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Oliver D, Chesney E, Cullen AE, Davies C, Englund A, Gifford G, Kerins S, Lalousis PA, Logeswaran Y, Merritt K, Zahid U, Crossley NA, McCutcheon RA, McGuire P, Fusar-Poli P. Exploring causal mechanisms of psychosis risk. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2024; 162:105699. [PMID: 38710421 PMCID: PMC11250118 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2024.105699] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Robust epidemiological evidence of risk and protective factors for psychosis is essential to inform preventive interventions. Previous evidence syntheses have classified these risk and protective factors according to their strength of association with psychosis. In this critical review we appraise the distinct and overlapping mechanisms of 25 key environmental risk factors for psychosis, and link these to mechanistic pathways that may contribute to neurochemical alterations hypothesised to underlie psychotic symptoms. We then discuss the implications of our findings for future research, specifically considering interactions between factors, exploring universal and subgroup-specific factors, improving understanding of temporality and risk dynamics, standardising operationalisation and measurement of risk and protective factors, and developing preventive interventions targeting risk and protective factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Oliver
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; NIHR Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK; OPEN Early Detection Service, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK; Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK.
| | - Edward Chesney
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 4 Windsor Walk, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Alexis E Cullen
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden
| | - Cathy Davies
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Neuroimaging, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Amir Englund
- Addictions Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 4 Windsor Walk, London SE5 8AF, UK
| | - George Gifford
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sarah Kerins
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Paris Alexandros Lalousis
- Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Yanakan Logeswaran
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Biostatistics & Health Informatics, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Kate Merritt
- Division of Psychiatry, Institute of Mental Health, UCL, London, UK
| | - Uzma Zahid
- Department of Psychology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Nicolas A Crossley
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Chile
| | - Robert A McCutcheon
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Philip McGuire
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; NIHR Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK; OPEN Early Detection Service, Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Paolo Fusar-Poli
- Early Psychosis: Interventions and Clinical-Detection (EPIC) Lab, Department of Psychosis Studies, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Munich, Germany; Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy; OASIS Service, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London SE11 5DL, UK
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Akcay G, Bahadir A, Tatar Y, Nuri Atalar M, Babur C, Taylan Ozkan A. Investigation of the effects of Toxoplasma gondii on behavioral and molecular mechanism in bradyzoite stage. Brain Res 2024; 1828:148762. [PMID: 38228258 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2024.148762] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a single-celled parasite that causes a disease called toxoplasmosis. It can reach the central nervous system, but the mechanism of T. gondii disrupting the functioning of these brain regions occurs in bradyzoite stage of parasite, causing brain damage by forming tissue cysts in brain. In our study, the effects of T. gondii on locomotor activity, anxiety, learning and memory, and norepinephrine (NE), levodopa (L-DOPA), dopamine (DA) and 3,4-D-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) catecholamines in amygdala, striatum, prefrontal cortex and hippocampus regions of the brain were investigated in bradyzoite stage. Twenty male Albino mice Mus musculus, 4-5 weeks old, weighing 20-25 g, were used. T. gondii inoculated to mice intraperitonealy with 48-50-hour passages of T. gondii RH Ankara strain. For intraperitoneal inoculation of mice 5x104 tachyzoites per mouse. No inoculation was made in control group (n: 20). Locomotor activity behavior in open field test (OFT), anxious behavior in elevated plus maze (EPM), and learning behavior in novel object recognition (NOR) tests were evaluated. NE, L-DOPA, DA and DOPAC were measured by HPLC in brain tissues of amygdala, striatum, prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. A decrease was observed in the locomotor activity, anxiety and learning values of the T. gondii group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The heighten in NE and L-DOPA levels in amygdala tissue of T. gondii group compared to control group, an elevation in NE, L-DOPA, DA and DOPAC levels in striatum tissue, and an increase in levels of NE in prefrontal cortex tissue were detected in monoamine results. In hippocampus tissue, an increase was observed in DA levels, while a decrease was observed in NE, L-DOPA and DOPAC levels. In our study, it has been shown that T. gondii in bradyzoite stage reduces locomotor activity, causes learning and memory impairment, and has anxiogenic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guven Akcay
- Hitit University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biophysics, Çorum, Turkey.
| | - Anzel Bahadir
- Duzce University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Biophysics, Düzce, Turkey
| | - Yakup Tatar
- TOBB University of Economics and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Physiology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Nuri Atalar
- Igdir University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Iğdır, Turkey
| | - Cahit Babur
- National Parasitology Reference Laboratory, General Directorate of Health, Ministry of Health of Turkey, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Aysegul Taylan Ozkan
- TOBB ETU University, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Medical Microbiology, Ankara, Turkey
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Franklin F, Rajamanikam A, Phang WK, Raju CS, Gill JS, Francis B, Sy-Cherng Woon L, Govind SK. Establishing associated risk factors, including fungal and parasitic infections among Malaysians living with schizophrenia. Sci Rep 2024; 14:385. [PMID: 38172146 PMCID: PMC10764362 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50299-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The aetiology of schizophrenia is multifactorial, and the identification of its risk factors are scarce and highly variable. A cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the risk factors associated with schizophrenia among Malaysian sub-population. A total of 120 individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia (SZ) and 180 non-schizophrenic (NS) individuals participated in a questionnaire-based survey. Data of complete questionnaire responses obtained from 91 SZ and 120 NS participants were used in statistical analyses. Stool samples were obtained from the participants and screened for gut parasites and fungi using conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The median age were 46 years (interquartile range (IQR) 37 to 60 years) and 35 years (IQR 24 to 47.75 years) for SZ and NS respectively. Multivariable binary logistic regression showed that the factors associated with increased risk of SZ were age, sex, unemployment, presence of other chronic ailment, smoking, and high dairy consumption per week. These factors, except sex, were positively associated with the severity of SZ. Breastfed at infancy as well as vitamin and supplement consumption showed a protective effect against SZ. After data clean-up, fungal or parasitic infections were found in 98% (39/42). of SZ participants and 6.1% (3/49) of NS participants. Our findings identified non-modifiable risk factors (age and sex) and modifiable lifestyle-related risk factors (unemployment, presence of other chronic ailment, smoking, and high dairy consumption per week) associated with SZ and implicate the need for medical attention in preventing fungal and parasitic infections in SZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freddy Franklin
- Department of Parasitology, Universiti Malaya (UM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Universiti Malaya (UM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Wei Kit Phang
- Department of Parasitology, Universiti Malaya (UM), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Jesjeet Singh Gill
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Benedict Francis
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Luke Sy-Cherng Woon
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi, Malaysia
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Müller J, Hemphill A. In vitro screening technologies for the discovery and development of novel drugs against Toxoplasma gondii. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2024; 19:97-109. [PMID: 37921660 DOI: 10.1080/17460441.2023.2276349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Toxoplasmosis constitutes a challenge for public health, animal production and welfare. Since more than 60 years, only a limited panel of drugs has been in use for clinical applications. AREAS COVERED Herein, the authors describe the methodology and the results of library screening approaches to identify inhibitors of Toxoplasma gondii and related strains. The authors then provide the reader with their expert perspectives for the future. EXPERT OPINION Various library screening projects, in particular those using reporter strains, have led to the identification of numerous compounds with good efficacy and specificity in vitro. However, only few compounds are effective in suitable animal models such as rodents. Whereas no novel compound has cleared the hurdle to applications in humans, the few compounds with known indication and application profiles in human patients are of interest for further investigations. Taken together, drug repurposing as well as high-throughput screening of novel compound libraries may shorten the way to novel drugs against toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- Institute of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Vanagas L, Muñoz D, Cristaldi C, Ganuza A, Nájera R, Bonardi MC, Turowski VR, Guzman F, Deng B, Kim K, Sullivan WJ, Angel SO. Histone variant H2B.Z acetylation is necessary for maintenance of Toxoplasma gondii biological fitness. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA. GENE REGULATORY MECHANISMS 2023; 1866:194943. [PMID: 37217032 PMCID: PMC10524646 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagrm.2023.194943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Through regulation of DNA packaging, histone proteins are fundamental to a wide array of biological processes. A variety of post-translational modifications (PTMs), including acetylation, constitute a proposed histone code that is interpreted by "reader" proteins to modulate chromatin structure. Canonical histones can be replaced with variant versions that add an additional layer of regulatory complexity. The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is unique among eukaryotes in possessing a novel variant of H2B designated H2B.Z. The combination of PTMs and the use of histone variants are important for gene regulation in T. gondii, offering new targets for drug development. In this work, T. gondii parasites were generated in which the 5 N-terminal acetylatable lysines in H2B.Z were mutated to either alanine (c-Myc-A) or arginine (c-Myc-R). The c-Myc-A mutant displayed no phenotype over than a mild defect in its ability to kill mice. The c-Myc-R mutant presented an impaired ability to grow and an increase in differentiation to latent bradyzoites. The c-Myc-R mutant was also more sensitive to DNA damage, displayed no virulence in mice, and provided protective immunity against future infection. While nucleosome composition was unaltered, key genes were abnormally expressed during in vitro bradyzoite differentiation. Our results show that regulation of the N-terminal positive charge patch of H2B.Z is important for these processes. We also show that acetylated N-terminal H2B.Z interacts with some unique proteins compared to its unacetylated counterpart; the acetylated peptide pulled down proteins associated with chromosome maintenance/segregation and cell cycle, suggesting a link between H2B.Z acetylation status and mitosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Vanagas
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, B7130IIWA, Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Daniela Muñoz
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, B7130IIWA, Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Constanza Cristaldi
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, B7130IIWA, Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Agustina Ganuza
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, B7130IIWA, Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rosario Nájera
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, B7130IIWA, Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mabel C Bonardi
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, B7130IIWA, Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Valeria R Turowski
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica y Biología Celular de Parásitos, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, B7130IIWA Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fanny Guzman
- Núcleo de Biotecnología Curauma, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaiso, Av. Universidad 330 Curauma, Valparaiso, Chile
| | - Bin Deng
- Department of Biology and VBRN, University of Vermont, VT, USA
| | - Kami Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612, USA
| | - William J Sullivan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
| | - Sergio O Angel
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, B7130IIWA, Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Müller J, Hemphill A. Toxoplasma gondii infection: novel emerging therapeutic targets. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2023; 27:293-304. [PMID: 37212443 PMCID: PMC10330558 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2023.2217353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Toxoplasmosis constitutes a challenge for public health, animal production, and welfare. So far, only a limited panel of drugs has been marketed for clinical applications. In addition to classical screening, the investigation of unique targets of the parasite may lead to the identification of novel drugs. AREAS COVERED Herein, the authors describe the methodology to identify novel drug targets in Toxoplasma gondii and review the literature with a focus on the last two decades. EXPERT OPINION Over the last two decades, the investigation of essential proteins of T. gondii as potential drug targets has fostered the hope of identifying novel compounds for the treatment of toxoplasmosis. Despite good efficacies in vitro, only a few classes of these compounds are effective in suitable rodent models, and none has cleared the hurdle to applications in humans. This shows that target-based drug discovery is in no way better than classical screening approaches. In both cases, off-target effects and adverse side effects in the hosts must be considered. Proteomics-driven analyses of parasite- and host-derived proteins that physically bind drug candidates may constitute a suitable tool to characterize drug targets, irrespectively of the drug discovery methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joachim Müller
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Hemphill
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Pathobiology, Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Vanagas L, Muñoz D, Cristaldi C, Ganuza A, Nájera R, Bonardi MC, Turowski VR, Guzman F, Deng B, Kim K, Sullivan WJ, Angel SO. Histone variant H2B.Z acetylation is necessary for maintenance of Toxoplasma gondii biological fitness. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.14.528480. [PMID: 36824796 PMCID: PMC9949044 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.14.528480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
Abstract
Through regulation of DNA packaging, histone proteins are fundamental to a wide array of biological processes. A variety of post-translational modifications (PTMs), including acetylation, constitute a proposed histone code that is interpreted by "reader" proteins to modulate chromatin structure. Canonical histones can be replaced with variant versions that add an additional layer of regulatory complexity. The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is unique among eukaryotes in possessing a novel variant of H2B designated H2B.Z. The combination of PTMs and the use of histone variants is important for gene regulation in T. gondii, offering new targets for drug development. In this work, T. gondii parasites were generated in which the 5 N-terminal acetylatable lysines in H2B.Z were mutated to either alanine (c-Myc-A) or arginine (c-Myc-R). c-Myc-A mutant only displayed a mild effect in its ability to kill mice. c-Myc-R mutant presented an impaired ability to grow and an increase in differentiation to latent bradyzoites. This mutant line was also more sensitive to DNA damage, displayed no virulence in mice, and provided protective immunity against future infection. While nucleosome composition was unaltered, key genes were abnormally expressed during in vitro bradyzoite differentiation. Our results show that the N-terminal positive charge patch of H2B.Z is important for these procceses. Pull down assays with acetylated N-terminal H2B.Z peptide and unacetylated one retrieved common and differential interactors. Acetylated peptide pulled down proteins associated with chromosome maintenance/segregation and cell cycle, opening the question of a possible link between H2B.Z acetylation status and mitosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Vanagas
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, (B7130IIWA), Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniela Muñoz
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, (B7130IIWA), Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Constanza Cristaldi
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, (B7130IIWA), Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Agustina Ganuza
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, (B7130IIWA), Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rosario Nájera
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, (B7130IIWA), Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mabel C. Bonardi
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, (B7130IIWA), Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Valeria R. Turowski
- Laboratorio de Bioquímica y Biología Celular de Parásitos, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, (B7130IIWA), Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fanny Guzman
- Núcleo de Biotecnología Curauma, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Valparaiso. Av. Universidad 330 Curauma, Valparaiso
| | - Bin Deng
- Department of Biology and VBRN, University of Vermont, Vermont, USA
| | - Kami Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33612
| | - William J. Sullivan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana 46202, USA
| | - Sergio O. Angel
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, INTECH, CONICET-UNSAM, Av. Intendente Marino Km. 8.2, C.C 164, (B7130IIWA), Chascomús, Prov. Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Smith D, Lunghi M, Olafsson EB, Hatton O, Di Cristina M, Carruthers VB. A High-Throughput Amenable Dual Luciferase System for Measuring Toxoplasma gondii Bradyzoite Viability after Drug Treatment. Anal Chem 2023; 95:668-676. [PMID: 36548400 PMCID: PMC9850410 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c02174] [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: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
It is estimated that more than 2 billion people are chronically infected with the intracellular protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). Despite this, there is currently no vaccine to prevent infection in humans, and there is no recognized curative treatment to clear tissue cysts. A major hurdle for identifying effective drug candidates against chronic-stage cysts has been the low throughput of existing in vitro assays for testing the survival of bradyzoites. We have developed a luciferase-based platform for specifically determining bradyzoite survival within in vitro cysts in a 96-well plate format. We engineered a cystogenic type II T. gondii PruΔku80Δhxgpr strain for stage-specific expression of firefly luciferase in the cytosol of bradyzoites and nanoluciferase for secretion into the lumen of the cyst (DuaLuc strain). Using this DuaLuc strain, we found that the ratio of firefly luciferase to nanoluciferase decreased upon treatment with atovaquone or LHVS, two compounds that are known to compromise bradyzoite viability. The 96-well format allowed us to test several additional compounds and generate dose-response curves for calculation of EC50 values indicating relative effectiveness of a compound. Accordingly, this DuaLuc system should be suitable for screening libraries of diverse compounds and defining the potency of hits or other compounds with a putative antibradyzoite activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Smith
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor 734 763 2081, United States
- Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, U.K.
| | - Matteo Lunghi
- Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia 06123, Italy
| | - Einar B. Olafsson
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor 734 763 2081, United States
- University of Uppsala, Uppsala 751 05, Sweden
| | - Olivia Hatton
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor 734 763 2081, United States
| | | | - Vern B. Carruthers
- University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor 734 763 2081, United States
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Shbeeli KA, Al Suhaym AY, Khormi BH, Faqihi IH, Hadi IH, Kulaybi KM, Mawkili SI. Association Between Childhood Exposure to Pet Cats and Later Diagnosis of Schizophrenia: A Case-Control Study in Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2022; 14:e32401. [PMID: 36636540 PMCID: PMC9831139 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.32401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an increasing number of reports suggesting an effect of adverse environmental factors during vulnerable periods of prenatal and perinatal development in the etiology of schizophrenia. Cat-transmitted infections, especially Toxoplasma gondii, are possible risk factors for the later development of schizophrenia. We conducted a case-control study to examine childhood cat ownership in 78 patients with schizophrenia (cases), 78 outpatients with depression and anxiety disorders (control group one), and 78 outpatients with no psychiatric history (control group two). Cat ownership before the age of 13 was reported by 52.6%, 44.9%, and 24.4% of patients in cases, control group one, and control group two, respectively. Compared with non-psychiatric patients, patients with schizophrenia were 3.4 times more likely to report owning cats in their childhood (odds ratio (OR)=3.441; p=0.000; 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.740-6.804). Compared with both control groups, the likelihood of owning a cat as a child was 2.1 times more among cases (OR=2.093; p=0.008; 95% CI=1.203-3.640). Age, female gender, and family history appeared to be positively associated with cat ownership and schizophrenia. This study supports the evidence of a relationship between childhood exposure to pet cats and the later development of schizophrenia. Further in-depth research is needed to clarify the relationship between exposure to pet cats in childhood and later diagnosis of schizophrenia, adjusting for potential confounders.
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Guimarães AL, Richer Araujo Coelho D, Scoriels L, Mambrini J, Ribeiro do Valle Antonelli L, Henriques P, Teixeira-Carvalho A, Assis Martins Filho O, Mineo J, Bahia-Oliveira L, Panizzutti R. Effects of Toxoplasma gondii infection on cognition, symptoms, and response to digital cognitive training in schizophrenia. SCHIZOPHRENIA (HEIDELBERG, GERMANY) 2022; 8:104. [PMID: 36434103 PMCID: PMC9700796 DOI: 10.1038/s41537-022-00292-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Studies indicate that neuroscience-informed digital cognitive training can remediate cognitive impairments in schizophrenia, but the factors contributing to these deficits and response to treatment remain unclear. Toxoplasma gondii is a neuroinvasive parasite linked to cognitive decline that also presents a higher prevalence in schizophrenia. Here, we compared the cognition and symptom severity of IgG seropositive (TOXO+; n = 25) and seronegative (TOXO-; n = 35) patients who participated in a randomized controlled trial of digital cognitive training. At baseline, TOXO+ subjects presented lower global cognition than TOXO- (F = 3.78, p = 0.05). Specifically, TOXO+ subjects showed worse verbal memory and learning (F = 4.48, p = 0.03), social cognition (F = 5.71, p = 0.02), and higher antibody concentrations were associated with increased negative (r = 0.42, p = 0.04) and total (r = 0.40, p = 0.04) schizophrenia symptoms. After training, the TOXO+ group showed higher adherence to the intervention (X2 = 9.31, p = 0.03), but there were no differences in changes in cognition and symptoms between groups. These findings highlight the association between seropositivity to T. gondii and deteriorated cognition and symptoms in schizophrenia. Further research is needed to assess the specific efficacy of digital cognitive training on this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Luiza Guimarães
- grid.8536.80000 0001 2294 473XInstituto de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil ,grid.8536.80000 0001 2294 473XInstituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - David Richer Araujo Coelho
- grid.8536.80000 0001 2294 473XDepartamento de Imunoparasitologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Linda Scoriels
- grid.8536.80000 0001 2294 473XInstituto de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil ,grid.8536.80000 0001 2294 473XInstituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Juliana Mambrini
- grid.418068.30000 0001 0723 0931Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Priscilla Henriques
- grid.418068.30000 0001 0723 0931Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Andréa Teixeira-Carvalho
- grid.418068.30000 0001 0723 0931Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - José Mineo
- grid.411284.a0000 0004 4647 6936Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Lilian Bahia-Oliveira
- grid.8536.80000 0001 2294 473XDepartamento de Imunoparasitologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rogério Panizzutti
- grid.8536.80000 0001 2294 473XInstituto de Psiquiatria, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil ,grid.8536.80000 0001 2294 473XInstituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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11
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Yan X, Sun Y, Yu X, Gao J, Wang H, Liang R, Han W, Jin X, Guo W, Liu P, Chen J. Study on the effect of koumiss on reactivation of Toxoplasma gondii infection. Front Nutr 2022; 9:1032271. [PMID: 36337653 PMCID: PMC9630357 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1032271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that infects nucleated cells of all warm-blooded animals, and most patients have latent infections. The latent infection will be reactivated in the immunocompromised or immunocompromised individuals, which will lead to severe toxoplasmosis. At present, less research has been focused on the reactivation of T. gondii infection. Koumiss is a kind of fermented milk made from fresh mare’s milk through natural fermentation that can be applied to clinical and rehabilitation medicine to mitigate the development of various diseases due to its unique functional characteristics. In this study, we explored the antagonistic effect of koumiss on reactivation of T. gondii infection. Mice were treated with dexamethasone to establish a reactivation model after infection with T. gondii and then treated with koumiss. The survival rate, SHIRPA test, serum cytokine levels, organ parasite burden and intestinal microbiota were measured, respectively. Our results showed that koumiss treatment improved the clinical symptoms of mice, significantly reduced the organ parasite burden of mice, and improved the composition and structure of intestinal flora. This study provides new evidence for the alleviation and treatment of toxoplasmosis and provides a novel idea for the development and utilization of koumiss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlei Yan
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
- *Correspondence: Xinlei Yan,
| | - Yufei Sun
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xiuli Yu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Jialu Gao
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Hejing Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Xianyang, Shaanxi, China
| | - Ru Liang
- Department of Pediatrics, Inner Mongolia Maternal, Child Health Hospital, Hohhot, China
| | - Wenying Han
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Xindong Jin
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Wenhui Guo
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Pufang Liu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
| | - Jia Chen
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot, China
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12
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Metabolomic Profiling Reveals Common Metabolic Alterations in Plasma of Patients with Toxoplasma Infection and Schizophrenia. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13081482. [PMID: 36011393 PMCID: PMC9408728 DOI: 10.3390/genes13081482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic protozoan parasite known to affect the human brain. The infection has been associated with an increased incidence of schizophrenia; however, the link between the two conditions remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the plasma metabolome of schizophrenia and non-schizophrenia subjects with or without Toxoplasma infection. Untargeted metabolomic profiling was carried out by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Elevation of the α-hydroxyglutaric acid level and reduced adenosine monophosphate, inosine, hypoxanthine and xanthine were found in the subjects with either toxoplasmosis or schizophrenia alone. These results suggest that purine catabolism is a common metabolic alteration in Toxoplasma infection and schizophrenia. The roles of these metabolites on the pathogenesis of schizophrenia in relation to Toxoplasma infection warrant further studies.
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13
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Rovira P, Gutiérrez B, Sorlózano-Puerto A, Gutiérrez-Fernández J, Molina E, Rivera M, Martínez-Leal R, Ibanez-Casas I, Martín-Laguna MV, Rosa A, Torres-González F, Cervilla JA. Toxoplasma gondii Seropositivity Interacts with Catechol- O-methyltransferase Val105/158Met Variation Increasing the Risk of Schizophrenia. Genes (Basel) 2022; 13:genes13061088. [PMID: 35741850 PMCID: PMC9222771 DOI: 10.3390/genes13061088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a heterogeneous and severe psychotic disorder. Epidemiological findings have suggested that the exposure to infectious agents such as Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is associated with an increased risk for schizophrenia. On the other hand, there is evidence involving the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) Val105/158Met polymorphism in the aetiology of schizophrenia since it alters the dopamine metabolism. A case−control study of 141 patients and 142 controls was conducted to analyse the polymorphism, the prevalence of anti-T. gondii IgG, and their interaction on the risk for schizophrenia. IgG were detected by ELISA, and genotyping was performed with TaqMan Real-Time PCR. Although no association was found between any COMT genotype and schizophrenia, we found a significant association between T. gondii seropositivity and the disorder (χ2 = 11.71; p-value < 0.001). Furthermore, the risk for schizophrenia conferred by T. gondii was modified by the COMT genotype, with those who had been exposed to the infection showing a different risk compared to that of nonexposed ones depending on the COMT genotype (χ2 for the interaction = 7.28, p-value = 0.007). This study provides evidence that the COMT genotype modifies the risk for schizophrenia conferred by T. gondii infection, with it being higher in those individuals with the Met/Met phenotype, intermediate in heterozygous, and lower in those with the Val/Val phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Rovira
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (P.R.); (M.R.); (M.V.M.-L.); (J.A.C.)
- Departamento de Psiquiatría, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain; (A.S.-P.); (J.G.-F.)
- Vicerectorat de Recerca, Investigadora postdoctoral Margarita Salas, Universitat de Barcelona, 08007 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Blanca Gutiérrez
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (P.R.); (M.R.); (M.V.M.-L.); (J.A.C.)
- Departamento de Psiquiatría, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain; (A.S.-P.); (J.G.-F.)
- Correspondence: (B.G.); (E.M.); Tel.: +34-958-242-075 (B.G. & E.M.)
| | - Antonio Sorlózano-Puerto
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain; (A.S.-P.); (J.G.-F.)
- Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - José Gutiérrez-Fernández
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain; (A.S.-P.); (J.G.-F.)
- Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Esther Molina
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (P.R.); (M.R.); (M.V.M.-L.); (J.A.C.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain; (A.S.-P.); (J.G.-F.)
- Departamento de Enfermería, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Correspondence: (B.G.); (E.M.); Tel.: +34-958-242-075 (B.G. & E.M.)
| | - Margarita Rivera
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (P.R.); (M.R.); (M.V.M.-L.); (J.A.C.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain; (A.S.-P.); (J.G.-F.)
- Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular II, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain
| | - Rafael Martínez-Leal
- Unidad de Investigación en Discapacidad Intelectual y Trastornos del Desarrollo (UNIVIDD), Fundació Villablanca, IISPV, Departamento de Psicología, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), 43007 Reus, Spain;
| | - Inmaculada Ibanez-Casas
- Department of Psychology, State University of New York at Plattsburgh, Plattsburgh, 12901 NY, USA;
| | - María Victoria Martín-Laguna
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (P.R.); (M.R.); (M.V.M.-L.); (J.A.C.)
| | - Araceli Rosa
- Secció de Zoologia i Antropologia Biològica, Departament de Biologia Evolutiva, Ecologia i Ciències Ambientals, Facultat de Biologia, Institut de Biomedicina de la Universitat de Barcelona (IBUB), Universitat de Barcelona, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 08028 Barcelona, Spain;
| | | | - Jorge A. Cervilla
- Instituto de Neurociencias, Centro de Investigación Biomédica (CIBM), Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (P.R.); (M.R.); (M.V.M.-L.); (J.A.C.)
- Departamento de Psiquiatría, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain; (A.S.-P.); (J.G.-F.)
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14
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Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Patients with Psychiatric Disorders from Western Romania. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58020208. [PMID: 35208532 PMCID: PMC8879735 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58020208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Objectives: High rates of infection with Toxoplasma gondii were found in psychiatric patients globally. In this study, we assessed for the first time the prevalence of T. gondii infection in psychiatric patients and healthy individuals with no known psychiatric disorders in Western Romania. Materials and Methods: The presence of specific IgG anti-T. gondii antibodies was evaluated in 308 psychiatric patients and 296 control subjects using a chemiluminescence assay. Results: Overall, the seroprevalence of IgG antibodies was higher in psychiatric patients (67.86%; 209/308), compared with the control group (54.05%; 160/296) (p < 0.001). Our results revealed a significantly higher prevalence of T. gondii antibodies among patients with schizophrenia (69.77%), organic (personality and behaviour) disorders (76.74%), and mental disorders concerning alcohol abuse (84.62%), compared with the control group (p = 0.009, p = 0.005, p = 0.043, respectively). Conclusions: This study provides new and important information on the seroprevalence of T. gondii in Romanian psychiatric patients and may serve for further scientific research regarding the status of T. gondii infection in patients with psychiatric disorders.
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15
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Heurich M, Föcking M, Mongan D, Cagney G, Cotter DR. Dysregulation of complement and coagulation pathways: emerging mechanisms in the development of psychosis. Mol Psychiatry 2022; 27:127-140. [PMID: 34226666 PMCID: PMC8256396 DOI: 10.1038/s41380-021-01197-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Early identification and treatment significantly improve clinical outcomes of psychotic disorders. Recent studies identified protein components of the complement and coagulation systems as key pathways implicated in psychosis. These specific protein alterations are integral to the inflammatory response and can begin years before the onset of clinical symptoms of psychotic disorder. Critically, they have recently been shown to predict the transition from clinical high risk to first-episode psychosis, enabling stratification of individuals who are most likely to transition to psychotic disorder from those who are not. This reinforces the concept that the psychosis spectrum is likely a central nervous system manifestation of systemic changes and highlights the need to investigate plasma proteins as diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers and pathophysiological mediators. In this review, we integrate evidence of alterations in proteins belonging to the complement and coagulation protein systems, including the coagulation, anticoagulation, and fibrinolytic pathways and their dysregulation in psychosis, into a consolidated mechanism that could be integral to the progression and manifestation of psychosis. We consolidate the findings of altered blood proteins relevant for progression to psychotic disorders, using data from longitudinal studies of the general population in addition to clinical high-risk (CHR) individuals transitioning to psychotic disorder. These are compared to markers identified from first-episode psychosis and schizophrenia as well as other psychosis spectrum disorders. We propose the novel hypothesis that altered complement and coagulation plasma levels enhance their pathways' activating capacities, while low levels observed in key regulatory components contribute to excessive activation observed in patients. This hypothesis will require future testing through a range of experimental paradigms, and if upheld, complement and coagulation pathways or specific proteins could be useful diagnostic or prognostic tools and targets for early intervention and preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meike Heurich
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK.
| | - Melanie Föcking
- grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Department of Psychiatry, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David Mongan
- grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Department of Psychiatry, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gerard Cagney
- grid.7886.10000 0001 0768 2743School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science, Conway Institute, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David R. Cotter
- grid.4912.e0000 0004 0488 7120Department of Psychiatry, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
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16
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Jain S, Baer RJ, McCulloch CE, Rogers E, Rand L, Jelliffe-Pawlowski L, Piao X. Association of Maternal Immune Activation during Pregnancy and Neurologic Outcomes in Offspring. J Pediatr 2021; 238:87-93.e3. [PMID: 33965413 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2021.04.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate neurologic morbidity among offspring during their first year of life in association with prenatal maternal immune activation (MIA), using an inclusive definition. STUDY DESIGN This retrospective cohort study included singletons born in California between 2011 and 2017. MIA was defined by International Classification of Diseases diagnosis of infection, autoimmune disorder, allergy, asthma, atherosclerosis, or malignancy during pregnancy. Neurologic morbidity in infants was defined by International Classification of Diseases diagnosis of intraventricular hemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, seizures, abnormal neurologic examination, or abnormal neurologic imaging. Outcomes of delayed developmental milestones during the first year of life were also explored. Risk of neurologic morbidity in offspring was approximated for women with and without MIA using log link binary regression. RESULTS Demographic characteristics among 3 004 166 mother-infant dyads with or without MIA were similar in both groups. Rate of preterm delivery in mothers with MIA (9.4%) was significantly higher than those without MIA (5.6%). Infants of mothers with MIA were more likely to experience neurologic morbidities across all gestational ages. Adjusted relative risk (95% CI) in the exposed infants was 2.0 (1.9-2.1) for abnormal neurologic examination; 1.6 (1.5-1.7) for seizures, and 1.6 (1.4-1.8) for periventricular leukomalacia. CONCLUSIONS Our results demonstrate that MIA during pregnancy may be associated with considerably higher risk of neurologic morbidity in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samhita Jain
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Rebecca J Baer
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA; Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego School of Medicine, San Diego, CA; California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA
| | - Charles E McCulloch
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA
| | - Elizabeth Rogers
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA
| | - Larry Rand
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA; California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA
| | - Laura Jelliffe-Pawlowski
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA; California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA
| | - Xianhua Piao
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Newborn Brain Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA; Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA.
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17
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Severance EG, Leister F, Lea A, Yang S, Dickerson F, Yolken RH. Complement C4 associations with altered microbial biomarkers exemplify gene-by-environment interactions in schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2021; 234:87-93. [PMID: 33632634 PMCID: PMC8373622 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2021.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a complex brain disorder with genetic and environmental factors contributing to its etiology. Complement C4 genes are schizophrenia susceptibility loci and are activated in response to infections and gut microbiome imbalances. We hypothesize that C4 genetic susceptibility predisposes individuals to neuropathological effects from pathogen exposures or a microbiome in dysbiosis. In 214 individuals with schizophrenia and 123 non-psychiatric controls, we examined C4 gene copy number and haplotype groups for associations with schizophrenia and microbial plasma biomarkers. C4A copy number and haplotypes containing HERV-K insertions (C4A-long; C4AL-C4AL) conferred elevated odds ratios for schizophrenia diagnoses (OR 1.58-2.56, p < 0.0001), while C4B-short (C4BS) haplogroups conferred decreased odds (OR 0.43, p < 0.0001). Haplogroup-microbe combinations showed extensive associations with schizophrenia including C4AL with Candida albicans IgG (OR 2.16, p < 0.0005), C4AL-C4BL with cytomegalovirus (CMV) IgG (OR 1.79, p < 0.008), C4BS with lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) (OR 1.18, p < 0.0001), and C4AL-C4AL with Toxoplasma gondii IgG (OR = 17.67, p < 0.0001). In controls, only one haplogroup-microbe combination was significant: C4BS with CMV IgG (OR 0.52, p < 0.02). In schizophrenia only, LBP and CMV IgG levels were inversely correlated with C4A and C4S copy numbers, respectively (R2 = 0.13-0.16, p < 0.0001). C4 haplogroups were associated with altered scores of cognitive functioning in both cases and controls and with psychiatric symptom scores in schizophrenia. Our findings link complement C4 genes with a susceptibility to infections and a dysbiotic microbiome in schizophrenia. These results support immune system mechanisms by which gene-environmental interactions may be operative in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily G Severance
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| | - Flora Leister
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Ashley Lea
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shuojia Yang
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Robert H Yolken
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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18
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Węglińska L, Bekier A, Dzitko K, Pacholczyk-Sienicka B, Albrecht Ł, Plech T, Paneth P, Paneth A. 1,3,4-Thiadiazoles Effectively Inhibit Proliferation of Toxoplasma gondii. Cells 2021; 10:1053. [PMID: 33946881 PMCID: PMC8145641 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital and acquired toxoplasmosis caused by the food- and water-born parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is one of the most prevalent zoonotic infection of global importance. T. gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite with limited capacity for extracellular survival, thus a successful, efficient and robust host cell invasion process is crucial for its survival, proliferation and transmission. In this study, we screened a series of novel 1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-halophenylamines functionalized at the C5 position with the imidazole ring (1b-12b) for their effects on T. gondii host cell invasion and proliferation. To achieve this goal, these compounds were initially subjected to in vitro assays to assess their cytotoxicity on human fibroblasts and then antiparasitic efficacy. Results showed that all of them compare favorably to control drugs sulfadiazine and trimethoprim in terms of T. gondii growth inhibition (IC50) and selectivity toward the parasite, expressed as selectivity index (SI). Subsequently, the most potent of them with meta-fluoro 2b, meta-chloro 5b, meta-bromo 8b, meta-iodo 11b and para-iodo 12b substitution were tested for their efficacy in inhibition of tachyzoites invasion and subsequent proliferation by direct action on established intracellular infection. All the compounds significantly inhibited the parasite invasion and intracellular proliferation via direct action on both tachyzoites and parasitophorous vacuoles formation. The most effective was para-iodo derivative 12b that caused reduction in the percentage of infected host cells by 44% and number of tachyzoites per vacuole by 93% compared to non-treated host cells. Collectively, these studies indicate that 1,3,4-thiadiazoles 1b-12b, especially 12b with IC50 of 4.70 µg/mL and SI of 20.89, could be considered as early hit compounds for future design and synthesis of anti-Toxoplasma agents that effectively and selectively block the invasion and subsequent proliferation of T. gondii into host cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Węglińska
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Adrian Bekier
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Banacha 12/16, 90-237 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Katarzyna Dzitko
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Banacha 12/16, 90-237 Lodz, Poland;
| | - Barbara Pacholczyk-Sienicka
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Zeromskiego 116, 90-924 Lodz, Poland; (B.P.-S.); (Ł.A.)
| | - Łukasz Albrecht
- Institute of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Zeromskiego 116, 90-924 Lodz, Poland; (B.P.-S.); (Ł.A.)
| | - Tomasz Plech
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Lublin, Chodzki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Piotr Paneth
- Institute of Applied Radiation Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Zeromskiego 116, 90-924 Lodz, Poland;
- International Centre for Research on Innovative Biobased Materials (ICRI-BioM)—International Research Agenda, Lodz University of Technology, Zeromskiego 116, 90-924 Lodz, Poland
| | - Agata Paneth
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki 4a, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
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19
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Rosuvastatin revert memory impairment and anxiogenic-like effect in mice infected with the chronic ME-49 strain of Toxoplasma gondii. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250079. [PMID: 33857221 PMCID: PMC8049280 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of rosuvastatin treatment on memory impairment, and anxiogenic-like effects in mice chronically infected with Toxoplasma gondii. For this, Balb/c mice were infected orally with chronic ME-49 strain of Toxoplasma gondii. Oral treatment with rosuvastatin (40mg/kg/day) started on the 51st day post-infection and was performed daily for 21 days. After completion of treatment, anxiety-like effects and locomotion were investigated in the open field (OF) test, whereas novel object recognition (NOR) test was used for evaluation of short- and long-term memory. At the end of the experiments, the brain was collected for Toxoplasma gondii DNA quantification and histopathological analysis. Infection with ME-49 strain decreased the time spent in the center of OF, indicating an anxiogenic effect, without affecting total and peripheral locomotion. Rosuvastatin treatment inhibited the change in the center time. Besides, pharmacological treatment increased total and central locomotion in both non-infected and infected animals. Infection also impaired both short- and long-term memory in the NOR test, and these effects were reverted by rosuvastatin treatment. In addition to effects in behavioral changes, rosuvastatin also reduced parasite load in the brain and attenuated signs of brain inflammation such as perivascular cuffs, inflammatory cell infiltration and tissue damage. These findings indicate for the first time the efficacy of rosuvastatin in treatment of memory impairment and anxiogenic effect evoked by infection with Toxoplasma gondii. These effects might be mediated by reduced cyst load, which in turn decrease inflammation and damage in the brain.
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20
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Taghipour A, Habibpour H, Mirzapour A, Rostami A. Toxocara infection/exposure and the risk of schizophrenia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2021; 115:1114-1121. [PMID: 33822228 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trab056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxocariasis is an important neglected disease that could have a role in the development of some neurological disorders, such as schizophrenia (SCZ). We performed the first systematic review and meta-analysis on observational studies to evaluate the possible association between Toxocara infection/exposure and SCZ. Systematic searching (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar) was performed, up to 15 August 2020, to identify the relevant studies. We used a random effects meta-analysis model to generate the pooled OR and 95% CIs. The research process resulted in the identification of six studies related to the subject of interest entailing 411 SCZ patients and 2047 controls. Our results demonstrated that the SCZ patients (15%; 95% CI 6.8 to 29.9%) had higher pooled seroprevalence of Toxocara infection/exposure than the control group (3.3%; 95% CI 1.1 to 9.4%), showing a significant association (pooled OR, 4.06; 95% CI 1.14 to 14.43). Our findings suggested that Toxocara infection/exposure might have an important but neglected contribution to SCZ development. However, further well-designed and large-scale observational studies are needed to illuminate this association. Because many other environmental and genetic factors may be strong confounders, more mechanistic/experimental studies in animal models are also necessary to further define the mechanism of this association.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Taghipour
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Haniyeh Habibpour
- Department of Microbiology, Islamic Azad University, Varamin Pishva Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Aliyar Mirzapour
- Innovative Medical Research Center, Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Mashhad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Rostami
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.,Immunoregulation Research Center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
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21
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Postolache TT, Wadhawan A, Rujescu D, Hoisington AJ, Dagdag A, Baca-Garcia E, Lowry CA, Okusaga OO, Brenner LA. Toxoplasma gondii, Suicidal Behavior, and Intermediate Phenotypes for Suicidal Behavior. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:665682. [PMID: 34177652 PMCID: PMC8226025 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.665682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Within the general literature on infections and suicidal behavior, studies on Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) occupy a central position. This is related to the parasite's neurotropism, high prevalence of chronic infection, as well as specific and non-specific behavioral alterations in rodents that lead to increased risk taking, which are recapitulated in humans by T. gondii's associations with suicidal behavior, as well as trait impulsivity and aggression, mental illness and traffic accidents. This paper is a detailed review of the associations between T. gondii serology and suicidal behavior, a field of study that started 15 years ago with our publication of associations between T. gondii IgG serology and suicidal behavior in persons with mood disorders. This "legacy" article presents, chronologically, our primary studies in individuals with mood disorders and schizophrenia in Germany, recent attempters in Sweden, and in a large cohort of mothers in Denmark. Then, it reviews findings from all three meta-analyses published to date, confirming our reported associations and overall consistent in effect size [ranging between 39 and 57% elevation of odds of suicide attempt in T. gondii immunoglobulin (IgG) positives]. Finally, the article introduces certain links between T. gondii and biomarkers previously associated with suicidal behavior (kynurenines, phenylalanine/tyrosine), intermediate phenotypes of suicidal behavior (impulsivity, aggression) and state-dependent suicide risk factors (hopelessness/dysphoria, sleep impairment). In sum, an abundance of evidence supports a positive link between suicide attempts (but not suicidal ideation) and T. gondii IgG (but not IgM) seropositivity and serointensity. Trait impulsivity and aggression, endophenotypes of suicidal behavior have also been positively associated with T. gondii seropositivity in both the psychiatrically healthy as well as in patients with Intermittent Explosive Disorder. Yet, causality has not been demonstrated. Thus, randomized interventional studies are necessary to advance causal inferences and, if causality is confirmed, to provide hope that an etiological treatment for a distinct subgroup of individuals at an increased risk for suicide could emerge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodor T Postolache
- Department of Psychiatry, Mood and Anxiety Program, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Veterans Health Administration, Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Military and Veteran Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Aurora, CO, United States.,Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 5, VA Capitol Health Care Network, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Abhishek Wadhawan
- Department of Psychiatry, Mood and Anxiety Program, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Department of Psychiatry, Saint Elizabeth's Hospital, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Dan Rujescu
- Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University of Halle, Halle, Germany
| | - Andrew J Hoisington
- Veterans Health Administration, Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Military and Veteran Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Aurora, CO, United States.,Department of Systems Engineering and Management, Air Force Institute of Technology, Dayton, OH, United States.,Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Aline Dagdag
- Department of Psychiatry, Mood and Anxiety Program, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Enrique Baca-Garcia
- Department of Psychiatry, Jimenez Diaz Foundation Hospital, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry, Madrid Autonomous University, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry, Rey Juan Carlos University Hospital, Móstoles, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry, General Hospital of Villalba, Madrid, Spain.,Department of Psychiatry, Infanta Elena University Hospital, Valdemoro, Spain.,Universidad Catolica del Maule, Talca, Chile.,Department of Psychiatry, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nîmes, Nîmes, France
| | - Christopher A Lowry
- Veterans Health Administration, Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Military and Veteran Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Aurora, CO, United States.,Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, Center for Microbial Exploration, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Olaoluwa O Okusaga
- Department of Psychiatry, Mood and Anxiety Program, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States.,Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States.,Michael E DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Lisa A Brenner
- Veterans Health Administration, Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Military and Veteran Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Aurora, CO, United States.,Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States.,Department of Psychiatry & Neurology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
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22
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Jiang HY, Zhang X, Pan LY, Ma YC. Childhood infection and subsequent risk of psychotic disorders in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Asian J Psychiatr 2020; 54:102275. [PMID: 32663796 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2020.102275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The effects of childhood infection exposure on the risk of subsequent psychosis are unclear and no overview is available. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the link between childhood infection and the risk of psychosis in later life. METHODS We performed systematic searches of the PubMed and Embase databases to identify relevant articles published up to March 1, 2020. Random-effects models were used to pool the odds ratios [OR] of childhood infection and later psychosis. RESULTS Thirteen observational studies (seven on hospital exposure to infection and six on central nervous system (CNS) infection) were included in the meta-analysis. Hospital contact with any infection during childhood was associated with an increased risk of psychosis (OR, 1.27; 95 % confidence interval (CI), 1.13-1.44; p < 0.001; I2 = 84 %) or schizophrenia (OR, 1.44; 95 % CI, 1.19-1.73; p < 0.001; I2 = 54.2 %) later in life. In further analysis, the association also existed for children exposed to CNS infection (OR, 1.68; 95 % CI, 1.08-2.62; p = 0.021; I2 = 68.7 %). However, the risk was modulated by the timing and frequency of infection. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest an increased risk of psychosis later in life with infection exposure in childhood. However, non-causal explanations for the association cannot be ruled out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Yin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Xue Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Li-Ya Pan
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Yong-Chun Ma
- Department of Psychiatry, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China.
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23
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Pearce BD, Massa N, Goldsmith DR, Gandhi ZH, Hankus A, Alrohaibani A, Goel N, Cuthbert B, Fargotstein M, Barr DB, Panuwet P, Brown VM, Duncan E. Toxoplasma gondii Effects on the Relationship of Kynurenine Pathway Metabolites to Acoustic Startle Latency in Schizophrenia vs. Control Subjects. Front Psychiatry 2020; 11:552743. [PMID: 33329089 PMCID: PMC7715008 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2020.552743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Chronic infection with Toxoplasma gondii (TOXO) results in microcysts in the brain that are controlled by inflammatory activation and subsequent changes in the kynurenine pathway. TOXO seropositivity is associated with a heightened risk of schizophrenia (SCZ) and with cognitive impairments. Latency of the acoustic startle response, a putative index of neural processing speed, is slower in SCZ. SCZ subjects who are TOXO seropositive have slower latency than SCZ subjects who are TOXO seronegative. We assessed the relationship between kynurenine pathway metabolites and startle latency as a potential route by which chronic TOXO infection can lead to cognitive slowing in SCZ. Methods: Fourty-seven SCZ subjects and 30 controls (CON) were tested on a standard acoustic startle paradigm. Kynurenine pathway metabolites were measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry were kynurenine (KYN), tryptophan (TRYP), 3-hydroxyanthranilic acid (3-OHAA), anthranilic acid (AA), and kynurenic acid (KYNA). TOXO status was determined by IgG ELISA. Results: In univariate ANCOVAs on onset and peak latency with age and log transformed startle magnitude as covariates, both onset latency [F(1,61) = 5.76; p = 0.019] and peak latency [F(1,61) = 4.34; p = 0.041] were slower in SCZ than CON subjects. In stepwise backward linear regressions after stratification by Diagnosis, slower onset latency in SCZ subjects was predicted by higher TRYP (B = 0.42; p = 0.008) and 3-OHAA:AA (B = 3.68; p = 0.007), and lower KYN:TRYP (B = -185.42; p = 0.034). In regressions with peak latency as the dependent variable, slower peak latency was predicted by higher TRYP (B = 0.47; p = 0.013) and 3-OHAA:AA ratio (B = 4.35; p = 0.010), and by lower KYNA (B = -6.67; p = 0.036). In CON subjects neither onset nor peak latency was predicted by any KYN metabolites. In regressions stratified by TOXO status, in TOXO positive subjects, slower peak latency was predicted by lower concentrations of KYN (B = -8.08; p = 0.008), KYNA (B = -10.64; p = 0.003), and lower KYN:TRYP ratios (B = -347.01; p = 0.03). In TOXO negative subjects neither onset nor peak latency was predicted by any KYN metabolites. Conclusions: KYN pathway markers predict slowing of startle latency in SCZ subjects and in those with chronic TOXO infection, but this is not seen in CON subjects nor TOXO seronegative subjects. These findings coupled with prior work indicating a relationship of slower latency with SCZ and TOXO infection suggest that alterations in KYN pathway markers may be a mechanism by which neural processing speed, as indexed by startle latency, is affected in these subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley D. Pearce
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Nicholas Massa
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Atlanta Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Decatur, GA, United States
| | - David R. Goldsmith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Zeal H. Gandhi
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Allison Hankus
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Neha Goel
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Bruce Cuthbert
- Atlanta Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Decatur, GA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Molly Fargotstein
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Dana Boyd Barr
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Parinya Panuwet
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Victoria M. Brown
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Erica Duncan
- Atlanta Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Decatur, GA, United States
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
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24
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Mirahmadi H, Hasanzadeh R, Malek Raeesi H, Fallahi S, Khoshsima Shahraki M, Badirzadeh A. Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) Assay to Detect Toxoplasmosis in Schizophrenia Patients. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2020; 15:299-306. [PMID: 33082793 PMCID: PMC7548473 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v15i3.4193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) causes an important parasitic infection known as toxoplasmosis, which is a globally distributed important zoonosis. One of the major serious characteristics of T. gondii is its ability to manipulate the behavior of intermediate hosts. We performed a cross-sectional study to determine toxoplasmosis in schizophrenic patients, as one of the major neuropsychiatric disorders, using loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technic by targeting parasite B1 gene. Methods Blood samples were taken from 118 schizophrenic patients hospitalized in tow hospitals including Baharan, Clinic of Psychiatric Ali-ibn-Abi-Talib Hospital (in Zahedan City), and Amir-al Momenin Psychiatric Hospital (in Zabol City), Sistan and Baluchestan Province, southeast Iran in 2016. They were analyzed using LAMP, and compared with the previous data of nested-PCR and serology. Results Out of the 118 schizophrenic individuals, 56 patients (47.4%) were found to be infected with T. gondii. The diagnosis of toxoplasmosis was confirmed in 41 patients (34.7%) via the nested-PCR. The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in schizophrenic patients was 55.9% (66/118). Conclusion We found a high efficiency of LAMP method in identifying toxoplasmosis and its high prevalence among schizophrenic patients. Our findings could provide viable offer implications for the prevention of schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Mirahmadi
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Resistant Tubercluosis Institute, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.,Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Raheleh Hasanzadeh
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Resistant Tubercluosis Institute, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.,Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Hamid Malek Raeesi
- Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine Research Center, Resistant Tubercluosis Institute, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Shirzad Fallahi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | | | - Alireza Badirzadeh
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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25
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Abrahamyan Empson L, Baumann PS, Söderström O, Codeluppi Z, Söderström D, Conus P. Urbanicity: The need for new avenues to explore the link between urban living and psychosis. Early Interv Psychiatry 2020; 14:398-409. [PMID: 31389169 DOI: 10.1111/eip.12861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 11/25/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM A growing body of evidence suggests that urban living contributes to the development of psychosis. However, the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unclear. This paper aims to explore the best available knowledge on the matter, identify research gaps and outline future prospects for research strategies. METHOD A comprehensive literature survey on the main computerized medical research databases, with a time limit up to August 2017 on the issue of urbanicity and psychosis has been conducted. RESULTS The impact of urbanicity may result from a wide range of factors (from urban material features to stressful impact of social life) leading to "urban stress." The latter may link urban upbringing to the development of psychosis through overlapping neuro- and socio-developmental pathways, possibly unified by dopaminergic hyperactivity in mesocorticolimbic system. However, "urban stress" is poorly defined and research based on patients' experience of the urban environment is scarce. CONCLUSIONS Despite accumulated data, the majority of studies conducted so far failed to explain how specific factors of urban environment combine in patients' daily life to create protective or disruptive milieus. This undermines the translation of a vast epidemiological knowledge into effective therapeutic and urbanistic developments. New studies on urbanicity should therefore be more interdisciplinary, bridging knowledge from different disciplines (psychiatry, epidemiology, human geography, urbanism, etc.) in order to enrich research methods, ensure the development of effective treatment and preventive strategies as well as create urban environments that will contribute to mental well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilith Abrahamyan Empson
- Treatment and early Intervention in Psychosis Program, Service of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Philipp S Baumann
- Treatment and early Intervention in Psychosis Program, Service of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland.,Center for Psychiatric Neurosciences, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ola Söderström
- Institute of Geography, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Zoé Codeluppi
- Institute of Geography, University of Neuchâtel, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | | | - Philippe Conus
- Treatment and early Intervention in Psychosis Program, Service of General Psychiatry, Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland
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26
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Gale SD, Hedges DW. Neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric effects of toxocariasis. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:261-272. [PMID: 32381201 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Caused by the neuroinvasive nematodes Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati, human toxocariasis has a worldwide distribution with seroprevalence in humans associated with low socioeconomic status and low educational attainment. Third-stage Toxocara larvae can invade human tissues, including the brain and spine, where they can result in encephalitis, meningitis, and inflammation. Toxocara infection in animal models has been associated with cognitive and behavioural changes. In humans, preliminary cross-sectional research suggests that Toxocara seropositivity is associated with worse cognitive function in children and adults. Additional preliminary cross-sectional findings suggest associations between Toxocara seropositivity and neuropsychiatric function, including schizophrenia and neurologic conditions such as epilepsy. Given the widespread distribution of human toxocariasis and early evidence suggesting that it can be associated with cognitive and neuropsychiatric function in humans, additional research regarding the effects of toxocariasis on the human brain is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn D Gale
- Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, United States; The Neuroscience Centre, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, United States.
| | - Dawson W Hedges
- Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, United States; The Neuroscience Centre, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, United States
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27
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Almonte MT, Capellàn P, Yap TE, Cordeiro MF. Retinal correlates of psychiatric disorders. Ther Adv Chronic Dis 2020; 11:2040622320905215. [PMID: 32215197 PMCID: PMC7065291 DOI: 10.1177/2040622320905215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Diagnosis and monitoring of psychiatric disorders rely heavily on subjective self-reports of clinical symptoms, which are complicated by the varying consistency of accounts reported by patients with an impaired mental state. Hence, more objective and quantifiable measures have been sought to provide clinicians with more robust methods to evaluate symptomology and track progression of disease in response to treatments. Owing to the shared origins of the retina and the brain, it has been suggested that changes in the retina may correlate with structural and functional changes in the brain. Vast improvements in retinal imaging, namely optical coherence tomography (OCT) and electrodiagnostic technology, have made it possible to investigate the eye at a microscopic level, allowing for the investigation of potential biomarkers in vivo. This review provides a summary of retinal biomarkers associated with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and major depression, demonstrating how retinal biomarkers may be used to complement existing methods and provide structural markers of pathophysiological mechanisms that underpin brain dysfunction in psychiatric disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie T. Almonte
- Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London, UK
- Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, UK
| | | | - Timothy E. Yap
- Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London, UK
- Imperial College Ophthalmic Research Group (ICORG), Imperial College London, UK
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28
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Toxoplasmosis in a Cohort of Italian Patients With Bipolar and Psychotic Disorders: How Infection May Affect Clinical Features? J Nerv Ment Dis 2020; 208:118-126. [PMID: 31985560 DOI: 10.1097/nmd.0000000000001102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in a cohort of 101 Italian inpatients affected by mood or schizophrenia-spectrum disorders and compared clinical features between seronegative and seropositive subjects. Patients diagnosed according to DSM-5 criteria underwent clinical assessments and blood collection to test parasite-specific IgG/IgM serum levels. Twenty-eight patients (27.7%) had IgG anti-T. gondii, and none had IgM antibodies. We found higher prevalence rate in patients aged 40 years or older, as compared with younger. No significant association was detected between T. gondii and a specific diagnostic category; however, bipolar disorder (BD)-II showed the highest positivity rate (40.9%). The seropositive status was significantly associated with a lower presence of psychotic symptoms, higher number of total episodes of predominant excitatory polarity, longer illness duration, and lower severity of current episode, particularly anxiety, depressive, and withdrawal/retardation symptoms. These preliminary results seem to point out an association between chronic toxoplasmosis and a specific subtype of BD.
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Abstract
Toxoplasmosis affects about one third of human population worldwide. It has a wide range of effects on the health, immunity, behaviour, and both prenatal and postnatal outcomes of infected hosts, including humans. Among these effects, stage of infection-specific shifts in secondary sex ratio were described about ten years ago both in humans and in artificially infected mice. In both women and female mice, in the early stage of infection the probability of giving birth of sons significantly increases, up to 260 sons to every 100 daughters. In the late stages of infection, the probability of giving birth to sons markedly decreases to as low as 78 to every 100 daughters. An ecological correlation study shows that the effect of latent toxoplasmosis on human population biology and demography can be large. In fact, the effect of prevalence of toxoplasmosis on a nationwide sex ratio was the third strongest effect from the effects of 15 factors included in the analysis. It has been suggested that toxoplasmosis-associated concentration of steroid hormones or glucose may be the proximal cause in the sex ratio shift. A more parsimonious explanation of the upward secondary sex ratio shift is found in a lower stringency of quality control of embryos, whose side-effect is increased survival rate of the more immunogenic male embryos in immunosuppressed infected females. The most parsimonious explanation of the downward secondary sex ratio shift relies on the Trivers-Willard hypothesis, which predicts an adaptive shift to more daughters in females with impaired health or lower socioeconomic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaroslav Flegr
- Department of Philosophy and History of Science, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague 2 128 44, Czech Republic; Applied Neurosciences and Brain Imaging, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany 250 67, Czech Republic.
| | - Šárka Kaňková
- Department of Philosophy and History of Science, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague 2 128 44, Czech Republic; Applied Neurosciences and Brain Imaging, National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany 250 67, Czech Republic
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A Case-Control Study of Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Dementia Patients in Arak and Hamadan, West of Iran. ARCHIVES OF CLINICAL INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019. [DOI: 10.5812/archcid.87116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Tyebji S, Seizova S, Garnham AL, Hannan AJ, Tonkin CJ. Impaired social behaviour and molecular mediators of associated neural circuits during chronic Toxoplasma gondii infection in female mice. Brain Behav Immun 2019; 80:88-108. [PMID: 30807837 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a neurotropic parasite that is associated with various neuropsychiatric disorders. Rodents infected with T. gondii display a plethora of behavioural alterations, and Toxoplasma infection in humans has been strongly associated with disorders such as schizophrenia, in which impaired social behaviour is an important feature. Elucidating changes at the cellular level relevant to neuropsychiatric conditions can lead to effective therapies. Here, we compare changes in behaviour during an acute and chronic T. gondii infection in female mice. Further, we notice that during chronic phase of infection, mice display impaired sociability when exposed to a novel conspecific. Also, we show that T. gondii infected mice display impaired short-term social recognition memory. However, object recognition memory remains intact. Using c-Fos as a marker of neuronal activity, we show that infection leads to an impairment in neuronal activation in the medial prefrontal cortex, hippocampus as well as the amygdala when mice are exposed to a social environment and a change in functional connectivity between these regions. We found changes in synaptic proteins that play a role in the process of neuronal activation such as synaptophysin, PSD-95 and changes in downstream substrates of cell activity such as cyclic AMP, phospho-CREB and BDNF. Our results point towards an imbalance in neuronal activity that can lead to a wider range of neuropsychiatric problems upon T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiraz Tyebji
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3052, Australia; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3052, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Simona Seizova
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3052, Australia.
| | - Alexandra L Garnham
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3052, Australia.
| | - Anthony J Hannan
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3052, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville 3052, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Christopher J Tonkin
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne 3052, Australia.
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Aguirre AA, Longcore T, Barbieri M, Dabritz H, Hill D, Klein PN, Lepczyk C, Lilly EL, McLeod R, Milcarsky J, Murphy CE, Su C, VanWormer E, Yolken R, Sizemore GC. The One Health Approach to Toxoplasmosis: Epidemiology, Control, and Prevention Strategies. ECOHEALTH 2019; 16:378-390. [PMID: 30945159 PMCID: PMC6682582 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-019-01405-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
One Health is a collaborative, interdisciplinary effort that seeks optimal health for people, animals, plants, and the environment. Toxoplasmosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii, is an intracellular protozoan infection distributed worldwide, with a heteroxenous life cycle that practically affects all homeotherms and in which felines act as definitive reservoirs. Herein, we review the natural history of T. gondii, its transmission and impacts in humans, domestic animals, wildlife both terrestrial and aquatic, and ecosystems. The epidemiology, prevention, and control strategies are reviewed, with the objective of facilitating awareness of this disease and promoting transdisciplinary collaborations, integrative research, and capacity building among universities, government agencies, NGOs, policy makers, practicing physicians, veterinarians, and the general public.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Alonso Aguirre
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, George Mason University, 4400 University Dr. MSN: 5F2, Fairfax, VA, 22030-4400, USA.
| | - Travis Longcore
- Spatial Sciences Institute, University of Southern California, 3616 Trousdale Parkway, AHF B55, Los Angeles, CA, 90089, USA
| | - Michelle Barbieri
- NMFS/PIFSC/PSD/Hawaiian Monk Seal Research Program, 1845 Wasp Boulevard, Building 176, Honolulu, HI, 96818, USA
| | - Haydee Dabritz
- Community Health Branch, Yolo County Health & Human Services Agency, 137 N Cottonwood St, Woodland, CA, 95695, USA
| | - Dolores Hill
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Center Road Building 307-C Room 134, BARC East, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - Patrice N Klein
- United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service, 201 14th Street, SW, Washington, DC, 20250, USA
| | | | - Emily L Lilly
- Virginia Military Institute, 303D Maury-Brooke Hall, Lexington, VA, 24450, USA
| | - Rima McLeod
- The University of Chicago, AMB N310, (MC 2114) 5841 South Maryland Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
| | | | - Caroline E Murphy
- The Wildlife Society, 425 Barlow Place, Suite 200, Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Chunlei Su
- M409 Walters Life Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, 37996, USA
| | - Elizabeth VanWormer
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 406 Hardin Hall, 3310 Holdrege Street, Lincoln, NE, 68583, USA
| | - Robert Yolken
- Stanley Neurovirology Laboratory, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Grant C Sizemore
- American Bird Conservancy, 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 451, Washington, DC, 20008, USA
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Lack of circulating toxoplasma gondii DNA in seropositive patients with bipolar or schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Psychiatry Res 2019; 273:706-711. [PMID: 31207856 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.01.104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis has been previously associated with an increased risk of having Schizophrenia or Bipolar disorder in several epidemiological studies. The aim of this observational, cross-sectional study was to examine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma infection in a cohort of Italian psychiatric inpatients and to verify the presence of circulating Toxoplasma gondii DNA in the seropositive subjects. Sixty-three patients affected by bipolar or schizoaffective disorders according to DSM-5 criteria were enrolled. The presence of Toxoplasma infection was firstly examined using an indirect serological method (ELFA), and three different direct PCR-based methods were performed to detect circulating DNA in the seropositive patients. The seroprevalence of infection was 28.6%, with a significant association between higher age and the infection status. PCR, nested-PCR and Real-Time PCR revealed no positive samples for Toxoplasma gondii. This result is in contrast with recent data from case-control studies that detected parasite genome in patients with different neuropsychiatric diagnosis without clinical evidence of acute toxoplasmosis. Our findings are to be interpreted with caution, because of the small sample size, the heterogeneity of enrolled patients and the observational nature of the study. Further studies are needed to better define the clinical features correlated to the seropositive status in neuropsychiatric patients.
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Latent toxoplasmosis and olfactory functions of Rh positive and Rh negative subjects. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0209773. [PMID: 30589911 PMCID: PMC6307871 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0209773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Backgrounds The prevalence of toxoplasmosis is higher in schizophrenics than in the general population. It has been suggested that certain symptoms of schizophrenia, including changes in olfactory functions, are in fact symptoms of toxoplasmosis that can be easily detected in schizophrenics only due to the increased prevalence of toxoplasmosis in this population. Schizophrenics have impaired identification of odors and lower sensitivity of odor detection, however, no information about these parameters of non-schizophrenic Toxoplasma-infected subjects is available. Methods Here we searched for differences in olfactory functions between 62 infected and 61 noninfected non-schizophrenic subjects using the case-controls experimental design. Results The infected men scored better than the non-infected controls in the standard odor-identification test. The infected women rated all smells as more intensive while the infected men rated nearly all smells as less intensive. Infected women rated the pleasantness of the smell of the cat urine as higher than the non-infected women and the opposite was true for the men–in contrast, higher pleasantness of odor in infected men and lower in infected women were observed and described in the 2011 study. Toxoplasmosis, Rh, and toxoplasmosis-Rh interaction were not associated with the rated pleasantness of the smell of other stimuli. However, our sample contained only 17 Rh negative men and 30 Rh negative women. Therefore, all results concerning the main effects of Rh factor and the interaction with Rh factor must be considered only preliminary. Conclusions Our results suggest that latent toxoplasmosis is associated with changes in the olfactory functions in humans; however, the observed changes differ from those observed in schizophrenics.
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Koutsoumanis K, Allende A, Alvarez-Ordóñez A, Bolton D, Bover-Cid S, Chemaly M, Davies R, De Cesare A, Herman L, Hilbert F, Lindqvist R, Nauta M, Peixe L, Ru G, Simmons M, Skandamis P, Suffredini E, Cacciò S, Chalmers R, Deplazes P, Devleesschauwer B, Innes E, Romig T, van der Giessen J, Hempen M, Van der Stede Y, Robertson L. Public health risks associated with food-borne parasites. EFSA J 2018; 16:e05495. [PMID: 32625781 PMCID: PMC7009631 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2018.5495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasites are important food‐borne pathogens. Their complex lifecycles, varied transmission routes, and prolonged periods between infection and symptoms mean that the public health burden and relative importance of different transmission routes are often difficult to assess. Furthermore, there are challenges in detection and diagnostics, and variations in reporting. A Europe‐focused ranking exercise, using multicriteria decision analysis, identified potentially food‐borne parasites of importance, and that are currently not routinely controlled in food. These are Cryptosporidium spp., Toxoplasma gondii and Echinococcus spp. Infection with these parasites in humans and animals, or their occurrence in food, is not notifiable in all Member States. This Opinion reviews current methods for detection, identification and tracing of these parasites in relevant foods, reviews literature on food‐borne pathways, examines information on their occurrence and persistence in foods, and investigates possible control measures along the food chain. The differences between these three parasites are substantial, but for all there is a paucity of well‐established, standardised, validated methods that can be applied across the range of relevant foods. Furthermore, the prolonged period between infection and clinical symptoms (from several days for Cryptosporidium to years for Echinococcus spp.) means that source attribution studies are very difficult. Nevertheless, our knowledge of the domestic animal lifecycle (involving dogs and livestock) for Echinoccocus granulosus means that this parasite is controllable. For Echinococcus multilocularis, for which the lifecycle involves wildlife (foxes and rodents), control would be expensive and complicated, but could be achieved in targeted areas with sufficient commitment and resources. Quantitative risk assessments have been described for Toxoplasma in meat. However, for T. gondii and Cryptosporidium as faecal contaminants, development of validated detection methods, including survival/infectivity assays and consensus molecular typing protocols, are required for the development of quantitative risk assessments and efficient control measures.
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El-Beshbishi SN, El-Tantawy NL, Elzeky SM, Abdalaziz KF, Atia RA. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in children with central nervous system disorders in Mansoura, Egypt: a case-control study. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2018; 112:555-560. [PMID: 30265366 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/try100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii is a global infection with a crucial role in the development of neurological diseases. Data concerning the association between T. gondii and neurological illnesses in Egyptian children is scarce. Methods A case-control study was conducted on 60 patients divided into children suffering from central nervous system manifestations without apparent chromosomal anomalies (n=30) and children with Down syndrome (n=30) recruited from Mansoura University Children's Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt. A total of 30 healthy children were included as controls. Demographics and clinical data were collected from all cases and Toxoplasma immunoglobulin (Ig) M and G antibodies were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Anti-T. gondii IgG was the most frequent antibody detected and the highest seropositivity rates were ranked for the neurologically disabled non-syndromic children, followed by Down syndrome, compared with controls (p≤0.001). Statistically significant (p=0.05) associations were found between Toxoplasma IgG seropositivity and hydrocephalus and between Toxoplasma IgM and a history of contact with farm animals, soil and cats in children with Down syndrome. Conclusions The association between Toxoplasma infection and neurological disorders in children should be kept in mind by paediatricians and assessment of T. gondii antibodies in early childhood is needed for timely management of afflicted patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar N El-Beshbishi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Nora L El-Tantawy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Sara M Elzeky
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Raefa A Atia
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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Tyebji S, Seizova S, Hannan AJ, Tonkin CJ. Toxoplasmosis: A pathway to neuropsychiatric disorders. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2018; 96:72-92. [PMID: 30476506 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that resides, in a latent form, in the human central nervous system. Infection with Toxoplasma drastically alters the behaviour of rodents and is associated with the incidence of specific neuropsychiatric conditions in humans. But the question remains: how does this pervasive human pathogen alter behaviour of the mammalian host? This fundamental question is receiving increasing attention as it has far reaching public health implications for a parasite that is very common in human populations. Our current understanding centres on neuronal changes that are elicited directly by this intracellular parasite versus indirect changes that occur due to activation of the immune system within the CNS, or a combination of both. In this review, we explore the interactions between Toxoplasma and its host, the proposed mechanisms and consequences on neuronal function and mental health, and discuss Toxoplasma infection as a public health issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiraz Tyebji
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3052, Australia; Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3052, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Simona Seizova
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3052, Australia.
| | - Anthony J Hannan
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3052, Victoria, Australia; Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Melbourne, Parkville, 3052, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Christopher J Tonkin
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, 3052, Australia; Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, 3052, Australia.
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Toxoplasma gondii Exposure and the Risk of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children and Adolescents. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2018; 37:1097-1100. [PMID: 30312264 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000001985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence suggests that Toxoplasma gondii, which causes toxoplasmosis, changes the metabolism of neurotransmitters, especially dopamine, resulting in both neurologic and psychiatric disorders. On the other hand, the dysregulation of catecholamines, especially of both norepinephrine and dopamine, has been proposed in the pathophysiology of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The aim of the present study was to investigate anti-toxoplasma antibodies in children and adolescents with ADHD and compare it with a control group, to determine whether toxoplasmosis is a risk factor for ADHD. METHODS A total of 200 children and adolescents (117 patients with ADHD and 83 individuals without ADHD) participated in the study. Participants were tested for the presence of anti-T. gondii antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A Parent ADHD Rating Scale and Clinical Global Impression-severity Scale were also completed. Data were analyzed using a χ test and Fisher exact test. RESULTS Anti-toxoplasma antibodies were detected in 18.1% of patients with ADHD disorder and 24% of individuals without ADHD. There was no significant difference in seropositivity between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). The number of patients with T. gondii infection in the 3 subgroups was 0, 9 and 12, respectively. The differences in infection rate among subgroups were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION Although not conclusive, the present study does not support the theory that T. gondii is a risk factor for ADHD.
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Miman Ö, Özcan Ö, Ünal S, Atambay M. Toxoplasma gondii - obsessive -compulsive disorder relationship: is it different in children? Nord J Psychiatry 2018; 72:501-505. [PMID: 30383476 DOI: 10.1080/08039488.2018.1514421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common neuropsychiatric illness. Although the etiology of OCD is still unknown, recent investigations have associated development of OCD with infectious illness. Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a neurotropic protozoan parasite that causes infection of the central nervous system. In the last decade, a lot of researches have focused on the possible relationship between exposure to T. gondii and neuropsychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia. Therefore, in this study, it was aimed to investigate a possible association between Toxoplasma infection and OCD in children and adolescents. METHODS We selected 55 patients with OCD (aged between 7 and 16 years) and 59 healthy children and adolescents (aged between 7 and 16 years), and investigated the seropositivity rate for anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS The seropositivity rate for anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies among OCD patients (21.82%) was found to be higher than the rate in control group (15.25%). However, the difference between the OCD group and the control group was not statistically significant (p > .05). CONCLUSION In contrast to studies in adult patients, the results of this study do not support the relationship between T. gondii and OCD children and adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Özlem Miman
- a Department of Parasitology , Dokuz Eylul University Medical Faculty , Izmir , Turkey
| | - Özlem Özcan
- b Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry , Inonu University Medical Faculty , Malatya , Turkey
| | - Süheyla Ünal
- c Department of Psychiatry , Inonu University Medical Faculty , Malatya , Turkey
| | - Metin Atambay
- d Department of Parasitology , Inonu University Medical Faculty , Malatya , Turkey
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James WH, Grech V. Can offspring sex ratios help to explain the endocrine effects of toxoplasmosis infection on human behaviour? Early Hum Dev 2018; 122:42-44. [PMID: 29886408 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Humans infected with the parasite Toxoplasma gondii display a wide variety of abnormal behaviours, from suicide and depression to stuttering. These behaviours have been seen as so serious as to constitute a public health problem. It is not clear to what extent the parasite is a cause of, or merely a marker for, these behaviours, but there is evidence for both. Some of these behaviours are associated with changes in steroid hormones, that is, estrogen in women and testosterone in men. It is suggested here that these endocrine-related states of infected people may be better understood by studying their offspring sex ratios.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H James
- Galton Laboratory, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, London WC1E 6HH, UK
| | - Victor Grech
- Victor Grech, Paediatric Department, University of Malta Medical School, Msida, Malta.
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Arab A, Mohebbi A, Afshar H, Moradi A. Multi-factorial Etiology of Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia in Iran: No Evidence of Borna Disease Virus Genome. MEDICAL LABORATORY JOURNAL 2018. [DOI: 10.29252/mlj.12.5.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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Brown CE, Kong T, Bordón C, Yolken R, Jones-Brando L, McNulty J. One-pot, multicomponent synthesis of 2,3-disubstituted quinazolin-ones with potent and selective activity against Toxoplasma gondii. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2018; 28:1642-1646. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2018.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Lindgren M, Torniainen-Holm M, Härkänen T, Dickerson F, Yolken RH, Suvisaari J. The association between toxoplasma and the psychosis continuum in a general population setting. Schizophr Res 2018; 193:329-335. [PMID: 28711477 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2017.06.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Revised: 06/27/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infection is associated with increased risk for psychosis. However, the possible association between T. gondii and psychotic-like symptoms in the general adult population is unknown. We investigated whether T. gondii is associated with psychotic-like symptoms and psychosis diagnoses using data from Health 2000, a large cross-sectional health survey of the Finnish general population aged 30 and above. Seropositivity to toxoplasma was defined as a cutoff of 50IU/ml of IgG antibodies. Lifetime psychotic-like symptoms were identified with section G of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, Munich version (M-CIDI). Symptoms were considered clinically relevant if they caused distress or help-seeking or there were at least three of them. Lifetime psychotic disorders were screened from the sample and were diagnosed with DSM-IV using SCID-I interview and information from medical records. All data were available for 5906 participants. We adjusted for variables related to T. gondii seropositivity (age, gender, education, region of residence, cat ownership, and C-reactive protein measuring inflammation) in regression models. We found that T. gondii seropositivity was significantly associated with clinically relevant psychotic-like symptoms (OR 1.77, p=0.001) and with the number of psychotic-like symptoms (IRR=1.55, p=0.001). The association between toxoplasma and diagnosed psychotic disorders did not reach statistical significance (OR 1.45 for schizophrenia). In a large sample representing the whole Finnish adult population, we found that serological evidence of toxoplasma infection predicted psychotic-like symptoms, independent of demographic factors and levels of C-reactive protein. Toxoplasma infection may be a risk factor for manifestation of psychotic-like symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maija Lindgren
- National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Mental Health Unit, Finland.
| | - Minna Torniainen-Holm
- National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Mental Health Unit, Finland; Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland (FIMM), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tommi Härkänen
- National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Health Monitoring Unit, Finland
| | - Faith Dickerson
- Stanley Research Program, Sheppard Pratt Health System, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Robert H Yolken
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jaana Suvisaari
- National Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Mental Health Unit, Finland
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Mohagheghi M, Eftekharian MM, Taheri M, Alikhani MY. Determining the IgM and IgG antibodies titer against HSV1, HSV2 and CMV in the serum of schizophrenia patients. Hum Antibodies 2018; 26:87-93. [PMID: 29036805 DOI: 10.3233/hab-170325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a destructive clinical syndrome with diverse mental pathologies. Different mechanisms and factors have a role in this disease. A possible mechanism is that teratogenic viruses cause brain changes and results in the disease appearance. The schizophrenia patients were diagnosed by psychologists and with the consent of patients, five CC of venous blood was drawn. Than Serum samples were isolated and immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) were quantified by ELISA sandwich kit. The Results showed that anti-CMV and anti-HSV1 and anti-HSV2 IgG antibodies in schizophrenia patients were increased significantly (p< 0.05). The increasing of the anti-HSV2 IgM was also observed but increasing amount of the anti-HSV1 IgM was not statistically significant (p< 0.05). Therefore, as a result of this study CMV and HSV1 and HSV2 infection can probably intensify the symptoms in schizophrenia patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammad Mahdi Eftekharian
- Neurophysiology Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Faculty of Paramedicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Taheri
- Department of Medical Genetics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Urogenital Stem Cell Research, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
Transgender or gender dysphoria has been defined in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), as distress resulting from the incongruence between one's experienced gender and one's assigned gender, along with a persistent and strong desire to be of another gender, and accompanied by clinically significant distress. Adolescents referred for evaluation often want hormonal therapy and several among them also express a desire for gender reassignment surgery. Furthermore, evidence shows that adolescents and adults with gender dysphoria without a sex development disorder, before gender reassignments, are at increased risk for suicide. For this review, a search of the English language scientific literature was conducted using the PubMed database. This summary discusses the associations and comorbidities of gender dysphoria and reiterates the evidence that its etiology is multifactorial. Transsexualism involves prenatal neuroanatomical changes, has a psychiatric association, and is found to be more prevalent in conjunction with schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorders. Childhood adversities and neglect are also linked to having a transgender identity. Moreover, the evidence favors a genetic predisposition. Likewise, there seems to be a growing concern with regards to the relationship between endocrine disruptors and transsexuals as well as other gender minority populations. More research needs to be done to understand the exact pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Saleem
- Internal medicine, King Edward Medical University Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Syed W Rizvi
- R Endocrinology, New Jersey, Asst. Professor, Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Umdnj
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Solek CM, Farooqi N, Verly M, Lim TK, Ruthazer ES. Maternal immune activation in neurodevelopmental disorders. Dev Dyn 2017; 247:588-619. [PMID: 29226543 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.24612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Converging lines of evidence from basic science and clinical studies suggest a relationship between maternal immune activation (MIA) and neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and schizophrenia. The mechanisms through which MIA increases the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders have become a subject of intensive research. This review aims to describe how dysregulation of microglial function and immune mechanisms may link MIA and neurodevelopmental pathologies. We also summarize the current evidence in animal models of MIA. Developmental Dynamics 247:588-619, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M Solek
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Nasr Farooqi
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Myriam Verly
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Tony K Lim
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Edward S Ruthazer
- Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Campos-Carli SMD, Vieira ÉLM, Rocha NP, Oliveira KD, Guimarães FC, Barbosa IG, Barros JLVMD, Okusaga O, Martins-Filho OA, Salgado JV, Teixeira AL. Toxoplasma gondii infection and chronic schizophrenia: is there any association? ARCH CLIN PSYCHIAT 2017. [DOI: 10.1590/0101-60830000000140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Natalia Pessoa Rocha
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil; The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - João Vinícius Salgado
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil; Hospital Foundation of the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Antônio Lúcio Teixeira
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil; The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, USA
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Wadhawan A, Dagdag A, Duffy A, Daue ML, Ryan KA, Brenner LA, Stiller JW, Pollin TI, Groer MW, Huang X, Lowry CA, Mitchell BD, Postolache TT. Positive association between Toxoplasma gondii IgG serointensity and current dysphoria/hopelessness scores in the Old Order Amish: a preliminary study. Pteridines 2017; 28:185-194. [PMID: 29657363 DOI: 10.1515/pterid-2017-0019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) IgG seropositivity and serointensity have been previously associated with suicidal self-directed violence (SSDV). Although associations with unipolar depression have also been investigated, the results have been inconsistent, possibly as a consequence of high heterogeneity. We have now studied this association in a more homogeneous population, [that is (i.e.) Old Order Amish (OOA)] with previously reported high T. gondii seroprevalence. In 306 OOA with a mean age of 46.1 ± 16.7 years, including 191 (62.4%) women in the Amish Wellness Study, we obtained both T. gondii IgG titers (by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA]), and depression screening questionnaires (Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ-9] [n = 280] and PHQ-2 [n = 26]). Associations between T. gondii IgG and dysphoria/hopelessness and anhedonia scores on depression screening questionnaires were analyzed using multivariable linear methods with adjustment for age and sex. Serointensity was associated with both current dysphoria/hopelessness (p = 0.045) and current combined anhedonia and dysphoria/hopelessness (p = 0.043), while associations with simple anhedonia and past/lifelong (rather than current) phenotypes were not significant. These results indicate the need for larger longitudinal studies to corroborate the association between dysphoria/hopelessness and T. gondii IgG-titers. Current hopelessness is a known risk factor for SSDV which responds particularly well to cognitive behavioral therapy, and may be a focused treatment target for T. gondii-positive individuals at high-risk for SSDV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek Wadhawan
- Mood and Anxiety Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; and Saint Elizabeths' Hospital, Psychiatry Residency Training Program, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Aline Dagdag
- Mood and Anxiety Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Allyson Duffy
- College of Nursing, University of South Florida College of Nursing, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Melanie L Daue
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Program for Personalized and Genomic Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; and Geriatrics Research and Education Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kathy A Ryan
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; and Program for Personalized and Genomic Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lisa A Brenner
- Departments of Psychiatry, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and Neurology, University of Colorado, Anschutz School of Medicine, Denver, CO, USA; and Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 19, Military and Veteran. Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Denver, CO, USA
| | - John W Stiller
- Mood and Anxiety Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Saint Elizabeths' Hospital, Department of Neurology, Washington, DC, USA; and Maryland State Athletic Commission, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Toni I Pollin
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; and Program for Personalized and Genomic Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Maureen W Groer
- College of Nursing, University of South Florida College of Nursing, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Xuemei Huang
- Department of Neurology, Pennsylvania State University-Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Christopher A Lowry
- Department of Integrative Physiology and Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA; and Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 19, Military and Veteran. Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Denver, CO, USA
| | - Braxton D Mitchell
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Program for Personalized and Genomic Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; and Geriatrics Research and Education Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Teodor T Postolache
- Mood and Anxiety Program, Department of Psychiatry, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 19, Military and Veteran. Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Denver, CO, USA; and Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) 5, VA Capitol Health Care Network, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Steiner J, Guest PC, Martins-de-Souza D. Application of Proteomic Techniques for Improved Stratification and Treatment of Schizophrenia Patients. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 974:3-19. [PMID: 28353222 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-52479-5_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
For major psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, there have been shortcomings in the translation of scientific findings into new treatments and this has led to diminished interest for large pharmaceutical companies. This chapter describes how incorporation of proteomic approaches into the clinical pipeline can lead to identification and implementation of biomarker tests for improved patient characterization, prediction of treatment response and monitoring treatment effects to help revitalize efforts in this important area. In addition, the construction of specific biomarker tests for disease prediction should smooth the progress of early intervention strategies which, in turn, may help to slow disease onset or progression. Finally, the development of purpose-built biomarker tests using lab-on-a-chip platforms with smartphone readouts will help to shift the diagnosis and treatment of this major psychiatric disorder into point-of-care settings for increased effectiveness and improved patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johann Steiner
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Magdeburg, Leipziger Strasse 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany.
| | - Paul C Guest
- Laboratory of Neuroproteomics, Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Rua Monteiro Lobato 255 F/01, Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, 13083-862, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Daniel Martins-de-Souza
- Laboratory of Neuroproteomics, Department of Biochemistry and Tissue Biology, Institute of Biology, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Rua Monteiro Lobato 255 F/01, Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, 13083-862, Campinas, Brazil.,UNICAMP's Neurobiology Center, Rua Monteiro Lobato 255, Cidade Universitária Zeferino Vaz, 13083-862, Campinas, Brazil
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Use of Human Neurons Derived via Cellular Reprogramming Methods to Study Host-Parasite Interactions of Toxoplasma gondii in Neurons. Cells 2017; 6:cells6040032. [PMID: 28946615 PMCID: PMC5755492 DOI: 10.3390/cells6040032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2017] [Revised: 09/12/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan parasite, with approximately one-third of the worlds' population chronically infected. In chronically infected individuals, the parasite resides in tissue cysts in neurons in the brain. The chronic infection in immunocompetant individuals has traditionally been considered to be asymptomatic, but increasing evidence indicates that chronic infection is associated with diverse neurological disorders such as schizophrenia, cryptogenic epilepsy, and Parkinson's Disease. The mechanisms by which the parasite exerts affects on behavior and other neuronal functions are not understood. Human neurons derived from cellular reprogramming methods offer the opportunity to develop better human neuronal models to study T. gondii in neurons. Results from two studies using human neurons derived via cellular reprogramming methods indicate these human neuronal models provide better in vitro models to study the effects of T. gondii on neurons and neurological functions. In this review, an overview of the current neural reprogramming methods will be given, followed by a summary of the studies using human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived neurons and induced neurons (iNs) to study T. gondii in neurons. The potential of these neural reprogramming methods for further study of the host-parasite interactions of T. gondii in neurons will be discussed.
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