1
|
Hernigou P, Hosny GA, Scarlat M. Evolution of orthopaedic diseases through four thousand three hundred years: from ancient Egypt with virtual examinations of mummies to the twenty-first century. INTERNATIONAL ORTHOPAEDICS 2024; 48:865-884. [PMID: 37867166 DOI: 10.1007/s00264-023-06012-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study conducts a comprehensive comparative analysis of bone pathologies between ancient Egypt and today. We aim to elucidate the prevalence, types, and potential aetiological factors influencing skeletal disorders in these two distinct temporal and cultural contexts. METHODS The research employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating osteological, paleopathological, and historical data to understand bone pathologies in mummies and the actual world. Applying radiographs and CT scans as noninvasive techniques has shed new light on past diseases such as fractures, dysplasia, osteoarthritis, surgery, and tuberculosis. Virtual inspection has almost replaced classical autopsy and is essential, especially when dealing with museum specimens. RESULTS Findings indicate no significant disparities in the prevalence and types of bone pathologies through 4300 years of evolution. Moreover, this study sheds light on the impact of sociocultural factors on bone health. Examination of ancient Egypt's burial practices and associated cultural beliefs provides insights into potential behavioral and ritualistic influences on bone pathologies and the prevalence of specific pathologies in the past and present. CONCLUSION This comparative analysis illuminates the dynamic of bone pathologies, highlighting the interplay of biological, cultural, and environmental factors. By synthesizing archeological and clinical data, this research contributes to a more nuanced understanding of skeletal health's complexities in ancient and modern societies, offering valuable insights for anthropological and clinical disciplines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marius Scarlat
- Clinique Chirurgicale St Michel, Groupe ELSAN, Toulon, France
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mitchell PD. Parasites in ancient Egypt and Nubia: Malaria, schistosomiasis and the pharaohs. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2023; 123:23-49. [PMID: 38448147 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2023.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
The civilizations of ancient Egypt and Nubia played a key role in the cultural development of Africa, the Near East, and the Mediterranean world. This study explores how their location along the River Nile, agricultural practices, the climate, endemic insects and aquatic snails impacted the type of parasites that were most successful in their populations. A meta-analysis approach finds that up to 65% of mummies were positive for schistosomiasis, 40% for headlice, 22% for falciparum malaria, and 10% for visceral leishmaniasis. Such a disease burden must have had major consequences upon the physical stamina and productivity of a large proportion of the workforce. In contrast, the virtual absence of evidence for whipworm and roundworm (so common in adjacent civilizations in the Near East and Europe) may have been a result of the yearly Nile floods fertilising the agricultural land, so that farmers did not have to fertilise their crops with human faeces.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Piers D Mitchell
- Department of Archaeology, University of Cambridge, The Henry Wellcome Building, Fitzwilliam Street, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Meintjes WAJ. Silicosis and silicotuberculosis: Ancient diseases that are still not conquered. Afr J Thorac Crit Care Med 2023; 29:10.7196/AJTCCM.2023.v29i3.1495. [PMID: 37970572 PMCID: PMC10642407 DOI: 10.7196/ajtccm.2023.v29i3.1495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- W A J Meintjes
- Head: Occupational Medicine, Tygerberg Hospital, Western Cape Department
of Health and Wellness, Cape Town, South Africa; Senior Lecturer, Division of
Health Systems and Public Health, Department of Global Health, Faculty of
Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Carabalí-Isajar ML, Rodríguez-Bejarano OH, Amado T, Patarroyo MA, Izquierdo MA, Lutz JR, Ocampo M. Clinical manifestations and immune response to tuberculosis. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2023; 39:206. [PMID: 37221438 DOI: 10.1007/s11274-023-03636-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Tuberculosis is a far-reaching, high-impact disease. It is among the top ten causes of death worldwide caused by a single infectious agent; 1.6 million tuberculosis-related deaths were reported in 2021 and it has been estimated that a third of the world's population are carriers of the tuberculosis bacillus but do not develop active disease. Several authors have attributed this to hosts' differential immune response in which cellular and humoral components are involved, along with cytokines and chemokines. Ascertaining the relationship between TB development's clinical manifestations and an immune response should increase understanding of tuberculosis pathophysiological and immunological mechanisms and correlating such material with protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Tuberculosis continues to be a major public health problem globally. Mortality rates have not decreased significantly; rather, they are increasing. This review has thus been aimed at deepening knowledge regarding tuberculosis by examining published material related to an immune response against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, mycobacterial evasion mechanisms regarding such response and the relationship between pulmonary and extrapulmonary clinical manifestations induced by this bacterium which are related to inflammation associated with tuberculosis dissemination through different routes.
Collapse
Grants
- a Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
- a Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
- a Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
- a Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
- b PhD Program in Biomedical and Biological Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24#63C-69, Bogotá 111221, Colombia
- c Health Sciences Faculty, Universidad de Ciencias Aplicadas y Ambientales (UDCA), Calle 222#55-37, Bogotá 111166, Colombia
- d Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45#26-85, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
- e Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Mayor Mederi, Calle 24 # 29-45, Bogotá 111411. Colombia
- e Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Mayor Mederi, Calle 24 # 29-45, Bogotá 111411. Colombia
- f Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Carrera 3#26A-40, Bogotá 110311, Colombia
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Lilián Carabalí-Isajar
- Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, 111321, Bogotá, Colombia
- Biomedical and Biological Sciences Programme, Universidad del Rosario, Carrera 24#63C-69, 111221, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Tatiana Amado
- Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, 111321, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Manuel Alfonso Patarroyo
- Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, 111321, Bogotá, Colombia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 45#26-85, 111321, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - María Alejandra Izquierdo
- Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Mayor Mederi, Calle 24 # 29-45, 111411, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Juan Ricardo Lutz
- Medicine Department, Hospital Universitario Mayor Mederi, Calle 24 # 29-45, 111411, Bogotá, Colombia.
| | - Marisol Ocampo
- Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Carrera 50#26-20, 111321, Bogotá, Colombia.
- Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Carrera 3#26A-40, 110311, Bogotá, Colombia.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Secretory proteins of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
and their roles in modulation of host immune responses: focus on therapeutic targets. FEBS J 2022; 289:4146-4171. [DOI: 10.1111/febs.16369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
|
6
|
Consistent Prevalence of Spondyloarthropathy Over 2300 Years: Ancient Egyptians and the Synchronic Baboon Catacomb. Evol Biol 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s11692-021-09549-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
7
|
Váradi OA, Rakk D, Spekker O, Terhes G, Urbán E, Berthon W, Pap I, Szikossy I, Maixner F, Zink A, Vágvölgyi C, Donoghue HD, Minnikin DE, Szekeres A, Pálfi G. Verification of tuberculosis infection among Vác mummies (18th century CE, Hungary) based on lipid biomarker profiling with a new HPLC-HESI-MS approach. Tuberculosis (Edinb) 2020; 126:102037. [PMID: 33338873 DOI: 10.1016/j.tube.2020.102037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) was a large burden of infections that peaked during the 19th century in Europe. Mummies from the 18th century CE, discovered in the crypt of a church at Vác, Hungary, had high TB prevalence, as revealed by amplification of key fragments of TB DNA and genome-wide TB analysis. Complementary methods are needed to confirm these diagnoses and one approach uses the identification of specific lipid biomarkers, such as TB mycocerosic acids (MCs). Previously, MC derivatives were profiled by specialised gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), so an alternative more direct approach has been developed. Underivatized MCs are extracted and analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography linked to a mass spectrometer, in heated electrospray ionisation mode (HPLC-HESI-MS). The method was validated using representatives of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and other mycobacteria and tested on six Vác mummy cases, previously considered positive for TB infection. Analysing both rib and soft tissue samples, four out of six cases gave profiles of main C32 and major C29 and C39 mycocerosates correlating well with those of M. tuberculosis. Multidisciplinary methods are needed in the diagnosis of ancient tuberculosis; this new protocol accesses important confirmatory evidence, as demonstrated by the confirmation of TB in the Vác mummies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Orsolya Anna Váradi
- Department of Biological Anthropology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Hungary. Postal address: Közép fasor 52, H-6726, Szeged, Hungary; Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Hungary. Postal address: Közép fasor 52, H-6726, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Dávid Rakk
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Hungary. Postal address: Közép fasor 52, H-6726, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Olga Spekker
- Department of Biological Anthropology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Hungary. Postal address: Közép fasor 52, H-6726, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Gabriella Terhes
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Hungary. Postal address: P.O.B. 427, H-6701, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Edit Urbán
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Medical School, University of Pécs, Hungary. Postal address: Szigeti út 12, H-7624 Pécs, Hungary; Institute of Translational Medicine, Medical School, University of Pécs, Hungary. Postal address: Szigeti út 12, H-7624, Pécs, Hungary.
| | - William Berthon
- Department of Biological Anthropology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Hungary. Postal address: Közép fasor 52, H-6726, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Ildikó Pap
- Department of Anthropology, Hungarian Natural History Museum, Hungary. Postal address: Ludovika tér 2-6, H-1083, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Ildikó Szikossy
- Department of Anthropology, Hungarian Natural History Museum, Hungary. Postal address: Ludovika tér 2-6, H-1083, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Frank Maixner
- Institute for Mummy Studies, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy. Postal address: Viale Druso, 1, I-39100, Bolzano, Italy.
| | - Albert Zink
- Institute for Mummy Studies, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy. Postal address: Viale Druso, 1, I-39100, Bolzano, Italy.
| | - Csaba Vágvölgyi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Hungary. Postal address: Közép fasor 52, H-6726, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Helen D Donoghue
- Centre for Clinical Microbiology, University College London, London, UK. Postal address: Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK.
| | - David E Minnikin
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, UK. Postal Address: B15 2TT Birmingham, UK.
| | - András Szekeres
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Hungary. Postal address: Közép fasor 52, H-6726, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - György Pálfi
- Department of Biological Anthropology, Faculty of Science and Informatics, University of Szeged, Hungary. Postal address: Közép fasor 52, H-6726, Szeged, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sachdeva KS, Parmar M, Rao R, Chauhan S, Shah V, Pirabu R, Balasubramaniam D, Vadera B, Anand S, Mathew M, Solanki H, Sundar VV. Paradigm shift in efforts to end TB by 2025. Indian J Tuberc 2020; 67:S48-S60. [PMID: 33308672 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijtb.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
TB is a deadly infectious disease, in existence since time immemorial. This article traces the journey of TB developments in the last few decades and the path breaking moments that have accelerated the efforts towards Ending TB from National Tuberculosis Control Program (NTCP 1962-1992) to Revised National Tuberculosis Control Program (RNTCP - 1992-2019) and to National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP) as per the vision of Honorable Prime Minister of India. From increased funding for TB, the discovery of newer drugs and diagnostics, increased access to health facilities, greater investment in research and expanded reach of public health education, seasoned with TB activism and media's proactive role, private sector participation to political advocacy and community engagement, coupled with vaccine trials has renewed the hope of finding the elusive and miraculous breakthrough to END TB and it seems the goal is within the realms of the possibility. The recent paradigm shift in the policy and the drive of several states & UTs to move towards TB free status through rigorous population-based vulnerability mapping and screening coupled with active case finding is expected to act as the driving force to lead the country towards Ending TB by 2025. Continued investments in research, innovations and availability of more effective drugs and the vaccines will add to existing armamentarium towards Ending TB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K S Sachdeva
- Central TB Division, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, New Delhi, India.
| | | | - Raghuram Rao
- Central TB Division, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, New Delhi, India
| | | | | | - Ra Pirabu
- WHO Country Office for India, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Bhavin Vadera
- Wadhwani Institute of Artificial Intelligence, India
| | - S Anand
- WHO Country Office for India, New Delhi, India
| | - Manu Mathew
- WHO Country Office for India, New Delhi, India
| | | | - V V Sundar
- WHO Country Office for India, New Delhi, India
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kaplan HB, Miranda JA, Gogola GR, Gomez K, Ambrose CG. Persistence of bacterial DNA in orthopedic infections. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2018; 91:136-140. [PMID: 29467085 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2018.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has been proposed as a method to identify bacteria in clinical samples because it is more sensitive than culture techniques and can produce results rapidly. However, PCR can detect DNA from dead cells and thus cannot distinguish between live and dead cells in a tissue sample. Killed Staphylococcus aureus cells were implanted into the femurs and knee joints of rats to determine the length of time that DNA from dead cells is detectable in a living animal under conditions similar to common orthopedic infections. In the joint infection model studied here, the DNA from the dead planktonic bacteria was detected using PCR immediately after injection or 24 h later, but was undetectable 48 and 72 h after injection. In the biofilm implanted-device model studied, the DNA from these dead biofilm cells was detected by PCR immediately after implantation and at 24 h, but not at 48 or 72 h. Thus, our results indicate that DNA from dead cells does not persist in these animal model systems for more than 2 days, which should reduce concerns about possible false positive results using molecular DNA-based techniques for the detection of pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heidi B Kaplan
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Justin A Miranda
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | | | - Karen Gomez
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX
| | - Catherine G Ambrose
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Positive Diagnosis of Ancient Leprosy and Tuberculosis Using Ancient DNA and Lipid Biomarkers. DIVERSITY-BASEL 2017. [DOI: 10.3390/d9040046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
|
11
|
Hühns M, Erbersdobler A, Obliers A, Röpenack P. Identification of HPV Types and Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Complex in Historical Long-Term Preserved Formalin Fixed Tissues in Different Human Organs. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0170353. [PMID: 28114406 PMCID: PMC5256871 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0170353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
University anatomical-pathological collections represent huge sources of human tissues and preparations from a variety of different diseases. With the help of modern genetic and histological methods, preserved fixed tissues from pathological collections can be used to re-evaluate former diagnoses. We analysed 25 specimens from our pathological collection with ages ranging from 78 to 112 years. The tissues originated from the oral cavity, lip, tongue, lung, bone, kidney, spleen, thymus, larynx, lymph node, penis and uterine cervix with an original diagnosis of epithelial cancers or tuberculosis. Amplifiable DNA was extracted and in epithelial cancers, potential HPV infection was investigated. Specimens with an original diagnosis of tuberculosis were examined for mycobacterial infection. The tissues were also examined using modern histological methods. Our data showed that in 24/25 specimens the histological structure was preserved and in 10/11 specimens the diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma could be confirmed. Additionally, HPV type 16 was detected in 8 specimens. The histological pattern of tuberculosis was found in 11/14 specimens and the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex was ascertained in four specimens. Our study showed that pathogens such as HPV or Mycobacterium tuberculosis can be detected in historical pathological preparations, and that these collections are suitable for further epidemiological research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maja Hühns
- Institute of Pathology, University Medicine of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | | | - Annette Obliers
- Institute of Pathology, University Medicine of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Paula Röpenack
- Institute of Pathology, University Medicine of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bianucci R, Araujo A, Pusch CM, Nerlich AG. The identification of malaria in paleopathology-An in-depth assessment of the strategies to detect malaria in ancient remains. Acta Trop 2015; 152:176-180. [PMID: 26366472 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2015] [Revised: 07/19/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The comprehensive analyses of human remains from various places and time periods, either by immunological or molecular approaches, provide circumstantial evidence that malaria tropica haunted humankind at least since dynastic ancient Egypt. Here we summarize the "actual state-of-the-art" of these bio-molecular investigations and offer a solid basis for the discussion of the paleopathology of malaria in human history.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raffaella Bianucci
- Department of Public Health and Paediatric Sciences, Laboratory of Physical Anthropology, University of Turin, Italy; Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department Biosciences, University of Oslo, Norway; UMR 7568, Laboratoire d'Anthropologie bio-culturelle, Droit, Etique & Santé (Adés), Faculté de Médecine de Marseille, France
| | - Adauto Araujo
- Laboratório de Paleoparasitologia, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sérgio Arouca, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carsten M Pusch
- Institute of Anthropology and Human Genetics, Division of Molecular Genetics, University of Tübingen, Germany
| | - Andreas G Nerlich
- Institute of Pathology, Klinikum München-Bogenhausen, Munich, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Prates C, Oliveira C, Sousa S, Ikram S. A kidney's ingenious path to trimillennar preservation: Renal tuberculosis in an Egyptian mummy? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PALEOPATHOLOGY 2015; 11:7-11. [PMID: 28802970 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpp.2015.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Revised: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Irtieru is a male mummy enclosed in cartonnage, dating to the Third Intermediate Period in the Egyptian collection of the Museu Nacional de Arqueologia in Lisbon. The computed tomography scans of this mummy showed a small dense bean-shaped structure at the left lumbar region. Its anatomical location, morphologic and structural analysis support a diagnosis of end-stage renal tuberculosis. If this diagnosis is correct, this will be the oldest example of kidney tuberculosis, and the first one recorded in an intentionally mummified ancient Egyptian.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Prates
- IMI Imagens Médicas Integradas, Av da República 99 B, 1050-190 Lisbon, Portugal.
| | - Carlos Oliveira
- IMI Imagens Médicas Integradas, Av da República 99 B, 1050-190 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Sandra Sousa
- IMI Imagens Médicas Integradas, Av da República 99 B, 1050-190 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Salima Ikram
- The American University in Cairo, 113 Kasr El Aini Street, P.O. Box 2511, Cairo 11511, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
E1 of α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase defends Mycobacterium tuberculosis against glutamate anaplerosis and nitroxidative stress. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:E5834-43. [PMID: 26430237 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1510932112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Enzymes of central carbon metabolism (CCM) in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) make an important contribution to the pathogen's virulence. Evidence is emerging that some of these enzymes are not simply playing the metabolic roles for which they are annotated, but can protect the pathogen via additional functions. Here, we found that deficiency of 2-hydroxy-3-oxoadipate synthase (HOAS), the E1 component of the α-ketoglutarate (α-KG) dehydrogenase complex (KDHC), did not lead to general metabolic perturbation or growth impairment of Mtb, but only to the specific inability to cope with glutamate anaplerosis and nitroxidative stress. In the former role, HOAS acts to prevent accumulation of aldehydes, including growth-inhibitory succinate semialdehyde (SSA). In the latter role, HOAS can participate in an alternative four-component peroxidase system, HOAS/dihydrolipoyl acetyl transferase (DlaT)/alkylhydroperoxide reductase colorless subunit gene (ahpC)-neighboring subunit (AhpD)/AhpC, using α-KG as a previously undescribed source of electrons for reductase action. Thus, instead of a canonical role in CCM, the E1 component of Mtb's KDHC serves key roles in situational defense that contribute to its requirement for virulence in the host. We also show that pyruvate decarboxylase (AceE), the E1 component of pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDHC), can participate in AceE/DlaT/AhpD/AhpC, using pyruvate as a source of electrons for reductase action. Identification of these systems leads us to suggest that Mtb can recruit components of its CCM for reactive nitrogen defense using central carbon metabolites.
Collapse
|
15
|
Moissidou D, Day J, Shin DH, Bianucci R. Invasive versus Non Invasive Methods Applied to Mummy Research: Will This Controversy Ever Be Solved? BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 2015:192829. [PMID: 26345295 PMCID: PMC4543116 DOI: 10.1155/2015/192829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Advances in the application of non invasive techniques to mummified remains have shed new light on past diseases. The virtual inspection of a corpse, which has almost completely replaced classical autopsy, has proven to be important especially when dealing with valuable museum specimens. In spite of some very rewarding results, there are still many open questions. Non invasive techniques provide information on hard and soft tissue pathologies and allow information to be gleaned concerning mummification practices (e.g., ancient Egyptian artificial mummification). Nevertheless, there are other fields of mummy studies in which the results provided by non invasive techniques are not always self-explanatory. Reliance exclusively upon virtual diagnoses can sometimes lead to inconclusive and misleading interpretations. On the other hand, several types of investigation (e.g., histology, paleomicrobiology, and biochemistry), although minimally invasive, require direct contact with the bodies and, for this reason, are often avoided, particularly by museum curators. Here we present an overview of the non invasive and invasive techniques currently used in mummy studies and propose an approach that might solve these conflicts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Despina Moissidou
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, National Kapodistrian University of Athens, 75 M. Asias Street, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Jasmine Day
- The Ancient Egypt Society of Western Australia Inc., P.O. Box 103, Ballajura, WA 6066, Australia
| | - Dong Hoon Shin
- Division of Paleopathology, Institute of Forensic Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 110-799, Republic of Korea
| | - Raffaella Bianucci
- Department of Public Health and Paediatric Sciences, Legal Medicine Section, University of Turin, Corso Galileo Galilei 22, 10126 Turin, Italy
- Center for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1066, Blindern, 0316 Oslo, Norway
- Anthropologie Bioculturelle, Droit, Ethique et Santé, Faculté de Médecine-Nord, Aix-Marseille Université, 15 boulevard Pierre Dramard, 13344 Marseille Cedex 15, France
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Masson M, Bereczki Z, Molnár E, Donoghue HD, Minnikin DE, Lee OYC, Wu HH, Besra GS, Bull ID, Pálfi G. 7000 year-old tuberculosis cases from Hungary – Osteological and biomolecular evidence. Tuberculosis (Edinb) 2015; 95 Suppl 1:S13-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tube.2015.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
17
|
Lösch S, Kim MR, Dutour O, Courtaud P, Maixner F, Romon T, Sola C, Zink A. Evidence for tuberculosis in 18th/19th century slaves in Anse Sainte-Marguerite (Guadeloupe – French Western Indies). Tuberculosis (Edinb) 2015; 95 Suppl 1:S65-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tube.2015.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
18
|
Harer WB, Tapp E. Augustus Bozzi Granville (1783-1872): Pioneer obstetrician and gynaecological surgeon who performed the first scientific autopsy of a mummy. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL BIOGRAPHY 2014; 22:101-107. [PMID: 24585591 DOI: 10.1177/0967772013480607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
AB Granville was a pioneer obstetrician and gynaecologic surgeon who performed the world's first myomectomy and the first ovariotomy in England. He also performed the first scientific autopsy of an Egyptian mummy, discovering the oldest known ovarian tumour. He thought it was malignant and caused her death from 'ovarian dropsy'. This study reveals the tumour to be a benign cystadenoma. Further analysis indicates she died from terminal pneumonia from tuberculosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Eddie Tapp
- Foxdenton House, Sytchampton Stourport on Severn, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Masson M, Molnár E, Donoghue HD, Besra GS, Minnikin DE, Wu HHT, Lee OYC, Bull ID, Pálfi G. Osteological and biomolecular evidence of a 7000-year-old case of hypertrophic pulmonary osteopathy secondary to tuberculosis from neolithic hungary. PLoS One 2013; 8:e78252. [PMID: 24205173 PMCID: PMC3813517 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0078252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Seventy-one individuals from the late Neolithic population of the 7000-year-old site of Hódmezővásárhely-Gorzsa were examined for their skeletal palaeopathology. This revealed numerous cases of infections and non-specific stress indicators in juveniles and adults, metabolic diseases in juveniles, and evidence of trauma and mechanical changes in adults. Several cases showed potential signs of tuberculosis, particularly the remains of the individual HGO-53. This is an important finding that has significant implications for our understanding of this community. The aim of the present study was to seek biomolecular evidence to confirm this diagnosis. HGO-53 was a young male with a striking case of hypertrophic pulmonary osteopathy (HPO), revealing rib changes and cavitations in the vertebral bodies. The initial macroscopic diagnosis of HPO secondary to tuberculosis was confirmed by analysis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex specific cell wall lipid biomarkers and corroborated by ancient DNA (aDNA) analysis. This case is the earliest known classical case of HPO on an adult human skeleton and is one of the oldest palaeopathological and palaeomicrobiological tuberculosis cases to date.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muriel Masson
- Archaeology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Department of Biological Anthropology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
- * E-mail:
| | - Erika Molnár
- Department of Biological Anthropology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Helen D. Donoghue
- Centre for Clinical Microbiology and Centre for the History of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gurdyal S. Besra
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Egbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - David E. Minnikin
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Egbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Houdini H. T. Wu
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Egbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Oona Y-C. Lee
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Egbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ian D. Bull
- Organic Geochemistry Unit, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - György Pálfi
- Department of Biological Anthropology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Dube A, Lemmer Y, Hayeshi R, Balogun M, Labuschagne P, Swai H, Kalombo L. State of the art and future directions in nanomedicine for tuberculosis. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2013; 10:1725-34. [PMID: 24102208 DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2014.846905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tuberculosis (TB) ranks the second leading cause of death from an infectious disease worldwide. However, treatment of TB is affected by poor patient compliance due to the requirement for daily drug administration, for lengthy periods of time, often with severe drug-induced side effects. Nanomedicines have the potential to improve treatment outcomes by providing therapies with reduced drug doses, administered less frequently, under shortened treatment durations. AREAS COVERED In this article, we present the pathophysiology of the disease, focusing on pulmonary TB and the characteristics of drugs used in treatment and discuss the application of nanomedicines within this scope. We also discuss new formulation approaches for TB nanomedicines and directions for future research. EXPERT OPINION Nanomedicines have the potential to improve TB treatment outcomes. New approaches such as nanoparticle systems able to impact the immune response of macrophages and deliver drug intracellularly, as well as the use of polymer-drug conjugates for drug delivery, are likely to play an important role in TB nanomedicines in future. However, further research is required before TB nanomedicines can be translated to the clinic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Admire Dube
- ANDI Centre of Excellence in Nanomedicine, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Polymers and Composites, Encapsulation and Delivery Group , P.O. Box 395, Pretoria, 0001 , South Africa
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Anastasiou E, Mitchell PD. Evolutionary anthropology and genes: Investigating the genetics of human evolution from excavated skeletal remains. Gene 2013; 528:27-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2013.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Revised: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 06/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
22
|
Anastasiou E, Mitchell PD. Palaeopathology and genes: investigating the genetics of infectious diseases in excavated human skeletal remains and mummies from past populations. Gene 2013; 528:33-40. [PMID: 23792062 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2013.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2013] [Revised: 05/23/2013] [Accepted: 06/01/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to review the use of genetics in palaeomicrobiology, and to highlight the importance of understanding past diseases. Palaeomicrobiology is the study of disease pathogens in skeletal and mummified remains from archaeological contexts. It has revolutionarised our understanding of health in the past by enabling a deeper knowledge of the origins and evolution of many diseases that have shaped us as a species. Bacterial diseases explored include tuberculosis, leprosy, bubonic plague, typhoid, syphilis, endemic and epidemic typhus, trench fever, and Helicobacter pylori. Viral diseases discussed include influenza, hepatitis B, human papilloma virus (HPV), human T-cell lymphotrophic virus (HTLV-1) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Parasitic diseases investigated include malaria, leishmaniasis, Chagas' disease, roundworm, whipworm, pinworm, Chinese liver fluke, fleas and lice. Through a better understanding of disease origins and their evolution, we can place into context how many infectious diseases are changing over time, and so help us estimate how they may change in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Evilena Anastasiou
- Division of Biological Anthropology, Department of Archaeology and Anthropology, University of Cambridge, The Henry Wellcome Building, Fitzwilliam Street, Cambridge CB2 1QH, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Holloway KL, Link K, Rühli F, Henneberg M. Skeletal lesions in human tuberculosis may sometimes heal: an aid to palaeopathological diagnoses. PLoS One 2013; 8:e62798. [PMID: 23638146 PMCID: PMC3634763 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0062798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In three to five percent of active cases of tuberculosis, skeletal lesions develop. Typically, these occur on the vertebrae and are destructive in nature. In this paper, we examined cases of skeletal tuberculosis from a skeletal collection (Galler Collection) with focus on the manifestation of bony changes due to tuberculosis in various body regions in association with antibiotic introduction. This skeletal collection was created in 1925-1977 by a pathologist at the University Hospital in Zürich, Ernst Galler. It includes the remains of 2426 individuals with documented clinical histories as well as autopsies. It contained 29 cases of skeletal tuberculosis lesions. We observed natural healing of vertebral lesions through several processes including fusion of vertebrae, bone deposition and fusion of posterior elements. In these cases, we observed a higher frequency and proportion of bone deposition and fusion of posterior vertebral elements where pharmacological agents were used. There were also four cases of artificial healing through surgically induced posterior spinal fusion. With the introduction of pharmaceutical treatments, the number of individuals with multiple tuberculous foci decreased from 80% to 25% when compared to individuals who did not receive any drug therapy. Investigation of comorbidities showed that pneumonia, pleuritis and being underweight were consistently present, even with pharmaceutical treatment. Our results have applications in palaeopathological diagnoses where healing and consequent bone deposition may complicate differential diagnoses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kara L Holloway
- Biological Anthropology and Comparative Anatomy Research Unit, The University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
First insights into the metagenome of Egyptian mummies using next-generation sequencing. J Appl Genet 2013; 54:309-25. [PMID: 23553074 DOI: 10.1007/s13353-013-0145-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Revised: 03/08/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
We applied, for the first time, next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology on Egyptian mummies. Seven NGS datasets obtained from five randomly selected Third Intermediate to Graeco-Roman Egyptian mummies (806 BC-124AD) and two unearthed pre-contact Bolivian lowland skeletons were generated and characterised. The datasets were contrasted to three recently published NGS datasets obtained from cold-climate regions, i.e. the Saqqaq, the Denisova hominid and the Alpine Iceman. Analysis was done using one million reads of each newly generated or published dataset. Blastn and megablast results were analysed using MEGAN software. Distinct NGS results were replicated by specific and sensitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocols in ancient DNA dedicated laboratories. Here, we provide unambiguous identification of authentic DNA in Egyptian mummies. The NGS datasets showed variable contents of endogenous DNA harboured in tissues. Three of five mummies displayed a human DNA proportion comparable to the human read count of the Saqqaq permafrost-preserved specimen. Furthermore, a metagenomic signature unique to mummies was displayed. By applying a "bacterial fingerprint", discrimination among mummies and other remains from warm areas outside Egypt was possible. Due to the absence of an adequate environment monitoring, a bacterial bloom was identified when analysing different biopsies from the same mummies taken after a lapse of time of 1.5 years. Plant kingdom representation in all mummy datasets was unique and could be partially associated with their use in embalming materials. Finally, NGS data showed the presence of Plasmodium falciparum and Toxoplasma gondii DNA sequences, indicating malaria and toxoplasmosis in these mummies. We demonstrate that endogenous ancient DNA can be extracted from mummies and serve as a proper template for the NGS technique, thus, opening new pathways of investigation for future genome sequencing of ancient Egyptian individuals.
Collapse
|
25
|
Molecular identification of falciparum malaria and human tuberculosis co-infections in mummies from the Fayum depression (Lower Egypt). PLoS One 2013; 8:e60307. [PMID: 23565222 PMCID: PMC3614933 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0060307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2012] [Accepted: 02/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the presence of the lake Quarun and to the particular nature of its irrigation system, it has been speculated that the Fayum, a large depression 80 kilometers south-west of modern Cairo, was exposed to the hazards of malaria in historic times. Similarly, it has been speculated that, in the same area, also human tuberculosis might have been far more widespread in the antiquity than in its recent past. If these hypotheses were confirmed, it would imply that frequent cases of co-infection between the two pathogens might have occurred in ancient populations. To substantiate those speculations, molecular analyses were carried out on sixteen mummified heads recovered from the necropolis of Abusir el Meleq (Fayum) dating from the 3(rd) Intermediate Period (1064-656 BC) to the Roman Period (30 BC-300 AD). Soft tissue biopsies were used for DNA extractions and PCR amplifications using well-suited protocols. A partial 196-bp fragment of Plasmodium falciparum apical membrane antigen 1 gene and a 123-bp fragment of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex insertion sequence IS6110 were amplified and sequenced in six and five of the sixteen specimens, respectively. A 100% concordance rates between our sequences and those of P. falciparum and M. tuberculosis complex ones were obtained. Lastly, concomitant PCR amplification of P. falciparum and M. tuberculosis complex DNA specific fragments was obtained in four mummies, three of which are (14)C dated to the Late and Graeco-Roman Periods. Our data confirm that the hydrography of Fayum was extremely conducive to the spread of malaria. They also support the notion that the agricultural boom and dense crowding occurred in this region, especially under the Ptolemies, highly increased the probability for the manifestation and spread of tuberculosis. Here we extend back-wards to ca. 800 BC new evidence for malaria tropica and human tuberculosis co-occurrence in ancient Lower Egypt.
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN Case report. OBJECTIVE To characterize the paleopathology presented in the skeleton of a 45- to 50-year-old man indicative of tuberculous spondylitis and to confirm by the detection of ancient DNA. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease prevalent in both present and ancient human populations. The disease is primarily located within the lungs; although characteristic bone lesions can lead to a clear diagnosis, skeletal TB occurs in only 5% to 6% of TB infections, even in historical cases. In addition, the visual appearance of human skeletal remains may be influenced by the environmental conditions at the burial site. However, it is important to recognize ancient skeletal TB because it can provide important data on the history of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and give a unique opportunity for physicians to observe the natural outcome of the infection of the preantibiotic era. METHODS Paleopathological analysis was carried out using careful visual observation supported by ancient DNA analysis. Approximately 60 mg of bone powder from rib fragments was examined and DNA from the M. tuberculosis complex was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting specific genetic loci of the IS6110 and IS1081 regions. RESULTS The skeleton is part of a human osteoarchaeological collection (n = 274) from the 12th- to 13th-century Transylvanian archaeological site of Peteni, in modern-day Romania. The individual, a 45- to 50-year-old man, showed gross pathology typical of tuberculous spondylitis. The paleopathological diagnosis was supported by analysis for M. tuberculosis complex ancient DNA. CONCLUSIONS This case demonstrates that TB was present in Transylvania (Romania) during the 12th and 13th centuries and adds to the growing body of knowledge on the history of this disease.
Collapse
|
27
|
Zakham F, Aouane O, Ussery D, Benjouad A, Ennaji MM. Computational genomics-proteomics and Phylogeny analysis of twenty one mycobacterial genomes (Tuberculosis & non Tuberculosis strains). MICROBIAL INFORMATICS AND EXPERIMENTATION 2012; 2:7. [PMID: 22929624 PMCID: PMC3504576 DOI: 10.1186/2042-5783-2-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2012] [Accepted: 08/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background The genus Mycobacterium comprises different species, among them the most contagious and infectious bacteria. The members of the complex Mycobacterium tuberculosis are the most virulent microorganisms that have killed human and other mammals since millennia. Additionally, with the many different mycobacterial sequences available, there is a crucial need for the visualization and the simplification of their data. In this present study, we aim to highlight a comparative genome, proteome and phylogeny analysis between twenty-one mycobacterial (Tuberculosis and non tuberculosis) strains using a set of computational and bioinformatics tools (Pan and Core genome plotting, BLAST matrix and phylogeny analysis). Results Considerably the result of pan and core genome Plotting demonstrated that less than 1250 Mycobacterium gene families are conserved across all species, and a total set of about 20,000 gene families within the Mycobacterium pan-genome of twenty one mycobacterial genomes. Viewing the BLAST matrix a high similarity was found among the species of the complex Mycobacterium tuberculosis and less conservation is found with other slow growing pathogenic mycobacteria. Phylogeny analysis based on both protein conservation, as well as rRNA clearly resolve known relationships between slow growing mycobacteria. Conclusion Mycobacteria include important pathogenic species for human and animals and the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex is the most cause of death of the humankind. The comparative genome analysis could provide a new insight for better controlling and preventing these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fathiah Zakham
- Laboratoire de Virologie et Hygiène & Microbiologie, Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, BP 146, Mohammedia, 20650, Morocco.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Lee OYC, Wu HHT, Donoghue HD, Spigelman M, Greenblatt CL, Bull ID, Rothschild BM, Martin LD, Minnikin DE, Besra GS. Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex lipid virulence factors preserved in the 17,000-year-old skeleton of an extinct bison, Bison antiquus. PLoS One 2012; 7:e41923. [PMID: 22860031 PMCID: PMC3408397 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0041923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2012] [Accepted: 06/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tracing the evolution of ancient diseases depends on the availability and accessibility of suitable biomarkers in archaeological specimens. DNA is potentially information-rich but it depends on a favourable environment for preservation. In the case of the major mycobacterial pathogens, Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium leprae, robust lipid biomarkers are established as alternatives or complements to DNA analyses. A DNA report, a decade ago, suggested that a 17,000-year-old skeleton of extinct Bison antiquus, from Natural Trap Cave, Wyoming, was the oldest known case of tuberculosis. In the current study, key mycobacterial lipid virulence factor biomarkers were detected in the same two samples from this bison. Fluorescence high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) indicated the presence of mycolic acids of the mycobacterial type, but they were degraded and could not be precisely correlated with tuberculosis. However, pristine profiles of C29, C30 and C32 mycocerosates and C27 mycolipenates, typical of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, were recorded by negative ion chemical ionization gas chromatography mass spectrometry of pentafluorobenzyl ester derivatives. These findings were supported by the detection of C34 and C36 phthiocerols, which are usually esterified to the mycocerosates. The existence of Pleistocene tuberculosis in the Americas is confirmed and there are many even older animal bones with well-characterised tuberculous lesions similar to those on the analysed sample. In the absence of any evidence of tuberculosis in human skeletons older than 9,000 years BP, the hypothesis that this disease evolved as a zoonosis, before transfer to humans, is given detailed consideration and discussion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oona Y-C. Lee
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Houdini H. T. Wu
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Helen D. Donoghue
- Centre for Clinical Microbiology (M9), Royal Free Campus, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for the History of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Spigelman
- Centre for Clinical Microbiology (M9), Royal Free Campus, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases and Ancient DNA, Hadassah Medical School, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Charles L. Greenblatt
- Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases and Ancient DNA, Hadassah Medical School, Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Ian D. Bull
- Organic Geochemistry Unit, School of Chemistry, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Bruce M. Rothschild
- Department of Medicine, Northeast Ohio Medical University, Rootstown, Ohio, United States of America
- Biodiversity Institute, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Larry D. Martin
- Biodiversity Institute, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - David E. Minnikin
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Gurdyal S. Besra
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Beyond ancient microbial DNA: nonnucleotidic biomolecules for paleomicrobiology. Biotechniques 2011; 50:370-80. [PMID: 21781037 DOI: 10.2144/000113689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2010] [Accepted: 04/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Identifying the causes of past epidemics depends on the specific detection of pathogens in buried individuals; this field of research is known as paleomicrobiology, an emerging field that has benefited from technological advances in microbiology. For almost 15 years, the detection, identification, and characterization of microbes in ancient environmental and human specimens emerged on the basis of ancient DNA (aDNA) analyses. aDNA limitations due to potential contamination by modern DNA and altered aDNA led to the development of alternative methods for the detection and characterization of nonnucleotidic biomolecules, including mycolic acids (of ancient mycobacteria) and proteins. Accordingly, immunohistochemistry, immunochromatography, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay techniques have been developed for the specific detection of microbes from ancient human and environmental specimens. Protein analysis by mass spectrometry, a standard for ancient animal identification, has also recently emerged as a technique for ancient mycobacteria detection, while immuno-PCR is yet another promising technique. As with aDNA, strict protocols must be enforced to ensure authenticity of the data. Here we review the analysis of nonnucleotidic biomolecules from ancient microbes and the ability of these analyses to complement aDNA analyses, which opens new opportunities for identification of ancient microbes as well as new avenues to potentially resolve controversies regarding the cause of some historical pandemics and study the coevolution of microbes and hosts.
Collapse
|
30
|
Bhamidi S, Shi L, Chatterjee D, Belisle JT, Crick DC, McNeil MR. A bioanalytical method to determine the cell wall composition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis grown in vivo. Anal Biochem 2011; 421:240-9. [PMID: 22107887 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2011.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2011] [Revised: 10/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacilli exhibit cell wall alterations during in vivo growth. Development of ultrasensitive analytical techniques with high specificities is required to analyze the cell wall of M. tuberculosis isolated from experimental animals because of the low amounts of bacteria available and contamination by host tissue. Here we present a novel methodology to analyze all three major components (mycolic acids, arabinogalactan, and peptidoglycan) of the mycobacterial cell wall from mycobacteria isolated from animal tissue. In this procedure, the cell wall carbohydrates are analyzed by gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS) of alditol acetates, the peptidoglycan by GC/MS (mass spectrometry) analysis of the unique amino acid diaminopimelic acid (after derivatization with isopropyl chloroformate), and the mycolic acids by liquid chromatography (LC)/MS (negative ion) without derivatization. The procedure was designed so that all three analyses could be performed starting with a single sample given the difficulty of preparing multiple aliquots in known ratios. Linkage analysis, including an enantiomeric specific procedure, of the arabinogalactan polymer is also presented. These procedures will enable the determination of the cell wall alterations known to occur in the important nongrowing "dormant" M. tuberculosis present during disease. With some adaptations, the methodology is also applicable to the analysis of small amounts of in vivo grown bacteria of other species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suresh Bhamidi
- Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Djelouadji Z, Raoult D, Drancourt M. Palaeogenomics of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: epidemic bursts with a degrading genome. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2011; 11:641-50. [DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(11)70093-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
32
|
Borile C, Labarre M, Franz S, Sola C, Refrégier G. Using affinity propagation for identifying subspecies among clonal organisms: lessons from M. tuberculosis. BMC Bioinformatics 2011; 12:224. [PMID: 21635750 PMCID: PMC3126747 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2105-12-224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2011] [Accepted: 06/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Classification and naming is a key step in the analysis, understanding and adequate management of living organisms. However, where to set limits between groups can be puzzling especially in clonal organisms. Within the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTC), the etiological agent of tuberculosis (TB), experts have first identified several groups according to their pattern at repetitive sequences, especially at the CRISPR locus (spoligotyping), and to their epidemiological relevance. Most groups such as "Beijing" found good support when tested with other loci. However, other groups such as T family and T1 subfamily (belonging to the "Euro-American" lineage) correspond to non-monophyletic groups and still need to be refined. Here, we propose to use a method called Affinity Propagation that has been successfully used in image categorization to identify relevant patterns at the CRISPR locus in MTC. Results To adequately infer the relative divergence time between strains, we used a distance method inspired by the recent evolutionary model by Reyes et al. We first confirm that this method performs better than the Jaccard index commonly used to compare spoligotype patterns. Second, we document the support of each spoligotype family among the previous classification using affinity propagation on the international spoligotyping database SpolDB4. This allowed us to propose a consensus assignation for all SpolDB4 spoligotypes. Third, we propose new signatures to subclassify the T family. Conclusion Altogether, this study shows how the new clustering algorithm Affinity Propagation can help building or refining clonal organims classifications. It also describes well-supported families and subfamilies among M. tuberculosis complex, especially inside the modern "Euro-American" lineage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Borile
- LPTMS, CNRS and Univ. Paris-Sud, UMR8626, Bat. 100, 91405 Orsay, France
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Tsangaras K, Greenwood AD. Museums and disease: using tissue archive and museum samples to study pathogens. Ann Anat 2011; 194:58-73. [PMID: 21641784 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2011.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2010] [Revised: 04/06/2011] [Accepted: 04/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Molecular studies of archival and fossil samples have traditionally focused on the nucleic acids derived from the host species. However, there has recently been an increase in ancient DNA research on the identification and characterization of infectious agents within the hosts. The study of pathogens from the past provides great opportunities for discovering the causes of historical infection events, characterizing host-microorganism co-evolution and directly investigating the evolution of specific pathogens. Several research teams have been able to isolate and characterize a variety of different bacterial, parasite and viral microorganisms. However, this emerging field is not without obstacles. The diagenetic processes that make ancient DNA research generally difficult are also impediments to ancient pathogen research and perhaps more so given that their DNA may represent an even rarer proportion of the remaining nucleic acids in a fossil sample than host DNA. However, studies performed under controlled conditions and following stringent ancient DNA protocols can and have yielded reliable and often surprising results. This article reviews the advantages, problems, and failures of ancient microbiological research.
Collapse
|
34
|
|
35
|
Guzman JD, Gupta A, Evangelopoulos D, Basavannacharya C, Pabon LC, Plazas EA, Munoz DR, Delgado WA, Cuca LE, Ribon W, Gibbons S, Bhakta S. Anti-tubercular screening of natural products from Colombian plants: 3-methoxynordomesticine, an inhibitor of MurE ligase of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. J Antimicrob Chemother 2010; 65:2101-7. [DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkq313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|