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Blasco Pedreros M, Salas N, Dos Santos Melo T, Miranda-Magalhães A, Almeida-Lima T, Pereira-Neves A, de Miguel N. Role of a novel uropod-like cell membrane protrusion in the pathogenesis of the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. J Cell Sci 2024; 137:jcs262210. [PMID: 39129707 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.262210] [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: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis causes trichomoniasis, the most common non-viral sexually transmitted disease worldwide. As an extracellular parasite, adhesion to host cells is essential for the development of infection. During attachment, the parasite changes its tear ovoid shape to a flat ameboid form, expanding the contact surface and migrating through tissues. Here, we have identified a novel structure formed at the posterior pole of adherent parasite strains, resembling the previously described uropod, which appears to play a pivotal role as an anchor during the attachment process. Moreover, our research demonstrates that the overexpression of the tetraspanin T. vaginalis TSP5 protein (TvTSP5), which is localized on the cell surface of the parasite, notably enhances the formation of this posterior anchor structure in adherent strains. Finally, we demonstrate that parasites that overexpress TvTSP5 possess an increased ability to adhere to host cells, enhanced aggregation and reduced migration on agar plates. Overall, these findings unveil novel proteins and structures involved in the intricate mechanisms of T. vaginalis interactions with host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Blasco Pedreros
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Buenos Aires CP 7130, Argentina
- Escuela de Bio y Nanotecnologías (UNSAM), Chascomús CP 1650, Argentina
| | - Nehuen Salas
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Buenos Aires CP 7130, Argentina
- Escuela de Bio y Nanotecnologías (UNSAM), Chascomús CP 1650, Argentina
| | - Tuanne Dos Santos Melo
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Recife, Pernambuco CEP 50740-465, Brazil
| | - Abigail Miranda-Magalhães
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Recife, Pernambuco CEP 50740-465, Brazil
| | - Thainá Almeida-Lima
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Recife, Pernambuco CEP 50740-465, Brazil
| | - Antonio Pereira-Neves
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Recife, Pernambuco CEP 50740-465, Brazil
| | - Natalia de Miguel
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Buenos Aires CP 7130, Argentina
- Escuela de Bio y Nanotecnologías (UNSAM), Chascomús CP 1650, Argentina
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Kochanowsky JA, Mira PM, Elikaee S, Muratore K, Rai AK, Riestra AM, Johnson PJ. Trichomonas vaginalis extracellular vesicles up-regulate and directly transfer adherence factors promoting host cell colonization. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2401159121. [PMID: 38865261 PMCID: PMC11194581 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2401159121] [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: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis, a common sexually transmitted parasite that colonizes the human urogenital tract, secretes extracellular vesicles (TvEVs) that are taken up by human cells and are speculated to be taken up by parasites as well. While the crosstalk between TvEVs and human cells has led to insight into host:parasite interactions, roles for TvEVs in infection have largely been one-sided, with little known about the effect of TvEV uptake by T. vaginalis. Approximately 11% of infections are found to be coinfections of multiple T. vaginalis strains. Clinical isolates often differ in their adherence to and cytolysis of host cells, underscoring the importance of understanding the effects of TvEV uptake within the parasite population. To address this question, our lab tested the ability of a less adherent strain of T. vaginalis, G3, to take up fluorescently labeled TvEVs derived from both itself (G3-EVs) and TvEVs from a more adherent strain of the parasite (B7RC2-EVs). Here, we showed that TvEVs generated from the more adherent strain are internalized more efficiently compared to the less adherent strain. Additionally, preincubation of G3 parasites with B7RC2-EVs increases parasite aggregation and adherence to host cells. Transcriptomics revealed that TvEVs up-regulate expression of predicted parasite membrane proteins and identified an adherence factor, heteropolysaccharide binding protein (HPB2). Finally, using comparative proteomics and superresolution microscopy, we demonstrated direct transfer of an adherence factor, cadherin-like protein, from TvEVs to the recipient parasite's surface. This work identifies TvEVs as a mediator of parasite:parasite communication that may impact pathogenesis during mixed infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A. Kochanowsky
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Portia M. Mira
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Samira Elikaee
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Katherine Muratore
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Anand Kumar Rai
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Angelica M. Riestra
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA92182
| | - Patricia J. Johnson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
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3
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Simoes-Barbosa A, Pinheiro J. Unconventional features in the transcription and processing of spliceosomal small nuclear RNAs in the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Int J Parasitol 2024; 54:257-266. [PMID: 38452964 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2024.03.001] [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: 11/27/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is a medically important protozoan parasite, and a deep-branching, evolutionarily divergent unicellular eukaryote that has conserved several key features of eukaryotic gene expression. Trichomonas vaginalis possesses a metazoan/plant-like capping apparatus, mRNAs with a cap 1 structure and spliceosomes containing the five small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs). However, in contrast to metazoan and plant snRNAs, the structurally conserved T. vaginalis snRNAs were initially identified as lacking the canonical guanosine cap nucleotide. To explain this unusual condition, we sought to investigate transcriptional and processing features of the spliceosomal snRNAs in this protist. Here, we show that T. vaginalis spliceosomal snRNA genes mostly lack typical eukaryotic promoters. In contrast to other eukaryotes, the putative TATA box in the T. vaginalis U6 snRNA gene was found to be dispensable for transcription or RNA polymerase selectivity. Moreover, U6 transcription in T. vaginalis was virtually insensitive to tagetitoxin compared with other cellular transcripts produced by the same RNA polymerase III. Most important and unexpected, snRNA transcription in T. vaginalis appears to bypass capping as we show that these transcripts retain their original 5'-triphosphate groups. In conclusion, transcription and processing of spliceosomal snRNAs in T. vaginalis deviate considerably from the conventional rules of other eukaryotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Augusto Simoes-Barbosa
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand.
| | - Jully Pinheiro
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
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4
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Saffarieh E, Tarahomi S, Pazoki S, Khaleghian A. Investigation of the frequency and relationship between trichomonas infection in the preterm delivery (a case-control study in Amir Al-Momenin Hospital, Semnan). J Family Med Prim Care 2024; 13:1362-1370. [PMID: 38827714 PMCID: PMC11141949 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1411_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction and Purpose Preterm delivery is a common complication during pregnancy periods and imposes a high cost on the healthcare system due to the care needs of premature babies. Sexually transmitted infections are one of the effective factors in the occurrence of preterm delivery and the diagnosis and treatment of these infections are effective in reducing complications and preventing preterm delivery. In this study, the role of Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis [TV]) infection in preterm delivery has been evaluated. Methods In a prospective case-control study, women with preterm birth were assigned to the case group, and women with full-term delivery on the same day were also assigned randomly to the control group. After receiving the history and physical examination, a sample was taken from the cervix for TV culture. The data were included in the SPSS version 23 software. A significance level of less than 0.05 was considered. Findings The overall prevalence of this infection was 10%. The prevalence of chlamydial infection was 2% among mothers with full-term delivery and 16.4% among mothers with premature birth, and there was a significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.021). The logistic regression analysis to determine the effect of Trichomonas infection on premature birth showed that there was the probability of the occurrence of premature delivery increases in mothers with trichomoniasis infection with lower age, higher body mass index, the presence of underlying disease, lower educational level, housewives, lower parity and gravity and having a history of fetus abortion more than 13 times with its occurrence probability occurs in mothers without Trichomonas infection (P = 0.046, Exp (β) =13.266). Conclusion According to the present results, TV screening for pregnant women, especially in high-risk groups, is emphasized to reduce the incidence of preterm delivery and related complications, especially neonatal complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elham Saffarieh
- Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Science, Semnan, Iran
| | - Shabnam Tarahomi
- Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Science, Semnan, Iran
| | | | - Ali Khaleghian
- Department of Biochemistry, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
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Trujillo EN, Flores BA, Romero IV, Moran JA, Leka A, Ramirez AD, Ear J, Mercer F. Complement receptor 3 is required for maximum in vitro trogocytic killing of the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis by human neutrophil-like cells. Parasite Immunol 2024; 46:e13025. [PMID: 38372623 PMCID: PMC11090219 DOI: 10.1111/pim.13025] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis (Tv) is a parasite that causes trichomoniasis, a prevalent sexually-transmitted infection. Neutrophils are found at the site of infection, and can rapidly kill the parasite in vitro, using trogocytosis. However, the specific molecular players in neutrophil killing of Tv are unknown. Here, we show that complement proteins play a role in Tv killing by human neutrophil-like cells (NLCs). Using CRISPR/Cas9, we generated NLCs deficient in each of three complement receptors (CRs) known to be expressed on human neutrophils: CR1, CR3, and CR4. Using in vitro trogocytosis assays, we found that CR3, but not CR1 or CR4 is required for maximum trogocytosis of the parasite by NLCs, with NLCs lacking CR3 demonstrating ~40% reduction in trogocytosis, on average. We also observed a reduction in NLC killing of Tv in CR3 knockout, but not CR1 or CR4 knockout NLCs. On average, NLCs lacking CR3 had ~50% reduction in killing activity. We also used a parallel approach of pre-incubating NLCs with blocking antibodies against CR3, which similarly reduced NLC killing of parasites. These data support a model in which Tv is opsonized by the complement protein iC3b, and bound by neutrophil CR3 receptor, to facilitate trogocytic killing of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma N. Trujillo
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, California 91768
| | - Barbara A. Flores
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, California 91768
| | - Isabel V. Romero
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, California 91768
| | - Jose A. Moran
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, California 91768
| | - Aljona Leka
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, California 91768
| | - Ashley D. Ramirez
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, California 91768
| | - Jason Ear
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, California 91768
| | - Frances Mercer
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, California 91768
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Margarita V, Congiargiu A, Diaz N, Fiori PL, Rappelli P. Mycoplasma hominis and Candidatus Mycoplasma girerdii in Trichomonas vaginalis: Peaceful Cohabitants or Contentious Roommates? Pathogens 2023; 12:1083. [PMID: 37764891 PMCID: PMC10535475 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12091083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is a pathogenic protozoan diffused worldwide capable of infecting the urogenital tract in humans, causing trichomoniasis. One of its most intriguing aspects is the ability to establish a close relationship with endosymbiotic microorganisms: the unique association of T. vaginalis with the bacterium Mycoplasma hominis represents, to date, the only example of an endosymbiosis involving two true human pathogens. Since its discovery, several aspects of the symbiosis between T. vaginalis and M. hominis have been characterized, demonstrating that the presence of the intracellular guest strongly influences the pathogenic characteristics of the protozoon, making it more aggressive towards host cells and capable of stimulating a stronger proinflammatory response. The recent description of a further symbiont of the protozoon, the newly discovered non-cultivable mycoplasma Candidatus Mycoplasma girerdii, makes the picture even more complex. This review provides an overview of the main aspects of this complex microbial consortium, with particular emphasis on its effect on protozoan pathobiology and on the interplays among the symbionts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Margarita
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.M.); (A.C.); (N.D.); (P.L.F.)
- Mediterranean Centre for Disease Control (MCDC), 07110 Sassari, Italy
| | - Antonella Congiargiu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.M.); (A.C.); (N.D.); (P.L.F.)
| | - Nicia Diaz
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.M.); (A.C.); (N.D.); (P.L.F.)
| | - Pier Luigi Fiori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.M.); (A.C.); (N.D.); (P.L.F.)
- Mediterranean Centre for Disease Control (MCDC), 07110 Sassari, Italy
- Microbiology Unit, University Hospital of Sassari (AOU), 07110 Sassari, Italy
| | - Paola Rappelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.M.); (A.C.); (N.D.); (P.L.F.)
- Mediterranean Centre for Disease Control (MCDC), 07110 Sassari, Italy
- Microbiology Unit, University Hospital of Sassari (AOU), 07110 Sassari, Italy
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7
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Barnett MJ, Pinheiro J, Keown JR, Biboy J, Gray J, Lucinescu IW, Vollmer W, Hirt RP, Simoes-Barbosa A, Goldstone DC. NlpC/P60 peptidoglycan hydrolases of Trichomonas vaginalis have complementary activities that empower the protozoan to control host-protective lactobacilli. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011563. [PMID: 37585473 PMCID: PMC10461829 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is a human protozoan parasite that causes trichomoniasis, a prevalent sexually transmitted infection. Trichomoniasis is accompanied by a shift to a dysbiotic vaginal microbiome that is depleted of lactobacilli. Studies on co-cultures have shown that vaginal bacteria in eubiosis (e.g. Lactobacillus gasseri) have antagonistic effects on T. vaginalis pathogenesis, suggesting that the parasite might benefit from shaping the microbiome to dysbiosis (e.g. Gardnerella vaginalis among other anaerobes). We have recently shown that T. vaginalis has acquired NlpC/P60 genes from bacteria, expanding them to a repertoire of nine TvNlpC genes in two distinct clans, and that TvNlpCs of clan A are active against bacterial peptidoglycan. Here, we expand this characterization to TvNlpCs of clan B. In this study, we show that the clan organisation of NlpC/P60 genes is a feature of other species of Trichomonas, and that Histomonas meleagridis has sequences related to one clan. We characterized the 3D structure of TvNlpC_B3 alone and with the inhibitor E64 bound, probing the active site of these enzymes for the first time. Lastly, we demonstrated that TvNlpC_B3 and TvNlpC_B5 have complementary activities with the previously described TvNlpCs of clan A and that exogenous expression of these enzymes empower this mucosal parasite to take over populations of vaginal lactobacilli in mixed cultures. TvNlpC_B3 helps control populations of L. gasseri, but not of G. vaginalis, which action is partially inhibited by E64. This study is one of the first to show how enzymes produced by a mucosal protozoan parasite may contribute to a shift on the status of a microbiome, helping explain the link between trichomoniasis and vaginal dysbiosis. Further understanding of this process might have significant implications for treatments in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Barnett
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jully Pinheiro
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jeremy R. Keown
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jacob Biboy
- Centre for Bacterial Cell Biology, Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Joe Gray
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | | | - Waldemar Vollmer
- Centre for Bacterial Cell Biology, Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Robert P. Hirt
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | | | - David C. Goldstone
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
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8
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Artuyants A, Hong J, Dauros-Singorenko P, Phillips A, Simoes-Barbosa A. Lactobacillus gasseri and Gardnerella vaginalis produce extracellular vesicles that contribute to the function of the vaginal microbiome and modulate host-Trichomonas vaginalis interactions. Mol Microbiol 2023. [PMID: 37485746 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.15130] [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: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is an extracellular protozoan parasite of the human urogenital tract, responsible for a prevalent sexually transmitted infection. Trichomoniasis is accompanied by a dysbiotic microbiome that is characterised by the depletion of host-protective commensals such as Lactobacillus gasseri, and the flourishing of a bacterial consortium that is comparable to the one seen for bacterial vaginosis, including the founder species Gardnerella vaginalis. These two vaginal bacteria are known to have opposite effects on T. vaginalis pathogenicity. Studies on extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been focused on the direction of a microbial producer (commensal or pathogen) to a host recipient, and largely in the context of the gut microbiome. Here, taking advantage of the simplicity of the human cervicovaginal microbiome, we determined the molecular cargo of EVs produced by L. gasseri and G. vaginalis and examined how these vesicles modulate the interaction of T. vaginalis and host cells. We show that these EVs carry a specific cargo of proteins, which functions can be attributed to the opposite roles that these bacteria play in the vaginal biome. Furthermore, these bacterial EVs are delivered to host and protozoan cells, modulating host-pathogen interactions in a way that mimics the opposite effects that these bacteria have on T. vaginalis pathogenicity. This is the first study to describe side-by-side the protein composition of EVs produced by two bacteria belonging to the opposite spectrum of a microbiome and to demonstrate that these vesicles modulate the pathogenicity of a protozoan parasite. Such as in trichomoniasis, infections and dysbiosis co-occur frequently resulting in significant co-morbidities. Therefore, studies like this provide the knowledge for the development of antimicrobial therapies that aim to clear the infection while restoring a healthy microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jiwon Hong
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Surgical and Translational Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Anthony Phillips
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Surgical and Translational Research Centre, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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9
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Bongiorni Galego G, Tasca T. Infinity war: Trichomonas vaginalis and interactions with host immune response. MICROBIAL CELL (GRAZ, AUSTRIA) 2023; 10:103-116. [PMID: 37125086 PMCID: PMC10140678 DOI: 10.15698/mic2023.05.796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is the pathological agent of human trichomoniasis. The incidence is 156 million cases worldwide. Due to the increasing resistance of isolates to approved drugs and clinical complications that include increased risk in the acquisition and transmission of HIV, cervical and prostate cancer, and adverse outcomes during pregnancy, increasing our understanding of the pathogen's interaction with the host immune response is essential. Production of cytokines and cells of innate immunity: Neutrophils and macrophages are the main cells involved in the fight against the parasite, while IL-8, IL-6 and TNF-α are the most produced cytokines in response to this infection. Clinical complications: T. vaginalis increases the acquisition of HIV, stimulates the invasiveness and growth of prostate cells, and generates an inflammatory environment that may lead to preterm birth. Endosymbiosis: Mycoplasma hominis increased cytotoxicity, growth, and survival rate of the parasite. Purinergic signaling: NTPD-ases and ecto-5'-nucleotidase helps in parasite survival by modulating the nucleotides levels in the microenvironment. Antibodies: IgG was detected in serum samples of rodents infected with isolates from symptomatic patients as well as patients with symptoms. However, antibody production does not protect against a reinfection. Vaccine candidate targets: The transient receptor potential- like channel of T. vaginalis (TvTRPV), cysteine peptidase, and α-actinin are currently cited as candidate targets for vaccine development. In this context, the understanding of mechanisms involved in the host-T. vaginalis interaction that elicit the immune response may contribute to the development of new targets to combat trichomoniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Bongiorni Galego
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Tricomonas, Faculdade de Farmácia e Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Ipiranga, 2752, Porto Alegre, 90610-000, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Tiana Tasca
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Tricomonas, Faculdade de Farmácia e Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Ipiranga, 2752, Porto Alegre, 90610-000, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
- * Corresponding Author: Tiana Tasca, Avenida Ipiranga, 2752. 90610-000. Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Tel: +555133085325;
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10
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Abstract
Trichomoniasis is the most common nonviral sexually transmitted infection worldwide. It has been associated with a variety of adverse sexual and reproductive health outcomes for both men and women. In this review, the authors discuss updates in its epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical significance, diagnosis, and treatment.
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11
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Hsu HM, Yang YY, Huang YH, Chu CH, Tu TJ, Wu YT, Chiang CJ, Yang SB, Hsu DK, Liu FT, Tai JH. Distinct features of the host-parasite interactions between nonadherent and adherent Trichomonas vaginalis isolates. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011016. [PMID: 36595499 PMCID: PMC9810166 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytoadherence of Trichomonas vaginalis to human vaginal epithelial cells (hVECs) was previously shown to involve surface lipoglycans and several reputed adhesins on the parasite. Herein, we report some new observations on the host-parasite interactions of adherent versus nonadherent T. vaginalis isolates to hVECs. The binding of the TH17 adherent isolate to hVECs exhibited an initial discrete phase followed by an aggregation phase inhibited by lactose. T. vaginalis infection immediately induced surface expression of galectin-1 and -3, with extracellular amounts in the spent medium initially decreasing and then increasing thereafter over the next 60 min. Extracellular galectin-1 and -3 were detected on the parasite surface but only the TH17 adherent isolate could uptake galectin-3 via the lysosomes. Only the adherent isolate could morphologically transform from the round-up flagellate with numerous transient protrusions into a flat amoeboid form on contact with the solid surface. Cytochalasin D challenge revealed that actin organization was essential to parasite morphogenesis and cytoadherence. Real-time microscopy showed that parasite exploring and anchoring on hVECs via the axostyle may be required for initial cytoadherence. Together, the parasite cytoskeleton behaviors may collaborate with cell surface adhesion molecules for cytoadherence. The nonadherent isolate migrated faster than the adherent isolate, with motility transiently increasing in the presence of hVECs. Meanwhile, differential histone acetylation was detected between the two isolates. Also, TH17 without Mycoplasma symbiosis suggests that symbiont might not determine TH17 innate cytoadherence. Our findings regarding distinctive host-parasite interactions of the isolates may provide novel insights into T. vaginalis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Ming Hsu
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
- * E-mail:
| | - Yen-Yu Yang
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsin Huang
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Hsin Chu
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Jui Tu
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Ting Wu
- Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- High School Talent Student in Life Science Project at Academia Sinica and Taipei Municipal Chenggong High School, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chu-Jen Chiang
- Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- High School Talent Student in Life Science Project at Academia Sinica and Taipei Municipal Chenggong High School, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shi-Bing Yang
- Division of Neuroscience, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Daniel K. Hsu
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Fu-Tong Liu
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, United States of America
| | - Jung-Hsiang Tai
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
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12
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Li Q, Li Y, Bai Y, Zhang H, Zhao W. Development and validation of a predictive model for the risk of developing trichomonas vaginitis in women. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20182. [PMID: 36424393 PMCID: PMC9691695 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24396-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginitis (TV) is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide. The high prevalence of TV combined with mild or asymptomatic early symptoms leads to clinical vulnerability from delayed diagnosis. Latent infection can increase the incidence of pelvic infections, infertility, and adverse pregnancy complications. Data from 898 women who underwent vaginal flora testing from June 2014 to December 2014 were used to create a nomogram to assess the risk of TV in women in order to guide TV prevention and clinical intervention. The prediction model was evaluated in terms of identification, calibration, and clinical utility using the C-index, calibration plots, decision curve analysis, and internal validation. Predictors in the TV nomogram included age, occupation, yearly income, tea drinking, bathing frequency, menopause, spontaneous abortion, use of contraceptives, history of gynecological surgery, and HPV infection. The C-index of the TV risk prediction model was 0.732 (95% confidence interval: 0.695-0.768). It showed good discriminatory and predictive power. Decision curve analysis indicated that the nomogram had a good net benefit when the threshold probability of TV in women was 2-80%. The established TV prediction model easily, accurately, and quickly predicts the risk of TV onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Li
- grid.452845.a0000 0004 1799 2077Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001 Shanxi China ,grid.263452.40000 0004 1798 4018Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Yaqin Li
- grid.452845.a0000 0004 1799 2077Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001 Shanxi China ,grid.263452.40000 0004 1798 4018Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Ying Bai
- grid.452845.a0000 0004 1799 2077Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001 Shanxi China ,grid.263452.40000 0004 1798 4018Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Honglei Zhang
- grid.263452.40000 0004 1798 4018Department of Pathology and Pathophysiology, Basic Medical College, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China
| | - Weihong Zhao
- grid.452845.a0000 0004 1799 2077Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Second Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, 030001 Shanxi China
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13
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Lesiak-Markowicz I, Tscherwizek C, Pöppl W, Mooseder G, Walochnik J, Fürnkranz U. Prevalence of selected sexually transmitted infectious agents in a cohort of asymptomatic soldiers in Austria. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:424. [PMID: 36372885 PMCID: PMC9661754 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05508-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than one million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired every day worldwide. Although STIs may be asymptomatic in many cases, they can cause severe symptoms and can also lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes and both male and female infertility. Asymptomatic carriers seem to play an important role in terms of the distribution of STIs; however, studies revealing the prevalence of STIs in asymptomatic individuals are rare. METHODS In the current study, 654 leftovers of standard urine samples from healthy, asymptomatic Austrian soldiers were investigated for the prevalence of Trichomonas vaginalis, Chlamydia trachomatis, and genital mycoplasmas (Mycoplasma hominis, Mycoplasma genitalium, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Ureaplasma parvum, and Candidatus Mycoplasma girerdii) by specific PCRs. RESULTS We detected T. vaginalis, M. hominis, U. urealyticum, U. parvum, and C. trachomatis in the investigated samples with prevalence of 7.6%, 4%, 2.4%, 5.4%, and 3.2%, respectively; neither M. genitalium nor Ca. Mycoplasma girerdii was found in our sample collection. CONCLUSIONS Our study introduces data on STIs of a mainly male cohort, which are scarce because most of the available information on sexually transmitted infectious agents arises from fertility clinics (mainly women) or symptomatic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Lesiak-Markowicz
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Centre for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Claudia Tscherwizek
- Division of Dermatology and Tropical Medicine, Sanitätszentrum Ost, Van Swieten Kaserne, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Pöppl
- Division of Dermatology and Tropical Medicine, Sanitätszentrum Ost, Van Swieten Kaserne, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerhard Mooseder
- Division of Dermatology and Tropical Medicine, Sanitätszentrum Ost, Van Swieten Kaserne, 1210 Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Walochnik
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Centre for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Ursula Fürnkranz
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Centre for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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14
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Zhang Z, Li Y, Lu H, Li D, Zhang R, Xie X, Guo L, Hao L, Tian X, Yang Z, Wang S, Mei X. A systematic review of the correlation between Trichomonas vaginalis infection and infertility. Acta Trop 2022; 236:106693. [PMID: 36116548 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis) is an extracellular flagellated protozoan parasitizing the human genital and urinary tracts. T. vaginalis infection impacts human reproductive function, but whether it causes infertility is still a matter of debate. METHODS In this work, we consulted 205 relevant articles, which were classified into three categories: epidemiological investigations (100), review articles (43), and research articles (62). RevMan 5.4 was used to conduct a meta-analysis of the articles reporting epidemiological investigations comparing the incidence of T. vaginalis infection between infertile and fertile groups. Review and research articles were used to summarize the pathogenesis of infertility caused by T. vaginalis. RESULTS The results indicated that rate of T. vaginalis infection in the infertile group was significantly higher than that in the fertile group. Moreover, the epidemiological surveys showed that the infertility rates of population infected with T. vaginalis were significantly higher than that of population without T. vaginalis infection. Nine out of ten (90%) related review articles stated that T. vaginalis infection causes infertility, and the review and research articles indicated the main pathogenic mechanisms of infertility caused by T. vaginalis were as follows: T. vaginalis impairs sperm quality, resulting in infertility; the immune response triggered by T. vaginalis infection impacts human reproductive function. CONCLUSION Our results confirm that there is a correlation between T. vaginalis infection and infertility, and T. vaginalis infection can lead to infertility. The study provides a foundation for further investigations into its pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenchao Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Yuhua Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Haoran Lu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Dongxian Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Xianghuan Xie
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Lihua Guo
- Xinxiang Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Lixia Hao
- Xinxiang Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China.
| | - Xiaowei Tian
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Zhenke Yang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China
| | - Xuefang Mei
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, China.
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15
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Margarita V, Cao LC, Bailey NP, Ngoc THT, Ngo TMC, Nu PAT, Diaz N, Dessì D, Hirt RP, Fiori PL, Rappelli P. Effect of the Symbiosis with Mycoplasma hominis and Candidatus Mycoplasma Girerdii on Trichomonas vaginalis Metronidazole Susceptibility. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11060812. [PMID: 35740218 PMCID: PMC9220282 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11060812] [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: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichomoniasis, the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection worldwide, is caused by the protozoon Trichomonas vaginalis. The 5- nitroimidazole drugs, of which metronidazole is the most prescribed, are the only effective drugs to treat trichomoniasis. Resistance against metronidazole is increasingly reported among T. vaginalis isolates. T. vaginalis can establish an endosymbiosis with two Mycoplasma species, Mycoplasma hominis and Candidatus Mycoplasma girerdii, whose presence has been demonstrated to influence several aspects of the protozoan pathobiology. The role of M. hominis in T. vaginalis resistance to metronidazole is controversial, while the influence of Ca. M. girerdii has never been investigated. In this work, we investigate the possible correlation between the presence of Ca. M. girerdii and/or M. hominis and the in vitro drug susceptibility in a large group of T. vaginalis isolated in Italy and in Vietnam. We also evaluated, via RNA-seq analysis, the expression of protozoan genes involved in metronidazole resistance in a set of syngenic T. vaginalis strains, differing only for the presence/absence of the two Mycoplasmas. Our results show that the presence of M. hominis significantly increases the sensitivity to metronidazole in T. vaginalis and affects gene expression. On the contrary, the symbiosis with Candidatus Mycoplasma girerdii seems to have no effect on metronidazole resistance in T. vaginalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Margarita
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.M.); (N.D.); (D.D.); (P.L.F.)
| | - Le Chi Cao
- Department of Parasitology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue 49000, Vietnam; (L.C.C.); (T.H.T.N.); (T.M.C.N.); (P.A.T.N.)
| | - Nicholas P. Bailey
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; (N.P.B.); (R.P.H.)
| | - Thuy Ha Thi Ngoc
- Department of Parasitology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue 49000, Vietnam; (L.C.C.); (T.H.T.N.); (T.M.C.N.); (P.A.T.N.)
| | - Thi Minh Chau Ngo
- Department of Parasitology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue 49000, Vietnam; (L.C.C.); (T.H.T.N.); (T.M.C.N.); (P.A.T.N.)
| | - Phuong Anh Ton Nu
- Department of Parasitology, Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 06 Ngo Quyen Street, Hue 49000, Vietnam; (L.C.C.); (T.H.T.N.); (T.M.C.N.); (P.A.T.N.)
| | - Nicia Diaz
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.M.); (N.D.); (D.D.); (P.L.F.)
| | - Daniele Dessì
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.M.); (N.D.); (D.D.); (P.L.F.)
- Mediterranean Centre for Disease Control (MCDC), 07110 Sassari, Italy
| | - Robert P. Hirt
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; (N.P.B.); (R.P.H.)
| | - Pier Luigi Fiori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.M.); (N.D.); (D.D.); (P.L.F.)
- Mediterranean Centre for Disease Control (MCDC), 07110 Sassari, Italy
| | - Paola Rappelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Viale San Pietro 43/B, 07100 Sassari, Italy; (V.M.); (N.D.); (D.D.); (P.L.F.)
- Mediterranean Centre for Disease Control (MCDC), 07110 Sassari, Italy
- Correspondence:
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16
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Sexually transmitted infection screening to prevent adverse birth and newborn outcomes: study protocol for a randomized-controlled hybrid-effectiveness trial. Trials 2022; 23:441. [PMID: 35610666 PMCID: PMC9128231 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06400-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during pregnancy are associated with adverse birth outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight, perinatal death, and congenital infections such as increased mother-to-child HIV transmission. Prevalence of STIs among pregnant women in South Africa remains high, with most women being asymptomatic for their infection(s). Unfortunately, most STIs remain undetected and untreated due to standard practice syndromic management in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Although lab-based and point-of-care molecular tests are available, optimal screening strategies during pregnancy, their health impact, and cost-effectiveness are unknown. Methods We will implement a 3-arm (1:1:1) type-1 hybrid effectiveness-implementation randomized-controlled trial (RCT). We will enroll 2500 pregnant women attending their first antenatal care (ANC) visit for their current pregnancy at participating health facilities in Buffalo City Metro District, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Participants allocated to arms 1 and 2 (intervention) will receive GeneXpert® point-of-care diagnostic testing for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and Trichomonas vaginalis, with same-day treatment for detected infection(s). Arm 1 will additionally receive a test-of-cure 3 weeks post-treatment, while Arm 2 will receive a repeat test at 30–34 weeks’ gestation. Those allocated to Arm 3 will receive syndromic management (standard-of-care). The RE-AIM framework will be used to guide collection of implementation indicators to inform potential future scale up. Primary outcome measures include (1) frequency of adverse birth outcomes among study arms, defined by a composite measure of low birth weight and pre-term delivery, and (2) change in STI prevalence between baseline and birth outcome among intervention arms and compared to standard-of-care. Estimates and comparative costs of the different screening strategies relative to standard-of-care and the costs of managing adverse birth outcomes will be calculated. Cost-effectiveness will be assessed per STI and disability-adjusted life year averted. Discussion This trial is the first RCT designed to identify optimal, cost-effective screening strategies that decrease the burden of STIs during pregnancy and reduce adverse birth outcomes. Demonstrating the impact of diagnostic screening and treatment, compared to syndromic management, on birth outcomes will provide critical evidence to inform changes to WHO guidelines for syndromic management of STIs during pregnancy. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04446611. Registered on 25 June 2020.
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17
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Özel Y, Yılmaz U, Ünlü G, Özbilgin A, Ünlü M. Growth of Trichomonas vaginalis in Basic Media Available in Routine Microbiology Laboratories. TURKIYE PARAZITOLOJII DERGISI 2022; 46:7-13. [PMID: 35232699 DOI: 10.4274/tpd.galenos.2021.29290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Trichomonas vaginalis is a protozoan parasite with unicellular, flagellate, and anaerobic metabolism. It is the second most prevalent pathogen among sexually transmitted agents after viruses. Microscopic examination, culture, and molecular methods are used in the laboratory diagnosis of T. vaginalis. However, in most routine microbiology laboratories, microscopy is preferred instead of culture and molecular methods for T. vaginalis diagnosis because microscopy is cheaper than other methods. This study aimed to produce T. vaginalis in media that can be detected frequently in microbiology laboratories. METHODS In this study, four media, namely, thioglucholate medium (THIO), brain heart infusion medium (BHI), tryptic soy broth medium (TSB), and Brucella broth medium (BRB) were modified and tested. Trypticase-yeast extract-maltose (TYM) medium was used as a reference medium. Each medium tested was enriched with three different serum additives. T. vaginalis trophozoite at a density of 104 parasites/mL was inoculated into each medium and incubated at 37 °C for 10 days. We determined the number of trophozoites using a hemocytometer, and the viability rates were determined using trypan blue. RESULTS Trichomonas vaginalis grew extremely well on THIO, BHI, and TSB media but not on BRB media. The time and number of parasites peaked were determined as 100×104 parasites/mL on THIO-ATS and THIO-FCS media on days five and four, respectively, 100×104 parasites/mL on BHI-ATS on day three, 98×104 parasite/mL on BHI-FCS media on day five, 100×104 parasites/mL on TSB-ATS on day four, and 82×104 parasite/mL on TSB-FCS media on day seven. Compared with the reference medium, TYM, T. vaginalis trophozoites survived significantly longer in THIO, BHI, and TSB media. CONCLUSION The rich content of THIO, TSB, and BHI media, which are widely available in routine microbiology laboratories, may allow T. vaginalis growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yener Özel
- Balıkesir Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dalı, Balıkesir, Türkiye
| | - Umut Yılmaz
- Balıkesir Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dalı, Balıkesir, Türkiye
| | - Gülhan Ünlü
- Balıkesir Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dalı, Balıkesir, Türkiye
| | - Ahmet Özbilgin
- Manisa Celal Bayar Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Parazitoloji Anabilim Dalı, Manisa, Türkiye
| | - Mehmet Ünlü
- Balıkesir Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi, Tıbbi Mikrobiyoloji Anabilim Dalı, Balıkesir, Türkiye
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18
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Mbah CE, Jasani A, Aaron KJ, Akoachere JF, Tita ATN, Geisler WM, Van Der Pol B, Dionne-Odom J, Ngeudia JCA. Association between Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhea, Mycoplasma genitalium, and Trichomonas vaginalis and Secondary Infertility in Cameroon: A case-control study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263186. [PMID: 35120153 PMCID: PMC8815903 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Data on the prevalence and etiology of infertility in Africa are limited. Secondary infertility is particularly common, defined as the inability of a woman to conceive for at least one year following a full-term pregnancy. We describe a prospective study conducted in Cameroon designed to test the hypothesis of an association between common treatable sexually transmitted infections (STI): Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), Mycoplasma genitalium (MG), and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) and secondary infertility in women. METHODS In this case-control study, we enrolled women in Fako Division, Cameroon between November 2017 and December 2018 with secondary infertility (cases) or current pregnancy (controls). We conducted a baseline survey to collect sociodemographic, and sexual and medical history information. Nucleic acid amplification testing using Aptima (Hologic, San Diego, CA, US) was performed on endocervical swabs for CT, NG, MG, and TV. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between active STI and secondary infertility. RESULTS A total of 416 women were enrolled: 151 cases and 265 controls. Compared to controls, cases were older (median age 32 vs 27 years) and had more lifetime sexual partners (median 4 vs 3) (p<0.001). Cases were more likely to report dyspareunia, abnormal menses, prior miscarriage, and ectopic pregnancy (all p<0.05). STI positivity was not significantly different among cases and controls (2.7% vs 5.4% for CT, 1.3% vs 2.9% for NG, 6.0% vs 7.0% for MG, respectively), with the exception of TV which was more common in pregnant controls (0.7% vs 5%; p = 0.02). CONCLUSION Study findings did not support an association between active STI and secondary infertility in Cameroon. Given high rates of pre-existing tubal damage, routine STI screening and treatment in younger women may be more impactful than costly STI testing during infertility assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarisse Engowei Mbah
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
- Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Center for Research on Health and Priority Pathologies, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Amy Jasani
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Kristal J. Aaron
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Jane-Francis Akoachere
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
- Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Center for Research on Health and Priority Pathologies, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Alan T. N. Tita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - William M. Geisler
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Barbara Van Der Pol
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Jodie Dionne-Odom
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States of America
| | - Jules Clement Assob Ngeudia
- Department of Laboratory Medicines, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
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Lujan AL, Croci DO, Rabinovich GA, Damiani MT. Galectins as potential therapeutic targets in STIs in the female genital tract. Nat Rev Urol 2022; 19:240-252. [PMID: 35105978 DOI: 10.1038/s41585-021-00562-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Every day, more than one million people worldwide acquire a sexually transmitted infection (STI). This public health problem has a direct effect on women's reproductive and sexual health as STIs can cause irreversible damage to fertility and can have negative consequences associated with discrimination and social exclusion. Infection with one sexually transmitted pathogen predisposes to co-infection with others, suggesting the existence of shared pathways that serve as molecular links between these diseases. Galectins, a family of β-galactoside-binding proteins, have emerged as endogenous mediators that facilitate cell-surface binding, internalization and cell invasion of many sexually transmitted pathogens, including Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, Candida albicans, HIV and herpes simplex virus. The ability of certain galectins to dimerize or form multimeric complexes confers the capacity to interact simultaneously with glycosylated ligands on both the pathogen and the cervico-vaginal tissue on these proteins. Galectins can act as a bridge by engaging glycans from the pathogen surface and glycosylated receptors from host cells, which is a mechanism that has been shown to be shared by several sexually transmitted pathogens. In the case of viruses and obligate intracellular bacteria, binding to the cell surface promotes pathogen internalization and cell invasion. Inflammatory responses that occur in cervico-vaginal tissue might trigger secretion of galectins, which in turn control the establishment, evolution and severity of STIs. Thus, galectin-targeted therapies could potentially prevent or decrease STIs caused by a diverse array of pathogenic microorganisms; furthermore, anti-galectin agents might reduce treatment costs of STIs and reach the most vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustin L Lujan
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica e Inmunidad, Instituto de Bioquímica y Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (UNCUYO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina.,Centre for Genomic Regulation (CRG), The Barcelona Institute of Science and Technology, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diego O Croci
- Laboratorio de Inmunopatología, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (UNCUYO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Gabriel A Rabinovich
- Laboratorio de Glicomedicina, Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina. .,Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), C1428AGE, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Maria T Damiani
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica e Inmunidad, Instituto de Bioquímica y Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Instituto de Medicina y Biología Experimental de Cuyo (IMBECU), Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (UNCUYO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina.
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Bassey GB, Clarke AIL, Elhelu OK, Lee CM. Trichomoniasis, a new look at a common but neglected STI in African descendance population in the United States and the Black Diaspora. A review of its incidence, research prioritization, and the resulting health disparities. J Natl Med Assoc 2022; 114:78-89. [PMID: 35042602 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnma.2021.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Structural racism plays a significant role in limited access to higher education, financial resources, employment opportunities, and high-quality healthcare for African Americans. The lack of healthcare equity and infrastructure has directly contributed to overall poor healthcare outcomes for the Black community. Studies have shown that adverse health outcomes such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are more prevalent in African Americans, regardless of their socioeconomic factors and lifestyles. For example, trichomoniasis, transmitted sexually by its etiological agent, Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis), predisposes those infected to co-infections with other STDs, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), herpes, and other related infections. Our review showcases the impact of trichomoniasis on the health of the Black community with an emphasis on African American women. A critical examination of the socio-demographic history of Black people in the United States (US) is vital to illustrate the origin of past and current racial health disparities. Further, we expand the complex and nuanced conversation on the intersectionality of racism, health equity, and innovative epidemiological and biomedical research strategies needed to eradicate this global public health threat.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Clarence M Lee
- Howard University, Department of Biology, Washington, DC, USA
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21
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Ding H, Zhang N, Cao L, Gong P, Wang X, Li X, Cheng S, Li J, Zhang X. First identification of telomeric DNA sequences in Trichomonas vaginalis. Acta Trop 2022; 225:106196. [PMID: 34687640 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106196] [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: 02/05/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Trichomoniasis is the most common nonviral sexually transmitted disease; it is caused by Trichomonas vaginalis and seriously threatens human reproductive health. Telomeres are specialised DNA-protein complexes at the ends of chromosomes that have a protective function. The aim of the present study was to identify and characterise the telomeric DNA of T. vaginalis-which has not been previously reported-by multiple molecular methods including sequencing, the Bal nuclease (BAL) 31 nuclease assay, fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH), and Southern blotting. We found numerous repeated units of TTTTAGGG in T. vaginalis genomic DNA digested with S1 nuclease in combination with XbaI restriction enzyme. The (TTTTAGGG)n tandem repeats were also highly sensitive to BAL 31 exonuclease digestion. We confirmed that the (TTTTAGGG)n repeats were located at the end of T. vaginalis chromosomes by FISH. Restriction enzyme digestion combined with Southern blotting using a digoxigenin-labelled (TTTTAGGG)5 probe showed that the T. vaginalis telomeric DNA length varied from 1.0 to 1.5 kb. This is the first report on the telomeric DNA sequence of T. vaginalis which includes the length and distribution on chromosomes; our findings lay a foundation for further study on telomere maintenance mechanisms in T. vaginalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Ding
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Lili Cao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China; Department of Parasite, Jilin Academy of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Pengtao Gong
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xiaocen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xin Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Shuqin Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Jianhua Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China.
| | - Xichen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China.
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22
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Salas N, Coceres VM, Melo TDS, Pereira-Neves A, Maguire VG, Rodriguez TM, Sabatke B, Ramirez MI, Sha J, Wohlschlegel JA, de Miguel N. VPS32, a member of the ESCRT complex, modulates adherence to host cells in the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis by affecting biogenesis and cargo sorting of released extracellular vesicles. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 79:11. [PMID: 34951683 PMCID: PMC11073171 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04083-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is a common sexually transmitted extracellular parasite that adheres to epithelial cells in the human urogenital tract. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been described as important players in the pathogenesis of this parasite as they deliver proteins and RNA into host cells and modulate parasite adherence. EVs are heterogeneous membrane vesicles released from virtually all cell types that collectively represent a new dimension of intercellular communication. The Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport (ESCRT) machinery contributes to several key mechanisms in which it reshapes membranes. Based on this, some components of the ESCRT have been implicated in EVs biogenesis in other cells. Here, we demonstrated that VPS32, a member of ESCRTIII complex, contribute to the biogenesis and cargo sorting of extracellular vesicles in the parasite T. vaginalis. Moreover, we observe that parasites overexpressing VPS32 have a striking increase in adherence to host cells compared to control parasites; demonstrating a key role for this protein in mediating host: parasite interactions. These results provide valuable information on the molecular mechanisms involved in extracellular vesicles biogenesis, cargo-sorting, and parasite pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehuén Salas
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Intendente Marino Km 8.2, B7130IWA, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Veronica M Coceres
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Intendente Marino Km 8.2, B7130IWA, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tuanne Dos Santos Melo
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Antonio Pereira-Neves
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Vanina G Maguire
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Intendente Marino Km 8.2, B7130IWA, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tania M Rodriguez
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Intendente Marino Km 8.2, B7130IWA, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Bruna Sabatke
- Laboratorio de Biologia Molecular e Sistémica de Tripanossomatideos, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fiocruz Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Marcel I Ramirez
- Laboratorio de Biologia Molecular e Sistémica de Tripanossomatideos, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fiocruz Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Jihui Sha
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1489, USA
| | - James A Wohlschlegel
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1489, USA
| | - Natalia de Miguel
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Intendente Marino Km 8.2, B7130IWA, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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23
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Gerson KD, Liao J, McCarthy C, Burris HH, Korem T, Levy M, Ravel J, Elovitz MA. A non-optimal cervicovaginal microbiota in pregnancy is associated with a distinct metabolomic signature among non-Hispanic Black individuals. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22794. [PMID: 34815499 PMCID: PMC8611022 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-02304-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomechanical and molecular processes of premature cervical remodeling preceding spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) likely result from interactions between the cervicovaginal microbiota and host immune responses. A non-optimal cervicovaginal microbiota confers increased risk of sPTB. The cervicovaginal space is metabolically active in pregancy; microbiota can produce, modify, and degrade metabolites within this ecosystem. We establish that cervicovaginal metabolomic output clusters by microbial community in pregnancy among Black individuals, revealing increased metabolism within the amino acid and dipeptide pathways as hallmarks of a non-optimal microbiota. Few differences were detected in metabolomic profiles when stratified by birth outcome. The study raises the possibility that metabolites could distinguish women with greater risk of sPTB among those with similar cervicovaginal microbiota, and that metabolites within the amino acid and carbohydrate pathways may play a role in this distinction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin D Gerson
- Department of OB/GYN, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Biomedical Research Building II/III, 1351, 421 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6160, USA.
| | - Jingqiu Liao
- Program for Mathematical Genomics, Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Clare McCarthy
- Department of OB/GYN, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Biomedical Research Building II/III, 1351, 421 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6160, USA
| | - Heather H Burris
- Department of OB/GYN, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Biomedical Research Building II/III, 1351, 421 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6160, USA
| | - Tal Korem
- Program for Mathematical Genomics, Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032, USA
- CIFAR Azrieli Global Scholars Program, CIFAR, Toronto, Canada
| | - Maayan Levy
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Michal A Elovitz
- Department of OB/GYN, Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Biomedical Research Building II/III, 1351, 421 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-6160, USA
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24
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Rangel-Mata FJ, Ávila-Muro EE, Reyes-Martínez JE, Olmos-Ortiz LM, Brunck ME, Arriaga-Pizano LA, Cuéllar-Mata P. Immune cell arrival kinetics to peritoneum and role during murine-experimental trichomoniasis. Parasitology 2021; 148:1624-1635. [PMID: 35060469 PMCID: PMC11010205 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021001311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis causes trichomoniasis, an inflammatory process related to an increased rate of HIV transmission. In order to study T. vaginalis infection response in a microorganism-free environment, an infection model was established providing a host–parasite interaction system useful to study the interplay between immune cells and the parasite. Infected mice peritoneal cells were immunophenotyped at different times after infection using flow cytometry. Neutrophils and macrophages showed the most relevant increase from third to 12th day post-infection. A high number of B lymphocytes were present on 15th day post-infection, and an increase in memory T cells was observed on sixth day post-infection. The levels of NO increased at day 10 post-infection; no significant influence was observed on T. vaginalis clearance. Increased viability of T. vaginalis was observed when the NETs inhibitors, metformin and Cl− amidine, were administrated, highlighting the importance of this mechanism to control parasite infection (43 and 86%, respectively). This report presents a comprehensive cell count of the immune cells participating against trichomoniasis in an in vivo interaction system. These data highlight the relevance of innate mechanisms such as specific population changes of innate immune cells and their impact on the T. vaginalis viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- F. J. Rangel-Mata
- Departamento de Biología, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - E. E. Ávila-Muro
- Departamento de Biología, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | | | - L. M. Olmos-Ortiz
- Departamento de Biología, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
| | - M. E. Brunck
- Escuela de Ingeniería y Ciencias, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey, Mexico
| | | | - P. Cuéllar-Mata
- Departamento de Biología, Universidad de Guanajuato, Guanajuato, Mexico
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25
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Fichorova RN, DeLong AK, Cu-Uvin S, King CC, Jamieson DJ, Klein RS, Sobel JD, Vlahov D, Yamamoto HS, Mayer KH. Protozoan-Viral-Bacterial Co-Infections Alter Galectin Levels and Associated Immunity Mediators in the Female Genital Tract. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:649940. [PMID: 34422675 PMCID: PMC8375472 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.649940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Co-infections with sexually transmittable pathogens are common and more likely in women with disturbed vaginal bacteriome. Among those pathogens, the protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis (TV) is most common after accounting for the highly persistent DNA viruses human papillomavirus (HPV) and genital herpes. The parasitic infection often concurs with the dysbiotic syndrome diagnosed as bacterial vaginosis (BV) and both are associated with risks of superimposed viral infections. Yet, the mechanisms of microbial synergisms in evading host immunity remain elusive. We present clinical and experimental evidence for a new role of galectins, glycan-sensing family of proteins, in mixed infections. We assessed participants of the HIV Epidemiology Research Study (HERS) at each of their incident TV visits (223 case visits) matched to controls who remained TV-negative throughout the study. Matching criteria included age, race, BV (by Nugent score), HIV status, hysterectomy, and contraceptive use. Non-matched variables included BV status at 6 months before the matched visit, and variables examined at baseline, within 6 months of and/or at the matched visit e.g. HSV-2, HPV, and relevant laboratory and socio-demographic parameters. Conditional logistic regression models using generalized estimating equations calculated odds ratios (OR) for incident TV occurrence with each log10 unit higher cervicovaginal concentration of galectins and cytokines. Incident TV was associated with higher levels of galectin-1, galectin-9, IL-1β and chemokines (ORs 1.53 to 2.91, p <0.001). Galectin-9, IL-1β and chemokines were up and galectin-3 down in TV cases with BV or intermediate Nugent versus normal Nugent scores (p <0.001). Galectin-9, IL-1β and chemokines were up in TV-HIV and down in TV-HPV co-infections. In-vitro, TV synergized with its endosymbiont Trichomonasvirus (TVV) and BV bacteria to upregulate galectin-1, galectin-9, and inflammatory cytokines. The BV-bacterium Prevotella bivia alone and together with TV downregulated galectin-3 and synergistically upregulated galectin-1, galectin-9 and IL-1β, mirroring the clinical findings of mixed TV–BV infections. P. bivia also downregulated TVV+TV-induced anti-viral response e.g. IP-10 and RANTES, providing a mechanism for conducing viral persistence in TV-BV co-infections. Collectively, the experimental and clinical data suggest that galectin-mediated immunity may be dysregulated and exploited by viral–protozoan–bacterial synergisms exacerbating inflammatory complications from dysbiosis and sexually transmitted infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raina N Fichorova
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Allison K DeLong
- Center for Statistical Sciences, School of Public Health, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Susan Cu-Uvin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brown University, The Miriam Hospital, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Caroline C King
- National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion/Division of Reproductive Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Denise J Jamieson
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Robert S Klein
- Hudson Infectious Diseases Associates, Briarcliff Manor, NY, United States
| | - Jack D Sobel
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States
| | - David Vlahov
- Department of Community Health Systems, School of Nursing, University of California at San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Hidemi S Yamamoto
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Kenneth H Mayer
- The Fenway Institute, Fenway Health, Boston, MA, United States.,Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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26
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Ferla M, Tasca T. The Role of Purinergic Signaling in Trichomonas vaginalis Infection. Curr Top Med Chem 2021; 21:181-192. [PMID: 32888270 DOI: 10.2174/1568026620999200904122212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Trichomoniasis, one of the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infections worldwide, is caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. The pathogen colonizes the human urogenital tract, and the infection is associated with complications such as adverse pregnancy outcomes, cervical cancer, and an increase in HIV transmission. The mechanisms of pathogenicity are multifactorial, and controlling immune responses is essential for infection maintenance. Extracellular purine nucleotides are released by cells in physiological and pathological conditions, and they are hydrolyzed by enzymes called ecto-nucleotidases. The cellular effects of nucleotides and nucleosides occur via binding to purinoceptors, or through the uptake by nucleoside transporters. Altogether, enzymes, receptors and transporters constitute the purinergic signaling, a cellular network that regulates several effects in practically all systems including mammals, helminths, protozoa, bacteria, and fungi. In this context, this review updates the data on purinergic signaling involved in T. vaginalis biology and interaction with host cells, focusing on the characterization of ecto-nucleotidases and on purine salvage pathways. The implications of the final products, the nucleosides adenosine and guanosine, for human neutrophil response and vaginal epithelial cell damage reveal the purinergic signaling as a potential new mechanism for alternative drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micheli Ferla
- Research Team on Trichomonas, Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduation Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Tiana Tasca
- Research Team on Trichomonas, Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduation Program, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
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27
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Van Gerwen OT, Craig-Kuhn MC, Jones AT, Schroeder JA, Deaver J, Buekens P, Kissinger PJ, Muzny CA. Trichomoniasis and adverse birth outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BJOG 2021; 128:1907-1915. [PMID: 34036690 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.16774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trichomoniasis commonly affects women of childbearing age and has been linked to several adverse birth outcomes. OBJECTIVE To elucidate the association between trichomoniasis in pregnant women and adverse birth outcomes, including preterm delivery, prelabour rupture of membranes and low birthweight. SEARCH STRATEGY MEDLINE, EMBASE and ClinicalTrials.gov were systematically searched in December 2020 without time or language restrictions. SELECTION CRITERIA Original research studies were included if they assessed at least one of the specified adverse birth outcomes in pregnant women with laboratory-diagnosed trichomoniasis. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Estimates from included articles were either extracted or calculated and then pooled to produce a combined estimate of the association of trichomoniasis with each adverse birth outcome using the random effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic and Cochran's Q test. MAIN RESULTS Literature search produced 1658 publications after removal of duplicates (n = 770), with five additional publications identified by hand search. After screening titles and abstracts for relevance, full text of 84 studies was reviewed and 19 met inclusion criteria for meta-analysis. Significant associations were found between trichomoniasis and preterm delivery (OR 1.27; 95% CI 1.08-1.50), prelabour rupture of membranes (OR 1.87; 95% CI 1.53-2.29) and low birthweight (OR 2.12; 95% CI 1.15-3.91). CONCLUSIONS Trichomoniasis in pregnant women is associated with preterm delivery, prelabour rupture of membranes and low birthweight. Rigorous studies are needed to determine the impact of universal trichomoniasis screening and treatment during pregnancy on reducing perinatal morbidity. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT This systematic review and meta-analysis found that in the setting of pregnancy, trichomoniasis is significantly associated with multiple adverse birth outcomes, including preterm delivery, low birthweight, and prelabour rupture of membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- O T Van Gerwen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - M C Craig-Kuhn
- Department of Epidemiology, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - A T Jones
- Department of Epidemiology, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA.,Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - J A Schroeder
- Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - J Deaver
- Lister Hill Library of the Health Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - P Buekens
- Department of Epidemiology, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - P J Kissinger
- Department of Epidemiology, Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - C A Muzny
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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28
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Carvalho GC, Araujo VHS, Fonseca-Santos B, de Araújo JTC, de Souza MPC, Duarte JL, Chorilli M. Highlights in poloxamer-based drug delivery systems as strategy at local application for vaginal infections. Int J Pharm 2021; 602:120635. [PMID: 33895295 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2021.120635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Infectious diseases related to the vagina include diseases caused by the imbalance of the vaginal flora and by sexually transmitted infections. Some of these present themselves as a public health problem due to the lack of efficient treatment that leads to their complete cure, and others due to the growing resistance to drugs used in therapy. In this sense, new treatment strategies are desirable, with vaginal administration rout being a great choice since can bypass first-pass metabolism and decrease drug interactions and adverse effects. However, it is worth highlighting limitations related to patient's discomfort at application time. Thereby, the use of poloxamer-based drug delivery systems is desirable due its stimuli-sensitive characteristic. Therefore, the present review reports a brief overview of poloxamer properties, biological behavior and advances in poloxamer applications in controlled drug release systems for infectious diseases related to the vagina treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Corrêa Carvalho
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Victor Hugo Sousa Araujo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Bruno Fonseca-Santos
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), 13083-871 Campinas, Brazil
| | | | | | - Jonatas Lobato Duarte
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil
| | - Marlus Chorilli
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), 14800-903 Araraquara, Brazil.
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29
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Unveiling the role of EVs in anaerobic parasitic protozoa. Mol Immunol 2021; 133:34-43. [PMID: 33621941 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2021.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The anaerobic or microaerophilic protozoan parasites such as the enteric human pathogens Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia intestinalis, Cryptosporidium parvum, Blastocystis hominis and urogenital tract parasites Trichomonas vaginalis are able to survival in an environment with oxygen deprivation. Despite living in hostile environments these pathogens adopted different strategies to survive within the hosts. Among them, the release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) has become an active endeavor in the study of pathogenesis for these parasites. EVs are heterogenous, membrane-limited structures that have played important roles in cellular communication, transferring information through cargo and modulating the immune system of the host. In this review, we described several aspects of the recently characterized EVs of the anaerobic protozoa, including their role in adhesion, modulation of the immune response and omics analysis to understand the potential of these EVs in the pathogenesis of these diseases caused by anaerobic parasites.
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30
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HIV susceptibility in women: The roles of genital inflammation, sexually transmitted infections and the genital microbiome. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 145:103291. [PMID: 33647576 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Given that heterosexual transmission of HIV across the genital mucosa is the most common route of infection in women, an in-depth understanding of the biological mechanisms associated with HIV risk in the female genital tract (FGT) is essential for effective control of the epidemic. Genital pro-inflammatory cytokines are well-described biological co-factors to HIV risk. Increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the FGT have been associated with a 3-fold higher-risk of acquiring HIV, presumably through involvement in barrier compromise and the recruitment of highly activated HIV target cells to the site of initial viral infection and replication. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and bacterial vaginosis (BV) are suggested possible contributors to genital inflammation in the FGT, and this, coupled with the relationship between genital inflammation and HIV risk, underscores the importance of effective treatment of STI and BV in the promotion of women's health. In most low- and middle-income countries, STIs are treated syndromically, a practice providing rapid treatment without identifying the infection source. However, this approach has been associated with over-diagnosis and the overuse of drugs. Further, because many women with STIs are asymptomatic, syndromic management also fails to treat a vast proportion of infected women. Although several studies have explored the role of STIs and the vaginal microbiome on genital inflammation and HIV risk, the impact of STI and BV management on genital inflammation remains poorly understood. This review aimed to collate the evidence on how BV and STI management efforts affect genital inflammation and the genital microbiome in women.
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Dias JA, Luciano TV, Santos MCLFS, Musso C, Zandonade E, Spano LC, Miranda AE. [Sexually transmissible infections in African-descendant women in maroon communities in Brazil: prevalence and associated factors]. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2021; 37:e00174919. [PMID: 33624738 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00174919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and associated factors in women in quilombola (maroon) communities in Brazil. This was a population-based cross-sectional study of quilombola women from March 2017 to January 2019. A questionnaire was used with sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical information. A gynecological examination was performed for the collection of uterine cervical cells for oncotic cytology and the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Trichomonas vaginalis, and human papillomavirus (HPV) via polymerase chain reaction. Rapid tests for HIV and syphilis were performed. The main outcome was defined as infection with one or more sexually transmissible pathogens. The analysis used chi-square test and hierarchical logistic regression. From a total of 380 women, 352 (92.6%) were included in the study. Prevalence of at least one STI was 18.5% (95%CI: 14.76-22.85). The highest prevalence was for HPV, with 11.1%, followed by 6.3% for T. vaginalis and 4.3% for C. trachomatis. There were no cases of N. gonorrhoeae. Prevalence was 0.3% for HIV and 4.3% for syphilis. Cervical-vaginal cytology was altered in 7.7% of the women. Detection of one or more STIs was significantly associated with age 25 to 44 years (OR = 2.33; 95%CI: 1.05-5.18), alcohol consumption (OR = 1.96; 95%CI: 1.06-3.64), altered cervical cytology (OR = 3.96; 95%CI: 1.65-9.48), and bacterial vaginosis (OR = 3.61; 95%CI: 2.01-6.47). Quilombola women showed high prevalence of one or more STIs, emphasizing the importance of organizing prevention strategies targeted to these women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Carlos Musso
- Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brasil
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Henriquez FL, Mooney R, Bandel T, Giammarini E, Zeroual M, Fiori PL, Margarita V, Rappelli P, Dessì D. Paradigms of Protist/Bacteria Symbioses Affecting Human Health: Acanthamoeba species and Trichomonas vaginalis. Front Microbiol 2021; 11:616213. [PMID: 33488560 PMCID: PMC7817646 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.616213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Ever since the publication of the seminal paper by Lynn Margulis in 1967 proposing the theory of the endosymbiotic origin of organelles, the study of the symbiotic relationships between unicellular eukaryotes and prokaryotes has received ever-growing attention by microbiologists and evolutionists alike. While the evolutionary significance of the endosymbiotic associations within protists has emerged and is intensively studied, the impact of these relationships on human health has been seldom taken into account. Microbial endosymbioses involving human eukaryotic pathogens are not common, and the sexually transmitted obligate parasite Trichomonas vaginalis and the free-living opportunistic pathogen Acanthamoeba represent two unique cases in this regard, to date. The reasons of this peculiarity for T. vaginalis and Acanthamoeba may be due to their lifestyles, characterized by bacteria-rich environments. However, this characteristic does not fully explain the reason why no bacterial endosymbiont has yet been detected in unicellular eukaryotic human pathogens other than in T. vaginalis and Acanthamoeba, albeit sparse and poorly investigated examples of morphological identification of bacteria-like microorganisms associated with Giardia and Entamoeba were reported in the past. In this review article we will present the body of experimental evidences revealing the profound effects of these examples of protist/bacteria symbiosis on the pathogenesis of the microbial species involved, and ultimately their impact on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona L Henriquez
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of West Scotland, Paisley, United Kingdom
| | - Ronnie Mooney
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of West Scotland, Paisley, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy Bandel
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of West Scotland, Paisley, United Kingdom
| | - Elisa Giammarini
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of West Scotland, Paisley, United Kingdom
| | - Mohammed Zeroual
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of West Scotland, Paisley, United Kingdom.,Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Pier Luigi Fiori
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy.,Mediterrenean Center for Disease Control, Sassari, Italy
| | - Valentina Margarita
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Paola Rappelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy.,Mediterrenean Center for Disease Control, Sassari, Italy
| | - Daniele Dessì
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche, Università degli Studi di Sassari, Sassari, Italy.,Mediterrenean Center for Disease Control, Sassari, Italy
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Govender Y, Chan T, Yamamoto HS, Budnik B, Fichorova RN. The Role of Small Extracellular Vesicles in Viral-Protozoan Symbiosis: Lessons From Trichomonasvirus in an Isogenic Host Parasite Model. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:591172. [PMID: 33224901 PMCID: PMC7674494 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.591172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The protozoan parasite Trichomonas vaginalis (TV), exclusively adapted to the human genital tract, is one of the most common sexually transmitted pathogens. Adding to the complexity of the host-pathogen interactions, the parasite harbors TV-specific endosymbiont viruses (Trichomonasvirus, TVV). It was reported that small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) released by TV play a role in host immunity; however, the role of the viral endosymbiosis in this process remained unknown. We hypothesized that the virus may offer evolutionary benefit to its protozoan host at least in part by altering the immunomodulatory properties of sEVs spreading from the site of infection to non-infected immune effector cells. We infected human vaginal epithelial cells, the natural host of the parasite, with TV natively harboring TVV and an isogenic derivative of the parasite cured from the viral infection. sEVs were isolated from vaginal cell culture 24 h post TV infection and from medium where the isogenic TV strains were cultured in the absence of the human host. sEVs from TVV-negative but not TVV-positive parasites cultured alone caused NF-κB activation and increase of IL-8 and RANTES expression by uterine endocervical cells, which provide innate immune defense at the gate to the upper reproductive tract. Similarly, mononuclear leukocytes increased their IL-8, IL-6 and TNF-α output in response to sEVs from virus-negative, but not isogenic virus-positive parasites, the latter exosomes being immunosuppressive in comparison to TV medium control. The same phenomenon of suppressed immunity induced by the TVV-positive compared to TVV-negative phenotype was seen when stimulating the leukocytes with sEVs originating from infected vaginal cultures. In addition, the sEVs from the TVV-positive infection phenotype suppressed immune signaling of a toll-like receptor ligand derived from mycoplasma, another frequent TV symbiont. Quantitative comparative proteome analysis of the secreted sEVs from virus-positive versus virus-negative TV revealed differential expression of two functionally uncharacterized proteins and five proteins involved in Zn binding, protein binding, electron transfer, transferase and catalytic activities. These data support the concept that symbiosis with viruses may provide benefit to the protozoan parasite by exploiting sEVs as a vehicle for inter-cellular communications and modifying their protein cargo to suppress host immune activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yashini Govender
- Laboratory of Genital Tract Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Tiffany Chan
- Laboratory of Genital Tract Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Hidemi S Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Genital Tract Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Bogdan Budnik
- Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Resource Laboratory, FAS Division of Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Raina N Fichorova
- Laboratory of Genital Tract Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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Bokharaei-Salim F, Esteghamati A, Khanaliha K, Esghaei M, Donyavi T, Salemi B. The First Detection of Co-Infection of Double-Stranded RNA Virus 1, 2 and 3 in Iranian Isolates of Trichomonas vaginalis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2020; 15:357-363. [PMID: 33082800 PMCID: PMC7548462 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v15i3.4200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background The Totiviridae family includes a number of double-stranded RNA viruses that can infect Trichomonas vaginalis. Some T. vaginalis isolates are infected with one or more double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) viruses. In this study, different strains of double-stranded RNA virus in Iranian isolates of T. vaginalis were evaluated for the first time in Iran. Methods Vaginal swabs were collected from 1550 participants who were referred to hospitals associated with Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran from June to November 2018. T. vaginalis isolates were cultured in Diamond's modified medium. After the extraction of nucleic acids using a DNA/RNA extraction kit, RT-PCR was performed and PCR products were purified and sequenced. Results In general 9 (0.6%) isolates were confirmed as T. vaginalis among 1550 collected vaginal samples. Among 9 isolates of T. vaginalis, three of them were infected with TVV1. One isolate has multiple infections with T. vaginalis virus (TVV1, TVV2 and TVV3) as coinfection. The nucleotide BLAST indicated that the T. vaginalis virus 1(TVV1) isolates were most closely related to TVV1-OC5, TVV1-UR1-1.The T. vaginalis virus 2 (TVV2) sequence had also a similarity with TVV2-UR1-1, TVV2-UR1 and TVV2-OC3. The sequence of T. vaginalis virus 3(TVV3) had similarity with TVV3-OC5, TVV3-UR1-1 and TVV3-UR1. Conclusion Three dsRNA viruses T. vaginalis virus (TVV1, TVV2 and TVV3) were detected using RT-PCR in T. vaginalis Iranian isolates. The coinfection of TVV1, TVV2 and TVV3 in one isolate of T.vaginalis was observed for the first time in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Bokharaei-Salim
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdoulreza Esteghamati
- Research Center of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khadijeh Khanaliha
- Research Center of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Esghaei
- Department of Virology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahereh Donyavi
- Vice Chancellor for Healthcare, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Borna Salemi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Nievas YR, Lizarraga A, Salas N, Cóceres VM, Miguel N. Extracellular vesicles released by anaerobic protozoan parasites: Current situation. Cell Microbiol 2020; 22:e13257. [DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yesica Romina Nievas
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET‐UNSAM Chascomús Argentina
| | - Ayelen Lizarraga
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET‐UNSAM Chascomús Argentina
| | - Nehuen Salas
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET‐UNSAM Chascomús Argentina
| | - Verónica Mabel Cóceres
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET‐UNSAM Chascomús Argentina
| | - Natalia Miguel
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET‐UNSAM Chascomús Argentina
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36
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Recent advances in hydrogels as strategy for drug delivery intended to vaginal infections. Int J Pharm 2020; 590:119867. [PMID: 32919001 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2020.119867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal infections represent a clear women health problem due to the several issues as high recurrence rate, drug resistence and emergence of persistent strains. However, achieving improvements in therapeutic efficacy by using conventional formulations intended to vaginal drug delivery remains as a challenge due to anatomy and physiology of the vagina, since the secretion and renewal of vaginal fluids contribute to the removal of the dosage form. Hydrogels have been widely exploited aiming to achieve drug delivery directly into vaginal mucosa for local therapy due to their attractive features as increased residence time of the drug at the action site and control of drug release rates. Some polymers can aggregate specific properties to hydrogels as mucoadhesive, stimuli-responsive and antimicrobial, improving their interaction with the biological interface and therapeutic response. In this review, we highlight the advances, advantages and challenges of the hydrogels as drug and/or nanocarrier vehicles intended to the treatment of vaginal infections, emphasizing also the polymers and their properties more explored on the design these systems to improve the therapeutic effect on the vaginal tissue. In addition, this review can contribute for better exploitation these systems in search of new local treatments for bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis and trichomoniasis.
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37
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Bhakta SB, Moran JA, Mercer F. Neutrophil interactions with the sexually transmitted parasite Trichomonas vaginalis: implications for immunity and pathogenesis. Open Biol 2020; 10:200192. [PMID: 32873151 PMCID: PMC7536067 DOI: 10.1098/rsob.200192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichomoniasis is the third most common sexually transmitted infection in humans and is caused by the protozoan parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis (Tv). Pathogenic outcomes are more common in women and generally include mild vaginitis or cervicitis. However, more serious effects associated with trichomoniasis include adverse reproductive outcomes. Like other infectious agents, pathogenesis from Tv infection is predicted to be the result of both parasite and host factors. At the site of infection, neutrophils are the most abundant immune cells present and probably play key roles in both parasite clearance and inflammatory pathology. Here, we discuss the evidence that neutrophils home to the site of Tv infection, kill the parasite, and that in some circumstances, parasites possibly evade neutrophil-directed killing. In vitro, the parasite is killed by neutrophils using a novel antimicrobial mechanism called trogocytosis, which probably involves both innate and adaptive immunity. While mechanisms of evasion are mostly conjecture at present, the persistence of Tv infections in patients argues strongly for their existence. Additionally, many strains of Tv harbour microbial symbionts Mycoplasma hominis or Trichomonasvirus, which are both predicted to impact neutrophil responses against the parasite. Novel research tools, especially animal models, will help to reveal the true outcomes of many factors involved in neutrophil-Tv interactions during trichomoniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Frances Mercer
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA, USA
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N-Terminal Segment of TvCyP2 Cyclophilin from Trichomonas vaginalis Is Involved in Self-Association, Membrane Interaction, and Subcellular Localization. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10091239. [PMID: 32859063 PMCID: PMC7563477 DOI: 10.3390/biom10091239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Revised: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis), cyclophilins play a vital role in dislodging Myb proteins from the membrane compartment and leading them to nuclear translocation. We previously reported that TvCyP1 cyclophilin from T. vaginalis forms a dimer and plays an essential role in moving the Myb1 transcription factor toward the nucleus. In comparison, TvCyP2 containing an extended segment at the N-terminus (N-terminal segment) formed a monomer and showed a different role in regulating protein trafficking. Four X-ray structures of TvCyP2 were determined under various conditions, all showing the N-terminal segment interacting with the active site of a neighboring TvCyP2, an unusual interaction. NMR study revealed that this particular interaction exists in solution as well and also the N-terminal segment seems to interact with the membrane. In vivo study of TvCyP2 and TvCyP2-∆N (TvCyP2 without the N-terminal segment) indicated that both proteins have different subcellular localization. Together, the structural and functional characteristics at the N-terminal segment offer valuable information for insights into the mechanism of how TvCyP2 regulates protein trafficking, which may be applied in drug development to prevent pathogenesis and disease progression in T. vaginalis infection.
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Margarita V, Fiori PL, Rappelli P. Impact of Symbiosis Between Trichomonas vaginalis and Mycoplasma hominis on Vaginal Dysbiosis: A Mini Review. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2020; 10:179. [PMID: 32457847 PMCID: PMC7226223 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2020.00179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The protozoon Trichomonas vaginalis is responsible for trichomoniasis, a common sexually transmitted infection associated with an increased risk of HIV infection and adverse pregnancy outcomes. The protozoon has the surprising ability to establish a symbiotic relationship with other microorganisms. In fact, most T.vaginalis isolates intracellularly host the vaginal bacterium Mycoplasma hominis and can harbor up to four dsRNA viruses. Moreover, a novel Mycoplasma species named Ca. Mycoplasma girerdii has been recently described as associated with trichomonad cells. Trichomonas vaginalis colonizes the human vagina and its presence causes profound alterations of the resident microbiota, leading to dysbiosis. In healthy women, vaginal microbiota is characterized by the presence of a complex population of aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms living in a physiologically dynamic system dominated by bacteria of the genera Lactobacillus. The most common microbial vaginal imbalance is bacterial vaginosis, a polymicrobial disease associated with several adverse reproductive outcomes and increased risk of HIV infection. Here, we review the current knowledge regarding the interactions between both T.vaginalis and M.hominis and the vaginal microbiota, and we discuss the possibility of a cooperation between T.vaginalis and its symbionts in the development of vaginal dysbiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pier Luigi Fiori
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.,Mediterranean Center for Disease Control, Sassari, Italy
| | - Paola Rappelli
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.,Mediterranean Center for Disease Control, Sassari, Italy
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Hsu HM, Huang YH, Aryal S, Liu HW, Chen C, Chen SH, Chu CH, Tai JH. Endomembrane Protein Trafficking Regulated by a TvCyP2 Cyclophilin in the Protozoan Parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis. Sci Rep 2020; 10:1275. [PMID: 31988345 PMCID: PMC6985235 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-58270-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In Trichomonas vaginalis, the TvCyP1-catalyzed conformational switches of two glycinyl-prolyl imide bonds in Myb3 were previously shown to regulate the trafficking of Myb3 from cytoplasmic membrane compartments towards the nucleus. In this study, TvCyP2 was identified as a second cyclophilin that binds to Myb3 at the same dipeptide motifs. The enzymatic proficiency of TvCyP2, but not its binding to Myb3, was aborted by a mutation of Arg75 in the catalytic domain. TvCyP2 was localized to the endoplasmic reticulum with a weak signal that extensively extends into the cytoplasm as well as to the plasma membrane according to an immunofluorescence assay. Moreover, TvCyP2 was co-enriched with TvCyP1 and Myb3 in various membrane fractions purified by differential and gradient centrifugation. TvCyP2 was found to proficiently enzymatically regulate the distribution of TvCyP1 and Myb3 among purified membrane fractions, and to localize TvCyP1 in hydrogenosomes and on plasma membranes. Protein complexes immunoprecipitated from lysates of cells overexpressing TvCyP1 and TvCyP2 were found to share some common components, like TvCyP1, TvCyP2, TvBip, Myb3, TvHSP72, and the hydrogenosomal heat shock protein 70 (HSP70). Direct interaction between TvCyP1 and TvCyP2 was confirmed by a GST pull-down assay. Fusion of vesicles with hydrogenosomes was observed by transmission electron microscopy, whereas TvCyP1, TvCyP2, and Myb3 were each detected at the fusion junction by immunoelectron microscopy. These observations suggest that T. vaginalis may have evolved a novel protein trafficking pathway to deliver proteins among the endomembrane compartments, hydrogenosomes and plasma membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Ming Hsu
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Hsin Huang
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sarita Aryal
- Structural Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsing-Wei Liu
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chinpan Chen
- Structural Biology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Hui Chen
- Department of Chemistry, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Hsin Chu
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Jung-Hsiang Tai
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan. .,Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan.
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20S Proteasome as a Drug Target in Trichomonas vaginalis. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2019; 63:AAC.00448-19. [PMID: 31451503 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00448-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted disease with hundreds of millions of annual cases worldwide. Approved treatment options are limited to two related nitro-heterocyclic compounds, yet resistance to these drugs is an increasing concern. New antimicrobials against the causative agent, Trichomonas vaginalis, are urgently needed. We show here that clinically approved anticancer drugs that inhibit the proteasome, a large protease complex with a critical role in degrading intracellular proteins in eukaryotes, have submicromolar activity against the parasite in vitro and on-target activity against the enriched T. vaginalis proteasome in cell-free assays. Proteomic analysis confirmed that the parasite has all seven α and seven β subunits of the eukaryotic proteasome although they have only modest sequence identities, ranging from 28 to 52%, relative to the respective human proteasome subunits. A screen of proteasome inhibitors derived from a marine natural product, carmaphycin, revealed one derivative, carmaphycin-17, with greater activity against T. vaginalis than the reference drug metronidazole, the ability to overcome metronidazole resistance, and reduced human cytotoxicity compared to that of the anticancer proteasome inhibitors. The increased selectivity of carmaphycin-17 for T. vaginalis was related to its >5-fold greater potency against the β1 and β5 catalytic subunits of the T. vaginalis proteasome than against the human proteasome subunits. In a murine model of vaginal trichomonad infection, proteasome inhibitors eliminated or significantly reduced parasite burden upon topical treatment without any apparent adverse effects. Together, these findings validate the proteasome of T. vaginalis as a therapeutic target for development of a novel class of trichomonacidal agents.
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Marlowe EM, Gohl P, Steidle M, Arcenas R, Bier C. Trichomonas vaginalis Detection in Female Specimens with cobas ® TV/MG for use on the cobas ® 6800/8800 Systems. Eur J Microbiol Immunol (Bp) 2019; 9:42-45. [PMID: 31223495 PMCID: PMC6563683 DOI: 10.1556/1886.2019.00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichomoniasis, a common curable sexually transmitted infection caused by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis (TV), is usually asymptomatic. However, symptomatic women may experience vaginal discharge and/or vulvar irritation. This study evaluated cobas® TV/ Mycoplasma genitalium (MG) (Conformité Européene marking for in vitro diagnostic medical devices [CE-IVD]) against other nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) for detecting TV in female urogenital specimens. Matched de-identified specimens from 412 females were collected. cobas® TV/MG results were compared against a composite reference (CR) of 3 different NAATs for TV (Aptima TV, modified S-DiaMGTV™, and a laboratory-developed test). The overall TV prevalence rate was 6.2%, based on cobas® TV/MG results. Relative to the CR, cobas® TV/MG sensitivity/specificity for the specimen types were endocervical swabs (ES) 100%/99.2%, vaginal swabs (VS) 100%/99.7%, urine (U) 100%/99.7%, and cervical specimens in PreservCyt® solution (PC) 100%/99.5%. There was no significant statistical difference between clinician-collected and self-collected VS (p = 0.28). Correlation of cobas® TV/MG vs. Aptima TV demonstrated the following positive, negative, and overall percent agreements, respectively: ES 69.0%, 98.7%, and 96.6%; VS 88.9%, 99.5%, and 98.8%; U 100%, 100%, and 100%; and PC 95.5%, 99.0%, and 98.8%. Detection of TV with cobas® TV/MG for use on the cobas® 6800/8800 systems demonstrated excellent performance in female urogenital specimens (overall sensitivity/specificity of 100%≥99.2%).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Rodney Arcenas
- Roche Molecular Systems, Inc, Pleasanton, California, USA
| | - Carolin Bier
- Roche Molecular Diagnostics, Rotkreuz, Switzerland
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Tine RC, Dia L, Sylla K, Sow D, Lelo S, Ndour CT. Trichomonas vaginalis and Mycoplasma infections among women with vaginal discharge at Fann teaching hospital in Senegal. Trop Parasitol 2019; 9:45-53. [PMID: 31161092 PMCID: PMC6542312 DOI: 10.4103/tp.tp_50_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Trichomonas vaginalis and genital Mycoplasmas are two synergistic pathogens, but in many settings, limited data on the co-infection by Trichomonas and Mycoplasma are available. Objective: This study aimed at assessing Mycoplasma prevalence and its association with Trichomonas vaginalis among women with vaginal discharge. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of laboratory records (2012 and 2013) from patients referred at the Fann teaching hospital in Dakar Senegal for vaginal discharge was carried out. Detection of genital mycoplasmas was based on the commercial Kit Mycoplasma Duo Bio-Rad™ using endo-cervical swabs. Vaginal swabs were collected and examined using optic microscopy with 40x magnification to detect T. vaginalis. Results: Overall, data from 1257 women were analysed. Prevalence of Mycoplasma hominis represented 57.4%, 95%CI(54.6-60.1), versus 54.9%, 95%CI(52.1-57.5) for Ureaplasma urealyticum. Trichomonas vaginalis infection was observed with a frequency of 3%. Out of the 50 patients with trichomoniasis, 76% of them were co-infected by Mycoplasma hominis and patients with Trichomonas vaginalis had an increased risk of acquiring Mycoplasma infection (adjusted OR:2.5, 95%CI(1.2-5.2);p=0.02)). Conclusion: Trichomonas vaginalis and Mycoplasmas are two closely associated pathogens in the urogenital tract of women. This clinically significant symbiotic action may require systematic screening of Mycoplasma among patients with trichomoniasis for optimal management of sexually transmitted infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger C Tine
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal.,Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Lamine Dia
- Centre for Diagnostic and Medical Imagery, Laboratory of Bacteriology and Virology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Khadime Sylla
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal.,Centre for Diagnostic and Medical Imagery, Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Doudou Sow
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal.,Centre for Diagnostic and Medical Imagery, Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Souleye Lelo
- Centre for Diagnostic and Medical Imagery, Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Cheikh T Ndour
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal.,Division for AIDS and Sexually Transmitted Infections Control, Ministry of Health, Senegal
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44
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Tine RC, Sylla K, Ka R, Dia L, Sow D, Lelo S, Diallo K, Faye B, Dieng T, Ndour CT, Sow AY. A Study of Trichomonas vaginalis Infection and Correlates in Women with Vaginal Discharge Referred at Fann Teaching Hospital in Senegal. J Parasitol Res 2019; 2019:2069672. [PMID: 31057956 PMCID: PMC6463574 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2069672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Trichomoniasis is nowadays the most prevalent non-viral sexually transmitted infection in the world. In Senegal, the epidemiology of trichomoniasis is not well known. The current study aimed at assessing the prevalence and factors associated with T. vaginalis infection among women with vaginal discharge. METHODS A retrospective analysis of laboratory records from patients referred at the Fann Teaching Hospital in Dakar, Senegal, for vaginal discharge was carried out. The study covered the period from 2006 to 2011. For each participating woman, a vaginal swab was collected and a wet mount smear performed immediately. Optic microscopic examination with 40x magnification was done to detect T. vaginalis and assess biological modifications such as presence of epithelial cells, white blood cells, and red blood cells. A gram stained smear was also performed and examined under oil immersion (100x magnification) to assess the vaginal flora. RESULTS Overall, 3893 women were enrolled with a mean age at 31.2 ± 10 years. The prevalence of Trichomoniasis represented 4.8%, 95%CI(3.1-5.7) and it was lower among women less than 30 years (4.1%), while divorced women more likely to be infected compared to married and single women (aOR:2.1, 95%CI (1.2-3.7)). Trichomoniasis was associated with abnormal vaginal flora such as type III (aOR:2.6, 95%CI(1.5-4.4)) and type IV (aOR:3.3, 95%CI(2.1-5.3)). In addition, patients with erythrocytes excretion were more likely to be infected by T. vaginalis (aOR:2.8, 95%CI(1.9-3.9). CONCLUSION Trichomonas vaginalis remains prevalent among sexually active women. Strategies aiming at improving disease awareness in these high-risk groups are needed to improve trichomoniasis prevention but extensive epidemiological data are still needed for a better understanding of the disease transmission dynamic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger C. Tine
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Khadime Sylla
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Rougyatou Ka
- Laboratory of Bacteriology and Virology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Lamine Dia
- Laboratory of Bacteriology and Virology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Doudou Sow
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Souleye Lelo
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Khardiata Diallo
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Fann Teaching hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Babacar Faye
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Thérèse Dieng
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Mycology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Cheikh T. Ndour
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Fann Teaching hospital, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Ahmet Y. Sow
- Laboratory of Bacteriology and Virology, Fann Teaching Hospital, Dakar, Senegal
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Noh CS, Kim SS, Park SY, Moon HS, Hong Y, Ryu JS. Comparison of Two PCR Assays for Trichomonas vaginalis. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2019; 57:27-31. [PMID: 30840796 PMCID: PMC6409213 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2019.57.1.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
PCR is known to be the most sensitive method for diagnosing Trichomonas vaginalis infections. This study aimed to compare the sensitivity of a PCR assay for trichomoniasis (HY-PCR) developed in Hanyang University with the use of a Seeplex Ace Detection Kit®, using urine collected from four Korean men with prostatic disease. Overall, HY-PCR was more sensitive than the Seeplex Kit. The use of Chelex 100 is recommended for DNA isolation in order to increase the sensitivity of the PCR test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang-Suk Noh
- Department of Internal Medicine, Hallym University Hangang Sacred Heart Hospital, Seoul 07247, Korea
| | - Sang-Su Kim
- Department of Environmental Biology and Medical Parasitology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul 04763, Korea.,Department of Biomedical Science, Hanyang University Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Sung-Yul Park
- Department of Urology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Hong-Sang Moon
- Department of Urology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Yeonchul Hong
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu 41944, Korea
| | - Jae-Sook Ryu
- Department of Environmental Biology and Medical Parasitology, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul 04763, Korea.,Department of Biomedical Science, Hanyang University Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University College of Medicine, Seoul 04763, Korea
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46
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Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is an anaerobic protist, responsible for the most prevalent non-viral sexually transmitted infection in humans. One of the most intriguing aspects of T. vaginalis pathobiology is the complex relationship with intracellular microbial symbionts: a group of dsRNA viruses belonging to family of Totiviridae (T. vaginalis virus), and eubacteria belonging to the Mycoplasma genus, in particular Mycoplasma hominis. Both microorganisms seem to strongly influence the lifestyle of T. vaginalis, suggesting a role of the symbiosis in the high variability of clinical presentation and sequelae during trichomoniasis. In the last few years many aspects of this unique symbiotic relationship have been investigated: M. hominis resides and replicates in the protozoan cell, and T. vaginalis is able to pass the bacterial infection to both mycoplasma-free protozoan isolates and human epithelial cells; M. hominis synergistically upregulates the proinflammatory response of human monocytes to T. vaginalis. Furthermore, the influence of M. hominis over T. vaginalis metabolism and physiology has been characterized. The identification of a novel species belonging to the class of Mollicutes (Candidatus Mycoplasma girerdii) exclusively associated to T. vaginalis opens new perspectives in the research of the complex series of events taking place in the multifaceted world of the vaginal microbiota, both under normal and pathological conditions.
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47
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Riestra AM, Valderrama JA, Patras KA, Booth SD, Quek XY, Tsai CM, Nizet V. Trichomonas vaginalis Induces NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation and Pyroptotic Cell Death in Human Macrophages. J Innate Immun 2018; 11:86-98. [PMID: 30391945 DOI: 10.1159/000493585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 09/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is a sexually transmitted, eukaryotic parasite that causes trichomoniasis, the most common nonviral, sexually transmitted disease in the USA and worldwide. Little is known about the molecular mechanisms involved in the host immune response to this widespread parasite. Here we report that T. vaginalis induces NLRP3 inflammasome activation in human macrophages, leading to caspase-1 activation and the processing of pro-IL-1β to the mature and bioactive form of the cytokine. Using inhibitor-based approaches, we show that NLRP3 activation by T. vaginalis involves host cell detection of extracellular ATP via P2X7 receptors and potassium efflux. In addition, our data reveal that T. vaginalis inflammasome activation induces macrophage inflammatory cell death by pyroptosis, known to occur via caspase-1 cleavage of the gasdermin D protein, which assembles to form pores in the host cell membrane. We found that T. vaginalis-induced cytolysis of macrophages is attenuated in gasdermin D knockout cells. Lastly, in a murine challenge model, we detected IL-1β production in vaginal fluids in response to T. vaginalis infection in vivo. Together, our findings mechanistically dissect how T. vaginalis contributes to the production of the proinflammatory IL-1β cytokine and uncover pyroptosis as a mechanism by which the parasite can trigger host macrophage cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelica Montenegro Riestra
- Division of Host-Microbe Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - J Andrés Valderrama
- Division of Host-Microbe Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Kathryn A Patras
- Division of Host-Microbe Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Sharon D Booth
- Division of Host-Microbe Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Xing Yen Quek
- Division of Host-Microbe Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Chih-Ming Tsai
- Division of Host-Microbe Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Victor Nizet
- Division of Host-Microbe Systems and Therapeutics, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA, .,Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA,
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Kumar S, Bains T, Won Kim AS, Tam C, Kim J, Cheng LW, Land KM, Debnath A, Kumar V. Highly Potent 1 H-1,2,3-Triazole-Tethered Isatin-Metronidazole Conjugates Against Anaerobic Foodborne, Waterborne, and Sexually-Transmitted Protozoal Parasites. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2018; 8:380. [PMID: 30425970 PMCID: PMC6218680 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2018.00380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic infections like amebiasis, trichomoniasis, and giardiasis are major health threats in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Metronidazole (MTZ) is the current drug of choice for amebiasis, giardiasis, and trichomoniasis but it has several adverse effects and potential resistance is a concern. In order to develop alternative antimicrobials, a library of 1H-1,2,3-triazole-tethered metronidazole-isatin conjugates was synthesized using Huisgen's azide-alkyne cycloaddition reaction and evaluated for their amebicidal, anti-trichomonal, and anti-giardial potential. Most of the synthesized conjugates exhibited activities against Trichomonas vaginalis, Tritrichomonas foetus, Entamoeba histolytica, and Giardia lamblia. While activities against T. vaginalis and T. foetus were comparable to that of the standard drug MTZ, better activities were observed against E. histolytica and G. lamblia. Conjugates 9d and 10a were found to be 2–3-folds more potent than MTZ against E. histolytica and 8–16-folds more potent than MTZ against G. lamblia. Further analysis of these compounds on fungi and bacteria did not show inhibitory activity, demonstrating their specific anti-protozoal properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, India
| | - Trpta Bains
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Ashley Sae Won Kim
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA, United States
| | - Christina Tam
- Foodborne Toxin Detection and Prevention Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Albany, CA, United States
| | - Jong Kim
- Foodborne Toxin Detection and Prevention Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Albany, CA, United States
| | - Luisa W Cheng
- Foodborne Toxin Detection and Prevention Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, Albany, CA, United States
| | - Kirkwood M Land
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA, United States
| | - Anjan Debnath
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Vipan Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, India
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Single-dose versus 7-day-dose metronidazole for the treatment of trichomoniasis in women: an open-label, randomised controlled trial. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2018; 18:1251-1259. [PMID: 30297322 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(18)30423-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Revised: 06/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among women, trichomoniasis is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection worldwide, and is associated with serious reproductive morbidity, poor birth outcomes, and amplified HIV transmission. Single-dose metronidazole is the first-line treatment for trichomoniasis. However, bacterial vaginosis can alter treatment efficacy in HIV-infected women, and single-dose metronidazole treatment might not always clear infection. We compared single-dose metronidazole with a 7-day dose for the treatment of trichomoniasis among HIV-uninfected, non-pregnant women and tested whether efficacy was modified by bacterial vaginosis. METHODS In this multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial, participants were recruited at three sexual health clinics in the USA. We included women positive for Trichomonas vaginalis infection according to clinical screening. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive either a single dose of 2 g of metronidazole (single-dose group) or 500 mg of metronidazole twice daily for 7 days (7-day-dose group). The randomisation was done by blocks of four or six for each site. Patients and investigators were aware of treatment assignment. The primary outcome was T vaginalis infection by intention to treat, at test-of-cure 4 weeks after completion of treatment. The analysis of the primary outcome per nucleic acid amplification test or culture was also stratified by bacterial vaginosis status. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01018095, and with the US Food and Drug Administration, number IND118276, and is closed to accrual. FINDINGS Participants were recruited from Oct 6, 2014, to April 26, 2017. Of the 1028 patients assessed for eligibility, 623 women were randomly assigned to treatment groups (311 women in the single-dose group and 312 women in the 7-day-dose group; intention-to-treat population). Although planned enrolment had been 1664 women, the study was stopped early because of funding limitations. Patients in the 7-day-dose group were less likely to be T vaginalis positive at test-of-cure than those in the single-dose group (34 [11%] of 312 vs 58 [19%] of 311, relative risk 0·55, 95% CI 0·34-0·70; p<0·0001). Bacterial vaginosis status had no significant effect on relative risk (p=0·17). Self-reported adherence was 96% in the 7-day-dose group and 99% in the single-dose group. Side-effects were similar by group; the most common side-effect was nausea (124 [23%]), followed by headache (38 [7%]) and vomiting (19 [4%]). INTERPRETATION The 7-day-dose metronidazole should be the preferred treatment for trichomoniasis among women. FUNDING National Institutes of Health.
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50
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Torondel B, Sinha S, Mohanty JR, Swain T, Sahoo P, Panda B, Nayak A, Bara M, Bilung B, Cumming O, Panigrahi P, Das P. Association between unhygienic menstrual management practices and prevalence of lower reproductive tract infections: a hospital-based cross-sectional study in Odisha, India. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:473. [PMID: 30241498 PMCID: PMC6150969 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3384-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The extent to which reproductive tract infections (RTIs) are associated with poor menstrual hygiene management (MHM) practices has not been extensively studied. We aimed to determine whether poor menstrual hygiene practices were associated with three common infections of the lower reproductive tract; Bacterial vaginosis (BV), Candida, and Trichomonas vaginalis (TV). Methods Non-pregnant women of reproductive age (18–45 years) and attending one of two hospitals in Odisha, India, between April 2015 and February 2016 were recruited for the study. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect information on: MHM practices, clinical symptoms for the three infections, and socio-economic and demographic information. Specimens from posterior vaginal fornix were collected using swabs for diagnosis of BV, Candida and TV infection. Results A total of 558 women were recruited for the study of whom 62.4% were diagnosed with at least one of the three tested infections and 52% presented with one or more RTI symptoms. BV was the most prevalent infection (41%), followed by Candida infection (34%) and TV infection (5.6%). After adjustment for potentially confounding factors, women diagnosed with Candida infection were more likely to use reusable absorbent material (aPRR = 1.54, 95%CI 1.2–2.0) and practice lower frequency of personal washing (aPRR = 1.34, 95%CI 1.07–1.7). Women with BV were more likely to practice personal washing less frequently (aPRR = 1.25, 95%CI 1.0–1.5), change absorbent material outside a toilet facility (aPRR = 1.21, 95%CI 1.0–1.48) whilst a higher frequency of absorbent material changing was protective (aPRR = 0.56, 95%CI 0.4–0.75). No studied factors were found to be associated with TV infection. In addition, among women reusing absorbent material, Candida but not BV or TV - infection was more frequent who dried their pads inside their houses and who stored the cloth hidden in the toilet compartment. Conclusion The results of our study add to growing number of studies which demonstrate a strong and consistent association between poor menstrual hygiene practices and higher prevalence of lower RTIs. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12879-018-3384-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belen Torondel
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Shalini Sinha
- School of Life Sciences, AIPH University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | | | - Tapoja Swain
- School of Life Sciences, AIPH University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Pranati Sahoo
- School of Life Sciences, AIPH University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Bijaya Panda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Capital Hospital, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Arati Nayak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Capital Hospital, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
| | - Mary Bara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ispat General Hospital, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Bibiana Bilung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Ispat General Hospital, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Oliver Cumming
- Department of Disease Control, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Pinaki Panigrahi
- Department of Epidemiology and Pediatrics, Center for Global Health and Development, college of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, USA
| | - Padmalaya Das
- School of Life Sciences, AIPH University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.
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