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Yoshida A, Yasuda K, Okada H. Changes in the conflicting nongenomic effects of progesterone in rat myometrium during pregnancy. Life Sci 2024; 340:122454. [PMID: 38262574 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2024.122454] [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: 10/14/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
AIMS Although the functions of progesterone in the myometrium are well-established, the nongenomic effects of progesterone in pregnant myometrial contractions are still unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate changes in the nongenomic effects of progesterone during pregnancy. MAIN METHODS Myometrial strips were obtained from non-pregnant, pregnant, and postpartum rats, and the nongenomic effects of progesterone in the myometrium during pregnancy were examined. Additionally, the influence of actinomycin D and cycloheximide and the effects of Org OD-02-0 (a specific membrane progesterone receptor (mPR) agonist) in the myometrium were investigated. Moreover, DNA microarray and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were performed to identify genes involved in progesterone-induced effects in the myometrium. KEY FINDINGS Progesterone did not cause rhythmic contractions in non-pregnant myometrium but induced rhythmic contractions in pregnant myometrium, with the effects peaking at 20 d + 8 h of pregnancy. However, myometrial contractions decreased after delivery and were restored to non-pregnant levels at 7 d postpartum. Additionally, progesterone stably inhibited high KCl-induced myometrial contractions during pregnancy. Moreover, the nongenomic effects of progesterone were unaffected by actinomycin D or cycloheximide, and Org OD-02-0 effectively mimicked these effects. DNA microarray analysis and qRT-PCR revealed a significant increase in mPRβ gene expression during pregnancy. However, mPRα, mPRγ, mPRδ, and mPRε expression levels remained unchanged. SIGNIFICANCE The stimulatory nongenomic effect of progesterone, which was inducible and mPRβ-dependent during pregnancy, may be involved in parturition. The inhibitory effect, which was constitutive and depended on other mPRs, may be involved in pregnancy maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
| | - Katsuhiko Yasuda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Hidetaka Okada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kansai Medical University, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan
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2
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Szucio W, Bernaczyk P, Ponikwicka-Tyszko D, Milewska G, Pawelczyk A, Wołczyński S, Rahman NA. Progesterone signaling in uterine leiomyoma biology: Implications for potential targeted therapy. Adv Med Sci 2024; 69:21-28. [PMID: 38278085 DOI: 10.1016/j.advms.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Uterine leiomyomas (ULs) are the most common benign smooth muscle cell steroid-dependent tumors that occur in women of reproductive age. Progesterone (P4) is a major hormone that promotes the ULs development and growth. P4 action in ULs is mediated mainly by its nuclear progesterone receptors (PGRs), although rapid non-genomic responses have also been observed. Data on the membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) regulated signaling pathways in ULs in the available literature is still very limited. One of the essential characteristics of ULs is the excessive production of extracellular matrix (ECM). P4 has been shown to stimulate ECM production and collagen synthesis in ULs. Recent research demonstrated that, despite their benign nature, ULs may present with abnormal vasculature. P4 has been shown to regulate angiogenesis in ULs through the upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and by controlling the secretion of permeability factors. This review summarizes the key findings regarding the role of PGRs and mPRs in ULs, especially highlighting the potential ECM and angiogenesis modulation by P4. An increased understanding of this mechanistic role of nuclear and specifically mPRs in the biology of P4-modulated ECM and angiogenesis in the growth of ULs could turn out to be fundamental for developing effective targeted therapies for ULs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weronika Szucio
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Piotr Bernaczyk
- Department of Medical Pathomorphology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Donata Ponikwicka-Tyszko
- Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland; Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Gabriela Milewska
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Adam Pawelczyk
- Department of Plastic, Endocrine and General Surgery, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Sławomir Wołczyński
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; Department of Biology and Pathology of Human Reproduction, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Nafis A Rahman
- Department of Reproduction and Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland; Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
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Fusco D, Martínez-Pérez GZ, Remkes A, De Pascali AM, Ortalli M, Varani S, Scagliarini A. A sex and gender perspective for neglected zoonotic diseases. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1031683. [PMID: 36338031 PMCID: PMC9632621 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1031683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Fusco
- Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Daniela Fusco
| | | | - Aaron Remkes
- Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Hamburg, Germany
| | - Alessandra Mistral De Pascali
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Margherita Ortalli
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefania Varani
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Microbiology Unit, IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandra Scagliarini
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Experimental, Diagnostic and Specialty Medicine, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Molecular identification of a PGRMC-2 receptor in maturing oocytes of the zoonotic nematode parasite Trichinella spiralis. Vet Parasitol 2022; 302:109662. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2022.109662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Codina AV, Priotti J, Leonardi D, Vasconi MD, Lamas MC, Hinrichsen LI. Effect of sex and genotype of the host on the anthelmintic efficacy of albendazole microcrystals, in the CBi-IGE Trichinella infection murine model. Parasitology 2021; 148:1545-1553. [PMID: 35060467 PMCID: PMC11010169 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021001128] [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: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Albendazole (ABZ) is an anthelmintic pharmaceutical commonly used in the treatment of nematode infections. It is a Class II drug poorly water-soluble, with very low bioavailability, a feature particularly limiting to treat the trichinellosis chronic phase. Microcrystals obtained by controlled precipitation using hydroxyethyl cellulose and chitosan have previously been shown to improve ABZ biopharmaceutical properties. This investigation aimed to test the systems' in vivo efficacy in the CBi-IGE murine model of Trichinella spiralis infection in the infection's different phases and parasite’ stages. Treatment in the enteral phase led to a 90% decrease in the larval muscle load, probably due to its effect on T. spiralis female fecundity. Both microcrystal systems given in the migratory phase halved muscle load in males, a response not observed in females. The chitosan-based microcrystals proved to be the best when administered in the chronic phase of the infection – an increased proportion of L1 dead larvae was found compared to controls, except in CBi+-treated females. Males and females from the highly susceptible CBi+ line presented a significantly different treatment response in this phase. In vivo efficacy depended on the host genotype and sex and was related to the parasite cycle stage in which the formulations were administered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana V. Codina
- Instituto de Genética Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Santa Fe 3100, S2000KTRRosario, Argentina
- CIC-UNR, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Maipú 1065, S2000CGKRosario, Argentina
| | - Josefina Priotti
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 570, S2002LRKRosario, Argentina
| | - Darío Leonardi
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 570, S2002LRKRosario, Argentina
- IQUIR-CONICET, Suipacha 570, S2002LRKRosario, Argentina
| | - María D. Vasconi
- Instituto de Genética Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Santa Fe 3100, S2000KTRRosario, Argentina
- Área Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 570, S2002LRKRosario, Argentina
| | - María C. Lamas
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Suipacha 570, S2002LRKRosario, Argentina
- IQUIR-CONICET, Suipacha 570, S2002LRKRosario, Argentina
| | - Lucila I. Hinrichsen
- Instituto de Genética Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Santa Fe 3100, S2000KTRRosario, Argentina
- CIC-UNR, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Maipú 1065, S2000CGKRosario, Argentina
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Titon SCM, Titon Junior B, Assis VR, Vasconcelos-Teixeira R, Garcia Neto PG, Lima AS, Ferreira LDF, Fernandes PA, Gomes FR, Markus RP. Hormonal daily variation co-varies with immunity in captive male bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus). Gen Comp Endocrinol 2021; 303:113702. [PMID: 33359060 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2020.113702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Almost all physiological processes within the organism, including immune parameters and hormones, follow a circadian rhythm. These daily fluctuations are often observed in free-living organisms; however, little is known regarding hormonal and immune daily variations in anurans, particularly under laboratory conditions. This study aimed to investigate the hormonal and immune daily variation in captive-bred Bullfrogs (Lithobates catesbeianus) under constant conditions (21 °C and 12:12 LD cycle). Our results showed a daily variation for plasma corticosterone (CORT), testosterone (T), and melatonin (MEL), as well as for blood leukocyte profile, phagocytic activity, and plasma bacterial killing ability (BKA). Hormonal profile and immune activity were higher at the dark when compared with the light phase; however, monocytes and lymphocytes followed the opposite pattern. Moreover, CORT was positively correlated with phagocytosis percentage of blood cells, BKA, and monocytes, while MEL and T showed a positive correlation with PP. Our results demonstrate the daily covariation of different immune variables and immunomodulatory hormones. These 24 h-day variations and covariation certainly have broad implications and need to be considered for better understanding anuran physiology both in the context of laboratory and field studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Braz Titon Junior
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vania Regina Assis
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Alan Siqueira Lima
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Letícia de França Ferreira
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Pedro A Fernandes
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fernando Ribeiro Gomes
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Regina P Markus
- Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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Helminth Load in Feces of Free-Ranging Blue and Fin Whales from the Gulf of California. Acta Parasitol 2019; 64:625-637. [PMID: 31165986 DOI: 10.2478/s11686-019-00069-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This is the first worldwide systematic and quantitative study to count and identify helminth parasites from 100 blue and 44 fin whale fecal samples collected in the Gulf of California during winter (1993-2014). RESULTS Blue and fin whale feces had similar prevalence of adult acanthocephalans (Bolbosoma sp.) in feces (18.2% and 14.6%, respectively), but blue whales had significantly higher helminth egg prevalence in feces (100%) and mean intensity (443 ± 318 eggs/g) compared to fin whales (61%, 252 ± 327 eggs/g). Diphyllobothrium sp. eggs were identified in blue whale feces and Diphyllobothridae, Ogmogaster sp. and Crassicauda sp. eggs were identified in fin whale feces. We tested the hypothesis that egg intensity in blue whale's feces varies as a function of age class, reproductive status, sex, preservation and sampling years using a Generalized Linear Model. This model explained 61% of the variance in the helminth egg intensity, but it was not significant. Eighteen blue whale individuals were resampled over time without significant difference between consecutive samples. CONCLUSIONS Thus, all individual blue whales that migrate to the Gulf of California during winter are permanently parasitized with helminths, while the resident fin whales showed lower prevalence and intensity. This helminth load difference is likely due to their different diets duringsummer-fall, when blue whales feed on other krill species in the California Current System and fin whales shift to school fish prey types in the Gulf of California.
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8
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Hegazy MM, Elmehankar MS, Azab MS, El-Tantawy NL, Abdel-Aziz A. Sex dichotomy in the course of experimental latent toxoplasmosis. Exp Parasitol 2019; 202:15-21. [PMID: 31078550 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic zoonotic protozoan that exceeds neurological and congenital impact sequence to reactivating latent toxoplasmosis especially under immunosuppression. Sex-associated hormones influence the severity of Toxoplasma infection. Thus, our study aimed to compare toxoplasmosis associated morbidity in both male and female mice and to monitor the response to anti-Toxoplasma therapeutics fortified with sex hormones in comparison to presently used drugs. Twenty male and 20 female mice were infected with ME49 Toxoplasma strain. The morbidity was assessed in the chronic stage in both sexes by estimating brain cyst burden, brain histopathological examination and monitoring serum anti-Toxoplasma IL-12 using ELISA method. Another 40 male and 40 female mice were infected with ME49 Toxoplasma strain then after 6 weeks received different treatment regimens including Atovaquone, Spiramycin, Metronidazole, Estradiol benzoate and Testoserone propionate either as a monotherapy or as a combination. Treatment response was monitored by scoring mice activity and brain cyst burden. This study showed that female mice demonstrated higher cyst burden and manifested more pathological reactions than male mice. While, the IL-12 serum level was significantly higher in male than female mice. Also, it is proved that the Toxoplasma cyst number was reduced significantly when used testosterone/atovaquone, or testosterone/spiramycin/metronidazole combined regimen in female mice groups. While for male mice, the combined therapy of spiramycin/metronidazole was the superior one. Accordingly, combined therapy with sex hormones is a promising strategy for discovering new therapeutic regimens for treating latent toxoplasmosis especially in female.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamdouh M Hegazy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt
| | - Manar S Elmehankar
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt
| | - Manar S Azab
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt
| | - Nora L El-Tantawy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt.
| | - Azza Abdel-Aziz
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Egypt
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Sellau J, Groneberg M, Lotter H. Androgen-dependent immune modulation in parasitic infection. Semin Immunopathol 2018; 41:213-224. [PMID: 30353258 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-018-0722-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic infections modulate the immune system of the host, resulting in either immune tolerance or the induction of pro-inflammatory defense mechanisms against the pathogen. In both cases, sex hormones are involved in the regulation of the immune response, as they are present in the systemic circulation and can act on a wide variety of cell types, including immune cells. Men and women have a different milieu of sex hormones, and these hormones play a role in determining immune responses to parasitic infections. Men, who have higher plasma levels of androgens than women, are generally more susceptible to parasitic infections. Many immune cells express the androgen receptor (AR), and the immunologic functions of these cells can be modulated by androgens. In this review, we will highlight the immune cell types that are sensitive to male steroid hormones and describe their roles during three parasitic diseases, amebiasis, leishmaniasis, and helminthiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Sellau
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Molecular Infection Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Bernhard-Nocht-Straße 74, 20359, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Marie Groneberg
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Molecular Infection Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Bernhard-Nocht-Straße 74, 20359, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hannelore Lotter
- Department of Molecular Biology and Immunology, Molecular Infection Immunology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Bernhard-Nocht-Straße 74, 20359, Hamburg, Germany
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10
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Xu H, Zhang X, Li H, Li C, Huo XJ, Hou LP, Gong Z. Immune response induced by major environmental pollutants through altering neutrophils in zebrafish larvae. AQUATIC TOXICOLOGY (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2018; 201:99-108. [PMID: 29902668 DOI: 10.1016/j.aquatox.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Environmental pollutants may cause adverse effects on the immune system of aquatic organisms. However, the cellular effects of pollutants on fish immune system are largely unknown. Here, we exploited the transgenic zebrafish Tg(lysC:DsRed2) larva as a preliminary screening system to evaluate the potential inflammatory effects of environmental pollutants. Tg(lysC:DsRED2) larvae aged 7-day-postfertilization (7 dpf) were treated with selected environmental chemicals for 24 h (24 h) and the number of neutrophils were quantified using both image analysis and fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS). We found that the numbers of neutrophils in the Tg(lysC:DsRED2) larvae were significantly increased by most of the organic chemicals tested, including E2 (17β-estradiol), BPA (Bisphenol-A), NDEA (N-nitrosodiethylamine), 4-NP (4-Nitrophenol) and Lindane (γ-hexachlorocyclohexane). Neutrophil numbers were also increased by all the metals tested (Na2HAsO4· 7H2O, Pb(NO3)2, HgCl2, CdCl2, CuSO4·5H2O, ZnSO4, and K2Cr2O7). The only exception was TCDD (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin), which significantly reduced the number of neutrophils after exposure. Additionally, the transcription of genes (lyz, mpo, tnfα and il8) related to fish immune system were significantly modulated upon exposure to some of the selected chemicals such as E2, TCDD, Cu and Cd. This study revealed that representatives of major categories of environmental pollutants could cause an acute inflammatory response in zebrafish larvae as shown by alterations in the neutrophils, which may imply a common immunotoxicity mechanism for most environmental pollutants. This study has also demonstrated that Tg(lyz:DsRed2) transgenic zebrafish is an excellent tool for screening environmental chemicals with potential inflammatory effects through FACS-facilitated neutrophil counting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical & Subtropical Fishery Resource Application & Cultivation of Ministry of Agriculture, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, 1 Xingyu Road, Liwan District, Guangzhou 510380, China; Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore; School of Life Science, Yunnan University, No.2 North Cuihu Road, Kunming, Yunnan Province, 650091, China
| | - Hankun Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Caixia Li
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiao-Jing Huo
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Li-Ping Hou
- School of Life Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510655, China
| | - Zhiyuan Gong
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
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11
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Sánchez-García L, Wilkins-Rodriguez A, Salaiza-Suazo N, Morales-Montor J, Becker I. Dihydrotestosterone enhances growth and infectivity of Leishmania Mexicana. Parasite Immunol 2018; 40. [PMID: 29272044 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
A strong sex-associated susceptibility towards Leishmania has been reported in males, yet little is known on the effect of hormones in Leishmania physiopathogenicity. Due to the enhanced susceptibility of males to Leishmania mexicana infections, we were interested in analysing the effect exerted by the main androgen produced in males (DHT) on L. mexicana promastigotes. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the regulation exerted by dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on L. mexicana replication, infectivity, survival and development of tissue lesions. Experiments included growth curves of L. mexicana promastigotes incubated with different doses of DHT, their infection rate, intracellular survival and lesion development in BALB/c mice. Our data show that DHT significantly enhances parasite replication, infection rate and survival in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMФ). Promastigotes in the presence of DHT produced significantly larger lesions in BALB/c earlobes. These results suggest that DHT probably plays a critical role during L. mexicana infections, and the higher susceptibility of males possibly relates to benefits gained by the parasite from host-derived hormones. Our data shed new light on the physiopathology of Leishmania infections and are the first attempt to understand the direct interaction between Leishmania and androgens, particularly DHT. Understanding this trans-regulation process employed by parasites to exploit host molecules sheds new light on L. mexicana physiopathogenesis and opens a possible field for studies on drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Sánchez-García
- Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - A Wilkins-Rodriguez
- Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - N Salaiza-Suazo
- Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - J Morales-Montor
- Departamento de Inmunologìa, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
| | - I Becker
- Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México
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Martínez-Valencia AJ, Daza-Rivera CF, Rosales-Chilama M, Cossio A, Casadiego Rincón EJ, Desai MM, Saravia NG, Gómez MA. Clinical and parasitological factors in parasite persistence after treatment and clinical cure of cutaneous leishmaniasis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005713. [PMID: 28704369 PMCID: PMC5526576 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The determinants of parasite persistence or elimination after treatment and clinical resolution of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) are unknown. We investigated clinical and parasitological parameters associated with the presence and viability of Leishmania after treatment and resolution of CL caused by L. Viannia. Methods Seventy patients who were treated with meglumine antimoniate (n = 38) or miltefosine (n = 32) and cured, were included in this study. Leishmania persistence and viability were determined by detection of kDNA and 7SLRNA transcripts, respectively, before, at the end of treatment (EoT), and 13 weeks after initiation of treatment in lesions and swabs of nasal and tonsillar mucosa. Results Sixty percent of patients (42/70) had evidence of Leishmania persistence at EoT and 30% (9/30) 13 weeks after treatment initiation. A previous episode of CL was found to be a protective factor for detectable Leishmania persistence (OR: 0.16, 95%CI: 0.03–0.92). kDNA genotyping could not discern differences between parasite populations that persisted and those isolated at diagnosis. Conclusions Leishmania persist in skin and mucosal tissues in a high proportion of patients who achieved therapeutic cure of CL. This finding prompts assessment of the contribution of persistent infection in transmission and endemicity of CL, and in disease reactivation and protective immunity. Control of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in the Americas is dependent upon active case detection and treatment. The efficacy and effectiveness of therapeutic interventions is based on clinical resolution of disease, not on parasitological clearance. The detection of dermotropic Leishmania in tissues such as nasal and conjunctival mucosa, blood and healthy skin in the absence of signs and symptoms of disease, suggests that despite clinical resolution, parasites persist subclinically. We examined clinical and parasitological factors associated with Leishmania persistence after standard-of-care treatment of CL caused by L. Viannia. We found that a high proportion of CL patients with therapeutically achieved clinical resolution of CL harbor viable Leishmania. A previous episode of CL was found to be a protective factor for parasite persistence. Treated, clinically cured CL patients constitute an important proportion of a persistently infected human population whose clinical and epidemiological significance remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Alexandra Cossio
- Centro Internacional de Entrenamiento e Investigaciones Médicas-CIDEIM, Cali, Colombia
| | | | - Mayur M. Desai
- Yale School of Public Health, Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Nancy Gore Saravia
- Centro Internacional de Entrenamiento e Investigaciones Médicas-CIDEIM, Cali, Colombia
| | - María Adelaida Gómez
- Centro Internacional de Entrenamiento e Investigaciones Médicas-CIDEIM, Cali, Colombia
- * E-mail:
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Titon SCM, Assis VR, Titon Junior B, Cassettari BDO, Fernandes PACM, Gomes FR. Captivity effects on immune response and steroid plasma levels of a Brazilian toad (Rhinella schneideri). JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL ZOOLOGY PART 2017; 327:127-138. [DOI: 10.1002/jez.2078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Revised: 04/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Stefanny Christie Monteiro Titon
- Laboratório de Comportamento e Fisiologia Evolutiva; Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências; Universidade de São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Vania Regina Assis
- Laboratório de Comportamento e Fisiologia Evolutiva; Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências; Universidade de São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Braz Titon Junior
- Laboratório de Comportamento e Fisiologia Evolutiva; Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências; Universidade de São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Bruna de Oliveira Cassettari
- Laboratório de Comportamento e Fisiologia Evolutiva; Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências; Universidade de São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Pedro Augusto Carlos Magno Fernandes
- Laboratório de Comportamento e Fisiologia Evolutiva; Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências; Universidade de São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
| | - Fernando Ribeiro Gomes
- Laboratório de Comportamento e Fisiologia Evolutiva; Departamento de Fisiologia, Instituto de Biociências; Universidade de São Paulo; São Paulo Brazil
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14
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Hasby Saad MA, Radi DA, Hasby EA. Oral contraceptive pills: Risky or protective in case of Trichinella spiralis infection? Parasite Immunol 2017; 39. [PMID: 28524239 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate how Trichinella spiralis infection can be affected by contraceptive pills in vivo. Methods included six groups of female Wistar rats; healthy, Trichinella infected, receiving combined contraceptive pills (COCPs), receiving progestin only pills (POPs), infected receiving COCPs and infected receiving POPs. Parasite burden was measured; adult worm counts, gravidity, larvae and reproductive capacity index). Histopathological examination, immunohistochemical detection of C-kit+ mast cells and Foxp3+ T-reg. cells in intestinal sections, eosinophils muscle infiltration and CPK level were performed. Rats infected and receiving COCPs showed a significant increase in parasitic burden, and infected receiving POPs showed a significant reduction compared to infected only, with a significant increase in nongravid females (Mean total worms=964.40±55.9, 742±52.63, 686±31.68, larvae/g=5030±198.75, 2490±143.18 and 4126±152,91, respectively). Intestinal sections from infected receiving COCPs showed intact mucosa (though the high inflammatory cells infiltrate), and significant increase in C-kit+ mast cells number and intensity (30.20±4.15 and 60.40±8.29), and Foxp3+ T-reg. cells (10±1.58). Infected receiving POPs showed a significantly less CPK (5886±574.40) and eosinophilic muscle infiltration (58±13.51). Oestrogen-containing pills established a favourable intestinal environment for Trichinella by enhancing Foxp+T-reg. cells and stabilizing C-kit+mast cells, while POPs gave a potential protection with less gravidity, larval burden and eosinophilic infiltrate.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Hasby Saad
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - D A Radi
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - E A Hasby
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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15
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Rehberger K, Werner I, Hitzfeld B, Segner H, Baumann L. 20 Years of fish immunotoxicology - what we know and where we are. Crit Rev Toxicol 2017; 47:509-535. [PMID: 28425344 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2017.1288024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Despite frequent field observations of impaired immune response and increased disease incidence in contaminant-exposed wildlife populations, immunotoxic effects are rarely considered in ecotoxicological risk assessment. The aim of this study was to review the literature on immunotoxic effects of chemicals in fish to quantitatively evaluate (i) which experimental approaches were used to assess immunotoxic effects, (ii) whether immune markers exist to screen for potential immunotoxic activities of chemicals, and (iii) how predictive those parameters are for adverse alterations of fish immunocompetence and disease resistance. A total of 241 publications on fish immunotoxicity were quantitatively analyzed. The main conclusions included: (i) To date, fish immunotoxicology focused mainly on innate immune responses and immunosuppressive effects. (ii) In numerous studies, the experimental conditions are poorly documented, as for instance age or sex of the fish or the rationale for the selected exposure conditions is often missing. (iii) Although a broad variety of parameters were used to assess immunotoxicity, the rationale for the choice of measured parameters was often not given, remaining unclear how they link to the suspected immunotoxic mode of action of the chemicals. (iv) At the current state of knowledge, it is impossible to identify a set of immune parameters that could reliably screen for immunotoxic potentials of chemicals. (v) Similarly, in fish immunotoxicology there is insufficient understanding of how and when chemical-induced modulations of molecular/cellular immune changes relate to adverse alterations of fish immunocompetence, although this would be crucial to include immunotoxicity in ecotoxicological risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Rehberger
- a Centre for Fish and Wildlife Health, Vetsuisse Faculty , University of Bern , Bern , Switzerland
| | - Inge Werner
- b Swiss Centre for Applied Ecotoxicology , Dübendorf , Switzerland
| | | | - Helmut Segner
- a Centre for Fish and Wildlife Health, Vetsuisse Faculty , University of Bern , Bern , Switzerland
| | - Lisa Baumann
- a Centre for Fish and Wildlife Health, Vetsuisse Faculty , University of Bern , Bern , Switzerland
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16
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Valadez-Cosmes P, Vázquez-Martínez ER, Cerbón M, Camacho-Arroyo I. Membrane progesterone receptors in reproduction and cancer. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2016; 434:166-75. [PMID: 27368976 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2016] [Revised: 06/15/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone is a sexual steroid hormone that has a critical role in reproductive processes in males and females of several species, including humans. Furthermore, progesterone has been associated with pathological diseases such as breast, gynecological and brain cancer, regulating cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. In the past, progesterone actions were thought to be only mediated by its intracellular receptor (PR). However, recent evidence has demonstrated that membrane progesterone receptors (mPRs) mediate most of the non-classical progesterone actions. The role of the different mPRs subtypes in progesterone effects in reproduction and cancer is an emerging and exciting research area. Here we review studies to date regarding mPRs role in reproduction and cancer and discuss their functions and clinical relevance, suggesting mPRs as putative pharmacological targets and disease markers in cancer and diseases associated with reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Valadez-Cosmes
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Edgar Ricardo Vázquez-Martínez
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Marco Cerbón
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ignacio Camacho-Arroyo
- Unidad de Investigación en Reproducción Humana, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología-Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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17
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Fischer MR, Kunz C, Dietze-Schwonberg K, Lorenz B, von Stebut E. Myeloid cells do not contribute to gender-dependent differences in disease outcome in murine cutaneous leishmaniasis. Cell Immunol 2016; 308:13-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2016.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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18
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Haig SJ, Gauchotte-Lindsay C, Collins G, Quince C. Bioaugmentation Mitigates the Impact of Estrogen on Coliform-Grazing Protozoa in Slow Sand Filters. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2016; 50:3101-10. [PMID: 26895622 PMCID: PMC4841604 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.5b05027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), such as estrogens, is a growing issue for human and animal health as they have been shown to cause reproductive and developmental abnormalities in wildlife and plants and have been linked to male infertility disorders in humans. Intensive farming and weather events, such as storms, flash flooding, and landslides, contribute estrogen to waterways used to supply drinking water. This paper explores the impact of estrogen exposure on the performance of slow sand filters (SSFs) used for water treatment. The feasibility and efficacy of SSF bioaugmentation with estrogen-degrading bacteria was also investigated, to determine whether removal of natural estrogens (estrone, estradiol, and estriol) and overall SSF performance for drinking water treatment could be improved. Strains for SSF augmentation were isolated from full-scale, municipal SSFs so as to optimize survival in the laboratory-scale SSFs used. Concentrations of the natural estrogens, determined by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS), revealed augmented SSFs reduced the overall estrogenic potency of the supplied water by 25% on average and removed significantly more estrone and estradiol than nonaugmented filters. A negative correlation was found between coliform removal and estrogen concentration in nonaugmented filters. This was due to the toxic inhibition of protozoa, indicating that high estrogen concentrations can have functional implications for SSFs (such as impairing coliform removal). Consequently, we suggest that high estrogen concentrations could impact significantly on water quality production and, in particular, on pathogen removal in biological water filters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah-Jane Haig
- School
of Engineering, Rankine Building, University
of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8LT, U.K.
- Phone: 734-764-6350. E-mail:
| | | | - Gavin Collins
- School
of Engineering, Rankine Building, University
of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8LT, U.K.
- Microbial
Ecophysiology Laboratory, School of Natural Sciences and Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - Christopher Quince
- School
of Engineering, Rankine Building, University
of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8LT, U.K.
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19
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Braden LM, Barker DE, Koop BF, Jones SRM. Differential modulation of resistance biomarkers in skin of juvenile and mature pink salmon, Oncorhynchus gorbuscha by the salmon louse, Lepeophtheirus salmonis. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2015; 47:7-14. [PMID: 26272636 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2015.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2015] [Revised: 07/29/2015] [Accepted: 08/07/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Juvenile pink salmon larger than 0.7 g reject the sea louse, Lepeophtheirus salmonis, and are considered resistant to the infection. Robust innate defense responses in the skin contribute to the observed resistance. In contrast adult pink salmon captured at sea or shortly before spawning carry large numbers of the parasite, suggesting inability to control the infection. The purpose of this research is to better understand these apparently contradictory conclusions by comparing a suite of genetic and cellular markers of resistance to L. salmonis in the skin of juvenile and mature pink salmon. The expression of major histocompatibility factor II, C-reactive protein, interleukin-1β, interleukin-8 and cyclooxygenase-2 was down-regulated in mature but not juvenile pink salmon. Similarly, skin at the site of parasite attachment in juvenile salmon was highly populated with MHIIβ(+) and IL-1β(+) cells that were either absent, or at reduced levels at similar sites in mature salmon. In addition, mucocyte density was relatively low in the skin of mature salmon, irrespective of louse infection. In juveniles, the higher mucocyte density decreased following louse attachment. We show that in mature pink salmon, genetic and histological responses in skin are depressed and speculate that salmonid defense against L. salmonis is modulated by maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Braden
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, B.C., V8W 3N5, Canada
| | - Duane E Barker
- Fisheries & Aquaculture Department, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, B.C., V9R 5S5, Canada
| | - Ben F Koop
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, B.C., V8W 3N5, Canada
| | - Simon R M Jones
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, Victoria, B.C., V8W 3N5, Canada; Fisheries and Ocean Canada, Pacific Biological Station, Nanaimo, B.C., V9T 6N7, Canada.
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20
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Steffens JP, Wang X, Starr JR, Spolidorio LC, Van Dyke TE, Kantarci A. Associations Between Sex Hormone Levels and Periodontitis in Men: Results From NHANES III. J Periodontol 2015; 86:1116-25. [DOI: 10.1902/jop.2015.140530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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21
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Krasnov A, Wesmajervi Breiland MS, Hatlen B, Afanasyev S, Skugor S. Sexual maturation and administration of 17β-estradiol and testosterone induce complex gene expression changes in skin and increase resistance of Atlantic salmon to ectoparasite salmon louse. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2015; 212:34-43. [PMID: 25599658 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2015.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Revised: 12/25/2014] [Accepted: 01/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The crustacean ectoparasitic salmon louse (Lepeophtheirus salmonis) is a major problem of Atlantic salmon aquaculture in the Northern hemisphere. Host-pathogen interactions in this system are highly complex. Resistance to the parasite involves variations in genetic background, nutrition, properties of skin, and status of the endocrine and immune systems. This study addressed the relationship between sex hormones and lice infection. Field observation revealed a sharp reduction of lice prevalence during sexual maturation with no difference between male and female fish. To determine if higher resistance against lice was related to sex hormones, post-smolt salmon were administered control feed and feeds containing 17β-estradiol (20 mg/kg) and testosterone (25 mg/kg) during a 3-week pre-challenge period. After challenge with lice, counts were reduced 2-fold and 1.5-fold in fish that received 17β-estradiol and testosterone, respectively. Gene expression analyses were performed from skin of salmon collected in the field trial and from the controlled lab experiment at three time points (end of feeding-before challenge, 3 days post challenge (dpc) and 16 dpc) using oligonucleotide microarray and qPCR. Differential expression was observed in genes associated with diverse biological processes. Both studies revealed similar changes of several antibacterial acute phase proteins; of note was induction of cathelicidin and down-regulation of a defensin gene. Treatment with hormones revealed their ability to modulate T helper cell (Th)-mediated immunity in skin. Enhanced protection achieved by 17β-estradiol administration might in part be due to the skewing of Th responses away from the prototypic anti-parasitic Th2 immunity and towards the more effective Th1 responses. Multiple genes involved in wound healing, differentiation and remodelling of skin tissue were stimulated during maturation but suppressed with sex hormones. Such opposite regulation suggested that these processes were not associated with resistance to the parasite under the studied conditions. Both studies revealed regulation of a suite of genes encoding putative large mucosal proteins found exclusively in fish. Marked decrease of erythrocyte markers indicated reduced circulation while down-regulation of multiple zymogen granule membrane proteins and transporters of cholesterol and other compounds suggested limited availability of nutrients for the parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sergey Afanasyev
- Nofima AS, PO Box 6122, NO-9291 Tromsø, Norway; Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry, M. Toreza av. 44, Peterburg 194223, Russia.
| | - Stanko Skugor
- SLRC-Sea Lice Research Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Biosciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Box 8146, NO-0033 Oslo, Norway.
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22
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Franco PS, Ribeiro M, Lopes-Maria JB, Costa LF, Silva DAO, de Freitas Barbosa B, de Oliveira Gomes A, Mineo JR, Ferro EAV. Experimental infection of Calomys callosus with atypical strains of Toxoplasma gondii shows gender differences in severity of infection. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:2655-64. [PMID: 24781027 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3920-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 04/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
There is a significant genetic diversity of Toxoplasma gondii in Brazil. Two parasite isolates were recently obtained from chickens in Uberlândia, Minas Gerais state, Brazil, namely, TgChBrUD1 and TgChBrUD2. In this study, we investigated Calomys callosus susceptibility to these atypical T. gondii strains. Male and female animals were intraperitoneally infected with tachyzoites and monitored to evaluate body weight change, morbidity, and mortality. Immunohistochemical assay and qPCR were performed to determine the parasitism in liver, spleen, and brain. Our data showed that TgChBrUD2-infected males died earlier than TgChBrUD1-infected males and 100% of mortality was observed after 10 and 12 days of infection, respectively. Also, TgChBrUD1-infected females died earlier than TgChBrUD1-infected males and 100% of mortality was observed after 9 and 12 days of infection, respectively. Both strains were able to induce a decrease in body weight of males, but only the TgChBrUD1 strain induced an increase in body weight of females. TgChBrUD2-infected females had significantly higher parasite load in both liver and spleen in comparison to TgChBrUD1-infected females, but no significant difference was found between genders or strains when males were infected. There was higher parasitism in the liver than the brain from both males and females infected with either strain. In conclusion, C. callosus specimens are susceptible to both T. gondii atypical strains with differences between males and females in severity of infection. These findings open new prospects for understanding different aspects of T. gondii infection, including reinfection and vertical transmission with these atypical strains when utilizing this experimental model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Silva Franco
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Department of Histology and Embryology, Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Uberlândia, 38400-902, Brazil
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Sanches TLM, Cunha LD, Silva GK, Guedes PMM, Silva JS, Zamboni DS. The use of a heterogeneously controlled mouse population reveals a significant correlation of acute phase parasitemia with mortality in Chagas disease. PLoS One 2014; 9:e91640. [PMID: 24651711 PMCID: PMC3961278 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0091640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2013] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease develops upon infection with the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi and undergoes an acute phase characterized by massive parasite replication and the presence of parasites in the blood. This condition is known as acute phase parasitemia. This initial stage may result in a cure, in the development of the chronic stages of the disease or in the death of the infected host. Despite intensive investigation related to the characterization of the acute and chronic phases of the disease, the cause-effect relationship of acute phase parasitemia to the outcome of the disease is still poorly understood. In this study, we artificially generated a heterogeneously controlled mouse population by intercrossing F1 mice obtained from a parental breeding of highly susceptible A/J with highly resistant C57BL/6 mouse strains. This F2 population was infected and used to assess the correlation of acute phase parasitemia with the longevity of the animals. We used nonparametric statistical analyses and found a significant association between parasitemia and mortality. If males and females were evaluated separately, we found that the former were more susceptible to death, although parasitemia was similar in males and females. In females, we found a strong negative correlation between parasitemia and longevity. In males, however, additional factors independent of parasitemia may favor mouse mortality during the development of the disease. The correlations of acute phase parasitemia with mortality reported in this study may facilitate an appropriate prognostic approach to the disease in humans. Moreover, these results illustrate the complexity of the mammalian genetic traits that regulate host resistance during Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiago L. M. Sanches
- Department of Cell Biology, University of São Paulo, Medical School Ribeirão Preto, FMRP/USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Larissa D. Cunha
- Department of Cell Biology, University of São Paulo, Medical School Ribeirão Preto, FMRP/USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Grace K. Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, University of São Paulo, Medical School Ribeirão Preto, FMRP/USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Paulo M. M. Guedes
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, University of São Paulo, Medical School Ribeirão Preto, FMRP/USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Santana Silva
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunology, University of São Paulo, Medical School Ribeirão Preto, FMRP/USP, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dario S. Zamboni
- Department of Cell Biology, University of São Paulo, Medical School Ribeirão Preto, FMRP/USP, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Hallal-Calleros C, Morales-Montor J, Vázquez-Montiel JA, Hoffman KL, Nieto-Rodríguez A, Flores-Pérez FI. Hormonal and behavioral changes induced by acute and chronic experimental infestation with Psoroptes cuniculi in the domestic rabbit Oryctolagus cuniculus. Parasit Vectors 2013; 6:361. [PMID: 24354923 PMCID: PMC3878243 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2013] [Accepted: 12/14/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Parasitic diseases are important in animal production because they cause high economic losses. Affected animals often exhibit stereotypical behavioral alterations such as anorexia and inactivity, among others. Among the diseases that commonly affect domestic rabbits is mange, which is caused by the mite Psoroptes cuniculi. Therefore, within the context of the host-parasite relationship, it is critical to understand the mechanisms involved in the alteration of host behavior, in order to better utilize sick animal behavior as a strategy for diagnosis and treatment of disease. Methods Rabbits were infested placing mites in the ear conduct. We characterized changes in exploratory behavior and scent marking evoked by acute (1-9 days) and chronic (25-33 days) experimental infestation. Behavior was recorded during ten minutes while the animals were in a 120 cm × 120 cm open field arena divided into 9 squares. Serum cortisol was measured individually using radioimmunoassay kits. Locomotor activity, chinning, rearing and body weight were compared using a Friedman test, the effect of treatment (infested versus non-infested) across time was analyzed using a repeated measures ANOVA, and the Pearson test was used to determine whether chinning and ambulation scores were significantly correlated. Serum cortisol levels and food consumption were analyzed with a Kruskal-Wallis test and body temperature was analyzed with an ANOVA test. Results We observed a significant decrease in rearing behavior as early as two days post-infestation, while chinning and locomotor activity were significantly decreased four days post-infestation. Chronic infestation was associated with decreased food intake, significant weight loss, and a trend toward increased serum cortisol levels, while no changes were observed in body temperature. Conclusions The presence of visible lesions within the ear canal is commonly used to detect mite infestation in rabbits, but this is possible only after chronic infestation. The behaviors described here may be a useful and economic tool in guiding the early diagnosis of parasitic infestation by P. cuniculi, allowing for early treatment and the application of control measures before significant weight loss occurs, thereby avoiding economic losses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Fernando Iván Flores-Pérez
- Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Av, Universidad 1001, Col Chamilpa, Cuernavaca CP 62209, México.
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Sex-associated expression of co-stimulatory molecules CD80, CD86, and accessory molecules, PDL-1, PDL-2 and MHC-II, in F480+ macrophages during murine cysticercosis. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:570158. [PMID: 23533995 PMCID: PMC3581293 DOI: 10.1155/2013/570158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2012] [Revised: 11/01/2012] [Accepted: 11/15/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages are critically involved in the interaction between T. crassiceps and the murine host immune system. Also, a strong gender-associated susceptibility to murine cysticercosis has been reported. Here, we examined the sex-associated expression of molecules MHC-II, CD80, CD86, PD-L1, and PD-L2 on peritoneal F4/80hi macrophages of BALB/c mice infected with Taenia crassiceps. Peritoneal macrophages from both sexes of mice were exposed to T. crassiceps total extract (TcEx). BALB/c Females mice recruit higher number of macrophages to the peritoneum. Macrophages from infected animals show increased expression of PDL2 and CD80 that was dependent from the sex of the host. These findings suggest that macrophage recruitment at early time points during T. crassiceps infection is a possible mechanism that underlies the differential sex-associated susceptibility displayed by the mouse gender.
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