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Blanken SL, Barry A, Lanke K, Guelbeogo M, Ouedraogo A, Soulama I, Coulibaly SA, Teelen K, Graumans W, Dumont E, Stone W, Ramjith J, Marti M, Andrade CM, Drakeley C, Collins K, Tiono A, Bousema T. Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte production correlates with genetic markers of parasite replication but is not influenced by experimental exposure to mosquito biting. EBioMedicine 2024; 105:105190. [PMID: 38901148 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.105190] [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: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasmodium blood-stage parasites balance asexual multiplication with gametocyte development. Few studies link these dynamics with parasite genetic markers in vivo; even fewer in longitudinally monitored infections. Environmental influences on gametocyte formation, such as mosquito exposure, may influence the parasite's investment in gametocyte production. METHODS We investigated gametocyte production and asexual multiplication in two Plasmodium falciparum infected populations; a controlled human malaria infection (CHMI) study and a 28-day observational study in naturally infected individuals in Burkina Faso with controlled mosquito exposure. We measured gene transcript levels previously related to gametocyte formation (ap2-g, surfin1.2, surfin13.1, gexp-2) or inhibition of asexual multiplication (sir2a) and compared transcript levels to ring-stage parasite and mature gametocyte densities. FINDINGS Three of the five markers (ap2-g, surfin1.2, surfin13.1) predicted peak gametocytaemia in the CHMI study. An increase in all five markers in natural infections was associated with an increase in mature gametocytes 14 days later; the effect of sir2a on future gametocytes was strongest (fold change = 1.65, IQR = 1.22-2.24, P = 0.004). Mosquito exposure was not associated with markers of gametocyte formation (ap2-g P = 0.277; sir2a P = 0.499) or carriage of mature gametocytes (P = 0.379). INTERPRETATION All five parasite genetic markers predicted gametocyte formation over a single cycle of gametocyte formation and maturation in vivo; sir2a and ap2-g were most closely associated with gametocyte growth dynamics. We observed no evidence to support the hypothesis that exposure to Anopheles mosquito bites stimulates gametocyte formation. FUNDING This work was funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (INDIE OPP1173572), the European Research Council fellowship (ERC-CoG 864180) and UKRI Medical Research Council (MR/T016272/1) and Wellcome Center (218676/Z/19/Z).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Lynn Blanken
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Aissata Barry
- Groupe de Recherche Action en Santé (GRAS), Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Kjerstin Lanke
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Moussa Guelbeogo
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme (CNRFP), Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso
| | - Alphonse Ouedraogo
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme (CNRFP), Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso
| | - Issiaka Soulama
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme (CNRFP), Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso
| | - Sam Aboubacar Coulibaly
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme (CNRFP), Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso
| | - Karina Teelen
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Wouter Graumans
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Elin Dumont
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Will Stone
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Jordache Ramjith
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Matthias Marti
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Carolina M Andrade
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Chris Drakeley
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Katharine Collins
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Alfred Tiono
- Centre National de Recherche et de Formation sur le Paludisme (CNRFP), Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso
| | - Teun Bousema
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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2
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Schwarzer E, Skorokhod O. Post-Translational Modifications of Proteins of Malaria Parasites during the Life Cycle. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6145. [PMID: 38892332 PMCID: PMC11173270 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25116145] [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: 05/01/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-translational modifications (PTMs) are essential for regulating protein functions, influencing various fundamental processes in eukaryotes. These include, but are not limited to, cell signaling, protein trafficking, the epigenetic control of gene expression, and control of the cell cycle, as well as cell proliferation, differentiation, and interactions between cells. In this review, we discuss protein PTMs that play a key role in the malaria parasite biology and its pathogenesis. Phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation, lipidation and lipoxidation, glycosylation, ubiquitination and sumoylation, nitrosylation and glutathionylation, all of which occur in malarial parasites, are reviewed. We provide information regarding the biological significance of these modifications along all phases of the complex life cycle of Plasmodium spp. Importantly, not only the parasite, but also the host and vector protein PTMs are often crucial for parasite growth and development. In addition to metabolic regulations, protein PTMs can result in epitopes that are able to elicit both innate and adaptive immune responses of the host or vector. We discuss some existing and prospective results from antimalarial drug discovery trials that target various PTM-related processes in the parasite or host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelin Schwarzer
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Via Santena 5 bis, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Oleksii Skorokhod
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, Via Accademia Albertina, 13, 10123 Turin, Italy
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3
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Voss TS, Brancucci NM. Regulation of sexual commitment in malaria parasites - a complex affair. Curr Opin Microbiol 2024; 79:102469. [PMID: 38574448 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2024.102469] [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: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Malaria blood stage parasites commit to either one of two distinct cellular fates while developing within erythrocytes of their mammalian host: they either undergo another round of asexual replication or they differentiate into nonreplicative transmissible gametocytes. Depending on the state of infection, either path may support or impair the ultimate goal of human-to-human transmission via the mosquito vector. Malaria parasites therefore evolved strategies to control investments into asexual proliferation versus gametocyte formation. Recent work provided fascinating molecular insight into shared and unique mechanisms underlying the control and environmental modulation of sexual commitment in the two most widely studied malaria parasite species, Plasmodium falciparum and P. berghei. With this review, we aim at placing these findings into a comparative mechanistic context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Till S Voss
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Nicolas Mb Brancucci
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4123 Allschwil, Switzerland; University of Basel, 4001 Basel, Switzerland.
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4
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Dogga SK, Rop JC, Cudini J, Farr E, Dara A, Ouologuem D, Djimdé AA, Talman AM, Lawniczak MKN. A single cell atlas of sexual development in Plasmodium falciparum. Science 2024; 384:eadj4088. [PMID: 38696552 DOI: 10.1126/science.adj4088] [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: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
The developmental decision made by malaria parasites to become sexual underlies all malaria transmission. Here, we describe a rich atlas of short- and long-read single-cell transcriptomes of over 37,000 Plasmodium falciparum cells across intraerythrocytic asexual and sexual development. We used the atlas to explore transcriptional modules and exon usage along sexual development and expanded it to include malaria parasites collected from four Malian individuals naturally infected with multiple P. falciparum strains. We investigated genotypic and transcriptional heterogeneity within and among these wild strains at the single-cell level, finding differential expression between different strains even within the same host. These data are a key addition to the Malaria Cell Atlas interactive data resource, enabling a deeper understanding of the biology and diversity of transmission stages.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jesse C Rop
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton CB10 1SA, UK
| | | | - Elias Farr
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton CB10 1SA, UK
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Antoine Dara
- Malaria Research and Training Center (MRTC), Faculty of Pharmacy, Université des Sciences, des Techniques et des Technologies de Bamako (USTTB), Point G, P.O. Box, 1805 Bamako, Mali
| | - Dinkorma Ouologuem
- Malaria Research and Training Center (MRTC), Faculty of Pharmacy, Université des Sciences, des Techniques et des Technologies de Bamako (USTTB), Point G, P.O. Box, 1805 Bamako, Mali
| | - Abdoulaye A Djimdé
- Malaria Research and Training Center (MRTC), Faculty of Pharmacy, Université des Sciences, des Techniques et des Technologies de Bamako (USTTB), Point G, P.O. Box, 1805 Bamako, Mali
| | - Arthur M Talman
- MIVEGEC, University of Montpellier, IRD, CNRS, Montpellier, France
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5
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Ngotho P, Press KD, Peedell M, Muasya W, Omondi BR, Otoboh SE, Seydel KB, Kapulu M, Laufer M, Taylor T, Bousema T, Marti M. Reversible host cell surface remodelling limits immune recognition and maximizes transmission of Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.30.591837. [PMID: 38746342 PMCID: PMC11092622 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.30.591837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Reducing malaria transmission has been a major pillar of control programmes and is considered crucial for achieving malaria elimination. Gametocytes, the transmissible forms of the P. falciparum parasite, arise during the blood stage of the parasite and develop through 5 morphologically distinct stages. Immature gametocytes (stage I-IV) sequester and develop in the extravascular niche of the bone marrow and possibly spleen. Only mature stage V gametocytes re-enter peripheral circulation to be taken up by mosquitoes for successful onward transmission. We have recently shown that immature, but not mature gametocytes are targets of host immune responses and identified putative target surface antigens. We hypothesize that these antigens play a role in gametocyte sequestration and contribute to acquired transmission-reducing immunity. Here we demonstrate that surface antigen expression, serum reactivity by human IgG, and opsonic phagocytosis by macrophages all show similar dynamics during gametocyte maturation, i.e., on in immature and off in mature gametocytes. Moreover, the switch in surface reactivity coincides with reversal in phosphatidylserine (PS) surface exposure, a marker for red blood cell age and clearance. PS is exposed on the surface of immature gametocytes (as well as in late asexual stages) but is removed from the surface in later gametocyte stages (IV-V). Using parasite reverse genetics and drug perturbations, we confirm that parasite protein export into the host cell and phospholipid scramblase activity are required for the observed surface modifications in asexual and sexual P. falciparum stages. These findings suggest that the dynamic surface remodelling allows (i) immature gametocyte sequestration in bone marrow and (ii) mature gametocyte release into peripheral circulation and immune evasion, therefore contributing to mature gametocyte survival in vivo and onward transmission to mosquitoes. Importantly, blocking scramblase activity during gametocyte maturation results in efficient clearance of mature gametocytes, revealing a potential path for transmission blocking interventions. Our studies have important implications for our understanding of parasite biology and form a starting point for novel intervention strategies to simultaneously reduce parasite burden and transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla Ngotho
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | | - Megan Peedell
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - William Muasya
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Brian Roy Omondi
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Stanley E. Otoboh
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Karl B. Seydel
- Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States
- Blantyre Malaria Project, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | | | - Miriam Laufer
- Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Terrie Taylor
- Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States
- Blantyre Malaria Project, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Teun Bousema
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Matthias Marti
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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6
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Sollelis L, Howick VM, Marti M. Revisiting the determinants of malaria transmission. Trends Parasitol 2024; 40:302-312. [PMID: 38443304 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2024.02.001] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Malaria parasites have coevolved with humans over thousands of years, mirroring their migration out of Africa. They persist to this day, despite continuous elimination efforts worldwide. These parasites can adapt to changing environments during infection of human and mosquito, and when expanding the geographical range by switching vector species. Recent studies in the human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, identified determinants governing the plasticity of sexual conversion rates, sex ratio, and vector competence. Here we summarize the latest literature revealing environmental, epigenetic, and genetic determinants of malaria transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauriane Sollelis
- Wellcome Center for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection and Immunity University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK; Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Virginia M Howick
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland; Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health, and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Matthias Marti
- Wellcome Center for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection and Immunity University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK; Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland.
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7
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Pietsch E, Niedermüller K, Andrews M, Meyer BS, Lenz TL, Wilson DW, Gilberger TW, Burda PC. Disruption of a Plasmodium falciparum patatin-like phospholipase delays male gametocyte exflagellation. Mol Microbiol 2024; 121:529-542. [PMID: 38131156 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.15211] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
An essential process in transmission of the malaria parasite to the Anopheles vector is the conversion of mature gametocytes into gametes within the mosquito gut, where they egress from the red blood cell (RBC). During egress, male gametocytes undergo exflagellation, leading to the formation of eight haploid motile microgametes, while female gametes retain their spherical shape. Gametocyte egress depends on sequential disruption of the parasitophorous vacuole membrane and the host cell membrane. In other life cycle stages of the malaria parasite, phospholipases have been implicated in membrane disruption processes during egress, however their importance for gametocyte egress is relatively unknown. Here, we performed comprehensive functional analyses of six putative phospholipases for their role during development and egress of Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes. We localize two of them, the prodrug activation and resistance esterase (PF3D7_0709700) and the lysophospholipase 1 (PF3D7_1476700), to the parasite plasma membrane. Subsequently, we show that disruption of most of the studied phospholipase genes does neither affect gametocyte development nor egress. The exception is the putative patatin-like phospholipase 3 (PF3D7_0924000), whose gene deletion leads to a delay in male gametocyte exflagellation, indicating an important, albeit not essential, role of this enzyme in male gametogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Pietsch
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Korbinian Niedermüller
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mia Andrews
- Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Britta S Meyer
- Research Unit for Evolutionary Immunogenomics, Department of Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tobias L Lenz
- Research Unit for Evolutionary Immunogenomics, Department of Biology, University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Danny W Wilson
- Research Centre for Infectious Diseases, School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tim-Wolf Gilberger
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Paul-Christian Burda
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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8
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Fréville A, Ressurreição M, van Ooij C. Identification of a non-exported Plasmepsin V substrate that functions in the parasitophorous vacuole of malaria parasites. mBio 2024; 15:e0122323. [PMID: 38078758 PMCID: PMC10790765 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01223-23] [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: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE In the manuscript, the authors investigate the role of the protease Plasmepsin V in the parasite-host interaction. Whereas processing by Plasmepsin V was previously thought to target a protein for export into the host cell, the authors now show that there are proteins cleaved by this protease that are not exported but instead function at the host-parasite interface. This changes the view of this protease, which turns out to have a much broader role than anticipated. The result shows that the protease may have a function much more similar to that of related organisms. The authors also investigate the requirements for protein export by analyzing exported and non-exported proteins and find commonalities between the proteins of each set that further our understanding of the requirements for protein export.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Fréville
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Margarida Ressurreição
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christiaan van Ooij
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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9
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Bansal GP, Kumar N. Immune mechanisms targeting malaria transmission: opportunities for vaccine development. Expert Rev Vaccines 2024; 23:645-654. [PMID: 38888098 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2024.2369583] [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: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Malaria continues to remain a major global health problem with nearly a quarter of a billion clinical cases and more than 600,000 deaths in 2022. There has been significant progress toward vaccine development, however, poor efficacy of approved vaccines requiring multiple immunizing doses emphasizes the need for continued efforts toward improved vaccines. Progress to date, nonetheless, has provided impetus for malaria elimination. AREAS COVERED In this review we will focus on diverse immune mechanisms targeting gametocytes in the human host and gametocyte-mediated malaria transmission via the mosquito vector. EXPERT OPINION To march toward the goal of malaria elimination it will be critical to target the process of malaria transmission by mosquitoes, mediated exclusively by the sexual stages, i.e. male, and female gametocytes, ingested from infected vertebrate host. Studies over several decades have established antigens in the parasite sexual stages developing in the mosquito midgut as attractive targets for the development of transmission blocking vaccines (TBVs). Immune clearance of gametocytes in the vertebrate host can synergize with TBVs and directly aid in maintaining effective transmission reducing immune potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geetha P Bansal
- Department of Tropical Medicine, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
- Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Nirbhay Kumar
- Department of Global Health, The Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Bekić V, Kilian N. Novel secretory organelles of parasite origin - at the center of host-parasite interaction. Bioessays 2023; 45:e2200241. [PMID: 37518819 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202200241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Reorganization of cell organelle-deprived host red blood cells by the apicomplexan malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum enables their cytoadherence to endothelial cells that line the microvasculature. This increases the time red blood cells infected with mature developmental stages remain within selected organs such as the brain to avoid the spleen passage, which can lead to severe complications and cumulate in patient death. The Maurer's clefts are a novel secretory organelle of parasite origin established by the parasite in the cytoplasm of the host red blood cell in order to facilitate the establishment of cytoadherence by conducting the trafficking of immunovariant adhesins to the host cell surface. Another important function of the organelle is the sorting of other proteins the parasite traffics into its host cell. Although the organelle is of high importance for the pathology of malaria, additional putative functions, structure, and genesis remain shrouded in mystery more than a century after its discovery. In this review, we highlight our current knowledge about the Maurer's clefts and other novel secretory organelles established within the host cell cytoplasm by human-pathogenic malaria parasites and other parasites that reside within human red blood cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktor Bekić
- School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nicole Kilian
- Centre for Infectious Diseases, Parasitology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
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11
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Burda PC, Ramaprasad A, Bielfeld S, Pietsch E, Woitalla A, Söhnchen C, Singh MN, Strauss J, Sait A, Collinson LM, Schwudke D, Blackman MJ, Gilberger TW. Global analysis of putative phospholipases in Plasmodium falciparum reveals an essential role of the phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C in parasite maturation. mBio 2023; 14:e0141323. [PMID: 37489900 PMCID: PMC10470789 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01413-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
For its replication within red blood cells, the malaria parasite depends on a highly active and regulated lipid metabolism. Enzymes involved in lipid metabolic processes such as phospholipases are, therefore, potential drug targets. Here, using reverse genetics approaches, we show that only 1 out of the 19 putative phospholipases expressed in asexual blood stages of Plasmodium falciparum is essential for proliferation in vitro, pointing toward a high level of redundancy among members of this enzyme family. Using conditional mislocalization and gene disruption techniques, we show that this essential phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C (PI-PLC, PF3D7_1013500) has a previously unrecognized essential role during intracellular parasite maturation, long before its previously perceived role in parasite egress and invasion. Subsequent lipidomic analysis suggests that PI-PLC mediates cleavage of phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate (PIP2) in schizont-stage parasites, underlining its critical role in regulating phosphoinositide levels in the parasite. IMPORTANCE The clinical symptoms of malaria arise due to repeated rounds of replication of Plasmodium parasites within red blood cells (RBCs). Central to this is an intense period of membrane biogenesis. Generation of membranes not only requires de novo synthesis and acquisition but also the degradation of phospholipids, a function that is performed by phospholipases. In this study, we investigate the essentiality of the 19 putative phospholipase enzymes that the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum expresses during its replication within RBCs. We not only show that a high level of functional redundancy exists among these enzymes but, at the same time, also identify an essential role for the phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C in parasite development and cleavage of the phospholipid phosphatidylinositol bisphosphate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul-Christian Burda
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Abhinay Ramaprasad
- Malaria Biochemistry Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sabrina Bielfeld
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Emma Pietsch
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anna Woitalla
- Division of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Christoph Söhnchen
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Mehar Nihal Singh
- Malaria Biochemistry Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Division of Infection and Immunity, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jan Strauss
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Aaron Sait
- Electron Microscopy Science Technology Platform, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy M. Collinson
- Electron Microscopy Science Technology Platform, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Dominik Schwudke
- Division of Bioanalytical Chemistry, Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Thematic Translational Unit Tuberculosis, Partner Site Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel-Riems, Borstel, Germany
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Airway Research Center North (ARCN), Research Center Borstel, Leibniz Lung Center, Borstel, Germany
| | - Michael J. Blackman
- Malaria Biochemistry Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tim-Wolf Gilberger
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- University of Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany
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12
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Batugedara G, Lu XM, Hristov B, Abel S, Chahine Z, Hollin T, Williams D, Wang T, Cort A, Lenz T, Thompson TA, Prudhomme J, Tripathi AK, Xu G, Cudini J, Dogga S, Lawniczak M, Noble WS, Sinnis P, Le Roch KG. Novel insights into the role of long non-coding RNA in the human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5086. [PMID: 37607941 PMCID: PMC10444892 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40883-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The complex life cycle of Plasmodium falciparum requires coordinated gene expression regulation to allow host cell invasion, transmission, and immune evasion. Increasing evidence now suggests a major role for epigenetic mechanisms in gene expression in the parasite. In eukaryotes, many lncRNAs have been identified to be pivotal regulators of genome structure and gene expression. To investigate the regulatory roles of lncRNAs in P. falciparum we explore the intergenic lncRNA distribution in nuclear and cytoplasmic subcellular locations. Using nascent RNA expression profiles, we identify a total of 1768 lncRNAs, of which 718 (~41%) are novels in P. falciparum. The subcellular localization and stage-specific expression of several putative lncRNAs are validated using RNA-FISH. Additionally, the genome-wide occupancy of several candidate nuclear lncRNAs is explored using ChIRP. The results reveal that lncRNA occupancy sites are focal and sequence-specific with a particular enrichment for several parasite-specific gene families, including those involved in pathogenesis and sexual differentiation. Genomic and phenotypic analysis of one specific lncRNA demonstrate its importance in sexual differentiation and reproduction. Our findings bring a new level of insight into the role of lncRNAs in pathogenicity, gene regulation and sexual differentiation, opening new avenues for targeted therapeutic strategies against the deadly malaria parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gayani Batugedara
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Xueqing M Lu
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Borislav Hristov
- Department of Genome Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98195-5065, USA
| | - Steven Abel
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Zeinab Chahine
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Thomas Hollin
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Desiree Williams
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Tina Wang
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Anthony Cort
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Todd Lenz
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Trevor A Thompson
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Jacques Prudhomme
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Abhai K Tripathi
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology and the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Guoyue Xu
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology and the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | | | - Sunil Dogga
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | | | | | - Photini Sinnis
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology and the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA
| | - Karine G Le Roch
- Department of Molecular Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA.
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13
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Chawla J, Goldowitz I, Oberstaller J, Zhang M, Pires CV, Navarro F, Sollelis L, Wang CCQ, Seyfang A, Dvorin J, Otto TD, Rayner JC, Marti M, Adams JH. Phenotypic Screens Identify Genetic Factors Associated with Gametocyte Development in the Human Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0416422. [PMID: 37154686 PMCID: PMC10269797 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04164-22] [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: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Transmission of the deadly malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum from humans to mosquitoes is achieved by specialized intraerythrocytic sexual forms called gametocytes. Though the crucial regulatory mechanisms leading to gametocyte commitment have recently come to light, networks of genes that control sexual development remain to be elucidated. Here, we report a pooled-mutant screen to identify genes associated with gametocyte development in P. falciparum. Our results categorized genes that modulate gametocyte progression as hypoproducers or hyperproducers of gametocytes, and the in-depth analysis of individual clones confirmed phenotypes in sexual commitment rates and putative functions in gametocyte development. We present a new set of genes that have not been implicated in gametocytogenesis before and demonstrate the potential of forward genetic screens in isolating genes impacting parasite sexual biology, an exciting step toward the discovery of new antimalarials for a globally significant pathogen. IMPORTANCE Blocking human-to-vector transmission is an essential step toward malaria elimination. Gametocytes are solely responsible for achieving this transmission and represent an opportunity for therapeutic intervention. While these falciform-shaped parasite stages were first discovered in the 1880s, our understanding of the genetic determinants responsible for their formation and molecular mechanisms that drive their development is limited. In this work, we developed a scalable screening methodology with piggyBac mutants to identify genes that influence the development of gametocytes in the most lethal human malaria parasite, P. falciparum. By doing so, we lay the foundation for large-scale functional genomic studies specifically designed to address remaining questions about sexual commitment, maturation, and mosquito infection in P. falciparum. Such functional genetic screens will serve to expedite the identification of essential pathways and processes for the development of novel transmission-blocking agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsna Chawla
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Ilana Goldowitz
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jenna Oberstaller
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Min Zhang
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Camilla Valente Pires
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Francesca Navarro
- Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lauriane Sollelis
- Institute of Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Institute of Parasitology Zurich, VetSuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Chengqi C. Q. Wang
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Andreas Seyfang
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
| | - Jeffrey Dvorin
- Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Thomas D. Otto
- Institute of Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Julian C. Rayner
- Cambridge Institute for Medical Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Matthias Marti
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Institute of Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Institute of Parasitology Zurich, VetSuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - John H. Adams
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida, USA
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14
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A Plasmodium falciparum RING Finger E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Modifies the Roles of PfMDR1 and PfCRT in Parasite Drug Responses. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2023; 67:e0082122. [PMID: 36625569 PMCID: PMC9933707 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00821-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Protein ubiquitination is an important posttranslational regulation mechanism that mediates Plasmodium development and modifies parasite responses to antimalarial drugs. Although mutations in several parasite ubiquitination enzymes have been linked to increased drug tolerance, the molecular mechanisms by which ubiquitination pathways mediate these parasite responses remain largely unknown. Here, we investigate the roles of a Plasmodium falciparum ring finger ubiquitin ligase (PfRFUL) in parasite development and in responses to antimalarial drugs. We engineered a transgenic parasite having the Pfrful gene tagged with an HA-2A-NeoR-glmS sequence to knockdown (KD) Pfrful expression using glucosamine (GlcN). A Western blot analysis of the proteins from GlcN-treated pSLI-HA-NeoR-glmS-tagged (PfRFULg) parasites, relative to their wild-type (Dd2) controls, showed changes in the ubiquitination of numerous proteins. PfRFUL KD rendered the parasites more sensitive to multiple antimalarial drugs, including mefloquine, piperaquine, amodiaquine, and dihydroartemisinin. PfRFUL KD also decreased the protein level of the P. falciparum multiple drug resistance 1 protein (PfMDR1) and altered the ratio of two bands of the P. falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (PfCRT), suggesting contributions to the changed drug responses by the altered ubiquitination of these two molecules. The inhibition of proteasomal protein degradation by epoxomicin increased the PfRFUL level, suggesting the degradation of PfRFUL by the proteasome pathways, whereas the inhibition of E3 ubiquitin ligase activities by JNJ26854165 reduced the PfRFUL level. This study reveals the potential mechanisms of PfRFUL in modifying the expression of drug transporters and their roles in parasite drug responses. PfRFUL could be a potential target for antimalarial drug development.
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15
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Fernandes P, Loubens M, Marinach C, Coppée R, Baron L, Grand M, Andre TP, Hamada S, Langlois AC, Briquet S, Bun P, Silvie O. Plasmodium sporozoites require the protein B9 to invade hepatocytes. iScience 2023; 26:106056. [PMID: 36761022 PMCID: PMC9906020 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106056] [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: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium sporozoites are transmitted to a mammalian host during blood feeding by an infected mosquito and invade hepatocytes for initial replication of the parasite into thousands of erythrocyte-invasive merozoites. Here we report that the B9 protein, a member of the 6-cysteine domain protein family, is secreted from sporozoite micronemes and is required for productive invasion of hepatocytes. The N-terminus of B9 forms a beta-propeller domain structurally related to CyRPA, a cysteine-rich protein forming an essential invasion complex in Plasmodium falciparum merozoites. The beta-propeller domain of B9 is essential for sporozoite infectivity and interacts with the 6-cysteine proteins P36 and P52 in a heterologous expression system. Our results suggest that, despite using distinct sets of parasite and host entry factors, Plasmodium sporozoites and merozoites may share common structural modules to assemble protein complexes for invasion of host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyanka Fernandes
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, CIMI-Paris, Paris, France
| | - Manon Loubens
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, CIMI-Paris, Paris, France
| | - Carine Marinach
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, CIMI-Paris, Paris, France
| | - Romain Coppée
- Université de Paris, UMR 261 MERIT, IRD, 75006 Paris, France
| | - Ludivine Baron
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, CIMI-Paris, Paris, France
| | - Morgane Grand
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, CIMI-Paris, Paris, France
| | - Thanh-Phuc Andre
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, CIMI-Paris, Paris, France
| | - Soumia Hamada
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, CIMI-Paris, Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, UMS PASS, Plateforme Post-génomique de la Pitié Salpêtrière (P3S), 75013 Paris, France
| | - Anne-Claire Langlois
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, CIMI-Paris, Paris, France
| | - Sylvie Briquet
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, CIMI-Paris, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Bun
- INSERM U1266, NeurImag Facility, Institute of Psychiatry and Neurosciences of Paris, Paris, France
| | - Olivier Silvie
- Sorbonne Université, INSERM, CNRS, Centre d’Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, CIMI-Paris, Paris, France
- Corresponding author
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16
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Cruz Camacho A, Kiper E, Oren S, Zaharoni N, Nir N, Soffer N, Noy Y, Ben David B, Rivkin A, Rotkopf R, Michael D, Carvalho TG, Regev-Rudzki N. High-throughput analysis of the transcriptional patterns of sexual genes in malaria. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:14. [PMID: 36639683 PMCID: PMC9838061 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05624-w] [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: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) is the leading protozoan causing malaria, the most devastating parasitic disease. To ensure transmission, a small subset of Pf parasites differentiate into the sexual forms (gametocytes). Since the abundance of these essential parasitic forms is extremely low within the human host, little is currently known about the molecular regulation of their sexual differentiation, highlighting the need to develop tools to investigate Pf gene expression during this fundamental mechanism. METHODS We developed a high-throughput quantitative Reverse-Transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) platform to robustly monitor Pf transcriptional patterns, in particular, systematically profiling the transcriptional pattern of a large panel of gametocyte-related genes (GRG). Initially, we evaluated the technical performance of the systematic RT-qPCR platform to ensure it complies with the accepted quality standards for: (i) RNA extraction, (ii) cDNA synthesis and (iii) evaluation of gene expression through RT-qPCR. We then used this approach to monitor alterations in gene expression of a panel of GRG upon treatment with gametocytogenesis regulators. RESULTS We thoroughly elucidated GRG expression profiles under treatment with the antimalarial drug dihydroartemisinin (DHA) or the metabolite choline over the course of a Pf blood cycle (48 h). We demonstrate that both significantly alter the expression pattern of PfAP2-G, the gametocytogenesis master regulator. However, they also markedly modify the developmental rate of the parasites and thus might bias the mRNA expression. Additionally, we screened the effect of the metabolites lactate and kynurenic acid, abundant in severe malaria, as potential regulators of gametocytogenesis. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate that the high-throughput RT-qPCR method enables studying the immediate transcriptional response initiating gametocytogenesis of the parasites from a very low volume of malaria-infected RBC samples. The obtained data expand the current knowledge of the initial alterations in mRNA profiles of GRG upon treatment with reported regulators. In addition, using this method emphasizes that asexual parasite stage composition is a crucial element that must be considered when interpreting changes in GRG expression by RT-qPCR, specifically when screening for novel compounds that could regulate Pf sexual differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abel Cruz Camacho
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Edo Kiper
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Sonia Oren
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Nir Zaharoni
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Netta Nir
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Noam Soffer
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yael Noy
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Bar Ben David
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Anna Rivkin
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ron Rotkopf
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Department of Life Sciences Core Facilities, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Dan Michael
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Feinberg Graduate School, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Teresa G. Carvalho
- grid.1018.80000 0001 2342 0938Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086 Australia
| | - Neta Regev-Rudzki
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
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17
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Aguado ME, Izquierdo M, González-Matos M, Varela AC, Méndez Y, Del Rivero MA, Rivera DG, González-Bacerio J. Parasite Metalo-aminopeptidases as Targets in Human Infectious Diseases. Curr Drug Targets 2023; 24:416-461. [PMID: 36825701 DOI: 10.2174/1389450124666230224140724] [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: 08/25/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parasitic human infectious diseases are a worldwide health problem due to the increased resistance to conventional drugs. For this reason, the identification of novel molecular targets and the discovery of new chemotherapeutic agents are urgently required. Metalo- aminopeptidases are promising targets in parasitic infections. They participate in crucial processes for parasite growth and pathogenesis. OBJECTIVE In this review, we describe the structural, functional and kinetic properties, and inhibitors, of several parasite metalo-aminopeptidases, for their use as targets in parasitic diseases. CONCLUSION Plasmodium falciparum M1 and M17 aminopeptidases are essential enzymes for parasite development, and M18 aminopeptidase could be involved in hemoglobin digestion and erythrocyte invasion and egression. Trypanosoma cruzi, T. brucei and Leishmania major acidic M17 aminopeptidases can play a nutritional role. T. brucei basic M17 aminopeptidase down-regulation delays the cytokinesis. The inhibition of Leishmania basic M17 aminopeptidase could affect parasite viability. L. donovani methionyl aminopeptidase inhibition prevents apoptosis but not the parasite death. Decrease in Acanthamoeba castellanii M17 aminopeptidase activity produces cell wall structural modifications and encystation inhibition. Inhibition of Babesia bovis growth is probably related to the inhibition of the parasite M17 aminopeptidase, probably involved in host hemoglobin degradation. Schistosoma mansoni M17 aminopeptidases inhibition may affect parasite development, since they could participate in hemoglobin degradation, surface membrane remodeling and eggs hatching. Toxoplasma gondii M17 aminopeptidase inhibition could attenuate parasite virulence, since it is apparently involved in the hydrolysis of cathepsin Cs- or proteasome-produced dipeptides and/or cell attachment/invasion processes. These data are relevant to validate these enzymes as targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirtha E Aguado
- Center for Protein Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, Calle 25 #455 Entre I y J, 10400, Vedado, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Maikel Izquierdo
- Center for Protein Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, Calle 25 #455 Entre I y J, 10400, Vedado, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Maikel González-Matos
- Center for Protein Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, Calle 25 #455 Entre I y J, 10400, Vedado, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Ana C Varela
- Center for Protein Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, Calle 25 #455 Entre I y J, 10400, Vedado, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Yanira Méndez
- Center for Natural Products Research, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Havana, Zapata y G, 10400, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Maday A Del Rivero
- Center for Protein Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, Calle 25 #455 Entre I y J, 10400, Vedado, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Daniel G Rivera
- Center for Natural Products Research, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Havana, Zapata y G, 10400, La Habana, Cuba
| | - Jorge González-Bacerio
- Center for Protein Studies, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, Calle 25 #455 Entre I y J, 10400, Vedado, La Habana, Cuba
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology, University of Havana, calle 25 #455 entre I y J, 10400, Vedado, La Habana, Cuba
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18
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Highly Variable Expression of Merozoite Surface Protein MSPDBL2 in Diverse Plasmodium falciparum Clinical Isolates and Transcriptome Scans for Correlating Genes. mBio 2022; 13:e0194822. [PMID: 35950755 PMCID: PMC9426457 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01948-22] [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] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The merozoite surface protein MSPDBL2 of Plasmodium falciparum is under strong balancing selection and is a target of naturally acquired antibodies. Remarkably, MSPDBL2 is expressed in only a minority of mature schizonts of any cultured parasite line, and mspdbl2 gene transcription increases in response to overexpression of the gametocyte development inducer GDV1, so it is important to understand its natural expression. Here, MSPDBL2 in mature schizonts was analyzed in the first ex vivo culture cycle of 96 clinical isolates from 4 populations with various levels of infection endemicity in different West African countries, by immunofluorescence microscopy with antibodies against a conserved region of the protein. In most isolates, less than 1% of mature schizonts were positive for MSPDBL2, but the frequency distribution was highly skewed, as nine isolates had more than 3% schizonts positive and one had 73% positive. To investigate whether the expression of other gene loci correlated with MSPDBL2 expression, whole-transcriptome sequencing was performed on schizont-enriched material from 17 of the isolates with a wide range of proportions of schizonts positive. Transcripts of particular genes were highly significantly positively correlated with MSPDBL2 positivity in schizonts as well as with mspdbl2 gene transcript levels, showing overrepresentation of genes implicated previously as involved in gametocytogenesis but not including the gametocytogenesis master regulator ap2-g. Single-cell transcriptome analysis of a laboratory-adapted clone showed that most individual parasites expressing mspdbl2 did not express ap2-g, consistent with MSPDBL2 marking a developmental subpopulation that is distinct but likely to co-occur alongside sexual commitment. IMPORTANCE These findings contribute to understanding malaria parasite antigenic and developmental variation, focusing on the merozoite surface protein encoded by the single locus under strongest balancing selection. Analyzing the initial ex vivo generation of parasites grown from a wide sample of clinical infections, we show a unique and highly skewed pattern of natural expression frequencies of MSPDBL2, distinct from that of any other antigen. Bulk transcriptome analysis of a range of clinical isolates showed significant overrepresentation of sexual development genes among those positively correlated with MSPDBL2 protein and mspdbl2 gene expression, indicating the MSPDBL2-positive subpopulation to be often coincident with parasites developing sexually in preparation for transmission. Single-cell transcriptome data confirm the absence of a direct correlation with the ap2-g master regulator of sexual development, indicating that the MSPDBL2-positive subpopulation has a separate function in asexual survival and replication under conditions that promote terminal sexual differentiation.
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19
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Activity-Based Protein Profiling of Human and Plasmodium Serine Hydrolases and Interrogation of Potential Antimalarial Targets. iScience 2022; 25:104996. [PMID: 36105595 PMCID: PMC9464883 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria remains a global health issue requiring the identification of novel therapeutic targets to combat drug resistance. Metabolic serine hydrolases are druggable enzymes playing essential roles in lipid metabolism. However, very few have been investigated in malaria-causing parasites. Here, we used fluorophosphonate broad-spectrum activity-based probes and quantitative chemical proteomics to annotate and profile the activity of more than half of predicted serine hydrolases in P. falciparum across the erythrocytic cycle. Using conditional genetics, we demonstrate that the activities of four serine hydrolases, previously annotated as essential (or important) in genetic screens, are actually dispensable for parasite replication. Of importance, we also identified eight human serine hydrolases that are specifically activated at different developmental stages. Chemical inhibition of two of them blocks parasite replication. This strongly suggests that parasites co-opt the activity of host enzymes and that this opens a new drug development strategy against which the parasites are less likely to develop resistance. P. falciparum has 48 predicted metabolic SHs. Many react with the ABP, FP-N3 The activity of 25 PfSHs and 8 HsSHs was profiled throughout the asexual life cycle Catalytic mutants of 4 PfSHs (formerly held essential) had no parasite growth effect Selective inhibitors for 2 HsSHs (APEH and LPLA2) affected parasite growth
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20
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de Jong RM, Alkema M, Oulton T, Dumont E, Teelen K, Nakajima R, de Assis RR, Press KWD, Ngotho P, Tetteh KK, Felgner P, Marti M, Collins KA, Drakeley C, Bousema T, Stone WJ. The acquisition of humoral immune responses targeting Plasmodium falciparum sexual stages in controlled human malaria infections. Front Immunol 2022; 13:930956. [PMID: 35924245 PMCID: PMC9339717 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.930956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Individuals infected with P. falciparum develop antibody responses to intra-erythrocytic gametocyte proteins and exported gametocyte proteins present on the surface of infected erythrocytes. However, there is currently limited knowledge on the immunogenicity of gametocyte antigens and the specificity of gametocyte-induced antibody responses. In this study, we assessed antibody responses in participants of two controlled human malaria infection (CHMI) studies by ELISA, multiplexed bead-based antibody assays and protein microarray. By comparing antibody responses in participants with and without gametocyte exposure, we aimed to disentangle the antibody response induced by asexual and sexual stage parasites. We showed that after a single malaria infection, a significant anti-sexual stage humoral response is induced in malaria-naïve individuals, even after exposure to relatively low gametocyte densities (up to ~1,600 gametocytes/mL). In contrast to antibody responses to well-characterised asexual blood stage antigens that were detectable by day 21 after infection, responses to sexual stage antigens (including transmission blocking vaccine candidates Pfs48/45 and Pfs230) were only apparent at 51 days after infection. We found antigens previously associated with early gametocyte or anti-gamete immunity were highly represented among responses linked with gametocyte exposure. Our data provide detailed insights on the induction and kinetics of antibody responses to gametocytes and identify novel antigens that elicit antibody responses exclusively in individuals with gametocyte exposure. Our findings provide target identification for serological assays for surveillance of the malaria infectious reservoir, and support vaccine development by describing the antibody response to leading vaccine antigens after primary infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roos M. de Jong
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Radboud Centre of Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Manon Alkema
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Radboud Centre of Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Tate Oulton
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elin Dumont
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Karina Teelen
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Radboud Centre of Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Rie Nakajima
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Rafael Ramiro de Assis
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | | | - Priscilla Ngotho
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Kevin K.A. Tetteh
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Phil Felgner
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, United States
| | - Matthias Marti
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Katharine A. Collins
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Radboud Centre of Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Chris Drakeley
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Teun Bousema
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Radboud Centre of Infectious Diseases, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands,Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Will J.R. Stone
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom,*Correspondence: Will J.R. Stone,
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21
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van der Watt ME, Reader J, Birkholtz LM. Adapt or Die: Targeting Unique Transmission-Stage Biology for Malaria Elimination. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:901971. [PMID: 35755845 PMCID: PMC9218253 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.901971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium parasites have a complex life cycle that includes development in the human host as well as the Anopheles vector. Successful transmission of the parasite between its host and vector therefore requires the parasite to balance its investments in asexual replication and sexual reproduction, varying the frequency of sexual commitment to persist within the human host and generate future opportunities for transmission. The transmission window is extended further by the ability of stage V gametocytes to circulate in peripheral blood for weeks, whereas immature stage I to IV gametocytes sequester in the bone marrow and spleen until final maturation. Due to the low gametocyte numbers in blood circulation and with the ease of targeting such life cycle bottlenecks, transmission represents an efficient target for therapeutic intervention. The biological process of Plasmodium transmission is a multistage, multifaceted process and the past decade has seen a much deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms and regulators involved. Clearly, specific and divergent processes are used during transmission compared to asexual proliferation, which both poses challenges but also opportunities for discovery of transmission-blocking antimalarials. This review therefore presents an update of our molecular understanding of gametocyte and gamete biology as well as the status of transmission-blocking activities of current antimalarials and lead development compounds. By defining the biological components associated with transmission, considerations for the development of new transmission-blocking drugs to target such untapped but unique biology is suggested as an important, main driver for transmission-blocking drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariëtte E van der Watt
- Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Janette Reader
- Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Lyn-Marié Birkholtz
- Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, School of Health Systems and Public Health, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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22
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Plasmodium falciparum Cysteine Rich Secretory Protein uniquely localizes to one end of male gametes. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2022; 248:111447. [PMID: 34998927 PMCID: PMC8904303 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2022.111447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Fertilization is a central event during the life cycle of most eukaryotic organisms and involves gamete recognition and fusion, ultimately resulting in zygote formation. Gamete fertilization in the malaria-causing Plasmodium parasites occurs inside the mosquito midgut and represents a major bottleneck in the life cycle. Cysteine Rich Secretory Proteins (CRISPs) are key molecules involved in fertilization in vertebrates and the presence of a CRISP ortholog in human malaria infective Plasmodium falciparum suggested a possible role in fertilization. Strikingly, P. falciparum CRISP exhibited a unique terminal localization in the male microgamete. Parasites with a CRISP gene deletion (P. falciparum crisp-) proliferated asexually similar to wildtype NF54 parasites and differentiated into gametocytes. Further analysis showed that Plasmodium falciparum crisp- gametocytes underwent exflagellation to form male gametes and no apparent defect in transmission to the mosquito vector was observed. These data show that P. falciparum CRISP is a marker for the apical end of the microgamete and that it might only have an ancillary or redundant function in the male sexual stages.
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23
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Siciliano G, Di Paolo V, Rotili D, Migale R, Pedini F, Casella M, Camerini S, Dalzoppo D, Henderson R, Huijs T, Dechering KJ, Mai A, Caccuri AM, Lalle M, Quintieri L, Alano P. The Nitrobenzoxadiazole Derivative NBDHEX Behaves as Plasmodium falciparum Gametocyte Selective Inhibitor with Malaria Parasite Transmission Blocking Activity. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15020168. [PMID: 35215282 PMCID: PMC8875241 DOI: 10.3390/ph15020168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This work describes the activity of 6-((7-nitrobenzo[c][1,2,5]oxadiazol-4-yl)thio)hexan-1-ol (NBDHEX) and of its newly identified carboxylic acid metabolite on the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. NBDHEX has been previously identified as a potent cytotoxic agent against murine and human cancer cells as well as towards the protozoan parasite Giardia duodenalis. We show here that NBDHEX is active in vitro against all blood stages of P. falciparum, with the rare feature of killing the parasite stages transmissible to mosquitoes, the gametocytes, with a 4-fold higher potency than that on the pathogenic asexual stages. This activity importantly translates into blocking parasite transmission through the Anopheles vector in mosquito experimental infections. A mass spectrometry analysis identified covalent NBDHEX modifications in specific cysteine residues of five gametocyte proteins, possibly associated with its antiparasitic effect. The carboxylic acid metabolite of NBDHEX retains the gametocyte preferential inhibitory activity of the parent compound, making this novel P. falciparum transmission-blocking chemotype at least as a new tool to uncover biological processes targetable by gametocyte selective drugs. Both NBDHEX and its carboxylic acid metabolite show very limited in vitro cytotoxicity on VERO cells. This result and previous evidence that NBDHEX shows an excellent in vivo safety profile in mice and is orally active against human cancer xenografts make these molecules potential starting points to develop new P. falciparum transmission-blocking agents, enriching the repertoire of drugs needed to eliminate malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Siciliano
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.S.); (R.M.)
| | - Veronica Di Paolo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy; (V.D.P.); (D.D.)
| | - Dante Rotili
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.R.); (A.M.)
| | - Rossella Migale
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.S.); (R.M.)
| | - Francesca Pedini
- Department of Oncology and Molecular Medicine, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Marialuisa Casella
- Core Facilities, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Serena Camerini
- Core Facilities, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (M.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Daniele Dalzoppo
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy; (V.D.P.); (D.D.)
| | - Rob Henderson
- TropIQ Health Sciences, 6534 AT Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (R.H.); (T.H.); (K.J.D.)
| | - Tonnie Huijs
- TropIQ Health Sciences, 6534 AT Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (R.H.); (T.H.); (K.J.D.)
| | - Koen J. Dechering
- TropIQ Health Sciences, 6534 AT Nijmegen, The Netherlands; (R.H.); (T.H.); (K.J.D.)
| | - Antonello Mai
- Department of Chemistry and Technology of Drugs, “Sapienza” University of Rome, 00185 Rome, Italy; (D.R.); (A.M.)
| | - Anna Maria Caccuri
- Department of Chemical Sciences and Technologies, University of Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Marco Lalle
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.S.); (R.M.)
- Correspondence: (M.L.); (L.Q.); (P.A.)
| | - Luigi Quintieri
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, 35131 Padua, Italy; (V.D.P.); (D.D.)
- Correspondence: (M.L.); (L.Q.); (P.A.)
| | - Pietro Alano
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (G.S.); (R.M.)
- Correspondence: (M.L.); (L.Q.); (P.A.)
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24
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Ullah S, Syed NM, Gang T, Noor RS, Ahmad S, Waqas MM, Shah AN, Ullah S. Recent global warming as a proximate cause of deforestation and forest degradation in northern Pakistan. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0260607. [PMID: 35061707 PMCID: PMC8782284 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0260607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Instrumental climatological records such as weather stations data of northern areas of Pakistan are not sufficient to assess the forest extreme events reliably. To understand the past climatic variability, tree ring width based climatic reconstruction is the best alternative to trace climate variability that goes back in time. Quercus Incana is the most sensitive species to drought and climatic variation in northern Pakistan. However, very little research quantifies the rate of ongoing climatic changes. A total of 65 tree cores were collected from two sites to understand the radial growth of Q. Incana to extreme drought events. The radial growth is mainly affected by high temperatures during May-July. In addition, radial growth exhibits a positive correlation with February-June precipitation while it is negatively correlated with the September precipitation. The radial growth decrease, particularly in harsh climatic conditions. The reconstructed tree ring record was strongly coherent with the May-June self-calibrated Palmer drought severity index (scPDSI) and reliable in reconstructing drought variability for the period 1750-2014. During the past 264 years, wet periods were found during 1980-2010, 1812-1836, and 1754-1760, while dry periods were found during 1896-1922, 1864-1876, and 1784-1788. Our reconstruction explains 39.8% of the scPDSI variance. The extreme drought and wet years we arrived at were in close agreement with the drought and wet periods that occurred in northern Pakistan. Wavelet analysis revealed drought variability at periodicities of 2.2-2.5, 3.3, 3-4, 16.7, 16.8, and 68-78.8 years. Hence it is concluded that deforestation and forest degradation rate increased with extreme drought and wet years. Overall, the variation of drought in northern Pakistan seems to have been affected due to El Nino south oscillation, Pacific decadal oscillation, or Atlantic multi-decadal oscillations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif Ullah
- College of Economics & Management, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Nizami Moazzam Syed
- Department of Forestry & Wildlife, Management, University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan
| | - Tian Gang
- College of Economics & Management, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin, China
| | - Rana Shahzad Noor
- Department of Agriculture, Biological, Environment and Energy Engineering, College of Engineering, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
- Faculty of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, PMAS-Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan
| | - Sarir Ahmad
- Department of Forestry & Wildlife, Management, University of Haripur, Haripur, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Mohsin Waqas
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology, Rahim Yar Khan, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Adnan Noor Shah
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology, Rahim Yar Khan, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Sami Ullah
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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25
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Usui M, Williamson KC. Stressed Out About Plasmodium falciparum Gametocytogenesis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:790067. [PMID: 34926328 PMCID: PMC8674873 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.790067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Blocking malaria transmission is critical to malaria control programs but remains a major challenge especially in endemic regions with high levels of asymptomatic infections. New strategies targeting the transmissible sexual stages of the parasite, called gametocytes, are needed. This review focuses on P. falciparum gametocytogenesis in vivo and in vitro. Highlighting advances made elucidating genes required for gametocyte production and identifying key questions that remain unanswered such as the factors and regulatory mechanisms that contribute to gametocyte induction, and the mechanism of sequestration. Tools available to begin to address these issues are also described to facilitate advances in our understanding of this important stage of the life cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miho Usui
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Kim C Williamson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
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26
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Niemand J, van Biljon R, van der Watt M, van Heerden A, Reader J, van Wyk R, Orchard L, Chibale K, Llinás M, Birkholtz LM. Chemogenomic Fingerprints Associated with Stage-Specific Gametocytocidal Compound Action against Human Malaria Parasites. ACS Infect Dis 2021; 7:2904-2916. [PMID: 34569223 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.1c00373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Kinase-focused inhibitors previously revealed compounds with differential activity against different stages of Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes. MMV666810, a 2-aminopyrazine, is more active on late-stage gametocytes, while a pyrazolopyridine, MMV674850, preferentially targets early-stage gametocytes. Here, we probe the biological mechanisms underpinning this differential stage-specific killing using in-depth transcriptome fingerprinting. Compound-specific chemogenomic profiles were observed with MMV674850 treatment associated with biological processes shared between asexual blood stage parasites and early-stage gametocytes but not late-stage gametocytes. MMV666810 has a distinct profile with clustered gene sets associated primarily with late-stage gametocyte development, including Ca2+-dependent protein kinases (CDPK1 and 5) and serine/threonine protein kinases (FIKK). Chemogenomic profiling therefore highlights essential processes in late-stage gametocytes, on a transcriptional level. This information is important to prioritize compounds that preferentially compromise late-stage gametocytes for further development as transmission-blocking antimalarials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jandeli Niemand
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
- Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Riëtte van Biljon
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Mariëtte van der Watt
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Ashleigh van Heerden
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Janette Reader
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Roelof van Wyk
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | - Lindsey Orchard
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and the Huck Centre for Malaria Research, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, United States
| | - Kelly Chibale
- Drug Discovery and Development Centre (H3D), University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, Cape Town, 7701, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council, Drug Discovery and Development Research Unit, Department of Chemistry and Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Manuel Llinás
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and the Huck Centre for Malaria Research, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, United States
| | - Lyn-Marié Birkholtz
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
- Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
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27
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Gadalla AAH, Siciliano G, Farid R, Alano P, Ranford-Cartwright L, McCarthy JS, Thompson J, Babiker HA. Real-time PCR assays for detection and quantification of early P. falciparum gametocyte stages. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19118. [PMID: 34580326 PMCID: PMC8476600 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-97456-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of quantitative qRT-PCR assays for detection and quantification of late gametocyte stages has revealed the high transmission capacity of the human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. To understand how the parasite adjusts its transmission in response to in-host environmental conditions including antimalarials requires simultaneous quantification of early and late gametocytes. Here, we describe qRT-PCR assays that specifically detect and quantify early-stage P. falciparum gametocytes. The assays are based on expression of known early and late gametocyte genes and were developed using purified stage II and stage V gametocytes and tested in natural and controlled human infections. Genes pfpeg4 and pfg27 are specifically expressed at significant levels in early gametocytes with a limit of quantification of 190 and 390 gametocytes/mL, respectively. In infected volunteers, transcripts of pfpeg4 and pfg27 were detected shortly after the onset of blood stage infection. In natural infections, both early (pfpeg4/pfg27) and late gametocyte transcripts (pfs25) were detected in 71.2% of individuals, only early gametocyte transcripts in 12.6%, and only late gametocyte transcripts in 15.2%. The pfpeg4/pfg27 qRT-PCR assays are sensitive and specific for quantification of circulating sexually committed ring stages/early gametocytes and can be used to increase our understanding of epidemiological processes that modulate P. falciparum transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal A H Gadalla
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.,Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Biomedical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Giulia Siciliano
- Dipartimento di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Ryan Farid
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute and University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Pietro Alano
- Dipartimento di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Lisa Ranford-Cartwright
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - James S McCarthy
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute and University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Joanne Thompson
- Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, Ashworth Laboratories, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Hamza A Babiker
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.
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28
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Rawat M, Srivastava A, Johri S, Gupta I, Karmodiya K. Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Reveals Cellular Heterogeneity and Stage Transition under Temperature Stress in Synchronized Plasmodium falciparum Cells. Microbiol Spectr 2021; 9:e0000821. [PMID: 34232098 PMCID: PMC8552519 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00008-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The malaria parasite has a complex life cycle exhibiting phenotypic and morphogenic variations in two different hosts by existing in heterogeneous developmental states. To investigate this cellular heterogeneity of the parasite within the human host, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of synchronized Plasmodium cells under control and temperature treatment conditions. Using the Malaria Cell Atlas (https://www.sanger.ac.uk/science/tools/mca) as a guide, we identified 9 subtypes of the parasite distributed across known intraerythrocytic stages. Interestingly, temperature treatment results in the upregulation of the AP2-G gene, the master regulator of sexual development in a small subpopulation of the parasites. Moreover, we identified a heterogeneous stress-responsive subpopulation (clusters 5, 6, and 7 [∼10% of the total population]) that exhibits upregulation of stress response pathways under normal growth conditions. We also developed an online exploratory tool that will provide new insights into gene function under normal and temperature stress conditions. Thus, our study reveals important insights into cell-to-cell heterogeneity in the parasite population under temperature treatment that will be instrumental toward a mechanistic understanding of cellular adaptation and population dynamics in Plasmodium falciparum. IMPORTANCE The malaria parasite has a complex life cycle exhibiting phenotypic variations in two different hosts accompanied by cell-to-cell variability that is important for stress tolerance, immune evasion, and drug resistance. To investigate cellular heterogeneity determined by gene expression, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of about 12,000 synchronized Plasmodium cells under physiologically relevant normal (37°C) and temperature stress (40°C) conditions phenocopying the cyclic bouts of fever experienced during malarial infection. In this study, we found that parasites exhibit transcriptional heterogeneity in an otherwise morphologically synchronized culture. Also, a subset of parasites is continually committed to gametocytogenesis and stress-responsive pathways. These observations have important implications for understanding the mechanisms of drug resistance generation and vaccine development against the malaria parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukul Rawat
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pashan, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ashish Srivastava
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pashan, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Shreya Johri
- Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Ishaan Gupta
- Department of Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, New Delhi, India
| | - Krishanpal Karmodiya
- Department of Biology, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Pashan, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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29
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CRISPR/Cas9-engineered inducible gametocyte producer lines as a valuable tool for Plasmodium falciparum malaria transmission research. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4806. [PMID: 34376675 PMCID: PMC8355313 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24954-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum replicates inside erythrocytes in the blood of infected humans. During each replication cycle, a small proportion of parasites commits to sexual development and differentiates into gametocytes, which are essential for parasite transmission via the mosquito vector. Detailed molecular investigation of gametocyte biology and transmission has been hampered by difficulties in generating large numbers of these highly specialised cells. Here, we engineer P. falciparum NF54 inducible gametocyte producer (iGP) lines for the routine mass production of synchronous gametocytes via conditional overexpression of the sexual commitment factor GDV1. NF54/iGP lines consistently achieve sexual commitment rates of 75% and produce viable gametocytes that are transmissible by mosquitoes. We also demonstrate that further genetic engineering of NF54/iGP parasites is a valuable tool for the targeted exploration of gametocyte biology. In summary, we believe the iGP approach developed here will greatly expedite basic and applied malaria transmission stage research.
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30
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Singh S, Santos JM, Orchard LM, Yamada N, van Biljon R, Painter HJ, Mahony S, Llinás M. The PfAP2-G2 transcription factor is a critical regulator of gametocyte maturation. Mol Microbiol 2021; 115:1005-1024. [PMID: 33368818 PMCID: PMC8330521 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Differentiation from asexual blood stages to mature sexual gametocytes is required for the transmission of malaria parasites. Here, we report that the ApiAP2 transcription factor, PfAP2-G2 (PF3D7_1408200) plays a critical role in the maturation of Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes. PfAP2-G2 binds to the promoters of a wide array of genes that are expressed at many stages of the parasite life cycle. Interestingly, we also find binding of PfAP2-G2 within the gene body of almost 3,000 genes, which strongly correlates with the location of H3K36me3 and several other histone modifications as well as Heterochromatin Protein 1 (HP1), suggesting that occupancy of PfAP2-G2 in gene bodies may serve as an alternative regulatory mechanism. Disruption of pfap2-g2 does not impact asexual development, but the majority of sexual parasites are unable to mature beyond stage III gametocytes. The absence of pfap2-g2 leads to overexpression of 28% of the genes bound by PfAP2-G2 and none of the PfAP2-G2 bound genes are downregulated, suggesting that it is a repressor. We also find that PfAP2-G2 interacts with chromatin remodeling proteins, a microrchidia (MORC) protein, and another ApiAP2 protein (PF3D7_1139300). Overall our data demonstrate that PfAP2-G2 establishes an essential gametocyte maturation program in association with other chromatin-related proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suprita Singh
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802, Huck Center for Malaria Research, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802
| | - Joana M. Santos
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802, Huck Center for Malaria Research, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802
| | - Lindsey M. Orchard
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802, Huck Center for Malaria Research, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802
| | - Naomi Yamada
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802
| | - Riëtte van Biljon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802, Huck Center for Malaria Research, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802
| | - Heather J. Painter
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802, Huck Center for Malaria Research, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802
| | - Shaun Mahony
- Center for Eukaryotic Gene Regulation, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802
| | - Manuel Llinás
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802, Huck Center for Malaria Research, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802
- Center for Eukaryotic Gene Regulation, Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802
- Department of Chemistry, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA 16802
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31
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Connacher J, Josling GA, Orchard LM, Reader J, Llinás M, Birkholtz LM. H3K36 methylation reprograms gene expression to drive early gametocyte development in Plasmodium falciparum. Epigenetics Chromatin 2021; 14:19. [PMID: 33794978 PMCID: PMC8017609 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-021-00393-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The Plasmodium sexual gametocyte stages are the only transmissible form of the malaria parasite and are thus responsible for the continued transmission of the disease. Gametocytes undergo extensive functional and morphological changes from commitment to maturity, directed by an equally extensive control program. However, the processes that drive the differentiation and development of the gametocyte post-commitment, remain largely unexplored. A previous study reported enrichment of H3K36 di- and tri-methylated (H3K36me2&3) histones in early-stage gametocytes. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by high-throughput sequencing, we identify a stage-specific association between these repressive histone modifications and transcriptional reprogramming that define a stage II gametocyte transition point. Results Here, we show that H3K36me2 and H3K36me3 from stage II gametocytes are associated with repression of genes involved in asexual proliferation and sexual commitment, indicating that H3K36me2&3-mediated repression of such genes is essential to the transition from early gametocyte differentiation to intermediate development. Importantly, we show that the gene encoding the transcription factor AP2-G as commitment master regulator is enriched with H3K36me2&3 and actively repressed in stage II gametocytes, providing the first evidence of ap2-g gene repression in post-commitment gametocytes. Lastly, we associate the enhanced potency of the pan-selective Jumonji inhibitor JIB-04 in gametocytes with the inhibition of histone demethylation including H3K36me2&3 and a disruption of normal transcriptional programs. Conclusions Taken together, our results provide the first description of an association between global gene expression reprogramming and histone post-translational modifications during P. falciparum early sexual development. The stage II gametocyte-specific abundance of H3K36me2&3 manifests predominantly as an independent regulatory mechanism targeted towards genes that are repressed post-commitment. H3K36me2&3-associated repression of genes is therefore involved in key transcriptional shifts that accompany the transition from early gametocyte differentiation to intermediate development. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13072-021-00393-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Connacher
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Private Bag x20, Hatfield, 0028, South Africa
| | - Gabrielle A Josling
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and the Huck Center for Malaria Research, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Lindsey M Orchard
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and the Huck Center for Malaria Research, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Janette Reader
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Private Bag x20, Hatfield, 0028, South Africa
| | - Manuel Llinás
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and the Huck Center for Malaria Research, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.,Department of Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA
| | - Lyn-Marié Birkholtz
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Private Bag x20, Hatfield, 0028, South Africa.
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32
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Chawla J, Oberstaller J, Adams JH. Targeting Gametocytes of the Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum in a Functional Genomics Era: Next Steps. Pathogens 2021; 10:346. [PMID: 33809464 PMCID: PMC7999360 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mosquito transmission of the deadly malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum is mediated by mature sexual forms (gametocytes). Circulating in the vertebrate host, relatively few intraerythrocytic gametocytes are picked up during a bloodmeal to continue sexual development in the mosquito vector. Human-to-vector transmission thus represents an infection bottleneck in the parasite's life cycle for therapeutic interventions to prevent malaria. Even though recent progress has been made in the identification of genetic factors linked to gametocytogenesis, a plethora of genes essential for sexual-stage development are yet to be unraveled. In this review, we revisit P. falciparum transmission biology by discussing targetable features of gametocytes and provide a perspective on a forward-genetic approach for identification of novel transmission-blocking candidates in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsna Chawla
- Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, MDC 7, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Jenna Oberstaller
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research and USF Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Suite 404, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - John H. Adams
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research and USF Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Suite 404, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
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Knöckel J, Dundas K, Yang ASP, Galaway F, Metcalf T, Gemert GJV, Sauerwein RW, Rayner JC, Billker O, Wright GJ. Systematic Identification of Plasmodium Falciparum Sporozoite Membrane Protein Interactions Reveals an Essential Role for the p24 Complex in Host Infection. Mol Cell Proteomics 2021; 20:100038. [PMID: 33515807 PMCID: PMC7950211 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.ra120.002432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sporozoites are a motile form of malaria-causing Plasmodium falciparum parasites that migrate from the site of transmission in the dermis through the bloodstream to invade hepatocytes. Sporozoites interact with many cells within the host, but the molecular identity of these interactions and their role in the pathology of malaria is poorly understood. Parasite proteins that are secreted and embedded within membranes are known to be important for these interactions, but our understanding of how they interact with each other to form functional complexes is largely unknown. Here, we compile a library of recombinant proteins representing the repertoire of cell surface and secreted proteins from the P. falciparum sporozoite and use an assay designed to detect extracellular interactions to systematically identify complexes. We identify three protein complexes including an interaction between two components of the p24 complex that is involved in the trafficking of glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored proteins through the secretory pathway. Plasmodium parasites lacking either gene are strongly inhibited in the establishment of liver-stage infections. These findings reveal an important role for the p24 complex in malaria pathogenesis and show that the library of recombinant proteins represents a valuable resource to investigate P. falciparum sporozoite biology.
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Key Words
- avexis, avidity-based extracellular interaction screen
- csp, circumsporozoite protein
- gpi, glycosylphosphatidylinositol
- hbs, hepes-buffered saline
- hek, human embryonic kidney
- ivis, in vivo imaging system
- msp, merozoite surface protein
- piesp15, parasite-infected erythrocyte surface protein 15
- spr, surface plasmon resonance
- trap, thrombospondin-related anonymous protein
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Knöckel
- Cell Surface Signalling Laboratory, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Malaria Programme, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsten Dundas
- Cell Surface Signalling Laboratory, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Malaria Programme, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Annie S P Yang
- Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Francis Galaway
- Cell Surface Signalling Laboratory, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Malaria Programme, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Metcalf
- Malaria Programme, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Geert-Jan van Gemert
- Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Robert W Sauerwein
- Radboudumc Center for Infectious Diseases, Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Julian C Rayner
- Malaria Programme, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver Billker
- Malaria Programme, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom; The Laboratory for Molecular Infection Medicine Sweden (MIMS) and Department of Molecular Biology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Gavin J Wright
- Cell Surface Signalling Laboratory, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Malaria Programme, Wellcome Sanger Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom; Department of Biology, Hull York Medical School, York Biomedical Research Institute, University of York, York, United Kingdom.
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34
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Mounkoro P, Michel T, Golinelli-Cohen MP, Blandin S, Davioud-Charvet E, Meunier B. A role for the succinate dehydrogenase in the mode of action of the redox-active antimalarial drug, plasmodione. Free Radic Biol Med 2021; 162:533-541. [PMID: 33232753 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2020.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Malaria, caused by protozoan parasites, is a major public health issue in subtropical countries. An arsenal of antimalarial treatments is available, however, resistance is spreading, calling for the development of new antimalarial compounds. The new lead antimalarial drug plasmodione is a redox-active compound that impairs the redox balance of parasites leading to cell death. Based on extensive in vitro assays, a model of its mode of action was drawn, involving the generation of active plasmodione metabolites that act as subversive substrates of flavoproteins, initiating a redox cycling process producing reactive oxygen species. We showed that, in yeast, the mitochondrial respiratory chain NADH-dehydrogenases are the main redox-cycling target enzymes. Furthermore, our data supported the proposal that plasmodione is a pro-drug acting via its benzhydrol and benzoyl metabolites. Here, we selected plasmodione-resistant yeast mutants to further decipher plasmodione mode of action. Of the eleven mutants analysed, nine harboured a mutation in the FAD binding subunit of succinate dehydrogenase (SDH). The analysis of the SDH mutations points towards a specific role for SDH-bound FAD in plasmodione bioactivation, possibly in the first step of the process, highlighting a novel property of SDH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Mounkoro
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, cedex, France
| | - Thomas Michel
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, cedex, France
| | - Marie-Pierre Golinelli-Cohen
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, Institut de Chimie des Substances Naturelles (ICSN), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, cedex, France
| | - Stéphanie Blandin
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, Inserm, UPR9022/U1257, Mosquito Immune Responses (MIR), F-67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Elisabeth Davioud-Charvet
- Université de Strasbourg, Université de Haute-Alsace, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR 7042 LIMA, Team Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry, ECPM, 25 Rue Becquerel, 67087, Strasbourg, France
| | - Brigitte Meunier
- Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS, Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC), 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette, cedex, France.
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35
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Prajapati SK, Ayanful-Torgby R, Pava Z, Barbeau MC, Acquah FK, Cudjoe E, Kakaney C, Amponsah JA, Obboh E, Ahmed AE, Abuaku BK, McCarthy JS, Amoah LE, Williamson KC. The transcriptome of circulating sexually committed Plasmodium falciparum ring stage parasites forecasts malaria transmission potential. Nat Commun 2020; 11:6159. [PMID: 33268801 PMCID: PMC7710746 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19988-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is spread by the transmission of sexual stage parasites, called gametocytes. However, with Plasmodium falciparum, gametocytes can only be detected in peripheral blood when they are mature and transmissible to a mosquito, which complicates control efforts. Here, we identify the set of genes overexpressed in patient blood samples with high levels of gametocyte-committed ring stage parasites. Expression of all 18 genes is regulated by transcription factor AP2-G, which is required for gametocytogenesis. We select three genes, not expressed in mature gametocytes, to develop as biomarkers. All three biomarkers we validate in vitro using 6 different parasite lines and develop an algorithm that predicts gametocyte production in ex vivo samples and volunteer infection studies. The biomarkers are also sensitive enough to monitor gametocyte production in asymptomatic P. falciparum carriers allowing early detection and treatment of infectious reservoirs, as well as the in vivo analysis of factors that modulate sexual conversion. Malaria gametocytes are sexual-stage parasites transmitted from mammalian host’s blood back to their insect vector. Here, Prajapati et al. identify gametocyte-committed ring-stage biomarkers allowing to forecast malaria transmission potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surendra K Prajapati
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
| | - Ruth Ayanful-Torgby
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Zuleima Pava
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Michelle C Barbeau
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.,University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA
| | - Festus K Acquah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Elizabeth Cudjoe
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Courage Kakaney
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Jones A Amponsah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Anwar E Ahmed
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Benjamin K Abuaku
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - James S McCarthy
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Linda E Amoah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Kim C Williamson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
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36
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Portugaliza HP, Miyazaki S, Geurten FJ, Pell C, Rosanas-Urgell A, Janse CJ, Cortés A. Artemisinin exposure at the ring or trophozoite stage impacts Plasmodium falciparum sexual conversion differently. eLife 2020; 9:60058. [PMID: 33084568 PMCID: PMC7577739 DOI: 10.7554/elife.60058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria transmission is dependent on the formation of gametocytes in the human blood. The sexual conversion rate, the proportion of asexual parasites that convert into gametocytes at each multiplication cycle, is variable and reflects the relative parasite investment between transmission and maintaining the infection. The impact of environmental factors such as drugs on sexual conversion rates is not well understood. We developed a robust assay using gametocyte-reporter parasite lines to accurately measure the impact of drugs on sexual conversion rates, independently from their gametocytocidal activity. We found that exposure to subcurative doses of the frontline antimalarial drug dihydroartemisinin (DHA) at the trophozoite stage resulted in a ~ fourfold increase in sexual conversion. In contrast, no increase was observed when ring stages were exposed or in cultures in which sexual conversion was stimulated by choline depletion. Our results reveal a complex relationship between antimalarial drugs and sexual conversion, with potential public health implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harvie P Portugaliza
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic - Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Global Health, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Shinya Miyazaki
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Fiona Ja Geurten
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Christopher Pell
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, location Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development (AIGHD), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Anna Rosanas-Urgell
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Chris J Janse
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Alfred Cortés
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic - Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,ICREA, Barcelona, Spain
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Amlabu E, Nyarko PB, Opoku G, Ibrahim-Dey D, Ilani P, Mensah-Brown H, Akporh GA, Akuh OA, Ayugane EA, Amoh-Boateng D, Kusi KA, Awandare GA. Localization and function of a Plasmodium falciparum protein (PF3D7_1459400) during erythrocyte invasion. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2020; 246:10-19. [PMID: 33019810 DOI: 10.1177/1535370220961764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
IMPACT STATEMENT Plasmodium falciparum malaria is a global health problem. Erythrocyte invasion by P. falciparum merozoites appears to be a promising target to curb malaria. We have identified and characterized a novel protein that is involved in erythrocyte invasion. Our data on protein subcellular localization, stage-specific protein expression pattern, and merozoite invasion inhibition by α-peptide antibodies suggest a role for PF3D7_1459400 protein during P. falciparum erythrocyte invasion. Even more, the human immunoepidemiology data present PF3D7_1459400 protein as an immunogenic antigen which could be further exploited for the development of new anti-infective therapy against malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Amlabu
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana.,Department of Biochemistry, Kogi State University, Anyigba P.M.B 1007, Nigeria
| | - Prince B Nyarko
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana
| | - Grace Opoku
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana
| | - Damata Ibrahim-Dey
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana
| | - Philip Ilani
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana
| | - Henrietta Mensah-Brown
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana
| | - Grace A Akporh
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana
| | - Ojo-Ajogu Akuh
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana
| | - Evelyn A Ayugane
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana
| | - David Amoh-Boateng
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana
| | - Kwadwo A Kusi
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana.,Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG581, Ghana
| | - Gordon A Awandare
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra LG 54, Ghana
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38
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Jennison C, Lucantoni L, O'Neill MT, McConville R, Erickson SM, Cowman AF, Sleebs BE, Avery VM, Boddey JA. Inhibition of Plasmepsin V Activity Blocks Plasmodium falciparum Gametocytogenesis and Transmission to Mosquitoes. Cell Rep 2020; 29:3796-3806.e4. [PMID: 31851913 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.11.073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes infect mosquitoes and are responsible for malaria transmission. New interventions that block transmission could accelerate malaria elimination. Gametocytes develop within erythrocytes and activate protein export pathways that remodel the host cell. Plasmepsin V (PMV) is an aspartyl protease that is required for protein export in asexual parasites, but its function and essentiality in gametocytes has not been definitively proven, nor has PMV been assessed as a transmission-blocking drug target. Here, we show that PMV is expressed and can be inhibited specifically in P. falciparum stage I-II gametocytes. PMV inhibitors block processing and export of gametocyte effector proteins and inhibit development of stage II-V gametocytes. Gametocytogenesis in the presence of sublethal inhibitor concentrations results in stage V gametocytes that fail to infect mosquitoes. Therefore, PMV primes gametocyte effectors for export, which is essential for the development and fitness of gametocytes for transmission to mosquitoes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlie Jennison
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville 3052, VIC, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, VIC, Australia
| | - Leonardo Lucantoni
- Discovery Biology, Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan 4111, QLD, Australia
| | - Matthew T O'Neill
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville 3052, VIC, Australia
| | - Robyn McConville
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville 3052, VIC, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, VIC, Australia
| | - Sara M Erickson
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville 3052, VIC, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, VIC, Australia
| | - Alan F Cowman
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville 3052, VIC, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, VIC, Australia
| | - Brad E Sleebs
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville 3052, VIC, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, VIC, Australia
| | - Vicky M Avery
- Discovery Biology, Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan 4111, QLD, Australia
| | - Justin A Boddey
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville 3052, VIC, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, VIC, Australia.
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Neveu G, Richard C, Dupuy F, Behera P, Volpe F, Subramani PA, Marcel-Zerrougui B, Vallin P, Andrieu M, Minz AM, Azar N, Martins RM, Lorthiois A, Gazeau F, Lopez-Rubio JJ, Mazier D, Silva AKA, Satpathi S, Wassmer SC, Verdier F, Lavazec C. Plasmodium falciparum sexual parasites develop in human erythroblasts and affect erythropoiesis. Blood 2020; 136:1381-1393. [PMID: 32589714 PMCID: PMC7498361 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2019004746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes, the sexual stage responsible for malaria parasite transmission from humans to mosquitoes, are key targets for malaria elimination. Immature gametocytes develop in the human bone marrow parenchyma, where they accumulate around erythroblastic islands. Notably though, the interactions between gametocytes and this hematopoietic niche have not been investigated. Here, we identify late erythroblasts as a new host cell for P falciparum sexual stages and show that gametocytes can fully develop inside these nucleated cells in vitro and in vivo, leading to infectious mature gametocytes within reticulocytes. Strikingly, we found that infection of erythroblasts by gametocytes and parasite-derived extracellular vesicles delay erythroid differentiation, thereby allowing gametocyte maturation to coincide with the release of their host cell from the bone marrow. Taken together, our findings highlight new mechanisms that are pivotal for the maintenance of immature gametocytes in the bone marrow and provide further insights on how Plasmodium parasites interfere with erythropoiesis and contribute to anemia in malaria patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaëlle Neveu
- INSERM U1016, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8104, Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Cyrielle Richard
- INSERM U1016, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8104, Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Florian Dupuy
- INSERM U1016, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8104, Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Prativa Behera
- Department of Pathology, Ispat General Hospital, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Fiona Volpe
- INSERM U1016, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8104, Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Pradeep Annamalai Subramani
- INSERM U1135, CNRS Equipe de Recherche Labellisée (ERL) 8255, Sorbonne Université, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, Paris, France
| | | | - Patrice Vallin
- INSERM U1016, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8104, Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Muriel Andrieu
- INSERM U1016, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8104, Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
| | - Aruna Mukti Minz
- Department of Pathology, Ispat General Hospital, Rourkela, Odisha, India
| | - Nabih Azar
- Service d'Hémobiologie, Hôpital La Pitié Salpêtrière, Paris, France
| | - Rafael M Martins
- Laboratory of Pathogen Host Interactions - UMR 5235, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France; and
| | - Audrey Lorthiois
- INSERM U1016, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8104, Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Florence Gazeau
- Laboratoire Matières et Systèmes Complexes, UMR 7057 CNRS, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - José-Juan Lopez-Rubio
- Laboratory of Pathogen Host Interactions - UMR 5235, CNRS, INSERM, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France; and
| | - Dominique Mazier
- INSERM U1135, CNRS Equipe de Recherche Labellisée (ERL) 8255, Sorbonne Université, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses, Paris, France
| | - Amanda K A Silva
- Laboratoire Matières et Systèmes Complexes, UMR 7057 CNRS, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Samuel C Wassmer
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frédérique Verdier
- INSERM U1016, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8104, Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Lavazec
- INSERM U1016, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR) 8104, Université de Paris, Institut Cochin, Paris, France
- Laboratoire d'Excellence GR-Ex, Paris, France
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40
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PfMAP-2 is essential for male gametogenesis in the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11930. [PMID: 32681115 PMCID: PMC7368081 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-68717-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In malaria parasites, male gametogenesis is a proliferative stage essential for parasite transmission to the mosquito vector. It is a rapid process involving three rounds of genome replication alternating with closed endomitoses, and assembly of axonemes to produce eight flagellated motile microgametes. Studies in Plasmodium berghei have highlighted tight regulation of gametogenesis by a network of kinases. The P. berghei MAPK homologue PbMAP-2 is dispensable for asexual development but important at the induction of axoneme motility. However, in P. falciparum, causing the most severe form of human malaria, PfMAP-2 was suggested to be essential for asexual proliferation indicating distinct functions for MAP-2 in these two Plasmodium species. We here show that PfMAP-2 is dispensable for asexual growth but important for male gametogenesis in vitro. Similar to PbMAP-2, PfMAP-2 is required for initiating axonemal beating but not for prior DNA replication or axoneme formation. In addition, single and double null mutants of PfMAP-2 and the second P. falciparum MAPK homologue PfMAP-1 show no defect in asexual proliferation, sexual commitment or gametocytogenesis. Our results suggest that MAPK activity plays no major role in the biology of both asexual and sexual blood stage parasites up until the point of male gametogenesis.
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Dantzler KW, Ma S, Ngotho P, Stone WJR, Tao D, Rijpma S, De Niz M, Nilsson Bark SK, Jore MM, Raaijmakers TK, Early AM, Ubaida-Mohien C, Lemgruber L, Campo JJ, Teng AA, Le TQ, Walker CL, Hermand P, Deterre P, Davies DH, Felgner P, Morlais I, Wirth DF, Neafsey DE, Dinglasan RR, Laufer M, Huttenhower C, Seydel K, Taylor T, Bousema T, Marti M. Naturally acquired immunity against immature Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes. Sci Transl Med 2020; 11:11/495/eaav3963. [PMID: 31167926 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aav3963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The recent decline in global malaria burden has stimulated efforts toward Plasmodium falciparum elimination. Understanding the biology of malaria transmission stages may provide opportunities to reduce or prevent onward transmission to mosquitoes. Immature P. falciparum transmission stages, termed stages I to IV gametocytes, sequester in human bone marrow before release into the circulation as mature stage V gametocytes. This process likely involves interactions between host receptors and potentially immunogenic adhesins on the infected red blood cell (iRBC) surface. Here, we developed a flow cytometry assay to examine immune recognition of live gametocytes of different developmental stages by naturally exposed Malawians. We identified strong antibody recognition of the earliest immature gametocyte-iRBCs (giRBCs) but not mature stage V giRBCs. Candidate surface antigens (n = 30), most of them shared between asexual- and gametocyte-iRBCs, were identified by mass spectrometry and mouse immunizations, as well as correlations between responses by protein microarray and flow cytometry. Naturally acquired responses to a subset of candidate antigens were associated with reduced asexual and gametocyte density, and plasma samples from malaria-infected individuals were able to induce immune clearance of giRBCs in vitro. Infected RBC surface expression of select candidate antigens was validated using specific antibodies, and genetic analysis revealed a subset with minimal variation across strains. Our data demonstrate that humoral immune responses to immature giRBCs and shared iRBC antigens are naturally acquired after malaria exposure. These humoral immune responses may have consequences for malaria transmission potential by clearing developing gametocytes, which could be leveraged for malaria intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen W Dantzler
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.,Wellcome Centre for Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Siyuan Ma
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Priscilla Ngotho
- Wellcome Centre for Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Will J R Stone
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Netherlands.,Immunology and Infection Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Dingyin Tao
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology and the Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Sanna Rijpma
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Netherlands
| | - Mariana De Niz
- Wellcome Centre for Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Sandra K Nilsson Bark
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthijs M Jore
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Netherlands
| | - Tonke K Raaijmakers
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Netherlands
| | | | | | - Leandro Lemgruber
- Wellcome Centre for Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Patricia Hermand
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), UMR 1135, ERL CNRS 8255, F-75013 Paris, France
| | - Philippe Deterre
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, INSERM, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), UMR 1135, ERL CNRS 8255, F-75013 Paris, France
| | - D Huw Davies
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Phil Felgner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Isabelle Morlais
- UMR MIVEGEC UM1-CNRS 5290-IRD 224, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Montpellier Cedex, France
| | - Dyann F Wirth
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Rhoel R Dinglasan
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology and the Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Emerging Pathogens Institute, Department of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Miriam Laufer
- Division of Malaria Research, Institute for Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Curtis Huttenhower
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Karl Seydel
- Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.,Blantyre Malaria Project, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Terrie Taylor
- Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.,Blantyre Malaria Project, University of Malawi College of Medicine, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Teun Bousema
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Netherlands. .,Immunology and Infection Department, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Matthias Marti
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA. .,Wellcome Centre for Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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42
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Llorà-Batlle O, Michel-Todó L, Witmer K, Toda H, Fernández-Becerra C, Baum J, Cortés A. Conditional expression of PfAP2-G for controlled massive sexual conversion in Plasmodium falciparum. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaaz5057. [PMID: 32577509 PMCID: PMC7286680 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz5057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Malaria transmission requires that some asexual parasites convert into sexual forms termed gametocytes. The initial stages of sexual development, including sexually committed schizonts and sexual rings, remain poorly characterized, mainly because they are morphologically identical to their asexual counterparts and only a small subset of parasites undergo sexual development. Here, we describe a system for controlled sexual conversion in the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, based on conditional expression of the PfAP2-G transcription factor. Using this system, ~90 percent of the parasites converted into sexual forms upon induction, enabling the characterization of committed and early sexual stages without further purification. We characterized sexually committed schizonts and sexual rings at the transcriptomic and phenotypic levels, which revealed down-regulation of genes involved in solute transport upon sexual commitment, among other findings. The new inducible lines will facilitate the study of early sexual stages at additional levels, including multiomic characterization and drug susceptibility assays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oriol Llorà-Batlle
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic–Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona 08036, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Lucas Michel-Todó
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic–Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona 08036, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Kathrin Witmer
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Haruka Toda
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic–Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona 08036, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Carmen Fernández-Becerra
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic–Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona 08036, Catalonia, Spain
- IGTP Institut d’Investigació Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona 08916, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jake Baum
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Alfred Cortés
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clinic–Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona 08036, Catalonia, Spain
- ICREA, Barcelona 08010, Catalonia, Spain
- Corresponding author.
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43
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Kenthirapalan S, Tran PN, Kooij TWA, Ridgway MC, Rauch M, Brown SHJ, Mitchell TW, Matuschewski K, Maier AG. Distinct adaptations of a gametocyte ABC transporter to murine and human Plasmodium parasites and its incompatibility in cross-species complementation. Int J Parasitol 2020; 50:511-522. [PMID: 32445722 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Parasites of the genus Plasmodium infect a wide range of mammalian hosts including humans, primates, bats and arboreal rodents. A hallmark of Plasmodium spp. is the very narrow host range, indicative of matching parasite-host coevolution. Accordingly, their respective genomes harbour many unique genes and gene families that typically encode proteins involved in host cell recognition and remodelling. Whether and to what extent conserved proteins that are shared across Plasmodium spp. also exert distinct species-specific roles remains largely untested. Here, we present detailed functional profiling of the female gametocyte-specific ATP-binding cassette transporter gABCG2 in the murine parasite Plasmodium berghei and compare our findings with data from the orthologous gene in the human parasite Plasmodium falciparum. We show that P. berghei gABCG2 is female-specific and continues to be expressed in zygotes and ookinetes. In contrast to a distinct localization to Iipid-rich gametocyte-specific spots as observed in P. falciparum, the murine malaria parasite homolog is found at the parasite plasma membrane. Plasmodium berghei lacking gABCG2 displays fast asexual blood-stage replication and increased proportions of female gametocytes, consistent with the corresponding P. falciparum knock-out phenotype. Strikingly, cross-species replacement of gABCG2 in either the murine or the human parasite did not restore normal growth rates. The lack of successful complementation despite high conservation across Plasmodium spp. is an indicator of distinct adaptations and tight parasite-host coevolution. Hence, incompatibility of conserved genes in closely related Plasmodium spp. might be more common than previously anticipated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Phuong N Tran
- Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2601, Australia
| | - Taco W A Kooij
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Melanie C Ridgway
- Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2601, Australia
| | - Manuel Rauch
- Parasitology Unit, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Dept. of Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Biology, Humboldt University, 10115 Berlin, Germany
| | - Simon H J Brown
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Todd W Mitchell
- Illawarra Health and Medical Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia; School of Medicine, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia
| | - Kai Matuschewski
- Parasitology Unit, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, 10117 Berlin, Germany; Dept. of Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Biology, Humboldt University, 10115 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Alexander G Maier
- Research School of Biology, The Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2601, Australia.
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Aminobenzosuberone derivatives as PfA-M1 inhibitors: Molecular recognition and antiplasmodial evaluation. Bioorg Chem 2020; 98:103750. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2020.103750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Dissecting the role of PfAP2-G in malaria gametocytogenesis. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1503. [PMID: 32198457 PMCID: PMC7083873 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-15026-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum, the switch from asexual multiplication to sexual differentiation into gametocytes is essential for transmission to mosquitos. The transcription factor PfAP2-G is a key determinant of sexual commitment that orchestrates this crucial cell fate decision. Here we identify the direct targets of PfAP2-G and demonstrate that it dynamically binds hundreds of sites across the genome. We find that PfAP2-G is a transcriptional activator of early gametocyte genes, and identify differences in PfAP2-G occupancy between gametocytes derived via next-cycle and same-cycle conversion. Our data implicate PfAP2-G not only as a transcriptional activator of gametocyte genes, but also as a potential regulator of genes important for red blood cell invasion. We also find that regulation by PfAP2-G requires interaction with a second transcription factor, PfAP2-I. These results clarify the functional role of PfAP2-G during sexual commitment and early gametocytogenesis. The transcription factor PfAP2-G is a key determinant of sexual commitment in Plasmodium falciparum. Here, Josling et al. define the transcriptional regulatory network of PfAP2-G by identifying its DNA binding sites genome-wide, which vary depending on the route of sexual conversion and rely on interactions with the PfAP2-I transcription factor.
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46
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Role of Plasmodium falciparum Protein GEXP07 in Maurer's Cleft Morphology, Knob Architecture, and P. falciparum EMP1 Trafficking. mBio 2020; 11:mBio.03320-19. [PMID: 32184257 PMCID: PMC7078486 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03320-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The trafficking of the virulence antigen PfEMP1 and its presentation at the knob structures at the surface of parasite-infected RBCs are central to severe adhesion-related pathologies such as cerebral and placental malaria. This work adds to our understanding of how PfEMP1 is trafficked to the RBC membrane by defining the protein-protein interaction networks that function at the Maurer’s clefts controlling PfEMP1 loading and unloading. We characterize a protein needed for virulence protein trafficking and provide new insights into the mechanisms for host cell remodeling, parasite survival within the host, and virulence. The malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum traffics the virulence protein P. falciparum erythrocyte membrane protein 1 (PfEMP1) to the surface of infected red blood cells (RBCs) via membranous organelles, known as the Maurer’s clefts. We developed a method for efficient enrichment of Maurer’s clefts and profiled the protein composition of this trafficking organelle. We identified 13 previously uncharacterized or poorly characterized Maurer’s cleft proteins. We generated transfectants expressing green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusions of 7 proteins and confirmed their Maurer’s cleft location. Using co-immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry, we generated an interaction map of proteins at the Maurer’s clefts. We identified two key clusters that may function in the loading and unloading of PfEMP1 into and out of the Maurer’s clefts. We focus on a putative PfEMP1 loading complex that includes the protein GEXP07/CX3CL1-binding protein 2 (CBP2). Disruption of GEXP07 causes Maurer’s cleft fragmentation, aberrant knobs, ablation of PfEMP1 surface expression, and loss of the PfEMP1-mediated adhesion. ΔGEXP07 parasites have a growth advantage compared to wild-type parasites, and the infected RBCs are more deformable and more osmotically fragile.
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47
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Venugopal K, Hentzschel F, Valkiūnas G, Marti M. Plasmodium asexual growth and sexual development in the haematopoietic niche of the host. Nat Rev Microbiol 2020; 18:177-189. [PMID: 31919479 PMCID: PMC7223625 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-019-0306-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Plasmodium spp. parasites are the causative agents of malaria in humans and animals, and they are exceptionally diverse in their morphology and life cycles. They grow and develop in a wide range of host environments, both within blood-feeding mosquitoes, their definitive hosts, and in vertebrates, which are intermediate hosts. This diversity is testament to their exceptional adaptability and poses a major challenge for developing effective strategies to reduce the disease burden and transmission. Following one asexual amplification cycle in the liver, parasites reach high burdens by rounds of asexual replication within red blood cells. A few of these blood-stage parasites make a developmental switch into the sexual stage (or gametocyte), which is essential for transmission. The bone marrow, in particular the haematopoietic niche (in rodents, also the spleen), is a major site of parasite growth and sexual development. This Review focuses on our current understanding of blood-stage parasite development and vascular and tissue sequestration, which is responsible for disease symptoms and complications, and when involving the bone marrow, provides a niche for asexual replication and gametocyte development. Understanding these processes provides an opportunity for novel therapies and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kannan Venugopal
- Wellcome Center for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Franziska Hentzschel
- Wellcome Center for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Matthias Marti
- Wellcome Center for Integrative Parasitology, Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
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Kaushik M, Nehra A, Gill SS, Gill R. Unraveling CAF-1 family in Plasmodium falciparum: comparative genome-wide identification and phylogenetic analysis among eukaryotes, expression profiling and protein-protein interaction studies. 3 Biotech 2020; 10:143. [PMID: 32206492 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-020-2096-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The present research reports a detailed in silico analysis of chromatin assembly factor-1 (CAF-1) family in human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Our analysis revealed five chromatin assembly factor-1 genes in P. falciparum (PfCAF-1) and the PfCAF-1 family was divided into two classes where, Class A belongs to the CAF-1 complex and others are kept in Class B. For comparative studies, orthologs of PfCAF-1 family were identified across 53 eukaryotic species and evolutionary relationships were drawn for different CAF-1 subfamilies. The phylogenetic analysis revealed grouping of evolutionary-related species together, although, divergence was observed in branching pattern. A detailed analysis of domain composition highlighted species-specific features viz. species-specific KDDS repeats of 84 amino acids were identified in PfCAF-1A whereas, members of CAF-1C/RbAp48 and RbAp46 subfamily exhibited least variation in size and domain composition. The qRT-PCR analysis revealed upregulation of PfCAF-1 members in trophozoite or schizont stage. Furthermore, a comparative expression analysis of the available transcriptome and proteome data along with qRT-PCR analysis revealed mixed expression patterns (coordination as well as non-coordination between different studies). Protein-protein interaction network analyses of PfCAF-1 family were carried out highlighting important complexes based on interologs. The PfRbAp48 was found to be highly connected with a total of 108 PPIs followed by PfRbAp46. The results unravel insights into the PfCAF-1 family and identify unique features, thus opening new perspectives for further targeted developments to understand and combat malaria menace.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjeri Kaushik
- Centre for Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana 124 001 India
| | - Ashima Nehra
- Centre for Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana 124 001 India
| | - Sarvajeet Singh Gill
- Centre for Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana 124 001 India
| | - Ritu Gill
- Centre for Biotechnology, Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak, Haryana 124 001 India
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Tao D, McGill B, Hamerly T, Kobayashi T, Khare P, Dziedzic A, Leski T, Holtz A, Shull B, Jedlicka AE, Walzer A, Slowey PD, Slowey CC, Nsango SE, Stenger DA, Chaponda M, Mulenga M, Jacobsen KH, Sullivan DJ, Ryan SJ, Ansumana R, Moss WJ, Morlais I, Dinglasan RR. A saliva-based rapid test to quantify the infectious subclinical malaria parasite reservoir. Sci Transl Med 2020; 11:11/473/eaan4479. [PMID: 30602535 PMCID: PMC6441545 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.aan4479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
A large proportion of ongoing malaria parasite transmission is attributed to low-density subclinical infections not readily detected by available rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) or microscopy. Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte carriage is subclinical, but gametocytemic individuals comprise the parasite reservoir that leads to infection of mosquitoes and local transmission. Effective detection and quantification of these carriers can help advance malaria elimination strategies. However, no point-of-need (PON) RDTs for gametocyte detection exist, much less one that can perform noninvasive sampling of saliva outside a clinical setting. Here, we report on the discovery of 35 parasite markers from which we selected a single candidate for use in a PON RDT. We performed a cross-sectional, multi-omics study of saliva from 364 children with subclinical infection in Cameroon and Zambia and produced a prototype saliva-based PON lateral flow immunoassay test for P. falciparum gametocyte carriers. The test is capable of identifying submicroscopic carriage in both clinical and nonclinical settings and is compatible with archived saliva samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dingyin Tao
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Brent McGill
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Timothy Hamerly
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Emerging Pathogens Institute and Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Tamaki Kobayashi
- Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Prachi Khare
- Emerging Pathogens Institute and Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Amanda Dziedzic
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Tomasz Leski
- United States Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), Center for Biomolecular Science and Engineering, Washington, DC 20375, USA
| | - Andrew Holtz
- College of Science, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
| | - Bruce Shull
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, Fremont, CA 94538, USA
| | - Anne E Jedlicka
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | | | | | | | - Sandrine E Nsango
- Laboratoire de Recherche sur le Paludisme, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement-Organisation de Coordination et de Coopération pour la Lutte Contre les Grandes Endémies en Afrique Centrale (IRD-OCEAC), Yaoundé, Cameroon.,Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, PO Box 2701, Douala, Cameroon
| | - David A Stenger
- United States Naval Research Laboratory (NRL), Center for Biomolecular Science and Engineering, Washington, DC 20375, USA
| | | | | | - Kathryn H Jacobsen
- College of Health and Human Services, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA
| | - David J Sullivan
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Sadie J Ryan
- Emerging Pathogens Institute and Department of Geography, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Rashid Ansumana
- Mercy Hospital Research Laboratory, Kulanda Town, Bo, Sierra Leone
| | - William J Moss
- Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Isabelle Morlais
- Laboratoire de Recherche sur le Paludisme, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement-Organisation de Coordination et de Coopération pour la Lutte Contre les Grandes Endémies en Afrique Centrale (IRD-OCEAC), Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Rhoel R Dinglasan
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA. .,Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.,Emerging Pathogens Institute and Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
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de Jong RM, Tebeje SK, Meerstein‐Kessel L, Tadesse FG, Jore MM, Stone W, Bousema T. Immunity against sexual stage Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax parasites. Immunol Rev 2020; 293:190-215. [PMID: 31840844 PMCID: PMC6973022 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The efficient spread of malaria from infected humans to mosquitoes is a major challenge for malaria elimination initiatives. Gametocytes are the only Plasmodium life stage infectious to mosquitoes. Here, we summarize evidence for naturally acquired anti-gametocyte immunity and the current state of transmission blocking vaccines (TBV). Although gametocytes are intra-erythrocytic when present in infected humans, developing Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes may express proteins on the surface of red blood cells that elicit immune responses in naturally exposed individuals. This immune response may reduce the burden of circulating gametocytes. For both P. falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, there is a solid evidence that antibodies against antigens present on the gametocyte surface, when co-ingested with gametocytes, can influence transmission to mosquitoes. Transmission reducing immunity, reducing the burden of infection in mosquitoes, is a well-acknowledged but poorly quantified phenomenon that forms the basis for the development of TBV. Transmission enhancing immunity, increasing the likelihood or intensity of transmission to mosquitoes, is more speculative in nature but is convincingly demonstrated for P. vivax. With the increased interest in malaria elimination, TBV and monoclonal antibodies have moved to the center stage of malaria vaccine development. Methodologies to prioritize and evaluate products are urgently needed.
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MESH Headings
- Antibodies, Blocking/immunology
- Antibodies, Protozoan/immunology
- Host-Parasite Interactions/immunology
- Humans
- Immunity
- Immunomodulation
- Life Cycle Stages
- Malaria Vaccines/immunology
- Malaria, Falciparum/immunology
- Malaria, Falciparum/parasitology
- Malaria, Falciparum/prevention & control
- Malaria, Falciparum/transmission
- Malaria, Vivax/immunology
- Malaria, Vivax/parasitology
- Malaria, Vivax/prevention & control
- Malaria, Vivax/transmission
- Plasmodium falciparum/growth & development
- Plasmodium falciparum/immunology
- Plasmodium vivax/growth & development
- Plasmodium vivax/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Roos M. de Jong
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | | | - Lisette Meerstein‐Kessel
- Radboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Centre for Molecular and Biomolecular InformaticsRadboud Institute for Molecular Life SciencesNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Fitsum G. Tadesse
- Armauer Hansen Research InstituteAddis AbabaEthiopia
- Radboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Matthijs M. Jore
- Radboud Institute for Molecular Life SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
| | - Will Stone
- Department of Immunology and InfectionLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
| | - Teun Bousema
- Radboud Institute for Health SciencesRadboud University Medical CenterNijmegenThe Netherlands
- Department of Immunology and InfectionLondon School of Hygiene and Tropical MedicineLondonUK
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