1
|
Qadeer A, Wajid A, Rafey HA, Nawaz S, Khan S, Rahman SU, Alzahrani KJ, Khan MZ, Alsabi MNS, Ullah H, Safi SZ, Xia Z, Zahoor M. Exploring extracellular vesicles in zoonotic helminth biology: implications for diagnosis, therapeutic and delivery. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1424838. [PMID: 39165921 PMCID: PMC11333462 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1424838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as key intercellular communication and pathogenesis mediators. Parasitic organisms' helminths, cause widespread infections with significant health impacts worldwide. Recent research has shed light on the role of EVs in the lifecycle, immune evasion, and disease progression of these parasitic organisms. These tiny membrane-bound organelles including microvesicles and exosomes, facilitate the transfer of proteins, lipids, mRNAs, and microRNAs between cells. EVs have been isolated from various bodily fluids, offering a potential diagnostic and therapeutic avenue for combating infectious agents. According to recent research, EVs from helminths hold great promise in the diagnosis of parasitic infections due to their specificity, early detection capabilities, accessibility, and the potential for staging and monitoring infections, promote intercellular communication, and are a viable therapeutic tool for the treatment of infectious agents. Exploring host-parasite interactions has identified promising new targets for diagnostic, therapy, and vaccine development against helminths. This literature review delves into EVS's origin, nature, biogenesis, and composition in these parasitic organisms. It also highlights the proteins and miRNAs involved in EV release, providing a comprehensive summary of the latest findings on the significance of EVs in the biology of helminths, promising targets for therapeutic and diagnostic biomarkers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Qadeer
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Abdul Wajid
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Gomal University, Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan
| | - Hafiz Abdul Rafey
- Shifa College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Shifa Tameer-e-Millat University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Saqib Nawaz
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Sawar Khan
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sajid Ur Rahman
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Department of Food Science and Engineering, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Khalid J. Alzahrani
- Department of Clinical Laboratories Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Zahoor Khan
- College of Agricultural Science and Engineering, Liaocheng University, Liaocheng, Shandong, China
| | - Mohammad Nafi Solaiman Alsabi
- Department of Basic Veterinary Medical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Hanif Ullah
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
- West China School of Nursing/West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Sher Zaman Safi
- Faculty of Medicine, Bioscience and Nursing, MAHSA University, Jenjarom, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Zanxian Xia
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Muhammad Zahoor
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Caña-Bozada VH, Huerta-Ocampo JÁ, Bojórquez-Velázquez E, Elizalde-Contreras JM, May ER, Morales-Serna FN. Proteomic analysis of Neobenedenia sp. and Rhabdosynochus viridisi (Monogenea, Monopisthocotylea): Insights into potential vaccine targets and diagnostic markers for finfish aquaculture. Vet Parasitol 2024; 329:110196. [PMID: 38763120 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2024.110196] [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: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Monogeneans are parasitic flatworms that represent a significant threat to the aquaculture industry. Species like Neobenedenia melleni (Capsalidae) and Rhabdosynochus viridisi (Diplectanidae) have been identified as causing diseases in farmed fish. In the past years, molecular research on monogeneans of the subclass Monopisthocotylea has focused on the generation of genomic and transcriptomic information and the identification in silico of some protein families of veterinary interest. Proteomic analysis has been suggested as a powerful tool to investigate proteins in parasites and identify potential targets for vaccine development and diagnosis. To date, the proteomic dataset for monogeneans has been restricted to a species of the subclass Polyopisthocotylea, while in monopisthocotyleans there is no proteomic data. In this study, we present the first proteomic data on two monopisthocotylean species, Neobenedenia sp. and R. viridisi, obtained from three distinct sample types: tissue, excretory-secretory products (ESPs), and eggs. A total of 1691 and 1846 expressed proteins were identified in Neobenedenia sp. and R. viridisi, respectively. The actin family was the largest protein family, followed by the tubulin family and the heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) family. We focused mainly on ESPs because they are important to modulate the host immune system. We identified proteins of the actin, tubulin, HSP70 and HSP90 families in both tissue and ESPs, which have been recognized for their antigenic activities in parasitic flatworms. Furthermore, our study uncovered the presence of proteins within ESPs, such as annexin, calcium-binding protein, fructose bisphosphate aldolase, glutamate dehydrogenase, myoferlin, and paramyosin, that are targets for immunodiagnostic and vaccine development and hold paramount relevance in veterinary medicine. This study expands our knowledge of monogeneans and identified proteins that, in other platyhelminths are potential targets for vaccines and drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Eliel Ruiz May
- Instituto de Ecología, A.C., Xalapa, Veracruz 91070, Mexico
| | - Francisco N Morales-Serna
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mazatlán, Sinaloa 82040, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Allen T, Castellanos ME, Giacomin P, Karunaweera ND, Kupz A, Lol JC, Sharma D, Sikder S, Tedla B, van Eijk L, Vojisavljevic D, Zhao G, Pai S. Next-generation vaccines for tropical infectious diseases. Int J Infect Dis 2024; 143:107014. [PMID: 38499058 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2024.107014] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Tropical infectious diseases inflict an unacceptable burden of disease on humans living in developing countries. Although anti-pathogenic drugs have been widely used, they carry a constant threat of selecting for resistance. Vaccines offer a promising means by which to enhance the global control of tropical infectious diseases; however, these have been difficult to develop, mostly because of the complex nature of the pathogen lifecycles. Here, we present recently developed vaccine candidates for five tropical infectious diseases in the form of a catalog that have either entered clinical trials or have been licensed for use. We deliberate on recently licensed dengue vaccines, provide evidence why combination vaccination could have a synergistic impact on schistosomiasis, critically appraise the value of typhoid conjugate vaccines, and discuss the potential of vaccines in the efforts to eliminate vivax malaria and hookworms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tammy Allen
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Maria Eugenia Castellanos
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia; Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Paul Giacomin
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | | | - Andreas Kupz
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Juan Carlos Lol
- Centro de Estudios en Salud, Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Dileep Sharma
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia; College of Medicine & Dentistry, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia; School of Health Sciences, College of Health Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Ourimbah, Australia
| | - Suchandan Sikder
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Bemnet Tedla
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia; Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Liza van Eijk
- Department of Psychology, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
| | - Danica Vojisavljevic
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia; Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Guangzu Zhao
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Saparna Pai
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Hotez PJ. A Journey in Science: Molecular vaccines for global child health in troubled times of anti-science. Mol Med 2024; 30:37. [PMID: 38491420 PMCID: PMC10943906 DOI: 10.1186/s10020-024-00786-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
My scientific life in translational medicine runs in two parallel, yet often converging paths. The first, is four-decade-long commitment to develop new vaccines for parasitic and neglected tropical diseases, as well as pandemic threats. This includes a vaccine for human hookworm infection that I began as an MD-PhD student in New York City in the 1980s, and a new low-cost COVID vaccine that reached almost 100 million people in low- and middle-income countries. Alongside this life in scientific research, is one in public engagement for vaccine and neglected disease diplomacy to ensure that people who live in extreme poverty can benefit from access to biomedical innovations. A troubling element has been the daunting task of countering rising antivaccine activism, which threatens to undermine our global vaccine ecosystem. Yet, this activity may turn out to become just as important for saving lives as developing new vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Hotez
- Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Diemert DJ, Correa-Oliveira R, Fraga CG, Talles F, Silva MR, Patel SM, Galbiati S, Kennedy JK, Lundeen JS, Gazzinelli MF, Li G, Hoeweler L, Deye GA, Bottazzi ME, Hotez PJ, El Sahly HM, Keitel WA, Bethony J, Atmar RL. A randomized, controlled Phase 1b trial of the Sm-TSP-2 Vaccine for intestinal schistosomiasis in healthy Brazilian adults living in an endemic area. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011236. [PMID: 36996185 PMCID: PMC10089325 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recombinant Schistosoma mansoni Tetraspanin-2 formulated on Alhydrogel (Sm-TSP-2/Alhydrogel) is being developed to prevent intestinal and hepatic disease caused by S. mansoni. The tegumentary Sm-TSP-2 antigen was selected based on its unique recognition by cytophilic antibodies in putatively immune individuals living in areas of ongoing S. mansoni transmission in Brazil, and preclinical studies in which vaccination with Sm-TSP-2 protected mice following infection challenge. METHODS A randomized, observer-blind, controlled, Phase 1b clinical trial was conducted in 60 healthy adults living in a region of Brazil with ongoing S. mansoni transmission. In each cohort of 20 participants, 16 were randomized to receive one of two formulations of Sm-TSP-2 vaccine (adjuvanted with Alhydrogel only, or with Alhydrogel plus the Toll-like receptor-4 agonist, AP 10-701), and 4 to receive Euvax B hepatitis B vaccine. Successively higher doses of antigen (10 μg, 30 μg, and 100 μg) were administered in a dose-escalation fashion, with progression to the next dose cohort being dependent upon evaluation of 7-day safety data after all participants in the preceding cohort had received their first dose of vaccine. Each participant received 3 intramuscular injections of study product at intervals of 2 months and was followed for 12 months after the third vaccination. IgG and IgG subclass antibody responses to Sm-TSP-2 were measured by qualified indirect ELISAs at pre- and post-vaccination time points through the final study visit. RESULTS Sm-TSP-2/Alhydrogel administered with or without AP-10-701 was well-tolerated in this population. The most common solicited adverse events were mild injection site tenderness and pain, and mild headache. No vaccine-related serious adverse events or adverse events of special interest were observed. Groups administered Sm-TSP-2/Alhydrogel with AP 10-701 had higher post-vaccination levels of antigen-specific IgG antibody. A significant dose-response relationship was seen in those administered Sm-TSP-2/Alhydrogel with AP 10-701. Peak anti-Sm-TSP-2 IgG levels were observed approximately 2 weeks following the third dose, regardless of Sm-TSP-2 formulation. IgG levels fell to low levels by Day 478 in all groups except the 100 μg with AP 10-701 group, in which 50% of subjects (4 of 8) still had IgG levels that were ≥4-fold higher than baseline. IgG subclass levels mirrored those of total IgG, with IgG1 being the predominant subclass response. CONCLUSIONS Vaccination of adults with Sm-TSP-2/Alhydrogel in an area of ongoing S. mansoni transmission was safe, minimally reactogenic, and elicited significant IgG and IgG subclass responses against the vaccine antigen. These promising results have led to initiation of a Phase 2 clinical trial of this vaccine in an endemic region of Uganda. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03110757.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David J Diemert
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington DC, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Rodrigo Correa-Oliveira
- Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz em Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Carlo Geraldo Fraga
- Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz em Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Frederico Talles
- Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz em Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Marcella Rezende Silva
- Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz em Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Shital M Patel
- Departments of Molecular Virology & Microbiology and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Shirley Galbiati
- The Emmes Company, LLC, Frederick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jessie K Kennedy
- The Emmes Company, LLC, Frederick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jordan S Lundeen
- The Emmes Company, LLC, Frederick, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Maria Flavia Gazzinelli
- Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz em Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Guangzhao Li
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Lara Hoeweler
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Gregory A Deye
- Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (DMID), National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious, Diseases (NIAID), National Institutes of Health (NIH), United States of America
| | - Maria Elena Bottazzi
- Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Peter J Hotez
- Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Hana M El Sahly
- Departments of Molecular Virology & Microbiology and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Wendy A Keitel
- Departments of Molecular Virology & Microbiology and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jeffrey Bethony
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - Robert L Atmar
- Departments of Molecular Virology & Microbiology and Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kuipers ME, Nguyen DL, van Diepen A, Mes L, Bos E, Koning RI, Nolte-’t Hoen ENM, Smits HH, Hokke CH. Life stage-specific glycosylation of extracellular vesicles from Schistosoma mansoni schistosomula and adult worms drives differential interaction with C-type lectin receptors DC-SIGN and MGL. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1125438. [PMID: 37006612 PMCID: PMC10050886 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1125438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomes can survive in mammalian hosts for many years, and this is facilitated by released parasite products that modulate the host’s immune system. Many of these products are glycosylated and interact with host cells via C-type lectin receptors (CLRs). We previously reported on specific fucose-containing glycans present on extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by schistosomula, the early juvenile life stage of the schistosome, and the interaction of these EVs with the C-type lectin receptor Dendritic Cell-Specific Intercellular adhesion molecule-3-Grabbing Non-integrin (DC-SIGN or CD209). EVs are membrane vesicles with a size range between 30–1,000 nm that play a role in intercellular and interspecies communication. Here, we studied the glycosylation of EVs released by the adult schistosome worms. Mass spectrometric analysis showed that GalNAcβ1–4GlcNAc (LacDiNAc or LDN) containing N-glycans were the dominant glycan type present on adult worm EVs. Using glycan-specific antibodies, we confirmed that EVs from adult worms were predominantly associated with LDN, while schistosomula EVs displayed a highly fucosylated glycan profile. In contrast to schistosomula EV that bind to DC-SIGN, adult worm EVs are recognized by macrophage galactose-type lectin (MGL or CD301), and not by DC-SIGN, on CLR expressing cell lines. The different glycosylation profiles of adult worm- and schistosomula-derived EVs match with the characteristic glycan profiles of the corresponding life stages and support their distinct roles in schistosome life-stage specific interactions with the host.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marije E. Kuipers
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - D. Linh Nguyen
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Angela van Diepen
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Lynn Mes
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Erik Bos
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Roman I. Koning
- Electron Microscopy Facility, Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Esther N. M. Nolte-’t Hoen
- Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Hermelijn H. Smits
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Cornelis H. Hokke
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Cornelis H. Hokke,
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Evolution of tetraspanin antigens in the zoonotic Asian blood fluke Schistosoma japonicum. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:97. [PMID: 36918965 PMCID: PMC10012309 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05706-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite successful control efforts in China over the past 60 years, zoonotic schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma japonicum remains a threat with transmission ongoing and the risk of localised resurgences prompting calls for a novel integrated control strategy, with an anti-schistosome vaccine as a core element. Anti-schistosome vaccine development and immunisation attempts in non-human mammalian host species, intended to interrupt transmission, and utilising various antigen targets, have yielded mixed success, with some studies highlighting variation in schistosome antigen coding genes (ACGs) as possible confounders of vaccine efficacy. Thus, robust selection of target ACGs, including assessment of their genetic diversity and antigenic variability, is paramount. Tetraspanins (TSPs), a family of tegument-surface antigens in schistosomes, interact directly with the host's immune system and are promising vaccine candidates. Here, for the first time to our knowledge, diversity in S. japonicum TSPs (SjTSPs) and the impact of diversifying selection and sequence variation on immunogenicity in these protiens were evaluated. METHODS SjTSP sequences, representing parasite populations from seven provinces across China, were gathered by baiting published short-read NGS data and were analysed using in silico methods to measure sequence variation and selection pressures and predict the impact of selection on variation in antigen protein structure, function and antigenic propensity. RESULTS Here, 27 SjTSPs were identified across three subfamilies, highlighting the diversity of TSPs in S. japonicum. Considerable variation was demonstrated for several SjTSPs between geographical regions/provinces, revealing that episodic, diversifying positive selection pressures promote amino acid variation/variability in the large extracellular loop (LEL) domain of certain SjTSPs. Accumulating polymorphisms in the LEL domain of SjTSP-2, -8 and -23 led to altered structural, functional and antibody binding characteristics, which are predicted to impact antibody recognition and possibly blunt the host's ability to respond to infection. Such changes, therefore, appear to represent a mechanism utilised by S. japonicum to evade the host's immune system. CONCLUSION Whilst the genetic and antigenic geographic variability observed amongst certain SjTSPs could present challenges to vaccine development, here we demonstrate conservation amongst SjTSP-1, -13 and -14, revealing their likely improved utility as efficacious vaccine candidates. Importantly, our data highlight that robust evaluation of vaccine target variability in natural parasite populations should be a prerequisite for anti-schistosome vaccine development.
Collapse
|
8
|
Human Schistosomiasis Vaccines as Next Generation Control Tools. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8030170. [PMID: 36977171 PMCID: PMC10054132 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8030170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Human schistosomiasis remains one of the most important yet neglected tropical diseases, with the latest estimates from the Global Burden of Disease Study indicating that over 140 million people are infected with schistosomes [...]
Collapse
|
9
|
Salmonella Typhimurium expressing chromosomally integrated Schistosoma mansoni Cathepsin B protects against schistosomiasis in mice. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:27. [PMID: 36849453 PMCID: PMC9969381 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00599-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis threatens hundreds of millions of people worldwide. The larval stage of Schistosoma mansoni migrates through the lung and adult worms reside adjacent to the colonic mucosa. Several candidate vaccines are in preclinical development, but none is designed to elicit both systemic and mucosal responses. We have repurposed an attenuated Salmonella enterica Typhimurium strain (YS1646) to express Cathepsin B (CatB), a digestive enzyme important for the juvenile and adult stages of the S. mansoni life cycle. Previous studies have demonstrated the prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy of our plasmid-based vaccine. Here, we have generated chromosomally integrated (CI) YS1646 strains that express CatB to produce a viable candidate vaccine for eventual human use (stability, no antibiotic resistance). 6-8-week-old C57BL/6 mice were vaccinated in a multimodal oral (PO) and intramuscular (IM) regimen, and then sacrificed 3 weeks later. The PO + IM group had significantly higher anti-CatB IgG titers with greater avidity and mounted significant intestinal anti-CatB IgA responses compared to PBS control mice (all P < 0.0001). Multimodal vaccination generated balanced TH1/TH2 humoral and cellular immune responses. Production of IFNγ by both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells was confirmed by flow cytometry (P < 0.0001 & P < 0.01). Multimodal vaccination reduced worm burden by 80.4%, hepatic egg counts by 75.2%, and intestinal egg burden by 78.4% (all P < 0.0001). A stable and safe vaccine that has both prophylactic and therapeutic activity would be ideal for use in conjunction with praziquantel mass treatment campaigns.
Collapse
|
10
|
Zhou P, Zhou Z, Huayu M, Wang L, Feng L, Xiao Y, Dai Y, Xin M, Tang F, Li R. A multi-epitope vaccine GILE against Echinococcus Multilocularis infection in mice. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1091004. [PMID: 36733393 PMCID: PMC9887108 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1091004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The objective of this study is to construct a multi-epitope vaccine GILE containing B-cell and T-cell epitopes against Echinococcus Multilocularis (E. multilocularis) infection based on the dominant epitopes of E. multilocularis EMY162, LAP, and GLUT1. Methods The structure and hydrophobicity of GILE were predicted by SWISSMODEL, pyMOL, SOPMA and VMD, and its sequence was optimized by Optimum™ Codon. The GILE gene was inserted into pCzn1 and transformed into Escherichia coli Arctic express competent cells. IPTG was added to induce the expression of recombinant proteins. High-purity GILE recombinant protein was obtained by Ni-NTA Resin. BALB/c mice were immunized with GILE mixed with Freund's adjuvant, and the antibody levels and dynamic changes in the serum were detected by ELISA. Lymphocyte proliferation was detected by MTS. The levels of IFN-g and IL-4 were detected by ELISpot and flow cytometry (FCM). T cells were detected by FCM. The growth of hepatic cysts was evaluated by Ultrasound and their weights were measured to evaluate the immune protective effect of GILE. Results The SWISS-MODEL analysis showed that the optimal model was EMY162 95-104-LAP464-479-LAP495-510-LAP396-410-LAP504-518-EMY162112-126. The SOPMA results showed that there were Alpha helix (14.88%), Extended strand (26.25%), Beta turn (3.73%) and Random coil (45.82%) in the secondary structure of GILE. The restriction enzyme digestion and sequencing results suggested that the plasmid pCzn1-GILE was successfully constructed. The SDSPAGE results indicated that the recombinant protein was 44.68 KD. The ELISA results indicated that mice immunized with GILE showed higher levels of serum antibodies compared to the PBS group. The FCM and ELISpot results indicated that mice immunized with GILE secreted more IFN-g and IL-4. Immunization with GILE also led to a significant decrease in the maximum diameter and weight of cysts and stimulated the production of CD4+ and CD8+ T Cell. Discussion A multi-epitope vaccine GILE with good immunogenicity and antigenicity has been successfully constructed in this study, which may provide important theoretical and experimental bases for the prevention and treatment of E. multilocularis infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei Zhou
- Qinghai University Medical College, Xining, Qinghai, China,Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Zhen Zhou
- Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Meiduo Huayu
- Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Department of Pathology, The Second Xiangya Hospital DE Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lin Feng
- Qinghai University Medical College, Xining, Qinghai, China,Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Yang Xiao
- Qinghai University Medical College, Xining, Qinghai, China,Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Yao Dai
- Qinghai University Medical College, Xining, Qinghai, China,Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Mingyuan Xin
- Qinghai University Medical College, Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Feng Tang
- Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China,*Correspondence: Feng Tang, ; Runle Li,
| | - Runle Li
- Qinghai University Medical College, Xining, Qinghai, China,Research Center for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai-Utah Joint Research Key Lab for High Altitude Medicine, Qinghai Provincial Key Laboratory of Plateau Medical Application, Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, China,*Correspondence: Feng Tang, ; Runle Li,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Planarians to schistosomes: an overview of flatworm cell-types and regulators. J Helminthol 2023; 97:e7. [PMID: 36644809 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x22000621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis remains a major neglected tropical disease that afflicts over 200 million people globally. Schistosomes, the aetiological agent of schistosomiasis, are parasitic flatworms that propagate between molluscan and mammalian hosts. Inside the mammalian host, schistosomes rapidly grow over 100-fold in size and develop into a sexually mature male or female that thrives in the bloodstream for several decades. Recent work has identified schistosome stem cells as the source that drives parasite transmission, reproduction and longevity. Moreover, studies have begun to uncover molecular programmes deployed by stem cells that are essential for tissue development and maintenance, parasite survival and immune evasion. Such programmes are reminiscent of neoblast-driven development and regeneration of planarians, the free-living flatworm relative of schistosomes. Over the last few decades, research in planarians has employed modern functional genomic tools that significantly enhanced our understanding of stem cell-driven animal development and regeneration. In this review, we take a broad stroke overview of major flatworm organ systems at the cellular and molecular levels. We summarize recent advances on genetic regulators that play critical roles in differentiation and maintenance of flatworm cell types. Finally, we provide perspectives on how investigation of basic parasite biology is critical to discovering new approaches to battle schistosomiasis.
Collapse
|
12
|
Becerro-Recio D, Serrat J, López-García M, Sotillo J, Simón F, González-Miguel J, Siles-Lucas M. Proteomics coupled with in vitro model to study the early crosstalk occurring between newly excysted juveniles of Fasciola hepatica and host intestinal cells. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010811. [PMID: 36223411 PMCID: PMC9555655 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010811] [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: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fasciolosis caused by the trematode Fasciola hepatica is a zoonotic neglected disease affecting animals and humans worldwide. Infection occurs upon ingestion of aquatic plants or water contaminated with metacercariae. These release the newly excysted juveniles (FhNEJ) in the host duodenum, where they establish contact with the epithelium and cross the intestinal barrier to reach the peritoneum within 2-3 h after infection. Juveniles crawl up the peritoneum towards the liver, and migrate through the hepatic tissue before reaching their definitive location inside the major biliary ducts, where they mature into adult worms. Fasciolosis is treated with triclabendazole, although resistant isolates of the parasite are increasingly being reported. This, together with the limited efficacy of the assayed vaccines against this infection, poses fasciolosis as a veterinary and human health problem of growing concern. In this context, the study of early host-parasite interactions is of paramount importance for the definition of new targets for the treatment and prevention of fasciolosis. Here, we develop a new in vitro model that replicates the first interaction between FhNEJ and mouse primary small intestinal epithelial cells (MPSIEC). FhNEJ and MPSIEC were co-incubated for 3 h and protein extracts (tegument and soma of FhNEJ and membrane and cytosol of MPSIEC) were subjected to quantitative SWATH-MS proteomics and compared to respective controls (MPSIEC and FhNEJ left alone for 3h in culture medium) to evaluate protein expression changes in both the parasite and the host. Results show that the interaction between FhNEJ and MPSIEC triggers a rapid protein expression change of FhNEJ in response to the host epithelial barrier, including cathepsins L3 and L4 and several immunoregulatory proteins. Regarding MPSIEC, stimulation with FhNEJ results in alterations in the protein profile related to immunomodulation and cell-cell interactions, together with a drastic reduction in the expression of proteins linked with ribosome function. The molecules identified in this model of early host-parasite interactions could help define new tools against fasciolosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Becerro-Recio
- Parasitology Unit, Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology of Salamanca (IRNASA-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Judit Serrat
- Parasitology Unit, Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology of Salamanca (IRNASA-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Marta López-García
- Parasitology Unit, Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology of Salamanca (IRNASA-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
| | - Javier Sotillo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fernando Simón
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Javier González-Miguel
- Parasitology Unit, Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology of Salamanca (IRNASA-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Centre of One Health (COH), Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
- * E-mail: (JG-M); (MS-L)
| | - Mar Siles-Lucas
- Parasitology Unit, Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology of Salamanca (IRNASA-CSIC), Salamanca, Spain
- * E-mail: (JG-M); (MS-L)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chaiyadet S, Tangkawattana S, Smout MJ, Ittiprasert W, Mann VH, Deenonpoe R, Arunsan P, Loukas A, Brindley PJ, Laha T. Knockout of liver fluke granulin, Ov-grn-1, impedes malignant transformation during chronic infection with Opisthorchis viverrini. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010839. [PMID: 36137145 PMCID: PMC9531791 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection with the food-borne liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini is the principal risk factor for cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) in the Mekong Basin countries of Thailand, Lao PDR, Vietnam, Myanmar and Cambodia. Using a novel model of CCA, involving infection with gene-edited liver flukes in the hamster during concurrent exposure to dietary nitrosamine, we explored the role of the fluke granulin-like growth factor Ov-GRN-1 in malignancy. We derived RNA-guided gene knockout flukes (ΔOv-grn-1) using CRISPR/Cas9/gRNA materials delivered by electroporation. Genome sequencing confirmed programmed Cas9-catalyzed mutations of the targeted genes, which was accompanied by rapid depletion of transcripts and the proteins they encode. Gene-edited parasites colonized the biliary tract of hamsters and developed into adult flukes. However, less hepatobiliary tract disease manifested during chronic infection with ΔOv-grn-1 worms in comparison to hamsters infected with control gene-edited and mock-edited parasites. Specifically, immuno- and colorimetric-histochemical analysis of livers revealed markedly less periductal fibrosis surrounding the flukes and less fibrosis globally within the hepatobiliary tract during infection with ΔOv-grn-1 genotype worms, minimal biliary epithelial cell proliferation, and significantly fewer mutations of TP53 in biliary epithelial cells. Moreover, fewer hamsters developed high-grade CCA compared to controls. The clinically relevant, pathophysiological phenotype of the hepatobiliary tract confirmed a role for this secreted growth factor in malignancy and morbidity during opisthorchiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sujittra Chaiyadet
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
- Tropical Medicine Graduate Program, Academic Affairs, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Sirikachorn Tangkawattana
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand, and WHO Collaborating Center for Research and Control of Opisthorchiasis, Tropical Disease Research Center, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Michael J. Smout
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Wannaporn Ittiprasert
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Victoria H. Mann
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Raksawan Deenonpoe
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Patpicha Arunsan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul J. Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Thewarach Laha
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bernardes WPDOS, Dutra ITX, da Silva-Pereira RA, Mourão MM, Fonseca CT. SmTAL-9, a Member of the Schistosoma mansoni Tegument Allergen-Like Family, Is Important for Parasite Survival and a Putative Target for Drug/Vaccine Development. Front Immunol 2022; 13:889645. [PMID: 35911671 PMCID: PMC9336510 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.889645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The tegument of Schistosoma mansoni is involved in essential functions for parasite survival and is known to stimulate immune responses in pre-clinical vaccine trials. Smtal-9, a member of the tegument-allergen-like (TAL) family, is one of the components of the tegument of schistosomula recognized by sera from immunized and protected mice. In this work, we assessed the role of Smtal-9 in parasite survival using the RNAi approach. Also, we cloned and expressed a recombinant form of Smtal-9 and evaluated its ability to induce protection in mice. Smtal-9 knockdown did not impact parasite survival in vitro, but significantly decreased schistosomula size. Additionally, significant reduction in both parasite and egg burdens were observed in mice inoculated with Smtal-9-knockdown schistosomula. Immunization using the Smtal-9 as an antigen conferred partial protection against challenge infection. Overall, our results indicate that Smtal-9 is a candidate target for drug and/or vaccine development due to its important role in parasite biology and survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Isabela Thamara Xavier Dutra
- Grupo de Pesquisas em Helmintologia e Malacologia Médica, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Rosiane Aparecida da Silva-Pereira
- Grupo de Pesquisas em Biologia e Imunologia de Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marina Moraes Mourão
- Grupo de Pesquisas em Helmintologia e Malacologia Médica, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Cristina Toscano Fonseca
- Grupo de Pesquisas em Biologia e Imunologia de Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Cristina Toscano Fonseca,
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Comparative proteome analysis of the tegument of male and female adult Schistosoma mansoni. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7569. [PMID: 35534617 PMCID: PMC9085856 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-11645-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The tegument, as the surface layer of adult male and female Schistosoma spp. represents the protective barrier of the worms to the hostile environment of the host bloodstream. Here we present the first comparative analysis of sex-specific tegument proteins of paired or virgin Schistosoma mansoni. We applied a new and highly sensitive workflow, allowing detection of even low abundance proteins. Therefore, a streptavidin–biotin affinity purification technique in combination with single pot solid-phase enhanced sample preparation was established for subsequent LC–MS/MS analysis. We were able to identify 1519 tegument proteins for male and female virgin and paired worms and categorized them by sex. Bioinformatic analysis revealed an involvement of female-specific tegument proteins in signaling pathways of cellular processes and antioxidant mechanisms. Male-specific proteins were found to be enriched in processes linked to phosphorylation and signal transduction. This suggests a task sharing between the sexes that might be necessary for survival in the host. Our datasets provide a basis for further studies to understand and ultimately decipher the strategies of the two worm sexes to evade the immune system.
Collapse
|
16
|
In silico identification of tetraspanins in monopisthocotylean (Platyhelminthes: Monogenea) parasites of fish. J Helminthol 2022; 96:e23. [PMID: 35321773 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x22000098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Tetraspanins are a superfamily of transmembrane proteins that in flatworms have structural roles in the development, maturation or stability of the tegument. Several tetraspanins are considered as potential candidates for vaccines or drugs against helminths. Monopisthocotylean monogeneans are ectoparasites of fish that are health hazards for farmed fish. The aim of this study was to identify in silico putative tetraspanins in the genomic datasets of four monopisthocotylean species. The analysis predicted and classified 40 tetraspanins in Rhabdosynochus viridisi, 39 in Scutogyrus longicornis, 22 in Gyrodactylus salaris and 13 in Neobenedenia melleni, belonging to 13 orthologous groups. The high divergence of tetraspanins made it difficult to annotate their function. However, a conserved group was identified in different metazoan taxa. According to this study, metazoan tetraspanins can be divided into 17 monophyletic groups. Of the 114 monogenean tetraspanins, only seven were phylogenetically close to tetraspanins from non-platyhelminth metazoans, which suggests that this group of proteins shows rapid sequence divergence. The similarity of the monopisthocotylean tetraspanins was highest with trematodes, followed by cestodes and then free-living platyhelminths. In total, 27 monopisthocotylean-specific and 34 flatworm-specific tetraspanins were identified. Four monogenean tetraspanins were orthologous to TSP-1, which is a candidate for the development of vaccines and a potential pharmacological target in trematodes and cestodes. Although studies of tetraspanins in parasitic flatworms are scarce, this is an interesting group of proteins for the development of new methods to control monogeneans.
Collapse
|
17
|
Hou N, Piao X, Jiang N, Liu S, Cai P, Liu B, McManus DP, Chen Q. Novel Hepatic Schistosomula Antigens as Promising Targets for Immunodiagnosis and Immunoprotection of Schistosomiasis japonica. J Infect Dis 2022; 225:1991-2001. [PMID: 35235942 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiac077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Antigens of migrating schistosomula are promising candidates as schistosomiasis vaccine targets, since immune attack on hepatic schistosomula would interrupt the parasites life cycle and reduce egg burden on the host. Here, we report a collection of Schistosoma japonicum schistosomula proteins (SjScP), which are highly expressed in hepatic schistosomula. We found that a number of these SjScPs were highly antigenic and could effectively stimulate humoral immune responses in both human and other mammalian hosts. In particular, SjScP25, SjScP37, SjScP41, SjScP80, SjScP88 showed high potential as biomarkers for schistosomiasis immunodiagnosis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that immunization with several of the recombinant SjScPs were able to protect mice from S. japonicum challenge infection, with SjScP25 generating the most protective results. Our work represents a group of novel schistosome immunogens, which may be promsing schistosomiasis japonica diagonosis and vaccine candidates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nan Hou
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Dong Dan San Tiao, Beijing, China
| | - Xianyu Piao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Dong Dan San Tiao, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Infectious Diseases in Northeast China, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Ruminant Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (East), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China.,The Research Unit for Pathogenic Mechanisms of Zoonotic Parasites, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
| | - Shuai Liu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Dong Dan San Tiao, Beijing, China
| | - Pengfei Cai
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Bing Liu
- Institute for Protein Science and Phage Research, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Shanxi, China
| | - Donald P McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Qijun Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Dong Dan San Tiao, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Livestock Infectious Diseases in Northeast China, Ministry of Education, Key Laboratory of Ruminant Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (East), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang, China.,The Research Unit for Pathogenic Mechanisms of Zoonotic Parasites, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shenyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
El-Morsy SMA, El-Tantawy SAM, El-Shabasy EA. Antischistosomal effects of Ficus carica leaves extract and/or PZQ on Schistosoma mansoni infected mice. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:87-102. [PMID: 35299912 PMCID: PMC8901854 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01417-7] [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: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, praziquantel (PZQ) is the only drug of choice used for treatment of human schistosomes because of its safety and broad-spectrum activity. It is reported that the repeated chemotherapy is complicated by the occurrence of drug resistance to schistosomiasis. So there is an urgent need to develop new drug combinations therapy. The current study aimed to evaluate antischistosomal activity of F. carica leaves extract alone or in combination with PZQ on Schistosoma mansoni infected mice. Mice were experimentally infected with Schistosoma mansoni and orally administrated 6 weeks' post-infection with Fig leaves extract and/or PZQ. Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni)-infected mice were separated into four groups: untreated (I), treated with PZQ in dose of 200 mg/kg bw (II), treated with Fig leaves extract dose of 400 mg/kg bw (III). Group IV was treated with dose of Fig leaves extract-PZQ as in groups II and III, respectively. The effect was detected parasitologically using ova count technique and oogram pattern in intestine and liver. The greatest antischistosomal effect was achieved using orally administered Fig leaves extract-PZQ as indicated by total worm burden, tissue egg count and oogram pattern. Fig leaves extract + PZQ induced the therapeutic efficacy over the PZQ dose alone in intestine and liver as shown by a complete absence of immature worms, a very high reduction in the total numbers of tissue egg load (59.81% vs. 61.43% & 67.96% vs. 73.46%), mature eggs (37.86 ± 1.4 vs. 34.14 ± 1.9) and increasing in the total number of dead eggs (62.14 ± 1.4vs.67.29 ± 1.76). The results suggested the curcumin in combination with PZQ as a strong schistosomicidal regimen against S. mansoni. In addition, F. carica leaves extract is a promising for PZQ potentiating its antischistosomal action in animal model infected with S. mansoni. Therefore, the present work conclude that combined treatment has a synergetic effect and could be more promising in the management of schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eman A. El-Shabasy
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Vaccines for Human Schistosomiasis: Recent Progress, New Developments and Future Prospects. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042255. [PMID: 35216369 PMCID: PMC8879820 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, caused by human trematode blood flukes (schistosomes), remains one of the most prevalent and serious of the neglected tropical parasitic diseases. Currently, treatment of schistosomiasis relies solely on a single drug, the anthelmintic praziquantel, and with increased usage in mass drug administration control programs for the disease, the specter of drug resistance developing is a constant threat. Vaccination is recognized as one of the most sustainable options for the control of any pathogen, but despite the discovery and reporting of numerous potentially promising schistosome vaccine antigens, to date, no schistosomiasis vaccine for human or animal deployment is available. This is despite the fact that Science ranked such an intervention as one of the top 10 vaccines that need to be urgently developed to improve public health globally. This review summarizes current progress of schistosomiasis vaccines under clinical development and advocates the urgent need for the establishment of a revolutionary and effective anti-schistosome vaccine pipeline utilizing cutting-edge technologies (including developing mRNA vaccines and exploiting CRISPR-based technologies) to provide novel insight into future vaccine discovery, design, manufacture and deployment.
Collapse
|
20
|
Mekonnen GG, Tedla BA, Pearson MS, Becker L, Field M, Amoah AS, van Dam G, Corstjens PLAM, Mduluza T, Mutapi F, Loukas A, Sotillo J. Characterisation of tetraspanins from Schistosoma haematobium and evaluation of their potential as novel diagnostic markers. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010151. [PMID: 35073344 PMCID: PMC8812969 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosoma haematobium is the leading cause of urogenital schistosomiasis and it is recognised as a class 1 carcinogen due to the robust association of infection with bladder cancer. In schistosomes, tetraspanins (TSPs) are abundantly present in different parasite proteomes and could be potential diagnostic candidates due to their accessibility to the host immune system. The large extracellular loops of six TSPs from the secretome (including the soluble excretory/secretory products, tegument and extracellular vesicles) of S. haematobium (Sh-TSP-2, Sh-TSP-4, Sh-TSP-5, Sh-TSP-6, Sh-TSP-18 and Sh-TSP-23) were expressed in a bacterial expression system and polyclonal antibodies were raised to the recombinant proteins to confirm the anatomical sites of expression within the parasite. Sh-TSP-2, and Sh-TSP-18 were identified on the tegument, whereas Sh-TSP-4, Sh-TSP-5, Sh-TSP-6 and Sh-TSP-23 were identified both on the tegument and internal tissues of adult parasites. The mRNAs encoding these TSPs were differentially expressed throughout all schistosome developmental stages tested. The potential diagnostic value of three of these Sh-TSPs was assessed using the urine of individuals (stratified by infection intensity) from an endemic area of Zimbabwe. The three Sh-TSPs were the targets of urine IgG responses in all cohorts, including individuals with very low levels of infection (those positive for circulating anodic antigen but negative for eggs by microscopy). This study provides new antigen candidates to immunologically diagnose S. haematobium infection, and the work presented here provides compelling evidence for the use of a biomarker signature to enhance the diagnostic capability of these tetraspanins. Schistosoma haematobium, the leading cause of urogenital schistosomiasis, affects millions of people worldwide. Infection with this parasite is associated with different clinical complications such as squamous cell carcinoma and genital malignancy in women. Despite its importance, there is a lack of sensitive and specific diagnostics that support control and elimination initiatives against this devastating disease. Herein, we have characterised six molecules belonging to the tetraspanin family of membrane proteins, providing details about their relative expression during parasite’s development and their localization in adult forms of S. haematobium. Furthermore, we have characterised the antibody responses against three of these molecules in urine from infected human subjects from an endemic area, providing compelling evidence for the use of these molecules to diagnose urogenital schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gebeyaw G. Mekonnen
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Bemnet A. Tedla
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Mark S. Pearson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
- * E-mail: (MSP); (AL); (JS)
| | - Luke Becker
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Matt Field
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health & Medicine and Centre for Tropical Bioinformatics and Molecular Biology, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
- Immunogenomics Lab, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Darlinghurst, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - Abena S. Amoah
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Malawi Epidemiology and Intervention Research Unit, Chilumba, Malawi
| | - Govert van Dam
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Paul L. A. M. Corstjens
- Department of Cell and Chemical Biology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Takafira Mduluza
- Biochemistry Department, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP167, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa Partnership, NIHR Global Health Research Unit, University of Zimbabwe, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Francisca Mutapi
- Tackling Infections to Benefit Africa Partnership, NIHR Global Health Research Unit, University of Zimbabwe, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Institute of Immunology & Infection Research, Ashworth Laboratories, University of Edinburgh, King’s Buildings, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
- * E-mail: (MSP); (AL); (JS)
| | - Javier Sotillo
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
- Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail: (MSP); (AL); (JS)
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Xian J, Zhao P, Wang N, Wang W, Zhang Y, Meng J, Ma X, Wang Z, Bo X. Molecular Characterization of a Tetraspanin TSP11 Gene in Echinococcus granulosus and Evaluation Its Immunoprotection in Model Dogs. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:759283. [PMID: 34869731 PMCID: PMC8635718 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.759283] [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: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a cosmopolitan zoonosis caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus granulosus, which affects humans and a wide range of mammalian intermediate hosts. Parasite tetraspanin proteins are crucial for host-parasite interactions, and therefore they may be useful for vaccine development or disease diagnosis. In the present study, the major antigen coding sequence of tetraspanin 11 (Eg-TSP11) from E. granulosus was determined. The results of immunolocalization showed that Eg-TSP11 was mainly located in the tegument of adult worms and protoscoleces. Western blotting analysis showed that the serum from dogs injected with recombinant Eg-TSP11 (rEg-TSP11) could recognize Eg-TSP11 among natural protoscolex proteins. Moreover, the serum from dogs with E. granulosus infection also recognized rEg-TSP11. Serum indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays demonstrated that IgG levels gradually increased after the first immunization with rEg-TSP11 compared with those in the control group. Furthermore, the serum levels of interleukin 4, interleukin 5, and interferon gamma were significantly altered in the rEg-TSP11 group. Importantly, we found that vaccination with rEg-TSP11 significantly decreased worm burden and inhibited segment development in a dog model of E. granulosus infection. Based on these findings, we speculated that rEg-TSP11 might be a potential candidate vaccine antigen against E. granulosus infection in dogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinwen Xian
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production/Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Pengpeng Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production/Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Ning Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production/Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Weiye Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production/Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Yanyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production/Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, China
| | - Jimeng Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production/Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, China
| | - Xun Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Shihezi University, Shihezi, China
| | - Zhengrong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production/Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, China
| | - Xinwen Bo
- State Key Laboratory of Sheep Genetic Improvement and Healthy Production/Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Sciences, Shihezi, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Fifty years of the schistosome tegument: discoveries, controversies, and outstanding questions. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:1213-1232. [PMID: 34767805 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The unique multilaminate appearance of the tegument surface of schistosomes was first described in 1973, in one of the earliest volumes of the International Journal for Parasitology. The present review, published almost 50 years later, traces the development of our knowledge of the tegument, starting with those earliest cytological advances, particularly the surface plasma membrane-membranocalyx complex, through an era of protein discovery to the modern age of protein characterization, aided by proteomics. More recently, analysis of single cell transcriptomes of schistosomes is providing insight into the organisation of the cell bodies that support the surface syncytium. Our understanding of the tegument, notably the nature of the proteins present within the plasma membrane and membranocalyx, has provided insights into how the schistosomes interact with their hosts but many aspects of how the tegument functions remain unanswered. Among the unresolved aspects are those concerned with maintenance and renewal of the surface membrane complex, and whether surface proteins and membrane components are recycled. Current controversies arising from investigations about whether the tegument is a source of extracellular vesicles during parasitism, and if it is covered with glycolytic enzymes, are evaluated in the light of cytological and proteomic knowledge of the layer.
Collapse
|
23
|
Gasan TA, Kuipers ME, Roberts GH, Padalino G, Forde-Thomas JE, Wilson S, Wawrzyniak J, Tukahebwa EM, Hoffmann KF, Chalmers IW. Schistosoma mansoni Larval Extracellular Vesicle protein 1 (SmLEV1) is an immunogenic antigen found in EVs released from pre-acetabular glands of invading cercariae. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009981. [PMID: 34793443 PMCID: PMC8639091 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) are an integral component of cellular/organismal communication and have been found in the excreted/secreted (ES) products of both protozoan and metazoan parasites. Within the blood fluke schistosomes, EVs have been isolated from egg, schistosomula, and adult lifecycle stages. However, the role(s) that EVs have in shaping aspects of parasite biology and/or manipulating host interactions is poorly defined. Herein, we characterise the most abundant EV-enriched protein in Schistosoma mansoni tissue-migrating schistosomula (Schistosoma mansoni Larval Extracellular Vesicle protein 1 (SmLEV1)). Comparative sequence analysis demonstrates that lev1 orthologs are found in all published Schistosoma genomes, yet homologs are not found outside of the Schistosomatidae. Lifecycle expression analyses collectively reveal that smlev1 transcription peaks in cercariae, is male biased in adults, and is processed by alternative splicing in intra-mammalian lifecycle stages. Immunohistochemistry of cercariae using a polyclonal anti-recombinant SmLEV1 antiserum localises this protein to the pre-acetabular gland, with some disperse localisation to the surface of the parasite. S. mansoni-infected Ugandan fishermen exhibit a strong IgG1 response against SmLEV1 (dropping significantly after praziquantel treatment), with 11% of the cohort exhibiting an IgE response and minimal levels of detectable antigen-specific IgG4. Furthermore, mice vaccinated with rSmLEV1 show a slightly reduced parasite burden upon challenge infection and significantly reduced granuloma volumes, compared with control animals. Collectively, these results describe SmLEV1 as a Schistosomatidae-specific, EV-enriched immunogen. Further investigations are now necessary to uncover the full extent of SmLEV1's role in shaping schistosome EV function and definitive host relationships.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas A. Gasan
- Institute of Biological, Environmental & Rural Sciences (IBERS), Aberystwyth University, Edward Llwyd Building, Aberystwyth, United Kingdom
| | - Marije E. Kuipers
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Grisial H. Roberts
- Institute of Biological, Environmental & Rural Sciences (IBERS), Aberystwyth University, Edward Llwyd Building, Aberystwyth, United Kingdom
| | - Gilda Padalino
- Institute of Biological, Environmental & Rural Sciences (IBERS), Aberystwyth University, Edward Llwyd Building, Aberystwyth, United Kingdom
| | - Josephine E. Forde-Thomas
- Institute of Biological, Environmental & Rural Sciences (IBERS), Aberystwyth University, Edward Llwyd Building, Aberystwyth, United Kingdom
| | - Shona Wilson
- University of Cambridge, Department of Pathology, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jakub Wawrzyniak
- University of Cambridge, Department of Pathology, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | - Karl F. Hoffmann
- Institute of Biological, Environmental & Rural Sciences (IBERS), Aberystwyth University, Edward Llwyd Building, Aberystwyth, United Kingdom
| | - Iain W. Chalmers
- Institute of Biological, Environmental & Rural Sciences (IBERS), Aberystwyth University, Edward Llwyd Building, Aberystwyth, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Barbosa MMF, Kanno AI, Barazzone GC, Rodriguez D, Pancakova V, Trentini M, Faquim-Mauro EL, Freitas AP, Khouri MI, Lobo-Silva J, Goncalves VM, Schenkman RPF, Tanizaki MM, Boraschi D, Malley R, Farias LP, Leite LCC. Robust Immune Response Induced by Schistosoma mansoni TSP-2 Antigen Coupled to Bacterial Outer Membrane Vesicles. Int J Nanomedicine 2021; 16:7153-7168. [PMID: 34712047 PMCID: PMC8548026 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s315786] [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: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The use of adjuvants can significantly strengthen a vaccine’s efficacy. We sought to explore the immunization efficacy of bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) displaying the Schistosoma mansoni antigen, SmTSP-2, through a biotin-rhizavidin coupling approach. The rationale is to exploit the nanoparticulate structure and the adjuvant properties of OMVs to induce a robust antigen-specific immune response, in light of developing new vaccines against S. mansoni. Materials and Methods OMVs were obtained from Neisseria lactamica and conjugated with biotin. The recombinant SmTSP-2 in fusion with the biotin-binding protein rhizavidin (rRzvSmTSP-2) was produced in E. coli and coupled to biotinylated OMVs to generate an OMV complex displaying SmTSP-2 on the membrane surface (OMV:rSmTSP-2). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering analysis were used to determine particle charge and size. The immunogenicity of the vaccine complex was evaluated in C57BL/6 mice. Results The rRzvSmTSP-2 protein was successfully coupled to biotinylated OMVs and purified by size-exclusion chromatography. The OMV:rSmTSP-2 nanoparticles showed an average size of 200 nm, with zeta potential around – 28 mV. Mouse Bone Marrow Dendritic Cells were activated by the nanoparticles as determined by increased expression of the co-stimulatory molecules CD40 and CD86, and the proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-12) or IL-10. Splenocytes of mice immunized with OMV:rSmTSP-2 nanoparticles reacted to an in vitro challenge with SmTSP-2 with an increased production of IL-6, IL-10 and IL-17 and displayed a higher number of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes expressing IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-2, compared to mice immunized with the antigen alone. Immunization of mice with OMV:rSmTSP-2 induced a 100-fold increase in specific anti-SmTSP-2 IgG antibody titers, as compared to the group receiving the recombinant rSmTSP-2 protein alone or even co-administered with unconjugated OMV. Conclusion Our results demonstrate that the SmTSP-2 antigen coupled with OMVs is highly immunogenic in mice, supporting the potential effectiveness of this platform for improved antigen delivery in novel vaccine strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayra M F Barbosa
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alex I Kanno
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giovana C Barazzone
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dunia Rodriguez
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Violeta Pancakova
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil.,Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 (UCBL1), Villeurbanne, 69100, France
| | - Monalisa Trentini
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Amanda P Freitas
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana I Khouri
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores e Inflamação, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Jessica Lobo-Silva
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores e Inflamação, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Viviane M Goncalves
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Martha M Tanizaki
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diana Boraschi
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biologia Cellulare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Napoli, Italy.,Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Napoli, Italy.,Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technologies (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, China Division of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard Malley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Leonardo P Farias
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores e Inflamação, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Luciana C C Leite
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Evaluation of Immunogenicity and Efficacy of Fasciola hepatica Tetraspanin 2 (TSP2) Fused to E. coli Heat-Labile Enterotoxin B Subunit LTB Adjuvant Following Intranasal Vaccination of Cattle. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9111213. [PMID: 34835144 PMCID: PMC8623123 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9111213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Fasciolosis, caused by the liver flukes Fasciola hepatica and F. gigantica, is an economically important and globally distributed zoonotic disease. Liver fluke infections in livestock cause significant losses in production and are of particular concern to regions where drug resistance is emerging. Antigens of the F. hepatica surface tegument represent promising vaccine candidates for controlling this disease. Tetraspanins are integral tegumental antigens that have shown partial protection as vaccine candidates against other trematode species. The Escherichia coli heat-labile enterotoxin's B subunit (LTB) is a potent mucosal adjuvant capable of inducing an immune response to fused antigens. This study investigates the potential of F. hepatica tetraspanin 2 extracellular loop 2 (rFhTSP2) as a protective vaccine antigen and determines if fusion of FhTSP2 to LTB can enhance protection in cattle. Cattle were immunised subcutaneously with rFhTSP2 mixed in the Freund's adjuvant and intranasally with rLTB-FhTSP2 in saline, accounting for equal molar ratios of tetraspanin in both groups. Vaccination with rFhTSP2 stimulated a strong specific serum IgG response, whereas there was no significant serum IgG response following rLTB-FhTSP2 intranasal vaccination. There was no substantial antigen specific serum IgA generated in all groups across the trial. Contrastingly, after the fluke challenge, a rise in antigen specific saliva IgA was observed in both vaccination groups on Day 42, with the rLTB-FhTSP2 vaccination group showing significant mucosal IgA production at Day 84. However, neither vaccine group showed a significant reduction of fluke burden nor faecal egg output. These results suggest that intranasal vaccination with rLTB-FhTSP2 does elicit a humoral mucosal response but further work is needed to evaluate if mucosal delivery of liver fluke antigens fused to LTB is a viable vaccine strategy.
Collapse
|
26
|
Drurey C, Maizels RM. Helminth extracellular vesicles: Interactions with the host immune system. Mol Immunol 2021; 137:124-133. [PMID: 34246032 PMCID: PMC8636279 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2021.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
As long-lived parasites, helminths depend upon immunomodulation of their hosts for survival. The release of excretory-secretory (ES) products, including proteins, lipids and RNAs is how successful host manipulation is achieved. It has recently been discovered that the ES products of helminths contain extracellular vesicles (EVs), with every species investigated found to secrete these lipid-bound structures. EVs are perfect for packaging and delivering immune modulators to target cell types. This review outlines the research carried out on helminth EVs and their constituents thus far, as well as their interaction with components of the mammalian immune system. We discuss how targeting EVs will aid treatment of helminth infection and consider how EVs and their immunomodulatory cargo could be used as therapeutics as we progress through this exciting era.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire Drurey
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, UK
| | - Rick M Maizels
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
McManus DP. The Search for a Schistosomiasis Vaccine: Australia's Contribution. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9080872. [PMID: 34451997 PMCID: PMC8402410 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9080872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic flatworms of the genus Schistosoma, results in considerable human morbidity in sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, but also parts of the Middle East, South America, and Southeast Asia. The anti-schistosome drug praziquantel is efficacious and safe against the adult parasites of all Schistosoma species infecting humans; however, it does not prevent reinfection and the development of drug resistance is a constant concern. The need to develop an effective vaccine is of great importance if the health of many in the developing world is to be improved. Indeed, vaccination, in combination with other public health measures, can provide an invaluable tool to achieve lasting control, leading to schistosomiasis elimination. Australia has played a leading role in schistosomiasis vaccine research over many years and this review presents an overview of some of the significant contributions made by Australian scientists in this important area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donald P McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane 4006, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Panzner U, Excler JL, Kim JH, Marks F, Carter D, Siddiqui AA. Recent Advances and Methodological Considerations on Vaccine Candidates for Human Schistosomiasis. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2021; 2:719369. [PMID: 39280170 PMCID: PMC11392908 DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2021.719369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis remains a neglected tropical disease of major public health concern with high levels of morbidity in various parts of the world. Although considerable efforts in implementing mass drug administration programs utilizing praziquantel have been deployed, schistosomiasis is still not contained. A vaccine may therefore be an essential part of multifaceted prevention control efforts. In the 1990s, a joint United Nations committee promoting parasite vaccines shortlisted promising candidates including for schistosomiasis discussed below. After examining the complexity of immune responses in human hosts infected with schistosomes, we review and discuss the antigen design and preclinical and clinical development of the four leading vaccine candidates: Sm-TSP-2 in Phase 1b/2b, Sm14 in Phase 2a/2b, Sm-p80 in Phase 1 preparation, and Sh28GST in Phase 3. Our assessment of currently leading vaccine candidates revealed some methodological issues that preclude a fair comparison between candidates and the rationale to advance in clinical development. These include (1) variability in animal models - in particular non-human primate studies - and predictive values of each for protection in humans; (2) lack of consensus on the assessment of parasitological and immunological parameters; (3) absence of reliable surrogate markers of protection; (4) lack of well-designed parasitological and immunological natural history studies in the context of mass drug administration with praziquantel. The controlled human infection model - while promising and unique - requires validation against efficacy outcomes in endemic settings. Further research is also needed on the impact of advanced adjuvants targeting specific parts of the innate immune system that may induce potent, protective and durable immune responses with the ultimate goal of achieving meaningful worm reduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Panzner
- International Vaccine Institute, Seoul, South Korea
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Jerome H Kim
- International Vaccine Institute, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Florian Marks
- International Vaccine Institute, Seoul, South Korea
- Cambridge Institute of Therapeutic Immunology and Infectious Disease, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- University of Antananarivo, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | | | - Afzal A Siddiqui
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Oni BA, Sanni SE, Dahunsi SO, Egere BC. Decaffeination of wastewater using activated carbon produced from velvet tamarind-pericarp ( Dialium Guineense). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOREMEDIATION 2021; 24:394-408. [PMID: 34282953 DOI: 10.1080/15226514.2021.1950118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Adsorption of caffeine from an aqueous solution was carried out using Velvet Tamarind-Pericarp, activated with H3PO4. The adsorbent was characterized using a scanning-electron microscope and the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller. Parameters such as activating agent concentration (80 wt.% in 100 mL solution), initial caffeine concentration of 5-40 g/L, pH of 0-14, and residence time 0-90 minutes, were investigated. Improved adsorptive capacities were seen at increased acid concentrations, with the highest removal rate obtained at a pH of 6. The highest residence time and adsorbent concentrations were obtained at 40 min and 10 g/L. The surface adsorption of the adsorbent obeyed the Langmuir Isotherm, while the regression coefficients conformed to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model for the remediation of caffeine with DG-AC. The highest amount of caffeine removed per gram DG is 72.60 mg.g-1. From the thermodynamic study, the caffeine adsorption was feasible, spontaneous, entropy-driven, and endothermic. These data show that the use of DG-AC can be a good alternative to other expensive methods for caffeine remediation. The Pseudo - first/second-order kinetic results gave R2 values of 0.95 and 0.99, other parameters such as entropy (ΔS°) and enthalpy (ΔH°) are 0.06 (kJmolK) and (19.21) (kJmolK).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Babalola Aisosa Oni
- Department of Chemical Engineering, China University of Petroleum, Beijing City, China
| | | | - Samuel Olatunde Dahunsi
- Microbiology Programme, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Qokoyi NK, Masamba P, Kappo AP. Proteins as Targets in Anti-Schistosomal Drug Discovery and Vaccine Development. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:762. [PMID: 34358178 PMCID: PMC8310332 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9070762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteins hardly function in isolation; they form complexes with other proteins or molecules to mediate cell signaling and control cellular processes in various organisms. Protein interactions control mechanisms that lead to normal and/or disease states. The use of competitive small molecule inhibitors to disrupt disease-relevant protein-protein interactions (PPIs) holds great promise for the development of new drugs. Schistosome invasion of the human host involves a variety of cross-species protein interactions. The pathogen expresses specific proteins that not only facilitate the breach of physical and biochemical barriers present in skin, but also evade the immune system and digestion of human hemoglobin, allowing for survival in the host for years. However, only a small number of specific protein interactions between the host and parasite have been functionally characterized; thus, in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms of these interactions is a key component in the development of new treatment methods. Efforts are now focused on developing a schistosomiasis vaccine, as a proposed better strategy used either alone or in combination with Praziquantel to control and eliminate this disease. This review will highlight protein interactions in schistosomes that can be targeted by specific PPI inhibitors for the design of an alternative treatment to Praziquantel.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Abidemi Paul Kappo
- Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology (MBSB) Group, Department of Biochemistry, Kingsway Campus, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa; (N.K.Q.); (P.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Panzner U, Boissier J. Natural Intra- and Interclade Human Hybrid Schistosomes in Africa with Considerations on Prevention through Vaccination. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9071465. [PMID: 34361901 PMCID: PMC8305539 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9071465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Causal agents of schistosomiasis are dioecious, digenean schistosomes affecting mankind in 76 countries. Preventive measures are manifold but need to be complemented by vaccination for long-term protection; vaccine candidates in advanced pre-clinical/clinical stages include Sm14, Sm-TSP-2/Sm-TSP-2Al®, Smp80/SchistoShield®, and Sh28GST/Bilhvax®. Natural and anthropogenic changes impact on breaking species isolation barriers favoring introgressive hybridization, i.e., allelic exchange among gene pools of sympatric, interbreeding species leading to instant large genetic diversity. Phylogenetic distance matters, thus the less species differ phylogenetically the more likely they hybridize. PubMed and Embase databases were searched for publications limited to hybridale confirmation by mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase (COX) and/or nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS). Human schistosomal hybrids are predominantly reported from West Africa with clustering in the Senegal River Basin, and scattering to Europe, Central and Eastern Africa. Noteworthy is the dominance of Schistosoma haematobium interbreeding with human and veterinary species leading due to hybrid vigor to extinction and homogenization as seen for S. guineensis in Cameroon and S. haematobium in Niger, respectively. Heterosis seems to advantage S. haematobium/S. bovis interbreeds with dominant S. haematobium-ITS/S. bovis-COX1 profile to spread from West to East Africa and reoccur in France. S. haematobium/S. mansoni interactions seen among Senegalese and Côte d’Ivoirian children are unexpected due to their high phylogenetic distance. Detecting pure S. bovis and S. bovis/S. curassoni crosses capable of infecting humans observed in Corsica and Côte d’Ivoire, and Niger, respectively, is worrisome. Taken together, species hybridization urges control and preventive measures targeting human and veterinary sectors in line with the One-Health concept to be complemented by vaccination protecting against transmission, infection, and disease recurrence. Functional and structural diversity of naturally occurring human schistosomal hybrids may impact current vaccine candidates requiring further research including natural history studies in endemic areas targeted for clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Panzner
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, University of Basel, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-176-6657-2910
| | - Jerome Boissier
- IHPE, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, University of Perpignan, 66860 Perpignan, France;
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Li WH, Yang Y, Zhang NZ, Wang JK, Liu YJ, Li L, Yan HB, Jia WZ, Fu B. Comparative Transcriptome Analyses of the Developmental Stages of Taenia multiceps. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:677045. [PMID: 34291101 PMCID: PMC8287169 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.677045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral coenurosis, caused by the larvae of Taenia multiceps (Coenurus cerebralis), is a fatal central nervous system disease in sheep and other herbivores and occasionally humans. Comparative transcriptomic profiles of the developmental stages of the parasite remain unknown. In this study, RNA sequencing was used to determine the transcriptome profiles of different stages of the life cycle of T. multiceps, including Oncosphere, Coenurus cerebralis (Pro with Cyst), and Adult (Adu), as well as scolex-neck proglottids (Snp), immature–mature proglottids (Imp), and gravid proglottids (Grp) of the adult stage. A total of 42.6 Gb (average 6.1 Gb) Illumina pair-end reads with a 125-bp read length were generated for seven samples. The total number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the various life stages ranged from 2,577 to 3,879; however, for the tissues of the adult worm, the range was from 1,229 to 1,939. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis showed that the DEGs mainly participated in cellular and metabolic processes, binding and catalytic activity, genetic information processing, and environmental information processing. In addition, a large number of genes related to development and parasite–host interaction were identified. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction confirmed that the levels of 28 selected DEGs were consistent with those determined using RNA sequencing. The present study provides insights into the mechanisms of the development and parasitic life of T. multiceps.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Hui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Wuhan Animal Disease Prevention and Control Center, Wuhan, China
| | - Nian-Zhang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jian-Kui Wang
- Center for Animal Disease Control and Prevention of Qilihe District, Lanzhou, China
| | - Yin-Ju Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, China
| | - Li Li
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hong-Bin Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, China
| | - Wan-Zhong Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, China
| | - Baoquan Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Lanzhou, China.,Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Barbosa MMF, Kanno AI, Pancakova V, Gonçalves VM, Malley R, Faria LP, Leite LCC. Optimization of Expression and Purification of Schistosoma mansoni Antigens in Fusion with Rhizavidin. Mol Biotechnol 2021; 63:983-991. [PMID: 34165770 PMCID: PMC8223184 DOI: 10.1007/s12033-021-00355-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis causes significant morbidity and mortality. Vaccine efforts to date indicate the need to increase the immunogenicity of Schistosoma antigens. The multiple antigen-presenting system, whereby proteins are genetically fused to rhizavidin and affinity linked to biotinylated templates, enables the generation of robust immune responses. The objective of this work was to express and purify the S. mansoni antigens, SmTSP-2 and SmCD59.2, in fusion with rhizavidin. The fusion with rhizavidin greatly decreased the expression level of rSmTSP-2, but not rSmCD59.2, and both were expressed in the insoluble fraction, requiring optimization of culture conditions. Evaluation of different E. coli strains and media showed that BL21-DE3 cultured in Terrific Broth provided the highest expression levels of both proteins. Investigation of a range of time and temperature of induction showed that E. coli strains expressing rRzv:SmTSP-2 and rRzv:SmCD59.2 showed the highest protein production at 23 °C for 15 h. Recombinant proteins were purified by a single step of affinity chromatography allowing isolation of these proteins in high concentration and purity. The optimization process increased final soluble protein yield of rRzv:SmTSP-2 by fourfold and rRzv:SmCD59.2 by tenfold, providing ~ 20 mg/L of each protein. Optimized fusion protein production will allow antigen use in biotin–rhizavidin affinity platforms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayra M F Barbosa
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil 1500, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Alex I Kanno
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil 1500, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Violeta Pancakova
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil 1500, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,UnivLyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 (UCBL1), 69100, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Viviane M Gonçalves
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil 1500, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Richard Malley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, USA
| | - Leonardo P Faria
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores e Inflamação, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Luciana C C Leite
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, Av. Vital Brasil 1500, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Al-Naseri A, Al-Absi S, El Ridi R, Mahana N. A comprehensive and critical overview of schistosomiasis vaccine candidates. J Parasit Dis 2021; 45:557-580. [PMID: 33935395 PMCID: PMC8068781 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01387-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A digenetic platyhelminth Schistosoma is the causative agent of schistosomiasis, one of the neglected tropical diseases that affect humans and animals in numerous countries in the Middle East, sub-Saharan Africa, South America and China. Several control methods were used for prevention of infection or treatment of acute and chronic disease. Mass drug administration led to reduction in heavy-intensity infections and morbidity, but failed to decrease schistosomiasis prevalence and eliminate transmission, indicating the need to develop anti-schistosome vaccine to prevent infection and parasite transmission. This review summarizes the efficacy and protective capacity of available schistosomiasis vaccine candidates with some insights and future prospects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aya Al-Naseri
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo Univesity, Giza, 12613 Egypt
| | - Samar Al-Absi
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo Univesity, Giza, 12613 Egypt
| | - Rashika El Ridi
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo Univesity, Giza, 12613 Egypt
| | - Noha Mahana
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo Univesity, Giza, 12613 Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Ulrychová L, Ostašov P, Chanová M, Mareš M, Horn M, Dvořák J. Spatial expression pattern of serine proteases in the blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni determined by fluorescence RNA in situ hybridization. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:274. [PMID: 34022917 PMCID: PMC8140508 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04773-8] [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: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The blood flukes of genus Schistosoma are the causative agent of schistosomiasis, a parasitic disease that infects more than 200 million people worldwide. Proteases of schistosomes are involved in critical steps of host–parasite interactions and are promising therapeutic targets. We recently identified and characterized a group of S1 family Schistosoma mansoni serine proteases, including SmSP1 to SmSP5. Expression levels of some SmSPs in S. mansoni are low, and by standard genome sequencing technologies they are marginally detectable at the method threshold levels. Here, we report their spatial gene expression patterns in adult S. mansoni by the high-sensitivity localization assay. Methodology Highly sensitive fluorescence in situ RNA hybridization (FISH) was modified and used for the localization of mRNAs encoding individual SmSP proteases (including low-expressed SmSPs) in tissues of adult worms. High sensitivity was obtained due to specifically prepared tissue and probes in combination with the employment of a signal amplification approach. The assay method was validated by detecting the expression patterns of a set of relevant reference genes including SmCB1, SmPOP, SmTSP-2, and Sm29 with localization formerly determined by other techniques. Results FISH analysis revealed interesting expression patterns of SmSPs distributed in multiple tissues of S. mansoni adults. The expression patterns of individual SmSPs were distinct but in part overlapping and were consistent with existing transcriptome sequencing data. The exception were genes with significantly low expression, which were also localized in tissues where they had not previously been detected by RNA sequencing methods. In general, SmSPs were found in various tissues including reproductive organs, parenchymal cells, esophagus, and the tegumental surface. Conclusions The FISH-based assay provided spatial information about the expression of five SmSPs in adult S. mansoni females and males. This highly sensitive method allowed visualization of low-abundantly expressed genes that are below the detection limits of standard in situ hybridization or by RNA sequencing. Thus, this technical approach turned out to be suitable for sensitive localization studies and may also be applicable for other trematodes. The results suggest that SmSPs may play roles in diverse processes of the parasite. Certain SmSPs expressed at the surface may be involved in host–parasite interactions. Graphic abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04773-8.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Ulrychová
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610, Prague, Czech Republic.,Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Viničná 7, 12844, Prague 2, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Ostašov
- Biomedical Center, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Alej Svobody 1655/76, 32300, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Chanová
- Institute of Immunology and Microbiology, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Studničkova 2028/7, 12800, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Mareš
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Horn
- Institute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Flemingovo n. 2, 16610, Prague, Czech Republic.
| | - Jan Dvořák
- Department of Zoology and Fisheries, Centre of Infectious Animal Diseases, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague, Kamýcká 129, 16500, Prague 6, Czech Republic.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Abreu FC, Mota EA, Pereira RV, Oliveira VF, Costa MP, Gomes MDS, Jannotti-Passos LK, Borges WC, Guerra-Sá R. Differential expression profiles of miRNAs and their putative targets in Schistosoma mansoni during its life cycle. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2021; 116:e200326. [PMID: 34008737 PMCID: PMC8128373 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760200326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis is a disease caused by Schistosoma. Due to its complex life cycle, evolutionary position and sexual dimorphism, schistosomes have several mechanisms of gene regulation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short endogenous RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level by targeting mRNA transcripts. OBJECTIVES Here, we tested 12 miRNAs and identified their putative targets using a computational approach. METHODS We performed the expression profiles of a set of miRNAs and their putative targets during the parasite's life cycle by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). FINDINGS Our results showed differential expression patterns of the mature miRNAs sma-miR-250; sma-miR-92a; sma-miR-new_4-3p; sma-miR-new_4-5p; sma-miR-new_5-5p; sma-miR-new_12-5p; sma-miR-new_13-3p and sma-miR-new_13-5p. Interestingly, many of the putative target genes are linked to oxidative phosphorylation and are up-regulated in adult-worms, which led us to suggest that miRNAs might play important roles in the post-transcriptional regulation of genes related to energetic metabolism inversion during parasite development. It is noteworthy that the expression of sma-miR-new_13-3p exhibited a negative correlation on SmNADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase complex I. MAIN CONCLUSIONS Our analysis revealed putative miRNA genes related to important biological processes, such as transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling, proteasome regulation, glucose and lipid metabolism, immune system evasion and transcriptional regulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabiano Cp Abreu
- Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas, Ouro Preto, MG, Brasil
| | - Ester Alves Mota
- Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas, Ouro Preto, MG, Brasil
| | - Roberta V Pereira
- Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas, Ouro Preto, MG, Brasil
| | - Victor F Oliveira
- Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas, Ouro Preto, MG, Brasil
| | - Marcela P Costa
- Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas, Ouro Preto, MG, Brasil
| | - Matheus de S Gomes
- Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Instituto de Genética e Bioquímica, Patos de Minas, MG, Brasil
| | | | - William C Borges
- Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas, Ouro Preto, MG, Brasil
| | - Renata Guerra-Sá
- Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas, Ouro Preto, MG, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Carrera-Bravo C, Koh EY, Tan KSW. The roles of parasite-derived extracellular vesicles in disease and host-parasite communication. Parasitol Int 2021; 83:102373. [PMID: 33933651 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, several parasites have been shown to interact with their hosts through intra- and inter-community communication mechanisms, which were identified to be mediated by extracellular vesicles (EVs) through various uptake mechanisms. EVs are a heterogenous group of nanoparticles (~30-5000 nm) classified into three main types according to their size and biogenesis. EVs contain proteins, lipids, nucleic acids and metabolites from the cell of origin which are essential for genetic exchange, biomarker identification and diagnosis of pathological diseases. As important "forward lines of parasite infectivity", the parasite-secreted EVs function as information transmitters in the early-stage of host-parasite interaction and subsequent host-cell colonization. For this review, we summarize from the literature the relevance of EVs to the pathogenesis and development of human parasitic protistan diseases such as giardiasis, leishmaniasis, amoebiasis, malaria and Blastocystis-mediated gut pathology. Specific in vitro and in vivo interactions of the parasite-EVs and the host, with the reported cellular and immunological outcomes are discussed in this review. EVs have great potential to be further developed as diagnostic, immunomodulation and therapeutic alternatives to fill the knowledge gaps in the current parasitic diseases discussed in this review. Nanomedicine and vaccine development could be explored, with the utilization and/or modification of the parasitic EVs as novel treatment and prevention strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Carrera-Bravo
- Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, MD4, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117545, Singapore; A*STAR Infectious Diseases Labs, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Immunos, Biopolis, Singapore 138648, Singapore.
| | - Eileen Y Koh
- Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, MD4, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117545, Singapore
| | - Kevin S W Tan
- Healthy Longevity Translational Research Programme, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, MD4, 5 Science Drive 2, Singapore 117545, Singapore.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Phumrattanaprapin W, Chaiyadet S, Brindley PJ, Pearson M, Smout MJ, Loukas A, Laha T. Orally Administered Bacillus Spores Expressing an Extracellular Vesicle-Derived Tetraspanin Protect Hamsters Against Challenge Infection With Carcinogenic Human Liver Fluke. J Infect Dis 2021; 223:1445-1455. [PMID: 32813017 PMCID: PMC8064041 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini is a food-borne trematode that causes hepatobiliary disease in humans throughout Southeast Asia. People become infected by consuming raw or undercooked fish containing metacercariae. Development of a vaccine to prevent or minimize pathology would decrease the risk of severe morbidity, including the development of bile duct cancer. METHODS We produced an oral vaccine based on recombinant Bacillus subtilis spores expressing the large extracellular loop (LEL) of O. viverrini tetraspanin-2 (Ov-TSP-2), a protein that is abundant on the surface of O. viverrini secreted extracellular vesicles (EVs). Recombinant spores expressing Ov-TSP-2-LEL were orally administered to hamsters prior to challenge infection with O. viverrini metacercariae. RESULTS Vaccinated hamsters generated serum IgG as well as bile IgG and IgA responses to Ov-TSP-2-LEL, and serum IgG from vaccinated hamsters blocked the uptake of fluke EVs by a human bile duct epithelial cell line. Vaccinated hamsters had 56% reductions in both adult flukes and fecal eggs compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that oral vaccination of hamsters with recombinant B. subtilis spores expressing Ov-TSP-2-LEL is efficacious at reducing infection intensity and could form the basis of a vaccine for control of carcinogenic liver fluke infection in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sujittra Chaiyadet
- Tropical Medicine Graduate Program, Academic Affairs, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Paul J Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Mark Pearson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael J Smout
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Thewarach Laha
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Barbosa MMF, Kanno AI, Farias LP, Madej M, Sipos G, Sbrana S, Romani L, Boraschi D, Leite LCC, Italiani P. Primary and Memory Response of Human Monocytes to Vaccines: Role of Nanoparticulate Antigens in Inducing Innate Memory. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 11:931. [PMID: 33917456 PMCID: PMC8067467 DOI: 10.3390/nano11040931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Innate immune cells such as monocytes and macrophages are activated in response to microbial and other challenges and mount an inflammatory defensive response. Exposed cells develop the so-called innate memory, which allows them to react differently to a subsequent challenge, aiming at better protection. In this study, using human primary monocytes in vitro, we have assessed the memory-inducing capacity of two antigenic molecules of Schistosoma mansoni in soluble form compared to the same molecules coupled to outer membrane vesicles of Neisseria lactamica. The results show that particulate challenges are much more efficient than soluble molecules in inducing innate memory, which is measured as the production of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines (TNFα, IL-6, IL-10). Controls run with LPS from Klebsiella pneumoniae compared to the whole bacteria show that while LPS alone has strong memory-inducing capacity, the entire bacteria are more efficient. These data suggest that microbial antigens that are unable to induce innate immune activation can nevertheless participate in innate activation and memory when in a particulate form, which is a notion that supports the use of nanoparticulate antigens in vaccination strategies for achieving adjuvant-like effects of innate activation as well as priming for improved reactivity to future challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayra M. Ferrari Barbosa
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP 05503-900, Brazil; (M.M.F.B.); (A.I.K.)
| | - Alex Issamu Kanno
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP 05503-900, Brazil; (M.M.F.B.); (A.I.K.)
| | - Leonardo Paiva Farias
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Biomarcadores, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, BA 40296-710, Brazil;
| | - Mariusz Madej
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biologia Cellulare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Gergö Sipos
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biologia Cellulare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Silverio Sbrana
- Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 54100 Massa, Italy;
| | - Luigina Romani
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Diana Boraschi
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biologia Cellulare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (M.M.); (G.S.)
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, 80121 Napoli, Italy
| | - Luciana C. C. Leite
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP 05503-900, Brazil; (M.M.F.B.); (A.I.K.)
| | - Paola Italiani
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biologia Cellulare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (M.M.); (G.S.)
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, 80121 Napoli, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Driciru E, Koopman JPR, Cose S, Siddiqui AA, Yazdanbakhsh M, Elliott AM, Roestenberg M. Immunological Considerations for Schistosoma Vaccine Development: Transitioning to Endemic Settings. Front Immunol 2021; 12:635985. [PMID: 33746974 PMCID: PMC7970007 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.635985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite mass drug administration programmes with praziquantel, the prevalence of schistosomiasis remains high. A vaccine is urgently needed to control transmission of this debilitating disease. As some promising schistosomiasis vaccine candidates are moving through pre-clinical and clinical testing, we review the immunological challenges that these vaccine candidates may encounter in transitioning through the clinical trial phases in endemic settings. Prior exposure of the target population to schistosomes and other infections may impact vaccine response and efficacy and therefore requires considerable attention. Schistosomes are known for their potential to induce T-reg/IL-10 mediated immune suppression in populations which are chronically infected. Moreover, endemicity of schistosomiasis is focal whereby target and trial populations may exhibit several degrees of prior exposure as well as in utero exposure which may increase heterogeneity of vaccine responses. The age dependent distribution of exposure and development of acquired immunity, and general differences in the baseline immunological profile, adds to the complexity of selecting suitable trial populations. Similarly, prior or concurrent infections with other parasitic helminths, viral and bacterial infections, may alter immunological responses. Consequently, treatment of co-infections may benefit the immunogenicity of vaccines and may be considered despite logistical challenges. On the other hand, viral infections leave a life-long immunological imprint on the human host. Screening for serostatus may be needed to facilitate interpretation of vaccine responses. Co-delivery of schistosome vaccines with PZQ is attractive from a perspective of implementation but may complicate the immunogenicity of schistosomiasis vaccines. Several studies have reported PZQ treatment to induce both transient and long-term immuno-modulatory effects as a result of tegument destruction, worm killing and subsequent exposure of worm antigens to the host immune system. These in turn may augment or antagonize vaccine immunogenicity. Understanding the complex immunological interactions between vaccine, co-infections or prior exposure is essential in early stages of clinical development to facilitate phase 3 clinical trial design and implementation policies. Besides well-designed studies in different target populations using schistosome candidate vaccines or other vaccines as models, controlled human infections could also help identify markers of immune protection in populations with different disease and immunological backgrounds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuella Driciru
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Stephen Cose
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Afzal A. Siddiqui
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University School of Medicine, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Alison M. Elliott
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Meta Roestenberg
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Farias LP, Vance GM, Coulson PS, Vitoriano-Souza J, Neto APDS, Wangwiwatsin A, Neves LX, Castro-Borges W, McNicholas S, Wilson KS, Leite LCC, Wilson RA. Epitope Mapping of Exposed Tegument and Alimentary Tract Proteins Identifies Putative Antigenic Targets of the Attenuated Schistosome Vaccine. Front Immunol 2021; 11:624613. [PMID: 33763055 PMCID: PMC7982949 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.624613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The radiation-attenuated cercarial vaccine remains the gold standard for the induction of protective immunity against Schistosoma mansoni. Furthermore, the protection can be passively transferred to naïve recipient mice from multiply vaccinated donors, especially IFNgR KO mice. We have used such sera versus day 28 infection serum, to screen peptide arrays and identify likely epitopes that mediate the protection. The arrays encompassed 55 secreted or exposed proteins from the alimentary tract and tegument, the principal interfaces with the host bloodstream. The proteins were printed onto glass slides as overlapping 15mer peptides, reacted with primary and secondary antibodies, and reactive regions detected using an Agilent array scanner. Pep Slide Analyzer software provided a numerical value above background for each peptide from which an aggregate score could be derived for a putative epitope. The reactive regions of 26 proteins were mapped onto crystal structures using the CCP4 molecular graphics, to aid selection of peptides with the greatest accessibility and reactivity, prioritizing vaccine over infection serum. A further eight MEG proteins were mapped to regions conserved between family members. The result is a list of priority peptides from 44 proteins for further investigation in multiepitope vaccine constructs and as targets of monoclonal antibodies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo P. Farias
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gillian M. Vance
- York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Patricia S. Coulson
- York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | | | - Almiro Pires da Silva Neto
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Biomarcadores, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Arporn Wangwiwatsin
- Parasite Genomics, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Leandro Xavier Neves
- Instituto de Ciẽncias Exatas e Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Brazil
| | - William Castro-Borges
- Instituto de Ciẽncias Exatas e Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Brazil
| | - Stuart McNicholas
- York Structural Biology Laboratory, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Keith S. Wilson
- York Structural Biology Laboratory, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Luciana C. C. Leite
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - R. Alan Wilson
- York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Schistosoma mansoni alter transcription of immunomodulatory gene products following in vivo praziquantel exposure. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009200. [PMID: 33657133 PMCID: PMC7959349 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Control of the neglected tropical disease schistosomiasis relies almost entirely on praziquantel (PZQ) monotherapy. How PZQ clears parasite infections remains poorly understood. Many studies have examined the effects of PZQ on worms cultured in vitro, observing outcomes such as muscle contraction. However, conditions worms are exposed to in vivo may vary considerably from in vitro experiments given the short half-life of PZQ and the importance of host immune system engagement for drug efficacy in animal models. Here, we investigated the effects of in vivo PZQ exposure on Schistosoma mansoni. Measurement of pro-apoptotic caspase activation revealed that worm death occurs only after parasites shift from the mesenteric vasculature to the liver, peaking 24 hours after drug treatment. This indicates that PZQ is not directly schistocidal, since PZQ’s half-life is ~2 hours in humans and ~30 minutes in mice, and focuses attention on parasite interactions with the host immune system following the shift of worms to the liver. RNA-Seq of worms harvested from mouse livers following sub-lethal PZQ treatment revealed drug-evoked changes in the expression of putative immunomodulatory and anticoagulant gene products. Several of these gene products localized to the schistosome esophagus and may be secreted into the host circulation. These include several Kunitz-type protease inhibitors, which are also found in the secretomes of other blood feeding animals. These transcriptional changes may reflect mechanisms of parasite immune-evasion in response to chemotherapy, given the role of complement-mediated attack and the host innate/humoral immune response in parasite elimination. One of these isoforms, SmKI-1, has been shown to exhibit immunomodulatory and anti-coagulant properties. These data provide insight into the effect of in vivo PZQ exposure on S. mansoni, and the transcriptional response of parasites to the stress of chemotherapy. The disease schistosomiasis is caused by parasitic worms that live within the circulatory system. While this disease infects over 200 million people worldwide, treatment relies almost entirely on one drug, praziquantel, whose mechanism is poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed the effects of praziquantel treatment on the gene expression of parasites harvested from mice treated with praziquantel chemotherapy. Despite the rapid action of the drug on worms in vitro, we found that key outcomes in vivo (measurement of cell death and changes in gene expression) occurred relatively late (12+ hours after drug administration). We found that worms increased the expression of immunomodulatory gene products in response to praziquantel, including a Kunitz-type protease inhibitor that localized to the worm esophagus and may be secreted to the external host environment. These are an intriguing class of proteins, because they display anti-coagulant and immunomodulatory properties. Up-regulation of these gene products may reflect a parasite mechanism of immune-evasion in response to chemotherapy. This research provides insight into the mechanism of praziquantel by observing the effect of this drug on worms within the context of the host immune system.
Collapse
|
43
|
Sanches RCO, Tiwari S, Ferreira LCG, Oliveira FM, Lopes MD, Passos MJF, Maia EHB, Taranto AG, Kato R, Azevedo VAC, Lopes DO. Immunoinformatics Design of Multi-Epitope Peptide-Based Vaccine Against Schistosoma mansoni Using Transmembrane Proteins as a Target. Front Immunol 2021; 12:621706. [PMID: 33737928 PMCID: PMC7961083 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.621706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis remains a serious health issue nowadays for an estimated one billion people in 79 countries around the world. Great efforts have been made to identify good vaccine candidates during the last decades, but only three molecules reached clinical trials so far. The reverse vaccinology approach has become an attractive option for vaccine design, especially regarding parasites like Schistosoma spp. that present limitations for culture maintenance. This strategy also has prompted the construction of multi-epitope based vaccines, with great immunological foreseen properties as well as being less prone to contamination, autoimmunity, and allergenic responses. Therefore, in this study we applied a robust immunoinformatics approach, targeting S. mansoni transmembrane proteins, in order to construct a chimeric antigen. Initially, the search for all hypothetical transmembrane proteins in GeneDB provided a total of 584 sequences. Using the PSORT II and CCTOP servers we reduced this to 37 plasma membrane proteins, from which extracellular domains were used for epitope prediction. Nineteen common MHC-I and MHC-II binding epitopes, from eight proteins, comprised the final multi-epitope construct, along with suitable adjuvants. The final chimeric multi-epitope vaccine was predicted as prone to induce B-cell and IFN-γ based immunity, as well as presented itself as stable and non-allergenic molecule. Finally, molecular docking and molecular dynamics foresee stable interactions between the putative antigen and the immune receptor TLR 4. Our results indicate that the multi-epitope vaccine might stimulate humoral and cellular immune responses and could be a potential vaccine candidate against schistosomiasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo C. O. Sanches
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Brazil
| | - Sandeep Tiwari
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioinformática, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Laís C. G. Ferreira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Brazil
| | - Flávio M. Oliveira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Brazil
| | - Marcelo D. Lopes
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Brazil
| | - Maria J. F. Passos
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Brazil
| | - Eduardo H. B. Maia
- Laboratório de Química Farmacêutica Medicinal, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Brazil
- Centro Federal de Educação Tecnológica de Minas Gerais (CEFET-MG), Divinópolis, Brazil
| | - Alex G. Taranto
- Laboratório de Química Farmacêutica Medicinal, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Kato
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioinformática, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Vasco A. C. Azevedo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioinformática, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Debora O. Lopes
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular, Universidade Federal de São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Lu G, Shan S, Zainab B, Ayaz Z, He J, Xie Z, Rashid U, Zhang D, Mehmood Abbasi A. Novel vaccine design based on genomics data analysis: A review. Scand J Immunol 2021; 93:e12986. [PMID: 33043473 DOI: 10.1111/sji.12986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Modification of pathogenic strains with the passage of time is responsible for evolution in the timeline of vaccine development for last 30 years. Recent advancements in computational vaccinology on the one hand and genome sequencing approaches on the other have generated new hopes in vaccine development. The aim of this review was to discuss the evolution of vaccines, their characteristics and limitations. In this review, we highlighted the evolution of vaccines, from first generation to the current status, pointing out how different vaccines have emerged and different approaches that are being followed up in the development of more rational vaccines against a wide range of diseases. Data were collected using Google Scholar, Web of Science, Science Direct, Web of Knowledge, Scopus and Science Hub, whereas computational tools such as NCBI, GeneMANIA and STRING were used to analyse the pathways of vaccine action. Innovative tools, such as computational tools, recombinant technologies and intra-dermal devices, are currently being investigated in order to improve the immunological response. New technologies enlightened the interactions of host proteins with pathogenic proteins for vaccine candidate development, but still there is a need of integrating transcriptomic and proteomic approaches. Although immunization with genomics data is a successful approach, its advantages must be assessed case by case and its applicability depends on the nature of the agent to be immunized, the nature of the antigen and the type of immune response required to achieve effective protection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guangli Lu
- Institute of Business, School of Business, Henan University, Henan, China
| | - Sharui Shan
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinan University (Guangzhou Overseas Chinese Hospital), Guangzhou, China
- Department of Rehabilitation, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bibi Zainab
- Department of Environmental Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Zainab Ayaz
- Department of Environmental Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Jialiang He
- School of Food and Bioengineering, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, China
| | - Zhenxing Xie
- Basic School of Medicine, Henan University, Kaifeng, China
| | - Umer Rashid
- Department of Chemistry, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Dalin Zhang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Arshad Mehmood Abbasi
- Department of Environmental Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Molehin AJ. Current Understanding of Immunity Against Schistosomiasis: Impact on Vaccine and Drug Development. Res Rep Trop Med 2020; 11:119-128. [PMID: 33173371 PMCID: PMC7646453 DOI: 10.2147/rrtm.s274518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease inflicting significant morbidity in humans worldwide. The disease is caused by infections with a parasitic trematode belonging to the genus Schistosoma. Over 250 million people are currently infected globally, with an estimated disability-adjusted life-years of 1.9 million attributed to the disease. Current understanding, based on several immunological studies using experimental and human models of schistosomiasis, reveals that complex immune mechanisms play off each other in the acquisition of immune resistance to infection/reinfection. Nevertheless, the precise characteristics of these responses, the specific antigens against which they are elicited, and how these responses are intricately regulated are still being investigated. What is apparent is that immunity to schistosome infections develops slowly and over a prolonged period of time, augmented by the death of adult worms occurring naturally or by praziquantel therapy. In this review, aspects of immunity to schistosomiasis, host–parasite interactions and their impact on schistosomiasis vaccine development are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adebayo J Molehin
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA.,Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX 79430, USA
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Cagnazzo TDO, Nogueira CT, de Castro CA, Neris DM, Fattori ACM, Correia RDO, Albuquerque YR, Fragelli BDDL, Mendes TMF, Allegretti SM, Soares EG, Romanello L, Torini JR, Pereira HD, Anibal FDF. Investigating Immunization With Nucleotide Enzymes of Schistosoma mansoni: Nucleoside Diphosphate Kinase and Adenylosuccinate Lyase as New Antigenic Targets Against Schistosomiasis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:569988. [PMID: 33072110 PMCID: PMC7538676 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.569988] [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: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, caused by Schistosoma mansoni trematode worm, affects more than 1.5 million people in Brazil. The current treatment consists in the administration of Praziquantel, the only medicine used for treatment for more than 40 years. Some of the limitations of this drug consist in its inactivity against schistosomula and parasite eggs, the appearance of resistant strains and non-prevention against reinfection. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of immunization with recombinant functional enzymes of the purine salvage pathway of S. mansoni, Nucleoside Diphosphate Kinase (NDPK) and Adenylosuccinate Lyase (ADSL), to evaluate the host immune response, as well as the parasite load after vaccination. For this, Balb/c mice were divided into 5 groups: control (uninfected and untreated), non-immunized/infected, NDPK infected, ADSL infected, and NDPK + ADSL infected. Immunized groups received three enzyme dosages, with a 15-day interval between each dose, and after 15 days of the last application the animals were infected with 80 cercariae of S. mansoni. On the 47th day after the infection, fecal eggs were counted and, on the 48th day after the infection, the evaluation of leukocyte response, parasite load, antibody production, cytokines quantification, and histopathological analysis were performed. The results showed that immunizations with NDPK, ADSL or NDPK + ADSL promoted a discreet reduction in eosinophil counts in lavage of peritoneal cavity. All immunized animals showed increased production and secretion of IgG1, IgG2a, and IgE antibodies. Increased production of IL-4 was observed in the group immunized with the combination of both enzymes (NDPK + ADSL). In addition, in all immunized groups there were reductions in egg counts in the liver and intestine, such as reductions in liver granulomas. Thus, we suggest that immunizations with these enzymes could contribute to the reduction of schistosomiasis transmission, besides being important in immunopathogenesis control of the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Túlio di Orlando Cagnazzo
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Doenças Infecciosas, Departamento de Morfologia e Patologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Camila Tita Nogueira
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Doenças Infecciosas, Departamento de Morfologia e Patologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Cynthia Aparecida de Castro
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Doenças Infecciosas, Departamento de Morfologia e Patologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Débora Meira Neris
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Doenças Infecciosas, Departamento de Morfologia e Patologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Maragno Fattori
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Doenças Infecciosas, Departamento de Morfologia e Patologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Ricardo de Oliveira Correia
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Doenças Infecciosas, Departamento de Morfologia e Patologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Yulli Roxenne Albuquerque
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Doenças Infecciosas, Departamento de Morfologia e Patologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Bruna Dias de Lima Fragelli
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Doenças Infecciosas, Departamento de Morfologia e Patologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
| | | | - Silmara Marques Allegretti
- Departamento de Biologia Animal, Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Edson Garcia Soares
- Laboratório de Citopatologia, Departamento de Patologia e Medicina Legal, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Larissa Romanello
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Juliana Roberta Torini
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Humberto D'Muniz Pereira
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Fernanda de Freitas Anibal
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Doenças Infecciosas, Departamento de Morfologia e Patologia, Universidade Federal de São Carlos - UFSCar, São Carlos, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Recent Progress in the Development of Liver Fluke and Blood Fluke Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8030553. [PMID: 32971734 PMCID: PMC7564142 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver flukes (Fasciola spp., Opisthorchis spp., Clonorchis sinensis) and blood flukes (Schistosoma spp.) are parasitic helminths causing neglected tropical diseases that result in substantial morbidity afflicting millions globally. Affecting the world’s poorest people, fasciolosis, opisthorchiasis, clonorchiasis and schistosomiasis cause severe disability; hinder growth, productivity and cognitive development; and can end in death. Children are often disproportionately affected. F. hepatica and F. gigantica are also the most important trematode flukes parasitising ruminants and cause substantial economic losses annually. Mass drug administration (MDA) programs for the control of these liver and blood fluke infections are in place in a number of countries but treatment coverage is often low, re-infection rates are high and drug compliance and effectiveness can vary. Furthermore, the spectre of drug resistance is ever-present, so MDA is not effective or sustainable long term. Vaccination would provide an invaluable tool to achieve lasting control leading to elimination. This review summarises the status currently of vaccine development, identifies some of the major scientific targets for progression and briefly discusses future innovations that may provide effective protective immunity against these helminth parasites and the diseases they cause.
Collapse
|
48
|
Bischofsberger M, Winkelmann F, Rabes A, Reisinger EC, Sombetzki M. Pathogen-host interaction mediated by vesicle-based secretion in schistosomes. PROTOPLASMA 2020; 257:1277-1287. [PMID: 32462473 PMCID: PMC7449993 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-020-01515-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
As part of the parasite's excretory/secretory system, extracellular vesicles (EVs) represent a potent communication tool of schistosomes with their human host to strike the balance between their own survival in a hostile immunological environment and a minimal damage to the host tissue. Their cargo consists of functional proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids that facilitate biological processes like migration, nutrient acquisition, or reproduction. The most important impact of the vesicle-mediated communication, however, is the promotion of the parasite survival via mimicking host protein function and directly or indirectly modulating the immune response of the host. Overcoming this shield of immunological adaption in the schistosome-host relation is the aim of current research activities in this field and crucial for the development of a reliable anti-schistosomal therapy. Not least because of their prospective use in clinical applications, research on EVs is now a rapidly expanding field. We herein focus on the current state of knowledge of vesicle-based communication of schistosomes and discussing the role of EVs in facilitating biological processes and immune modulatory properties of EVs considering the different life stages of the parasite.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Bischofsberger
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Section of Nephrology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Franziska Winkelmann
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Section of Nephrology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Anne Rabes
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Section of Nephrology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Emil C Reisinger
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Section of Nephrology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Martina Sombetzki
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Infectious Diseases and Section of Nephrology, University Medical Center Rostock, Rostock, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Current status and future prospects of protein vaccine candidates against Schistosoma mansoni infection. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2020; 11:e00176. [PMID: 32923703 PMCID: PMC7475110 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2020.e00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is an acute and chronic tropical parasitic disease caused by blood dwelling worm of the genus Schistosoma. It is the most destructive disease globally and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality for developing countries. Three main species of schistosomes infect human beings from which S. mansoni is the most common and widespread. Over the last several decades, chemotherapy using praziquantel has been a commonly used strategy for the treatment and control of schistosomiasis. However, control programs focused exclusively on chemotherapy have been challenging because of the frequency and rapidity of reinfection and these programs were expensive. Thus, new schistosomiasis control strategies will be needed. Vaccination strategy would be an ideal tool for a significant and sustainable reduction in the transmission and disease burden of schistosomiasis. An effective anti schistosome vaccine would greatly contribute to decreasing schistosomiasis-associated morbidity via protective immune responses leading to reduced worm burdens and decreased egg production. Vaccine development is a long process that can take decades. There have been three candidate vaccines that have been produced by Good Manufacturing Procedure and entered human clinical trials for S. mansoni are Sm14, SmTSP-2, and Sm-p80. Other candidates that are in pre-clinical trials at various stages include paramyosin, Sm29, SmKI-1, and Sm23. Since the growth of several new technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, microarrays, immunomic profiling, and proteomics, have helped in the identification of promising new target schistosome antigens. Therefore, this review considers the present status of protein vaccine candidates against Schistosoma mansoni and provides some insight on prospects vaccine design and discovery.
Collapse
Key Words
- AE, Asparaginyl Endopeptidase
- Ab, Antibody
- Ag, Antigen
- CB, Cathepsin B
- CD, Cathepsin D
- CL3, Cathepsin L3
- DNA, Deoxyribonucleic Acid
- FA, Fatty Acid
- FABP, Fatty Acid Binding Protein
- GLA-Alum, Glucopyranosyl Lipid A Formulated in Aluminum
- GLA-SE, Glucopyranosyl Lipid Adjuvant Stable Emulsion
- IFN-γ, Interferon Gamma
- IL, Interleukin
- Ig, Immunoglobulin
- KI, Kunitz Type Protease Inhibitor
- LcP, Lipid Core Peptide
- Pmy, Paramyosin
- Protein vaccine
- Schistosoma mansoni
- Schistosomiasis
- Sm, Schistosoma mansoni
- TSP, Tetraspanins
- Th, T-helper Cells
- Vaccine candidates
- WHO, World Health Organization
Collapse
|
50
|
Drurey C, Coakley G, Maizels RM. Extracellular vesicles: new targets for vaccines against helminth parasites. Int J Parasitol 2020; 50:623-633. [PMID: 32659278 PMCID: PMC8313431 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The hunt for effective vaccines against the major helminth diseases of humans has yet to bear fruit despite much effort over several decades. No individual parasite antigen has proved to elicit full protective immunity, suggesting that combinatorial strategies may be required. Recently it has been discovered that extracellular vesicles released by parasitic helminths contain multiple potential immune modulators, which could together be targeted by a future vaccine. Increasing knowledge of helminth extracellular vesicle components, both enclosed by and exposed on the membrane, will open up a new field of targets for an effective vaccine. This review discusses the interactions between helminth extracellular vesicles and the immune system discovered thus far, and the advantages of targeting these lipid-bound packages with a vaccine. In addition, we also comment upon specific antigens that may be the best targets for an anti-helminth vaccine. In the future, extensive knowledge of the parasites' full arsenal in controlling their host may finally provide us with the ideal target for a fully effective vaccine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claire Drurey
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Gillian Coakley
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical School, Monash University, 89 Commercial Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia
| | - Rick M Maizels
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK.
| |
Collapse
|