Granuloma formation and tissue pathology in Schistosoma japonicum versus Schistosoma mansoni infections

Large Mediastinal Mass as a Rare Presentation of Schistosomiasis

A 39-year-old woman originally from Northeast Africa sought medical attention for positional dyspnea. Computed tomography of the chest revealed an 8.5 cm hypodense anterior mediastinal mass with peripheral calcifications that raised a wide differential diagnosis including infectious and neoplastic lesions. Following surgical resection, a large cavitary necrotizing and calcified granuloma involving the thymus was identified on histopathological examination. The changes were associated with parasitic eggs that based on their morphology suggested infection due to trematode species. The diagnosis was further corroborated by identification of the increased IgG titers for Schistosoma species (ELISA Kit, NovaTec). The patient's symptoms improved following surgery and praziquantel therapy. This unique presentation emphasizes an unusual manifestation of schistosomiasis that can pose a diagnostic challenge, especially in non-endemic regions. It suggests that mediastinal involvement by schistosomiasis is likely due to an ectopic deposition of the parasitic eggs within a definitive host. Suspicion for schistosomiasis should be heightened based on patient demographics and travel to endemic areas.

Fluorescent quantum dot-based nanotool for targeted identification and evaluation of the schistosomiasis circulating cathodic antigen in tissue samples

Schistosomiasis represents a serious public health problem, a disease for which the circulating cathodic antigen (CCA) is a relevant biomarker. Quantum dots (QDs) are advantageous fluorescent nanoparticles that can be used as specific nanoprobes. In this study, a nanotool based on QDs and anti-CCA antibodies was developed, which, in association with fluorescence microscopy, was applied to trace and evaluate the CCA profile in schistosomiasis-infected tissue samples. Kidney and liver tissues from mice at different disease phases were used as models. QDs and the conjugates were characterized by absorption and emission spectroscopies. Microscopy analyses were used to map and assess CCA accumulation in infected tissue slices in respect to non-infected control samples. The fluorescent microplate assay (FMA) and Zeta potential (ζ) analyses indicated an effective conjugation, which was corroborated by the absence of labeling in non-infected tissue slices (which lack CCA) after incubation with the nanoprobe. Infected liver and kidney tissues exhibited notable staining by the QDs-anti-CCA conjugate. The CCA accumulation increased as follows: 30 < 60 = 120 days post-infection, with 30, 60, and 120 days corresponding to the pre-patent, acute, and beginning of chronic disease phases, respectively. Therefore, this innovative approach, combining imaging acquisition with the sensitivity and specificity of the QDs-anti-CCA conjugate, demonstrated efficiency in locating and comparatively evaluating CCA deposition in biological samples, thereby opening new possibilities for schistosomiasis research.

Contribution of parasite and host genotype to immunopathology of schistosome infections

BACKGROUND

The role of pathogen genotype in determining disease severity and immunopathology has been studied intensively in microbial pathogens including bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses but is poorly understood in parasitic helminths. The medically important blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni is an excellent model system to study the impact of helminth genetic variation on immunopathology. Our laboratory has demonstrated that laboratory schistosome populations differ in sporocyst growth and cercarial production in the intermediate snail host and worm establishment and fecundity in the vertebrate host. Here, we (i) investigate the hypothesis that schistosome genotype plays a significant role in immunopathology and related parasite life history traits in the vertebrate mouse host and (ii) quantify the relative impact of parasite and host genetics on infection outcomes.

METHODS

We infected BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice with four different laboratory schistosome populations from Africa and the Americas. We quantified disease progression in the vertebrate host by measuring body weight and complete blood count (CBC) with differential over a 12-week infection period. On sacrifice, we assessed parasitological (egg and worm counts, fecundity), immunopathological (organ measurements and histopathology) and immunological (CBC with differential and cytokine profiles) characteristics to determine the impact of parasite and host genetics.

RESULTS

We found significant variation between parasite populations in worm numbers, fecundity, liver and intestine egg counts, liver and spleen weight, and fibrotic area but not in granuloma size. Variation in organ weight was explained by egg burden and intrinsic parasite factors independent of egg burden. We found significant variation between infected mouse lines in cytokine levels (IFN-γ, TNF-α), eosinophils, lymphocytes and monocyte counts.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that both parasite and host genotype impact the outcome of infection. While host genotype explains most of the variation in immunological traits, parasite genotype explains most of the variation in parasitological traits, and both host and parasite genotypes impact immunopathology outcomes.

Hepatic Topology of Glycosphingolipids in Schistosoma mansoni-Infected Hamsters

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by worm parasites of the genus Schistosoma. Upon infection, parasite eggs can lodge inside of host organs like the liver. This leads to granuloma formation, which is the main cause of the pathology of schistosomiasis. To better understand the different levels of host-pathogen interaction and pathology, our study focused on the characterization of glycosphingolipids (GSLs). For this purpose, GSLs in livers of infected and noninfected hamsters were studied by combining high-spatial-resolution atmospheric-pressure scanning microprobe matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (AP-SMALDI MSI) with nanoscale hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (nano-HILIC MS/MS). Nano-HILIC MS/MS revealed 60 GSL species with a distinct saccharide and ceramide composition. AP-SMALDI MSI measurements were conducted in positive- and negative-ion mode for the visualization of neutral and acidic GSLs. Based on nano-HILIC MS/MS results, we discovered no downregulated but 50 significantly upregulated GSLs in liver samples of infected hamsters. AP-SMALDI MSI showed that 44 of these GSL species were associated with the granulomas in the liver tissue. Our findings suggest an important role of GSLs during granuloma formation.

Dietary glycemic and energy load differentially modulates Schistosoma mansoni-induced granulomatous inflammation and response to antiparasitic chemotherapy

The impact of diet composition and energy content on schistosomiasis evolution and treatment efficacy is still controversial. This study compared the impact of sucrose-rich diet and intermittent fasting on Schistosoma mansoni infection and praziquantel (PZQ)-based chemotherapy response in mice. BALB/c mice were infected with S. mansoni and followed for 15 weeks. The animals were randomized into nine groups receiving high glycemic load (high-sucrose diet - HSD), low caloric load (standard chow alternate-day fasting - ADF), and standard chow ad libitum (AL). Eight weeks after S. mansoni infection, these groups remained untreated or were treated with PZQ (300 mg/kg/day) for 3 days. Our results indicated that parasite load (S. mansoni eggs and parasite DNA levels), granulomatous inflammation (granulomas number and size), and liver microstructural damage (reduction in hepatocytes number, increase in nucleus-cytoplasm ratio, connective stroma expansion and fibrosis) were increased in ADF-treated animals. These animals also showed decreased eggs retention, granulomatous inflammation and collagen accumulation in the small intestine. Conversely, HSD diet and PZQ treatment attenuated all these parameters and stimulated hepatic regenerative response. PZQ also stimulated fibrosis resolution in HSD-treated mice, effect that was limited ADF-exposed mice. Our findings indicate that dietary glycemic and energy load can modulate schistosomiasis progression and the severity of hepatic and intestinal granulomatous inflammation in untreated and PZQ-treated mice. Thus, lower intestinal eggs retention may potentially be linked to worsening liver disease in ADF, while attenuation of hepatic and intestinal granulomatous inflammation is consistent with reduced parasite load in HSD- and PZQ-treated animals.

Transmission-Blocking Vaccines against Schistosomiasis Japonica

Control of schistosomiasis japonica, endemic in Asia, including the Philippines, China, and Indonesia, is extremely challenging. Schistosoma japonicum is a highly pathogenic helminth parasite, with disease arising predominantly from an immune reaction to entrapped parasite eggs in tissues. Females of this species can generate 1000-2200 eggs per day, which is about 3- to 15-fold greater than the egg output of other schistosome species. Bovines (water buffalo and cattle) are the predominant definitive hosts and are estimated to generate up to 90% of parasite eggs released into the environment in rural endemic areas where these hosts and humans are present. Here, we highlight the necessity of developing veterinary transmission-blocking vaccines for bovines to better control the disease and review potential vaccine candidates. We also point out that the approach to producing efficacious transmission-blocking animal-based vaccines before moving on to human vaccines is crucial. This will result in effective and feasible public health outcomes in agreement with the One Health concept to achieve optimum health for people, animals, and the environment. Indeed, incorporating a veterinary-based transmission vaccine, coupled with interventions such as human mass drug administration, improved sanitation and hygiene, health education, and snail control, would be invaluable to eliminating zoonotic schistosomiasis.

Contribution of parasite and host genotype to immunopathology of schistosome infections

Background

The role of pathogen genotype in determining disease severity and immunopathology has been studied intensively in microbial pathogens including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses, but is poorly understood in parasitic helminths. The medically important blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni is an excellent model system to study the impact of helminth genetic variation on immunopathology. Our laboratory has demonstrated that laboratory schistosome populations differ in sporocyst growth and cercarial production in the intermediate snail host and worm establishment and fecundity in the vertebrate host. Here, we (i) investigate the hypothesis that schistosome genotype plays a significant role in immunopathology and related parasite life history traits in the vertebrate mouse host and (ii) quantify the relative impact of parasite and host genetics on infection outcomes.

Methods

We infected BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice with four different laboratory schistosome populations from Africa and the Americas. We quantified disease progression in the vertebrate host by measuring body weight and complete blood count (CBC) with differential over an infection period of 12 weeks. On sacrifice, we assessed parasitological (egg and worm counts, fecundity), immunopathological (organ measurements and histopathology), and immunological (CBC with differential and cytokine profiles) characteristics to determine the impact of parasite and host genetics.

Results

We found significant variation between parasite populations in worm numbers, fecundity, liver and intestine egg counts, liver and spleen weight, and fibrotic area, but not in granuloma size. Variation in organ weight was explained by egg burden and by intrinsic parasite factors independent of egg burden. We found significant variation between infected mouse lines in cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α), eosinophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte counts.

Conclusions

This study showed that both parasite and host genotype impact the outcome of infection. While host genotype explains most of the variation in immunological traits, parasite genotype explains most of the variation in parasitological traits, and both host and parasite genotype impact immunopathology outcomes.

Contribution of parasite and host genotype to immunopathology of schistosome infections

Background

The role of pathogen genotype in determining disease severity and immunopathology has been studied intensively in microbial pathogens including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses, but is poorly understood in parasitic helminths. The medically important blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni is an excellent model system to study the impact of helminth genetic variation on immunopathology. Our laboratory has demonstrated that laboratory schistosome populations differ in sporocyst growth and cercarial production in the intermediate snail host and worm establishment and fecundity in the vertebrate host. Here, we (i) investigate the hypothesis that schistosome genotype plays a significant role in immunopathology and related parasite life history traits in the vertebrate mouse host and (ii) quantify the relative impact of parasite and host genetics on infection outcomes.

Methods

We infected BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice with four different laboratory schistosome populations from Africa and the Americas. We quantified disease progression in the vertebrate host by measuring body weight and complete blood count (CBC) with differential over an infection period of 12 weeks. On sacrifice, we assessed parasitological (egg and worm counts, fecundity), immunopathological (organ measurements and histopathology), and immunological (CBC with differential and cytokine profiles) characteristics to determine the impact of parasite and host genetics.

Results

We found significant variation between parasite populations in worm numbers, fecundity, liver and intestine egg counts, liver and spleen weight, and fibrotic area, but not in granuloma size. Variation in organ weight was explained by egg burden and by intrinsic parasite factors independent of egg burden. We found significant variation between infected mouse lines in cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α), eosinophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte counts.

Conclusions

This study showed that both parasite and host genotype impact the outcome of infection. While host genotype explains most of the variation in immunological traits, parasite genotype explains most of the variation in parasitological traits, and both host and parasite genotype impact immunopathology outcomes.

Evaluation of the antiparasitic and antifibrotic effects of gallic acid on experimental hepatic schistosomiasis mansoni

Schistosomiasis afflicts approximately 120 million individuals globally. The hepatic pathology that occurs due to egg-induced granuloma and fibrosis is commonly attributed to this condition. However, there is currently no efficacious treatment available for either of these conditions.Our study aimed to investigate the potential antifibrotic and antiparasitic properties of different doses of gallic acid (GA) in experimental schistosomiasis mansoni. In addition, we investigated the outcomes of co-administering it with the standard anti-schistosomiasis treatment, praziquantel (PZQ).In experiment I, Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice were administered GA at doses of 10, 20, or 40 mg/kg. Their effectiveness was evaluated through parasitological (worm and egg loads, granuloma number and diameter), pathological (fibrosis percentage and H-score of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs)), and functional (liver enzymes) tests. In experiment II, we investigated the optimal dosage that yielded the best outcomes. This dosage was administered in conjunction with PZQ and was evaluated regarding the parasitological, pathological, functional, and immunological (fibrosis-regulating cytokines) activities.Our findings indicate that the administration of 40 mg/kg GA exhibited the highest level of effectiveness in experiment I. In experiment II, it exhibited lower antiparasitic efficacy in comparison to PZQ. However, it surpassed PZQ in other tests. It showed enhanced outcomes when combined with PZQ.In conclusion, our findings reveal that GA only slightly increased the antischistosomal activity of PZQ. However, it was linked to decreased fibrosis, particularly when administrated with PZQ. Our pilot study identifies GA as a natural antifibrotic agent, which could be administered with PZQ to mitigate the development of fibrosis.

The Roles of Various Immune Cell Populations in Immune Response against Helminths

Helminths are multicellular parasites that are a substantial problem for both human and veterinary medicine. According to estimates, 1.5 billion people suffer from their infection, resulting in decreased life quality and burdens for healthcare systems. On the other hand, these infections may alleviate autoimmune diseases and allergy symptoms. The immune system is programmed to combat infections; nevertheless, its effector mechanisms may result in immunopathologies and exacerbate clinical symptoms. This review summarizes the role of the immune response against worms, with an emphasis on the Th2 response, which is a hallmark of helminth infections. We characterize non-immune cells (enteric tuft cells-ETCs) responsible for detecting parasites, as well as the role of hematopoietic-derived cells (macrophages, basophils, eosinophils, neutrophils, innate lymphoid cells group 2-ILC2s, mast cells, T cells, and B cells) in initiating and sustaining the immune response, as well as the functions they play in granulomas. The aim of this paper is to review the existing knowledge regarding the immune response against helminths, to attempt to decipher the interactions between cells engaged in the response, and to indicate the gaps in the current knowledge.

Effects of the probiotic Bacillus cereus GM on experimental schistosomiasis mansoni

Probiotics contribute to the integrity of the intestinal mucosa and preventing dysbiosis caused by opportunistic pathogens, such as intestinal helminths. Bacillus cereus GM obtained from Biovicerin® was cultured to obtain spores for in vivo evaluation on experimental schistosomiasis. The assay was performed for 90 days, where all animals were infected with 50 cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni on the 15th day. Three experimental groups were formed, as follows: G1-saline solution from the 1st until the 90th day; G2-B. cereus GM (105 spores in 300 μL of sterile saline) from the 1st until the 90th day; and G3-B. cereus GM 35th day (onset of oviposition) until the 90th day. G2 showed a significant reduction of 43.4% of total worms, 48.8% of female worms and 42.5% of eggs in the liver tissue. In G3, the reduction was 25.2%, 29.1%, and 44% of the total number of worms, female worms, and eggs in the liver tissue, respectively. G2 and G3 showed a 25% (p < 0.001) and 22% (p < 0.001) reduction in AST levels, respectively, but ALT levels did not change. ALP levels were reduced by 23% (p < 0.001) in the G2 group, but not in the G3. The average volume of granulomas reduced (p < 0.0001) 65.2% and 46.3% in the liver tissue and 83.0% and 53.2% in the intestine, respectively, in groups G2 and G3. Th1 profile cytokine (IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-6) and IL-17 were significantly increased (p < 0.001) stimulated with B. cereus GM in groups G2 and G3. IL-4 showed significant values when the stimulus was mediated by ConA. By modulating the immune response, B. cereus GM reduced the burden of worms, improved some markers of liver function, and reduced the granulomatous inflammatory reaction in mice infected with S. mansoni, especially when administered before infection.

One-health approach on the future application of snails: a focus on snail-transmitted parasitic diseases

Snails are fascinating molluscs with unique morphological and physiological adaptive features to cope with various environments. They have traditionally been utilized as food and feed sources in many regions of the world. The future exploitation of alternative nutrient sources, like snails, is likely to increase further. Snails, however, also serve as an intermediate host for several zoonotic parasites. A category of parasitic infections, known as snail-transmitted parasitic diseases (STPDs), is harmful to humans and animals and is mainly driven by various trematodes, cestodes, and nematodes. The environment plays a crucial role in transmitting these parasites, as suitable habitats and conditions can facilitate their growth and proliferation in snails. In light of diverse environmental settings and biologically categorized snail species, this review evaluates the dynamics of significant STPDs of zoological importance. Additionally, possible diagnostic approaches for the prevention of STPDs are highlighted. One-health measures must be considered when employing snails as an alternative food or feed source to ensure the safety of snail-based products and prevent any adverse effects on humans, animals, and the environment.

Cloning, characterization, and inhibition of the novel β-carbonic anhydrase from parasitic blood fluke, Schistosoma mansoni

Schistosoma mansoni is an intestinal parasite with one β-class carbonic anhydrase, SmaBCA. We report the sequence enhancing, production, catalytic activity, and inhibition results of the recombinant SmaBCA. It showed significant catalytic activity on CO₂ hydration in vitro with k_cat 1.38 × 10⁵ s^-1 and k_cat/K_m 2.33 × 10⁷ M^-1 s^-1. Several sulphonamide inhibitors, from which many are clinically used, showed submicromolar or nanomolar inhibitory effects on SmaBCA. The most efficient inhibitor with a K_I of 43.8 nM was 4-(2-amino-pyrimidine-4-yl)-benzenesulfonamide. Other effective inhibitors with K_Is in the range of 79.4-95.9 nM were benzolamide, brinzolamide, topiramate, dorzolamide, saccharin, epacadostat, celecoxib, and famotidine. The other tested compounds showed at least micromolar range inhibition against SmaBCA. Our results introduce SmaBCA as a novel target for drug development against schistosomiasis, a highly prevalent parasitic disease.

The characteristics of intestinal microbiota in patients with chronic schistosomiasis japonica-induced liver fibrosis by 16S rRNA gene sequence

Background

The intestinal microbiota is known to play a role in the development of liver disease, there is a limited understanding of the intestinal microbiota associated with chronic schistosomiasis japonica. This study sought to explore the characteristics of the intestinal microbiota in patients with chronic schistosomiasis japonica and identify potential biomarkers that could aid diagnosis.

Methods

A total of 40 residents of Qingshan Island in Yueyang (Hunan, China) were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. These individuals were divided into two groups for analysis of the intestinal microbiota: patients with chronic schistosomiasis japonica-induced liver fibrosis group (CSJ group, n = 10) and a healthy control group (HC group, n = 30). Feces were collected from each participant and analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing, which included species composition analysis at the phylum and family levels, α and β diversity analysis, LEfSe, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome (KEGG) and Clusters of Orthologous Groups of proteins (COG) analysis.

Results

Our results indicated that Schistosoma japonicum infection changed the composition and abundance of intestinal microbiota at the phylum and family levels. Compared with the HC group, the α and β diversity results showed that CSJ group had low diversity of species of the intestinal microbiome. LEfSe and relative abundance analysis found that the Prevotella 7, Alloprevotella, and Holdemanella genera were significantly higher in the CSJ group than in the HC group. Meanwhile, the ROC analysis showed that the area under the curve (AUC) of Prevotella 7, Alloprevotella, and Holdemanella genera was 0.779, 0.769, and 0.840, respectively. KEGG and COG analysis showed that the Replication and Repair, and Defense Mechanism pathways correlated strongly with chronic schistosomiasis japonica infection.

Conclusion

The current study was the first to explore differences in the intestinal microbiota of patients with chronic schistosomiasis japonica-induced liver fibrosis and healthy people from Qingshan Island, which indicated that Prevotella 7, Alloprevotella, and Holdemanella genera could have a potential value in non-invasive diagnosis of chronic schistosomiasis japonica-induced fibrosis.

Clinicopathological characteristics and its association with digestive system tumors of 1111 patients with Schistosomiasis japonica

Schistosomiasis japonicum can cause different degrees of organ damage and complex human immune pathological reactions, which often invade the intestine and liver. The purpose of this study was to explore the pathological types and pathological changes of Schistosomiasis and their correlation with some digestive system tumors. Hematoxylin eosin staining was performed on the diseased tissues of 1111 Schistosomiasis cases. We counted the deposition sites of Schistosoma eggs, analyzed the pathological characteristics, and compared the clinicopathological characteristics of Schistosomiasis associated digestive system tumors and non-Schistosomiasis digestive system tumors. We found that Schistosoma japonicum can cause multi organ and multi system damage, with 469 cases of inflammation, 47 cases of adenoma, and 519 cases of adenocarcinoma. Other types include cysts, stromal tumors, malignant lymphomas, and neuroendocrine tumors. Schistosomiasis associated tumors, including gastric cancer, liver cancer, colon cancer and rectal cancer, were compared with non-Schistosomiasis tumors. There were significant differences in age, gender and tumor differentiation between the two groups. Our study shows Schistosomiasis is a systemic disease, causing multiple organ and system damage in the human body. Its clinicopathological types are diverse, and there may be a pathological change process of "Inflammation-adenoma-carcinoma". Schistosomiasis associated digestive system tumors differ from non-Schistosomiasis tumors in some clinicopathological features.

Bioactivity of substances isolated from natural products on mollusks Biomphalaria glabrata (Say, 1818) (Planorbidae): a review

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic worms of several species of the genus Schistosoma. Transmission occurs by parasitic larvae that stay in freshwater snails of the genus Biomphalaria. Thus, the search for new products that are biodegradable has increased the interest in products of plant origin. The aim of this article is to review the isolated substances from natural products that showed molluscicidal activity against the species Biomphalaria glabrata in order to reevaluate the most promising prototypes and update the progress of research to obtain a new molluscicide. We perform searches using scientific databases, such as Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), Google schoolar, PUBMED, Web of Science and Latin American and Caribbean Literature on Health Sciences (LILACS). From 2000 to 2022, using the keywords "isolated substances", "molluscicidal activity" and "Biomphalaria glabrata". In the present study, it was possible to observe 19 promising molluscicidal molecules with a lethal concentration below 20 µg/mL. Of these promising isolates, only 5 isolates had the CL90 calculated and within the value recommended by WHO: Benzoic acid, 2',4',6'-Trihydroxydihydrochalcone, Divaricatic acid, Piplartine and 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (Lapachol). We conclude that beyond a few results in the area, the researches don't follow the methodological pattern (exposure time and measure units, toxicity test), in this way, as they don't follow a pattern on the result's exposure (LC), not following, in sum, the recommended by WHO.

Longitudinal Immune Profiling Highlights CD4+ T Cell Exhaustion Correlated with Liver Fibrosis in Schistosoma japonicum Infection

Schistosomiasis remains an important public health concern. The eggs deposited in livers invoke a Th2-dominant response, which mediates the fibrotic granulomatous response. However, the mechanisms involved in this immunopathological process are still not perfectly clear. Here, we report a single-cell transcriptional landscape of longitudinally collected BALB/c mouse splenocytes at different time points after Schistosoma japonicum infection. We found that exhausted CD4+ T cells were enriched after infection, changing from coproducing multiple cytokines to predominantly producing the Th2 cytokine IL-4. Regulatory B cells had high expression of Fcrl5, Ptpn22, and Lgals1, potentially regulating exhausted CD4+ T cells via direct PD-1-PD-L2 and PD-1-PD-L1 interactions. Within the myeloid compartment, the number of precursor and immature neutrophils sharply increased after infection. Moreover, dendritic cells, macrophages, and basophils showed inhibitory interactions with exhausted CD4+ T cells. Besides, in mouse livers, we found that exhausted CD4+ T cells were distributed around egg granuloma, promoting collagen expression in primary mouse hepatic stellate cells via IL-4 secretion, resulting in liver fibrosis. Our study provides comprehensive characterization of the composition and cellular states of immune cells with disease progression, which will facilitate better understanding of the mechanism underlying liver fibrotic granulomatous response in schistosomiasis.

Schiff bases complexed with iron and their relation with the life cycle and infection by Schistosoma mansoni

Introduction

The trematode Schistosoma mansoni causes schistosomiasis, and this parasite's life cycle depends on the mollusk Biomphalaria glabrata. The most effective treatment for infected people is administering a single dose of Praziquantel. However, there are naturally resistant to treatment. This work has developed, considering this parasite's complex life cycle.

Methods

The synthetics compound were evaluated: i) during the infection of B. glabrata, ii) during the infection of BALB/c mice, and iii) during the treatment of mice infected with S. mansoni.

Results and Discussion

For the first objective, snails infected with miracidia treated with compounds C1 and C3 at concentrations of 25% IC50 and 50% IC50, after 80 days of infection, released fewer cercariae than the infected group without treatment. For the second objective, compounds C1 and C3 did not show significant results in the infected group without treatment. For the third objective, the mice treated with C3 and C1 reduced the global and differential cell count. The results suggest that although the evaluated compounds do not present schistosomicidal properties when placed in cercariae suspension, they can stimulate an immune reaction in snails and decrease mice's inflammatory response. In general, we can conclude that compound C1 and C3 has an anti-schistosomicidal effect both in the larval phase (miracidia) and in the adult form of the parasite.

Doxycycline hyclate stimulates inducible nitric oxide synthase and arginase imbalance, potentiating inflammatory and oxidative lung damage in schistosomiasis

BACKGROUND

We investigated the relationship between inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and arginase pathways, cytokines, macrophages, oxidative damage and lung granulomatous inflammation in S. mansoni-infected and doxycycline-treated mice.

METHODS

Swiss mice were randomized in four groups: (i) uninfected, (ii) infected with S. mansoni, (iii) infected + 200 mg/kg praziquantel (Pzt), (iv) and (v) infected + 5 and 50 mg/kg doxycycline. Pzt (reference drug) was administered in a single dose and doxycycline for 60 days.

RESULTS

S. mansoni-infection determined extensive lung inflammation, marked recruitment of M2 macrophages, cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IFN-γ, TNF-α) upregulation, intense eosinophil peroxidase (EPO) levels, arginase expression and activity, reduced iNOS expression and nitric oxide (NO) production. The higher dose of doxycycline aggravated lung granulomatous inflammation, downregulating IL-4 levels and M2 macrophages recruitment, and upregulating iNOS expression, EPO, NO, IFN-γ, TNF-α, M1 macrophages, protein carbonyl and malondialdehyde tissue levels. The number and size of granulomas in doxycycline-treated animals was higher than untreated and Pzt-treated mice. Exudative/productive granulomas were predominant in untreated and doxycycline-treated animals, while fibrotic/involutive granulomas were more frequent in Pzt-treated mice. The reference treatment with Pzt attenuated all these parameters.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicated that doxycycline aggravated lung granulomatous inflammation in a dose-dependent way. Although Th1 effectors are protective against several intracellular pathogens, effective schistosomicidal responses are dependent of the Th2 phenotype. Thus, doxycycline contributes to the worsening of lung granulomatous inflammation by potentiating eosinophils influx and downregulating Th2 effectors, reinforcing lipid and protein oxidative damage in chronic S. mansoni infection.

Schistosomiasis Mansoni-Recruited Eosinophils: An Overview in the Granuloma Context

Eosinophils are remarkably recruited during schistosomiasis mansoni, one of the most common parasitic diseases worldwide. These cells actively migrate and accumulate at sites of granulomatous inflammation termed granulomas, the main pathological feature of this disease. Eosinophils colonize granulomas as a robust cell population and establish complex interactions with other immune cells and with the granuloma microenvironment. Eosinophils are the most abundant cells in granulomas induced by Schistosoma mansoni infection, but their functions during this disease remain unclear and even controversial. Here, we explore the current information on eosinophils as components of Schistosoma mansoni granulomas in both humans and natural and experimental models and their potential significance as central cells triggered by this infection.

Multifunctional Roles of MicroRNAs in Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease that is caused by helminths of the genus Schistosoma. The dioecious schistosomes mate and lay eggs after undergoing a complex life cycle. Schistosome eggs are mostly responsible for the transmission of schistosomiasis and chronic fibrotic disease induced by egg antigens is the main cause of the high mortality rate. Currently, chemotherapy with praziquantel (PZQ) is the only effective treatment against schistosomiasis, although the potential of drug resistance remains a concern. Hence, there is an urgent demand for new and effective strategies to combat schistosomiasis, which is the second most prevalent parasitic disease after malaria. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that play pivotal regulatory roles in many organisms, including the development and sexual maturation of schistosomes. Thus, miRNAs are potential targets for treatment of schistosomiasis. Moreover, miRNAs can serve as multifunctional “nano-tools” for cross-species delivery in order to regulate host-parasite interactions. In this review, the multifunctional roles of miRNAs in the growth and development of schistosomes are discussed. The various regulatory functions of host-derived and worm-derived miRNAs on the progression of schistosomiasis are also thoroughly addressed, especially the promotional and inhibitory effects on schistosome-induced liver fibrosis. Additionally, the potential of miRNAs as biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of schistosomiasis is considered.

Neutrophils and schistosomiasis: a missing piece in pathology

Schistosomiasis is a chronic human parasitic disease that causes serious health problems worldwide. The disease-associated liver pathology is one of the hallmarks of infections by S. mansoni and S. japonicum, and is accountable for the debilitating condition found in infected patients. In the past few years, investigative studies have highlighted the key role played by neutrophils and the influence of inflammasome signaling pathway in different pathological conditions. However, it is noteworthy that the study of inflammasome activation in neutrophils has been overlooked by reports concerning macrophages and monocytes. This interplay between neutrophils and inflammasomes is much more poorly investigated during schistosomiasis. Herein we reviewed the role of neutrophils during schistosomiasis and addressed the potential connection between these cells and inflammasome activation in this context.

Protective immune potential of multiple antigenic peptide (MAP) constructs comprising peptides that are shared by several cysteine peptidases against Schistosoma mansoni infection in mice

In vaccine trials, Schistosoma mansoni cathepsin B1 (SmCB1), helminth cathepsins of the L family (e.g., SmCL3), and papain consistently induce highly significant reductions in challenge worm burden and egg viability, but generated no additive protective effects when used in combination. The protective capacity of the cysteine peptidases is associated with modest (SmCB1) and poor (cathepsins L) production of cytokines and antibodies, essentially of the type 2 axis, and is only marginally reduced upon use of proteolytically inactive enzymes. In this work, peptides shared by SmCB1, cathepsins of the L family, papain and other allergens were selected, synthesized as tetrabranched multiple antigen peptide constructs (MAP-1 and MAP-2), and used in two independent experiments to immunize outbred mice, in parallel with papain. The two peptides elicited significant (P <  0.05) reduction in challenge worm burden when compared to unimmunized mice, albeit lower than that achieved by papain. Protection was associated with modest serum type 2 cytokines and antibody levels in MAP-, and papain-immunized mice. Immunization with papain also elicited a reduction in parasite egg load, viability, and granuloma numbers in liver and intestine. MAP-1 and MAP-2 immunogens displayed some opposite effects- MAP-1 leading to higher egg numbers with poor vitality, whereas MAP-2 immunization yielded fewer eggs. Cysteine peptidase thus appear to carry peptides that elicit opposing outcomes, highlighting the difficulty of reaching fully fledged protection, unless a vaccine is based on carefully selected peptides and combined with an effective adjuvant.

Roles of TLR7 in Schistosoma japonicum Infection-Induced Hepatic Pathological Changes in C57BL/6 Mice

S. japonicum infection can induce granulomatous inflammation in the liver of the host. Granulomatous inflammation limits the spread of infection and plays a role in host protection. Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) is an endosomal TLR that recognizes single-stranded RNA (ssRNA). In this study, the role of TLR7 in S. japonicum infection-induced hepatitis was investigated in both normal and TLR7 knockout (KO) C57BL/6 mice. The results indicated that TLR7 KO could aggravate S. japonicum infection-induced damage in the body, with less granuloma formation in the tissue, lower WBCs in blood, and decreased ALT and AST in the serum. Then, the expression of TLR7 was detected in isolated hepatic lymphocytes. The results indicated that the percentage of TLR7⁺ cells was increased in the infected mice. Hepatic macrophages, DCs, and B cells could express TLR7, and most of the TLR7-expressing cells in the liver of infected mice were macrophages. The percentage of TLR7-expressing macrophages was also increased after infection. Moreover, macrophages, T cells, and B cells showed significant changes in the counts, activation-associated molecule expression, and cytokine secretion between S. japonicum-infected WT and TLR7 KO mice. Altogether, this study indicated that TLR7 could delay the progression of S. japonicum infection-induced hepatitis mainly through macrophages. DCs, B cells, and T cells were involved in the TLR7-mediated immune response.

Schistosomiasis Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a disease of the lung blood vessels that results in right heart failure. PAH is thought to occur in about 5% to 10% of patients with hepatosplenic schistosomiasis, particularly due to S. mansoni. The lung blood vessel injury may result from a combination of embolization of eggs through portocaval shunts into the lungs causing localized Type 2 inflammatory response and vessel remodeling, triggering of autonomous pathology that becomes independent of the antigen, and high cardiac output as seen in portopulmonary hypertension. The condition is likely underdiagnosed as there is little systematic screening, and risk factors for developing PAH are not known. Screening is done by echocardiography, and formal diagnosis requires invasive right heart catheterization. Patients with Schistosoma-associated PAH show reduced functional capacity and can be treated with pulmonary vasodilators, which improves symptoms and may improve survival. There are animal models of this disease that might help in understanding disease pathogenesis and identify novel targets to screen and treatment. Pathogenic mechanisms include Type 2 immunity and activation and signaling in the TGF-β pathway. There are still major uncertainties regarding Schistosoma-associated PAH development, course and treatment.