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Nguyen MN, Yeo SJ, Park H. Identification of novel biomarkers for anti- Toxoplasma gondii IgM detection and the potential application in rapid diagnostic fluorescent tests. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1385582. [PMID: 38894968 PMCID: PMC11184589 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1385582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis, while often asymptomatic and prevalent as a foodborne disease, poses a considerable mortality risk for immunocompromised individuals during pregnancy. Point-of-care serological tests that detect specific IgG and IgM in patient sera are critical for disease management under limited resources. Despite many efforts to replace the T. gondii total lysate antigens (TLAs) by recombinant antigens (rAgs) in commercial kits, while IgG detection provides significant specificity and sensitivity, IgM detection remains comparatively low in sensitivity. In this study, we attempted to identify novel antigens targeting IgM in early infection, thereby establishing an IgM on-site detection kit. Using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) and mouse serum immunoblotting, three novel antigens, including EF1γ, PGKI, and GAP50, were indicated to target T. gondii IgM. However, rAg EF1γ was undetectable by IgM of mice sera in Western blotting verification experiments, and ELISA coated with PGKI did not eliminate cross-reactivity, in contrast to GAP50. Subsequently, the lateral flow reaction employing a strip coated with 0.3 mg/mL purified rAg GAP50 and exhibited remarkable sensitivity compared with the conventional ELISA based on tachyzoite TLA, which successfully identified IgM in mouse sera infected with tachyzoites, ranging from 103 to 104 at 5 dpi and 104 at 7 dpi, respectively. Furthermore, by using standard T. gondii-infected human sera from WHO, the limit of detection (LOD) for the rapid fluorescence immunochromatographic test (FICT) using GAP50 was observed at 0.65 IU (international unit). These findings underline the particular immunoreactivity of GAP50, suggesting its potential as a specific biomarker for increasing the sensitivity of the FICT in IgM detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh-Ngoc Nguyen
- Department of Infection Biology, School of Medicine, Zoonosis Research Center, Wonkwang University, Iksan, Republic of Korea
| | - Seon-Ju Yeo
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Medical Research Center, Institute of Endemic Diseases, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Park
- Department of Infection Biology, School of Medicine, Zoonosis Research Center, Wonkwang University, Iksan, Republic of Korea
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2
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Montiel-González G, Franco-Robles E, García-Munguía CA, Valencia-Posadas M, Martínez-Jaime OA, López-Briones S, Gutiérrez-Chávez AJ. Co-infection by Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in Goats Reared in Extensive System of Mexico. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2024. [PMID: 38651633 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2023.0130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The aim of the present study was to describe the presence of co-infection by Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in goats reared in extensive systems from Mexico. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the frequency of T. gondii and N. caninum, by detecting antibodies to each parasite by mean commercial ELISA kits. A total of 176 blood samples were randomly collected from mature females reared in extensive system herds from 20 municipalities of state of Guanajuato, Mexico. Results: The general seroprevalence was 23.9 and 21.0% for T. gondii and N. caninum, respectively, while co-infection rate was 3.6%. For geographic and environmental variables, no differences were observed among T. gondii and coinfection; however, it was observed that altitude, annual precipitation, annual average temperature, and rainy period showed significant differences with N. caninum seropositive goats. Conclusion: The seroprevalence of both parasites was appreciated in most of the studied herds. The present study is the first report of T. gondii and N. caninum co-infection in goats from extensive herds in Mexico.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Montiel-González
- Programa de Doctorado en Biociencias, División de Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, México
| | - Elena Franco-Robles
- Programa de Doctorado en Biociencias, División de Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, México
- Departamento de Veterinaria y Zootecnia, División Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, México
| | - Carlos A García-Munguía
- Programa de Doctorado en Biociencias, División de Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, México
- Departamento de Veterinaria y Zootecnia, División Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, México
| | - Mauricio Valencia-Posadas
- Programa de Doctorado en Biociencias, División de Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, México
- Departamento de Veterinaria y Zootecnia, División Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, México
| | - Oscar A Martínez-Jaime
- Departamento de Agronomía, División Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, México
| | - Sergio López-Briones
- Programa de Doctorado en Biociencias, División de Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, México
- Departamento de Medicina y Nutrición. División de Ciencias de la Salud. Campus León, Universidad de Guanajuato, San Carlos, Mexico
| | - Abner J Gutiérrez-Chávez
- Programa de Doctorado en Biociencias, División de Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, México
- Departamento de Veterinaria y Zootecnia, División Ciencias de la Vida, Campus Irapuato-Salamanca, Universidad de Guanajuato, Irapuato, México
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3
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Vargas-Villavicencio JA, Cañedo-Solares I, Correa D. Anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgM Long Persistence: What Are the Underlying Mechanisms? Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10081659. [PMID: 36014077 PMCID: PMC9415799 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10081659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Diagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii acute infection was first attempted by detection of specific IgM antibodies, as for other infectious diseases. However, it was noted that this immunoglobulin declines slowly and may last for months or even years. Apart from the diagnostic problem imposed on clinical management, this phenomenon called our attention due to the underlying phenomena that may be causing it. We performed a systematic comparison of reports studying IgM antibody kinetics, and the data from the papers were used to construct comparative plots and other graph types. It became clear that this phenomenon is quite generalized, and it may also occur in animals. Moreover, this is not a technical issue, although some tests make more evident the prolonged IgM decay than others. We further investigated biological reasons for its occurrence, i.e., infection dynamics (micro-reactivation–encystment, reinfection and reactivation), parasite strain relevance, as well as host innate, natural B cell responses and Ig class-switch problems inflicted by the parasite. The outcomes of these inquiries are presented and discussed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Irma Cañedo-Solares
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Experimental, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Mexico City 04530, Mexico
| | - Dolores Correa
- Dirección de Investigación/Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud, FCS, Universidad Anáhuac México Campus Norte, Av Universidad Anáhuc 46, Lomas Anáhuac, Huixquilucan 52786, Mexico
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +52-(55)-5627-0210-7637
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Santana SS, Paiva VF, Carvalho FR, Barros HLS, Silva TL, Barros PSC, Pajuaba ACAM, Barros GB, Dietze R, Mineo TWP, Mineo JR. A peptide originated from Toxoplasma gondii microneme 8 displaying serological evidence to differentiate recent from chronic human infection. Parasitol Int 2021; 84:102394. [PMID: 34044107 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2021] [Revised: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is able to cause death and/or sequelae in foetuses from pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. The early diagnosis, able to differentiate acute from chronic phases, is essential to define the treatment against this disease and minimize the risk of complications. Here we describe a peptide derived from microneme 8 (pMIC8) protein of Toxoplasma gondii, able to distinguish the phase of infection. By using human and mice serum samples with different infection times, we assessed the ability of pMIC8 to interact with antibodies present in early of infection, and compared the results obtained with soluble antigen of T. gondii (STAg). The results showed that pMIC8 was recognized more precisely with antibodies present in serum samples from individuals with time of infection below 3 months, followed by those between 4 and 6 months of infection. Based on these results, it is possible to conclude that the association of immunoassays using STAg and pMIC8 as antigen preparations can be used to distinguish acute from chronic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silas Silva Santana
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Laboratory of Biology, Federal University of Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Campus Janaúba, Janaúba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Vinícius Fernandes Paiva
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Fernando Reis Carvalho
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Goiás, Campus Itumbiara, Itumbiara, Goiás, 75524-010, Brazil
| | - Heber Leão Silva Barros
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Tamires Lopes Silva
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Patrício Silva Cardoso Barros
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Ana Cláudia Arantes Marquez Pajuaba
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Geisa Baptista Barros
- Infectious Disease Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, 29040-091 Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Reynaldo Dietze
- Infectious Disease Center, Federal University of Espirito Santo, 29040-091 Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Tiago Wilson Patriarca Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José Roberto Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, 38400-902 Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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5
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Łupicka-Słowik A, Grzywa R, Leporowska E, Procyk D, Oleksyszyn J, Sieńczyk M. Development and Evaluation of an Immunoglobulin Y-Based ELISA for Measuring Prostate Specific Antigen in Human Serum. Ann Lab Med 2019; 39:373-380. [PMID: 30809983 PMCID: PMC6400723 DOI: 10.3343/alm.2019.39.4.373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Measurement of serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) concentrations remains one of the leading methods for diagnosing prostate cancer. We developed and evaluated an immunoglobulin Y (IgY)-based ELISA to measure total PSA (tPSA) concentrations in human serum that could be used as an alternative to commercially available in vitro diagnostic assays that rely on mouse monoclonal IgG. Methods A sandwich ELISA based on an anti-PSA IgY antibody was developed. We evaluated the ability of the anti-PSA IgY antibody to detect free and complexed PSA at the same molar ratio. The assay was optimized, and its analytical performance was verified by calculating limit of background (LoB), limit of detection (LoD), and limit of quantification (LoQ). We performed correlation and regression analyses between tPSA concentrations measured by our ELISA and those from commercial assays: Cobas 6000 (Roche Diagnostics, Warszawa, Poland) and PSA total ELISA (IBL International, Hamburg, Germany). Results LoB, LoD, and LoQ, were 0.061, 0.083, and 0.100 ng/mL, respectively, and linearity range was 0.100–3.375 ng/mL. tPSA concentrations from our IgY-based ELISA strongly correlated with those from the commercial assays. Conclusions Our IgY-based ELISA is an efficient equivalent to the above commercial assays. The use of IgY as the detecting agent could reduce the risk of false positive results, as well as decrease the overall cost of analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Łupicka-Słowik
- Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Renata Grzywa
- Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Ewa Leporowska
- Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Poznań, Poland
| | - Danuta Procyk
- Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Poznań, Poland
| | - Józef Oleksyszyn
- Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Marcin Sieńczyk
- Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wrocław University of Science and Technology, Wrocław, Poland.
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6
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Coelho AM, Cherubini G, De Stefani A, Negrin A, Gutierrez-Quintana R, Bersan E, Guevar J. Serological prevalence of toxoplasmosis and neosporosis in dogs diagnosed with suspected meningoencephalitis in the UK. J Small Anim Pract 2018; 60:44-50. [PMID: 30371939 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.12937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the prevalence of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in a population of dogs with a diagnosis of suspected inflammatory meningoencephalitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Medical records of three referral centres were reviewed from 2008 to 2016 to identify a cohort of dogs diagnosed and treated for suspected inflammatory meningoencephalitis after testing for evidence of exposure to these pathogens. RESULTS In our sample of 400 dogs the prevalence for exposure (IgG>1:50) to Toxoplasma gondii was 8/201 (3∙98%). Active infection (IgG titre >1:400 or/and an IgM titre >1:64 and/or positive PCR in CSF) was suspected in 1/400 (0∙25%). The prevalence for exposure [Indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) titre >1:50] and active infection (IFA titres ≥⃒1:400 and/or positive PCR in CSF) with Neospora caninum were 14/201 (6∙96%) and 9/400 (2∙25%), respectively. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE In view of the low prevalence of protozoan infections, the risk associated with starting immunosuppressive medication in dogs with evidence of inflammatory meningitis or encephalitis in the UK appears low.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Coelho
- Dick White Referrals (DWR), Veterinary Specialist Centre, Cambridge CB8 0UH, UK
| | - G Cherubini
- Dick White Referrals (DWR), Veterinary Specialist Centre, Cambridge CB8 0UH, UK
| | - A De Stefani
- Dick White Referrals (DWR), Veterinary Specialist Centre, Cambridge CB8 0UH, UK
| | - A Negrin
- Dick White Referrals (DWR), Veterinary Specialist Centre, Cambridge CB8 0UH, UK
| | - R Gutierrez-Quintana
- College of Medicine, Veterinary and Life Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - E Bersan
- School of Veterinary Science, Small Animal Teaching Hospital, University of Liverpool, CH64 7TE, Neston, Cheshire, UK
| | - J Guevar
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, USA
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7
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Fatal canine encephalitozoonosis in Latin America, first report. VETERINARY PARASITOLOGY- REGIONAL STUDIES AND REPORTS 2018; 11:15-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2017.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Revised: 11/05/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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8
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Łupicka-Słowik A, Psurski M, Grzywa R, Bobrek K, Smok P, Walczak M, Gaweł A, Stefaniak T, Oleksyszyn J, Sieńczyk M. Development of Adenosine Deaminase-Specific IgY Antibodies: Diagnostic and Inhibitory Application. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2017; 184:1358-1374. [PMID: 29043661 PMCID: PMC5889419 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-017-2626-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 10/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Adenosine deaminase (ADA) is currently used as a diagnostic marker for tuberculous pleuritis. Although ADA has been suggested as a potential marker for several types of cancer, the importance of each of ADA isoforms as well as their levels and enzymatic activities in tumors need to be further investigated. Herein we developed avian immunoglobulin Y highly specific to human ADA via hens immunization with calf adenosine deaminase. The obtained antibodies were used for the development of a sensitive double-egg yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) sandwich ELISA assay with an ADA detection limit of 0.5 ng/ml and a linearity range of up to 10 ng/ml. Specific, affinity-purified IgYs were able to recognize human recombinant ADA and ADA present in human cancer cell lines. In addition, antigen-specific IgY antibodies were able to inhibit catalytic activity of calf ADA with an IC50 value of 47.48 nM. We showed that generated IgY antibodies may be useful for ADA detection, thus acting as a diagnostic agent in immunoenzymatic assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Łupicka-Słowik
- Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Mateusz Psurski
- Laboratory of Experimental Anticancer Therapy, Department of Experimental Oncology, Ludwik Hirszfeld Institute of Immunology and Experimental Therapy, Polish Academy of Sciences, Weigla 12, 53-114, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Renata Grzywa
- Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Kamila Bobrek
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Bird and Exotic Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Pl. Grunwaldzki 45, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Patrycja Smok
- Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Maciej Walczak
- Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Andrzej Gaweł
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Bird and Exotic Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Pl. Grunwaldzki 45, 50-366, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Stefaniak
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Immunology, Pathophysiology and Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Norwida 31, 50-375, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Józef Oleksyszyn
- Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Marcin Sieńczyk
- Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Wybrzeże Wyspiańskiego 27, 50-370, Wrocław, Poland.
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Antigenic fractions from Taenia crassiceps metacestodes obtained by hydrophobicity for the immunodiagnosis of active and inactive forms of neurocysticercosis in human cerebrospinal fluid samples. Parasitol Int 2016; 66:134-138. [PMID: 28012796 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2016.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 12/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the total extract of Taenia crassiceps metacestodes (TC) and its antigenic fractions obtained by Triton X-114 fractionation techniques, such as detergent (DC) and aqueous (AC), in the immunodiagnosis of human neurocysticercosis (NCC). Cerebrospinal fluid samples were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n=40), which was further divided into active (n=20) and inactive (n=20) NCC, and Group 2 (control group), which comprised 39 CSF samples from patients who had another neurological disorder, were suffering from other infectious diseases of the brain or had other parasitic infections. The total extracts and antigenic fractions were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect human IgG anti-Taenia solium. T. crassiceps fractions (DC and AC) showed the same value of sensitivity (Se), 100%, for active and inactive NCC and a specificity (Sp) of 97.4%. The DS fraction obtained from T. solium showed 100% Se for active NCC, 95% Se for inactive NCC and a 92.3% Sp. The AS fraction obtained from T. solium showed 100% Se for both active and inactive NCC and a 94.9% Sp. There was a positive correlation between the total saline extract of T. crassiceps (TC) and T. solium (TS) and their fractions (DC, AC, DS and AS). Positive predictive value, negative predictive value, diagnostic efficiency and Youden index were calculated. In conclusion, these results demonstrated that detergent and aqueous fractions obtained from T. crassiceps metacestodes are important sources of specific antigens and are efficient for immunodiagnosis of active and inactive NCC.
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10
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Park CH, Ikadai H, Yoshida E, Isomura H, Inukai H, Oyamada T. Cutaneous Toxoplasmosis in a Female Japanese Cat. Vet Pathol 2016; 44:683-7. [PMID: 17846241 DOI: 10.1354/vp.44-5-683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A 16-year-old female Japanese cat was presented with a single mammary-gland nodule approximately 3 cm in diameter. Histologically, the nodule consisted of necrotizing granulomatous panniculitis, vasculitis, and mastitis, and contained free and clustered protozoal organisms. The organism was present in the cytoplasm of macrophages, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and mammary-gland epithelia. The organism was positive for anti- Toxoplasma gondii and anti- Neospora caninum antibodies. Electron microscopy showed single and grouped tachyzoites, with morphologic features similar to those of T. gondii. Polymerase chain reaction and deoxyribonucleic acid sequence analysis was consistent with T. gondii infection. This is the first report of cutaneous toxoplasmosis in a Japanese cat.
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Affiliation(s)
- C-H Park
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Kitasato University, Towada 034-8628, Japan
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11
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Bastos LM, Macêdo AG, Silva MV, Santiago FM, Ramos ELP, Santos FAA, Pirovani CP, Goulart LR, Mineo TWP, Mineo JR. Toxoplasma gondii-Derived Synthetic Peptides Containing B- and T-Cell Epitopes from GRA2 Protein Are Able to Enhance Mice Survival in a Model of Experimental Toxoplasmosis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2016; 6:59. [PMID: 27313992 PMCID: PMC4888622 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2016.00059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis distributed all over the world, which the etiologic agent is an intracellular protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii. This disease may cause abortions and severe diseases in many warm-blood hosts, including humans, particularly the immunocompromised patients. The parasite specialized secretory organelles, as micronemes, rhoptries and dense granules, are critical for the successful parasitism. The dense granule protein 2 (GRA2) is a parasite immunogenic protein secreted during infections and previous studies have been shown that this parasite component is crucial for the formation of intravacuolar membranous nanotubular network (MNN), as well as for secretion into the vacuole and spatial organization of the parasites within the vacuole. In the present study, we produced a monoclonal antibody to GRA2 (C3C5 mAb, isotype IgG2b), mapped the immunodominant epitope of the protein by phage display and built GRA2 synthetic epitopes to evaluate their ability to protect mice in a model of experimental infection. Our results showed that synthetic peptides for B- and T-cell epitopes are able to improve survival of immunized animals. In contrast with non-immunized animals, the immunized mice with both B- and T-cell epitopes had a better balance of cytokines and demonstrated higher levels of IL-10, IL-4 and IL-17 production, though similar levels of TNF-α and IL-6 were observed. The immunization with both B- and T-cell epitopes resulted in survival rate higher than 85% of the challenged mice. Overall, these results demonstrate that immunization with synthetic epitopes for both B- and T-cells from GRA2 protein can be more effective to protect against infection by T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana M Bastos
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil; Laboratório de Nanobiotecnologia, Instituto de Genética e Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Arlindo G Macêdo
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Murilo V Silva
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Fernanda M Santiago
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Eliezer L P Ramos
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Fabiana A A Santos
- Laboratório de Nanobiotecnologia, Instituto de Genética e Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Carlos P Pirovani
- Centro de Biotecnologia e Genética, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Luiz R Goulart
- Laboratório de Nanobiotecnologia, Instituto de Genética e Bioquímica, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Tiago W P Mineo
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - José R Mineo
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr. Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
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Irvine KL, Walker JM, Friedrichs KR. Sarcocystid organisms found in bile from a dog with acute hepatitis: a case report and review of intestinal and hepatobiliary Sarcocystidae infections in dogs and cats. Vet Clin Pathol 2016; 45:57-65. [PMID: 26870918 DOI: 10.1111/vcp.12330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Sarcocystidae is a family of coccidian protozoa from the phylum Apicomplexa that includes Toxoplasma, Neospora, Sarcocystis, Hammondia, and Besnoitia spp. All species undergo a 2-host sexual and asexual cycle. In the definitive host, replication is enteroepithelial, and infection is typically asymptomatic or less commonly causes mild diarrhea. Clinical disease is most frequently observed in the intermediate host, often as an aberrant infection, and is mostly associated with neurologic, muscular, or hepatic inflammation. Here, we review the literature regarding intestinal Sarcocystidae infections in dogs and cats, with emphasis on the life cycle stages and the available diagnostic assays and their limitations. We also report the diagnostic findings for an 11-year-old dog with acute neutrophilic hepatitis, biliary protozoa, and negative biliary culture. Although Toxoplasma and Neospora IgG titers were both high, PCR for these 2 organisms was negative for bile. The organisms were identified by 18S rDNA PCR as most consistent with Hammondia, either H heydorni or H triffittae. This is the first report of presumed Hammondia organisms being found in canine bile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine L Irvine
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Julie M Walker
- Department of Medical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kristen R Friedrichs
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of twoToxoplasma gondiiisolates in free-range chickens from Uberlândia, Brazil. Epidemiol Infect 2016; 144:1865-75. [DOI: 10.1017/s0950268815003295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYThe aim of this study was to determine the seroprevalence ofToxoplasma gondiiinfection in free-range chickens from Uberlândia, Minas Gerais state, Brazil, and characterize the genotypic and phenotypic features of two isolates of this parasite, considering the importance of these hosts in the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis. Serum samples from 108 free-range chickens were obtained from ten different districts, and submitted to the modified agglutination test (MAT) for the presence of anti-T. gondiiantibodies, and brain and heart tissue samples from infected chickens were processed for mouse bioassay. An overall seroprevalence of 71·3% was found and antibody titres ranged from 16 to 4096. After confirmation of seropositivity by mouse bioassay, the determination of theT. gondiigenotypes of two isolates was performed by PCR–RFLP, using primers for the following markers: SAG1, SAG2, SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22–8, c29–2, L358, PK1, new SAG2, Apico and CS3. TheseT. gondiiisolates, designated TgChBrUD1and TgChBrUD2, were obtained from heart samples of free-range chickens. The TgChBrUD1 isolate belonged to ToxoDB PCR–RFLP genotype 11 and the TgChBrUD2 isolate belonged to ToxoDB PCR–RFLP genotype 6. Both isolates demonstrated high virulence in a rodent model, with the TgChBrUD1 isolate able to induce brain cysts, in accord with its pattern of multiplication rates in human fibroblast culture. Taken together, these results reveal high prevalence ofT. gondiiinfection in free-range chickens throughout Uberlândia, indicating an important degree of oocyst environmental contamination and the existence of considerable risk forT. gondiitransmission to humans by consumption of free-range chicken as a food source.
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de Sousa JEN, de Carvalho EFG, Levenhagen MA, de Faria LS, Gonçalves-Pires MDRF, Costa-Cruz JM. Serological cross-reactivity between Strongyloides venezuelensis and Syphacia muris in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus). Parasitol Int 2015; 65:137-45. [PMID: 26601618 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2015.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Revised: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
One of the problems frequently faced in laboratory facilities is the possibility of the natural parasitic infection of lab animals, which can interfere with biomedical research results. The present study aimed to evaluate cross-reactivity among serum samples from Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) naturally infected with Syphacia muris and experimentally infected with Strongyloides venezuelensis. Forty rats were divided into four groups of ten animals each. Parasite load was evaluated by quantifying the adult worms from both helminthes species recovered from the intestines and the S. venezuelensis eggs eliminated in feces. Serological cross-reactivity by parasite-specific IgG detection was tested via enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunofluorescence antibody test (IFAT) and immunoblotting. The results demonstrated that the quantity of S. venezuelensis eliminated eggs and parthenogenetic females decreased significantly in cases of co-infection with S. muris. ELISA revealed 100% cross-reactivity of serum samples from both species against the opposing antigen. IgG cross-reactivity was confirmed by IFAT using tissue sections of S. venezuelensis larvae and adult S. muris. Immunoblotting showed that IgG antibodies from the sera of animals infected with S. muris recognized eight antigenic bands from S. venezuelensis saline extract and that IgG antibodies from the sera of animals infected with S. venezuelensis recognized seven bands from S. muris saline extract. These results demonstrate the serological cross-reactivity between S. muris and S. venezuelensis in infected rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Eduardo N de Sousa
- Laboratório de Diagnóstico de Parasitoses, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, bloco 4C, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Edson Fernando G de Carvalho
- Laboratório de Diagnóstico de Parasitoses, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, bloco 4C, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Marcelo A Levenhagen
- Laboratório de Diagnóstico de Parasitoses, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, bloco 4C, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Lucas S de Faria
- Laboratório de Diagnóstico de Parasitoses, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, bloco 4C, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Maria do R F Gonçalves-Pires
- Laboratório de Diagnóstico de Parasitoses, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, bloco 4C, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais 38400-902, Brazil
| | - Julia M Costa-Cruz
- Laboratório de Diagnóstico de Parasitoses, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Amazonas s/n, bloco 4C, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais 38400-902, Brazil.
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15
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Santana SS, Gebrim LC, Carvalho FR, Barros HS, Barros PC, Pajuaba ACAM, Messina V, Possenti A, Cherchi S, Reiche EMV, Navarro IT, Garcia JL, Pozio E, Mineo TWP, Spano F, Mineo JR. CCp5A Protein from Toxoplasma gondii as a Serological Marker of Oocyst-driven Infections in Humans and Domestic Animals. Front Microbiol 2015; 6:1305. [PMID: 26635770 PMCID: PMC4656833 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2015.01305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Considering that the current immunoassays are not able to distinguish the infective forms that cause Toxoplasma gondii infection, the present study was carried out to evaluate the reactivity of two recombinant proteins (CCp5A and OWP1) from oocyst/sporozoite, in order to differentiate infections occurring by ingestion of oocysts or tissue cysts. The reactivity of the recombinant proteins was assessed against panels of serum samples from animals (chickens, pigs, and mice) that were naturally or experimentally infected by different infective stages of the parasite. Also, we tested sera from humans who have been infected by oocysts during a well-characterized toxoplasmosis outbreak, as well as sera from pregnant women tested IgM+/IgG+ for T. gondii, which source of infection was unknown. Only the sporozoite-specific CCp5A protein was able to differentiate the parasite stage that infected chickens, pigs and mice, with specific reactivity for oocyst-infected animals. Furthermore, the CCp5A showed preferential reactivity for recent infection by oocyst/sporozoite in pigs and mice. In humans, CCp5A showed higher reactivity with serum samples from the outbreak, compared with serum from pregnant women. Altogether, these findings demonstrate the usefulness of the CCp5A protein as a new tool to identify the parasite stage of T. gondii infection, allowing its application for diagnosis and epidemiological investigations in animals and humans. The identification of parasite infective stage can help to design effective strategies to minimize severe complications in immunocompromised people and, particularly, in pregnant women to prevent congenital infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silas S Santana
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Luiz C Gebrim
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Fernando R Carvalho
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Heber S Barros
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Patrício C Barros
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Ana C A M Pajuaba
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Valeria Messina
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Possenti
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità Rome, Italy
| | - Simona Cherchi
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità Rome, Italy
| | - Edna M V Reiche
- Department of Clinical Medicine, State University of Londrina - University Hospital Londrina, Brazil
| | - Italmar T Navarro
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, State University of Londrina Londrina, Brazil
| | - João L Garcia
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, State University of Londrina Londrina, Brazil
| | - Edoardo Pozio
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità Rome, Italy
| | - Tiago W P Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Furio Spano
- Department of Infectious, Parasitic and Immunomediated Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità Rome, Italy
| | - José R Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia Uberlândia, Brazil
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16
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Evaluation of colostrum as an alternative biological sample for the diagnosis of human congenital toxoplasmosis. BMC Infect Dis 2015; 15:519. [PMID: 26573138 PMCID: PMC4647675 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-015-1242-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii, an intracellular protozoan parasite able to infect a wide range of hosts, including humans. Congenital infection can cause severe damage to the fetus. Thus, it is important to detect antibodies against the parasite to confirm clinical manifestations. Considering that all immunoglobulin isotypes may be present in biological samples from newborns and their mothers, this study aimed to evaluate the ability to diagnose recent toxoplasmosis by using colostrum, as an alternative noninvasive way to obtain biological samples, as well as to determine correlation rates between antibodies from serum samples to detect IgG, IgM and IgA isotypes against T. gondii. Methods A total of 289 puerperal women from Clinical Hospital of Federal University of Uberlândia (mean age: 24.8 years, range: 14 – 43 years) took part in this study. Serum and colostrum samples from these patients were analyzed using ELISA and immunoblotting assays for soluble antigens from T. gondii. Results ELISA immunoassays with serum samples showed reactivity in 47.0, 6.9 and 2.8 % of samples to anti-T. gondii IgG, IgM and IgA, respectively, in comparison with colostrum samples, which showed reactivity in 46.0, 7.9 and 2.8 % of samples to the same isotypes. Also, significant correlation rates of anti-T. gondii antibody levels between serum and colostrum samples were observed. Interestingly, reactivity to IgM and/or IgA in colostrum and/or serum confirmed clinical manifestations of congenital toxoplasmosis in three newborns. Immunoblotting assays showed that it is possible to detect IgG, IgM and IgA antibodies against various antigens of T. gondii in serum and colostrum samples. IgG antibodies in serum and colostrum samples recognized more antigenic fractions than IgM and IgA antibodies. Serum IgG detected more antigenic fractions than IgG antibodies present in the colostrum of the same patient. In contrast, specific IgA present in colostrum recognized a higher number of antigens than IgA present in serum samples of the same patient. Conclusions Overall, the results show that it is important to investigate the occurrence of congenital toxoplasmosis, even at puerperal period. Furthermore, this study demonstrates that T. gondii-specific IgG, IgM and IgA antibodies in serum and colostrum samples from puerperal women may be detected with a significant correlation, suggesting that colostrum may also be used as an alternative biological sample to efficiently diagnose recent human toxoplasmosis.
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Generation and application of polyclonal IgY antibodies specific for full-length and nicked prostate-specific antigen. Bioanalysis 2015; 6:3197-213. [PMID: 25529887 DOI: 10.4155/bio.14.172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is considered an important serum marker for prostate cancer detection, monitoring and staging. The purpose of this study was to generate IgY class antibodies that recognize native PSA and selected epitopes. METHODOLOGY Hens immunized with either full-length human PSA or its peptidyl fragment-conjugates produced specific antibodies that were isolated from egg yolks. We developed a monoclonal/IgY sandwich ELISA with a PSA detection limit of 50 pg/ml and a linear range of 0.05-1.0 ng/ml. CONCLUSION Because the signal observed for the PSA-specific IgY antibodies by ELISA and the reactivity profile of the epitope-derived IgYs were comparable to those of mouse monoclonal IgG antibodies, avian antibodies may be a cost-effective alternative to mammalian antibodies for prostate cancer diagnostics.
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Grzywa R, Walczak M, Łupicka-Słowik A, Bobrek K, Boivin S, Brown EL, Gaweł A, Stefaniak T, Oleksyszyn J, Sieńczyk M. Adjuvant-dependent immunogenicity of Staphylococcus aureus Efb and Map proteins in chickens. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2015; 166:50-6. [PMID: 26004944 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2015.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Revised: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/26/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The avian IgY antibodies generated in hens and isolated from egg yolk have gained in popularity as they present an alternative source of antibodies for diagnostic as well as therapeutic applications. One of the advantages of IgY technology are the large amounts of produced antibodies from a single animal combined with their high reactivity representing an attractive alternative for mammalian antibodies. Despite many known protocols for the immunization of chickens, the administration of new antigens often requires additional modification such as antigen dose or use of an adjuvant in order to elicit a significant immune response. We investigated the immunogenicity of three Staphylococcus aureus antigens including two extracellular proteins Map and Efb and one selected Efb105-124 epitope conjugated to KLH that were administered to the animals. Additionally, the immunization protocol included two adjuvant systems: Freund's complete adjuvant and Emulsigen-D. The results demonstrated a high immunostimulatory potency of Freund's complete adjuvant, especially in case of Efb compared to the immune response elicited by Emulsigen-D. However, after immunization with the KLH-Efb105-124 conjugate, the obtained antibodies showed similar reactivity regardless of adjuvant system used with the only exception being their avidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Grzywa
- Wroclaw University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wybrzeze Wyspianskiego 27, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Maciej Walczak
- Wroclaw University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wybrzeze Wyspianskiego 27, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Łupicka-Słowik
- Wroclaw University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wybrzeze Wyspianskiego 27, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Kamila Bobrek
- Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Bird and Exotic Animals, Pl. Grunwaldzki 45, 50-366 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Stephane Boivin
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Notkestraße 85 c/o DESY, Building 25A, 22603 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eric L Brown
- Center for Infectious Diseases, University of Texas School of Public Health, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Andrzej Gaweł
- Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Epizootiology and Clinic of Bird and Exotic Animals, Pl. Grunwaldzki 45, 50-366 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Tadeusz Stefaniak
- Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Immunology, Pathophysiology and Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Norwida 31, 50-375 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Józef Oleksyszyn
- Wroclaw University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wybrzeze Wyspianskiego 27, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marcin Sieńczyk
- Wroclaw University of Technology, Faculty of Chemistry, Division of Medicinal Chemistry and Microbiology, Wybrzeze Wyspianskiego 27, 50-370 Wroclaw, Poland.
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Macêdo AG, Cunha JP, Cardoso THS, Silva MV, Santiago FM, Silva JS, Pirovani CP, Silva DAO, Mineo JR, Mineo TWP. SAG2A protein from Toxoplasma gondii interacts with both innate and adaptive immune compartments of infected hosts. Parasit Vectors 2013; 6:163. [PMID: 23735002 PMCID: PMC3706231 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2013] [Accepted: 05/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular parasite that causes relevant clinical disease in humans and animals. Several studies have been performed in order to understand the interactions between proteins of the parasite and host cells. SAG2A is a 22 kDa protein that is mainly found in the surface of tachyzoites. In the present work, our aim was to correlate the predicted three-dimensional structure of this protein with the immune system of infected hosts. Methods To accomplish our goals, we performed in silico analysis of the amino acid sequence of SAG2A, correlating the predictions with in vitro stimulation of antigen presenting cells and serological assays. Results Structure modeling predicts that SAG2A protein possesses an unfolded C-terminal end, which varies its conformation within distinct strain types of T. gondii. This structure within the protein shelters a known B-cell immunodominant epitope, which presents low identity with its closest phyllogenetically related protein, an orthologue predicted in Neospora caninum. In agreement with the in silico observations, sera of known T. gondii infected mice and goats recognized recombinant SAG2A, whereas no serological cross-reactivity was observed with samples from N. caninum animals. Additionally, the C-terminal end of the protein was able to down-modulate pro-inflammatory responses of activated macrophages and dendritic cells. Conclusions Altogether, we demonstrate herein that recombinant SAG2A protein from T. gondii is immunologically relevant in the host-parasite interface and may be targeted in therapeutic and diagnostic procedures designed against the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arlindo G Macêdo
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia "Dr, Mário Endsfeldz Camargo", Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av, Pará 1720-Bloco 4C, Campus Umuarama, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais 38.400-902, Brazil
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20
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Ferreira Júnior Á, Santiago FM, Silva MV, Ferreira FB, Macêdo Júnior AG, Mota CM, Faria MS, Filho HHS, Silva DAO, Cunha-Júnior JP, Mineo JR, Mineo TWP. Production, characterization and applications for Toxoplasma gondii-specific polyclonal chicken egg yolk immunoglobulins. PLoS One 2012; 7:e40391. [PMID: 22808150 PMCID: PMC3395712 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0040391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2012] [Accepted: 06/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii may cause abortions, ocular and neurological disorders in warm-blood hosts. Immunized mammals are a wide source of hyperimmune sera used in different approaches, including diagnosis and the study of host-parasite interactions. Unfortunately, mammalian antibodies present limitations for its production, such as the necessity for animal bleeding, low yield, interference with rheumatoid factor, complement activation and affinity to Fc mammalian receptors. IgY antibodies avoid those limitations; therefore they could be an alternative to be applied in T. gondii model. Methodology/Principal Findings In this study we immunized hens with soluble tachyzoite antigens of T. gondii (STAg) and purified egg yolk antibodies (IgY) by an inexpensive and simple method, with high yield and purity degree. IgY anti-STAg antibodies presented high avidity and were able to recognize a broad range of parasite antigens, although some marked differences were observed in reactivity profile between antibodies produced in immunized hens and mice. Interestingly, IgY antibodies against Neospora caninum and Eimeria spp. did not react to STAg. We also show that IgY antibodies were suitable to detect T. gondii forms in paraffin-embedded sections and culture cell monolayers. Conclusions/Significance Due to its cost-effectiveness, high production yield and varied range of possible applications, polyclonal IgY antibodies are useful tools for studies involving T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Ferreira Júnior
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Fernanda M. Santiago
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Murilo V. Silva
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Flávia B. Ferreira
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Arlindo G. Macêdo Júnior
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Caroline M. Mota
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Matheus S. Faria
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Hercílio H. Silva Filho
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Deise A. O. Silva
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Jair P. Cunha-Júnior
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José R. Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Tiago W. P. Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Santana SS, Silva DAO, Vaz LD, Pirovani CP, Barros GB, Lemos EM, Dietze R, Mineo JR, Cunha-Junior JP. Analysis of IgG subclasses (IgG1 and IgG3) to recombinant SAG2A protein from Toxoplasma gondii in sequential serum samples from patients with toxoplasmosis. Immunol Lett 2012; 143:193-201. [PMID: 22387296 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2012.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2011] [Revised: 02/10/2012] [Accepted: 02/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The kinetics of the humoral immune response was evaluated using the recombinant SAG2A protein comparatively to soluble Toxoplasma antigen (STAg) by ELISA in sequential serum samples of patients with toxoplasmosis up to 12 months of illness onset. The follow up of IgM and IgA levels to STAg showed a gradual decrease, with the majority of patients (88%) seropositive for IgM up to 12 months of infection, whereas IgA seropositivity was relatively low (78%) compared to IgM (100%) in the first 3 months of infection. The follow up of IgG and IgG1 antibodies showed a similar increasing profile for both SAG2A and STAg, with slightly higher seropositivity for STAg. The kinetics of IgG3 to STAg was similar to that of IgG1, contrasting with the kinetics of IgG3 to SAG2A that showed high levels up to 6 months of infection, with continuous decreasing over the time. Higher IgG3 seropositivity to SAG2A than STAg was also observed in the initial phases of infection. A higher IgG3/IgG1 ratio for SAG2A than STAg was detected in the first 3 months of infection, with decreasing profile over the time. The associations of IgG3/IgG1 ratio>1.0 with positive IgM or IgA antibodies were predominantly found in the first 3 months of infection, whereas associations of IgG3/IgG1 ratio<1.0 with positive IgM or negative IgA antibodies were mostly observed from 3 to 12 months of infection. In conclusion, our results demonstrate a differential kinetics of IgG3 antibodies to SAG2A and STAg in patients with toxoplasmosis up to 12 months of infection. Also, the IgG3/IgG1 ratio to SAG2A in association with classical serological markers of acute phase could be potential tools to distinguish early acute from convalescent phases of Toxoplasma gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silas S Santana
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, 38400-902 Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
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Freitas GRO, Silva DAO, Yokosawa J, Paula NT, Costa LF, Carneiro BM, Ribeiro LZG, Oliveira TFM, Mineo JR, Queiróz DAO. Antibody response and avidity of respiratory syncytial virus-specific total IgG, IgG1, and IgG3 in young children. J Med Virol 2012; 83:1826-33. [PMID: 21837801 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.22134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of acute respiratory disease in infants and young children. Considering that several aspects of the humoral immune response to RSV infection remain unclear, this study aimed to investigate the occurrence, levels, and avidity of total IgG, IgG1, and IgG3 antibodies against RSV in serum samples from children ≤5 years old. In addition, a possible association between antibody avidity and severity of illness was examined. The occurrence and levels of RSV-specific IgG depended on age, with infants <3 months old displaying high levels of antibodies, which were probably acquired from the mother. Children ≥24 months old also showed frequent occurrence and high levels of IgG, which was produced actively during infection. In addition, the avidity assay showed that the avidity of RSV-specific total IgG and IgG1 was lower in infants <3 months old who had acute respiratory disease than in age-matched controls. The avidity of RSV-specific IgG detected in children ≥24 months old with lower respiratory infection was lower than that in children with upper respiratory infection. These results indicate that the presence of high avidity RSV-specific IgG antibodies may lead to better protection against RSV infection in children <3 months old, who may have a lower probability of developing disease of increased severity. In addition, children ≥24 months old with RSV-specific IgG antibodies of low avidity tended to develop more severe RSV illness. These findings may be helpful in establishing vaccination schedules when a vaccine becomes available.
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Affiliation(s)
- G R O Freitas
- Laboratory of Virology, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
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23
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Parasitic infections and myositis. Parasitol Res 2011; 110:1-18. [PMID: 21881948 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-011-2609-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2011] [Accepted: 08/04/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Infectious myositis may be caused by a wide variety of bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic agents. Parasitic myositis is most commonly a result of trichinosis, cystericercosis, or toxoplasmosis, but other parasites may be involved. A parasitic cause of myositis is suggested by history of residence or travel to endemic area and presence of eosinophilia. The diagnosis of parasitic myositis is suggested by the clinical picture and radiologic imaging, and the etiologic agent is confirmed by parasitologic, serologic, and molecular methods, together with histopathologic examination of tissue biopsies. Therapy is based on the clinical presentation and the underlying pathogen. Drug resistance should be put into consideration in different geographic areas, and it can be avoided through the proper use of anti-parasitic drugs.
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Rossi GF, Cabral DD, Ribeiro DP, Pajuaba ACAM, Corrêa RR, Moreira RQ, Mineo TWP, Mineo JR, Silva DAO. Evaluation of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum infections in sheep from Uberlândia, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, by different serological methods. Vet Parasitol 2010; 175:252-9. [PMID: 21075529 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2010.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2010] [Revised: 08/30/2010] [Accepted: 10/11/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis and neosporosis have been recognized as economically important diseases with considerable impact on the livestock industry. Considering the scarce information on the occurrence of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum infections in sheep from Uberlândia, Minas Gerais State, Brazil, this study aimed to investigate the frequency of antibodies against these parasites in sheep sera from this region by using different serological methods. A total of 155 sheep serum samples were analyzed by the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the detection of IgG against T. gondii and N. caninum. Seroreactivity by IFAT showed 80% of samples with titers between 512 and 2048 for T. gondii (cutoff ≥ 64) and 78% presenting titers between 50 and 200 for N. caninum (cutoff ≥ 50). Seroreactivity by ELISA showed 75% of samples with ELISA index (EI) between 2.0 and 3.0 for T. gondii (cutoff ≥ 1.3) and 54% presenting EI between 1.3 and 2.0 for N. caninum (cut off ≥ 1.3). Discordant results by both tests were analyzed by immunoblot, resulting in a total seropositivity of 61% for T. gondii and 23% for N. caninum, with 41% to T. gondii only, 3% to N. caninum only, and 20% to both parasites. There was a significant positive association between seropositivity to T. gondii and age over one year (P<0.001), but such association was not found for N. caninum infection. In conclusion, as T. gondii and N. caninum infections are simultaneously present in sheep flocks of this region, it should be emphasized the importance to carry out a regular monitoring of Toxoplasma infection due to its high prevalence, its zoonotic potential and induction of reproductive disorders leading to economic losses. For neosporosis, sheep farmers should be instructed about the presence of the parasite in the flock, its risk factors and potential abortifacient role in sheep. Differential flock management could be valuable tool to establish the association of serological positivity and reproductive disease induced by N. caninum in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- G F Rossi
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará 1720, 38400-902 Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
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25
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Recognition by toll‐like receptor 2 induces antigen‐presenting cell activation and Th1 programming during infection by
Neospora caninum. Immunol Cell Biol 2010; 88:825-33. [DOI: 10.1038/icb.2010.52] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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26
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Hosseininejad M, Azizi H, Hosseini F, Schares G. Development of an indirect ELISA test using a purified tachyzoite surface antigen SAG1 for sero-diagnosis of canine Toxoplasma gondii infection. Vet Parasitol 2009; 164:315-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2009.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2009] [Revised: 05/22/2009] [Accepted: 05/27/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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27
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Oliveira TMFS, Mineo TWP, Bason M, Day MJ, Machado RZ. IgG subclass profile of serum antibodies to Leishmania chagasi in naturally infected and vaccinated dogs. Vet Parasitol 2009; 162:16-22. [PMID: 19345019 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2009.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2008] [Revised: 01/16/2009] [Accepted: 02/08/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniosis is a zoonotic disease that is caused by Leishmania chagasi and transmitted by sandflies. In Brazil, canine visceral leishmaniosis (CVL) is an emerging disease in urban areas and dogs are the main reservoir host. The aim of the present study was to analyze IgG seroconversion of dogs to L. chagasi and to determine whether there was dominance of any particular IgG subclasses in this immune response. Antibody detection was performed by ELISA with 120 sera from confirmed seropositive dogs (obtained from epidemiological surveys), 24 samples from naturally infected dogs with clinical signs of the disease, and 40 sera from animals immunized with a commercially available vaccine. Ninety percent of seropositive survey population samples had detectable levels of anti-Leishmania total IgG by ELISA, compared with 70% of samples from symptomatic animals and only 13% of samples from the immunized dogs. The serological response in each group displayed a distinct bias in IgG subclass usage as detected by application of a panel of monoclonal antibodies specific for canine IgG1-IgG4. The survey population, which comprised predominantly asymptomatic dogs, had a dominant IgG1 response, while symptomatic dogs had a mixed pattern of IgG subclass usage. In contrast, sera from vaccinated animals had high titres of IgG2 Leishmania antibody. These distinctive IgG subclass profiles may be related to the infection status of the dogs. Moreover, detection of antigen-specific IgG subclasses may provide a valuable diagnostic tool for predicting the clinical outcome of visceral leishmaniasis, as well as differentiating infected dogs from vaccinated animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trícia M F S Oliveira
- Immunoparasitology Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pathology, FCAV/UNESP, Jaboticabal, São Paulo 14.884-900, Brazil
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Macrì G, Sala M, Linder AM, Pettirossi N, Scarpulla M. Comparison of indirect fluorescent antibody test and modified agglutination test for detecting Toxoplasma gondii immunoglobulin G antibodies in dog and cat. Parasitol Res 2009; 105:35-40. [PMID: 19221795 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-009-1358-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2008] [Accepted: 01/23/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The present study describes the comparison between a modified agglutination test (MAT) and the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) for the detection of Toxoplasma specific IgG antibodies in dog and cat sera. MAT showed an "almost perfect" agreement with IFAT in detecting positive and negative results in cat sera, where as only a "substantial" agreement was observed in dog sera due to false negative results. Differences relative to sample dilution were recorded and serological titres obtained by MAT and IFAT are not directly comparable in cat and dog sera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gladia Macrì
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Regioni Lazio e Toscana, Rome, Italy.
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29
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Béla SR, Oliveira Silva DA, Cunha-Júnior JP, Pirovani CP, Chaves-Borges FA, Reis de Carvalho F, Carrijo de Oliveira T, Mineo JR. Use of SAG2A recombinant Toxoplasma gondii surface antigen as a diagnostic marker for human acute toxoplasmosis: analysis of titers and avidity of IgG and IgG1 antibodies. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2008; 62:245-54. [PMID: 18703303 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2008.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2008] [Revised: 05/06/2008] [Accepted: 05/26/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
We evaluated the reactivity of IgG and IgG1 antibodies by immunoassays in sera from patients with acute and chronic phases of toxoplasmosis against 2 recombinant antigens, SAG2A (full molecule) and SAG2ADelta (truncated molecule from the epitope recognized by A4D12 monoclonal antibody [mAb]), in comparison with soluble Toxoplasma antigen (STAg). Results demonstrated higher IgG reactivity in acute sera with both STAg and SAG2A than in chronic phase sera, and this difference was more evident for IgG1 antibodies to SAG2A. Low reactivity to SAG2ADelta was found in sera from both phases. ELISA-IgG-SAG2A showed high sensitivity (95%) and specificity (100%). ELISA-IgG1-SAG2A sensitivity was significantly higher (90%) for acute than for chronic (67%) phases. ELISA-IgG avidity using STAg demonstrated high performance for characterizing sera with high avidity (>60%), whereas the ELISA-IgG1 avidity-SAG2A immunoassay was the best to define chronic phase infection. It can be concluded that SAG2A is an antigen that may be used as a diagnostic tool to characterize the acute phase Toxoplasma gondii infection. Also, the epitope recognized by A4D12 mAb may be critical for the recognition of this molecule.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Ribeiro Béla
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, 38401-136, Brazil
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30
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Reverse enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay using monoclonal antibodies against SAG1-related sequence, SAG2A, and p97 antigens from Toxoplasma gondii to detect specific immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgM, and IgA antibodies in human sera. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2008; 15:1265-71. [PMID: 18562566 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.00069-08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate the performance of three monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) in reverse enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) for detecting immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgM, and IgA antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii in 175 serum samples from patients at different stages of T. gondii infection, as defined by both serological and clinical criteria, as follows: recent (n = 45), transient (n = 40), and chronic (n = 55) infection as well as seronegative subjects (n = 35). The results were compared with those obtained by indirect ELISA using soluble Toxoplasma total antigen (STAg). Our data demonstrated that MAb A3A4 recognizes a conformational epitope in SAG1-related-sequence (SRS) antigens, while A4D12 and 1B8 recognize linear epitopes defined as SAG2A surface antigen and p97 cytoplasmatic antigen, respectively. Reverse ELISA for IgG with A3A4 or A4D12 MAbs was highly correlated with indirect ELISA for anti-STAg IgG, whereas only A4D12 reverse ELISA showed high correlation with indirect ELISA for IgM and IgA isotypes. To our knowledge, this is the first report analyzing the performance of a reverse ELISA for simultaneous detection of IgG, IgM, and IgA isotypes active toward native SAG2A, SRS, and p97 molecules from STAg, using a panel of human sera from patients with recent and chronic toxoplasmosis. Thus, reverse ELISA based on the capture of native SAG2A and SRS antigens of STAg by MAbs could be an additional approach for strengthening the helpfulness of serological tests assessing the stage of infection, particularly in combination with highly sensitive and specific assays that are frequently used nowadays for diagnosis of toxoplasmosis during pregnancy or congenital infection in newborns.
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31
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Moura AB, Costa AJ, Jordão Filho S, Paim BB, Pinto FR, Di Mauro DC. Toxoplasma gondii in semen of experimentally infected swine. PESQUISA VETERINARIA BRASILEIRA 2007. [DOI: 10.1590/s0100-736x2007001000008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Eight reproductive boars were divided into three groups and inoculated with Toxoplasma gondii [GI (n=3) 1.5x10(4) oocysts strain P; GII (n=3) 1.0x10(6) tachyzoites strain RH; and GIII (n=2) non-inoculated control]. Clinical, hematological, parasitemia and serological tests and studies of the parasite in the semen through bioassay and PCR, and in reproductive organs (Bioassay and immunohistochemical analyses) were conducted to evaluate the toxoplasmic infection. Blood and semen were collected on day -2, -1, 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 14 and weekly up to 84 days post-inoculation (DPI). No clinical or hematimetric alteration was observed in the boars. Parasitemia was detected in one boar inoculated with oocysts at the 7th DPI and in another boar infected with tachyzoites (GII) at the 3rd and 49th DPI. Serological tests revealed antibodies against T. gondii in animals inoculated with oocysts or tachyzoites at the 7th DPI with dilutions of 1:256 and 1:64, which reached peaks of 1:4096 at day 11 and 9, respectively. The bioassays revealed the presence of the parasite in semen samples of a boar inoculated with oocysts (GI) at 3, 49 and 56 DPI and from two boars infected with tachyzoites (GII), one animal at 5 and two animals at 49 days DPI. Mice inoculated with semen from the control group (GIII) remained serologically negative. PCR analysis showed T. gondii DNA in the semen of Boar 1 and Boar 3 inoculated with tachyzoites and oocysts, respectively. The immuno-histochemical tests showed T. gondii in the reproductive organs of Boar 1 and Boar 2, inoculated with tachyzoites and oocysts, respectively. These findings suggest the possible occurrence of venereal transmission of T. gondii in swine.
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32
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Conde de Felipe MM, Molina JM, Rodríguez-Ponce E, Ruiz A, González JF. IGM and IGG response to 29-35-kDa Toxoplasma gondii protein fractions in experimentally infected goats. J Parasitol 2007; 93:701-3. [PMID: 17626367 DOI: 10.1645/ge-993r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The evolution of the humoral responses of IgG and IgM against 29-35-kDa Toxoplasma gondii fractions from experimentally infected goats were studied and compared by ELISA with the use of whole T. gondii soluble extracts and 29-35-kDa electroeluted proteins as antigens. The IgM response to electroeluted proteins was detected from wk 1 to wk 3 postinfection, showing a similar evolution to that observed when T. gondii crude extracts were used as antigens. These results suggest that this group of proteins could be used for a more specific detection of anti-T. gondii IgM. In the same way, the IgG response was equivalent in both cases, although when 29-35-kDa T. gondii fractions were used as antigens, the level of specific IgGs reached a peak 2 wk before than when T. gondii crude extract was used. The detection by ELISA of anti-T. gondii IgM in goats does not seem to be affected by the presence of specific IgG in serum samples when 29-35-kDa protein fractions were used as antigens.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Conde de Felipe
- Parasitic Diseases Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Las Palmas de G. C., Trasmontaria s/n, 35416-Arucas, Las Palmas, Spain
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33
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Silva DAO, Lobato J, Mineo TWP, Mineo JR. Evaluation of serological tests for the diagnosis of Neospora caninum infection in dogs: Optimization of cut off titers and inhibition studies of cross-reactivity with Toxoplasma gondii. Vet Parasitol 2007; 143:234-44. [PMID: 16973287 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2006.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2006] [Revised: 08/11/2006] [Accepted: 08/12/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Diagnosis of Neospora caninum infection in dogs is based on serological assays such as the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). This study evaluated two serological tests (IFAT and ELISA) for the detection of IgG antibodies to N. caninum in 300 serum samples of dogs through the optimization of cut off titers by using the two-graph receiver-operating characteristic (TG-ROC) curve. In addition, the identification of major cross-reactive antigens with Toxoplasma gondii was investigated by inhibition ELISA and immunoblotting (IB) assays. IFAT and ELISA results showed 74% agreement, with a good negative concordance (P(neg)=0.83), but a poor positive concordance (P(pos)=0.42). The great majority (86%) of sera with positive concordant results (IFAT+/ELISA+) recognized at least two out of three N. caninum immunodominant antigens, particularly the 29-32 and 35-37 kDa bands. Optimization of cut off titers in IFAT and ELISA was performed considering the reactivity to at least two out of three N. caninum immunodominant antigens as infection markers, obtaining a titer of 50 for IFAT and 200 for ELISA. Seropositivity to N. caninum was significantly associated with T. gondii-seropositive samples, particularly in ELISA (55.4%). Inhibition ELISA curves for N. caninum showed a partial heterologous inhibition, indicating some degree of cross-reactivity between N. caninum and T. gondii antigens. Inhibition IB assays showed a moderate heterologous inhibition for N. caninum antigens above 45-50 kDa. These results indicate that ELISA should be used critically when crude tachyzoite antigen preparations are employed, due to possible cross-reactivity with other related parasites as T. gondii. Also, the cut off dilution of 1:50 in IFAT showed to be the most appropriated for N. caninum serology in dogs. Therefore, we suggest that N. caninum immunodominant antigens, specially the 17 and 29-32 kDa proteins, should be selected markers in serological assays for canine neosporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deise A O Silva
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
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34
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Rodríguez-Cortés A, Fernández-Bellón H, Ramis A, Ferrer L, Alberola J, Solano-Gallego L. Leishmania-specific isotype levels and their relationship with specific cell-mediated immunity parameters in canine leishmaniasis. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2007; 116:190-8. [PMID: 17321600 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2007.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2006] [Revised: 11/27/2006] [Accepted: 01/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In the current retrospective study, Leishmania infantum-specific IgG, IgA and IgM levels were determined by ELISA in 106 untreated dogs with clinically-patent leishmaniasis (Sx) and in 171 clinically healthy dogs (Asx) from Spain to investigate the relationship between these Ig isotypes and clinical status. In addition, we studied if different Leishmania-specific humoral pattern exists between Asx dogs with and without cellular mediated immunity (CMI). Fifty-six dogs were assessed by means of lymphoproliferation assay (LPA), interferon production (IFN) and leishmanin skin test (LST), 71 dogs by means of both LPA and IFN and 44 only by LST. Both Sx and Asx dogs produced Leishmania-specific IgG, IgA and IgM antibodies, however the levels and proportion of positive dogs for each Ig isotype were significantly higher in Sx than in Asx ones (P<0.001). Analysis of immunological profiles determined for each cellular technique (positive and negative cellular response for each technique combined with positive or negative specific humoral response) showed that Asx dogs constituted a high heterogeneous group. No correlations were observed between CMI tests and specific IgG or IgM levels. However, a significant inverse correlation was demonstrated between specific IgA levels and LPA response (Spearman's r=-0.220; P=0.035). In general, the low correlation detected between CMI tests and isotype levels might indicate that the immune response is not strongly polarized in the majority of Asx dogs. Additionally, this study suggests that dogs developing T-cell response are probably able to avoid the dissemination of the parasite at least to mucosal surfaces and, as a consequence, to produce low or background specific IgA levels. Further studies are needed to investigate the relationship between specific IgA and parasite load, especially at mucosal site.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alhelí Rodríguez-Cortés
- Departament de Farmacologia, Terapèutica i Toxicologia, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
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35
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Rodríguez A, Solano-Gallego L, Ojeda A, Quintana J, Riera C, Gállego M, Portús M, Alberola J. Dynamics ofLeishmania-Specific Immunoglobulin Isotypes in Dogs with Clinical Leishmaniasis before and after Treatment. J Vet Intern Med 2006. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2006.tb02887.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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36
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Lobato J, Silva DAO, Mineo TWP, Amaral JDHF, Segundo GRS, Costa-Cruz JM, Ferreira MS, Borges AS, Mineo JR. Detection of immunoglobulin G antibodies to Neospora caninum in humans: high seropositivity rates in patients who are infected by human immunodeficiency virus or have neurological disorders. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2006; 13:84-9. [PMID: 16426004 PMCID: PMC1356624 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.13.1.84-89.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Considering that little is known about the epidemiology of Neospora caninum infection in humans, particularly in populations with high Toxoplasma gondii infection rates, the present study aimed to investigate the presence of antibodies to N. caninum in T. gondii-seropositive and -seronegative individuals. A total of 256 serum samples divided into four groups (61 samples from human immunodeficiency virus [HIV]-positive patients, 50 samples from patients with neurological disorders, 91 samples from newborns, and 54 samples from healthy subjects) were assessed for N. caninum and T. gondii serologies by indirect fluorescent-antibody test, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and immunoblotting (IB). Immunoglobulin G antibodies to N. caninum were predominantly detected in HIV-infected patients (38%) and patients with neurological disorders (18%), while newborns and healthy subjects showed lower seropositivity rates (5% and 6%, respectively). Seropositivity to N. caninum was significantly associated with seropositivity to T. gondii in both HIV-infected patients and patients with neurological disorders. Seroreactivity to N. caninum was confirmed by IB, with positive sera predominantly recognizing the 29-kDa antigen of N. caninum. The results of this study indicate the presence of N. caninum infection or exposure in humans, particularly in HIV-infected patients or patients with neurological disorders, who could have opportunistic and concurrent infections with T. gondii. These findings may bring a new concern for the unstable clinical health of HIV-infected patients and the actual role of N. caninum infection in immunocompromised patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janaína Lobato
- Laboratory of Immunology, Universidade Federal de Uberlāndia, Bloco 4C, Av. Pará, 1720, Campus Umuarama, 38400-902 Uberlāndia, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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37
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Silva DAO, Vitaliano SN, Mineo TWP, Ferreira RA, Bevilacqua E, Mineo JR. Evaluation of homologous, heterologous, and affinity conjugates for the serodiagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus). J Parasitol 2006; 91:1212-6. [PMID: 16419770 DOI: 10.1645/ge-527r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Use of serological tests in the diagnosis of infectious diseases in wild animals has several limitations, primarily the difficulty of obtaining species-specific reagents. Wild canids, such as maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus), are highly predisposed to infection by Toxoplasma gondii and, to a lesser extent, to Neospora caninum. The aim of the present study was to evaluate homologous, heterologous, and affinity conjugates in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) and indirect fluorescent antibody tests (IFATs) for detecting immunoglobulin (Ig) G antibodies against T. gondii and N. caninum in maned wolves. Serum samples were obtained from 59 captive animals in Brazil and tested by ELISA for T. gondii serology and IFAT for N. caninum serology using 3 different enzymatic and fluorescent conjugates: homologous (guinea pig anti-maned wolf IgG-peroxidase and -fluorescein isothiocyanate [FITC]), heterologous (rabbit anti-dog IgG-peroxidase and -FITC), and affinity (protein A-peroxidase and -FITC). Seropositivity to T. gondii was comparable among the homologous (69.5%), heterologous (74.6%), and affinity (71.2%) enzymatic conjugates. A significant positive correlation was found between the antibody levels determined by the 3 enzymatic conjugates. The highest mean antibody levels (ELISA index = 4.5) were observed with the protein A-peroxidase conjugate. The same seropositivity to N. caninum (8.5%) was found with the homologous and heterologous fluorescent conjugates, but protein A-FITC was not able to detect or confirm any positive samples with homologous or heterologous conjugates. Our results demonstrate that homologous, heterologous, and affinity conjugates might be used in ELISA for serological assays of T. gondii in wild canids, whereas for N. caninum infection, only the homologous or heterologous fluorescent conjugates have been shown to be useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A O Silva
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, MG, Brasil
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38
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Tarlow JM, Rudloff E, Lichtenberger M, Kirby R. Emergency presentations of 4 dogs with suspected neurologic toxoplasmosis. J Vet Emerg Crit Care (San Antonio) 2005. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-4431.2005.00134.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Mineo T, Silva D, Näslund K, Björkman C, Uggla A, Mineo J. Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum serological status of different canine populations from Uberlândia, Minas Gerais. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2004. [DOI: 10.1590/s0102-09352004000300022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - K. Näslund
- University of Agricultural Sciences, Sweden
| | | | - A. Uggla
- University of Agricultural Sciences, Sweden
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Segundo GRS, Silva DAO, Mineo JR, Ferreira MS. A comparative study of congenital toxoplasmosis between public and private hospitals from Uberlândia, MG, Brazil. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2004; 99:13-7. [PMID: 15057340 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762004000100002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The main purpose of the present study was to examine if there is difference in terms of incidence rates of congenital toxoplasmosis among populations assisted in public and private hospitals from Uberlândia, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. A total of 805 serum samples from cord blood were collected, being 500 from public hospital and 305 from private hospital, and all patients answered a questionnaire about pregnancy and newborns. An indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to detect IgG antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii and the positive samples were retested to verify the presence of specific IgM and IgA antibodies in a capture ELISA. We found significant differences among data from both hospitals with respect to maternal age, origin city, gestational age, number of visits to physicians during pregnancy, type of delivery, and birth weight. Seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against T. gondii for patients from public and private hospitals was 57.6% and 41.9% respectively, and this difference was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). In addition, the frequency of congenital toxoplasmosis measured by the presence of IgM and/or IgA antibodies toward T. gondii was exclusively located in samples from public hospital (0.8%), and no positive sample was seen in private hospital (0%). Considering that almost all babies suffering from congenital toxoplasmosis, if undiagnosed and untreated, will develop visual or neurological impairments by adulthood, the results presented herein emphasized the importance to accomplish screening programs for toxoplasmosis during pregnancy, particularly in the public hospitals, due to the expressive rate of congenital disease showed in the patients attended at these centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gesmar Rodrigues Silva Segundo
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, 38400-902, Brasil
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