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Araujo-Jorge TCD, Ferreira RR. Translational research in Chagas disease: perspectives in nutritional therapy emerging from selenium supplementation studies as a complementary treatment. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2022; 117:e220001. [PMID: 35319676 PMCID: PMC8936165 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760220001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Translational research (TR) is an interdisciplinary branch of the biomedical field that seeks to connect its three supporting pillars: basic research on the bench, the hospital beds and other health system services, and the delivery of products for the well-being and health of the community. Here, we review the five transition stages of the TR spectrum, registering the lessons learned during > 20 years leading to the first clinical trial designed and performed in Brazil for testing a complementary treatment for Chagas disease (CD): the selenium trial (STCC). Lessons learned were: (1) to consider all the TR spectrum since the beginning of the project; (2) to start simultaneously animal studies and translation to humans; (3) to ensure a harmonious interaction between clinical and basic research teams; (4) to include MSc and PhD students only in pre-clinical and basic studies (TR0) or vertical clinical studies using retrospective samples and data (TR1); (5) to identify potential suppliers in the national commercial market for a future final treatment since the pre-clinical stage; (6) to keep an international network of experts as permanent advisers on the project. In the whole process, some perspectives were created: a complementary clinical trial for the opened questions and the construction of a Brazilian clinical CD platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tania C de Araujo-Jorge
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Inovação em Terapias, Ensino e Bioprodutos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | - Roberto R Ferreira
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Inovação em Terapias, Ensino e Bioprodutos, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
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Selenium, TGF-Beta and Infectious Endemic Cardiopathy: Lessons from Benchwork to Clinical Application in Chagas Disease. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12030349. [PMID: 35327541 PMCID: PMC8944995 DOI: 10.3390/biom12030349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
For over 60 years, selenium (Se) has been known as an essential microelement to many biological functions, including cardiovascular homeostasis. This review presents a compilation of studies conducted in the past 20 years related to chronic Chagas disease cardiomyopathy (CCC), caused by Trypanosoma cruzi infection, a neglected disease that represents a global burden, especially in Latin America. Experimental and clinical data indicate that Se may be used as a complementary therapy to prevent heart failure and improve heart function. Starting from the main questions “Is Se deficiency related to heart inflammation and arrhythmogenesis in CCC?” and “Could Se be recommended as a therapeutic strategy for CCC?”, we show evidence implicating the complex and multidetermined CCC physiopathology, discussing its possible interplays with the multifunctional cytokine TGF-β as regulators of immune response and fibrosis. We present two new proposals to face this global public health challenge in vulnerable populations affected by this parasitic disease: fibrosis modulation mediated by TGF-β pathways and the possible use of selenoproteins as antioxidants regulating the increased reactive oxygen stress present in CCC inflammatory environments. We assess the opportunity to consider the beneficial effects of Se in preventing heart failure as a concept to be applied for CCC patients.
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Holanda MT, Mediano MF, Hasslocher-Moreno AM, Gonzaga BM, Carvalho ACC, Ferreira RR, Garzoni LR, Pereira-Silva FS, Pimentel LO, Mendes MO, Azevedo MJ, Britto C, Moreira OC, Fernandes AG, Santos CM, Constermani J, Paravidino VB, Maciel ER, Carneiro FM, Xavier SS, Sperandio da Silva GM, Santos PF, Veloso HH, Brasil PE, de Sousa AS, Bonecini-de-Almeida MG, da Silva PS, Sangenis LHC, Saraiva RM, Araujo-Jorge TC. Effects of Selenium treatment on cardiac function in Chagas heart disease: Results from the STCC randomized Trial. EClinicalMedicine 2021; 40:101105. [PMID: 34485877 PMCID: PMC8406152 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2021.101105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chagas disease (caused by Trypanosoma cruzi infection) evolves to chronic chagasic cardiomyopathy (CCC) affecting 1.8 million people worldwide. This is the first randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blinded, clinical trial designed to estimate efficacy and safety of selenium (Se) treatment in CCC. METHODS 66 patients with CCC stages B1 (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF] > 45% and no heart failure; n = 54) or B2 (LVEF < 45% and no heart failure; n = 12) were randomly assigned to receive 100 mcg/day sodium selenite (Se, n = 32) or placebo (Pla, n = 34) for one year (study period: May 2014-September 2018). LVEF changes over time and adverse effects were investigated. Trial registration number: NCT00875173 (clinicaltrials.gov). FINDINGS No significant differences between the two groups were observed for the primary outcome: mean LVEF after 6 (β= +1.1 p = 0.51 for Se vs Pla) and 12 months (β= +2.1; p = 0.23). In a subgroup analysis, statistically significant longitudinal changes were observed for mean LVEF in the stage B2 subgroup (β= +10.1; p = 0.02 for Se [n = 4] vs Pla [n = 8]). Se treatment was safe for CCC patients, and the few adverse effects observed were similarly distributed across the two groups. INTERPRETATION Se treatment did not improve cardiac function (evaluated from LVEF) in CCC. However, in the subgroup of patients at B2 stage, a potential beneficial influence of Se was observed. Complementary studies are necessary to explore diverse Se dose and/or associations in different CCC stages (B2 and C), as well as in A and B1 stages with longer follow-up. FUNDING Brazilian Ministry of Health, Fiocruz, CNPq, FAPERJ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcelo T. Holanda
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Mauro F.F. Mediano
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Alejandro M. Hasslocher-Moreno
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Beatriz M.S. Gonzaga
- Laboratory of Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LITEB-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Cardoso Fontes, Sala 64, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Anna Cristina C. Carvalho
- Laboratory of Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LITEB-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Cardoso Fontes, Sala 64, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Roberto R. Ferreira
- Laboratory of Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LITEB-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Cardoso Fontes, Sala 64, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Luciana R. Garzoni
- Laboratory of Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LITEB-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Cardoso Fontes, Sala 64, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Fernanda S. Pereira-Silva
- Laboratory of Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LITEB-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Cardoso Fontes, Sala 64, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Luis O. Pimentel
- Laboratory of Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LITEB-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Cardoso Fontes, Sala 64, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Marcelo O. Mendes
- Laboratory of Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LITEB-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Cardoso Fontes, Sala 64, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Marcos J. Azevedo
- Laboratory of Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LITEB-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Cardoso Fontes, Sala 64, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Constança Britto
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Endemic Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LABIMDOE-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Leonidas Deane, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Otacilio C. Moreira
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Endemic Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LABIMDOE-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Leonidas Deane, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Alice G. Fernandes
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Endemic Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LABIMDOE-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Leonidas Deane, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Carolina M. Santos
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Endemic Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LABIMDOE-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Leonidas Deane, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Constermani
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Endemic Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LABIMDOE-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Leonidas Deane, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Vitor B. Paravidino
- Department of Epidemiology, Institute of Social Medicine, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rua São Francisco Xavier, 524, Pavilhão João Lyra Filho, 7° andar / blocos D e E, Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro 20550-013, Brazil
- Department of Physical Education and Sports, Naval Academy, Avenida Almirante Silvio de Noronha, s/n, Castelo, Rio de Janeiro 20021-010, Brazil
| | - Erica R. Maciel
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Fernanda M. Carneiro
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Sérgio S. Xavier
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Gilberto M. Sperandio da Silva
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Priscila F. Santos
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Henrique H. Veloso
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Pedro E.A.A. Brasil
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Andrea S. de Sousa
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Maria G. Bonecini-de-Almeida
- Laboratory of Immunology and Immunogenetics, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Paula S. da Silva
- Nutrition Service, Evandro Chagas Hospital, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Luiz Henrique C. Sangenis
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Roberto M. Saraiva
- Laboratory of Clinical Research in Chagas Disease, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases (INI), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
| | - Tania C. Araujo-Jorge
- Laboratory of Innovations in Therapies, Education and Bioproducts, Oswaldo Cruz Institute (LITEB-IOC/Fiocruz), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Pavilhão Cardoso Fontes, Sala 64, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil
- Corresponding author at: Laboratório de Inovações em Terapias, Ensino e Bioprodutos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Pav. Cardoso Fontes, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro RJ 21040-900, Brasil.
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Alcolea V, Pérez-Silanes S. Selenium as an interesting option for the treatment of Chagas disease: A review. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 206:112673. [PMID: 32810750 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Chagas disease is one of the most prevalent tropical neglected diseases and causes high mortality and morbidity in endemic countries. Current treatments for this disease, nifurtimox and benznidazole, are ineffective in the chronic phase of the disease and produce severe adverse effects. Therefore, novel therapies are urgently required. The trace element selenium has an important role in human health, due to its antioxidant, antiinflammatory and pro-immune properties. Actually, its deficiency has been related to several diseases and supplementation with this element has been proven to be beneficial for multiple pathologies. Furthermore, the usefulness of organic-selenium compounds has been studied in many disorders, showing promising results. The aim of this review is to analyse the available literature regarding the role of selenium in Chagas disease in order to determine whether its use could be beneficial for the management of this pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Alcolea
- Universidad de Navarra, ISTUN Instituto de Salud Tropical, Irunlarrea 1, 31008, Pamplona, Spain; School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry, Universidad de Navarra, Campus Universitario, 31008, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Silvia Pérez-Silanes
- Universidad de Navarra, ISTUN Instituto de Salud Tropical, Irunlarrea 1, 31008, Pamplona, Spain; School of Pharmacy and Nutrition, Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Chemistry, Universidad de Navarra, Campus Universitario, 31008, Pamplona, Spain.
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Qian F, Misra S, Prabhu KS. Selenium and selenoproteins in prostanoid metabolism and immunity. Crit Rev Biochem Mol Biol 2019; 54:484-516. [PMID: 31996052 PMCID: PMC7122104 DOI: 10.1080/10409238.2020.1717430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element that functions in the form of the 21st amino acid, selenocysteine (Sec) in a defined set of proteins. Se deficiency is associated with pathological conditions in humans and animals, where incorporation of Sec into selenoproteins is reduced along with their expression and catalytic activity. Supplementation of Se-deficient population with Se has shown health benefits suggesting the importance of Se in physiology. An interesting paradigm to explain, in part, the health benefits of Se stems from the observations that selenoprotein-dependent modulation of inflammation and efficient resolution of inflammation relies on mechanisms involving a group of bioactive lipid mediators, prostanoids, which orchestrate a concerted action toward maintenance and restoration of homeostatic immune responses. Such an effect involves the interaction of various immune cells with these lipid mediators where cellular redox gatekeeper functions of selenoproteins further aid in not only dampening inflammation, but also initiating an effective and active resolution process. Here we have summarized the current literature on the multifaceted roles of Se/selenoproteins in the regulation of these bioactive lipid mediators and their immunomodulatory effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenghua Qian
- Center for Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease and Center for Molecular Toxicology and Carcinogenesis, Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences and The Penn State Cancer Institute, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA. 16802, USA
| | - Sougat Misra
- Center for Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease and Center for Molecular Toxicology and Carcinogenesis, Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences and The Penn State Cancer Institute, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA. 16802, USA
| | - K. Sandeep Prabhu
- Center for Molecular Immunology and Infectious Disease and Center for Molecular Toxicology and Carcinogenesis, Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences and The Penn State Cancer Institute, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA. 16802, USA
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Laird-Fick HS, Tokala H, Kandola S, Kehdi M, Pelosi A, Wang L, Grondahl B. Early morphological changes in cardiac mitochondria after subcutaneous administration of trastuzumab in rabbits: possible prevention with oral selenium supplementation. Cardiovasc Pathol 2019; 44:107159. [PMID: 31743871 DOI: 10.1016/j.carpath.2019.107159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Trastuzumab-mediated cardiotoxicity poses a significant challenge in the treatment of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive breast cancer. To understand the underlying mechanisms, we conducted experiments to determine ultrastructural changes of rabbit cardiac tissue under different experimental conditions, including differing doses of trastuzumab and supplementation with oral sodium selenite, an antioxidant. Histopathology revealed lymphocyte and macrophage infiltration in myocardium of rabbits receiving four doses of trastuzumab. Transmission electron microscopy showed substantial changes with trastuzumab, including edema with separation of myofibril bundles and rupture of sarcomeres. Within mitochondria, edema resulted in disorganization of the cristae. Some mitochondria exhibited eccentric projections of their membranes with disruption of both inner and outer membranes. These changes were seen to a lesser extent in rabbits who received oral sodium selenite prior to trastuzumab. Selenium is integral to functioning of mitochondrial glutathione peroxidases, important antioxidants that also maintain membrane integrity. If mitochondria are disrupted as part of trastuzumab cardiac toxicity, selenium supplementation might be an important therapeutic or preventive consideration. Larger studies to explore this hypothesis are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hemasri Tokala
- Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA; Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI, USA.
| | - Samanjit Kandola
- Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA; EW Sparrow Hospital, Lansing, MI, USA.
| | - Michael Kehdi
- Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA; EW Sparrow Hospital, Lansing, MI, USA.
| | - Augusta Pelosi
- Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA; Veterinary Heart Center, Juno, Florida, USA.
| | - Ling Wang
- Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA.
| | - Brian Grondahl
- Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA; EW Sparrow Hospital, Lansing, MI, USA.
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de Freitas MRB, da Costa CMB, Pereira LM, do Prado JC, Sala MA, Abrahão AAC. The treatment with selenium increases placental parasitismin pregnant Wistar rats infected with the Y strain of Trypanosoma cruzi. Immunobiology 2018; 223:537-543. [PMID: 29950281 DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2018] [Revised: 05/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient in the diet of mammals and has an important role in the immune function. Selenium is a key element in selenoproteins involved in the in the maintenance of the antioxidant defense. Diet with selenium is beneficial for the treatment of diseases correlated with high levels of oxidative stress, also observed in the Chagas disease. Chagas disease is a neglected disease caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi and several research groups are focused on the illness treatment. Immunomodulation of the infection using microelements is an important tool to avoid deleterious effects of the Chagas disease. Therefore, our objective was to evaluate the effects of selenium supplementation on pregnant Wistar rats infected with T. cruzi. Selenium treatment stimulated the weight and length of fetuses and placentas allied to the decrease of blood parasitemia. However, selenium demonstrated a low influence on T cells, diminishing the B cell population (CD45RA+). Moreover, the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines was downregulated under selenium administration. Low pro-inflammatory cytokines levels probably are related to the increase in the number of amastigote nests in infected and treated animals. Thus, selenium supplementation during pregnancy could impair the local placental immune response. Further studies are necessary to assess the interaction between selenium and the acute Chagas' disease during pregnancy, which will base future supplementation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luiz Miguel Pereira
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - José Clóvis do Prado
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Miguel Angel Sala
- School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, Brazil
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Different Therapeutic Outcomes of Benznidazole and VNI Treatments in Different Genders in Mouse Experimental Models of Trypanosoma cruzi Infection. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2015; 59:7564-70. [PMID: 26416857 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01294-15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/19/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The lack of translation between preclinical assays and clinical trials for novel therapies for Chagas disease (CD) indicates a need for more feasible and standardized protocols and experimental models. Here, we investigated the effects of treatment with benznidazole (Bz) and with the potent experimental T. cruzi CYP51 inhibitor VNI in mouse models of Chagas disease by using different animal genders and parasite strains and employing distinct types of therapeutic schemes. Our findings confirm that female mice are less vulnerable to the infection than males, show that male models are less susceptible to treatment with both Bz and VNI, and thus suggest that male models are much more suitable for selection of the most promising antichagasic agents. Additionally, we have found that preventive protocols (compound given at 1 dpi) result in higher treatment success rates, which also should be avoided during advanced steps of in vivo trials of novel anti-T. cruzi drug candidates. Another consideration is the relevance of immunosuppression methods in order to verify the therapeutic profile of novel compounds, besides the usefulness of molecular diagnostic tools (quantitative PCR) to ascertain compound efficacy in experimental animals. Our study aims to contribute to the development of more reliable methods and decision gates for in vivo assays of novel antiparasitic compounds in order to move them from preclinical to clinical trials for CD.
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Alvarenga Americano do Brasil PE, Pereira de Souza A, Hasslocher-Moreno AM, Xavier SS, Lambert Passos SR, de Fátima Ramos Moreira M, Santini de Oliveira M, Sperandio da Silva GM, Magalhães Saraiva R, Santos de Aguiar Cardoso C, de Sousa AS, Mediano MFF, Bonecini de Almeida MDG, da Cruz Moreira O, Britto C, de Araújo-Jorge TC. Selenium Treatment and Chagasic Cardiopathy (STCC): study protocol for a double-blind randomized controlled trial. Trials 2014; 15:388. [PMID: 25284194 PMCID: PMC4197263 DOI: 10.1186/1745-6215-15-388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Heart disease progression occurs in 30% of patients with chronic Trypanosoma cruzi infection. Supplementation with selenium (Se) in animal model of T. cruzi infection produced promising results. There is evidence that patients with Chagas heart disease have lower Se levels than healthy individuals and patients with T. cruzi infection without of cardiac disease. The aim of this investigation is to estimate the effect of Se treatment on prevention of heart disease progression in patients with chagasic cardiopathy. Methods The Selenium Treatment and Chagasic Cardiopathy trial is a superiority, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial. The eligibility criteria are as follows: (1) a Chagas disease diagnosis confirmed by serology; (2) segmental, mild or moderate global left ventricular systolic dysfunction; and (3) age between 18 and 65 years. The exclusion criteria are as follows: (1) pregnancy, (2) diabetes mellitus, (3) tobacco use, (4) alcohol abuse, (5) evidence of nonchagasic heart disease, (6) depression, (7) dysphagia with evidence of food residues in the esophagus, (8) dysphagia with weight loss higher than 15% of usual weight in the last four months and/or (9) conditions that may result in low protocol adherence. The intervention will be 100 μg of sodium selenite once daily for 365 consecutive days compared to placebo. The following are the primary outcomes to be measured: (1) the trajectories of the left ventricular ejection fraction in the follow-up period; (2) reduction of heart disease progression rates, with progression defined as a 10% decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction; and (3) rate of hospital admissions attributable to dysrhythmia, heart failure or stroke due to Chagas disease. One hundred thirty patients will be randomly allocated into either the intervention or placebo group at a ratio of 1:1. The sequence allocation concealment and blinding were planned to be conducted with the strategy of numbered boxes. Both patients and health-care providers will remain blinded to the intervention groups during the 5 years of follow-up. Discussion If Se treatment reduces the progression of Chagas cardiopathy, the inclusion of this micronutrient in the daily diet can improve the therapeutic regimen for this neglected tropical disease at low cost. Trial registration Clinical Trials.gov ID: NCT00875173 (registered 20 October 20 2008).
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Emmanuel Alvarenga Americano do Brasil
- Chagas Disease Clinical Research Laboratory, Evandro Chagas National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Avenida Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil.
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Cortez J, Providência R, Ramos E, Valente C, Seixas J, Meruje M, Leitão-Marques A, Vieira A. Emerging and under-recognized Chagas cardiomyopathy in non-endemic countries. World J Cardiol 2012; 4:234-9. [PMID: 22905296 PMCID: PMC3421137 DOI: 10.4330/wjc.v4.i7.234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2012] [Revised: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 05/22/2012] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Due to recent population emigration movements, an epidemic of Chagas disease is currently menacing most developed countries. The authors report the case of a 53-year-old Brazilian woman living in Europe for the last 10 years who developed heart failure symptoms, having a previous symptomatic sinus node disease with a pacemaker implant at age of 40 years. The diagnosis was based on serology and myocardial biopsy and the patient was treated with nifurtimox. The authors emphasize the need of a high level of suspicion in patients with suggestive epidemiology and the need of populational screening of specific high risk groups. New treatment options are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Cortez
- Joana Cortez, Evelise Ramos, Cristina Valente, António Vieira, Infectious Diseases Department, Coimbra's Hospital Centre and University, 3041-801 Coimbra, Portugal
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11
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Yu L, Sun L, Nan Y, Zhu LY. Protection from H1N1 influenza virus infections in mice by supplementation with selenium: a comparison with selenium-deficient mice. Biol Trace Elem Res 2011; 141:254-61. [PMID: 20490710 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-010-8726-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2010] [Accepted: 05/04/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The present paper describes protective effects of supplemental selenium in mice infected with influenza virus. The effects of supplemental selenium on serum selenium levels, mortality, lung virus titers, and cytokine titers were investigated in mice inoculated intranasally with suspensions of influenza virus. Whereas the mortality of the virus-infected Se-deficient mice was 75%, along with a marked reduction in body weight, lower levels of TNF-α and IFN-γ and lower serum selenium concentrations, the mortality of mice maintained on feed containing 0.5 mg Se/kg in the form of sodium selenite was 25%.There were no significantly differences, however, in viral titer between the Se-adequate and the selenium-supplemented groups. The data indicate that selenium supplementation may provide a feasible approach to improving the immune response to viral infections, such as lethal influenza infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yu
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Forth Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, 150001, People's Republic of China
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12
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Malafaia G, Talvani A. Nutritional Status Driving Infection by Trypanosoma cruzi: Lessons from Experimental Animals. J Trop Med 2011; 2011:981879. [PMID: 21577255 PMCID: PMC3090609 DOI: 10.1155/2011/981879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2010] [Revised: 11/30/2010] [Accepted: 02/17/2011] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
This paper reviews the scientific knowledge about protein-energy and micronutrient malnutrition in the context of Chagas disease, especially in experimental models. The search of articles was conducted using the electronic databases of SciELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online), PubMed and MEDLINE published between 1960 and March 2010. It was possible to verify that nutritional deficiencies (protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient malnutrition) exert a direct effect on the infection by T. cruzi. However, little is known about the immunological mechanisms involved in the relationship "nutritional deficiencies and infection by T. cruzi". A hundred years after the discovery of Chagas disease many aspects of this illness still require clarification, including the effects of nutritional deficiencies on immune and pathological mechanisms of T. cruzi infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guilherme Malafaia
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Núcleo de Pesquisas e Estudos Ambientais e Biológicos, Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia Goiano—Campus Urutaí, Rodovia Geraldo Silva Nascimento km 2.5, 75790-000 Urutaí, GO, Brazil
| | - André Talvani
- Laboratório de Doença de Chagas, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Biológicas, Núcleo de Pesquisa em Ciências Biológicas (NUPEB), Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto (UFOP), 35400-000 Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil
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13
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Souza APD, Jelicks LA, Tanowitz HB, Olivieri BP, Medeiros MM, Oliveira GM, Pires ARC, Santos AMD, Araújo-Jorge TC. The benefits of using selenium in the treatment of Chagas disease: prevention of right ventricle chamber dilatation and reversion of Trypanosoma cruzi-induced acute and chronic cardiomyopathy in mice. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2011; 105:746-51. [PMID: 20944987 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762010000600003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2010] [Accepted: 07/20/2010] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac damage is a frequent manifestation of Chagas disease, which is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient, the deficiency of which has been implicated in the development of cardiomyopathy. Our group has previously demonstrated that Se supplementation prevents myocardial damage during acute T. cruzi infection in mice. In this study, we analyzed the effect of Se treatment in cases of T. cruzi infection using prevention and reversion schemes. In the Se prevention scheme, mice were given Se supplements (2 ppm) starting two weeks prior to inoculation with T. cruzi(Brazil strain) and continuing until 120 days post-infection (dpi). In the Se reversion scheme, mice were treated with Se (4 ppm) for 100 days, starting at 160 dpi. Dilatation of the right ventricle was observed in the infected control group at both phases of T. cruzi infection, but it was not observed in the infected group that received Se treatment. Surviving infected mice that were submitted to the Se reversion scheme presented normal P wave values and reduced inflammation of the pericardium. These data indicate that Se treatment prevents right ventricular chamber increase and thus can be proposed as an adjuvant therapy for cardiac alterations already established by T. cruzi infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréa P de Souza
- Laboratório de Inovações em Terapias, Ensino e Bioprodutos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Av. Brasil 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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14
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Jelicks LA, de Souza AP, Araújo-Jorge TC, Tanowitz HB. Would selenium supplementation aid in therapy for Chagas disease? Trends Parasitol 2011; 27:102-5. [PMID: 21212020 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2010.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2010] [Revised: 12/08/2010] [Accepted: 12/09/2010] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease discovered over 100 years ago, is caused by the intracellular parasite Trypanosoma cruzi and is most frequently associated with chronic cardiomyopathy and digestive disorders. Initial invasion of cells is followed by progressive inflammatory destruction of heart, muscles, nerves, and gastrointestinal (GI) tract tissue. Approximately 30% of patients progress to a chronic cardiomyopathy associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Seven to 10% of patients develop megasyndromes involving the GI tract, in particular, the esophagus and the colon. Results from several studies suggest that selenium (Se) deficiency could be an important factor in the pathogenesis of Chagas disease. In this opinion article, Se supplementation is proposed as an adjuvant therapy for treatment of chronic Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda A Jelicks
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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15
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Moreno D, Plano D, Baquedano Y, Jiménez-Ruiz A, Antonio Palop J, Sanmartín C. Antileishmanial activity of imidothiocarbamates and imidoselenocarbamates. Parasitol Res 2010; 108:233-9. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-010-2073-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2010] [Accepted: 09/08/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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de Souza AP, Sieberg R, Li H, Cahill HR, Zhao D, Araújo-Jorge TC, Tanowitz HB, Jelicks LA. The role of selenium in intestinal motility and morphology in a murine model of Typanosoma cruzi infection. Parasitol Res 2010; 106:1293-8. [PMID: 20195635 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-010-1794-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2009] [Accepted: 02/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Infection with Trypanosoma cruzi causes megasyndromes of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in humans and animals. In the present study, we employed magnetic resonance imaging to non-invasively monitor the effect of selenium supplementation on alterations in the GI tract of T. cruzi-infected mice. CD1 mice infected with T. cruzi (Brazil strain) exhibited dilatation of the intestines similar to that we recently reported in infected C57Bl/6 mice. The average intestine lumen diameter increased by 65% and the increase was reduced to 29% in mice supplemented with 2 ppm selenium in the drinking water. When supplemented with 3 ppm selenium in chow the lumen diameter was also significantly reduced although the difference between the infected and infected supplemented mice was smaller. Intestinal motility in infected mice fed with selenium-enriched chow was increased compared with infected mice fed with normal unsupplemented chow and was not significantly different from intestinal motility in uninfected mice. We suggest that Se may be used to modulate the inflammatory, immunological, and/or antioxidant responses involved in intestinal disturbances caused by T. cruzi infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréa Pereira de Souza
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
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Wang C, Wang H, Luo J, Hu Y, Wei L, Duan M, He H. Selenium deficiency impairs host innate immune response and induces susceptibility to Listeria monocytogenes infection. BMC Immunol 2009; 10:55. [PMID: 19852827 PMCID: PMC2774297 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2172-10-55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2009] [Accepted: 10/24/2009] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Susceptibility or resistance to infection with Listeria monocytogenes correlates with Selenium (Se) deficiency in response to infection. Results Se-deficient mouse models of listeriosis were used to study the innate immune response during the course of L. monocytogenes infection. Blood samples from mouse models were used for Se status. The concentration of MDA, SOD, GPx and CAT in blood has revealed that lower Se level exist in Se-deficient mice. Intestine, mesenteric lymph node, liver, spleen and brain from each mouse were to study the bacterial burden in organs. The analysis of cell types of spleen from Se-deficient mice revealed that the ability of the host to elicit a rapid recruitment and activation of systemic innate immune response to infection was to a certain extent compromised under conditions of Se deficiency. The cytokine levels in the serum and cytokine expression levels in the livers from Se-deficient mice revealed that the innate immune response of Se-deficient mice was impaired throughout the course of infection. These results suggest that innate immune response is altered by Se deficiency after infection with L. monocytogenes. Conclusion In conclusion, induced susceptibility of host resistance is associated with an impaired innate immune response following infection with L. monocytogenes in C57BL/6 Se-deficient mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengmin Wang
- National Research Center for Wildlife Born Diseases, Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China.
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18
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Wang C, Wu Y, Qin J, Sun H, He H. Induced susceptibility of host is associated with an impaired antioxidant system following infection with Cryptosporidium parvum in Se-deficient mice. PLoS One 2009; 4:e4628. [PMID: 19247447 PMCID: PMC2644759 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0004628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2008] [Accepted: 01/14/2009] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Susceptibility or resistance to infection with Cryptosporidium parvum (C.parvum) correlates with Selenium (Se) deficiency in response to infection. Both adult Se-adequate and Se-deficient mouse models of cryptosporidiosis were used to study the cell-mediated immune response during the course of C. parvum infection. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Blood samples from mouse models were used for Se status. The concentration of MDA, SOD, GPx and CAT in blood has revealed that lower Se level exist in Se-deficient mice. Mesenteric lymph node (MLN) lymphocytes from both mouse models were proliferated after ex vivo re-stimulation with C. parvum sporozoite antigen. The study of the cytokine profiles from the supernatant of proliferated MLN cells revealed that Se-adequate mice produced higher levels of Th1 (IFN-gamma and IL-2) and moderate amounts of Th2 (IL-4) cytokines throughout the course of infection. Whereas, MLN cells from Se-deficient mice produced lower levels of IFN-gamma, IL-2 and IL-4 cytokines. The counts of total white cell and CD3, CD4, CD8 cell in Se-adequate were higher than that in Se-deficient mice. SIGNIFICANCE These results suggest that Cell immunity is affected by Se status after infection with C. parvum from kinetic changes of different white cells and cytokine. In conclusion, induced susceptibility of host is associated with an impaired antioxidant system following infection with C. parvum in C57BL/6 Selenium deficient mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengmin Wang
- National Research Center For Wildlife Born Diseases, Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanyun Wu
- National Research Center For Wildlife Born Diseases, Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianhua Qin
- Department of Animal Science and Technology, Hebei Agricultural University, Baoding, Hebei, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoxue Sun
- National Research Center For Wildlife Born Diseases, Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongxuan He
- National Research Center For Wildlife Born Diseases, Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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19
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Ilbäck NG, Frisk P, Friman G. Effects of xenobiotics and nutrients on host resistance studied in experimental human infections adapted to rodents. J Pharmacol Toxicol Methods 2008; 58:179-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vascn.2008.05.132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2008] [Accepted: 05/12/2008] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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20
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Applicability of the use of charcoal for the evaluation of intestinal motility in a murine model of Trypanosoma cruzi infection. Parasitol Res 2007; 102:747-50. [PMID: 18163190 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-007-0829-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2007] [Accepted: 11/27/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, remains a serious public health problem in Latin America. In relation to digestive problems, 4.5% of patients show mega syndromes (megacolon) in the chronic phase. In this article, we evaluated intestinal motility at the acute phase of T. cruzi infection through charcoal ingestion in adult mice. After infection, Swiss mice were administered an aqueous suspension of charcoal in water by gavage. Decrease in intestinal motility was determined by increased time of appearance of charcoal in the feces. The uninfected group showed a mean time of charcoal elimination of 109.0 +/- 14.6 min throughout the assay. On the other hand, infected mice presented a significant increase in charcoal defecation time during infection. At 15 days postinfection, infected mice showed a significant increase in charcoal defecation time, 310.2 +/- 67.4 min when compared to the uninfected group, which presented 97.8 +/- 31.8 min, indicating that the T. cruzi infection interferes with intestinal motility. Our results demonstrate that the use of charcoal is an ethical and efficient procedure to evaluate the intestinal motility in the murine model of T. cruzi infection.
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Abstract
During recent years there have been several incidents in which symptoms of disease have been linked to consumption of food contaminated by chemical substances (e.g., 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, TCDD). Furthermore, outbreaks of infections in food-producing animals have attracted major attention regarding the safety of consumers, e.g., Bovine Spongiform Encephalitis (BSE) and influenza in chicken. As shown for several xenobiotics in an increasing number of experimental studies, even low-dose xenobiotic exposure may impair immune function over time, as well as microorganism virulence, resulting in more severe infectious diseases and associated complications. Moreover, during ongoing infection, xenobiotic uptake and distribution are often changed resulting in increased toxic insult to the host. The interactions among infectious agents, nutrients, and xenobiotics have thus become a developing concern and new avenue of research in food toxicology as well as in food-borne diseases. From a health perspective, in the risk assessment of xenobiotics in our food and environment, synergistic effects among microorganisms, nutrients, and xenobiotics will have to be considered. Otherwise, such effects may gradually change the disease panorama in society.
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Zacks MA, Wen JJ, Vyatkina G, Bhatia V, Garg N. An overview of chagasic cardiomyopathy: pathogenic importance of oxidative stress. AN ACAD BRAS CIENC 2005; 77:695-715. [PMID: 16341444 DOI: 10.1590/s0001-37652005000400009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence to suggest that chagasic myocardia are exposed to sustained oxidative stress-induced injuries that may contribute to disease progression. Pathogen invasion- and replication-mediated cellular injuries and immune-mediated cytotoxic reactions are the common source of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in infectious etiologies. However, our understanding of the source and role of oxidative stress in chagasic cardiomyopathy (CCM) remains incomplete. In this review, we discuss the evidence for increased oxidative stress in chagasic disease, with emphasis on mitochondrial abnormalities, electron transport chain dysfunction and its role in sustaining oxidative stress in myocardium. We discuss the literature reporting the consequences of sustained oxidative stress in CCM pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele A Zacks
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
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23
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de Souza AP, de Oliveira GM, Vanderpas J, de Castro SL, Rivera MT, Araújo-Jorge TC. Selenium supplementation at low doses contributes to the decrease in heart damage in experimental Trypanosoma cruzi infection. Parasitol Res 2003; 91:51-4. [PMID: 12884013 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-003-0867-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2002] [Accepted: 01/09/2003] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Chagasic patients with cardiomyopathy have low levels of selenium (Se), a fundamental trace element. We evaluated the effect of supplementing infected mice with Se (0.25-16 ppm). Supplementation with 0.25 or 1 ppm Se led to parasitaemia and survival curves similar to those of the control group. Mice treated with 4-16 ppm showed a dose-dependent decrease of parasitaemia, significant for the highest concentration. This was probably due to a direct effect on the parasites, which were lysed after in vitro incubation with Se. Survival rates did not change significantly; however, heart damage was reduced in infected mice supplemented with 4 ppm Se, as indicated by a lower cardiac isoform of creatine kinase levels. Our results imply that Se supplementation does not lead to a general protection during infection, but may help protect the heart from inflammatory damage. The effect of Se supplementation in the course of T. cruzi infection depends on the host-parasite pair employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andréa P de Souza
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Departamento de Ultra-estrutura e Biologia Celular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Av Brasil 4365, Manguinhos, 21045-900 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Rivera MT, De Souza AP, Araujo-Jorge TC, De Castro SL, Vanderpas J. Trace elements, innate immune response and parasites. Clin Chem Lab Med 2003; 41:1020-5. [PMID: 12964807 DOI: 10.1515/cclm.2003.156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Micronutrient deficiencies and infectious disease often coexist and show complex interactions leading to mutually reinforced detrimental clinical effects. Such a combination is predominantly observed in underprivileged people of developing countries, particularly in rural regions. Several micronutrients such as trace elements (zinc, iron, selenium) modulate immune function and influence the susceptibility of the host to infection. Nevertheless, the effect of individual micronutrients on components of innate immunity is difficult to design and interpret. Micronutrient deficiency, in general, has a widespread effect on nearly all components of the innate immune response. Chagas' disease is a pertinent model to study interaction of nutrition, immunity and infection, as it implies many components of innate immunity. An important question is whether alterations on micronutrient intake modify the course of infection. Some interactions of trace elements with innate immunity and acute inflammatory response are reviewed in this article with a special focus on selenium deficiency and Trypanosoma cruzi infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Teresa Rivera
- Lab. Biologia Cellular, DUBC, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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