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Enriquez GF, Macchiaverna NP, Garbossa G, Quebrada Palacio LP, Ojeda BL, Bua J, Gaspe MS, Cimino R, Gürtler RE, Postan M, Cardinal MV. Humans seropositive for Trypanosoma cruzi co-infected with intestinal helminths have higher infectiousness, parasitaemia and Th2-type response in the Argentine Chaco. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:340. [PMID: 39135121 PMCID: PMC11320973 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06401-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Gran Chaco ecoregion is a well-known hotspot of several neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) including Chagas disease, soil-transmitted helminthiasis and multiparasitic infections. Interspecific interactions between parasite species can modify host susceptibility, pathogenesis and transmissibility through immunomodulation. Our objective was to test the association between human co-infection with intestinal parasites and host parasitaemia, infectiousness to the vector and immunological profiles in Trypanosoma cruzi-seropositive individuals residing in an endemic region of the Argentine Chaco. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional serological survey for T. cruzi infection along with an intestinal parasite survey in two adjacent rural villages. Each participant was tested for T. cruzi and Strongyloides stercoralis infection by serodiagnosis, and by coprological tests for intestinal parasite detection. Trypanosoma cruzi bloodstream parasite load was determined by quantitative PCR (qPCR), host infectiousness by artificial xenodiagnosis and serum human cytokine levels by flow cytometry. RESULTS The seroprevalence for T. cruzi was 16.1% and for S. stercoralis 11.5% (n = 87). We found 25.3% of patients with Enterobius vermicularis. The most frequent protozoan parasites were Blastocystis spp. (39.1%), Giardia lamblia (6.9%) and Cryptosporidium spp. (3.4%). Multiparasitism occurred in 36.8% of the examined patients. Co-infection ranged from 6.9% to 8.1% for T. cruzi-seropositive humans simultaneously infected with at least one protozoan or helminth species, respectively. The relative odds of being positive by qPCR or xenodiagnosis (i.e. infectious) of 28 T. cruzi-seropositive patients was eight times higher in people co-infected with at least one helminth species than in patients with no such co-infection. Trypanosoma cruzi parasite load and host infectiousness were positively associated with helminth co-infection in a multiple regression analysis. Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) response, measured in relation to interleukin (IL)-4 among humans infected with T. cruzi only, was 1.5-fold higher than for T. cruzi-seropositive patients co-infected with helminths. The median concentration of IL-4 was significantly higher in T. cruzi-seropositive patients with a positive qPCR test than in qPCR-negative patients. CONCLUSIONS Our results show a high level of multiparasitism and suggest that co-infection with intestinal helminths increased T. cruzi parasitaemia and upregulated the Th2-type response in the study patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Fabián Enriquez
- Universidad de Buenos Aires., Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución. Laboratorio de Eco-Epidemiología., Buenos Aires, Argentina.
- Instituto de Ecología, Genética y Evolución (IEGEBA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Natalia Paula Macchiaverna
- Universidad de Buenos Aires., Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución. Laboratorio de Eco-Epidemiología., Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Ecología, Genética y Evolución (IEGEBA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Graciela Garbossa
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Clínica y Ambiental, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, IQUIBICEN-CONICET-UBA), Instituto de Investigaciones en Salud Pública, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luz Piedad Quebrada Palacio
- Universidad de Buenos Aires., Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución. Laboratorio de Eco-Epidemiología., Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Ecología, Genética y Evolución (IEGEBA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Institute of Virology, Helmholtz Centre Munich, German Research Centre for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Bárbara Leonor Ojeda
- Universidad de Buenos Aires., Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución. Laboratorio de Eco-Epidemiología., Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jacqueline Bua
- Instituto Nacional de Parasitología Dr. M. Fatala Chabén, Administración Nacional de Laboratorios e Institutos de Salud Dr. C.G. Malbrán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Sol Gaspe
- Universidad de Buenos Aires., Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución. Laboratorio de Eco-Epidemiología., Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Ecología, Genética y Evolución (IEGEBA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rubén Cimino
- Instituto de Investigaciones de Enfermedades Tropicales (IIET). Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)-CCT Salta, Universidad Nacional de Salta, Sede Regional Orán, Salta, Argentina
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Cátedra de Química Biológica, Universidad Nacional de Salta, Salta, Argentina
| | - Ricardo Esteban Gürtler
- Universidad de Buenos Aires., Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución. Laboratorio de Eco-Epidemiología., Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Ecología, Genética y Evolución (IEGEBA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Miriam Postan
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marta Victoria Cardinal
- Universidad de Buenos Aires., Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución. Laboratorio de Eco-Epidemiología., Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Ecología, Genética y Evolución (IEGEBA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Whitehead B, Sørensen Rossen L, Zippor M, Boysen AT, Indira Chandran V, Skallerup P, Thamsborg SM, Nejsum P. Micro RNA profiles of host extracellular vesicles are modulated by Ascaris suum infection but parasite extracellular vesicle miRNAs are systemically undetectable using in-depth miRNA sequencing. Int J Parasitol 2024:S0020-7519(24)00151-6. [PMID: 39116918 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2024.08.001] [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: 02/26/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
The intestinal helminth Ascaris lumbricoides infects over 800 million people. Infections are often chronic and immunity is not sterilizing due to host-immune modulation, therefore reinfection is common after antihelmintic treatment. We have previously demonstrated a role for Ascaris spp. extracellular vesicles (EVs) in host immune modulation but whether EVs are recognized by the adaptive immune system and are present systemically in the host remains unknown. Therefore, we employed a well-established trickle infection model in pigs to mimic natural Ascaris infection in humans. EVs were isolated from adult Ascaris suum followed by immunoblotting of EV and EV-depleted secretory fractions using plasma from infected and uninfected pigs. Next, EVs were isolated from pig plasma at day 56 post first infection and subjected to deep small RNAseq analysis. RNAs were aligned to A. suum and Sus scrofa miRNA complements to detect A. suum EVs and elucidate the host EV micro RNA (miRNA) response to infection, respectively. Infection generates robust antibody responses against A. suum EVs that is distinct from EV-depleted fractions. However, A. suum miRNAs were not detectable in EVs from the peripheral blood. Notably, host plasma-derived EV miRNA profiles showed significant changes between infected and uninfected pigs, indicating that Ascaris infection drives systemic changes in host EV composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley Whitehead
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Litten Sørensen Rossen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mads Zippor
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anders T Boysen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Vineesh Indira Chandran
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Stig M Thamsborg
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Peter Nejsum
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Department of Infectious Diseases, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
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Christelle Nadia NA, Yaghoobi M, Cédric Y, Besati M, Misparine Kiki Y, Aboubakar Sidiki NN, Azizi MA, Khan Payne V, Hu H. Anthelmintic Activity of Ethanolic and Aqueous Extracts of Khaya grandifoliola Stem Bark against Heligmosomoides polygyrus: In Vitro and In Silico Approaches. J Trop Med 2024; 2024:6735764. [PMID: 39050406 PMCID: PMC11268970 DOI: 10.1155/2024/6735764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Parasitic infection remains a serious health trade for humans and livestock. The purpose of this study was to present scientific proof of the anthelmintic properties of Khaya grandifoliola, which the native population uses to cure helminthiasis. Method Fresh Heligmosomoides polygyrus eggs were isolated from faecal samples of experimentally infected mice. The faecal material was cultured, and L1 and L2 larval stages were recovered after 48 and 120 hours, respectively. Using the worm microtracker, the anthelminthic efficacy of the extracts against H. polygyrus was assessed. Two different extracts (aqueous and ethanol extracts) were prepared. For the ovicidal and larvicidal activities, 100 µL of various concentrations of plant extracts, levamisole and 1.5% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), were introduced into a 96-well microplate titer followed by the addition of 100 µL of embryonated eggs (60 eggs) for the ovicidal activity and 100 µL of L 1 or L 2 larvae (50 larvae) for the larvicidal activity. The movement of the worm was monitored for 24 hours in the worm microtracker at 27°C. The Glide module of the Schrodinger Maestro software was used to perform docking studies. Results For the aqueous extracts, the highest percentage of inhibition of hatching was 42.77 ± 12% at 7.5 mg/mL. The IC50 values for the ethanol (0.36 mg/mL) extract showed that the ethanol extract had a good inhibitory effect on the ability of parasites to hatch from eggs. The inhibition percentage of L1 larvae motility at 7.5 mg/mL was 98.0 ± 1.66% and 83.33 ± 1.66% for ethanol and aqueous extracts, respectively. The negative controls, distilled water and 1.5% DMSO, had no inhibitory impact on larvae. On L1-larvae, the drug of choice levamisole (positive control) had the highest percentage effect (100.0%). Six compounds had the highest docking score and their interactions with the receptor as well. Grandiamide A interacts most with tyrosine, glycine, phenylalanine, asparagine, and serine, and its benzene ring and oxygens inhibit these receptors. Carbonyl and hydroxyl (OH) groups connect grandiamide D to asparagine, isoleucine, and phenylalanine, respectively. By donating hydrogen to the receptor through OH groups, D-glucopyranose-6-phosphate also forms relatively strong hydrogen bonds with its oxygen-bound phosphorus and the receptor. 1-O-deacetylkhayanolide E interacts most with serine and glutamic acid. The carbamic acid benzyl ester of carbamic acid [(1S)-1-phenyl-2-[(4-methylphenyl) sulfinyl] ethyl] interacts most with the receptor with carbonyl groups and with asparagine and serine. With its abundant hydroxide, D-mannitol acts as a hydrogen donor and acceptor and interacts most strongly with amino acids such as glycine, asparagine, aspartic acid, alanine, and glutamic acid. Conclusions K. grandifoliola extracts possess anthelminthic properties. However, in vivo studies are still necessary to demonstrate the effectiveness of this plant for the treatment of helminthiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noumedem Anangmo Christelle Nadia
- Department of Microbiology, Haematology and ImmunologyFaculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical SciencesUniversity of Dschang, P.O. Box 96, Dschang, Cameroon
- Laboratory of Tropical and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Mahdi Yaghoobi
- Molecular Design and SynthesisDepartment of ChemistryKU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200F, Leuven B-3001, Belgium
| | - Yamssi Cédric
- Laboratory of Tropical and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Buea, Cameroon
- Department of Biomedical SciencesFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Bamenda, P.O. Box 39, Bambili, Cameroon
| | - Masoud Besati
- Institute for Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio)CSIC-University of Valencia, Paterna 46980, Spain
| | - Yungong Misparine Kiki
- Department of Medical Laboratory SciencesFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Bamenda, P.O. Box 39, Bambili, Cameroon
| | - Ngouyamsa Nsapkain Aboubakar Sidiki
- Laboratory of Tropical and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Buea, Cameroon
- Department of Animal BiologyFaculty of ScienceUniversity of Dschang, P.O. Box 067, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Mounvera Abdel Azizi
- Laboratory of Tropical and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Buea, Cameroon
- Department of Animal BiologyFaculty of ScienceUniversity of Dschang, P.O. Box 067, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Vincent Khan Payne
- Laboratory of Tropical and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Buea, Cameroon
- Department of Animal BiologyFaculty of ScienceUniversity of Dschang, P.O. Box 067, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Haibo Hu
- Laboratory of Tropical and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Buea, Cameroon
- Department of Biomedical SciencesFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of Bamenda, P.O. Box 39, Bambili, Cameroon
- Jiangxi Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese MedicineNational Engineering Research Center for Modernization of Traditional Chinese Medicine-Hakka Medical Resources BranchSchool of PharmacyGannan Medical University, Ganzhou 341000, China
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Castañeda S, Adeniyi-Ipadeola G, Wu Y, Suarez-Reyes C, Jain A, Ramírez JD, Weatherhead JE. Characterizing Excretory-Secretory Products Proteome Across Larval Development Stages in Ascaris suum. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.03.601870. [PMID: 39005370 PMCID: PMC11245028 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.03.601870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Ascaris lumbricoides and Ascaris suum are parasitic nematodes that primarily infest the small intestines of humans and pigs, respectively. Ascariasis poses a significant threat to human health and swine health. Understanding Ascaris larval development is crucial for developing novel therapeutic interventions that will prevent ascariasis in both humans and pigs. This study aimed to characterize the excretory-secretory (ES) proteome of different Ascaris suum larval stages (L3-egg, L3-lung, L3-trachea) to identify potential targets for intervention to prevent Ascaris -induced global morbidity. Methods Stage-specific larvae were isolated, cultured in vitro and ES-product was collected. Third-stage Ascaris larvae (L3) were isolated from embryonated eggs (L3-egg), isolated from the lungs of Balb/c mice infected with Ascaris suum eggs at day 8 post infection (L3-lungs) and isolated from the trachea of Balb/c mice infected with Ascaris suum eggs at day 12 post infection (L3-trachea). ES products were obtained by culturing larvae. Proteomic analysis was conducted using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and bioinformatic tools including MaxQuant, Perseus, and Andromeda, following a detailed protocol available on GitHub. The analysis encompassed peptide identification, scoring, and quantification against an organism-specific database, with subsequent quality control, correlation assessment, and differential abundance determination using the Amica algorithm. Results A total of 58 unique proteins were identified in the ES products. Fourteen proteins were common across all stages, while others were stage-specific. Principal component analysis revealed distinct protein profiles for each stage, suggesting qualitatively different proteomes. Gene ontology analysis indicated stage-specific GO enrichment of specific protein classes, such as nuclear proteins in L3-egg ES products and metabolic enzymes in L3-lung and L3-trachea ES products. Discussion This study revealed stage-specific differences in the composition of Ascaris ES products. Further investigation into the functional roles of these proteins and their interactions with host cells is crucial for developing novel therapeutic and diagnostic strategies against ascariasis.
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Pattanawongsa A, Kammaneechan P, Na-ek P, Sedionoto B, Anamnart W. The enhancive effect of the 2014-2016 El Niño-induced drought on the control of soil-transmitted helminthiases without anthelmintics: A longitudinal study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012331. [PMID: 38995979 PMCID: PMC11268648 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminthiases (STHs) are common in tropical and subtropical regions. Southern Thailand experiences an extended rainy season, leading to persistently moist soil. This condition supports the life cycle of STHs, hindering effective control due to reinfection and low drug efficacy. We implemented a novel STH control strategy during the dry season aimed at decreasing reinfection rates without enhancing sanitation or hygiene practices. However, there were unexpected, prolonged droughts linked to El Niño events from 2014 to 2016. Additionally, we assessed the effects of these drought conditions on further control measures without the use of anthelmintics. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A longitudinal study was conducted from 2012 to 2016. Stool samples collected from 299 participants were analyzed using the Kato-Katz and agar plate culture methods. Participants who tested positive for STHs received a single 400 mg dose of albendazole. The efficacy of the treatment was evaluated three weeks later. To confirm the control measures were implemented during the dry season, we monitored the number of rainy days following albendazole treatment for 52 days, of which 38 were without rain. Follow-up stool examinations were carried out in 2013 and 2016, with no additional doses of albendazole administered. Rainfall and rainy day data, which served as indicators of unexpected droughts due to El Niño, were collected from the nearest local meteorological stations. Before the drought, there was a decrease in STH prevalence in 2013-except for trichuriasis-attributable to the dry season control efforts. Despite these efforts, STH prevalence remained high. Remarkably, in 2016, following the drought period, the prevalence of trichuriasis, which had not changed previously, spontaneously declined without further albendazole treatment compared to 2013. Furthermore, the prevalence of strongyloidiasis remained unchanged likely due to its low susceptibility to drought conditions, as it can reproduce within hosts. Conversely, the prevalence of other STHs consistently declined. The drought and possible improvements in sanitation and hygiene practices contributed to this decrease by reducing rates of reinfection and new infection and by increasing the natural cure rate. Additionally, some participants infected with hookworms or Trichuris who were not cured by albendazole experienced natural remission. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Control measures implemented during the dry season, combined with a 14-month-long drought induced by the El Niño event of 2014-2016, and some improvements in sanitation and hygiene practices, contributed to a decrease in both the prevalence and intensity of STHs, except for S. stercoralis. Over time, S. stercoralis is likely to become the predominant species among the STHs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attarat Pattanawongsa
- School of Pharmacy, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
- Drug and Cosmetics Excellence Center, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | | | - Prasit Na-ek
- Department of Medical Science, School of Medicine, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
- Research Center in Tropical Pathobiology, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Blego Sedionoto
- Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Public Health, Mulawarman University, Samarinda, East Kalimantan, Indonesia
| | - Witthaya Anamnart
- School of Public Health, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
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Intirach J, Shu C, Lv X, Gao S, Sutthanont N, Chen T, Lv Z. Human parasitic infections of the class Adenophorea: global epidemiology, pathogenesis, prevention and control. Infect Dis Poverty 2024; 13:48. [PMID: 38902844 PMCID: PMC11188577 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-024-01216-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human parasitic infections caused by Adenophorean nematodes encompass a range of diseases, including dioctophymiasis, trichuriasis, capillariasis, trichinellosis, and myositis. These infection can result in adverse impacts on human health and cause societal and economic concerns in tropical and subtropical regions. METHODS This review conducted searches in PubMed, Embase and Google Scholar for relevant studies that published in established databases up to April 26, 2024. Studies that focused on the common morphology, life cycle, disease distribution, clinical manifestations, and prevention and control strategies for Adenophorean parasitic diseases in humans were included. RESULTS Adenophorean nematodes exhibit shared morphological characteristics with a four-layered cuticle; uninucleate epidermal cells; pseudocoelom with six or more coelomocytes; generally three caudal glands; five esophageal glands; two testes in males with median-ventral supplementary glands in a single row; tail in males rarely possessing caudal alae; amphids always postlabial; presence of cephalic sensory organs; absence of phasmids; and a secretory-excretory system consisting of a single ventral gland cell, usually with a non-cuticularized terminal duct. Humans play two important roles in the life cycle of the nematode class, Adenophorea: 1) as a definitive host infected by ingesting undercooked paratenic hosts, embryonated eggs, infective larvae in fish tissue and meat contaminated with encysted or non-encysted larvae, and 2) as an accidental host infected by ingesting parasitic eggs in undercooked meat. Many organs are targeted by the Adenophorean nematode in humans such as the intestines, lungs, liver, kidneys, lymphatic circulation and blood vessels, resulting in gastrointestinal problems, excessive immunological responses, cell disruption, and even death. Most of these infections have significant incidence rates in the developing countries of Africa, Asia and Latin America; however, some parasitic diseases have restricted dissemination in outbreaks. To prevent these diseases, interventions together with education, sanitation, hygiene and animal control measures have been introduced in order to reduce and control parasite populations. CONCLUSIONS The common morphology, life cycle, global epidemiology and pathology of human Adenophorean nematode-borne parasitic diseases were highlighted, as well as their prevention and control. The findings of this review will contribute to improvement of monitoring and predicting human-parasitic infections, understanding the relationship between animals, humans and parasites, and preventing and controlling parasitic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitrawadee Intirach
- Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China
| | - Chang Shu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences and Life Sciences, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, 571199, China
| | - Xin Lv
- School of Public Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, 571199, China
| | - Suzhen Gao
- School of Public Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, 571199, China
| | - Nataya Sutthanont
- Department of Medical Entomology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Tao Chen
- Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China.
- Hainan Provincial Bureau of Disease Prevention and Control, Haikou, 570100, China.
| | - Zhiyue Lv
- Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, Hainan, 570100, China.
- Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biological Vector Control, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China.
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control (Sun Yat-Sen University), Ministry of Education, Guangzhou, Guangdong, 510080, China.
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Štrkolcová G, Fiľakovská Bobáková D, Kaduková M, Schreiberová A, Klein D, Halán M, Urbančíková I. Intestinal parasitic infections in children from marginalised Roma communities: prevalence and risk factors. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:596. [PMID: 38890608 PMCID: PMC11184866 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09500-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal parasitic infections remain a significant global health issue, particularly affecting poor and marginalised populations. These infections significantly contribute to children's diseases, malnutrition, poor school performance, cognitive disorders, and future economic losses. This study aimed to explore and compare the occurrence of intestinal parasites in early childhood among the group of infants from the Slovak majority population and from marginalised Roma communities (MRCs). Furthermore, it aimed to explore the health complaints of children with and without intestinal parasitic infection in the past month and assess the effect of various risk factors on the occurrence of intestinal parasitic infection in infants from MRCs. METHODS We obtained cross-sectional data from mothers and stool samples of their children aged 13-21 months using the first wave of the longitudinal RomaREACH study. A total of 181 stools from infants were analysed: 105 infants from the Slovak majority population and 76 from MRCs. RESULTS Infants from MRCs are significantly more often infected by Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura and Giardia duodenalis than their better-off peers from the majority population. Infection rates are 30% in infants from MRCs vs. 0% in the majority population (p < 0.001). Single and mixed infections were observed in children from MRCs. Infants with intestinal parasitic infections suffer significantly more often from various health complaints, particularly cough, stomach ache, irritability, and diarrhoea. Within MRCs, the risk of parasitic infections in infants is significantly increased by risk factors such as the absence of flushing toilets in households (OR = 4.17, p < 0.05) and contact with un-dewormed animals (OR = 3.61, p < 0.05). Together with the absence of running water in the household, these three factors combined increase the risk more than ten times (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Maintaining hygienic standards in conditions of socioeconomic deprivation in MRCs without running water and sewage in the presence of un-dewormed animals is problematic. These living conditions contribute to the higher prevalence of parasitic infections in children from MRCs, causing various health complaints and thus threatening their health and healthy development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Štrkolcová
- Department of Epizootiology and Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Daniela Fiľakovská Bobáková
- Department of Health Psychology and Research Methodology, Faculty of Medicine, PJ Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia.
- Olomouc University Social Health Institute, Palacky University in Olomouc, Olomouc, Czechia, Czechia.
| | - Michaela Kaduková
- Department of Epizootiology and Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Andrea Schreiberová
- Department of Epizootiology and Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Daniel Klein
- Institute of Mathematics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, PJ Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia
| | - Miloš Halán
- Department of Epizootiology and Parasitology and Protection of One Health, University of Veterinary Medicine and Pharmacy in Košice, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Ingrid Urbančíková
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Medicine, PJ Safarik University, Kosice, Slovakia
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Kepha S, Mazigo HD, Odiere MR, Mcharo C, Safari T, Gichuki PM, Omondi W, Wakesho F, Krolewiecki A, Pullan RL, Mwandawiro CS, Oswald WE, Halliday KE. Exploring factors associated with Trichuris trichiura infection in school children in a high-transmission setting in Kenya. IJID REGIONS 2024; 11:100352. [PMID: 38634069 PMCID: PMC11021359 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
Objectives Kenya has implemented a national school-based deworming program, which has led to substantial decline in the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths (STHs), although some pockets of infections remain. To effectively design an STH control program that leads to significant reductions of Trichuris trichiura, there is a need to understand the drivers of persistent infection despite ongoing treatment programs. Methods This study was conducted between July and September 2019 at the south coast of Kenya, using a two-stage sampling design. First, a school-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2265 randomly selected school children from selected schools in areas known to be endemic for T. trichiura. After this, we conducted a nested case-control study wherein all children positive for T. trichiura (142) were matched to 148 negative controls based on age and village. A household survey was then conducted with all household members of cases and controls. In addition, a subsample of 116 children found to be infected with T. trichiura were followed up to assess the efficacy of albendazole at day 21 post-treatment. The predictors of presence of T. trichiura were investigated through multilevel logistic regression, considering clustering of infection. Results Overall, 34.4% of the children were infected with at least one STH species; T. trichiura was the most common (28.3%), 89.1% of those with T. trichiura had light-intensity infections. The prevalence of T. trichiura was significantly higher in male children and was positively associated with younger age and number of people infected with T. trichiura in a household. The parasitological cure rate and egg reduction rate of T. trichiura were 35% and 51%, respectively. Other STHs identified were hookworm (9.6%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (5.7%). Conclusions T. trichiura remains a significant public health challenge in the study area with albendazole treatment efficacy against the parasite, remaining lower than the World Health Organization-recommended thresholds. Because of the observed focal transmission of T. trichiura in the current area, control efforts tailored to local conditions and targeting lower implementation units should be used to achieve optimal results on transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Kepha
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Humphrey D. Mazigo
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Entomology, School of Medicine, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Maurice R. Odiere
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Carlos Mcharo
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Th'uva Safari
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Paul M. Gichuki
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Wykcliff Omondi
- Division of Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Florence Wakesho
- Division of Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, Ministry of Health, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Alejandro Krolewiecki
- Universidad Nacional de Salta, Instituto de Investigaciones de Enfermedades Tropicales/CONICET, Oran, Salta, Argentina
| | - Rachel L. Pullan
- Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Charles S. Mwandawiro
- Eastern and Southern Africa Centre of International Parasite Control, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - William E. Oswald
- Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine E. Halliday
- Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Kołodziej P, Wujec M, Doligalska M, Makuch-Kocka A, Khylyuk D, Bogucki J, Demkowska-Kutrzepa M, Roczeń-Karczmarz M, Studzińska M, Tomczuk K, Kocki M, Reszka-Kocka P, Granica S, Typek R, Dawidowicz AL, Kocki J, Bogucka-Kocka A. Synthesis and anthelmintic activity of novel thiosemicarbazide and 1,2,4-triazole derivatives: In vitro, in vivo, and in silico study. J Adv Res 2024; 60:57-73. [PMID: 37467960 PMCID: PMC11156610 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2023.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intestinal parasitic infections are neglected diseases and, due to the increasing resistance of parasites to available drugs, they pose an increasing therapeutic challenge. Therefore, there is a great need for finding new compounds with antiparasitic activity. OBJECTIVES In this work, new thiosemicarbazide and 1,2,4-triazole derivatives were synthesized and tested for their anthelmintic activity. METHODS The synthesis was carried out by classical methods of organic chemistry. Anthelmintic activity tests were carried out in vitro (Rhabditis sp., Haemonchus contortus, Strongylidae sp.) in vivo (Heligmosomoides polygyrus/bakeri), and in silico analysis was performed. RESULTS Quinoline-6-carboxylic acid derivative compounds were designed and synthesized. The highest activity in the screening tests in the Rhabditis model was demonstrated by compound II-1 with a methoxyphenyl substituent LC50 = 0.3 mg/mL. In the next stage of the research, compound II-1 was analyzed in the H. contortus model. The results showed that compound II-1 was active and had ovicidal (percentage of dead eggs > 45 %) and larvicidal (percentage of dead larvae > 75 %) properties. Studies in the Strongylidae sp. model confirmed the ovicidal activity of compound II-1 (percentage of dead eggs ≥ 55 %). In vivo studies conducted in the H. polygyrus/bakeri nematode model showed that the number of nematodes decreased by an average of 30 % under the influence of compound II-1. In silico studies have shown two possible modes of action of compound II-1, i.e. inhibition of tubulin polymerization and SDH. The test compound did not show any systemic toxic effects. Its influence on drug metabolism related to the activity of cytochrome CYP450 enzymes was also investigated. CONCLUSION The results obtained in the in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies indicate that the test compound can be described as a HIT, which in the future may be used in the treatment of parasitic diseases in humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Przemysław Kołodziej
- Laboratory of Diagnostic Parasitology, Chair and Department of Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland.
| | - Monika Wujec
- Chair and Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Maria Doligalska
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Miecznikowa 1 Street, 02-096 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Makuch-Kocka
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 11 Street, 20-080 Lublin, Poland
| | - Dmytro Khylyuk
- Chair and Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Jacek Bogucki
- Chair and Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Marta Demkowska-Kutrzepa
- Department of Parasitology and Invasive Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12 Street, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Monika Roczeń-Karczmarz
- Department of Parasitology and Invasive Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12 Street, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Maria Studzińska
- Department of Parasitology and Invasive Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12 Street, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Tomczuk
- Department of Parasitology and Invasive Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 12 Street, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| | - Marcin Kocki
- Chair and Department of Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Patrycja Reszka-Kocka
- Chair and Department of Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Sebastian Granica
- Microbiota Lab, Department of Pharmacognosy and Molecular Basis of Phytotherapy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Warsaw, Banacha 1 Street, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Rafał Typek
- Department of Chromatography, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University in Lublin, Marii Curie Sklodowskiej 3 Square, 20-031 Lublin, Poland
| | - Andrzej L Dawidowicz
- Department of Chromatography, Institute of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie-Sklodowska University in Lublin, Marii Curie Sklodowskiej 3 Square, 20-031 Lublin, Poland
| | - Janusz Kocki
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, Radziwiłłowska 11 Street, 20-080 Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna Bogucka-Kocka
- Chair and Department of Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, 4A Chodzki Street, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
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10
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Hamad AA, Mauti GO. Determination of the Prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides in Children under the Age of Five Years Attending at Kongowe Health Centre, Kibaha District, Pwani Region. J Parasitol Res 2024; 2024:1932633. [PMID: 38778914 PMCID: PMC11111298 DOI: 10.1155/2024/1932633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The worldwide distribution and occurrence show that more than 1.8 billion people, accounting for 28% of the global population, are infected with A. lumbricoides infection due to poor hygiene. The World Health Organization aims to eliminate morbidity from A. lumbricoides infection in children by 2030 by at least 75%. Surveys in the Pwani Region of Tanzania have shown poor hygienic risk factors due to high population and lack of sufficient toilets/latrines, poor sewage waste disposal, and insufficient clean drinking water that encourages the reproduction, transmission, and reinfection of A. lumbricoides. No study has been conducted in Pwani Region to determine the extent of A. lumbricoides infection among the population. This research tends to explore more about the status of A. lumbricoides infection in Kibaha District in the Pwani Region, Tanzania. Methods A cross-sectional study was done on 400 children (170 males and 230 females) who were under the age of 5 years old at Kongowe Health Centre. Collected data for A. lumbricoides infection measured were analyzed using Microsoft Excel, while data for sociodemographic findings and risk assessment were subjected to bivariate and multivariable analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 28.0.1.0 software (SPSS Inc., USA) at the level of significance of P < 0.05. Results Of the 400 children who participated in the laboratory testing of A. lumbricoides infection, 194 were found positive for A. lumbricoides infection. Amongst the 194 children who were found to be positive, 4.1%, 38.7%, and 57.2% were found to be in the age group of below 1 year old, 1 to 2, and 3 to 4 years old, respectively. The tabulated responses on the social demographic responses showed that 81.8% of the responses at P = 0.041 and 80.6% at P = 0.101 knew that A. lumbricoides infection is acquired from faeces and uncooked food, respectively, as 61.8% at P = 0.132 and 63.2% at P = 0.085 respondents did not accept that soil and dirty water, respectively, were not sources of A. lumbricoides infection. At P = 0.612 and P = 0.022, 64% and 91.2% of the respondents showed the importance of using latrines/toilets and washing fruits, respectively. Further results showed that 69.8% and 37.6% of the respondents reacted with no importance of washing hands with soap after using a toilet/latrine and no need to treat or boil water before drinking, respectively. Conclusions A. lumbricoides infection has a high prevalence in infants of the Kibaha District of Tanzania, especially in Kongowe village. The infection is dominant in males compared to female children. The prevalence is due to risk factors such as inadequate sanitation, low level of education, knowledge, and awareness of prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adnan A. Hamad
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kampala International University in Tanzania, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Godfrey O. Mauti
- Department of Physical and Biological Sciences, School of Pure and Applied Science, Bomet University College, Bomet, Kenya
- Department of School of Allied Health Science, Kampala International University-Western Campus, Bushenyi, Uganda
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11
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Oser L, Midha A, Schlosser-Brandenburg J, Rausch S, Mugo RM, Kundik A, Elizalde-Velázquez LE, Adjah J, Musimbi ZD, Klopfleisch R, Helm CS, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G, Hartmann S, Ebner F. Ascaris suum infection in juvenile pigs elicits a local Th2 response in a setting of ongoing Th1 expansion. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1396446. [PMID: 38799456 PMCID: PMC11116563 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1396446] [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: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Ascaris spp. undergo extensive migration within the body before establishing patent infections in the small intestinal tract of humans and pigs. However, whether larval migration is critical for inducing efficient type 2 responses remains poorly understood. Therefore, we investigated systemic versus local adaptive immune responses along the hepato-tracheal migration of Ascaris suum during primary, single infections in conventionally raised pigs. Neither the initial invasion of gut tissue nor migration through the liver resulted in discernable Th2 cell responses. In contrast, lung-stage larvae elicited a Th2-biased pulmonary response, which declined after the larvae had left the lungs. In the small intestine, we observed an accumulation of Th2 cells upon the arrival of fourth-stage larvae (L4) to the small intestinal lumen. In parallel, we noticed robust and increasing Th1 responses in circulation, migration-affected organs, and draining lymph nodes. Phenotypic analysis of CD4+ T cells specifically recognizing A. suum antigens in the circulation and lung tissue of infected pigs confirmed that the majority of Ascaris-specific T cells produced IL-4 (Th2) and, to a much lesser extent, IL-4/IFN-g (Th2/1 hybrids) or IFN-g alone (Th1). These data demonstrate that lung-stage but not the early liver-stage larvae lead to a locally restricted Th2 response. Significant Th2 cell accumulation in the small intestine occurs only when L4 complete the body migration. In addition, Th2 immunity seems to be hampered by the concurrent, nonspecific Th1 bias in growing pigs. Together, the late onset of Th2 immunity at the site of infection and the Th1-biased systemic immunity likely enable the establishment of intestinal infections by sufficiently large L4 stages and pre-adult worms, some of which resist expulsion mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Larissa Oser
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ankur Midha
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Josephine Schlosser-Brandenburg
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sebastian Rausch
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert M. Mugo
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Arkadi Kundik
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Luis E. Elizalde-Velázquez
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Joshua Adjah
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Zaneta D. Musimbi
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Robert Klopfleisch
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Christina S. Helm
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Georg von Samson-Himmelstjerna
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Hartmann
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Friederike Ebner
- Centre for Infection Medicine, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Infection Pathogenesis, School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, Freising, Germany
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12
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Behniafar H, Sepidarkish M, Tadi MJ, Valizadeh S, Gholamrezaei M, Hamidi F, Pazoki H, Alizadeh F, Kianifard N, Nooshabadi MS, Bagheri K, Hemmati F, Hemmati T, Tori NA, Siddiq A, Rostami A. The global prevalence of Trichuris trichiura infection in humans (2010-2023): A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Infect Public Health 2024; 17:800-809. [PMID: 38537575 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2024.03.005] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024] Open
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis study aimed to evaluate global Trichuris infection prevalence, assessing progress towards the WHO's 2030 target. We searched international databases from 2010-2023, categorizing data by regions and socio-economic variables using a random-effects model. Analyzing 757 articles covering 7154,842 individuals from 78 countries, the study found a pooled global prevalence of (6.64-7.57%), with the highest rates in the Caribbean (21.72%; 8.90-38.18%) and South-East Asia (20.95; 15.71-26.71%) regions. Southern Africa (9.58; 2.11-21.46%), Latin America (9.58; 2.11-21.46%), and Middle Africa Middle Africa (8.94; 6.31-11.98%) also exhibited high prevalence. Eastern Europe had the lowest prevalence at 0.16% (0.09-0.24). Approximately 513 (480-547) million people worldwide were estimated to harbor Trichuris. Moreover ∼1.5% of people tested worldwide (2010-2023) had a moderate to heavy intensity of infection. The study emphasizes the persistent global health threat of Trichuris infection, urging tailored strategies for effective control and prevention on a global scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Behniafar
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Sarab Faculty of Medical Sciences, Sarab, Iran
| | - Mahdi Sepidarkish
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Jafari Tadi
- Department of Cell and Molecular Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Soghra Valizadeh
- Department of Food Hygiene and Aquatic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Gholamrezaei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Faezeh Hamidi
- Department of Laboratory Sciences and Microbiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hossein Pazoki
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Faezeh Alizadeh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Illinois, Chicago, USA
| | - Nazanin Kianifard
- School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Kimia Bagheri
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Faezeh Hemmati
- Student Research Committee, Sarab Faculty of Medical Sciences, Sarab, Iran
| | - Taha Hemmati
- Student Research Committee, Sarab Faculty of Medical Sciences, Sarab, Iran
| | - Neda Ahmazadeh Tori
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | | | - Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
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Ramos DR, Robalino AS, Mogrovejo DL, Suárez DA, Proaño AER, Parrales DE, Molina GA. An uninvited guest, Ascaris in the bile duct causing cholangitis successfully treated with surgery. J Surg Case Rep 2024; 2024:rjae264. [PMID: 38681482 PMCID: PMC11052593 DOI: 10.1093/jscr/rjae264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Parasitic infections continue to be a burden for developing countries-the lack of hygiene measures and clean water results in dangerous scenarios that can lead to challenging problems. Most Ascaris lumbricoides infections are usually mild; nonetheless, in rare cases in endemic regions, they can migrate to the bile duct and cause severe complications requiring surgery. We present the case of a 43-year-old woman who had severe cholangitis due to A. lumbricoides. The worm migrated from the bowel and obstructed the bile duct; after surgery, the patient fully recovered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darwin R Ramos
- IEDLAP (Instituto de Endoscopia digestiva y Laparoscopia Avanzado), Colón 042, Píllaro-Ecuador, Ambato, Ecuador
| | - Antonio S Robalino
- IEDLAP (Instituto de Endoscopia digestiva y Laparoscopia Avanzado), Colón 042, Píllaro-Ecuador, Ambato, Ecuador
| | - Daniel L Mogrovejo
- IEDLAP (Instituto de Endoscopia digestiva y Laparoscopia Avanzado), Colón 042, Píllaro-Ecuador, Ambato, Ecuador
| | - Doménica A Suárez
- USFQ (Universidad San Francisco de Quito), Diego de Robles, Quito 170901, Ecuador
| | - Aitana E Ross Proaño
- Universidad Técnica Equinoccial (UTE), Rumipamba y Bourgeois, Quito 170147, Ecuador
| | - Diana E Parrales
- Department of Surgery Iess Quito Sur, Moraspungo, 17011, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Gabriel A Molina
- USFQ (Universidad San Francisco de Quito) Diego de Robles, 170901 and Hospital Metropolitano, Av. Mariana de Jesús 170521, Quito, Ecuador
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14
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Roose S, Vande Velde F, Vlaminck J, Geldhof P, Levecke B. Serological diagnosis of soil-transmitted helminth (Ascaris, Trichuris and hookworm) infections: A scoping review. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012049. [PMID: 38574166 PMCID: PMC10994556 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization emphasizes the importance of integrated monitoring and evaluation in neglected tropical disease (NTD) control programs. Serological assays offer a potential solution for integrated diagnosis of NTDs, particularly for those requiring mass drug administration (MDA) as primary control and elimination strategy. This scoping review aims (i) to provide an overview of assays using serum or plasma to detect infections with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) in both humans and animals, (ii) to examine the methodologies used in this research field and (iii) to discuss advancements in serological diagnosis of STHs to guide prevention and control programs in veterinary and human medicine. METHODOLOGY We conducted a systematic search in the Ovid MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library databases, supplemented by a Google search using predefined keywords to identify commercially available serological assays. Additionally, we performed a patent search through Espacenet. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We identified 85 relevant literature records spanning over 50 years, with a notable increased interest in serological assay development in recent years. Most of the research efforts concentrated on diagnosing Ascaris infections in both humans and pigs, primarily using ELISA and western blot technologies. Almost all records targeted antibodies as analytes, employing proteins and peptides as analyte detection agents. Approximately 60% of sample sets described pertained to human samples. No commercially available tests for Trichuris or hookworms were identified, while for Ascaris, there are at least seven different ELISAs on the market. CONCLUSIONS While a substantial number of assays are employed in epidemiological research, the current state of serological diagnosis for guiding STH prevention and control programs is limited. Only two assays designed for pigs are used to inform efficient deworming practices in pig populations. Regarding human diagnosis, none of the existing assays has undergone extensive large-scale validation or integration into routine diagnostics for MDA programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Roose
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Fiona Vande Velde
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Johnny Vlaminck
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Peter Geldhof
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Bruno Levecke
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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15
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Souza JLN, Lopes CDA, Leal-Silva T, Vieira-Santos F, Amorim CCO, Padrão LDLS, Antunes Porto AR, Fujiwara RT, Russo RC, Bueno LL. Evaluation of reference genes for gene expression analysis by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) in different tissues from mice infected by Ascaris suum. Microb Pathog 2024; 189:106567. [PMID: 38364877 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106567] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Human ascariasis is the most prevalent helminth infection, affecting 445 million people worldwide. To better understand the impact of the immune system on the pathophysiology of individuals infected with Ascaris suum, mice have been used as experimental models. The RT-qPCR technique is a critical auxiliary tool of investigation used to quantify mRNA levels. However, proper normalization using reference genes is essential to ensure reliable outcomes to avoid analytical errors and false results. Despite the importance of reference genes for experimental A. suum infection studies, no specific reference genes have been identified yet. Therefore, we conducted a study to assess five potential reference genes (GAPDH, 18s, ACTB, B2M, and HPRT1) in different tissues (liver, lungs, small and large intestines) affected by A. suum larval migration in C57BL/6j mice. Tissue collection was carried out to analyze parasite burden and confirm the presence of larvae during the peak of migration in each tissue. Upon confirmation, we analyzed different genes in the tissues and found no common gene with stable expression. Our results highlight the importance of analyzing different genes and using different software programs to ensure reliable relative expression results. Based on our findings, B2M was ranked as the ideal reference gene for the liver, while 18S was the most stable gene in the lung and small intestine. ACTB, or a combination of ACTB with GAPDH, was deemed suitable as reference genes for the large intestine due to their stable expression and less variation between the control and infected groups. To further demonstrate the impact of using different reference genes, we normalized the expression of a chemokine gene (CXCL9) in all tissues. Significant differences in CXCL9 expression levels were observed between different groups in all tissues except for the large intestine. This underscores the importance of selecting appropriate reference genes to avoid overestimating target gene expression levels and encountering normalization-related issues that can lead to false results. In conclusion, our study highlights the significance of using reliable reference genes for accurate RT-qPCR analysis, especially in the context of A. suum infection studies in different tissues. Proper normalization is crucial to ensure the validity of gene expression data and avoid potential pitfalls in interpreting results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Lucas Nascimento Souza
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Laboratory of Pulmonary Immunology and Mechanics, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Camila de Almeida Lopes
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Thais Leal-Silva
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Flaviane Vieira-Santos
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Chiara Cássia Oliveira Amorim
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luiza de Lima Silva Padrão
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ana Rafaela Antunes Porto
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Toshio Fujiwara
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Remo Castro Russo
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Immunology and Mechanics, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lilian Lacerda Bueno
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
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16
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Ali SA, Niaz S, Nasreen N, Khan A, Shafeeq S, Aguilar-Marcelino L, Safi WA, Zaki MA, De La Fuente J, Ben Said M. Temporal and spatial patterns of Trichuris trichiura eggs: a potential threat to human health in Pakistan. Helminthologia 2024; 61:11-19. [PMID: 38659469 PMCID: PMC11038264 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2024-0009] [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: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the presence of Trichuris trichiura eggs in soil samples collected from urban areas in Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 3600 soil samples were collected over two years from Lahore's urban regions. The detection of helminth eggs in these samples was performed using sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) as a diagnostic technique. The study reveals an overall prevalence rate of T. trichiura at 0.97 % (35 out of 3600) in the contaminated soil samples from Lahore's slum areas. When analyzing the data by geographical areas, the study found the highest prevalence of T. trichiura in Allama Iqbal Town (1.83 %, 11 out of 600), followed by Samanabad (1.16 %, 7 out of 600), Wapda Town (1.00 %, 6 out of 600), Gulberg (1.00 %, 6 out of 600), and Cantt (0.50 %, 3 out of 600). Conversely, Valencia Town had the lowest prevalence rate at 0.33 % (2 out of 600). However, these variations in prevalence rates were not statistically significant (p = 0.117). Prevalence rates of T. trichiura's eggs varied significantly across different sampling seasons (p>0.001). In autumn, a total of 900 soil samples were collected, with 19 samples (2.11 %) testing positive for T. trichiura. This rate was notably higher compared to the prevalence rates observed in winter, spring, and summer, which were 0.66 %, 0.22 %, and 0.88 %, respectively. Regarding the sampling months, the study observed a significantly higher prevalence during September (3.33 %, 10 out of 300), followed by October (2.33 %, 7 out of 300), and August (1.33 %, 4 out of 300). Prevalence rates gradually decreased in other months, ranging from 1 % to 0.33 % (3 to 1 out of 300), with no parasite detection in March (0 %, 0 out of 300) (p < 0.001). This research underscores soil contamination due to fecal waste and highlights public unawareness of parasite biology, driven by open defecation practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. A. Ali
- Department of Zoology, University of the Punjab, Quaid-i-Azam Campus, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - S. Niaz
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - N. Nasreen
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - A. Khan
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - S. Shafeeq
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi-75270, Pakistan
| | - L. Aguilar-Marcelino
- Centro Nacional de Investigación Disciplinariaen Salud Animal e Inocuidad, INIFAP, Carretera Federal Cuernavaca Cuautla, No. 8534, Col. Progreso, CP62550Jiutepec, Morelos, Mexico
| | | | - M. A. Zaki
- Shaukat Khanum Hospital, Lahore -03004246819, Pakistan
| | - J. De La Fuente
- SaBio, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC-CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo 12, 13005Ciudad Real, Spain
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK74078, USA
| | - M. Ben Said
- Department of Basic Sciences, Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba2010, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Microbiology at the National School of Veterinary Medicine of Sidi Thabet, University of Manouba, Manouba2010, Tunisia
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17
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Wolstenholme AJ, Andersen EC, Choudhary S, Ebner F, Hartmann S, Holden-Dye L, Kashyap SS, Krücken J, Martin RJ, Midha A, Nejsum P, Neveu C, Robertson AP, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G, Walker R, Wang J, Whitehead BJ, Williams PDE. Getting around the roundworms: Identifying knowledge gaps and research priorities for the ascarids. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2024; 123:51-123. [PMID: 38448148 PMCID: PMC11143470 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2023.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
The ascarids are a large group of parasitic nematodes that infect a wide range of animal species. In humans, they cause neglected diseases of poverty; many animal parasites also cause zoonotic infections in people. Control measures include hygiene and anthelmintic treatments, but they are not always appropriate or effective and this creates a continuing need to search for better ways to reduce the human, welfare and economic costs of these infections. To this end, Le Studium Institute of Advanced Studies organized a two-day conference to identify major gaps in our understanding of ascarid parasites with a view to setting research priorities that would allow for improved control. The participants identified several key areas for future focus, comprising of advances in genomic analysis and the use of model organisms, especially Caenorhabditis elegans, a more thorough appreciation of the complexity of host-parasite (and parasite-parasite) communications, a search for novel anthelmintic drugs and the development of effective vaccines. The participants agreed to try and maintain informal links in the future that could form the basis for collaborative projects, and to co-operate to organize future meetings and workshops to promote ascarid research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian J Wolstenholme
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Université de Tours, ISP, Nouzilly, France.
| | - Erik C Andersen
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Shivani Choudhary
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Friederike Ebner
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, School of Life Sciences, Technische Universität München, Freising, Germany
| | - Susanne Hartmann
- Institute for Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lindy Holden-Dye
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Sudhanva S Kashyap
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Jürgen Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Richard J Martin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | - Ankur Midha
- Institute for Immunology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter Nejsum
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Cedric Neveu
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Université de Tours, ISP, Nouzilly, France
| | - Alan P Robertson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
| | | | - Robert Walker
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Jianbin Wang
- Department of Biochemistry & Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, United States
| | | | - Paul D E Williams
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, United States
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18
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Bathobakae L, Wilkinson T, Yasin S, Bashir R, Mateen N, Yuridullah R, Cavanagh Y, Baddoura W, Suh J. An Unpleasant Souvenir: Whipworm as an Incidental Finding During a Screening Colonoscopy. J Investig Med High Impact Case Rep 2024; 12:23247096231224328. [PMID: 38193443 PMCID: PMC10777755 DOI: 10.1177/23247096231224328] [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: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Trichuriasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by Trichuris trichiura that spreads through the ingestion of embryonated eggs in contaminated soil, water, or food. In nonendemic areas, T trichiura infestation is very rare and sporadic and is often diagnosed in immigrants from endemic countries such as the Philippines. Whipworms feed on human blood and also erode the colonic mucosa, thereby evoking an inflammatory response. In milder forms, trichuriasis can be asymptomatic and often an incidental diagnosis on screening colonoscopy. Heavily infested patients usually present with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, tenesmus, chronic diarrhea, iron deficiency anemia, or stunted growth. T trichiura worms can be removed with biopsy forceps during a colonoscopy; however, most patients require a course of albendazole, mebendazole, or ivermectin. We describe a unique case of T trichiura as an incidental finding during a screening colonoscopy. The whipworms were retrieved using biopsy forceps and the patient was treated with albendazole. At the time of the colonoscopy, the patient did not exhibit any specific symptoms related to the worm infestation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Saif Yasin
- St. George’s University, Grenada, West Indies
| | | | - Nargis Mateen
- St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, Paterson, NJ, USA
| | | | - Yana Cavanagh
- St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, Paterson, NJ, USA
| | - Walid Baddoura
- St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, Paterson, NJ, USA
| | - Jin Suh
- St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, Paterson, NJ, USA
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19
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Oliveira FMS, Kraemer L, Vieira-Santos F, Leal-Silva T, Gazzinelli-Guimarães AC, Lopes CA, Amorim CCO, Pinheiro GRG, Moura MS, Matias PHP, Barbosa FS, Caliari MV, Weatherhead JE, Bueno LL, Russo RC, Fujiwara RT. The long-lasting Ascaris suum antigens in the lungs shapes the tissue adaptation modifying the pulmonary architecture and immune response after infection in mice. Microb Pathog 2024; 186:106483. [PMID: 38092133 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2023.106483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Ascariasis is the most prevalent helminth affecting approximately 819 million people worldwide. The acute phase of Ascariasis is characterized by larval migration of Ascaris spp., through the intestinal wall, carried to the liver and lungs of the host by the circulatory system. Most of the larvae subsequently transverse the lung parenchyma leading to tissue injury, reaching the airways and pharynx, where they can be expectorated and swallowed back to the gastrointestinal tract, where they develop into adult worms. However, some larvae are trapped in the lung parenchyma inciting an inflammatory response that causes persistent pulmonary tissue damage long after the resolution of infection, which returns to tissue homeostasis. However, the mechanism by which chronic lung disease develops and resolves remains unknown. Here, using immunohistochemistry, we demonstrate that small fragments and larval antigens of Ascaris suum are deposited and retained chronically in the lung parenchyma of mice following a single Ascaris infection. Our results reveal that the prolonged presence of Ascaris larval antigens in the lung parenchyma contributes to the persistent immune stimulation inducing histopathological changes observed chronically following infection, and clearly demonstrate that larval antigens are related to all phases of tissue adaptation after infection: lung injury, chronic inflammation, resolution, and tissue remodeling, in parallel to increased specific humoral immunity and the recovery of lung function in mice. Additional insight is needed into the mechanisms of Ascaris antigen to induce chronic immune responses and resolution in the host lungs following larval migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrício M S Oliveira
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Cellular and Molecular Immunology Group, René Rachou Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation - FIOCRUZ, Av. Augusto de Lima, 1.715, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lucas Kraemer
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Flaviane Vieira-Santos
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Thaís Leal-Silva
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ana C Gazzinelli-Guimarães
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Camila A Lopes
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Chiara C O Amorim
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Guilherme R G Pinheiro
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Matheus S Moura
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Pablo H P Matias
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | | | - Marcelo V Caliari
- Laboratory of Protozooses, Department of General Pathology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Jill E Weatherhead
- Department of Medicine, Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Lilian L Bueno
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Remo C Russo
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Immunology and Mechanics, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ricardo T Fujiwara
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
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20
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Ng'etich AI, Amoah ID, Bux F, Kumari S. Anthelmintic resistance in soil-transmitted helminths: One-Health considerations. Parasitol Res 2023; 123:62. [PMID: 38114766 PMCID: PMC10730643 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-08088-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
The One-Health approach recognizes the intricate connection between human, animal, and environmental health, and that cooperative effort from various professionals provides comprehensive awareness and potential solutions for issues relating to the health of people, animals, and the environment. This approach has increasingly gained appeal as the standard strategy for tackling emerging infectious diseases, most of which are zoonoses. Treatment with anthelmintics (AHs) without a doubt minimizes the severe consequences of soil-transmitted helminths (STHs); however, evidence of anthelmintic resistance (AR) development to different helminths of practically every animal species and the distinct groups of AHs is overwhelming globally. In this regard, the correlation between the application of anthelmintic drugs in both human and animal populations and the consequent development of anthelmintic resistance in STHs within the context of a One-Health framework is explored. This review provides an overview of the major human and animal STHs, treatment of the STHs, AR development and drug-related factors contributing towards AR, One-Health and STHs, and an outline of some One-Health strategies that may be used in combating AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette Imali Ng'etich
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology (DUT), Durban, South Africa
| | - Isaac Dennis Amoah
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology (DUT), Durban, South Africa
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Faizal Bux
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology (DUT), Durban, South Africa
| | - Sheena Kumari
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology (DUT), Durban, South Africa.
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21
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Schärer A, Biendl S, Keiser J. Trichuris muris egg-hatching assay for anthelminthic drug discovery and characterization. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2023; 23:63-70. [PMID: 37856948 PMCID: PMC10590722 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2023.10.001] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Trichuriasis is a neglected tropical disease widely distributed among tropical and sub-tropical areas and associated with poverty and lack of access to safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene. Existing drugs have limited efficacy and face a constant risk of developing resistance, necessitating the search for alternative treatments. However, drug discovery efforts are sparse and little research has been performed on anthelminthic effects on embryonated eggs, the infectious life stage of Trichuris spp. We examined bacterial species dependent egg hatching of the murine model parasite Trichuris muris and identified Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterobacter hormaechei effective as hatching inducers, resulting in hatching yields of 50-70%. Streptococcus salivarius, reported to be associated with reduced drug efficacy of ivermectin-albendazole coadministration in Trichuris trichiura infected patients, did not promote egg hatching in vitro. We optimized hatching conditions using E. coli grown in luria broth or brain-heart infusion media to reach consistently high hatching yields to provide a sensitive, robust and simple egg-hatching assay. Oxantel pamoate demonstrated the strongest potency in preventing hatching, with an EC50 value of 2-4 μM after 24 h, while pyrantel pamoate, levamisole and tribendimidine exhibited only moderate to weak inhibitory effects. Conversely, all tested benzimidazoles and macrolide anthelminthics as well as emodepside failed to prevent hatching (EC50 > 100 μM). Our study demonstrates that egg-hatching assays complement larval and adult stage drug sensitivity assays, to expand knowledge about effects of current anthelminthics on Trichuris spp. Further, the developed T. muris egg-hatching assay provides a simple and cheap screening tool that could potentially lead to the discovery of novel anthelminthic compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Schärer
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, CH-4123 Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, CH-4003, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Biendl
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, CH-4123 Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, CH-4003, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Kreuzstrasse 2, CH-4123 Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, CH-4003, Basel, Switzerland.
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22
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Cai W, Cheng C, Feng Q, Ma Y, Hua E, Jiang S, Hou Z, Liu D, Yang A, Cheng D, Xu J, Tao J. Prevalence and risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasites in goats ( Capra hircus) and sheep ( Ovis aries) from three provinces of China. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1287835. [PMID: 38098673 PMCID: PMC10719946 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1287835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites in small ruminants, especially goats and sheep, have caused significant socio-economic and public health challenges worldwide. The aim of the present study was to investigate the diversity and prevalence of GI parasites in goats and sheep in Jiangsu, Shaanxi and Hunan provinces of China, and to assess whether the age of animals, sampling season and feeding mode influence the distribution and infection of GI parasites. A total of 1,081 fecal samples collected from goats (n = 835) and sheep (n = 246) were detected by saturated saline flotation technique and nylon sifter elutriation and sieving method for eggs/oocysts, respectively. Based on the morphological observation of eggs and oocysts, one tapeworm, five nematodes, three trematodes and nineteen coccidia were identified, of which seven helminths belong to zoonotic parasites. The infection rate of parasites was 83.4% (902/1081) in total samples, 91.6% (765/835) in goats, and 55.7% (137/246) in sheep. The infection rate of coccidia was 71.0% (767/1081), and that of helminths was 56.2% (607/1081). The dominant species was E. alijeri (67.3%, 562/835) in goats, E. parva (30.1%, 74/246) in sheep. The highest prevalent helminths were Trichostrongylidae spp. in goats (58.3%, 487/835), and Moniezia spp. in sheep (22.76%, 56/246). Of 902 positive samples, 825 (91.5%, 825/902) contained multiple (2-10) parasites. The feeding mode, sampling season and regions were relevant risk factors which have significant influence on the occurrence of GI parasites in goats and sheep. The risk coefficient of parasite infection in autumn was 2.49 times higher than spring (Odds ratio = 2.49, 95% CI = 1.51-4.09, p < 0.001). Compared to raising on the high beds, the goats and sheep raising on the ground had the higher risk of parasite infection (OR = 3.91, 95% CI = 2.07-7.40, p < 0.001). The risk coefficient of parasite infection in Shaanxi and Hunan was 3.78 and 1.25 times higher than that in Jiangsu (OR = 3.78, 95% CI = 2.01-7.12, p < 0.001; OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.21-1.29, p < 0.001). These data are significant for the development of prevention strategies to minimise economic losses from small ruminant production and to reduce the risk of water and food infecting humans as vectors of zoonotic parasitic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weimin Cai
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Cheng Cheng
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Qianqian Feng
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yifei Ma
- Rudong Animal Disease Control Center, Nantong, China
| | - Enyu Hua
- Changshu Animal Disease Control Center, Suzhou, China
| | - Shimin Jiang
- Zhangjiajie Yongding District Animal Husbandry and Fishery Affairs Center, Zhangjiajie, China
| | - Zhaofeng Hou
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Dandan Liu
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Anlong Yang
- Yangzhou Municipal Bureau of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Yangzhou, China
| | - Darong Cheng
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jinjun Xu
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jianping Tao
- Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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23
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Li P, Jiang J, Li Y, Lan Y, Yang F, Wang J, Xie Y, Xiong F, Wu J, Liu H, Fan Z. Metagenomic analysis reveals distinct changes in the gut microbiome of obese Chinese children. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:721. [PMID: 38031016 PMCID: PMC10685578 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09805-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The prevalence of obese children in China is increasing, which poses a great challenge to public health. Gut microbes play an important role in human gut health, and changes in gut status are closely related to obesity. However, how gut microbes contribute to obesity in children remains unclear. In our study, we performed shotgun metagenomic sequencing of feces from 23 obese children, 8 overweight children and 22 control children in Chengdu, Sichuan, China. RESULTS We observed a distinct difference in the gut microbiome of obese children and that of controls. Compared with the controls, bacterial pathogen Campylobacter rectus was significantly more abundant in obese children. In addition, functional annotation of microbial genes revealed that there might be gut inflammation in obese children. The guts of overweight children might belong to the transition state between obese and control children due to a gradient in relative abundance of differentially abundant species. Finally, we compared the gut metagenomes of obese Chinese children and obese Mexican children and found that Trichuris trichiura was significantly more abundant in the guts of obese Mexican children. CONCLUSIONS Our results contribute to understanding the changes in the species and function of intestinal microbes in obese Chinese children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Li
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, Department of Pediatrics, NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiyang Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, Sichuan, China
| | - Yifei Li
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, Department of Pediatrics, NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Yue Lan
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, Sichuan, China
| | - Fan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, Department of Pediatrics, NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jiao Wang
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, Sichuan, China
| | - Yuxin Xie
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, Sichuan, China
| | - Fei Xiong
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, Department of Pediatrics, NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Jinhui Wu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, Department of Pediatrics, NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China
| | - Hanmin Liu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children of MOE, Department of Pediatrics, NHC Key Laboratory of Chronobiology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, Sichuan, China.
| | - Zhenxin Fan
- Key Laboratory of Bioresources and Ecoenvironment (Ministry of Education), College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610065, Sichuan, China.
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Segatt PH, Duarte ÉR, Duarte ML. Ascaris lumbricoides Inside the Gallbladder. Indian J Pediatr 2023:10.1007/s12098-023-04892-3. [PMID: 37930622 DOI: 10.1007/s12098-023-04892-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Henrique Segatt
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ribeirão Preto University Campus Guarujá, Guarujá, SP, Brazil
| | - Élcio Roberto Duarte
- Department of Ultrasonography, Holy House of Mercy of Santos, Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Márcio Luís Duarte
- Department of Radiology, Ribeirão Preto University Campus Guarujá, Guarujá, SP, Brazil.
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25
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Lu Y, Hu X, Lu Y, Dong X. A crasher in the common bile duct: Ascaris. Asian J Surg 2023; 46:4955-4956. [PMID: 37330301 DOI: 10.1016/j.asjsur.2023.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yanlin Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Dongyang Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Dongyang City, China.
| | - Xiaoyan Hu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Dongyang Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Dongyang City, China
| | - Yifang Lu
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Dongyang Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Dongyang City, China
| | - Xiaofang Dong
- Department of Medical Oncology, Affiliated Dongyang Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Dongyang City, China
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26
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Coghlan A, Partridge FA, Duque-Correa MA, Rinaldi G, Clare S, Seymour L, Brandt C, Mkandawire TT, McCarthy C, Holroyd N, Nick M, Brown AE, Tonitiwong S, Sattelle DB, Berriman M. A drug repurposing screen for whipworms informed by comparative genomics. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011205. [PMID: 37669291 PMCID: PMC10503962 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hundreds of millions of people worldwide are infected with the whipworm Trichuris trichiura. Novel treatments are urgently needed as current drugs, such as albendazole, have relatively low efficacy. We have investigated whether drugs approved for other human diseases could be repurposed as novel anti-whipworm drugs. In a previous comparative genomics analysis, we identified 409 drugs approved for human use that we predicted to target parasitic worm proteins. Here we tested these ex vivo by assessing motility of adult worms of Trichuris muris, the murine whipworm, an established model for human whipworm research. We identified 14 compounds with EC50 values of ≤50 μM against T. muris ex vivo, and selected nine for testing in vivo. However, the best worm burden reduction seen in mice was just 19%. The high number of ex vivo hits against T. muris shows that we were successful at predicting parasite proteins that could be targeted by approved drugs. In contrast, the low efficacy of these compounds in mice suggest challenges due to their chemical properties (e.g. lipophilicity, polarity, molecular weight) and pharmacokinetics (e.g. absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) that may (i) promote absorption by the host gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing availability to the worms embedded in the large intestine, and/or (ii) restrict drug uptake by the worms. This indicates that identifying structural analogues that have reduced absorption by the host, and increased uptake by worms, may be necessary for successful drug development against whipworms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avril Coghlan
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Frederick A. Partridge
- University College London, London, United Kingdom
- School of Life Sciences, University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Simon Clare
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa Seymour
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Nancy Holroyd
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Marina Nick
- University College London, London, United Kingdom
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27
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Tinkitina B, Beinamaryo P, Adriko M, Nabatte B, Arinaitwe M, Mubangizi A, Emerson P, Dhakal S, Sullivan KM. Prevalence and intensity of soil-transmitted helminth infections in Uganda: Results from population-based prevalence surveys in five districts. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011605. [PMID: 37751418 PMCID: PMC10522024 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are caused by roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides), whipworms (Trichuris trichiura), and hookworms (Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale). In Uganda, baseline surveys conducted during the late 1990s and early 2000s suggested STH infections were common, with prevalence >50% among surveyed schoolchildren. In 2003, a national program was launched with mass preventative chemotherapy (PC) and health education for children 1-14 years old. Little evidence is available to show the impact of national deworming. METHODS We conducted population-based, cross-sectional household surveys in five districts (Buikwe, Kassanda, Kiryandongo, Kisoro, and Rubanda) in March and May 2022. Our primary objective was to estimate STH prevalence by species due to infections of any intensity and infections of moderate-to-heavy intensity among preschool-aged children (PSAC, 1-4 years old), school-aged children (SAC, 5-14 years old), and women of reproductive age (WRA, 15-49 years old). Laboratory technicians used duplicate Kato-Katz microscopy to determine fecal egg count. RESULTS Overall, 3,352 PSAC; 3,884 SAC; and 1,226 WRA provided stool samples. The prevalence of any infection remained high in Kisoro at or above ~50% within all risk groups. In other districts, the prevalence of any infection ranged from approximately 5 to 16% among PSAC, 6 to 23% among SAC, and 12 to 19% among WRA. Moderate-to-heavy intensity infection prevalence was highest in Kisoro (~15-26%), followed by Rubanda (<5%), and was ≤1% in other districts. A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura infections were largely confined to Kisoro and Rubanda, whereas hookworm was most common in other districts. CONCLUSIONS The STH prevalence has decreased markedly in three districts in Uganda. Based on our findings, the national deworming program should consider decreasing PC distribution frequency in these districts per the World Health Organization guidelines. Efforts are needed to understand why the Kisoro and Rubanda districts did not demonstrate similar gains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Tinkitina
- Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Prudence Beinamaryo
- Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Adriko
- Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Betty Nabatte
- Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Arinaitwe
- Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Alfred Mubangizi
- Vector Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Paul Emerson
- Children Without Worms, The Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Sanjaya Dhakal
- Children Without Worms, The Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Kristin M. Sullivan
- Children Without Worms, The Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, Georgia, United States of America
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El Safadi D, Osman M, Hanna A, Hajar I, Kassem II, Khalife S, Dabboussi F, Hamze M. Parasitic Contamination of Fresh Leafy Green Vegetables Sold in Northern Lebanon. Pathogens 2023; 12:1014. [PMID: 37623974 PMCID: PMC10459145 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12081014] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Contaminated, raw or undercooked vegetables can transmit parasitic infections. Here, we investigated parasitic contamination of leafy green vegetables sold in local markets in the Tripoli district, Lebanon, during two consecutive autumn seasons (2020-2021). The study involved the microscopic examination of 300 samples of five different types of vegetables (60 samples per type) and used standardized qualitative parasitological techniques for some protozoa and helminths. The results showed that 16.7% (95% interval for p: 12.6%, 21.4%) (50/300) of the vegetable samples were contaminated with at least one parasite. The most frequently detected parasite was Blastocystis spp. (8.7%; 26/300); this was followed in frequency by Ascaris spp. (3.7%; 11/300). Among the different vegetable types, lettuce (23.3%; 14/60) was the most contaminated, while arugula was the least contaminated (11.7%; 7/60). The statistical analysis did not reveal any significant association between the prevalence of parasitic contamination and the investigated risk factors, which included collection date, vegetable type, market storage status, and wetness of vegetables at the time of purchase (p > 0.05). The high prevalence of parasitic contamination also suggested the potential presence of other microbial pathogens. These findings are important because leafy green vegetables are preferentially and heavily consumed raw in Lebanon. Thus, implementing effective measures that target the farm-to-fork continuum is recommended in order to reduce the spread of intestinal pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dima El Safadi
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool L7 8XZ, UK;
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Marwan Osman
- Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Angel Hanna
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Iman Hajar
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Issmat I. Kassem
- Center for Food Safety, Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Georgia, Griffin, GA 30223, USA;
| | - Sara Khalife
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Beirut Arab University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon;
| | - Fouad Dabboussi
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
| | - Monzer Hamze
- Laboratoire Microbiology, Santé et Environnement, Doctoral School of Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Public Health, Lebanese University, Tripoli 1300, Lebanon; (A.H.); (I.H.); (F.D.); (M.H.)
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29
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Smita S, Webb LM, Mooney B, Früh SP, Oyesola OO, Matheson MK, Peng SA, Tait Wojno ED. Basophil responses in susceptible AKR mice upon infection with the intestinal helminth parasite Trichuris muris. Parasite Immunol 2023; 45:e12999. [PMID: 37415265 PMCID: PMC10513073 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Intestinal helminth infection promotes a Type 2 inflammatory response in resistant C57BL/6 mice that is essential for worm clearance. The study of inbred mouse strains has revealed factors that are critical for parasite resistance and delineated the role of Type 1 versus Type 2 immune responses in worm clearance. In C57BL/6 mice, basophils are key innate immune cells that promote Type 2 inflammation and are programmed via the Notch signalling pathway during infection with the helminth Trichuris muris. However, how the host genetic background influences basophil responses and basophil expression of Notch receptors remains unclear. Here we use genetically susceptible inbred AKR/J mice that have a Type 1-skewed immune response during T. muris infection to investigate basophil responses in a susceptible host. Basophil population expansion occurred in AKR/J mice even in the absence of fulminant Type 2 inflammation during T. muris infection. However, basophils in AKR/J mice did not robustly upregulate expression of the Notch2 receptor in response to infection as occurred in C57BL/6 mice. Blockade of the Type 1 cytokine interferon-γ in infected AKR/J mice was not sufficient to elicit infection-induced basophil expression of the Notch2 receptor. These data suggest that the host genetic background, outside of the Type 1 skew, is important in regulating basophil responses during T. muris infection in susceptible AKR/J mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuchi Smita
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Lauren M. Webb
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Bridget Mooney
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Simon P. Früh
- Baker Institute for Animal Health and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Oyebola O. Oyesola
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Baker Institute for Animal Health and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Macy K. Matheson
- Department of Immunology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Seth A. Peng
- Baker Institute for Animal Health and Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, USA
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Birhanu AM, Mohammed SH, Gossaye BT, Kebede MA. Ascariasis causing small bowel obstruction in an adult female: A case report. Int J Surg Case Rep 2023; 109:108486. [PMID: 37437322 PMCID: PMC10362153 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2023.108486] [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: 06/05/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE Ascariasis is a helminthic infection of humans caused by Ascaris lumbricoides. Intestinal obstruction from ascariasis can result in a rare but severe and often fatal surgical emergency of intestinal perforation and peritonitis in endemic areas. There have been reports of ascariasis causing Small Bowel Obstruction (SBO) in children in endemic areas but this phenomenon has not been studied in adults. The objective of this study was to describe the case of ascariasis causing SBO in a 25-year-old female. CASE PRESENTATION A 25-year-old female from southwest Ethiopia presented with a complaint of intermittent crampy abdominal pain of 02 days duration associated with vomiting of ingested matter of 02 to 03 episodes, progressive abdominal distension and failure to pass feces and flatus. On examination, she was acutely sick looking. She has mild abdominal distention and a hyperactive bowel sound. Subsequently, she was resuscitated, broad spectrum antibiotic started, consent taken & operated. Patient discharged on the 7th postoperative day. CLINICAL DISCUSSION There have been reports of Ascariasis causing SBO in endemic areas of the tropics and sub-tropics. SBO secondary to the ascaris ball in an adult is very rare and is relevant to present as it adds key clinical lessons in the consideration as a differential diagnosis, investigation clues and patient management. CONCLUSION In a patient presented with symptoms and signs suggestive of bowel obstruction, Ascariasis should be considered as a differential diagnosis for those from endemic areas. The treating physician should have a high index of suspicion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anteneh Messele Birhanu
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan Teferi, Ethiopia.
| | - Suleman Hassen Mohammed
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan Teferi, Ethiopia
| | - Bizuayehu Tassew Gossaye
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan Teferi, Ethiopia
| | - Molla Asnake Kebede
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Mizan-Tepi University, Mizan Teferi, Ethiopia
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Mitra I, Bhattacharya A, Paul J, Anisuzzaman. Present status with impacts and roles of miRNA on Soil Transmitted Helminthiosis control: A review. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PHARMACOLOGY AND DRUG DISCOVERY 2023; 5:100162. [PMID: 37520661 PMCID: PMC10371793 DOI: 10.1016/j.crphar.2023.100162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis (STH) is one of the most widespread Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), and almost 1.5 billion of the global population is affected, mostly in the indigent, countryside sectors of tropics/subtropics. STH, commonly caused by various nematodes, adversely affects the hosts' growth, cognatic development, and immunity. Albendazole is most commonly used against STH (Soil-Transmitted Helminths) but resistance has already been reported in different countries. To date, no effective vaccine is present against STH. miRNAs are a unique class of small non-coding RNA, regulating various biological activities indulging host immune responses in host-pathogen interaction of STH. Dysregulation of miRNAs are being considered as one of the most important aspect of host-parasite interactions. Thus, it is the prime importance to identify and characterize parasite-specific as well as host-derived miRNAs to understand the STH infection at the molecular level. Systematic bibliometric analysis reveals a huge knowledge gap in understanding the disease by using both host and parasitic miRNAs as a potential biomarker. In this study, we addressed the present status of the STH prevalence, and therapy under the light of miRNAs. This would further help in designing new inhibitors and therapeutic strategies to control STH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imon Mitra
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, India
| | - Arijit Bhattacharya
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, India
| | - Joydeep Paul
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Biotechnology, Adamas University, Kolkata, India
| | - Anisuzzaman
- Department of Parasitology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, 2202, Bangladesh
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Akanksha K, Kumari A, Dutta O, Prasanth A, Deeba F, Salam N. Prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth infections in HIV patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11055. [PMID: 37422549 PMCID: PMC10329649 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-38030-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted Helminth (STH) infections have been found associated with people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) but little is known about the overall burden of STH coinfection in HIV patients. We aimed to assess the burden of STH infections among HIV patients. Relevant databases were systematically searched for studies reporting the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminthic pathogens in HIV patients. Pooled estimates of each helminthic infection were calculated. The odds ratio was also determined as a measure of the association between STH infection and the HIV status of the patients. Sixty-one studies were finally included in the meta-analysis, consisting of 16,203 human subjects from all over the world. The prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides infection in HIV patients was found to be 8% (95% CI 0.06, 0.09), the prevalence of Trichuris trichiura infection in HIV patients was found to be 5% (95% CI 0.04, 0.06), the prevalence of hookworm infection in HIV patients was found to be 5% (95% CI 0.04, 0.06), and prevalence of Strongyloides stercoralis infection in HIV patients was found to be 5% (95% CI 0.04, 0.05). Countries from Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America & Caribbean and Asia were identified with the highest burden of STH-HIV coinfection. Our analysis indicated that people living with HIV have a higher chance of developing Strongyloides stercoralis infections and decreased odds of developing hookworm infections. Our findings suggest a moderate level of prevalence of STH infections among people living with HIV. The endemicity of STH infections and HIV status both are partially responsible for the burden of STH-HIV coinfections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kumari Akanksha
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Ashu Kumari
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Omprokash Dutta
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Ajay Prasanth
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India
| | - Farah Deeba
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India
| | - Nasir Salam
- Department of Microbiology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151401, India.
- Department of Biosciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, 110025, India.
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33
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Hubbard IC, Thompson JS, Else KJ, Shears RK. Another decade of Trichuris muris research: An update and application of key discoveries. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2023; 121:1-63. [PMID: 37474238 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2023.05.002] [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: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
The mouse whipworm, Trichuris muris, has been used for over 60 years as a tractable model for human trichuriasis, caused by the related whipworm species, T. trichiura. The history of T. muris research, from the discovery of the parasite in 1761 to understanding the lifecycle and outcome of infection with different doses (high versus low dose infection), as well as the immune mechanisms associated with parasite expulsion and chronic infection have been detailed in an earlier review published in 2013. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of whipworm biology, host-parasite interactions and basic immunology brought about using the T. muris mouse model, focussing on developments from the last decade. In addition to the traditional high/low dose infection models that have formed the mainstay of T. muris research to date, novel models involving trickle (repeated low dose) infection in laboratory mice or infection in wild or semi-wild mice have led to important insights into how immunity develops in situ in a multivariate environment, while the use of novel techniques such as the development of caecal organoids (enabling the study of larval development ex vivo) promise to deliver important insights into host-parasite interactions. In addition, the genome and transcriptome analyses of T. muris and T. trichiura have proven to be invaluable tools, particularly in the context of vaccine development and identification of secreted products including proteins, extracellular vesicles and micro-RNAs, shedding further light on how these parasites communicate with their host and modulate the immune response to promote their own survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella C Hubbard
- Centre for Bioscience, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom; Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jacob S Thompson
- Lydia Becker Institute for Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn J Else
- Lydia Becker Institute for Immunology and Inflammation, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca K Shears
- Centre for Bioscience, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom; Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom.
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Kouadio JN, Giovanoli Evack J, Sékré JBK, Achi LY, Ouattara M, Hattendorf J, Balmer O, Bonfoh B, Zinsstag J, Utzinger J, N’Goran EK. Prevalence and risk factors of schistosomiasis and hookworm infection in seasonal transmission settings in northern Côte d'Ivoire: A cross-sectional study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011487. [PMID: 37459286 PMCID: PMC10351694 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis and hookworm infection remain public health problems in large parts of sub-Saharan Africa. The epidemiology of schistosomiasis and hookworm was studied in seasonal transmission settings in the northern part of Côte d'Ivoire. METHODOLOGY In August 2018, a cross-sectional study was conducted. Urine and stool samples were collected from 742 individuals aged 6-96 years in 16 localities from four departments in northern Côte d'Ivoire. Urine samples were examined by a filtration method for quantification of Schistosoma haematobium eggs. Stool samples were subjected to duplicate Kato-Katz thick smears and eggs of Schistosoma mansoni and soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) were counted. Additionally, a questionnaire was administered to determine demographic characteristics and to identify risk factors of schistosomiasis and STHs. Malacologic surveys were carried out at water points that are contacted by humans and animals. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The prevalence of schistosomiasis was very low. Only two cases of S. mansoni were found (0.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.1-1.0%). The distribution of S. haematobium was focal, with cases found only in two departments; Ferkessédougou (5.4%, 95% CI: 2.5-9.9%) and Ouangolodougou (2.7%, 95% CI: 0.9-6.3%). Hookworm was the only STH species observed with a prevalence of 1.5% (95% CI: 0.8-2.8%). A higher risk of S. haematobium infection was observed in males compared to females, but the difference was not statistically significant (2.3% versus 1.3%, odds ratio [OR]: 1.5, 95% CI: 0.8-2.7). Participants aged 16-20 years showed the highest prevalence of S. haematobium. A total of 111 human- and animal-water contact points were identified at 47 water sources. Three potential intermediate host snails of schistosomes were collected; namely, Bulinus forskalii (n = 761), Bulinus truncatus (n = 205), and Biomphalaria pfeifferi (n = 1). Yet, only one specimen of Bu. truncatus was found to be shedding schistosome cercariae. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE This study confirms very low transmission of schistosomiasis and hookworm in northern Côte d'Ivoire. The establishment and rigorous implementation of integrated surveillance-response systems could lead to the elimination of schistosomiasis and hookworm in this part of Côte d'Ivoire.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules N. Kouadio
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Biosciences, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Jennifer Giovanoli Evack
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Baptiste K. Sékré
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Biosciences, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Louise Y. Achi
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Biosciences, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Ecole de Spécialisation en Elevage et des Métiers de la Viande de Bingerville, Bingerville, Côte d’Ivoire
- Laboratoire National d’Appui au Développement Agricole, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Mamadou Ouattara
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Biosciences, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Jan Hattendorf
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Oliver Balmer
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Bassirou Bonfoh
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Jakob Zinsstag
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jürg Utzinger
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Eliézer K. N’Goran
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Biosciences, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
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Abstract
Intestinal parasites include intestinal protozoa and intestinal helminths. Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) pose a global health problem affecting over one billion people worldwide. Although these infections are predominantly seen in the developing world, they are frequently seen in the developed countries, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Patients' clinical presentations generally include diarrhea, dysentery, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, nutritional deficiency, iron deficiency anemia, anal and perianal itching, and rarely intestinal obstruction. The intestinal parasites have similarities in their mode of transmission and life cycle. The stool test is the primary way of diagnosing IPIs. Treatment is given with various anti-parasitic agents. However, appropriate preventive measures are essential for successfully controlling the IPIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monjur Ahmed
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA.
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Pollo SMJ, Leon-Coria A, Liu H, Cruces-Gonzalez D, Finney CAM, Wasmuth JD. Transcriptional patterns of sexual dimorphism and in host developmental programs in the model parasitic nematode Heligmosomoides bakeri. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:171. [PMID: 37246221 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05785-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heligmosomoides bakeri (often mistaken for Heligmosomoides polygyrus) is a promising model for parasitic nematodes with the key advantage of being amenable to study and manipulation within a controlled laboratory environment. While draft genome sequences are available for this worm, which allow for comparative genomic analyses between nematodes, there is a notable lack of information on its gene expression. METHODS We generated biologically replicated RNA-seq datasets from samples taken throughout the parasitic life of H. bakeri. RNA from tissue-dwelling and lumen-dwelling worms, collected under a dissection microscope, was sequenced on an Illumina platform. RESULTS We find extensive transcriptional sexual dimorphism throughout the fourth larval and adult stages of this parasite and identify alternative splicing, glycosylation, and ubiquitination as particularly important processes for establishing and/or maintaining sex-specific gene expression in this species. We find sex-linked differences in transcription related to aging and oxidative and osmotic stress responses. We observe a starvation-like signature among transcripts whose expression is consistently upregulated in males, which may reflect a higher energy expenditure by male worms. We detect evidence of increased importance for anaerobic respiration among the adult worms, which coincides with the parasite's migration into the physiologically hypoxic environment of the intestinal lumen. Furthermore, we hypothesize that oxygen concentration may be an important driver of the worms encysting in the intestinal mucosa as larvae, which not only fully exposes the worms to their host's immune system but also shapes many of the interactions between the host and parasite. We find stage- and sex-specific variation in the expression of immunomodulatory genes and in anthelmintic targets. CONCLUSIONS We examine how different the male and female worms are at the molecular level and describe major developmental events that occur in the worm, which extend our understanding of the interactions between this parasite and its host. In addition to generating new hypotheses for follow-up experiments into the worm's behavior, physiology, and metabolism, our datasets enable future more in-depth comparisons between nematodes to better define the utility of H. bakeri as a model for parasitic nematodes in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen M J Pollo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Host-Parasite Interactions Research Training Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Aralia Leon-Coria
- Host-Parasite Interactions Research Training Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Hongrui Liu
- Host-Parasite Interactions Research Training Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - David Cruces-Gonzalez
- Host-Parasite Interactions Research Training Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Constance A M Finney
- Host-Parasite Interactions Research Training Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - James D Wasmuth
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
- Host-Parasite Interactions Research Training Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada.
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Xu Y, Wang Y, Wang L, Kong X, Yan G, Li Y, Bu C, Zhang B. The prevalence of soil transmitted helminths and its influential factors in Shandong Province, China: an analysis of surveillance data from 2016 to 2020. Infect Dis Poverty 2023; 12:54. [PMID: 37217956 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-023-01100-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) were previously endemic in Shandong Province, China. This study aimed to analyze the STHs prevalence trend and the natural, social, and human cognitive and behavioural factors influencing the discrepancies between high and low infection levels from 2016 to 2020 in Shandong Province in eastern China. METHODS STHs surveillance data of Shandong Province from 2016 to 2020 were obtained from China Information Management System for Prevention and Control of Parasitic Diseases. STHs infections were detected by modified Kato-Katz method. Comprehensive information on the natural and social factors, STHs-related knowledge and behaviours were collected through questionnaire surveys. Retrospective spatial scan analysis was performed using SaTScan v10.1 to evaluate any identified spatial clusters of STHs infection for statistical significance and Bayes discriminant analysis was used to discriminate the high or low infection groups of the villages. RESULTS In total, 72,160 participants were involved in our survey from 2016 to 2020. The overall STHs prevalence rate was 1.13%, with the eastern region of Shandong Province having the highest rate (2.02%). The predominant species was T. trichiura, with the prevalence rate of 0.99% and the ≥ 70-year age group possessed the highest rate of 2.21%. The STHs prevalence rate showed an annual linear downward trend from 2016 to 2020 ([Formula: see text] = 127.600, P < 0.001). Respondents aged ≥ 60 years had the lowest awareness level of STHs-related prevention knowledge (all P < 0.05), and were the most likely to adopt the practice of fertilizing with fresh stool (χ2 = 28.354, P < 0.001). Furthermore, the southern region demonstrated the highest temperature and rainfall level and the lowest GNP and annual net income per capita (all P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS There is a remarkable declining in STHs prevalence in Shandong Province from 2016 to 2020. However, the prevalence rates of STHs especially T. trichiura in the southern and eastern regions were still high, and the elderly were more susceptible to be infected with STHs owning to their low awareness level of STHS-related prevention knowledge and high adoption rate of dangerous production and living behaviours. Integrated approaches of health education, environment improvement and behaviour change should be strengthened to obtain a further reduction of STHs prevalence in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Xu
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, No.11 Taibai Middle Road, Rencheng District, Jining City, 272033, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongbin Wang
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, No.11 Taibai Middle Road, Rencheng District, Jining City, 272033, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Longjiang Wang
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, No.11 Taibai Middle Road, Rencheng District, Jining City, 272033, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiangli Kong
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, No.11 Taibai Middle Road, Rencheng District, Jining City, 272033, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ge Yan
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, No.11 Taibai Middle Road, Rencheng District, Jining City, 272033, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuejin Li
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, No.11 Taibai Middle Road, Rencheng District, Jining City, 272033, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Cancan Bu
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, No.11 Taibai Middle Road, Rencheng District, Jining City, 272033, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Benguang Zhang
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, No.11 Taibai Middle Road, Rencheng District, Jining City, 272033, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China.
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Mrimi EC, Welsche S, Ali SM, Hattendorf J, Keiser J. Emodepside for Trichuris trichiura and Hookworm Infection. N Engl J Med 2023; 388:1863-1875. [PMID: 37195942 DOI: 10.1056/nejmoa2212825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current treatments for soil-transmitted helminth infections in humans have low efficacy against Trichuris trichiura. Emodepside - a drug in veterinary use and under development for the treatment of onchocerciasis in humans - is a leading therapeutic candidate for soil-transmitted helminth infection. METHODS We conducted two phase 2a, dose-ranging, randomized, controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of emodepside against T. trichiura and hookworm infections. We randomly assigned, in equal numbers, adults 18 to 45 years of age in whom T. trichiura or hookworm eggs had been detected in stool samples to receive emodepside, at a single oral dose of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 mg; albendazole, at a single oral dose of 400 mg; or placebo. The primary outcome was the percentage of participants who were cured of T. trichiura or hookworm infection (the cure rate) with emodepside 14 to 21 days after treatment, determined with the use of the Kato-Katz thick-smear technique. Safety was assessed 3, 24, and 48 hours after the receipt of treatment or placebo. RESULTS A total of 266 persons were enrolled in the T. trichiura trial and 176 in the hookworm trial. The predicted cure rate against T. trichiura in the 5-mg emodepside group (85% [95% confidence interval {CI}, 69 to 93]; 25 of 30 participants) was higher than the predicted cure rate in the placebo group (10% [95% CI, 3 to 26]; 3 of 31 participants) and the observed cure rate in the albendazole group (17% [95% CI, 6 to 35]; 5 of 30 participants). A dose-dependent relationship was shown in participants with hookworm: the observed cure rate was 32% (95% CI, 13 to 57; 6 of 19 participants) in the 5-mg emodepside group and 95% (95% CI, 74 to 99.9; 18 of 19 participants) in the 30-mg emodepside group; the observed cure rates were 14% (95% CI, 3 to 36; 3 of 21 participants) in the placebo group and 70% (95% CI, 46 to 88; 14 of 20 participants) in the albendazole group. In the emodepside groups, headache, blurred vision, and dizziness were the most commonly reported adverse events 3 and 24 hours after treatment; the incidence of events generally increased in a dose-dependent fashion. Most adverse events were mild in severity and were self-limited; there were few moderate and no serious adverse events. CONCLUSIONS Emodepside showed activity against T. trichiura and hookworm infections. (Funded by the European Research Council; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT05017194.).
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel C Mrimi
- From the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, and the University of Basel, Basel - both in Switzerland (E.C.M., S.W., J.H., J.K.); and Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara (E.C.M.), and Public Health Laboratory Ivo de Carneri, Chake Chake, Pemba (S.M.A.) - both in Tanzania
| | - Sophie Welsche
- From the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, and the University of Basel, Basel - both in Switzerland (E.C.M., S.W., J.H., J.K.); and Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara (E.C.M.), and Public Health Laboratory Ivo de Carneri, Chake Chake, Pemba (S.M.A.) - both in Tanzania
| | - Said M Ali
- From the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, and the University of Basel, Basel - both in Switzerland (E.C.M., S.W., J.H., J.K.); and Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara (E.C.M.), and Public Health Laboratory Ivo de Carneri, Chake Chake, Pemba (S.M.A.) - both in Tanzania
| | - Jan Hattendorf
- From the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, and the University of Basel, Basel - both in Switzerland (E.C.M., S.W., J.H., J.K.); and Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara (E.C.M.), and Public Health Laboratory Ivo de Carneri, Chake Chake, Pemba (S.M.A.) - both in Tanzania
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- From the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, and the University of Basel, Basel - both in Switzerland (E.C.M., S.W., J.H., J.K.); and Ifakara Health Institute, Ifakara (E.C.M.), and Public Health Laboratory Ivo de Carneri, Chake Chake, Pemba (S.M.A.) - both in Tanzania
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Abstract
Just as mammals have coevolved with the intestinal bacterial communities that are part of the microbiota, intestinal helminths represent an important selective force on their mammalian host. The complex interaction between helminths, microbes, and their mammalian host is likely an important determinant of mutual fitness. The host immune system in particular is a critical interface with both helminths and the microbiota, and this crosstalk often determines the balance between tolerance and resistance against these widespread parasites. Hence, there are many examples of how both helminths and the microbiota can influence tissue homeostasis and homeostatic immunity. Understanding these processes at a cellular and molecular level is an exciting area of research that we seek to highlight in this review and that will potentially guide future treatment approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- P'ng Loke
- Type 2 Immunity Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Nicola L Harris
- Department of Immunology and Pathology, Central Clinical School, Monash University, The Alfred Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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Myhill LJ, Williams AR. Diet-microbiota crosstalk and immunity to helminth infection. Parasite Immunol 2023; 45:e12965. [PMID: 36571323 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Helminths are large multicellular parasites responsible for widespread chronic disease in humans and animals. Intestinal helminths live in close proximity with the host gut microbiota and mucosal immune network, resulting in reciprocal interactions that closely influence the course of infections. Diet composition may strongly regulate gut microbiota composition and intestinal immune function and therefore may play a key role in modulating anti-helminth immune responses. Characterizing the multitude of interactions that exist between different dietary components (e.g., dietary fibres), immune cells, and the microbiota, may shed new light on regulation of helminth-specific immunity. This review focuses on the current knowledge of how metabolism of dietary components shapes immune response during helminth infection, and how this information may be potentially harnessed to design new therapeutics to manage parasitic infections and associated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Myhill
- Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Andrew R Williams
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark
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Hürlimann E, Hofmann D, Keiser J. Ivermectin and moxidectin against soil-transmitted helminth infections. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:272-284. [PMID: 36804383 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Ivermectin and moxidectin, two macrocyclic lactones, are potent antiparasitic drugs currently registered and mainly used against filarial diseases; however, their potential value for improved soil-transmitted helminth (STH) control has been acknowledged. This review provides insights on recent studies evaluating the efficacy of ivermectin and moxidectin as single or coadministered therapy against human soil-transmitted helminthiases (including Strongyloides stercoralis infections) and on pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameters measured in treated populations. Furthermore, we discuss current gaps for research, highlight advantages - but also existing challenges - for uptake of ivermectin and/or moxidectin treatment schemes into routine STH control in endemic countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eveline Hürlimann
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Daniela Hofmann
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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Geisshirt HA, Bonde CS, Marcussen C, Mejer H, Williams AR. Development of In Vitro Assays with the Canine Hookworm Uncinaria stenocephala and Assessment of Natural Plant Products for Anti-Parasitic Activity. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12040536. [PMID: 37111422 PMCID: PMC10144190 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12040536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Enteric helminth infection is an increasing concern in companion animals due to reports of resistance to commonly used anthelmintic drugs. Thus, the assessment of new therapeutic options such as bioactive dietary additives is of high importance. Here, we adapted egg hatch, larval migration, and larval motility assays to screen extracts of several natural ingredients against the canine hookworm Uncinaria stenocephala, a prevalent parasite of dogs in northern Europe. Egg hatch and larval migration assays were established showing that the anthelmintic drugs levamisole and albendazole had strong anti-parasitic activity against U. stenocephala, validating the use of these assays for the assessment of novel anti-parasitic substances. Subsequently, we identified that extracts from the seaweed Saccharina latissima, but not extracts from grape seed or chicory, significantly inhibited both hatching and larval migration. Finally, we showed that α-linolenic acid, a putative anti-parasitic compound from S. latissima, also exhibited anti-parasitic activity. Collectively, our results established a platform for the screening for anthelmintic resistance or novel drug candidates against U. stenocephala and highlighted the potential use of seaweed extracts as a functional food component to help control hookworm infection in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi A Geisshirt
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Charlotte S Bonde
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Caroline Marcussen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Helena Mejer
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - Andrew R Williams
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, DK-1870 Frederiksberg, Denmark
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Ishraq F, Teng TZJ, Shelat VG. Letter to the Editor: Trichuris trichiura Infestation Treated with Albendazole and Colonoscopic Debulking. Surg Infect (Larchmt) 2023; 24:93-94. [PMID: 36103280 DOI: 10.1089/sur.2022.241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Farhan Ishraq
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technology University, Singapore
- Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Thomas Zheng Jie Teng
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technology University, Singapore
- Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Vishal G Shelat
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technology University, Singapore
- Department of General Surgery, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
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Athiyyah AF, Surono IS, Ranuh RG, Darma A, Basuki S, Rossyanti L, Sudarmo SM, Venema K. Mono-Parasitic and Poly-Parasitic Intestinal Infections among Children Aged 36-45 Months in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8010045. [PMID: 36668952 PMCID: PMC9866443 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8010045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection remains high in developing countries, especially because of geographic and socio-demographic factors. This study aimed to evaluate intestinal parasitic infection, as well as its risk factors, among children aged 36-45 months in a rural area (North Kodi) and an urban area (Kupang) of East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. Anthropometry, socio-demographic factors and personal hygiene practices were assessed. A total of 214 children participated in the study, and 200 stool samples were collected for intestinal parasite examination. Approximately 30.5% (61/200) of the children were infected with one or more intestinal parasites (67.2%; 41/61 being mono-parasitic infections and 32.8%; 20/61 being poly-parasitic infections). A total of 85 intestinal parasites were detected, consisting of 35.3% (30/85) protozoa and 64.7% (55/85) helminths. The predominant protozoa were Giardia lamblia (43%; 13/30) and Blastocystis spp. (33.3%; 10/30), whereas the predominant helminths were Trichuris trichiura (50.9%; 28/55) and Ascaris lumbricoides (43.6%; 24/55). Moreover, intestinal parasitic infection was associated with rural area (OR 4.5; 95%CI 2.3-8.6); the absence of treatment with deworming drugs (OR 2.56; 95%CI 1.3-5.0); sanitation facilities without a septic tank (OR 4.3; 95%CI 2.1-8.5); unclean water as a source of drinking water (OR 4.67; 95%CI 2.4-9.4); no handwashing practice after defecation (OR 3.2; 95%CI 1.4-7.3); and stunted children (OR 4.4; 95%CI 2.3-8.3). In conclusion, poly-parasitic infections were common in this study. Poor personal hygiene practice and sanitation factors contributed to the high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection in 36-45-month-old children in East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alpha F. Athiyyah
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
- Department of Child Health, Dr. Soetmo General Hospital, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
| | - Ingrid S. Surono
- Food Technology Department, Faculty of Engineering, Bina Nusantara University, Jakarta 11480, Indonesia
- Correspondence:
| | - Reza G. Ranuh
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
- Department of Child Health, Dr. Soetmo General Hospital, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
| | - Andy Darma
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
- Department of Child Health, Dr. Soetmo General Hospital, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
| | - Sukmawati Basuki
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia
- Malaria Study Group/Laboratory of Malaria, Institute of Tropical Disease, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
| | - Lynda Rossyanti
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia
- Malaria Study Group/Laboratory of Malaria, Institute of Tropical Disease, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
| | - Subijanto M. Sudarmo
- Department of Child Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
- Department of Child Health, Dr. Soetmo General Hospital, Surabaya 60286, Indonesia
| | - Koen Venema
- Centre for Health Eating & Food Innovation, Maastricht University–Campus Venlo, 5928 SZ Venlo, The Netherlands
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Pathogenic parasites in vegetables in the Middle East and North Africa: Occurrence of Ascaris eggs and Giardia cysts, and epidemiological implications. Food Control 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.109323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Wainwright E, Shears RK. Trichuris WAP and CAP proteins: Potential whipworm vaccine candidates? PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010933. [PMID: 36548229 PMCID: PMC9778506 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichuris trichiura and T. suis are gastrointestinal dwelling roundworms that infect humans and pigs, respectively. Heavy infections cause gastrointestinal symptoms and impaired growth and development. Vaccination has the potential to reduce the disease burden of whipworm infection; however, there are currently no commercially available vaccines against these parasites and very few against other gastrointestinal-dwelling nematodes of medical and agricultural importance. The naturally occurring mouse whipworm, T. muris, has been used for decades to model human trichuriasis, and the immunogenic potential of the excretory/secretory material (E/S, which can be collected following ex vivo culture of worms) has been studied in the context of vaccine candidate identification. Despite this, researchers are yet to progress an effective vaccine candidate to clinical trials. The T. muris, T. trichiura, and T. suis genomes each encode between 10 and 27 whey acidic protein (WAP) domain-containing proteins and 15 to 34 cysteine-rich secretory protein/antigen 5/pathogenesis related-1 (CAP) family members. WAP and CAP proteins have been postulated to play key roles in host-parasite interactions and may possess immunomodulatory functions. In addition, both protein families have been explored in the context of helminth vaccines. Here, we use phylogenetic and functional analysis to investigate the evolutionary relationship between WAP and CAP proteins encoded by T. muris, T. trichiura, and T. suis. We highlight several WAP and CAP proteins that warrant further study to understand their biological function and as possible vaccine candidates against T. trichiura and/or T. suis, based on the close evolutionary relationship with WAP or CAP proteins identified within T. muris E/S products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleanor Wainwright
- School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca K. Shears
- Centre for Bioscience, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Prevalences and Characteristics of Trichuris Spp. Infection in Sheep in Pastoral Areas of the Tianshan, Xinjiang, China. J Vet Res 2022; 66:591-597. [PMID: 36846028 PMCID: PMC9944990 DOI: 10.2478/jvetres-2022-0056] [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: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Nematodes of the Trichuris genus are commonly reported parasites that can cause trichuriasis in many animals, which leads to inflammation, intestinal bleeding and reductions of productivity in livestock. Knowledge of the prevalence of Trichuris infestation in the Tianshan ovine population and of the nematode species parasitising the population is not exhaustive, and this study aimed to expand the knowledge. Material and Methods A total of 1,216 sheep slaughtered in five pasture areas in the Tianshan Mountains of Xinjiang were investigated and a phylogenetic analysis based on the mitochondrial cox1 gene was performed to clarify the genetic relationships of the various Trichuris species. Results Sheep totalling 1,047 were infected with Trichuris spp. establishing the rate at 86.1%. Using a morphological protocol, six documented and one undefined species were identified, namely T. gazellae, T. lani, T. ovina, T. longispiculus, T. concolor, T. discolor and Trichuris sp. Among them, T. gazellae and T. lani were the dominant species, accounting for 34.5% and 31.0% of Trichuris spp., respectively. Phylogenetic analysis divided the detected species of Trichuris spp. into two genetic clades (clade I and clade II). The six documented species that can infect sheep and the undefined species were clustered into clade I, with inter- and intra-species genetic diversity apparent. Conclusion This survey described in detail the morphological characteristics of six known and one undefined species of Trichuris, which not only enriched the taxonomic information on record regarding Trichuris spp., but also provided valuable epidemiological data for the prevention and control of trichuriasis in sheep.
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Advantages and Limitations of Microscopy and Molecular Detections for Diagnosis of Soil-transmitted Helminths: An Overview. Helminthologia 2022; 59:321-340. [PMID: 36875683 PMCID: PMC9979072 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2022-0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 1.5 billion people are infected by soil-transmitted helminths (STH) worldwide in sub-Saharan Africa, the United States of America, China, and East Asia. Heavy infections and polyparasitism are associated with higher morbidity rates, and the patients are exposed to increased vulnerability to other diseases. Therefore, accurate diagnosis followed by mass treatment for morbidity control is necessary.STH diagnosis commonly involves the microscopic observation of the presence of the STH eggs and larvae in the faecal samples. Furthermore, molecular approaches are increasingly utilised in monitoring and surveillance as they show higher sensitivity. Their capability to differentiate hookworm species is an advantage over the Kato-Katz technique. This review discusses the advantages and limitations of microscopy and various molecular tools used for STH detection.
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Fauziah N, Aviani JK, Agrianfanny YN, Fatimah SN. Intestinal Parasitic Infection and Nutritional Status in Children under Five Years Old: A Systematic Review. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:371. [PMID: 36422922 PMCID: PMC9697828 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7110371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal parasitic infections are common infectious diseases causing many health problems and impaired growth and physical development.. Children under five years old are the most vulnerable to infections, due to their immature immunity and feeding and exploratory behaviours. This systematic review aimed to assess the relationship between intestinal parasitic infections and undernutrition among children under 5 years old. Fifteen studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were classified as high-quality studies. Twelve parasites were reported, including Ascaris lumbricoides, Cryptosporodium spp., Entamoeba histolytica, Enterobius vermicularis, Giardia lamblia, hookworm, Hymenolepis nana, Strongyloides sterocalis, Taenia spp. and Trichuris trichuria. Ascariasis is the most reported infection, with a prevalence ranging from 10.77% in Ethiopia to 57.14% in Malaysia, and is correlated with stunting (OR 2.17 (95% CI 1.14, 4.13), p = 0.02). Giardiasis is the second most reported infection, with a prevalence ranging from 4.43% in Ethiopia to 66.33% in the Central African Republic, and is related to an increased risk of stunting (OR 2.34 (95% CI 1.07, 5.10), p = 0.03)), wasting (OR 2.90 (95% CI 1.12, 7.49, p = 0.03)), and being underweight (OR 1.53 (95% CI 1.02, 2.29, p = 0.04)). The third and fourth most prevalent infections are T. trichiura and hookworm infections. Intestinal parasitic infections can occur very early in life and cause significant growth retardation. It is important to understand the prevalence and effects of infection based on the parasite species in order to implement therapeutic interventions and prevention controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisa Fauziah
- Division of Parasitology, Department of Basic Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung 45363, Indonesia
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung 45363, Indonesia
- Research Center for Care and Control of Infectious Disease, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung 45363, Indonesia
| | - Jenifer Kiem Aviani
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Science and Technology, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Bandung 40132, Indonesia
| | - Yukan Niko Agrianfanny
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung 45363, Indonesia
| | - Siti Nur Fatimah
- Division of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Padjadjaran, Bandung 45363, Indonesia
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Phillips AE, Ower AK, Mekete K, Liyew EF, Maddren R, Belay H, Chernet M, Anjulo U, Mengistu B, Salasibew M, Tasew G, Anderson R. Association between water, sanitation, and hygiene access and the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminth and schistosome infections in Wolayita, Ethiopia. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:410. [DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05465-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The Geshiyaro project is a 5-year intervention to assess the impact of community- and school-based water, sanitation, and hygiene (WaSH) interventions on reducing infection with soil-transmitted helminths (STH) and schistosome parasites in combination with deworming in Wolayita zone, Ethiopia.
Methods
A population-based, cross-sectional census and parasitological mapping activity was conducted between 2018 and 2019. Individuals in the census were identified using either a registered study ID card or biometric fingerprint to enable linkage of their household WaSH data with baseline STH and schistosome prevalence for risk analysis.
Results
Prevalence of STH was 15.5% for any STH species, 9.47% for Ascaris lumbricoides, 1.78% for Trichuris trichiura, and 7.24% for hookworm. Intestinal schistosomiasis (Schistosoma mansoni) infection prevalence was 0.85% by Kato Katz, 21.6% by POC-CCA trace positive (Tr +), and 13.3% trace negative (Tr-). Microhaematuria was 2.77%, with 0.13% of people examined with S. haematobium eggs detected by urine filtration. At the household level, increased (> 30 min) time taken to collect drinking water, sharing a latrine, and lack of handwashing facilities were all associated with a greater risk of A. lumbricoides, hookworm, and S. mansoni infection. Not disposing of infant stool at the household and clothes washing/recreational freshwater contact were significantly associated with higher risk of schistosomiasis infection. Aggregating WaSH data at the community level showed odds of A. lumbricoides, hookworm, and T. trichiura infection were significantly lower as both community sanitation coverage and access to improved drinking water improved.
Conclusions
The principal finding of this study is that lack of access to WaSH, such as improved drinking water and shared toilet and hand-washing facilities, were linked to an increased risk of infection with STH and schistosome parasites. These associations are difficult to establish at an individual household level because of wide variability in access between houses but are detectable when coverage is aggregated at the community level. Maintenance of WaSH facilities as well as increased access within the whole community is important in influencing the community-wide prevalence of infection with STH and schistosome parasites.
Graphical Abstract
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