagnosed parasitic disease that affects both humans and animals. There are at least 20 pathogenic species of Leishmania, most of them being zoonotic. The diagnosis of leishmaniasis remains a major challenge, with an important role being played by the species of parasites involved, the genetic background, the immunocompetence of the host. This paper brings to the fore the sensitivity of the balance in canine and human leishmaniasis and addresses the importance of the host's immune response in establishing a correct diagnosis, especially in certain cases of asymptomatic leishmaniasis, or in the situation the host is immunosuppressed or acquired leishmaniasis through vertical transmission. The methods considered as a reference in the diagnosis of leishmaniasis no longer present certainty, the diagnosis being influenced mostly by the immune response of the host, which differs according to the presence of other associated diseases or even according to the breed in dogs. Consequently, the diagnosis and surveillance of leishmaniasis cases remains an open topic, requiring new diagnostic methods adapted to the immunological state of the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larisa Ivănescu
- Clinics Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Iasi University of Life Sciences, Iaşi, Romania
| | - Bianca Lavinia Andronic
- Clinics Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Iasi University of Life Sciences, Iaşi, Romania
| | | | | | - Raluca Mîndru
- Clinics Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Iasi University of Life Sciences, Iaşi, Romania
| | - Liviu Miron
- Clinics Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Iasi University of Life Sciences, Iaşi, Romania
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15
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Montaner-Angoiti E, Llobat L. Is leishmaniasis the new emerging zoonosis in the world? Vet Res Commun 2023; 47:1777-1799. [PMID: 37438495 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10171-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Leishmania is a genus of parasitic protozoa that causes a disease called leishmaniasis. Leishmaniasis is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female sandflies. There are several different species of Leishmania that can cause various forms of the disease, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on species of Leishmania involved and the immune response of the host. Leishmania parasites have a variety of reservoirs, including humans, domestic animals, horses, rodents, wild animals, birds, and reptiles. Leishmaniasis is endemic of 90 countries, mainly in South American, East and West Africa, Mediterranean region, Indian subcontinent, and Central Asia. In recent years, cases have been detected in other countries, and it is already an infection present throughout the world. The increase in temperatures due to climate change makes it possible for sandflies to appear in countries with traditionally colder regions, and the easy movement of people and animals today, facilitate the appearance of Leishmania species in new countries. These data mean that leishmaniasis will probably become an emerging zoonosis and a public health problem in the coming years, which we must consider controlling it from a One Health point of view. This review summarizes the prevalence of Leishmania spp. around the world and the current knowledge regarding the animals that could be reservoirs of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esperanza Montaner-Angoiti
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Disease (MMOPS) Group, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Lola Llobat
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Disease (MMOPS) Group, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
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Meira C, Silva J, Quadros H, Silva L, Barreto B, Rocha V, Bomfim L, Santos E, Soares M. Galectins in Protozoan Parasitic Diseases: Potential Applications in Diagnostics and Therapeutics. Cells 2023; 12:2671. [PMID: 38067100 PMCID: PMC10705098 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) constitute a group of diseases that generally develop in tropical or subtropical climatic conditions and are related to poverty. Within the spectrum of NTDs, diseases caused by protozoa such as malaria, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis exhibit elevated mortality rates, thereby constituting a substantial public health concern. Beyond their protozoan etiology, these NTDs share other similarities, such as the challenge of control and the lack of affordable, safe, and effective drugs. In view of the above, the need to explore novel diagnostic predictors and therapeutic targets for the treatment of these parasitic diseases is evident. In this context, galectins are attractive because they are a set of lectins bound to β-galactosides that play key roles in a variety of cellular processes, including host-parasite interaction such as adhesion and entry of parasites into the host cells, and participate in antiparasitic immunity in either a stimulatory or inhibitory manner, especially the galectins-1, -2, -3, and -9. These functions bestow upon galectins significant therapeutic prospects in the context of managing and diagnosing NTDs. Thus, the present review aims to elucidate the potential role of galectins in the diagnosis and treatment of malaria, leishmaniasis, and Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cássio Meira
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
- SENAI Institute of Innovation in Health Advanced Systems (ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil;
| | - Jaqueline Silva
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
| | - Helenita Quadros
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
| | - Laís Silva
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
| | - Breno Barreto
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
- SENAI Institute of Innovation in Health Advanced Systems (ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil;
- Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Salvador 40170-110, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Vinícius Rocha
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
- SENAI Institute of Innovation in Health Advanced Systems (ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil;
| | - Larissa Bomfim
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
| | - Emanuelle Santos
- SENAI Institute of Innovation in Health Advanced Systems (ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil;
| | - Milena Soares
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
- SENAI Institute of Innovation in Health Advanced Systems (ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil;
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17
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Sevá ADP, Mao L, Galvis-Ovallos F, Oliveira KMM, Oliveira FBS, Albuquerque GR. Spatio-temporal distribution and contributing factors of tegumentary and visceral leishmaniasis: A comparative study in Bahia, Brazil. Spat Spatiotemporal Epidemiol 2023; 47:100615. [PMID: 38042540 DOI: 10.1016/j.sste.2023.100615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Tegumentary (TL) and visceral (VL) leishmaniasis are neglected zoonotic diseases in Brazil, caused by different parasites and transmitted by various vector species. This study investigated and compared spatio-temporal patterns of TL and VL from 2007 to 2020 in the state of Bahia, Brazil, and their correlations with extrinsic factors. The results showed that the total number of cases of both TL and VL were decreasing. The number of municipalities with reported cases reduced for TL over time but remained almost unchanged for VL. There were few municipalities with reported both diseases. Statistical analysis showed that local TL incidence was associated positively with natural forest. Local VL incidence was associated positively with Cerrado (Brazilian savannah) vegetation. This study identified different patterns of occurrence of VL and TL and the risk areas that could be prioritized for epidemiological surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaiá da Paixão Sevá
- Department of Agrarian and Environmental Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Rodovia Jorge Amado, km 16, Bairro Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia 45662-900, Brazil; Department of Exact and Technological Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Rodovia Jorge Amado, km 16, Bairro Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia 45662-900, Brazil.
| | - Liang Mao
- Department of Geography, University of Florida, 3141 Turlington Hall, 330 Newell Dr., Gainesville, FL 32611-7315, USA
| | - Fredy Galvis-Ovallos
- Public Health Faculty, University of São Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715 - Cerqueira César, São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-904, Brazil
| | - Karenina Melo Miranda Oliveira
- Department of Agrarian and Environmental Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Rodovia Jorge Amado, km 16, Bairro Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia 45662-900, Brazil
| | - Francisco Bruno Souza Oliveira
- Department of Exact and Technological Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Rodovia Jorge Amado, km 16, Bairro Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia 45662-900, Brazil
| | - George Rego Albuquerque
- Department of Agrarian and Environmental Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazaré de Andrade, Rodovia Jorge Amado, km 16, Bairro Salobrinho, Ilhéus, Bahia 45662-900, Brazil
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18
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Zhu J, Liu J, Yan C, Wang D, Pan W. Trained immunity: a cutting edge approach for designing novel vaccines against parasitic diseases? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1252554. [PMID: 37868995 PMCID: PMC10587610 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1252554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The preventive situation of parasitosis, a global public health burden especially for developing countries, is not looking that good. Similar to other infections, vaccines would be the best choice for preventing and controlling parasitic infection. However, ideal antigenic molecules for vaccine development have not been identified so far, resulting from the complicated life history and enormous genomes of the parasites. Furthermore, the suppression or down-regulation of anti-infectious immunity mediated by the parasites or their derived molecules can compromise the effect of parasitic vaccines. Comparing the early immune profiles of several parasites in the permissive and non-permissive hosts, a robust innate immune response is proposed to be a critical event to eliminate the parasites. Therefore, enhancing innate immunity may be essential for designing novel and effective parasitic vaccines. The newly emerging trained immunity (also termed innate immune memory) has been increasingly recognized to provide a novel perspective for vaccine development targeting innate immunity. This article reviews the current status of parasitic vaccines and anti-infectious immunity, as well as the conception, characteristics, and mechanisms of trained immunity and its research progress in Parasitology, highlighting the possible consideration of trained immunity in designing novel vaccines against parasitic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinhang Zhu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiaxi Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chao Yan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dahui Wang
- Liangshan College (Li Shui) China, Lishui University, Lishui, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wei Pan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Jiangsu International Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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19
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Volpedo G, Pacheco-Fernandez T, Oljuskin T, Markle HL, Azodi N, Hamano S, Matlashewski G, Gannavaram S, Nakhasi HL, Satoskar AR. Leishmania mexicana centrin knockout parasites promote M1-polarizing metabolic changes. iScience 2023; 26:107594. [PMID: 37744404 PMCID: PMC10517399 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a tropical disease prevalent in 90 countries. Presently, there is no approved vaccine for human use. We developed a live attenuated L. mexicana Cen-/-(LmexCen-/-) strain as a vaccine candidate that showed excellent efficacy, characterized by reduced Th2 and enhanced Th1 responses in C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice, respectively, compared to wild-type L. mexicana (LmexWT) infection. Toward understanding the immune mechanisms of protection, we applied untargeted mass spectrometric analysis to LmexCen-/- and LmexWT infections. Data showed enrichment of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) in ears immunized with LmexCen-/-versus naive and LmexWT infection. PPP promotes M1 polarization in macrophages, suggesting a switch to a pro-inflammatory phenotype following LmexCen-/- inoculation. Accordingly, PPP inhibition in macrophages infected with LmexCen-/- reduced the production of nitric oxide and interleukin (IL)-1β, hallmarks of classical activation. Overall, our study revealed the immune regulatory mechanisms that may be critical for the induction of protective immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Volpedo
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Pathology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Thalia Pacheco-Fernandez
- Department of Pathology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Timur Oljuskin
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Hannah L. Markle
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Nazli Azodi
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Shinjiro Hamano
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), The Joint Usage/Research Center on Tropical Disease, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Doctoral Leadership Program, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Greg Matlashewski
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Sreenivas Gannavaram
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Hira L. Nakhasi
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Abhay R. Satoskar
- Department of Microbiology, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
- Department of Pathology, Wexner Medical Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
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20
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Sharma M, Lozano-Amado D, Chowdhury D, Singh U. Extracellular Vesicles and Their Impact on the Biology of Protozoan Parasites. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:448. [PMID: 37755909 PMCID: PMC10537256 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8090448] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid-membrane-bound structures produced naturally by all cells and have a variety of functions. EVs act as vehicles for transporting important molecular signals from one cell to another. Several parasites have been shown to secrete EVs, and their biological functions have been extensively studied. EVs have been shown to facilitate communication with the host cells (such as modulation of the host's immune system or promoting attachment and invasion into the host cells) or for communication between parasitic cells (e.g., transferring drug-resistance genes or factors modulating stage conversion). It is clear that EVs play an important role in host-parasite interactions. In this review, we summarized the latest research on the EVs secreted by protozoan parasites and their role in host-parasite and parasite-parasite communications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manu Sharma
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (M.S.); (D.L.-A.); (D.C.)
| | - Daniela Lozano-Amado
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (M.S.); (D.L.-A.); (D.C.)
| | - Debabrata Chowdhury
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (M.S.); (D.L.-A.); (D.C.)
| | - Upinder Singh
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA; (M.S.); (D.L.-A.); (D.C.)
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
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21
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Louzada-Flores VN, Latrofa MS, Lucente MS, Dambrós BP, Mendoza-Roldan JA, Varotto-Boccazzi I, Cattaneo GM, Späth GF, Buonavoglia A, Otranto D. Intracellular persistence of Leishmania tarentolae in primary canine macrophage cells. Acta Trop 2023; 243:106935. [PMID: 37127215 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106935] [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: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Leishmania tarentolae is a non-pathogenic species first isolated from geckoes in the Mediterranean basin. The finding that dogs test positive against both Leishmania infantum and L. tarentolae raises questions regarding the ability of the latter species to persist and adapt to new hosts. This study aimed to evaluate in vitro the capability of L. tarentolae to colonize, survive and persist in canine primary monocyte-derived mononuclear cells. Monocytes were isolated from dog whole blood samples and placed in 24-well plates for differentiation into macrophages and for incubation with L. tarentolae field-isolated strains (RI-325 and SF-178) and laboratory (LEM-124) strain; the parasite burden was assessed at different time points post-infection. The L. infantum laboratory strain (MON-1) was used as control. Infection parameters were evaluated by microscopy, counting the number of amastigotes/200 infected cells, and by duplex real-time PCR from supernatants and detached cells. Similar to L. infantum, L. tarentolae strains developed into round-shaped amastigote-like forms, with higher infection rates detected at 4 h followed by an overall decrease until 48 h. RI-325 presented also a higher infection rate at 72 h. Data showed that L. tarentolae strains infect and persist inside in vitro primary canine mononuclear cells, opening new perspectives for further laboratory studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Gerald F Späth
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INSERM U1201, Unité de Parasitologie moléculaire et Signalisation, Paris, France
| | - Alessio Buonavoglia
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Italy; Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
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22
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Weber JI, Rodrigues AV, Valério-Bolas A, Nunes T, Carvalheiro M, Antunes W, Alexandre-Pires G, da Fonseca IP, Santos-Gomes G. Insights on Host-Parasite Immunomodulation Mediated by Extracellular Vesicles of Cutaneous Leishmania shawi and Leishmania guyanensis. Cells 2023; 12:1101. [PMID: 37190011 PMCID: PMC10137031 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease caused by different species of Leishmania and transmitted through the bite of sand flies vector. Macrophages (MΦ), the target cells of Leishmania parasites, are phagocytes that play a crucial role in the innate immune microbial defense and are antigen-presenting cells driving the activation of the acquired immune response. Exploring parasite-host communication may be key in restraining parasite dissemination in the host. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) constitute a group of heterogenous cell-derived membranous structures, naturally produced by all cells and with immunomodulatory potential over target cells. This study examined the immunogenic potential of EVs shed by L. shawi and L. guyanensis in MΦ activation by analyzing the dynamics of major histocompatibility complex (MHC), innate immune receptors, and cytokine generation. L. shawi and L. guyanensis EVs were incorporated by MΦ and modulated innate immune receptors, indicating that EVs cargo can be recognized by MΦ sensors. Moreover, EVs induced MΦ to generate a mix of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and favored the expression of MHCI molecules, suggesting that EVs antigens can be present to T cells, activating the acquired immune response of the host. Since nano-sized vesicles can be used as vehicles of immune mediators or immunomodulatory drugs, parasitic EVs can be exploited by bioengineering approaches for the development of efficient prophylactic or therapeutic tools for leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Inês Weber
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Armanda Viana Rodrigues
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Valério-Bolas
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Telmo Nunes
- Microscopy Center, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Manuela Carvalheiro
- Research Institute for Medicines, iMed, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Wilson Antunes
- Unidade Militar Laboratorial de Defesa Biológica e Química (UMLDBQ), 1849-012 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Graça Alexandre-Pires
- CIISA, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Av. Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 2825-466 Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Isabel Pereira da Fonseca
- CIISA, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Lisbon, Av. Universidade Técnica, 1300-477 Lisbon, Portugal
- Associate Laboratory for Animal and Veterinary Sciences (AL4AnimalS), 2825-466 Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Gabriela Santos-Gomes
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira 100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
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23
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He J, Huang F, Liao X, Zhang J, Wei S, Xiao Y, Zheng X, Zhu Z, Chen D, Chen J. TLR9 agonist CpG ODN 2395 promotes the immune response against Leishmania donovani in obesity and undernutrition mice. Acta Trop 2023; 242:106921. [PMID: 37030488 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106921] [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: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023]
Abstract
As important immunomodulators, CpG ODNs have broad application prospects in the treatment and prevention of leishmaniasis. In order to explore the immunomodulatory effect of CpG ODNs on mice infected with Leishmania parasites in different nutritional status, TLR9 agonist CpG ODN 2395 or TLR9 antagonist CpG ODN 2088 was injected into normal, obesity and undernutrition BALB/c mice infected with Leishmania donovani, respectively. Subsequently, spleen and liver parasite loads, spleen and liver immune gene expression, spleen T cell subsets proportion and PD-1 expression, serum lipids, serum cytokines, and anti-Leishmania antibodies were measured to assess the immune response of mice with different nutritional status. The results displayed that at the 8th week after infection, the spleen parasite load of obesity and undernutrition mice was significantly higher than that of normal mice, but the liver parasite load showed no statistical difference among the three groups. The treatment of CpG ODN 2395 or CpG ODN 2088 significantly reduced the spleen parasite load of obesity and undernutrition infected mice, but did not reduce that of normal infected mice. In obesity infected mice, CpG ODN 2395 promoted the up-regulation of TCR, ICOS and TLR4 in spleen, promoted the secretion of IFN-γ and anti-Leishmania total IgG and IgG1 antibodies, and increased the content of serum HDL-C. In undernutrition infected mice, CpG ODN 2395 promoted the up-regulation of spleen CD28 and TLR9, increased the proportion of spleen CD3+ T cells, and decreased the content of serum IL-10. Our results demonstrated that CpG ODN 2395 enhanced the immune response and clearance of Leishmania parasites in obesity and undernutrition mice, which might be used as a therapeutic agent for obesity and undernutrition leishmaniasis patients in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinlei He
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Fan Huang
- First Surgical Department, Chengdu Shuangliu Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuechun Liao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jianhui Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shulan Wei
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yuying Xiao
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoting Zheng
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zheying Zhu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Dali Chen
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
| | - Jianping Chen
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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24
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Martinez Niño MA, Camacho Galván JR, Castillo Cruz UDR, Perez-Coronado G. Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in a Non-endemic Area in Mexico. Cureus 2023; 15:e38228. [PMID: 37261149 PMCID: PMC10226841 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.38228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease caused by a parasite of the genus Leishmania endemic in 102 countries around the world. Clinical features can be classified as cutaneous, mucocutaneous, and visceral leishmaniasis; this will depend on the species of leishmania responsible for the disease and the immunologic response of the host. We present the case of a 14-year-old male who started with a small papular lesion in the helix of the left ear, which later spread to the rest of the helix, tragus, and part of the auricular concha. On physical examination, an erythematous plaque with a scale that deforms the auricular surface was observed. In histopathology, acute and chronic inflammatory processes were observed with an accumulation of macrophages that contain amastigotes inside (Leishman Donovan bodies). The diagnosis of leishmaniasis represents a challenge in non-endemic regions. It is important to ask about travel history to endemic areas and perform assays to confirm the diagnosis and initiate treatment to prevent mortality and morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayte Aseret Martinez Niño
- General Medicine, Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey, Monterrey, MEX
- Internal Medicine, Universidad Autonoma de Coahuila, Torreón, MEX
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25
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Pathologie infectieuse du tube digestif : diagnostics à ne pas manquer. Ann Pathol 2023:S0242-6498(23)00050-0. [PMID: 36997440 PMCID: PMC10043990 DOI: 10.1016/j.annpat.2023.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Le contexte récent du COVID-19 a renouvelé l’intérêt des pathologistes pour les maladies d’origine infectieuse. Cet intérêt est d’autant plus fort dans le tube digestif où les symptômes sont aspécifiques, souvent frustres avec un aspect endoscopique normal entraînant parfois une errance diagnostique. Dans ce contexte, les biopsies systématiques réalisées par le clinicien sont parfois le seul moyen de parvenir au diagnostic. Néanmoins, le diagnostic précis de ses pathologies nécessite une bonne connaissance à la fois du contexte de survenue de ces pathologies, de l’aspect histopathologique et d’une analyse rigoureuse utilisant des colorations spéciales et/ou des analyses immunohistochimiques. Certaines pathologies infectieuses du tube digestif sont bien connues par les pathologistes qui sont largement sollicités dans leurs diagnostics (gastrite à Helicobacter pylori, œsophagite à Candida albicans ou la colite à CMV), mais d’autres sont plus délicates à diagnostiquer. Dans cet article, nous présenterons, après avoir rappelé les différentes colorations spéciales utiles, des pathologies bactériennes ou parasitaires rares ou de diagnostic difficile « à ne pas manquer » dans le tube digestif.
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26
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Coelho LD, Souza MMD, Cassali GD, Silva RA, Paiva MJN, Barros ALB, Teixeira EM, Silveira JN, Coelho PMZ, Aguiar MMG, Oliveira MC. Emetic Tartar-Loaded Liposomes as a New Strategy for Leishmaniasis Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030904. [PMID: 36986765 PMCID: PMC10056186 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Emetic tartar (ET), was used in the treatment of leishmaniasis but its use was discontinued due to its low therapeutic index. Liposomes have been shown to be a promising strategy for delivery of bioactive substances in the region of interest, in order to reduce and/or eliminate undesirable effects. In the present study, liposomes containing ET were prepared and characterized to evaluate acute toxicity as well as their leishmanicidal action using BALB/c mice with an inoculum of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum. Liposomes were composed of egg phosphatidylcholine and 3ß-[N-(N′,N′-dimethylaminoethane)-carbamoyl]cholesterol, with an average diameter of 200 nm, zeta potential of +18 mV, and ET encapsulated into liposomes at a concentration near 2 g/L. Healthy mice were treated with ET or liposome containing ET (Lip-ET) in a single dose of 16 mg/kg of Sb3+ intravenously and observed for 14 days. The death of two animals in the ET-treated group and no deaths in the Lip-ET-treated group was observed. Higher hepatic and cardiac toxicity were observed in animals treated with ET when compared to animals treated with Lip-ET, blank liposomes (Blank-Lip) and PBS. The study of antileishmanial efficacy was conducted by intraperitoneal administration of Lip-ET, for ten consecutive days. It was observed by limiting dilution that treatments with liposomal formulations containing ET, as well as Glucantime®, led to a significant reduction in parasitic load in spleen and liver (p < 0.05) when compared to the untreated control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa D. Coelho
- Department of Pharmaceutical Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Mirna M. D. Souza
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Geovanni D. Cassali
- Department of General Pathology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Raphaela A. Silva
- Department of Pharmaceutical Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Maria J. N. Paiva
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - André L. B. Barros
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Eliane M. Teixeira
- Clinical Research and Public Policy Group on Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, René Rachou Institute, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz—FIOCRUZ, Belo Horizonte 30190-009, MG, Brazil
| | - Josianne N. Silveira
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Paulo M. Z. Coelho
- Rene Rachou Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Belo Horizonte 30190-009, MG, Brazil
| | - Marta M. G. Aguiar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
- Correspondence: (M.M.G.A.); or (M.C.O.); Tel.: +55-31-3409-6942 (M.M.G.A.); +55-31-3409-6945 (M.C.O.)
| | - Mônica C. Oliveira
- Department of Pharmaceutical Products, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
- Correspondence: (M.M.G.A.); or (M.C.O.); Tel.: +55-31-3409-6942 (M.M.G.A.); +55-31-3409-6945 (M.C.O.)
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27
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Busch D, Bogdan C, Erfurt-Berge C. Clinical Manifestation of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Following a Mechanical Trauma. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LOWER EXTREMITY WOUNDS 2023; 22:146-148. [PMID: 33135533 DOI: 10.1177/1534734620968964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Unusual skin ulcers frequently represent a diagnostic challenge. When the most common disease entities such as arterial, venous or diabetic ulcers have been excluded, the question of further differential diagnoses and procedures arises. Other possible causes include chronic inflammatory diseases, neoplasia, self-inflicted wounds, primary infectious diseases and physical/chemical damage to the skin. To narrow down the differential diagnoses, a detailed history of the patient is essential, which also needs to include events further back in time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothee Busch
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Bogdan
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Cornelia Erfurt-Berge
- Universitätsklinikum Erlangen and Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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28
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Leishmanicidal Activity of Guanidine Derivatives against Leishmania infantum. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8030141. [PMID: 36977142 PMCID: PMC10051705 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8030141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical infectious disease with thousands of cases annually; it is of great concern to global health, particularly the most severe form, visceral leishmaniasis. Visceral leishmaniasis treatments are minimal and have severe adverse effects. As guanidine-bearing compounds have shown antimicrobial activity, we analyzed the cytotoxic effects of several guanidine-bearing compounds on Leishmania infantum in their promastigote and amastigote forms in vitro, their cytotoxicity in human cells, and their impact on reactive nitrogen species production. LQOFG-2, LQOFG-6, and LQOFG-7 had IC50 values of 12.7, 24.4, and 23.6 µM, respectively, in promastigotes. These compounds exhibited cytotoxicity in axenic amastigotes at 26.1, 21.1, and 18.6 µM, respectively. The compounds showed no apparent cytotoxicity in cells from healthy donors. To identify mechanisms of action, we evaluated cell death processes by annexin V and propidium iodide staining and nitrite production. Guanidine-containing compounds caused a significant percentage of death by apoptosis in amastigotes. Independent of L. infantum infection, LQOFG-7 increased nitrite production in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, which suggests a potential mechanism of action for this compound. Therefore, these data suggest that guanidine derivatives are potential anti-microbial molecules, and further research is needed to fully understand their mechanism of action, especially in anti-leishmanial studies.
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Structure-Activity Relationship Studies of 9-Alkylamino-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroacridines against Leishmania ( Leishmania) infantum Promastigotes. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15020669. [PMID: 36839991 PMCID: PMC9965875 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15020669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is one of the most neglected diseases in modern times, mainly affecting people from developing countries of the tropics, subtropics and the Mediterranean basin, with approximately 350 million people considered at risk of developing this disease. The incidence of human leishmaniasis has increased over the past decades due to failing prevention and therapeutic measures-there are no vaccines and chemotherapy, which is problematic. Acridine derivatives constitute an interesting group of nitrogen-containing heterocyclic compounds associated with numerous bioactivities, with emphasis to their antileishmanial potential. The present work builds on computational studies focusing on a specific enzyme of the parasite, S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (AdoMet DC), with several 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-acridines emerging as potential inhibitors, evidencing this scaffold as a promising building block for novel antileishmanial pharmaceuticals. Thus, several 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroacridine derivatives have been synthesized, their activity against Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum promastigotes evaluated and a structure-activity relationship (SAR) study was developed based on the results obtained. Even though the majority of the 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroacridines evaluated presented high levels of toxicity, the structural information gathered in this work allowed its application with another scaffold (quinoline), leading to the obtention of N1,N12-bis(7-chloroquinolin-4-yl)dodecane-1,12-diamine (12) as a promising novel antileishmanial agent (IC50 = 0.60 ± 0.11 μM, EC50 = 11.69 ± 3.96 μM and TI = 19.48).
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Olías-Molero AI, Botías P, Cuquerella M, García-Cantalejo J, Barcia E, Torrado S, Torrado JJ, Alunda JM. Effect of Clindamycin on Intestinal Microbiome and Miltefosine Pharmacology in Hamsters Infected with Leishmania infantum. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:362. [PMID: 36830274 PMCID: PMC9952363 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a vector-borne parasitic disease caused by Leishmania donovani and L. infantum (Kinetoplastida), affects humans and dogs, being fatal unless treated. Miltefosine (MIL) is the only oral medication for VL and is considered a first choice drug when resistance to antimonials is present. Comorbidity and comedication are common in many affected patients but the relationship between microbiome composition, drugs administered and their pharmacology is still unknown. To explore the effect of clindamycin on the intestinal microbiome and the availability and distribution of MIL in target organs, Syrian hamsters (120-140 g) were inoculated with L. infantum (108 promastigotes/animal). Infection was maintained for 16 weeks, and the animals were treated with MIL (7 days, 5 mg/kg/day), clindamycin (1 mg/kg, single dose) + MIL (7 days, 5 mg/kg/day) or kept untreated. Infection was monitored by ELISA and fecal samples (16 wpi, 18 wpi, end point) were analyzed to determine the 16S metagenomic composition (OTUs) of the microbiome. MIL levels were determined by LC-MS/MS in plasma (24 h after the last treatment; end point) and target organs (spleen, liver) (end point). MIL did not significantly affect the composition of intestinal microbiome, but clindamycin provoked a transient albeit significant modification of the relative abundance of 45% of the genera, including Ruminococcaceae UCG-014, Ruminococcus 2; Bacteroides and (Eubacterium) ruminantium group, besides its effect on less abundant phyla and families. Intestinal dysbiosis in the antibiotic-treated animals was associated with significantly lower levels of MIL in plasma, though not in target organs at the end of the experiment. No clear relationship between microbiome composition (OTUs) and pharmacological parameters was found.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel Olías-Molero
- ICPVet, Department of Animal Health, School of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro Botías
- Genomics Unit, Research Assistance Center of Biological Techniques, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Montserrat Cuquerella
- ICPVet, Department of Animal Health, School of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús García-Cantalejo
- Genomics Unit, Research Assistance Center of Biological Techniques, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Emilia Barcia
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Industrial Pharmacy UCM, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Susana Torrado
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Industrial Pharmacy UCM, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan José Torrado
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Industrial Pharmacy UCM, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - José María Alunda
- ICPVet, Department of Animal Health, School of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Industrial Pharmacy UCM, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
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Patterns and drivers of Human Visceral Leishmaniasis in Pernambuco (Brazil) from 2007 to 2018. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011108. [PMID: 36753511 PMCID: PMC9983839 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is the second most common protozoosis that affects people around the world. The aim of this study is to understand how environmental and socioeconomic factors, as well as VL control and surveillance interventions, influence the spread and detection of VL cases in Pernambuco state (Brazil). A novel model was developed to analyze cases of VL between 2007 and 2018, enabling the quantification of the association of these variables with two processes: the probability of "invasion" (emergence of new cases) at municipalities by VL, and the probability of detecting cases not reported in municipalities that have already been invaded. Pernambuco state identified 1,410 cases of VL between 2007 and 2018, with an average of 128 cases per year and average incidence of 1.28/100 thousand people. These cases were distributed in 77.1% (142/184) of the municipalities, and 54.8% (773/1,410) of them were autochthonous. Our model reveals that the proportion of agriculture was positively associated with VL invasion probability. We also find that municipalities that are closer to notification centers and/or that have received technical training and support tend to have higher detection rates of VL cases. Taken together, these results suggest that a municipality with almost no agriculture and that received technical training, located close to a notification center, is unlikely to be invaded if no cases have ever been detected. On the other hand, a municipality that is far from the notification center, with no technical training, with a large agricultural area might have already been invaded but the surveillance system might have routinely failed to detect VL cases due to low detection probability. By disentangling the processes of invasion and detection, we were able to generate insights that are likely to be useful for the strategic allocation of VL prevention and control interventions.
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Asymptomatic Leishmania infection in humans: A systematic review. J Infect Public Health 2023; 16:286-294. [PMID: 36630836 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2022.12.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leishmaniasis is a highly prevalent neglected tropical disease. It mainly presents as two forms: cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis, the latter being the most severe form. However, asymptomatic cases of Leishmania infection result in an increase in the underreporting and transmission of the protozoan OBJECTIVES: In this study, articles on the incidence of asymptomatic Leishmania infection were systematically reviewed. METHODS The publications identified in the Medline/PubMed and Science Direct databases included 4568 articles. Inclusion, exclusion, and eligibility criterion analysis resulted in 83 articles being retained. These studies were mostly performed in Brazil (n = 26) and India (n = 15). RESULTS Several detection techniques have been used for diagnosis. Among the species found were L. infantum and L. donovani, which result in visceral leishmaniasis, and L. amazonensis, L. braziliensis, and L. panamensis. The incidence rates varied between the analyzed locations, largely due to sampling and the presence or absence of endemism in the regions. The largest populations analyzed were in two studies performed in India and Nepal. One of these studies evaluated 32,529 people and the incidence rate was 8.3% (n = 2702), while the other study evaluated 21,267 people and the incidence rate was 1.76% (n = 375). Only 14.28% of the studies investigated leishmaniasis in blood donors. Preexisting diseases have also been reported. CONCLUSION The findings of this systematic review present the incidence of cases of asymptomatic Leishmania infection worldwide, in addition to detailing the studies and offering information for researchers and health authorities to seek alternatives to reduce the number of leishmaniasis cases.
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Abstract
In this work we reviewed historical and recent data on Leishmania spp. infection combining data collected in Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Iran, China and Mongolia. We specifically focused on a complex of co-existing species (Leishmania major, Leishmania turanica and Leishmania gerbilli) sharing the same animal reservoirs and vectors. In addition, we analysed the presence of dsRNA viruses in these species and discussed future research directions to identify species-specific traits, which may determine susceptibility of different Leishmania spp. to viral infection.
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Yeboah C, Mosore MT, Attram N, Shelite TR, Akuffo RA, Addo SO, Behene E, Agbodzi B, Bentil RE, Fox AT, Wilson M, Boakye D, Letizia AG, Melby PC, Travi BL. A Preliminary Study to Compare Recombinase Polymerase Amplification-Lateral Flow and Quantitative PCR in the Detection of Cutaneous Leishmania in Communities from the Volta Region of Ghana. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2023; 23:75-80. [PMID: 36763962 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2022.0043] [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: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Leishmaniasis is a parasitic disease that mostly affects populations in tropical and subtropical countries. In Ghana, cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is the most common form of the disease affecting communities of the Volta Region. Conventional parasitological method (microscopy) is the commonly used test for CL diagnosis in many endemic countries, but has low sensitivity in chronic cases. Therefore, there is a clear need for a sensitive and easy-to-use point-of-care diagnostic method like an isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification-lateral flow (RPA-LF) test, suitable for use in austere and low-resource settings for the identification of CL cases. This study compared the efficacy of RPA-LF test with quantitative PCR (qPCR) in detecting Leishmania in suspected CL cases from the Volta Region. Methods: Twenty-five participants between 5 and 14 years were enrolled in the study from whom a total of 26 samples were obtained. Lesion samples were collected using FTA® filter papers applied to ulcerated lesions for molecular diagnosis. DNA isolated from filter papers was used for both the RPA-LF test and qPCR. Results: Twenty-two participants (88%) presented with one or two ulcerated active lesions per individual, while the rest of them had plaques or dried lesions. Among the 26 samples, 19/26 (73%) had concordant results when comparing the two diagnostic methods. Conclusion: Data from this study suggest that the RPA-LF test can be used in addition to a conventional parasitological diagnostic test (microscopy) to detect CL cases in communities of the Volta Region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Yeboah
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.,U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Mba-Tihssommah Mosore
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.,U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Naiki Attram
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Thomas R Shelite
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Richard A Akuffo
- Department of Epidemiology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Seth O Addo
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.,U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Eric Behene
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.,U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Bright Agbodzi
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.,U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ronald E Bentil
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.,U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Anne T Fox
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Michael Wilson
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Daniel Boakye
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Andrew G Letizia
- U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit No.3, Ghana Detachment, Accra, Ghana
| | - Peter C Melby
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Bruno L Travi
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
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Lopes EADO, Florencio-Henschel P, Jordão FT, Sperança MA, Martins LPA, Suzuki RB. Leishmania infantum (syn. Leishmania chagasi) detection in blood donors living in an endemic area. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:671-674. [PMID: 36567398 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07770-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Human visceral leishmaniasis (HVL) is a neglected disease that occurs in 98 countries on five continents, and it is endemic in tropical and subtropical regions. In South America, the etiological agent of HVL is Leishmania infantum (syn. Leishmania chagasi), mainly transmitted through the bite of an infected sandfly female from the genus Lutzomyia. In American HVL endemic areas, the occurrence of asymptomatic infection is common, which contributes to the possibility of L. infantum transmission during a blood transfusion. To know the prevalence of L. infantum asymptomatic infection in blood donors from the microregion of Adamantina, we investigated 324 peripheral blood samples from donors through immunofluorescence (IFAT) and PCR-RFLP techniques. Seven blood samples (2.16%) tested positive for Leishmania by IFAT, and from those, six presented positive results by PCR (85.71%), which were later identified as L. infantum by RFLP. The presence of L. infantum in the peripheral blood of blood donors supported the hypothesis of transmission by blood transfusion and points to the need to include tests for visceral leishmaniasis in blood bank screening tests and pre-storage measures, especially in endemic areas to prevent the exponential increase of HVL by blood transfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Felipe Trovalim Jordão
- Center for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, São Bernardo Do Campo, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Rodrigo Buzinaro Suzuki
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Marília, Avenida Hygino Muzzy Filho, Zip Code: 17.525-902, Marília, SP, 1001, Brazil.
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Borges BS, Bueno GDP, Tomiotto-Pellissier F, Figueiredo FB, Soares Medeiros LC. In vitro anti- Leishmania activity of triclabendazole and its synergic effect with amphotericin B. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 12:1044665. [PMID: 36699729 PMCID: PMC9868945 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.1044665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease, with approximately 1 million new cases and 30,000 deaths reported every year worldwide. Given the lack of adequate medication for treating leishmaniasis, drug repositioning is essential to save time and money when searching for new therapeutic approaches. This is particularly important given leishmaniasis's status as a neglected disease. Available treatments are still far from being fully effective for treating the different clinical forms of the disease. They are also administered parenterally, making it challenging to ensure complete treatment, and they are extremely toxic, in some cases, causing death. Triclabendazole (TCBZ) is a benzimidazole used to treat fasciolosis in adults and children. It presents a lower toxicity profile than amphotericin B (AmpB) and is administered orally, making it an attractive candidate for treating other parasitoses. The mechanism of action for TCBZ is not yet well understood, although microtubules or polyamines could potentially act as a pharmacological target. TCBZ has already shown antiproliferative activity against T. cruzi, T. brucei, and L. infantum. However, further investigations are still necessary to elucidate the mechanisms of action of TCBZ. Methods Cytotoxicity assay was performed by MTT assay. Cell inhibition (CI) values were obtained according to the equation CI = (O.D treatment x 100/O.D. negative control). For Infection evaluation, fixated cells were stained with Hoechst and read at Operetta High Content Imaging System (Perkin Elmer). For growth curves, cell culture absorbance was measured daily at 600 nm. For the synergism effect, Fractional Inhibitory Concentrations (FICs) were calculated for the IC50 of the drugs alone or combined. Mitochondrial membrane potential (DYm), cell cycle, and cell death analysis were evaluated by flow cytometry. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid quantification were also determined by fluorimetry. Treated parasites morphology and ultrastructure were analyzed by electron microscopy. Results The selectivity index (SI = CC50/IC50) of TCBZ was comparable with AmpB in promastigotes and amastigotes of Leishmania amazonensis. Evaluation of the cell cycle showed an increase of up to 13% of cells concentrated in S and G2, and morphological analysis with scanning electron microscopy showed a high frequency of dividing cells. The ultrastructural analysis demonstrated large cytoplasmic lipid accumulation, which could suggest alterations in lipid metabolism. Combined administration of TCBZ and AmpB demonstrated a synergistic effect in vitro against intracellular amastigote forms with cSFICs of 0.25. Conclusions Considering that TCBZ has the advantage of being inexpensive and administrated orally, our results suggest that TCBZ, combined with AmpB, is a promising candidate for treating leishmaniasis with reduced toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fernanda Tomiotto-Pellissier
- Laboratory of Immunopathology of Neglected Diseases and Cancer (LIDNC), Department of Pathological Sciences, State University of Londrina, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil,Department of Medical Pathology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | | | - Lia Carolina Soares Medeiros
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil,*Correspondence: Lia Carolina Soares Medeiros,
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Lai C, Heinemann J, Schleicher U, Schett G, Bogdan C, Bozec A, Soulat D. Chronic Systemic Infection of Mice with Leishmania infantum Leads to Increased Bone Mass. J Bone Miner Res 2023; 38:86-102. [PMID: 36332102 DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.4733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Vector-borne infections of humans with the protozoan parasite Leishmania (L.) infantum can cause a systemic and potentially lethal disease termed visceral leishmaniasis. In the corresponding mouse model, an intravenous infection with L. infantum leads to the persistence of parasites in various organs, including bone marrow (BM). Considering the anatomical proximity between the BM and the cortical bone, we investigated whether a chronic infection with L. infantum affected bone homeostasis. Unexpectedly, chronic infection with L. infantum caused an increase in bone mass in mice. In vivo, an increased number of osteoblasts and osteocytes and a decreased maturation of osteoclasts characterized the phenotype. Confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscopy confirmed the infection of BM macrophages but also revealed the presence of parasites in osteoclasts. In vitro, mature osteoclasts took up L. infantum parasites. However, infection of osteoclast progenitors abolished their differentiation and function. In addition, secretory products of infected BM-derived macrophages inhibited the maturation of osteoclasts. Both in vitro and in vivo, infected macrophages and osteoclasts showed an enhanced expression of the anti-osteoclastogenic chemokine CCL5 (RANTES). Neutralization of CCL5 prevented the inhibition of osteoclast generation seen in the presence of culture supernatants from L. infantum-infected macrophages. Altogether, our study shows that chronic infection with Leishmania increases bone mass by inducing bone formation and impairing osteoclast differentiation and function. © 2022 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chaobo Lai
- Mikrobiologisches Institut-Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Jennifer Heinemann
- Mikrobiologisches Institut-Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Schleicher
- Mikrobiologisches Institut-Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Medical Immunology Campus Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Medical Immunology Campus Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Christian Bogdan
- Mikrobiologisches Institut-Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Medical Immunology Campus Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aline Bozec
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, Rheumatology and Immunology, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Medical Immunology Campus Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Didier Soulat
- Mikrobiologisches Institut-Klinische Mikrobiologie, Immunologie und Hygiene, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität (FAU) Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Medical Immunology Campus Erlangen, FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Kmetiuk LB, Tirado TC, Biondo LM, Biondo AW, Figueiredo FB. Leishmania spp. in indigenous populations: A mini-review. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1033803. [PMID: 36620288 PMCID: PMC9815601 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1033803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis, considered a neglected vector-borne disease complex of global concern, has a significant impact on indigenous communities due to daily human and animal exposure in periurban, rural, and naturally preserved areas. This mini-review aims to assess and discuss studies of leishmaniasis in these communities of the New World and Old World, particularly those in the Americas and Asia. Such indigenous communities have been mostly built in poor traditional households with no mosquito-net protection, mostly located in environmentally protected areas, favoring vectors and reservoirs. The presence of leishmaniasis cases surrounding such indigenous areas indicated a high risk of infection, which may have been historically underestimated due to a lack of surveillance, even at present. The absence of studies of indigenous populations in recognized endemic areas may reflect insufficient health services. In conclusion, the persistence of this neglectful scenario may impact tragic outcomes and potential outbreaks in indigenous peoples and surroundings populations worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Graduate Program in Biosciences and Biotechnology, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil,Louise Bach Kmetiuk ✉
| | - Thais Cristina Tirado
- Graduate Program in Biosciences and Biotechnology, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil,Reference Laboratory for Leishmaniasis, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Leandro Meneguelli Biondo
- National Institute of the Atlantic Forest (INMA), Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Santa Teresa, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Fabiano Borges Figueiredo
- Graduate Program in Biosciences and Biotechnology, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil,Reference Laboratory for Leishmaniasis, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil,*Correspondence: Fabiano Borges Figueiredo ✉
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Abstract
Genetic exchange between different Leishmania strains in the sand fly vector has been experimentally demonstrated and is supported by population genetic studies. In nature, opportunities for Leishmania interstrain mating are restricted to flies biting multiply infected hosts or through multiple bites of different hosts. In contrast, self-mating could occur in any infected sand fly. By crossing two recombinant lines derived from the same Leishmania major strain, each expressing a different drug-resistance marker, self-hybridization in L. major was confirmed in a natural sand fly vector, Phlebotomus duboscqi, and in frequencies comparable to interstrain crosses. We provide the first high resolution, whole-genome sequencing analysis of large numbers of selfing progeny, their parents, and parental subclones. Genetic exchange consistent with classical meiosis is supported by the biallelic inheritance of the rare homozygous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that arose by mutation during the generation of the parental clones. In contrast, heterozygous SNPs largely failed to be transmitted in Mendelian ratios for reasons not understood. SNPs that were heterozygous in both parents, however, recombined to produce homozygous alleles in some hybrids. For trisomic chromosomes present in both parents, transmittal to the progeny was only altered by self-hybridization, involving a gain or loss of somy in frequencies predicted by a meiotic process. Whole-genome polyploidization was also observed in the selfing progeny. Thus, self-hybridization in Leishmania, with its potential to occur in any infected sand fly, may be an important source of karyotype variation, loss of heterozygosity, and functional diversity. IMPORTANCE Leishmania are parasitic protozoa that cause a wide spectrum of diseases collectively known as the leishmaniases. Sexual reproduction in Leishmania has been proposed as an important source of genetic diversity and has been formally demonstrated to occur inside the sand fly vector midgut. Nevertheless, in the wild, opportunities for genetic exchange between different Leishmania species or strains are restricted by the capacity of different Leishmania strains to colonize the same sand fly. In this work, we report the first high resolution, whole-genome sequence analysis of intraclonal genetic exchange as a type of self-mating in Leishmania. Our data reveal that self-hybridization can occur with comparable frequency as interstrain mating under experimental lab conditions, leading to important genomic alterations that can potentially take place within every naturally infected sand fly.
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Olías-Molero AI, Botías P, Cuquerella M, García-Cantalejo J, Barcia E, Torrado S, Torrado JJ, Alunda JM. Leishmania infantum infection does not affect the main composition of the intestinal microbiome of the Syrian hamster. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:468. [PMID: 36522762 PMCID: PMC9753363 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05576-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is the most severe form of all leishmanial infections and is caused by infection with protozoa of Leishmania donovani and Leishmania infantum. This parasitic disease occurs in over 80 countries and its geographic distribution is on the rise. Although the interaction between the intestinal microbiome and the immune response has been established in several pathologies, it has not been widely studied in leishmaniasis. The Syrian hamster is the most advanced laboratory model for developing vaccines and new drugs against VL. In the study reported here, we explored the relationship between the intestinal microbiome and infection with L. infantum in this surrogate host. METHODS Male Syrian hamsters (120-140 g) were inoculated with 108 promastigotes of a canine-derived L. infantum strain or left as uninfected control animals. Infection was maintained for 19 weeks (endpoint) and monitored by an immunoglobulin G (IgG) enyzme-linked immunosorbent assay throughout the experiment. Individual faecal samples, obtained at weeks 16, 18 and 19 post-inoculation, were analysed to determine the 16S metagenomic composition (the operational taxonomic units [OTUs] of the intestinal microbiome and the comparison between groups were FDR (false discovery rate)-adjusted). RESULTS Leishmania infantum infection elicited moderate clinical signs and lesions and a steady increase in specific anti-Leishmania serum IgG. The predominant phyla (Firmicutes + Bacteriodetes: > 90%), families (Muribaculaceae + Lachnospiraceae + Ruminococcaceae: 70-80%) and genera found in the uninfected hamsters showed no significant variations throughout the experiment. Leishmania infantum infection provoked a slightly higher-albeit non-significant-value for the Firmicutes/Bacteriodetes ratio but no notable differences were found in the relative abundance or diversity of phyla and families. The microbiome of the infected hamsters was enriched in CAG-352, whereas Lachnospiraceae UCG-004, the [Eubacterium] ventriosum group and Allobaculum were less abundant. CONCLUSIONS The lack of extensive significant differences between hamsters infected and uninfected with L. infantum in the higher taxa (phyla, families) and the scarce variation found, which was restricted to genera with a low relative abundance, suggest that there is no clear VL infection-intestinal microbiome axis in hamsters. Further studies are needed (chronic infections, co-abundance analyses, intestinal sampling, functional analysis) to confirm these findings and to determine more precisely the possible relationship between microbiome composition and VL infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel Olías-Molero
- ICPVet, Department of Animal Health, School of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pedro Botías
- Unidad de Genómica, Centro de Asistencia a la Investigación de Técnicas Biológicas, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Montserrat Cuquerella
- ICPVet, Department of Animal Health, School of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jesús García-Cantalejo
- Unidad de Genómica, Centro de Asistencia a la Investigación de Técnicas Biológicas, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Emilia Barcia
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Industrial Pharmacy UCM, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Susana Torrado
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Industrial Pharmacy UCM, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan José Torrado
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Technology, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Industrial Pharmacy UCM, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - José María Alunda
- ICPVet, Department of Animal Health, School of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Institute of Industrial Pharmacy UCM, School of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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Polylactide Nanoparticles as a Biodegradable Vaccine Adjuvant: A Study on Safety, Protective Immunity and Efficacy against Human Leishmaniasis Caused by Leishmania Major. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27248677. [PMID: 36557812 PMCID: PMC9783570 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27248677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is the 3rd most challenging vector-borne disease after malaria and lymphatic filariasis. Currently, no vaccine candidate is approved or marketed against leishmaniasis due to difficulties in eliciting broad immune responses when using sub-unit vaccines. The aim of this work was the design of a particulate sub-unit vaccine for vaccination against leishmaniasis. The poly (D,L-lactide) nanoparticles (PLA-NPs) were developed in order to efficiently adsorb a recombinant L. major histone H2B (L. major H2B) and to boost its immunogenicity. Firstly, a study was focused on the production of well-formed nanoparticles by the nanoprecipitation method without using a surfactant and on the antigen adsorption process under mild conditions. The set-up preparation method permitted to obtain H2B-adsorbed nanoparticles H2B/PLA (adsorption capacity of about 2.8% (w/w)) with a narrow size distribution (287 nm) and a positive zeta potential (30.9 mV). Secondly, an in vitro release assay performed at 37 °C, pH 7.4, showed a continuous release of the adsorbed H2B for almost 21 days (30%) from day 7. The immune response of H2B/PLA was investigated and compared to H2B + CpG7909 as a standard adjuvant. The humoral response intensity (IgG) was substantially similar between both formulations. Interestingly, when challenged with the standard parasite strain (GLC94) isolated from a human lesion of cutaneous leishmaniasis, mice showed a significant reduction in footpad swelling compared to unvaccinated ones, and no deaths occurred until week 17th. Taken together, these results demonstrate that PLA-NPs represent a stable, cost-effective delivery system adjuvant for use in vaccination against leishmaniasis.
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Dhingra N, Kapoor K, Sharma S, Saxena A. Towards further understanding the structural insights of isoxazoles analogues against leishmaniasis using QSAR, molecular docking and molecular dynamics model. J INDIAN CHEM SOC 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jics.2022.100847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Pacinella G, Miceli S, Tuttolomondo A. A curious case of pancytopenia and fever in a patient with Erdheim-Chester disease. Intern Emerg Med 2022; 18:843-848. [PMID: 36400986 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-022-03153-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gaetano Pacinella
- U.O.C. Di Medicina Interna Con Stroke Care, Dipartimento Di Promozione Della Salute, Medicina Interna E Specialistica Di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (Promise), Materno Infantile, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Miceli
- U.O.C. Di Medicina Interna Con Stroke Care, Dipartimento Di Promozione Della Salute, Medicina Interna E Specialistica Di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (Promise), Materno Infantile, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
| | - Antonino Tuttolomondo
- U.O.C. Di Medicina Interna Con Stroke Care, Dipartimento Di Promozione Della Salute, Medicina Interna E Specialistica Di Eccellenza "G. D'Alessandro" (Promise), Materno Infantile, University of Palermo, Piazza Delle Cliniche N.2, 90127, Palermo, Italy
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Laboratory diagnostics for human Leishmania infections: a polymerase chain reaction-focussed review of detection and identification methods. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:412. [PMID: 36335408 PMCID: PMC9636697 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05524-z] [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: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania infections span a range of clinical syndromes and impact humans from many geographic foci, but primarily the world's poorest regions. Transmitted by the bite of a female sand fly, Leishmania infections are increasing with human movement (due to international travel and war) as well as with shifts in vector habitat (due to climate change). Accurate diagnosis of the 20 or so species of Leishmania that infect humans can lead to the successful treatment of infections and, importantly, their prevention through modelling and intervention programs. A multitude of laboratory techniques for the detection of Leishmania have been developed over the past few decades, and although many have drawbacks, several of them show promise, particularly molecular methods like polymerase chain reaction. This review provides an overview of the methods available to diagnostic laboratories, from traditional techniques to the now-preferred molecular techniques, with an emphasis on polymerase chain reaction-based detection and typing methods.
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Larrea E, Fernández-Rubio C, Peña-Guerrero J, Guruceaga E, Nguewa PA. The BRCT Domain from the Homologue of the Oncogene PES1 in Leishmania major (LmjPES) Promotes Malignancy and Drug Resistance in Mammalian Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13203. [PMID: 36361992 PMCID: PMC9655562 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Around 15% of cancer cases are attributable to infectious agents. Epidemiological studies suggest that an association between leishmaniasis and cancer does exist. Recently, the homologue of PES1 in Leishmania major (LmjPES) was described to be involved in parasite infectivity. Mammalian PES1 protein has been implicated in cellular processes like cell cycle regulation. Its BRCT domain has been identified as a key factor in DNA damage-responsive checkpoints. This work aimed to elucidate the hypothetical oncogenic implication of BRCT domain from LmjPES in host cells. We generated a lentivirus carrying this BRCT domain sequence (lentiBRCT) and a lentivirus expressing the luciferase protein (lentiLuc), as control. Then, HEK293T and NIH/3T3 mammalian cells were infected with these lentiviruses. We observed that the expression of BRCT domain from LmjPES conferred to mammal cells in vitro a greater replication rate and higher survival. In in vivo experiments, we observed faster tumor growth in mice inoculated with lentiBRCT respect to lentiLuc HEK293T infected cells. Moreover, the lentiBRCT infected cells were less sensitive to the genotoxic drugs. Accordingly, gene expression profiling analysis revealed that BRCT domain from LmjPES protein altered the expression of proliferation- (DTX3L, CPA4, BHLHE41, BMP2, DHRS2, S100A1 and PARP9), survival- (BMP2 and CARD9) and chemoresistance-related genes (DPYD, Dok3, DTX3L, PARP9 and DHRS2). Altogether, our results reinforced the idea that in eukaryotes, horizontal gene transfer might be also achieved by parasitism like Leishmania infection driving therefore to some crucial biological changes such as proliferation and drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Larrea
- ISTUN Institute of Tropical Health, IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Celia Fernández-Rubio
- ISTUN Institute of Tropical Health, IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
- ISTUN Institute of Tropical Health, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - José Peña-Guerrero
- ISTUN Institute of Tropical Health, IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
- ISTUN Institute of Tropical Health, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Elizabeth Guruceaga
- Bioinformatics Platform, Center for Applied Medical Research, IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
| | - Paul A. Nguewa
- ISTUN Institute of Tropical Health, IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
- ISTUN Institute of Tropical Health, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, 31009 Pamplona, Navarra, Spain
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dos Santos DB, Lemos JA, Miranda SEM, Di Filippo LD, Duarte JL, Ferreira LAM, Barros ALB, Oliveira AEMFM. Current Applications of Plant-Based Drug Delivery Nano Systems for Leishmaniasis Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:2339. [PMID: 36365157 PMCID: PMC9695113 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmania is a trypanosomatid that causes leishmaniasis. It is transmitted to vertebrate hosts during the blood meal of phlebotomine sandflies. The clinical manifestations of the disease are associated with several factors, such as the Leishmania species, virulence and pathogenicity, the host-parasite relationship, and the host's immune system. Although its causative agents have been known and studied for decades, there have been few advances in the chemotherapy of leishmaniasis. The urgency of more selective and less toxic alternatives for the treatment of leishmaniasis leads to research focused on the study of new pharmaceuticals, improvement of existing drugs, and new routes of drug administration. Natural resources of plant origin are promising sources of bioactive substances, and the use of ethnopharmacology and folk medicine leads to interest in studying new medications from phytocomplexes. However, the intrinsic low water solubility of plant derivatives is an obstacle to developing a therapeutic product. Nanotechnology could help overcome these obstacles by improving the availability of common substances in water. To contribute to this scenario, this article provides a review of nanocarriers developed for delivering plant-extracted compounds to treat clinical forms of leishmaniasis and critically analyzing them and pointing out the future perspectives for their application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darline B. dos Santos
- Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Rodovia Juscelino Kubitisheck, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
| | - Janaina A. Lemos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Products, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Antonio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Sued E. M. Miranda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Products, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Antonio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Leonardo D. Di Filippo
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, Sao Paulo State University, Rodovia Araraquara/Jaú, Km 01, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Jonatas L. Duarte
- Department of Drugs and Medicines, Sao Paulo State University, Rodovia Araraquara/Jaú, Km 01, Araraquara 14800-903, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas A. M. Ferreira
- Department of Pharmaceutical Products, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Antonio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Andre L. B. Barros
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analyses, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Avenida Antonio Carlos, 6627, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, MG, Brazil
| | - Anna E. M. F. M. Oliveira
- Department of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Amapá, Rodovia Juscelino Kubitisheck, km 02, Macapá 68902-280, AP, Brazil
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Devipriya JS, Gupta AK, Pavan G, Dhingra S, Murti K, Ravichandiran V, Pandey K. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices among HIV/Leishmaniasis Co-Infected Patients in Bihar, India. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2022; 107:789-795. [PMID: 36037866 PMCID: PMC9651521 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.21-1294] [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: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a serious public health concern in the Indian state of Bihar, which has been exacerbated by an increasing HIV/AIDS incidence that has resulted in poor clinical outcomes. So far, there has been no investigation into the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of people who have been subjected to hospital-based supervision for VL or HIV/VL co-infection. This study assessed the KAP toward VL infection among 210 VL-infected patients (126 participants with VL and 84 participants with HIV/VL) using a pretested standard questionnaire. The findings are summarized descriptively and KAP scores are classified dichotomously (good/poor). Multivariable logistic regression and bivariate correlation were used in the analysis. The study showed that both VL-infected and co-infected patients exhibited similar deficits in KAP scores toward VL. The HIV/VL participants who had a personal or family history of VL were more likely to have appropriate awareness of and preventive practices toward VL. The independent predictors of attitude index in HIV/VL participants were education, VL family history, and marital status. There was a weak but significant positive correlation between knowledge and practice (rs = 0.321, p<0.001), and attitude and practice (rs = 0.294, p<0.001), while knowledge was strongly correlated with attitude (rs = 0.634, p<0.001). Based on the study findings, it is recommended that treatment programs in Bihar should concentrate on strengthening KAP among VL and HIV/VL co-infected patients to prevent reinfection-related complications. Behavior change communication intervention is ideal for tackling this problem. This proposal entails building a comprehensive public health program in endemic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. S. Devipriya
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur, India
| | | | - Garapati Pavan
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur, India
| | - Sameer Dhingra
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur, India
| | - Krishna Murti
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur, India
| | - Velayutham Ravichandiran
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hajipur, India
| | - Krishna Pandey
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Indian Council of Medical Research–Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Agamkuan, Patna, India
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Visceral Leishmaniasis: Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment Regimens in Different Geographical Areas with a Focus on Pediatrics. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10101887. [PMID: 36296164 PMCID: PMC9609364 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10101887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) is a vector-borne disease caused by an intracellular protozoa of the genus Leishmania that can be lethal if not treated. VL is caused by Leishmania donovani in Asia and in Eastern Africa, where the pathogens’ reservoir is represented by humans, and by Leishmania infantum in Latin America and in the Mediterranean area, where VL is a zoonotic disease and dog is the main reservoir. A part of the infected individuals become symptomatic, with irregular fever, splenomegaly, anemia or pancytopenia, and weakness, whereas others are asymptomatic. VL treatment has made progress in the last decades with the use of new drugs such as liposomal amphotericin B, and with new therapeutic regimens including monotherapy or a combination of drugs, aiming at shorter treatment duration and avoiding the development of resistance. However, the same treatment protocol may not be effective all over the world, due to differences in the infecting Leishmania species, so depending on the geographical area. This narrative review presents a comprehensive description of the clinical picture of VL, especially in children, the diagnostic approach, and some insight into the most used pharmacological therapies available worldwide.
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New Insights on Heme Uptake in Leishmania spp. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810501. [PMID: 36142411 PMCID: PMC9504327 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The protozoan parasite Leishmania, responsible for leishmaniasis, is one of the few aerobic organisms that cannot synthesize the essential molecule heme. Therefore, it has developed specialized pathways to scavenge it from its host. In recent years, some proteins involved in the import of heme, such as LHR1 and LFLVCRB, have been identified, but relevant aspects regarding the process remain unknown. Here, we characterized the kinetics of the uptake of the heme analogue Zn(II) Mesoporphyrin IX (ZnMP) in Leishmania major promastigotes as a model of a parasite causing cutaneous leishmaniasis with special focus on the force that drives the process. We found that ZnMP uptake is an active, inducible, and pH-dependent process that does not require a plasma membrane proton gradient but requires the presence of the monovalent cations Na+ and/or K+. In addition, we demonstrated that this parasite can efflux this porphyrin against a concentration gradient. We also found that ZnMP uptake differs among different dermotropic or viscerotropic Leishmania species and does not correlate with LHR1 or LFLVCRB expression levels. Finally, we showed that these transporters have only partially overlapping functions. Altogether, these findings contribute to a deeper understanding of an important process in the biology of this parasite.
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Fontes JV, Santos IA, Rosa LB, Lima RLA, Jardim ACG, Miguel DC, Abbehausen C. Antileishmanial and Anti‐Chikungunya Activity of Cu(I)‐N‐Heterocyclic Carbenes. ChemistrySelect 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/slct.202201560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Josielle V. Fontes
- Institute of Chemistry University of Campinas - UNICAMP PO Box 6154 13083-970 Campinas SP Brazil
| | - Igor A. Santos
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Federal University of Uberlândia Uberlandia MG Brazil
| | - Letícia B. Rosa
- Institute of Biology University of Campinas - UNICAMP 13083-862 Campinas SP Brazil
| | - Rochanna L. A. Lima
- Institute of Chemistry University of Campinas - UNICAMP PO Box 6154 13083-970 Campinas SP Brazil
| | - Ana C. G. Jardim
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Federal University of Uberlândia Uberlandia MG Brazil
| | - Danilo C. Miguel
- Institute of Biology University of Campinas - UNICAMP 13083-862 Campinas SP Brazil
| | - Camilla Abbehausen
- Institute of Chemistry University of Campinas - UNICAMP PO Box 6154 13083-970 Campinas SP Brazil
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