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Al Qaisi YT, Khleifat KM, Oran SA, Al Tarawneh AA, Qaralleh H, Al-Qaisi TS, Farah HS. Ruta graveolens, Peganum harmala, and Citrullus colocynthis methanolic extracts have in vitro protoscolocidal effects and act against bacteria isolated from echinococcal hydatid cyst fluid. Arch Microbiol 2022; 204:228. [PMID: 35353289 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-022-02844-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Echinococcosis is a common and endemic disease that affects both humans and animals. In this study, the in vitro activities of methanolic extracts of Ruta graveolens, Peganum harmala aerial parts, and Citrullus colocynthis seeds against protoscolosis and isolated bacterial strains from hydatid cysts were assessed using disc diffusion methods and Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC). The chemical composition of three methanolic extracts was studied using LC-MS. After 3 h of exposure to 40 mg/mL R. graveolens extract, a tenfold protoscolocidal effect was seen when compared to the convintional medication (ABZ) for the same duration (P < 0.05). The bacteria listed below were isolated from hydatid cyst fluid collected from a variety of sick locations, including the lung and liver. Micrococcus spp., E. coli, Klebsiella oxytoca, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterobacter amnigenus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus xylosus, and Achromobacter xylosoxidans are among the bacteria that have been identified. The most effective extract was R. graveolens, followed by P. harmala and C. colocynthis, according to the results of antibacterial activity using the disc diffusion method. R. graveolens extract had the lowest MIC values (less than 2 mg/mL) against all microorganisms tested. This shows that the R. graveolens extract has additional properties, such as the ability to be both scolocidal and bactericidal. Because these bacteria are among the most prevalent pathogenic bacteria that increase the risk of secondary infection during hydatid cysts, the results of inhibitory zones and MICs of the R. graveolens methanol extract are considered highly promising.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaseen T Al Qaisi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mutah University, Mutah, 61710, Karak, Jordan.
| | - Khaled M Khleifat
- Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Sawsan A Oran
- Departmentof Biological Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Amjad A Al Tarawneh
- Prince Faisal Center for Dead Sea, Environmental and Energy Research, Mutah University, Mutah, 61710, Karak, Jordan
| | - Haitham Qaralleh
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Science, Mutah University, Mutah, 61710, Karak, Jordan
| | - Talal S Al-Qaisi
- Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Husni S Farah
- Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan
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Montaño KJ, Cuéllar C, Sotillo J. Rodent Models for the Study of Soil-Transmitted Helminths: A Proteomics Approach. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:639573. [PMID: 33968800 PMCID: PMC8100317 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.639573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) affect hundreds of millions worldwide and are some of the most important neglected tropical diseases in terms of morbidity. Due to the difficulty in studying STH human infections, rodent models have become increasingly used, mainly because of their similarities in life cycle. Ascaris suum and Trichuris muris have been proven appropriate and low maintenance models for the study of ascariasis and trichuriasis. In the case of hookworms, despite most of the murine models do not fully reproduce the life cycle of Necator americanus, their proteomic similarity makes them highly suitable for the development of novel vaccine candidates and for the study of hookworm biological features. Furthermore, these models have been helpful in elucidating some basic aspects of our immune system, and are currently being used by numerous researchers to develop novel molecules with immunomodulatory proteins. Herein we review the similarities in the proteomic composition between Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, Heligmosomoides polygyrus bakeri and Trichuris muris and their respective human counterpart with a focus on the vaccine candidates and immunomodulatory proteins being currently studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen J Montaño
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Cuéllar
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Sotillo
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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Fernández-Soto P, Fernández-Medina C, Cruz-Fernández S, Crego-Vicente B, Febrer-Sendra B, García-Bernalt Diego J, Gorgojo-Galindo Ó, López-Abán J, Vicente Santiago B, Muro Álvarez A. Whip-LAMP: a novel LAMP assay for the detection of Trichuris muris-derived DNA in stool and urine samples in a murine experimental infection model. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:552. [PMID: 33160406 PMCID: PMC7648965 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04435-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Trichuris trichiura (human whipworm) infects an estimated 477 million individuals worldwide. In addition to T. trichiura, other Trichuris species can cause an uncommon zoonosis and a number of human cases have been reported. The diagnosis of trichuriasis has relied traditionally on microscopy. Recently, there is an effort to use molecular diagnostic methods, mainly qPCR. LAMP technology could be an alternative for qPCR especially in low-income endemic areas. Trichuris muris, the causative agent of trichuriasis in mice, is of great importance as a model for human trichuriasis. Here, we evaluate the diagnostic utility of a new LAMP assay in an active experimental mouse trichuriasis in parallel with parasitological method by using stool and, for the first time, urine samples. Methods Stool and urine samples were collected from mice infected with eggs of T. muris. The dynamics of infection was determined by counting the number of eggs per gram of faeces. A LAMP based on the 18S rRNA gene from T. muris was designed. Sensitivity and specificity of LAMP was tested and compared with PCR. Stool and urine samples were analysed by both LAMP and PCR techniques. Results Trichuris muris eggs were detected for the first time in faeces 35 days post-infection. LAMP resulted specific and no cross-reactions were found when using 18 DNA samples from different parasites. The detection limit of the LAMP assay was 2 pg of T. muris DNA. When testing stool samples by LAMP we obtained positive results on day 35 p.i. and urine samples showed amplification results on day 20 p.i., i.e. 15 days before the onset of T. muris eggs in faeces. Conclusions To the best of our knowledge, we report, for the first time, a novel LAMP assay (Whip-LAMP) for sensitive detection of T. muris DNA in both stool and urine samples in a well-established mice experimental infection model. Considering the advantages of urine in molecular diagnosis in comparison to stool samples, should make us consider the possibility of starting the use urine specimens in molecular diagnosis and for field-based studies of human trichuriasis where possible. Further studies with clinical samples are still needed.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Fernández-Soto
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
| | - Carlos Fernández-Medina
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Susana Cruz-Fernández
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Beatriz Crego-Vicente
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Begoña Febrer-Sendra
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Juan García-Bernalt Diego
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Óscar Gorgojo-Galindo
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Julio López-Abán
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Belén Vicente Santiago
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Antonio Muro Álvarez
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Group (e-INTRO), Biomedical Research Institute of Salamanca-Research Centre for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain.
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McHugh M, Williams P, Verma S, Powell-Coffman JA, Robertson AP, Martin RJ. Cholinergic receptors on intestine cells of Ascaris suum and activation of nAChRs by levamisole. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2020; 13:38-50. [PMID: 32470835 PMCID: PMC7256660 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2020.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Revised: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cholinergic agonists, like levamisole, are a major class of anthelmintic drugs that are known to act selectively on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) on the somatic muscle and nerves of nematode parasites to produce their contraction and spastic paralysis. Previous studies have suggested that in addition to the nAChRs found on muscle and nerves, there are nAChRs on non-excitable tissues of nematode parasites. We looked for evidence of nAChRs expression in the cells of the intestine of the large pig nematode, Ascaris suum, using RT-PCR and RNAscope in situ hybridization and detected mRNA of nAChR subunits in the cells. These subunits include components of the putative levamisole receptor in A. suum muscle: Asu-unc-38, Asu-unc-29, Asu-unc-63 and Asu-acr-8. Relative expression of these mRNAs in A. suum intestine was quantified by qPCR. We also looked for and found expression of G protein-linked acetylcholine receptors (Asu-gar-1). We used Fluo-3 AM to detect intracellular calcium changes in response to receptor activation by acetylcholine (as a non-selective agonist) and levamisole (as an L-type nAChR agonist) to look for evidence of functioning nAChRs in the intestine. We found that both acetylcholine and levamisole elicited increases in intracellular calcium but their signal profiles in isolated intestinal tissues were different, suggesting activation of different receptor sets. The levamisole responses were blocked by mecamylamine, a nicotinic receptor antagonist in A. suum, indicating the activation of intestinal nAChRs rather than G protein-linked acetylcholine receptors (GARs) by levamisole. The detection of nAChRs in cells of the intestine, in addition to those on muscles and nerves, reveals another site of action of the cholinergic anthelmintics and a site that may contribute to the synergistic interactions of cholinergic anthelmintics with other anthelmintics that affect the intestine (Cry5B).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark McHugh
- Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Paul Williams
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Saurabh Verma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Jo Anne Powell-Coffman
- Department of Genetics, Development and Cell Biology, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Alan P Robertson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - Richard J Martin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA.
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Strube C, Waindok P, Raulf MK, Springer A. Toxocara-induced neural larva migrans (neurotoxocarosis) in rodent model hosts. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:189-218. [PMID: 32381198 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Neural larva migrans (NLM), or neurotoxocarosis, induced by Toxocara canis or Toxocara cati results from migrating and persisting larvae in the central nervous system of paratenic hosts, including humans. As the diagnosis of NLM in humans is not straightforward, most knowledge on the disease is derived from only a few published clinical cases. To improve our understanding of human NLM, studies on the pathogenesis and clinical symptoms in laboratory animal model systems are indispensable, and rodents have been accepted as the most appropriate model organisms for NLM. As research has mostly focused on neuroinvasive T. canis-larvae, information regarding the pathogenesis of T. cati-induced NLM remains scarce. This review summarises the current state of knowledge on neuroinvasion by both T. canis and T. cati in different rodent model hosts, the resulting behavioural changes, and histopathological alterations during the course of NLM as well as the potential molecular pathogenic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany.
| | - Patrick Waindok
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Marie-Kristin Raulf
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany; Immunology Unit & Research Centre for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
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Ceballos L, Canton C, Cadenazzi G, Virkel G, Dominguez P, Moreno L, Lanusse C, Alvarez L. Oxfendazole kinetics in pigs: In vivo assessment of its pattern of accumulation in Ascaris suum. Exp Parasitol 2019; 199:52-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Revised: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/23/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Hansen EP, Fromm B, Andersen SD, Marcilla A, Andersen KL, Borup A, Williams AR, Jex AR, Gasser RB, Young ND, Hall RS, Stensballe A, Ovchinnikov V, Yan Y, Fredholm M, Thamsborg SM, Nejsum P. Exploration of extracellular vesicles from Ascaris suum provides evidence of parasite-host cross talk. J Extracell Vesicles 2019; 8:1578116. [PMID: 30815237 PMCID: PMC6383609 DOI: 10.1080/20013078.2019.1578116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalent porcine helminth, Ascaris suum, compromises pig health and reduces farm productivity worldwide. The closely related human parasite, A. lumbricoides, infects more than 800 million people representing a disease burden of 1.31 million disability-adjusted life years. The infections are often chronic in nature, and the parasites have a profound ability to modulate their hosts' immune responses. This study provides the first in-depth characterisation of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from different developmental stages and body parts of A. suum and proposes the role of these vesicles in the host-parasite interplay. The release of EVs from the third- (L3) and fourth-stage (L4) larvae and adults was demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and sequencing of EV-derived RNA identified a number of microRNAs (miRNAs) and transcripts of potential host immune targets, such as IL-13, IL-25 and IL-33, were identified. Furthermore, proteomics of EVs identified several proteins with immunomodulatory properties and other proteins previously shown to be associated with parasite EVs. Taken together, these results suggest that A. suum EVs and their cargo may play a role in host-parasite interactions. This knowledge may pave the way to novel strategies for helminth infection control and knowledge of their immune modulatory potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eline P. Hansen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Bastian Fromm
- Department of Tumor Biology, Institute for Cancer Research, The Norwegian Radium Hospital, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Science for Life Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sidsel D. Andersen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Antonio Marcilla
- Departament de Farmàcia Ii Tecnologia Farmacéutica i Parasitologia, Universitat de Valéncia, València, Spain
- Joint Unit on Endocrinology, Nutrition and Clinical Dietetics, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria-La Fe Valencia, València, Spain
| | - Kasper L. Andersen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Borup
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Andrew R. Williams
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Aaron R. Jex
- Population Health and Immunity Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Population Health and Immunity Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Neil D. Young
- Population Health and Immunity Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ross S. Hall
- Population Health and Immunity Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Allan Stensballe
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
- Clinical Cancer Research Center, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Vladimir Ovchinnikov
- Department of Human and Animal Genetics, The Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation
| | - Yan Yan
- Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center (iNANO), Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Merete Fredholm
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Stig M. Thamsborg
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Nejsum
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Population Health and Immunity Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
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Briggs N, Wei J, Versteeg L, Zhan B, Keegan B, Damania A, Pollet J, Hayes KS, Beaumier C, Seid CA, Leong J, Grencis RK, Bottazzi ME, Sastry KJ, Hotez PJ. Trichuris muris whey acidic protein induces type 2 protective immunity against whipworm. PLoS Pathog 2018; 14:e1007273. [PMID: 30153307 PMCID: PMC6130879 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Revised: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human whipworm (Trichuris trichiura) infects approximately 1 in 15 people worldwide, representing the leading infectious cause of colitis and subsequent, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Current control measures focused on mass deworming have had limited success due to low drug efficacies. Vaccination would be an ideal, cost-effective strategy to induce protective immunity, leading to control of infection and transmission. Here we report the identification of whey acidic protein, a whipworm secretory protein, as a strong immunogen for inducing protective efficacy in a surrogate mouse T. muris infection model. The recombinant WAP protein (rTm-WAP49), as well as a single, highly conserved repeat within WAP (fragment 8) expressed as an Na-GST-1 fusion protein (rTm-WAP-F8+Na-GST-1), generate a strong T helper type 2 (Th2) immune response when delivered as subcutaneous vaccines formulated with Montanide ISA 720. Oral challenge with T. muris infective eggs following vaccination led to a significant reduction in worm burden of 48% by rTm-WAP49 and 33% by rTm-WAP-F8+Na-GST-1. The cellular immune correlates of protection included significant antigen-specific production of Th2 cytokines IL-4, IL-9, and IL-13 by cells isolated from the vaccine-draining inguinal lymph nodes, parasite-draining mesenteric lymph nodes, and spleen in mice vaccinated with either rTm-WAP49 or rTm-WAP-F8+Na-GST-1. The humoral immune correlates included a high antigen-specific ratio of IgG1 to IgG2a, without eliciting an IgE-mediated allergic response. Immunofluorescent staining of adult T. muris with WAP antisera identified the worm's pathogenic stichosome organ as the site of secretion of native Tm-WAP protein into the colonic mucosa. Given the high sequence conservation for the WAP proteins from T. muris and T. trichiura, the results presented here support the WAP protein to be further evaluated as a potential human whipworm vaccine candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neima Briggs
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
- MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Junfei Wei
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Leroy Versteeg
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Bin Zhan
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Brian Keegan
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Ashish Damania
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Jeroen Pollet
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Kelly S. Hayes
- School of Biological Sciences, FBMH, MAHSC, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- The Lydia Becker Institute for Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Coreen Beaumier
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Christopher A. Seid
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Jamie Leong
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Richard K. Grencis
- School of Biological Sciences, FBMH, MAHSC, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Wellcome Trust Centre for Cell Matrix Research, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- The Lydia Becker Institute for Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Elena Bottazzi
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, United States of America
| | - K. Jagannadha Sastry
- MD Anderson Cancer Center UTHealth Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Immunology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Peter J. Hotez
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
- Department of Biology, Baylor University, Waco, Texas, United States of America
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Yeast-expressed recombinant As16 protects mice against Ascaris suum infection through induction of a Th2-skewed immune response. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005769. [PMID: 28708895 PMCID: PMC5529013 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2017] [Revised: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Ascariasis remains the most common helminth infection in humans. As an alternative or complementary approach to global deworming, a pan-anthelminthic vaccine is under development targeting Ascaris, hookworm, and Trichuris infections. As16 and As14 have previously been described as two genetically related proteins from Ascaris suum that induced protective immunity in mice when formulated with cholera toxin B subunit (CTB) as an adjuvant, but the exact protective mechanism was not well understood. Methodology/Principal findings As16 and As14 were highly expressed as soluble recombinant proteins (rAs16 and rAs14) in Pichia pastoris. The yeast-expressed rAs16 was highly recognized by immune sera from mice infected with A. suum eggs and elicited 99.6% protection against A. suum re-infection. Mice immunized with rAs16 formulated with ISA720 displayed significant larva reduction (36.7%) and stunted larval development against A. suum eggs challenge. The protective immunity was associated with a predominant Th2-type response characterized by high titers of serological IgG1 (IgG1/IgG2a > 2000) and high levels of IL-4 and IL-5 produced by restimulated splenocytes. A similar level of protection was observed in mice immunized with rAs16 formulated with alum (Alhydrogel), known to induce mainly a Th2-type immune response, whereas mice immunized with rAs16 formulated with MPLA or AddaVax, both known to induce a Th1-type biased response, were not significantly protected against A. suum infection. The rAs14 protein was not recognized by A. suum infected mouse sera and mice immunized with rAs14 formulated with ISA720 did not show significant protection against challenge infection, possibly due to the protein’s inaccessibility to the host immune system or a Th1-type response was induced which would counter a protective Th2-type response. Conclusions/Significance Yeast-expressed rAs16 formulated with ISA720 or alum induced significant protection in mice against A. suum egg challenge that associates with a Th2-skewed immune response, suggesting that rAS16 could be a feasible vaccine candidate against ascariasis. Roundworms (Ascaris) infect more than 700 million people living in poverty worldwide and cause malnutrition and physical and mental developmental delays in children. As an alternative or complementary approach to global deworming, a pan-anthelminthic vaccine is under development that targets ascariasis in addition to other human intestinal nematode infections. Towards this goal, two Ascaris suum antigens, As16 and As14, were expressed in Pichia pastoris as recombinant proteins. Mice immunized with rAs16 formulated with ISA720 adjuvant produced significant larva reduction (36.7%) and stunted larval development against A. suum egg challenge. The protection was associated with predominant Th2-type responses characterized by high levels of serological IgG1 (IgG1/IgG2a > 2,000) and Th2 cytokines, IL-4 and IL-5. A similar level of protection was observed in mice immunized with rAs16 formulated with alum that induces mainly a Th2-type immune response, whereas mice immunized with rAs16 formulated with MPLA or AddaVax, both inducing major Th1-type responses, were not significantly protected against A. suum infection. High-yield expression of rAs16 in yeast will allow for large-scale manufacture, and its protective efficacy when formulated with alum suggests its suitability as a vaccine candidate.
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Timm T, Grabitzki J, Severcan C, Muratoglu S, Ewald L, Yilmaz Y, Lochnit G. The PCome of Ascaris suum as a model system for intestinal nematodes: identification of phosphorylcholine-substituted proteins and first characterization of the PC-epitope structures. Parasitol Res 2016; 115:1263-74. [PMID: 26728072 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4863-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2015] [Accepted: 11/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In multicellular parasites (e.g., nematodes and protozoa), proteins and glycolipids have been found to be decorated with phosphorylcholine (PC). PC can provoke various effects on immune cells leading to an immunomodulation of the host's immune system. This immunomodulation allows long-term persistence but also prevents severe pathology due to downregulation of cellular immune responses. PC-containing antigens have been found to interfere with key proliferative signaling pathways in B and T cells, development of dendritic cells and macrophages, and mast cell degranulation. These effects contribute to the observed modulated cytokine levels and impairment of lymphocyte proliferation. In contrast to glycosphingolipids, little is known about the PC-epitopes of proteins. So far, only a limited number of PC-modified proteins from nematodes have been identified. In this project, PC-substituted proteins and glycolipids in Ascaris suum have been localized by immunohistochemistry in specific tissues of the body wall, intestine, and reproductive tract. Subsequently, we investigated the PCome of A. suum by 2D gel-based proteomics and detection by Western blotting using the PC-specific antibody TEPC-15. By peptide-mass-fingerprint matrix-assisted laser-desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS), we could identify 59 PC-substituted proteins, which are in involved multiple cellular processes. In addition to membrane proteins like vitellogenin-6, we found proteins with structural (e.g., tubulins) and metabolic (e.g., pyruvate dehydrogenase) functions or which can act in the defense against the host's immune response (e.g., serpins). Initial characterization of the PC-epitopes revealed a predominant linkage of PC to the proteins via N-glycans. Our data form the basis for more detailed investigations of the PC-epitope structures as a prerequisite for comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms of immunomodulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Timm
- Protein Analytics, Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Friedrichstrasse 24, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Julia Grabitzki
- Protein Analytics, Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Friedrichstrasse 24, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Cinar Severcan
- Protein Analytics, Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Friedrichstrasse 24, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Suzan Muratoglu
- Protein Analytics, Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Friedrichstrasse 24, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Lisa Ewald
- Protein Analytics, Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Friedrichstrasse 24, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Yavuz Yilmaz
- Protein Analytics, Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Friedrichstrasse 24, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Guenter Lochnit
- Protein Analytics, Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Friedrichstrasse 24, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
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11
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Skallerup P, Thamsborg S, Jørgensen C, Mejer H, Göring H, Archibald A, Fredholm M, Nejsum P. Detection of a quantitative trait locus associated with resistance to infection with Trichuris suis in pigs. Vet Parasitol 2015; 210:264-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2015.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2014] [Revised: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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12
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Helminth Egg Removal Capacity of UASB Reactors under Subtropical Conditions. WATER 2015. [DOI: 10.3390/w7052402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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13
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Poulsen CS, Skov S, Yoshida A, Skallerup P, Maruyama H, Thamsborg SM, Nejsum P. Differential serodiagnostics ofToxocara canisandToxocara cati- is it possible? Parasite Immunol 2015; 37:204-7. [DOI: 10.1111/pim.12181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C. S. Poulsen
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences; University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - S. Skov
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences; University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - A. Yoshida
- Division of Parasitology; Faculty of Medicine; University of Miyazaki; Miyazaki Japan
| | - P. Skallerup
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences; University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - H. Maruyama
- Division of Parasitology; Faculty of Medicine; University of Miyazaki; Miyazaki Japan
| | - S. M. Thamsborg
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences; University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
| | - P. Nejsum
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology; Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences; University of Copenhagen; Copenhagen Denmark
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14
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Abstract
Co-infection of individual hosts by multiple parasite species is a pattern that is very commonly observed in natural populations. Understanding the processes that generate these patterns poses a challenge. For example, it is difficult to discern the relative roles of exposure and susceptibility in generating the mixture and density of parasites within hosts. Yet discern them we must, if we are to design and deliver successful medical interventions for co-infected populations. Here, we synthesise an emergent understanding of how processes operate and interact to generate patterns of co-infection. We consider within-host communities (or infracommunities) generally, that is including not only classical parasites but also the microbiota that are so abundant on mucosal surfaces and which are increasingly understood to be so influential on host biology. We focus on communities that include a helminth, but we expect similar inferences to pertain to other taxa. We suggest that, thanks to recent research at both the within-host (e.g. immunological) and between-host (e.g. epidemiological) scales, researchers are poised to reveal the processes that generate the observed distribution of parasite communities among hosts. Progress will be facilitated by using new technologies as well as statistical and experimental tools to test competing hypotheses about processes that might generate patterns in co-infection data. By understanding the multiple interactions that underlie patterns of co-infection, we will be able to understand and intelligently predict how a suite of co-infections (and thus the host that bears them) will together respond to medical interventions as well as other environmental changes. The challenge for us all is to become scholars of co-infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark E Viney
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Bristol, Woodland Road, UK.
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15
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Parvatham K, Veerakumari L. Drug target prediction using elementary mode analysis in Ascaris lumbricoides energy metabolism. BIOTECHNOL BIOPROC E 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s12257-012-0390-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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16
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17
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Sengupta ME, Andersen TJ, Dalsgaard A, Olsen A, Thamsborg SM. Resuspension and settling of helminth eggs in water: Interactions with cohesive sediments. WATER RESEARCH 2012; 46:3903-3912. [PMID: 22591818 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2012.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2012] [Revised: 04/19/2012] [Accepted: 04/22/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Helminth parasite eggs in low quality water represent main food safety and health hazards and are therefore important indicators used to determine whether such water can be used for irrigation. Through sedimentation helminth eggs accumulate in the sediment, however resuspension of deposited helminth eggs will lead to increased concentration of suspended eggs in the water. Our study aimed to determine the erodibility (erosion rate and erosion threshold) and settling velocity of Ascaris and Trichuris eggs as well as cohesive sediment at different time points after incorporation into the sediment. Cohesive sediment collected from a freshwater stream was used to prepare a sediment bed onto which helminth eggs were allowed to settle. The erodibility of both sediment and helminth eggs was found to decrease over time indicating that the eggs were incorporated into the surface material of the bed and that this material was stabilized through time. This interaction between eggs and bulk sediment was further manifested in an increased settling velocity of suspended eggs when sediment was present in the suspension as compared to a situation with settling in clean water. The incorporation into the sediment bed and the aggregation with sediment particles decrease the mobility of both helminth egg types. Our findings document that helminth eggs should not be viewed as single entities in water systems when modelling the distribution of eggs since both erodibility and settling velocity of eggs are determined by mobility of the sediment present in the water stream. Recalculation of the erosion threshold for helminth eggs and sediment showed that even at relatively low current velocities i.e. 0.07-0.12ms(-1) newly deposited eggs will be mobile in open irrigation channels. These environmental factors affecting resuspension must be taken into account when developing models for sedimentation of helminth eggs in different water systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mita E Sengupta
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 100, 2, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
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18
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Sengupta ME, Keraita B, Olsen A, Boateng OK, Thamsborg SM, Pálsdóttir GR, Dalsgaard A. Use of Moringa oleifera seed extracts to reduce helminth egg numbers and turbidity in irrigation water. WATER RESEARCH 2012; 46:3646-3656. [PMID: 22546609 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2012.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2011] [Revised: 03/26/2012] [Accepted: 04/04/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Water from wastewater-polluted streams and dug-outs is the most commonly used water source for irrigation in urban farming in Ghana, but helminth parasite eggs in the water represent health risks when used for crop production. Conventional water treatment is expensive, requires advanced technology and often breaks down in less developed countries so low cost interventions are needed. Field and laboratory based trials were carried out in order to investigate the effect of the natural coagulant Moringa oleifera (MO) seed extracts in reducing helminh eggs and turbidity in irrigation water, turbid water, wastewater and tap water. In medium to high turbid water MO extracts were effective in reducing the number of helminth eggs by 94-99.5% to 1-2 eggs per litre and the turbidity to 7-11 NTU which is an 85-96% reduction. MO is readily available in many tropical countries and can be used by farmers to treat high turbid water for irrigation, however, additional improvements of water quality, e.g. by sand filtration, is suggested to meet the guideline value of ≤ 1 helminth egg per litre and a turbidity of ≤ 2 NTU as recommended by the World Health Organization and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for water intended for irrigation. A positive correlation was established between reduction in turbidity and helminth eggs in irrigation water, turbid water and wastewater treated with MO. This indicates that helminth eggs attach to suspended particles and/or flocs facilitated by MO in the water, and that turbidity and helminth eggs are reduced with the settling flocs. However, more experiments with water samples containing naturally occurring helminth eggs are needed to establish whether turbidity can be used as a proxy for helminth eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mita E Sengupta
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Groennegaardsvej 15, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
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19
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Wu S, Li RW, Li W, Beshah E, Dawson HD, Urban JF. Worm burden-dependent disruption of the porcine colon microbiota by Trichuris suis infection. PLoS One 2012; 7:e35470. [PMID: 22532855 PMCID: PMC3332011 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0035470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 03/16/2012] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Helminth infection in pigs serves as an excellent model for the study of the interaction between human malnutrition and parasitic infection and could have important implications in human health. We had observed that pigs infected with Trichuris suis for 21 days showed significant changes in the proximal colon microbiota. In this study, interactions between worm burden and severity of disruptions to the microbial composition and metabolic potentials in the porcine proximal colon microbiota were investigated using metagenomic tools. Pigs were infected by a single dose of T. suis eggs for 53 days. Among infected pigs, two cohorts were differentiated that either had adult worms or were worm-free. Infection resulted in a significant change in the abundance of approximately 13% of genera detected in the proximal colon microbiota regardless of worm status, suggesting a relatively persistent change over time in the microbiota due to the initial infection. A significant reduction in the abundance of Fibrobacter and Ruminococcus indicated a change in the fibrolytic capacity of the colon microbiota in T. suis infected pigs. In addition, ∼10% of identified KEGG pathways were affected by infection, including ABC transporters, peptidoglycan biosynthesis, and lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis as well as α-linolenic acid metabolism. Trichuris suis infection modulated host immunity to Campylobacter because there was a 3-fold increase in the relative abundance in the colon microbiota of infected pigs with worms compared to naïve controls, but a 3-fold reduction in worm-free infected pigs compared to controls. The level of pathology observed in infected pigs with worms compared to worm-free infected pigs may relate to the local host response because expression of several Th2-related genes were enhanced in infected pigs with worms versus those worm-free. Our findings provided insight into the dynamics of the proximal colon microbiota in pigs in response to T. suis infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sitao Wu
- Center for Research in Biological Systems, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Robert W. Li
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Bovine Functional Genomics Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Weizhong Li
- Center for Research in Biological Systems, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Ethiopia Beshah
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Diet, Genomics, and Immunology Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Harry D. Dawson
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Diet, Genomics, and Immunology Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Joseph F. Urban
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Diet, Genomics, and Immunology Laboratory, Beltsville, Maryland, United States of America
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20
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Detection of a quantitative trait locus associated with resistance to Ascaris suum infection in pigs. Int J Parasitol 2012; 42:383-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2012.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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21
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Sengupta ME, Thamsborg SM, Andersen TJ, Olsen A, Dalsgaard A. Sedimentation of helminth eggs in water. WATER RESEARCH 2011; 45:4651-60. [PMID: 21741063 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2011.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2011] [Revised: 05/31/2011] [Accepted: 06/16/2011] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Helminth parasite eggs in low quality water represent health risks when used for irrigation of crops. The settling velocities of helminth eggs (Ascaris suum, Trichuris suis, and Oesophagostomum spp.) and wastewater particles were experimentally determined in tap water and in wastewater using Owen tubes. The settling velocities of eggs in tap water was compared with theoretical settling velocities calculated by Stoke's law using measurements of size and density of eggs as well as density and viscosity of tap water. The mean settling velocity in tap water of 0.0612 mm s(-1) found for A. suum eggs was significantly lower than the corresponding values of 0.1487 mm s(-1) for T. suis and 0.1262 mm s(-1) for Oesophagostomum spp. eggs. For T. suis and Oesophagostomum spp. eggs the theoretical settling velocities were comparable with the observed velocities in the Owen tubes, while it was three times higher for A. suum eggs. In wastewater, the mean settling velocity for A. suum eggs (0.1582 mm s(-1)) was found to be different from T. suis (0.0870 mm s(-1)), Oesophagostomum spp. (0.1051 mm s(-1)), and wastewater particles (0.0474 mm s(-1)). This strongly indicates that in low quality water the eggs are incorporated into particle flocs with different settling velocities and that the settling velocity of eggs and particles is closely associated. Our results document that there is a need to differentiate the sedimentation of different types of helminth eggs when assessing the quality of low quality water, e.g. for irrigation usage. The results can also be used to improve existing models for helminth egg removal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mita E Sengupta
- Department of Veterinary Disease Biology, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Groennegaardsvej 15, 2, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark
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22
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Anderson J, Upadhayay R, Sudimack D, Nair S, Leland M, Williams JT, Anderson TJC. Trichuris sp. and Strongyloides sp. infections in a free-ranging baboon colony. J Parasitol 2011; 98:205-8. [PMID: 21830937 DOI: 10.1645/ge-2493.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
We conducted cross-sectional surveys of parasites infecting a large free-living colony of baboons at the Southwest National Primate Research Center in San Antonio in October 2003 and April 2004, immediately before, and 6 mo after, treatment with ivermectin. Trichuris sp. was the predominant species present, infecting 79 and 69% of individual animals in the 2 surveys, with fecal egg counts (FEC) of up to 60,200 eggs per g (epg) (mean = 1,235 in October 2003 and 1,256 in April 2004). Prevalence remained fairly stable across age groups, and intensity was highest in animals <1 or >15 yr old, in contrast to patterns observed in humans, where school-age children show the heaviest infections. Strongyloides sp. was also identified, but the species identity remains uncertain. Small subunit ribosomal DNA sequences differed from published sequences of Strongyloides fuelleborni at multiple sites, but resided in a monophyletic group with other Strongyloides species with 92% bootstrap support. This may reflect a recent acquisition from a local host, or that the published sequence of S. fuelleborni is incorrect. Widespread infections with 2 nematode genera in a free-ranging baboon colony that are an important source of morbidity in human populations provide a useful model system for work on the epidemiology, control, pathology, and genetics of these parasites in a host species that is physiologically, immunologically, and genetically similar to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Anderson
- Perry R. Bass Marine Fisheries Research Station, Coastal Fisheries Division, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Palacios, Texas 77465, USA
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23
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Helminth parasites in pigs: New challenges in pig production and current research highlights. Vet Parasitol 2011; 180:72-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2011.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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24
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Dold C, Holland CV. Investigating the underlying mechanism of resistance to Ascaris infection. Microbes Infect 2010; 13:624-31. [PMID: 20934532 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2010.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2010] [Accepted: 09/10/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The generative mechanism(s) of predisposition to Ascaris infection are currently unknown. While many factors play a role in interindividual infection intensity, much focus has been placed on the host's immunological response to infection and the underlying genetics. The present review describes the research conducted that has examined various immunological parameters and genetic factors that may play a role in resistance to ascariasis. We also discuss the contribution that animal models have made to our understanding of resistance to the parasitic roundworm and their role in possible future work.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Dold
- Department of Zoology, School of Natural Science, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland.
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25
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Williamson SM, Robertson AP, Brown L, Williams T, Woods DJ, Martin RJ, Sattelle DB, Wolstenholme AJ. The nicotinic acetylcholine receptors of the parasitic nematode Ascaris suum: formation of two distinct drug targets by varying the relative expression levels of two subunits. PLoS Pathog 2009; 5:e1000517. [PMID: 19609360 PMCID: PMC2705655 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1000517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2008] [Accepted: 06/19/2009] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic nematodes are of medical and veterinary importance, adversely affecting human health and animal welfare. Ascaris suum is a gastrointestinal parasite of pigs; in addition to its veterinary significance it is a good model of the human parasite Ascaris lumbricoides, estimated to infect ∼1.4 billion people globally. Anthelmintic drugs are essential to control nematode parasites, and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) on nerve and muscle are the targets of cholinergic anthelmintics such as levamisole and pyrantel. Previous genetic analyses of nematode nAChRs have been confined to Caenorhabditis elegans, which is phylogenetically distinct from Ascaris spp. and many other important parasites. Here we report the cloning and expression of two nAChR subunit cDNAs from A. suum. The subunits are very similar in sequence to C. elegans UNC-29 and UNC-38, are expressed on muscle cells and can be expressed robustly in Xenopus oocytes to form acetylcholine-, nicotine-, levamisole- and pyrantel-sensitive channels. We also demonstrate that changing the stoichiometry of the receptor by injecting different ratios of the subunit cRNAs can reproduce two of the three pharmacological subtypes of nAChR present in A. suum muscle cells. When the ratio was 5∶1 (Asu-unc-38∶Asu-unc-29), nicotine was a full agonist and levamisole was a partial agonist, and oocytes responded to oxantel, but not pyrantel. At the reverse ratio (1∶5 Asu-unc-38∶Asu-unc-29), levamisole was a full agonist and nicotine was a partial agonist, and the oocytes responded to pyrantel, but not oxantel. These results represent the first in vitro expression of any parasitic nicotinic receptor and show that their properties are substantially different from those of C. elegans. The results also show that changing the expression level of a single receptor subunit dramatically altered the efficacy of some anthelmintic drugs. In vitro expression of these subunits may permit the development of parasite-specific screens for future anthelmintics. Ascarid nematodes are major pathogens of humans and livestock. The major method of control is by the use of anthelmintic drugs, many of which target the nervous system. Drugs such as levamisole, pyrantel and oxantel target the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors present on muscle. Nematodes have several such receptors, and until now these have been best understood in the model species Caenorhabditis elegans. We have started to characterise the nicotinic receptors of Ascaris suum, and find that the genetics and pharmacology of the A. suum receptors differ from C. elegans. In both species, nicotine and levamisole preferentially activate different forms of the nicotinic receptor, the N- and L-type, respectively. In C. elegans, the L-type receptor is made up of five subunits, whereas the N-type is a homomer of a sixth subunit. We can recapitulate many of the properties of the A. suum N- and L-type receptors, including their sensitivity to two other important anthelmintics, pyrantel and oxantel, by expressing just two subunits at varying ratios. This has implications for the use of drug combinations and for cross-resistance between nicotinic anthelmintics. It may start to give an explanation for the varying effectiveness of nicotinic drugs against different parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally M. Williamson
- Department of Biology & Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Alan P. Robertson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | | | - Tracey Williams
- Veterinary Medicine Research & Development, Pfizer Animal Health, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Debra J. Woods
- Veterinary Medicine Research & Development, Pfizer Animal Health, Kalamazoo, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Richard J. Martin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
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26
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Abstract
The population dynamics of Trichuris suis in pigs was studied during long-term experimental infections. Twenty-three 10-week-old pigs were inoculated with 5 T. suis eggs/kg/day. Seven, 8, and 8 pigs were necropsied at weeks 4, 8, and 14 post-start of infection (p.i.), respectively. The median numbers of worms in the colon were 538 (min-max: 277-618), 332 (14-1140) and 0 (0-4) at 4, 8, and 14 weeks p.i. respectively, suggesting an increased aggregation of the worms with time and acquisition of nearly sterile immunity. The serum levels of T. suis specific antibodies (IgG1, IgG2 and IgA) peaked at week 8 p.i. By week 14 p.i. the IgG2 and IgA antibody levels remained significantly elevated above the level of week 0. The population dynamics of T. suis trickle infections in pigs is discussed with focus on interpretation of diagnostic and epidemiological data of pigs, the use of pigs as a model for human Trichuris trichiura infections and the novel approach of using T. suis eggs in the treatment of patients with inflammatory bowel disease.
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27
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Jex AR, Waeschenbach A, Littlewood DTJ, Hu M, Gasser RB. The mitochondrial genome of Toxocara canis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2008; 2:e273. [PMID: 18682828 PMCID: PMC2483351 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0000273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2008] [Accepted: 07/10/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxocara canis (Ascaridida: Nematoda), which parasitizes (at the adult stage) the small intestine of canids, can be transmitted to a range of other mammals, including humans, and can cause the disease toxocariasis. Despite its significance as a pathogen, the genetics, epidemiology and biology of this parasite remain poorly understood. In addition, the zoonotic potential of related species of Toxocara, such as T. cati and T. malaysiensis, is not well known. Mitochondrial DNA is known to provide genetic markers for investigations in these areas, but complete mitochondrial genomic data have been lacking for T. canis and its congeners. In the present study, the mitochondrial genome of T. canis was amplified by long-range polymerase chain reaction (long PCR) and sequenced using a primer-walking strategy. This circular mitochondrial genome was 14162 bp and contained 12 protein-coding, 22 transfer RNA, and 2 ribosomal RNA genes consistent for secementean nematodes, including Ascaris suum and Anisakis simplex (Ascaridida). The mitochondrial genome of T. canis provides genetic markers for studies into the systematics, population genetics and epidemiology of this zoonotic parasite and its congeners. Such markers can now be used in prospecting for cryptic species and for exploring host specificity and zoonotic potential, thus underpinning the prevention and control of toxocariasis in humans and other hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron R. Jex
- Department of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | | | | | - Min Hu
- Department of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria, Australia
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28
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Chapman CA, Gillespie TR, Speirs ML. Parasite prevalence and richness in sympatric colobines: effects of host density. Am J Primatol 2006; 67:259-66. [PMID: 16229007 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.20181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Factors that influence proximity and the number and duration of contacts among individuals can influence parasite transmission among hosts, and thus parasite prevalence and species richness are expected to increase with increasing host density. To examine this prediction we took advantage of a unique situation. Following the clearing of a forest fragment that supported red colobus (Piliocolobus tephrosceles) and black-and-white colobus (Colobus guereza), the animals moved into a neighboring fragment that we had been monitoring for a number of years and for which we had described the primate parasite community. After the animals immigrated into the fragment, the colobus populations more than doubled and colobus density became almost twice that found in Kibale National Park, Uganda. Despite this increase in host density, the richness of the parasite community did not increase. However, in both colobus species the prevalence of Trichuris sp., the only commonly occurring gastrointestinal parasite, increased. Over the next 5 years the prevalence and intensity of infection of Trichuris sp. in red colobus declined and their population numbers slowly increased. In contrast, the prevalence and intensity of infection of Trichuris sp. increased in black-and-white colobus and remained high following the immigration, and their population size declined. While Trichuris sp. infections are typically asymptomatic, we consider it a possibility that they contributed to the decline of the black-and-white colobus, and that the red colobus may be serving as a reservoir for Trichuris, thereby increasing the infection risk for black-and-white colobus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colin A Chapman
- Anthropology Department and McGill School of Environment, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
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29
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Kradin RL, Badizadegan K, Auluck P, Korzenik J, Lauwers GY. Iatrogenic Trichuris suis infection in a patient with Crohn disease. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2006; 130:718-20. [PMID: 16683891 DOI: 10.5858/2006-130-718-itsiia] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
We report a case of biopsy-proven iatrogenic infection by the pig whipworm Trichuris suis in a patient with Crohn disease. The deliberate therapeutic ingestion of T suis ova has been adopted as an experimental approach to the treatment of Crohn disease in an effort to promote a switch from the T helper subtype 1 to T helper subtype 2 inflammatory phenotype in vivo. This report examines the morphology of the immature and adult T suis, the effects of this intervention on the immunophenotype of the bowel mucosa, and it also raises the possibility of persistent active infection in man.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Kradin
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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30
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Kringel H, Roepstorff A. Trichuris suis population dynamics following a primary experimental infection. Vet Parasitol 2006; 139:132-9. [PMID: 16600510 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2006.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2005] [Accepted: 03/01/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Trichuris suis population kinetics was studied by experimentally infecting 40 pigs with 5000 T. suis infective eggs. Six pigs were sacrificed every 2 weeks from 1 to 9 weeks post-inoculation (p.i.) and the remaining 10 pigs were sacrificed 11 weeks p.i. to estimate worm burdens. An equal number of uninfected control pigs were sacrificed at the same time points for comparison. Egg excretions from each pig were evaluated every week from 5 to 11 weeks p.i. Peripheral blood eosinophilia and basophilia were also evaluated every 2 weeks throughout the experimental period. After an initial almost 100% establishment of T. suis an expulsion phase followed approximately 9 weeks p.i., resulting in an aggregated distribution of the worms in the pig population, as it is characteristic for most helminth infections. By 11 weeks p.i. almost all worms had been expelled. Egg excretion peaked 7 weeks p.i. and a significant non-linear relationship between worm burdens and egg excretion was found. The predilection site for T. suis was the caecum and proximal colon and the relative distribution of worms in the large intestine did not change over time until expulsion. Peaking peripheral blood eosinophil and basophil levels were observed in the T. suis infected pigs 5 and 7 weeks p.i., respectively, reflecting the host activated immune response against the parasite. We here describe the course of a primary T. suis infection in pigs by detailed worm counts, demonstrating an effective expulsion that results in an almost 100% clearance of infection as previously indicated by monitoring faecal egg excretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene Kringel
- Danish Centre for Experimental Parasitology, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, The Royal Veterinary and Agricultural University, Dyrlaegevej 100, DK-1870 Frederiksberg C, Denmark.
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31
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Duncker SC, Lorentz A, Schroeder B, Breves G, Bischoff SC. Effect of orally administered probiotic E. coli strain Nissle 1917 on intestinal mucosal immune cells of healthy young pigs. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2006; 111:239-50. [PMID: 16530848 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2006.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2005] [Revised: 12/08/2005] [Accepted: 01/16/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Several beneficial effects of probiotics have been described in studies using rodent disease models and in human patients; however, the underlying mechanisms remained mostly unclear. Only a few studies focused on the effects of probiotics on the intestinal mucosal immune system. Here, we studied the effect of the probiotic strain E. coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) administered orally to young pigs at two concentrations (10(9) and 10(11)CFU/d for 21 days) on the gut-associated lymphatic tissue. This probiotic strain was shown recently to reduce recurrence of inflammation in ulcerative colitis patients. We quantified the number and distribution of intestinal immune cells (granulocytes, mast cells, CD4+, CD8+, CD25+, IgA+ lymphocytes) and the mucosal mRNA expression of cytokines (IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, TGF-beta, IL-10) and antimicrobial peptides (PR-39, NK-lysin, prepro-defensin-beta 1, protegrins). The number and distribution of cells were highly different between small intestinal and colon segments in all groups, but were not influenced by EcN, except high dose EcN fed pigs (10(11) CFU/d) showing an increase in mucosal CD8+ cells in the ascending colon. The mRNA analysis revealed no changes associated with EcN feeding. In conclusion, according to our analyses EcN has only minor effects on the distribution of mucosal immune cells in the gut of healthy individuals. The well-established preventive effects of EcN might therefore be relate to other mechanisms than simple modulation of immune cell distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swantje C Duncker
- Department of Physiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Bischofsholer Damm 15, 30173 Hannover, Germany.
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32
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Abstract
Globalization has produced an increase in the number of people at risk for contracting parasitic infection. Central nervous system infection by nematodal parasites can be devastating. Early recognition and treatment of infection can significantly decrease morbidity of the parasitic infection, as well as the risk of secondary superinfection. The clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment for five of the more common nematodal infections of the nervous system--Angiostrongylus spp., Baylisacaris procyonis, Gnathostoma spinigerum, Strongyloides stercoralis, and Toxocara spp.--is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Walker
- Department of Neurology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington 98104, USA
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33
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Oliveira SA, Barbosa AA, Gomes DC, Machado-Silva JR, Barros AF, Neves RH, Coutinho EM. Morphometric study of Schistosoma mansoni adult worms recovered from Undernourished infected mice. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2003; 98:623-7. [PMID: 12973528 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762003000500007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Some unfavourable effects of malnutrition of the host on Schistosoma mansoni worm biology and structure have been reported based upon brigthfield microscopy. This paper aims to study by morphometric techniques, some morphological parameters in male and female adult worms recovered from undernourished albino mice in comparison with parasites recovered from well-fed infected mice. Undernourished animals were fed a multideficient and essentially low protein diet (RBD diet) and compared to well-fed control mice fed with the commercial diet NUVILAB. Seventy-five days post-infection with 80 cercarie (BL strain) animals were sacrificed. All adult worms were fixed in 10% formalin and stained with carmine chloride. One hundred male and 60 female specimens from each group (undernourished and control) were examined using an image system analysis Leica Quantimet 500C and the Sigma Scan Measurement System. The following morphometrical parameters were studied: body length and width, oral and ventral suckers, number and area of testicular lobes, length and width of ovary and uterine egg. For statistical analysis, the Student's t test for unpaired samples was applied. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were detected in body length and width, in parameters of suckers, uterine egg width, ovary length and area of testicular lobes, with lower values for specimens from undernourished mice. The nutritional status of the host has negative influence on S. mansoni adult worms, probably through unavailability of essential nutrients to the parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheilla A Oliveira
- Laboratório de Imunopatolologia, Departamento de Imunologia, Centro de Pesquisas Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Recife, PE, Brasil
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34
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Abstract
Poor people in developing countries endure the burden of disease caused by four common species of soil-transmitted nematode that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract. Disease accompanying these infections is manifested mainly as nutritional disturbance, with the differing infections having their deleterious effects at different phases during the human life cycle. Reduced food intake, impaired digestion, malabsorption, and poor growth rate are frequently observed in children suffering from ascariasis and trichuriasis. Poor iron status and iron deficiency anemia are the hallmarks of hookworm disease. The course and outcome of pregnancy, growth, and development during childhood and the extent of worker productivity are diminished during hookworm disease. Less is known about the impact of these infections in children under 2 years of age. The severity of disease caused by soil-transmitted nematodes has consistently been found to depend on the number of worms present per person. Cost-effective measures based on highly efficacious anthelminthic drugs are now available to reduce and control disease caused by these infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- D W T Crompton
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis, Graham Kerr Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, Scotland.
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