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Roche K, Dalle F, Capelli N, Borne R, Jouffroy-Bapicot I, Valot B, Grenouillet F, Le Bailly M. From modern-day parasitology to paleoparasitology: the elusive past record and evolution of Cryptosporidium. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1249884. [PMID: 37928683 PMCID: PMC10622768 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1249884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent efforts have been made to review the state of the art on a variety of questions and targets in paleoparasitology, including protozoan taxa. Meanwhile, these efforts seemed to let aside Cryptosporidium, and we then intended to review its paleoparasitological record to assess its past distribution and favored detection methods, and eventually highlight needed research trajectories. This review shows that contrary to other parasites, most of the positive results came from South-American sites and coprolites rather than sediment samples, highlighting the need to test this kind of material, notably in Europe where many negative results were reported in the published literature from sediment samples. Moreover, aDNA-based detections are nearly absent from the paleoparasitological record of this parasite, though punctually shown successful. With their potential to address the evolutionary history of Cryptosporidium species, notably through their 18S rRNA tree, aDNA-based approaches should be encouraged in the future. In sum, and though the limits of currently used methods and materials remain unclear, this review highlights the potential role of coprolites and aDNA for the study of Cryptosporidium species in the past and how this history shaped their current diversity and distribution, notably among human populations but also farm animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kévin Roche
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Frédéric Dalle
- CNR LE Cryptosporidiosis Collaborating Laboratory, Santé Publique France, Dijon, France
- Department of Parasitology/Mycology, University Hospital of Dijon, Dijon, France
| | - Nicolas Capelli
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Romain Borne
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | | | - Benoit Valot
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Frédéric Grenouillet
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Matthieu Le Bailly
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
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Aboelsoued D, Abdel Megeed KN. Diagnosis and control of cryptosporidiosis in farm animals. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:1133-1146. [PMID: 36457776 PMCID: PMC9606155 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-022-01513-2] [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: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a pathogenic protozoan parasite infecting the gastrointestinal epithelium of human and animal hosts. In farm animals, cryptosporidiosis causes significant economic losses including deaths in newborn animals, retarded growth, increased labor involved and high cost of drugs. The detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts in fecal samples is traditionally dependent on examination of stained slides by light microscope or by advanced microscopical tools such as: electron microscopy and phase contrast microscopy. Immunological diagnosis using either antibody or antigen detection could offer high sensitivity and specificity. Examples for these tests are Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA), Immunochromatographic tests, Immunochromatographic lateral flow (ICLF), Immunofluorescence assays (IFA) and Flow cytometry coupled with cell sorting. Molecular methods could differentiate species and genotypes of Cryptosporidium and help in studying the epidemiological features of this parasite with rapid, simple and sensitive procedures. Nanotechnology-based platforms could improve the sensitivity and specificity of other detection methods like: ELISA, ICLF, IFA and polymerase chain reaction. As the available prophylactic and therapeutic drugs or natural products treatments are insufficient and no approved vaccines are available, the best approach to control this parasite is by following firm hygienic measures. Many vaccine attempts were performed using hyperimmune colostrum, live or attenuated vaccines, recombinant and Deoxyribonucleic acid vaccines. Also, Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/Cas9 technology could help in Cryptosporidium genome editing to improve drug and vaccine discovery. Another approach that could be useful for assigning drug targets is metabolomics. Probiotics were also used successfully in the treatment of acute diarrhea and they proved a limiting effect on cryptosporidiosis in animal models. In addition, nanotherapy-based approaches could provide a good strategy for improving the potency of any type of drugs against Cryptosporidium and give good anti-cryptosporidial effects. In conclusion, accurate diagnosis using advanced techniques is the key to the control and prevention of cryptosporidiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Aboelsoued
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, El Buhouth St., Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Kadria Nasr Abdel Megeed
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, National Research Centre, El Buhouth St., Dokki, Cairo, Egypt
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Dhal AK, Panda C, Yun SIL, Mahapatra RK. An update on Cryptosporidium biology and therapeutic avenues. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:923-939. [PMID: 35755159 PMCID: PMC9215156 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-022-01510-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium species has been identified as an important pediatric diarrheal pathogen in resource-limited countries, particularly in very young children (0–24 months). However, the only available drug (nitazoxanide) has limited efficacy and can only be prescribed in a medical setting to children older than one year. Many drug development projects have started to investigate new therapeutic avenues. Cryptosporidium’s unique biology is challenging for the traditional drug discovery pipeline and requires novel drug screening approaches. Notably, in recent years, new methods of oocyst generation, in vitro processing, and continuous three-dimensional cultivation capacities have been developed. This has enabled more physiologically pertinent research assays for inhibitor discovery. In a short time, many great strides have been made in the development of anti-Cryptosporidium drugs. These are expected to eventually turn into clinical candidates for cryptosporidiosis treatment in the future. This review describes the latest development in Cryptosporidium biology, genomics, transcriptomics of the parasite, assay development, and new drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ajit Kumar Dhal
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT Deemed to Be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751024 India
| | - Chinmaya Panda
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT Deemed to Be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751024 India
| | - Soon-IL Yun
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, 54896 Republic of Korea
- Department of Agricultural Convergence Technology, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, 54896 Republic of Korea
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Gao X, Yin J, Wang D, Li X, Zhang Y, Wang C, Zhang Y, Zhu G. Discovery of New Microneme Proteins in Cryptosporidium parvum and Implication of the Roles of a Rhomboid Membrane Protein (CpROM1) in Host-Parasite Interaction. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:778560. [PMID: 34966810 PMCID: PMC8710574 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.778560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Apicomplexan parasites possess several unique secretory organelles, including rhoptries, micronemes, and dense granules, which play critical roles in the invasion of host cells. The molecular content of these organelles and their biological roles have been well-studied in Toxoplasma and Plasmodium, but are underappreciated in Cryptosporidium, which contains many parasites of medical and veterinary importance. Only four proteins have previously been identified or proposed to be located in micronemes, one of which, GP900, was confirmed using immunogold electron microscopy (IEM) to be present in the micronemes of intracellular merozoites. Here, we report on the discovery of four new microneme proteins (MICs) in the sporozoites of the zoonotic species C. parvum, identified using immunofluorescence assay (IFA). These proteins are encoded by cgd3_980, cgd1_3550, cgd1_3680, and cgd2_1590. The presence of the protein encoded by cgd3_980 in sporozoite micronemes was further confirmed using IEM. Cgd3_980 encodes one of the three C. parvum rhomboid peptidases (ROMs) and is, thus, designated CpROM1. IEM also confirmed the presence of CpROM1 in the micronemes of intracellular merozoites, parasitophorous vacuole membranes (PVM), and feeder organelles (FO). CpROM1 was enriched in the pellicles and concentrated at the host cell–parasite interface during the invasion of sporozoites and its subsequent transformation into trophozoites. CpROM1 transcript levels were also higher in oocysts and excysted sporozoites than in the intracellular parasite stages. These observations indicate that CpROM1, an intramembrane peptidase with membrane proteolytic activity, is involved in host–parasite interactions, including invasion and proteostasis of PVM and FO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Gao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, The Institute of Zoonosis, and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jigang Yin
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, The Institute of Zoonosis, and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Dongqiang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, The Institute of Zoonosis, and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xiaohui Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, The Institute of Zoonosis, and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, The Institute of Zoonosis, and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Chenchen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, The Institute of Zoonosis, and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yuanyuan Zhang
- Electron Microscopy Core Facility, The Institute of Zoonosis, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Guan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, The Institute of Zoonosis, and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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5
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Ryan UM, Feng Y, Fayer R, Xiao L. Taxonomy and molecular epidemiology of Cryptosporidium and Giardia - a 50 year perspective (1971-2021). Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:1099-1119. [PMID: 34715087 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2021.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The protozoan parasites Cryptosporidium and Giardia are significant causes of diarrhoea worldwide and are responsible for numerous waterborne and foodborne outbreaks of diseases. Over the last 50 years, the development of improved detection and typing tools has facilitated the expanding range of named species. Currently at least 44 Cryptosporidium spp. and >120 genotypes, and nine Giardia spp., are recognised. Many of these Cryptosporidium genotypes will likely be described as species in the future. The phylogenetic placement of Cryptosporidium at the genus level is still unclear and further research is required to better understand its evolutionary origins. Zoonotic transmission has long been known to play an important role in the epidemiology of cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis, and the development and application of next generation sequencing tools is providing evidence for this. Comparative whole genome sequencing is also providing key information on the genetic mechanisms for host specificity and human infectivity, and will enable One Health management of these zoonotic parasites in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Una M Ryan
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ronald Fayer
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, United States Department of Agriculture, 10300 Baltimore Avenue, BARC-East, Building 173, Beltsville, MD 20705, USA
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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6
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Mamedova S, Karanis P. Cryptosporidium spp. infections in livestock and wild animals in Azerbaijan territory. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2021; 19:545-562. [PMID: 34371493 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2021.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an intracellular protozoan parasite, globally distributed and capable of infecting various vertebrate species, including humans as well as domestic and wild animals. Cryptosporidium is increasingly gaining attention as a human and an animal pathogen mainly due to its dominant involvement in worldwide waterborne outbreaks. The present paper reviews the current knowledge and understanding of Cryptosporidium spp. in terrestrial and water animals in Azerbaijan.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Mamedova
- National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan, Institute of Zoology, Passage 1128, Block 504, Baku, AZ 1073, Azerbaijan
| | - P Karanis
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany E-mail: ; Department of Basic and Clinical Sciences, University of Nicosia Medical School, Nicosia, Cyprus
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Abstract
Purpose of Review Cryptosporidium spp. (C. hominis and C. parvum) are a major cause of diarrhea-associated morbidity and mortality in young children globally. While C. hominis only infects humans, C. parvum is a zoonotic parasite that can be transmitted from infected animals to humans. There are no treatment or control measures to fully treat cryptosporidiosis or prevent the infection in humans and animals. Our knowledge on the molecular mechanisms of Cryptosporidium-host interactions and the underlying factors that govern infectivity and disease pathogenesis is very limited. Recent Findings Recent development of genetics and new animal models of infection, along with progress in cell culture platforms to complete the parasite lifecycle in vitro, is greatly advancing the Cryptosporidium field. Summary In this review, we will discuss our current knowledge of host-parasite interactions and how genetic manipulation of Cryptosporidium and promising infection models are opening the doors towards an improved understanding of parasite biology and disease pathogenesis.
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Zaheer T, Imran M, Abbas RZ, Zaheer I, Malik MA. Avian cryptosporidiosis and its zoonotic significance in Asia. WORLD POULTRY SCI J 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00439339.2020.1866961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tean Zaheer
- Department of Parasitology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran
- Department of Parasitology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Rao Zahid Abbas
- Department of Parasitology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Iqra Zaheer
- Department of Pathology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
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Chique C, Hynds PD, Andrade L, Burke L, Morris D, Ryan MP, O'Dwyer J. Cryptosporidium spp. in groundwater supplies intended for human consumption - A descriptive review of global prevalence, risk factors and knowledge gaps. WATER RESEARCH 2020; 176:115726. [PMID: 32247994 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2020.115726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is one of the leading causes of diarrhoeal illness and mortality induced by protozoan pathogens worldwide. As a largely waterborne disease, emphasis has been given to the study of Cryptosporidium spp. in surface waters, readily susceptible to pathogenic contamination. Conversely, the status of Cryptosporidium in potable groundwater sources, generally regarded as a pristine and "safe" drinking-water supply owing to (sub)-soil protection, remains largely unknown. As such, this investigation presents the first literature review aimed to ascertain the global prevalence of Cryptosporidium in groundwater supply sources intended for human consumption. Thirty-seven peer-reviewed studies were identified and included in the review. Groundwater sample and supply detection rates (estimated 10-20%) indicate Cryptosporidium is frequently present in domestic groundwater sources, representing a latent health concern for groundwater consumers. Specifically, sample (10.4%) and source (19.1%) detection rates deriving from comprehensive "temporal" investigations are put forward as representative of a contamination 'baseline' for Cryptosporidium in 'domestic' groundwater supplies. Proposed 'baseline' prevalence figures are largely applicable in preventive risk-based catchment and groundwater quality management including the formulation of Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA). Notwithstanding, a large geographical disparity in available investigations and lack of standardized reporting restrict the transferability of research findings. Overall, the mechanisms responsible for Cryptosporidium transport and ingress into groundwater supplies remain ambiguous, representing a critical knowledge gap, and denoting a distinctive lack of integration between groundwater and public-health sub-disciplines among investigations. Key recommendations and guidelines are provided for prospective studies directed at more integrative and multi-disciplinary research.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Chique
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Science (BEES), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - P D Hynds
- Irish Centre for Research in Applied Geosciences, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Environmental Sustainability and Health Institute (ESIH), Technological University Dublin, Ireland.
| | - L Andrade
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Science (BEES), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Irish Centre for Research in Applied Geosciences, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - L Burke
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Microbial Ecology Group, School of Medicine and Centre for Health from Environment, Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - D Morris
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Microbial Ecology Group, School of Medicine and Centre for Health from Environment, Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland, Galway, Ireland
| | - M P Ryan
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - J O'Dwyer
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Science (BEES), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Environmental Research Institute, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland; Irish Centre for Research in Applied Geosciences, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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Gunasekera S, Zahedi A, O’Dea M, King B, Monis P, Thierry B, M. Carr J, Ryan U. Organoids and Bioengineered Intestinal Models: Potential Solutions to the Cryptosporidium Culturing Dilemma. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8050715. [PMID: 32403447 PMCID: PMC7285185 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8050715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a major cause of severe diarrhea-related disease in children in developing countries, but currently no vaccine or effective treatment exists for those who are most at risk of serious illness. This is partly due to the lack of in vitro culturing methods that are able to support the entire Cryptosporidium life cycle, which has led to research in Cryptosporidium biology lagging behind other protozoan parasites. In vivo models such as gnotobiotic piglets are complex, and standard in vitro culturing methods in transformed cell lines, such as HCT-8 cells, have not been able to fully support fertilization occurring in vitro. Additionally, the Cryptosporidium life cycle has also been reported to occur in the absence of host cells. Recently developed bioengineered intestinal models, however, have shown more promising results and are able to reproduce a whole cycle of infectivity in one model system. This review evaluates the recent advances in Cryptosporidium culturing techniques and proposes future directions for research that may build upon these successes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Gunasekera
- Vector and Waterborne Pathogens Research Group, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Western Australia, Australia;
- Correspondence: (S.G.); (U.R.); Tel.: +61-8-9360-2495 (S.G.); +61-8-9360-2482 (U.R.)
| | - Alireza Zahedi
- Vector and Waterborne Pathogens Research Group, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Western Australia, Australia;
| | - Mark O’Dea
- Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases Laboratory, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Western Australia, Australia; m.o’
| | - Brendon King
- South Australian Water Corporation, Adelaide 5000, South Australia, Australia; (B.K.); (P.M.)
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, South Australia, Australia;
| | - Paul Monis
- South Australian Water Corporation, Adelaide 5000, South Australia, Australia; (B.K.); (P.M.)
- Future Industries Institute and ARC Centre of Excellence for Convergent Bio and Nano Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5095, South Australia, Australia;
| | - Benjamin Thierry
- Future Industries Institute and ARC Centre of Excellence for Convergent Bio and Nano Science, University of South Australia, Adelaide 5095, South Australia, Australia;
| | - Jillian M. Carr
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, South Australia, Australia;
| | - Una Ryan
- Vector and Waterborne Pathogens Research Group, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Murdoch 6150, Western Australia, Australia;
- Correspondence: (S.G.); (U.R.); Tel.: +61-8-9360-2495 (S.G.); +61-8-9360-2482 (U.R.)
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Muñoz-Gómez SA, Durnin K, Eme L, Paight C, Lane CE, Saffo MB, Slamovits CH. Nephromyces Represents a Diverse and Novel Lineage of the Apicomplexa That Has Retained Apicoplasts. Genome Biol Evol 2019; 11:2727-2740. [PMID: 31328784 PMCID: PMC6777426 DOI: 10.1093/gbe/evz155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A most interesting exception within the parasitic Apicomplexa is Nephromyces, an extracellular, probably mutualistic, endosymbiont found living inside molgulid ascidian tunicates (i.e., sea squirts). Even though Nephromyces is now known to be an apicomplexan, many other questions about its nature remain unanswered. To gain further insights into the biology and evolutionary history of this unusual apicomplexan, we aimed to 1) find the precise phylogenetic position of Nephromyces within the Apicomplexa, 2) search for the apicoplast genome of Nephromyces, and 3) infer the major metabolic pathways in the apicoplast of Nephromyces. To do this, we sequenced a metagenome and a metatranscriptome from the molgulid renal sac, the specialized habitat where Nephromyces thrives. Our phylogenetic analyses of conserved nucleus-encoded genes robustly suggest that Nephromyces is a novel lineage sister to the Hematozoa, which comprises both the Haemosporidia (e.g., Plasmodium) and the Piroplasmida (e.g., Babesia and Theileria). Furthermore, a survey of the renal sac metagenome revealed 13 small contigs that closely resemble the genomes of the nonphotosynthetic reduced plastids, or apicoplasts, of other apicomplexans. We show that these apicoplast genomes correspond to a diverse set of most closely related but genetically divergent Nephromyces lineages that co-inhabit a single tunicate host. In addition, the apicoplast of Nephromyces appears to have retained all biosynthetic pathways inferred to have been ancestral to parasitic apicomplexans. Our results shed light on the evolutionary history of the only probably mutualistic apicomplexan known, Nephromyces, and provide context for a better understanding of its life style and intricate symbiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Muñoz-Gómez
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Centre for Comparative Genomics and Evolutionary Bioinformatics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Keira Durnin
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Centre for Comparative Genomics and Evolutionary Bioinformatics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Laura Eme
- Unité d'Ecologie, Sistématique et Evolution, CNRS, Université Paris-Sud, France
| | | | | | - Mary B Saffo
- Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Claudio H Slamovits
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
- Centre for Comparative Genomics and Evolutionary Bioinformatics, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
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12
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Bochimoto H, Kondoh D, Ishihara Y, Kabir MHB, Kato K. Three-dimensional fine structure of feeder organelle in Cryptosporidium parvum. Parasitol Int 2019; 73:101958. [PMID: 31299356 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2019.101958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Feeder organelles of Cryptosporidium are the convoluted structures located at the host-parasite interface that uptake of nutrients from host cells. Although the ultrastructure of feeder organelles has been summarized as being highly invaginated structure, the three-dimensional form remains uncertain. Osmium-maceration scanning electron microscopy (OS-SEM) allows visualization of the three-dimensional ultrastructure after removing soluble proteins. Here, we assessed C. parvum attached to mouse ileal epithelial cells using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and OS-SEM. Feeder organelles visualized by TEM as aggregated structures of concentrically-, vertically- and randomly-lined bars comprised a complex reticulated network of stacked flat bursiform, ring-shaped bursiform and reticulated tubular membranes on OS-SEM. These findings suggested that the feeder organelles are more complex than was previously thought.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Bochimoto
- Health Care Administration Center, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Nishi 2-11 Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Nishi 2-13 Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kondoh
- Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Nishi 2-11 Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Yo Ishihara
- Asahikawa Medical University, Higashi 2-1-1-1 Midorigaoka, Asahikawa, Hokkaido 078-8510, Japan
| | - Mohammad Hazzaz Bin Kabir
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Nishi 2-13 Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Kentaro Kato
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Nishi 2-13 Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, 232-3 Yomogida, Naruko-onsen, Osaki, Miyagi 989-6711, Japan.
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Thompson RCA, Ash A. Molecular epidemiology of Giardia and Cryptosporidium infections - What's new? INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2019; 75:103951. [PMID: 31279819 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2019.103951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2019] [Revised: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
New information generated since 2016 from the application of molecular tools to infections with Giardia and Cryptosporidium is critically summarised. In the context of molecular epidemiology, nomenclature, taxonomy, in vitro culture, detection, zoonoses, population genetics and pathogenicity, are covered. Whole genome sequencing has had the greatest impact in the last three years. Future advances will provide a much better understanding of the zoonotic potential of both parasites, their diversity and how this is linked to pathogenesis in different hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- R C A Thompson
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia.
| | - A Ash
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
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Bones AJ, Jossé L, More C, Miller CN, Michaelis M, Tsaousis AD. Past and future trends of Cryptosporidium in vitro research. Exp Parasitol 2018; 196:28-37. [PMID: 30521793 PMCID: PMC6333944 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 12/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a genus of single celled parasites capable of infecting a wide range of animals including humans. Cryptosporidium species are members of the phylum apicomplexa, which includes well-known genera such as Plasmodium and Toxoplasma. Cryptosporidium parasites cause a severe gastro-intestinal disease known as cryptosporidiosis. They are one of the most common causes of childhood diarrhoea worldwide, and infection can have prolonged detrimental effects on the development of children, but also can be life threatening to HIV/AIDS patients and transplant recipients. A variety of hosts can act as reservoirs, and Cryptosporidium can persist in the environment for prolonged times as oocysts. While there has been substantial interest in these parasites, there is very little progress in terms of treatment development and understanding the majority of the life cycle of this unusual organism. In this review, we will provide an overview on the existing knowledge of the biology of the parasite and the current progress in developing in vitro cultivation systems. We will then describe a synopsis of current and next generation approaches that could spearhead further research in combating the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Bones
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | - Lyne Jossé
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | - Charlotte More
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | - Christopher N Miller
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | | | - Anastasios D Tsaousis
- Laboratory of Molecular and Evolutionary Parasitology, RAPID Group, School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK; School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK.
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Heo I, Dutta D, Schaefer DA, Iakobachvili N, Artegiani B, Sachs N, Boonekamp KE, Bowden G, Hendrickx APA, Willems RJL, Peters PJ, Riggs MW, O'Connor R, Clevers H. Modelling Cryptosporidium infection in human small intestinal and lung organoids. Nat Microbiol 2018; 3:814-823. [PMID: 29946163 PMCID: PMC6027984 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-018-0177-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 254] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Stem-cell-derived organoids recapitulate in vivo physiology of their original tissues, representing valuable systems to model medical disorders such as infectious diseases. Cryptosporidium, a protozoan parasite, is a leading cause of diarrhoea and a major cause of child mortality worldwide. Drug development requires detailed knowledge of the pathophysiology of Cryptosporidium, but experimental approaches have been hindered by the lack of an optimal in vitro culture system. Here, we show that Cryptosporidium can infect epithelial organoids derived from human small intestine and lung. The parasite propagates within the organoids and completes its complex life cycle. Temporal analysis of the Cryptosporidium transcriptome during organoid infection reveals dynamic regulation of transcripts related to its life cycle. Our study presents organoids as a physiologically relevant in vitro model system to study Cryptosporidium infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inha Heo
- Hubrecht Institute, Oncode Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Devanjali Dutta
- Hubrecht Institute, Oncode Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Deborah A Schaefer
- School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Nino Iakobachvili
- The Maastricht Multimodal Molecular Imaging Institute (M4I), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Benedetta Artegiani
- Hubrecht Institute, Oncode Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Norman Sachs
- Hubrecht Institute, Oncode Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Kim E Boonekamp
- Hubrecht Institute, Oncode Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gregory Bowden
- Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Antoni P A Hendrickx
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Robert J L Willems
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter J Peters
- The Maastricht Multimodal Molecular Imaging Institute (M4I), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Michael W Riggs
- School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Roberta O'Connor
- Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA.
| | - Hans Clevers
- Hubrecht Institute, Oncode Institute, Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW), UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
- Princess Máxima Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Comparison of current methods used to detect Cryptosporidium oocysts in stools. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2018; 221:743-763. [PMID: 29776848 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2018.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Revised: 04/17/2018] [Accepted: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In this review all of the methods that are currently in use for the investigation of Cryptosporidium in stool material are highlighted and critically discussed. It appears that more qualifications and background knowledge in this field regarding the diagnosis of the Cryptosporidium parasite is required. Furthermore, there is no standardization for the protocols that are commonly used to either detect oocysts in faeces or to diagnose the Cryptosporidium infection. It is therefore necessary to initiate further education and research that will assist in improving the accuracy of the diagnosis of Cryptosporidium oocysts in the faecal micro-cosmos. Where ambient concentrations of oocysts are low in stool material, detection becomes a formidable task. Procedures for ring tests and the standardization of multi-laboratory testing are recommended. It is also necessary to enhance the routine surveillance capacity of cryptosporidiosis and to improve the safety against it, considering the fact that this disease is under diagnosed and under reported. This review is intended to stimulate research that could lead to future improvements and further developments in monitoring the diagnostic methodologies that will assist in harmonizing Cryptosporidium oocysts in stool diagnosis.
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Bautista M, Bonatti TR, Fiuza VRDS, Terashima A, Canales-Ramos M, José J, Franco RMB. Occurrence and molecular characterization of Giardia duodenalis cysts and Cryptosporidium oocysts in raw water samples from the Rímac River, Peru. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:11454-11467. [PMID: 29423699 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-1423-6] [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: 04/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/29/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Giardia and Cryptosporidium are potentially pathogenic protozoa which are ubiquitous in ambient surface water. The present study included 60 samples of surface water from three sampling sites from the Rímac River, Lima and Callao, Peru, to detect the occurrence of Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. and to perform molecular characterization of specimens found. Water samples were concentrated using the membrane filtration technique, and following elution, cysts and oocysts were visualized by direct immunofluorescence assay (IFA). For molecular characterization, tpi and bg gene fragments and 18S rRNA were amplified by nested PCR for Giardia and Cryptosporidium, respectively, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. Giardia cysts were found in 93.3% of the analyzed samples, whereas Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected in 15%. The positivity of the Giardia cysts was 86.6% (n = 26) in 2014, while Cryptosporidium oocysts were not detected. In 2015, both protozoa were found in raw water samples, with all 30 samples collected positive for Giardia cysts (100.0%) and 9 positive for Cryptosporidium oocysts (30.0%). Oocysts were detected in 20.0% of water samples from sites 1 (mean 5.25 oocysts/L) and 2 (mean 52.3 oocysts/L), while at site 3, oocysts were detected in 50.0% of raw water samples (mean 193.6 oocysts/L). The presence of Giardia duodenalis assemblage A was confirmed in several samples by the phylogenetic positioning of the bg and tpi genes, and the sub-assemblage AII was predominant (8/9). Sequencing for Cryptosporidium resulted in profiles compatible with Cryptosporidium hominis, Cryptosporidium meleagridis, and Cryptosporidium baileyi. This is the first time that the presence of G. duodenalis assemblage A/sub-assemblage AII and Cryptosporidium species has been reported in surface water samples in Peru. These Cryptosporidium species and the Giardia duodenalis assemblage are associated with human disease which highlights the potential risk to public health and the need to increase environmental monitoring measures to protect this water body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meylin Bautista
- Post-Graduate Program in Animal Biology, Biology Institute, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Taís Rondello Bonatti
- Post-Graduate Program in Animal Biology, Biology Institute, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Vagner Ricardo da S Fiuza
- Oxidative Processes Laboratory, School of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Urban Design, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Angelica Terashima
- Parasitology Laboratory, Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Marco Canales-Ramos
- Parasitology Laboratory, Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander von Humboldt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Juliana José
- Laboratory of Genomics and Expression (LGE), Genetics, Evolution, Microbiology and Immunology Department, Biology Institute, UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Regina Maura Bueno Franco
- Protozoology Laboratory, Animal Biology Department, Biology Institute, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, UNICAMP, Rua Monteiro Lobato, n° 255, Campinas, SP, Brazil.
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An overview of methods/techniques for the detection of Cryptosporidium in food samples. Parasitol Res 2018; 117:629-653. [PMID: 29350281 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-017-5735-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is one of the most important parasitic protozoa of concern within the food production industry, worldwide. This review describes the evolution and its development, and it monitors the methodology that has been used for Cryptosporidium in food material since 1984, when the first publication appeared regarding the detection of Cryptosporidium parvum in food materials. The methods that are currently being used for the detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts in food material (mainly vegetables) and all of the other available published methods are discussed in this review. Generating more consistent and reliable data should lead to a better understanding of the occurrence, transport and fate of the oocysts in food material. Improvements in monitoring and developing effective methodology, along with food security, offer more practical possibilities for both the developed and developing worlds.
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Abstract
Cryptosporidium research has focused on the development of infection control, and effective therapy that has thus far been hampered by the inability to culture Cryptosporidium in vitro. Other limitations include inadequate animal models, cumbersome screening procedures for chemotherapeutic approaches and a lack of tools for genetic manipulation. These limitations can, however, be eased by the improvement and focused development of in vitro cultivation. The ability to culture relevant Cryptosporidium isolates in vitro and to propagate the life cycle stages that are responsible for causing disease in an infected host is still a critical link. This ability will facilitate other relevant approaches, e.g., the ability to knockout genes and the application of broader screening for drug discoveries and vaccine developments, in combination with new discoveries on the parasite's basic biology, genetic manipulation and new life cycle stages. Success in this effort represents an essential step towards significant progress in the control of cryptosporidiosis.
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Ryan U, Paparini A, Monis P, Hijjawi N. It's official - Cryptosporidium is a gregarine: What are the implications for the water industry? WATER RESEARCH 2016; 105:305-313. [PMID: 27639055 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2016.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Parasites of the genus Cryptosporidium are a major cause of diarrhoea and ill-health in humans and animals and are frequent causes of waterborne outbreaks. Until recently, it was thought that Cryptosporidium was an obligate intracellular parasite that only replicated within a suitable host, and that faecally shed oocysts could survive in the environment but could not multiply. In light of extensive biological and molecular data, including the ability of Cryptosporidium to complete its life cycle in the absence of a host and the production of novel extracellular stages, Cryptosporidium has been formally transferred from the Coccidia, to a new subclass, Cryptogregaria, with gregarine parasites. In this review, we discuss the close relationship between Cryptosporidium and gregarines and discuss the implications for the water industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Una Ryan
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia.
| | - Andrea Paparini
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - Paul Monis
- Australian Water Quality Centre, South Australian Water, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Nawal Hijjawi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, The Hashemite University, PO Box 150459, Zarqa, 13115, Jordan
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The fine structure of sexual stage development and sporogony of Cryptosporidium parvum in cell-free culture. Parasitology 2016; 143:749-61. [PMID: 26935529 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182016000275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The sexual stages and new oocysts development of Cryptosporidium parvum were investigated in a cell-free culture system using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Sexual development was extremely rapid after inoculation of oocysts into the medium. The process began within 1/2-12 h and was completed with new oocyst formation 120 h post-inoculation. The macrogamonts were bounded by two membranes and had amylopectin granules and two distinct types of wall-forming bodies. The microgamonts had a large nucleus showing lobe projections and condensation of chromatin, giving rise to peripherally budding microgametes. The microgametes contained a large area of granular substance containing groups of microtubules surrounding the electron-dense nucleus. In some instances, the dividing microgamy was observed in cell-free cultures with no preceding merogonic process. Fertilization was observed with the bullet-shaped microgamete penetrating an immature macrogamont at 24 and 216 h. The new thin- and thick-walled oocysts had a large residuum with polysaccharide granules and sporogony noted inside these oocysts. Novel immature four-layer walled thick oocysts with irregular knob-like protrusions on the outer layer resembling the immature Eimeria oocysts were also observed. The present study confirms the gametogony and sporogony of C. parvum in cell-free culture and describes their ultra-structure for the first time.
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Paziewska-Harris A, Singer M, Schoone G, Schallig H. Quantitative analysis of Cryptosporidium growth in in vitro culture--the impact of parasite density on the success of infection. Parasitol Res 2015; 115:329-37. [PMID: 26435485 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4751-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an important waterborne pathogen for which no treatment or vaccination is available. This study set out to quantify DNA replication of Cryptosporidium parvum in vitro. Cryptosporidium DNA could be detected at up to 60 % of input level in both host-cell-free and host cell containing cultures 6 days after infection with living sporozoites, but was lost within 2 days in cultures inoculated with UV-inactivated sporozoites. Total DNA increased between days 2 and 6, evidence of successful DNA replication in both cell-free and host-cell-containing cultures. Overall however, only a small fraction (up to 5 %) of parasite DNA could be found associated with host cells or bound to plastic of the cell-free cultures, and the majority of parasite DNA was present in the cell culture medium, separable by simple decantation. After 2 days, in host-cell-containing cultures, the parasite DNA could be concentrated by slow centrifugation, suggesting that it was associated with intact parasite cells, but at 6 days, the majority could not be centrifuged and is therefore thought to have represented copies associated with dead and degraded parasites. In cell-free cultures and in larger plates, the majority of DNA was in this form. Performance of the parasite was best in small culture plates, and least in the largest plate sizes. We interpret these results as suggesting that Cryptosporidium sporozoites first bind to the host cell monolayer or to the plasticware, but then by 2 days, there has been a substantial release of parasites back into the medium. Host-cell-free cultures also supported modest replication and may have represented DNA synthesis in cells beginning merogony. The role of the host cells is unclear, as so much of the parasite DNA is released into the medium. Host cells may provide a feeder role, conditioning the medium for Cryptosporidium development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Paziewska-Harris
- KIT Biomedical Research, Royal Tropical Institute, Meibergdreef 39, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Martin Singer
- Current address: Laboratory of Immunogenetics, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, VU University Medical Center, Van der Boechorststraat 7, 1081 BT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gerard Schoone
- KIT Biomedical Research, Royal Tropical Institute, Meibergdreef 39, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Henk Schallig
- KIT Biomedical Research, Royal Tropical Institute, Meibergdreef 39, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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