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Anders J, König C, Lender C, Hellhund A, Nehls S, Shalabi I, Honecker B, Lorenzen S, Meyer M, Matthiesen J, Cadar D, Roeder T, Galal Metwally N, Lotter H, Bruchhaus I. Genes differentially expressed between pathogenic and non-pathogenic Entamoeba histolytica clones influence pathogenicity-associated phenotypes by multiple mechanisms. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011745. [PMID: 38134215 PMCID: PMC10773965 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, two genes involved in amoebic liver abscess formation in a mouse model were identified by their differential expression of non-pathogenic (A1np) and pathogenic (B2p) clones of the Entamoeba histolytica isolate HM:1-IMSS. While overexpression of a gene encoding the metallopeptidase EhMP8-2 reduces the virulence of the pathogenic clone B2p, overexpression of the gene ehi_127670 (ehhp127), encoding a hypothetical protein, increases the virulence of the non-pathogenic clone A1np, while silencing this gene in the pathogenic B2p reduces virulence. To understand the role of both molecules in determining the pathogenicity of E. histolytica, silencing, and overexpression transfectants were characterized in detail. Silencing of ehmp8-2, of the homologous gene ehmp8-1, or both in non-pathogenic A1np trophozoites significantly altered the transcript levels of 347, 216, and 58 genes, respectively. This strong change in the expression profiles caused by the silencing of ehmp8-1 and ehmp8-2 implies that these peptidases regulate the expression of numerous genes. Consequently, numerous phenotypic characteristics, including cytopathic, hemolytic, and cysteine peptidase activity, were altered in response to their silencing. Silencing of ehhp127 in pathogenic B2p trophozoites did not affect the expression of other genes, whereas its overexpression in non-pathogenic A1np trophozoites results in an altered expression of approximately 140 genes. EhHP127 is important for trophozoite motility, as its silencing reduces, while its overexpression enhances movement activity. Interestingly, the specific silencing of ehhp127 also significantly affects cytopathic, cysteine peptidase, and hemolytic activities. All three molecules characterized in this study, namely EhMP8-1, EhMP8-2, and EhHP127, are present in amoeba vesicles. The results show that ehmp8-2 and ehhp127 are not only differentially expressed between pathogenic and non-pathogenic amoebae, but that they also significantly affect amoeba pathogenicity-associated phenotypes by completely different mechanisms. This observation suggests that the regulation of amoeba pathogenicity is achieved by a complex network of molecular mechanisms rather than by single factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliett Anders
- RG-Host Parasite Interaction, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Constantin König
- RG-Host Parasite Interaction, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Corinna Lender
- RG-Host Parasite Interaction, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Arne Hellhund
- RG-Host Parasite Interaction, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sarah Nehls
- RG-Host Parasite Interaction, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Ibrahim Shalabi
- RG-Host Parasite Interaction, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Barbara Honecker
- RG-Host Parasite Interaction, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Stephan Lorenzen
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Martin Meyer
- RG-Host Parasite Interaction, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Jenny Matthiesen
- RG-Host Parasite Interaction, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dániel Cadar
- Department of Arbovirology and Entomology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Roeder
- Kiel University, Department Molecular Physiology, Zoology, Kiel, Germany
- DZL, German Center for Lung Research, ARCN, Airway Research Center North, Kiel, Germany
| | - Nahla Galal Metwally
- RG-Host Parasite Interaction, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hannelore Lotter
- RG Molecular Infection Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Iris Bruchhaus
- RG-Host Parasite Interaction, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- Biology Department, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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Povelones ML, Holmes NA, Povelones M. A sticky situation: When trypanosomatids attach to insect tissues. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011854. [PMID: 38128049 PMCID: PMC10734937 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Transmission of trypanosomatids to their mammalian hosts requires a complex series of developmental transitions in their insect vectors, including stable attachment to an insect tissue. While there are many ultrastructural descriptions of attached cells, we know little about the signaling events and molecular mechanisms involved in this process. Each trypanosomatid species attaches to a specific tissue in the insect at a particular stage of its life cycle. Attachment is mediated by the flagellum, which is modified to accommodate a filament-rich plaque within an expanded region of the flagellar membrane. Attachment immediately precedes differentiation to the mammal-infectious stage and in some cases a direct mechanistic link has been demonstrated. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge of trypanosomatid attachment in insects, including structure, function, signaling, candidate molecules, and changes in gene expression. We also highlight remaining questions about this process and how the field is poised to address them through modern approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan L. Povelones
- Department of Biology, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Nikki A. Holmes
- Department of Biology, Villanova University, Villanova, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Michael Povelones
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Oliveira SSC, Correia CA, Santos VS, da Cunha EFF, de Castro AA, Ramalho TC, Devereux M, McCann M, Branquinha MH, Santos ALS. Silver(I) and Copper(II) 1,10-Phenanthroline-5,6-dione Complexes as Promising Antivirulence Strategy against Leishmania: Focus on Gp63 (Leishmanolysin). Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:348. [PMID: 37505644 PMCID: PMC10384183 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8070348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis, caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania, encompasses a group of neglected diseases with diverse clinical and epidemiological manifestations that can be fatal if not adequately and promptly managed/treated. The current chemotherapy options for this disease are expensive, require invasive administration and often lead to severe side effects. In this regard, our research group has previously reported the potent anti-Leishmania activity of two coordination compounds (complexes) derived from 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione (phendione): [Cu(phendione)3].(ClO4)2.4H2O and [Ag(phendione)2].ClO4. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of these complexes on leishmanolysin (gp63), a virulence factor produced by all Leishmania species that plays multiple functions and is recognized as a potential target for antiparasitic drugs. The results showed that both Ag-phendione (-74.82 kcal/mol) and Cu-phendione (-68.16 kcal/mol) were capable of interacting with the amino acids comprising the active site of the gp63 protein, exhibiting more favorable interaction energies compared to phendione alone (-39.75 kcal/mol) or 1,10-phenanthroline (-45.83 kcal/mol; a classical gp63 inhibitor) as judged by molecular docking assay. The analysis of kinetic parameters using the fluorogenic substrate Z-Phe-Arg-AMC indicated Vmax and apparent Km values of 0.064 µM/s and 14.18 µM, respectively, for the released gp63. The effects of both complexes on gp63 proteolytic activity were consistent with the in silico assay, where Ag-phendione exhibited the highest gp63 inhibition capacity against gp63, with an IC50 value of 2.16 µM and the lowest inhibitory constant value (Ki = 5.13 µM), followed by Cu-phendione (IC50 = 163 µM and Ki = 27.05 µM). Notably, pretreatment of live L. amazonensis promastigotes with the complexes resulted in a significant reduction in the expression of gp63 protein, including the isoforms located on the parasite cell surface. Both complexes markedly decreased the in vitro association indexes between L. amazonensis promastigotes and THP-1 human macrophages; however, this effect was reversed by the addition of soluble gp63 molecules to the interaction medium. Collectively, our findings highlight the potential use of these potent complexes in antivirulence therapy against Leishmania, offering new insights for the development of effective treatments for leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone S C Oliveira
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Claudyane A Correia
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Vanessa S Santos
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - Elaine F F da Cunha
- Laboratório de Modelagem Molecular, Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras 37200-000, Brazil
| | - Alexandre A de Castro
- Laboratório de Modelagem Molecular, Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras 37200-000, Brazil
| | - Teodorico C Ramalho
- Laboratório de Modelagem Molecular, Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Lavras, Lavras 37200-000, Brazil
| | - Michael Devereux
- The Centre for Biomimetic & Therapeutic Research, Focas Research Institute, Technological University Dublin, D08 CKP1 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Malachy McCann
- Chemistry Department, Maynooth University, W23 F2H6 Maynooth, Ireland
| | - Marta H Branquinha
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
| | - André L S Santos
- Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes (LEAMER), Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes (IMPG), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica (PPGBq), Instituto de Química (IQ), Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-909, Brazil
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Differences in Charge Distribution in Leishmania tarentolae Leishmanolysin Result in a Reduced Enzymatic Activity. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23147660. [PMID: 35887004 PMCID: PMC9321319 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23147660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmania tarentolae is a non-pathogenic trypanosomatid isolated from lizards widely used for heterologous protein expression and extensively studied to understand the pathogenic mechanisms of leishmaniasis. The repertoire of leishmanolysin genes was reported to be expanded in L. tarentolae genome, but no proteolytic activity was detected. Here, we analyzed L. tarentolae leishmanolysin proteins from the genome to the structural levels and evaluated the enzymatic activity of the wild-type and overexpressing mutants of leishmanolysin. A total of 61 leishmanolysin sequences were retrieved from the L. tarentolae genome. Five of them were selected for phylogenetic analysis, and for three of them, we built 3D models based on the crystallographic structure of L. major ortholog. Molecular dynamics simulations of these models disclosed a less negative electrostatic potential compared to the template. Subsequently, L. major LmjF.10.0460 and L. tarentolae LtaP10.0650 leishmanolysins were cloned in a pLEXSY expression system into L. tarentolae. Proteins from the wild-type and the overexpressing parasites were submitted to enzymatic analysis. Our results revealed that L. tarentolae leishmanolysins harbor a weak enzymatic activity about three times less abundant than L. major leishmanolysin. Our findings strongly suggest that the less negative electrostatic potential of L. tarentolae leishmanolysin can be the reason for the reduced proteolytic activity detected in this parasite.
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de Castro Neto AL, da Silveira JF, Mortara RA. Role of Virulence Factors of Trypanosomatids in the Insect Vector and Putative Genetic Events Involved in Surface Protein Diversity. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:807172. [PMID: 35573777 PMCID: PMC9097677 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.807172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Trypanosomatids are flagellate protozoans that can infect several invertebrate and vertebrate hosts, including insects and humans. The three most studied species are the human pathogens Trypanosoma brucei, Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania spp. which are the causative agents of Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT), Chagas disease and different clinical forms of leishmaniasis, respectively. These parasites possess complex dixenous life cycles, with zoonotic and anthroponotic stages, and are transmitted by hematophagous insects. To colonize this myriad of hosts, they developed mechanisms, mediated by virulence factors, to infect, propagate and survive in different environments. In insects, surface proteins play roles in parasite attachment and survival in the insect gut, whilst in the mammalian host, the parasites have a whole group of proteins and mechanisms that aid them invading the host cells and evading its immune system components. Many studies have been done on the impact of these molecules in the vertebrate host, however it is also essential to notice the importance of these virulence factors in the insect vector during the parasite life cycle. When inside the insect, the parasites, like in humans, also need to survive defense mechanisms components that can inhibit parasite colonization or survival, e.g., midgut peritrophic membrane barrier, digestive enzymes, evasion of excretion alongside the digested blood meal, anatomic structures and physiological mechanisms of the anterior gut. This protection inside the insect is often implemented by the same group of virulence factors that perform roles of immune evasion in the mammalian host with just a few exceptions, in which a specific protein is expressed specifically for the insect vector form of the parasite. This review aims to discuss the roles of the virulence molecules in the insect vectors, showing the differences and similarities of modes of action of the same group of molecules in insect and humans, exclusive insect molecules and discuss possible genetic events that may have generated this protein diversity.
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Telleria EL, Azevedo-Brito DA, Kykalová B, Tinoco-Nunes B, Pitaluga AN, Volf P, Traub-Csekö YM. Leishmania infantum Infection Modulates the Jak-STAT Pathway in Lutzomyia longipalpis LL5 Embryonic Cells and Adult Females, and Affects Parasite Growth in the Sand Fly. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2021.747820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera, Psychodidae) belonging to the Lutzomyia genus transmit zoonoses in the New World. Lutzomyia longipalpis is the main vector of Leishmania infantum, which is the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil. To identify key molecular aspects involved in the interaction between vector and pathogens and contribute to developing disease transmission controls, we investigated the sand fly innate immunity mediated by the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (Jak-STAT) pathway in response to L. infantum infection. We used two study models: L. longipalpis LL5 embryonic cells co-cultured with L. infantum and sand fly females artificially infected with the parasite. We used qPCR to follow the L. longipalpis gene expression of molecules involved in the Jak-STAT pathway. Also, we modulated the Jak-STAT mediated immune response to understand its role in Leishmania parasite infection. For that, we used RNAi to silence the pathway regulators, protein inhibitor of activated STATs (PIAS) in LL5 cells, and STAT in adult females. In addition, the pathway suppression effect on parasite development within the vector was assessed by light microscopy in late-phase infection. The silencing of the repressor PIAS in LL5 cells led to a moderate increase in a protein tyrosine phosphatase 61F (PTP61F) expression. It suggests a compensatory regulation between these two repressors. L. infantum co-culture with LL5 cells upregulated repressors PIAS, suppressor of cytokine signaling (SOCS), and PTP61F. It also downmodulated virus-induced RNA-1 (VIR-1), a pathway effector, indicating that the parasite could repress the Jak-STAT pathway in LL5 cells. In Leishmania-infected L. longipalpis females, STAT and the antimicrobial peptide attacin were downregulated on the third day post-infection, suggesting a correlation that favors the parasite survival at the end of blood digestion in the sand fly. The antibiotic treatment of infected females showed that the reduction of gut bacteria had little effect on the Jak-STAT pathway regulation. STAT gene silencing mediated by RNAi reduced the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and favored Leishmania growth in sand flies on the first day post-infection. These results indicate that STAT participated in the iNOS regulation with subsequent effect on parasite survival.
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Anti-Leishmania braziliensis activity of 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione and its Cu(II) and Ag(I) complexes. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:3273-3285. [PMID: 34363115 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07265-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis, included in the priority list of the WHO, remains as a neglected disease caused by parasites of the Leishmania genus. There is no vaccine available for human leishmaniasis, and the current treatment is based on old drugs that cause serious side effects. Herein, we initially studied the cellular distribution of the virulence factor gp63, the major metallopeptidase, in a virulent strain of Leishmania braziliensis, and then we measured the inhibitory effects of 1,10-phenanthroline-5,6-dione (phendione), and its metal complexes, [Cu(phendione)3](ClO4)2.4H2O and [Ag(phendione)2]ClO4, on both cellular and extracellular metallopeptidases produced by promastigotes. The action of the three compounds on parasite viability and on parasite-macrophage interaction was also determined. Gp63 molecules were detected in several parasite compartments, including the cytoplasm, the membrane lining the cell body and flagellum, and in the flagellar pocket, which explains the presence of gp63 in the culture medium. The test compounds inhibited parasite metallopeptidases in a typical dose-dependent manner, and they also caused a significant and irreversible inhibition of parasite motility. Moreover, the pre-treatment of promastigotes with the test compounds induced a decrease in the association index with macrophages. Collectively, phendione and its Cu(II) and Ag(I) complexes are excellent prototypes for the development of new anti-L. braziliensis drugs.
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Rêgo FD, Soares RP. Lutzomyia longipalpis: an update on this sand fly vector. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2021; 93:e20200254. [PMID: 33950136 DOI: 10.1590/0001-37652021xxxx] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lutzomyia longipalpis is the most important vector of Leishmania infantum, the etiological agent of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in the New World. It is a permissive vector susceptible to infection with several Leishmania species. One of the advantages that favors the study of this sand fly is the possibility of colonization in the laboratory. For this reason, several researchers around the world use this species as a model for different subjects including biology, insecticides testing, host-parasite interaction, physiology, genetics, proteomics, molecular biology, and saliva among others. In 2003, we published our first review (Soares & Turco 2003) on this vector covering several aspects of Lu. longipalpis. This current review summarizes what has been published between 2003-2020. During this period, modern approaches were incorporated following the development of more advanced and sensitive techniques to assess this sand fly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe D Rêgo
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ/MG), Instituto René Rachou, Avenida Augusto de Lima, 1715, Barro Preto, 30180-104 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Pedro Soares
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ/MG), Instituto René Rachou, Avenida Augusto de Lima, 1715, Barro Preto, 30180-104 Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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Construction of PX-LmGP63 Using CRISPR-Cas9 as Primary Goal for GP63 gene Knockout in Leishmania major and Leishmanization. Jundishapur J Microbiol 2021. [DOI: 10.5812/jjm.112965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Leishmania is an intracellular protozoan parasite that uses complex methods for destroying the innate immune response in mammalian host macrophage cells. Many factors have been identified that play a role in the severity of the parasite’s pathogenicity. One of the factors is the GP63, which is a group of metalloproteinases that disrupts the signaling mechanism of the host cell. Objectives: The aim of this study was to construct PX-LMGP63 vector through CRISPR-Cas9 for GP63 gene knockout in Leishmania major as a potential method for leishmanization. Methods: A pair of gRNAs were designed based on the mRNA sequence of the GP63. Then annealing primers were cloned into the linearized vector PX-459 and transformed into the DH5ɑ competent cells. Then, PCR assay was performed with gene-specific and vector primers to confirm the colonies. In addition, the constructed plasmid was sequenced for final confirmation. Results: The expected size band of 270 was confirmed by PCR. The plasmid sequence showed that the gRNA789 was ligated in the vector. The created structure was named PX-LMGP63 and will be transfected into the promastigote cell in the next step. Conclusions: Owing to the prevalence of cutaneous Leishman as a public health problem in most countries and the lack of an effective vaccine for leishmaniasis, the use of the CRISPR method may make it possible to achieve an effective vaccine in the future.
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Lemos-Silva T, Telleria EL, Traub-Csekö YM. The gene expression of Leishmania infantum chagasi inside Lutzomyia longipalpis, the main vector of visceral leishmaniasis in Brazil. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2021; 116:e200571. [PMID: 33681890 PMCID: PMC7949195 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760200571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania infantum chagasi is the causative agent and Lutzomyia longipalpis is the main vector of visceral leishmaniasis in the Americas. We investigated the expression of Leishmania genes within L. longipalpis after artificial infection. mRNAs from genes involved in sugar and amino acid metabolism were upregulated at times of high parasite proliferation inside the insect. mRNAs from genes involved in metacyclogenesis had higher expression in late stages of infection. Other modulated genes of interest were involved in immunomodulation, purine salvage pathway and protein recycling. These data reveal aspects of the adaptation of the parasite to the microenvironment of the vector gut and reflect the preparation for infection in the vertebrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thais Lemos-Silva
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Parasitas e Vetores, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Erich Loza Telleria
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Parasitas e Vetores, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil.,Charles University, Faculty of Science, Department of Parasitology, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Yara Maria Traub-Csekö
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Parasitas e Vetores, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
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VLP-Based Vaccines as a Suitable Technology to Target Trypanosomatid Diseases. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9030220. [PMID: 33807516 PMCID: PMC7998750 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9030220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Research on vaccines against trypanosomatids, a family of protozoa that cause neglected tropical diseases, such as Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, and sleeping sickness, is a current need. Today, according to modern vaccinology, virus-like particle (VLP) technology is involved in many vaccines, including those undergoing studies related to COVID-19. The potential use of VLPs as vaccine adjuvants opens an opportunity for the use of protozoan antigens for the development of vaccines against diseases caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, Leishmania spp., and Trypanosoma brucei. In this context, it is important to consider the evasion mechanisms of these protozoa in the host and the antigens involved in the mechanisms of the parasite–host interaction. Thus, the immunostimulatory properties of VLPs can be part of an important strategy for the development and evaluation of new vaccines. This work aims to highlight the potential of VLPs as vaccine adjuvants for the development of immunity in complex diseases, specifically in the context of tropical diseases caused by trypanosomatids.
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RÊGO FELIPED, SOARES RODRIGOPEDRO. Lutzomyia longipalpis: an update on this sand fly vector. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/0001-3765202120200254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
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Forrest DM, Batista M, Marchini FK, Tempone AJ, Traub-Csekö YM. Proteomic analysis of exosomes derived from procyclic and metacyclic-like cultured Leishmania infantum chagasi. J Proteomics 2020; 227:103902. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2020.103902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Ennes-Vidal V, Vitório BDS, Menna-Barreto RFS, Pitaluga AN, Gonçalves-da-Silva SA, Branquinha MH, Santos ALS, d'Avila-Levy CM. Calpains of Leishmania braziliensis: genome analysis, differential expression, and functional analysis. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2019; 114:e190147. [PMID: 31553371 PMCID: PMC6759280 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760190147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Calpains are proteins belonging to the multi-gene family of
calcium-dependent cysteine peptidases that undergo tight on/off regulation,
and uncontrolled proteolysis of calpains is associated with severe human
pathologies. Calpain orthologues are expanded and diversified in the
trypanosomatids genome. OBJECTIVES Here, we characterised calpains in Leishmania braziliensis,
the main causative agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Brazil. METHODS/FINDINGS In total, 34 predicted calpain-like genes were identified. After domain
structure evaluation, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain
reaction (RT-qPCR) during in vitro metacyclogenesis
revealed (i) five genes with enhanced expression in the procyclic stage,
(ii) one augmented gene in the metacyclic stage, and (iii) one
procyclic-exclusive transcript. Western blot analysis revealed that an
antibody against a consensus-conserved peptide reacted with multiple
calpain-like proteins, which is consistent with the multi-gene family
characteristic. Flow cytometry and immunocytochemistry analyses revealed the
presence of calpain-like molecules mainly in the cytoplasm, to a lesser
extent in the plasma membrane, and negligible levels in the nucleus, which
are all consistent with calpain localisation. Eventually, the calpain
inhibitor MDL28170 was used for functional studies revealing (i) a
leishmaniostatic effect, (ii) a reduction in the association index in mouse
macrophages, (iii) ultra-structural alterations conceivable with autophagy,
and (iv) an enhanced expression of the virulence factor GP63. CONCLUSION This report adds novel insights into the domain structure, expression, and
localisation of L. braziliensis calpain-like molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vítor Ennes-Vidal
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Estudos Integrados em Protozoologia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Bianca da Silva Vitório
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Estudos Integrados em Protozoologia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | | | - André Nóbrega Pitaluga
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Parasitas e Vetores, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | | | - Marta Helena Branquinha
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - André Luis Souza Santos
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Laboratório de Estudos Avançados de Microrganismos Emergentes e Resistentes, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Claudia Masini d'Avila-Levy
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Estudos Integrados em Protozoologia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
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15
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Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi is the causative agent of Chagas disease, a vector-borne disease. The parasite molecules involved in vector interaction have been little investigated. Metallopeptidases and gp63 molecules have been implicated in parasite adhesion of several trypanosomatids to the insect midgut. Although gp63 homologues are highly expanded in the T. cruzi genome, and are implicated in parasite–mammalian host interaction, its role in the insect vector has never been explored. Here, we showed that divalent metal chelators or anti-Tcgp63-I antibodies impaired T. cruzi adhesion to Rhodnius prolixus midgut. Parasites isolated after insect colonization presented a drastic enhancement in the expression of Tcgp63-I. These data highlight, for the first time, that Tcgp63-I and Zn-dependent enzymes contribute to the interaction of T. cruzi with the insect vector.
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16
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da Silva Gonçalves D, Iturbe-Ormaetxe I, Martins-da-Silva A, Telleria EL, Rocha MN, Traub-Csekö YM, O'Neill SL, Sant'Anna MRV, Moreira LA. Wolbachia introduction into Lutzomyia longipalpis (Diptera: Psychodidae) cell lines and its effects on immune-related gene expression and interaction with Leishmania infantum. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:33. [PMID: 30646951 PMCID: PMC6332621 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-3227-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The leishmaniases are important neglected diseases caused by Leishmania spp. which are transmitted by sand flies, Lutzomyia longipalpis being the main vector of visceral leishmaniasis in the Americas. The methodologies for leishmaniasis control are not efficient, causing 1.5 million reported cases annually worldwide, therefore showing the need for development of novel strategies and interventions to control transmission of the disease. The bacterium Wolbachia pipientis is being used to control viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, such as dengue and Zika, and its introduction in disease vectors has been effective against parasites such as Plasmodium. Here we show the first successful establishment of Wolbachia into two different embryonic cell lines from L. longipalpis, LL-5 and Lulo, and analysed its effects on the sand fly innate immune system, followed by in vitro Leishmania infantum interaction. RESULTS Our results show that LL-5 cells respond to wMel and wMelPop-CLA strains within the first 72 h post-infection, through the expression of antimicrobial peptides and inducible nitric oxide synthase resulting in a decrease of Wolbachia detection in the early stages of infection. In subsequent passages, the wMel strain was not able to infect any of the sand fly cell lines while the wMelPop-CLA strain was able to stably infect Lulo cells and LL-5 at lower levels. In Wolbachia stably infected cells, the expression of immune-related genes involved with downregulation of the IMD, Toll and Jak-Stat innate immune pathways was significantly decreased, in comparison with the uninfected control, suggesting immune activation upon Wolbachia transinfection. Furthermore, Wolbachia transinfection did not promote a negative effect on parasite load in those cells. CONCLUSIONS Initial strong immune responses of LL5 cells might explain the inefficiency of stable infections in these cells while we found that Lulo cells are more permissive to infection with Wolbachia causing an effect on the cell immune system, but not against in vitro L. infantum interaction. This establishes Lulo cells as a good system for the adaptation of Wolbachia in L. longipalpis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela da Silva Gonçalves
- Grupo Mosquitos Vetores: Endossimbiontes e Interação Patógeno Vetor, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou - Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Augusto de Lima 1715, 30190-002. Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Iñaki Iturbe-Ormaetxe
- World Mosquito Program, Institute of Vector-Borne Disease, Monash University, 12 Innovation Walk, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Andrea Martins-da-Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Parasitos e Vetores, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Erich Loza Telleria
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Parasitos e Vetores, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Marcele Neves Rocha
- Grupo Mosquitos Vetores: Endossimbiontes e Interação Patógeno Vetor, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou - Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Augusto de Lima 1715, 30190-002. Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Yara M Traub-Csekö
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Parasitos e Vetores, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz - Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Scott L O'Neill
- World Mosquito Program, Institute of Vector-Borne Disease, Monash University, 12 Innovation Walk, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Maurício Roberto Viana Sant'Anna
- Laboratório de Insetos Hematófagos, Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas/UFMG, Av. Antônio Carlos, 6627, 31270-901. Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Luciano Andrade Moreira
- Grupo Mosquitos Vetores: Endossimbiontes e Interação Patógeno Vetor, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou - Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av. Augusto de Lima 1715, 30190-002. Belo Horizonte, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
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17
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Soares RP, Nogueira PM, Secundino NF, Marialva EF, Ríos-Velásquez CM, Pessoa FAC. Lutzomyia umbratilis from an area south of the Negro River is refractory to in vitro interaction with Leishmania guyanensis. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2018; 113:202-205. [PMID: 29412360 PMCID: PMC5804313 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760170425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lutzomyia umbratilis, the vector for Leishmania guyanensis in northern South America, has been found naturally infected with L. guyanensis only in areas north of the Negro and Amazon rivers. While populations of this sand fly species are also found in areas south of these rivers, these populations have never been reported to be infected and/or transmitting L. guyanensis. However, no studies on the corresponding host-parasite interactions are available. OBJECTIVES This study evaluated the interaction between Lu. guyanensis promastigotes and field-collected Lu. umbratilis sand flies from Rio Preto da Eva and Manacapuru, which are located to the north and south, respectively, of the Negro River. METHODS Procyclic and metacyclic attachment was quantified using an in vitro system. FINDINGS Low attachment of parasites to the midguts of insects collected from Manacapuru was detected. Conversely, greater binding of metacyclic parasites was observed in the midguts of insects collected from Rio Preto da Eva, and this attachment was more pronounced than that observed for procyclics (p < 0.03). MAIN CONCLUSIONS The Lu. umbratilis population from an area south of the Negro River has lower in vitro interaction with L. guyanensis. The higher attachment of L. guyanensis to midguts of insects from Rio Preto da Eva may suggest better vector competence. These findings are in accordance with previously reported epidemiological information of American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) transmission in the Amazon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo Pedro Soares
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto René Rachou, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brasil
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18
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Nogueira PM, Guimarães AC, Assis RR, Sadlova J, Myskova J, Pruzinova K, Hlavackova J, Turco SJ, Torrecilhas AC, Volf P, Soares RP. Lipophosphoglycan polymorphisms do not affect Leishmania amazonensis development in the permissive vectors Lutzomyia migonei and Lutzomyia longipalpis. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:608. [PMID: 29246180 PMCID: PMC5732482 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2568-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lipophosphoglycan (LPG) is a dominant surface molecule of Leishmania promastigotes. Its species-specific polymorphisms are found mainly in the sugars that branch off the conserved Gal(β1,4)Man(α1)-PO4 backbone of repeat units. Leishmania amazonensis is one of the most important species causing human cutaneous leishmaniasis in the New World. Here, we describe LPG intraspecific polymorphisms in two Le. amazonensis reference strains and their role during the development in three sand fly species. Results Strains isolated from Lutzomyia flaviscutellata (PH8) and from a human patient (Josefa) displayed structural polymorphism in the LPG repeat units, possessing side chains with 1 and 2 β-glucose or 1 to 3 β-galactose, respectively. Both strains successfully infected permissive vectors Lutzomyia longipalpis and Lutzomyia migonei and could colonize their stomodeal valve and differentiate into metacyclic forms. Despite bearing terminal galactose residues on LPG, Josefa could not sustain infection in the restrictive vector Phlebotomus papatasi. Conclusions LPG polymorphisms did not affect the ability of Le. amazonensis to develop late-stage infections in permissive vectors. However, the non-establishment of infection in Ph. papatasi by Josefa strain suggested other LPG-independent factors in this restrictive vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula M Nogueira
- Instituto René Rachou/FIOCRUZ, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil. .,Departamento de Parasitologia, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | | | - Rafael R Assis
- Instituto René Rachou/FIOCRUZ, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Jovana Sadlova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jitka Myskova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Pruzinova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Hlavackova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Salvatore J Turco
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Kentucky Medical Center, Lexington, KY, USA
| | - Ana C Torrecilhas
- Laboratório de Imunologia Celular e Bioquímica de Fungos e Protozoários, Departamento de Farmácia, UNIFESP, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Petr Volf
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
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19
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Lima JB, Araújo-Santos T, Lázaro-Souza M, Carneiro AB, Ibraim IC, Jesus-Santos FH, Luz NF, Pontes SDM, Entringer PF, Descoteaux A, Bozza PT, Soares RP, Borges VM. Leishmania infantum lipophosphoglycan induced-Prostaglandin E 2 production in association with PPAR-γ expression via activation of Toll like receptors-1 and 2. Sci Rep 2017; 7:14321. [PMID: 29084985 PMCID: PMC5662570 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-14229-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipophosphoglycan (LPG) is a key virulence factor expressed on the surfaces of Leishmania promastigotes. Although LPG is known to activate macrophages, the underlying mechanisms resulting in the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) via signaling pathways remain unknown. Here, the inflammatory response arising from stimulation by Leishmania infantum LPG and/or its lipid and glycan motifs was evaluated with regard to PGE2 induction. Intact LPG, but not its glycan and lipid moieties, induced a range of proinflammatory responses, including PGE2 and nitric oxide (NO) release, increased lipid droplet formation, and iNOS and COX2 expression. LPG also induced ERK-1/2 and JNK phosphorylation in macrophages, in addition to the release of PGE2, MCP-1, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-12p70, but not IL-10. Pharmacological inhibition of ERK1/2 and PKC affected PGE2 and cytokine production. Moreover, treatment with rosiglitazone, an agonist of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ), also modulated the release of PGE2 and other proinflammatory mediators. Finally, we determined that LPG-induced PPAR-γ signaling occurred via TLR1/2. Taken together, these results reinforce the role played by L. infantum-derived LPG in the proinflammatory response seen in Leishmania infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonilson Berlink Lima
- Gonçalo Moniz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ-BA), 40296-710, Salvador, BA, Brazil.,Center of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Western Bahia (UFOB), 47808-021, Barreiras, BA, Brazil
| | - Théo Araújo-Santos
- Gonçalo Moniz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ-BA), 40296-710, Salvador, BA, Brazil.,Center of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of Western Bahia (UFOB), 47808-021, Barreiras, BA, Brazil
| | - Milena Lázaro-Souza
- Gonçalo Moniz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ-BA), 40296-710, Salvador, BA, Brazil.,Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), 40110-170, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Alan Brito Carneiro
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institut, FIOCRUZ-RJ, 21040-900, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Izabela Coimbra Ibraim
- René Rachou Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ-MG), 30190-002, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Flávio Henrique Jesus-Santos
- Gonçalo Moniz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ-BA), 40296-710, Salvador, BA, Brazil.,Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), 40110-170, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Nívea Farias Luz
- Gonçalo Moniz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ-BA), 40296-710, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Sara de Moura Pontes
- Gonçalo Moniz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ-BA), 40296-710, Salvador, BA, Brazil.,Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), 40110-170, Salvador, BA, Brazil
| | - Petter Franco Entringer
- Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), NUPEM, Campus Macaé, 27933-378, Macaé, RJ, Brazil
| | - Albert Descoteaux
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique, Institut Armand-Frappier, H7V 1B7, Laval, Canada
| | - Patrícia Torres Bozza
- Laboratory of Immunopharmacology, Oswaldo Cruz Institut, FIOCRUZ-RJ, 21040-900, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Pedro Soares
- René Rachou Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ-MG), 30190-002, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.
| | - Valéria Matos Borges
- Gonçalo Moniz Institut, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ-BA), 40296-710, Salvador, BA, Brazil. .,Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), 40110-170, Salvador, BA, Brazil.
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