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Kapritchkoff RTI, Okino CH, Niciura SCM, Bello HJS, Matos RS, Melito GR, Bressani FA, Esteves SN, Chagas ACDS. Association of β-globin polymorphisms and tolerance to haemonchosis in ewes and lambs of different sheep breeds. Vet Parasitol 2024; 328:110163. [PMID: 38513446 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2024.110163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), especially Haemonchus contortus, represent a significant challenge for sheep production. Given the global concern about GIN anthelmintic resistance, alternative control methods able to reduce the dependence on these drugs are highly advisable. Since previous studies have shown that sheep carrying the Hb-A allele of β-globin are more resistant to H. contortus, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between the different haplotypes (Hb-AA, Hb-AB and Hb-BB) and phenotypes in Santa Inês (SI), Texel (TX) and White Dorper (DO) breeds infected with H. contortus. Blood samples were collected from 180 ewes and 123 lambs of the three breeds for DNA extraction followed by qPCR using a hydrolysis probe to identify the β-globin haplotypes. Phenotypic data, including fecal egg count (FEC), packed cell volume (PCV), FAMACHA score and body condition score for ewes and lambs, as well as weight gain for lambs, were collected. The genotypic frequencies of β-globin for ewes and lambs were, respectively: 21.7% and 21.4% Hb-AA, 50% and 50% Hb-AB and 28.3% and 28.6% Hb-BB in SI; 0% and 0% Hb-AA, 18.6% and 9.4% Hb-AB and 81.4% and 90.6% Hb-BB in TX; and 0% and 0% Hb-AA, 13.1% and 0% Hb-AB and 86.9% and 100% Hb-BB in DO. In ewes, mean PCV differed (p<0.05) between the three haplotypes, with higher PCV in Hb-AA animals, followed by Hb-AB and Hb-BB. When considering each breed separately, SI Hb-AA ewes presented higher PCV (p<0.05), highlighting that even in a breed already considered resistant, animals with Hb-AA haplotype showed superior performance. Lambs with the Hb-AA haplotype exhibited a higher (p<0.05) mean PCV compared to those with Hb-AB and Hb-BB. The same pattern was found in SI when analyzing each breed separately. No significant association was found between β-globin haplotypes and FEC, FAMACHA score, body condition score, or weight gain. Nevertheless, given that anemia is the major clinical sign of haemonchosis, our findings on PCV reinforce that sheep carrying the Hb-A allele of β-globin are more tolerant to haemonchosis. This study may support the development of a valuable tool, targeting genetic selection for GIN control, reducing the dependence on anthelmintics and boosting sheep production worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Tami Ikeda Kapritchkoff
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, Jaboticabal, São Paulo 14884-900, Brazil.
| | - Cintia Hiromi Okino
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Simone Cristina Méo Niciura
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Hornblenda Joaquina Silva Bello
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Renata Silva Matos
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Glaucia Roberta Melito
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Flavia Aline Bressani
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Novita Esteves
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina de Souza Chagas
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
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Palkumbura PGAS, Mahakapuge TAN, Wijesundera RRMKK, Wijewardana V, Kangethe RT, Rajapakse RPVJ. Mucosal Immunity of Major Gastrointestinal Nematode Infections in Small Ruminants Can Be Harnessed to Develop New Prevention Strategies. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1409. [PMID: 38338687 PMCID: PMC10855138 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031409] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal parasitic nematode (GIN) infections are the cause of severe losses to farmers in countries where small ruminants such as sheep and goat are the mainstay of livestock holdings. There is a need to develop effective and easy-to-administer anti-parasite vaccines in areas where anthelmintic resistance is rapidly rising due to the inefficient use of drugs currently available. In this review, we describe the most prevalent and economically significant group of GIN infections that infect small ruminants and the immune responses that occur in the host during infection with an emphasis on mucosal immunity. Furthermore, we outline the different prevention strategies that exist with a focus on whole and purified native parasite antigens as vaccine candidates and their possible oral-nasal administration as a part of an integrated parasite control toolbox in areas where drug resistance is on the rise.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. G. Ashani S. Palkumbura
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Kandy 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Thilini A. N. Mahakapuge
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Kandy 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - R. R. M. K. Kavindra Wijesundera
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Kandy 20400, Sri Lanka
| | - Viskam Wijewardana
- Animal Production and Health Laboratory, Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, International Atomic Energy Agency, 2444 Seibersdorf, Austria
| | - Richard Thiga Kangethe
- Animal Production and Health Laboratory, Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, International Atomic Energy Agency, 2444 Seibersdorf, Austria
| | - R. P. V. Jayanthe Rajapakse
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Kandy 20400, Sri Lanka
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3
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Zhou C, Tuersong W, Liu L, Di W, He L, Li F, Wang C, Hu M. Non-coding RNA in the gut of the blood-feeding parasitic worm, Haemonchus contortus. Vet Res 2024; 55:1. [PMID: 38172997 PMCID: PMC10763314 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-023-01254-x] [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: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The intestine of Haemonchus contortus is an essential tissue that has been indicated to be a major target for the prevention of haemonchosis caused by this parasitic nematode of small ruminants. Biological peculiarities of the intestine warrant in-depth exploitation, which can be leveraged for future disease control efforts. Here, we determined the intestinal ncRNA (lncRNA, circRNA and miRNA) atlas using whole-transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics approaches. In total, 4846 novel lncRNA, 982 circRNA, 96 miRNA (65 known and 31 novel) and 8821 mRNA were identified from the H. contortus intestine. The features of lncRNA, circRNA and miRNA were fully characterized. Comparison of miRNA from the intestines and extracellular vesicles supported the speculation that the miRNA from the latter were of intestinal origin in H. contortus. Further function analysis suggests that the cis-lncRNA targeted genes were involved in protein binding, intracellular anatomical structure, organelle and cellular process, whereas the circRNA parental genes were mainly enriched in molecular function categories, such as ribonucleotide binding, nucleotide binding, ATP binding and carbohydrate derivative binding. The miRNA target genes were related to the cellular process, cellular response to stimulus, cellular protein modification process and signal transduction. Moreover, competing endogenous RNA network analysis revealed that the majority of lncRNA, circRNA and mRNA only have one or two binding sites with specific miRNA. Lastly, randomly selected circRNA, lncRNA and miRNA were verified successfully using RT-PCR. Collectively, these data provide the most comprehensive compilation of intestinal transcripts and their functions, and it will be helpful to decipher the biological and molecular complexity of the intestine and lay the foundation for further functional research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caixian Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Waresi Tuersong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Wulumuqi, 830052, Xinjiang, China
| | - Lu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Wenda Di
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, Guangxi, China
| | - Li He
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Hubei University of Medicine, Hubei, 442000, Shiyan, China
| | - Fangfang Li
- College of Biology and Food Engineering, Chongqing Three Gorges University, Chongqing, 402020, China
| | - Chunqun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
| | - Min Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China.
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Hasan MW, Ehsan M, Wang Q, Haseeb M, Lakho SA, Haider A, Lu M, Xu L, Song X, Yan R, Li X. PLGA-Encapsulated Haemonchus contortus Antigen ES-15 Augments Immune Responses in a Murine Model. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1794. [PMID: 38140198 PMCID: PMC10748113 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121794] [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: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Haemonchus contortus is a gastrointestinal parasite that adversely impacts small ruminants, resulting in a notable reduction in animal productivity. In the current investigation, we developed a nanovaccine by encapsulating the recombinant protein rHcES-15, sourced from the excretory/secretory products of H. contortus, within biodegradable poly (D, L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs). The development of this nanovaccine involved the formulation of PLGA NPs using a modified double emulsion solvent evaporation technique. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)verified the successful encapsulation of rHcES-15 within PLGA NPs, exhibiting a size range of 350-400 nm. The encapsulation efficiency (EE) of the antigen in the nanovaccine was determined to be 72%. A total of forty experimental mice were allocated into five groups, with the nanovaccine administered on day 0 and the mice euthanized at the end of the 14-day trial. The stimulation index (SI) from the mice subjected to the nanovaccine indicated heightened lymphocyte proliferation (*** p < 0.001) and a noteworthy increase in anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, and IL-17). Additionally, the percentages of T-cells (CD4+, CD8+) and dendritic cell phenotypes (CD83+, CD86+) were significantly elevated (** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001) in mice inoculated with the nanovaccine compared to control groups and the rHcES-15 group. Correspondingly, higher levels of antigen-specific serum immunoglobulins (IgG1, IgG2a, IgM) were observed in response to the nanovaccine in comparison to both the antigenic (rHcES-15) and control groups (* p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01). In conclusion, the data strongly supports the proposal that the encapsulation of rHcES-15 within PLGA NPs effectively triggers immune cells in vivo, ultimately enhancing the antigen-specific adaptive immune responses against H. contortus. This finding underscores the promising potential of the nanovaccine, justifying further investigations to definitively ascertain its efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Waqqas Hasan
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.W.H.); (M.E.); (Q.W.); (M.H.); (S.A.L.); (A.H.); (M.L.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Muhammad Ehsan
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.W.H.); (M.E.); (Q.W.); (M.H.); (S.A.L.); (A.H.); (M.L.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Punjab 63100, Pakistan
| | - Qiangqiang Wang
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.W.H.); (M.E.); (Q.W.); (M.H.); (S.A.L.); (A.H.); (M.L.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Muhammad Haseeb
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.W.H.); (M.E.); (Q.W.); (M.H.); (S.A.L.); (A.H.); (M.L.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Shakeel Ahmed Lakho
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.W.H.); (M.E.); (Q.W.); (M.H.); (S.A.L.); (A.H.); (M.L.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Ali Haider
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.W.H.); (M.E.); (Q.W.); (M.H.); (S.A.L.); (A.H.); (M.L.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Mingmin Lu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.W.H.); (M.E.); (Q.W.); (M.H.); (S.A.L.); (A.H.); (M.L.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Lixin Xu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.W.H.); (M.E.); (Q.W.); (M.H.); (S.A.L.); (A.H.); (M.L.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Xiaokai Song
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.W.H.); (M.E.); (Q.W.); (M.H.); (S.A.L.); (A.H.); (M.L.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Ruofeng Yan
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.W.H.); (M.E.); (Q.W.); (M.H.); (S.A.L.); (A.H.); (M.L.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
| | - Xiangrui Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (M.W.H.); (M.E.); (Q.W.); (M.H.); (S.A.L.); (A.H.); (M.L.); (L.X.); (X.S.)
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Stevens L, Martínez-Ugalde I, King E, Wagah M, Absolon D, Bancroft R, Gonzalez de la Rosa P, Hall JL, Kieninger M, Kloch A, Pelan S, Robertson E, Pedersen AB, Abreu-Goodger C, Buck AH, Blaxter M. Ancient diversity in host-parasite interaction genes in a model parasitic nematode. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7776. [PMID: 38012132 PMCID: PMC10682056 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43556-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Host-parasite interactions exert strong selection pressures on the genomes of both host and parasite. These interactions can lead to negative frequency-dependent selection, a form of balancing selection that is hypothesised to explain the high levels of polymorphism seen in many host immune and parasite antigen loci. Here, we sequence the genomes of several individuals of Heligmosomoides bakeri, a model parasite of house mice, and Heligmosomoides polygyrus, a closely related parasite of wood mice. Although H. bakeri is commonly referred to as H. polygyrus in the literature, their genomes show levels of divergence that are consistent with at least a million years of independent evolution. The genomes of both species contain hyper-divergent haplotypes that are enriched for proteins that interact with the host immune response. Many of these haplotypes originated prior to the divergence between H. bakeri and H. polygyrus, suggesting that they have been maintained by long-term balancing selection. Together, our results suggest that the selection pressures exerted by the host immune response have played a key role in shaping patterns of genetic diversity in the genomes of parasitic nematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis Stevens
- Tree of Life, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK.
| | - Isaac Martínez-Ugalde
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Erna King
- Tree of Life, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
| | - Martin Wagah
- Tree of Life, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
| | | | - Rowan Bancroft
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Jessica L Hall
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | | | - Sarah Pelan
- Tree of Life, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
| | - Elaine Robertson
- Institute of Immunology & Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Amy B Pedersen
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Cei Abreu-Goodger
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Amy H Buck
- Institute of Immunology & Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Mark Blaxter
- Tree of Life, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK.
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Doolan R, Putananickal N, Tritten L, Bouchery T. How to train your myeloid cells: a way forward for helminth vaccines? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1163364. [PMID: 37325618 PMCID: PMC10266106 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1163364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminths affect approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide. However, as no vaccine is currently available for humans, the current strategy for elimination as a public health problem relies on preventive chemotherapy. Despite more than 20 years of intense research effort, the development of human helminth vaccines (HHVs) has not yet come to fruition. Current vaccine development focuses on peptide antigens that trigger strong humoral immunity, with the goal of generating neutralizing antibodies against key parasite molecules. Notably, this approach aims to reduce the pathology of infection, not worm burden, with only partial protection observed in laboratory models. In addition to the typical translational hurdles that vaccines struggle to overcome, HHVs face several challenges (1): helminth infections have been associated with poor vaccine responses in endemic countries, probably due to the strong immunomodulation caused by these parasites, and (2) the target population displays pre-existing type 2 immune responses to helminth products, increasing the likelihood of adverse events such as allergy or anaphylaxis. We argue that such traditional vaccines are unlikely to be successful on their own and that, based on laboratory models, mucosal and cellular-based vaccines could be a way to move forward in the fight against helminth infection. Here, we review the evidence for the role of innate immune cells, specifically the myeloid compartment, in controlling helminth infections. We explore how the parasite may reprogram myeloid cells to avoid killing, notably using excretory/secretory (ES) proteins and extracellular vesicles (EVs). Finally, learning from the field of tuberculosis, we will discuss how anti-helminth innate memory could be harnessed in a mucosal-trained immunity-based vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rory Doolan
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Namitha Putananickal
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Lucienne Tritten
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tiffany Bouchery
- Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Yang Y, Zhou J, Wu F, Tong D, Chen X, Jiang S, Duan Y, Yao C, Wang T, Du A, Gasser RB, Ma G. Haem transporter HRG-1 is essential in the barber's pole worm and an intervention target candidate. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011129. [PMID: 36716341 PMCID: PMC9910794 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Parasitic roundworms (nematodes) have lost genes involved in the de novo biosynthesis of haem, but have evolved the capacity to acquire and utilise exogenous haem from host animals. However, very little is known about the processes or mechanisms underlying haem acquisition and utilisation in parasites. Here, we reveal that HRG-1 is a conserved and unique haem transporter in a broad range of parasitic nematodes of socioeconomic importance, which enables haem uptake via intestinal cells, facilitates cellular haem utilisation through the endo-lysosomal system, and exhibits a conspicuous distribution at the basal laminae covering the alimentary tract, muscles and gonads. The broader tissue expression pattern of HRG-1 in Haemonchus contortus (barber's pole worm) compared with its orthologues in the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans indicates critical involvement of this unique haem transporter in haem homeostasis in tissues and organs of the parasitic nematode. RNAi-mediated gene knockdown of hrg-1 resulted in sick and lethal phenotypes of infective larvae of H. contortus, which could only be rescued by supplementation of exogenous haem in the early developmental stage. Notably, the RNAi-treated infective larvae could not establish infection or survive in the mammalian host, suggesting an indispensable role of this haem transporter in the survival of this parasite. This study provides new insights into the haem biology of a parasitic nematode, demonstrates that haem acquisition by HRG-1 is essential for H. contortus survival and infection, and suggests that HRG-1 could be an intervention target candidate in a range of parasitic nematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Yang
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingru Zhou
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Fei Wu
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Danni Tong
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xueqiu Chen
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shengjun Jiang
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yu Duan
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chaoqun Yao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, St. Kitts, West Indies
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Aifang Du
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- * E-mail: (AD); (RBG); (GM)
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail: (AD); (RBG); (GM)
| | - Guangxu Ma
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail: (AD); (RBG); (GM)
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Ye L, Zhang Y, Wu S, Wang Z, Liu F, Wang C, Hu M. Immunoprotection Efficacy of Con A-Purified Proteins against Haemonchus contortus in Goats. Vaccines (Basel) 2022; 10:vaccines10111891. [PMID: 36366399 PMCID: PMC9696691 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines10111891] [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: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic nematodes are important pathogens that infect animals, causing significant economic losses globally. Current repeated treatments have led to widespread anthelmintic resistance in nematode populations, so vaccine development offers an alternative control approach. However, only one effective vaccine (named Barbervax) has been developed to protect animals against one of the most pathogenic nematodes of ruminants—Haemonchus contortus (the barber’s pole worm). This vaccine contains a dominant component, Concanavalin A (Con A) purified H11 antigen, which has been shown to induce high levels (>85%) of immune protection in sheep breeds, but in goat breeds, the immunoprotection test of this native protein is still lacking. Here, we evaluated the protective efficacy of low-dose Con A-purified proteins for controlling the H. contortus infection in goats. Four-month-old Boer goats were equally divided into two vaccinated groups of 5 μg and 10 μg native proteins, and one adjuvant control. Each goat was immunized subcutaneously thrice and then challenged with 7000 infective third-stage larvae (L3s). The fecal egg count (FEC), degree of anemia, antibody levels of serum and abomasum mucosa, as well as worm burdens, were detected in experimental goats. Our results showed that both 5 μg and 10 μg vaccinated groups induced the effective protection in goats, reduced mean FEC by 71.8% and 68.6%, and mean worm burdens by 69.8% and 61.6%, respectively, compared to the adjuvant control. In addition, we detected that the serum antibody responses to the Con A-purified proteins were dominated by the IgG subtype, but the mucosal antibody responses were not detected. These data demonstrate Con A-purified proteins induced effective immunoprotection in goats, and underline their significance for controlling this widespread parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Min Hu
- Correspondence: (C.W.); (M.H.)
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9
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Characterization of interferon gamma gene in relation to immunological responses in Haemonchus contortus resistant and susceptible Garole sheep. Vet Res Commun 2022; 47:599-614. [PMID: 36229724 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-022-10015-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Garole sheep exhibits within-breed difference in resistance to natural gastrointestinal nematode infection predominated by Haemonchus contortus. In the present study, interferon gamma gene (IFN-γ) was characterized in relation to parasitological, haematological, and immune response against H. contortus in resistant and susceptible Garole sheep. Resistant and susceptible Garole sheep were selected from the field based on consistent low faecal egg counts (FEC) for one year and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the IFN-γ gene. The partial amplification of IFN-γ gene (1282 bp) revealed 4 SNPs exclusively in resistant sheep and 3 SNPs were shared between resistant and susceptible Garole sheep. The selected resistant and susceptible Garole sheep were challenged with H. contortus infection. The parasitological, haematological, immunological responses, and expression of IFN-γ gene were compared between the resistant and susceptible Garole sheep. The FEC of resistant sheep was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than the susceptible sheep infected with H. contortus. There was spontaneous elimination of H. contortus from 28 to 33 days post infection (DPI) in resistant sheep. Haemoglobin and packed cell volume were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in resistant sheep than the susceptible sheep. The serum concentration of immunoglobulin (Ig)G1 and IgA and cytokine IFN-γ activity and also the expression of IFN-γ gene were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the infected resistant sheep from 14 to 28 DPI compared to the susceptible sheep. In resistant sheep, IgA and IgG1 and cytokine IFN-γ positively correlated with expression of IFN-γ gene, and the SNPs recorded in the resistant sheep only might play an important role in conferring resistance against H. contortus. Further studies are required to elucidate the role of IFN-γ gene in H. contortus resistance in Garole sheep.
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10
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Adduci I, Sajovitz F, Hinney B, Lichtmannsperger K, Joachim A, Wittek T, Yan S. Haemonchosis in Sheep and Goats, Control Strategies and Development of Vaccines against Haemonchus contortus. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12182339. [PMID: 36139199 PMCID: PMC9495197 DOI: 10.3390/ani12182339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Haemonchus contortus is the most pathogenic blood-feeding parasitic nematode in sheep and goats, threatening animal welfare and causing tremendous economic losses to the small ruminant industry. This comprehensive review article sums up current control strategies, worm-derived antigens and recent advances in anti-Haemonchus vaccine development. New insights into antigen engineering and general considerations for clinical trials are discussed here. Abstract The evolutionary success of parasitic worms causes significant economic losses and animal health problems, including in the small ruminant industry. The hematophagous nematode Haemonchus contortus is a common endoparasite that infects wild and domestic ruminants worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. To date, the most commonly applied control strategy is the administration of anthelminthic drugs. The main disadvantages of these chemicals are their ecotoxic effects, the necessary withdrawal period (especially important in dairy animals) and the increasing development of resistance. Vaccines offer an attractive alternative control strategy against Haemonchus infections. In previous years, several potential vaccine antigens prepared from H. contortus using the latest technologies have been assessed in clinical trials using different methods and strategies. This review highlights the current state of knowledge on anti-H. contortus vaccines (covering native, recombinant and DNA-based vaccines), including an evaluation, as well a discussion of the challenges and achievements in developing protective, efficient, and long-lasting vaccines to control H. contortus infection and haemonchosis in small ruminants. This paper also addresses novel developments tackling the challenge of glycosylation of putative candidates in recombinant form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Adduci
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, A-1210 Wien, Austria
| | - Floriana Sajovitz
- University Clinic for Ruminants, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, A-1210 Wien, Austria
| | - Barbara Hinney
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, A-1210 Wien, Austria
| | - Katharina Lichtmannsperger
- University Clinic for Ruminants, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, A-1210 Wien, Austria
| | - Anja Joachim
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, A-1210 Wien, Austria
| | - Thomas Wittek
- University Clinic for Ruminants, Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, A-1210 Wien, Austria
| | - Shi Yan
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, A-1210 Wien, Austria
- Correspondence:
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11
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Identification of Somatic Proteins in Haemonchus Contortus Infective Larvae (L 3) and Adults. Helminthologia 2022; 59:143-151. [PMID: 36118367 PMCID: PMC9444209 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2022-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Haemonchus contortus is considered the most pathogenic nematode in sheep production systems based on grazing. Comparing infective larvae (L3) with adult parasites can lead to the identification of proteins that play an important role in parasite-host interactions. In this study, we report a list of H. contortus somatic proteins and made a comparative analysis of somatic proteins of L3 and adult worms. L3 and adult parasites were subjected to protein extraction and subsequently to peptide fractionation. Peptides were analysed by mass spectrometry and LC-MS/MS data analysis. Data analysis and search on SEQUEST and MASCOT against H. contortus from the WormBase ParaSite database resulted in the identification of 775 unique peptide sequences corresponding to 227 proteins at 1 % FDR. From these, 18 proteins were specific to L3 and 63 to adult parasites. The gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis of the proteins specific to L3 and adult worms to gain insight into cellular components, molecular functions and biological processes that affect the parasite-host interaction showed some differences between the two parasite stages. The list of proteins found provides a database to identify target proteins that could be useful as biomarkers of the infection or in the generation of anthelmintic drugs that inhibit proteins essential for the establishment of the infection and the survival of adult parasites. They can also serve as new candidates for vaccine research.
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12
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Noack S, Harrington J, Carithers DS, Kaminsky R, Selzer PM. Heartworm disease - Overview, intervention, and industry perspective. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2021; 16:65-89. [PMID: 34030109 PMCID: PMC8163879 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2021.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Dirofilaria immitis, also known as heartworm, is a major parasitic threat for dogs and cats around the world. Because of its impact on the health and welfare of companion animals, heartworm disease is of huge veterinary and economic importance especially in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. Within the animal health market many different heartworm preventive products are available, all of which contain active components of the same drug class, the macrocyclic lactones. In addition to compliance issues, such as under-dosing or irregular treatment intervals, the occurrence of drug-resistant heartworms within the populations in the Mississippi River areas adds to the failure of preventive treatments. The objective of this review is to provide an overview of the disease, summarize the current disease control measures and highlight potential new avenues and best practices for treatment and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Noack
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Binger Str. 173, 55216, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany
| | - John Harrington
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 1730 Olympic Drive, 30601, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Douglas S Carithers
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, 3239 Satellite Blvd, 30096, Duluth, GA, USA
| | - Ronald Kaminsky
- paraC Consulting, Altenstein 13, 79685, Häg-Ehrsberg, Germany
| | - Paul M Selzer
- Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, Binger Str. 173, 55216, Ingelheim am Rhein, Germany.
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13
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Campbell BJ, Marsh AE, Parker EM, McCutcheon JS, Fluharty FL, Parker AJ. The effects of protein supplementation and pasture maintenance on the growth, parasite burden, and economic return of pasture-raised lambs. Transl Anim Sci 2021; 5:txab113. [PMID: 34316541 PMCID: PMC8309954 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txab113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the impact of protein supplementation and pasture contamination with gastrointestinal nematodes on the mitigation of parasitic infection in grazing lambs. We hypothesized that there would be no difference between protein supplementation and newly sown pasture in evaluating lamb growth and health parameters associated with parasitism. Furthermore, we questioned if there would be an interaction between protein supplementation and pasture type. A total of 192, 60-d-old lambs (28.3 ± 5.1 kg) were randomly assigned to one of four treatments: 1) new pasture without supplementation (NN); 2) new pasture with supplementation (NS); 3) established pasture without supplementation (EN); and 4) established pasture with supplementation (ES) and grazed for 112 d. Lambs were supplemented at a rate of 1% body weight/d. Supplemented lambs had greater body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG) when compared with non-supplemented lambs (P < 0.04). Additionally, lambs on newly sown pasture demonstrated greater BW and ADG when compared with lambs grazing on established pasture (P < 0.05). For lamb health, lambs in the EN treatment group had the greatest FAMACHA eye scores and lowest packed cell volume (PCV) over the course of the 112-d grazing period (P < 0.05). Moreover, NS and ES treatment lambs demonstrated similar FAMACHA eye scores when compared with NN treatment lambs; however, NN treatment lambs showed lower PCV when compared with NS and ES treatment lambs (P < 0.05). In evaluating fecal egg counts (FEC), lambs on new pasture or given supplement demonstrated lesser FEC when compared with those lambs on established pasture or not given supplement (P < 0.05). Sixty-four lambs were harvested to evaluate total abomasum nematode counts which demonstrated that Haemonchus contortus represented approximately 80% of total nematodes. Furthermore, based upon gross margin analysis, lambs given a protein rich supplement on pasture had a 9.3 kg increase in lamb BW whereas newly sown pasture had a 1.3 kg increase in lamb BW. A protein rich supplement given to lambs grazing pastures contaminated primarily with H. contortus or placing lambs on newly sown pasture increases lamb BW and improves parasite resiliency. Selection of parasite management strategies may be influenced by cost of production and market opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Braden J Campbell
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH 44691, USA
| | - Antoinette E Marsh
- College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| | - Elizabeth M Parker
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH 44691, USA
| | | | - Francis L Fluharty
- Department of Animal & Dairy Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Anthony J Parker
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH 44691, USA
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14
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Wu F, Zhang H, Zhou J, Wu J, Tong D, Chen X, Huang Y, Shi H, Yang Y, Ma G, Yao C, Du A. The trypsin inhibitor-like domain is required for a serine protease inhibitor of Haemonchus contortus to inhibit host coagulation. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:1015-1026. [PMID: 34126100 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Haemonchus contortus, a blood-feeding nematode, inhibits blood coagulation at the site of infection to facilitate blood-sucking and digesting for successful parasitism. However, the mechanism underlying anti-coagulation at the host-parasite interface is largely unknown. In the current study, Hc-spi-i8, which has two greatly different transcripts named Hc-spi-i8a and Hc-spi-i8b, respectively, was described. Hc-SPI-I8A was a serine protease inhibitor containing a trypsin inhibitor-like cysteine rich (TIL) domain, while Hc-SPI-I8B was not. Hc-SPI-I8A/B were primarily expressed in the hypodermis, intestines and gonads in the parasitic stages of H. contortus. Hc-SPI-I8A interacted with Ovis aries TSP1-containing protein (OaTSP1CP), which was determined by yeast two-hybrid, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), pull down and co-localization experiments. The blood clotting time contributed by the TIL domain was prolonged by Hc-SPI-I8A. Hc-SPI-I8A is most likely interfering in the extrinsic coagulation cascade by interacting with OaTSP1CP through its TIL domain and intrinsic coagulation cascade by an unknown mechanism. These findings depict a crucial point in the host-parasite interaction during H. contortus colonization, which should contribute to drug discovery and vaccine development in fighting against this important parasite worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Wu
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jingru Zhou
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jie Wu
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Danni Tong
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xueqiu Chen
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yan Huang
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hengzhi Shi
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yi Yang
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Guangxu Ma
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chaoqun Yao
- Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine and One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, P.O. Box 334, Basseterre, St. Kitts, Trinidad and Tobago
| | - Aifang Du
- Institute of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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15
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Physiological, Immunological and Genetic Factors in the Resistance and Susceptibility to Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Sheep in the Peripartum Period: A Review. Helminthologia 2021; 58:134-151. [PMID: 34248374 PMCID: PMC8256458 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2021-0020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic diseases of sheep involving gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) are one of the main problems that affect fl ock productivity, especially during the peripartum period. Around lambing, the ewes are immunosuppressed and the nematode faecal egg count (FEC) increases at four weeks before lambing, reaching a peak between the fourth and sixth week postpartum and subsequently decreasing towards weaning. Prolactin has been credited with a suppressive effect on immune system, along with other hormones that intervene in metabolism, such as leptin, which has an important role in the activation of other hormones. Cortisol has also been included; this is stimulated by any stressful event and inhibits the proliferation of T-cells and alters the function of immunoglobulins. Another related hormone is pepsinogen, which is considered a marker of the integrity of the abomasum mucosa, as well as the albumin concentration that increases in the presence of a GIN infection. The humoral and cellular immune response, as well as inflammatory reactions, are the main mechanisms of action against GIN. Lymphocytes direct the effector mechanisms in a Th2 cell response, including interleukins (IL-4, IL-5, IL-9, IL-10) and transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) together with immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM and IgE), which prevent the invasion of pathogens. Eosinophils with a cytotoxic effect are indicators of a parasitic infection, with importance in the immune protection of infected individuals. The genetic selection of resistant individuals measured by FEC is dependent on the heritability (h2), which is moderately inheritable and highly repeatable. Effects that influence the resistance or susceptibility of sheep to GIN infections in the peripartum period are determined by the interaction of various factors, such as genotype or breed, nutrition, age, type of birth, season and production system, etc., which are studied in this review.
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16
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Kebeta MM, Hine BC, Walkden-Brown SW, Kahn LP, Doyle EK. Protective efficacy of Barbervax® in Merino weaner sheep trickle infected with five doses of Haemonchus contortus infective larvae. Vet Parasitol 2021; 292:109386. [PMID: 33652209 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Barbervax® protects sheep against H. contortus infection; however, the level of protection afforded by the vaccine at different levels of larval challenge under field conditions has not been reported. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the protective efficacy of Barbervax® at increasing doses of trickle infection with H. contortus third stage larvae (L3). Merino lambs (220) were randomly allocated to challenge treatment groups and received Barbervax® vaccinations at approximately 8, 11, 15 and 22 weeks of age or not vaccinated (control group). Animals within each treatment group were subjected to one of five levels of H. contortus L3 trickle infection (0, 300, 600, 1200 and 2400 L3/week in two split doses). Trickle infections started two weeks after the third vaccination (week 0). Worm egg count (WEC), packed cell volume (PCV), antibody titre and bodyweight were measured at week 2 (start of trickle infection), week 5 and then every two weeks for 11 weeks. Vaccinated weaners had a significantly (P < 0.0001) lower faecal WEC than unvaccinated control animals. Vaccination induced significant specific antibody responses that were not influenced by level of trickle infection. Vaccination significantly reduced the number of weaners requiring salvage anthelmintic treatment (9.4% vaccinated weaners versus 33.6% unvaccinated). Vaccine protective index based on WEC was similar at all challenge levels (overall mean> 60%) and at the higher challenge levels did not reduce H. contortus infection to levels that would not require anthelmintic treatment. Therefore, it is suggested that under conditions of high larval challenge the use of Barbervax® should be integrated with other control methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Kebeta
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia; College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, Arsi University, Asella, P.O. Box 193, Ethiopia.
| | - B C Hine
- CSIRO, Livestock & Aquaculture, F.D. McMaster Laboratory, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia
| | - S W Walkden-Brown
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - L P Kahn
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - E K Doyle
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
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17
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Evaluation of protection in grazing lambs immunised with different doses of Haemonchus contortus gut membrane glycoproteins in Southern Brazil. Vet Parasitol 2021; 290:109360. [PMID: 33524779 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
A vaccine containing doses ranging from 2 μg to 50 μg of integral membrane proteins from Haemonchus contortus intestinal cells (H11 and H-gal-GP complex) has been shown to be effective for lambs. A vaccine for H. contortus was tested in two-month old grazing Corriedale lambs during an eight-month trial on the outskirts of Bagé, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The animals were kept in a single paddock and allocated to five similar groups according to weight, sex and faecal egg counts (FEC). Vaccinated lambs received 0, 2, 5, 10 or 50 μg of the same antigen diluted in QuilA adjuvant. Vaccine injections were given at days 0, 21, 49, 91, 133, and 175. Lambs were sampled weekly for FEC, packed cell volume (PCV), and plasma ELISA antibody titre. Lambs with PCVs ≤15 % were drenched with levamisole (7.5 mg/kg body weight) as a salvage treatment. During days 77-98 an artificial challenge was administered to increase parasite transmission. Post-artificial challenge (from day 98-217), the FEC of the vaccinated lambs were 59.3 % lower than those of the control lambs. Antigen dose correlated with changes in PCV (r = 0.387 p-value < 0.001). Vaccinated lambs also had higher PCV than controls (p < 0.001; contrast analysis). Salvage treatment was needed in 16.7 % of vaccinated lambs and 88 % of control lambs.
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18
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Bassetto CC, Almeida FA, Newlands GFJ, Smith WD, Amarante AFT. Repeated vaccination against Haemonchus contortus provides continuous protection to young grazing sheep. Vet Parasitol 2020; 287:109273. [PMID: 33091632 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Haemonchus contortus is the most important gastrointestinal nematode in the tropics and subtropics causing huge economic losses to the small ruminant industry. Vaccination is potentially a sustainable approach to control this parasite and the performance of Barbervax® a vaccine containing integral membrane glycoproteins from H. contortus intestinal cells, was evaluated in naturally infected grazing sheep during their development from sucking lambs to adults. The sheep were randomly assigned to two groups: Vaccine and Control. The Vaccine group were vaccinated 23 times over the course of this two-year trial at intervals of 3-6 weeks. They responded with anti-vaccine specific antibodies, had 80 % lower Haemonchus egg counts and were less anaemic compared with the controls. Packed cell volumes (PCV) were always greater than 25 % in the vaccinated sheep but averaged between 23 % and 24 % in the controls. Total plasma protein values were higher in the vaccinated group from the third vaccination until the end of the trial. Throughout the trial, 88 % of the control sheep were drenched (average of 3.1 drenches per treated animal) but only 57 % of vaccinates, needed a salvage anthelmintic treatment (average of 1.9 drenches per treated animal), however, between group no differences in body weight were observed. In summary, these results indicate that a continuous course of Barbervax® can provide lambs with substantial year-round protection against H. contortus until they reached adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar C Bassetto
- UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista, Instituto de Biociências, Botucatu, SP, Brazil.
| | - Fabiana A Almeida
- UNESP - Universidade Estadual Paulista, Instituto de Biociências, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - George F J Newlands
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Edinburgh, UK
| | - W David Smith
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Edinburgh, UK
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19
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Ehsan M, Hu RS, Liang QL, Hou JL, Song X, Yan R, Zhu XQ, Li X. Advances in the Development of Anti- Haemonchus contortus Vaccines: Challenges, Opportunities, and Perspectives. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8030555. [PMID: 32971770 PMCID: PMC7565421 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 09/13/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The gastrointestinal nematode parasite Haemonchus contortus (H. contortus) is a resident of tropical and subtropical regions worldwide that imposes significant production losses, economic losses, and animal health issues in the small ruminant industry, particularly sheep and goats. Considerable efforts have been made to understand how immunity is elicited against H. contortus infection. Various potential vaccine antigens have been tested by different methods and strategies applied in animal models, and significant progress has been made in the development of vaccines against H. contortus. This review highlighted and shared the knowledge about the current understanding of host immune responses to H. contortus and ongoing challenges in the development of a protective, effective, and long-lasting vaccine against H. contortus infection. We have also pinpointed some achievements and failures in the development and testing of vaccines, which will establish a road map for future research directions to explore new effective vaccine candidates for controlling and preventing H. contortus infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ehsan
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730046, China; (M.E.); (R.-S.H.); (Q.-L.L.); (J.-L.H.)
| | - Rui-Si Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730046, China; (M.E.); (R.-S.H.); (Q.-L.L.); (J.-L.H.)
| | - Qin-Li Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730046, China; (M.E.); (R.-S.H.); (Q.-L.L.); (J.-L.H.)
| | - Jun-Ling Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730046, China; (M.E.); (R.-S.H.); (Q.-L.L.); (J.-L.H.)
| | - Xiaokai Song
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.S.); (R.Y.); (X.L.)
| | - Ruofeng Yan
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.S.); (R.Y.); (X.L.)
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou 730046, China; (M.E.); (R.-S.H.); (Q.-L.L.); (J.-L.H.)
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu 030801, China
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +86-354-628-8993
| | - Xiangrui Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (X.S.); (R.Y.); (X.L.)
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20
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Broomfield MA, Doyle EK, Kahn LP, Smith WD, Walkden-Brown SW. A simplified Barbervax® vaccination regimen in lambs to evoke immunological protection to Haemonchus contortus. Vet Parasitol 2020; 287:109243. [PMID: 33010786 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study assessed the feasibility of altering the pre-weaning vaccination schedule of the commercially available Barbervax® vaccine directed against Haemonchus contortus, to avoid the 2nd priming vaccination which typically falls between lamb marking and weaning. Merino lambs (n = 175) born to maiden ewes, located in the Northern Tablelands, New South Wales, were randomly allocated to treatment groups (n = 35) and subjected to five different vaccination regimes. One group remained as unvaccinated controls and another had the full set of three priming doses. The other three groups were vaccinated only at marking and weaning receiving a double dose of vaccine at marking and/or weaning. The hypothesis tested was that reducing the interval between lamb marking and weaning to 6 weeks, and providing a double dose of vaccine at marking, weaning or both would remove the need for the second priming vaccination between lamb marking and weaning. This priming vaccination in the vaccination protocol necessitates an additional mustering of ewes with young lambs at foot and is a time consuming and costly exercise which increases the risk of mis-mothering. Blood and faecal samples were collected at frequent intervals for worm egg count (WEC), larval differentiation and H. contortus vaccine specific ELISA antibody analysis. Overall, the results supported the hypothesis, and it was found that antibody titres and WEC reductions equivalent to the registered vaccine regimen were achieved by the alternative regimens. This finding requires further investigation under a wider range of conditions. Deviation from the registered vaccination protocol would constitute off-label usage, and at this time and until further evaluations are done these deviations are not recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Broomfield
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2350, Australia; Invetus Pty Ltd, Armidale, NSW, 2350, Australia.
| | - E K Doyle
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2350, Australia
| | - L P Kahn
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2350, Australia
| | - W D Smith
- Moredun Research Institute, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - S W Walkden-Brown
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2350, Australia
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21
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Cortés A, Rooney J, Bartley DJ, Nisbet AJ, Cantacessi C. Helminths, hosts, and their microbiota: new avenues for managing gastrointestinal helminthiases in ruminants. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2020; 18:977-985. [PMID: 32530331 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2020.1782188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Evidence is emerging of complex interactions occurring between gastrointestinal (GI) parasites of ruminants and the resident gut flora, with likely implications for the pathophysiology of worm infection and disease. Similarly, recent data point toward the occurrence of a GI nematode (GIN)-specific microbiota, with potential roles in worm fundamental physiology and reproduction. Parasite-microbiota relationships might represent potential targets for the development of novel parasiticides. AREAS COVERED In this article, we review current knowledge of the role(s) that host- and helminth-associated microbiota play in ruminant host-parasite relationships, and outline potential avenues for the control of GIN of farmed ruminants via the manipulation of resident microbial species with putative functions in infection establishment, host-immune modulation, and/or parasite fitness and survival. EXPERT OPINION In order for this knowledge to be translated into practical applications, we argue that several aspects of the nematode-microbiota cross-talk must be addressed, including (i) the causality of interactions between the parasite, the gut microbiota, and the host immune system, (ii) the modes of action of dietary prebiotics and probiotics, (iii) the mechanisms by which diet supplementation aids the development of resistance/tolerance to GI helminth infections and (iv) the composition of the GIN microbiome and its role(s) in parasite biology and physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alba Cortés
- Departament de Farmàcia i Tecnologia Farmacèutica i Parasotologia, Facultat de Farmàcia, Universitat de València , València, Spain.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge , Cambridge, UK
| | - James Rooney
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge , Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Cinzia Cantacessi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge , Cambridge, UK
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22
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Comparative H-gal-GP and H11 specific antibody binding in equine cyathostomins. Vet Parasitol 2020; 286:109242. [PMID: 32980728 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109242] [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: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The biological-based vaccine (Barbervax®) generates effective antibodies against the biologically essential H-gal-GP and H11 protein complex of the ruminant parasite Haemonchus contortus to target and kill the parasites after taking a blood meal. A comparative analysis of several parasite genera was performed to determine if a similar protein complex or one that is recognized by H-gal-GP and H11 specific antibodies was present. If so, it suggests the vaccine could be effective for other nematode parasites. Ancylostoma caninum, H. contortus, equine cyathostomins, bovine Bunostomum phlebotomum, Dracunculus lutrae, Parascaris sp., Ixodes scapularis, Amblyomma americanum, Dirofilaria immitis and Brugia malayi were evaluated for specific antibody binding using hyperimmunized antibodies against H-gal-GP and H11 native proteins. Of the parasites evaluated, specific and reproducible staining was observed in H. contortus and adult and encysted cyathostomins only. To further evaluate the similar reactivities between cyathostomins and H. contortus, cross-reactivity of equine serum with antibodies to cyathostomins on a H. contortus adult histology cross-section was observed using immunofluorescence. These findings pave the way for future studies on the safety and efficacy of H-gal-GP and H11 protein complex as a potential control for cyathostomins.
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23
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Pereira FC, Longo C, Castilho C, Leme DP, Seugling J, Bassetto CC, Amarante AFT, Bricarello PA. Peripartum Phenomenon in Crioula Lanada Sheep Susceptible and Resistant to Gastrointestinal Nematodes. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:598. [PMID: 33102550 PMCID: PMC7505945 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed at evaluating parasitological and blood variables in native breed Crioula Lanada sheep belonging to the same herd, to identify and compare susceptible or resistant individuals to gastrointestinal nematodes during gestation and lactation phases. For this purpose, 18 Crioula sheep were used within 2 years of evaluation, in which blood and feces samples and weight of the animals were taken from their 4th month of gestation until the weaning of their lambs, in the 4th month postpartum. Feces samples were used for counting eggs per gram of feces (EPG) and, thus, to identify 12 resistant ewes (EPG < 1,000) and 6 susceptible (EPG > 1,000) to gastrointestinal nematodes. The identification of infective larvae was also performed. Blood was used for analysis of packed cell volume (PCV), eosinophil count, total plasma protein, and immunoglobulin G level against Haemonchus contortus infective larvae. The Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric comparison test was used to evaluate the differences between days of parturition and linear mixed-effects model using package lme4 in R to evaluate the groups. The main parasite species observed in the feces samples were Haemonchus, Trichostrongylus, Oesophagostomum, Ostertagia, and Cooperia in similar proportions in both groups. Susceptible ewes presented peaks of EPG at the beginning of lactation and lower PCV values throughout the study. No difference between groups was observed concerning other blood variables or body weight, but some changes were observed along with the gestation and lactation phases within each group. The physiological response of sheep to nematode infection is a useful tool to identify the most susceptible individuals within the same breed and herd and to select the most genetically resistant individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiellen Cristina Pereira
- Department of Animal Science and Rural Development, Agricultural Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Cibele Longo
- Department of Animal Science and Rural Development, Agricultural Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Caliê Castilho
- Pro-Rectory Graduate Studies and Research, University of Oeste Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Denise Pereira Leme
- Department of Animal Science and Rural Development, Agricultural Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Seugling
- Department of Animal Science and Rural Development, Agricultural Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | | | | | - Patrizia Ana Bricarello
- Department of Animal Science and Rural Development, Agricultural Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, Brazil
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24
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Lundberg SS, McNeilly TN, McAnulty RW, Greer AW. Attempts to induce tolerance to Trichostrongylus colubriformis infection in sheep. Parasite Immunol 2020; 42:e12776. [PMID: 32672355 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The possibility of manipulating the immune response in lambs to the gastrointestinal nematode Trichostrongylus colubriformis to reduce production losses associated with infection was investigated. In a series of four experiments, attempts to immunize sheep via the mucosal route to modify the immune response and induce mucosal tolerance are outlined. Initially, a proof of concept study was conducted with lambs being injected with multiple doses of a somatic T colubriformis antigen without an adjuvant in the rectal submucosa and subsequently challenged with T colubriformis L3 larvae. This was followed by a dose-response study comparing different antigen doses to identify the optimum dose of the nematode antigen for successful induction of mucosal tolerance. The final two studies were conducted to determine the larval stage specificity of the parasite antigen and the most suitable site of delivery required to stimulate mucosal tolerance. METHODS In the proof of concept study, lambs either received repeated injections in the rectal submucosa at 3 × weekly intervals with 15 µg of L3, 11 µg of L4 and 21 µg of immature adult (L5) somatic T colubriformis antigens (ANT) or not (INF) prior to infection with T colubriformis. In the dose-rate study, antigen dose rates of 100%, 50%, 10%, 1% or 0% of the antigen concentration used in the proof of concept study were compared while the larval stage study compared antigen from either L3, L4, L5 stages or combination of all (COMB) and the route of administration study compared antigen delivery into either the rectal submucosa (RE) or sub-cutaneous injection (SC). RESULTS During infection, lamb growth was improved by antigen treatment between days 21 and 42 in the proof of concept study (P = .009), for groups 10%, 50% and 100% in the dose-rate study (P < .05 for all) and in RE in the route of administration study with no improvement observed in the larval stage study. No differences in faecal egg counts were observed (P > .05 for all). Parasite-specific IgA and IgE showed a dose-response (the dose-rate study), were not affected by larval stage (the larval stage study) and were greater in RE than SC (the route of administration study). IL-4 production following lymphocyte stimulation was greatest in COMB (the larval stage study) and RE (the route of administration study). CONCLUSIONS Although antigen treatment improved performance, this was inconsistent and appeared to stimulate immunity rather than induce tolerance. Combined larval stages were more efficient than individual stages, and intra-rectal administration was more effective than sub-cutaneous.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara S Lundberg
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Tom N McNeilly
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentland Science Park, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Robin W McAnulty
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Andrew W Greer
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Lincoln University, Christchurch, New Zealand
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25
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Kebeta MM, Hine BC, Walkden-Brown SW, Kahn LP, Doyle EK. Evaluation of Barbervax® vaccination for lambing Merino ewes. Vet Parasitol 2020; 283:109187. [PMID: 32702608 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Barbervax® vaccine, directed against Haemonchus contortus, has been commercially available in Australia since 2014. However, to date the optimal timing for booster vaccination of lambing ewes has not been identified. Therefore the aim of this experiment was to compare the efficacy of Barbervax® when administered to ewes one week prior to the commencement of lambing versus at lamb marking 7 weeks later. A total of 400 single bearing Merino ewes, run on a commercial sheep property in the New England region of New South Wales, previously primed with Barbervax® were enrolled in the project. The experiment incorporated a cross-over design with two treatments imposed pre-lambing; Barbervax® booster vaccination with anthelmintic (n = 200) or anthelmintic alone (n = 200). At lamb marking, there were four treatment groups (n = 100) and anthelmintic was administered to all treatment groups. The four treatment combinations were Barbervax® booster vaccination at pre-lambing and lamb marking (V-V), booster vaccination only at pre-lambing (V-A), booster vaccination only at lamb marking (A-V) or anthelmintic only at both at pre-lambing and lamb marking (A-A). Pre-lambing Barbervax® booster vaccination of ewes induced an antibody response and, when used in conjunction with anthelmintic, significantly reduced worm egg counts (WEC) assessed at 7 weeks (lamb marking) and 13 weeks later, relative to treatment with anthelmintic alone. Booster vaccination plus anthelmintic treatment at lamb marking was not effective at reducing WEC compared to anthelmintic treatment alone. Body weight and packed cell volume did not differ between the treatment groups throughout the trial. In conclusion Barbervax® booster vaccination at pre-lambing provides additional protection for reproducing ewes given an effective short acting anthelmintic at this time.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Kebeta
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia.
| | - B C Hine
- CSIRO, Livestock & Aquaculture, F.D. McMaster Laboratory, Armidale, NSW 2350, Australia
| | - S W Walkden-Brown
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - L P Kahn
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - E K Doyle
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
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26
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Hinney B, Schoiswohl J, Melville L, Ameen VJ, Wille-Piazzai W, Bauer K, Joachim A, Krücken J, Skuce PJ, Krametter-Frötscher R. High frequency of benzimidazole resistance alleles in trichostrongyloids from Austrian sheep flocks in an alpine transhumance management system. BMC Vet Res 2020; 16:132. [PMID: 32393382 PMCID: PMC7216349 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-020-02353-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infections of small ruminants with trichostrongyloid nematodes often result in reduced productivity and may be detrimental to the host. Anthelmintic resistance (AR) against most anthelmintic drug classes is now widespread amongst the trichostrongyloids. Baseline establishment, followed by regular monitoring of the level of AR, is necessary for farmers and veterinarians to make informed decisions about parasite management. The detection of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) is a sensitive method to detect AR against benzimidazoles (BZs), one of the most widely used anthelmintic classes. Alpine transhumance constitutes a special type of pasturing of sheep from many different farms, the aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of benzimidazole resistance alleles in this particular management system. Results Sixteen sheep flocks in Styria and Salzburg in Austria were examined by pyrosequencing for SNPs at codons 167, 198 and 200 of the isotype-1 β-tubulin gene. The frequency of the resistance-associated exchange F200Y was 87–100% for H. contortus, 77–100% for T. colubriformis and < 5–66% for T. circumcincta. Additionally, the F167Y polymorphism was detected in T. colubriformis from two farms at a frequency of 19 and 23% respectively. Conclusions The high resistance allele frequency in H. contortus and T. colubriformis in the examined sheep population urgently calls for the development of new treatment strategies to sustainably control trichostrongyloid infections for this kind of pasturing, since the frequent mixing of flocks during the alpine summer grazing must be considered an important risk factor for the spread of resistant nematodes to a large number of farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Hinney
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Julia Schoiswohl
- Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University Clinic for Ruminants, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Lynsey Melville
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Parks, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Edinburgh, EH26 OPZ, UK
| | - Vahel J Ameen
- Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Duhok, Duhok, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
| | - Walpurga Wille-Piazzai
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Karl Bauer
- Animal Health Service Styria, Friedrichgasse 11, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Anja Joachim
- Department of Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen Krücken
- Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Philip J Skuce
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Parks, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Edinburgh, EH26 OPZ, UK
| | - Reinhild Krametter-Frötscher
- Department for Farm Animals and Veterinary Public Health, University Clinic for Ruminants, Vetmeduni Vienna, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria
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27
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Albuquerque ACA, Bassetto CC, Almeida FA, Hildersley KA, McNeilly TN, Britton C, Amarante AFT. Differences in immune responses to Haemonchus contortus infection in the susceptible Ile de France and the resistant Santa Ines sheep under different anthelmintic treatments regimens. Vet Res 2019; 50:104. [PMID: 31783921 PMCID: PMC6884896 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-019-0722-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding the immunological basis of resistance to gastrointestinal nematode infections in livestock is important in order to develop novel methods of parasite control such as vaccination or genetic selection for parasite resistance. The present study aimed to investigate differences in immune response between parasite resistant Santa Ines and susceptible Ile de France sheep breeds to natural Haemonchus contortus infection. Parasitological parameters, humoral immunity, local and circulating cellular immune responses were evaluated in 19 Santa Ines and 19 Ile de France lambs undergoing different anthelmintic treatments regimens: suppressive treatments (SUP) or targeted selective treatments (TST) over a 5-month grazing period. Santa Ines lambs had significantly lower Haemonchus faecal egg count and worm burden compared to Ile de France regardless of treatment regime. In addition, circulating blood eosinophils count and parasite-specific IgG levels were significantly higher and more rapidly induced in Santa Ines lambs. Abomasal immune responses were generally greater in the resistant breed, which had significantly higher levels of parasite-specific IgA in mucus, and elevated number of globule leukocytes and CD3+ T cells within the abomasal mucosal. Furthermore, numbers of POU2F3+ epithelial cells, a tuft-cell specific transcription factor, were also elevated in the Santa Ines breed, suggesting that this breed is better able to initiate T-helper type 2 immune responses within the abomasum. In conclusion, the differential immunological responses detailed here are relevant to understanding resistance to gastrointestinal nematodes in other host breeds, as well as to resistance breeding as a sustainable control approach for parasitic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cláudia A Albuquerque
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, UNESP-São Paulo State University, Rua Professor Doutor Walter Mauricio Correa s/n, Botucatu, SP, 18618-681, Brazil.
| | - Cesar Cristiano Bassetto
- Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-São Paulo State University, Rua Professor Dr. Antônio Celso Wagner Zanin, 250, Botucatu, SP, 18618-689, Brazil
| | - Fabiana A Almeida
- Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-São Paulo State University, Rua Professor Dr. Antônio Celso Wagner Zanin, 250, Botucatu, SP, 18618-689, Brazil
| | - Katie A Hildersley
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, UoG-University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK.,Disease Control Division, MRI -Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - Tom N McNeilly
- Disease Control Division, MRI -Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - Collette Britton
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, UoG-University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Alessandro F T Amarante
- Institute of Biosciences, UNESP-São Paulo State University, Rua Professor Dr. Antônio Celso Wagner Zanin, 250, Botucatu, SP, 18618-689, Brazil
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28
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Jasmer DP, Rosa BA, Tyagi R, Mitreva M. Omics Driven Understanding of the Intestines of Parasitic Nematodes. Front Genet 2019; 10:652. [PMID: 31402928 PMCID: PMC6669237 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The biological and molecular complexity of nematodes has impeded research on development of new therapies for treatment and control. We have focused on the versatility of the nematode intestine as a target for new therapies. To that end, it is desirable to establish a broad and deep understanding of the molecular architecture underlying intestinal cell functions at the pan-Nematoda level. Multiomics data were generated to uncover the evolutionary principles underlying both conserved and adaptable features of the nematode intestine. Whole genomes were used to reveal the functional potential of the nematodes, tissue-specific transcriptomes provided a deep assessment of genes that are expressed in the adult nematode intestine, and comparison of selected core species was used to determine a first approximation of the pan-Nematoda intestinal transcriptome. Differentially expressed transcripts were also identified among intestinal regions, with the largest number expressed at significantly higher levels in the anterior region, identifying this region as the most functionally unique compared to middle and posterior regions. Profiling intestinal miRNAs targeting these genes identified the conserved intestinal miRNAs. Proteomics of intestinal cell compartments assigned proteins to several different intestinal cell compartments (intestinal tissue, the integral and peripheral intestinal membranes, and the intestinal lumen). Finally, advanced bioinformatic approaches were used to predict intestinal cell functional categories of seminal importance to parasite survival, which can now be experimentally tested and validated. The data provide the most comprehensive compilation of constitutively and differentially expressed genes, predicted gene regulators, and proteins of the nematode intestine. The information provides knowledge that is essential to understand molecular features of nematode intestinal cells and functions of fundamental importance to the intestine of many, if not all, parasitic nematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas P Jasmer
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Bruce A Rosa
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University, St. Louis, St. Louis, MI, United States
| | - Rahul Tyagi
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University, St. Louis, St. Louis, MI, United States
| | - Makedonka Mitreva
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University, St. Louis, St. Louis, MI, United States.,Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MI, United States
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