1
|
Da'dara AA, Nation CS, Skelly PJ. Metabolism of FAD, FMN and riboflavin (vitamin B2) in the human parasitic blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:636. [PMID: 38918706 PMCID: PMC11202380 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09538-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by trematodes of the genus Schistosoma. The intravascular worms acquire the nutrients necessary for their survival from host blood. Since all animals are auxotrophic for riboflavin (vitamin B2), schistosomes too must import it to survive. Riboflavin is an essential component of the coenzymes flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD); these support key functions of dozens of flavoenzymes. METHODS Here, using a combination of metabolomics, enzyme kinetics and in silico molecular analysis, we focus on the biochemistry of riboflavin and its metabolites in Schistosoma mansoni (Sm). RESULTS We show that when schistosomes are incubated in murine plasma, levels of FAD decrease over time while levels of FMN increase. We show that live schistosomes cleave exogenous FAD to generate FMN and this ability is significantly blocked when expression of the surface nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase ectoenzyme SmNPP5 is suppressed using RNAi. Recombinant SmNPP5 cleaves FAD with a Km of 178 ± 5.9 µM and Kcat/Km of 324,734 ± 36,347 M- 1.S- 1. The FAD-dependent enzyme IL-4I1 drives the oxidative deamination of phenylalanine to produce phenylpyruvate and H2O2. Since schistosomes are damaged by H2O2, we determined if SmNPP5 could impede H2O2 production by blocking IL-4I1 action in vitro. We found that this was not the case; covalently bound FAD on IL-4I1 appears inaccessible to SmNPP5. We also report that live schistosomes can cleave exogenous FMN to generate riboflavin and this ability is significantly impeded when expression of a second surface ectoenzyme (alkaline phosphatase, SmAP) is suppressed. Recombinant SmAP cleaves FMN with a Km of 3.82 ± 0.58 mM and Kcat/Km of 1393 ± 347 M- 1.S- 1. CONCLUSIONS The sequential hydrolysis of FAD by tegumental ecto-enzymes SmNPP5 and SmAP can generate free vitamin B2 around the worms from where it can be conveniently imported by the recently described schistosome riboflavin transporter SmaRT. Finally, we identified in silico schistosome homologs of enzymes that are involved in intracellular vitamin B2 metabolism. These are riboflavin kinase (SmRFK) as well as FAD synthase (SmFADS); cDNAs encoding these two enzymes were cloned and sequenced. SmRFK is predicted to convert riboflavin to FMN while SmFADS could further act on FMN to regenerate FAD in order to facilitate robust vitamin B2-dependent metabolism in schistosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akram A Da'dara
- Molecular Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Catherine S Nation
- Molecular Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Patrick J Skelly
- Molecular Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mouton S, Mougel A, Ustyantsev K, Dissous C, Melnyk O, Berezikov E, Vicogne J. Optimized protocols for RNA interference in Macrostomum lignano. G3 (BETHESDA, MD.) 2024; 14:jkae037. [PMID: 38421640 PMCID: PMC11075559 DOI: 10.1093/g3journal/jkae037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Macrostomum lignano, a marine free-living flatworm, has emerged as a potent invertebrate model in developmental biology for studying stem cells, germline, and regeneration processes. In recent years, many tools have been developed to manipulate this worm and to facilitate genetic modification. RNA interference is currently the most accessible and direct technique to investigate gene functions. It is obtained by soaking worms in artificial seawater containing dsRNA targeting the gene of interest. Although easy to perform, the original protocol calls for daily exchange of dsRNA solutions, usually until phenotypes are observed, which is both time- and cost-consuming. In this work, we have evaluated alternative dsRNA delivery techniques, such as electroporation and osmotic shock, to facilitate the experiments with improved time and cost efficiency. During our investigation to optimize RNAi, we demonstrated that, in the absence of diatoms, regular single soaking in artificial seawater containing dsRNA directly produced in bacteria or synthesized in vitro is, in most cases, sufficient to induce a potent gene knockdown for several days with a single soaking step. Therefore, this new and highly simplified method allows a very significant reduction of dsRNA consumption and lab work. In addition, it enables performing experiments on a larger number of worms at minimal cost.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stijn Mouton
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen 9700AD, The Netherlands
| | - Alexandra Mougel
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Kirill Ustyantsev
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen 9700AD, The Netherlands
| | - Colette Dissous
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Oleg Melnyk
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Eugene Berezikov
- European Research Institute for the Biology of Ageing, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen 9700AD, The Netherlands
| | - Jérôme Vicogne
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, INSERM, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Da’dara AA, Nation CS, Skelly PJ. Metabolism of FAD, FMN and riboflavin (vitamin B2) in the human parasitic blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.12.584659. [PMID: 38558993 PMCID: PMC10980065 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.12.584659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by trematode worms of the genus Schistosoma. The intravascular worms acquire the nutrients necessary for their survival from host blood. Since all animals are auxotrophic for riboflavin (vitamin B2), schistosomes too must import it to survive. Riboflavin is an essential component of the coenzymes flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD); these support key functions of dozens of flavoenzymes. In this work we focus on the biochemistry of riboflavin and its metabolites in Schistosoma mansoni. We show that when schistosomes are incubated in murine plasma, levels of FAD decrease over time while the levels of FMN increase. We show that live schistosomes can cleave exogenous FAD to generate FMN and this ability is significantly blocked when expression of the surface ectoenzyme SmNPP5 is suppressed using RNAi. Recombinant SmNPP5 cleaves FAD with a Km of 178 ± 5.9 µM. The FAD-dependent enzyme IL-4I1 drives the oxidative deamination of phenylalanine to produce phenylpyruvate and H2O2 in the extracellular environment. Since schistosomes can be damaged by H2O2, we determined if SmNPP5 could impede H2O2 production by blocking IL-4I1 action in vitro. We found that this was not the case, suggesting that covalently bound FAD on IL-4I1 is inaccessible to SmNPP5. We also report here that live schistosomes can cleave exogenous FMN to generate riboflavin and this ability is significantly impeded when expression of a second surface ectoenzyme (alkaline phosphatase, SmAP) is suppressed. Recombinant SmAP cleaves FMN with a Km of 3.82 ± 0.58 mM. Thus, the sequential hydrolysis of FAD by tegumental ecto-enzymes SmNPP5 and SmAP can generate free vitamin B2 around the worms from where it can be conveniently imported by, we hypothesize, the recently described schistosome riboflavin transporter SmaRT. In this work we also identified in silico schistosome homologs of enzymes that are involved in intracellular vitamin B2 metabolism. These are riboflavin kinase (SmRFK) as well as FAD synthase (SmFADS); cDNAs encoding these two enzymes were cloned and sequenced. SmRFK is predicted to convert riboflavin to FMN while SmFADS could further act on FMN to regenerate FAD in order to facilitate robust vitamin B2-dependent metabolism in schistosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akram A. Da’dara
- Molecular Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | - Catherine S. Nation
- Molecular Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Shi Q, Liu C, Huo L, Tao Y, Zhang H. Silencing TUBB3 Expression Destroys the Tegument and Flame Cells of Echinococcus multilocularis Protoscoleces. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12182471. [PMID: 36139331 PMCID: PMC9495074 DOI: 10.3390/ani12182471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Alveolar echinococcosis (AE), caused by infection with the larvae of Echinococcus multilocularis, is a neglected tropical disease and zoonosis that causes remarkable morbidity in humans and has economic importance in the livestock industry worldwide. The growth of this parasite resembles the invasion and proliferation of malignant tumours. Microtubules, especially the β-tubulin subunit in the exposed end, are the targets of many antitumour drugs. However, the role of TUBB3, which is the most studied isotype in solid tumours and is also a marker of biological aggressiveness associated with the modulation of tumour metastatic abilities in the growth and development of platyhelminths, is unknown. In this study, protoscoleces (PSCs) are cultivated in monophasic medium in vitro. Using electroporated short interfering RNA (siRNA), EmTUBB3 knockdown was performed with two EmTUBB3-specific siRNAs (siRNA-1 and siRNA-2). qRT–PCR was performed to detect the expression of TUBB3. PSCs viability and the evagination rate and number of body contractions were quantified under a light microscope. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to observe the ultra-morphological changes of the parasites. After siRNA interference, the EmTUBB3 expression in E. multilocularis PSCs was significantly reduced. Reduced viability, a decreased evagination rate and a decreased number of body contractions were also documented. In particular, shrinkage and roughness of the tegument were observed. Ultrastructural changes included marked damage to flame cells, cracked cilia structures enclosed in the cell body and ruptured microtubule structures. EmTUBB3 possibly plays a crucial role in tegument and flame cell integrity in E. multilocularis PSCs. Novel drugs targeting this specific beta-tubulin isotype in E. multilocularis are potential methods for disease control and deserve further attention.
Collapse
|
5
|
Phuphisut O, Kobpornchai P, Chusongsang P, Limpanont Y, Kanjanapruthipong T, Ampawong S, Reamtong O, Adisakwattana P. Molecular characterization and functional analysis of Schistosoma mekongi neuroglobin homolog. Acta Trop 2022; 231:106433. [PMID: 35364046 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomes are blood-dwelling parasites that are constantly exposed to high-level oxidative stress arising from parasite-intrinsic and host defense mechanisms. To survive in their hosts, schistosomes require an antioxidant system to minimize with oxidative stress. Several schistosome antioxidant enzymes have been identified and have been suggested to play indispensable antioxidant roles for the parasite. In addition to antioxidant enzymes, non-enzymatic antioxidants including small molecules, peptides, and proteins have been identified and characterized. Neuroglobin (Ngb), a nervous system-specific heme-binding protein, has been classified as a non-enzymatic antioxidant and is capable of scavenging a variety of free radical species. The antioxidant activity of Ngb has been well-studied in humans. Ngb is involved in cellular oxygen homeostasis and reactive oxygen/nitrogen scavenging in the central and peripheral nervous systems, but its functions in schistosome parasites have not yet been characterized. In this study, we aimed to characterize the molecular properties and functions of Schistosoma mekongi Ngb (SmeNgb) using bioinformatic, biochemical, and molecular biology approaches. The amino acid sequence of Ngb was highly conserved among schistosomes as well as closely related trematodes. SmeNgb was abundantly localized in the gastrodermis, vitelline, and ovary of adult female S. mekongi worms as well as in the tegument of adult male worms. Assessment of antioxidant activity demonstrated that recombinant SmeNgb had Fe2+ chelating and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activities. Intriguingly, siRNA silencing of SmeNgb gene expression resulted in tegument pathology. Understanding the properties and functions of SmNgb will help in future development of effective treatments and vaccines against S. mekongi, other schistosome parasites, and other platyhelminths.
Collapse
|
6
|
Quinzo MJ, Perteguer MJ, Brindley PJ, Loukas A, Sotillo J. Transgenesis in parasitic helminths: a brief history and prospects for the future. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:110. [PMID: 35346328 PMCID: PMC8962113 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05211-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Helminth infections impact the health of hundreds of millions of persons globally and also cause important economic losses in livestock farming. Methodological limitations as well as the low attention given to the study of helminths have impacted biological research and, thus, the procurement of accurate diagnosis and effective treatments. Understanding the biology of helminths using genomic and proteomic approaches could contribute to advances in understanding host-helminth interactions and lead to new vaccines, drugs and diagnostics. Despite the significant advances in genomics in the last decade, the lack of methodological adaptation of current transgenesis techniques has hampered the progression of post-genomic research in helminthology. However, the application of new techniques, such as CRISPR, to the study of trematodes and nematodes has opened new avenues for genome editing-powered functional genomics for these pathogens. This review summarises the historical advances in functional genomics in parasitic helminths and highlights pending limitations that will need to be overcome to deploy transgenesis tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M J Quinzo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - M J Perteguer
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - P J Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC, 20037, USA
| | - A Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - J Sotillo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Rozario T, Collins JJ, Newmark PA. The good, the bad, and the ugly: From planarians to parasites. Curr Top Dev Biol 2022; 147:345-373. [PMID: 35337455 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctdb.2021.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Platyhelminthes can perhaps rightly be described as a phylum of the good, the bad, and the ugly: remarkable free-living worms that colonize land, river, and sea, which are often rife with color and can display extraordinary regenerative ability; parasitic worms like schistosomes that cause devastating disease and suffering; and monstrous tapeworms that are the stuff of nightmares. In this chapter, we will explore how our research expanded beyond free-living planarians to their gruesome parasitic cousins. We start with Schistosoma mansoni, which is not a new model; however, approaching these parasites from a developmental perspective required a reinvention that may hold generalizable lessons to basic biologists interested in pivoting to disease models. We then turn to our (re)establishment of the rat tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta, a once-favorite model that had been largely forgotten by the molecular biology revolution. Here we tell our stories in three, first-person narratives in order to convey personal views of our experiences. Welcome to the dark side.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tania Rozario
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases and Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States.
| | - James J Collins
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.
| | - Phillip A Newmark
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Morgridge Institute for Research, Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Guerrero-Hernández J, Bobes RJ, García-Varela M, Castellanos-Gonzalez A, Laclette JP. Identification and functional characterization of the siRNA pathway in Taenia crassiceps by silencing Enolase A. Acta Trop 2022; 225:106197. [PMID: 34688628 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
A gene silencing procedure on cysticerci of the taeniid cestode Taenia crassiceps is described. This is the first time this technique is reported in this species that is widely used as an animal model for human cysticercosis. Genome database searches were performed in order to find out if relevant genes involved in gene silencing and non-coding RNA processing, Argonaute and Dicer (AGO and Dcr) are present in T. crassiceps. We found three AGO and two Dcr orthologues that were designed TcAGO1, Tc2 and Tc3, as well as TcDcr1 and TcDcr2. In order to elucidate the evolutionary relationships of T. crassiceps TcAGO and TcDcr genes, separate phylogenetic analyses were carried out for each, including AGO and Dcr orthologues of other 20 platyhelminthes. Our findings showed a close phylogenetic relationship of TcAGO and TcDcr with those previously described for Echinococcus spp. Our RT-PCR studies demonstrated expression of all TcAGO and TcDcr orthologues. Our results show that the gene silencing machinery in T. crassiceps is functionally active by inducing silencing of TcEnoA (∼90%). These results clearly show that gene silencing using siRNAs can be used as a molecular methodology to study gene function in taeniid cestodes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julio Guerrero-Hernández
- Biomedical Research Institute. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México, 04510, Coyoacán, Cd. de México, México
| | - Raúl J Bobes
- Biomedical Research Institute. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México, 04510, Coyoacán, Cd. de México, México
| | - Martín García-Varela
- Biology Institute. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, Coyoacán, Cd. de México, México
| | - Alejandro Castellanos-Gonzalez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, United States; Center for Tropical Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch, United States..
| | - Juan P Laclette
- Biomedical Research Institute. Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México, 04510, Coyoacán, Cd. de México, México.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Le Clec'h W, Chevalier FD, Mattos ACA, Strickland A, Diaz R, McDew-White M, Rohr CM, Kinung'hi S, Allan F, Webster BL, Webster JP, Emery AM, Rollinson D, Djirmay AG, Al Mashikhi KM, Al Yafae S, Idris MA, Moné H, Mouahid G, LoVerde P, Marchant JS, Anderson TJC. Genetic analysis of praziquantel response in schistosome parasites implicates a transient receptor potential channel. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:eabj9114. [PMID: 34936381 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abj9114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Winka Le Clec'h
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | | | - Ana Carolina A Mattos
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | | | - Robbie Diaz
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | | | - Claudia M Rohr
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Safari Kinung'hi
- National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Fiona Allan
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNDTR), Imperial College, London, UK.,Wolfson Wellcome Biomedical Laboratories, Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Bonnie L Webster
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNDTR), Imperial College, London, UK.,Wolfson Wellcome Biomedical Laboratories, Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Joanne P Webster
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNDTR), Imperial College, London, UK.,Centre for Emerging, Endemic and Exotic Diseases (CEEED), Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, UK
| | - Aidan M Emery
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNDTR), Imperial College, London, UK.,Wolfson Wellcome Biomedical Laboratories, Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - David Rollinson
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNDTR), Imperial College, London, UK.,Wolfson Wellcome Biomedical Laboratories, Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Amadou Garba Djirmay
- Réseau International Schistosomiases Environnemental Aménagement et Lutte (RISEAL), Niamey, Niger.,World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Khalid M Al Mashikhi
- Directorate General of Health Services, Dhofar Governorate, Salalah, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Salem Al Yafae
- Directorate General of Health Services, Dhofar Governorate, Salalah, Sultanate of Oman
| | | | - Hélène Moné
- Host-Pathogen-Environment Interactions Laboratory, University of Perpignan, Perpignan, France
| | - Gabriel Mouahid
- Host-Pathogen-Environment Interactions Laboratory, University of Perpignan, Perpignan, France
| | - Philip LoVerde
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Jonathan S Marchant
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Le Clec’h W, Chevalier FD, McDew-White M, Menon V, Arya GA, Anderson TJ. Genetic architecture of transmission stage production and virulence in schistosome parasites. Virulence 2021; 12:1508-1526. [PMID: 34167443 PMCID: PMC8237990 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2021.1932183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Both theory and experimental data from pathogens suggest that the production of transmission stages should be strongly associated with virulence, but the genetic bases of parasite transmission/virulence traits are poorly understood. The blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni shows extensive variation in numbers of cercariae larvae shed and in their virulence to infected snail hosts, consistent with expected trade-offs between parasite transmission and virulence. We crossed schistosomes from two populations that differ 8-fold in cercarial shedding and in their virulence to Biomphalaria glabrata snail hosts, and determined four-week cercarial shedding profiles in F0 parents, F1 parents and 376 F2 progeny from two independent crosses in inbred snails. Sequencing and linkage analysis revealed that cercarial production is polygenic and controlled by five QTLs (i.e. Quantitative Trait Loci). These QTLs act additively, explaining 28.56% of the phenotypic variation. These results demonstrate that the genetic architecture of key traits relevant to schistosome ecology can be dissected using classical linkage mapping approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Winka Le Clec’h
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | | | | | - Vinay Menon
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Grace-Ann Arya
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Da’dara AA, Elzoheiry M, El-Beshbishi SN, Skelly PJ. Vitamin B6 Acquisition and Metabolism in Schistosoma mansoni. Front Immunol 2021; 11:622162. [PMID: 33613557 PMCID: PMC7891054 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.622162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomes are parasitic platyhelminths that currently infect >200 million people globally. The adult worms can live within the vasculature of their hosts for many years where they acquire all nutrients necessary for their survival and growth. In this work we focus on how Schistosoma mansoni parasites acquire and metabolize vitamin B6, whose active form is pyridoxal phosphate (PLP). We show here that live intravascular stage parasites (schistosomula and adult males and females) can cleave exogenous PLP to liberate pyridoxal. Of the three characterized nucleotide-metabolizing ectoenzymes expressed at the schistosome surface (SmAP, SmNPP5, and SmATPDase1), only SmAP hydrolyzes PLP. Heat-inactivated recombinant SmAP can no longer cleave PLP. Further, parasites whose SmAP gene has been suppressed by RNAi are significantly impaired in their ability to cleave PLP compared to controls. When schistosomes are incubated in murine plasma, they alter its metabolomic profile-the levels of both pyridoxal and phosphate increase over time, a finding consistent with the action of host-exposed SmAP acting on PLP. We hypothesize that SmAP-mediated dephosphorylation of PLP generates a pool of pyridoxal around the worms that can be conveniently taken in by the parasites to participate in essential, vitamin B6-driven metabolism. In addition, since host PLP-dependent enzymes play active roles in inflammatory processes, parasite-mediated cleavage of this metabolite may serve to limit parasite-damaging inflammation. In this work we also identified schistosome homologs of enzymes that are involved in intracellular vitamin B6 metabolism. These are pyridoxal kinase (SmPK) as well as pyridoxal phosphate phosphatase (SmPLP-Ph) and pyridox(am)ine 5'-phosphate oxidase (SmPNPO) and cDNAs encoding these three enzymes were cloned and sequenced. The three genes encoding these enzymes all display high relative expression in schistosomula and adult worms suggestive of robust vitamin B6 metabolism in the intravascular life stages.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akram A. Da’dara
- Molecular Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, United States
| | - Manal Elzoheiry
- Molecular Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, United States
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Samar N. El-Beshbishi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Patrick J. Skelly
- Molecular Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Mousavi SM, Afgar A, Mohammadi MA, Mortezaei S, Faridi A, Sadeghi B, Fasihi Harandi M. Biological and morphological consequences of dsRNA-induced suppression of tetraspanin mRNA in developmental stages of Echinococcus granulosus. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:190. [PMID: 32276648 PMCID: PMC7146954 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04052-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cystic echinococcosis, caused by the cestode Echinococcus granulosus, is a neglected tropical disease with remarkable morbidity in humans and a problem of worldwide economic importance in livestock industry. Understanding the molecular basis of the parasite growth and development is essential for the disease diagnosis, management and control. The tetraspanin (TSP) family of proteins are transmembrane proteins with a role in many physiological processes of eukaryotic organisms. TSPs present in the tegumental surface of platyhelminths play pivotal roles in host-parasite interaction. However, little is known about the role of TSPs in growth and development in the Platyhelminthes. To understand the role of TSP1 in the growth and development of E. granulosus we investigated the effect of EgTSP1-specific long dsRNA in different in vitro stages of the parasite. METHODS Different stages of E. granulosus, protoscoleces and strobilated worms, were cultivated In vitro in di-phasic media. Using long dsRNA and two delivery methods, i.e. electroporation and electro-soaking, EgTSP1 silencing was performed with an EgTSP1-specific dsRNA. The TSP1 expression profile was assessed as well as the biological and ultrastructural properties of the parasites. RESULTS After three days of dsRNA treatment, EgTSP1 expression was significantly reduced in both stages of E. granulosus as compared to irrelevant/unrelated dsRNA and untreated controls. Silencing expression of EgTSP1 in different stages of E. granulosus resulted in reduced viability and body contractions, inhibition of protoscoleces evagination and distinctive tegumental changes. Ultrastructural morphology of the strobilated worms treated with EgTSP1-specific dsRNA was indicative of the microtriches impairments and vacuolated tegument compared to the control helminths. CONCLUSIONS Results of the present study suggest that EgTSP1 plays important structural roles in tegument configuration in E. granulosus. EgTSP1 is proved to be a potential target for the development of vaccines and RNAi-based drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Mohammad Mousavi
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran
| | - Ali Afgar
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Ali Mohammadi
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran
| | - Seifollah Mortezaei
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Ashkan Faridi
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran
| | - Balal Sadeghi
- Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Majid Fasihi Harandi
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
A metalloprotease produced by larval Schistosoma mansoni facilitates infection establishment and maintenance in the snail host by interfering with immune cell function. PLoS Pathog 2018; 14:e1007393. [PMID: 30372490 PMCID: PMC6224180 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Metalloproteases (MPs) have demonstrated roles in immune modulation. In some cases, these enzymes are produced by parasites to influence host immune responses such that parasite infection is facilitated. One of the best examples of parasite-mediated immune modulation is the matrix metalloprotease (MMP) leishmanolysin (Gp63), which is produced by species of the genus Leishmania to evade killing by host macrophages. Leishmanolysin-like proteins appear to be quite common in many invertebrates, however our understanding of the functions of these non-leishmania enzymes is limited. Numerous proteomic and transcriptomic screens of schistosomes, at all life cycle stages of the parasite, have identified leishmanolysin-like MPs as being present in abundance; with the highest levels being found during the intramolluscan larval stages and being produced by cercaria. This study aims to functionally characterize a Schistosoma mansoni variant of leishmanolysin that most resembles the enzyme produced by Leishmania, termed SmLeish. We demonstrate that SmLeish is an important component of S. mansoni excretory/secretory (ES) products and is produced by the sporocyst during infection. The presence of SmLeish interferes with the migration of Biomphalaria glabrata haemocytes, and causes them to present a phenotype that is less capable of sporocyst encapsulation. Knockdown of SmLeish in S. mansoni miracidia prior to exposure to susceptible B. glabrata reduces miracidia penetration success, causes a delay in reaching patent infection, and lowers cercaria output from infected snails. Parasitic flatworms, or digenetic trematodes, cause a wide range of diseases of both medical and agricultural importance. Nearly all species of digenea require specific species of snail for their larval development and transmission. The factors underpinning snail host specificity and how they dictate infection establishment and maintenance are interesting areas of research, both from the perspective of evolutionary immunology and potential application in the design of tools that aim to prevent trematode transmission. Currently, our understanding of snail-trematode associations is one-sided, being predominantly derived from studies that have focused on the snail immune response, with almost nothing known about how the parasite facilitates infection. Metalloproteases, such as leishmanolysin, are proteolytic enzymes; some of which are produced by parasites to influence host immune responses and facilitate parasite success upon encountering the host defense response. Here, we have functionally characterized a leishmanolysin-like metalloprotease (SmLeish) from Schistosoma mansoni, a causative agent of human schistosomiasis, which afflicts over 260 million people globally. We demonstrate that SmLeish is associated with developing sporocysts and is also located in S. mansoni excretory/secretory products and interferes with snail haemocyte morphology and migration. Knockdown of SmLeish in S. mansoni miracidia prior to exposure to Biomphalaria glabrata snails reduces miracidia penetration success, delays attainment of patent infections, and lowers cercaria output from infected snails.
Collapse
|
14
|
Anderson TJC, LoVerde PT, Le Clec'h W, Chevalier FD. Genetic Crosses and Linkage Mapping in Schistosome Parasites. Trends Parasitol 2018; 34:982-996. [PMID: 30150002 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Linkage mapping - utilizing experimental genetic crosses to examine cosegregation of phenotypic traits with genetic markers - is now 100 years old. Schistosome parasites are exquisitely well suited to linkage mapping approaches because genetic crosses can be conducted in the laboratory, thousands of progeny are produced, and elegant experimental work over the last 75 years has revealed heritable genetic variation in multiple biomedically important traits such as drug resistance, host specificity, and virulence. Application of this approach is timely because the improved genome assembly for Schistosoma mansoni and developing molecular toolkit for schistosomes increase our ability to link phenotype with genotype. We describe current progress and potential future directions of linkage mapping in schistosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Winka Le Clec'h
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas 78227, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Li P, Rios Coronado PE, Longstaff XRR, Tarashansky AJ, Wang B. Nanomedicine Approaches Against Parasitic Worm Infections. Adv Healthc Mater 2018; 7:e1701494. [PMID: 29602254 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.201701494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Nanomedicine approaches have the potential to transform the battle against parasitic worm (helminth) infections, a major global health scourge from which billions are currently suffering. It is anticipated that the intersection of two currently disparate fields, nanomedicine and helminth biology, will constitute a new frontier in science and technology. This progress report surveys current innovations in these research fields and discusses research opportunities. In particular, the focus is on: (1) major challenges that helminth infections impose on mankind; (2) key aspects of helminth biology that inform future research directions; (3) efforts to construct nanodelivery platforms to target drugs and genes to helminths hidden in their hosts; (4) attempts in applying nanotechnology to enable vaccination against helminth infections; (5) outlooks in utilizing nanoparticles to enhance immunomodulatory activities of worm-derived factors to cure allergy and autoimmune diseases. In each section, achievements are summarized, limitations are explored, and future directions are assessed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pengyang Li
- Department of Bioengineering; Stanford University; Stanford CA 94305 USA
| | | | | | | | - Bo Wang
- Department of Bioengineering; Stanford University; Stanford CA 94305 USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Kinases: Molecular Stage Directors for Schistosome Development and Differentiation. Trends Parasitol 2017; 34:246-260. [PMID: 29276074 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2017.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Understanding schistosome biology is still a challenging mission. The reproductive biology of this parasitic trematode is closely associated with the pathologic consequences of schistosomiasis, the devastating infectious disease caused by members of the family Schistosomatidae worldwide. Recent studies of signaling mechanisms confirmed the prominent roles of protein kinases (PKs) in directing schistosome biology, and first evidence was obtained for an additional contribution of kinases with substrates different from proteins (non-PKs). This review provides an overview of the Schistosoma mansoni kinome in the context of male-female interaction and summarizes recent studies of kinases controlling development and differentiation. Due to their importance for schistosome biology, kinases represent Achilles' heels and are therefore of high value also for translational research.
Collapse
|
17
|
Anandanarayanan A, Raina OK, Lalrinkima H, Rialch A, Sankar M, Varghese A. RNA interference in Fasciola gigantica: Establishing and optimization of experimental RNAi in the newly excysted juveniles of the fluke. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0006109. [PMID: 29232690 PMCID: PMC5749881 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Revised: 01/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fasciolosis caused by Fasciola gigantica is a neglected tropical disease but a constraint on the growth and productivity of cattle, buffaloes and sheep in the tropical countries of Asia and Africa. Resistance to commonly used anthelmintics in Fasciola has increased the need to search for alternative therapeutic targets. RNA interference is the current tool of choice in the search for such targets in Fasciola. The susceptibility of juvenile Fasciola hepatica to double stranded (ds) RNA induced RNAi has been established but in F. gigantica a single preliminary report on RNAi induced mRNA transcript knockdown is available. Here we optimized conditions for RNAi in the liver fluke F.gigantica targeting six genes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), σ class of glutathione-s-transferase (GST), cathepsin (Cat) L1-D, Cat B1, Cat B2 and Cat B3 that showed robust transcriptional silencing of the targets following exposure of the newly excysted juveniles (NEJs) to long (170–223 nt) dsRNA. Knockdown was shown to be concentration dependent with significant mRNA transcript suppression occurring at 5 ng / μl that showed further suppression with the increase in the dsRNA concentration. The dsRNA induced persistent silencing of the mRNA transcript of SOD and σGST up to 15 days of observation. Delivery of the long dsRNA and siRNA to the newly excysted juveniles by soaking method was found to be efficient by tracking the uptake and diffusion of Cy3 labelled siRNA and long dsRNA in the flukes. Off-target effects of dsRNA trigger on some of the non-target genes were detected in the present investigation on RNAi in F. gigantica. The dsRNA induced superoxide dismutase protein suppression while impact of RNAi on other target proteins was not studied. There is no in vitro culture system for prolonged survival of the F. gigantica and in the present study in vitro maintenance of the NEJs is reported for a period of 3 weeks. The present study is the first attempt on optimization of RNAi protocols in F. gigantica where long dsRNA allowed for an efficient and persistent gene silencing, opening prospects for functional validation of putative vaccine and therapeutic targets in this neglected parasite. RNA interference (RNAi) is a powerful method for selectively silencing genes for the validation of potential targets for drug and vaccine development. The susceptibility of juvenile Fasciola hepatica to double stranded (ds) RNA induced RNAi has been established but in F. gigantica a single report of a preliminary study on knockdown of a single gene transcript exists. In the absence of other tools of reverse genetics, RNAi occupies a centre stage in the validation of gene functions in Fasciola species. This study focuses on F.gigantica, an economically important veterinary parasite with a zoonotic potential. Here in this study, we optimized a set of simple methods for triggering RNAi in the F. gigantica juvenile liver fluke, which shows that a robust transcriptional suppression can be readily achieved across all targets tested and with protein suppression confirmed in one of the targets. These studies also highlight the need for developing an in vitro maintenance system for the fluke for validation of the RNAi protocols. These findings are important for researchers aiming to employ RNAi in investigations of liver fluke biology and target validation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arun Anandanarayanan
- Division of Parasitology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, UP-India
| | - Opinder Krishen Raina
- Division of Parasitology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, UP-India
- * E-mail:
| | - Hniang Lalrinkima
- Division of Parasitology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, UP-India
| | - Ajayta Rialch
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Dr GC Negi College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, CSK HPKV, Palampur, HP, India
| | - Muthu Sankar
- Division of Temperate Animal Husbandry, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Mukteshwar, UK-India
| | - Anju Varghese
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Pookode, Wayanad, Kerala, India
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Fontenla S, Rinaldi G, Smircich P, Tort JF. Conservation and diversification of small RNA pathways within flatworms. BMC Evol Biol 2017; 17:215. [PMID: 28893179 PMCID: PMC5594548 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-017-1061-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Small non-coding RNAs, including miRNAs, and gene silencing mediated by RNA interference have been described in free-living and parasitic lineages of flatworms, but only few key factors of the small RNA pathways have been exhaustively investigated in a limited number of species. The availability of flatworm draft genomes and predicted proteomes allowed us to perform an extended survey of the genes involved in small non-coding RNA pathways in this phylum. Results Overall, findings show that the small non-coding RNA pathways are conserved in all the analyzed flatworm linages; however notable peculiarities were identified. While Piwi genes are amplified in free-living worms they are completely absent in all parasitic species. Remarkably all flatworms share a specific Argonaute family (FL-Ago) that has been independently amplified in different lineages. Other key factors such as Dicer are also duplicated, with Dicer-2 showing structural differences between trematodes, cestodes and free-living flatworms. Similarly, a very divergent GW182 Argonaute interacting protein was identified in all flatworm linages. Contrasting to this, genes involved in the amplification of the RNAi interfering signal were detected only in the ancestral free living species Macrostomum lignano. We here described all the putative small RNA pathways present in both free living and parasitic flatworm lineages. Conclusion These findings highlight innovations specifically evolved in platyhelminths presumably associated with novel mechanisms of gene expression regulation mediated by small RNA pathways that differ to what has been classically described in model organisms. Understanding these phylum-specific innovations and the differences between free living and parasitic species might provide clues to adaptations to parasitism, and would be relevant for gene-silencing technology development for parasitic flatworms that infect hundreds of million people worldwide. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12862-017-1061-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Fontenla
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República (UDELAR), Gral. Flores 2125, CP11800, Montevideo, MVD, Uruguay
| | - Gabriel Rinaldi
- Parasite Genomics, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Pablo Smircich
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República (UDELAR), Gral. Flores 2125, CP11800, Montevideo, MVD, Uruguay.,Laboratorio de Interacciones Moleculares, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República (UdelaR), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Jose F Tort
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República (UDELAR), Gral. Flores 2125, CP11800, Montevideo, MVD, Uruguay.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
The Schistosoma mansoni genome encodes thousands of long non-coding RNAs predicted to be functional at different parasite life-cycle stages. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10508. [PMID: 28874839 PMCID: PMC5585378 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10853-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) strategies, like RNA-Seq, have revealed the transcription of a wide variety of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the genomes of several organisms. In the present work we assessed the lncRNAs complement of Schistosoma mansoni, the blood fluke that causes schistosomiasis, ranked among the most prevalent parasitic diseases worldwide. We focused on the long intergenic/intervening ncRNAs (lincRNAs), hidden within the large amount of information obtained through RNA-Seq in S. mansoni (88 libraries). Our computational pipeline identified 7029 canonically-spliced putative lincRNA genes on 2596 genomic loci (at an average 2.7 isoforms per lincRNA locus), as well as 402 spliced lncRNAs that are antisense to protein-coding (PC) genes. Hundreds of lincRNAs showed traits for being functional, such as the presence of epigenetic marks at their transcription start sites, evolutionary conservation among other schistosome species and differential expression across five different life-cycle stages of the parasite. Real-time qPCR has confirmed the differential life-cycle stage expression of a set of selected lincRNAs. We have built PC gene and lincRNA co-expression networks, unraveling key biological processes where lincRNAs might be involved during parasite development. This is the first report of a large-scale identification and structural annotation of lncRNAs in the S. mansoni genome.
Collapse
|
20
|
Han Q, Jia B, Hong Y, Cao X, Zhai Q, Lu K, Li H, Zhu C, Fu Z, Shi Y, Lin J. Suppression of VAMP2 Alters Morphology of the Tegument and Affects Glucose uptake, Development and Reproduction of Schistosoma japonicum. Sci Rep 2017; 7:5212. [PMID: 28701752 PMCID: PMC5507895 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-05602-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis caused by schsitosomes is a serious global public health concern. The tegument that surrounds the worm is critical to the schistosomes survival. The tegument apical membrane undergoes a continuous process of rupture and repair owing to membranous vacuoles fusing with the plasma membrane. Vesicle-associated membrane protein 2 (VAMP2), a member of soluble N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNAREs) is required for membrane fusion. Here, we used RNA interference (RNAi) to knock down the expression of VAMP2 of Schistosoma japonicum (SjVAMP2), and both real-time PCR and western blot analysis confirmed the suppression of this molecule, as well as the suppression of the transcript levels of schistosome glucose transporters (SGTP1 and SGTP4), and insulin receptors (SjIR1 and SjIR2). SjVAMP2-suppressed worms exhibited a lower viability, and phenotypic alterations were also observed in the tegument. Moreover, the glucose consumption of SjVAMP2-suppressed worms decreased significantly in 4 and 6 days, respectively, as well as a significant reduction in egg production. We also observed a significant reduction in worm burden and hepatic eggs burden in two independent RNAi experiment in vivo, and minor pathological changes in mice treated with SjVAMP2 specific small interfering (si)RNA. These findings reveal that SjVAMP2 may play important roles in the maintenance of tegument, glucose uptake, worm development and egg production in schistosomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qian Han
- Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingguang Jia
- Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Hong
- Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaodan Cao
- Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Zhai
- Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Lu
- Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Li
- Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuangang Zhu
- Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiqiang Fu
- Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Yonghong Shi
- Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaojiao Lin
- Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, People's Republic of China. .,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Hahnel S, Parker-Manuel R, Dissous C, Cailliau K, Grevelding CG. First characterization of SmOPG1, a novel protein involved in gonad-associated processes in Schistosoma mansoni. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2017; 213:22-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2017.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Revised: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
22
|
Morel M, Vanderstraete M, Cailliau K, Hahnel S, Grevelding CG, Dissous C. SmShb, the SH2-Containing Adaptor Protein B of Schistosoma mansoni Regulates Venus Kinase Receptor Signaling Pathways. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0163283. [PMID: 27636711 PMCID: PMC5026347 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0163283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Venus kinase receptors (VKRs) are invertebrate receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) formed by an extracellular Venus Fly Trap (VFT) ligand binding domain associated via a transmembrane domain with an intracellular tyrosine kinase (TK) domain. Schistosoma mansoni VKRs, SmVKR1 and SmVKR2, are both implicated in reproductive activities of the parasite. In this work, we show that the SH2 domain-containing protein SmShb is a partner of the phosphorylated form of SmVKR1. Expression of these proteins in Xenopus oocytes allowed us to demonstrate that the SH2 domain of SmShb interacts with the phosphotyrosine residue (pY979) located in the juxtamembrane region of SmVKR1. This interaction leads to phosphorylation of SmShb on tyrosines and promotes SmVKR1 signaling towards the JNK pathway. SmShb transcripts are expressed in all parasite stages and they were found in ovary and testes of adult worms, suggesting a possible colocalization of SmShb and SmVKR1 proteins. Silencing of SmShb in adult S. mansoni resulted in an accumulation of mature sperm in testes, indicating a possible role of SmShb in gametogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marion Morel
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 –UMR 8204—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Mathieu Vanderstraete
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 –UMR 8204—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
| | - Katia Cailliau
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, UMR 8576—UGSF—Unité de Glycobiologie Structurale et Fonctionnelle, Lille, France
| | - Steffen Hahnel
- BFS, Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Colette Dissous
- Univ. Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019 –UMR 8204—CIIL—Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Lille, France
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Skinner-Adams TS, Sumanadasa SD, Fisher GM, Davis RA, Doolan DL, Andrews KT. Defining the targets of antiparasitic compounds. Drug Discov Today 2016; 21:725-39. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2016.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2015] [Revised: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 01/07/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
24
|
Britton C, Roberts B, Marks ND. Functional Genomics Tools for Haemonchus contortus and Lessons From Other Helminths. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2016; 93:599-623. [PMID: 27238014 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2016.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The availability of genome and transcriptome data for parasitic nematodes, including Haemonchus contortus, has highlighted the need to develop functional genomics tools. Comparative genomic analysis, particularly using data from the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, can help predict gene function. Reliable approaches to study function directly in parasitic nematodes are currently lacking. However, gene knockdown by RNA interference (RNAi) is being successfully used in schistosome and planarian species to define gene functions. Lessons from these systems may be applied to improve RNAi in H. contortus. Previous studies in H. contortus and related nematodes demonstrated reliable RNAi-mediated silencing of some genes, but not others. Current data suggest that susceptibility to RNAi in these nematodes is limited to genes expressed in sites accessible to the environment, such as the gut, amphids and excretory cell. Therefore, RNAi is functional in H. contortus, but improvements are needed to develop this system as a functional genomics platform. Here, we summarize RNAi studies on H. contortus and discuss the optimization of RNA delivery and improvements to culture methods to enhance larval development, protein turnover and the induction of phenotypic effects in vitro. The transgenic delivery of RNA or dominant-negative gene constructs and the recently developed CRISPR/Cas genome-editing technique are considered as potential alternative approaches for gene knockout. This is a key time to devote greater effort in progressing from genome to function, to improve our understanding of the biology of Haemonchus and identify novel targets for parasite control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Britton
- University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - B Roberts
- University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - N D Marks
- University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Chen SB, Ai L, Hu W, Xu J, Bergquist R, Qin ZQ, Chen JH. New Anti-Schistosoma Approaches in The People's Republic of China: Development of Diagnostics, Vaccines and Other New Techniques Belonging to the 'Omics' Group. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2016; 92:385-408. [PMID: 27137453 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2016.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
A new national schistosomiasis elimination programme will be implemented for the period 2016-20. To support this approach, we have performed a systematic review to assess anti-schistosome approaches in The People's Republic of China and defined research priorities for the coming years. A systematic search was conducted for articles published from January 2000 to March 2015 in international journals. Totally 410 references were published in English between 2000 and 2015 related to schistosomiasis after unrelated references and reviews or comments were further excluded. A set of research priorities has been identified for the near future that would improve the progress toward schistosomiasis elimination in The People's Republic of China. In particular, there is a lack of sensitive and specific tests for the detection of schistosomiasis cases with low parasite burdens, as well as an effective vaccine against schistosomiasis, and there is a need for surveillance tools that can evaluate the epidemic status for guiding the elimination strategy. Hence, we think that schistosomiasis control and elimination will be improved in The People's Republic of China through development of new tools.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S-B Chen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China
| | - L Ai
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China
| | - W Hu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; Fudan University, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China
| | - J Xu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China
| | - R Bergquist
- Geospatial Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Z-Q Qin
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China
| | - J-H Chen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of the Chinese Ministry of Health, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China; WHO Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, The People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Transfection of Platyhelminthes. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:206161. [PMID: 26090388 PMCID: PMC4450235 DOI: 10.1155/2015/206161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/15/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Flatworms are one of the most diverse groups within Lophotrochozoa with more than 20,000 known species, distributed worldwide in different ecosystems, from the free-living organisms in the seas and lakes to highly specialized parasites living in a variety of hosts, including humans. Several infections caused by flatworms are considered major neglected diseases affecting countries in the Americas, Asia, and Africa. For several decades, a particular interest on free-living flatworms was due to their ability to regenerate considerable portions of the body, implying the presence of germ cells that could be important for medicine. The relevance of reverse genetics for this group is clear; understanding the phenotypic characteristics of specific genes will shed light on developmental traits of free-living and parasite worms. The genetic manipulation of flatworms will allow learning more about the mechanisms for tissue regeneration, designing new and more effective anthelmintic drugs, and explaining the host-parasite molecular crosstalk so far partially inaccessible for experimentation. In this review, availability of transfection techniques is analyzed across flatworms, from the initial transient achievements to the stable manipulations now developed for free-living and parasite species.
Collapse
|
27
|
Guidi A, Mansour NR, Paveley RA, Carruthers IM, Besnard J, Hopkins AL, Gilbert IH, Bickle QD. Application of RNAi to Genomic Drug Target Validation in Schistosomes. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0003801. [PMID: 25992548 PMCID: PMC4438872 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2015] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Concerns over the possibility of resistance developing to praziquantel (PZQ), has stimulated efforts to develop new drugs for schistosomiasis. In addition to the development of improved whole organism screens, the success of RNA interference (RNAi) in schistosomes offers great promise for the identification of potential drug targets to initiate drug discovery. In this study we set out to contribute to RNAi based validation of putative drug targets. Initially a list of 24 target candidates was compiled based on the identification of putative essential genes in schistosomes orthologous of C. elegans essential genes. Knockdown of Calmodulin (Smp_026560.2) (Sm-Calm), that topped this list, produced a phenotype characterised by waves of contraction in adult worms but no phenotype in schistosomula. Knockdown of the atypical Protein Kinase C (Smp_096310) (Sm-aPKC) resulted in loss of viability in both schistosomula and adults and led us to focus our attention on other kinase genes that were identified in the above list and through whole organism screening of known kinase inhibitor sets followed by chemogenomic evaluation. RNAi knockdown of these kinase genes failed to affect adult worm viability but, like Sm-aPKC, knockdown of Polo-like kinase 1, Sm-PLK1 (Smp_009600) and p38-MAPK, Sm-MAPK p38 (Smp_133020) resulted in an increased mortality of schistosomula after 2-3 weeks, an effect more marked in the presence of human red blood cells (hRBC). For Sm-PLK-1 the same effects were seen with the specific inhibitor, BI2536, which also affected viable egg production in adult worms. For Sm-PLK-1 and Sm-aPKC the in vitro effects were reflected in lower recoveries in vivo. We conclude that the use of RNAi combined with culture with hRBC is a reliable method for evaluating genes important for larval development. However, in view of the slow manifestation of the effects of Sm-aPKC knockdown in adults and the lack of effects of Sm-PLK-1 and Sm-MAPK p38 on adult viability, these kinases may not represent suitable drug targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Guidi
- Department of Infection and Immunity, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nuha R. Mansour
- Department of Infection and Immunity, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ross A. Paveley
- Department of Infection and Immunity, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ian M. Carruthers
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, College of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Jérémy Besnard
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, College of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew L. Hopkins
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, College of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Ian H. Gilbert
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, College of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Quentin D. Bickle
- Department of Infection and Immunity, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Knocking down schistosomes - promise for lentiviral transduction in parasites. Trends Parasitol 2015; 31:324-32. [PMID: 25933926 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2015.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Revised: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 03/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Underpinned by major advances in our understanding of the genomes of schistosomes, progress in the development of functional genomic tools is providing unique prospects to gain insights into the intricacies of the biology of these blood flukes, their host relationships, and the diseases that they cause. This article reviews some key applications of double-stranded RNA interference (RNAi) in Schistosoma mansoni, appraises delivery systems for transgenesis and stable gene silencing, considers ways of increasing efficiency and specificity of gene silencing, and discusses the prospects of using a lentivirus delivery system for future functional genomic-phenomic explorations of schistosomes and other parasites. The ability to achieve effective and stable gene perturbation in parasites has major biological implications and could facilitate the development of new interventions.
Collapse
|
29
|
Zhang J, Shang Z, Zhang X, Zhang Y. Modeling and analysis of Schistosoma Argonaute protein molecular spatial conformation. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed 2015; 1:275-8. [PMID: 23569774 DOI: 10.1016/s2221-1691(11)60042-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2011] [Revised: 04/02/2011] [Accepted: 04/16/2011] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the amino acid sequence composition, secondary structure, the spatial conformation of its domain and other characteristics of Argonaute protein. METHODS Bioinformatics tools and the internet server were used. Firstly, the amino acid sequence composition features of the Argonaute protein were analyzed, and the phylogenetic tree was constructed. Secondly, Argonaute protein's distribution of secondary structure and its physicochemical properties were predicted. Lastly, the protein functional expression form of the domain group was established through the Phyre-based analysis on the spatial conformation of Argonaute protein domains. RESULTS 593 amino acids were encoded by Argonaute protein, the phylogenetic tree was constructed, and Argonaute protein's distribution of secondary structure and its physicochemical properties were obtained through analysis. In addition, the functional expression form which comprised the N-terminal PAZ domain and C-terminal Piwi domain for the Argonaute protein was obtained with Phyre. CONCLUSIONS The information relationship between the structure and function of the Argonaute protein can be initially established with bioinformatics tools and the internet server, and this provides the theoretical basis for further clarifying the function of Schistosoma Argonaute protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianhua Zhang
- The Faculty of Biomedical Engineering of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, Henan Province, China
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease responsible for the death of more than 300,000 people every year. The disease is caused by intravascular parasitic platyhelminths called schistosomes. Treatment and control of schistosomiasis rely on a single drug, praziquantel, and concern exists over the possible emergence of resistance to this drug. The recent completion of the genome sequences of the three main worm species that cause schistosomiasis in humans has raised hope for the development of new interventions to treat the disease. RNA interference (RNAi), a mechanism by which gene-specific double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) triggers degradation of homologous mRNA transcripts, has emerged as an important tool to evaluate and validate new potential drug targets. In addition, RNAi has been used to explore the basic biology of these debilitating parasites. RNAi can be achieved in all stages of the parasite's life cycle in which it has been tested. In this review, we describe methods for applying RNAi to suppress gene expression in the intra-mammalian life stages (adults and schistosomula) of Schistosoma mansoni. We describe procedures for isolating and culturing the parasites, preparing and delivering dsRNA targeting a specific gene, as well as a procedure to evaluate gene suppression by quantitative real-time PCR.
Collapse
|
31
|
Dell'Oca N, Basika T, Corvo I, Castillo E, Brindley PJ, Rinaldi G, Tort JF. RNA interference in Fasciola hepatica newly excysted juveniles: long dsRNA induces more persistent silencing than siRNA. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2014; 197:28-35. [PMID: 25307443 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2014.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2014] [Revised: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In trematodes RNA interference is the current tool of choice for functional analysis of genes since classical reverse genetic approaches remain unavailable. Whereas this approach has been optimized in schistosomes, few reports are available for other trematodes, likely reflecting the difficulties in the establishment of the technology. Here we standardized conditions for RNAi in the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica, the causative agent of fasciolosis, one of the most problematic infections affecting livestock worldwide. Targeting a single copy gene, encoding leucine aminopeptidase (LAP) as a model, we refined delivery conditions which identified electro-soaking, i.e. electroporation and subsequent incubation as efficient for introduction of small RNAs into the fluke. Knock down of LAP was achieved with as little as 2.5 μg/ml dsRNA concentrations, which may reduce or obviate off-target effects. However, at these concentrations, tracking incorporation by fluorescent labeling was difficult. While both long dsRNA and short interfering RNA (siRNA) are equally effective at inducing a short-term knock down, dsRNA induced persistent silencing up to 21 days after treatment, suggesting that mechanisms of amplification of the interfering signal can be present in this pathogen. Persistent silencing of the invasive stage for up to 3 weeks (close to what it takes for the fluke to reach the liver) opens the possibility of using RNAi for the validation of putative therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás Dell'Oca
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República (UDELAR), Gral. Flores 2125, CP 11800 Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - Tatiana Basika
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República (UDELAR), Gral. Flores 2125, CP 11800 Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - Ileana Corvo
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República (UDELAR), Gral. Flores 2125, CP 11800 Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - Estela Castillo
- Sección Bioquímica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la Republica (UDELAR), Iguá 4225, CP 11400 Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - Paul J Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, The George Washington University, 2300 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
| | - Gabriel Rinaldi
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República (UDELAR), Gral. Flores 2125, CP 11800 Montevideo, Uruguay; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, The George Washington University, 2300 I Street NW, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
| | - Jose F Tort
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República (UDELAR), Gral. Flores 2125, CP 11800 Montevideo, Uruguay.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
McVeigh P, McCammick EM, McCusker P, Morphew RM, Mousley A, Abidi A, Saifullah KM, Muthusamy R, Gopalakrishnan R, Spithill TW, Dalton JP, Brophy PM, Marks NJ, Maule AG. RNAi dynamics in Juvenile Fasciola spp. Liver flukes reveals the persistence of gene silencing in vitro. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2014; 8:e3185. [PMID: 25254508 PMCID: PMC4177864 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fasciola spp. liver fluke cause pernicious disease in humans and animals. Whilst current control is unsustainable due to anthelmintic resistance, gene silencing (RNA interference, RNAi) has the potential to contribute to functional validation of new therapeutic targets. The susceptibility of juvenile Fasciola hepatica to double stranded (ds)RNA-induced RNAi has been reported. To exploit this we probe RNAi dynamics, penetrance and persistence with the aim of building a robust platform for reverse genetics in liver fluke. We describe development of standardised RNAi protocols for a commercially-available liver fluke strain (the US Pacific North West Wild Strain), validated via robust transcriptional silencing of seven virulence genes, with in-depth experimental optimisation of three: cathepsin L (FheCatL) and B (FheCatB) cysteine proteases, and a σ-class glutathione transferase (FheσGST). Methodology/Principal Findings Robust transcriptional silencing of targets in both F. hepatica and Fasciola gigantica juveniles is achievable following exposure to long (200–320 nt) dsRNAs or 27 nt short interfering (si)RNAs. Although juveniles are highly RNAi-susceptible, they display slower transcript and protein knockdown dynamics than those reported previously. Knockdown was detectable following as little as 4h exposure to trigger (target-dependent) and in all cases silencing persisted for ≥25 days following long dsRNA exposure. Combinatorial silencing of three targets by mixing multiple long dsRNAs was similarly efficient. Despite profound transcriptional suppression, we found a significant time-lag before the occurrence of protein suppression; FheσGST and FheCatL protein suppression were only detectable after 9 and 21 days, respectively. Conclusions/Significance In spite of marked variation in knockdown dynamics, we find that a transient exposure to long dsRNA or siRNA triggers robust RNAi penetrance and persistence in liver fluke NEJs supporting the development of multiple-throughput phenotypic screens for control target validation. RNAi persistence in fluke encourages in vivo studies on gene function using worms exposed to RNAi-triggers prior to infection. RNA interference (RNAi) is a method for selectively silencing (or reducing expression of) mRNA transcripts, an approach which can be used to interrogate the function of genes and proteins, and enables the validation of potential targets for anthelmintic drugs or vaccines, by investigating the impact of silencing a particular gene on parasite survival or behaviour. This study focuses on liver fluke parasites, which cause serious disease in both humans and animals. We have only a handful of drugs with which to treat these infections, to which flukes are developing resistance, and no anti-fluke vaccines have yet been developed. New options for treatment and control of liver fluke parasites are sorely needed, and RNAi is a powerful tool in the development of such treatments. This study developed a set of simple methods for triggering RNAi in juvenile liver fluke, which show that although robust transcriptional suppression can be readily achieved across all targets tested, protein suppression occurs only after a target-specific lag period (likely related to protein half-life), which may require >25 days under current in vitro maintenance conditions. These findings are important for researchers aiming to employ RNAi in investigations of liver fluke biology and target validation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul McVeigh
- Molecular Biosciences: Parasitology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, Belfast, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Erin M. McCammick
- Molecular Biosciences: Parasitology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Paul McCusker
- Molecular Biosciences: Parasitology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Russell M. Morphew
- Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Angela Mousley
- Molecular Biosciences: Parasitology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Abbas Abidi
- Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Khalid M. Saifullah
- Department of Zoology, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Raman Muthusamy
- Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Terry W. Spithill
- AgriBio, the Centre for AgriBioscience, School of Life Sciences, LaTrobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - John P. Dalton
- Molecular Biosciences: Parasitology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Peter M. Brophy
- Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Nikki J. Marks
- Molecular Biosciences: Parasitology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron G. Maule
- Molecular Biosciences: Parasitology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, Belfast, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Gobert GN, You H, McManus DP. Gaining biological perspectives from schistosome genomes. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2014; 196:21-8. [PMID: 25076011 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2014.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2014] [Revised: 07/14/2014] [Accepted: 07/17/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Characterization of the genomic basis underlying schistosome biology is an important strategy for the development of future treatments and interventions. Genomic sequence is now available for the three major clinically relevant schistosome species, Schistosoma mansoni, S. japonicum and S. haematobium, and this information represents an invaluable resource for the future control of human schistosomiasis. The identification of a biologically important, but distinct from the host, schistosome gene product is the ultimate goal for many research groups. While the initial elucidation of the genome of an organism is critical for most biological research, continued improvement or curation of the genome construction should be an ongoing priority. In this review we will discuss prominent recent findings utilizing a systems approach to schistosome biology, as well as the increased use of interference RNA (RNAi). Both of these research strategies are aiming to place parasite genes into a more meaningful biological perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey N Gobert
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
| | - Hong You
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Donald P McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Vanderstraete M, Gouignard N, Cailliau K, Morel M, Hahnel S, Leutner S, Beckmann S, Grevelding CG, Dissous C. Venus kinase receptors control reproduction in the platyhelminth parasite Schistosoma mansoni. PLoS Pathog 2014; 10:e1004138. [PMID: 24875530 PMCID: PMC4038586 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1004138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2013] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The Venus Kinase Receptor (VKR) is a single transmembrane molecule composed of an intracellular tyrosine kinase domain close to that of insulin receptor and an extracellular Venus Flytrap (VFT) structure similar to the ligand binding domain of many class C G Protein Coupled Receptors. This receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) was first discovered in the platyhelminth parasite Schistosoma mansoni, then in a large variety of invertebrates. A single vkr gene is found in most genomes, except in S. mansoni in which two genes Smvkr1 and Smvkr2 exist. VKRs form a unique family of RTKs present only in invertebrates and their biological functions are still to be discovered. In this work, we show that SmVKRs are expressed in the reproductive organs of S. mansoni, particularly in the ovaries of female worms. By transcriptional analyses evidence was obtained that both SmVKRs fulfill different roles during oocyte maturation. Suppression of Smvkr expression by RNA interference induced spectacular morphological changes in female worms with a strong disorganization of the ovary, which was dominated by the presence of primary oocytes, and a defect of egg formation. Following expression in Xenopus oocytes, SmVKR1 and SmVKR2 receptors were shown to be activated by distinct ligands which are L-Arginine and calcium ions, respectively. Signalling analysis in Xenopus oocytes revealed the capacity of SmVKRs to activate the PI3K/Akt/p70S6K and Erk MAPK pathways involved in cellular growth and proliferation. Additionally, SmVKR1 induced phosphorylation of JNK (c-Jun N-terminal kinase). Activation of JNK by SmVKR1 was supported by the results of yeast two-hybrid experiments identifying several components of the JNK pathway as specific interacting partners of SmVKR1. In conclusion, these results demonstrate the functions of SmVKR in gametogenesis, and particularly in oogenesis and egg formation. By eliciting signalling pathways potentially involved in oocyte proliferation, growth and migration, these receptors control parasite reproduction and can therefore be considered as potential targets for anti-schistosome therapies. Schistosomiasis is a chronic, debilitating disease affecting more than 200 million people in the world caused by parasitic flatworms of the genus Schistosoma. Pathology is mainly due to massive egg production by parasites and formation of granulomas around the eggs trapped in liver and different organs. Therefore, targeting the molecular processes responsible for gonad development or egg production in schistosomes appears as a valuable strategy to reduce pathogenesis and dissemination of schistosomiasis. In the present study, we investigated the importance of Venus Kinase Receptors (VKRs) which are unusual receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) with an extracellular Venus Flytrap (VFT) ligand-binding domain in the control of reproduction of schistosomes. SmVKRs are expressed in female ovaries of Schistosoma mansoni and the knock-down of their expression provoked dramatic alterations of the oocyte content in ovaries and reduction of egg formation. SmVKRs were also shown to activate different signalling pathways potentially involved in oocyte proliferation, growth and migration. Therefore our results demonstrate that VKRs are essential actors of oogenesis and egg formation in S. mansoni. Moreover, their presence in a large variety of invertebrate species including other helminth parasites and insect parasite vectors can open new perspectives in the control of various vector-borne infectious diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Vanderstraete
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Nadège Gouignard
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Katia Cailliau
- EA 4479, IFR 147, Universite Lille 1 Sciences et Technologies, Villeneuve d'Ascq, France
| | - Marion Morel
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Steffen Hahnel
- Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Silke Leutner
- Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Svenja Beckmann
- Institute for Parasitology, Justus-Liebig-University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Colette Dissous
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Patocka N, Sharma N, Rashid M, Ribeiro P. Serotonin signaling in Schistosoma mansoni: a serotonin-activated G protein-coupled receptor controls parasite movement. PLoS Pathog 2014; 10:e1003878. [PMID: 24453972 PMCID: PMC3894222 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1003878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Accepted: 11/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Serotonin is an important neuroactive substance in all the parasitic helminths. In Schistosoma mansoni, serotonin is strongly myoexcitatory; it potentiates contraction of the body wall muscles and stimulates motor activity. This is considered to be a critical mechanism of motor control in the parasite, but the mode of action of serotonin is poorly understood. Here we provide the first molecular evidence of a functional serotonin receptor (Sm5HTR) in S. mansoni. The schistosome receptor belongs to the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) superfamily and is distantly related to serotonergic type 7 (5HT7) receptors from other species. Functional expression studies in transfected HEK 293 cells showed that Sm5HTR is a specific serotonin receptor and it signals through an increase in intracellular cAMP, consistent with a 5HT7 signaling mechanism. Immunolocalization studies with a specific anti-Sm5HTR antibody revealed that the receptor is abundantly distributed in the worm's nervous system, including the cerebral ganglia and main nerve cords of the central nervous system and the peripheral innervation of the body wall muscles and tegument. RNA interference (RNAi) was performed both in schistosomulae and adult worms to test whether the receptor is required for parasite motility. The RNAi-suppressed adults and larvae were markedly hypoactive compared to the corresponding controls and they were also resistant to exogenous serotonin treatment. These results show that Sm5HTR is at least one of the receptors responsible for the motor effects of serotonin in S. mansoni. The fact that Sm5HTR is expressed in nerve tissue further suggests that serotonin stimulates movement via this receptor by modulating neuronal output to the musculature. Together, the evidence identifies Sm5HTR as an important neuronal protein and a key component of the motor control apparatus in S. mansoni.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Patocka
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nidhi Sharma
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mohammed Rashid
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Paula Ribeiro
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, Ste. Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Soares CS, Morais ER, Magalhães LG, Machado CB, Moreira ÉBDC, Teixeira FR, Rodrigues V, Yoshino TP. Molecular and functional characterization of a putative PA28γ proteasome activator orthologue in Schistosoma mansoni. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2013; 189:14-25. [PMID: 23611749 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2013.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Revised: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 04/12/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PA28γ is a proteasome activator involved in the regulation of the cellular proliferation, differentiation and growth. In the present study, we identified and characterized a cDNA from Schistosoma mansoni exhibiting significant homology to PA28γ of diverse taxa ranging from mammals (including humans) to simple invertebrates. Designated SmPA28γ, this transcript has a 753bp predicted ORF encoding a protein of 250 amino acid residues. Alignment of SmPA28γ with multiple PA28γ orthologues revealed an average similarity of ~40% among the investigated organisms, and 90% similarity with PA28γ from Schistosoma japonicum. In addition, phylogenetic analysis demonstrated a close linkage between SmPA28γ to its sister group that contains well-characterized PA28γ sequences from Drosophila spp., as well as sharing the same branch with PA28γ from S. japonicum. Gene expression profiling of SmPA28γ using real-time quantitative PCR revealed elevated steady-state transcript levels in the eggs, miracidia and paired adult worms compared to other stages. In parallel with gene expression profiles, an affinity-purified anti-SmPA28γ antibody produced against recombinant protein exhibited strongest reactivity in Western blot analyses to endogenous SmPA28γ from miracidia, sporocysts and paired adult worms. Given its known regulatory function in other organisms, we hypothesized that the high level of SmPA28γ transcript and protein in these stages may be correlated with an important role of the PA28γ in the cellular growth and/or development of this parasite. To address this hypothesis, miracidia were transformed in vitro to sporocysts in the presence of SmPA28γ double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) and cultivated for 4 days, after which time steady-state transcript and protein levels, and phenotypic changes were evaluated. SmPA28γ dsRNA treatment resulted in gene and protein knockdown of ~60% and ~80%, respectively, which were correlated with a significant decrease in larval length compared to its controls. These findings are consistent with a putative role of SmPA28γ in larval growth/development of the S. mansoni.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia Sossai Soares
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto - FMRP, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Schistosomes are parasitic flatworms that cause schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease that affects hundreds of millions worldwide. Treatment and control of schistosomiasis relies almost entirely on the single drug praziquantel (PZQ), making the prospect of emerging drug resistance particularly worrisome. This review will survey reports of PZQ (and other drug) resistance in schistosomes and other platyhelminths, and explore mechanisms by which drug resistance might develop. Newer genomic and post-genomic strategies that offer the promise of better understanding of how drug resistance might arise in these organisms will be discussed. These approaches could also lead to insights into the mode of action of these drugs and potentially provide markers for monitoring the emergence of resistance.
Collapse
|
38
|
Transcriptional responses of in vivo praziquantel exposure in schistosomes identifies a functional role for calcium signalling pathway member CamKII. PLoS Pathog 2013; 9:e1003254. [PMID: 23555262 PMCID: PMC3610926 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1003254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2012] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment for clinical schistosomiasis has relied centrally on the broad spectrum anthelmintic praziquantel; however, there is limited information on its mode of action or the molecular response of the parasite. This paper presents a transcriptional and functional approach to defining the molecular responses of schistosomes to praziquantel. Differential gene expression in Schistosoma japonicum was investigated by transcriptome-wide microarray analysis of adult worms perfused from infected mice after 0.5 to 24 hours after oral administration of sub-lethal doses of praziquantel. Genes up-regulated initially in male parasites were associated with "Tegument/Muscle Repair" and "Lipid/Ion Regulation" functions and were followed by "Drug Resistance" and "Ion Regulation" associated genes. Prominent responses induced in female worms included up-regulation of "Ca(2+) Regulation" and "Drug Resistance" genes and later by transcripts of "Detoxification" and "Pathogen Defense" mechanisms. A subset of highly over-expressed genes, with putative drug resistance/detoxification roles or Ca(2+)-dependant/modulatory functions, were validated by qPCR. The leading candidate among these was CamKII, a putative calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase type II delta chain. RNA interference was employed to knockdown CamKII in S. japonicum to determine the role of CamKII in the response to praziquantel. After partial-knockdown, schistosomes were analysed using IC50 concentrations (50% worm motility) and quantitative monitoring of parasite movement. When CamKII transcription was reduced by 50-69% in S. japonicum, the subsequent effect of an IC50 dosage of praziquantel was exacerbated, reducing motility from 47% to 27% in female worms and from 61% to 23% in males. These observations indicated that CamKII mitigates the effects of praziquantel, probably through stabilising Ca(2+) fluxes within parasite muscles and tegument. Together, these studies comprehensively charted transcriptional changes upon exposure to praziquantel and, notably, identified CamKII as potentially central to the, as yet undefined, mode of action of praziquantel.
Collapse
|
39
|
|
40
|
Discovery of platyhelminth-specific α/β-integrin families and evidence for their role in reproduction in Schistosoma mansoni. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52519. [PMID: 23300694 PMCID: PMC3531407 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2012] [Accepted: 11/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In all metazoa, the response of cells to molecular stimuli from their environment represents a fundamental principle of regulatory processes controlling cell growth and differentiation. Among the membrane-linked receptors mediating extracellular communication processes are integrin receptors. Besides managing adhesion to the extracellular matrix or to other cells, they arrange information flow into the cells by activating intracellular signaling pathways often acting synergistically through cooperation with growth factor receptors. Although a wealth of information exists on integrins in different model organisms, there is a big gap of knowledge for platyhelminths. Here we report on the in silico detection and reconstruction of α and β integrins from free-living and parasitic platyhelminths, which according to structural and phylogenetic analyses form specific clades separate from each other and from further metazoan integrins. As representative orthologs of parasitic platyhelminths we have cloned one beta-integrin (Smβ-Int1) and four alpha-integrins (Smα-Int1 - Smα-Int4) from Schistosoma mansoni; they were characterized by molecular and biochemical analyses. Evidence is provided that Smβ-Int1 interacts and co-localizes in the reproductive organs with known schistosome cellular tyrosine kinases (CTKs), of which the Syk kinase SmTK4 appeared to be the strongest interaction partner as shown by yeast two-hybrid analyses and coimmunoprecipitation experiments. By a novel RNAi approach with adult schistosomes in vitro we demonstrate for the first time multinucleated oocytes in treated females, indicating a decisive role Smβ-Int1 during oogenesis as phenotypically analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Our findings provide a first comprehensive overview about platyhelminth integrins, of which the parasite group exhibits unique features allowing a clear distinction from the free-living groups. Furthermore, we shed first lights on the functions of integrins in a trematode model parasite, revealing the complexity of molecular processes involved in its reproductive biology, which may be representative for other platyhelminths.
Collapse
|
41
|
Da'dara AA, Faghiri Z, Krautz-Peterson G, Bhardwaj R, Skelly PJ. Schistosome Na,K-ATPase as a therapeutic target. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2012; 107:74-82. [DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trs020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
42
|
Wilson RA. Virulence factors of schistosomes. Microbes Infect 2012; 14:1442-50. [PMID: 22982150 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2012.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2012] [Revised: 07/18/2012] [Accepted: 09/03/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
This review considers whether the products of schistosomes in the mammalian host can be considered as virulence factors. These include: the cercarial secretions used in infection, those of the migrating schistosomulum, surface-exposed proteins of adult worms in the portal system and their gut vomitus in the context of immune evasion, secretions of the egg facilitating its escape from gut tissues and micro-exon gene products.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Alan Wilson
- Centre for Immunology & Infection, Department of Biology, University of York, Heslington, York YO10 5DD, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Britton C, Samarasinghe B, Knox DP. Ups and downs of RNA interference in parasitic nematodes. Exp Parasitol 2012; 132:56-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2011.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2011] [Revised: 07/27/2011] [Accepted: 08/03/2011] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
|
44
|
Rinaldi G, Eckert SE, Tsai IJ, Suttiprapa S, Kines KJ, Tort JF, Mann VH, Turner DJ, Berriman M, Brindley PJ. Germline transgenesis and insertional mutagenesis in Schistosoma mansoni mediated by murine leukemia virus. PLoS Pathog 2012; 8:e1002820. [PMID: 22911241 PMCID: PMC3406096 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1002820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2012] [Accepted: 06/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional studies will facilitate characterization of role and essentiality of newly available genome sequences of the human schistosomes, Schistosoma mansoni, S. japonicum and S. haematobium. To develop transgenesis as a functional approach for these pathogens, we previously demonstrated that pseudotyped murine leukemia virus (MLV) can transduce schistosomes leading to chromosomal integration of reporter transgenes and short hairpin RNA cassettes. Here we investigated vertical transmission of transgenes through the developmental cycle of S. mansoni after introducing transgenes into eggs. Although MLV infection of schistosome eggs from mouse livers was efficient in terms of snail infectivity, >10-fold higher transgene copy numbers were detected in cercariae derived from in vitro laid eggs (IVLE). After infecting snails with miracidia from eggs transduced by MLV, sequencing of genomic DNA from cercariae released from the snails also revealed the presence of transgenes, demonstrating that transgenes had been transmitted through the asexual developmental cycle, and thereby confirming germline transgenesis. High-throughput sequencing of genomic DNA from schistosome populations exposed to MLV mapped widespread and random insertion of transgenes throughout the genome, along each of the autosomes and sex chromosomes, validating the utility of this approach for insertional mutagenesis. In addition, the germline-transmitted transgene encoding neomycin phosphotransferase rescued cultured schistosomules from toxicity of the antibiotic G418, and PCR analysis of eggs resulting from sexual reproduction of the transgenic worms in mice confirmed that retroviral transgenes were transmitted to the next (F1) generation. These findings provide the first description of wide-scale, random insertional mutagenesis of chromosomes and of germline transmission of a transgene in schistosomes. Transgenic lines of schistosomes expressing antibiotic resistance could advance functional genomics for these significant human pathogens. DATABASE ACCESSION: Sequence data from this study have been submitted to the European Nucleotide Archive (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/embl) under accession number ERP000379.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Rinaldi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, (UDELAR), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Sabine E. Eckert
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Isheng J. Tsai
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Sutas Suttiprapa
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kristine J. Kines
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Tulane Cancer Center, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - José F. Tort
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República, (UDELAR), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Victoria H. Mann
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Daniel J. Turner
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Oxford Nanopore Technologies, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Berriman
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Paul J. Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Long T, Vanderstraete M, Cailliau K, Morel M, Lescuyer A, Gouignard N, Grevelding CG, Browaeys E, Dissous C. SmSak, the second Polo-like kinase of the helminth parasite Schistosoma mansoni: conserved and unexpected roles in meiosis. PLoS One 2012; 7:e40045. [PMID: 22768216 PMCID: PMC3386946 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0040045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/31/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Polo-like kinases (Plks) are a family of conserved regulators of a variety of events throughout the cell cycle, expanded from one Plk in yeast to five Plks in mammals (Plk1-5). Plk1 is the best characterized member of the Plk family, homolog to the founding member Polo of Drosophila, and plays a major role in cell cycle progression by triggering G2/M transition. Plk4/Sak (for Snk (Serum-inducible kinase) akin kinase) is a unique member of the family, structurally distinct from other Plk members, with essential functions in centriole duplication. The genome of the trematode parasite Schistosoma mansoni contains only two Plk genes encoding SmPlk1 and SmSak. SmPlk1 has been shown already to be required for gametogenesis and parasite reproduction. In this work, in situ hybridization indicated that the structurally conserved Plk4 protein, SmSak, was largely expressed in schistosome female ovary and vitellarium. Expression of SmSak in Xenopus oocytes confirmed its Plk4 conserved function in centriole amplification. Moreover, analysis of the function of SmSak in meiosis progression of G2-blocked Xenopus oocytes indicated that, in contrast to SmPlk1, SmSak cannot induce G2/M transition in the absence of endogenous Plk1 (Plx1). Unexpectedly, meiosis progression was spontaneously observed in Plx1-depleted oocytes co-expressing SmSak and SmPlk1. Molecular interaction between SmSak and SmPlk1 was confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation of both proteins. These data indicate that Plk1 and Plk4 proteins have the potential to interact and cross-activate in cells, thus attributing for the first time a potential role of Plk4 proteins in meiosis/mitosis entry. This unexpected role of SmSak in meiosis could be relevant to further consider the function of this novel Plk in schistosome reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thavy Long
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Mathieu Vanderstraete
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Katia Cailliau
- EA 4479, IFR 147, Universite Lille 1 Sciences et Technologies, Villeneuve d’Ascq, France
| | - Marion Morel
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Arlette Lescuyer
- EA 4479, IFR 147, Universite Lille 1 Sciences et Technologies, Villeneuve d’Ascq, France
| | - Nadege Gouignard
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| | | | - Edith Browaeys
- EA 4479, IFR 147, Universite Lille 1 Sciences et Technologies, Villeneuve d’Ascq, France
| | - Colette Dissous
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, Inserm U1019, CNRS-UMR 8204, University Lille Nord de France, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Lille, France
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Hagen J, Lee EF, Fairlie WD, Kalinna BH. Functional genomics approaches in parasitic helminths. Parasite Immunol 2012; 34:163-82. [PMID: 21711361 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2011.01306.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
As research on parasitic helminths is moving into the post-genomic era, an enormous effort is directed towards deciphering gene function and to achieve gene annotation. The sequences that are available in public databases undoubtedly hold information that can be utilized for new interventions and control but the exploitation of these resources has until recently remained difficult. Only now, with the emergence of methods to genetically manipulate and transform parasitic worms will it be possible to gain a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in nutrition, metabolism, developmental switches/maturation and interaction with the host immune system. This review focuses on functional genomics approaches in parasitic helminths that are currently used, to highlight potential applications of these technologies in the areas of cell biology, systems biology and immunobiology of parasitic helminths.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Hagen
- Department of Veterinary Science, Centre for Animal Biotechnology, The University of Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
Mourão MM, Grunau C, LoVerde PT, Jones MK, Oliveira G. Recent advances in Schistosoma genomics. Parasite Immunol 2012; 34:151-62. [PMID: 22145587 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2011.01349.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Schistosome research has entered the genomic era with the publications reporting the Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum genomes. Schistosome genomics is motivated by the need for new control tools. However, much can also be learned about the biology of Schistosoma, which is a tractable experimental model. In this article, we review the recent achievements in the field of schistosome research and discuss future perspectives on genomics and how it can be integrated in a usable format, on the genetic mapping and how it has improved the genome assembly and provided new research approaches, on how epigenetics provides interesting insights into the biology of the species and on new functional genomics tools that will contribute to the understanding of the function of genes, many of which are parasite- or taxon specific.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M M Mourão
- Genomics and Computational Biology Group, Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz - FIOCRUZ, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Lustigman S, Geldhof P, Grant WN, Osei-Atweneboana MY, Sripa B, Basáñez MG. A research agenda for helminth diseases of humans: basic research and enabling technologies to support control and elimination of helminthiases. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1445. [PMID: 22545160 PMCID: PMC3335859 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful and sustainable intervention against human helminthiases depends on optimal utilisation of available control measures and development of new tools and strategies, as well as an understanding of the evolutionary implications of prolonged intervention on parasite populations and those of their hosts and vectors. This will depend largely on updated knowledge of relevant and fundamental parasite biology. There is a need, therefore, to exploit and apply new knowledge and techniques in order to make significant and novel gains in combating helminthiases and supporting the sustainability of current and successful mass drug administration (MDA) programmes. Among the fields of basic research that are likely to yield improved control tools, the Disease Reference Group on Helminth Infections (DRG4) has identified four broad areas that stand out as central to the development of the next generation of helminth control measures: 1) parasite genetics, genomics, and functional genomics; 2) parasite immunology; 3) (vertebrate) host–parasite interactions and immunopathology; and 4) (invertebrate) host–parasite interactions and transmission biology. The DRG4 was established in 2009 by the Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR). The Group was given the mandate to undertake a comprehensive review of recent advances in helminthiases research in order to identify notable gaps and highlight priority areas. This paper summarises recent advances and discusses challenges in the investigation of the fundamental biology of those helminth parasites under the DRG4 Group's remit according to the identified priorities, and presents a research and development agenda for basic parasite research and enabling technologies that will help support control and elimination efforts against human helminthiases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Lustigman
- Laboratory of Molecular Parasitology, Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, New York, New York, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Wheeler D, Darby BJ, Todd TC, Herman MA. Several Grassland Soil Nematode Species Are Insensitive to RNA-Mediated Interference. J Nematol 2012; 44:92-101. [PMID: 23483038 PMCID: PMC3593264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Phenotypic analysis of defects caused by RNA mediated interference (RNAi) in Caenorhabditis elegans has proven to be a powerful tool for determining gene function. In this study we investigated the effectiveness of RNAi in four non-model grassland soil nematodes, Oscheius sp FVV-2., Rhabditis sp, Mesorhabditis sp., and Acrobeloides sp. In contrast to reference experiments performed using C. elegans and Caenorhabditis briggsae, feeding bacteria expressing dsRNA and injecting dsRNA into the gonad did not produce the expected RNAi knockdown phenotypes in any of the grassland nematodes. Quantitative reverse-transcribed PCR (qRT-PCR) assays did not detect a statistically significant reduction in the mRNA levels of endogenous genes targeted by RNAi in Oscheius sp., and Mesorhabditis sp. From these studies we conclude that due to low effectiveness and inconsistent reproducibility, RNAi knockdown phenotypes in non-Caenorhabditis nematodes should be interpreted cautiously.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Wheeler
- Ecological Genomics Institute, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506. ; Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506. ; Present address: Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14627
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Abstract
SUMMARYAlmost a decade has passed since the first report of RNA interference (RNAi) in a parasitic helminth. Whilst much progress has been made with RNAi informing gene function studies in disparate nematode and flatworm parasites, substantial and seemingly prohibitive difficulties have been encountered in some species, hindering progress. An appraisal of current practices, trends and ideals of RNAi experimental design in parasitic helminths is both timely and necessary for a number of reasons: firstly, the increasing availability of parasitic helminth genome/transcriptome resources means there is a growing need for gene function tools such as RNAi; secondly, fundamental differences and unique challenges exist for parasite species which do not apply to model organisms; thirdly, the inherent variation in experimental design, and reported difficulties with reproducibility undermine confidence. Ideally, RNAi studies of gene function should adopt standardised experimental design to aid reproducibility, interpretation and comparative analyses. Although the huge variations in parasite biology and experimental endpoints make RNAi experimental design standardization difficult or impractical, we must strive to validate RNAi experimentation in helminth parasites. To aid this process we identify multiple approaches to RNAi experimental validation and highlight those which we deem to be critical for gene function studies in helminth parasites.
Collapse
|