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Wu S, Shao T, Xie J, Li J, Sun L, Zhang Y, Zhao L, Wang L, Li X, Zhang L, Wang R. MiR-199a-3p regulates HCT-8 cell autophagy and apoptosis in response to Cryptosporidium parvum infection by targeting MTOR. Commun Biol 2024; 7:924. [PMID: 39085368 PMCID: PMC11291649 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-06632-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The microRNAs (miRNAs) of their hosts play an important role in regulating both the innate and adaptive immune responses to Cryptosporidium parvum infection. The mechanisms of autophagy and apoptosis are important components of the defense system against C. parvum infection. In this study, we investigate the role of miRNA-199a-3p in regulating MTOR-mediated autophagy and apoptosis in HCT-8 cells induced by C. parvum. The expression of miR-199a-3p increased at 3, 6 and 12 hours postinfection (hpi) but decreased at 24 and 48 hpi. The upregulation of miR-199a-3p promoted autophagy and apoptosis and limited the parasite burden in HCT-8 cells after C. parvum infection. The downregulation of miR-199a-3p inhibited the autophagy and apoptosis induced by C. parvum and enhanced the parasite burden in HCT-8 cells. A luciferase reporter showed that MTOR was a target gene of miR-199a-3p. Suppressed expression of MTOR by small interfering RNA (siRNA) promoted autophagy and apoptosis and limited C. parvum burden in HCT-8 cells. Co-transfection with miR-199a-3p inhibitor or si-mTOR revealed that miR-199a-3p regulates autophagy and apoptosis in HCT-8 cells through MTOR, to resist C. parvum infection. In conclusion, intestinal epithelial cells defend against C. parvum infection by regulating their autophagy and apoptosis through the miR-199a-3p-MTOR axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanbo Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Tianren Shao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Jingjing Xie
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Juanfeng Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Lulu Sun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Yafang Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Lijie Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Luyang Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Xiaoying Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Rongjun Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
- Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
- International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, 450046, China.
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Shapira T, Christofferson M, Av-Gay Y. The antimicrobial activity of innate host-directed therapies: A systematic review. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2024; 63:107138. [PMID: 38490573 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2024.107138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Intracellular human pathogens are the deadliest infectious diseases and are difficult to treat effectively due to their protection inside the host cell and the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). An emerging approach to combat these intracellular pathogens is host-directed therapies (HDT), which harness the innate immunity of host cells. HDT rely on small molecules to promote host protection mechanisms that ultimately lead to pathogen clearance. These therapies are hypothesized to: (1) possess indirect yet broad, cross-species antimicrobial activity, (2) effectively target drug-resistant pathogens, (3) carry a reduced susceptibility to the development of AMR and (4) have synergistic action with conventional antimicrobials. As the field of HDT expands, this systematic review was conducted to collect a compendium of HDT and their characteristics, such as the host mechanisms affected, the pathogen inhibited, the concentrations investigated and the magnitude of pathogen inhibition. The evidential support for the main four HDT hypotheses was assessed and concluded that HDT demonstrate robust cross-species activity, are active against AMR pathogens, clinical isolates and laboratory-adapted pathogens. However, limited information exists to support the notion that HDT are synergistic with canonical antimicrobials and are less predisposed to AMR development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tirosh Shapira
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Matthew Christofferson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Division of Infectious Disease, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Yossef Av-Gay
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Division of Infectious Disease, Life Sciences Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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Zhen JB, Wang RB, Zhang YH, Sun F, Lin LH, Li ZX, Han Y, Lu YX. Effects of Trichinella spiralis and its serine protease inhibitors on autophagy of host small intestinal cells. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0010323. [PMID: 37874164 PMCID: PMC10652968 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00103-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In eukaryotes, autophagy is induced as an innate defense mechanism against pathogenic microorganisms by self-degradation. Although trichinellosis is a foodborne zoonotic disease, there are few reports on the interplay between Trichinella spiralissurvival strategies and autophagy-mediated host defense. Therefore, this study focused on the association between T. spiralis and autophagy of host small intestinal cells. In this study, the autophagy-related indexes of host small intestinal cells after T. spiralis infection were detected using transmission electron microscopy, hematoxylin and eosin staining, immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and Western blotting. The results showed that autophagosomes and autolysosomes were formed in small intestinal cells, intestinal villi appeared edema, epithelial compactness was decreased, microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3B (LC3B) was expressed in lamina propria stromal cells of small intestine, and the expression of autophagy-related genes and proteins was changed significantly, indicating that T. spiralis induced autophagy of host small intestinal cells. Then, the effect of T. spiralis on autophagy-related pathways was explored by Western blotting. The results showed that the expression of autophagy-related pathway proteins was changed, indicating that T. spiralis regulated autophagy by affecting autophagy-related pathways. Finally, the roles of T. spiralis serine protease inhibitors (TsSPIs), such as T. spiralis Kazal-type SPI (TsKaSPI) and T. spiralis Serpin-type SPI (TsAdSPI), were further discussed in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results revealed that TsSPIs induced autophagy by influencing autophagy-related pathways, and TsAdSPI has more advantages. Overall, our results indicated that T. spiralis induced autophagy of host small intestinal cells, and its TsSPIs play an important role in enhancing autophagy flux by affecting autophagy-related pathways. These findings lay a foundation for further exploring the pathogenesis of intestinal dysfunction of host after T. spiralis infection, and also provide some experimental and theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of trichinellosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Bo Zhen
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Rui-Biao Wang
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yu-Heng Zhang
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Feng Sun
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Li-Hao Lin
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Zhi-Xin Li
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yang Han
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
| | - Yi-Xin Lu
- Heilongjiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China
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S Subauste C, Hubal A. Animal Models for Toxoplasma gondii Infection. Curr Protoc 2023; 3:e871. [PMID: 37695167 PMCID: PMC10621533 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite that commonly infects mammals and birds throughout the world. This protocol describes murine models of acute T. gondii infection, toxoplasmic encephalitis and toxoplasma retinochoroiditis. T. gondii infection in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice, deficient in T and B cells, has allowed for the study of T cell-independent mechanisms of defense against intracellular organisms, as described here. The uracil auxotroph strain cps1-1 and temperature-sensitive mutant strains of T. gondii induce protection against challenge with virulent strains of the parasite. They have allowed studies of immunization and adoptive-transfer experiments. A protocol is provided for infection with these mutant strains. The EGS strain of T. gondii has the unique feature of spontaneously forming tissue cysts in cell culture. Dual fluorescent reporter stains of this strain have allowed the study of tachyzoite to bradyzoite transitions in vitro and in vivo. A protocol for in vitro and in vivo growth of this strain and tissue cyst isolation is provided. Genetic manipulation of T. gondii and mice has led to the development of parasites that express fluorescent proteins as well as mice with fluorescently labeled leukocytes. This together with the use of T. gondii that express model antigens and transgenic mice that express the appropriate T cell receptor have facilitated the in vivo study of parasite host-interaction. In addition, parasites that express bioluminescent markers have made it possible to study the dynamics of infection in real time using bioluminescence imaging. Support protocols present methodology for evaluation of progression of infection and immune response to the parasite that includes these newer methodologies. In addition, support protocols address the maintenance of T. gondii tissue cysts and tachyzoites, as well as preparation of T. gondii lysate antigens. © 2023 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Induction of acute T. gondii infection in mice Basic Protocol 2: Model of toxoplasmic encephalitis and toxoplasma retinochoroiditis in chronically infected mice Basic Protocol 3: Assessment of T. gondii invasion into neural tissue Basic Protocol 4: T. gondii infection in scid/scid (SCID) mice Basic Protocol 5: Infection with the uracil auxotroph strain CPS1-1 or the temperature-sensitive TS-4 strain of T. gondii Basic Protocol 6: In vivo and in vitro maintenance of the EGS strain of T. gondii Support Protocol 1: Assessment of progression of infection and immune response to T. gondii Support Protocol 2: Maintenance of a bank of T. gondii cysts of the ME49 strain Support Protocol 3: Maintenance of T. gondii tachyzoites using human foreskin fibroblasts Support Protocol 4: Maintenance of T. gondii tachyzoites in mice Support Protocol 5: Preparation of T. gondii lysate antigens Support Protocol 6: Isolation of T. gondii tissue cysts from brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos S Subauste
- Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Alyssa Hubal
- Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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Diez AF, Leroux LP, Chagneau S, Plouffe A, Gold M, Chaparro V, Jaramillo M. Toxoplasma gondii inhibits the expression of autophagy-related genes through AKT-dependent inactivation of the transcription factor FOXO3a. mBio 2023; 14:e0079523. [PMID: 37387601 PMCID: PMC10470550 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00795-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii induces host AKT activation to prevent autophagy-mediated clearance; however, the molecular underpinnings are not fully understood. Autophagy can be negatively regulated through AKT-sensitive phosphorylation and nuclear export of the transcription factor Forkhead box O3a (FOXO3a). Using a combination of pharmacological and genetic approaches, herein we investigated whether T. gondii hinders host autophagy through AKT-dependent inactivation of FOXO3a. We found that infection by type I and II strains of T. gondii promotes gradual and sustained AKT-dependent phosphorylation of FOXO3a at residues S253 and T32 in human foreskin fibroblasts (HFF) and murine 3T3 fibroblasts. Mechanistically, AKT-sensitive phosphorylation of FOXO3a by T. gondii required live infection and the activity of PI3K but was independent of the plasma membrane receptor EGFR and the kinase PKCα. Phosphorylation of FOXO3a at AKT-sensitive residues was paralleled by its nuclear exclusion in T. gondii-infected HFF. Importantly, the parasite was unable to drive cytoplasmic localization of FOXO3a upon pharmacological blockade of AKT or overexpression of an AKT-insensitive mutant form of FOXO3a. Transcription of a subset of bona fide autophagy-related targets of FOXO3a was reduced during T. gondii infection in an AKT-dependent fashion. However, parasite-directed repression of autophagy-related genes was AKT-resistant in cells deficient in FOXO3a. Consistent with this, T. gondii failed to inhibit the recruitment of acidic organelles and LC3, an autophagy marker, to the parasitophorous vacuole upon chemically or genetically induced nuclear retention of FOXO3a. In all, we provide evidence that T. gondii suppresses FOXO3a-regulated transcriptional programs to prevent autophagy-mediated killing. IMPORTANCE The parasite Toxoplasma gondii is the etiological agent of toxoplasmosis, an opportunistic infection commonly transmitted by ingestion of contaminated food or water. To date, no effective vaccines in humans have been developed and no promising drugs are available to treat chronic infection or prevent congenital infection. T. gondii targets numerous host cell processes to establish a favorable replicative niche. Of note, T. gondii activates the host AKT signaling pathway to prevent autophagy-mediated killing. Herein, we report that T. gondii inhibits FOXO3a, a transcription factor that regulates the expression of autophagy-related genes, through AKT-dependent phosphorylation. The parasite's ability to block the recruitment of the autophagy machinery to the parasitophorous vacuole is impeded upon pharmacological inhibition of AKT or overexpression of an AKT-insensitive form of FOXO3a. Thus, our study provides greater granularity in the role of FOXO3a during infection and reinforces the potential of targeting autophagy as a therapeutic strategy against T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres Felipe Diez
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)—Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie (AFSB), Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Louis-Philippe Leroux
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)—Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie (AFSB), Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Sophie Chagneau
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)—Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie (AFSB), Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Alexandra Plouffe
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)—Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie (AFSB), Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Mackenzie Gold
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)—Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie (AFSB), Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Visnu Chaparro
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)—Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie (AFSB), Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Maritza Jaramillo
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)—Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie (AFSB), Laval, Québec, Canada
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Haghbin M, Maani S, Bagherzadeh MA, Bazmjoo A, Shakeri H, Taghipour A, Falahi S, Kenarkoohi A, Badri M, Abdoli A. Latent Toxoplasmosis among Breast Cancer Patients in Jahrom, South of Iran. Int J Breast Cancer 2023; 2023:4792260. [PMID: 37519423 PMCID: PMC10386900 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4792260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 06/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Reactivation of latent toxoplasmosis is the main cause of severe infection among immunocompromised patients, including patients with cancer. Hence, this study is aimed at screening the status of Toxoplasma gondii infection among breast cancer patients by serological and molecular methods and determining their associated risk factors in Jahrom County, Fars Province, south of Iran. Methods One hundred and seven women with breast cancer (aged 34 to 80 years) were screened for anti-T. gondii antibodies (IgG and IgM) during 2019-2020. A questionnaire regarding demographic factors was filled out by participants. Molecular detection was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using the primer pair targeting the repetitive element (RE) gene of T. gondii. The risk factors and demographic data were analyzed by SPSS software (ver. 20, Chicago, IL, USA) using the Chi-squared test. Results Anti-T. gondii IgG was detected in 45.8% (49/107) of the patients, which indicates latent infection, but anti-T. gondii IgM and PCR were negative in all samples. Demographic factors revealed a statistically significant increased T. gondii seropositivity among nonmenopause cancer patients (P < 0.0005), patients without previous breast cancer (P = 0.0001), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2- (HER2-) negative patients (P = 0.00002). As such, patients with a history of previous abortions and who were at stages II, III, and IIII of cancer had higher seropositivity rates than patients without a history of previous abortions or who were at stage I cancer, but the statistical analysis was not significant. We did not find a statistically significant association between T. gondii seropositivity and other risk factors of toxoplasmosis (e.g., education level, type of water source, washing raw fruits and vegetables, consumption of raw or undercooked meat, and contact with soil, cats, and domestic animal). Conclusion A high seroprevalence rate of latent T. gondii infection was detected among patients with breast cancer; hence, these patients may be at high risk for reactivation of latent infection. Screening of T. gondii infection is recommended to detect active infection among patients with malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marzeieh Haghbin
- Research Center for Noncommunicable Diseases, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
- Department of Surgery, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Salar Maani
- Student Research Committee, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | | | - Ahmadreza Bazmjoo
- Student Research Committee, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Heshmatollah Shakeri
- Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Ali Taghipour
- Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Shahab Falahi
- Zoonotic Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Azra Kenarkoohi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Milad Badri
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
- Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Amir Abdoli
- Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
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7
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Ayoub MA. Hijacking of GPCRs and RTKs by pathogens. Cell Signal 2023:110802. [PMID: 37437829 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellsig.2023.110802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Pathogens exploit multiple cellular and molecular pathways in the host organisms for their entry, survival and dissemination. The cell surface receptors such as G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) constitute the targets of many pathogens. This is due to the ubiquitous expression of these two receptor families in the organism and their pivotal role in various cellular and physiological processes. At the molecular level, receptor hijacking implies either direct or indirect interactions between pathogens' effectors or toxins with GPCRs and RTKs at the cell surface thereby interfering with their activation and their downstream signaling pathways inside the host cells. As a result, the pathogens manipulate and redirect GPCR/RTK-mediated signaling pathways and different aspects of cell function for their benefit. The review presents a compilation of the major examples of pathogen infections where GPCRs and RTKs and their related intracellular signaling pathways are targeted. This provides a molecular basis for pathogens hijacking cell signaling and their virulence. Our understanding of such complex host-pathogen interactions at the molecular level will open new opportunities to develop new prophylactic and therapeutic approaches against infections. In this context, the pharmacological targeting of GPCRs and RTKs may be a promising approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Akli Ayoub
- Biology Department, College of Arts and Sciences, Khalifa University, PO Box 127788, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
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Ayilam Ramachandran R, Sanches JM, Robertson DM. The roles of autophagy and mitophagy in corneal pathology: current knowledge and future perspectives. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1064938. [PMID: 37153108 PMCID: PMC10160402 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1064938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The cornea is the clear dome that covers the front portion of the globe. The primary functions of the cornea are to promote the refraction of light and to protect the eye from invading pathogens, both of which are essential for the preservation of vision. Homeostasis of each cellular layer of the cornea requires the orchestration of multiple processes, including the ability to respond to stress. One mechanism whereby cells respond to stress is autophagy, or the process of "self-eating." Autophagy functions to clear damaged proteins and organelles. During nutrient deprivation, amino acids released from protein breakdown via autophagy are used as a fuel source. Mitophagy, a selective form of autophagy, functions to clear damaged mitochondria. Thus, autophagy and mitophagy are important intracellular degradative processes that sustain tissue homeostasis. Importantly, the inhibition or excessive activation of these processes result in deleterious effects on the cell. In the eye, impairment or inhibition of these mechanisms have been associated with corneal disease, degenerations, and dystrophies. This review summarizes the current body of knowledge on autophagy and mitophagy at all layers in the cornea in both non-infectious and infectious corneal disease, dystrophies, and degenerations. It further highlights the critical gaps in our understanding of mitochondrial dysfunction, with implications for novel therapeutics in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jose Marcos Sanches
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Danielle M Robertson
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
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9
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Zhang Y, Duan BT, Zhao YJ, Cui KL, Xu T, Zhang XS, Lv XL, Guo LL, Zheng MX, Bai R. Pathogenic mechanism of Eimeria tenella autophagy activation of chicken embryo cecal epithelial cells induced by Eimeria tenella. Poult Sci 2023; 102:102535. [PMID: 36805405 PMCID: PMC9969315 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.102535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Eimeria tenella mainly invades and develops into cecal epithelial cells of chickens, resulting in cecal epithelial cell damage. Infectious intracellular pathogens possibly act by influencing the autophagy process after invading cells. The interaction between E. tenella and the autophagy of host cells was explored by infecting E. tenella with chick embryo cecal epithelial cells. Transmission electron microscopy, laser confocal microscopy, and Western blot analysis were used to demonstrate that E. tenella infection could induce autophagy in host cells. Results showed that infection with E. tenella induced the formation of autophagosomes in cells. The expression of ATG 5, Beclin-1, and LC3B-II proteins were significantly (P < 0.01) increased after E. tenella infected host cells. Expression of p62 protein levels were significantly (P < 0.01) decreased in host cells infected with E. tenella. Chloroquine (CQ) significantly (P < 0.01) increased the expression levels of LC3B-II and P62 in E. tenella-infected host cells. Rapamycin (RAPA) induced autophagy in host cells, thus reducing the intracellular infection of E. tenella. By contrast, the infection rate of E. tenella increased in cells treated with 3-Methyladenine (3-MA). Hence, E. tenella sporozoite infection could induce autophagy activation in chick embryo cecal epithelial cells, and enhanced autophagy could reduce the infection rate of E. tenella.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong, 030801, China
| | - Bu-Ting Duan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong, 030801, China
| | - Yong-Juan Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong, 030801, China; School of Food and Environment, Jinzhong College of Information, Taigu, Jinzhong, 030801, China
| | - Kai-Ling Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong, 030801, China
| | - Tong Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong, 030801, China
| | - Xue-Song Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong, 030801, China
| | - Xiao-Ling Lv
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong, 030801, China
| | - Lu-Lu Guo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong, 030801, China
| | - Ming-Xue Zheng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong, 030801, China
| | - Rui Bai
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Jinzhong, 030801, China.
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10
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Romano PS, Akematsu T, Besteiro S, Bindschedler A, Carruthers VB, Chahine Z, Coppens I, Descoteaux A, Alberto Duque TL, He CY, Heussler V, Le Roch KG, Li FJ, de Menezes JPB, Menna-Barreto RFS, Mottram JC, Schmuckli-Maurer J, Turk B, Tavares Veras PS, Salassa BN, Vanrell MC. Autophagy in protists and their hosts: When, how and why? AUTOPHAGY REPORTS 2023; 2:2149211. [PMID: 37064813 PMCID: PMC10104450 DOI: 10.1080/27694127.2022.2149211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
Pathogenic protists are a group of organisms responsible for causing a variety of human diseases including malaria, sleeping sickness, Chagas disease, leishmaniasis, and toxoplasmosis, among others. These diseases, which affect more than one billion people globally, mainly the poorest populations, are characterized by severe chronic stages and the lack of effective antiparasitic treatment. Parasitic protists display complex life-cycles and go through different cellular transformations in order to adapt to the different hosts they live in. Autophagy, a highly conserved cellular degradation process, has emerged as a key mechanism required for these differentiation processes, as well as other functions that are crucial to parasite fitness. In contrast to yeasts and mammals, protist autophagy is characterized by a modest number of conserved autophagy-related proteins (ATGs) that, even though, can drive the autophagosome formation and degradation. In addition, during their intracellular cycle, the interaction of these pathogens with the host autophagy system plays a crucial role resulting in a beneficial or harmful effect that is important for the outcome of the infection. In this review, we summarize the current state of knowledge on autophagy and other related mechanisms in pathogenic protists and their hosts. We sought to emphasize when, how, and why this process takes place, and the effects it may have on the parasitic cycle. A better understanding of the significance of autophagy for the protist life-cycle will potentially be helpful to design novel anti-parasitic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Silvia Romano
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma cruzi y de la célula hospedadora. Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza. Universidad Nacional de Cuyo. (IHEM-CONICET-UNCUYO). Facultad de Ciencias Médicas. Universidad Nacional de Cuyo. Av. Libertador 80 (5500), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Takahiko Akematsu
- Department of Biosciences, College of Humanities and Sciences, Nihon University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | - Vern B Carruthers
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Zeinab Chahine
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Isabelle Coppens
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology. Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology. Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute. Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. Baltimore 21205, MD, USA
| | - Albert Descoteaux
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut national de la recherche scientifique, Laval, QC
| | - Thabata Lopes Alberto Duque
- Autophagy Inflammation and Metabolism Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA; Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Cynthia Y He
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Volker Heussler
- Institute of Cell Biology.University of Bern. Baltzerstr. 4 3012 Bern
| | - Karine G Le Roch
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Systems Biology, University of California Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Feng-Jun Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | | | | | - Jeremy C Mottram
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Department of Biology, University of York, York, UK
| | | | - Boris Turk
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular and Structural Biology, Jožef Stefan Institute, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Patricia Sampaio Tavares Veras
- Laboratory of Host-Parasite Interaction and Epidemiology, Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Fiocruz-Bahia
- National Institute of Science and Technology of Tropical Diseases - National Council for Scientific Research and Development (CNPq)
| | - Betiana Nebai Salassa
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma cruzi y de la célula hospedadora. Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza. Universidad Nacional de Cuyo. (IHEM-CONICET-UNCUYO). Facultad de Ciencias Médicas. Universidad Nacional de Cuyo. Av. Libertador 80 (5500), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - María Cristina Vanrell
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma cruzi y de la célula hospedadora. Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza. Universidad Nacional de Cuyo. (IHEM-CONICET-UNCUYO). Facultad de Ciencias Médicas. Universidad Nacional de Cuyo. Av. Libertador 80 (5500), Mendoza, Argentina
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11
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Yang H, Zhang M, Wang X, Gong P, Zhang N, Zhang X, Li X, Li J. Cryptosporidium parvum maintains intracellular survival by activating the host cellular EGFR-PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Mol Immunol 2023; 154:69-79. [PMID: 36621060 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Autophagy is a critical cellular mechanism in helping infected cells remove intracellular pathogens and is countered by pathogens maintaining intracellular survival by regulating autophagy through the manipulation of the host cellular signal transduction pathway. Cryptosporidium parvum is a zoonotic intracellular but extracytoplasmic protozoon that causes diarrhea in infants and young children worldwide. However, it is still unclear how Cryptosporidium adapts to intracellular survival. In the present study, we demonstrated that C. parvum could activate the EGFR-PI3K/Akt signaling pathway to promote intracellular survival in HCT-8 cells. The western blot results showed that C. parvum induced EGFR and Akt phosphorylation in HCT-8 cells. The EGFR inhibitor AG1478 decreased EGFR and Akt phosphorylation, and the PI3K inhibitor LY294002 impaired Akt phosphorylation induced by C. parvum in HCT-8 cells. Inhibition of EGFR or Akt decreased the number of intracellular parasites. Second, low-dose infection of C. parvum triggered complete autophagy and enhanced autophagic flux in HCT-8 cells. The expressions of mTOR and p62 were decreased, and the expressions of LC3 and Beclin1 were increased in C. parvum-infected HCT-8 cells. Transfection with siBeclin1 or siATG7 reduced LC3 accumulation, while lysosome inhibitor E64d+pepA increased LC3 accumulation induced by C. parvum in HCT-8 cells. Intracellular parasite proliferation was decreased when treated with autophagy inducer rapamycin, whereas autophagy inhibitor 3-MA, E64d+pep A, siBeclin1 or siATG7 increased intracellular parasites. Third, C. parvum inhibited autophagy killing to promote its own intracellular survival by activating EGFR-Akt signaling pathway. The EGFR inhibitor AG1478 enhanced autophagic flux, and Akt inhibitor IV increased LC3 accumulation and inhibited C. parvum proliferation in HCT-8 cells. Akt inhibitor IV-inhibited C. parvum proliferation was attenuated by E64d+pepA. In summary, C. parvum could maintain intracellular survival by inhibiting autophagy via EGFR-PI3K/Akt pathway. These results revealed a new mechanism for the interaction of C. parvum with host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Mengge Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xiaocen Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Pengtao Gong
- State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Nan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xichen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China
| | - Xin Li
- State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China.
| | - Jianhua Li
- State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun 130062, China.
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12
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Jiang H, Zhang X, Li X, Wang X, Zhang N, Gong P, Zhang X, Yu Y, Li J. Cryptosporidium parvum regulates HCT-8 cell autophagy to facilitate survival via inhibiting miR-26a and promoting miR-30a expression. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:470. [PMID: 36522638 PMCID: PMC9756778 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05606-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidium parvum is an important zoonotic parasite, which not only causes economic losses in animal husbandry but also harms human health. Due to the lack of effective measures for prevention and treatment, it is important to understand the pathogenesis and survival mechanism of C. parvum. Autophagy is an important mechanism of host cells against parasite infection through key regulatory factors such as microRNAs and MAPK pathways. However, the regulatory effect of C. parvum on autophagy has not been reported. Here, we demonstrated that C. parvum manipulated autophagy through host cellular miR-26a, miR-30a, ERK signaling and P38 signaling for parasite survival. METHODS The expression of Beclin1, p62, LC3, ERK and P38 was detected using western blotting in HCT-8 cells infected with C. parvum as well as treated with miR-26a-mimic, miR-30a-mimic, miR-26a-mimic or miR-30a-inhibitor post C. parvum infection. The qPCR was used to detect the expression of miR-26a and miR-30a and the number of C. parvum in HCT-8 cells. Besides, the accumulation of autophagosomes was examined using immunofluorescence. RESULTS The expression of Beclin1 and p62 was increased, whereas LC3 expression was increased initially at 0-8 h but decreased at 12 h and then increased again in C. parvum-infected cells. C. parvum inhibited miR-26a-mimic-induced miR-26a but promoted miR-30a-mimic-induced miR-30a expression. Suppressing miR-30a resulted in increased expression of LC3 and Beclin1. However, upregulation of miR-26a reduced ERK/P38 phosphorylation, and inhibiting ERK/P38 signaling promoted Beclin1 and LC3 while reducing p62 expression. Treatment with miR-26a-mimic, autophagy inducer or ERK/P38 signaling inhibitors reduced but treatment with autophagy inhibitor or miR-30a-mimic increased parasite number. CONCLUSIONS The study found that C. parvum could regulate autophagy by inhibiting miR-26a and promoting miR-30a expression to facilitate the proliferation of parasites. These results revealed a new mechanism for the interaction of C. parvum with host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heng Jiang
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062 China
| | - Xu Zhang
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062 China
| | - Xin Li
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062 China
| | - Xiaocen Wang
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062 China
| | - Nan Zhang
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062 China
| | - Pengtao Gong
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062 China
| | - Xichen Zhang
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062 China
| | - Yanhui Yu
- grid.452829.00000000417660726The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021 Jilin China
| | - Jianhua Li
- grid.64924.3d0000 0004 1760 5735State Key Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062 China
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13
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Cheng A, Zhang H, Chen B, Zheng S, Wang H, Shi Y, You S, Li M, Jiang L. Modulation of autophagy as a therapeutic strategy for Toxoplasma gondii infection. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:902428. [PMID: 36093185 PMCID: PMC9448867 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.902428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infection is a severe health threat that endangers billions of people worldwide. T. gondii utilizes the host cell membrane to form a parasitophorous vacuole (PV), thereby fully isolating itself from the host cell cytoplasm and making intracellular clearance difficult. PV can be targeted and destroyed by autophagy. Autophagic targeting results in T. gondii killing via the fusion of autophagosomes and lysosomes. However, T. gondii has developed many strategies to suppress autophagic targeting. Accordingly, the interplay between host cell autophagy and T. gondii is an emerging area with important practical implications. By promoting the canonical autophagy pathway or attenuating the suppression of autophagic targeting, autophagy can be effectively utilized in the development of novel therapeutic strategies against T gondii. Here, we have illustrated the complex interplay between host cell mediated autophagy and T. gondii. Different strategies to promote autophagy in order to target the parasite have been elucidated. Besides, we have analyzed some potential new drug molecules from the DrugBank database using bioinformatics tools, which can modulate autophagy. Various challenges and opportunities focusing autophagy mediated T. gondii clearance have been discussed, which will provide new insights for the development of novel drugs against the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Cheng
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Huanan Zhang
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Baike Chen
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shengyao Zheng
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Hongyi Wang
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yijia Shi
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Siyao You
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Immunology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Liping Jiang, ; Ming Li,
| | - Liping Jiang
- Department of Parasitology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha, China
- *Correspondence: Liping Jiang, ; Ming Li,
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14
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Deretic V, Lazarou M. A guide to membrane atg8ylation and autophagy with reflections on immunity. J Cell Biol 2022; 221:e202203083. [PMID: 35699692 PMCID: PMC9202678 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.202203083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of membrane atg8ylation, defined herein as the conjugation of the ATG8 family of ubiquitin-like proteins to membrane lipids, is beginning to be appreciated in its broader manifestations, mechanisms, and functions. Classically, membrane atg8ylation with LC3B, one of six mammalian ATG8 family proteins, has been viewed as the hallmark of canonical autophagy, entailing the formation of characteristic double membranes in the cytoplasm. However, ATG8s are now well described as being conjugated to single membranes and, most recently, proteins. Here we propose that the atg8ylation is coopted by multiple downstream processes, one of which is canonical autophagy. We elaborate on these biological outputs, which impact metabolism, quality control, and immunity, emphasizing the context of inflammation and immunological effects. In conclusion, we propose that atg8ylation is a modification akin to ubiquitylation, and that it is utilized by different systems participating in membrane stress responses and membrane remodeling activities encompassing autophagy and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vojo Deretic
- Autophagy, Inflammation and Metabolism Center of Biochemical Research Excellence, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Michael Lazarou
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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15
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Frickel EM, Hunter CA. Lessons from Toxoplasma: Host responses that mediate parasite control and the microbial effectors that subvert them. J Exp Med 2021; 218:212714. [PMID: 34670268 PMCID: PMC8532566 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20201314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii has long provided a tractable experimental system to investigate how the immune system deals with intracellular infections. This review highlights the advances in defining how this organism was first detected and the studies with T. gondii that contribute to our understanding of how the cytokine IFN-γ promotes control of vacuolar pathogens. In addition, the genetic tractability of this eukaryote organism has provided the foundation for studies into the diverse strategies that pathogens use to evade antimicrobial responses and now provides the opportunity to study the basis for latency. Thus, T. gondii remains a clinically relevant organism whose evolving interactions with the host immune system continue to teach lessons broadly relevant to host–pathogen interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Frickel
- Institute of Microbiology and Infection, School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK
| | - Christopher A Hunter
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
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16
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Guo M, Sun J, Wang WT, Liu HY, Liu YH, Qin KR, Hu JR, Li XY, Liu HL, Wang W, Chen ZY, Wang CF, Wang HL. Toxoplasma gondii ROP17 promotes autophagy via the Bcl-2-Beclin 1 pathway. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2021; 68. [PMID: 34180401 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2021.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The apicomplexan Toxoplasma gondii (Nicolle et Manceaux, 1908) secretes a group of serine/threonine kinases from rhoptries, which play vital roles in boosting intracellular infection. Toxoplasma gondii rhoptry organelle protein 17 (ROP17) is one of these important kinase proteins. Nevertheless, its function remains unclear. Here, we showed that ROP17 induced autophagy in vitro and in vivo. The autophagy of small intestine tissues of T. gondii tachyzoite (RH strain)-infected mice was detected by the immunohistochemistry staining of LC3B, Beclin 1 and P62. ROP17 overexpression augmented starvation-induced autophagy in HEK 293T cells as measured by MDC staining, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), fluorescence microscopy and Western blot analysis. Moreover, the interaction of ROP17 and Bcl-2 was confirmed using co-immunoprecipitation analysis, and the data demonstrated that ROP17 had an autophagic role dependent on the Beclin 1-Bcl-2 pathway, which was also revealed in an in vivo model through immunohistochemical staining. Pearson coefficient analysis showed that there existed strong positive correlations between the expression of ROP17 and LC3B, Beclin 1 and phosphorylation of Bcl-2, while strong negative correlations between the expression of ROP17 and p62 and Bcl-2. Collectively, our findings indicate that ROP17 plays a pivotal role in maintaining T. gondii proliferation in host cells via the promotion of autophagy-dependent survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Guo
- School of Basic Medicine, Basic Medical Science Center, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China.,Labratory Animal Center, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Experimental Animal Science and Animal Model of Human Disease, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan,Shanxi, China.,Min Guo, Jia Sun and Wen-tao Wang contributed equally to this work *Address for correspondence: Hai-long Wang, ; Chun-fang Wang, ; Zhao-yang Chen, ; Address: School of Basic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, No. 55, Wenhua Street, Jinzhong, Shanxi, 030600, China
| | - Jia Sun
- School of Basic Medicine, Basic Medical Science Center, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China.,Min Guo, Jia Sun and Wen-tao Wang contributed equally to this work *Address for correspondence: Hai-long Wang, ; Chun-fang Wang, ; Zhao-yang Chen, ; Address: School of Basic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, No. 55, Wenhua Street, Jinzhong, Shanxi, 030600, China
| | - Wen-Tao Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Basic Medical Science Center, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China.,Min Guo, Jia Sun and Wen-tao Wang contributed equally to this work *Address for correspondence: Hai-long Wang, ; Chun-fang Wang, ; Zhao-yang Chen, ; Address: School of Basic Medicine, Shanxi Medical University, No. 55, Wenhua Street, Jinzhong, Shanxi, 030600, China
| | - Hong-Yan Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Basic Medical Science Center, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China.,Eugenics and Molecular Medicine Testing Center, Ulanqab Central Hospital, Wulanchabu, Neimenggu, China
| | - Yue-Hua Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Basic Medical Science Center, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Ke-Ru Qin
- School of Basic Medicine, Basic Medical Science Center, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Jin-Rui Hu
- School of Basic Medicine, Basic Medical Science Center, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Xin-Yang Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Basic Medical Science Center, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Hong-Li Liu
- School of Basic Medicine, Basic Medical Science Center, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Wei Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Basic Medical Science Center, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
| | - Zhao-Yang Chen
- Labratory Animal Center, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Experimental Animal Science and Animal Model of Human Disease, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan,Shanxi, China
| | - Chun-Fang Wang
- Labratory Animal Center, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Experimental Animal Science and Animal Model of Human Disease, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan,Shanxi, China
| | - Hai-Long Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Basic Medical Science Center, Shanxi Medical University, Jinzhong, Shanxi, China
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17
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Subauste CS. Recent Advances in the Roles of Autophagy and Autophagy Proteins in Host Cells During Toxoplasma gondii Infection and Potential Therapeutic Implications. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:673813. [PMID: 34179003 PMCID: PMC8220159 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.673813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan that can cause encephalitis and retinitis in humans. The success of T. gondii as a pathogen depends in part on its ability to form an intracellular niche (parasitophorous vacuole) that allows protection from lysosomal degradation and parasite replication. The parasitophorous vacuole can be targeted by autophagy or by autophagosome-independent processes triggered by autophagy proteins. However, T. gondii has developed many strategies to preserve the integrity of the parasitophorous vacuole. Here, we review the interaction between T. gondii, autophagy, and autophagy proteins and expand on recent advances in the field, including the importance of autophagy in the regulation of invasion of the brain and retina by the parasite. We discuss studies that have begun to explore the potential therapeutic applications of the knowledge gained thus far.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos S Subauste
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States.,Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
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18
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Wu M, Cudjoe O, Shen J, Chen Y, Du J. The Host Autophagy During Toxoplasma Infection. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:589604. [PMID: 33193253 PMCID: PMC7642512 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.589604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 09/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is an important homeostatic mechanism, in which lysosomes degrade and recycle cytosolic components. As a key defense mechanism against infections, autophagy is involved in the capture and elimination of intracellular parasites. However, intracellular parasites, such as Toxoplasma gondii, have developed several evasion mechanisms to manipulate the host cell autophagy for their growth and establish a chronic infection. This review provides an insight into the autophagy mechanism used by the host cells in the control of T. gondii and the host exploitation by the parasite. First, we summarize the mechanism of autophagy, xenophagy, and LC3-associated phagocytosis. Then, we illustrate the process of autophagy proteins-mediated T. gondii clearance. Furthermore, we discuss how the parasite blocks and exploits this process for its survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minmin Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Obed Cudjoe
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jilong Shen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,School of Nursing, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jian Du
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,The Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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19
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El Saftawy EA, Amin NM, Sabry RM, El-Anwar N, Shash RY, Elsebaie EH, Wassef RM. Can Toxoplasma gondii Pave the Road for Dementia? J Parasitol Res 2020; 2020:8859857. [PMID: 32802484 PMCID: PMC7414348 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8859857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Dementia is an ominous neurological disease. Scientists proposed a link between its occurrence and the presence of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). The long-term sequels of anti-Toxoplasma premunition, chiefly dominated by TNF-α, on the neurons and their receptors as the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R), which is tangled in cognition and synaptic plasticity, are still not clear. IGF-1R mediates its action via IGF-1, and its depletion is incorporated in the pathogenesis of dementia. The activated TNF-α signaling pathway induces NF-κβ that may induce or inhibit neurogenesis. This study speculates the potential impact of anti-Toxoplasma immune response on the expression of IGF-1R in chronic cerebral toxoplasmosis. The distributive pattern of T. gondii cysts was studied in association with TNF-α serum levels, the in situ expression of NF-κβ, and IGF-1R in mice using the low virulent ME-49 T. gondii strain. There was an elevation of the TNF-α serum level (p value ≤ 0.004) and significant upsurge in NF-κβ whereas IGF-1R was of low abundance (p value < 0.05) compared to the controls. TNF-α had a strong positive correlation with the intracerebral expression of NF-κβ (r value ≈ 0.943, p value ≈ 0.005) and a strong negative correlation to IGF-1R (r value -0.584 and -0.725 for area% and O.D., respectively). This activated TNF-α/NF-κβ keeps T. gondii under control at the expense of IGF-1R expression, depriving neurons of the effect of IGF-1, the receptor's ligand. We therefore deduce that T. gondii immunopathological reaction may be a road paver for developing dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enas A. El Saftawy
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Armed Forces College of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha M. Amin
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rania M. Sabry
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Noha El-Anwar
- Armed Forces College of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Egypt
| | - Rania Y. Shash
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Eman H. Elsebaie
- Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rita M. Wassef
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
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20
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Lopez Corcino Y, Gonzalez Ferrer S, Mantilla LE, Trikeriotis S, Yu JS, Kim S, Hansen S, Portillo JAC, Subauste CS. Toxoplasma gondii induces prolonged host epidermal growth factor receptor signalling to prevent parasite elimination by autophagy: Perspectives for in vivo control of the parasite. Cell Microbiol 2019; 21:e13084. [PMID: 31290228 PMCID: PMC6771541 DOI: 10.1111/cmi.13084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 07/03/2019] [Accepted: 07/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii causes retinitis and encephalitis. Avoiding targeting by autophagosomes is key for its survival because T. gondii cannot withstand lysosomal degradation. During invasion of host cells, T. gondii triggers epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signalling enabling the parasite to avoid initial autophagic targeting. However, autophagy is a constitutive process indicating that the parasite may also use a strategy operative beyond invasion to maintain blockade of autophagic targeting. Finding that such a strategy exists would be important because it could lead to inhibition of host cell signalling as a novel approach to kill the parasite in previously infected cells and treat toxoplasmosis. We report that T. gondii induced prolonged EGFR autophosphorylation. This effect was mediated by PKCα/PKCβ ➔ Src because T. gondii caused prolonged activation of these molecules and their knockdown or incubation with inhibitors of PKCα/PKCβ or Src after host cell invasion impaired sustained EGFR autophosphorylation. Addition of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) to previously infected cells led to parasite entrapment by LC3 and LAMP-1 and pathogen killing dependent on the autophagy proteins ULK1 and Beclin 1 as well as lysosomal enzymes. Administration of gefitinib (EGFR TKI) to mice with ocular and cerebral toxoplasmosis resulted in disease control that was dependent on Beclin 1. Thus, T. gondii promotes its survival through sustained EGFR signalling driven by PKCα/β ➔ Src, and inhibition of EGFR controls pre-established toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shekina Gonzalez Ferrer
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | | | - Sophia Trikeriotis
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jin-Sang Yu
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Steven Kim
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Samuel Hansen
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jose-Andres C Portillo
- Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Carlos S Subauste
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases and HIV Medicine, Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
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