The role of mucins in host-parasite interactions: Part II - helminth parasites

Mucosal affairs: glycosylation and expression changes of gill goblet cells and mucins in a fish-polyopisthocotylidan interaction

Introduction

Secreted mucins are highly O-glycosylated glycoproteins produced by goblet cells in mucosal epithelia. They constitute the protective viscous gel layer overlying the epithelia and are involved in pathogen recognition, adhesion and expulsion. The gill polyopisthocotylidan ectoparasite Sparicotyle chrysophrii, feeds on gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) blood eliciting severe anemia.

Methods

Control unexposed and recipient (R) gill samples of gilthead seabream experimentally infected with S. chrysophrii were obtained at six consecutive times (0, 11, 20, 32, 41, and 61 days post-exposure (dpe)). In histological samples, goblet cell numbers and their intensity of lectin labelling was registered. Expression of nine mucin genes (muc2, muc2a, muc2b, muc5a/c, muc4, muc13, muc18, muc19, imuc) and three regulatory factors involved in goblet cell differentiation (hes1, elf3, agr2) was studied by qPCR. In addition, differential expression of glycosyltransferases and glycosidases was analyzed in silico from previously obtained RNAseq datasets of S. chrysophrii-infected gilthead seabream gills with two different infection intensities.

Results and Discussion

Increased goblet cell differentiation (up-regulated elf3 and agr2) leading to neutral goblet cell hyperplasia on gill lamellae of R fish gills was found from 32 dpe on, when adult parasite stages were first detected. At this time point, acute increased expression of both secreted (muc2a, muc2b, muc5a/c) and membrane-bound mucins (imuc, muc4, muc18) occurred in R gills. Mucins did not acidify during the course of infection, but their glycosylation pattern varied towards more complex glycoconjugates with sialylated, fucosylated and branched structures, according to lectin labelling and the shift of glycosyltransferase expression patterns. Gilthead seabream gill mucosal response against S. chrysophrii involved neutral mucus hypersecretion, which could contribute to worm expulsion and facilitate gas exchange to counterbalance parasite-induced hypoxia. Stress induced by the sparicotylosis condition seems to lead to changes in glycosylation characteristic of more structurally complex mucins.

Exploring the mechanisms of host-specificity of a hyperparasitic bacterium (Pasteuria spp.) with potential to control tropical root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.): insights from Caenorhabditis elegans

Plant-parasitic nematodes are important economic pests of a range of tropical crops. Strategies for managing these pests have relied on a range of approaches, including crop rotation, the utilization of genetic resistance, cultural techniques, and since the 1950's the use of nematicides. Although nematicides have been hugely successful in controlling nematodes, their toxicity to humans, domestic animals, beneficial organisms, and the environment has raised concerns regarding their use. Alternatives are therefore being sought. The Pasteuria group of bacteria that form endospores has generated much interest among companies wanting to develop microbial biocontrol products. A major challenge in developing these bacteria as biocontrol agents is their host-specificity; one population of the bacterium can attach to and infect one population of plant-parasitic nematode but not another of the same species. Here we will review the mechanism by which infection is initiated with the adhesion of endospores to the nematode cuticle. To understand the genetics of the molecular processes between Pasteuria endospores and the nematode cuticle, the review focuses on the nature of the bacterial adhesins and how they interact with the nematode cuticle receptors by exploiting new insights gained from studies of bacterial infections of Carnorhabditis elegans. A new Velcro-like multiple adhesin model is proposed in which the cuticle surface coat, which has an important role in endospore adhesion, is a complex extracellular matrix containing glycans originating in seam cells. The genes associated with these seam cells appear to have a dual role by retaining some characteristics of stem cells.

Immunolocalization and functional analysis of Opisthorchis viverrini-M60-like-1 metallopeptidase in animal models

Host mucins have crucial physical roles in preventing the parasitic establishment and maturation, and also in expelling the invading parasites. However, some parasites utilize mucinase enzymes to facilitate the infection. Recently, we have identified a mucinase enzyme of the liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini, Ov-M60-like-1, which exhibits metallopeptidase activity against bovine submaxillary mucin substrate. Here, we aimed to study the localization of this enzyme in O. viverrini and the bile duct of hamsters using immunohistochemistry and functional analysis by mucin digestion in hamsters and mice tissues. The results showed that Ov-M60-like-1 was detected strongly in the tegument, tegumental cells, vitelline glands and mature eggs with miracidium. Expression in the gut, ovary and testis of the parasite was moderate while parenchyma showed slight colour intensity. In addition, the mucinase was also detected in the host biliary epithelial cells and goblet cells surrounding the worm. The mucinase assay revealed that the Ov-M60-like-1 could digest neutral mucin in the parenchyma, testis and seminal receptacle, but not the mucin in the tegument, tegumental cells and vitelline glands of the worm. The enzyme can also digest mucin in the cholangiocytes and modified the mixture type in the bile duct goblet cells of the infected hamsters, a susceptible host. In contrast, the enzyme was unable to digest neutral, acid and mixture mucin in the bile duct of the mice, a non-susceptible host. These findings indicate that Ov-M60-like-1 may have functions in both housekeeping tasks and host–parasite interactions, especially in modification of host susceptibility.

The Difference in the Bacterial Attachment among Pratylenchus neglectus Populations and Its Effect on the Nematode Infection

Different bacterial isolates attach to the cuticle of plant-parasitic nematodes, affecting their interactions with the host plant. Nematode populations differ in their genetic and cuticle structures, causing variable interactions with host plants and natural enemies. In the current study, attachment assays were carried out to compare the attachment of soil bacteria in general and the bacterial isolate of Rothia sp. in particular among geographically diverse populations of Pratylenchus neglectus. Biological and molecular assays were further conducted to examine the effect of Rothia attachment on nematode penetration into barley roots and to sequence the fatty acid- and retinol-binding gene (Pn-far-1). The results showed that nematode populations of P. neglectus differed in their bacterial attachment. Soil bacteria and Rothia sp. attached specifically to the cuticle of P. neglectus and did so differently among the nematode populations. Rothia attachment caused a reduction in the infectivity of three nematode populations in barley roots. The sequencing of the far-1 gene revealed genetic variability within and among P. neglectus populations. In conclusion, the interaction between P. neglectus and their bacterial attachers occurs in a population-specific manner, elucidating an essential aspect of using biological agents to manage plant-parasitic nematodes. Key Message: 1. Geographically diverse populations of the root lesion nematode Pratylenchus neglectus differed in the soil bacterial communities attached to their cuticles. 2. The bacterial isolate of Rothia sp. attached to the cuticle of P. neglectus and reduced its penetration into the host plant in a population-specific manner. 3. The fatty acid- and retinol-binding gene (far-1) varied within and among P. neglectus populations with their different bacterial attachment.

Comparative evaluation of vegetable matter involved lesions with oral parasitic infections in the oral cavity

The current research aims to perform a comparative evaluation of vegetable matter involved lesions with oral parasitic infections found in oral mucosa, presenting histochemical methods to differentiate their microscopic similarities. Eight cases were selected out of a sample of 1.975 reports from a single Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology Service of the author's institution from 2012 to 2019. Specimens were examined by hematoxylin and eosin staining (HE), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining, Gomori-Grocott staining, Ziehl-Neelsen staining, Giemsa, and mucicarmine staining. Microscopic analysis included fluorescence, polarized light, and confocal microscopy. Microscopically, in HE coloration, hookworm eggs showed as eosinophilic. Inflammatory multinucleated giant cells and lymphocytes, were usually related to the nematode eggs, forming an intense inflammatory infiltrate. Biofluorescent properties of eggs and larvae revealed to be sensitive in the detection of parasitic structures contrasting with the inflamed connective tissue. Vegetable presence was confirmed by polarized light microscopy and it was found to be associated with microbial biofilms. Confocal microscopy has showed to be an excellent method for morphotype differentiation of parasitic eggs. Parasitic infection and vegetable matter displayed similarities in the inflammatory response, but the latter can rot and agglomerate biofilms. The microscopic diagnosis of such infections requires the interpretation of challenging morphological features since the parasites are usually sectioned and mixed with an inflammatory reaction. These histochemical approaches proved to be excellent to distinguish both lesions.

Exposure to Parasitic Protists and Helminths Changes the Intestinal Community Structure of Bacterial Communities in a Cohort of Mother-Child Binomials from a Semirural Setting in Mexico

An estimated 3.5 billion people are colonized by intestinal parasites worldwide. Intestinal parasitic eukaryotes interact not only with the host but also with the intestinal microbiota. In this work, we studied the relationship between the presence of multiple enteric parasites and the community structures of gut bacteria and eukaryotes in an asymptomatic mother-child cohort from a semirural community in Mexico. Fecal samples were collected from 46 mothers and their respective children, with ages ranging from 2 to 20 months. Mothers and infants were found to be multiparasitized by Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba dispar, Endolimax nana, Chilomastix mesnili, Iodamoeba butshlii, Entamoeba coli, Hymenolepis nana, and Ascaris lumbricoides. Sequencing of bacterial 16S rRNA and eukaryotic 18S rRNA genes showed a significant effect of parasite exposure on bacterial beta-diversity, which explained between 5.2% and 15.0% of the variation of the bacterial community structure in the cohort. Additionally, exposure to parasites was associated with significant changes in the relative abundances of multiple bacterial taxa, characterized by an increase in Clostridiales and decreases in Actinobacteria and Bacteroidales. Parasite exposure was not associated with changes in intestinal eukaryote relative abundances. However, we found several significant positive correlations between intestinal bacteria and eukaryotes, including Oscillospira with Entamoeba coli and Prevotella stercorea with Entamoeba hartmanni, as well as the co-occurrence of the fungus Candida with Bacteroides and Actinomyces, Bifidobacterium, and Prevotella copri and the fungus Pichia with Oscillospira. The parasitic exposure-associated changes in the bacterial community structure suggest effects on microbial metabolic routes, host nutrient uptake abilities, and intestinal immunity regulation in host-parasite interactions.

IMPORTANCE The impact of intestinal eukaryotes on the prokaryotic microbiome composition of asymptomatic carriers has not been extensively explored, especially in infants and mothers with multiple parasitic infections. In this work, we studied the relationship between protist and helminth parasite colonization and the intestinal microbiota structure in an asymptomatic population of mother-child binomials from a semirural community in Mexico. We found that the presence of parasitic eukaryotes correlated with changes in the bacterial gut community structure in the intestinal microbiota in an age-dependent way. Parasitic infection was associated with an increase in the relative abundance of the class Clostridia and decreases of Actinobacteria and Bacteroidia. Parasitic infection was not associated with changes in the eukaryote community structure. However, we observed strong positive correlations between bacterial and other eukaryote taxa, identifying novel relationships between prokaryotes and fungi reflecting interkingdom interactions within the human intestine.

Describing the intestinal microbiota of Holstein Fasciola-positive and -negative cattle from a hyperendemic area of fascioliasis in central Colombia

The ability to identify compositional changes in the intestinal microbiota of parasitized hosts is important for understanding the physiological processes that may affect animal productivity. Within the field of host–parasite interactions, many studies have suggested that helminths can influence the microbial composition of their hosts via their immunomodulatory effects. Bovine fascioliasis is a helminthiasis widely studied by immunologists, but with little information available regarding gut microbial communities. Thus, we aimed to describe the composition of the intestinal microbiota of Holstein Fasciola-positive and -negative cattle using parasitological methods and ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Bovine fecal samples (n = 65) were obtained from livestock slaughter plants in the Cundi-Boyacense Colombian highlands (a hyperendemic region for bovine fascioliasis) and studied by amplicon-based next-generation 16S-rRNA and 18S-rRNA gene sequencing. From these samples, 35 were Fasciola hepatica-negative and, 30 were F. hepatica-positive in our detection analysis. Our results showed a reduction in the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes and Ascomycota in the Fasciola-positive samples, along with decreased relative abundances of the commensal taxa previously associated with fermentation and digestion processes. However, metabolomic approaches and functional analyzes of the intestinal microbiota are necessary to support these hypothesis. These findings are a small first step in the development of research aimed at understanding how microbial populations in bovines are modulated in liver helminth infections.

Fasciola hepatica, a liver parasite, infects a wide variety of hosts, mostly ruminants. Ruminant infections with this parasite cause economic losses worldwide, mainly in livestock. Given its importance, much research has been carried out on this parasite, a lot of which has focused on its ability to alter the immune responses of its host. However, little is known about the numerous other interactions it has with the host and how they might affect the host’s intestinal microbiota. Here, we observed a reduction in the abundance of microorganisms associated with the fermentation and digestion of vegetable fiber, two important processes in animal health and productivity. Therefore, it is possible that F. hepatica, in addition to the previously documented liver alterations, also generates changes in the intestinal microbiota that may impact its bovine host. These findings are a small first step in the research of microbial populations in cattle infected with liver helminths which open the door to further research aimed at identifying alternative treatments for parasites such as F. hepatica.

Host defense or parasite cue: Skin secretions mediate interactions between amphibians and their parasites

Amphibian skin secretions (substances produced by the amphibian plus microbiota) plausibly act as a first line of defense against parasite/pathogen attack, but may also provide chemical cues for pathogens. To clarify the role of skin secretions in host-parasite interactions, we conducted experiments using cane toads (Rhinella marina) and their lungworms (Rhabdias pseudosphaerocephala) from the range-core and invasion-front of the introduced anurans' range in Australia. Depending on the geographical area, toad skin secretions can reduce the longevity and infection success of parasite larvae, or attract lungworm larvae and enhance their infection success. These striking differences between the two regions were due both to differential responses of the larvae, and differential effects of the skin secretions. Our data suggest that skin secretions play an important role in host-parasite interactions in anurans, and that the arms race between a host and parasite can rapidly generate spatial variation in critical features of that interaction.

Amino Acids in the Nutrition and Production of Sheep and Goats

In sheep and goats, amino acid nutrition is essential for the maintenance of health and productivity. In this review, we analysed literature, mostly from the past two decades, focusing on assessment of amino acid requirements, especially on the balance of amino acid profiles between ruminal microbial protein and animal production protein (foetal growth, body weight gain, milk and wool). Our aim was to identify amino acids that might limit genetic potential for production. We propose that much attention should be paid to amino acid nutrition of individuals with greater abilities to produce meat, milk or wool, or to nourish large litters. Moreover, research is warranted to identify interactions among amino acids, particularly these amino acids that can send positive and negative signals at the same time.

Unveiling the effect of dietary essential oils supplementation in Sparus aurata gills and its efficiency against the infestation by Sparicotyle chrysophrii

A microencapsulated feed additive composed by garlic, carvacrol and thymol essential oils (EOs) was evaluated regarding its protective effect in gills parasitized by Sparicotyle chrysophrii in Sparus aurata. A nutritional trial (65 days) followed by a cohabitation challenge with parasitized fish (39 days) were performed. Transcriptomic analysis by microarrays of gills of fish fed the EOs diet showed an up-regulation of genes related to biogenesis, vesicular transport and exocytosis, leukocyte-mediated immunity, oxidation–reduction and overall metabolism processes. The functional network obtained indicates a tissue-specific pro-inflammatory immune response arbitrated by degranulating acidophilic granulocytes, sustained by antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses. The histochemical study of gills also showed an increase of carboxylate glycoproteins containing sialic acid in mucous and epithelial cells of fish fed the EOs diet, suggesting a mucosal defence mechanism through the modulation of mucin secretions. The outcomes of the in vivo challenge supported the transcriptomic results obtained from the nutritional trial, where a significant reduction of 78% in the abundance of S. chrysophrii total parasitation and a decrease in the prevalence of most parasitic developmental stages evaluated were observed in fish fed the EOs diet. These results suggest that the microencapsulation of garlic, carvacrol and thymol EOs could be considered an effective natural dietary strategy with antiparasitic properties against the ectoparasite S. chrysophrii.

Interaction between human mucins and parasite glycoproteins: the role of lectins and glycosidases in colonization by intestinal protozoa

Intestinal mucins are the first line of defense against microorganisms. Although knowledge about the mechanisms involved in the establishment of intestinal protozoa is limited, there is evidence that these parasites produce lectin-like molecules and glycosidases, that exert both, constitutive and secretory functions, promoting the establishment of these microorganisms. In the present review, we analyse the main interactions between mucins of the host intestine and the four main protozoan parasites in humans and their implications in intestinal colonization. There are lectin-like molecules that contain complex oligosaccharide structures and N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc), mannose and sialic acid as main components, which are excreted/secreted by Giardia intestinalis, and recognized by the host using mannose-binding lectins (MBL). Entamoeba histolytica and Cryptosporidium spp. express the lectin galactose/N-acetyl-D-galactosamine, which facilitates their adhesion to cells. In Cryptosporidium, the glycoproteins gp30, gp40/15 and gp900 and the glycoprotein lectin CpClec are involved in protozoan adhesion to intestinal cells, forming an adhesion-attack complex. G. intestinalis and E. histolytica can also produce glycosidases such as β-N-acetyl-D-glucosaminidase, α-d-glucosidase, β-d-galactosidase, β-l-fucosidase, α-N-acetyl-d-galactosaminidase and β-mannosidase. In Blastocystis, α-D-mannose, α-D-glucose, GlcNAc, α-D-fucose, chitin and sialic acid that have been identified on their surface. Fucosidases, hexosaminidases and polygalacturonases, which may be involved in the mucin degradation process, have also been described in the Blastocystis secretoma. Similarly, symbiotic coexistence with the intestinal microbiota promotes the survival of parasites facilitating cell invasion and nutrients obtention. Furthermore, it is necessary to identify and characterize more glycosidases, which have been only partially described by in silico analyses of the parasite genome.

MICHELINdb: a web-based tool for mining of helminth-microbiota interaction datasets, and a meta-analysis of current research

BACKGROUND

The complex network of interactions occurring between gastrointestinal (GI) and extra-intestinal (EI) parasitic helminths of humans and animals and the resident gut microbial flora is attracting increasing attention from biomedical researchers, because of the likely implications for the pathophysiology of helminth infection and disease. Nevertheless, the vast heterogeneity of study designs and microbial community profiling strategies, and of bioinformatic and biostatistical approaches for analyses of metagenomic sequence datasets hinder the identification of bacterial targets for follow-up experimental investigations of helminth-microbiota cross-talk. Furthermore, comparative analyses of published datasets are made difficult by the unavailability of a unique repository for metagenomic sequence data and associated metadata linked to studies aimed to explore potential changes in the composition of the vertebrate gut microbiota in response to GI and/or EI helminth infections.

RESULTS

Here, we undertake a meta-analysis of available metagenomic sequence data linked to published studies on helminth-microbiota cross-talk in humans and veterinary species using a single bioinformatic pipeline, and introduce the 'MICrobiome HELminth INteractions database' (MICHELINdb), an online resource for mining of published sequence datasets, and corresponding metadata, generated in these investigations.

CONCLUSIONS

By increasing data accessibility, we aim to provide the scientific community with a platform to identify gut microbial populations with potential roles in the pathophysiology of helminth disease and parasite-mediated suppression of host inflammatory responses, and facilitate the design of experiments aimed to disentangle the cause(s) and effect(s) of helminth-microbiota relationships. Video abstract.

Differential mucins secretion by intestinal mucous cells of Chelon ramada in response to an enteric helminth Neoechinorhynchus agilis (Acanthocephala)

Intestinal mucous cells produce and secrete mucins which hydrate, lubricate and protect the intestinal epithelium from mechanical injuries due to the transition of digesta or action of pathogens. Intestinal mucous cells are considered elements of the innate immune system as they secrete lectins, toxins, immunoglobulins, and anti-microbial peptides. Acid mucins can surround and eliminate many pathogenic microorganisms. We performed a quantitative analysis of the density and mucus composition of different intestinal mucous cell types from mullet (Chelon ramada) that were infected solely with Neoechinorhynchus agilis. Most N. agilis were encountered in the middle region of the intestine. Mucous cell types were identified with Alcian Blue (pH2.5) and Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) histochemistry, and by staining with a panel of seven lectins. Mucus enriched for high viscosity acid mucins was accumulated near points of worm attachment. Parasites were surrounded by an adherent mucus layer or blanket. Ultrastructural examination showed intestinal mucous cells typically possessed an elongated, basally positioned nucleus and numerous electron dense and lucent vesicles in the cytoplasm. The results show both an increase in mucus production and changes in mucin composition in infected mullet in comparison with uninfected conspecifics.

The Influence of Chestnut Wood and Flubendazole on Morphology of Small Intestine and Lymphocytes of Peripheral Blood, Spleen and Jejunum in Broiler Chickens

The study examined subpopulations of lymphocytes in peripheral blood, spleen, and jejunum including morphology of that segment in broiler chicken farm after treatment with flubendazole (Flimabend) and natural extract from chestnut wood (Farmatan). A total of 24 forty-day-old Kalimero-Super Master hybrid chickens were divided into 4 groups (n=6): the Fli group received Flimabend per os, 100 mg/g suspension in 1.43 mg of active substance/kg body weight during 7 day of experiment, Far group received Farmatan per os at 0.2 % concentration for 6 hours per day during 5 day (experimental days – from 3 to 7); the Far+Fli group received a combination of doses administered in the same way as for the first two groups; and control –C group with no active substance administration. The results demonstrated mild increase of leukocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, leucocyte common antigen CD45, IgM+ and IgA+ cells in peripheral blood after administration of Flimabend. Similarly, subpopulations of followed lymphocytes (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, IgM+) were increased in the jejunum after application of that drug. On the other hand, administration of Farmatan revealed opposite effect on determined immunocompetent cells what proves anti-inflammatory effect. Morphology of villi was also negatively influenced by administration of Flimabend. Administration of Farmatan suggests also its preventive administration in chickens. This tanin-containing drug as plant natural product may be used due to its antibacterial activity and as promising alternative to conventional drug with possible antihelminthic effect.

The digestive tube of Piaractus brachypomus: gross morphology, histology/histochemistry of the mucosal layer and the effects of parasitism by Neoechinorhynchus sp

The objective of the present study was to describe the histology and histochemistry of the mucosal layer of the digestive tube of Piaractus brachypomus, and the histopathology associated with parasitism by Neoechinorhynchus sp. The digestive tube of P. brachypomus consists of three macroscopically distinct portions: short, rectilinear and elastic-walled ooesophagus, J-shaped siphon stomach and a long intestine with rectilinear and curved portions, defined by patterns of villi as foregut, midgut, and hindgut. Histological and histochemical differences were observed in the mucosal layers of the different digestive tube regions, such as intense production of neutral and acidic mucous substances in the pseudostratified mucosal epithelium of the oesophagus; positive periodic acid Schiff reagent (PAS)reactions at the apex of the columnar epithelial cells of the stomach and increased intensity of histochemical reactions in the hindgut region. Neoechinorhynchus sp. was present in 85.7% of specimens examined, with a mean intensity of 7.4 ± 6.2 (±) and abundance of 6.33. Good health of the fish indicated by high relative condition factor values ( _Kn ) and occurrence of only mild to moderate alteration in the mucosal layer indicated that Neoechinorhynchus sp. exhibits low pathogenicity towards P. brachypomus hosts in farming environments, with low levels of infection.

Dual RNA-seq identifies human mucosal immunity protein Mucin-13 as a hallmark of Plasmodium exoerythrocytic infection

The exoerythrocytic stage of Plasmodium infection is a critical window for prophylactic intervention. Using genome-wide dual RNA sequencing of flow-sorted infected and uninfected hepatoma cells we show that the human mucosal immunity gene, mucin-13 (MUC13), is strongly upregulated during Plasmodium exoerythrocytic hepatic-stage infection. We confirm MUC13 transcript increases in hepatoma cell lines and primary hepatocytes. In immunofluorescence assays, host MUC13 protein expression distinguishes infected cells from adjacent uninfected cells and shows similar colocalization with parasite biomarkers such as UIS4 and HSP70. We further show that localization patterns are species independent, marking both P. berghei and P. vivax infected cells, and that MUC13 can be used to identify compounds that inhibit parasite replication in hepatocytes. This data provides insights into host-parasite interactions in Plasmodium infection, and demonstrates that a component of host mucosal immunity is reprogrammed during the progression of infection.

Knockdown of a mucin-like gene in Meloidogyne incognita (Nematoda) decreases attachment of endospores of Pasteuria penetrans to the infective juveniles and reduces nematode fecundity

Mucins are highly glycosylated polypeptides involved in many host-parasite interactions, but their function in plant-parasitic nematodes is still unknown. In this study, a mucin-like gene was cloned from Meloidogyne incognita (Mi-muc-1, 1125 bp) and characterized. The protein was found to be rich in serine and threonine with numerous O-glycosylation sites in the sequence. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) showed the highest expression in the adult female and in situ hybridization revealed the localization of Mi-muc-1 mRNA expression in the tail area in the region of the phasmid. Knockdown of Mi-muc-1 revealed a dual role: (1) immunologically, there was a significant decrease in attachment of Pasteuria penetrans endospores and a reduction in binding assays with human red blood cells (RBCs), suggesting that Mi-MUC-1 is a glycoprotein present on the surface coat of infective second-stage juveniles (J2s) and is involved in cellular adhesion to the cuticle of infective J2s; pretreatment of J2s with different carbohydrates indicated that the RBCs bind to J2 cuticle receptors different from those involved in the interaction of Pasteuria endospores with Mi-MUC-1; (2) the long-term effect of RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated knockdown of Mi-muc-1 led to a significant reduction in nematode fecundity, suggesting a possible function for this mucin as a mediator in the interaction between the nematode and the host plant.

Schistosoma mansoni infection is associated with quantitative and qualitative modifications of the mammalian intestinal microbiota

In spite of the extensive contribution of intestinal pathology to the pathophysiology of schistosomiasis, little is known of the impact of schistosome infection on the composition of the gut microbiota of its mammalian host. Here, we characterised the fluctuations in the composition of the gut microbial flora of the small and large intestine, as well as the changes in abundance of individual microbial species, of mice experimentally infected with Schistosoma mansoni with the goal of identifying microbial taxa with potential roles in the pathophysiology of infection and disease. Bioinformatic analyses of bacterial 16S rRNA gene data revealed an overall reduction in gut microbial alpha diversity, alongside a significant increase in microbial beta diversity characterised by expanded populations of Akkermansia muciniphila (phylum Verrucomicrobia) and lactobacilli, in the gut microbiota of S. mansoni-infected mice when compared to uninfected control animals. These data support a role of the mammalian gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of hepato-intestinal schistosomiasis and serves as a foundation for the design of mechanistic studies to unravel the complex relationships amongst parasitic helminths, gut microbiota, pathophysiology of infection and host immunity.

Worm expulsion of Gymnophalloides seoi from C57BL/6 mice: role of metacercarial exosomes in upregulating TLR2 and MUC2 expression in intestinal tissues

Gymnophalloides seoi worms were rapidly expelled from C57BL/6 mice within days 3-6 post-infection probably due to operation of mucosal innate immunity. To understand better the mucosal immunity related to worm expulsion from the host, we isolated exosomes of G. seoi metacercariae and investigated their role in induction of mRNA and protein expression of several Toll-like receptors and mucin-related factors in vitro. G. seoi-secreted exosomes were collected using differential ultracentrifugation, and cellular internalization of the exosomes into HT-29 intestinal epithelial cells was visualized by confocal microscopy. The expression of TLR2 and MUC2 in HT-29 cells was up-regulated in stimulation with the exosomes. We suggest that G. seoi-secreted exosomes offer a new point of view in the mechanism of worm expulsion from the host through enhancement of TLR2 and MUC2 expression.

Parasite-Microbiota Interactions With the Vertebrate Gut: Synthesis Through an Ecological Lens

The vertebrate gut teems with a large, diverse, and dynamic bacterial community that has pervasive effects on gut physiology, metabolism, and immunity. Under natural conditions, these microbes share their habitat with a similarly dynamic community of eukaryotes (helminths, protozoa, and fungi), many of which are well-known parasites. Both parasites and the prokaryotic microbiota can dramatically alter the physical and immune landscape of the gut, creating ample opportunities for them to interact. Such interactions may critically alter infection outcomes and affect overall host health and disease. For instance, parasite infection can change how a host interacts with its bacterial flora, either driving or protecting against dysbiosis and inflammatory disease. Conversely, the microbiota can alter a parasite's colonization success, replication, and virulence, shifting it along the parasitism-mutualism spectrum. The mechanisms and consequences of these interactions are just starting to be elucidated in an emergent transdisciplinary area at the boundary of microbiology and parasitology. However, heterogeneity in experimental designs, host and parasite species, and a largely phenomenological and taxonomic approach to synthesizing the literature have meant that common themes across studies remain elusive. Here, we use an ecological perspective to review the literature on interactions between the prokaryotic microbiota and eukaryotic parasites in the vertebrate gut. Using knowledge about parasite biology and ecology, we discuss mechanisms by which they may interact with gut microbes, the consequences of such interactions for host health, and how understanding parasite-microbiota interactions may lead to novel approaches in disease control.

A sticky end for gastrointestinal helminths; the role of the mucus barrier

Gastrointestinal (GI) nematodes are a group of successful multicellular parasites that have evolved to coexist within the intestinal niche of multiple species. It is estimated that over 10% of the world's population are chronically infected by GI nematodes, making this group of parasitic nematodes a major burden to global health. Despite the large number of affected individuals, there are few effective treatments to eradicate these infections. Research into GI nematode infections has primarily focused on defining the immunological and pathological consequences on host protection. One important but neglected aspect of host protection is mucus, and the concept that mucus is just a simple barrier is no longer tenable. In fact, mucus is a highly regulated and dynamic-secreted matrix, underpinned by a physical hydrated network of highly glycosylated mucins, which is increasingly recognized to have a key protective role against GI nematode infections. Unravelling the complex interplay between mucins, the underlying epithelium and immune cells during infection are a major challenge and are required to fully define the protective role of the mucus barrier. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on mucins and the mucus barrier during GI nematode infections, with particular focus on murine models of infection.

Intestinal Inflammation-Mediated Clearance of Amebic Parasites Is Dependent on IFN-γ

Intestinal amebiasis is a major cause of diarrhea. However, research on host-amebae interactions has been hampered owing to a lack of appropriate animal models. Recently, a mouse model of intestinal amebiasis was established, and using it, we reported that Entamoeba moshkovskii colonized the intestine in a manner similar to that of the pathogenic Entamoeba histolytica In this study, we evaluated the protective mechanisms present against amebae using this model. CBA/J mice infected with E. histolytica had a persistent infection without apparent symptoms. In contrast, E. moshkovskii-infected mice rapidly expelled the ameba, which was associated with weight loss, diarrhea, and intestinal damage characterized by apoptosis of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). Expression of NKG2D on intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes (IELs) and IFN-γ-producing cells in Peyer's patches were significantly induced after infection with E. moshkovskii but not with E. histolytica IFN-γ-deficient mice infected with E. moshkovskii showed no obvious symptoms. Notably, none of these mice expelled E. moshkovskii, indicating that IFN-γ is responsible not only for intestinal symptoms but also for the expulsion of amebae. Furthermore, apoptosis of IECs and expression of NKG2D on IELs observed in E. moshkovskii-infected mice did not occur in the absence of IFN-γ. In vivo blocking of NKG2D in mice infected with E. moshkovskii enabled ameba to survive longer and remarkably reduced apoptotic IECs. Our results clearly demonstrate a novel protective mechanism exerted by IFN-γ against intestinal amebae, including induction of cytotoxicity of IELs toward IECs.

Integrated multi-omic analyses in Biomphalaria-Schistosoma dialogue reveal the immunobiological significance of FREP-SmPoMuc interaction

The fresh water snail Biomphalaria glabrata is one of the vectors of the trematode pathogen Schistosoma mansoni, which is one of the agents responsible of human schistosomiasis. In this host-parasite interaction, co-evolutionary dynamic results into an infectivity mosaic known as compatibility polymorphism. Integrative approaches including large scale molecular approaches have been conducted in recent years to improve our understanding of the mechanisms underlying compatibility. This review presents the combination of integrated Multi-Omic approaches leading to the discovery of two repertoires of polymorphic and/or diversified interacting molecules: the parasite antigens S. mansoni polymorphic mucins (SmPoMucs) and the B. glabrata immune receptors fibrinogen-related proteins (FREPs). We argue that their interactions may be major components for defining the compatible/incompatible status of a specific snail/schistosome combination.

Infections by human gastrointestinal helminths are associated with changes in faecal microbiota diversity and composition

Investigations of the impact that patent infections by soil-transmitted gastrointestinal nematode parasites exert on the composition of the host gut commensal flora are attracting growing interest by the scientific community. However, information collected to date varies across experiments, and further studies are needed to identify consistent relationships between parasites and commensal microbial species. Here, we explore the qualitative and quantitative differences between the microbial community profiles of cohorts of human volunteers from Sri Lanka with patent infection by one or more parasitic nematode species (H+), as well as that of uninfected subjects (H-) and of volunteers who had been subjected to regular prophylactic anthelmintic treatment (Ht). High-throughput sequencing of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene, followed by bioinformatics and biostatistical analyses of sequence data revealed no significant differences in alpha diversity (Shannon) and richness between groups (P = 0.65, P = 0.13 respectively); however, beta diversity was significantly increased in H+ and Ht when individually compared to H-volunteers (P = 0.04). Among others, bacteria of the families Verrucomicrobiaceae and Enterobacteriaceae showed a trend towards increased abundance in H+, whereas the Leuconostocaceae and Bacteroidaceae showed a relative increase in H- and Ht respectively. Our findings add valuable knowledge to the vast, and yet little explored, research field of parasite—microbiota interactions and will provide a basis for the elucidation of the role such interactions play in pathogenic and immune-modulatory properties of parasitic nematodes in both human and animal hosts.

Interleukin-13/interleukin-4 receptor pathway is crucial for production of Sda-sialomucin in mouse small intestinal mucosa by Nippostrongylus brasiliensis infection

Mucin is a major component of mucus in gastrointestinal mucosa. Increase of specific sialomucins having Sd^a blood group antigen, NeuAcα2-3(GalNAcβ1-4)Galβ1-4GlcNAcβ-, is considered to be associated with expulsion of the parasitic intestinal nematode Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. In this study, we examined the relationship between interleukin (IL)-13 pathway and expression of Sd^a-sialomucins in small intestinal mucosa with N. brasiliensis infection. Nematode infection induced marked increases in small intestinal mucins that reacted with anti-Sd^a antibody in wild type (wt) mice. However, this increase due to infection was supressed in IL-4 receptor α deficient (IL-4Rα^-/-) mice, which lack both IL-4 and IL-13 signaling via IL-4R, and severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice, which have defects in B- and T-lymphocytes. Analysis using tandem mass spectroscopy showed that Sd^a-glycans were not expressed in small intestinal mucins in IL-4Rα^-/- and SCID mice after infection despite the appearance of Sd^a-glycans in the infected wt mice. Inoculation of recombinant IL-13 into the infected SCID mice restored expression of Sd^a-glycan. Our results suggest that the IL-13/IL-4R axis is important for the production of Sd^a-sialomucins in the host intestinal mucosa with parasitic nematode infection.

Protective responses of intestinal mucous cells in a range of fish-helminth systems

Histopathological, immunofluorescence and ultrastructural studies were conducted on the intestines of four fish species infected with different taxa of enteric helminths. Brown trout (Salmo trutta trutta), eel (Anguilla anguilla) and tench (Tinca tinca) obtained from Lake Piediluco (central Italy) were examined. Brown trout and eel were infected with two species of acanthocephalans, and tench was parasitized with a tapeworm species. In addition to the above site, specimens of chub (Squalius cephalus) and brown trout infected with an acanthocephalan were examined from the River Brenta (north Italy). Moreover, eels were examined from a brackish water, Comacchio lagoons (north Italy), where one digenean species was the predominant enteric worm. All the helminths species induced a similar response, the hyperplasia of the intestinal mucous cells, particularly of those secreting acid mucins. Local endocrine signals seemed to affect the production and secretion of mucus in the parasitized fish, as worms often were surrounded by an adherent mucus layer or blanket. This is the first quantitative report of enteric worm effects on the density of various mucous cell types and on the mucus composition in intestine of infected/uninfected conspecifics. We provide a global comparison between the several fish-helminth systems examined.

Immune-driven alterations in mucin sulphation is an important mediator of Trichuris muris helminth expulsion

Mucins are heavily glycosylated proteins that give mucus its gel-like properties. Moreover, the glycans decorating the mucin protein core can alter the protective properties of the mucus barrier. To investigate whether these alterations could be parasite-induced we utilized the Trichuris muris (T. muris) infection model, using different infection doses and strains of mice that are resistant (high dose infection in BALB/c and C57BL6 mice) or susceptible (high dose infection in AKR and low dose infection in BALB/c mice) to chronic infection by T. muris. During chronicity, within the immediate vicinity of the T. muris helminth the goblet cell thecae contained mainly sialylated mucins. In contrast, the goblet cells within the epithelial crypts in the resistant models contained mainly sulphated mucins. Maintained mucin sulphation was promoted by T_H2-immune responses, in particular IL-13, and contributed to the protective properties of the mucus layer, making it less vulnerable to degradation by T. muris excretory secretory products. Mucin sulphation was markedly reduced in the caecal goblet cells in the sulphate anion transporter-1 (Sat-1) deficient mice. We found that Sat-1 deficient mice were susceptible to chronic infection despite a strong T_H2-immune response. Lower sulphation levels lead to decreased efficiency of establishment of T. muris infection, independent of egg hatching. This study highlights the complex process by which immune-regulated alterations in mucin glycosylation occur following T. muris infection, which contributes to clearance of parasitic infection.

Approximately 2 billion people are infected with worms every year, causing physical, nutritional and cognitive impairment particularly in children. Mucins are large sugar-coated (glycosylated) proteins that form the intestinal mucus layer. This mucus layer protects our ‘insides’ from external insults and plays an important role during worm infection. We discovered that there is a difference in the glycosylation of mucins in people infected with worms compared to uninfected individuals. Therefore, using different mouse models we investigated the role of glycosylation, and in particular sulphation of mucins in infection. We found that mucin glycosylation is controlled by the immune response and increased sulphation correlated with the expulsion of the worm from the host. Highly sulphated mucins were protected from degradation by the worm. Moreover, mice lacking a sulphate transporter had significantly lower sulphation levels on mucins, which resulted in a reduction in the establishment of the worms and chronic infection.

The Compatibility Between Biomphalaria glabrata Snails and Schistosoma mansoni: An Increasingly Complex Puzzle

This review reexamines the results obtained in recent decades regarding the compatibility polymorphism between the snail, Biomphalaria glabrata, and the pathogen, Schistosoma mansoni, which is one of the agents responsible for human schistosomiasis. Some results point to the snail's resistance as explaining the incompatibility, while others support a "matching hypothesis" between the snail's immune receptors and the schistosome's antigens. We propose here that the two hypotheses are not exclusive, and that the compatible/incompatible status of a particular host/parasite couple probably reflects the balance of multiple molecular determinants that support one hypothesis or the other. Because these genes are involved in a coevolutionary arms race, we also propose that the underlying mechanisms can vary. Finally, some recent results show that environmental factors could influence compatibility. Together, these results make the compatibility between B. glabrata and S. mansoni an increasingly complex puzzle. We need to develop more integrative approaches in order to find targets that could potentially be manipulated to control the transmission of schistosomiasis.

MicroRNAs of Toxocara canis and their predicted functional roles

Background

Toxocara canis is the causative agent of toxocariasis of humans and other animals. This parasitic nematode (roundworm) has a complex life cycle, in which substantial developmental changes and switches occur. As small non-coding RNAs (sRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression in a wide range of organisms, we explored these RNAs in T. canis to provide a basis for future studies of its developmental biology as well as host interactions and disease at the molecular level.

Methods

We conducted high-throughput RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analyses to define sRNAs in individual male and female adults of T. canis.

Results

Apart from snRNA and snoRNA, 560 and 619 microRNAs (miRNAs), including 5 and 2 novel miRNAs, were identified in male and female worms, respectively, without piRNAs being detected in either sex. An analysis of transcriptional profiles showed that, of 564 miRNAs predicted as being differentially transcribed between male and female individuals of T. canis, 218 miRNAs were transcribed exclusively in male and 277 in female worms. Functional enrichment analysis predicted that both male and female miRNAs were mainly involved in regulating embryonic morphogenesis, hemidesmosome assembly and genetic information processing. The miRNAs differentially transcribed between the sexes were predicted to be associated with sex determination, embryonic morphogenesis and nematode larval development. The roles of miRNAs were predicted based on gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathway annotations. The miRNAs Tc-miR-2305 and Tc-miR-6090 are proposed to have roles in reproduction, embryo development and larval development, and Tc-let-7-5p, Tc-miR-34 and Tc-miR-100 appear to be involved in host-parasite interactions. Together with published information from previous studies, some miRNAs (such as Tc-miR-2861, Tc-miR-2881 and Tc-miR-5126) are predicted to represent drug targets and/or associated with drug resistance.

Conclusions

This is the first exploration of miRNAs in T. canis, which could provide a basis for fundamental investigations of the developmental biology of the parasite, parasite-host interactions and toxocariasis as well as applied areas, such as the diagnosis of infection/disease, drug target discovery and drug resistance detection.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-016-1508-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

A mucin-like peptide from Fasciola hepatica induces parasite-specific Th1-type cell immunity

Fasciolosis, caused by the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica, is a major parasitic disease of livestock that causes significant economic losses worldwide. Although drugs are effective against liver flukes, they do not prevent reinfection, and continuous treatment is costly. Moreover, resistant fluke strains are emerging. In this context, vaccination is a good alternative since it provides a cost-effective long-term prevention strategy to control fasciolosis. In this paper, we evaluate the Fhmuc peptide as a potential vaccine against fasciolosis. This peptide derives from a mucin-like protein highly expressed in the infective stage of Fasciola hepatica. Mucin-like molecules expressed by parasites can contribute to several infection processes by protecting the parasite from host proteases and recognition by the immune system. We show that the Fhmuc peptide induces Th1-like immune responses specific for F. hepatica excretion-secretion products (FhESP) with a high production of IFNγ. We also investigated whether this peptide could protect animals from infection, and present preliminary data indicating that animals treated with Fhmuc exhibited reduced liver damage compared to non-immunised animals and that this protection was associated with a recruitment of B and T lymphocytes in the peritoneum, as well as eosinophils and mature dendritic cells. These results suggest that the mucin-like peptide Fhmuc could constitute a potential vaccine candidate against fasciolosis and pave the way towards the development of vaccines against parasites.

Alaria mesocercariae in the tails of red-sided garter snakes: evidence for parasite-mediated caudectomy

Trematodes of the genus Alaria develop into an arrested stage, known as mesocercariae, within their amphibian second intermediate host. The mesocercariae are frequently transmitted to a non-obligate paratenic host before reaching a definitive host where further development and reproduction can occur. Snakes are common paratenic hosts for Alaria spp. with the mesocercariae often aggregating in the host's tail. In the current study, we used morphological examination and molecular analyses based on partial sequences of nuclear large ribosomal subunit gene and mitochondrial cytochrome C oxidase subunit 1 gene to identify larvae in the tails of red-sided garter snakes (Thamnophis sirtalis parietalis) as mesocercariae of Alaria marcianae, Alaria mustelae, and Alaria sp. as well as metacercariae of Diplostomidae sp. of unknown generic affiliation. We assessed infection prevalence, absolute and relative intensity, and associated pathological changes in these snakes. Infection prevalence was 100 % for both male and female snakes. Infection intensity ranged from 11 to more than 2000 mesocercariae per snake tail but did not differ between the sexes. Gross pathological changes included tail swelling while histopathological changes included mild inflammation and the presence of mucus-filled pseudocysts surrounding mesocercariae, as well as the compression and degeneration of muscle fibers. Our results indicate that mesocercariae can lead to extensive muscle damage and loss in both sexes which likely increases the fragility of the tail making it more prone to breakage. As tail loss in garter snakes can affect both survival and reproduction, infection by Alaria mesocercariae clearly has serious fitness implications for these snakes.

Fasciola hepatica mucin-encoding gene: expression, variability and its potential relevance in host-parasite relationship

Fasciola hepatica is the causative agent of fasciolosis, a zoonosis with significant impact both in human and animal health. Understanding the basic processes of parasite biology, especially those related to interactions with its host, will contribute to control F. hepatica infections and hence liver pathology. Mucins have been described as important mediators for parasite establishment within its host, due to their key roles in immune evasion. In F. hepatica, mucin expression is upregulated in the mammalian invasive newly excysted juvenile (NEJ) stage in comparison with the adult stage. Here, we performed sequencing of mucin cDNAs prepared from NEJ RNA, resulting in six different cDNAs clusters. The differences are due to the presence of a tandem repeated sequence of 66 bp encoded by different exons. Two groups of apomucins one with three and the other with four repeats, with 459 and 393 bp respectively, were identified. These cDNAs have open reading frames encoding Ser-Thr enriched proteins with an N-terminal signal peptide, characteristic of apomucin backbone. We cloned a 4470 bp gene comprising eight exons and seven introns that encodes all the cDNA variants identified in NEJs. By real time polymerase chain reaction and high-resolution melting approaches of individual flukes we infer that fhemuc-1 is a single-copy gene, with at least two different alleles. Our data suggest that both gene polymorphism and alternative splicing might account for apomucin variability in the fhemuc-1 gene that is upregulated in NEJ invasive stage. The relevance of this variation in host-parasite interplay is discussed.

Advances in gastropod immunity from the study of the interaction between the snail Biomphalaria glabrata and its parasites: A review of research progress over the last decade

This review summarizes the research progress made over the past decade in the field of gastropod immunity resulting from investigations of the interaction between the snail Biomphalaria glabrata and its trematode parasites. A combination of integrated approaches, including cellular, genetic and comparative molecular and proteomic approaches have revealed novel molecular components involved in mediating Biomphalaria immune responses that provide insights into the nature of host-parasite compatibility and the mechanisms involved in parasite recognition and killing. The current overview emphasizes that the interaction between B. glabrata and its trematode parasites involves a complex molecular crosstalk between numerous antigens, immune receptors, effectors and anti-effector systems that are highly diverse structurally and extremely variable in expression between and within host and parasite populations. Ultimately, integration of these molecular signals will determine the outcome of a specific interaction between a B. glabrata individual and its interacting trematodes. Understanding these complex molecular interactions and identifying key factors that may be targeted to impairment of schistosome development in the snail host is crucial to generating new alternative schistosomiasis control strategies.

Enteric neuromodulators and mucus discharge in a fish infected with the intestinal helminth Pomphorhynchus laevis

BACKGROUND

In vertebrates, the presence of enteric worms can induce structural changes to the alimentary canal impacting on the neuroendocrine system, altering the proper functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and affecting the occurrence and relative density of endocrine cells (ECs). This account represents the first immunohistochemistry and ultrastructure-based study which documents the intimate relationship between the intestinal mucous cells and ECs in a fish-helminth system, investigating the potential effects of enteric neuromodulators on gut mucus secretion/discharge.

METHODS

A modified dual immunohisto- and histochemical staining technique was applied on intestinal sections from both infected and uninfected fish. Sections were incubated in antisera to a range of neuromodulators (i.e. leu-enkephalin, met-enkephalin, galanin and serotonin) and the glycoconjugate histochemistry of the mucous cells was determined using a subsequent alcian blue - periodic acid Schiff staining step. Dual fluorescent staining on sections prepared for confocal laser scanning microscopy and transmission electron microscopy were also used to document the relationship between ECs and mucous cells.

RESULTS

From a total of 26 specimens of Squalius cephalus sampled from the River Paglia, 16 (i.e. 62 %) specimens were found to harbour an infection of the acanthocephalan Pomphorhynchus laevis (average intensity of infection 9.2 ± 0.8 parasites host(-1), mean ± standard error). When acanthocephalans were present, the numbers of mucous cells (most notably those containing acidic or mixed glycoconjugates) and ECs secreting leu-enkephalin, met-enkephalin, galanin, serotonin were significantly higher than those seen on sections from uninfected fish. The relationship between met-enkephalin-like or serotonin-like ECs and lectin DBA positive mucous cells was demonstrated through a dual fluorescent staining. The presence of tight connections and desmosomes between mucous and ECs in transmission electron micrographs provides further evidence of this intimate relationship.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of P. laevis induces an increase in the number of enteric ECs that are immunoreactive to leu- and met-enkephalin, galanin, and serotonin anti-sera. The mucous cells hyperplasia and enhanced mucus secretion in the helminth-infected intestines could be elicited by the increase in the number of ECs which release these regulatory substances.

Induction of Sd(a)-sialomucin and sulfated H-sulfomucin in mouse small intestinal mucosa by infection with parasitic helminth

Mucin is a major component of mucus on gastrointestinal mucosa. Mucin alteration in the host is considered to be the principal event for expulsion of intestinal helminths. However, it is unclear what mucin alterations are induced by various helminth infections. In this study, the alterations of mouse small intestinal mucin after infection with two nematodes, Nippostrongylus brasiliensis and Heligmosomoides polygyrus, which parasitize the jejunal epithelium, and a cestode, Vampirolepis nana, which parasitizes the ileal epithelium, were examined biochemically and histologically using two anti-mucin monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), HCM31 and PGM34, which recognize Sd(a) antigen, NeuAcα2-3(GalNAcβ1-4)Galβ1-4GlcNAcβ-, and sulphated H type 2 antigen, Fucα1-2Galβ1-4GlcNAc(6SO₃H)β-, respectively. The goblet cell mucins that reacted with HCM31 increased conspicuously on the jejunal mucosa concurrently with expulsion of N. brasiliensis. Increased levels of HCM31-reactive mucins were observed in the jejunal mucosa after H. polygyrus infection, despite the ongoing parasitism. Goblet cell mucins that reacted with PGM34 increased on the ileal mucosa during V. nana parasitism. Small intestinal goblet cells reacting with the two mAbs were not observed in non-infected mice, although sialomucins and sulfomucins were abundantly present. Additionally, the number of ileal goblet cells that reacted with the two mAbs was increased at the time of expulsion of heterophyid trematode. These results indicate that the type of specific acidic mucins expressed after infection varies among species of intestinal helminth, and, furthermore, that the relationship with worm expulsion is also different.

Development and application of three-dimensional skin equivalents for the investigation of percutaneous worm invasion

Investigation of percutaneous helminth infection is generally based on animal models or excised skin. As desirable replacement of animal experiments, tissue-engineered skin equivalents have recently been applied in microbial and viral in vitro infection models. In the present study, the applicability of tissue-engineered skin equivalents for the investigation of percutaneous helminth invasion was evaluated. Epidermal and a full-thickness skin equivalents that suit the requirements for helminth invasion studies were developed. Quantitative invasion assays were performed with the skin-invading larvae of the helminths Strongyloides ratti and Schistosoma mansoni. Both skin equivalents provided a physical barrier to larval invasion of the nematode S. ratti, while these larvae could invade and permeate a cell-free collagen scaffold and ex vivo epidermis. In contrast, the epidermal and full-thickness skin equivalents exhibited a human host-specific susceptibility to larvae of trematode S. mansoni, which could well penetrate. Invasion of S. mansoni in cell-free collagen scaffold was lowest for all experimental conditions. Thus, reconstructed epidermis and full-thickness skin equivalents confirmed a high degree of accordance to native tissue. Additionally, not only tailless schistosomula but also cercariae could permeate the skin equivalents, and thus, delayed tail loss hypothesis was supported. The present study indicates that the limitations in predictive infection test systems for human-pathogenic invading helminths can be overcome by tissue-engineered in vitro skin equivalents allowing a substitution of the human skin for analysis of the interaction between parasites and their hosts' tissues. This novel tissue-engineered technology accomplishes the endeavor to save animal lives.

Comparison of Lesion Severity, Distribution, and Colonic Mucin Expression in Pigs With Acute Swine Dysentery Following Oral Inoculation With “Brachyspira hampsonii” or Brachyspira hyodysenteriae

Swine dysentery is classically associated with infection by Brachyspira hyodysenteriae, the only current officially recognized Brachyspira sp. that consistently imparts strong beta-hemolysis on blood agar. Recently, several strongly beta-hemolytic Brachyspira have been isolated from swine with clinical dysentery that are not identified as B. hyodysenteriae by PCR including the recently proposed species “ Brachyspira hampsonii.” In this study, 6-week-old pigs were inoculated with either a clinical isolate of “ B. hampsonii” (EB107; n = 10) clade II or a classic strain of B. hyodysenteriae (B204; n = 10) to compare gross and microscopic lesions and alterations in colonic mucin expression in pigs with clinical disease versus controls ( n = 6). Gross lesions were similar between infected groups. No histologic difference was observed between infected groups with regard to neutrophilic inflammation, colonic crypt depth, mucosal ulceration, or hemorrhage. Histochemical and immunohistochemical evaluation of the apex of the spiral colon revealed decreased expression of sulphated mucins, decreased expression of MUC4, and increased expression of MUC5AC in diseased pigs compared to controls. No difference was observed between diseased pigs in inoculated groups. This study reveals significant alterations in colonic mucin expression in pigs with acute swine dysentery and further reveals that these and other microscopic changes are similar following infection with “ B. hampsonii” clade II or B. hyodysenteriae.

Antigenic characterization of Enteromyxum leei (Myxozoa: Myxosporea)

Enteromyxum leei, an intestinal myxozoan parasite affecting a wide range of fish, was partially purified, and the immunogenic composition of its glycoproteins as well as the proteolytic activity were studied. Parasite extracts, mainly containing spores, were separated by SDS-PAGE, and thereafter, immunoblots were carried out with a polyclonal antiserum (Pab) raised against E. leei. Periodic acid/Schiff staining of gels, periodate- and Proteinase K-treated Western blots and Lectin blots were performed to analyse the terminal carbohydrate composition of the parasite's antigens. Additionally, the cross-reaction of the parasite extracts with a Pab raised against the polar filament of the myxozoan Myxobolus pendula was studied. Both Pabs detected proteic epitopes on antigenic proteins and glycoproteins of E. leei, ranging between 15 and 280 kDa. In particular, 2 glycoproteic bands (15 and 165 kDa), immunoreactive to both Pabs and with glucose and mannose moieties, could correspond to common antigens shared among myxozoans. The 165 kDa band also presented galactose, N-acetyl-galactosamine and N-acetyl-glucosamine, pointing to its possible origin on chitin-built spore valves and to its possible involvement in host-parasite interactions. The molecular weight of the 15 kDa glycoproteic antigen matches that of minicollagen, a cnidarian-specific protein of nematocysts with a myxozoan homologue. Several proteases with apparent molecular weights ranging between 43 and 245 kDa were found in zymographies of E. leei extracts, and these may have a potential role in the parasite's pathogenesis. This is a useful approach for further studies to detect targets for antiparasitic therapy.

Effects of Enteromyxum leei (Myxozoa) infection on gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) (Teleostei) intestinal mucus: glycoprotein profile and bacterial adhesion

The intestinal myxosporean parasite Enteromyxum leei causes severe desquamative enteritis in gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) (Teleostei) that impairs nutrient absorption causing anorexia and cachexia. In fish, as in terrestrial vertebrates, intestinal goblet cells are responsible for the adherent mucus secretion overlying epithelial cells, which constitutes a first line of innate immune defense against offending microorganisms but serves also as substrate and nutrient source for the commensal microflora. The secreted intestinal mucus of parasitized (n = 6) and unexposed (n = 8) gilthead sea bream was isolated, concentrated, and subjected to downward gel chromatography. Carbohydrate and protein contents (via PAS and Bradford stainings), terminal glycosylation (via lectin ELISA), and Aeromonas hydrophila and Vibrio alginolyticus adhesion were analyzed for the isolated intestinal mucins. Parasitized fish, compared with unexposed fish, presented intestinal mucus mucins with a lower glycoprotein content and glycosylation degree at the anterior and middle intestine, whereas both glycoprotein content and glycosylation degree increased at the posterior intestine section, though only significantly for the total carbohydrate content. Additionally, a slight molecular size increase was detected in the mucin glycoproteins of parasitized fish. Terminal glycosylation of the mucus glycoproteins in parasitized fish pointed to an immature mucin secretion (N-acetyl-α-D-galactosamine increase, α-L-fucose, and neuraminic-acid-α-2-6-galactose reduction). Bacterial adhesion to large-sized mucus glycoproteins (>2,000 kDa) of parasitized fish was significantly lower than in unexposed fish.

γδ T cells play a protective role during infection with Nippostrongylus brasiliensis by promoting goblet cell function in the small intestine

The intestinal epithelium is rich in γδ T cells and the gut is a site of residence for a wide variety of pathogens, including nematodes. Although CD4+ T-cell receptor (TCR) -αβ+ T helper type 2 T cells are essential for the expulsion of intestinal nematodes, little information is available on the function of γδ T cells in this type of infection. Here, we demonstrate two major functions of γδ T cells as a potently protective T-cell population against Nippostrongylus brasiliensis infection using γδ T-cell-deficient (TCR-δ(-/-) ) mice. First, γδ T cells are required to initiate rapid expulsion of adult worms from the intestine and to limit egg production. Second, γδ T cells prevent the pathological intestinal damage associated with nematode infection, evident by increased clinical disease and more severe microscopic lesions in infected TCR-δ(-/-) mice. γδ T-cell deficiency led to delayed goblet cell hyperplasia in association with reduced expression of phosphorylated STAT6, MUC2, Trefoil factor-3 (TFF3) and T helper type 2 cytokines including interleukin-13 (IL-13). TCR-δ(-/-) mice also produced more interferon-γ than wild-type mice. Within the intraepithelial lymphocyte compartment, γδ T cells produced IL-13. Adoptive transfer of γδ T cells or administration of recombinant IL-13 to TCR-δ(-/-) mice successfully reduced the egg production by N. brasiliensis. Collectively, these data provide strong evidence that γδ T cells play an important role in controlling infection with intestinal nematodes and limiting infection-induced pathology.

Cuticle surface coat of plant-parasitic nematodes

The surface coat (SC) of the plant-parasitic nematode cuticle is an understudied area of current research, even though it likely plays key roles in both nematode-plant and nematode-microbe interactions. Although in several ways Caenorhabditis elegans is a poor model for plant-parasitic nematodes, it is a useful starting point for investigations of the cuticle and its SC, especially in the light of recent work using this species as a model for innate immunity and the generic biology underpinning much host-parasite biology. We review the research focused on the involvement of the SC of plant-parasitic nematodes. Using the insights gained from animal-parasitic nematodes and other sequenced nematodes, we discuss the key roles that the SC may play.

Carbohydrate patterns in the digestive tract of Sparus aurata L. and Psetta maxima (L.) (Teleostei) parasitized by Enteromyxum leei and E. scophthalmi (Myxozoa)

The influence of Enteromyxum spp. infections on the carbohydrate patterns of the digestive tract of gilthead sea bream (GSB) Sparus aurata L. and turbot (TB) Psetta maxima (L.) has been studied. Histochemical stainings to differentiate the types of mucins and lectin-binding assays to detect terminal carbohydrate residues were applied to histological sections of GSB and TB uninfected or infected by Enteromyxum leei and E. scophthalmi, respectively. The number of intestinal GC decreased in severely infected fish in both parasitoses, though changes in mucin patterns were limited to the decrease in the staining intensity for acidic mucins in infected GSB. The TB stomach and intestine lacked histochemically detectable acidic mucins, or sialic acid detectable by SNA, in contrast with their abundance in GSB. Glucose/mannose, fucose and GlcNAc residues were less abundant in both infected hosts with respect to uninfected fish. In contrast, D-Gal and D-GalNAc moieties (detectable by BSL I) increased in most parts of E. scophthalmi-infected TB while decreasing (oesophagus) or remaining unchanged (intestine) in E. leei-infected GSB. The decreasing in the expression of acidic mucins and of sialic acid detectable by SNA in E. leei-infected GSB is remarkable. Differences in the carbohydrate patterns between both hosts could aid to explain the differences in the severity of both enteromyxoses. In addition, the changes induced by Enteromyxum spp. infections in the digestive tract of GSB and TB suggest a role of terminal carbohydrate residues in the parasite-host interaction.

Effects of weaning and infection with Teladorsagia circumcincta on mucin carbohydrate profiles of early weaned lambs

Differences in mucin glycosylation in milk-fed and early weaned lambs may influence susceptibility to parasitism, particularly the greater cellular content and higher sulphation of mucins in young and unweaned lambs. Weaning also reduced the percentage of Gal (p<0.05) in fundic mucin and galactosamine (GalN) (p<0.01) in duodenal mucin, but had no noticeable effect on fucosylation or sialylation. Four experimental groups of lambs were studied (n=3): (1) 3 days old; (2) 9 weeks old milk-fed; (3) 9 weeks old weaned at 3 weeks-of-age on to lucerne chaff and cereal-based pellets (4) 9 weeks old weaned and infected with 1000 Teladorsagia circumcincta L3 twice weekly for 5 weeks. Fundic and duodenal mucin monosaccharides were analysed chemically and fundic, antral and duodenal tissues were stained with lectins, periodic acid Schiff (PAS), Alcian blue/PAS (AB/PAS) and high iron diamine. Age-related maturation of mucin glycosylation was prominent in young lambs: reduced total fundic mucins and increasing fucosylation and decreasing sialylation and sulphation of all mucins, as well as changes in the types of linkages of Fuc and sialic acids. By 9 weeks-of-age, there were no longer sialylated mucins in fundic surface mucus cells, only neutral mucins, while in Brunner's glands, there was reduced sialylation and large amounts of neutral mucins. In the neonates, both fundic and duodenal tissues contained only small amounts of mucins terminating with alpha-1,2-linked Fuc, which became the principal linkage in 9 weeks old lambs. Duodenal mucins in 3 days old lambs contained both alpha-2,6- and alpha-2,3-linked sialic acids, whereas the alpha-2,3 linkage was not present in older lambs. Parasitism increased the percentage of galactose, but reduced total and neutral fundic mucins, as well as sulphation and sialylation. There was both decreased sialylation and sulphation in duodenal mucins. Although no change in fucosylation was apparent from chemical analysis, infection reduced lectin staining for alpha-1,2-linked fucose in antral and duodenal tissues and alpha-1,6- and alpha-1,3-linked fucose in the duodenum. These changes in fundic and duodenal mucins were similar to those previously seen on Day 28 p.i. after a single infection of 4-9 months old sheep with T. circumcincta larvae.

CD4+ T-cell-dependent goblet cell proliferation and expulsion of Gymnophalloides seoi from the intestine of C57BL/6 mice

Mechanisms for the spontaneous worm expulsion from the host intestine are not well understood in gastrointestinal trematode models. We studied the role of CD4+ T-helper cells in mediating goblet cell hyperplasia and expulsion of Gymnophalloides seoi from the intestines of C57BL/6 (resistant) and ICR (susceptible) mice. C57BL/6 mice expelled all G. seoi worms within 4 days post-infection (PI), while ICR mice did not completely expel worms until day 7 PI. This difference in worm expulsion was associated with high numbers of mucosal goblet cells in C57BL/6 mice along with alteration of the mucin quality, with changes in the terminal sugar chain and high levels of IL-4 and IL-5 mRNA expression in mesenteric lymph nodes. Adoptive transfer of mucosal CD4+ T-helper cells to syngeneic mice elicited strong goblet cell hyperplasia and a notably accelerated worm expulsion. However, this T-helper cell transfer had no relationship with the alteration of mucin quality. The results showed that CD4+ T-helper cells play an important role as a mediator of goblet cell hyperplasia, but not for functional activation of goblet cells. It is suggested that both T-cell dependent and independent mechanisms operate for expulsion of G. seoi from the mouse intestine.

In vitro manipulation of gene expression in larval Schistosoma: a model for postgenomic approaches in Trematoda

With rapid developments in DNA and protein sequencing technologies, combined with powerful bioinformatics tools, a continued acceleration of gene identification in parasitic helminths is predicted, potentially leading to discovery of new drug and vaccine targets, enhanced diagnostics and insights into the complex biology underlying host-parasite interactions. For the schistosome blood flukes, with the recent completion of genome sequencing and comprehensive transcriptomic datasets, there has accumulated massive amounts of gene sequence data, for which, in the vast majority of cases, little is known about actual functions within the intact organism. In this review we attempt to bring together traditional in vitro cultivation approaches and recent emergent technologies of molecular genomics, transcriptomics and genetic manipulation to illustrate the considerable progress made in our understanding of trematode gene expression and function during development of the intramolluscan larval stages. Using several prominent trematode families (Schistosomatidae, Fasciolidae, Echinostomatidae), we have focused on the current status of in vitro larval isolation/cultivation as a source of valuable raw material supporting gene discovery efforts in model digeneans that include whole genome sequencing, transcript and protein expression profiling during larval development, and progress made in the in vitro manipulation of genes and their expression in larval trematodes using transgenic and RNA interference (RNAi) approaches.

Biological invasion and parasitism: invaders do not suffer from physiological alterations of the acanthocephalanPomphorhynchus laevis

Biological invasions expose parasites to new invasive hosts in addition to their local hosts. However, local parasites are often less successful in infecting and exploiting their new hosts. This may have major consequences for the competitive ability of hosts, and finally on the fate of the parasite-host community. In Burgundy (Eastern France), the acanthocephalan parasite,Pomphorhynchus laevis, infects 2 amphipod species living in sympatry: the nativeGammarus pulexand the invasiveGammarus roeseli. WhileP. laevisaffects the behaviour and the immunity ofG. pulex,G. roeseliseems unaffected by the infection. In this study, we examined in detail the ability of the parasite to affect the immune system and resource storage of both gammarid species. We found that the infection was associated with a general decrease of the prophenoloxidase activity, haemocyte density, resistance to an artificial bacterial infection and level of sugar reserves inG. pulex, but not inG. roeseli. These results demonstrate a differential ability ofP. laevisto exploit its local and its invasive gammarid hosts. Potential mechanisms of these differential physiological alterations and their potential consequences on the coexistence of both gammarid species in sympatry are discussed.

Mucin biosynthesis in the bovine goblet cell induced by Cooperia oncophora infection

Mucin hypersecretion is considered to be one of the most common components of the immune response to gastrointestinal nematode infection. However, investigations have not been conducted in the Cattle-Cooperia oncophora system to verify the findings largely derived from murine models. In this study, we examined the expression of seven mucins and seven enzymes in the mucin biosynthesis pathway involved in O-linked glycosylation in the bovine small intestine including goblet cells enriched using laser capture microdissection during a primary C. oncophora infection. At the mRNA level, MUC2 expression was significantly higher in both lamina propria and goblet cells at 28 days post-infection compared to the naive control. MUC5B expression at the mRNA level was also higher in lamina propria at 28dpi. Expression of MUC1, MUC4, MUC5AC, and MUC6 was extremely low or not detectable in goblet cells, columnar epithelial cells, and lamina propria from both naive control and infected animals. Among the seven enzymes involved in post-translational O-linked glycosylation of mucins, GCNT3, which may represent one of the key rate-limiting steps in mucin biosynthesis, was up-regulated in goblet cells, columnar epithelial cells, lamina propria, and gross small intestine tissue during the course of infection. Western blot analysis revealed that MUC2 glycoprotein was strongly induced by infection in both gross small intestine tissue and its mucosal layer. In contrast, the higher MUC5B protein expression was observed only in the mucosal layer. Immunohistochemistry provided further evidence of the mucin glycoprotein production and localization. Our results provided insight into regulation of mucin biosynthesis in various cell types in the bovine small intestine during gastrointestinal nematode infection and will facilitate our understanding of mucins and their role in immune response against parasitic nematodes.