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Chmelová Ľ, Kraeva N, Saura A, Krayzel A, Vieira CS, Ferreira TN, Soares RP, Bučková B, Galan A, Horáková E, Vojtková B, Sádlová J, Malysheva MN, Butenko A, Prokopchuk G, Frolov AO, Lukeš J, Horváth A, Škodová-Sveráková I, Feder D, Yu Kostygov A, Yurchenko V. Intricate balance of dually-localized catalase modulates infectivity of Leptomonas seymouri (Kinetoplastea: Trypanosomatidae). Int J Parasitol 2024; 54:391-400. [PMID: 38663543 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2024.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Nearly all aerobic organisms are equipped with catalases, powerful enzymes scavenging hydrogen peroxide and facilitating defense against harmful reactive oxygen species. In trypanosomatids, this enzyme was not present in the common ancestor, yet it had been independently acquired by different lineages of monoxenous trypanosomatids from different bacteria at least three times. This observation posited an obvious question: why was catalase so "sought after" if many trypanosomatid groups do just fine without it? In this work, we analyzed subcellular localization and function of catalase in Leptomonas seymouri. We demonstrated that this enzyme is present in the cytoplasm and a subset of glycosomes, and that its cytoplasmic retention is H2O2-dependent. The ablation of catalase in this parasite is not detrimental in vivo, while its overexpression resulted in a substantially higher parasite load in the experimental infection of Dysdercus peruvianus. We propose that the capacity of studied flagellates to modulate the catalase activity in the midgut of its insect host facilitates their development and protects them from oxidative damage at elevated temperatures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ľubomíra Chmelová
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Natalya Kraeva
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Andreu Saura
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Adam Krayzel
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Cecilia Stahl Vieira
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Biologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências e Biotecnologia, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Tainá Neves Ferreira
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Biologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências e Biotecnologia, Niterói, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Pedro Soares
- Biotechnology Applied to Pathogens (BAP), Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Barbora Bučková
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Arnau Galan
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Eva Horáková
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Barbora Vojtková
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jovana Sádlová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Marina N Malysheva
- Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anzhelika Butenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia; Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Galina Prokopchuk
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia; Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Alexander O Frolov
- Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia; Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Anton Horváth
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Ingrid Škodová-Sveráková
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia; Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Denise Feder
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Biologia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências e Biotecnologia, Niterói, Brazil; Universidade Federal Fluminense, Instituto de Biologia, Laboratório de Biologia de Insetos, Niterói, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Entomologia Molecular, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alexei Yu Kostygov
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia; Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Vyacheslav Yurchenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia.
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González-Montero MC, Andrés-Rodríguez J, García-Fernández N, Pérez-Pertejo Y, Reguera RM, Balaña-Fouce R, García-Estrada C. Targeting Trypanothione Metabolism in Trypanosomatids. Molecules 2024; 29:2214. [PMID: 38792079 PMCID: PMC11124245 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29102214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Infectious diseases caused by trypanosomatids, including African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), Chagas disease, and different forms of leishmaniasis, are Neglected Tropical Diseases affecting millions of people worldwide, mainly in vulnerable territories of tropical and subtropical areas. In general, current treatments against these diseases are old-fashioned, showing adverse effects and loss of efficacy due to misuse or overuse, thus leading to the emergence of resistance. For these reasons, searching for new antitrypanosomatid drugs has become an urgent necessity, and different metabolic pathways have been studied as potential drug targets against these parasites. Considering that trypanosomatids possess a unique redox pathway based on the trypanothione molecule absent in the mammalian host, the key enzymes involved in trypanothione metabolism, trypanothione reductase and trypanothione synthetase, have been studied in detail as druggable targets. In this review, we summarize some of the recent findings on the molecules inhibiting these two essential enzymes for Trypanosoma and Leishmania viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- María-Cristina González-Montero
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain; (M.-C.G.-M.); (J.A.-R.); (N.G.-F.); (Y.P.-P.); (R.M.R.)
| | - Julia Andrés-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain; (M.-C.G.-M.); (J.A.-R.); (N.G.-F.); (Y.P.-P.); (R.M.R.)
| | - Nerea García-Fernández
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain; (M.-C.G.-M.); (J.A.-R.); (N.G.-F.); (Y.P.-P.); (R.M.R.)
| | - Yolanda Pérez-Pertejo
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain; (M.-C.G.-M.); (J.A.-R.); (N.G.-F.); (Y.P.-P.); (R.M.R.)
- Instituto de Biomedicina (IBIOMED), Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Rosa M. Reguera
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain; (M.-C.G.-M.); (J.A.-R.); (N.G.-F.); (Y.P.-P.); (R.M.R.)
- Instituto de Biomedicina (IBIOMED), Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Rafael Balaña-Fouce
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain; (M.-C.G.-M.); (J.A.-R.); (N.G.-F.); (Y.P.-P.); (R.M.R.)
- Instituto de Biomedicina (IBIOMED), Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
| | - Carlos García-Estrada
- Departamento de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain; (M.-C.G.-M.); (J.A.-R.); (N.G.-F.); (Y.P.-P.); (R.M.R.)
- Instituto de Biomedicina (IBIOMED), Universidad de León, Campus de Vegazana s/n, 24071 León, Spain
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Freitas de Lima Hercos G, Gabriela Faleiro de Moura Lodi Cruz M, Clara Cassiano Martinho A, de Melo Resende D, Farago Nascimento D, Derksen Macruz P, Jorge Pilau E, Maria Fonseca Murta S, de Oliveira Rezende Júnior C. Optimization of benzenesulfonyl derivatives as anti-Trypanosomatidae agents: Structural design, synthesis, and pharmacological assessment against Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania infantum. Bioorg Med Chem 2024; 105:117736. [PMID: 38677111 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2024.117736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis and Chagas disease are neglected tropical diseases caused by Trypanosomatidae parasites. Given the numerous limitations associated with current treatments, such as extended treatment duration, variable efficacy, and severe side effects, there is an urgent imperative to explore novel therapeutic options. This study details the early stages of hit-to-lead optimization for a benzenesulfonyl derivative, denoted as initial hit, against Trypanossoma cruzi (T. cruzi), Leishmania infantum (L. infantum) and Leishmania braziliensis (L. braziliensis). We investigated structure - activity relationships using a series of 26 newly designed derivatives, ultimately yielding potential lead candidates with potent low-micromolar and sub-micromolar activities against T. cruzi and Leishmania spp, respectively, and low in vitro cytotoxicity against mammalian cells. These discoveries emphasize the significant promise of this chemical class in the fight against Chagas disease and leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Freitas de Lima Hercos
- Laboratório de Síntese de Candidatos a Fármacos (LaSFar), Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU), Uberlândia, MG 38400-902, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Clara Cassiano Martinho
- Laboratório de Síntese de Candidatos a Fármacos (LaSFar), Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU), Uberlândia, MG 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Daniela de Melo Resende
- Grupo de Genômica Funcional de Parasitos, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ Minas), Belo Horizonte, MG 30190-002, Brazil
| | - Danilo Farago Nascimento
- Laboratório de Síntese de Candidatos a Fármacos (LaSFar), Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU), Uberlândia, MG 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Paula Derksen Macruz
- Laboratório de Biomoléculas e Espectrometria de Massas (LaBioMass), Universidade Estadual de Maringá (UEM), Maringá, PR 807020-900, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Jorge Pilau
- Laboratório de Biomoléculas e Espectrometria de Massas (LaBioMass), Universidade Estadual de Maringá (UEM), Maringá, PR 807020-900, Brazil
| | - Silvane Maria Fonseca Murta
- Grupo de Genômica Funcional de Parasitos, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ Minas), Belo Horizonte, MG 30190-002, Brazil
| | - Celso de Oliveira Rezende Júnior
- Laboratório de Síntese de Candidatos a Fármacos (LaSFar), Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (UFU), Uberlândia, MG 38400-902, Brazil.
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Votýpka J, Zeman Š, Stříbrná E, Pajer P, Bartoš O, Kment P, Lukeš J, Lukeš J. Multiple and frequent trypanosomatid co-infections of insects: the Cuban case study. Parasitology 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38616408 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182024000453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
Trypanosomatids are obligate parasites of animals, predominantly insects and vertebrates, and flowering plants. Monoxenous species, representing the vast majority of trypanosomatid diversity, develop in a single host, whereas dixenous species cycle between two hosts, of which primarily insect serves as a vector. To explore in-depth the diversity of insect trypanosomatids including their co-infections, sequence profiling of their 18S rRNA gene was used for true bugs (Hemiptera; 18% infection rate) and flies (Diptera; 10%) in Cuba. Out of 48 species (molecular operational taxonomic units) belonging to the genera Vickermania (16 spp.), Blastocrithidia (7), Obscuromonas (4), Phytomonas (5), Leptomonas/Crithidia (5), Herpetomonas (5), Wallacemonas (2), Kentomonas (1), Angomonas (1) and two unnamed genera (1 + 1), 38 species have been encountered for the first time. The detected Wallacemonas and Angomonas species constitute the most basal lineages of their respective genera, while Vickermania emerged as the most diverse group. The finding of Leptomonas seymouri, which is known to rarely infect humans, confirms that Dysdercus bugs are its natural hosts. A clear association of Phytomonas with the heteropteran family Pentatomidae hints at its narrow host association with the insect rather than plant hosts. With a focus on multiple infections of a single fly host, using deep Nanopore sequencing of 18S rRNA, we have identified co-infections with up to 8 trypanosomatid species. The fly midgut was usually occupied by several Vickermania species, while Herpetomonas and/or Kentomonas species prevailed in the hindgut. Metabarcoding was instrumental for analysing extensive co-infections and also allowed the identification of trypanosomatid lineages and genera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Votýpka
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice (Budweis), Czechia
| | - Šimon Zeman
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Eva Stříbrná
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice (Budweis), Czechia
| | - Petr Pajer
- Military Health Institute, Military Medical Agency, Prague, Czechia
| | - Oldřich Bartoš
- Military Health Institute, Military Medical Agency, Prague, Czechia
| | - Petr Kment
- Department of Entomology, National Museum, Prague, Czechia
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Department of Ophthalmology, Thomayer University Hospital, Prague, Czechia
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice (Budweis), Czechia
- Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice (Budweis), Czechia
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5
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Tziouvara O, Petsana M, Kourounis D, Papadaki A, Basdra E, Braliou GG, Boleti H. Characterization of the First Secreted Sorting Nexin Identified in the Leishmania Protists. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4095. [PMID: 38612903 PMCID: PMC11012638 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25074095] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Proteins of the sorting nexin (SNX) family present a modular structural architecture with a phox homology (PX) phosphoinositide (PI)-binding domain and additional PX structural domains, conferring to them a wide variety of vital eukaryotic cell's functions, from signal transduction to membrane deformation and cargo binding. Although SNXs are well studied in human and yeasts, they are poorly investigated in protists. Herein, is presented the characterization of the first SNX identified in Leishmania protozoan parasites encoded by the LdBPK_352470 gene. In silico secondary and tertiary structure prediction revealed a PX domain on the N-terminal half and a Bin/amphiphysin/Rvs (BAR) domain on the C-terminal half of this protein, with these features classifying it in the SNX-BAR subfamily of SNXs. We named the LdBPK_352470.1 gene product LdSNXi, as it is the first SNX identified in Leishmania (L.) donovani. Its expression was confirmed in L. donovani promastigotes under different cell cycle phases, and it was shown to be secreted in the extracellular medium. Using an in vitro lipid binding assay, it was demonstrated that recombinant (r) LdSNXi (rGST-LdSNXi) tagged with glutathione-S-transferase (GST) binds to the PtdIns3P and PtdIns4P PIs. Using a specific a-LdSNXi antibody and immunofluorescence confocal microscopy, the intracellular localization of endogenous LdSNXi was analyzed in L. donovani promastigotes and axenic amastigotes. Additionally, rLdSNXi tagged with enhanced green fluorescent protein (rLdSNXi-EGFP) was heterologously expressed in transfected HeLa cells and its localization was examined. All observed localizations suggest functions compatible with the postulated SNX identity of LdSNXi. Sequence, structure, and evolutionary analysis revealed high homology between LdSNXi and the human SNX2, while the investigation of protein-protein interactions based on STRING (v.11.5) predicted putative molecular partners of LdSNXi in Leishmania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olympia Tziouvara
- Intracellular Parasitism Group, Department of Microbiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece; (O.T.); (M.P.); (D.K.); (A.P.)
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Marina Petsana
- Intracellular Parasitism Group, Department of Microbiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece; (O.T.); (M.P.); (D.K.); (A.P.)
- Department of Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, University of Thessaly, 2–4 Papasiopoulou Str., 35131 Lamia, Greece;
| | - Drosos Kourounis
- Intracellular Parasitism Group, Department of Microbiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece; (O.T.); (M.P.); (D.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Amalia Papadaki
- Intracellular Parasitism Group, Department of Microbiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece; (O.T.); (M.P.); (D.K.); (A.P.)
| | - Efthimia Basdra
- Department of Biological Chemistry, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece;
| | - Georgia G. Braliou
- Department of Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, University of Thessaly, 2–4 Papasiopoulou Str., 35131 Lamia, Greece;
| | - Haralabia Boleti
- Intracellular Parasitism Group, Department of Microbiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece; (O.T.); (M.P.); (D.K.); (A.P.)
- Bioimaging Unit, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece
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Cigler P, Moré G, Bize P, Meier CM, Frey CF, Basso W, Keller S. Trypanosomiasis: An emerging disease in Alpine swift ( Tachymarptis melba) nestlings in Switzerland? Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2024; 23:100895. [PMID: 38187443 PMCID: PMC10767487 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2023.100895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Alpine swifts (Tachymarptis melba) are sub-Saharan migratory birds, which, in Switzerland, nest in colonies that have been continuously monitored for over 40 years. In the summer of 2022, despite favourable environmental conditions, an unexpectedly high number of sudden mortalities (30-80%) occurred in 20 to 45-day-old nestlings from several nesting sites, of which 3 were monitored in detail. Nestlings submitted for post-mortem analysis (n = 5) were in good body condition but exhibited extensive subcutaneous haematomas (n = 5), myocardial petechiae (n = 2) and stunted growth of primary feathers (n = 1). In all birds, 4-5 μm large, amastigote-like protozoans were identified in skeletal and cardiac muscle sections. These tissues tested positive in a PCR targeting the 18S-rRNA gene of Trypanosoma spp. Amplified sequences showed 99.63% identity with sequences of Trypanosoma corvi (JN006854 and AY461665) and Trypanosoma sp. (AJ620557, JN006841). 72 blood smears of 45-day-old nestlings from two colonies were assessed, of which 20 contained trypomastigote forms, some with high parasitaemia (highest average of 56.4 in 10 high power fields, 400x magnification). Trypomastigote morphometrics (n = 36; mean total length = 30.0 μm; length of free flagellum = 5.8 μm) were consistent with those of T. bouffardi. These findings suggest that an avian trypanosomiasis causing mass nestling mortality could be an emerging disease in Swiss Alpine swift populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Cigler
- Institute for Fish and Wildlife Health, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - G Moré
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - P Bize
- Swiss Ornithological Institute, Seerose 1, 6204 Sempach, Switzerland
| | - C M Meier
- Swiss Ornithological Institute, Seerose 1, 6204 Sempach, Switzerland
| | - C F Frey
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - W Basso
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
| | - S Keller
- Institute for Fish and Wildlife Health, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 122, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
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Opperdoes FR, Záhonová K, Škodová-Sveráková I, Bučková B, Chmelová Ľ, Lukeš J, Yurchenko V. In silico prediction of the metabolism of Blastocrithidia nonstop, a trypanosomatid with non-canonical genetic code. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:184. [PMID: 38365628 PMCID: PMC10874023 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-10094-8] [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: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Almost all extant organisms use the same, so-called canonical, genetic code with departures from it being very rare. Even more exceptional are the instances when a eukaryote with non-canonical code can be easily cultivated and has its whole genome and transcriptome sequenced. This is the case of Blastocrithidia nonstop, a trypanosomatid flagellate that reassigned all three stop codons to encode amino acids. RESULTS We in silico predicted the metabolism of B. nonstop and compared it with that of the well-studied human parasites Trypanosoma brucei and Leishmania major. The mapped mitochondrial, glycosomal and cytosolic metabolism contains all typical features of these diverse and important parasites. We also provided experimental validation for some of the predicted observations, concerning, specifically presence of glycosomes, cellular respiration, and assembly of the respiratory complexes. CONCLUSIONS In an unusual comparison of metabolism between a parasitic protist with a massively altered genetic code and its close relatives that rely on a canonical code we showed that the dramatic differences on the level of nucleic acids do not seem to be reflected in the metabolisms. Moreover, although the genome of B. nonstop is extremely AT-rich, we could not find any alterations of its pyrimidine synthesis pathway when compared to other trypanosomatids. Hence, we conclude that the dramatic alteration of the genetic code of B. nonstop has no significant repercussions on the metabolism of this flagellate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred R Opperdoes
- de Duve Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Kristína Záhonová
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Vestec, Czechia
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Ingrid Škodová-Sveráková
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Barbora Bučková
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Ľubomíra Chmelová
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Vyacheslav Yurchenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia.
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Haroon M, Akhtar T, Mehmood H, da Silva Santos AC, da Conceição JM, Brondani GL, Silva Tibúrcio RD, Galindo Bedor DC, Viturino da Silva JW, Sales Junior PA, Alves Pereira VR, Lima Leite AC. Synthesis of hydrazinyl-thiazole ester derivatives, in vitro trypanocidal and leishmanicidal activities. Future Med Chem 2024; 16:221-238. [PMID: 38269432 DOI: 10.4155/fmc-2023-0255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim: To synthesize novel more potent trypanocidal and leishmanicidal agents. Methods: Hantzsch's synthetic strategy was used to synthesize 1,3-thiazole-4-carboxylates and their N-benzylated derivatives. Results: 28 new thiazole-carboxylates and their N-benzylated derivatives were established to test their trypanocidal and leishmanicidal activities. From both series, compounds 3b, 4f, 4g, 4j and 4n exhibited a better or comparable trypanocidal profile to benznidazole. Among all tested compounds, 4n was found to be the most potent and was better than benznidazole. Conclusion: Further variation of substituents around 1,3-thiazole-4-carboxylates and or hydrazinyl moiety may assist in establishing better and more potent trypanocidal and leishmanicidal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Haroon
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, Miami University, 651 E High Street, Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Tashfeen Akhtar
- Department of Chemistry, Mirpur University of Science & Technology (MUST), 10250-Mirpur (AJK), Pakistan
| | - Hasnain Mehmood
- Department of Chemistry, Mirpur University of Science & Technology (MUST), 10250-Mirpur (AJK), Pakistan
| | | | - Juliana M da Conceição
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Graziella Leite Brondani
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Robert da Silva Tibúrcio
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Danilo C Galindo Bedor
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - José W Viturino da Silva
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | | | | | - Ana C Lima Leite
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Federal University of Pernambuco, 50740-520, Recife, PE, Brazil
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9
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Tullume-Vergara PO, Caicedo KYO, Tantalean JFC, Serrano MG, Buck GA, Teixeira MMG, Shaw JJ, Alves JMP. Genomes of Endotrypanum monterogeii from Panama and Zelonia costaricensis from Brazil: Expansion of Multigene Families in Leishmaniinae Parasites That Are Close Relatives of Leishmania spp. Pathogens 2023; 12:1409. [PMID: 38133293 PMCID: PMC10747355 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12121409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The Leishmaniinae subfamily of the Trypanosomatidae contains both genus Zelonia (monoxenous) and Endotrypanum (dixenous). They are amongst the nearest known relatives of Leishmania, which comprises many human pathogens widespread in the developing world. These closely related lineages are models for the genomic biology of monoxenous and dixenous parasites. Herein, we used comparative genomics to identify the orthologous groups (OGs) shared among 26 Leishmaniinae species to investigate gene family expansion/contraction and applied two phylogenomic approaches to confirm relationships within the subfamily. The Endotrypanum monterogeii and Zelonia costaricensis genomes were assembled, with sizes of 29.9 Mb and 38.0 Mb and 9.711 and 12.201 predicted protein-coding genes, respectively. The genome of E. monterogeii displayed a higher number of multicopy cell surface protein families, including glycoprotein 63 and glycoprotein 46, compared to Leishmania spp. The genome of Z. costaricensis presents expansions of BT1 and amino acid transporters and proteins containing leucine-rich repeat domains, as well as a loss of ABC-type transporters. In total, 415 and 85 lineage-specific OGs were identified in Z. costaricensis and E. monterogeii. The evolutionary relationships within the subfamily were confirmed using the supermatrix (3384 protein-coding genes) and supertree methods. Overall, this study showed new expansions of multigene families in monoxenous and dixenous parasites of the subfamily Leishmaniinae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Percy O. Tullume-Vergara
- Department of Parasitology, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1374, Sao Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil; (P.O.T.-V.); (K.Y.O.C.); (J.F.C.T.); (M.M.G.T.); (J.J.S.)
| | - Kelly Y. O. Caicedo
- Department of Parasitology, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1374, Sao Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil; (P.O.T.-V.); (K.Y.O.C.); (J.F.C.T.); (M.M.G.T.); (J.J.S.)
| | - Jose F. C. Tantalean
- Department of Parasitology, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1374, Sao Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil; (P.O.T.-V.); (K.Y.O.C.); (J.F.C.T.); (M.M.G.T.); (J.J.S.)
| | - Myrna G. Serrano
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 1101 E Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (M.G.S.); (G.A.B.)
| | - Gregory A. Buck
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 1101 E Marshall St., Richmond, VA 23298, USA; (M.G.S.); (G.A.B.)
| | - Marta M. G. Teixeira
- Department of Parasitology, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1374, Sao Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil; (P.O.T.-V.); (K.Y.O.C.); (J.F.C.T.); (M.M.G.T.); (J.J.S.)
| | - Jeffrey J. Shaw
- Department of Parasitology, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1374, Sao Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil; (P.O.T.-V.); (K.Y.O.C.); (J.F.C.T.); (M.M.G.T.); (J.J.S.)
| | - Joao M. P. Alves
- Department of Parasitology, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, University of Sao Paulo, Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 1374, Sao Paulo 05508-000, SP, Brazil; (P.O.T.-V.); (K.Y.O.C.); (J.F.C.T.); (M.M.G.T.); (J.J.S.)
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10
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Campbell PC, de Graffenried CL. Morphogenesis in Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes proceeds via a highly asymmetric cell division. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011731. [PMID: 37917723 PMCID: PMC10656021 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi is a protist parasite that is the causative agent of Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease endemic to the Americas. T. cruzi cells are highly polarized and undergo morphological changes as they cycle within their insect and mammalian hosts. Work on related trypanosomatids has described cell division mechanisms in several life-cycle stages and identified a set of essential morphogenic proteins that serve as markers for key events during trypanosomatid division. Here, we use Cas9-based tagging of morphogenic genes, live-cell imaging, and expansion microscopy to study the cell division mechanism of the insect-resident epimastigote form of T. cruzi, which represents an understudied trypanosomatid morphotype. We find that T. cruzi epimastigote cell division is highly asymmetric, producing one daughter cell that is significantly smaller than the other. Daughter cell division rates differ by 4.9 h, which may be a consequence of this size disparity. Many of the morphogenic proteins identified in T. brucei have altered localization patterns in T. cruzi epimastigotes, which may reflect fundamental differences in the cell division mechanism of this life cycle stage, which widens and shortens the cell body to accommodate the duplicated organelles and cleavage furrow rather than elongating the cell body along the long axis of the cell, as is the case in life-cycle stages that have been studied in T. brucei. This work provides a foundation for further investigations of T. cruzi cell division and shows that subtle differences in trypanosomatid cell morphology can alter how these parasites divide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul C. Campbell
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Christopher L. de Graffenried
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
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11
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Rudelli C, Isani G, Andreani G, Tedesco P, Galuppi R. Detection of Lotmaria passim in honeybees from Emilia Romagna (Italy) based on a culture method. J Invertebr Pathol 2023; 201:108007. [PMID: 37839581 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2023.108007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Lotmaria passim is considered an emerging field of study in honeybee pathology, since it can threaten the health of the colony leading to a higher mortality rate. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding the diffusion of this trypanosomatid in Italy. In this study, we highlight the presence of L. passim in the province of Bologna through its culture isolation from honeybee guts and microscopic observation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Rudelli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Tolara di sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy
| | - Gloria Isani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Tolara di sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Andreani
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Tolara di sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy
| | - Perla Tedesco
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Tolara di sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Roberta Galuppi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, via Tolara di sopra 50, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy
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12
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Klocek D, Grybchuk D, Tichá L, Votýpka J, Volf P, Kostygov AY, Yurchenko V. Evolution of RNA viruses in trypanosomatids: new insights from the analysis of Sauroleishmania. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2279-2286. [PMID: 37490143 PMCID: PMC10495512 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07928-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
RNA viruses play an important role in Leishmania biology and virulence. Their presence was documented in three (out of four) Leishmania subgenera. Sauroleishmania of reptiles remained the only underinvestigated group. In this work, we analyzed the viral occurrence in Sauroleishmania spp. and detected RNA viruses in three out of seven isolates under study. These viruses were of two families-Narnaviridae and Totiviridae. Phylogenetic inferences demonstrated that totiviruses from L. adleri and L. tarentolae group together within a larger cluster of LRV2s, while a narnavirus of L. gymnodactyli appeared as a phylogenetic relative of narnaviruses of Blechomonas spp. Taken together, our work not only expanded the range of trypanosomatids that can host RNA viruses but also shed new light on the evolution and potential routes of viral transmission in these flagellates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donnamae Klocek
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
| | - Danyil Grybchuk
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia
- Central European Institute of Technology, Masaryk University, Brno, Czechia
| | - Lucie Tichá
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Jan Votýpka
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Petr Volf
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Alexei Yu Kostygov
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia.
| | - Vyacheslav Yurchenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czechia.
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13
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Albanaz ATS, Carrington M, Frolov AO, Ganyukova AI, Gerasimov ES, Kostygov AY, Lukeš J, Malysheva MN, Votýpka J, Zakharova A, Záhonová K, Zimmer SL, Yurchenko V, Butenko A. Shining the spotlight on the neglected: new high-quality genome assemblies as a gateway to understanding the evolution of Trypanosomatidae. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:471. [PMID: 37605127 PMCID: PMC10441713 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09591-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Protists of the family Trypanosomatidae (phylum Euglenozoa) have gained notoriety as parasites affecting humans, domestic animals, and agricultural plants. However, the true extent of the group's diversity spreads far beyond the medically and veterinary relevant species. We address several knowledge gaps in trypanosomatid research by undertaking sequencing, assembly, and analysis of genomes from previously overlooked representatives of this protistan group. RESULTS We assembled genomes for twenty-one trypanosomatid species, with a primary focus on insect parasites and Trypanosoma spp. parasitizing non-human hosts. The assemblies exhibit sizes consistent with previously sequenced trypanosomatid genomes, ranging from approximately 18 Mb for Obscuromonas modryi to 35 Mb for Crithidia brevicula and Zelonia costaricensis. Despite being the smallest, the genome of O. modryi has the highest content of repetitive elements, contributing nearly half of its total size. Conversely, the highest proportion of unique DNA is found in the genomes of Wallacemonas spp., with repeats accounting for less than 8% of the assembly length. The majority of examined species exhibit varying degrees of aneuploidy, with trisomy being the most frequently observed condition after disomy. CONCLUSIONS The genome of Obscuromonas modryi represents a very unusual, if not unique, example of evolution driven by two antidromous forces: i) increasing dependence on the host leading to genomic shrinkage and ii) expansion of repeats causing genome enlargement. The observed variation in somy within and between trypanosomatid genera suggests that these flagellates are largely predisposed to aneuploidy and, apparently, exploit it to gain a fitness advantage. High heterogeneity in the genome size, repeat content, and variation in chromosome copy numbers in the newly-sequenced species highlight the remarkable genome plasticity exhibited by trypanosomatid flagellates. These new genome assemblies are a robust foundation for future research on the genetic basis of life cycle changes and adaptation to different hosts in the family Trypanosomatidae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda T S Albanaz
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Mark Carrington
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Alexander O Frolov
- Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 199034, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anna I Ganyukova
- Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 199034, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Evgeny S Gerasimov
- Faculty of Biology, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991, Moscow, Russia
- Martsinovsky Institute of Medical Parasitology, Sechenov University, 119435, Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexei Y Kostygov
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Marina N Malysheva
- Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 199034, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Jan Votýpka
- Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, 128 44, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Alexandra Zakharova
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Kristína Záhonová
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00, Ostrava, Czech Republic
- Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, 252 50, Vestec, Czech Republic
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2G3, Canada
| | - Sara L Zimmer
- Duluth Campus, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN, 55812, USA
| | - Vyacheslav Yurchenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00, Ostrava, Czech Republic.
| | - Anzhelika Butenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00, Ostrava, Czech Republic.
- Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
- Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
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14
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Petsana M, Roumia AF, Bagos PG, Boleti H, Braliou GG. In Silico Identification and Analysis of Proteins Containing the Phox Homology Phosphoinositide-Binding Domain in Kinetoplastea Protists: Evolutionary Conservation and Uniqueness of Phox-Homology-Domain-Containing Protein Architectures. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11521. [PMID: 37511280 PMCID: PMC10380299 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Kinetoplastea are free living and parasitic protists with unique features among Eukaryota. Pathogenic Kinetoplastea parasites (i.e., Trypanosoma and Leishmania spp.) undergo several developmental transitions essential for survival in their hosts. These transitions require membrane and cytoskeleton reorganizations that involve phosphoinositides (PIs). Phospholipids like PIs are key regulators of vital functions in all eukaryotes including signal transduction, protein transport and sorting, membrane trafficking, and cytoskeleton and membrane remodeling. A large repertoire of PI-metabolizing enzymes and PI-binding proteins/effectors carrying distinct PI-binding modules like the PX (phox homology) module could play significant roles in the life and virulence of pathogenic Kinetoplastea. The aim of this study was to retrieve the entire spectrum of Kinetoplastea protein sequences containing the PX module (PX-proteins), predict their structures, and identify in them evolutionary conserved and unique traits. Using a large array of bioinformatics tools, protein IDs from two searches (based on PFam's pHMM for PX domain (PF00787)) were combined, aligned, and utilized for the construction of a new Kinetoplastea_PX pHMM. This three-step search retrieved 170 PX-protein sequences. Structural domain configuration analysis identified PX, Pkinase, Lipocalin_5, and Vps5/BAR3-WASP domains and clustered them into five distinct subfamilies. Phylogenetic tree and domain architecture analysis showed that some domain architectures exist in proteomes of all Kinetoplastea spp., while others are genus-specific. Finally, amino acid conservation logos of the Kinetoplastea spp. and Homo sapiens PX domains revealed high evolutionary conservation in residues forming the critical structural motifs for PtdIns3P recognition. This study highlights the PX-Pkinase domain architecture as unique within Trypanosoma spp. and forms the basis for a targeted functional analysis of Kinetoplastea PX-proteins as putative targets for a rational design of anti-parasitic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Petsana
- Department of Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, University of Thessaly, 2-4 Papasiopoulou Str., 35131 Lamia, Greece
- Intracellular Parasitism Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Ahmed F Roumia
- Department of Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, University of Thessaly, 2-4 Papasiopoulou Str., 35131 Lamia, Greece
- Department of Agricultural Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Menoufia University, Shibin El-Kom 32514, Egypt
| | - Pantelis G Bagos
- Department of Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, University of Thessaly, 2-4 Papasiopoulou Str., 35131 Lamia, Greece
| | - Haralabia Boleti
- Intracellular Parasitism Laboratory, Department of Microbiology, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia G Braliou
- Department of Computer Science and Biomedical Informatics, University of Thessaly, 2-4 Papasiopoulou Str., 35131 Lamia, Greece
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15
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Campbell PC, de Graffenried CL. Morphogenesis in Trypanosoma cruzi epimastigotes proceeds via a highly asymmetric cell division. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.24.542100. [PMID: 37293088 PMCID: PMC10245916 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.24.542100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi is a protist parasite that is the causative agent of Chagas' disease, a neglected tropical disease endemic to the Americas. T. cruzi cells are highly polarized and undergo morphological changes as they cycle within their insect and mammalian hosts. Work on related trypanosomatids has described cell division mechanisms in several life-cycle stages and identified a set of essential morphogenic proteins that serve as markers for key events during trypanosomatid division. Here, we use Cas9-based tagging of morphogenic genes, live-cell imaging, and expansion microscopy to study the cell division mechanism of the insect-resident epimastigote form of T. cruzi, which represents an understudied trypanosomatid morphotype. We find that T. cruzi epimastigote cell division is highly asymmetric, producing one daughter cell that is significantly smaller than the other. Daughter cell division rates differ by 4.9 h, which may be a consequence of this size disparity. Many of the morphogenic proteins identified in T. brucei have altered localization patterns in T. cruzi epimastigoes, which may reflect fundamental differences in the cell division mechanism of this life cycle stage, which widens and shortens the cell body to accommodate the duplicated organelles and cleavage furrow rather than elongating the cell body along the long axis of the cell, as is the case in life-cycle stages that have been studied in T. brucei. This work provides a foundation for further investigations of T. cruzi cell division and shows that subtle differences in trypansomatid cell morphology can alter how these parasites divide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul C. Campbell
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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16
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Preativatanyou K, Chinwirunsirisup K, Phumee A, Khositharattanakool P, Sunantaraporn S, Depaquit J, Siriyasatien P. Species diversity of phlebotomine sand flies and sympatric occurrence of Leishmania (Mundinia) martiniquensis, Leishmania (Leishmania) donovani complex, and Trypanosoma spp. in the visceral leishmaniasis focus of southern Thailand. Acta Trop 2023; 244:106949. [PMID: 37211153 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Autochthonous leishmaniasis in Thailand has recently been a public health concern due to an increasing number of new clinical cases. Most indigenous cases were diagnosed with Leishmania (Mundinia) martiniquensis, and Leishmania (Mundinia) orientalis. However, some doubts regarding vector misidentification have arisen and need to be elucidated. Accordingly, we aimed to assess the species composition of sand flies and determine the molecular prevalence of trypanosomatids in the transmission area of leishmaniasis in southern Thailand. In the present study, a total of 569 sand flies were caught from the vicinity of a visceral leishmaniasis patient's house in Na Thawi District, Songkhla Province. Of these, 229 parous and gravid females consisted of Sergentomyia khawi, Se. barraudi, Phlebotomus stantoni, Grassomyia indica, and Se. hivernus, accounting for 31.4%, 30.6%, 29.7%, 7.9%, and 0.4%, respectively. However, Se. gemmea, which has previously been proposed as the most abundant species and putative vector of visceral leishmaniasis, was not found in the present study. Based on ITS1-PCR and sequence analysis, two specimens of Gr. indica and Ph. stantoni showed positive amplification of L. martiniquensis and L. donovani complex, respectively, the first one being presumed indigenous and the second one being not. Anuran Trypanosoma was also molecularly detected using SSU rRNA-PCR and ubiquitously found in sixteen specimens of four dominant sand fly species except for Se. hivernus. The obtained sequences could be phylogenetically categorized into the two major amphibian clades (An04/Frog1 and An01+An02/Frog2). The existence of the monophyletic subgroup and distinct lineage suggests them as novel Trypanosoma species. The TCS network analysis of these anuran Trypanosoma sequences also revealed high haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.925 ± 0.050), but low nucleotide diversity (π = 0.019 ± 0.009). Furthermore, the living anuran trypanosomes were microscopically demonstrated in a single specimen of Gr. indica, supporting the vectorial capacity. Importantly, our data confirmed the scarcity of Se. gemmea and also uncovered, for the first time, the co-circulation of L. martiniquensis, L. donovani complex, and suspected novel anuran Trypanosoma spp. in phlebotomine sand files, implicating their potential role as vectors of trypanosomatid parasites. Therefore, the novel data from this study would greatly facilitate the comprehension of the complexity of trypanosomatid transmission and the establishment of prevention and control measures for this neglected disease more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanok Preativatanyou
- Center of Excellence in Vector Biology and Vector-Borne Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand.
| | - Komson Chinwirunsirisup
- Center of Excellence in Vector Biology and Vector-Borne Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Atchara Phumee
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand; Excellent Center for Dengue and Community Public Health (EC for DACH), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80160, Thailand
| | - Pathamet Khositharattanakool
- School of Medicine, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand; Biomedical Technology Research Group for Vulnerable Populations, Mae Fah Luang University, Chiang Rai 57100, Thailand
| | - Sakone Sunantaraporn
- Center of Excellence in Vector Biology and Vector-Borne Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Jérôme Depaquit
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Université de Reims Champagne-Ardenne, SFR Cap Santé, EA7510 ESCAPE-USC ANSES VECPAR, Reims, France
| | - Padet Siriyasatien
- Center of Excellence in Vector Biology and Vector-Borne Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
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17
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Zakharova A, Tashyreva D, Butenko A, Morales J, Saura A, Svobodová M, Poschmann G, Nandipati S, Zakharova A, Noyvert D, Gahura O, Týč J, Stühler K, Kostygov AY, Nowack ECM, Lukeš J, Yurchenko V. A neo-functionalized homolog of host transmembrane protein controls localization of bacterial endosymbionts in the trypanosomatid Novymonas esmeraldas. Curr Biol 2023:S0960-9822(23)00542-0. [PMID: 37201521 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.04.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The stability of endosymbiotic associations between eukaryotes and bacteria depends on a reliable mechanism ensuring vertical inheritance of the latter. Here, we demonstrate that a host-encoded protein, located at the interface between the endoplasmic reticulum of the trypanosomatid Novymonas esmeraldas and its endosymbiotic bacterium Ca. Pandoraea novymonadis, regulates such a process. This protein, named TMP18e, is a product of duplication and neo-functionalization of the ubiquitous transmembrane protein 18 (TMEM18). Its expression level is increased at the proliferative stage of the host life cycle correlating with the confinement of bacteria to the nuclear vicinity. This is important for the proper segregation of bacteria into the daughter host cells as evidenced from the TMP18e ablation, which disrupts the nucleus-endosymbiont association and leads to greater variability of bacterial cell numbers, including an elevated proportion of aposymbiotic cells. Thus, we conclude that TMP18e is necessary for the reliable vertical inheritance of endosymbionts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Zakharova
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Daria Tashyreva
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05 České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
| | - Anzhelika Butenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05 České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic; Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, 370 05 České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
| | - Jorge Morales
- Institute of Microbial Cell Biology, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Andreu Saura
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Svobodová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05 České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
| | - Gereon Poschmann
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Satish Nandipati
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05 České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic; Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, 370 05 České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
| | - Alena Zakharova
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - David Noyvert
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Ondřej Gahura
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05 České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
| | - Jiří Týč
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05 České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
| | - Kai Stühler
- Institute of Microbial Cell Biology, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany; Institute of Molecular Medicine, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexei Y Kostygov
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic.
| | - Eva C M Nowack
- Institute of Microbial Cell Biology, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, 370 05 České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic; Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, 370 05 České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
| | - Vyacheslav Yurchenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic.
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18
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da Conceição JM, da Silva Santos AC, Brayner FA, Alves LC, Pinto AF, Brondani GL, de Oliveira Filho GB, Bedor DCG, da Silva JWV, Sales Junior PA, de Andrade Cavalcante MK, da Silva ED, Pereira VRA, Leite ACL. Structural design, synthesis, and anti-Trypanosomatidae profile of new Pyridyl-thiazolidinones. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 254:115310. [PMID: 37062170 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Abstract
The present work reports the synthesis of a novel series of pyridine-thiazolidinones with anti-Trypanosoma cruzi and leishmanicidal activities (compounds 10-27), derived from 2 or 4-pyridine thiosemicarbazones (1-9). The in vitro assays were performed with Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes and amastigotes, as well as with Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes and amastigotes. The cytotoxicity profile was evaluated using the cell line RAW 264.7. From the 18 pyridine-thiazolidinones, 5 were able to inhibit trypomastigotes. Overall, all compounds inhibited amastigotes, highlighting compounds 15 (0.60 μM), 18 (0.64 μM), 17 (0.81 μM), and 27 (0.89 μM). Compounds 15 and 18 were able to induce parasite cell death through necrosis induction. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy showed that T. cruzi trypomastigotes treated with compounds 15 and 18 induced morphological changes such as shortening, retraction and curvature of the parasite body and leakage of internal content. Regarding the antiparasitic evaluation against Leishmania amazonensis, only compound 27 had a higher selectivity compared to Miltefosine against the amastigote form (IC50 = 5.70 μM). Our results showed that compound 27 presented an antiparasitic activity for both Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania amazonensis. After in silico evaluation, it was suggested that the new pyridine-thiazolidinones had an appropriate drug-likeness profile. Our results pointed out a new chemical frame with an anti-Trypanosomatidae profile. The pyridine-thiazolidinones presented here for the first time could be used as a starting point for the development of new antiparasitic agents.
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19
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Barranco-Gómez O, De Paula JC, Parada JS, Gómez-Moracho T, Marfil AV, Zafra M, Orantes Bermejo FJ, Osuna A, De Pablos LM. Development of a TaqMan qPCR assay for trypanosomatid multi-species detection and quantification in insects. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:69. [PMID: 36788540 PMCID: PMC9930332 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05687-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trypanosomatid parasites are widely distributed in nature and can have a monoxenous or dixenous life-cycle. These parasites thrive in a wide number of insect orders, some of which have an important economic and environmental value, such as bees. The objective of this study was to develop a robust and sensitive real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay for detecting trypanosomatid parasites in any type of parasitized insect sample. METHODS A TaqMan qPCR assay based on a trypanosomatid-conserved region of the α-tubulin gene was standardized and evaluated. The limits of detection, sensitivity and versatility of the α-tubulin TaqMan assay were tested and validated using field samples of honeybee workers, wild bees, bumblebees and grasshoppers, as well as in the human infective trypanosomatid Leishmania major. RESULTS The assay showed a detection limit of 1 parasite equivalent/µl and successfully detected trypanosomatids in 10 different hosts belonging to the insect orders Hymenoptera and Orthoptera. The methodology was also tested using honeybee samples from four apiaries (n = 224 worker honeybees) located in the Alpujarra region (Granada, Spain). Trypanosomatids were detected in 2.7% of the honeybees, with an intra-colony prevalence of 0% to 13%. Parasite loads in the four different classes of insects ranged from 40.6 up to 1.1 × 108 cell equivalents per host. CONCLUSIONS These results show that the α-tubulin TaqMan qPCR assay described here is a versatile diagnostic tool for the accurate detection and quantification of trypanosomatids in a wide range of environmental settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Barranco-Gómez
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Jessica Carreira De Paula
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Jennifer Solano Parada
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Tamara Gómez-Moracho
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Ana Vic Marfil
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - María Zafra
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | | | - Antonio Osuna
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel De Pablos
- Departamento de Parasitología, Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain. .,Institute of Biotechnology, University of Granada, Granada, Spain.
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20
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Abstract
In this work we reviewed historical and recent data on Leishmania spp. infection combining data collected in Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Iran, China and Mongolia. We specifically focused on a complex of co-existing species (Leishmania major, Leishmania turanica and Leishmania gerbilli) sharing the same animal reservoirs and vectors. In addition, we analysed the presence of dsRNA viruses in these species and discussed future research directions to identify species-specific traits, which may determine susceptibility of different Leishmania spp. to viral infection.
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21
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Koual R, Buysse M, Grillet J, Binetruy F, Ouass S, Sprong H, Duhayon M, Boulanger N, Jourdain F, Alafaci A, Verdon J, Verheyden H, Rispe C, Plantard O, Duron O. Phylogenetic evidence for a clade of tick-associated trypanosomes. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:3. [PMID: 36604731 PMCID: PMC9817367 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05622-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trypanosomes are protozoan parasites of vertebrates that are of medical and veterinary concern. A variety of blood-feeding invertebrates have been identified as vectors, but the role of ticks in trypanosome transmission remains unclear. METHODS In this study, we undertook extensive molecular screening for the presence and genetic diversity of trypanosomes in field ticks. RESULTS Examination of 1089 specimens belonging to 28 tick species from Europe and South America led to the identification of two new trypanosome strains. The prevalence may be as high as 4% in tick species such as the castor bean tick Ixodes ricinus, but we found no evidence of transovarial transmission. Further phylogenetic analyses based on 18S rRNA, EF1-α, hsp60 and hsp85 gene sequences revealed that different tick species, originating from different continents, often harbour phylogenetically related trypanosome strains and species. Most tick-associated trypanosomes cluster in a monophyletic clade, the Trypanosoma pestanai clade, distinct from clades of trypanosomes associated with transmission by other blood-feeding invertebrates. CONCLUSIONS These observations suggest that ticks may be specific arthropod hosts for trypanosomes of the T. pestanai clade. Phylogenetic analyses provide further evidence that ticks may transmit these trypanosomes to a diversity of mammal species (including placental and marsupial species) on most continents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachid Koual
- grid.121334.60000 0001 2097 0141MIVEGEC, CNRS, IRD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Marie Buysse
- grid.121334.60000 0001 2097 0141MIVEGEC, CNRS, IRD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Justine Grillet
- grid.121334.60000 0001 2097 0141MIVEGEC, CNRS, IRD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Florian Binetruy
- grid.121334.60000 0001 2097 0141MIVEGEC, CNRS, IRD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Sofian Ouass
- grid.121334.60000 0001 2097 0141MIVEGEC, CNRS, IRD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Hein Sprong
- grid.31147.300000 0001 2208 0118Laboratory for Zoonoses and Environmental Microbiology (Z&O), Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute of Public Health and Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Maxime Duhayon
- grid.121334.60000 0001 2097 0141ASTRE, CIRAD, INRAE, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Nathalie Boulanger
- grid.11843.3f0000 0001 2157 9291UR7290: VBP: Borrelia Group, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, University of Strasbourg and French National Reference Center for Borrelia, Strasbourg, France
| | - Frédéric Jourdain
- grid.121334.60000 0001 2097 0141MIVEGEC, CNRS, IRD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Aurélien Alafaci
- grid.11166.310000 0001 2160 6368UMR CNRS 7267, EBI, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Julien Verdon
- grid.11166.310000 0001 2160 6368UMR CNRS 7267, EBI, University of Poitiers, Poitiers, France
| | - Hélène Verheyden
- grid.508721.9INRAE, CEFS, Université de Toulouse, Castanet Tolosan Cedex, France ,LTSER ZA PYRénées GARonne, Auzeville-Tolosane, France
| | - Claude Rispe
- grid.418682.10000 0001 2175 3974Oniris, INRAE, BIOEPAR, Nantes, France
| | - Olivier Plantard
- grid.418682.10000 0001 2175 3974Oniris, INRAE, BIOEPAR, Nantes, France
| | - Olivier Duron
- grid.121334.60000 0001 2097 0141MIVEGEC, CNRS, IRD, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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22
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Kachale A, Pavlíková Z, Nenarokova A, Roithová A, Durante IM, Miletínová P, Záhonová K, Nenarokov S, Votýpka J, Horáková E, Ross RL, Yurchenko V, Beznosková P, Paris Z, Valášek LS, Lukeš J. Short tRNA anticodon stem and mutant eRF1 allow stop codon reassignment. Nature 2023; 613:751-758. [PMID: 36631608 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05584-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Cognate tRNAs deliver specific amino acids to translating ribosomes according to the standard genetic code, and three codons with no cognate tRNAs serve as stop codons. Some protists have reassigned all stop codons as sense codons, neglecting this fundamental principle1-4. Here we analyse the in-frame stop codons in 7,259 predicted protein-coding genes of a previously undescribed trypanosomatid, Blastocrithidia nonstop. We reveal that in this species in-frame stop codons are underrepresented in genes expressed at high levels and that UAA serves as the only termination codon. Whereas new tRNAsGlu fully cognate to UAG and UAA evolved to reassign these stop codons, the UGA reassignment followed a different path through shortening the anticodon stem of tRNATrpCCA from five to four base pairs (bp). The canonical 5-bp tRNATrp recognizes UGG as dictated by the genetic code, whereas its shortened 4-bp variant incorporates tryptophan also into in-frame UGA. Mimicking this evolutionary twist by engineering both variants from B. nonstop, Trypanosoma brucei and Saccharomyces cerevisiae and expressing them in the last two species, we recorded a significantly higher readthrough for all 4-bp variants. Furthermore, a gene encoding B. nonstop release factor 1 acquired a mutation that specifically restricts UGA recognition, robustly potentiating the UGA reassignment. Virtually the same strategy has been adopted by the ciliate Condylostoma magnum. Hence, we describe a previously unknown, universal mechanism that has been exploited in unrelated eukaryotes with reassigned stop codons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ambar Kachale
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Pavlíková
- Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Anna Nenarokova
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.,School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Adriana Roithová
- Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Ignacio M Durante
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Miletínová
- Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Kristína Záhonová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Prague, Czech Republic.,Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Serafim Nenarokov
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Votýpka
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.,Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Eva Horáková
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.,Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Třeboň, Czech Republic
| | | | - Vyacheslav Yurchenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Petra Beznosková
- Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Paris
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic. .,Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
| | | | - Julius Lukeš
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic. .,Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
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23
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First Evidence of Co-Circulation of Emerging Leishmania martiniquensis, Leishmania orientalis, and Crithidia sp. in Culicoides Biting Midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), the Putative Vectors for Autochthonous Transmission in Southern Thailand. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7110379. [PMID: 36422930 PMCID: PMC9696774 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7110379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 1996, autochthonous cases of emerging leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania (Mundinia) martiniquensis and Leishmania (Mundinia) orientalis have been more frequently reported, especially in the northern and southern parts of Thailand. However, the accurate identification of their natural vectors and reservoirs remains unconfirmed. Previous studies have suggested that these emerging parasites might be transmitted by other non-phlebotomine vectors. Herein, we speculated that Culicoides biting midges might act as the competent vectors responsible for autochthonous leishmaniasis in southern Thailand. In this research, 187 non-engorged, parous and gravid Culicoides females and 47 blood-engorged ones were trapped from the residences of two recently diagnosed visceral leishmaniasis patients in Sadao District and the unaffected site in Rattaphum District, Songkhla Province, southern Thailand. Species diversity and abundance of biting midges varied among the trapping sites. Using ITS1-PCR and BLASTn analysis, L. martiniquensis was predominantly detected in several Culicoides species, including C. peregrinus, C. oxystoma, C. mahasarakhamense, and C. huffi from the vicinity of patients’ houses; and in C. fordae and C. fulvus from the unaffected site. L. orientalis was also co-circulated in C. peregrinus and C. oxystoma caught near the second patient’s house. Additionally, Crithidia sp. were also detected using SSU rRNA-PCR across Culicoides spp. Host blood meal analysis of eight different Culicoides species from the unaffected site also revealed that all trapped Culicoides had fed on cows and goats, indicating the possible role of these mammalian species as reservoir hosts. Essentially, this study is the first entomological investigation, revealing the co-circulation of emerging trypanosomatids among several species of Culicoides biting midges and strongly supporting the potential role of this insect group as the main vectors responsible for the epidemiology of autochthonous leishmaniasis in southern Thailand.
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24
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Etheridge RD. Protozoan phagotrophy from predators to parasites: An overview of the enigmatic cytostome-cytopharynx complex of Trypanosoma cruzi. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2022; 69:e12896. [PMID: 35175673 PMCID: PMC11110969 DOI: 10.1111/jeu.12896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Eating is fundamental and from this basic principle, living organisms have evolved innumerable strategies to capture energy and nutrients from their environment. As part of the world's aquatic ecosystems, the expansive family of heterotrophic protozoans uses self-generated currents to funnel prokaryotic prey into an ancient, yet highly enigmatic, oral apparatus known as the cytostome-cytopharynx complex prior to digestion. Despite its near ubiquitous presence in protozoans, little is known mechanistically about how this feeding organelle functions. Intriguingly, one class of these flagellated phagotrophic predators known as the kinetoplastids gave rise to a lineage of obligate parasitic protozoa, the trypanosomatids, that can infect a wide variety of organisms ranging from plants to humans. One parasitic species of humans, Trypanosoma cruzi, has retained this ancestral organelle much like its free-living relatives and continues to use it as its primary mode of endocytosis. In this review, we will highlight foundational observations made regarding the cytostome-cytopharynx complex and examine some of the most pressing questions regarding the mechanistic basis for its function. We propose that T. cruzi has the potential to serve as an excellent model system to dissect the enigmatic process of protozoal phagotrophy and thus enhance our overall understanding of fundamental eukaryotic biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald Drew Etheridge
- Department of Cellular Biology, Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases (CTEGD), University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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25
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Mitochondrial RNA editing in Trypanoplasma borreli: new tools, new revelations. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:6388-6402. [DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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26
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Sending the message: specialized RNA export mechanisms in trypanosomes. Trends Parasitol 2022; 38:854-867. [PMID: 36028415 PMCID: PMC9894534 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2022.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Export of RNA from the nucleus is essential for all eukaryotic cells and has emerged as a major step in the control of gene expression. mRNA molecules are required to complete a complex series of processing events and pass a quality control system to protect the cytoplasm from the translation of aberrant proteins. Many of these events are highly conserved across eukaryotes, reflecting their ancient origin, but significant deviation from a canonical pathway as described from animals and fungi has emerged in the trypanosomatids. With significant implications for the mechanisms that control gene expression and hence differentiation, responses to altered environments and fitness as a parasite, these deviations may also reveal additional, previously unsuspected, mRNA export pathways.
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27
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Bartolomé C, Buendía-Abad M, Ornosa C, De la Rúa P, Martín-Hernández R, Higes M, Maside X. Bee Trypanosomatids: First Steps in the Analysis of the Genetic Variation and Population Structure of Lotmaria passim, Crithidia bombi and Crithidia mellificae. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2022; 84:856-867. [PMID: 34609533 PMCID: PMC9622509 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-021-01882-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Trypanosomatids are among the most prevalent parasites in bees but, despite the fact that their impact on the colonies can be quite important and that their infectivity may potentially depend on their genotypes, little is known about the population diversity of these pathogens. Here we cloned and sequenced three non-repetitive single copy loci (DNA topoisomerase II, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase and RNA polymerase II large subunit, RPB1) to produce new genetic data from Crithidia bombi, C. mellificae and Lotmaria passim isolated from honeybees and bumblebees. These were analysed by applying population genetic tools in order to quantify and compare their variability within and between species, and to obtain information on their demography and population structure. The general pattern for the three species was that (1) they were subject to the action of purifying selection on nonsynonymous variants, (2) the levels of within species diversity were similar irrespective of the host, (3) there was evidence of recombination among haplotypes and (4) they showed no haplotype structuring according to the host. C. bombi exhibited the lowest levels of synonymous variation (πS= 0.06 ± 0.04 %) - and a mutation frequency distribution compatible with a population expansion after a bottleneck - that contrasted with the extensive polymorphism displayed by C. mellificae (πS= 2.24 ± 1.00 %), which likely has a more ancient origin. L. passim showed intermediate values (πS= 0.40 ± 0.28 %) and an excess of variants a low frequencies probably linked to the spread of this species to new geographical areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Bartolomé
- Grupo de Medicina Xenómica, CIMUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago (IDIS), 15706, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain.
| | - María Buendía-Abad
- Instituto Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario y Forestal (IRIAF), Laboratorio de Patología Apícola, Centro de Investigación Apícola y Agroambiental (CIAPA), Consejería de Agricultura de la Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha, 19180, Marchamalo, Spain
| | - Concepción Ornosa
- Departamento de Biodiversidad, Ecología y Evolución, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Pilar De la Rúa
- Departamento de Zoología y Antropología Física, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia, 30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Raquel Martín-Hernández
- Instituto Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario y Forestal (IRIAF), Laboratorio de Patología Apícola, Centro de Investigación Apícola y Agroambiental (CIAPA), Consejería de Agricultura de la Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha, 19180, Marchamalo, Spain
- Instituto de Recursos Humanos para la Ciencia y la Tecnología, Fundación Parque Científico Tecnológico de Albacete, 02006, Albacete, Spain
| | - Mariano Higes
- Instituto Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario y Forestal (IRIAF), Laboratorio de Patología Apícola, Centro de Investigación Apícola y Agroambiental (CIAPA), Consejería de Agricultura de la Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha, 19180, Marchamalo, Spain
| | - Xulio Maside
- Grupo de Medicina Xenómica, CIMUS, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago (IDIS), 15706, Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain
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Mendoza‐Roldan JA, Votýpka J, Bandi C, Epis S, Modrý D, Tichá L, Volf P, Otranto D. Leishmania tarentolae: A new frontier in the epidemiology and control of the leishmaniases. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:e1326-e1337. [PMID: 35839512 PMCID: PMC9804434 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis (or the leishmaniases), classified as a neglected tropical parasitic disease, is found in parts of the tropics, subtropics and southern Europe. Leishmania parasites are transmitted by the bite of phlebotomine sand flies and million cases of human infection occur annually. Leishmania tarentolae has been historically considered a non-pathogenic protozoan of reptiles, which has been studied mainly for its potential biotechnological applications. However, some strains of L. tarentolae appear to be transiently infective to mammals. In areas where leishmaniasis is endemic, recent molecular diagnostics and serological positivity to L. tarentolae in humans and dogs have spurred interest in the interactions between these mammalian hosts, reptiles and Leishmania infantum, the main aetiologic agent of human and canine leishmaniasis. In this review, we discuss the systematics and biology of L. tarentolae in the insect vectors and the vertebrate hosts and address questions about evolution of reptilian leishmaniae. Furthermore, we discuss the possible usefulness of L. tarentolae for new vaccination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Votýpka
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of ScienceCharles UniversityPragueCzech Republic,Biology Centre, Institute of ParasitologyCzech Academy of SciencesČeské BudějoviceCzech Republic
| | - Claudio Bandi
- Department of Biosciences and Pediatric CRC “Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi”University of MilanMilanItaly
| | - Sara Epis
- Department of Biosciences and Pediatric CRC “Romeo ed Enrica Invernizzi”University of MilanMilanItaly
| | - David Modrý
- Biology Centre, Institute of ParasitologyCzech Academy of SciencesČeské BudějoviceCzech Republic,Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of ScienceMasaryk UniversityBrnoCzech Republic,Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural ResourcesCzech University of Life SciencesPragueCzech Republic
| | - Lucie Tichá
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of ScienceCharles UniversityPragueCzech Republic
| | - Petr Volf
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of ScienceCharles UniversityPragueCzech Republic
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of BariValenzanoItaly,Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary ScienceBu‐Ali Sina UniversityHamedanIran
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Detection of Leptomonas seymouri narna-like virus in serum samples of visceral leishmaniasis patients and its possible role in disease pathogenesis. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14436. [PMID: 36002553 PMCID: PMC9402534 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18526-9] [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: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Kala-azar/Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania donovani (LD) is often associated with Leptomonas seymouri (LS) co-infection in India. Leptomonas seymouri narna-like virus 1 (Lepsey NLV1) has been reported in multi-passaged laboratory isolates of VL samples which showed LD-LS co-infection. A pertinent question was whether this virus of LS is detectable in direct clinical samples. DNA from the serum of twenty-eight LD diagnosed patients was subjected to LD-specific and LS-specific PCR to reconfirm the presence of LD parasites and to detect LD-LS co-infections. RNA extracted from same samples was subjected to RT-PCR, qRT-PCR and sequencing using virus-specific primers to detect/identify and quantify the virus. The presence of the virus was confirmed in thirteen of eighteen (72%) recently collected VL and PKDL samples. Cytokine profiling showed significantly elevated IL-18 in only LD infected patients compared to the virus-positive LD and control samples. IL-18 is crucial for Th1 and macrophage activation which eventually clears the parasite. The Lepsey NLV1 interaction with the immune system results in reduced IL-18 which favors LD survival and increased parasitic burden. The study emphasizes the need to revisit LD pathogenesis in the light of the association and persistence of a protozoan virus in kala-azar and PKDL patients.
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Sadlova J, Bacikova D, Becvar T, Vojtkova B, England M, Shaw J, Volf P. Porcisia transmission by prediuresis of sand flies. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:981071. [PMID: 36034718 PMCID: PMC9399930 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.981071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasites of the genus Porcisia, together with the genus Endotrypanum, form a sister clade to the species-rich and medically important genus Leishmania. Both Porcisia species, P. hertigi and P. deanei, are dixenous parasites of Neotropical porcupines. Almost 50 years after their first discovery, knowledge of their life cycle remains poor and their insect vectors are unknown. Because competent vectors of their closest phylogenetic relatives, genera Endotrypanum and Leishmania, are phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) and/or biting midges (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae), we examined here the potential of both sand flies and biting midges to transmit Porcisia parasites. The insects (Lutzomyia longipalpis, L. migonei and Culicoides sonorensis) were exposed to parasites through the chicken skin membrane and dissected at various time intervals post bloodmeal. Potentially infected females were also allowed to feed on the ears of anaesthetized BALB/c mice and the presence of parasite DNA was subsequently confirmed in the mice by PCR. Porcisia hertigi did not survive defecation in L. longipalpis or L. migonei, suggesting that these sand fly species are unlikely to serve as natural vectors of this parasite. Similarly, P. hertigi infections were lost in Culicoides midges. In contrast, mature P. deanei infections developed in 51-61% of L. longipalpis females, 7.3% of L. migonei females and 7.7% of Culicoides sonorensis females. In all three vector species, P. deanei colonized predominantly Malpighian tubules and produced metacyclic infective forms. Transmission of P. daenei to BALB/c mice was demonstrated via the prediuresis of L. longipalpis females. This mode of transmission, as well the colonization of Malpighian tubules as the dominant tissue of the vector, is unique among trypanosomatids. In conclusion, we demonstrated the vector competence of L. longipalpis for P. deanei but not for P. hertigi, and further studies are needed to evaluate competence of other Neotropical vectors for these neglected parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jovana Sadlova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- *Correspondence: Jovana Sadlova,
| | - Dominika Bacikova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Tomas Becvar
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Barbora Vojtkova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Marion England
- Transmission Biology, The Pirbright Institute, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Jeffrey Shaw
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Petr Volf
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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Gerasimov ES, Ramirez-Barrios R, Yurchenko V, Zimmer SL. Trypanosoma cruzi strain and starvation-driven mitochondrial RNA editing and transcriptome variability. RNA (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2022; 28:993-1012. [PMID: 35470233 PMCID: PMC9202582 DOI: 10.1261/rna.079088.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi is a unicellular protistan parasitic species that is comprised of strains and isolates exhibiting high levels of genetic and metabolic variability. In the insect vector, it is known to be highly responsive to starvation, a signal for progression to a life stage in which it can infect mammalian cells. Most mRNAs encoded in its mitochondrion require the targeted insertion and deletion of uridines to become translatable transcripts. This study defined differences in uridine-insertion/deletion RNA editing among three strains and established the mechanism whereby abundances of edited (and, thus, translatable) mitochondrial gene products increase during starvation. Our approach utilized our custom T-Aligner toolkit to describe transcriptome-wide editing events and reconstruct editing products from high-throughput sequencing data. We found that the relative abundance of mitochondrial transcripts and the proportion of mRNAs that are edited varies greatly between analyzed strains, a characteristic that could potentially impact metabolic capacity. Starvation typically led to an increase in overall editing activity rather than affecting a specific step in the process. We also determined that transcripts CR3, CR4, and ND3 produce multiple open reading frames that, if translated, would generate different proteins. Finally, we quantitated the inherent flexibility of editing in T. cruzi and found it to be higher relative to that in a related trypanosomatid lineage. Over time, new editing domains or patterns could prove advantageous to the organism and become more widespread within individual transcriptomes or among strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgeny S Gerasimov
- Faculty of Biology, M.V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russia
- Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 127051, Russia
| | - Roger Ramirez-Barrios
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota 55812, USA
| | - Vyacheslav Yurchenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 710 00 Ostrava, Czech Republic
- Martsinovsky Institute of Medical Parasitology, Tropical and Vector Borne Diseases, Sechenov University, Moscow 119435, Russia
| | - Sara L Zimmer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth Campus, Duluth, Minnesota 55812, USA
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Benz C, Müller N, Kaltenbrunner S, Váchová H, Vancová M, Lukeš J, Varga V, Hashimi H. Kinetoplastid-specific X2-family kinesins interact with a kinesin-like pleckstrin homology domain protein that localizes to the trypanosomal microtubule quartet. Mol Microbiol 2022; 118:155-174. [PMID: 35766104 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Kinesins are motor proteins found in all eukaryotic lineages that move along microtubules to mediate cellular processes such as mitosis and intracellular transport. In trypanosomatids, the kinesin superfamily has undergone a prominent expansion, resulting in one of the most diverse kinesin repertoires that includes the two kinetoplastid-restricted families X1 and X2. Here, we characterize in Trypanosoma brucei TbKifX2A, an orphaned X2 kinesin. TbKifX2A tightly interacts with TbPH1, a kinesin-like protein with a likely inactive motor domain, a rarely reported occurrence. Both TbKifX2A and TbPH1 localize to the microtubule quartet (MtQ), a characteristic but poorly understood cytoskeletal structure that wraps around the flagellar pocket as it extends to the cell body anterior. The proximal proteome of TbPH1 revealed two other interacting proteins, the flagellar pocket protein FP45 and intriguingly another X2 kinesin, TbKifX2C. Simultaneous ablation of TbKifX2A/TbPH1 results in the depletion of FP45 and TbKifX2C and also an expansion of the flagellar pocket, among other morphological defects. TbKifX2A is the first motor protein to be localized to the MtQ. The observation that TbKifX2C also associates with the MtQ suggests that the X2 kinesin family may have co-evolved with the MtQ, both kinetoplastid-specific traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corinna Benz
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Center, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Nora Müller
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Sabine Kaltenbrunner
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Center, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Johannes Kepler University, Medical Faculty, Linz, Austria
| | - Hana Váchová
- Laboratory of Cell Motility, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Marie Vancová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Center, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Center, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
| | - Vladimír Varga
- Laboratory of Cell Motility, Institute of Molecular Genetics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Hassan Hashimi
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Center, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czechia.,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czechia
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Buendía-Abad M, García-Palencia P, de Pablos LM, Martín-Hernández R, Higes M. The Haptomonad Stage of Crithidia acanthocephali in Apis mellifera Hindgut. Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9060298. [PMID: 35737350 PMCID: PMC9229786 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9060298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Crithidia acanthocephali is a trypanosomatid species that was initially described in the digestive tract of Hemiptera. However, this parasite was recently detected in honey bee colonies in Spain, raising the question as to whether bees can act as true hosts for this species. To address this issue, worker bees were experimentally infected with choanomastigotes from the early stationary growth phase and after 12 days, their hindgut was extracted for analysis by light microscopy and TEM. Although no cellular lesions were observed in the honey bee’s tissue, trypanosomatids had differentiated and adopted a haptomonad morphology, transforming their flagella into an attachment pad. This structure allows the protozoa to remain attached to the gut walls via hemidesmosomes-such as junctions. The impact of this species on honey bee health, as well as the pathogenic mechanisms involved, remains unknown. Nevertheless, these results suggest that insect trypanosomatids may have a broader range of hosts than initially thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Buendía-Abad
- Laboratorio de Patología Apícola, Centro de Investigación Apícola y Agroambiental (CIAPA), IRIAF—Instituto Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario y Forestal, Consejería de Agricultura de la Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha, 19180 Marchamalo, Spain;
- Correspondence: (M.B.-A.); (M.H.)
| | - Pilar García-Palencia
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinaria y Cirugía Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28001 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Luis Miguel de Pablos
- Grupo de Bioquímica y Parasitología Molecular CTS-183, Departamento de Parasitología, Universidad de Granada, 18001 Granada, Spain;
| | - Raquel Martín-Hernández
- Laboratorio de Patología Apícola, Centro de Investigación Apícola y Agroambiental (CIAPA), IRIAF—Instituto Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario y Forestal, Consejería de Agricultura de la Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha, 19180 Marchamalo, Spain;
- Instituto de Recursos Humanos para la Ciencia y la Tecnología (Increcyt-Feder), Fundación Parque Científico y Tecnológico de Castilla-La Mancha, 02001 Albacete, Spain
| | - Mariano Higes
- Laboratorio de Patología Apícola, Centro de Investigación Apícola y Agroambiental (CIAPA), IRIAF—Instituto Regional de Investigación y Desarrollo Agroalimentario y Forestal, Consejería de Agricultura de la Junta de Comunidades de Castilla-La Mancha, 19180 Marchamalo, Spain;
- Correspondence: (M.B.-A.); (M.H.)
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Zakharova A, Albanaz ATS, Opperdoes FR, Škodová-Sveráková I, Zagirova D, Saura A, Chmelová L, Gerasimov ES, Leštinová T, Bečvář T, Sádlová J, Volf P, Lukeš J, Horváth A, Butenko A, Yurchenko V. Leishmania guyanensis M4147 as a new LRV1-bearing model parasite: Phosphatidate phosphatase 2-like protein controls cell cycle progression and intracellular lipid content. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010510. [PMID: 35749562 PMCID: PMC9232130 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a parasitic vector-borne disease caused by the protistan flagellates of the genus Leishmania. Leishmania (Viannia) guyanensis is one of the most common causative agents of the American tegumentary leishmaniasis. It has previously been shown that L. guyanensis strains that carry the endosymbiotic Leishmania RNA virus 1 (LRV1) cause more severe form of the disease in a mouse model than those that do not. The presence of the virus was implicated into the parasite’s replication and spreading. In this respect, studying the molecular mechanisms of cellular control of viral infection is of great medical importance. Here, we report ~30.5 Mb high-quality genome assembly of the LRV1-positive L. guyanensis M4147. This strain was turned into a model by establishing the CRISPR-Cas9 system and ablating the gene encoding phosphatidate phosphatase 2-like (PAP2L) protein. The orthologue of this gene is conspicuously absent from the genome of an unusual member of the family Trypanosomatidae, Vickermania ingenoplastis, a species with mostly bi-flagellated cells. Our analysis of the PAP2L-null L. guyanensis showed an increase in the number of cells strikingly resembling the bi-flagellated V. ingenoplastis, likely as a result of the disruption of the cell cycle, significant accumulation of phosphatidic acid, and increased virulence compared to the wild type cells. Worldwide, over one million people are getting infected by the parasitic flagellates of the genus Leishmania annually leading to ~30,000 deaths. Notably, there is still no approved vaccine against human leishmaniases. A range of methods of forward and reverse genetics has recently been developed for several model Leishmania species. Unfortunately, these methods are often not transferrable to non-model species, which may be of even greater medical importance. Leishmania guyanensis is one of such cases. It frequently carries a symbiotic RNA virus that contributes to the development of a more aggressive form of leishmaniasis in an experimental murine model. In order to establish and optimize the system for genetic manipulations in L. guyanensis, we sequenced and annotated its genome. Next, we applied the CRISPR-Cas9 technology to target a gene of interest. This approach was validated by ablating a gene encoding a protein involved in lipid metabolism. In this work, we document that deletion of this gene leads to the disturbance of cell cycle and affects the ratio of critical intracellular lipids. We believe that our study will facilitate research into more effective treatment of leishmaniases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Zakharova
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Amanda T. S. Albanaz
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Fred R. Opperdoes
- De Duve Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ingrid Škodová-Sveráková
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
| | - Diana Zagirova
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Andreu Saura
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Lˇubomíra Chmelová
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Evgeny S. Gerasimov
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
| | - Tereza Leštinová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomáš Bečvář
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Jovana Sádlová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Volf
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
| | - Anton Horváth
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Anzhelika Butenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
- Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice (Budweis), Czech Republic
| | - Vyacheslav Yurchenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, Ostrava, Czech Republic
- * E-mail:
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35
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African trypanosome strategies for conquering new hosts and territories: the end of monophyly? Trends Parasitol 2022; 38:724-736. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2022.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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36
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The influence of abiotic and biotic variables on the patent parasitemias of Trypanosoma spp. in Thrichomys fosteri (Rodentia: Echimyidae) in the southern Pantanal. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:1719-1724. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07522-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Kajuluri LP, Gargvanshi S, Sahasrabuddhe AA. Intracellular localization of MyosinXXI discriminates Leishmania spp and Leptomonasseymouri. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2022; 604:70-75. [PMID: 35299073 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2022.02.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The patients with the most dreaded Leishmania donovani infections are now regularly been detected with co-infecting monoxenous trypanosomatid, Leptomonas seymouri, of which pathological consequence is obscure. Due to high degree of morphological similarity, its presence remains unmarked in the culture which leads to anomalous research outcomes. The available methods to detect Leptomonas in cultures are cumbersome and are not quantitative. We report here that MyosinXXI serves as a distinguishing biomarker that can be used to mark the presence of L. seymouri in Leishmania cultures. The method uses Leishmania MyosinXXI antibodies employed in immunofluorescence microscopy that shows a specialized localization pattern in Leishmania but not in Leptomonas (Patent application No. IN201711014439). This method is not only qualitative, but can also quantify the L. seymouri load in the cultured field isolates and serves as a remarkable tool to ascertain laboratory strains of Leishmania.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shivani Gargvanshi
- Molecular and Structural Biology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Amogh A Sahasrabuddhe
- Molecular and Structural Biology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India.
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Kabra R, Singh S. Evolutionary aspect of Miltefosine transporter proteins in Leishmania major. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2022; 130:399-418. [PMID: 35534115 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Transporter proteins, P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and P4ATPase-CDC50, are responsible for the transport of Miltefosine drug across cell membrane of a protozoan parasite Leishmania major. Mutations or change in activity of these proteins may lead to emergence of resistance in the parasite. Owing to the structural and functional importance of these transporter proteins, we have tried to decipher the evolutionary divergence of these Miltefosine transporter proteins across different forms of life including Protists, Fungi, Plants and Animals. We retrieved 96, 207, and 189 sequences of P-gp, P4ATPase and CDC50 proteins respectively, across diverse variety of organisms for the conserved analysis. Phylogenetic trees were constructed for these three transporter proteins based on Bayesian posterior probability inference. The evolutionary analysis concluded that these proteins remain highly conserved throughout the species diversity but still substantial differences in the proteins for host (Homo sapiens) and parasite (L. major) were observed which have led in targeting these Miltefosine transporter proteins in a parasite specific manner. The functional and structural components observed in terms of pattern resulting from the variability in the phylogenetic tree are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ritika Kabra
- National Centre for Cell Science, NCCS Complex, SP Pune University Campus, Pune, India
| | - Shailza Singh
- National Centre for Cell Science, NCCS Complex, SP Pune University Campus, Pune, India.
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Toontong P, Sunantaraporn S, Tiawsirisup S, Pengsakul T, Boonserm R, Phumee A, Siriyasatien P, Preativatanyou K. First Report of Anuran Trypanosoma DNA in Flat-Tailed House Geckos (Reptilia: Gekkonidae) Collected from Southern Thailand: No Evidence as a Reservoir for Human Trypanosomatids. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11020247. [PMID: 35215190 PMCID: PMC8877104 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the years, cases of autochthonous leishmaniasis have been dramatically increasing in Thailand. Recently, several publications have claimed certain species of the phlebotomine sand flies and biting midges potentially serve as natural vectors of Leishmania and Trypanosoma species in this country. However, more information regarding the vector–parasite relationships, as well as their natural reservoirs in the country, still needs to be explored. Herein, we hypothesized that synanthropic reptiles in the leishmaniasis-affected area might be a natural reservoir for these parasites. In this present study, a total of nineteen flat-tailed house geckos were collected from the house of a leishmaniasis patient in Songkhla province, southern Thailand, and then dissected for their visceral organs for parasite detection. Small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene and internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS-1)-specific amplifications were conducted to verify the presence of Trypanosoma and Leishmania parasites, respectively. Only Trypanosoma DNA was screened positive in eight gecko individuals by SSU rRNA-PCR in at least one visceral organ (4, 4, and 6 of the heart, liver, and spleen, respectively) and phylogenetically related to the anuran Trypanosoma spp. (An04/Frog1 clade) previously detected in three Asian sand fly species (Phlebotomus kazeruni, Sergentomyia indica, and Se. khawi). Hence, our data indicate the first detection of anuran Trypanosoma sp. in the flat-tailed house geckos from southern Thailand. Essentially, it can be inferred that there is no evidence for the flat-tailed house gecko (Hemidactylus platyurus) as a natural reservoir of human pathogenic trypanosomatids in the leishmaniasis-affected area of southern Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prapimporn Toontong
- Medical Parasitology Program, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
| | - Sakone Sunantaraporn
- Medical Science Program, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
- Vector Biology and Vector-Borne Disease Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (R.B.); (P.S.)
| | - Sonthaya Tiawsirisup
- Animal Vector-Borne Disease Research Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
| | - Theerakamol Pengsakul
- Faculty of Medical Technology, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla 90110, Thailand;
| | - Rungfar Boonserm
- Vector Biology and Vector-Borne Disease Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (R.B.); (P.S.)
| | - Atchara Phumee
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80610, Thailand;
- Excellent Center for Dengue and Community Public Health (EC for DACH), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80610, Thailand
| | - Padet Siriyasatien
- Vector Biology and Vector-Borne Disease Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (R.B.); (P.S.)
| | - Kanok Preativatanyou
- Vector Biology and Vector-Borne Disease Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand; (R.B.); (P.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +662-256-4387
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Gallo-Francisco PH, Brocchi M, Giorgio S. Leishmania and its relationships with bacteria. Future Microbiol 2022; 17:199-218. [PMID: 35040703 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2021-0133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic and neglected disease, which represents an important public health problem worldwide. Different species of Leishmania are associated with different manifestations, and a practical problem that can worsen the condition of hosts infected with Leishmania is the secondary infection caused by bacteria. This review aims to examine the importance and prevalence of bacteria co-infection during leishmaniasis and the nature of this ecological relationship. In the cases discussed in this review, the facilitation phenomenon, defined as any interaction where the action of one organism has a beneficial effect on an organism of another species, was considered in the Leishmania-bacteria interaction, as well as the effects on one another and their consequences for the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro H Gallo-Francisco
- Department of Animal Biology, Biology Institute, State University of Campinas, Campinas SP, 13083-862, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Brocchi
- Department of Genetics, Microbiology & Immunology, Biology Institute, State University of Campinas, Campinas SP, Brazil
| | - Selma Giorgio
- Department of Animal Biology, Biology Institute, State University of Campinas, Campinas SP, 13083-862, Brazil
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Dantas RF, Torres-Santos EC, Silva Jr FP. Past and future of trypanosomatids high-throughput phenotypic screening. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2022; 117:e210402. [PMID: 35293482 PMCID: PMC8920514 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760210402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Diseases caused by trypanosomatid parasites affect millions of people mainly living in developing countries. Novel drugs are highly needed since there are no vaccines and available treatment has several limitations, such as resistance, low efficacy, and high toxicity. The drug discovery process is often analogous to finding a needle in the haystack. In the last decades a so-called rational drug design paradigm, heavily dependent on computational approaches, has promised to deliver new drugs in a more cost-effective way. Paradoxically however, the mainstay of these computational methods is data-driven, meaning they need activity data for new compounds to be generated and available in databases. Therefore, high-throughput screening (HTS) of compounds still is a much-needed exercise in drug discovery to fuel other rational approaches. In trypanosomatids, due to the scarcity of validated molecular targets and biological complexity of these parasites, phenotypic screening has become an essential tool for the discovery of new bioactive compounds. In this article we discuss the perspectives of phenotypic HTS for trypanosomatid drug discovery with emphasis on the role of image-based, high-content methods. We also propose an ideal cascade of assays for the identification of new drug candidates for clinical development using leishmaniasis as an example.
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Grodowitz MJ, Gundersen-Rindal DE, Elliott B, Evans R, Sparks ME, Reed DA, Miles GP, Allen ML, Perring TM. Trypanosomatids Associated in the Alimentary Canal of Bagrada hilaris (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2022; 22:12. [PMID: 35134189 PMCID: PMC8824451 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/ieab110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Bagrada hilaris (Burmeister) is an invasive pest of economically important crops in the United States. During physiological investigations of B. hilaris, a flagellated protozoan was discovered in the alimentary canal of many specimens. This manuscript characterizes the morphology and molecular identification of the trypanosomatid, which appears similar to trypanosomatids identified in other stink bug species. It has been identified as a species in the Blastocrithidia genus based on morphological characteristics and molecular analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Grodowitz
- USDA-ARS National Biological Control Laboratory, 59 Lee Road, Stoneville, MS 38776, USA
| | | | - Brad Elliott
- USDA-ARS National Biological Control Laboratory, 59 Lee Road, Stoneville, MS 38776, USA
| | - Richard Evans
- USDA-ARS National Biological Control Laboratory, 59 Lee Road, Stoneville, MS 38776, USA
| | - Michael E Sparks
- USDA-ARS, Invasive Insect Biocontrol and Behavior Laboratory, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Darcy A Reed
- Retired from Department of Entomology, University of California–Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
| | - Godfrey P Miles
- USDA-ARS National Biological Control Laboratory, 59 Lee Road, Stoneville, MS 38776, USA
| | - Margaret L Allen
- USDA-ARS National Biological Control Laboratory, 59 Lee Road, Stoneville, MS 38776, USA
| | - Thomas M Perring
- Department of Entomology, University of California–Riverside, Riverside, CA 92521, USA
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Chmelová Ľ, Bianchi C, Albanaz ATS, Režnarová J, Wheeler R, Kostygov AY, Kraeva N, Yurchenko V. Comparative Analysis of Three Trypanosomatid Catalases of Different Origin. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 11:46. [PMID: 35052550 PMCID: PMC8773446 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11010046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Most trypanosomatid flagellates do not have catalase. In the evolution of this group, the gene encoding catalase has been independently acquired at least three times from three different bacterial groups. Here, we demonstrate that the catalase of Vickermania was obtained by horizontal gene transfer from Gammaproteobacteria, extending the list of known bacterial sources of this gene. Comparative biochemical analyses revealed that the enzymes of V. ingenoplastis, Leptomonas pyrrhocoris, and Blastocrithidia sp., representing the three independent catalase-bearing trypanosomatid lineages, have similar properties, except for the unique cyanide resistance in the catalase of the latter species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ľubomíra Chmelová
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 71000 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (Ľ.C.); (C.B.); (A.T.S.A.); (J.R.); (A.Y.K.); (N.K.)
| | - Claretta Bianchi
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 71000 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (Ľ.C.); (C.B.); (A.T.S.A.); (J.R.); (A.Y.K.); (N.K.)
| | - Amanda T. S. Albanaz
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 71000 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (Ľ.C.); (C.B.); (A.T.S.A.); (J.R.); (A.Y.K.); (N.K.)
| | - Jana Režnarová
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 71000 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (Ľ.C.); (C.B.); (A.T.S.A.); (J.R.); (A.Y.K.); (N.K.)
| | - Richard Wheeler
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK;
| | - Alexei Yu. Kostygov
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 71000 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (Ľ.C.); (C.B.); (A.T.S.A.); (J.R.); (A.Y.K.); (N.K.)
- Zoological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 199034 St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Natalya Kraeva
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 71000 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (Ľ.C.); (C.B.); (A.T.S.A.); (J.R.); (A.Y.K.); (N.K.)
| | - Vyacheslav Yurchenko
- Life Science Research Centre, Faculty of Science, University of Ostrava, 71000 Ostrava, Czech Republic; (Ľ.C.); (C.B.); (A.T.S.A.); (J.R.); (A.Y.K.); (N.K.)
- Martsinovsky Institute of Medical Parasitology, Tropical and Vector Borne Diseases, Sechenov University, 119435 Moscow, Russia
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Chen YF, Liao LF, Wu N, Gao JM, Zhang P, Wen YZ, Hide G, Lai DH, Lun ZR. Species identification and phylogenetic analysis of Leishmania isolated from patients, vectors and hares in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region, The People's Republic of China. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0010055. [PMID: 34919567 PMCID: PMC8752017 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) has been declared as one of the six major tropical diseases by the World Health Organization. This disease has been successfully controlled in China, except for some areas in the western region, such as the Xinjiang Autonomous Region, where both anthroponotic VL (AVL) and desert type zoonotic VL (DT-ZVL) remain endemic with sporadic epidemics. Methodology/Principal findings Here, an eleven-year survey (2004–2014) of Leishmania species, encompassing both VL types isolated from patients, sand-fly vectors and Tarim hares (Lepus yarkandensis) from the Xinjiang Autonomous Region was conducted, with a special emphasis on the hares as a potential reservoir animal for DT-ZVL. Key diagnostic genes, ITS1, hsp70 and nagt (encoding N-acetylglucosamine-1-phosphate transferase) were used for phylogenetic analyses, placing all Xinjiang isolates into one clade of the L. donovani complex. Unexpectedly, AVL isolates were found to be closely related to L. infantum, while DT-ZVL isolates were closer to L. donovani. Unrooted parsimony networks of haplotypes for these isolates also revealed their relationship. Conclusions/Significance The above analyses of the DT-ZVL isolates suggested their geographic isolation and independent evolution. The sequence identity of isolates from patients, vectors and the Tarim hares in a single DT-ZVL site provides strong evidence in support of this species as an animal reservoir. Black faver, also known as visceral leishmaniasis (VL), is caused by pathogens of Leishmania species, spread by the bites of infected sand flies. This disease has been successfully controlled in China, except for some areas in the western region, such as Xinjiang. However, the knowledge on Leishmania in these areas remains a few important gaps. Particularly, what is the animal reservoir for desert type zoonotic VL (DT-ZVL), as sand flies get infected in areas free of patients or infected dogs? To address this question, an eleven-year survey (2004–2014) in Xinjiang for Leishmania species was carried out. We found that VLs in Xinjiang are contributed to Leishmania donovani complex, and Tarim hares is likely the reservoir animal for DT-ZVL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Fu Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Li-Fu Liao
- Center for Laboratory Animal Research, Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Urumqi, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Na Wu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiang-Mei Gao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, The People’s Republic of China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Institute of zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Peng Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan-Zi Wen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Geoff Hide
- Ecosystems and Environment Research Centre and Biomedical Research Centre, School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - De-Hua Lai
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, The People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (D-HL); (Z-RL)
| | - Zhao-Rong Lun
- MOE Key Laboratory of Gene Function and Regulation, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, The People’s Republic of China
- Ecosystems and Environment Research Centre and Biomedical Research Centre, School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (D-HL); (Z-RL)
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Culicoides Latreille (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) as potential vectors for Leishmania martiniquensis and Trypanosoma sp. in northern Thailand. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0010014. [PMID: 34910720 PMCID: PMC8673663 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Biting midges of genus Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are the vectors of several pathogenic arboviruses and parasites of humans and animals. Several reports have suggested that biting midges might be a potential vector of Leishmania parasites. In this study, we screened for Leishmania and Trypanosoma DNA in biting midges collected from near the home of a leishmaniasis patient in Lamphun province, northern Thailand by using UV-CDC light traps. The identification of biting midge species was based on morphological characters and confirmed using the Cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. The detection of Leishmania and Trypanosoma DNA was performed by amplifying the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) and small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) genes, respectively. All the amplified PCR amplicons were cloned and sequenced. The collected 223 biting midges belonged to seven species (Culicoides mahasarakhamense, C. guttifer, C. innoxius, C. sumatrae, C. huffi, C. oxystoma, and C. palpifer). The dominant species found in this study was C. mahasarakhamense (47.53%). Leishmania martiniquensis DNA was detected in three samples of 106 specimens of C. mahasarakhamense tested indicating a field infection rate of 2.83%, which is comparable to reported rates in local phlebotomines. Moreover, we also detected Trypanosoma sp. DNA in one sample of C. huffi. To our knowledge, this is the first molecular detection of L. martiniquensis in C. mahasarakhamense as well as the first detection of avian Trypanosoma in C. huffi. Blood meal analysis of engorged specimens of C. mahasarakhamense, C. guttifer, and C. huffi revealed that all specimens had fed on avian, however, further studies of the host ranges of Culicoides are needed to gain a better insight of potential vectors of emerging leishmaniasis. Clarification of the vectors of these parasites is also important to provide tools to establish effective disease prevention and control programs in Thailand. Culicoides are known to be vectors of several pathogens, including arboviruses and parasites. However, other investigations have demonstrated that Culicoides could be involved in the transmission of Leishmania and Trypanosoma parasites. Our studies demonstrated the first detection of L. martiniquensis in Culicoides mahasarakhamense and Trypanosoma sp., which is closely related to avian Trypanosome in C. huffi from an endemic area of leishmaniasis in northern Thailand. The finding of this work suggested that Culicoides biting midges are suspected to be the potential vector of L. martiniquensis and Trypanosoma parasites in Thailand.
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Su BX, Wang JF, Yang TB, Hide G, Lai DH, Lun ZR. A new species of mammalian trypanosome, Trypanosoma (Megatrypanum) bubalisi sp. nov., found in the freshwater leech Hirudinaria manillensis. Int J Parasitol 2021; 52:253-264. [PMID: 34863800 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Leeches have long been considered potential vectors for the aquatic lineage of trypanosomes, while bloodsucking insects are generally considered as the vectors for the terrestrial lineage of trypanosomes. The freshwater leech, Hirudinaria manillensis, is a widely distributed species in southern China and could potentially act as the vector for trypanosomes. Prior to this study, no trypanosomes had been reported from this leech. However, in this study, leeches were collected from three different places in Guangdong province, China, and a large number of flagellates were isolated and successfully cultured in vitro. Based on morphology, these flagellates looked like a typical trypanosome species. Analysis was carried out on the molecular sequences of the 18S rRNA gene and the glycosomal glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (gGAPDH) gene. To our surprise, these flagellates were identified as likely to be a mammalian trypanosome belonging to the clade containing Trypanosoma (Megatrypanum) theileri but they are significantly different from the typical TthI and TthII stocks. Analyses of blood composition indicated that the source of the blood meal in these leeches was from the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). To further test if this flagellate from the freshwater leech was indeed a mammalian trypanosome, we transferred the trypanosomes cultured at 27-37 °C and they were able to successfully adapt to this mammalian body temperature, providing further supporting evidence. Due to the significant genetic differences from other related trypanosomes in the subgenus Megatrypanum, we propose that this flagellate, isolated from H. manillensis, is a new species and have named it Trypanosoma bubalisi. Our results indicate that freshwater leeches may be a potential vector of this new mammalian trypanosome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bi-Xiu Su
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Economic Animals, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, The People's Republic of China
| | - Ju-Feng Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Economic Animals, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, The People's Republic of China
| | - Ting-Bao Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Economic Animals, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, The People's Republic of China
| | - Geoff Hide
- Ecosystems and Environment Research Centre and Biomedical Research Centre, School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Salford M5 4WT, UK
| | - De-Hua Lai
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Economic Animals, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, The People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhao-Rong Lun
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Economic Animals, State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou 510275, The People's Republic of China; Ecosystems and Environment Research Centre and Biomedical Research Centre, School of Science, Engineering and Environment, University of Salford, Salford M5 4WT, UK.
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Borges AR, Link F, Engstler M, Jones NG. The Glycosylphosphatidylinositol Anchor: A Linchpin for Cell Surface Versatility of Trypanosomatids. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:720536. [PMID: 34790656 PMCID: PMC8591177 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.720536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) to anchor proteins to the cell surface is widespread among eukaryotes. The GPI-anchor is covalently attached to the C-terminus of a protein and mediates the protein’s attachment to the outer leaflet of the lipid bilayer. GPI-anchored proteins have a wide range of functions, including acting as receptors, transporters, and adhesion molecules. In unicellular eukaryotic parasites, abundantly expressed GPI-anchored proteins are major virulence factors, which support infection and survival within distinct host environments. While, for example, the variant surface glycoprotein (VSG) is the major component of the cell surface of the bloodstream form of African trypanosomes, procyclin is the most abundant protein of the procyclic form which is found in the invertebrate host, the tsetse fly vector. Trypanosoma cruzi, on the other hand, expresses a variety of GPI-anchored molecules on their cell surface, such as mucins, that interact with their hosts. The latter is also true for Leishmania, which use GPI anchors to display, amongst others, lipophosphoglycans on their surface. Clearly, GPI-anchoring is a common feature in trypanosomatids and the fact that it has been maintained throughout eukaryote evolution indicates its adaptive value. Here, we explore and discuss GPI anchors as universal evolutionary building blocks that support the great variety of surface molecules of trypanosomatids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa R Borges
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Fabian Link
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Markus Engstler
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nicola G Jones
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Biocenter, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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Austen JM, Barbosa AD. Diversity and Epidemiology of Bat Trypanosomes: A One Health Perspective. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091148. [PMID: 34578180 PMCID: PMC8465530 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Bats (order Chiroptera) have been increasingly recognised as important reservoir hosts for human and animal pathogens worldwide. In this context, molecular and microscopy-based investigations to date have revealed remarkably high diversity of Trypanosoma spp. harboured by bats, including species of recognised medical and veterinary importance such as Trypanosoma cruzi and Trypanosoma evansi (aetiological agents of Chagas disease and Surra, respectively). This review synthesises current knowledge on the diversity, taxonomy, evolution and epidemiology of bat trypanosomes based on both molecular studies and morphological records. In addition, we use a One Health approach to discuss the significance of bats as reservoirs (and putative vectors) of T. cruzi, with a focus on the complex associations between intra-specific genetic diversity and eco-epidemiology of T. cruzi in sylvatic and domestic ecosystems. This article also highlights current knowledge gaps on the biological implications of trypanosome co-infections in a single host, as well as the prevalence, vectors, life-cycle, host-range and clinical impact of most bat trypanosomes recorded to date. Continuous research efforts involving molecular surveillance of bat trypanosomes are required for improved disease prevention and control, mitigation of biosecurity risks and potential spill-over events, ultimately ensuring the health of humans, domestic animals and wildlife globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jill M. Austen
- Centre for Biosecurity and One Health, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Correspondence: (J.M.A.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Amanda D. Barbosa
- Centre for Biosecurity and One Health, Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Brasilia 70040-020, DF, Brazil
- Correspondence: (J.M.A.); (A.D.B.)
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Genomics of Trypanosomatidae: Where We Stand and What Needs to Be Done? Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091124. [PMID: 34578156 PMCID: PMC8472099 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Trypanosomatids are easy to cultivate and they are (in many cases) amenable to genetic manipulation. Genome sequencing has become a standard tool routinely used in the study of these flagellates. In this review, we summarize the current state of the field and our vision of what needs to be done in order to achieve a more comprehensive picture of trypanosomatid evolution. This will also help to illuminate the lineage-specific proteins and pathways, which can be used as potential targets in treating diseases caused by these parasites.
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A New Model Trypanosomatid, Novymonas esmeraldas: Genomic Perception of Its " Candidatus Pandoraea novymonadis" Endosymbiont. mBio 2021; 12:e0160621. [PMID: 34399629 PMCID: PMC8406214 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01606-21] [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] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The closest relative of human pathogen Leishmania, the trypanosomatid Novymonas esmeraldas, harbors a bacterial endosymbiont “Candidatus Pandoraea novymonadis.” Based on genomic data, we performed a detailed characterization of the metabolic interactions of both partners. While in many respects the metabolism of N. esmeraldas resembles that of other Leishmaniinae, the endosymbiont provides the trypanosomatid with heme, essential amino acids, purines, some coenzymes, and vitamins. In return, N. esmeraldas shares with the bacterium several nonessential amino acids and phospholipids. Moreover, it complements its carbohydrate metabolism and urea cycle with enzymes missing from the “Ca. Pandoraea novymonadis” genome. The removal of the endosymbiont from N. esmeraldas results in a significant reduction of the overall translation rate, reduced expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism and mitochondrial respiratory activity, and downregulation of several aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases, enzymes involved in the synthesis of some amino acids, as well as proteins associated with autophagy. At the same time, the genes responsible for protection against reactive oxygen species and DNA repair become significantly upregulated in the aposymbiotic strain of this trypanosomatid. By knocking out a component of its flagellum, we turned N. esmeraldas into a new model trypanosomatid that is amenable to genetic manipulation using both conventional and CRISPR-Cas9-mediated approaches.
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