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Li XJY, Qu JR, Zhang YH, Liu RP. The dual function of cGAS-STING signaling axis in liver diseases. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2024; 45:1115-1129. [PMID: 38233527 PMCID: PMC11130165 DOI: 10.1038/s41401-023-01220-5] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Numerous liver diseases, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury, have been increasingly prevalent, posing significant threats to global health. In recent decades, there has been increasing evidence linking the dysregulation of cyclic-GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon gene (STING)-related immune signaling to liver disorders. Both hyperactivation and deletion of STING can disrupt the immune microenvironment dysfunction, exacerbating liver disorders. Consequently, there has been a surge in research investigating medical agents or mediators targeting cGAS-STING signaling. Interestingly, therapeutic manipulation of the cGAS-STING pathway has yielded inconsistent and even contradictory effects on different liver diseases due to the distinct physiological characteristics of intrahepatic cells that express and respond to STING. In this review, we comprehensively summarize recent advancements in understanding the dual roles of the STING pathway, highlighting that the benefits of targeting STING signaling depend on the specific types of target cells and stages of liver injury. Additionally, we offer a novel perspective on the suitability of STING agonists and antagonists for clinical assessment. In conclusion, STING signaling remains a highly promising therapeutic target, and the development of STING pathway modulators holds great potential for the treatment of liver diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Jiao-Yang Li
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 11 Bei San Huan Dong Lu, Beijing, 100029, China.
| | - Jiao-Rong Qu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 11 Bei San Huan Dong Lu, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Yin-Hao Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 11 Bei San Huan Dong Lu, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Run-Ping Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, 11 Bei San Huan Dong Lu, Beijing, 100029, China.
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2
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Lu Y, Zhao M, Chen L, Wang Y, Liu T, Liu H. cGAS: action in the nucleus. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1380517. [PMID: 38515746 PMCID: PMC10954897 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1380517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
As a canonical cytoplasmic DNA sensor, cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) plays a key role in innate immunity. In recent years, a growing number of studies have shown that cGAS can also be located in the nucleus and plays new functions such as regulating DNA damage repair, nuclear membrane repair, chromosome fusion, DNA replication, angiogenesis and other non-canonical functions. Meanwhile, the mechanisms underlying the nucleo-cytoplasmic transport and the regulation of cGAS activation have been revealed in recent years. Based on the current understanding of the structure, subcellular localization and canonical functions of cGAS, this review focuses on summarizing the mechanisms underlying nucleo-cytoplasmic transport, activity regulation and non-canonical functions of cGAS in the nucleus. We aim to provide insights into exploring the new functions of cGAS in the nucleus and advance its clinical translation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yikai Lu
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mengmeng Zhao
- Research Center of Translational Medicine, Jinan Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Li Chen
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianhao Liu
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haipeng Liu
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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3
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Yang Y, Wang L, Peugnet-González I, Parada-Venegas D, Dijkstra G, Faber KN. cGAS-STING signaling pathway in intestinal homeostasis and diseases. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1239142. [PMID: 37781354 PMCID: PMC10538549 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1239142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The intestinal mucosa is constantly exposed to commensal microbes, opportunistic pathogens, toxins, luminal components and other environmental stimuli. The intestinal mucosa consists of multiple differentiated cellular and extracellular components that form a critical barrier, but is also equipped for efficient absorption of nutrients. Combination of genetic susceptibility and environmental factors are known as critical components involved in the pathogenesis of intestinal diseases. The innate immune system plays a critical role in the recognition and elimination of potential threats by detecting pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). This host defense is facilitated by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), in which the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase-stimulator of interferon genes (cGAS-STING) pathway has gained attention due to its role in sensing host and foreign double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) as well as cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) produced by bacteria. Upon binding with dsDNA, cGAS converts ATP and GTP to cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), which binds to STING and activates TANK binding kinase 1 (TBK1) and interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), inducing type I interferon (IFN) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB)-mediated pro-inflammatory cytokines, which have diverse effects on innate and adaptive immune cells and intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). However, opposite perspectives exist regarding the role of the cGAS-STING pathway in different intestinal diseases. Activation of cGAS-STING signaling is associated with worse clinical outcomes in inflammation-associated diseases, while it also plays a critical role in protection against tumorigenesis and certain infections. Therefore, understanding the context-dependent mechanisms of the cGAS-STING pathway in the physiopathology of the intestinal mucosa is crucial for developing therapeutic strategies targeting the cGAS-STING pathway. This review aims to provide insight into recent findings of the protective and detrimental roles of the cGAS-STING pathway in intestinal diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Yang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Li Wang
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Ivonne Peugnet-González
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Daniela Parada-Venegas
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Gerard Dijkstra
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Klaas Nico Faber
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
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4
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Dibo N, Liu X, Chang Y, Huang S, Wu X. Pattern recognition receptor signaling and innate immune responses to schistosome infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:1040270. [PMID: 36339337 PMCID: PMC9633954 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.1040270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis remains to be a significant public health problem in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite remarkable progress that has been made in the control of the disease over the past decades, its elimination remains a daunting challenge in many countries. This disease is an inflammatory response-driven, and the positive outcome after infection depends on the regulation of immune responses that efficiently clear worms and allow protective immunity to develop. The innate immune responses play a critical role in host defense against schistosome infection and pathogenesis. Initial pro-inflammatory responses are essential for clearing invading parasites by promoting appropriate cell-mediated and humoral immunity. However, elevated and prolonged inflammatory responses against the eggs trapped in the host tissues contribute to disease progression. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of innate immune responses is important for developing effective therapies and vaccines. Here, we update the recent advances in the definitive host innate immune response to schistosome infection, especially highlighting the critical roles of pattern recognition receptors and cytokines. The considerations for further research are also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nouhoum Dibo
- Department of medical parasitology, Xiangya School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xianshu Liu
- Department of medical parasitology, Xiangya School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yunfeng Chang
- Department of Forensic Medicine Science, Xiangya School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Yueyang, China
| | - Shuaiqin Huang
- Department of medical parasitology, Xiangya School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Lab of Immunology and Transmission Control on Schistosomiasis, Hunan Provincial Institute of Schistosomiasis Control, Yueyang, China
| | - Xiang Wu
- Department of medical parasitology, Xiangya School of Basic Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Hunan Provincial Key Lab of Immunology and Transmission Control on Schistosomiasis, Hunan Provincial Institute of Schistosomiasis Control, Yueyang, China
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Liang L, Shen Y, Hu Y, Liu H, Cao J. cGAS exacerbates Schistosoma japonicum infection in a STING-type I IFN-dependent and independent manner. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010233. [PMID: 35108342 PMCID: PMC8809611 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, which is caused by infection with Schistosoma spp., is characterized by granuloma and fibrosis in response to egg deposition. Pattern recognition receptors are important to sense invading Schistosoma, triggering an innate immune response, and subsequently shaping adaptive immunity. Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) was identified as a major cytosolic DNA sensor, which catalyzes the formation of cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP), a critical second messenger for the activation of the adaptor protein stimulator of interferon genes (STING). The engagement of STING by cGAMP leads to the activation of TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1), interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), and the subsequent type I interferon (IFN) response. cGAS is suggested to regulate infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. However, the function of cGAS in helminth infection is unclear. In this study, we found that Cgas deficiency enhanced the survival of mice infected with S. japonicum markedly, without affecting the egg load in the liver. Consistently, Cgas deletion alleviated liver pathological impairment, reduced egg granuloma formation, and decreased fibrosis severity. In contrast, Sting deletion reduced the formation of egg granulomas markedly, but not liver fibrosis. Notably, Cgas or Sting deficiency reduced the production of IFNβ drastically in mice infected with S. japonicum. Intriguingly, intravenous administration of recombinant IFNβ exacerbated liver damage and promoted egg granuloma formation, without affecting liver fibrosis. Clodronate liposome-mediated depletion of macrophages indicated that macrophages are the major type of cells contributing to the induction of the type I IFN response during schistosome infection. Moreover, cGAS is important for type I IFN production and phosphorylation of TBK1 and IRF3 in response to stimulation with S. japonicum egg- or adult worm-derived DNA in macrophages. Our results clarified the immunomodulatory effect of cGAS in the regulation of liver granuloma formation during S. japonicum infection, involving sensing schistosome-derived DNA and producing type I IFN. Additionally, we showed that cGAS regulates liver fibrosis in a STING-type I–IFN-independent manner. The sensing of invading pathogens by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) is important for the host to mount an immune response. Cytosolic DNA receptor cGAS has been documented as critical for the induction of innate immunity, manifesting as a type I IFN response. However, little is known about the role of cGAS or type I IFN in the process of helminth infection. In this study, we identified an important role of the cGAS-STING-type I IFN signaling axis in driving schistosome infection-induced liver inflammation. Moreover, we revealed a hitherto unknown role of cGAS in the regulation of liver fibrosis during Schistosoma infection, a process that is independent of STING. Our study revealed cGAS as a novel functional receptor for the recognition of invading Schistosoma, paving the way for the development of novel strategies to treat schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Liang
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research); Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China; World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
- The School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yujuan Shen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research); Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China; World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
- The School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Hu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research); Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China; World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
- The School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Haipeng Liu
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
- Central Laboratory, Shanghai Pulmonary Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianping Cao
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research); Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China; World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
- The School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail:
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6
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Impact of STING Inflammatory Signaling during Intracellular Bacterial Infections. Cells 2021; 11:cells11010074. [PMID: 35011636 PMCID: PMC8750390 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The early detection of bacterial pathogens through immune sensors is an essential step in innate immunity. STING (Stimulator of Interferon Genes) has emerged as a key mediator of inflammation in the setting of infection by connecting pathogen cytosolic recognition with immune responses. STING detects bacteria by directly recognizing cyclic dinucleotides or indirectly by bacterial genomic DNA sensing through the cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS). Upon activation, STING triggers a plethora of powerful signaling pathways, including the production of type I interferons and proinflammatory cytokines. STING activation has also been associated with the induction of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and the associated inflammatory responses. Recent reports indicate that STING-dependent pathways participate in the metabolic reprogramming of macrophages and contribute to the establishment and maintenance of a robust inflammatory profile. The induction of this inflammatory state is typically antimicrobial and related to pathogen clearance. However, depending on the infection, STING-mediated immune responses can be detrimental to the host, facilitating bacterial survival, indicating an intricate balance between immune signaling and inflammation during bacterial infections. In this paper, we review recent insights regarding the role of STING in inducing an inflammatory profile upon intracellular bacterial entry in host cells and discuss the impact of STING signaling on the outcome of infection. Unraveling the STING-mediated inflammatory responses can enable a better understanding of the pathogenesis of certain bacterial diseases and reveal the potential of new antimicrobial therapy.
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Tana FL, Guimarães ES, Cerqueira DM, Campos PC, Gomes MTR, Marinho FV, Oliveira SC. Galectin-3 regulates proinflammatory cytokine function and favours Brucella abortus chronic replication in macrophages and mice. Cell Microbiol 2021; 23:e13375. [PMID: 34169616 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we provide evidence that galectin-3 (Gal-3) plays an important role in Brucella abortus infection. Our results showed increased Gal-3 expression and secretion in B. abortus infected macrophages and mice. Additionally, our findings indicate that Gal-3 is dispensable for Brucella-containing vacuoles disruption, inflammasome activation and pyroptosis. On the other hand, we observed that Brucella-induced Gal-3 expression is crucial for induction of molecules associated to type I IFN signalling pathway, such as IFN-β: Interferon beta (IFN-β), C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 10 (CXCL10) and guanylate-binding proteins. Gal-3 KO macrophages showed reduced bacterial numbers compared to wild-type cells, suggesting that Gal-3 facilitates bacterial replication in vitro. Moreover, priming Gal-3 KO cells with IFN-β favoured B. abortus survival in macrophages. Additionally, we also observed that Gal-3 KO mice are more resistant to B. abortus infection and these animals showed elevated production of proinflammatory cytokines when compared to control mice. Finally, we observed an increased recruitment of macrophages, dendritic cells and neutrophils in spleens of Gal-3 KO mice compared to wild-type animals. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that Brucella-induced Gal-3 is detrimental to host and this molecule is implicated in inhibition of recruitment and activation of immune cells, which promotes B. abortus spread and aggravates the infection. TAKE AWAYS: Brucella abortus infection upregulates galectin-3 expression Galectin-3 regulates guanylate-binding proteins expression but is not required for Brucella-containing vacuole disruption Galectin-3 modulates proinflammatory cytokine production during bacterial infection Galectin-3 favours Brucella replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda L Tana
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Erika S Guimarães
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Daiane M Cerqueira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Priscila C Campos
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marco Túlio R Gomes
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fábio V Marinho
- Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Sergio C Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Departamento de Genética, Ecologia e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.,Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais (INCT-DT), CNPq MCT, Salvador, Brazil
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8
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Sanches RCO, Souza C, Oliveira SC. Schistosoma antigens as activators of inflammasome pathway: from an unexpected stimulus to an intriguing role. Microbes Infect 2020; 22:534-539. [PMID: 32841730 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Parasites of the genus Schistosoma are organisms capable of living for decades within the definitive host. They interfere with the immune response by interacting with host's receptors. In this review, we discuss from the first reports to the most recent discoveries regarding the ability of Schistosoma antigens in triggering intracellular receptors and inducing inflammasome activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodrigo C O Sanches
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Cláudia Souza
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Sergio C Oliveira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais (INCT-DT), CNPq MCT, 31270-901, Salvador, Brazil.
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