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Zarei A, Pourmand MR, Amin Harati F, Zolfaghari P, Dehghan A, Emamie A, Movahedi S. Multilocus VNTR analysis-ompA typing of Chlamydia trachomatis isolates in Tehran, Iran. J Infect Chemother 2023:S1341-321X(23)00098-3. [PMID: 37062413 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiac.2023.04.007] [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: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This study is the first to describe the genetic diversity of C. trachomatis strains derived from patients with signs and symptoms of genitourinary infections admitted to Tehran health centers and hospitals using the high-resolution genotyping method, multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis with ompA sequencing (MLVA)-ompA. METHODS One hundred and sixty-seven urogenital specimens were collected from October 2019 to July 2020. Specimens were inoculated to cell culture and examined for the presence of C. trachomatis isolates by microscopic valuation. Out of 167 samples, 19 (11.3%) viable C. trachomatis organisms were isolated in cell culture. Eighteen isolates were successfully genotyped by MLVA-ompA analysis. RESULTS The most prevalent ompA genotypes were E, D, F and G, comprising 42%, 26.3% and 21% and 10.5% of isolates, respectively. Other genotypes were not detected from any of the samples. Out of the 18 fully genotyped isolates, 10 different MLVA-ompA genotypes were obtained. The most prevalent MLVA-ompA genotypes were 8.6.1-E (33.3%) and 8.5.2-D (16.6%). Genotype 8.6.1-E was common in both females and males. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that MLVA-ompA analysis was more discriminatory than ompA typing alone and, therefore, a suitable complement to ompA. Using this method, dominant genotypes in the community and transmission patterns in sexual networks could be identified. The high diversity of C. trachomatis strains in Tehran may be due to the low level of public health and awareness, and future studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atefe Zarei
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Pourmand
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Farzaneh Amin Harati
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pouria Zolfaghari
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Dehghan
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Emamie
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shohreh Movahedi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Whole Genome Sequencing of a Chlamydia trachomatis Strain Responsible for a Case of Rectal Lymphogranuloma Venereum in Italy. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:1852-1859. [PMID: 36975489 PMCID: PMC10047300 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45030119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a systemic sexually transmitted infection caused by Chlamydia trachomatis serovars L1 to L3. The current LGV cases in Europe are mainly characterized by an anorectal syndrome, spreading within men who have sex with men (MSM). Whole-genome sequencing of LGV strains is crucial to the study of bacterial genomic variants and to improve strategies for contact tracing and prevention. In this study, we described the whole genome of a C. trachomatis strain (LGV/17) responsible for a case of rectal LGV. LGV/17 strain was isolated in 2017 in Bologna (North of Italy) from a HIV-positive MSM, presenting a symptomatic proctitis. After the propagation in LLC-MK2 cells, the strain underwent whole-genome sequencing by means of two platforms. Sequence type was determined using the tool MLST 2.0, whereas the genovariant was characterized by an ompA sequence evaluation. A phylogenetic tree was generated by comparing the LGV/17 sequence with a series of L2 genomes, downloaded from the NCBI website. LGV/17 belonged to sequence type ST44 and to the genovariant L2f. Nine ORFs encoding for polymorphic membrane proteins A-I and eight encoding for glycoproteins Pgp1-8 were detected in the chromosome and in the plasmid, respectively. LGV/17 was closely related to other L2f strains, even in the light of a not-negligible variability. The LGV/17 strain showed a genomic structure similar to reference sequences and was phylogenetically related to isolates from disparate parts of the world, indicative of the long-distance dynamics of transmission.
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Shetty S, Kouskouti C, Schoen U, Evangelatos N, Vishwanath S, Satyamoorthy K, Kainer F, Brand A. Diagnosis of Chlamydia trachomatis genital infections in the era of genomic medicine. Braz J Microbiol 2021; 52:1327-1339. [PMID: 34164797 PMCID: PMC8221097 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-021-00533-z] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Chlamydial genital infections constitute significant sexually transmitted infections worldwide. The often asymptomatic status of C. trachomatis (CT) infections leads to an increased burden on human reproductive health, especially in middle- and low-income settings. Early detection and management of these infections could play a decisive role in controlling this public health burden. The objective of this review is to provide an insight into the evolution of diagnostic methods for CT infections through the development of new molecular technologies, emphasizing on -omics' technologies and their significance as diagnostic tools both for effective patient management and control of disease transmission. METHODS Narrative review of the diagnostic methodologies of CT infections and the impact of the introduction of -omics' technologies on their diagnosis by review of the literature. RESULTS Various methodologies are discussed with respect to working principles, required specifications, advantages, and disadvantages. Implementing the most accurate methods in diagnosis is highlighted as the cornerstone in managing CT infections. CONCLUSION Diagnostics based on -omics' technologies are considered to be the most pertinent modalities in CT testing when compared to other available methods. There is a need to modify these effective and accurate diagnostic tools in order to render them more available and feasible in all settings, especially aiming on turning them to rapid point-of-care tests for effective patient management and disease control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seema Shetty
- Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Madhav Nagar, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India.
- United Nations University - Maastricht Economics and Social Research Institute On Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT), Maastricht, 6211, AX, The Netherlands.
- Manipal Centre for Infectious Diseases, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India.
| | - Christina Kouskouti
- Department of Obstetrics and Perinatal Medicine, Klinik Hallerwiese, St. Johannis-Muhlgasse 19, 90419, Nuremberg, Germany
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mt. Sinai Hospital University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Uwe Schoen
- BioMedHeliX (Pty) Ltd., 3 Conifer Road, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa
| | - Nikolaos Evangelatos
- United Nations University - Maastricht Economics and Social Research Institute On Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT), Maastricht, 6211, AX, The Netherlands
- Interdepartmental Division of Critical Care Medicine, University of Toronto, ON, Canada
- Dr. TMA Pai Endowment Chair in Research Policy in Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, Prasanna School of Public Health (PSPH), Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Shashidhar Vishwanath
- Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Madhav Nagar, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
- Manipal Centre for Infectious Diseases, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Kapaettu Satyamoorthy
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
| | - Franz Kainer
- Department of Obstetrics and Perinatal Medicine, Klinik Hallerwiese, St. Johannis-Muhlgasse 19, 90419, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Angela Brand
- United Nations University - Maastricht Economics and Social Research Institute On Innovation and Technology (UNU-MERIT), Maastricht, 6211, AX, The Netherlands
- Dr. TMA Pai Endowment Chair in Public Health Genomics, Department of Public Health Genomics, Manipal School of Life Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, Karnataka, India
- Department of International Health, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, 6229, GT, The Netherlands
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Marangoni A, Foschi C, Tartari F, Gaspari V, Re MC. Lymphogranuloma venereum genovariants in men having sex with men in Italy. Sex Transm Infect 2020; 97:441-445. [DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2020-054700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 09/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesLymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is an STI caused by Chlamydia trachomatis serovars L1-L3. In Europe, the current epidemic is caused mainly by L2b genovariant, although increasing cases associated with other L2 variants have been reported. Here, we assessed the distribution of rectal LGV genovariants among men having sex with men (MSM) in Italy.MethodsFrom 2016 to 2020, all the anorectal swabs collected from MSM attending the STI Clinic of St. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital in Bologna and positive for C. trachomatis were stored. LGV infection was confirmed by a pmpH PCR, and, subsequently, a fragment of the ompA gene was amplified and sequenced. Sequences were aligned to reference strains representing different LGV variants.ResultsLGV cases accounted for one-third of all chlamydial rectal infections with a total prevalence of 4.1% (76/1852). Total number of LGV cases per year remained constant. LGV was mainly found in symptomatic patients (>65%), older than 30 years, with a high burden of other STIs (63.7% HIV-positive, 35.5% with concurrent rectal gonorrhoea, 19.7% with early syphilis). A decreasing trend in HIV-LGV co-infection was noticed over time. Three main LGV genovariants were detected (L2f, 46.1%; L2b, 23.0%; L2-L2b/D-Da, 16.9%), together with other known L2b variants (mainly L2bV2 and L2bV4). Two novel L2b ompA variants with non-synonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms were found. Over time, the percentage of L2f cases dropped gradually, with a significant increase in L2-L2b/D-Da cases (p=0.04).ConclusionsIn our area, LGV is endemic among MSM with different circulating genovariants. Active surveillance and genotyping programmes are needed to reduce re-establishing of LGV infection.
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Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis in an asymptomatic female population attending cervical cytology services of three healthcare centers in Medellín, Colombia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 40:534-545. [PMID: 33030832 PMCID: PMC7666851 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.5225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Introducción. La infección de transmisión sexual causada por Chlamydia trachomatis es la más frecuente de etiología bacteriana en el mundo. Aunque puede ser asintomática en la mayoría de los casos, C. trachomatis puede generar diversos problemas de salud reproductiva en mujeres, como cervicitis, endometritis y salpingitis. A pesar de su importancia, en Medellín no se cuenta con suficientes datos epidemiológicos sobre esta infección. Objetivo. Determinar la prevalencia de C. trachomatis en mujeres de Medellín, determinar los posibles factores de riesgo y evaluar la relación con la infección por el virus de papiloma humano (HPV). Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio transversal multicéntrico para detectar la infección por C. trachomatis en 1.282 mujeres mediante reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) convencional y el estuche comercial LightMix 480 HT CT/NG™ (Roche, Basilea, Suiza). Resultados. La prevalencia total de la infección por C. trachomatis fue de 4,1 % (IC95% 2,9-5,3). Se encontró una relación significativa de la infección con la edad, el consumo de cigarrillo y el uso de anticonceptivos hormonales. Conclusión. La prevalencia de la infección es similar a la reportada en otros lugares del país y del mundo, siendo las mujeres más jóvenes las más afectadas. En cuanto a la presentación del HPV, no se encontró ningún tipo de relación con C. trachomatis.
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Sánchez-Anguiano LF, Velázquez-Hernández N, Guerra-Infante FM, Aguilar-Durán M, Pérez-Álamos AR, Estrada-Martínez S, Navarrete-Flores JA, Sandoval-Carrillo AA, Antuna-Salcido EI, Hernández-Tinoco J, Alvarado-Esquivel C. Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis Infection Diagnosed by Polymerase Chain Reaction in Female Sex Workers in a Northern Mexican City. Eur J Microbiol Immunol (Bp) 2019; 9:5-8. [PMID: 30967969 PMCID: PMC6444802 DOI: 10.1556/1886.2018.00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We aimed to determine the association between Chlamydia trachomatis infection and female sex work, and the association between sociodemographic, obstetric, and behavioral characteristics of female sex workers and C. trachomatis infection. Methods Through a case–control study design, we studied 201 female sex workers and 201 age-matched women without sex work in Durango City, Mexico. C. trachomatis DNA was detected in cervical swab samples using polymerase chain reaction. Results C. trachomatis DNA was detected in 32 (15.9%) of the 201 cases and in 6 (3.0%) of the 201 controls (odds ratio [OR] = 6.15; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.5–15.0; P < 0.001). The frequency of infection with C. trachomatis in female sex workers did not vary (P > 0.05) regardless of the history of pregnancies, deliveries, cesarean sections, or miscarriages. Regression analysis of the behavioral characteristics showed that infection with C. trachomatis was associated only with consumption of alcohol (OR = 2.39; 95% CI: 1.0–5.71; P = 0.04). Conclusions: We conclude that C. trachomatis infection is associated with female sex work in Durango City, Mexico. This is the first age-matched case–control study on the prevalence of C. trachomatis infection in female sex workers in Mexico using detection of C. trachomatis DNA in cervical samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Francisco Sánchez-Anguiano
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm ", Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N, 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Nadia Velázquez-Hernández
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm ", Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N, 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Fernando Martín Guerra-Infante
- Departamento de Infectología, Laboratorio de Virología del Instituto Nacional de Perinatología, Departamento de Microbiología de la Escuela Nacional de Ciencias Biólogicas, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, D.F México
| | - Marisela Aguilar-Durán
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm ", Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N, 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Alma Rosa Pérez-Álamos
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm ", Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N, 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Sergio Estrada-Martínez
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm ", Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N, 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - José Antonio Navarrete-Flores
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm ", Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N, 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Ada Agustina Sandoval-Carrillo
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm ", Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N, 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Elizabeth Irasema Antuna-Salcido
- Institute for Scientific Research "Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm ", Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N, 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Jesús Hernández-Tinoco
- Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N, 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Cosme Alvarado-Esquivel
- Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N, 34000 Durango, Mexico
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Balla E, Petrovay F, Erdősi T, Balázs A, Henczkó J, Urbán E, Donders GGG. Distribution of Chlamydia trachomatis genotypes in neonatal conjunctivitis in Hungary. J Med Microbiol 2017; 66:915-918. [DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Balla
- Department of Bacteriology II, National Public Health Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Fruzsina Petrovay
- Department of Bacteriology II, National Public Health Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tímea Erdősi
- Department of Phage and Molecular Typing, National Public Health Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea Balázs
- Department of Bacteriology II, National Public Health Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Judit Henczkó
- Department of Bacteriology II, National Public Health Institute, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Edit Urbán
- Institute of Clinical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gilbert G. G. Donders
- Femicare Clinical Research for Women, Tienen, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Antwerp, Edegem, Belgium
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Pais R, Omosun Y, He Q, Blas-Machado U, Black C, Igietseme JU, Fujihashi K, Eko FO. Rectal administration of a chlamydial subunit vaccine protects against genital infection and upper reproductive tract pathology in mice. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0178537. [PMID: 28570663 PMCID: PMC5453548 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0178537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 05/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we tested the hypothesis that rectal immunization with a VCG-based chlamydial vaccine would cross-protect mice against heterologous genital Chlamydia trachomatis infection and Chlamydia-induced upper genital tract pathologies in mice. Female mice were immunized with a C. trachomatis serovar D-derived subunit vaccine or control or live serovar D elementary bodies (EBs) and the antigen-specific mucosal and systemic immune responses were characterized. Vaccine efficacy was determined by evaluating the intensity and duration of genital chlamydial shedding following intravaginal challenge with live serovar E chlamydiae. Protection against upper genital tract pathology was determined by assessing infertility and tubal inflammation. Rectal immunization elicited high levels of chlamydial-specific IFN-gamma-producing CD4 T cells and humoral immune responses in mucosal and systemic tissues. The elicited immune effectors cross-reacted with the serovar E chlamydial antigen and reduced the length and intensity of genital chlamydial shedding. Furthermore, immunization with the VCG-vaccine but not the rVCG-gD2 control reduced the incidence of tubal inflammation and protected mice against Chlamydia-induced infertility. These results highlight the potential of rectal immunization as a viable mucosal route for inducing protective immunity in the female genital tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roshan Pais
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Yusuf Omosun
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Qing He
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Uriel Blas-Machado
- Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Carolyn Black
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Joseph U. Igietseme
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Kohtaro Fujihashi
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, Immunobiology Vaccine Center, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham Alabama, United States of America
| | - Francis O. Eko
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Immunology, Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
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Petrovay F, Balla E, Erdősi T. Emergence of the lymphogranuloma venereum L2c genovariant, Hungary, 2012 to 2016. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017; 22. [PMID: 28183394 PMCID: PMC5388118 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2017.22.5.30455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In eastern Europe, few countries have so far reported laboratory-confirmed cases of lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV). Here we describe 22 LGV cases in men who have sex with men (MSM) detected in Hungary from November 2012 to July 2016. Sequence analyses show that 16 of these 22 cases were affected by the L2c genovariant, with from 2012 to 2014, one LGV L2c case detected per year, followed by seven cases in 2015 and six up to July 2016. Of the 16 total L2c LGV cases, 10 had severe haemorrhagic proctitis. These findings are concerning as cases with this new genovariant among MSM have not been frequently reported in Europe to date. More research is needed to assess the spread of the L2c genovariant and its potential association with virulence and severe clinical manifestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fruzsina Petrovay
- Department of Bacteriology II., National Centre for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Eszter Balla
- Department of Bacteriology II., National Centre for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tímea Erdősi
- Department of Phage and Molecular Typing, National Centre for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
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Rawre J, Juyal D, Dhawan B. Molecular typing of Chlamydia trachomatis: An overview. Indian J Med Microbiol 2017; 35:17-26. [PMID: 28303813 DOI: 10.4103/ijmm.ijmm_16_341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Urogenital infection due to Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) is one of the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and is a major public health problem worldwide. Molecular characterisation of CT is important for understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of chlamydial disease and its transmission dynamics in sexual networks. Traditionally, strain typing of CT was based on serotyping methods characterising the major outer membrane protein (MOMP). With the advent of polymerase chain reaction and sequencing the era of molecular typing began. Molecular characterization of CT strains is based on sequence analysis of ompA gene encoding MOMP. However, in due course of time, improvements were made to enhance the discriminatory power of sequencing and quality of epidemiological information. New high-resolution genotyping methods using multiple loci such as multilocus sequence typing (MLST) and multiple loci variable number of tandem repeats (MLVA) were developed but were unable to differentiate mixed infections (MIs). The development of DNA-hybridisation methods emerged as a major breakthrough in detecting MIs. Although MLST and MLVA are more discriminative than other genotyping methods, they are laborious and expensive. DNA microarray technique is an affordable alternative for genotyping. Since recombination is widespread in the CT genome, ompA is not a reliable marker for phylogenetic studies; hence, whole genome sequencing may provide maximum phylogenetic resolution of CT strains. A descriptive review is provided of the various molecular CT typing methods. The vital information gained can be used for formulating screening programmes, targeted prevention and optimising therapeutic measures aiming to reduce disease transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyoti Rawre
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Deepak Juyal
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Benu Dhawan
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Jiang P, Du W, Xiong Y, Lv Y, Feng J, Zhu S, Xue X, Chen S, Zhang L. Hepatitis B virus core antigen as a carrier for Chlamydia trachomatis MOMP multi-epitope peptide enhances protection against genital chlamydial infection. Oncotarget 2016; 6:43281-92. [PMID: 26657117 PMCID: PMC4791232 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.6533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct) is the leading cause of sexually transmitted diseases worldwide. There is no safe and effective vaccine to control the spread of Ct. In development of Ct vaccine, selection of appropriate candidate antigens and an effective delivery system may be the main challenges. Multi-epitope of major outer membrane protein (MOMPm) is the most suitable candidate for a Ct vaccine, while hepatitis B virus core antigen (HBcAg) has unique advantages as vaccine delivery system. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the immunogenicity and protective immune response of a novel candidate vaccine in a murine model of chlamydial genital infection. This candidate vaccine comprises MOMPm peptide delivered with HBcAg. Our results of Ct-specific serum IgG and secretory IgA assay, cytokine assay, and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte assay revealed that immunogenicity of the candidate vaccine was much better than that of the corresponding synthetic MOMPm peptide. Furthermore, the protective effect of the candidate vaccine was also shown much better than that of the synthetic peptide by calculating the isolation of Chlamydia from vaginal swabs and histopathological analysis. Taken together, our results indicate that HBcAg carrying Ct MOMPm could be an effective immune prophylactic for chlamydial infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Jiang
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Wangqi Du
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Yirong Xiong
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Yan Lv
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Juan Feng
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Shanli Zhu
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Xiangyang Xue
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Shao Chen
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
| | - Lifang Zhang
- Institute of Molecular Virology and Immunology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, P. R. China
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Badamchi-Zadeh A, McKay PF, Korber BT, Barinaga G, Walters AA, Nunes A, Gomes JP, Follmann F, Tregoning JS, Shattock RJ. A Multi-Component Prime-Boost Vaccination Regimen with a Consensus MOMP Antigen Enhances Chlamydia trachomatis Clearance. Front Immunol 2016; 7:162. [PMID: 27199987 PMCID: PMC4848310 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A vaccine for Chlamydia trachomatis is of urgent medical need. We explored bioinformatic approaches to generate an immunogen against C. trachomatis that would induce cross-serovar T-cell responses as (i) CD4(+) T cells have been shown in animal models and human studies to be important in chlamydial protection and (ii) antibody responses may be restrictive and serovar specific. METHODS A consensus antigen based on over 1,500 major outer membrane protein (MOMP) sequences provided high epitope coverage against the most prevalent C. trachomatis strains in silico. Having designed the T-cell immunogen, we assessed it for immunogenicity in prime-boost regimens. This consensus MOMP transgene was delivered using plasmid DNA, Human Adenovirus 5 (HuAd5) or modified vaccinia Ankara (MVA) vectors with or without MF59(®) adjuvanted recombinant MOMP protein. RESULTS Different regimens induced distinct immune profiles. The DNA-HuAd5-MVA-Protein vaccine regimen induced a cellular response with a Th1-biased serum antibody response, alongside high serum and vaginal MOMP-specific antibodies. This regimen significantly enhanced clearance against intravaginal C. trachomatis serovar D infection in both BALB/c and B6C3F1 mouse strains. This enhanced clearance was shown to be CD4(+) T-cell dependent. Future studies will need to confirm the specificity and precise mechanisms of protection. CONCLUSION A C. trachomatis vaccine needs to induce a robust cellular response with broad cross-serovar coverage and a heterologous prime-boost regimen may be an approach to achieve this.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul F McKay
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Bette T Korber
- Los Alamos National Laboratory, Theoretical Division , Los Alamos, NM , USA
| | - Guillermo Barinaga
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Adam A Walters
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Alexandra Nunes
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - João Paulo Gomes
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Health , Lisbon , Portugal
| | - Frank Follmann
- Chlamydia Vaccine Research, Department of Infectious Disease Immunology, Statens Serum Institute , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - John S Tregoning
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
| | - Robin J Shattock
- Mucosal Infection and Immunity Group, Imperial College London , London , UK
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13
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Foschi C, Nardini P, Banzola N, D'Antuono A, Compri M, Cevenini R, Marangoni A. Chlamydia trachomatis infection prevalence and serovar distribution in a high-density urban area in the north of Italy. J Med Microbiol 2016; 65:510-520. [PMID: 27046236 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection prevalence and serovar distribution in a high-density urban area in the north of Italy, by comparing different groups of subjects divided on the basis of the type of care provider they referred to (STI Clinic, gynaecologists or general practitioners). From January 2011 to May 2014, all the specimens submitted to the Microbiology Laboratory of St Orsola Hospital in Bologna for CT detection were tested by PCR assay. For positive specimens, molecular genotyping based on RFLP analysis was performed. Total prevalence of CT infection was 8.1 %, with significant differences between subgroups (P<0.01) but stable during the study period. The STI Clinic was mainly responsible for CT diagnosis, whereas the lowest infection prevalence was detected in gynaecological clinics, despite the high number of tests performed. Extra-genital samples were almost exclusively collected from males at the STI Clinic. Interestingly, 13.3 % of patients providing extra-genital specimens were positive for CT on rectal and/or pharyngeal swabs, and 4.4 % of cases would have been missed if extra-genital sites had not been tested. The most common serovar was E, and serovar distribution was influenced by gender (P<0.01), age (P<0.01), care provider (P=0.01) and anatomical site (P<0.01). The L2 serovar was detected only in extra-genital samples from males at the STI Clinic. Knowledge about care providers' contributions in CT testing and diagnosis is essential for infection control. CT typing is crucial for appropriate management of specific infections, such as lymphogranuloma venereum in extra-genital samples of high-risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio Foschi
- Microbiology, DIMES, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Paola Nardini
- Microbiology, DIMES, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | | | - Monica Compri
- Microbiology, DIMES, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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14
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Petrovay F, Németh I, Balázs A, Balla E. Chlamydial conjunctivitis: prevalence and serovar distribution of Chlamydia trachomatis in adults. J Med Microbiol 2015; 64:967-970. [PMID: 26297635 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.000115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The extragenital manifestation of Chlamydia trachomatis infection frequently results in non-specific conjunctivitis among sexually active adults. The aims of the present study were to determine the prevalence of C. trachomatis, to describe the distribution of serovars among patients with conjunctivitis and to characterize the relationship between the prevalence and patient demographics such as age and gender. A total of 245 conjunctival specimens were screened for C. trachomatis DNA targeting the plasmid gene. Serovar determination of the C. trachomatis-positive specimens was carried out by an omp1 PCR-based RFLP analysis method. Statistical analysis was done using a generalized linear model. C. trachomatis was detected in 53 cases (21.6 %) of adult conjunctivitis. Molecular genotyping differentiated seven distinct urogenital serovars, the most prevalent being serovar E (16/53), followed by F (15/53), D (6/53), K (6/53), G (4/53), H (4/53) and J (2/53). Statistical analysis showed higher C. trachomatis prevalence in the younger age groups, and this peaked at younger age in women than in men. The high prevalence of this pathogen found in ocular samples should alert ophthalmologists to focus on the role of C. trachomatis in adult conjunctivitis. The serovar distribution indicated that ocular chlamydial infections usually have a genital source. Nevertheless, conjunctivitis might be the only sign of this sexually transmitted infection. Further comparative genotyping of C. trachomatis in ocular and genital specimens might give more detailed epidemiological information about the aetiology of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fruzsina Petrovay
- Department of Bacteriology, National Centre for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - István Németh
- Developmental Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Gedeon Richter, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea Balázs
- Department of Bacteriology, National Centre for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Eszter Balla
- Department of Bacteriology, National Centre for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
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15
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Balla E, Petrovay F, Mag T, Balázs A, Erdősi T, Együd K, Bánvölgyi A, Marschalkó M. Confirmed cases of lymphogranuloma venereum in Hungary, 2012-2014: supportive diagnostic tool of immunoblotting. Sex Transm Infect 2015; 91:200. [PMID: 25887854 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2014-051673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Balla
- 2nd Department of Bacteriology, National Center for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Fruzsina Petrovay
- 2nd Department of Bacteriology, National Center for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tünde Mag
- 2nd Department of Bacteriology, National Center for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Andrea Balázs
- 2nd Department of Bacteriology, National Center for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Tímea Erdősi
- Department of Phage Typing and Molecular Epidemiology, National Center for Epidemiology, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Együd
- András Jósa County and Teaching Hospital, Nyíregyháza, Hungary
| | - András Bánvölgyi
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Dermatooncology of Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Márta Marschalkó
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Dermatooncology of Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
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16
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Zhu S, Feng Y, Chen J, Lin X, Xue X, Chen S, Zhong X, Li W, Zhang L. Identification of linear B-cell epitopes within Tarp of Chlamydia trachomatis. J Pept Sci 2014; 20:916-22. [PMID: 25377871 DOI: 10.1002/psc.2689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2013] [Revised: 08/10/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted pathogens. There is currently no commercially available vaccine against C. trachomatis. Chlamydial translocated actin-recruiting phosphoprotein (Tarp) can induce cellular and humoral immune responses in murine models and has been regarded as a potential vaccine candidate. In this report, the amino acid sequence of Tarp was analyzed using computer-assisted techniques to scan B-cell epitopes, and six possible linear B-cell epitopes peptides (aa80-95, aa107-123, aa152-170, aa171-186, aa239-253 and aa497-513) with high predicted antigenicity and high conservation were investigated. Sera from mice immunized with these potential immunodominant peptides was analyzed by ELISA, which showed that epitope 152-170 elicited serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) response and epitope 171-186 elicited both serum IgG and mucosal secretory immunoglobulin A response. The response of immune sera of epitope 171-186 to endogenous Tarp antigen obtained from the Hela229 cells infected with C. trachomatis was confirmed by Western blot and indirect fluorescence assay. In addition, binding of the antibodies against epitope 171-186 to endogenous Tarp was further confirmed by competitive ELISA. Our results demonstrated that the putative epitope (aa171-186) was an immunodominant B-cell epitope of Tarp. If proven protective and safe, this epitope, in combination with other well-documented epitopes, might be included into a candidate epitope-based vaccine against C. trachomatis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanli Zhu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China
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Zhu S, Feng Y, Rao P, Xue X, Chen S, Li W, Zhu G, Zhang L. Hepatitis B virus surface antigen as delivery vector can enhance Chlamydia trachomatis MOMP multi-epitope immune response in mice. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2014; 98:4107-17. [PMID: 24458565 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-014-5517-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Revised: 12/30/2013] [Accepted: 01/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is the leading cause of sexually transmitted infections worldwide. There is currently no commercially available vaccine against C. trachomatis. Major outer membrane protein (MOMP) of C. trachomatis is considered to be an ideal candidate for prophylactic vaccine. We designed a MOMP multi-epitope containing T- and B-cell epitope-rich peptides and developed hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) as antigen delivery vehicle. In order to study the immunogenicity and efficacy of the candidate vaccine in a murine model of chlamydial genital infection, we engineered a recombinant plasmid expressing HBsAg and MOMP multi-epitope genes. Results of reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence assay revealed successful expression of the recombinant HBsAg/MOMP multi-epitope gene at both the transcription and translation levels. Intramuscular administration in mice was able to elicit not only antibodies against Chlamydia and HBsAg but also cytotoxic T lymphocyte activity against Chlamydia. In addition, mice inoculated with the rHBsAg were highly resistant to C. trachomatis genital infection. The rHBsAg DNA with MOMP multi-epitope appended at the C terminus of the HBsAg stimulated a stronger immune response and protective response than that appended at the N terminus. Together, our results suggested that use of a recombinant HBsAg encoding the MOMP multi-epitope could be a powerful approach to developing a safe and immunogenic C. trachomatis vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanli Zhu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325000, China,
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18
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Gharsallah H, Frikha-Gargouri O, Sellami H, Besbes F, Znazen A, Hammami A. Chlamydia trachomatis genovar distribution in clinical urogenital specimens from Tunisian patients: high prevalence of C. trachomatis genovar E and mixed infections. BMC Infect Dis 2012. [PMID: 23198910 PMCID: PMC3573954 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2334-12-333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background This epidemiological study was carried out in Sfax (south of Tunisia) and focused on genital Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis) genovar distribution. Methods One hundred and thirty seven genital samples from 4067 patients (4.2%) attending the Habib Bourguiba University hospital of Sfax over 12 years (from 2000 to 2011) were found to be C. trachomatis PCR positive by the Cobas Amplicor system. These samples were genotyped by an in house reverse hybridization method. Results One hundred and eight (78.8%) samples contained only one genovar and 29 (21.2%) samples contained two or three genovars. Genovar E was the most prevalent (70.8%) single genovar and it was detected in 90.6% of all the cases. Genovars J, C and L1-L3 were not detected in our samples whereas ocular genovars A and B were in 5 cases. All the five cases were mixed infections. Men had more mixed infections than women (p=0.02) and were more frequently infected by genovars F and K (p<0.05). No associations between current infection, infertility and the genovar distribution were observed. Patients coinfected with Neisseria gonorrhoeae were also significantly more frequently infected with mixed genovars (p=0.04). Conclusions In conclusion, we have reported a high prevalence of genovar E and of mixed infections in our study population. Such data could have implications for the control and vaccine development of C. trachomatis in Tunisia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houda Gharsallah
- Department of Microbiology and research laboratory Microorganismes et Pathologie Humaine, Habib Bourguiba university hospital, medical school of Sfax, University of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia
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Kese D, Potocnik M, Maticic M, Kogoj R. Genotyping of Chlamydia trachomatis directly from urogenital and conjunctiva samples using an ompA gene pyrosequencing-based assay. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 63:210-6. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-695x.2011.00843.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Darja Kese
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology; Medical Faculty Ljubljana; University of Ljubljana; Ljubljana; Slovenia
| | - Marko Potocnik
- Department of Dermatovenereology; University Medical Centre Ljubljana; Ljubljana; Slovenia
| | - Mojca Maticic
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Febrile Illnesses; University Medical Centre Ljubljana; Ljubljana; Slovenia
| | - Rok Kogoj
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology; Medical Faculty Ljubljana; University of Ljubljana; Ljubljana; Slovenia
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20
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Eko FO, Okenu DN, Singh UP, He Q, Black C, Igietseme JU. Evaluation of a broadly protective Chlamydia-cholera combination vaccine candidate. Vaccine 2011; 29:3802-10. [PMID: 21421002 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2011.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Revised: 02/18/2011] [Accepted: 03/05/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The need to simultaneously target infections with epidemiological overlap in the population with a single vaccine provides the basis for developing combination vaccines. Vibrio cholerae ghosts (rVCG) offer an attractive approach for developing vaccines against a number of human and animal pathogens. In this study, we constructed a multisubunit vaccine candidate co-expressing the serovar D-derived Porin B and polymorphic membrane protein-D proteins of Chlamydia trachomatis and evaluated its ability to simultaneously induce broad-based chlamydial immunity and elicit a vibriocidal antibody response to the Vibrio carrier envelope. Intramuscular (IM) immunization with the vaccine candidate elicited high levels of antigen-specific genital mucosal and systemic Th1 cell-mediated and humoral immune responses against heterologous serovars and strains, including serovars E-H and L. Also, in addition to the multisubunit vaccine, the single subunit constructs conferred significant cross protection against the heterologous mouse strain, Chlamydia muridarum. Furthermore, all mice immunized with rVCG vaccine constructs responded with a significant rise in vibriocidal antibody titer, the surrogate marker for protection in cholera. These findings demonstrate the ability of the multisubunit vaccine to induce cross protective chlamydial as well as vibriocidal immunity and establish the possibility of developing a broadly efficacious Chlamydia-cholera combination vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- F O Eko
- Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States.
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21
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Wang Y, Skilton RJ, Cutcliffe LT, Andrews E, Clarke IN, Marsh P. Evaluation of a high resolution genotyping method for Chlamydia trachomatis using routine clinical samples. PLoS One 2011; 6:e16971. [PMID: 21347295 PMCID: PMC3037941 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0016971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2010] [Accepted: 01/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Genital chlamydia infection is the most commonly diagnosed sexually transmitted infection in the UK. C. trachomatis genital infections are usually caused by strains which fall into two pathovars: lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) and the genitourinary genotypes D–K. Although these genotypes can be discriminated by outer membrane protein gene (ompA) sequencing or multi-locus sequence typing (MLST), neither protocol affords the high-resolution genotyping required for local epidemiology and accurate contact-tracing. Principal Findings We evaluated variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) and ompA sequencing (now called multi-locus VNTR analysis and ompA or “MLVA-ompA”) to study local epidemiology in Southampton over a period of six months. One hundred and fifty seven endocervical swabs that tested positive for C. trachomatis from both the Southampton genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic and local GP surgeries were tested by COBAS Taqman 48 (Roche) PCR for the presence of C. trachomatis. Samples tested as positive by the commercial NAATs test were genotyped, where possible, by a MLVA-ompA sequencing technique. Attempts were made to isolate C. trachomatis from all 157 samples in cell culture, and 68 (43%) were successfully recovered by repeatable passage in culture. Of the 157 samples, 93 (i.e. 59%) were fully genotyped by MLVA-ompA. Only one mixed infection (E & D) in a single sample was confirmed. There were two distinct D genotypes for the ompA gene. Most frequent ompA genotypes were D, E and F, comprising 20%, 41% and 16% of the type-able samples respectively. Within all genotypes we detected numerous MLVA sub-types. Conclusions Amongst the common genotypes, there are a significant number of defined MLVA sub-types, which may reflect particular background demographics including age group, geography, high-risk sexual behavior, and sexual networks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibing Wang
- Molecular Microbiology and Infection, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel J. Skilton
- Molecular Microbiology and Infection, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Lesley T. Cutcliffe
- Molecular Microbiology and Infection, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Andrews
- Regional Microbiology Network Southampton Laboratory, Health Protection Agency, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Ian N. Clarke
- Molecular Microbiology and Infection, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Pete Marsh
- Regional Microbiology Network Southampton Laboratory, Health Protection Agency, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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22
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Machado ACS, Bandea CI, Alves MFC, Joseph K, Igietseme J, Miranda AE, Guimarães EMB, Turchi MD, Black CM. Distribution of Chlamydia trachomatis genovars among youths and adults in Brazil. J Med Microbiol 2010; 60:472-476. [PMID: 21183598 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.026476-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite a high prevalence of sexually transmitted Chlamydia trachomatis infections in Brazil and other countries in South America, very little is known about the distribution of C. trachomatis genovars. In this study, we genotyped C. trachomatis strains from urine or endocervical specimens collected from 163 C. trachomatis-positive female and male youths, and female adults, residing in two different regions of Brazil, the city of Goiânia located in the central part of Brazil, and the city of Vitória in the south-east region. C. trachomatis strains were genotyped by amplifying and sequencing the ompA gene encoding the chlamydial major outer-membrane protein, which is genovar specific. We found nine different C. trachomatis genovars: E (39.3%), F (16.6%), D (15.9%), I (8.6%), J (7.4%), G (4.9%), K (3.1%), H (2.4%) and B (1.8%). The distribution of the C. trachomatis genovars in the two regions of Brazil was similar, and there was no statistically significant association of serovars with age, gender, number of sexual partners or clinical symptoms. The overall distribution of C. trachomatis genovars in Brazil appears similar to that found in other regions of the world, where E, D and F are the most common. This supports the notion that, during the last few decades, the overall distribution of C. trachomatis genovars throughout the world has been relatively stable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C S Machado
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, Parasitology and Pathology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Brazil
| | - Claudiu I Bandea
- Division of Scientific Resources, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Maria F C Alves
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, Parasitology and Pathology, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Brazil
| | - Kahaliah Joseph
- Division of Scientific Resources, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Joseph Igietseme
- Division of Scientific Resources, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Angélica E Miranda
- Nucleus of Infectious Diseases, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, Brazil
| | - Eleuse M B Guimarães
- Division of Adolescent Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Federal University of Goiás, Brazil
| | - Marília D Turchi
- Department of Community Health, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public Health, Federal University of Goiás, Brazil
| | - Carolyn M Black
- Division of Scientific Resources, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
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Zhu S, Chen J, Zheng M, Gong W, Xue X, Li W, Zhang L. Identification of immunodominant linear B-cell epitopes within the major outer membrane protein of Chlamydia trachomatis. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2010; 42:771-8. [PMID: 20923859 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmq087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlamydia trachomatis is one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted pathogens. Chlamydial major outer membrane protein (MOMP) can induce strong cellular and humoral immune responses in murine models and has been regarded as a potential vaccine candidate. In this report, the amino acid sequence of MOMP was analyzed using computer-assisted techniques to scan B-cell epitopes, and three possible linear B-cell epitopes peptides (VLKTDVNKE, TKDASIDYHE, TRLIDERAAH) with high predicted antigenicity and high conservation were investigated. The DNA coding region for each potential epitope was cloned into pET32a(+) and expressed as Trx-His-tag fusion proteins in Escherichia coli. The fusion proteins were purified by Ni-NTA agarose beads and followed by SDS-PAGE and western blot analysis. We immunized mice with these three fusion proteins. The sera containing anti-epitope antibodies from the immunized mice could recognize C. trachomatis serovars D and E in ELISA. Antisera of these fusion proteins displayed an inhibitory effect on invasion of serovar E by in vitro neutralization assays. In addition, serum samples from convalescent C. trachomatis-infected patients were reactive with the epitope fusion proteins by western blot assay. Our results showed that the epitope sequences selected by bioinformatic analysis are highly conserved C. trachomatis MOMP B-cell epitopes, and could be good candidates for the development of subunit vaccines, which can be used in clinical diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanli Zhu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Wenzhou Medical College, China
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