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Feineis D, Bringmann G. Structural variety and pharmacological potential of naphthylisoquinoline alkaloids. THE ALKALOIDS. CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY 2024; 91:1-410. [PMID: 38811064 DOI: 10.1016/bs.alkal.2024.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Naphthylisoquinoline alkaloids are a fascinating class of natural biaryl compounds. They show characteristic mono- and dimeric scaffolds, with chiral axes and stereogenic centers. Since the appearance of the last comprehensive overview on these secondary plant metabolites in this series in 1995, the number of discovered representatives has tremendously increased to more than 280 examples known today. Many novel-type compounds have meanwhile been discovered, among them naphthylisoquinoline-related follow-up products like e.g., the first seco-type (i.e., ring-opened) and ring-contracted analogues. As highlighted in this review, the knowledge on the broad structural chemodiversity of naphthylisoquinoline alkaloids has been decisively driven forward by extensive phytochemical studies on the metabolite pattern of Ancistrocladus abbreviatus from Coastal West Africa, which is a particularly "creative" plant. These investigations furnished a considerable number of more than 80-mostly new-natural products from this single species, with promising antiplasmodial activities and with pronounced cytotoxic effects against human leukemia, pancreatic, cervical, and breast cancer cells. Another unique feature of naphthylisoquinoline alkaloids is their unprecedented biosynthetic origin from polyketidic precursors and not, as usual for isoquinoline alkaloids, from aromatic amino acids-a striking example of biosynthetic convergence in nature. Furthermore, remarkable botanical results are presented on the natural producers of naphthylisoquinoline alkaloids, the paleotropical Dioncophyllaceae and Ancistrocladaceae lianas, including first investigations on the chemoecological role of these plant metabolites and their storage and accumulation in particular plant organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris Feineis
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Gerhard Bringmann
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany.
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2
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Moss WJ, Brusini L, Kuehnel R, Brochet M, Brown KM. Apicomplexan phosphodiesterases in cyclic nucleotide turnover: conservation, function, and therapeutic potential. mBio 2024; 15:e0305623. [PMID: 38132724 PMCID: PMC10865986 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03056-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Apicomplexa encompasses a large number of intracellular parasites infecting a wide range of animals. Cyclic nucleotide signaling is crucial for a variety of apicomplexan life stages and cellular processes. The cyclases and kinases that synthesize and respond to cyclic nucleotides (i.e., 3',5'-cyclic guanosine monophosphate and 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate) are highly conserved and essential throughout the parasite phylum. Growing evidence indicates that phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are also critical for regulating cyclic nucleotide signaling via cyclic nucleotide hydrolysis. Here, we discuss recent advances in apicomplexan PDE biology and opportunities for therapeutic interventions, with special emphasis on the major human apicomplexan parasite genera Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, Cryptosporidium, and Babesia. In particular, we show a highly flexible repertoire of apicomplexan PDEs associated with a wide range of cellular requirements across parasites and lifecycle stages. Despite this phylogenetic diversity, cellular requirements of apicomplexan PDEs for motility, host cell egress, or invasion are conserved. However, the molecular wiring of associated PDEs is extremely malleable suggesting that PDE diversity and redundancy are key for the optimization of cyclic nucleotide turnover to respond to the various environments encountered by each parasite and life stage. Understanding how apicomplexan PDEs are regulated and integrating multiple signaling systems into a unified response represent an untapped avenue for future exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J. Moss
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Lorenzo Brusini
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ronja Kuehnel
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Mathieu Brochet
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Kevin M. Brown
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
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3
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Vydyam P, Pal AC, Renard I, Chand M, Kumari V, Gennaro JC, Mamoun CB. Tafenoquine-Atovaquone Combination Achieves Radical Cure and Confers Sterile Immunity in Experimental Models of Human Babesiosis. J Infect Dis 2024; 229:161-172. [PMID: 38169301 PMCID: PMC10786256 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Human babesiosis is a potentially fatal tick-borne disease caused by intraerythrocytic Babesia parasites. The emergence of resistance to recommended therapies highlights the need for new and more effective treatments. Here we demonstrate that the 8-aminoquinoline antimalarial drug tafenoquine inhibits the growth of different Babesia species in vitro, is highly effective against Babesia microti and Babesia duncani in mice and protects animals from lethal infection caused by atovaquone-sensitive and -resistant B. duncani strains. We further show that a combination of tafenoquine and atovaquone achieves cure with no recrudescence in both models of human babesiosis. Interestingly, elimination of B. duncani infection in animals following drug treatment also confers immunity to subsequent challenge. Altogether, the data demonstrate superior efficacy of tafenoquine plus atovaquone combination over current therapies for the treatment of human babesiosis and highlight its potential in providing protective immunity against Babesia following parasite clearance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratap Vydyam
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Anasuya C Pal
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Isaline Renard
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Meenal Chand
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Vandana Kumari
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Joseph C Gennaro
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Choukri Ben Mamoun
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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4
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Seejarim C, Rautenbach Y, Hooijberg EH, Leisewitz AL, Schoeman JP, Goddard A. Regenerative response in dogs naturally and experimentally infected with Babesia rossi. Vet Clin Pathol 2023; 52:422-432. [PMID: 37638541 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.13228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The regenerative response following Babesia rossi infection in dogs is mild, despite severe hemolytic anemia. OBJECTIVE We aimed to compare the admission absolute reticulocyte count (ARC) and reticulocyte indices in 103 dogs naturally infected with B. rossi with 10 dogs suffering from immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) and 14 healthy control dogs. The regenerative response was also evaluated in five dogs experimentally infected with B. rossi. METHODS This is a retrospective observational study of records generated on the ADVIA 2120 hematology analyzer. RESULTS The median hematocrits (HCT) of the B. rossi and IMHA groups were significantly lower than the control group (p < .001 for both); however, no differences were seen between the B. rossi and IMHA groups. Compared with the control group, the median ARC was significantly higher in the B. rossi (p = .006) and IMHA (p = .019) groups but significantly lower in the B. rossi group than the IMHA group (p = .041). In the experimentally infected dogs, there was a sudden decrease in the ARC approximately 48 h after the detection of peripheral parasitemia, which was followed by an increase after treatment. Reticulocytes of naturally infected B. rossi dogs were larger, with more variation in cellular volume. The reticulocytes of the experimentally infected dogs decreased in size with decreasing hemoglobin concentrations as the study progressed. CONCLUSIONS The regenerative response in dogs naturally infected with B. rossi is inadequate, given the severity of the anemia observed, and it might be a result of direct suppressive action by the parasite or host response on the bone marrow.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandini Seejarim
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Yolandi Rautenbach
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Emma H Hooijberg
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Andrew L Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Johan P Schoeman
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Amelia Goddard
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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5
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Akash S, Hosen ME, Mahmood S, Supti SJ, Kumer A, Sultana S, Jannat S, Bayıl I, Nafidi HA, Jardan YAB, Mekonnen AB, Bourhia M. Anti-parasitic drug discovery against Babesia microti by natural compounds: an extensive computational drug design approach. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1222913. [PMID: 37662005 PMCID: PMC10469490 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1222913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne Babesiosis is a parasitic infection caused by Babesia microti that can infect both animals and humans and may spread by tick, blood transfusions, and organ transplantation. The current therapeutic options for B. microti are limited, and drug resistance is a concern. This study proposes using computational drug design approaches to find and design an effective drug against B. microti. The study investigated the potentiality of nine natural compounds against the pathogenic human B. microti parasite and identified Vasicinone and Evodiamine as the most promising drugs. The ligand structures were optimized using density functional theory, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, quantum mechanics such as HOMO-LUMO, drug-likeness and theoretical absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET), and pharmacokinetics characteristics performed. The results showed that Vasicinone (-8.6 kcal/mol and -7.8 kcal/mol) and Evodiamine (-8.7 kcal/mol and -8.5 kcal/mol) had the highest binding energy and anti-parasitic activity against B. microti lactate dehydrogenase and B. microti lactate dehydrogenase apo form. The strongest binding energy was reported by Vasicinone and Evodiamine; the compounds were evaluated through molecular dynamics simulation at 100 ns, and their stability when they form complexes with the targeted receptors was determined. Finally, the pkCSM web server is employed to predict the ADMET qualities of specific molecules, which can help prevent negative effects that arise from taking the treatment. The SwissADME web server is used to assess the Lipinski rule of five and drug-likeness properties including topological polar surface area and bioavailability. The Lipinski rule is used to estimate significant drug-likeness. The theoretical pharmacokinetics analysis and drug-likeness of the selected compounds are confirmed to be accepted by the Lipinski rule and have better ADMET features. Thus, to confirm their experimental value, these mentioned molecules should be suggested to carry out in wet lab, pre-clinical, and clinical levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shopnil Akash
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International, University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Eram Hosen
- Professor Joarder DNA and Chromosome Research Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Sajjat Mahmood
- Department of Microbiology, Jagannath University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sumaiya Jahan Supti
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Ajoy Kumer
- Laboratory of Computational Research for Drug Design and Material Science, Department of Chemistry, European University of Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Shamima Sultana
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Health and Life Sciences. North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sultana Jannat
- Department of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Imren Bayıl
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Türkiye
| | - Hiba-Allah Nafidi
- Department of Food Science, Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Laval University, Quebec, QC, Canada
| | - Yousef A. Bin Jardan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Mohammed Bourhia
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Laayoune, Morocco
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Locke S, O'Bryan J, Zubair AS, Rethana M, Moffarah AS, Krause PJ, Farhadian SF. Neurologic Complications of Babesiosis, United States, 2011-2021. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:1127-1135. [PMID: 37209667 PMCID: PMC10202888 DOI: 10.3201/eid2906.221890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis is a globally distributed parasitic infection caused by intraerythrocytic protozoa. The full spectrum of neurologic symptoms, the underlying neuropathophysiology, and neurologic risk factors are poorly understood. Our study sought to describe the type and frequency of neurologic complications of babesiosis in a group of hospitalized patients and assess risk factors that might predispose patients to neurologic complications. We reviewed medical records of adult patients who were admitted to Yale-New Haven Hospital, New Haven, Connecticut, USA, during January 2011-October 2021 with laboratory-confirmed babesiosis. More than half of the 163 patients experienced >1 neurologic symptoms during their hospital admissions. The most frequent symptoms were headache, confusion/delirium, and impaired consciousness. Neurologic symptoms were associated with high-grade parasitemia, renal failure, and history of diabetes mellitus. Clinicians working in endemic areas should recognize the range of symptoms associated with babesiosis, including neurologic.
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7
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Martin C, Clift S, Leisewitz A. Lung pathology of natural Babesia rossi infection in dogs. J S Afr Vet Assoc 2023; 94:59-69. [PMID: 37358318 DOI: 10.36303/jsava.523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2023] Open
Abstract
A proportion of Babesia rossi infections in dogs are classified as complicated and one of the most lethal complications is acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Most dogs that die succumb within 24 hours of presentation. The pulmonary pathology caused by B. rossi in dogs has not been described. The aim of this study was to provide a thorough macroscopic, histological and immunohistochemical description of the lung changes seen in dogs naturally infected with B. rossi that succumbed to the infection. Death was invariably accompanied by alveolar oedema. Histopathology showed acute interstitial pneumonia characterised by alveolar oedema and haemorrhages, with increased numbers of mononuclear leucocytes in alveolar walls and lumens. Intra-alveolar polymerised fibrin aggregates were observed in just over half the infected cases. Immunohistochemistry showed increased numbers of MAC387- and CD204-reactive monocyte-macrophages in alveolar walls and lumens, and increased CD3-reactive T-lymphocytes in alveolar walls, compared with controls. These histological features overlap to some extent (but far from perfectly) with the histological pattern of lung injury referred to as the exudative stage of diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) as is quite commonly reported in ALI/ARDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Martin
- Idexx Laboratories (Pty) Ltd, South Africa
| | - S Clift
- Section of Pathology, Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
| | - A Leisewitz
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Bailey Small Animal Teaching Hospital, Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, United States of America and Section of Small Animal Medicine, Companion Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, South Africa
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8
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Muench JR, Jha P, Wojtkowski A. Babesiosis: An Atypical Cause of Respiratory Failure. Cureus 2023; 15:e39028. [PMID: 37323362 PMCID: PMC10265922 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.39028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis is a parasitic infection of the Babesia protozoa, which has been increasing in incidence in endemic areas of the United States. Symptoms of babesiosis can occur on a wide spectrum, from a mild flu-like illness to a fulminant disease course. Known complications of severe cases include intravascular hemolytic anemia and may involve the coagulation system, heart, spleen, kidneys, and in some cases, the lungs. This case report describes an 81-year-old, asplenic female in northern Wisconsin who presented to a hospital with shortness of breath and a non-productive cough. Definitive diagnosis of babesiosis, which was made through both a nucleic acid panel and blood smear, was initially delayed given the rare pulmonary manifestation of babesiosis. When the lungs are involved in the disease course, non-cardiogenic pulmonary edema leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome is among the most commonly seen complications. The pathophysiology of pulmonary involvement has not been made entirely clear but is most likely multifactorial, including the sequelae of changes to both the patient's red blood cells and pulmonary vasculature. This report highlights that atypical tick-borne illnesses like babesiosis should be considered as a cause of acute respiratory failure, particularly in the setting of sepsis and fever. The threshold for parasitic testing should be low in patients in endemic regions with risk factors, including increased age and history of asplenia, as babesiosis frequently has no localizing symptoms to suggest a protozoan infection. As babesiosis incidence continues to rise, prompt diagnosis and proper treatment can prevent severe complications and death in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared R Muench
- Internal Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA
| | - Pinky Jha
- Internal Medicine, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA
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9
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Advances in Babesia Vaccine Development: An Overview. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020300. [PMID: 36839572 PMCID: PMC9962624 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis is a tick-borne zoonotic disease, which is caused by various species of intracellular Babesia parasite. It is a problem not only for the livestock industry but also for global health. Significant global economic losses, in particular in cattle production, have been observed. Since the current preventive measures against babesiosis are insufficient, there is increasing pressure to develop a vaccine. In this review, we survey the achievements and recent advances in the creation of antibabesiosis vaccine. The scope of this review includes the development of a vaccine against B. microti, B. bovis, B. bigemina, B. orientalis and B. divergens. Here, we present different strategies in their progress and evaluation. Scientists worldwide are still trying to find new targets for a vaccine that would not only reduce symptoms among animals but also prevent the further spread of the disease. Molecular candidates for the production of a vaccine against various Babesia spp. are presented. Our study also describes the current prospects of vaccine evolution for successful Babesia parasites elimination.
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10
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Pathogenesis of Anemia in Canine Babesiosis: Possible Contribution of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines and Chemokines-A Review. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020166. [PMID: 36839438 PMCID: PMC9962459 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine babesiosis is a tick-borne protozoan disease caused by intraerythrocytic parasites of the genus Babesia. The infection may lead to anemia in infected dogs. However, anemia is not directly caused by the pathogen. The parasite's developmental stages only have a marginal role in contributing to a decreased red blood cell (RBC) count. The main cause of anemia in affected dogs is the immune response to the infection. This response includes antibody production, erythrophagocytosis, oxidative damage of RBCs, complement activation, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Moreover, both infected and uninfected erythrocytes are retained in the spleen and sequestered in micro-vessels. All these actions are driven by pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, especially IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8. Additionally, imbalance between the actions of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines plays a role in patho-mechanisms leading to anemia in canine babesiosis. This article is a review of the studies on the pathogenesis of anemia in canine babesiosis and related diseases, such as bovine or murine babesiosis and human or murine malaria, and the role of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the mechanisms leading to anemia in infected dogs.
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11
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Kumar A, Kabra A, Igarashi I, Krause PJ. Animal models of the immunology and pathogenesis of human babesiosis. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:38-52. [PMID: 36470781 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Animal models of human babesiosis have provided a basic understanding of the immunological mechanisms that clear, or occasionally exacerbate, Babesia infection and those pathological processes that cause disease complications. Human Babesia infection can cause asymptomatic infection, mild to moderate disease, or severe disease resulting in organ dysfunction and death. More than 100 Babesia species infect a wide array of wild and domestic animals, and many of the immunologic and pathologic responses to Babesia infection are similar in animals and humans. In this review, we summarize the knowledge gained from animal studies, their limitations, and how animal models or alternative approaches can be further leveraged to improve our understanding of human babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhinav Kumar
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Aditya Kabra
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Ikuo Igarashi
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Peter J Krause
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT 06510, USA; Department of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
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12
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Conte HA, Biondi MC, Janket SJ, Ackerson LK, Diamandis EP. Babesia microti-induced fulminant sepsis in an immunocompromised host: A case report and the case-specific literature review. Open Life Sci 2022; 17:1200-1207. [PMID: 36185407 PMCID: PMC9483830 DOI: 10.1515/biol-2022-0448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesia microti is an obligate intra-erythrocytic parasite transmitted by infected ticks. B. microti is a eukaryote much larger than prokaryotic microbes and more similar to human hosts in their biochemistry and metabolism. Moreover, Babesia spp. possess various immune evasion mechanisms leading to persistent and sometimes life-threatening diseases in immunocompromised hosts. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most prevalent adult B-cell malignancy, and a small percentage of CLL transforms into aggressive lymphomas. CLL also causes immune dysfunction due to the over-expansion of immature and ineffective B-cells. When our patient with indolent CLL presented with anemia, pancytopenia, and splenomegaly, all his healthcare providers presumptively assumed a malignant transformation of CLL. However, these are also the signs and symptoms of babesiosis. Herein, we report a case where B. microti infection was presumed as a malignant transformation of CLL and narrowly avoided a devastating outcome. Although the patient developed fulminant sepsis, he finally received the correct diagnosis and treatment. Unfortunately, the disease recrudesced twice. Each time, it became more difficult to control the infection. We describe the clinical course of the case and discuss the case-specific literature review. This report highlights the importance of differential diagnoses ruling out infections which include babesiosis, prior to initiating the treatment of B-cell malignancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry A Conte
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Saint Francis Hospital, Hartford, CT, USA.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Johnson Memorial Hospital, Stafford Springs, CT, USA
| | - Michael C Biondi
- Department of Radiology, Saint Francis Hospital, Hartford, CT, USA
| | - Sok-Ja Janket
- Center for Clinical and Translational Research, The Forsyth Institute, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Leland K Ackerson
- Department of Public Health, University of Massachusetts at Lowell, Lowell, MA, USA
| | - Eleftherios P Diamandis
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, 60 Murray St. Box 32, Floor 6, Rm L6-201. Toronto, ON, M5T 3L9, Canada
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13
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Abstract
Babesiosis is caused by intraerythrocytic parasites that are transmitted primarily by ticks, infrequently through blood transfusion, and rarely through transplacental transmission or organ transplantation. Human babesiosis is found throughout the world, but the incidence is highest in the Northeast and upper Midwestern United States. Babesiosis has clinical features that resemble malaria and can be fatal in immunocompromised and older patients. Diagnosis is confirmed by identification of Babesia parasites on blood smear or Babesia DNA with polymerase chain reaction. Standard treatment consists of atovaquone and azithromycin or clindamycin and quinine for 7 to 10 days.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rami Waked
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Maine Medical Center, 22 Bramhall Street, Portland, ME 04102, USA.
| | - Peter J Krause
- Division of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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14
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Rojas-Pirela M, Medina L, Rojas MV, Liempi AI, Castillo C, Pérez-Pérez E, Guerrero-Muñoz J, Araneda S, Kemmerling U. Congenital Transmission of Apicomplexan Parasites: A Review. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:751648. [PMID: 34659187 PMCID: PMC8519608 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.751648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Apicomplexans are a group of pathogenic protists that cause various diseases in humans and animals that cause economic losses worldwide. These unicellular eukaryotes are characterized by having a complex life cycle and the ability to evade the immune system of their host organism. Infections caused by some of these parasites affect millions of pregnant women worldwide, leading to various adverse maternal and fetal/placental effects. Unfortunately, the exact pathogenesis of congenital apicomplexan diseases is far from being understood, including the mechanisms of how they cross the placental barrier. In this review, we highlight important aspects of the diseases caused by species of Plasmodium, Babesia, Toxoplasma, and Neospora, their infection during pregnancy, emphasizing the possible role played by the placenta in the host-pathogen interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maura Rojas-Pirela
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Instituto de Biología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile.,Facultad de Farmacia y Bioanálisis, Universidad de Los Andes, Mérida, Venezuela
| | - Lisvaneth Medina
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Maria Verónica Rojas
- Instituto de Biología, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Ana Isabel Liempi
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Christian Castillo
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Núcleo de Investigación Aplicada en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Agronomía, Universidad de Las Américas, Santiago, Chile
| | | | - Jesús Guerrero-Muñoz
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sebastian Araneda
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Facultad de Salud y Odontología, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ulrike Kemmerling
- Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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15
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Puri A, Bajpai S, Meredith S, Aravind L, Krause PJ, Kumar S. Babesia microti: Pathogen Genomics, Genetic Variability, Immunodominant Antigens, and Pathogenesis. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:697669. [PMID: 34539601 PMCID: PMC8446681 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.697669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
More than 100 Babesia spp. tick-borne parasites are known to infect mammalian and avian hosts. Babesia belong to Order Piroplasmid ranked in the Phylum Apicomplexa. Recent phylogenetic studies have revealed that of the three genera that constitute Piroplasmida, Babesia and Theileria are polyphyletic while Cytauxzoon is nested within a clade of Theileria. Several Babesia spp. and sub-types have been found to cause human disease. Babesia microti, the most common species that infects humans, is endemic in the Northeastern and upper Midwestern United States and is sporadically reported elsewhere in the world. Most infections are transmitted by Ixodid (hard-bodied) ticks, although they occasionally can be spread through blood transfusion and rarely via perinatal transmission and organ transplantation. Babesiosis most often presents as a mild to moderate disease, however infection severity ranges from asymptomatic to lethal. Diagnosis is usually confirmed by blood smear or polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Treatment consists of atovaquone and azithromycin or clindamycin and quinine and usually is effective but may be problematic in immunocompromised hosts. There is no human Babesia vaccine. B. microti genomics studies have only recently been initiated, however they already have yielded important new insights regarding the pathogen, population structure, and pathogenesis. Continued genomic research holds great promise for improving the diagnosis, management, and prevention of human babesiosis, and in particular, the identification of lineage-specific families of cell-surface proteins with potential roles in cytoadherence, immune evasion and pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankit Puri
- Laboratory of Emerging Pathogens, Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, Office of Blood Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - Surabhi Bajpai
- Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Banasthali Vidyapith, Banasthali, India
| | - Scott Meredith
- Laboratory of Emerging Pathogens, Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, Office of Blood Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - L Aravind
- National Center for Biotechnology Information, National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Peter J Krause
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Sanjai Kumar
- Laboratory of Emerging Pathogens, Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, Office of Blood Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States
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16
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Semicentennial of Human Babesiosis, Nantucket Island. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091159. [PMID: 34578191 PMCID: PMC8469295 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091159] [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: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fifty years ago, the index case of human babesiosis due to Babesia microti was diagnosed in a summer resident of Nantucket Island. Human babesiosis, once called “Nantucket fever” due to its seeming restriction to Nantucket and the terminal moraine islands of southern New England, has emerged across the northeastern United States to commonly infect people wherever Lyme disease is endemic. We review the history of babesiosis on Nantucket, analyze its epidemiology and ecology there, provide summaries of the first case histories, and comment on its future public health burden.
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17
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Hildebrandt A, Zintl A, Montero E, Hunfeld KP, Gray J. Human Babesiosis in Europe. Pathogens 2021; 10:1165. [PMID: 34578196 PMCID: PMC8468516 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis is attracting increasing attention as a worldwide emerging zoonosis. The first case of human babesiosis in Europe was described in the late 1950s and since then more than 60 cases have been reported in Europe. While the disease is relatively rare in Europe, it is significant because the majority of cases present as life-threatening fulminant infections, mainly in immunocompromised patients. Although appearing clinically similar to human babesiosis elsewhere, particularly in the USA, most European forms of the disease are distinct entities, especially concerning epidemiology, human susceptibility to infection and clinical management. This paper describes the history of the disease and reviews all published cases that have occurred in Europe with regard to the identity and genetic characteristics of the etiological agents, pathogenesis, aspects of epidemiology including the eco-epidemiology of the vectors, the clinical courses of infection, diagnostic tools and clinical management and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anke Hildebrandt
- St. Vincenz Hospital Datteln, Department of Internal Medicine I, 45711 Datteln, Germany;
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital Münster, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Annetta Zintl
- UCD School of Veterinary Sciences, University College Dublin, D04 W6F6 Dublin, Ireland;
| | - Estrella Montero
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Klaus-Peter Hunfeld
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Microbiology & Infection Control, Northwest Medical Center, Medical Faculty Goethe University Frankfurt, Steinbacher Hohl 2-26, 60488 Frankfurt am Main, Germany;
- Society for Promoting Quality Assurance in Medical Laboratories (INSTAND, e.v.), Ubierstraße 20, 40223 Düsseldorf, Germany
- ESGBOR Study Group of the European Society for Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases (ESCMID), ESCMID Executive Office, P.O. Box 214, 4010 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jeremy Gray
- UCD School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, D04 N2E5 Dublin, Ireland
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18
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Smith RL, Goddard A, Boddapati A, Brooks S, Schoeman JP, Lack J, Leisewitz A, Ackerman H. Experimental Babesia rossi infection induces hemolytic, metabolic, and viral response pathways in the canine host. BMC Genomics 2021; 22:619. [PMID: 34399690 PMCID: PMC8369750 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-021-07889-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Babesia rossi is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among the canine population of sub-Saharan Africa, but pathogenesis remains poorly understood. Previous studies of B. rossi infection were derived from clinical cases, in which neither the onset of infection nor the infectious inoculum was known. Here, we performed controlled B. rossi inoculations in canines and evaluated disease progression through clinical tests and whole blood transcriptomic profiling. Results Two subjects were administered a low inoculum (104 parasites) while three received a high (108 parasites). Subjects were monitored for 8 consecutive days; anti-parasite treatment with diminazene aceturate was administered on day 4. Blood was drawn prior to inoculation as well as every experimental day for assessment of clinical parameters and transcriptomic profiles. The model recapitulated natural disease manifestations including anemia, acidosis, inflammation and behavioral changes. Rate of disease onset and clinical severity were proportional to the inoculum. To analyze the temporal dynamics of the transcriptomic host response, we sequenced mRNA extracted from whole blood drawn on days 0, 1, 3, 4, 6, and 8. Differential gene expression, hierarchical clustering, and pathway enrichment analyses identified genes and pathways involved in response to hemolysis, metabolic changes, and several arms of the immune response including innate immunity, adaptive immunity, and response to viral infection. Conclusions This work comprehensively characterizes the clinical and transcriptomic progression of B. rossi infection in canines, thus establishing a large mammalian model of severe hemoprotozoal disease to facilitate the study of host-parasite biology and in which to test novel anti-disease therapeutics. The knowledge gained from the study of B. rossi in canines will not only improve our understanding of this emerging infectious disease threat in domestic dogs, but also provide insight into the pathobiology of human diseases caused by Babesia and Plasmodium species. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-021-07889-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Smith
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Amelia Goddard
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
| | - Arun Boddapati
- NIAID Collaborative Bioinformatics Resource (NCBR), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20894, USA.,Advanced Biomedical Computational Science (ABCS), Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21701, USA
| | - Steven Brooks
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA
| | - Johan P Schoeman
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
| | - Justin Lack
- NIAID Collaborative Bioinformatics Resource (NCBR), National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20894, USA.,Advanced Biomedical Computational Science (ABCS), Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD, 21701, USA
| | - Andrew Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa.
| | - Hans Ackerman
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, 20852, USA.
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19
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A historical review of Babesia spp. associated with deer in Europe: Babesia divergens/Babesia divergens-like, Babesia capreoli, Babesia venatorum, Babesia cf. odocoilei. Vet Parasitol 2021; 294:109433. [PMID: 33930692 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
This review is intended to provide an overview of the occurrence and diversity of Babesia spp. in European deer. Babesiosis is an emerging vector-borne disease with negative implications on animal and public health. Cervidae are important hosts for Ixodidae ticks, playing a critical role in the epidemiology of the parasite. Deer are susceptible to different Babesia spp., some of them with zoonotic potential. The infection is usually asymptomatic with high prevalence rates, although some fatal cases due to B. capreoli and B. venatorum have been reported. In Europe, 3 main Babesia spp. have been described in deer: Babesia divergens/B. divergens-like, B. capreoli and B. venatorum. Additionally, close relatives of B. odocoilei, the Babesia species of the American white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), have been isolated in several European countries. The occurrence of B. divergens/B. divergens-like generated concerns about the role of cervidae in the life cycle of the parasite, and the potential threat for public health. Few human cases have been attributed to B. venatorum so far, including hunters. Although this species is strictly related to the presence of roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), it has been occasionally reported in moose (Alces alces) and captive reindeer (Rangifer tarandus). Over recent years, vector-borne diseases received increased attention from International Organizations. However, technical difficulties persist, affecting surveillance efficiency. Given the veterinary and zoonotic importance of babesiosis, the author advocates the need for an effective monitoring at wildlife-domestic animals-humans interface and the implementation of management plans to reduce the risk of Babesia spp. infection for both humans and domestic animals.
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20
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Zhang Y, Alvarez-Manzo H, Leone J, Schweig S, Zhang Y. Botanical Medicines Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, Artemisia annua, Scutellaria baicalensis, Polygonum cuspidatum, and Alchornea cordifolia Demonstrate Inhibitory Activity Against Babesia duncani. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:624745. [PMID: 33763384 PMCID: PMC7982592 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.624745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Human babesiosis is a CDC reportable disease in the United States and is recognized as an emerging health risk in multiple parts of the world. The current treatment for human babesiosis is suboptimal due to treatment failures and unwanted side effects. Although Babesia duncani was first described almost 30 years ago, further research is needed to elucidate its pathogenesis and clarify optimal treatment regimens. Here, we screened a panel of herbal medicines and identified Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, Artemisia annua, Scutellaria baicalensis, Alchornea cordifolia, and Polygonum cuspidatum to have good in vitro inhibitory activity against B. duncani in the hamster erythrocyte model. Furthermore, we found their potential bioactive compounds, cryptolepine, artemisinin, artesunate, artemether, and baicalein, to have good activity against B. duncani, with IC50 values of 3.4 μM, 14 μM, 7.4 μM, 7.8 μM, and 12 μM, respectively, which are comparable or lower than that of the currently used drugs quinine (10 μM) and clindamycin (37 μM). B. duncani treated with cryptolepine and quinine at their respective 1×, 2×, 4× and 8× IC50 values, and by artemether at 8× IC50 for three days could not regrow in subculture. Additionally, Cryptolepis sanguinolenta 90% ethanol extract also exhibited no regrowth after 6 days of subculture at doses of 2×, 4×, and 8× IC50 values. Our results indicate that some botanical medicines and their active constituents have potent activity against B. duncani in vitro and may be further explored for more effective treatment of babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumin Zhang
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Hector Alvarez-Manzo
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jacob Leone
- FOCUS Health Group, Naturopathic, Novato, CA, United States
| | - Sunjya Schweig
- California Center for Functional Medicine, Kensington, CA, United States
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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21
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Cai YC, Yang CL, Hu W, Song P, Xu B, Lu Y, Ai L, Chu YH, Chen MX, Chen JX, Chen SH. Molecular Characterization and Immunological Evaluation of Truncated Babesia microti Rhoptry Neck Protein 2 as a Vaccine Candidate. Front Immunol 2021; 12:616343. [PMID: 33717108 PMCID: PMC7943735 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.616343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesia microti is a protozoan that infects red blood cells. Babesiosis is becoming a new global threat impacting human health. Rhoptry neck proteins (RONs) are proteins located at the neck of the rhoptry and studies indicate that these proteins play an important role in the process of red blood cell invasion. In the present study, we report on the bioinformatic analysis, cloning, and recombinant gene expression of two truncated rhoptry neck proteins 2 (BmRON2), as well as their potential for incorporation in a candidate vaccine for babesiosis. Western blot and immunofluorescence antibody (IFA) assays were performed to detect the presence of specific antibodies against BmRON2 in infected mice and the localization of N-BmRON2 in B. microti parasites. In vitro experiments were carried out to investigate the role of BmRON2 proteins during the B. microti invasion process and in vivo experiments to investigate immunoprotection. Homologous sequence alignment and molecular phylogenetic analysis indicated that BmRON2 showed similarities with RON2 proteins of other Babesia species. We expressed the truncated N-terminal (33-336 aa, designated rN-BmRON2) and C-terminal (915-1171 aa, designated rC-BmRON2) fragments of the BmRON2 protein, with molecular weights of 70 and 29 kDa, respectively. Western blot assays showed that the native BmRON2 protein is approximately 170 kDa, and that rN-BmRON2 was recognized by serum of mice experimentally infected with B. microti. Immunofluorescence analysis indicated that the BmRON2 protein was located at the apical end of merozoites, at the opposite end of the nucleus. In vitro red blood cell invasion inhibition studies with B. microti rBmRON2 proteins showed that relative invasion rate of rN-BmRON2 and rC-BmRON2 group is 45 and 56%, respectively. Analysis of the host immune response after immunization and B. microti infection showed that both rN-BmRON2 and rC-BmRON2 enhanced the immune response, but that rN-BmRON2 conferred better protection than rC-BmRON2. In conclusion, our results indicate that truncated rhoptry neck protein 2, especially its N-terminal fragment (rN-BmRON2), plays an important role in the invasion of host red blood cells, confers immune protection, and shows good potential as a candidate vaccine against babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu chun Cai
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Public Health, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Chun li Yang
- Department of Clinical Research, The 903rd Hospital of PLA, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Hu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Public Health, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Peng Song
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Public Health, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Xu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Public Health, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Lu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Public Health, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Lin Ai
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Public Health, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan hong Chu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Public Health, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Mu xin Chen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Public Health, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Jia xu Chen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Public Health, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
| | - Shao hong Chen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
- Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, Ministry of Public Health, Shanghai, China
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Science and Technology, Shanghai, China
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22
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Splenic Complications of Babesia microti Infection in Humans: A Systematic Review. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES & MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY 2020; 2020:6934149. [PMID: 32566058 PMCID: PMC7275217 DOI: 10.1155/2020/6934149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Splenic complications of acute Babesia microti infection include splenomegaly, splenic infarct, and splenic rupture. These complications are relatively rarely reported, and the aim of this research was to synthetize data on this topic according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines using the PubMed database. In this review, we find that unlike other severe complications of babesiosis, splenic infarct and rupture occur in younger and immunocompetent patients, and they do not correlate with parasitemia level. Furthermore, admission hemoglobin of 10 mg/dl or less, platelet count of 50 × 10⁹/L or less, presence of hemodynamic instability, and splenic rupture were associated independently with an increased risk of requiring splenectomy. As babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne zoonosis, we hope that this review will help to raise awareness among clinicians regarding this rare but potentially life-threatening complication.
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23
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de Pontes LG, Altei WF, Galan A, Bilić P, Guillemin N, Kuleš J, Horvatić A, Ribeiro LNDM, de Paula E, Pereira VBR, Lucheis SB, Mrljak V, Eckersall PD, Ferreira RS, Dos Santos LD. Extracellular vesicles in infectious diseases caused by protozoan parasites in buffaloes. J Venom Anim Toxins Incl Trop Dis 2020; 26:e20190067. [PMID: 32528536 PMCID: PMC7262785 DOI: 10.1590/1678-9199-jvatitd-2019-0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small membrane-bound vesicles of growing interest in vetetinary parasitology. The aim of the present report was to provide the first isolation, quantification and protein characterization of EVs from buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) sera infected with Theileria spp. Methods Infected animals were identified through optical microscopy and PCR. EVs were isolated from buffalo sera by size-exclusion chromatography and characterized using western blotting analysis, nanoparticle tracking analysis and transmission electron microscopy. Subsequently, the proteins from isolated vesicles were characterized by mass spectrometry. Results EVs from buffalo sera have shown sizes in the 124-140 nm range and 306 proteins were characterized. The protein-protein interaction analysis has evidenced biological processes and molecular function associated with signal transduction, binding, regulation of metabolic processes, transport, catalytic activity and response to acute stress. Five proteins have been shown to be differentially expressed between the control group and that infected with Theileria spp., all acting in the oxidative stress pathway. Conclusions EVs from buffaloes infected with Theileria spp. were successfully isolated and characterized. This is an advance in the knowledge of host-parasite relationship that contributes to the understanding of host immune response and theileriosis evasion mechanisms. These findings may pave the way for searching new EVs candidate-markers for a better production of safe biological products derived from buffaloes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leticia Gomes de Pontes
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Wanessa Fernanda Altei
- Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Department of Physiological Sciences, Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Asier Galan
- ERA Chair Team (VetMedZg), Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Petra Bilić
- ERA Chair Team (VetMedZg), Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nicolas Guillemin
- ERA Chair Team (VetMedZg), Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Josipa Kuleš
- ERA Chair Team (VetMedZg), Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Anita Horvatić
- ERA Chair Team (VetMedZg), Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lígia Nunes de Morais Ribeiro
- Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Eneida de Paula
- Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Vladimir Mrljak
- ERA Chair Team (VetMedZg), Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Peter David Eckersall
- ERA Chair Team (VetMedZg), Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.,Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom, UK
| | - Rui Seabra Ferreira
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.,Graduate Program in Clinical Research, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.,Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucilene Delazari Dos Santos
- Graduate Program in Tropical Diseases, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.,Graduate Program in Clinical Research, Botucatu Medical School (FMB), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil.,Center for the Study of Venoms and Venomous Animals (CEVAP), São Paulo State University (UNESP), Botucatu, SP, Brazil
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24
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Human babesiosis is reported throughout the world and is endemic in the northeastern and northern Midwestern United States and northeastern China. Transmission is primarily through hard bodied ticks. Most cases of severe disease occur in immunocompromised individuals and may result in prolonged relapsing disease or death. AREAS COVERED We provide a summary of evidence supporting current treatment recommendations for immunocompetent and immunocompromised individuals experiencing babesiosis. EXPERT OPINION Most cases of human babesiosis are successfully treated with atovaquone and azithromycin or clindamycin and quinine. Severe disease may require prolonged treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert P Smith
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Maine Medical Center, Portland, Maine; Tufts University School of Medicine , Boston, MA, USA
| | - Klaus-Peter Hunfeld
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Microbiology & Infection Control, Northwest Medical Centre, Medical Faculty, Goethe University , Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Peter J Krause
- Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine , New Haven, CT, USA
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Henning A, Clift SJ, Leisewitz AL. The pathology of the spleen in lethal canine babesiosis caused by Babesia rossi. Parasite Immunol 2020; 42:e12706. [PMID: 32119124 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
To provide useful information based on the macropathology, histopathology and immunohistochemical investigation in the spleens of dogs with Babesia rossi infection. Control spleens were collected from four healthy dogs euthanized for welfare reasons. Nine dogs that died naturally because of a mono-infection with Babesia rossi were selected for the diseased group. One haematoxylin-and-eosin-stained section of splenic tissue from each of the infected and control dogs was examined under the light microscope. Immunohistochemical markers were applied to characterize different immunocyte populations. The application of analytic software enabled semi-quantitative comparison of leucocyte subpopulations. Routine splenic histopathology revealed diffuse intermingling of white and red pulp from infected dogs with a clear loss of distinction between these zones. Immunohistochemistry revealed an increase in the proportion of tissue resident and bone marrow origin macrophages in the infected spleens. Apart from a few remnant lymphocytes within the peri-arteriolar lymphatic sheaths and follicles, the majority of the immunocytes redistributed to the red pulp, supporting the observation of white and red pulp intermingling. The majority of our findings are in agreement with histomorphological descriptions of the spleen in a variety of noncanid mammalian hosts with lethal malaria or babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alischa Henning
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Sarah Jane Clift
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Andrew Lambert Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
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Abstract
PURPOSE To identify the imaging manifestations of splenic involvement in babesiosis, a potentially fatal tick-borne zoonosis with multi-organ involvement. METHODS In our single center HIPAA compliant IRB-approved study, we performed a retrospective search of the electronic medical record at our institution to identify all patients with known or suspected acute babesiosis from 2000 to 2017. We then reviewed all abdominal imaging of patients with confirmed disease to identify incidence and characteristics of splenic involvement. Splenomegaly was determined using a height- and gender-adjusted reference. RESULTS After exclusions, 63 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of babesiosis and contemporaneous imaging of the spleen were included in the final cohort. Within this cohort, 56 (89%) had splenomegaly at a minimum and 13 had splenic infarcts. Splenic rupture was present in eight patients with three having a pseudoaneurysm. In 14 patients with follow-up imaging, the spleen subsequently diminished in size. One additional patient with ruptured spleen underwent emergency splenectomy prior to imaging. CONCLUSION Although the literature suggests splenic involvement is a rare finding, acute parasitemia with babesiosis commonly affects the spleen. Recognition of this association can aid radiologists diagnosing splenic involvement in babesiosis and can lead to appropriate intervention in the minority with splenic hemorrhage.
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A Comparison Between Manual Count, Flow Cytometry and Quantitative Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction as a Means of Determining Babesia rossi Parasitaemia in Naturally Infected Dogs. Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:128-135. [PMID: 31721056 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-019-00134-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Light microscopic manual count is the current gold standard for parasite quantification. The ability to determine parasite density in whole blood is crucial to understanding disease pathogenesis and finding a suitable automated method of Babesia rossi parasite quantification would facilitate higher throughput and provide results that are more objective. This study investigated both peripheral capillary and central venous whole blood to estimate the correlations between light microscopy, flow cytometry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). METHODS Peripheral capillary and central venous blood were sampled from 40 naturally B. rossi-infected dogs and 10 healthy control dogs. Samples were analysed by reverse line blot hybridization assay to confirm a mono-B. rossi infection. Capillary blood parasite density was detected using light microscopic manual counting and venous blood parasitaemia detected by manual counts, flow cytometry and qPCR. RESULTS A significant correlation was found between the venous manual counts and flow cytometry (rs = 0.465; P < 0.001), as well as qPCR (rs = - 0.500; P < 0.001). A significant correlation was also observed between the capillary manual counts compared to venous manual counts (rs = 0.793; P < 0.001), flow cytometry (rs = 0.399; P = 0.004), and qPCR (rs = - 0.526; P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The study results suggest that qPCR is of value as an alternative to the gold standard manual count for detecting B. rossi parasitaemia in canine whole blood and that flow cytometry may be useful with further refinement of issues such as background fluorescence and the influence of reticulocytes.
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28
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Zhao L, Jiang R, Jia N, Ning N, Zheng Y, Huo Q, Sun Y, Yuan T, Jiang B, Li T, Liu H, Liu X, Chu Y, Wei R, Bian C, Wang H, Song J, Wang H, Jiang J, Cao W. Human Case Infected With Babesia venatorum: A 5-Year Follow-Up Study. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa062. [PMID: 32190710 PMCID: PMC7066795 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human babesiosis is a common zoonosis caused by Babesia and is attracting an increasing concern worldwide. The natural course of babesiosis infection and how the human immune system changes during the course of babesiosis infection are not clear. Methods We followed up 1 case infected with Babesia venatorum for 5 years. The patient was immune-intact and received no standard treatment. Clinical data were obtained from medical records. Microbiological tests, ribonucleic acid (RNA) sequence, and serum cytokines and chemokines were detected at different time points. Results The patient was confirmed as B venatorum infection based on his tick-bite history, clinical manifestations, and positive results of microbiological tests. The parasitemia of the patient persisted for approximately 2 months. With flu-like symptoms aggravating, most cytokines and chemokines in RNA and protein levels increased progressively and reached the peak when fever occurred; and their concentrations decreased to baseline during the same time as clearance of babesia parasites. Conclusions Babesia venatorum infection could take a mild self-limited course in immune-intact individuals. The natural changes of most cytokines and chemokines demonstrated very similar trends, which correlated with blood parasitemia and clinical manifestations. Cytokine profiles involving multiple inflammatory cytokines might be a good indicator of babesia infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Institute of EcoHealth, School of Public Health, Shandong University, Jinan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruiruo Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Institute of NBC Defense, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Na Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Nianzhi Ning
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanchun Zheng
- Mudanjiang Forestry Central Hospital, Mudanjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiubo Huo
- Mudanjiang Forestry Central Hospital, Mudanjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tingting Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Baogui Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongbo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Center for Disease Control and Prevention of PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Center for Disease Control and Prevention of PLA, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanli Chu
- Mudanjiang Forestry Central Hospital, Mudanjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Ran Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Cai Bian
- Mudanjiang Forestry Central Hospital, Mudanjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Juliang Song
- Mudanjiang Forestry Central Hospital, Mudanjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiafu Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wuchun Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China.,Institute of EcoHealth, School of Public Health, Shandong University, Jinan, People's Republic of China
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Celliers A, Rautenbach Y, Hooijberg E, Christopher M, Goddard A. Neutrophil Myeloperoxidase Index in Dogs With Babesiosis Caused by Babesia rossi. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:72. [PMID: 32133380 PMCID: PMC7040022 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis caused by the virulent tick-borne hemoprotozoan, Babesia rossi, results in a marked systemic inflammatory host response in dogs. Neutrophils form part of the innate immune response and contains myeloperoxidase (MPO) as the predominant component of the neutrophil lysosomal protein in azurophilic granules. The neutrophil myeloperoxidase index (MPXI), determined on the ADVIA hematology analyzer, is a quantitative estimate of intracellular MPO content. Objectives of this study were to: (a) compare MPXI in dogs with babesiosis with healthy control dogs; (b) compare MPXI in dogs that died from babesiosis with dogs that survived and controls; and (c) correlate the MPXI with the previously determined segmented and band neutrophil count and cytokine concentrations in dogs with babesiosis. Data for 140 dogs naturally infected with B. rossi and 20 healthy control dogs were retrospectively evaluated. Neutrophil counts and MPXI were determined on an ADVIA 2120 analyzer. Cytokine concentrations [interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-18, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and monocyte chemo-attractant protein-1 (MCP-1)] were determined using a canine-specific multiplex immunoassay. The mortality rate of the Babesia-infected dogs was 11% (15/140). MPXI was significantly higher in Babesia-infected dogs (P = 0.033), and in Babesia-infected non-survivors (P = 0.011), compared with healthy control dogs. In Babesia-infected dogs a significant positive correlation was found between MPXI and IL-10 (r = 0.211, P = 0.039) and a significant negative correlation was found between MPXI and IL-8 (r = -0.350, P < 0.001). In Babesia-infected non-survivors, significant positive correlations were found between MPXI and IL-2 (r = 0.616, P = 0.033), IL-6 (r = 0.615, P = 0.033), IL-18 (r = 0.613, P = 0.034), GM-CSF (r = 0.630, P = 0.028), and MCP-1 (r = 0.713, P = 0.009). In Babesia-infected survivors, a significant negative correlation was found between MPXI and IL-8 (r = -0.363, P = 0.001). MPXI was correlated with pro-inflammatory cytokines in Babesia-infected dogs that died. The potential of MPXI as a novel marker of inflammation and prognosis in dogs infected with B. rossi, thus warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anri Celliers
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Yolandi Rautenbach
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Emma Hooijberg
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mary Christopher
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Amelia Goddard
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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30
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Tokmalaev AK, Chentsov VB, Malov VA, Maleyev VV, Kozhevnikova GM, Polovinkina NA, Golub VP, Konnov VV, Kharlamova TV. [Human babesiosis: clinical cases in the european part of the Russian Federation]. TERAPEVT ARKH 2019; 91:60-65. [PMID: 32598612 DOI: 10.26442/00403660.2019.11.000405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
The article describes four clinical observations of patients with babesiosis detected in the European part of the Russian Federation, two of whom were under the direct supervision of the authors. The analysis of epidemiological data, clinical picture, results of laboratory studies in the dynamics of the disease. Differential diagnosis and treatment are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - V B Chentsov
- Infectious Clinical Hospital №2 Moscow City Health Department
| | - V A Malov
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University)
| | | | | | | | - V P Golub
- Peoples Friendship University of Russia (RUDN)
| | - V V Konnov
- Peoples Friendship University of Russia (RUDN)
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31
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Persistence of Babesia microti Infection in Humans. Pathogens 2019; 8:pathogens8030102. [PMID: 31319461 PMCID: PMC6789900 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8030102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Persistent infection is a characteristic feature of babesiosis, a worldwide, emerging tick-borne disease caused by members of the genus Babesia. Persistence of Babesia infection in reservoir hosts increases the probability of survival and transmission of these pathogens. Laboratory tools to detect Babesia in red blood cells include microscopic detection using peripheral blood smears, nucleic acid detection (polymerase chain reaction and transcription mediated amplification), antigen detection, and antibody detection. Babesia microti, the major cause of human babesiosis, can asymptomatically infect immunocompetent individuals for up to two years. Chronically infected blood donors may transmit the pathogen to another person through blood transfusion. Transfusion-transmitted babesiosis causes severe complications and death in about a fifth of cases. Immunocompromised patients, including those with asplenia, HIV/AIDS, malignancy, or on immunosuppressive drugs, often experience severe disease that may relapse up to two years later despite anti-Babesia therapy. Persistent Babesia infection is promoted by Babesia immune evasive strategies and impaired host immune mechanisms. The health burden of persistent and recrudescent babesiosis can be minimized by development of novel therapeutic measures, such as new anti-parasitic drugs or drug combinations, improved anti-parasitic drug duration strategies, or immunoglobulin preparations; and novel preventive approaches, including early detection methods, tick-avoidance, and blood donor screening.
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32
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A clinical and pathological description of 320 cases of naturally acquired Babesia rossi infection in dogs. Vet Parasitol 2019; 271:22-30. [PMID: 31303199 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2019.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Babesia rossi causes the most severe clinical disease in dogs of all the babesia parasites. We included 320 naturally-infected dogs that presented for care at the Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital between 2006 and 2016. All dogs had mono-infections confirmed by multiplex PCR. The data allowed more accurate clinical classification of the disease and identified parameters that were associated with disease severity and death. Odds ratios for dying were significant (P < 0.05) for increased band neutrophil count, collapse at presentation; presence of cerebral signs; hypoglycaemia; hyperlactatemia; high urea, high creatinine; hyperbilirubinaemia; hypercortisolaemia; and hypothyroxinaemia. Joint component analysis confirmed that the variables with significant odds ratios grouped together with death. Yet, multivariate logistic regression was unable to identify a group of significant independent predictors of death. Receiver Operator Characteristic curves indicated that low total thyroid hormone, high bilirubin, high serum urea and high cortisol concentrations were the variables with the highest sensitivity and specificity for death. These data provide both the clinician and researcher with a set of easily-measured laboratory and clinical assessments to classify cases into those that are uncomplicated and those that are complicated. The disease is complex and multisystemic and probably involves mechanisms more proximal in the pathogenesis than those that have been evaluated.
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33
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Krause PJ. Human babesiosis. Int J Parasitol 2019; 49:165-174. [PMID: 30690090 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2018.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Babesiosis is a worldwide emerging tick-borne disease that is increasing in frequency and geographic range. It imposes a significant health burden, especially on those who are immunocompromised and those who acquire the infection through blood transfusion. Death from babesiosis occurs in up to 20 percent of these groups. Diagnosis is confirmed with identification of typical intraerythrocytic parasites on a thin blood smear or Babesia DNA using PCR. Treatment consists of atovaquone and azithromycin or clindamycin and quinine, and exchange transfusion in severe cases. Personal and communal protective measures can limit the burden of infection but it is important to recognize that none of these measures are likely to prevent the continued expansion of Babesia into non-endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Krause
- Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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34
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Blackwood B, Binder W. Unusual Complications From Babesia Infection: Splenic Infarction and Splenic Rupture in Two Separate Patients. J Emerg Med 2018; 55:e113-e117. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2018.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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35
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Zhou X, Huang JL, Shen HM, Xu B, Chen JH, Zhou XN. Immunomics analysis of Babesia microti protein markers by high-throughput screening assay. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2018; 9:1468-1474. [PMID: 30017725 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2018.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Revised: 07/01/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Babesia microti is a protozoan considered to be a major etiological agent of emerging human babesiosis. It imposes an increasing public-health threat and can be overlooked because of low parasitemia or mixed infection with other pathogens. More sensitive and specific antigens are needed to improve the diagnosis of babesiosis. To screen the immune diagnostic antigens of B. microti, 204 sequences from homologue proteins between B. microti and B. bovis genome sequences in PiroplasmaDB were selected. The high throughput cloned and expressed B. microti proteins were screened with the sera from the BALB/c mice infected by B. microti using protein arrays. Ten (5.9%, 10/169) highly immunoreactive proteins were identified, and most (80%, 8/10) of these highly immunoreactive proteins had not been characterized before, making them potentially useful as candidate antigens for the development of diagnostic tools for babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Zhou
- Medical School of Soochow University, No. 199 Renai Road, Suzhou 215123, People's Republic of China; National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ji-Lei Huang
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hai-Mo Shen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bin Xu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jun-Hu Chen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai 200025, People's Republic of China.
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Li S, Goyal B, Cooper JD, Abdelbaki A, Gupta N, Kumar Y. Splenic rupture from babesiosis, an emerging concern? A systematic review of current literature. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2018; 9:1377-1382. [PMID: 29954722 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Babesiosis is a relatively common tick-borne parasitic infection of erythrocytes primarily affecting the northeastern United States. Babesiosis' prevalence and presentation have earned it the monikers "malaria of the northeast" and "Nantucket fever". Clinical presentation ranges from asymptomatic infection to severe infection including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) or death. Since 2008, there have been a number of reports of splenic rupture in patients with the disease. We seek to provide a further understanding of this process, with the report of a case of splenic rupture followed by a systematic review of the current literature. We found that 87% of splenic rupture secondary to babesiosis occurred in male patients who are otherwise healthy, with an average of 56 years. Computed tomography is a reliable mode of diagnosis, and hemoperitoneum is the most common imaging finding. Patients with splenic rupture due to human babesiosis were successfully treated by various management strategies, such as conservative non-operative approach, splenic artery embolization, and splenectomy. The modality of treatment depends on patient's clinical course and hemodynamic stability, although spleen conserving strategy should be considered first whenever possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Li
- Department of Radiology, Yale New Haven Health Bridgeport Hospital, 267 Grant Street, Bridgeport, CT, 06610, United States.
| | - Bobby Goyal
- St. George's University School of Medicine, Grenada, West Indies.
| | - Joseph D Cooper
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, 111 East 210th Street, The Bronx, NY, 10467, United States.
| | - Ahmed Abdelbaki
- Department of Radiology, Yale New Haven Health Bridgeport Hospital, 267 Grant Street, Bridgeport, CT, 06610, United States.
| | - Nishant Gupta
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Medical Center, 630 W 168th St, New York, NY, 10032, United States.
| | - Yogesh Kumar
- Department of Radiology, Yale New Haven Health Bridgeport Hospital, 267 Grant Street, Bridgeport, CT, 06610, United States.
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Dumic I, Patel J, Hart M, Niendorf ER, Martin S, Ramanan P. Splenic Rupture as the First Manifestation of Babesia Microti Infection: Report of a Case and Review of Literature. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2018; 19:335-341. [PMID: 29567936 PMCID: PMC5878539 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.908453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Patient: Female, 79 Final Diagnosis: Splenic rupture due to babesia microti infection Symptoms: Abdominal discomfort • chest pain • fever • tachycardia Medication: — Clinical Procedure: Splenectomy Specialty: Infectious Diseases
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Dumic
- Department of Hospital Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire, WI, USA.,Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Janki Patel
- Division of Infectious Disease, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire, WI, USA
| | - Melissa Hart
- Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science, Rochester, MN, USA.,Department of Pathology, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire, WI, USA
| | - Eric R Niendorf
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire, WI, USA
| | - Scott Martin
- Department of Pathology, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire, WI, USA
| | - Poornima Ramanan
- Division of Clinical Microbiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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38
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Lobanov VA, Peckle M, Massard CL, Brad Scandrett W, Gajadhar AA. Development and validation of a duplex real-time PCR assay for the diagnosis of equine piroplasmosis. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:125. [PMID: 29499748 PMCID: PMC5834856 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2751-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is an economically significant infection of horses and other equine species caused by the tick-borne protozoa Theileria equi and Babesia caballi. The long-term carrier state in infected animals makes importation of such subclinical cases a major risk factor for the introduction of EP into non-enzootic areas. Regulatory testing for EP relies on screening of equines by serological methods. The definitive diagnosis of EP infection in individual animals will benefit from the availability of sensitive direct detection methods, for example, when used as confirmatory assays for non-negative serological test results. The objectives of this study were to develop a real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay for simultaneous detection of both agents of EP, perform comprehensive evaluation of its performance and assess the assay’s utility for regulatory testing. Results We developed a duplex qPCR targeting the ema-1 gene of T. equi and the 18S rRNA gene of B. caballi and demonstrated that the assay has high analytical sensitivities for both piroplasm species. Validation of the duplex qPCR on samples from 362 competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA)-negative horses from Canada and the United States yielded no false-positive reactions. The assay’s performance was further evaluated using samples collected from 430 horses of unknown EP status from a highly endemic area in Brazil. This set of samples was also tested by a single-target 18S rRNA qPCR for T. equi developed at the OIE reference laboratory for EP in Japan, and a previously published single-target 18S rRNA qPCR for B. caballi whose oligonucleotides we adopted for use in the duplex qPCR. Matching serum samples were tested for antibodies to these parasites using cELISA. By the duplex qPCR, T. equi-specific 18S rRNA qPCR and cELISA, infections with T. equi were detected in 87.9% (95% confidence interval, CI: 84.5–90.7%), 90.5% (95% CI: 87.3–92.3%) and 87.4% (95% CI: 84.0–90.2%) of the horses, respectively. The B. caballi prevalence estimates were 9.3% (95% CI: 6.9–12.4%) by the duplex qPCR and 7.9% (95% CI: 5.7–10.9%) by the respective single-target qPCR assay. These values were markedly lower compared to the seroprevalence of 58.6% (95% CI: 53.9–63.2%) obtained by B. caballi-specific cELISA. The relative diagnostic sensitivity of the duplex qPCR for T. equi was 95.5%, as 359 of the 376 horses with exposure to T. equi confirmed by cELISA had parasitemia levels above the detection limit of the molecular assay. In contrast, only 39 (15.5%) of the 252 horses with detectable B. caballi-specific antibodies were positive for this piroplasm species by the duplex qPCR. Conclusions The duplex qPCR described here performed comparably to the existing single-target qPCR assays for T. equi and B. caballi and will be more cost-effective in terms of results turnaround time and reagent costs when both pathogens are being targeted for disease control and epidemiological investigations. These validation data also support the reliability of the ema-1 gene-specific oligonucleotides developed in this study for confirmatory testing of non-negative serological test results for T. equi by qPCR. However, the B. caballi-specific qPCR cannot be similarly recommended as a confirmatory assay for routine regulatory testing due to the low level of agreement with serological test results demonstrated in this study. Further studies are needed to determine the transmission risk posed by PCR-negative equines with detectable antibodies to B. caballi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vladislav A Lobanov
- Centre for Food-borne and Animal Parasitology, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada.
| | - Maristela Peckle
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropedica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carlos L Massard
- Department of Animal Parasitology, Veterinary Institute, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropedica, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - W Brad Scandrett
- Centre for Food-borne and Animal Parasitology, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Alvin A Gajadhar
- Centre for Food-borne and Animal Parasitology, Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
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Galán A, Mayer I, Rafaj RB, Bendelja K, Sušić V, Cerón JJ, Mrljak V. MCP-1, KC-like and IL-8 as critical mediators of pathogenesis caused by Babesia canis. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0190474. [PMID: 29304171 PMCID: PMC5756041 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Canine babesiosis caused by the intraerythrocytic protozoan parasite Babesia canis is a tick-borne disease characterized by a host response that involves both cellular and humoral immunity. This study focuses on the secretion of cytokines Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF), Keratinocyte Chemotactic-like (KC-like), Interleukins (IL)-2, IL-7, IL-8, IL-10, IL-15, IL-18 and Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-1 (MCP-1) in babesiosis caused by Babesia canis upon treatment with Imizol®. We assessed time dependent changes in cytokine levels and tested whether these changes correlate with pathogenesis of the disease. Sixteen healthy dogs and 31 dogs infected with Babesia canis, of which 18 showed complications, were treated with Imizol®. One dog died during the study (3.2%). Longitudinal study was perfomed by monitoring dogs at the first day of presentation (day 1) and 6 days later (day 7). Our results show that higher MCP-1 levels on day 1 are positively associated with the occurrence of complications, (complicated vs. uncomplicated; p = 0.00016). A similar pattern was observed for KC-like on day 1 (p = 0.0326) and day 7 (p = 0.044). Moreover, babesiosis caused by B. canis produced a steady increase in IL-8 levels with a moderate to strong negative correlation with erythrocyte counts and hematocrit in uncomplicated diseased dogs only (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient rs = -0.582 and rs = -0.598 respectively). Like for MCP-1, KC-like levels also differed in complicated and uncomplicated diseased dogs on day 1 (p = 0.03236) and day 7 (p = 0.044). Furthermore, KC-like levels were strongly correlated with IL-8 levels (rs = 0.663-0.7) and non-segmented neutrophil counts (rs = 0.572-0.732) in both diseased groups. Analysis of ROC suggests the use of serum levels of MCP-1 and IL-7 as predictors of the occurrence of complications with an AUC of 0.906 and 0.896 respectively and linear combinations of MCP-1, KC-Like, IL-7 and GM-CSF with values up to AUC = 0.983. Cytokine cluster analysis presented in this study can contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of babesiosis and serve as a prognostic tool for the early detection of cases with highest likelihood of developing complications. Overall, our studies show that infection by B. canis elicits a cytokine pattern that is distinct from that observed with B. rossi, and that some of the inflammatory mediators can be useful to predict complications. Our results also suggest targets for the development of novel therapeutic strategies in babesiosis caused by B. canis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asier Galán
- ERA Chair project ''VetMedZg'', Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Iva Mayer
- Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Renata Barić Rafaj
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Velimir Sušić
- Department of Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Vladimir Mrljak
- ERA Chair project ''VetMedZg'', Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Clinic for Internal Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Ren B, Gupta N. Taming Parasites by Tailoring Them. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:292. [PMID: 28730142 PMCID: PMC5498469 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The next-generation gene editing based on CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) has been successfully implemented in a wide range of organisms including some protozoan parasites. However, application of such a versatile game-changing technology in molecular parasitology remains fairly underexplored. Here, we briefly introduce state-of-the-art in human and mouse research and usher new directions to drive the parasitology research in the years to come. In precise, we outline contemporary ways to embolden existing apicomplexan and kinetoplastid parasite models by commissioning front-line gene-tailoring methods, and illustrate how we can break the enduring gridlock of gene manipulation in non-model parasitic protists to tackle intriguing questions that remain long unresolved otherwise. We show how a judicious solicitation of the CRISPR technology can eventually balance out the two facets of pathogen-host interplay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingjian Ren
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biology, Humboldt UniversityBerlin, Germany
| | - Nishith Gupta
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biology, Humboldt UniversityBerlin, Germany
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Rautenbach Y, Goddard A, Thompson PN, Mellanby RJ, Leisewitz AL. A flow cytometric assessment of the lymphocyte immunophenotypes in dogs naturally infected with Babesia rossi. Vet Parasitol 2017; 241:26-34. [PMID: 28579026 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2017.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 04/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Immunity to Babesia infection requires both innate and acquired responses, including cell mediated- and humoral responses. The aims of this study were to investigate the variation in selected peripheral blood lymphocyte phenotypes in dogs with virulent babesiosis at presentation and over time after treatment, and to determine whether these were correlated with the severity of clinical signs. Forty-four dogs naturally infected with B. rossi were studied and 5 healthy dogs were included as controls. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein at admission, prior to any treatment, and at 24h and 48-72h. Leukocytes were incubated with canine specific, fluorochrome conjugated anti-CD3, anti-CD4, anti-CD8, and anti-B cell markers. Babesia-infected dogs were divided into complicated or uncomplicated groups on clinical grounds and in-house laboratory assays. The percentage CD3+ lymphocytes in the complicated group was lower compared to the controls (P=0.014) and uncomplicated group (P=0.007). The percentage CD4+ T lymphocytes in the complicated group was lower compared to the controls (P=0.027) and uncomplicated group (P=0.014). Both the complicated as well as the uncomplicated groups expressed a lower percentage CD8+ T lymphocytes compared to the control group (P<0.001 and P=0.005, respectively). The percentage B lymphocytes was higher in the complicated group at 48-72h. These findings could indicate the presence of a functional immune suppression secondary to increased apoptosis or redistribution of effector lymphocytes and/or a combination of other immune modulatory mechanisms induced by B. rossi infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yolandi Rautenbach
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Amelia Goddard
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Peter N Thompson
- Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Richard J Mellanby
- The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and The Roslin Institute, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew L Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Movilla R, Altet L, Serrano L, Tabar MD, Roura X. Molecular detection of vector-borne pathogens in blood and splenic samples from dogs with splenic disease. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:131. [PMID: 28285583 PMCID: PMC5346854 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2074-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The spleen is a highly perfused organ involved in the immunological control and elimination of vector-borne pathogens (VBP), which could have a fundamental role in the pathogenesis of splenic disease. This study aimed to evaluate certain VBP in samples from dogs with splenic lesions. Methods Seventy-seven EDTA-blood and 64 splenic tissue samples were collected from 78 dogs with splenic disease in a Mediterranean area. Babesia spp., Bartonella spp., Ehrlichia/Anaplasma spp., Hepatozoon canis, Leishmania infantum, hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. and Rickettsia spp. were targeted using PCR assays. Sixty EDTA-blood samples from dogs without evidence of splenic lesions were included as a control group. Results More than half (51.56%) of the biopsies (33/64) were consistent with benign lesions and 48.43% (31/64) with malignancy, mostly hemangiosarcoma (25/31). PCR yielded positive results in 13 dogs with spleen alterations (16.67%), for Babesia canis (n = 3), Babesia gibsoni (n = 2), hemotropic Mycoplasma spp. (n = 2), Rickettsia massiliae (n = 1) and “Babesia vulpes” (n = 1), in blood; and for B. canis, B. gibsoni, Ehrlichia canis and L. infantum (n = 1 each), in spleen. Two control dogs (3.3%) were positive for B. gibsoni and H. canis (n = 1 each). Benign lesions were detected in the 61.54% of infected dogs (8/13); the remaining 38.46% were diagnosed with malignancies (5/13). Infection was significantly associated to the presence of splenic disease (P = 0.013). There was no difference in the prevalence of infection between dogs with benign and malignant splenic lesions (P = 0.69); however B. canis was more prevalent in dogs with hemangiosarcoma (P = 0.006). Conclusions VBP infection could be involved in the pathogenesis of splenic disease. The immunological role of the spleen could predispose to alterations of this organ in infected dogs. Interestingly, all dogs with B. canis infection were diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma in the present survey. As previously reported, results support that VBP diagnosis could be improved by analysis of samples from different tissues. The sample size included here warrants further investigation. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-017-2074-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebeca Movilla
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Carrer de L'Hospital s/n, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Altet
- Vetgenomics, Edifici Eureka, Parc de Recerca de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lorena Serrano
- Vetgenomics, Edifici Eureka, Parc de Recerca de la Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - María-Dolores Tabar
- Hospital Veterinario San Vicente, Calle del Veterinario Manuel Isidro Rodríguez García N°17, 03690 San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain
| | - Xavier Roura
- Hospital Clínic Veterinari, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Carrer de L'Hospital s/n, 08193 Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain.
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Akel T, Mobarakai N. Hematologic manifestations of babesiosis. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2017; 16:6. [PMID: 28202022 PMCID: PMC5310009 DOI: 10.1186/s12941-017-0179-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesiosis, a zoonotic parasitic infection transmitted by the Ixodes tick, has become an emerging health problem in humans that is attracting attention worldwide. Most cases of human babesiosis are reported in the United States and Europe. The disease is caused by the protozoa of the genus Babesia, which invade human erythrocytes and lyse them causing a febrile hemolytic anemia. The infection is usually asymptomatic or self-limited in the immunocompetent host, or follows a persistent, relapsing, and/or life threatening course with multi-organ failure, mainly in the splenectomized or immunosuppressed patients. Hematologic manifestations of the disease are common. They can range from mild anemia, to severe pancytopenia, splenic rupture, disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC), or even hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH). CASE PRESENTATION A 70 year old immunocompetent female patient living in New York City presented with a persistent fever, night sweats, and fatigue of 5 days duration. Full evaluation showed a febrile hemolytic anemia along with neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Blood smear revealed intraerythrocytic Babesia, which was confirmed by PCR. Bone marrow biopsy was remarkable for dyserythropoiesis, suggesting possible HLH, supported by other blood workup meeting HLH-2004 trial criteria. CONCLUSION Human babesiosis is an increasing healthcare problem in the United States that is being diagnosed more often nowadays. We presented a case of HLH triggered by Babesia microti that was treated successfully. Also, we presented the hematologic manifestations of this disease along with their pathophysiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamer Akel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Staten Island University Hospital, 475 Seaview Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10305 USA
| | - Neville Mobarakai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Staten Island University Hospital, 475 Seaview Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10305 USA
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Silva JC, Cornillot E, McCracken C, Usmani-Brown S, Dwivedi A, Ifeonu OO, Crabtree J, Gotia HT, Virji AZ, Reynes C, Colinge J, Kumar V, Lawres L, Pazzi JE, Pablo JV, Hung C, Brancato J, Kumari P, Orvis J, Tretina K, Chibucos M, Ott S, Sadzewicz L, Sengamalay N, Shetty AC, Su Q, Tallon L, Fraser CM, Frutos R, Molina DM, Krause PJ, Ben Mamoun C. Genome-wide diversity and gene expression profiling of Babesia microti isolates identify polymorphic genes that mediate host-pathogen interactions. Sci Rep 2016; 6:35284. [PMID: 27752055 PMCID: PMC5082761 DOI: 10.1038/srep35284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesia microti, a tick-transmitted, intraerythrocytic protozoan parasite circulating mainly among small mammals, is the primary cause of human babesiosis. While most cases are transmitted by Ixodes ticks, the disease may also be transmitted through blood transfusion and perinatally. A comprehensive analysis of genome composition, genetic diversity, and gene expression profiling of seven B. microti isolates revealed that genetic variation in isolates from the Northeast United States is almost exclusively associated with genes encoding the surface proteome and secretome of the parasite. Furthermore, we found that polymorphism is restricted to a small number of genes, which are highly expressed during infection. In order to identify pathogen-encoded factors involved in host-parasite interactions, we screened a proteome array comprised of 174 B. microti proteins, including several predicted members of the parasite secretome. Using this immuno-proteomic approach we identified several novel antigens that trigger strong host immune responses during the onset of infection. The genomic and immunological data presented herein provide the first insights into the determinants of B. microti interaction with its mammalian hosts and their relevance for understanding the selective pressures acting on parasite evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana C. Silva
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Emmanuel Cornillot
- Institut de Biologie Computationnelle, IBC, Université de Montpellier, 860 rue St Priest, Bat 5 - CC05019, 34095 Montpellier, Cedex 5, France
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, IRCM - INSERM U896 & Université de Montpellier & ICM, Institut régional du Cancer Montpellier, Campus Val d’Aurelle, 34298 Montpellier, Cedex 5 France
| | - Carrie McCracken
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Sahar Usmani-Brown
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, 15 York St., New Haven, Connecticut, CT 06520 USA
- Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine, 60 College St., New Haven, Connecticut, CT 06520 USA
| | - Ankit Dwivedi
- Institut de Biologie Computationnelle, IBC, Université de Montpellier, 860 rue St Priest, Bat 5 - CC05019, 34095 Montpellier, Cedex 5, France
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, IRCM - INSERM U896 & Université de Montpellier & ICM, Institut régional du Cancer Montpellier, Campus Val d’Aurelle, 34298 Montpellier, Cedex 5 France
| | - Olukemi O. Ifeonu
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Jonathan Crabtree
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Hanzel T. Gotia
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Azan Z. Virji
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, 15 York St., New Haven, Connecticut, CT 06520 USA
| | - Christelle Reynes
- Institut de Genomique Fonctionnelle, IGF - CNRS UMR 5203, 141 rue de la cardonille, 34094 Montpellier, Cedex 05, France
| | - Jacques Colinge
- Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier, IRCM - INSERM U896 & Université de Montpellier & ICM, Institut régional du Cancer Montpellier, Campus Val d’Aurelle, 34298 Montpellier, Cedex 5 France
| | - Vidya Kumar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, 15 York St., New Haven, Connecticut, CT 06520 USA
| | - Lauren Lawres
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, 15 York St., New Haven, Connecticut, CT 06520 USA
| | | | | | - Chris Hung
- Antigen Discovery Inc., Irvine, CA, 92618 USA
| | - Jana Brancato
- Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine, 60 College St., New Haven, Connecticut, CT 06520 USA
| | - Priti Kumari
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Joshua Orvis
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Kyle Tretina
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Marcus Chibucos
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Sandy Ott
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Lisa Sadzewicz
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Naomi Sengamalay
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Amol C. Shetty
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Qi Su
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Luke Tallon
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Claire M. Fraser
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201 USA
| | - Roger Frutos
- Université de Montpellier, IES, UMR 5214, 860 rue de St Priest, Bt5, 34095 Montpellier, France
- CIRAD, UMR 17, Cirad-Ird, TA-A17/G, Campus International de Baillarguet, 34398 Montpellier, France
| | | | - Peter J. Krause
- Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine, 60 College St., New Haven, Connecticut, CT 06520 USA
| | - Choukri Ben Mamoun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Yale School of Medicine, 15 York St., New Haven, Connecticut, CT 06520 USA
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Bajer A, Rodo A, Mierzejewska EJ, Tołkacz K, Welc-Faleciak R. The prevalence of Dirofilaria repens in cats, healthy dogs and dogs with concurrent babesiosis in an expansion zone in central Europe. BMC Vet Res 2016; 12:183. [PMID: 27595920 PMCID: PMC5011868 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-016-0816-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dirofilaria repens is a mosquito-transmitted, filarial nematode parasitizing dogs, cats and other carnivores. Recently, this parasite has spread in central Europe, including Poland. The aim of the present study was to estimate the prevalence of D. repens in cats and dogs in different regions of the country and to investigate the occurrence and consequences of co-infection with another fast-spreading vector-borne parasite, Babesia canis. RESULTS In the period 2013-2015, 147 blood samples from cats from central Poland and 257 blood samples from dogs from central, northern, southern and western Poland were collected. Prevalence of D. repens was determined by amplification and sequencing of the 12S rDNA gene fragment. Among dogs, 94 samples originated from clinically healthy dogs from central Poland (Masovia) and 58 samples originated from dogs that were infected with B. canis. Prevalence of D. repens was compared between these two groups of dogs. For the first time D. repens was identified in a cat from central Europe (0.7 % [95 % CL: 0-4.1 %]). The DNA of the filarial endosymbiotic bacterium Wolbachia was detected in two cats (1.4 % [95 % CL: 0-5.5 %]). In dogs, the parasite was detected only in samples from central Poland (Masovia) (local prevalence = 38 % [95 % CL: 25.9-51.8 %]). Prevalence of D. repens was significantly higher in dogs with babesiosis (90 % [95 % CL: 81.6-94.5 %]). Co-infections of D. repens and B. canis were confirmed by sequencing in 30 dogs with babesiosis, but no co-infections were identified in healthy dogs from Masovia. Statistical analyses of blood parameters revealed that dogs with co-infections suffered more severe anemia and thrombocytopenia, but presented milder changes in biochemical parameters (i.e. less elevated concentration of alkaline phosphatase [ALP] and serum urea) suggesting lower risk of hepatic or renal failure in comparison to dogs infected only with B. canis. CONCLUSIONS These findings are important due to the spread of dirofilariosis and babesiosis in central Europe, as microfilaraemic dogs seem to be more prone to babesiosis. The possible protective effect of the nematode infection against hepatic or renal failure in canine babesiosis and its mechanisms require further investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bajer
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, 1 Miecznikowa Street, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland.
| | - Anna Rodo
- Department of Pathology and Veterinary Diagnostics, Warsaw University of Life Sciences- SGGW, 159c Nowoursynowska Street, 02-766, Warsaw, Poland.,Lab-Wet, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, ul. Wita Stwosza 30, 02-661, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ewa J Mierzejewska
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, 1 Miecznikowa Street, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Tołkacz
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, 1 Miecznikowa Street, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Renata Welc-Faleciak
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, 1 Miecznikowa Street, 02-096, Warsaw, Poland
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
Parasites are an important cause of human disease worldwide. The clinical severity and outcome of parasitic disease is often dependent on the immune status of the host. Specific parasitic diseases discussed in this chapter are amebiasis, giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, cyclosporiasis, cystoisosporiasis, microsporidosis, granulomatous amebic encephalitis, toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, malaria, babesiosis, strongyloidiasis, and scabies.
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Adekanmbi EO, Ueti MW, Rinaldi B, Suarez CE, Srivastava SK. Insulator-based dielectrophoretic diagnostic tool for babesiosis. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2016; 10:033108. [PMID: 27375817 PMCID: PMC4912563 DOI: 10.1063/1.4954196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Babesia species are obligate intraerythrocytic tick-borne protozoan parasites that are the etiologic agents of babesiosis, a potentially life-threatening, malaria-like illness in humans and animals. Babesia-infected people have been known to suffer from complications including liver problems, severe hemolytic anemia, and kidney failure. As reported by the Food and Drug Administration, 38% of mortality cases observed in transfusion recipients were associated with transfusion transmitted diseases of which babesiosis is the chief culprit. As of now, no tests have been licensed yet for screening blood donors for babesiosis. Current diagnostic tools for babesiosis including enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, fluorescence in situ hybridization, and polymerase chain reaction are expensive and burdened with multifarious shortcomings. In this research, a low-cost, high-specificity, quick, and easy-to-use insulator-based dielectrophoretic diagnostic tool is developed for characterizing and concentrating Babesia-infected cells in their homogenous mixture with healthy cell population. In this work, a mixture of Babesia-infected (varying parasitemia) and healthy red blood cells (RBCs or erythrocytes) was exposed to non-uniform electric fields in a fabricated microfluidic platform to manipulate and sort the Babesia-infected cells within a minute. At DC voltage configurations of 10 V and 0/6 V in the inlet and the two outlet channels, respectively, the diseased cells were seen to flow in a direction different from the healthy RBCs. Bright field and fluorescence microscopy were utilized to present qualitative differentiation of the healthy erythrocytes from the infected cells. The proposed micro device platform was able to enrich RBCs from 0.1% to ∼70% parasitemia. This device, when finally developed into a point-of-care diagnostic chip, would enhance the detection of Babesia-infected erythrocytes and as well serve as a precursor to babesiosis vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ezekiel O Adekanmbi
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Idaho , Moscow, Idaho 83844-1021, USA
| | - Massaro W Ueti
- Animal Disease Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture , Pullman, Washington 99164-7030, USA
| | - Brady Rinaldi
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Idaho , Moscow, Idaho 83844-1021, USA
| | - Carlos E Suarez
- Animal Disease Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture , Pullman, Washington 99164-7030, USA
| | - Soumya K Srivastava
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Idaho , Moscow, Idaho 83844-1021, USA
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Goddard A, Leisewitz AL, Kjelgaard-Hansen M, Kristensen AT, Schoeman JP. Excessive Pro-Inflammatory Serum Cytokine Concentrations in Virulent Canine Babesiosis. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150113. [PMID: 26953797 PMCID: PMC4783066 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesia rossi infection causes a severe inflammatory response in the dog, which is the result of the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine secretion. The aim of this study was to determine whether changes in cytokine concentrations were present in dogs with babesiosis and whether it was associated with disease outcome. Ninety-seven dogs naturally infected with B. rossi were studied and fifteen healthy dogs were included as controls. Diagnosis of babesiosis was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and reverse line blot. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein at admission, prior to any treatment. Cytokine concentrations were assessed using a canine-specific multiplex assay on an automated analyser. Serum concentrations of interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-18, granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) were measured. Twelve of the Babesia-infected dogs died (12%) and 85 survived (88%). Babesia-infected dogs were also divided into those that presented within 48 hours from displaying clinical signs, and those that presented more than 48 hours after displaying clinical signs. Cytokine concentrations were compared between the different groups using the Mann-Whitney U test. IL-10 and MCP-1 concentrations were significantly elevated for the Babesia-infected dogs compared to the healthy controls. In contrast, the IL-8 concentration was significantly decreased in the Babesia-infected dogs compared to the controls. Concentrations of IL-6 and MCP-1 were significantly increased in the non-survivors compared to the survivors. Concentrations for IL-2, IL-6, IL-18 and GM-CSF were significantly higher in those cases that presented during the more acute stage of the disease. These findings suggest that a mixed cytokine response is present in dogs with babesiosis caused by B. rossi, and that an excessive pro-inflammatory response may result in a poor outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amelia Goddard
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Andrew L. Leisewitz
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mads Kjelgaard-Hansen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Annemarie T. Kristensen
- Department of Veterinary Clinical and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Johan P. Schoeman
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Abstract
Babesiosis is caused by intraerythrocytic protozoan parasites that are transmitted by ticks, or less commonly through blood transfusion or transplacentally. Human babesiosis was first recognized in a splenectomized patient in Europe but most cases have been reported from the northeastern and upper midwestern United States in people with an intact spleen and no history of immune impairment. Cases are reported in Asia, Africa, Australia, Europe, and South America. Babesiosis shares many clinical features with malaria and can be fatal, particularly in the elderly and the immunocompromised.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edouard G Vannier
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, 800 Washington Street Box #041, Boston, MA 02111, USA
| | - Maria A Diuk-Wasser
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, 1200 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Choukri Ben Mamoun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, 15 York Street, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Peter J Krause
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, 60 College Street, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Yale School of Medicine, 15 York Street, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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Saifee NH, Krause PJ, Wu Y. Apheresis for babesiosis: Therapeutic parasite reduction or removal of harmful toxins or both? J Clin Apher 2015; 31:454-8. [DOI: 10.1002/jca.21429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter J. Krause
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases; Yale School of Public Health
| | - Yanyun Wu
- Transfusion Medicine; Bloodworks Northwest
- Department of Laboratory Medicine; Yale School of Medicine
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