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Xie Q, Yao T, Sun X, Liu X, Wang X. Whole genome identification of olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) cathepsin genes: Provides insights into its regulation on biotic and abiotic stresses response. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2024; 266:106783. [PMID: 38064891 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2023.106783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/02/2024]
Abstract
Cathepsins are major lysosomal enzymes involved in essential physiological processes, including protein degradation, tissue differentiation, and innate or adaptive responses. Several kinds of cathepsins have been reported in teleost fishes, but no characterization have been performed for the inflammatory response of cathepsin family in olive flounder until now. In our current study, a total of 17 cathepsins in olive flounder were systematically identified and characterized. Phylogenetic analysis clearly indicated that the cathepsin genes was highly conserved. Analysis of structure and motifs exhibited high sequence similarity of cathepsin genes in olive flounder. Expression profiles of cathepsin genes in different tissues and developmental stages showed that cathepsins were temporally and spatially specific. RNA-seq analysis of bacteria and temperature stresses revealed that members of cathepsin were involved in inflammatory responses. Collectively, our findings would provide a further reference for understanding the molecular mechanisms of cathepsins in olive flounder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingping Xie
- Key Laboratory of Aquacultural Biotechnology (Ningbo University), Ministry of Education, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tingyan Yao
- Key Laboratory of Aquacultural Biotechnology (Ningbo University), Ministry of Education, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xuanyang Sun
- Key Laboratory of Aquacultural Biotechnology (Ningbo University), Ministry of Education, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiumei Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Yantai University, Yantai, China
| | - Xubo Wang
- Key Laboratory of Aquacultural Biotechnology (Ningbo University), Ministry of Education, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China; National Engineering Research Laboratory of marine biotechnology and Engineering, Ningbo University; Collaborative Innovation Center for Zhejiang Marine High-efficiency and Healthy Aquaculture, Ningbo University; Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology of Zhejiang Province, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
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2
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He Y, Wang Q, Li J, Li Z. Comparative proteomic profiling in Chinese shrimp Fenneropenaeus chinensis under low pH stress. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 120:526-535. [PMID: 34953999 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2021.12.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Lower pH gives rise to a harmful stress to crustacean. Here, we analyzed the proteomic response of Fenneropenaeus chinensis from control pH (pH value 8.2) and low pH (pH value 6.5) - treated groups by employing absolute quantitation-based quantitative proteomic (iTRAQ) analysis. Among the identified proteins, a total of 76 proteins differed in their abundance levels, including 45 upregulated and 31 downregulated proteins. The up-regulation of proteins like citrate synthase, cytochrome c oxidase, V-type proton ATPase, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and fructose 1,6-bisphosphate-aldolase as well as the enrichment of the DEPs in multiple metabolic processes and pathways illustrated that increased energy and substrates metabolism was essential for F. chinensis to counteract low pH stress. Ion transporting related proteins, such as Na+/K+/2Cl- cotransporter and calmodulin, participated in the homeostatic maintenance of pH in F. chinensis. There were significant downregulation expressions of lectin, lipopolysaccharide- and beta-1,3-glucan binding protein, chitinase, cathepsin L and beta-glucuronidase, which indicating the immune dysfunction of F. chinensis when exposure to low pH condition. These findings can extend our understanding on the defensive mechanisms of the low pH stress and accelerate the breeding process of low pH tolerance in F. chinensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuying He
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, PR China; Function Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266200, PR China
| | - Qiong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, PR China; Function Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266200, PR China
| | - Jian Li
- Key Laboratory of Sustainable Development of Marine Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture, Yellow Sea Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Qingdao, 266071, PR China; Function Laboratory for Marine Fisheries Science and Food Production Processes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266200, PR China
| | - Zhaoxia Li
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266237, PR China.
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3
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Njom VS, Winks T, Diallo O, Lowe A, Behnke J, Dickman MJ, Duce I, Johnstone I, Buttle DJ. The effects of plant cysteine proteinases on the nematode cuticle. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:302. [PMID: 34090505 PMCID: PMC8180098 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04800-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plant-derived cysteine proteinases of the papain family (CPs) attack nematodes by digesting the cuticle, leading to rupture and death of the worm. The nematode cuticle is composed of collagens and cuticlins, but the specific molecular target(s) for the proteinases have yet to be identified. METHODS This study followed the course of nematode cuticle disruption using immunohistochemistry, scanning electron microscopy and proteomics, using a free-living nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans and the murine GI nematode Heligmosomoides bakeri (H. polygyrus) as target organisms. RESULTS Immunohistochemistry indicated that DPY-7 collagen is a target for CPs on the cuticle of C. elegans. The time course of loss of DPY-7 from the cuticle allowed us to use it to visualise the process of cuticle disruption. There was a marked difference in the time course of damage to the cuticles of the two species of nematode, with H. bakeri being more rapidly hydrolysed. In general, the CPs' mode of attack on the nematode cuticle was by degrading the structural proteins, leading to loss of integrity of the cuticle, and finally death of the nematode. Proteomic analysis failed conclusively to identify structural targets for CPs, but preliminary data suggested that COL-87 and CUT-19 may be important targets for the CPs, the digestion of which may contribute to cuticle disruption and death of the worm. Cuticle globin was also identified as a cuticular target. The presence of more than one target protein may slow the development of resistance against this new class of anthelmintic. CONCLUSIONS Scanning electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry allowed the process of disruption of the cuticle to be followed with time. Cuticle collagens and cuticlins are molecular targets for plant cysteine proteinases. However, the presence of tyrosine cross-links in nematode cuticle proteins seriously impeded protein identification by proteomic analyses. Multiple cuticle targets exist, probably making resistance to this new anthelmintic slow to develop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victor S Njom
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK.,Department of Applied Biology and Biotechnology, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, 1660, PMB, Nigeria
| | - Tim Winks
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK.,Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, S1 1WB, UK
| | - Oumu Diallo
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK.,Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, S1 1WB, UK
| | - Ann Lowe
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Jerzy Behnke
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Mark J Dickman
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, ChELSI Institute, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, S1 3JD, UK
| | - Ian Duce
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Iain Johnstone
- Department of Life Sciences and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - David J Buttle
- Department of Infection, Immunity and Cardiovascular Disease, The University of Sheffield Medical School, Beech Hill Road, Sheffield, S10 2RX, UK.
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Hotterbeekx A, Perneel J, Vieri MK, Colebunders R, Kumar-Singh S. The Secretome of Filarial Nematodes and Its Role in Host-Parasite Interactions and Pathogenicity in Onchocerciasis-Associated Epilepsy. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:662766. [PMID: 33996633 PMCID: PMC8113626 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.662766] [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: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Filarial nematodes secrete bioactive molecules which are of interest as potential mediators for manipulating host biology, as they are readily available at the host-parasite interface. The adult parasites can survive for years in the mammalian host, due to their successful modulation of the host immune system and most of these immunomodulatory strategies are based on soluble mediators excreted by the parasite. The secretome of filarial nematodes is a key player in both infection and pathology, making them an interesting target for further investigation. This review summarises the current knowledge regarding the components of the excretory-secretory products (ESPs) of filarial parasites and their bioactive functions in the human host. In addition, the pathogenic potential of the identified components, which are mostly proteins, in the pathophysiology of onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Hotterbeekx
- Molecular Pathology Group, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jolien Perneel
- Molecular Pathology Group, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Melissa Krizia Vieri
- Molecular Pathology Group, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Global Health Institute, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Samir Kumar-Singh
- Molecular Pathology Group, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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5
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Fu Q, Zhao S, Yang N, Tian M, Cai X, Zhang L, Hu J, Cao M, Xue T, Li C. Genome-wide identification, expression signature and immune functional analysis of two cathepsin S (CTSS) genes in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus L.). FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 102:243-256. [PMID: 32315741 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2020.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Cathepsins, a superfamily of hydrolytic enzymes produced and enclosed within lysosomes, play multiple roles at physiological and pathological states. Cathepsin S is a lysosomal cysteine endopeptidase of the papain family, and exerts critical roles in the regulation of MHC class II immune responses. In the present study, we captured two Cathepsin S genes in turbot (SmCTSS1 and SmCTSS2.1), characterized their expression patterns following V. anguillarum and S. iniae infections, and explored their binding ability and agglutination capability. Firstly, the SmCTSS1 contained a 990 bp ORF encoding 329 amino acids, while SmCTSS2.1 contained a 1,014 bp ORF encoding 337 amino acids. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that both genes showed the closest relationship to their counterparts of Japanese flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus). In addition, both genes were ubiquitously expressed in all examined healthy tissues, with the highest expression level observed in spleen and intestine, respectively, while the lowest expression level both observed in liver. Both SmCTSS1 and SmCTSS2.1 were significantly differentially expressed, and exhibited general down-regulations at most time points in skin and intestine after two bacterial infections. Finally, both rSmCTSS1 and rSmCTSS2.1 showed significant binding ability to three examined microbial ligands (LPS, PGN and LTA), and strong agglutination effect to different bacteria (E. tarda, S. agalactiae, S. aureus and V. anguillarum). Collectively, this study provided valuable data for understanding the roles of CTSS in the host defense against bacterial infections in turbot, and indicated the potential vital roles of CTSS in innate immune responses of teleost species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Fu
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Shoucong Zhao
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Ning Yang
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Mengyu Tian
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xin Cai
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Jie Hu
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Min Cao
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Ting Xue
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Chao Li
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
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6
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Grote A, Li Y, Liu C, Voronin D, Geber A, Lustigman S, Unnasch TR, Welch L, Ghedin E. Prediction pipeline for discovery of regulatory motifs associated with Brugia malayi molting. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008275. [PMID: 32574217 PMCID: PMC7337397 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Filarial nematodes can cause debilitating diseases in humans. They have complicated life cycles involving an insect vector and mammalian hosts, and they go through a number of developmental molts. While whole genome sequences of parasitic worms are now available, very little is known about transcription factor (TF) binding sites and their cognate transcription factors that play a role in regulating development. To address this gap, we developed a novel motif prediction pipeline, Emotif Alpha, that integrates ten different motif discovery algorithms, multiple statistical tests, and a comparative analysis of conserved elements between the filarial worms Brugia malayi and Onchocerca volvulus, and the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. We identified stage-specific TF binding motifs in B. malayi, with a particular focus on those potentially involved in the L3-L4 molt, a stage important for the establishment of infection in the mammalian host. Using an in vitro molting system, we tested and validated three of these motifs demonstrating the accuracy of the motif prediction pipeline. Diseases caused by parasitic worms such as the filariae are among the leading causes of morbidity in the developing world. Very little is known about how development is regulated in these vector-transmitted parasites. We have developed a computational method to identify motifs that correspond to transcription factor binding sites in the genome of the parasitic worm, Brugia malayi, one of the causative agents of lymphatic filariasis. Using this approach, we were able to predict stage-specific transcription factor binding sites involved in a stage of the molting process important for the establishment of the infection. We validated the role of these motifs using an in vitro molting system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Grote
- Department of Biology, Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Yichao Li
- School of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Canhui Liu
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, Florida, United States of America
| | - Denis Voronin
- Laboratory of Molecular Parasitology, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Adam Geber
- Department of Biology, Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Sara Lustigman
- Laboratory of Molecular Parasitology, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Thomas R. Unnasch
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, Florida, United States of America
| | - Lonnie Welch
- School of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio, United States of America
- * E-mail: (LW); (EG)
| | - Elodie Ghedin
- Department of Biology, Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail: (LW); (EG)
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7
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He SW, Du X, Wang GH, Wang JJ, Xie B, Gu QQ, Zhang M, Gu HJ. Identification and characterization of a cathepsin K homologue that interacts with pathogen bacteria in black rockfish, Sebastes schlegelii. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 98:499-507. [PMID: 32001355 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2020.01.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Cathepsin K belongs to the family of cysteine cathepsins. It is well known that the cysteine cathepsins participate in various physiological processes and host immune defense in mammals. However, in teleost fish, the function of cathepsin K is very limited. In the present study, a cathepsin K homologue (SsCTSK) from the teleost black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) was identified and examined at expression and functional levels. In silico analysis showed that three domains, including signal peptide, cathepsin propeptide inhibitor I29 domain, and functional domain Pept_C1, are existed in SsCTSK. SsCTSK also possesses a peptidase domain with three catalytically essential residues (Cys25, His162 and Asn183). Phylogenetic profiling indicated that SsCTSK was evolutionally close to the cathepsin K of other teleost fish. Expression of SsCTSK occurred in multiple tissues and was induced by bacterial infection. Purified recombinant SsCTSK (rSsCTSK) exhibited apparent maximal peptidase activity at 45 °C, and its enzymatic activity was remarkably declined in the presence of the cathepsin inhibitor E-64. Moreover, rSsCTSK possesses the ability to bind with PAMPs and bacteria. Finally, knockdown of SsCTSK expression facilitated bacterial invasion in black rockfish. Collectively, these results indicated that SsCTSK functions as a cysteine protease and may serves as a target for pathogen manipulation of host defense system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Wen He
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xue Du
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Guang-Hua Wang
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Jing-Jing Wang
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Bing Xie
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Qin-Qin Gu
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China.
| | - Han-Jie Gu
- Institute of Tropical Biosciences and Biotechnology, Hainan Academy of Tropical Agricultural Resource, CATAS, Haikou, 571101, China; Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Functional Components Research and Utilization of Marine Bio-resources, Haikou, 571101, China.
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8
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Chen J, Zhang L, Yang N, Cao M, Tian M, Fu Q, Su B, Li C. Characterization of the immune roles of cathepsin L in turbot (Scophthalmus maximus L.) mucosal immunity. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 97:322-335. [PMID: 31805413 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2019.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 11/25/2019] [Accepted: 12/01/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Cathepsin L (CTSL) is one of the crucial enzymes in cathepsin family, which has been widely known for its involvement in the innate immunity. However, it still remains poorly understood how CTSL modulates the immune system of teleosts. In this study, we captured three cathepsin L genes (SmCTSL, SmCTSL.1 and SmCTSL1) from turbot (Scophthalmus maximus). The coding sequences of SmCTSL, SmCTSL.1 and SmCTSL1 are 1,026 bp, 1,005 bp and 1,017 bp in length and encode 341, 334 and 338 amino acids, respectively. In details, transcripts of CTSL genes share same domains as other CTSL genes, one signal peptide, one propeptide and one papain family cysteine protease domain. Protein interaction network analysis indicated that turbot CTSL genes may play important roles in apoptotic signaling and involve in innate immune response. Evidence from subcellular localization demonstrated that the three Cathepsin L proteins were ubiquitous in nucleus and cytoplasm. The cathepsin L genes were widely expressed in all the tested tissues with the highest expression level of SmCTSL in spleen, and SmCTSL.1 and SmCTSL1 in intestine. Following Vibrio anguillarum, Edwardsiella tarda and Streptococcus iniae challenge, these cathepsin L genes were significantly regulated in mucosal tissues in all the challenges, especially significant down-regulation occurred rapidly in intestine in all the three challenges. In addition, the three cathepsin L genes showed strong binding ability to all the examined microbial ligands (LPS, PGN and LTA). Further studies should be used to analyze the specific function of these three cathepsin L genes. By then, we can use their function to maintain the integrity of the mucosal barrier, thereby promoting the disease resistance line and family selection in turbot.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghua Chen
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Zhang
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Yang
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Cao
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, People's Republic of China
| | - Mengyu Tian
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiang Fu
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, People's Republic of China
| | - Baofeng Su
- School of Fisheries, Aquaculture and Aquatic Sciences, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, 36849, USA.
| | - Chao Li
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, People's Republic of China.
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9
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Torralbo-Ramírez V, Molina-Fernández D, Malagón D, Benítez R, Adroher FJ. Differential Cleaving of Specific Substrates for Cathepsin-Like Activity Shows Cysteine and Serine Protease Activities and a Differential Profile BetweenAnisakis simplex s.s.andAnisakis pegreffii, Sibling Species Major Etiologic Agents of Anisakiasis. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2019; 16:744-751. [DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2019.2633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - David Malagón
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Rocío Benítez
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
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10
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Wang GH, He SW, Du X, Xie B, Gu QQ, Zhang M, Hu YH. Characterization, expression, enzymatic activity, and functional identification of cathepsin S from black rockfish Sebastes schlegelii. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 93:623-630. [PMID: 31400512 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2019.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 08/04/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Cathepsin S belong to the cathepsin L-like family of cysteine cathepsins. It is well known that Cathepsin S participate in various physiological processes and host immune defense in mammals. However, in teleost fish, the function of cathepsin S is less investigated. In the present study, a cathepsin S homologue (SsCTSS) from the teleost fish black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) were identified and examined at expression and functional levels. In silico analysis showed that three domains, including signal peptide, cathepsin propeptide inhibitor I29 domain, and functional domain Pept_C1, were existed in the cathepsin. SsCTSS possesses a peptidase domain with three catalytically essential residues (Cys25, His162, and Asn183). Phylogenetic profiling indicated that SsCTSS are evolutionally close to the cathepsin S of other teleost fish. The expression of SsCTSS in immune-related tissues was upregulated in a time-dependent manner upon bacterial pathogen infection. Purified recombinant SsCTSS (rSsCTSS) exhibited apparent peptidase activity, which was remarkably declined in the presence of the cathepsin inhibitor E-64. rSsCTSS showed strong binding ability to LPS and PGN, the major constituents of the outer membranes of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, respectively. rSsCTSS also exhibited the capability of agglutination to different bacteria. The knockdown of SsCTSS attenuated the ability of host to eliminate pathogenic bacteria. Taken together, our results suggested that SsCTSS functions as cysteine protease which might be involved in the antibacterial immunity of black rockfish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Hua Wang
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Shu-Wen He
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xue Du
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Bing Xie
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Qin-Qin Gu
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Marine Science and Engineering College, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China.
| | - Yong-Hua Hu
- Institute of Tropical Bioscience and Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences, Haikou, 571101, China; Laboratory for Marine Biology and Biotechnology, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao, China; Hainan Provincial Key Laboratory for Functional Components Research and Utilization of Marine Bio-resources, Haikou, 571101, China.
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11
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Ren HN, Liu RD, Song YY, Zhuo TX, Guo KX, Zhang Y, Jiang P, Wang ZQ, Cui J. Label-free quantitative proteomic analysis of molting-related proteins of Trichinella spiralis intestinal infective larvae. Vet Res 2019; 50:70. [PMID: 31547875 PMCID: PMC6757440 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-019-0689-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Molting is a key step for body-size expansion and environmental adaptation of parasitic nematodes, and it is extremely important for Trichinella spiralis growth and development, but the molting mechanism is not fully understood. In this work, label-free LC-MS/MS was used to determine the proteome differences between T. spiralis muscle larvae (ML) at the encapsulated stage and intestinal infective larvae (IIL) at the molting stage. The results showed that a total of 2885 T. spiralis proteins were identified, 323 of which were differentially expressed. These proteins were involved in cuticle structural elements, regulation of cuticle synthesis, remodeling and degradation, and hormonal regulation of molting. These differential proteins were also involved in diverse intracellular pathways, such as fatty acid biosynthesis, arachidonic acid metabolism, and mucin type O-glycan biosynthesis. qPCR results showed that five T. spiralis genes (cuticle collagen 14, putative DOMON domain-containing protein, glutamine synthetase, cathepsin F and NADP-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase) had significantly higher transcriptional levels in 10 h IIL than ML (P < 0.05), which were similar to their protein expression levels, suggesting that they might be T. spiralis molting-related genes. Identification and characterization of T. spiralis molting-related proteins will be helpful for developing vaccines and new drugs against the early enteral stage of T. spiralis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Nan Ren
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Ruo Dan Liu
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yan Yan Song
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Tong Xu Zhuo
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Kai Xia Guo
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Yao Zhang
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Peng Jiang
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China
| | - Zhong Quan Wang
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
| | - Jing Cui
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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12
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Qin F, Shen T, Yang H, Qian J, Zou D, Li J, Liu H, Zhang Y, Song X. Dietary nano cerium oxide promotes growth, relieves ammonia nitrogen stress, and improves immunity in crab (Eriocheir sinensis). FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2019; 92:367-376. [PMID: 31200070 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2019.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 06/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in ammonia nitrogen toxicity. In this study, the beneficial effects of dietary nano cerium oxide (nano CeO2) as a potent antioxidant were examined in the Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis). Crabs were fed a diet supplemented with 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1.6, 3.2, 6.4, or 12.8 mg/kg nano CeO2 for 60 d. The optimum supplementation level of nano CeO2 that significantly increased weight gain rate and decreased feed coefficient was 0.8 mg/kg. This level also offered immune protection when crabs were kept under ammonia nitrogen stress and/or exposed to pathogen infection (Aeromonas hydrophila). Supplementation with 0.8 mg/kg of CeO2 (i) relieved pathological damage to the hepatopancreas; (ii) increased hemocyte counts, including total number of hemocytes, granulocytes, and hyalinocytes; (iii) decreased malondialdehyde content and increased antioxidant enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase in the hemolymph; (iv) increased the activities of lysozyme, acid phosphatase, and alkaline phosphatase in the hemolymph; and (v) increased gene and protein expression of cathepsin L in the hepatopancreas. Mortality increased when crabs were injected with bacteria under ammonia nitrogen stress, but dietary supplementation with 0.8 mg/kg nano CeO2 decreased the mortality rate. Thus, the results of this study suggested that dietary supplementation with nano CeO2 in crabs promoted growth and up-regulated immunity to bacterial infection under ammonia nitrogen stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenju Qin
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China.
| | - Tao Shen
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Huixing Yang
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China
| | - Junchao Qian
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Environment Functional Materials, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Dan Zou
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Jinlin Li
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Yunyi Zhang
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, China
| | - Xuehong Song
- School of Biology and Basic Medical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou, 215123, China.
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13
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Ma C, Liang K, Tang L, He S, Liu X, He M, Li Y. Identification and characteristics of a cathepsin L-like cysteine protease from Clonorchis sinensis. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:829-835. [PMID: 30689051 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06223-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cathepsin L-like protease is an important member of the papain-like cysteine protease and plays numerous indispensable roles in the biology of parasitic organisms. In a previous study, we identified a gene encoding a cathepsin L-like protease of Clonorchis sinensis (CsCPL) that was detected in the cercaria, metacercaria, and adult worm stages by immunolocalization, suggesting that this cysteine protease may be important and involved in the development of C. sinensis. In this study, the mature domain of CsCPL (CsCPL-m) was cloned and expressed in the form of inclusion bodies in Escherichia coli. After refolding, the recombinant CsCPL-m displayed optimal protease activity towards Z-Phe-Arg-AMC substrates but not towards Z-Arg-Arg-AMC, and the activity of the protease was inhibited completely by the cysteine protease-specific inhibitors E-64 and IAA, which further demonstrated that CsCPL belongs to the cathepsin L-like cysteine protease family. Recombinant CsCPL-m exhibited considerable activity at temperatures ranging from 28 to 42 °C, with the highest activity observed at 42 °C. Furthermore, recombinant CsCPL-m exhibited activity across a broad range of pH values (pH 4.0-8.0), with an optimal pH of 5.5. The Km and Vmax of the recombinant CsCPL-m towards Z-Phe-Arg-AMC were determined to be 5.71 × 10-6 M and 0.6 μM/min, respectively, at 37 °C and pH 5.5. The recombinant CsCPL-m could degrade BSA and gelatine, but could not degrade human hemoglobin and human immunoglobulin G. These results implied that CsCPL might participate in the catabolism of host proteins for nutrition during the parasitic life cycle of C. sinensis; thus, CsCPL could be used as a potential vaccine antigen and drug target against C. sinensis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changling Ma
- Department of Pathogen Biology & Immunology, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 511436, People's Republic of China
| | - Kai Liang
- Department of Parasitology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Lili Tang
- Department of Parasitology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanshan He
- Department of Parasitology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoquan Liu
- Department of Parasitology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Mian He
- Department of Parasitology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanwen Li
- Department of Parasitology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, 530021, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Bah SY, Morang'a CM, Kengne-Ouafo JA, Amenga-Etego L, Awandare GA. Highlights on the Application of Genomics and Bioinformatics in the Fight Against Infectious Diseases: Challenges and Opportunities in Africa. Front Genet 2018; 9:575. [PMID: 30538723 PMCID: PMC6277583 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2018.00575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/08/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Genomics and bioinformatics are increasingly contributing to our understanding of infectious diseases caused by bacterial pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis and parasites such as Plasmodium falciparum. This ranges from investigations of disease outbreaks and pathogenesis, host and pathogen genomic variation, and host immune evasion mechanisms to identification of potential diagnostic markers and vaccine targets. High throughput genomics data generated from pathogens and animal models can be combined with host genomics and patients’ health records to give advice on treatment options as well as potential drug and vaccine interactions. However, despite accounting for the highest burden of infectious diseases, Africa has the lowest research output on infectious disease genomics. Here we review the contributions of genomics and bioinformatics to the management of infectious diseases of serious public health concern in Africa including tuberculosis (TB), dengue fever, malaria and filariasis. Furthermore, we discuss how genomics and bioinformatics can be applied to identify drug and vaccine targets. We conclude by identifying challenges to genomics research in Africa and highlighting how these can be overcome where possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saikou Y Bah
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana.,Vaccine and Immunity Theme, MRC Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Banjul, Gambia
| | - Collins Misita Morang'a
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Jonas A Kengne-Ouafo
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Lucas Amenga-Etego
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Gordon A Awandare
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
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15
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Grote A, Caffrey CR, Rebello KM, Smith D, Dalton JP, Lustigman S. Cysteine proteases during larval migration and development of helminths in their final host. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0005919. [PMID: 30138448 PMCID: PMC6107106 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases caused by metazoan parasites are major public health concerns, and therefore, new methods for their control and elimination are needed. Research over the last 25 years has revealed the vital contribution of cysteine proteases to invasion of and migration by (larval) helminth parasites through host tissues, in addition to their roles in embryogenesis, molting, egg hatching, and yolk degradation. Their central function to maintaining parasite survival in the host has made them prime intervention targets for novel drugs and vaccines. This review focuses on those helminth cysteine proteases that have been functionally characterized during the varied early stages of development in the human host and embryogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Grote
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, New York University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Conor R. Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Karina M. Rebello
- Laboratório de Toxinologia and Laboratório de Estudos Integrados em Protozoologia, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - David Smith
- School of Biological Sciences, Medical Biology Centre, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - John P. Dalton
- School of Biological Sciences, Medical Biology Centre, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
| | - Sara Lustigman
- Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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16
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Shanmugam G, Lee SK, Jeon J. Identification of Potential Nematicidal Compounds against the Pine Wood Nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus through an In Silico Approach. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23071828. [PMID: 30041426 PMCID: PMC6100573 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23071828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Bursaphelenchus xylophilus is a destructive phytophagous nematode that mainly infects pine species and causes pine wilt disease (PWD). PWD is one of the most devastating diseases that has damaged the pine forests of eastern Asia and Portugal for the last four decades. B. xylophilus infects healthy pine trees through Monochamus beetles and its subsequent proliferation results in destruction of the infected pine trees. The poor water solubility and high cost of currently used trunk-injected chemicals such as avermectin and abamectin for the prevention of PWD are major concerns. Thus, for the identification of new compounds targeting the different targets, five proteins including cathepsin L-like cystein proteinase, peroxiredoxins, hsp90, venome allergen protein and tubulin that are known to be important for development and pathogenicity of B. xylophilus were selected. The compounds were virtually screened against five proposed targets through molecular docking into hypothetical binding sites located in a homology-built protein model. Of the fifteen nematicides screened, amocarzine, mebendazole and flubendazole were judged to bind best. For these best docked compounds, structural and electronic properties were calculated through density functional theory studies. The results emphasize that these compounds could be potential lead compounds that can be further developed into nematicidal chemical against B. xylophilus. However, further studies are required to ascertain the nematicidal activity of these compounds against phytophagous nematode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gnanendra Shanmugam
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life and Applied Sciences, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Korea.
| | - Sun Keun Lee
- Division of Forest Insect Pests and Diseases, National Institute of Forest Science, Seoul 02455, Korea.
| | - Junhyun Jeon
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life and Applied Sciences, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Korea.
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17
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UKE SUCHITAP, GARG RAJAT, RAFIQI SHAFIYAIMTIAZ, RAM HIRA, KHURANA KL, BANERJEE PS. Standardization of recombinant Ancylostoma caninum cysteine protease 2 (rAcCP2) based indirect ELISA for serodiagnosis of hookworm infection in dogs. THE INDIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.56093/ijans.v88i2.79293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Diagnosis of hookworm infection in dogs during pre-patentency or in pregnant bitches harbouring encysted larvae in tissues can be achieved by employing serological tests using proteins derived from somatic or excretorysecretory products of adult or larvae of Ancylostoma caninum. In the present study, cathepsin-B protease (AcCP2) of A. caninum, which helps in development of parasitism and nutrient digestion, was used to develop an indirect ELISA for detection of specific antibodies to A. caninum in dogs. The rAcCP2 (approx. 59.0 kDa) was cloned, expressed and purified under denaturing conditions. Serum samples of 20 known A. caninum positive and 15 known negative dogs were used for the standardization of indirect ELISA. The sensitivity and specificity of the assay was determined by using sera samples from 123 dogs (48 positive for A. caninum eggs in faeces and 75 faecal negative). Out of the 48 A. caninum faecal positive sera, 46 were tested positive (OD > 0.306) by indirect ELISA; whereas, 14 out of 75 faecal negative samples were also tested positive (OD > 0.306) by indirect ELISA. Based on the results, the sensitivity and specificity of rAcCP2 based indirect ELISA was calculated to be 95.8% and 84.3%, respectively. No cross-reactions were observed with serum from dogs naturally infected with B. canis vogeli, B. gibsoni, E. canis, Dirofilaria immitis and Toxocara canis. The results of the present study indicate that indirect ELISA with rAcCP2 protein might be appropriate in large scale epidemiological screening and for serological diagnosis of A. caninum infection in dogs.
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18
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Famakinde DO. Mosquitoes and the Lymphatic Filarial Parasites: Research Trends and Budding Roadmaps to Future Disease Eradication. Trop Med Infect Dis 2018; 3:E4. [PMID: 30274403 PMCID: PMC6136629 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed3010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 12/26/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The mosquito-borne lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a parasitic, neglected tropical disease that imposes an unbearable human scourge. Despite the unprecedented efforts in mass drug administration (MDA) and morbidity management, achieving the global LF elimination slated for the year 2020 has been thwarted by limited MDA coverage and ineffectiveness in the chemotherapeutic intervention. Moreover, successful and sustainable elimination of mosquito-vectored diseases is often encumbered by reintroduction and resurgence emanating from human residual or new infections being widely disseminated by the vectors even when chemotherapy proves effective, but especially in the absence of effective vaccines. This created impetus for strengthening the current defective mosquito control approach, and profound research in vector⁻pathogen systems and vector biology has been pushing the boundaries of ideas towards developing refined vector-harnessed control strategies. Eventual implementation of these emerging concepts will offer a synergistic approach that will not only accelerate LF elimination, but also augurs well for its future eradication. This brief review focuses on advances in mosquito⁻filaria research and considers the emerging prospects for future eradication of LF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damilare O Famakinde
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine of the University of Lagos, Idi-Araba, Lagos 100254, Nigeria.
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19
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Dai LS, Chu SH, Yu XM, Li YY. A role of cathepsin L gene in innate immune response of crayfish (Procambarus clarkii). FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 71:246-254. [PMID: 29032038 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2017.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Cathepsin L is one of the crucial enzyme superfamilies and involved in the immune responses. In the present study, cathepsin L gene from the red crayfish Procambarus clarkii, named PcCTSL, was cloned and characterized. The cDNA fragment of PcCTSL was 1026 bp in length, which encoded a putative protein of 341 amino acid residues with a molecular weight of 37.884 kDa. The theoretical isoelectric point was 5.218. The prepro-cathepsin L was comprised of a typical signal peptide (Met1-Ala18), a prodomain proregion peptide (Trp29-Phe89) and a mature peptide (Leu124-Leu340). Homology analysis indicated that PcCTSL exhibited 53.2%-87.1% identity to other selected species. The recombinant protein of PcCTSL was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli and rabbit anti-PcCTSL polyclonal antibodies were prepared. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qPCR) analysis revealed that the PcCTSL was expressed in all examined tissues, while the greatest mRNA level was observed in hepatopancreas. The expression of PcCTSL mRNA was clearly up regulated in hepatopancreas after challenge by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and polyriboinosinic polyribocytidylic acid (Poly I:C). RNA interference of PcCTSL affected the gene expression of members of the Toll pathway. Our results suggest that the PcCTSL may play an important role to defend P. clarkii against the pathogens infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Shang Dai
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, PR China.
| | - Sheng-Hui Chu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, PR China
| | - Xiao-Min Yu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, PR China
| | - Yan-Yan Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, PR China
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20
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O’Connell EM, Kamenyeva O, Lustigman S, Bell A, Nutman TB. Defining the target and the effect of imatinib on the filarial c-Abl homologue. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005690. [PMID: 28727765 PMCID: PMC5538754 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previously we demonstrated the micro- and macrofilaricidal properties of imatinib in vitro. Here we use electron and multiphoton microscopy to define the target of imatinib in the adult and microfilarial stages of Brugia malayi and assess the effects of pharmacologically relevant levels of imatinib on the adult parasites. METHODS After fixation of adult B. malayi males and females, sections were stained with polyclonal rabbit anti-c-Abl antibody (or isotype control) and imaged with multiphoton fluorescent microscopy. Microfilariae were fixed and labeled with rabbit anti-c-Abl IgG primary antibody followed by anti-rabbit gold conjugated secondary antibody and imaged using transmission electron microscopy (TEM; immunoEM). In addition, adult B. malayi males and females were exposed to 0 or 10μM of imatinib for 7 days following which they were prepared for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to assess the drug's effect on filarial ultrastructure. RESULTS Fluorescent localization of anti-c-Abl antibody demonstrated widespread uptake in the adult filariae, but the most intense signal was seen in the reproductive organs, muscle, and intestine of both male and female worms. Fluorescence was significantly more intense in the early microfilarial stage (i.e. early morula) compared with later development stages (i.e. pretzel). Anti-c-Abl antibody in the microfilariae localized to the nuclei. Based on TEM assessment following imatinib exposure, imatinib appeared to be detrimental to embryogenesis in the adult female B. malayi. CONCLUSIONS At pharmacologically achievable concentrations of imatinib, embryogenesis is impaired and possibly halted in adult filariae. Imatinib is likely a slow microfilaricide due to interference in intra-nuclear processes, which are slowly detrimental to the parasite and not immediately lethal, and thus may be used to lower the levels of L. loa microfilariae before they are treated within the context of conventional mass drug administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise M. O’Connell
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, Helminth Immunology Section, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Olena Kamenyeva
- Research Technologies Branch, Biological Imaging Section, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Sara Lustigman
- Laboratory of Molecular Parasitology, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York, United States of America
| | - Aaron Bell
- Laboratory of Electron Microscopy, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York City, New York, United States of America
| | - Thomas B. Nutman
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, Helminth Immunology Section, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
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21
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Preston S, Korhonen PK, Mouchiroud L, Cornaglia M, McGee SL, Young ND, Davis RA, Crawford S, Nowell C, Ansell BRE, Fisher GM, Andrews KT, Chang BCH, Gijs MAM, Sternberg PW, Auwerx J, Baell J, Hofmann A, Jabbar A, Gasser RB. Deguelin exerts potent nematocidal activity
via
the mitochondrial respiratory chain. FASEB J 2017; 31:4515-4532. [DOI: 10.1096/fj.201700288r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Preston
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Faculty of Science and TechnologyFederation UniversityBallaratVictoriaAustralia
| | - Pasi K. Korhonen
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Laurent Mouchiroud
- Laboratory of Integrative and Systems PhysiologyÉcole Polytechnique Fédérale de LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Matteo Cornaglia
- Laboratory of MicrosystemsÉcole Polytechnique Fédérale de LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Sean L. McGee
- Metabolic Research UnitMetabolic Reprogramming LaboratorySchool of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Deakin UniversityWaurn PondsVictoriaAustralia
| | - Neil D. Young
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Rohan A. Davis
- Griffith Institute for Drug DiscoveryGriffith UniversityNathanQueenslandAustralia
| | - Simon Crawford
- School of Biosciences, University of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Cameron Nowell
- Drug Discovery BiologyMonash University Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesMonash UniversityParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Brendan R. E. Ansell
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Gillian M. Fisher
- Griffith Institute for Drug DiscoveryGriffith UniversityNathanQueenslandAustralia
| | - Katherine T. Andrews
- Griffith Institute for Drug DiscoveryGriffith UniversityNathanQueenslandAustralia
| | - Bill C. H. Chang
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Yourgene BioscienceTaipeiTaiwan
| | - Martin A. M. Gijs
- Laboratory of MicrosystemsÉcole Polytechnique Fédérale de LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Paul W. Sternberg
- Division of Biology and Biological EngineeringCalifornia Institute of TechnologyPasadenaCaliforniaUSA
| | - Johan Auwerx
- Laboratory of Integrative and Systems PhysiologyÉcole Polytechnique Fédérale de LausanneLausanneSwitzerland
| | - Jonathan Baell
- Medicinal ChemistryMonash University Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesMonash UniversityParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Andreas Hofmann
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
- Griffith Institute for Drug DiscoveryGriffith UniversityNathanQueenslandAustralia
| | - Abdul Jabbar
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural SciencesUniversity of MelbourneParkvilleVictoriaAustralia
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22
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Grote A, Lustigman S, Ghedin E. Lessons from the genomes and transcriptomes of filarial nematodes. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2017; 215:23-29. [PMID: 28126543 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2017.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2017] [Accepted: 01/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Human filarial infections are a leading cause of morbidity in the developing world. While a small arsenal of drugs exists to treat these infections, there remains a tremendous need for the development of additional interventions. Recent genome sequences and transcriptome analyses of filarial nematodes have provided novel biological insight and allowed for the prediction of novel drug targets as well as potential vaccine candidates. In this review, we discuss the currently available data, insights gained into the metabolism of these organisms, and how the filaria field can move forward by leveraging these data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Grote
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, New York University, USA
| | | | - Elodie Ghedin
- Center for Genomics and Systems Biology, Department of Biology, New York University, USA.
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Stage-Specific Transcriptome and Proteome Analyses of the Filarial Parasite Onchocerca volvulus and Its Wolbachia Endosymbiont. mBio 2016; 7:mBio.02028-16. [PMID: 27881553 PMCID: PMC5137501 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02028-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Onchocerciasis (river blindness) is a neglected tropical disease that has been successfully targeted by mass drug treatment programs in the Americas and small parts of Africa. Achieving the long-term goal of elimination of onchocerciasis, however, requires additional tools, including drugs, vaccines, and biomarkers of infection. Here, we describe the transcriptome and proteome profiles of the major vector and the human host stages (L1, L2, L3, molting L3, L4, adult male, and adult female) of Onchocerca volvulus along with the proteome of each parasitic stage and of its Wolbachia endosymbiont (wOv). In so doing, we have identified stage-specific pathways important to the parasite’s adaptation to its human host during its early development. Further, we generated a protein array that, when screened with well-characterized human samples, identified novel diagnostic biomarkers of O. volvulus infection and new potential vaccine candidates. This immunomic approach not only demonstrates the power of this postgenomic discovery platform but also provides additional tools for onchocerciasis control programs. The global onchocerciasis (river blindness) elimination program will have to rely on the development of new tools (drugs, vaccines, biomarkers) to achieve its goals by 2025. As an adjunct to the completed genomic sequencing of O. volvulus, we used a comprehensive proteomic and transcriptomic profiling strategy to gain a comprehensive understanding of both the vector-derived and human host-derived parasite stages. In so doing, we have identified proteins and pathways that enable novel drug targeting studies and the discovery of novel vaccine candidates, as well as useful biomarkers of active infection.
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Zamanian M, Andersen EC. Prospects and challenges of CRISPR/Cas genome editing for the study and control of neglected vector-borne nematode diseases. FEBS J 2016; 283:3204-21. [PMID: 27300487 PMCID: PMC5053252 DOI: 10.1111/febs.13781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Revised: 06/05/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases caused by parasitic nematodes inflict an immense health and socioeconomic burden throughout much of the developing world. Current estimates indicate that more than two billion people are infected with nematodes, resulting in the loss of 14 million disability-adjusted life years per annum. Although these parasites cause significant mortality, they primarily cause chronic morbidity through a wide range of severe clinical ailments. Treatment options for nematode infections are restricted to a small number of anthelmintic drugs, and the rapid expansion of anthelmintic mass drug administration raises concerns of drug resistance. Preservation of existing drugs is necessary, as well as the development of new treatment options and methods of control. We focus this review on how the democratization of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing technology can be enlisted to improve our understanding of the biology of nematode parasites and our ability to treat the infections they cause. We will first explore how this robust method of genome manipulation can be used to newly exploit the powerful model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans for parasitology research. We will then discuss potential avenues to develop CRISPR/Cas9 editing protocols in filarial nematodes. Lastly, we will propose potential ways in which CRISPR/Cas9 can be used to engineer gene drives that target the transmission of mosquito-borne filarial nematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Zamanian
- Department of Molecular BiosciencesNorthwestern UniversityEvanstonILUSA
| | - Erik C. Andersen
- Department of Molecular BiosciencesNorthwestern UniversityEvanstonILUSA
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Armstrong SD, Xia D, Bah GS, Krishna R, Ngangyung HF, LaCourse EJ, McSorley HJ, Kengne-Ouafo JA, Chounna-Ndongmo PW, Wanji S, Enyong PA, Taylor DW, Blaxter ML, Wastling JM, Tanya VN, Makepeace BL. Stage-specific Proteomes from Onchocerca ochengi, Sister Species of the Human River Blindness Parasite, Uncover Adaptations to a Nodular Lifestyle. Mol Cell Proteomics 2016; 15:2554-75. [PMID: 27226403 PMCID: PMC4974336 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m115.055640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2015] [Revised: 04/30/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite 40 years of control efforts, onchocerciasis (river blindness) remains one of the most important neglected tropical diseases, with 17 million people affected. The etiological agent, Onchocerca volvulus, is a filarial nematode with a complex lifecycle involving several distinct stages in the definitive host and blackfly vector. The challenges of obtaining sufficient material have prevented high-throughput studies and the development of novel strategies for disease control and diagnosis. Here, we utilize the closest relative of O. volvulus, the bovine parasite Onchocerca ochengi, to compare stage-specific proteomes and host-parasite interactions within the secretome. We identified a total of 4260 unique O. ochengi proteins from adult males and females, infective larvae, intrauterine microfilariae, and fluid from intradermal nodules. In addition, 135 proteins were detected from the obligate Wolbachia symbiont. Observed protein families that were enriched in all whole body extracts relative to the complete search database included immunoglobulin-domain proteins, whereas redox and detoxification enzymes and proteins involved in intracellular transport displayed stage-specific overrepresentation. Unexpectedly, the larval stages exhibited enrichment for several mitochondrial-related protein families, including members of peptidase family M16 and proteins which mediate mitochondrial fission and fusion. Quantification of proteins across the lifecycle using the Hi-3 approach supported these qualitative analyses. In nodule fluid, we identified 94 O. ochengi secreted proteins, including homologs of transforming growth factor-β and a second member of a novel 6-ShK toxin domain family, which was originally described from a model filarial nematode (Litomosoides sigmodontis). Strikingly, the 498 bovine proteins identified in nodule fluid were strongly dominated by antimicrobial proteins, especially cathelicidins. This first high-throughput analysis of an Onchocerca spp. proteome across the lifecycle highlights its profound complexity and emphasizes the extremely close relationship between O. ochengi and O. volvulus The insights presented here provide new candidates for vaccine development, drug targeting and diagnostic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart D Armstrong
- From the ‡Institute of Infection & Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK
| | - Dong Xia
- From the ‡Institute of Infection & Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK
| | - Germanus S Bah
- §Institut de Recherche Agricole pour le Développement, Regional Centre of Wakwa, BP65 Ngaoundéré, Cameroon
| | - Ritesh Krishna
- ¶Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Henrietta F Ngangyung
- §Institut de Recherche Agricole pour le Développement, Regional Centre of Wakwa, BP65 Ngaoundéré, Cameroon
| | - E James LaCourse
- ‖Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Henry J McSorley
- **The Queens Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4JT
| | - Jonas A Kengne-Ouafo
- ‡‡Research Foundation for Tropical Diseases and Environment, PO Box 474 Buea, Cameroon
| | | | - Samuel Wanji
- ‡‡Research Foundation for Tropical Diseases and Environment, PO Box 474 Buea, Cameroon
| | - Peter A Enyong
- ‡‡Research Foundation for Tropical Diseases and Environment, PO Box 474 Buea, Cameroon; §§Tropical Medicine Research Station, Kumba, Cameroon
| | - David W Taylor
- From the ‡Institute of Infection & Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; ¶¶Division of Pathway Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JT, UK
| | - Mark L Blaxter
- ‖‖Institute of Evolutionary Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JT, UK
| | - Jonathan M Wastling
- From the ‡Institute of Infection & Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK; ‡‡‡The National Institute for Health Research, Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK
| | - Vincent N Tanya
- §Institut de Recherche Agricole pour le Développement, Regional Centre of Wakwa, BP65 Ngaoundéré, Cameroon
| | - Benjamin L Makepeace
- From the ‡Institute of Infection & Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L3 5RF, UK;
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Wang K, Li Y, Huang X, Wang DW, Xu CL, Xie H. The cathepsin S cysteine proteinase of the burrowing nematode Radopholus similis is essential for the reproduction and invasion. Cell Biosci 2016; 6:39. [PMID: 27293544 PMCID: PMC4901441 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-016-0107-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The nematode Radopholus similis is an important migratory endoparasite of plants. Cysteine proteinases such as cathepsin S (CPS) play key roles during embryonic development, invasion, and pathogenesis in nematodes and many other animal parasites. This study was designed to investigate the molecular characterization and functions of a cathepsin S protease in R. similis and to find new targets for its control. RESULTS Rs-CPS of R. similis, Hg-CPS of Heterodera glycines and Ha-CPS of H. avenae are closely genetically related and share the same branch of the phylogenetic tree. Rs-cps is a multi-copy gene that is expressed in the esophageal glands, ovaries, testes, vas deferens, and eggs of R. similis. Rs-cps mRNA transcripts are expressed at varying levels during all developmental stages of R. similis. Rs-cps expression was highest in females. The neurostimulant octopamine did not significantly enhance the ingestion of the dsRNA soaking solution by R. similis but instead had a detrimental effect on nematode activity. The dsRNA soaking solution diffused into the body of R. similis not only through the esophageal lumen but also through the amphids, excretory duct, vagina, anus and cloacal orifice. We confirmed that RNAi significantly suppressed the expression level of Rs-cps and reproductive capability and pathogenicity of R. similis. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that Rs-cps plays important roles in the reproduction, parasitism and pathogenesis of R. similis and could be used as a new potential target for controlling plant parasitic nematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Wang
- Laboratory of Plant Nematology and Research Center of Nematodes of Plant Quarantine, Department of Plant Pathology, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | - Yu Li
- Laboratory of Plant Nematology and Research Center of Nematodes of Plant Quarantine, Department of Plant Pathology, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China.,Department of Plant Pathology, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450002 China
| | - Xin Huang
- Laboratory of Plant Nematology and Research Center of Nematodes of Plant Quarantine, Department of Plant Pathology, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | - Dong-Wei Wang
- Laboratory of Plant Nematology and Research Center of Nematodes of Plant Quarantine, Department of Plant Pathology, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | - Chun-Ling Xu
- Laboratory of Plant Nematology and Research Center of Nematodes of Plant Quarantine, Department of Plant Pathology, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
| | - Hui Xie
- Laboratory of Plant Nematology and Research Center of Nematodes of Plant Quarantine, Department of Plant Pathology, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642 China
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Ondrovics M, Gasser RB, Joachim A. Recent Advances in Elucidating Nematode Moulting - Prospects of Using Oesophagostomum dentatum as a Model. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2015; 91:233-64. [PMID: 27015950 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2015.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There are major gaps in our knowledge of many molecular biological processes that take place during the development of parasitic nematodes, in spite of the fact that understanding such processes could lead to new ways of treating and controlling parasitic diseases via the disruption of one or more biological pathways in the parasites. Progress in genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and bioinformatics now provides unique opportunities to investigate the molecular basis of key developmental processes in parasitic nematodes. The porcine nodule worm, Oesophagostomum dentatum, represents a large order (Strongylida) of socioeconomically important nematodes, and provides a useful platform for exploring molecular developmental processes, particularly given that this nematode can be grown and maintained in culture in vitro for periods longer than most other nematodes of this order. In this article, we focus on the moulting process (ecdysis) in nematodes; review recent advances in our understanding of molecular aspects of moulting in O. dentatum achieved by using integrated proteomic-bioinformatic tools and discuss key implications and future prospects for research in this area, also with respect to developing new anti-nematode interventions and biotechnological outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Ondrovics
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Robin B Gasser
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Anja Joachim
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Zamanian M, Fraser LM, Agbedanu PN, Harischandra H, Moorhead AR, Day TA, Bartholomay LC, Kimber MJ. Release of Small RNA-containing Exosome-like Vesicles from the Human Filarial Parasite Brugia malayi. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0004069. [PMID: 26401956 PMCID: PMC4581865 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a socio-economically devastating mosquito-borne Neglected Tropical Disease caused by parasitic filarial nematodes. The interaction between the parasite and host, both mosquito and human, during infection, development and persistence is dynamic and delicately balanced. Manipulation of this interface to the detriment of the parasite is a promising potential avenue to develop disease therapies but is prevented by our very limited understanding of the host-parasite relationship. Exosomes are bioactive small vesicles (30-120 nm) secreted by a wide range of cell types and involved in a wide range of physiological processes. Here, we report the identification and partial characterization of exosome-like vesicles (ELVs) released from the infective L3 stage of the human filarial parasite Brugia malayi. Exosome-like vesicles were isolated from parasites in culture media and electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis were used to confirm that vesicles produced by juvenile B. malayi are exosome-like based on size and morphology. We show that loss of parasite viability correlates with a time-dependent decay in vesicle size specificity and rate of release. The protein cargo of these vesicles is shown to include common exosomal protein markers and putative effector proteins. These Brugia-derived vesicles contain small RNA species that include microRNAs with host homology, suggesting a potential role in host manipulation. Confocal microscopy shows J774A.1, a murine macrophage cell line, internalize purified ELVs, and we demonstrate that these ELVs effectively stimulate a classically activated macrophage phenotype in J774A.1. To our knowledge, this is the first report of exosome-like vesicle release by a human parasitic nematode and our data suggest a novel mechanism by which human parasitic nematodes may actively direct the host responses to infection. Further interrogation of the makeup and function of these bioactive vesicles could seed new therapeutic strategies and unearth stage-specific diagnostic biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Zamanian
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Lisa M Fraser
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Prince N Agbedanu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Hiruni Harischandra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Andrew R Moorhead
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Tim A Day
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Lyric C Bartholomay
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Michael J Kimber
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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29
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Zhang K, Su J, Chen S, Yu S, Tan J, Xu M, Liang H, Zhao Y, Chao H, Yang L, Cui H. Molecular cloning, characterization and expression analysis of cathepsin O in silkworm Bombyx mori related to bacterial response. Mol Immunol 2015; 66:409-17. [PMID: 25996894 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2015.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Revised: 04/13/2015] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Cathepsins are the main members of the cysteine family and play important roles in immune response in vertebrates. The Cathepsin O of Bombyx mori (BmCathepsin O) was cloned from the hemocytes by the rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). The genomic DNA was 6131bp long with a total of six exons and five introns. Its pre-mRNA was spliced to generate two spliceosomes. By comparisons with other reported cathepsins O, it was concluded that the identity between them ranged from 29 to 39%. Expression analysis indicated that BmCathepsin O was specific-expressed in hemocytes, and highly expressed at the 4th molting and metamorphosis stages. Immunofluorescence assay and qRT-PCR showed that BmCathepsin O was expressed in granulocytes and plasmatocytes. Interestingly, BmCathepsin O was significantly up-regulated after stimulated by 20-hydroxyecdysone (20-E) in vivo, which suggested that BmCathepsin O may be regulated by 20E. Moreover, activation of BmCathepsin O was also observed in hemocytes challenged by Escherichia coli, indicating its potential involvement in the innate immune system of silkworm, B. mori. In summary, our studies provide a new insight into the functional features of Cathepsin O.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kui Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, The Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Jingjing Su
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, The Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Siyuan Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, The Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Shuang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, The Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Juan Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, The Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Man Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, The Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Hanghua Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, The Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Yuzu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, The Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Huijuan Chao
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, The Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Liqun Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, The Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China
| | - Hongjuan Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Silkworm Genome Biology, The Institute of Sericulture and Systems Biology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China.
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Hu X, Hu X, Hu B, Wen C, Xie Y, Wu D, Tao Z, Li A, Gao Q. Molecular cloning and characterization of cathepsin L from freshwater mussel, Cristaria plicata. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2014; 40:446-454. [PMID: 25038281 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2014.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2013] [Revised: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/07/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Cathepsin L is one of the crucial enzyme superfamilies and involved in the immune responses. The Cathepsin L cDNA and genome of Cristaria plicata(CpCL) was cloned from the hemocytes using degenerate primers by the rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) PCR. The genomic DNA was 9353 bp long and had a total of six introns and seven exons. The full-length cDNA of CpCL was 1144 bp, the cDNA contained a 5' untranslated region (UTR) of 34 nucleotides, the 3' UTR of 108 bp with a canonical polyadenylation signal sequence AATAAA and a polyA tail, and an open reading frame (ORF) of 1002 bp, encoding 333 amino acid residues with 37.65 kDa predicted molecular weight. The theoretical isoelectric point was 8.61. The prepro-cathepsin L was consisted of a typical signal peptide (Met1-Gly20), a pro-region peptide (Leu21-Glu116) and a mature peptide (Tyr117-Val333). Many members of the papain family possessed of a proline residue at position 2 in the mature enzymem, this was also observed in CpCL. The preproprotein included an oxyanion hole (Gln 135), the active center formed by Cys141, His280 and Asn 300, the potential N-glycosylation site (Asn38, Asn 113 and Asn 272) and the conserved GCXGG motifs, which was characteristic of cathepsin, the conserved ERWNIN and GNFD motifs, which were characteristic for cathepsin L. Homology analysis revealed that the CpCL shared 49-87% identity to other known cathepsin L sequences. The phylogenetic tree showed that the CpCL clustered with the invertebrate cathepsin L cysteine proteases, and was closely related to the cathepsin L of Hyriopsis cumingii. The expression of CpCL mRNA was detected in hepatopancreas, hemocytes, mantle, gills and adductor muscle, and the higher expression level was in hepatopancreas. After A. hydrophila stimulation, the expression of the CpCL mRNA was up-regulated in hemocytes and hepatopancreas, and the expression level was significantly lower in gill than one after PBS challenge group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaojuan Hu
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Xiangping Hu
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Baoqing Hu
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Chungen Wen
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China.
| | - Yanhai Xie
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Dan Wu
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Zhiying Tao
- School of Life Sciences and Food Engineering, Institute of Life Science, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Aihua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China
| | - Qian Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei Province 430072, China.
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Potential involvement of Brugia malayi cysteine proteases in the maintenance of the endosymbiotic relationship with Wolbachia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2014; 4:267-77. [PMID: 25516837 PMCID: PMC4266806 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2014.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Bm-cpl-3 and Bm-cpl-6 are involved during development and endosymbiosis. In tetracycline-treated worms Bm-cpl-3 and -6 are regulated in a bimodal pattern. Reduction in Bm-cpl-3 and -6 levels resulted in hindered microfilarial development. Reduction in Bm-cpl-3 and -6 levels resulted in reduced Wolbachia DNA levels. These enzymes might be strong drug target candidates.
Brugia malayi, a parasitic nematode that causes lymphatic filariasis, harbors endosymbiotic intracellular bacteria, Wolbachia, that are required for the development and reproduction of the worm. The essential nature of this endosymbiosis led to the development of anti-Wolbachia chemotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of human filarial infections. Our study is aimed at identifying specific proteins that play a critical role in this endosymbiotic relationship leading to the identification of potential targets in the adult worms. Filarial cysteine proteases are known to be involved in molting and embryogenesis, processes shown to also be Wolbachia dependent. Based on the observation that cysteine protease transcripts are differentially regulated in response to tetracycline treatment, we focused on defining their role in symbiosis. We observe a bimodal regulation pattern of transcripts encoding cysteine proteases when in vitro tetracycline treated worms were examined. Using tetracycline-treated infertile female worms and purified embryos we established that the first peak of the bimodal pattern corresponds to embryonic transcripts while the second takes place within the hypodermis of the adult worms. Localization studies of the native proteins corresponding to Bm-cpl-3 and Bm-cpl-6 indicate that they are present in the area surrounding Wolbachia, and, in some cases, the proteins appear localized within the bacteria. Both proteins were also found in the inner bodies of microfilariae. The possible role of these cysteine proteases during development and endosymbiosis was further characterized using RNAi. Reduction in Bm-cpl-3 and Bm-cpl-6 transcript levels was accompanied by hindered microfilarial development and release, and reduced Wolbachia DNA levels, making these enzymes strong drug target candidates.
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32
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Sotillo J, Sanchez-Flores A, Cantacessi C, Harcus Y, Pickering D, Bouchery T, Camberis M, Tang SC, Giacomin P, Mulvenna J, Mitreva M, Berriman M, LeGros G, Maizels RM, Loukas A. Secreted proteomes of different developmental stages of the gastrointestinal nematode Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. Mol Cell Proteomics 2014; 13:2736-51. [PMID: 24994561 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m114.038950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hookworms infect more than 700 million people worldwide and cause more morbidity than most other human parasitic infections. Nippostrongylus brasiliensis (the rat hookworm) has been used as an experimental model for human hookworm because of its similar life cycle and ease of maintenance in laboratory rodents. Adult N. brasiliensis, like the human hookworm, lives in the intestine of the host and releases excretory/secretory products (ESP), which represent the major host-parasite interface. We performed a comparative proteomic analysis of infective larval (L3) and adult worm stages of N. brasiliensis to gain insights into the molecular bases of host-parasite relationships and determine whether N. brasiliensis could indeed serve as an appropriate model for studying human hookworm infections. Proteomic data were matched to a transcriptomic database assembled from 245,874,892 Illumina reads from different developmental stages (eggs, L3, L4, and adult) of N. brasiliensis yielding∼18,426 unigenes with 39,063 possible isoform transcripts. From this analysis, 313 proteins were identified from ESPs by LC-MS/MS-52 in the L3 and 261 in the adult worm. Most of the proteins identified in the study were stage-specific (only 13 proteins were shared by both stages); in particular, two families of proteins-astacin metalloproteases and CAP-domain containing SCP/TAPS-were highly represented in both L3 and adult ESP. These protein families are present in most nematode groups, and where studied, appear to play roles in larval migration and evasion of the host's immune response. Phylogenetic analyses of defined protein families and global gene similarity analyses showed that N. brasiliensis has a greater degree of conservation with human hookworm than other model nematodes examined. These findings validate the use of N. brasiliensis as a suitable parasite for the study of human hookworm infections in a tractable animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Sotillo
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Cinzia Cantacessi
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia; ¶Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0ES, UK
| | - Yvonne Harcus
- ‖Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JT, UK
| | - Darren Pickering
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tiffany Bouchery
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mali Camberis
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Shiau-Choot Tang
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul Giacomin
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jason Mulvenna
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia; ‡‡Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Makedonka Mitreva
- §§The Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; ¶¶Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Matthew Berriman
- §Parasite Genomics, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Graham LeGros
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rick M Maizels
- ‖Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JT, UK
| | - Alex Loukas
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia;
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Page AP, Stepek G, Winter AD, Pertab D. Enzymology of the nematode cuticle: A potential drug target? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2014; 4:133-41. [PMID: 25057463 PMCID: PMC4095051 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2014.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2014] [Revised: 05/14/2014] [Accepted: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
All nematodes possess an external structure known as the cuticle, which is crucial for their development and survival. This structure is composed primarily of collagen, which is secreted from the underlying hypodermal cells. Extensive studies using the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans demonstrate that formation of the cuticle requires the activity of an extensive range of enzymes. Enzymes are required both pre-secretion, for synthesis of component proteins such as collagen, and post-secretion, for removal of the previous developmental stage cuticle, in a process known as moulting or exsheathment. The excretion/secretion products of numerous parasitic nematodes contain metallo-, serine and cysteine proteases, and these proteases are conserved across the nematode phylum and many are involved in the moulting/exsheathment process. This review highlights the enzymes required for cuticle formation, with a focus on the post-secretion moulting events. Where orthologues of the C. elegans enzymes have been identified in parasitic nematodes these may represent novel candidate targets for future drug/vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antony P Page
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Gillian Stepek
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Alan D Winter
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - David Pertab
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
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Zhang W, Xia Y. ER type I signal peptidase subunit (LmSPC1) is essential for the survival of Locusta migratoria manilensis and affects moulting, feeding, reproduction and embryonic development. INSECT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2014; 23:269-285. [PMID: 24467622 DOI: 10.1111/imb.12080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The endoplasmic reticulum type I signal peptidase complex (ER SPC) is a conserved enzyme that cleaves the signal peptides of secretory or membrane preproteins. The deletion of this enzyme leads to the accumulation of uncleaved proteins in biomembranes and cell death. However, the physiological functions of ER SPC in insects are not fully understood. Here, a catalytic subunit gene of ER SPC, LmSPC1, was cloned from Locusta migratoria manilensis and its physiological functions were analysed by RNA interference (RNAi). The LmSPC1 open reading frame encoded a protein of 178 amino acids with all five conserved regions of signal peptidases. RNAi-mediated knockdown of LmSPC1 resulted in high mortality. Sixty-nine per cent of dead nymphs died of abnormal moulting, corresponding to decreased activity of moulting fluid protease. Moreover, insects in the RNAi group experienced a decline in food intake, and a decrease in the secretion of total protein and digestive enzymes from midgut tissues to the midgut lumen. Furthermore, the females produced fewer eggs and eggs with disrupted embryogenesis. These results indicate that LmSPC1 is required for the secretion of secretory proteins, affects physiological functions, including moulting, feeding, reproduction and embryonic development, and is essential for survival. Therefore, LmSPC1 may be a potential target for locust control.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Zhang
- Genetic Engineering Research Center, School of Life Science, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Fungal Insecticide, The Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Expression Regulation, Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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Lee J, Kim JH, Sohn HJ, Yang HJ, Na BK, Chwae YJ, Park S, Kim K, Shin HJ. Novel cathepsin B and cathepsin B-like cysteine protease of Naegleria fowleri excretory-secretory proteins and their biochemical properties. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:2765-76. [PMID: 24832815 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3936-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Naegleria fowleri causes a lethal primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM) in humans and experimental animals, which leads to death within 7-14 days. Cysteine proteases of parasites play key roles in nutrient uptake, excystment/encystment, host tissue invasion, and immune evasion. In this study, we cloned N. fowleri cathepsin B (nfcpb) and cathepsin B-like (nfcpb-L) genes from our cDNA library of N. fowleri. The full-length sequences of genes were 1,038 and 939 bp (encoded 345 and 313 amino acids), and molecular weights were 38.4 and 34 kDa, respectively. Also, nfcpb and nfcpb-L showed a 56 and 46 % identity to Naegleria gruberi cathepsin B and cathepsin B-like enzyme, respectively. Recombinant NfCPB (rNfCPB) and NfCPB-L (rNfCPB-L) proteins were expressed by the pEX5-NT/TOPO vector that was transformed into Escherichia coli BL21, and they showed 38.4 and 34 kDa bands on sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Western blot analysis using their respective antibodies. Proteolytic activity of refolded rNfCPB and rNfCPB-L was maximum at a pH of 4.5, and the most effective substrate was Z-LR-MCA. rNfCPB and rNfCPB-L showed proteolytic activity for several proteins such as IgA, IgG, IgM, collagen, fibronectin, hemoglobin, and albumin. These results suggested that NfCPB and NfCPB-L cysteine protease are important components of the N. fowleri ESP, and they may play important roles in host tissue invasion and immune evasion as pathogens that cause N. fowleri PAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyoung Lee
- Department of Microbiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, 443-721, Republic of Korea
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Sciani JM, Antoniazzi MM, Neves ADC, Pimenta DC. Cathepsin B/X is secreted by Echinometra lucunter sea urchin spines, a structure rich in granular cells and toxins. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2013; 19:33. [PMID: 24341625 PMCID: PMC3880103 DOI: 10.1186/1678-9199-19-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Accepted: 12/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Echinometra lucunter is a common American sea urchin responsible for the majority of the marine accidents in Brazil. Although not lethal, these accidents are reported to be extremely painful. Recently, our group described the presence of toxins in its spines that contribute to the pathological reactions. Additionally, we have observed that the E. lucunter spines can regenerate when broken. In the present work we evaluated the enzymatic activities of sea urchin spine extracts in order to identify an enzyme that could contribute not only to the toxicity, but also participate in the spine growth and regeneration. Results The spine aqueous extract was tested for peptidase activity, with synthetic substrates, in the presence and absence of inhibitors and activators. For proper enzyme classification, the FRET-substrate cleavage pattern, pH-dependency activity and Western-blot analyses were performed. The spine extract was able to cleave Z-R-MCA and Abz-GIVRAK(Dnp)-OH following pre-incubation with DTT, and was inhibited by E-64. Furthermore, the double-peaked pH curve (5 and 7) and the cleavage site proportion (4:6, R↓A:A↓K) indicate the presence of both mono and dicarboxypeptidase activities. Moreover, in Western-blot analysis, the spine extract was positive for anti-cathepsin B antibody. Conclusions E. lucunter spines extracts presented a cysteine peptidase activity that was identified as cathepsin B/X that would participate in the remodeling and growth processes of the spine, as well as in the inflammatory response to the accident.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Daniel Carvalho Pimenta
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Butantan Institute, São Paulo, São Paulo State, Brazil.
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Proteomic analysis of Oesophagostomum dentatum (Nematoda) during larval transition, and the effects of hydrolase inhibitors on development. PLoS One 2013; 8:e63955. [PMID: 23717515 PMCID: PMC3661580 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0063955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, in vitro drug testing was combined with proteomic and bioinformatic analyses to identify and characterize proteins involved in larval development of Oesophagostomum dentatum, an economically important parasitic nematode. Four hydrolase inhibitors ο-phenanthroline, sodium fluoride, iodoacetamide and 1,2-epoxy-3-(pnitrophenoxy)-propane (EPNP) significantly inhibited (≥90%) larval development. Comparison of the proteomic profiles of the development-inhibited larvae with those of uninhibited control larvae using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, and subsequent MALDI-TOF mass spectrometric analysis identified a down-regulation of 12 proteins inferred to be involved in various larval developmental processes, including post-embryonic development and growth. Furthermore, three proteins (i.e. intermediate filament protein B, tropomyosin and peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase) inferred to be involved in the moulting process were down-regulated in moulting- and development-inhibited O. dentatum larvae. This first proteomic map of O. dentatum larvae provides insights in the protein profile of larval development in this parasitic nematode, and significantly improves our understanding of the fundamental biology of its development. The results and the approach used might assist in developing new interventions against parasitic nematodes by blocking or disrupting their key biological pathways.
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Wang Q, Zhang S, Luo X, Hou J, Zhu X, Cai X. Cloning and characterization of a cathepsin L-like cysteine protease from Taenia pisiformis. Vet Parasitol 2013; 194:26-34. [PMID: 23411373 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.12.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2012] [Revised: 12/19/2012] [Accepted: 12/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Rabbit cysticercosis, caused by the larval stage of Taenia pisiformis, is a serious parasitic disease of rabbits. It was reported that some cysteine peptidases have potential roles in the pathogenesis of various parasitic infections. To investigate the biochemical characteristics and roles in the pathogenesis/host-invasion of cysteine peptidases, a cDNA sequence encoding for a cathepsin L-like cysteine protease (TpCP) was cloned and identified from the T. pisiformis metacestodes. This sequence was 1220 bp in its length, which included a 1017 bp open reading frame encoding a 339 amino acid peptide. Multiple sequence alignments revealed a 28.9-88.5% similarity with cathepsin L-like cysteine proteases from other helminth parasites and mammals. The recombinant TpCP expressed in Escherichia coli did not show the proteolytic activity by zymography gel assay. However, the TpCP expressed in Pichia pastoris had typical biochemical activities that could hydrolyze rabbit immunoglobulin G, bovine serum albumin and fibronectin. Substrate studies indicated pronounced cleavage of Z-Phe-Arg-AMC. This activity was sensitive to cysteine protease inhibitor E-64 and immunohistochemistry results also indicated that TpCP was distributed as an intense positive reaction in the bladder wall. Our results gave us insights into future studies of TpCP's roles in the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuxia Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 730046 Lanzhou, China
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Li BW, Wang Z, Rush AC, Mitreva M, Weil GJ. Transcription profiling reveals stage- and function-dependent expression patterns in the filarial nematode Brugia malayi. BMC Genomics 2012; 13:184. [PMID: 22583769 PMCID: PMC3414817 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-13-184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2011] [Accepted: 05/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Brugia malayi is a nematode parasite that causes lymphatic filariasis, a disfiguring and disabiling tropical disease. Although a first draft genome sequence was released in 2007, very little is understood about transcription programs that govern developmental changes required for the parasite’s development and survival in its mammalian and insect hosts. Results We used a microarray with probes that represent some 85% of predicted genes to generate gene expression profiles for seven parasite life cycle stages/sexes. Approximately 41% of transcripts with detectable expression signals were differentially expressed across lifecycle stages. Twenty-six percent of transcripts were exclusively expressed in a single parasite stage, and 27% were expressed in all stages studied. K-means clustering of differentially expressed transcripts revealed five major transcription patterns that were associated with parasite lifecycle stages or gender. Examination of known stage-associated transcripts validated these data sets and suggested that newly identified stage or gender-associated transcripts may exercise biological functions in development and reproduction. The results also indicate that genes with similar transcription patterns were often involved in similar functions or cellular processes. For example, nuclear receptor family gene transcripts were upregulated in gene expression pattern four (female-enriched) while protein kinase gene family transcripts were upregulated in expression pattern five (male-enriched). We also used pair-wise comparisons to identify transcriptional changes between life cycle stages and sexes. Conclusions Analysis of gene expression patterns of lifecycle in B. malayi has provided novel insights into the biology of filarial parasites. Proteins encoded by stage-associated and/or stage-specific transcripts are likely to be critically important for key parasite functions such as establishment and maintenance of infection, development, reproduction, and survival in the host. Some of these may be useful targets for vaccines or new drug treatments for filariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben-Wen Li
- Infectious Diseases Division, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St, Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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Abstract
Serine protease inhibitors (serpins) are a superfamily of structurally conserved proteins that inhibit serine proteases and play key physiological roles in numerous biological systems such as blood coagulation, complement activation and inflammation. A number of serpins have now been identified in parasitic helminths with putative involvement in immune regulation and in parasite survival through interference with the host immune response. This review describes the serpins and smapins (small serine protease inhibitors) that have been identified in Ascaris spp., Brugia malayi, Ancylostoma caninum Onchocerca volvulus, Haemonchus contortus, Trichinella spiralis, Trichostrongylus vitrinus, Anisakis simplex, Trichuris suis, Schistosoma spp., Clonorchis sinensis, Paragonimus westermani and Echinococcus spp. and discusses their possible biological functions, including roles in host-parasite interplay and their evolutionary relationships.
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Cheng M, Yang X, Li Z, He H, Qu Z, He A, Wu Z, Zhan X. Cloning and characterization of a novel cathepsin B-like cysteine proteinase from Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Parasitol Res 2012; 110:2413-22. [PMID: 22215189 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-011-2780-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2011] [Accepted: 12/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cysteine protease plays a key role in host-parasite interactions. In this study, we identified a novel gene encoding a cathepsin B-like cysteine protease (AcCBL1) from the cDNA library of Angiostrongysus cantonensis fourth-stage larvae (L4) and characterized its biological role in the parasite. Sequence and phylogeny analysis showed that AcCBL1 is related to other cathepsin B family members with the conserved catalytic triad (Cys, His, Asn) and diagnostic occluding loop. In addition, the sequence contains a specific "hemoglobinase motif" and might have a hemoglobinase (Hb)-degrading function. The recombinant AcCBL1 (rAcCBL1) exhibited the protease activity by gelation SDS/PAGE assay; rAcCBL1 can cleave the fluorogenic substrate Z-Arg-Arg-AMC, and the optimum pH was 5.5. The enzyme can hydrolyse several host proteins including Hb and human IgG in acidic pH, but low levels of hydrolysis were observed in neutral pH. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction revealed that AcCBL1 expression was detected throughout various developmental stages, L3, L4, adult male and female worms. Western blotting analysis indicated that AcCBL1 was an excretory/secretory product of L4 in mature form of protease. Immunolocalization demonstrated that AcCBL1 was mainly localized in the intestine of L4. These results suggest that rAcCBL1 may play an important role in the parasite nutrition uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Cheng
- Department of Parasitology, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, 74 2nd Zhongshan Road, Guangzhou, 510080, People's Republic of China
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Choi YJ, Ghedin E, Berriman M, McQuillan J, Holroyd N, Mayhew GF, Christensen BM, Michalski ML. A deep sequencing approach to comparatively analyze the transcriptome of lifecycle stages of the filarial worm, Brugia malayi. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2011; 5:e1409. [PMID: 22180794 PMCID: PMC3236722 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2011] [Accepted: 10/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Developing intervention strategies for the control of parasitic nematodes continues to be a significant challenge. Genomic and post-genomic approaches play an increasingly important role for providing fundamental molecular information about these parasites, thus enhancing basic as well as translational research. Here we report a comprehensive genome-wide survey of the developmental transcriptome of the human filarial parasite Brugia malayi. Methodology/Principal Findings Using deep sequencing, we profiled the transcriptome of eggs and embryos, immature (≤3 days of age) and mature microfilariae (MF), third- and fourth-stage larvae (L3 and L4), and adult male and female worms. Comparative analysis across these stages provided a detailed overview of the molecular repertoires that define and differentiate distinct lifecycle stages of the parasite. Genome-wide assessment of the overall transcriptional variability indicated that the cuticle collagen family and those implicated in molting exhibit noticeably dynamic stage-dependent patterns. Of particular interest was the identification of genes displaying sex-biased or germline-enriched profiles due to their potential involvement in reproductive processes. The study also revealed discrete transcriptional changes during larval development, namely those accompanying the maturation of MF and the L3 to L4 transition that are vital in establishing successful infection in mosquito vectors and vertebrate hosts, respectively. Conclusions/Significance Characterization of the transcriptional program of the parasite's lifecycle is an important step toward understanding the developmental processes required for the infectious cycle. We find that the transcriptional program has a number of stage-specific pathways activated during worm development. In addition to advancing our understanding of transcriptome dynamics, these data will aid in the study of genome structure and organization by facilitating the identification of novel transcribed elements and splice variants. Lymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis, is a tropical disease affecting over 120 million people worldwide. More than 40 million people live with painful, disfiguring symptoms that can cause severe debilitation and social stigma. The disease is caused by infection with thread-like filarial nematodes (roundworms) that have a complex parasitic lifecycle involving both human and mosquito hosts. In the study, the authors profiled the transcriptome (the set of genes transcribed into messenger RNA rather than all of those in the genome) of the human filarial worm Brugia malayi in different lifecyle stages using deep sequencing technology. The analysis revealed major transitions in RNA expression from eggs through larval stages to adults. Using statistical approaches, the authors identified groups of genes with distinct life stage dependent transcriptional patterns, with particular emphasis on genes displaying sex-biased or germline-enriched patterns and those displaying significant changes during larval development. This study presents a first comprehensive analysis of the lifecycle transcriptome of B. malayi, providing fundamental molecular information that should help researchers better understand parasite biology and could provide clues for the development of more effective interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young-Jun Choi
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Elodie Ghedin
- Department of Computational and Systems Biology, Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Matthew Berriman
- The Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jacqueline McQuillan
- The Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Nancy Holroyd
- The Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - George F. Mayhew
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Bruce M. Christensen
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
| | - Michelle L. Michalski
- Department of Biology and Microbiology, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Oshkosh, Wisconsin, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Yang Y, Qin W, Wei H, Ying J, Zhen J. Characterization of cathepsin B proteinase (AcCP-2) in eggs and larvae stages of hookworm Ancylostoma caninum. Exp Parasitol 2011; 129:215-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2011.08.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2010] [Revised: 08/26/2011] [Accepted: 08/31/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Defferrari MS, Demartini DR, Marcelino TB, Pinto PM, Carlini CR. Insecticidal effect of Canavalia ensiformis major urease on nymphs of the milkweed bug Oncopeltus fasciatus and characterization of digestive peptidases. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2011; 41:388-399. [PMID: 21377528 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2011.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2010] [Revised: 01/29/2011] [Accepted: 02/24/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Jackbean (Canavalia ensiformis) ureases are entomotoxic upon the release of internal peptides by insect's digestive enzymes. Here we studied the digestive peptidases of Oncopeltus fasciatus (milkweed bug) and its susceptibility to jackbean urease (JBU). O. fasciatus nymphs fed urease showed a mortality rate higher than 80% after two weeks. Homogenates of midguts dissected from fourth instars were used to perform proteolytic activity assays. The homogenates hydrolyzed JBU in vitro, yielding a fragment similar in size to known entomotoxic peptides. The major proteolytic activity at pH 4.0 upon protein substrates was blocked by specific inhibitors of aspartic and cysteine peptidases, but not significantly affected by inhibitors of metallopeptidases or serine peptidases. The optimal activity upon N-Cbz-Phe-Arg-MCA was at pH 5.0, with complete blockage by E-64 in all pH tested. Optimal activity upon Abz-AIAFFSRQ-EDDnp (a substrate for aspartic peptidases) was detected at pH 5.0, with partial inhibition by Pepstatin A in the pH range 2-8. Fluorogenic substrates corresponding to the N- and C-terminal regions flanking a known entomotoxic peptide within urease sequence were also tested. While the midgut homogenate did not hydrolyze the N-terminal peptide, it cleaved the C-terminal peptide maximally at pH 4.0-5.0, and this activity was inhibited by E-64 (10 μM). The midgut homogenate was submitted to ion-exchange chromatography followed by gel filtration. A 22 kDa active fraction was obtained, resolved in SDS-PAGE (12%), the corresponding band was in-gel digested by trypsin, the peptides were analyzed by mass spectrometry, retrieving a cathepsin L protein. The purified cathepsin L was shown to have at least two possible cleavage sites within the urease sequence, and might be able to release a known insecticidal peptide in a single or cascade event. The results suggest that susceptibility of O. fasciatus nymphs to jackbean urease is, like in other insect models, due mostly to limited proteolysis of ingested protein and subsequent release of entomotoxic peptide(s) by cathepsin-like digestive enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina S Defferrari
- Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, Center of Biotechnology, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9500, CEP 91501-970 Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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Garner AL, Gloeckner C, Tricoche N, Zakhari JS, Samje M, Cho-Ngwa F, Lustigman S, Janda KD. Design, synthesis, and biological activities of closantel analogues: structural promiscuity and its impact on Onchocerca volvulus. J Med Chem 2011; 54:3963-72. [PMID: 21534605 DOI: 10.1021/jm200364n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Onchocerciasis, or river blindness, is a neglected tropical disease that affects more than 37 million people worldwide, primarily in Africa and Central and South America. We have disclosed evidence that the larval-stage-specific chitinase, OvCHT1, may be a potential biological target for affecting nematode development. On the basis of screening efforts, closantel, a known anthelmintic drug, was discovered as a potent and highly specific OvCHT1 inhibitor. Originally, closantel's anthelmintic mode of action was believed to rely solely on its role as a proton ionophore; thus, the impact of each of its biological activities on O. volvulus L3 molting was investigated. Structure-activity relationship studies on an active closantel fragment are detailed, and remarkably, by use of a simple salicylanilide scaffold, compounds acting only as protonophores or chitinase inhibitors were identified. From these data, unexpected synergistic protonophore and chitinase inhibition activities have also been found to be critical for molting in O. volvulus L3 larvae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L Garner
- Department of Chemistry, The Skaggs Institute for Chemical Biology, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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Li BW, Rush AC, Jiang DJ, Mitreva M, Abubucker S, Weil GJ. Gender-associated genes in filarial nematodes are important for reproduction and potential intervention targets. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2011; 5:e947. [PMID: 21283610 PMCID: PMC3026763 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0000947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2010] [Accepted: 12/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A better understanding of reproductive processes in parasitic nematodes may lead to development of new anthelmintics and control strategies for combating disabling and disfiguring neglected tropical diseases such as lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis. Transcriptomatic analysis has provided important new insights into mechanisms of reproduction and development in other invertebrates. We have performed the first genome-wide analysis of gender-associated (GA) gene expression in a filarial nematode to improve understanding of key reproductive processes in these parasites. Methodology/Principal Findings The Version 2 Filarial Microarray with 18,104 elements representing ∼85% of the filarial genome was used to identify GA gene transcripts in adult Brugia malayi worms. Approximately 19% of 14,293 genes were identified as GA genes. Many GA genes have potential Caenorhabditis elegans homologues annotated as germline-, oogenesis-, spermatogenesis-, and early embryogenesis- enriched. The potential C. elegans homologues of the filarial GA genes have a higher frequency of severe RNAi phenotypes (such as lethal and sterility) than other C. elegans genes. Molecular functions and biological processes associated with GA genes were gender-segregated. Peptidase, ligase, transferase, regulator activity for kinase and transcription, and rRNA and lipid binding were associated with female GA genes. In contrast, catalytic activity from kinase, ATP, and carbohydrate binding were associated with male GA genes. Cell cycle, transcription, translation, and biological regulation were increased in females, whereas metabolic processes of phosphate and carbohydrate metabolism, energy generation, and cell communication were increased in males. Significantly enriched pathways in females were associated with cell growth and protein synthesis, whereas metabolic pathways such as pentose phosphate and energy production pathways were enriched in males. There were also striking gender differences in environmental information processing and cell communication pathways. Many proteins encoded by GA genes are secreted by Brugia malayi, and these encode immunomodulatory molecules such as antioxidants and host cytokine mimics. Expression of many GA genes has been recently reported to be suppressed by tetracycline, which blocks reproduction in female Brugia malayi. Our localization of GA transcripts in filarial reproductive organs supports the hypothesis that these genes encode proteins involved in reproduction. Conclusions/Significance Genome-wide expression profiling coupled with a robust bioinformatics analysis has greatly expanded our understanding of the molecular biology of reproduction in filarial nematodes. This study has highlighted key molecules and pathways associated with reproductive and other biological processes and identified numerous potential candidates for rational drug design to target reproductive processes. Lymphatic filariasis is a neglected tropical disease that is caused by thread-like parasitic worms that live and reproduce in lymphatic vessels of the human host. There are no vaccines to prevent filariasis, and available drugs are not effective against all stages of the parasite. In addition, recent reports suggest that the filarial nematodes may be developing resistance to key medications. Therefore, there is an urgent need to identify new drug targets in filarial worms. The purpose of this study was to perform a genome-wide analysis of gender-associated gene transcription to improve understanding of key reproductive processes in filarial nematodes. Our results indicate that thousands of genes are differentially expressed in male and female adult worms. Many of those genes are involved in specific reproductive processes such as embryogenesis and spermatogenesis. In addition, expression of some of those genes is suppressed by tetracycline, a drug that leads to sterilization of adult female worms in many filarial species. Thus, gender-associated genes represent priority targets for design of vaccines and drugs that interfere with reproduction of filarial nematodes. Additional work with this type of integrated systems biology approach should lead to important new tools for controlling filarial diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben-Wen Li
- Infectious Diseases Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America.
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Song C, Gallup JM, Day TA, Bartholomay LC, Kimber MJ. Development of an in vivo RNAi protocol to investigate gene function in the filarial nematode, Brugia malayi. PLoS Pathog 2010; 6:e1001239. [PMID: 21203489 PMCID: PMC3009605 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1001239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2010] [Accepted: 11/23/2010] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Our ability to control diseases caused by parasitic nematodes is constrained by a limited portfolio of effective drugs and a paucity of robust tools to investigate parasitic nematode biology. RNA interference (RNAi) is a reverse-genetics tool with great potential to identify novel drug targets and interrogate parasite gene function, but present RNAi protocols for parasitic nematodes, which remove the parasite from the host and execute RNAi in vitro, are unreliable and inconsistent. We have established an alternative in vivo RNAi protocol targeting the filarial nematode Brugia malayi as it develops in an intermediate host, the mosquito Aedes aegypti. Injection of worm-derived short interfering RNA (siRNA) and double stranded RNA (dsRNA) into parasitized mosquitoes elicits suppression of B. malayi target gene transcript abundance in a concentration-dependent fashion. The suppression of this gene, a cathepsin L-like cysteine protease (Bm-cpl-1) is specific and profound, both injection of siRNA and dsRNA reduce transcript abundance by 83%. In vivo Bm-cpl-1 suppression results in multiple aberrant phenotypes; worm motility is inhibited by up to 69% and parasites exhibit slow-moving, kinked and partial-paralysis postures. Bm-cpl-1 suppression also retards worm growth by 48%. Bm-cpl-1 suppression ultimately prevents parasite development within the mosquito and effectively abolishes transmission potential because parasites do not migrate to the head and proboscis. Finally, Bm-cpl-1 suppression decreases parasite burden and increases mosquito survival. This is the first demonstration of in vivo RNAi in animal parasitic nematodes and results indicate this protocol is more effective than existing in vitro RNAi methods. The potential of this new protocol to investigate parasitic nematode biology and to identify and validate novel anthelmintic drug targets is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanzhe Song
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Jack M. Gallup
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Tim A. Day
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Lyric C. Bartholomay
- Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Michael J. Kimber
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
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de Sousa KP, Atouguia J, Silva MS. Partial biochemical characterization of a metalloproteinase from the bloodstream forms of Trypanosoma brucei brucei parasites. Protein J 2010; 29:283-9. [PMID: 20496101 DOI: 10.1007/s10930-010-9250-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Metalloproteinases (MMP) belong to the family of cation dependent endopeptidases that degrade matrices at physiological pH and to cleave extracellular matrix proteins. They play an important role in diverse physiological and pathological processes; not only there diverse types of MMP differ in structure and functionally, but also their enzymatic activity is regulated at multiple levels. Trying to shed some light over the processes that govern the pathology of African Trypanosomiasis, the aim of the present study was to examine the proteolytic activity of the crude trypanosome protein extract obtained from the bloodstream forms of Trypanosoma brucei brucei parasites. We hereby report the partial biochemical characterization of a neutral Trypanosoma brucei-metalloproteinase that displays marked proteolytic activities on gelatin and casein, with a molecular mass of approximately 40 kDa, whose activity is strongly dependent of pH and temperature. Furthermore, we show that this activity can be inhibited by classical MMP inhibitors such as EDTA, EGTA, phenantroline, and also by tetracycline and derivatives. This study has a relevant role in the search for new therapeutical targets, for the use of metalloproteinases inhibitors as treatment strategies, or as enhancement to trypanocidal drugs used in the treatment of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karina Pires de Sousa
- Unidade de Ensino e Investigação de Clínica das Doenças Tropicais, Centro de Malária e Outras Doenças Tropicais, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Rua da Junqueira, Lisbon, Portugal
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The astacin metalloprotease moulting enzyme NAS-36 is required for normal cuticle ecdysis in free-living and parasitic nematodes. Parasitology 2010; 138:237-48. [PMID: 20800010 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182010001113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Nematodes represent one of the most abundant and species-rich groups of animals on the planet, with parasitic species causing chronic, debilitating infections in both livestock and humans worldwide. The prevalence and success of the nematodes is a direct consequence of the exceptionally protective properties of their cuticle. The synthesis of this cuticle is a complex multi-step process, which is repeated 4 times from hatchling to adult and has been investigated in detail in the free-living nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans. This process is known as moulting and involves numerous enzymes in the synthesis and degradation of the collagenous matrix. The nas-36 and nas-37 genes in C. elegans encode functionally conserved enzymes of the astacin metalloprotease family which, when mutated, result in a phenotype associated with the late-stage moulting defects, namely the inability to remove the preceding cuticle. Extensive genome searches in the gastrointestinal nematode of sheep, Haemonchus contortus, and in the filarial nematode of humans, Brugia malayi, identified NAS-36 but not NAS-37 homologues. Significantly, the nas-36 gene from B. malayi could successfully complement the moult defects associated with C. elegans nas-36, nas-37 and nas-36/nas-37 double mutants, suggesting a conserved function for NAS-36 between these diverse nematode species. This conservation between species was further indicated when the recombinant enzymes demonstrated a similar range of inhibitable metalloprotease activities.
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Malagón D, Díaz-López M, Benítez R, Adroher FJ. Cathepsin B- and L-like cysteine protease activities during the in vitro development of Hysterothylacium aduncum (Nematoda: Anisakidae), a worldwide fish parasite. Parasitol Int 2010; 59:89-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2009.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2009] [Revised: 11/09/2009] [Accepted: 11/13/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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