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Costa B, Vale N. Virus-Induced Epilepsy vs. Epilepsy Patients Acquiring Viral Infection: Unravelling the Complex Relationship for Precision Treatment. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3730. [PMID: 38612542 PMCID: PMC11011490 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The intricate relationship between viruses and epilepsy involves a bidirectional interaction. Certain viruses can induce epilepsy by infecting the brain, leading to inflammation, damage, or abnormal electrical activity. Conversely, epilepsy patients may be more susceptible to viral infections due to factors, such as compromised immune systems, anticonvulsant drugs, or surgical interventions. Neuroinflammation, a common factor in both scenarios, exhibits onset, duration, intensity, and consequence variations. It can modulate epileptogenesis, increase seizure susceptibility, and impact anticonvulsant drug pharmacokinetics, immune system function, and brain physiology. Viral infections significantly impact the clinical management of epilepsy patients, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach encompassing diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of both conditions. We delved into the dual dynamics of viruses inducing epilepsy and epilepsy patients acquiring viruses, examining the unique features of each case. For virus-induced epilepsy, we specify virus types, elucidate mechanisms of epilepsy induction, emphasize neuroinflammation's impact, and analyze its effects on anticonvulsant drug pharmacokinetics. Conversely, in epilepsy patients acquiring viruses, we detail the acquired virus, its interaction with existing epilepsy, neuroinflammation effects, and changes in anticonvulsant drug pharmacokinetics. Understanding this interplay advances precision therapies for epilepsy during viral infections, providing mechanistic insights, identifying biomarkers and therapeutic targets, and supporting optimized dosing regimens. However, further studies are crucial to validate tools, discover new biomarkers and therapeutic targets, and evaluate targeted therapy safety and efficacy in diverse epilepsy and viral infection scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Costa
- PerMed Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, s/n, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Community Medicine, Information and Health Decision Sciences (MEDCIDS), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, s/n, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
| | - Nuno Vale
- PerMed Research Group, Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, s/n, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal;
- CINTESIS@RISE, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Community Medicine, Information and Health Decision Sciences (MEDCIDS), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Rua Doutor Plácido da Costa, s/n, 4200-450 Porto, Portugal
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2
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Matos ADO, Dantas PHDS, Queiroz HAGDB, Silva-Sales M, Sales-Campos H. TREM-2: friend or foe in infectious diseases? Crit Rev Microbiol 2024; 50:1-19. [PMID: 36403150 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2022.2146481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-2 (TREM-2) is an immune receptor expressed on immune and non-immune cells, more frequently investigated in neurodegenerative disorders and considered a marker for microglia activation. In infectious diseases, the receptor was initially believed to be an anti-inflammatory molecule, opposing the inflammation triggered by TREM-1. Currently, TREM-2 is associated with different aspects in response to infectious stimuli, including the induction of bacterial phagocytosis and clearance, containment of exacerbated pro-inflammatory responses, induction of M2 differentiation and activation of Th1 lymphocytes, besides of neurological damage after viral infection. Here, we present and discuss results published in the last two decades regarding the expression, activation and functions of TREM-2 during the course of bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections. A surprisingly plasticity was observed regarding the roles of the receptor in the aforementioned contexts, which largely varied according to the cell/organ and pathogen type, besides influencing disease outcome. Therefore, our review aimed to critically overview the role of TREM-2 in infectious diseases, highlighting its potential to be used as a clinical biomarker or therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Marcelle Silva-Sales
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
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3
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Moreira CAA, Murayama LHV, Martins TDC, Oliveira VT, Generoso D, Machado VMDV, Batah SS, Fabro AT, Bazan R, Zanini MA, Sciutto E, Fleury A, Hamamoto Filho PT. Sexual dimorphism in the murine model of extraparenchymal neurocysticercosis. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2147-2154. [PMID: 37428312 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07913-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis is a heterogeneous disease, and the patient's sex seems to play a role in this heterogeneity. Hosts' sexual dimorphism in cysticercosis has been largely explored in the murine model of intraperitoneal Taenia crassiceps cysticercosis. In this study, we investigated the sexual dimorphism of inflammatory responses in a rat model of extraparenchymal neurocysticercosis caused by T. crassiceps. T. crassiceps cysticerci were inoculated in the subarachnoid space of Wistar rats (25 females, 22 males). Ninety days later, the rats were euthanized for histologic, immunohistochemistry, and cytokines studies. Ten animals also underwent a 7-T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Female rats presented a higher concentration of immune cells in the arachnoid-brain interface, reactive astrogliosis in the periventricular region, in situ pro-inflammatory cytokine (interleukin [IL]-6) and anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10), and more intense hydrocephalus on MRI than males. Intracranial hypertension signals were not observed during the observational period. Overall, these results suggest sexual dimorphism in the intracranial inflammatory response that accompanied T. crassiceps extraparenchymal neurocysticercosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Alexandre Aguiar Moreira
- Department of Neurology, Psychology and Psychiatry, Botucatu Medical School. UNESP - São Paulo State University, Distrito de Rubião Jr, s/n, CEP 18606-986, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luis Henrique Vallesquino Murayama
- Department of Neurology, Psychology and Psychiatry, Botucatu Medical School. UNESP - São Paulo State University, Distrito de Rubião Jr, s/n, CEP 18606-986, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Tatiane de Camargo Martins
- Department of Neurology, Psychology and Psychiatry, Botucatu Medical School. UNESP - São Paulo State University, Distrito de Rubião Jr, s/n, CEP 18606-986, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vinicius Tadeu Oliveira
- Department of Neurology, Psychology and Psychiatry, Botucatu Medical School. UNESP - São Paulo State University, Distrito de Rubião Jr, s/n, CEP 18606-986, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diego Generoso
- Department of Neurology, Psychology and Psychiatry, Botucatu Medical School. UNESP - São Paulo State University, Distrito de Rubião Jr, s/n, CEP 18606-986, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Rodrigo Bazan
- Department of Neurology, Psychology and Psychiatry, Botucatu Medical School. UNESP - São Paulo State University, Distrito de Rubião Jr, s/n, CEP 18606-986, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marco Antônio Zanini
- Department of Neurology, Psychology and Psychiatry, Botucatu Medical School. UNESP - São Paulo State University, Distrito de Rubião Jr, s/n, CEP 18606-986, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edda Sciutto
- Institute of Biomedical Investigations, UNAM - National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Agnès Fleury
- Institute of Biomedical Investigations, UNAM - National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
- Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirurgía, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pedro Tadao Hamamoto Filho
- Department of Neurology, Psychology and Psychiatry, Botucatu Medical School. UNESP - São Paulo State University, Distrito de Rubião Jr, s/n, CEP 18606-986, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil.
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4
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Steyn TJS, Awala AN, de Lange A, Raimondo JV. What Causes Seizures in Neurocysticercosis? Epilepsy Curr 2022; 23:105-112. [PMID: 37122403 PMCID: PMC10131564 DOI: 10.1177/15357597221137418] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the most prevalent parasitic infection of the central nervous system. It is caused by the presence of larvae of the cestode Taenia solium in the brain. The most common symptom of NCC is seizures, and it is widely considered the world’s leading cause of preventable epilepsy. Despite the prevalence and impact of NCC, a thorough, mechanistic understanding of seizure generation is still lacking. In this review, we address the question “What causes seizures in NCC?” by summarizing and discussing the major theories that seek to explain the seizurogenic and epileptogenic processes in this disorder. In addition, we highlight the potential for recent advances in disease modeling to help accelerate progress in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Julieta Simões Steyn
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Amalia Naita Awala
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Anja de Lange
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
| | - Joseph Valentino Raimondo
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
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5
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Garcia HH, Verastegui MR, Arroyo G, Bustos JA, Gilman RH. New animal models of neurocysticercosis can help understand epileptogenesis in neuroinfection. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:1039083. [PMID: 36466808 PMCID: PMC9708716 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.1039083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hector H. Garcia
- Center for Global Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru,Cysticercosis Unit, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Neurologicas, Lima, Peru,Asociación Benéfica PRISMA, Lima, Peru,*Correspondence: Hector H. Garcia
| | - Manuela R. Verastegui
- Alberto Cazorla School of Sciences and Philosophy, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Gianfranco Arroyo
- Center for Global Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru,Cysticercosis Unit, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Neurologicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Javier A. Bustos
- Center for Global Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru,Cysticercosis Unit, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Neurologicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Robert H. Gilman
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
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6
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Samia P, Hassell J, Hudson J, Ahmed A, Shah J, Hammond C, Kija E, Auvin S, Wilmshurst J. Epilepsy research in Africa: A scoping review by the ILAE Pediatric Commission Research Advocacy Task Force. Epilepsia 2022; 63:2225-2241. [PMID: 35729725 DOI: 10.1111/epi.17321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Despite the high prevalence of epilepsy in Africa, evaluation of epilepsy research trends on the continent is lacking. Without establishing effective research, improvement in care for people with epilepsy cannot be effectively strategized or targeted. METHODS A scoping review of the peer-reviewed literature on epilepsy from Africa (1989-2019) was conducted. The aim was to understand from this what areas are well researched versus underresearched based on published epilepsy topics. RESULTS A total of 1227 publications were identified and assessed. A significant increase in publications occurred over the 30 years assessed. African author leadership was evident in most reports. Nine countries had >50 publications identified; the remaining 45 countries had <50 or no publications. Research studies were typically of lower quality (case series and observational studies). Research themes were more focused on clinical epilepsy (descriptive observational studies) and social aspects (qualitative surveys). However, there were a number of unique and strong themes, specifically for neurocysticercosis and nodding syndrome, where strong research collaborations were evident, basic science understandings were explored, and interventional models were established. SIGNIFICANCE Despite Africa being the continent with the most countries, it is lacking in the quantity, quality, and for some areas, relevance of research on epilepsy. Targeted approaches are needed to upskill the strength of research undertaken with more basic science, interventional, and randomized controlled studies. Themes of research need to promote those with unique African content but also to align with current international research areas that have impact on care delivery, such as epilepsy surgery and epilepsy genetics. For this to be possible, it is important to strengthen research hubs with collaborations that empower Africa to own its epilepsy research journey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Samia
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Medical College, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya.,Brain and Mind institute, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jane Hassell
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London, UK.,Gertrude's Garden Children's Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jessica Hudson
- Department of Paediatrics, Oxford University Hospitals, Oxford, UK
| | - Azim Ahmed
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Jasmit Shah
- Brain and Mind institute, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Internal Medicine, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Charles Hammond
- Department of Child Health, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Edward Kija
- Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Stéphane Auvin
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Public Hospital Network of Paris, Robert Debré Hospital, Neuro Diderot, National Institute of Health and Medical Research, University of Paris, Paris, France.,University Institute of France, Paris, France
| | - Jo Wilmshurst
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa.,Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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7
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Arroyo G, Toribio L, Vargas-Calla A, Calcina JF, Bernal E, Chile N, Zambrano M, Gomez-Puerta LA, Chacaltana J, Marzal M, Bustos JA, Verastegui MR, Gilman RH, O’Neal SE, Gonzalez AE, Garcia HH. Porcine model of neurocysticercosis by intracarotid injection of Taenia solium oncospheres: Dose assessment, infection outcomes and serological responses. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010449. [PMID: 35653367 PMCID: PMC9162370 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the infection of the human central nervous system (CNS) by Taenia solium larvae that cause significant neurological morbidity. Studies on NCC pathophysiology, host-parasite interactions or therapeutic agents are limited by the lack of suitable animal models. We have previously reported that carotid injection of activated T. solium oncospheres directs parasites into the CNS and consistently reproduces NCC. This study assessed the minimal dose required to consistently obtain NCC by intracarotid oncosphere injection and compared antigen and antibody response profiles by dose-group. METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Three groups of pigs were infected with either 2500 (n = 10), 5000 (n = 11), or 10000 (n = 10) oncospheres. Two pigs died during the study. Necropsy exam at day 150 post-infection (PI) demonstrated viable NCC in 21/29 pigs (72.4%), with higher NCC rates with increasing oncosphere doses (4/9 [44.4%], 9/11 [81.8%] and 8/9 [88.9%] for 2500, 5000, and 10000 oncospheres respectively, P for trend = 0.035). CNS cyst burden was also higher in pigs with increasing doses (P for trend = 0.008). Viable and degenerated muscle cysticerci were also found in all pigs, with degenerated cysticerci more frequent in the 2500 oncosphere dose-group. All pigs were positive for circulating parasite antigens on ELISA (Ag-ELISA) from day 14 PI; circulating antigens markedly increased at day 30 PI and remained high with plateau levels in pigs infected with either 5000 or 10000 oncospheres, but not in pigs infected with 2500 oncospheres. Specific antibodies appeared at day 30 PI and were not different between dose-groups. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE Intracarotid injection of 5000 or more oncospheres produces high NCC rates in pigs with CNS cyst burdens like those usually found in human NCC, making this model appropriate for studies on the pathogenesis of NCC and the effects of antiparasitic treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianfranco Arroyo
- Center for Global Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
- Cysticercosis Unit, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Neurologicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Luz Toribio
- Center for Global Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
- * E-mail:
| | - Ana Vargas-Calla
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Juan F. Calcina
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Edson Bernal
- Infectious Diseases Laboratory Research-LID, Faculty of Sciences and Philosophy, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Nancy Chile
- Infectious Diseases Laboratory Research-LID, Faculty of Sciences and Philosophy, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Miguel Zambrano
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Luis A. Gomez-Puerta
- Center for Global Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Juan Chacaltana
- Department of Imaging Diagnosis, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Neurologicas de Lima, Lima, Peru
| | - Miguel Marzal
- School of Medical Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Javier A. Bustos
- Center for Global Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
- Cysticercosis Unit, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Neurologicas, Lima, Peru
| | - Manuela R. Verastegui
- Infectious Diseases Laboratory Research-LID, Faculty of Sciences and Philosophy, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Robert H. Gilman
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Seth E. O’Neal
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Sciences University-Portland State University, Portland, Oregon, United States of America
| | - Armando E. Gonzalez
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Hector H. Garcia
- Center for Global Health, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
- Cysticercosis Unit, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Neurologicas, Lima, Peru
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8
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Idro R, Ogwang R, Barragan A, Raimondo JV, Masocha W. Neuroimmunology of Common Parasitic Infections in Africa. Front Immunol 2022; 13:791488. [PMID: 35222377 PMCID: PMC8866860 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.791488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic infections of the central nervous system are an important cause of morbidity and mortality in Africa. The neurological, cognitive, and psychiatric sequelae of these infections result from a complex interplay between the parasites and the host inflammatory response. Here we review some of the diseases caused by selected parasitic organisms known to infect the nervous system including Plasmodium falciparum, Toxoplasma gondii, Trypanosoma brucei spp., and Taenia solium species. For each parasite, we describe the geographical distribution, prevalence, life cycle, and typical clinical symptoms of infection and pathogenesis. We pay particular attention to how the parasites infect the brain and the interaction between each organism and the host immune system. We describe how an understanding of these processes may guide optimal diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to treat these disorders. Finally, we highlight current gaps in our understanding of disease pathophysiology and call for increased interrogation of these often-neglected disorders of the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Idro
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Centre of Tropical Neuroscience, Kitgum, Uganda.,Nuffield Department of Medicine, Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Rodney Ogwang
- College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda.,Centre of Tropical Neuroscience, Kitgum, Uganda.,Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) - Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Antonio Barragan
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, The Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Joseph Valentino Raimondo
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Willias Masocha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kuwait University, Safat, Kuwait
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9
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de Andrade Picanço G, Ferreira de Lima N, Cristina Gomes T, de Sousa Mendes Moreira Alves D, Luísa da Costa T, Vinaud MC. Intraperitoneal and intracranial experimental cysticercosis present different metabolic preferences after treatment with isolated or combined albendazole and nitazoxanide. Acta Trop 2022; 226:106264. [PMID: 34919953 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Cysticercosis is a zoonotic public health issue especially severe when the parasite is in the central nervous system although it may be found all over the human organism. Taenia crassiceps cysticerci inoculated in mice is the experimental model used to study cysticercosis. The most used cysticercosis treatment is with albendazole (ABZ). Nitazoxanide (NTZ) has been experimentally tested against this parasite. Metabolic analysis has been used to determine drugs impact on the parasite. The aim of this study was to determine the in vivo metabolic impact of the ABZ-NTZ combination in T. crassiceps cysticerci inoculated in mice peritoneal and intracranial cavities. Mice were experimentally inoculated with T. crassiceps cysticerci in the intraperitoneal cavity or in the intracranial one. Thirty days after the infection they were treated with NaCl 0.9% (control group), 50 mg/kg of ABZ, 50 mg/kg of NTZ or 50 mg/kg of NTZ and ABZ (ABZ/NTZ combination). 24 h after treatment the animals were euthanized and the cysticerci analyzed through high performance chromatography and spectrophotometry in order to detect the glycolytic, mitochondrial and protein catabolism pathways. The intracranial parasites used more intensely the homolactic fermentation while the intraperitoneal ones presented a greater use of the mitochondrial pathways and protein catabolism. Regarding the glycolytic pathways, it was possible to observe a significant impact induced by the drugs used, both isolated or in combination. It was possible to detect an increase in the fumarate reductase pathway after the drugs exposure and no impact in the protein's catabolism. Therefore, the cysticerci showed different uses of metabolic pathways regarding the site of inoculation due to the availability of nutrients inherent of each environment. This study showed the parasite metabolic resilience and capability of use of different biochemical pathways in order to ensure survival in spite of a hostile environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guaraciara de Andrade Picanço
- Laboratory of studies of the host-parasite relationship, Tropical Pathology and Public Health Institute, Federal University of Goias, Rua 235, s/n, Setor Universitário, Goiania, Goias CEP 74605-050 Brazil
| | - Nayana Ferreira de Lima
- Laboratory of studies of the host-parasite relationship, Tropical Pathology and Public Health Institute, Federal University of Goias, Rua 235, s/n, Setor Universitário, Goiania, Goias CEP 74605-050 Brazil
| | - Taynara Cristina Gomes
- Laboratory of studies of the host-parasite relationship, Tropical Pathology and Public Health Institute, Federal University of Goias, Rua 235, s/n, Setor Universitário, Goiania, Goias CEP 74605-050 Brazil
| | - Daniella de Sousa Mendes Moreira Alves
- Laboratory of studies of the host-parasite relationship, Tropical Pathology and Public Health Institute, Federal University of Goias, Rua 235, s/n, Setor Universitário, Goiania, Goias CEP 74605-050 Brazil
| | - Tatiane Luísa da Costa
- Laboratory of studies of the host-parasite relationship, Tropical Pathology and Public Health Institute, Federal University of Goias, Rua 235, s/n, Setor Universitário, Goiania, Goias CEP 74605-050 Brazil
| | - Marina Clare Vinaud
- Laboratory of studies of the host-parasite relationship, Tropical Pathology and Public Health Institute, Federal University of Goias, Rua 235, s/n, Setor Universitário, Goiania, Goias CEP 74605-050 Brazil.
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10
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Macháček T, Leontovyč R, Šmídová B, Majer M, Vondráček O, Vojtěchová I, Petrásek T, Horák P. Mechanisms of the host immune response and helminth-induced pathology during Trichobilharzia regenti (Schistosomatidae) neuroinvasion in mice. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010302. [PMID: 35120185 PMCID: PMC8849443 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Helminth neuroinfections represent serious medical conditions, but the diversity of the host-parasite interplay within the nervous tissue often remains poorly understood, partially due to the lack of laboratory models. Here, we investigated the neuroinvasion of the mouse spinal cord by Trichobilharzia regenti (Schistosomatidae). Active migration of T. regenti schistosomula through the mouse spinal cord induced motor deficits in hindlimbs but did not affect the general locomotion or working memory. Histological examination of the infected spinal cord revealed eosinophilic meningomyelitis with eosinophil-rich infiltrates entrapping the schistosomula. Flow cytometry and transcriptomic analysis of the spinal cord confirmed massive activation of the host immune response. Of note, we recorded striking upregulation of the major histocompatibility complex II pathway and M2-associated markers, such as arginase or chitinase-like 3. Arginase also dominated the proteins found in the microdissected tissue from the close vicinity of the migrating schistosomula, which unselectively fed on the host nervous tissue. Next, we evaluated the pathological sequelae of T. regenti neuroinvasion. While no demyelination or blood-brain barrier alterations were noticed, our transcriptomic data revealed a remarkable disruption of neurophysiological functions not yet recorded in helminth neuroinfections. We also detected DNA fragmentation at the host-schistosomulum interface, but schistosomula antigens did not affect the viability of neurons and glial cells in vitro. Collectively, altered locomotion, significant disruption of neurophysiological functions, and strong M2 polarization were the most prominent features of T. regenti neuroinvasion, making it a promising candidate for further neuroinfection research. Indeed, understanding the diversity of pathogen-related neuroinflammatory processes is a prerequisite for developing better protective measures, treatment strategies, and diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomáš Macháček
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- * E-mail:
| | - Roman Leontovyč
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Barbora Šmídová
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Martin Majer
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Oldřich Vondráček
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
| | - Iveta Vojtěchová
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Tomáš Petrásek
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czechia
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czechia
| | - Petr Horák
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
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11
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Hemphill
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, Länggass-Strasse 122, 3012Bern, Switzerland
| | - Britta Lundström-Stadelmann
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, Institute of Parasitology, University of Bern, Länggass-Strasse 122, 3012Bern, Switzerland
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Carpio A, Romo ML, Hauser WA, Kelvin EA. New understanding about the relationship among neurocysticercosis, seizures, and epilepsy. Seizure 2021; 90:123-129. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2021.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
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Mante PK, Adomako NO, Antwi P, Kusi-Boadum NK. Chronic administration of cryptolepine nanoparticle formulation alleviates seizures in a neurocysticercosis model. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERY 2021; 2:100040. [PMID: 34909669 PMCID: PMC8663984 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphar.2021.100040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, neurocysticercosis remains an important cause of acquired epilepsy. We therefore seek to investigate the effectiveness of the nanoparticle formulation of cryptolepine in alleviating seizures in a neurocysticercosis model. A solid-lipid nanoparticle formulation of extracted cryptolepine was prepared. The parasites were maintained in T. crassiceps metacestode (ORF strain) - infected female BALB/c mice. Cryp (5 mg/kg), SLN-CRYP (5 mg/kg), ABZ (50 mg/kg) DXM (0.5 mg/kg), and PHE (30 mg/kg). were assessed for in vitro cysticidal, in vivo cysticidal and/or antiseizure activity in 70 mice that had developed seizures from infection with T. crassiceps. General pathologic processes were studied in the host tissue and inflammatory mediators were quantified from isolated mice brains. All treatments (CRYP, SLN-CRYP and ABZ) caused significantly reduced viability of T. crassiceps cysts. Treatment with SLN-CRYP significantly shrunk cysticerci and resolved ventricular expansion and deviation similar to albendazole on examination of encephala. SLN-CRYP inhibited hyperemia but was more effective against microgliosis, calcification, edema and meningitis. Mean seizure score was significantly reduced in models administered with SLN-CRYP (p < 0.0001); as were frequency (p < 0.0001) and duration (p < 0.0001) of seizures. SLN-CRYP significantly reduced brain homogenate levels of IL-10 (p = 0.0016) and IFN-γ (p < 0.0001). Our study shows that the chronic administration of the nanoparticle formulation of cryptolepine is effective in alleviating seizures associated with neurocysticercosis in a mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Kolibea Mante
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Nana Ofori Adomako
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Paulina Antwi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Nana Kofi Kusi-Boadum
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Hamamoto Filho PT, Fragoso G, Sciutto E, Fleury A. Inflammation in neurocysticercosis: clinical relevance and impact on treatment decisions. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2021; 19:1503-1518. [PMID: 33794119 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2021.1912592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neurocysticercosis is caused by the localization of Taenia solium larvae in the central nervous system. The disease remains endemic in most countries of Latin America, Asia and Africa. While major improvements have been made in its diagnosis and treatment, uncertainties persist regarding the clinical implications and treatment of the inflammatory reaction associated with the disease. AREAS COVERED In this review, based on PubMed searches, the authors describe the characteristics of the immune-inflammatory response in patients with neurocysticercosis, its clinical implications and the treatment currently administered. The dual role of inflammation (participating in both, the death of the parasite, and the precipitation of serious complications) is discussed. New therapeutic strategies of potential interest are presented. EXPERT OPINION Inflammatory reaction is the main pathogenic mechanism associated to neurocysticercosis. Its management is mainly based on corticosteroids administration. This strategy had improved prognostic of patients as it allows for the control of most of the inflammatory complications. On the other side, it might be involved in the persistence of parasites in some patients, despite cysticidal treatment, due to its immunosuppressive properties. New strategies are needed to improve therapeutical management, particularly in the severest presentations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro T Hamamoto Filho
- Department of Neurology, Psychology and Psychiatry, UNESP-Univ Estadual Paulista, Botucatu Medical School, Botucatu, Brazil
| | - Gladis Fragoso
- Department of Immunology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Edda Sciutto
- Department of Immunology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Agnès Fleury
- Department of Genomic Medicine and Environmental Toxicology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico.,Neurocysticercosis Clinic, Instituto Nacional de Neurología Y Neurocirugía, Ciudad de México, Mexico, mexico.,Neuroinflammation Unit, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas-Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México/INNN/Facultad de Medicina-UNAM, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Van Belle S, de Lange A, Tomes H, Lucas R, Naidoo V, Raimondo JV. Peripheral Taenia infection increases immunoglobulins in the central nervous system. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:685-692. [PMID: 33753094 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Human cysticercosis is a disease caused by larvae of the cestode Taenia solium. It is an important common cause of adult-onset seizures world-wide where it exacts a debilitating toll on the health and well-being of affected communities. It is commonly assumed that the major symptoms associated with cysticercosis are a result of the direct presence of larvae in the brain. As a result, the possible effects of peripherally located larvae on the central nervous system are not well understood. To address this question, we utilised the Taenia crassiceps intra-peritoneal murine model of cysticercosis, where larvae are restricted to the peritoneal cavity. In this model, previous research has observed behavioural changes in rodents but not the development of seizures. Here we used ELISAs, immunoblotting and the Evans Blue test for blood-brain barrier permeability to explore the central effects of peripheral infection of mice with T. crassiceps. We identified high levels of parasite-targeting immunoglobulins in the sera of T. crassiceps-infected mice. We show that the T. crassciceps larvae themselves also contain and release host immunoglobulins over time. Additionally, we describe, for the first known time, significantly increased levels of IgG within the hippocampi of infected mice, which are accompanied by changes in blood-brain barrier permeability. However, these T. crassiceps-induced changes were not accompanied by alterations to the levels of proinflammatory, pro-seizure cytokines in the hippocampus. These findings contribute to the understanding of systemic and neuroimmune responses in the T. crassiceps model of cysticercosis, with implications for the pathogenesis of human cysticercosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Van Belle
- Division of Cellular, Nutritional and Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anja de Lange
- Division of Cellular, Nutritional and Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Hayley Tomes
- Division of Cellular, Nutritional and Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rodney Lucas
- Division of Cellular, Nutritional and Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Vinogran Naidoo
- Division of Cellular, Nutritional and Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Joseph Valentino Raimondo
- Division of Cellular, Nutritional and Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Neuroscience Institute and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Vaca HR, Celentano AM, Toscanini MA, Heimburg T, Ghazy E, Zeyen P, Hauser AT, Oliveira G, Elissondo MC, Jung M, Sippl W, Camicia F, Rosenzvit MC. The potential for histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors as cestocidal drugs. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009226. [PMID: 33657105 PMCID: PMC7959350 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Echinococcosis and cysticercosis are neglected tropical diseases caused by cestode parasites (family Taeniidae). Not only there is a small number of approved anthelmintics for the treatment of these cestodiases, but also some of them are not highly effective against larval stages, such that identifying novel drug targets and their associated compounds is critical. Histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes are validated drug targets in cancers and other diseases, and have been gaining relevance for developing new potential anti-parasitic treatments in the last years. Here, we present the anthelmintic profile for a panel of recently developed HDAC inhibitors against the model cestode Mesocestoides vogae (syn. M. corti). Methodology/Principal findings Phenotypic screening was performed on M. vogae by motility measurements and optical microscopic observations. Some HDAC inhibitors showed potent anthelmintic activities; three of them -entinostat, TH65, and TH92- had pronounced anthelmintic effects, reducing parasite viability by ~100% at concentrations of ≤ 20 μM. These compounds were selected for further characterization and showed anthelmintic effects in the micromolar range and in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Moreover, these compounds induced major alterations on the morphology and ultrastructural features of M. vogae. The potencies of these compounds were higher than albendazole and the anthelmintic effects were irreversible. Additionally, we evaluated pairwise drug combinations of these HDAC inhibitors and albendazole. The results suggested a positive interaction in the anthelmintic effect for individual pairs of compounds. Due to the maximum dose approved for entinostat, adjustments in the dose regime and/or combinations with currently-used anthelmintic drugs are needed, and the selectivity of TH65 and TH92 towards parasite targets should be assessed. Conclusion, significance The results presented here suggest that HDAC inhibitors represent novel and potent drug candidates against cestodes and pave the way to understanding the roles of HDACs in these parasites. Neglected tropical diseases, such as echinococcosis and cysticercosis, which are caused by taeniid cestodes (tapeworms), represent serious public health problems in many countries around the world. Given that there is only a small number of approved anthelmintics for the treatment of cestodiases, and that most of them are not highly effective against larval stages, identifying novel drug targets and their associated compounds is critical. Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are enzymes that produce epigenetic modifications of chromatin, thus modifying cellular gene expression. In this study, we evaluate and characterize a number of HDAC inhibitors on the model cestode Mesocestoides vogae and report the anthelmintic profile of these compounds. Some of the HDAC inhibitors tested showed potent anthelmintic effects, particularly entinostat, TH65 and TH92. These compounds were selected as the most promising candidates due to their high potencies, which were superior to the commercially-available anthelmintic drug albendazole. We also evaluated pairwise drug combinations of HDAC inhibitors and albendazole. The findings of this study provide a starting point for the development of new HDAC-based cestocidal compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Rolando Vaca
- Instituto de Microbiología y Parasitología Médica, Universidad de Buenos Aires-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IMPaM, UBA-CONICET). Facultad de Medicina, Paraguay 2155, piso 13, C1121ABG, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Laboratorio de Zoonosis Parasitarias, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEyN), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana María Celentano
- Instituto de Microbiología y Parasitología Médica, Universidad de Buenos Aires-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IMPaM, UBA-CONICET). Facultad de Medicina, Paraguay 2155, piso 13, C1121ABG, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Microbiología, Parasitología e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Agustina Toscanini
- Instituto de Microbiología y Parasitología Médica, Universidad de Buenos Aires-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IMPaM, UBA-CONICET). Facultad de Medicina, Paraguay 2155, piso 13, C1121ABG, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tino Heimburg
- Institute of Pharmacy, Martin-Luther-University of Halle-Wittenberg, Halle(Saale), Germany
| | - Ehab Ghazy
- Institute of Pharmacy, Martin-Luther-University of Halle-Wittenberg, Halle(Saale), Germany
| | - Patrik Zeyen
- Institute of Pharmacy, Martin-Luther-University of Halle-Wittenberg, Halle(Saale), Germany
| | | | | | - María Celina Elissondo
- Laboratorio de Zoonosis Parasitarias, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción, Sanidad y Ambiente (IIPROSAM), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (FCEyN), Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata (UNMdP), Mar del Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Manfred Jung
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Sippl
- Institute of Pharmacy, Martin-Luther-University of Halle-Wittenberg, Halle(Saale), Germany
| | - Federico Camicia
- Instituto de Microbiología y Parasitología Médica, Universidad de Buenos Aires-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IMPaM, UBA-CONICET). Facultad de Medicina, Paraguay 2155, piso 13, C1121ABG, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- * E-mail: (FC); (MCR)
| | - Mara Cecilia Rosenzvit
- Instituto de Microbiología y Parasitología Médica, Universidad de Buenos Aires-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (IMPaM, UBA-CONICET). Facultad de Medicina, Paraguay 2155, piso 13, C1121ABG, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- * E-mail: (FC); (MCR)
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In Vivo Treatment with the Combination of Nitazoxanide and Flubendazole Induces Gluconeogenesis and Protein Catabolism in Taenia crassiceps cysticerci. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:98-103. [PMID: 32761323 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-020-00263-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cysticercosis is the presence of Taenia solium larvae in humans or swines tissues. It is a public health problem related to bad hygienic habits and consumption of infected pork. T. crassiceps is a widely used cysticercosis experimental model. The combination of two effective drugs such as nitazoxanide (NTZ) and flubendazole (FBZ) may potentialize their effect. The aim of this study was to use biochemical analysis to determine the metabolic impact of the combination of NTZ and FBZ on cysticerci inoculated intraperitoneally in mice. METHODS Balb/c mice intraperitoneally infected with T. crassiceps cysticerci received a single oral dose NTZ/FBZ (50 mg/kg). 24 h after the treatment the cysticerci were removed, frozen and analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography regarding the detection of the following metabolic pathways: glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, homolactic fermentation, tricarboxylic acid cycle, proteins catabolism and fatty acids oxidation. RESULTS The treatment with the drugs combination induced a statistically significant increase in gluconeogenesis and in protein catabolism when compared to the control groups. CONCLUSION The drugs combination is potentialized and capable of causing greater metabolic stress than the separate treatment with NTZ or FBZ, showing its potential for an alternative cysticercosis treatment.
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Rissardo JP, Caprara ALF, Durante Í. Neurocysticercosis and movement disorders: A literature review. Brain Circ 2020; 6:225-241. [PMID: 33506145 PMCID: PMC7821807 DOI: 10.4103/bc.bc_48_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is a specific form of cysticercosis that affects the central nervous system. It is caused by the tapeworm Taenia solium, which is often found in pigs. NCC is considered one of the “great simulator/mimickers” of other diseases. In this context, movement disorders (MDs) can occur in a small percentage of individuals with NCC. This review aims to evaluate the clinicoepidemiological profile, pathological mechanisms, and historical features of NCC-associated MD. Relevant reports in six databases were identified and assessed by two reviewers without language restriction. A total of 71 reports containing 148 individuals who developed an MD related to NCC were identified. NCC-associated MD included parkinsonism (n = 47), ataxia (n = 32), chorea (n = 18), dystonia (n = 13), tremor (n = 8), myokymia (n = 6), myoclonus (n = 4), ballism (n = 1), tics (n = 1), and others (n = 18). The mean and median ages were 36.58 (standard deviation: 20.51) and 35 years (age range: 1–88 years), respectively. There was a slight predominance of female sex (52.17%). On follow-up, 58.90% of the individuals had a full recovery; two deaths were reported. We believe that the majority of cases reported were only diagnosed because patients had classical clinical manifestations generally investigated by neuroimaging, resulting in incidental findings suggestive of NCC, which were later supported by laboratory examinations. Therefore, the association between NCC and MD is probably underreported. Clinicians should be wary of this association, mainly in endemic areas for cysticercosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ícaro Durante
- Department of Medicine, Federal University of Fronteira Sul, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
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de Lange A, Prodjinotho UF, Tomes H, Hagen J, Jacobs BA, Smith K, Horsnell W, Sikasunge C, Hockman D, Selkirk ME, Prazeres da Costa C, Raimondo JV. Taenia larvae possess distinct acetylcholinesterase profiles with implications for host cholinergic signalling. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008966. [PMID: 33347447 PMCID: PMC7785214 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Larvae of the cestodes Taenia solium and Taenia crassiceps infect the central nervous system of humans. Taenia solium larvae in the brain cause neurocysticercosis, the leading cause of adult-acquired epilepsy worldwide. Relatively little is understood about how cestode-derived products modulate host neural and immune signalling. Acetylcholinesterases, a class of enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, are produced by a host of parasitic worms to aid their survival in the host. Acetylcholine is an important signalling molecule in both the human nervous and immune systems, with powerful modulatory effects on the excitability of cortical networks. Therefore, it is important to establish whether cestode derived acetylcholinesterases may alter host neuronal cholinergic signalling. Here we make use of multiple techniques to profile acetylcholinesterase activity in different extracts of both Taenia crassiceps and Taenia solium larvae. We find that the larvae of both species contain substantial acetylcholinesterase activity. However, acetylcholinesterase activity is lower in Taenia solium as compared to Taenia crassiceps larvae. Further, whilst we observed acetylcholinesterase activity in all fractions of Taenia crassiceps larvae, including on the membrane surface and in the excreted/secreted extracts, we could not identify acetylcholinesterases on the membrane surface or in the excreted/secreted extracts of Taenia solium larvae. Bioinformatic analysis revealed conservation of the functional protein domains in the Taenia solium acetylcholinesterases, when compared to the homologous human sequence. Finally, using whole-cell patch clamp recordings in rat hippocampal brain slice cultures, we demonstrate that Taenia larval derived acetylcholinesterases can break down acetylcholine at a concentration which induces changes in neuronal signalling. Together, these findings highlight the possibility that Taenia larval acetylcholinesterases can interfere with cholinergic signalling in the host, potentially contributing to pathogenesis in neurocysticercosis. Infection of the human nervous system with larvae of the parasite Taenia solium is a significant cause of acquired epilepsy worldwide. Despite this, the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying epileptogenesis in neurocysticercosis remain unclear. Acetylcholinesterases are a family of enzymes widely produced by helminthic parasites. These enzymes facilitate the breakdown of acetylcholine, which is also a major neurotransmitter in the human nervous system. If T. solium larvae produce acetylcholinesterases, this could potentially disrupt host cholinergic signalling, which may in turn contribute to seizures and epilepsy. We therefore set out to investigate the presence and activity of acetylcholinesterases in T. solium larvae, as well as in Taenia crassiceps larvae, a species commonly used as a model parasite in neurocysticercosis research. We found that both T. crassiceps and T. solium larvae produce acetylcholinesterases with substantial activity and that the functional protein domains in the Taenia solium acetylcholinesterases have great similarity to those of human acetylcholinesterases. We further demonstrate that the acetylcholinesterase activity in the products of these parasites is sufficient to break down acetylcholine at a concentration which induces changes in neuronal signalling in an ex vivo brain slice model. This study provides evidence that Taenia larvae produce acetylcholinesterases and that these can potentially interfere with cholinergic signalling in the host and contribute to pathogenesis in neurocysticercosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anja de Lange
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology and Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ulrich Fabien Prodjinotho
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Centre for Global Health, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Hayley Tomes
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology and Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jana Hagen
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Brittany-Amber Jacobs
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine and Division of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine Smith
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine and Division of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - William Horsnell
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine and Division of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Laboratory of Experimental and Molecular Immunology and Neurogenetics (INEM), UMR 7355 CNRS-University of Orleans, Orleans, France
| | - Chummy Sikasunge
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Paraclinicals, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Dorit Hockman
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology and Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Murray E. Selkirk
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Clarissa Prazeres da Costa
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, Centre for Global Health, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Joseph Valentino Raimondo
- Division of Cell Biology, Department of Human Biology and Neuroscience Institute, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Wellcome Centre for Infectious Diseases Research in Africa, Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine and Division of Immunology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- * E-mail:
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Rissardo JP, Fornari Caprara AL. Neurocysticercosis and Adult-Onset Epilepsy. SAUDI JOURNAL OF KIDNEY DISEASES AND TRANSPLANTATION 2020; 31:881-882. [PMID: 32801254 DOI: 10.4103/1319-2442.292327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Metabolic effects of anthelminthic drugs in the larval stage of the cestode Taenia crassiceps, cysticercosis experimental model - A review. Acta Trop 2020; 206:105448. [PMID: 32194066 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Taenia crassiceps is an experimental model used for cysticercosis studies and has suffered metabolic analyzes regarding the effect of anthelminthic drugs. The metabolic analyses are useful tools to determine the drugs mode of action and the parasite`s survival mechanisms. The energetic pathways are good candidates for this kind of approach as they are essential for the parasite`s survival and adaptation to the environment. In this review we discuss the anthelminthic drugs mode of action and its metabolic impact on Taenia crassiceps cysticerci.
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Moura VBL, Milhomem AC, Lima SB, Matos-Silva H, Sugita DM, Vinaud MC, Lino-Júnior RDS. Demyelination in experimental intraventricular neurocysticercosis. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2020; 78:103-111. [PMID: 32022135 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20190155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is classified as a neglected tropical disease, which affects mainly Latin America and Africa in spite of some reports in North America and Europe. NCC represents the cause of up to 30% of the reported cases of epilepsy in endemic countries. The NCC injuries present direct relation to the development stage, location, and number of parasites as well as to the host immune response. This study aimed the characterization of the inflammatory response and tissue injuries by means of the analyses of the periventricular and parenchymatous demyelination through the experimental intraventricular NCC infection. Therefore, BALB/c mice were submitted to experimental NCC inoculation with Taenia crassiceps cysticerci. Their brains were removed at 7, 30, 60, and 90 days after the inoculation (DAI), and analyzed after staining with hematoxylin and eosin (HE), Luxol Fast Blue, and Nissl. It was possible to observe ventriculomegaly, inflammatory infiltration composed by polymorphonuclear and mononuclear cells, and foamy macrophages. The presence of inflammatory cells was associated with neurodegeneration detected by the areas with demyelination observed initially in the periventricular area and lately in the parenchyma. In conclusion, the presence of cysticerci and the consequent inflammation were able to promote initial periventricular demyelination followed by parenchymatous demyelination as the infection progressed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Analia Cirqueira Milhomem
- Universidade Federal de Goiás, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical e Saúde Pública, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Goiânia GO, Brazil
| | - Sarah Buzaim Lima
- Universidade Federal de Goiás, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical e Saúde Pública, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Goiânia GO, Brazil
| | | | | | - Mariana Clare Vinaud
- Universidade Federal de Goiás, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Goiânia GO, Brazil
| | - Ruy de Souza Lino-Júnior
- Universidade Federal de Goiás, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Goiânia GO, Brazil
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