1
|
Huo L, Wei Y, Xue J, Jiang B, Yin M, Tao Y, Zhang H, Shen Y. The effect of novel aromatic heterocycle substituted aminamidine derivatives on Necator americanus. J Antimicrob Chemother 2024; 79:1606-1613. [PMID: 38804142 PMCID: PMC11342082 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkae149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The efficacy of current drugs against hookworms at a single dose is highly variable across regions, age groups and infection intensity. Extensive and repeated use of these drugs also leads to potential drug resistance. Therefore, novel drugs are required for sustained disease control. OBJECTIVES Novel aromatic heterocycle substituted aminamidine derivatives (AADs) were synthesized based on tribendimine (TBD), and their in vivo potency against Necator americanus was tested. METHODS The efficacy of the AADs was tested in male hamsters. Oral and IV pharmacokinetic parameters were determined in male Sprague-Dawley rats. The proteomic profiles of N. americanus samples treated with AADs were compared using tandem mass tag-based quantitative proteomic analyses. RESULTS Most AADs exhibited better anthelmintic activity than TBD at a single oral dose. Compound 3c exhibited improved solubility (>50×), and the curative dose was as low as 25 mg/kg. Similar to TBD, 3c was rapidly metabolized after oral administration and transformed into p-(1-dimethylamino ethylimino)aniline (dADT), an active metabolite against intestinal nematodes. dADT from 3c had better pharmacokinetic profiles than that from TBD and achieved an oral bioavailability of 99.5%. Compound 3c possessed rapid anthelmintic activity, clearing all worms within 24 h after an oral dose of 50 mg/kg. Quantitative proteomic analysis indicated that it might be related to ATP metabolism and cuticle protein synthesis. CONCLUSIONS Compound 3c is a novel and promising compound against N. americanus in vivo.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lele Huo
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yufen Wei
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jian Xue
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Bin Jiang
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Meng Yin
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yi Tao
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Haobing Zhang
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yujuan Shen
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, NHC Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zinsou JF, Diemert DJ, Dejon-Agobé JC, Adégbité BR, Honkpehedji YJ, Vodonou KG, Bikangui R, Edoa JR, Massinga Loembe M, Li G, Yazdanbakhsh M, Bottazzi ME, van Leeuwen R, Kremsner PG, Hotez PJ, Bethony JM, Grobusch MP, Adegnika AA. Safety and immunogenicity of the co-administered Na-APR-1 and Na-GST-1 hookworm vaccines in school-aged children in Gabon: a randomised, controlled, observer-blind, phase 1, dose-escalation trial. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 24:760-774. [PMID: 38513684 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(24)00104-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A human hookworm vaccine is being developed to protect children against iron deficiency and anaemia associated with chronic infection with hookworms. Necator americanus aspartic protease-1 (Na-APR-1) and N americanus glutathione S-transferase-1 (Na-GST-1) are components of the blood digestion pathway critical to hookworm survival in the host. Recombinant Na-GST-1 and catalytically inactive Na-APR-1 (Na-APR-1[M74]) adsorbed to Alhydrogel were safe and immunogenic when delivered separately or co-administered to adults in phase 1 trials in non-endemic and endemic areas. We aimed to investigate the safety and immunogenicity of these antigens in healthy children in a hookworm-endemic area. METHODS This was a randomised, controlled, observer-blind, phase 1, dose-escalation trial, conducted in a clinical research centre, in 60 children aged six to ten years in Lambaréné, a hookworm-endemic region of Gabon. Healthy children (determined by clinical examination and safety laboratory testing) were randomised 4:1 to receive co-administered Na-GST-1 on Alhydrogel plus Na-APR-1(M74) on Alhydrogel and glucopyranosyl lipid A in aqueous formulation (GLA-AF), or co-administered ENGERIX-B hepatitis B vaccine (HBV) and saline placebo, injected into the deltoid of each arm. Allocation to vaccine groups was observer-masked. In each vaccine group, children were randomised 1:1 to receive intramuscular injections into each deltoid on two vaccine schedules, one at months 0, 2, and 4 or at months 0, 2, and 6. 10 μg, 30 μg, and 100 μg of each antigen were administered in the first, second, and third cohorts, respectively. The intention-to-treat population was used for safety analyses; while for immunogenicity analyses, the per-protocol population was used (children who received all scheduled vaccinations). The primary outcome was to evaluate the vaccines' safety and reactogenicity in healthy children aged between six and ten years. The secondary outcome was to measure antigen-specific serum IgG antibody levels at pre-vaccination and post-vaccination timepoints by qualified ELISAs. The trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02839161, and is completed. FINDINGS Between Jan 23 and Oct 3, 2017, 137 children were screened, of whom 76 were eligible for this trial. 60 children were recruited, and allocated to either 10 μg of the co-administered antigens (n=8 for each injection schedule), 30 μg (n=8 for each schedule), 100 μg (n=8 for each schedule), or HBV and placebo (n=6 for each schedule) in three sequential cohorts. Co-administration of the vaccines was well tolerated; the most frequent solicited adverse events were mild-to-moderate injection-site pain, observed in up to 12 (75%) of 16 participants per vaccine group, and mild headache (12 [25%] of 48) and fever (11 [23%] of 48). No vaccine-related serious adverse events were observed. Significant anti-Na-APR-1(M74) and anti-Na-GST-1 IgG levels were induced in a dose-dependent manner, with peaks seen 14 days after the third vaccinations, regardless of dose (for Na-APR-1[M74], geometric mean levels [GML]=2295·97 arbitrary units [AU] and 726·89 AU, while for Na-GST-1, GMLs=331·2 AU and 21·4 AU for the month 0, 2, and 6 and month 0, 2, and 4 schedules, respectively). The month 0, 2, and 6 schedule induced significantly higher IgG responses to both antigens (p=0·01 and p=0·04 for Na-APR-1[M74] and Na-GST-1, respectively). INTERPRETATION Co-administration of recombinant Na-APR-1(M74) and Na-GST-1 to school-aged Gabonese children was well tolerated and induced significant IgG responses. These results justify further evaluation of this antigen combination in proof-of-concept controlled-infection and efficacy studies in hookworm-endemic areas. FUNDING European Union Seventh Framework Programme.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeannot F Zinsou
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon; Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen and German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany; Fondation pour la Recherche Scientifique (FORS), Cotonou, Benin
| | - David J Diemert
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington DC, USA; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington DC, USA.
| | | | - Bayodé R Adégbité
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon; Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen and German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany; Center of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Yabo Josiane Honkpehedji
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon; Fondation pour la Recherche Scientifique (FORS), Cotonou, Benin; Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Kafui G Vodonou
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Rodrigue Bikangui
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Jean Ronald Edoa
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon
| | | | - Guangzhao Li
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington DC, USA
| | - Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Maria Elena Bottazzi
- Departments of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, and Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Remko van Leeuwen
- Amsterdam Institute for Global Development (AIGHD), Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Peter G Kremsner
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon; Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen and German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peter J Hotez
- Departments of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Tropical Medicine, and Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Bethony
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington DC, USA
| | - Martin P Grobusch
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon; Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen and German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany; Center of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Ayola A Adegnika
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon; Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen and German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany; Fondation pour la Recherche Scientifique (FORS), Cotonou, Benin; Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Eisen S, Nabarro L, Godbole G, Ciang-Sang T, Chappell F, Cohen J. Parasitic infections: what do paediatricians need to know? Arch Dis Child 2024:archdischild-2024-326876. [PMID: 38627030 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2024-326876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Parasitic infections and the medications used to treat them may be unfamiliar to many paediatricians. Parasitic infections, however, are not uncommonly seen in children in the UK. We summarise infections which are commonly seen, currently recommended treatment and practical guidance on formulations, adverse effects and treatment choice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Eisen
- Paediatric & Adolescent Division, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- London School of Hygeine and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Laura Nabarro
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
- London School of Hygeine and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Gauri Godbole
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Tan Ciang-Sang
- Paediatric Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Faye Chappell
- Paediatric Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Jonathan Cohen
- Paediatric Infectious Diseases & Immunology, Evelina London Children's Hospital, London, UK
- School of Life Course and Population Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Nguema Moure PA, Nzamba Maloum M, Manouana GP, Laclong Lontchi RA, Mbong Ngwese M, Edoa JR, Fréjus Zinsou J, Meulah B, Mahmoudou S, N'noh Dansou EM, Josiane Honkpehedji Y, Romeo Adegbite B, Agnandji ST, Ramharter M, Lell B, Borrmann S, Kremsner PG, Dejon-Agobé JC, Adegnika AA. A randomized assessors-blind clinical trial to evaluate the safety and the efficacy of albendazole alone and in combination with mebendazole or pyrantel for the treatment of Trichuris trichiura infection in school-aged children in Lambaréné and surroundings. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2024; 68:e0121123. [PMID: 38563751 PMCID: PMC11064543 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01211-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Helminthiasis remains a public health issue in endemic areas. Various drugs have been proposed to improve efficacy against helminths. The study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of three different anthelmintic combinations to treat Trichuris trichiura infections. We conducted a randomized assessors-blind clinical trial involving children aged 2-17 years with T. trichiura. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three treatment arms. On the first and third days, all participants got albendazole 400 mg, and on the second day, albendazole (arm A), mebendazole 500 mg (arm B), or pyrantel 125 mg/kg (arm C). We assessed treatment efficacy using the cure rate (CR) and egg reduction rate (ERR) at 3 and 6 weeks post-treatment. At 3 weeks post-treatment, ERR and CR were highest in study arm A [ERR = 94%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 92-95; CR = 71%; 95% CI: 58-81] compared to the B and C arms. Decrease in ERR was significant only for arm B versus arm A (P-value <0.001); decrease in ERR was significant for arms B and C (P-value <0.001). No statistical difference was observed in CR when comparing arms A and B (P-value =1.00) and C (P-value =0.27). At 6 weeks, a decrease in ERR was observed in three arms, significant only for arm C, 81% (95% CI: 78-83). A significant increase in egg counts was observed between 3 and 6 weeks post-treatment. All treatments were safe with mild adverse events. Albendazole 400 mg/day (arm A) showed the highest efficacy against trichuriasis. Nonetheless, this treatment regimen was able to cure half of the treated individuals highlighting concerns about controlling the transmission of T. trichiura.CLINICAL TRIALRegistered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04326868).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Alvyn Nguema Moure
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Ecole Doctorale Régionale d’Afrique Centrale en Infectiologie Tropicale de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
| | | | - Gédéon Prince Manouana
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Jeannot Fréjus Zinsou
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Brice Meulah
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Yabo Josiane Honkpehedji
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Bayode Romeo Adegbite
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Selidji Todagbe Agnandji
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michael Ramharter
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine & I. Dep. of Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Bertrand Lell
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine 1, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Steffen Borrmann
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peter G. Kremsner
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Ayôla Akim Adegnika
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Ecole Doctorale Régionale d’Afrique Centrale en Infectiologie Tropicale de Franceville, Franceville, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Universität Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Edoa JR, Adégbitè BR, Honkpéhèdji YJ, Zinsou JF, Boussougou-Sambe ST, Woldearegai TG, Mordmüller B, Adegnika AA, Dejon-Agobé JC. Epidemiology of soil-transmitted helminth infections and the differential effect of treatment on the distribution of helminth species in rural areas of Gabon. Trop Med Health 2024; 52:3. [PMID: 38163912 PMCID: PMC10759385 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-023-00567-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections are a public health concern in endemic areas. For efficient control, the epidemiology of the disease needs to be monitored. This report assesses the prevalence, incidence, post-treatment infection (PTI) rate, and risk factors for STH infections in two rural areas of Gabon. METHOD In this longitudinal and prospective study, participants aged six to 30 years from the vicinity of Lambaréné and selected households using a simple randomization process were included and followed in two consecutive periods of six and nine months. Stool samples were obtained at the beginning and the end of each follow-up phase (FUP). The Kato-Katz technique was used for the detection of STH eggs, while the Harada-Mori technique and coproculture were used for the detection of larvae in stool processed within a maximum of four hours of collection. Prevalence was determined at the three main time points of the study, incidence was assessed during the two study phases, and PTI was defined as an infection detected nine months post-treatment. RESULTS A total of 262 participants were included. The overall prevalence of STH infections was 42% (95%CI: 34-50) and 44% (95%CI: 37-51) at baseline for the six and nine month FUPs, respectively. Trichuris trichiura was the most prevalent species at each time point of assessment. The cumulative incidence of STH at the 6- and 9-month follow-ups was 18% (95%CI: 12-27) and 35% (95%CI: 27-43), respectively, while the incidence rates were 41 (95%CI: 28-55) and 56 (95%CI: 46-67) per 100 person-years, respectively. The PTI rates at the 9-month follow-up for T. trichiura, hookworm, and Ascaris lumbricoides were 58% (95%CI: 41-74), 31% (95%CI: 11-59) and 18% (95%CI: 5-40), respectively. The STH infection intensity was generally light. CONCLUSION The prevalence level of STH infection is moderate in the vicinity of Lambaréné, with T. trichiura being the most prevalent species. Our results reveal a rapid spread of the disease in the population mainly following intervention, particularly for trichuriasis, and therefore call for the full implementation of the World Health Organization's recommendations in the area. Trial registration clinicaltrials.gov Identifier NCT02769013. Registered 21 April 2016, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02769013.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean Ronald Edoa
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Bayodé Roméo Adégbitè
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Center of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location AMC, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam Infection and Immunity, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Fondation Pour la Recherche Scientifique, ISBA, P.O. Box 88, Cotonou, Bénin
| | - Yabo Josiane Honkpéhèdji
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Fondation Pour la Recherche Scientifique, ISBA, P.O. Box 88, Cotonou, Bénin
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Jeannot Fréjus Zinsou
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Fondation Pour la Recherche Scientifique, ISBA, P.O. Box 88, Cotonou, Bénin
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Stravensky Térence Boussougou-Sambe
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tamirat Gebru Woldearegai
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Benjamin Mordmüller
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Ayola Akim Adegnika
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, P.O. Box 242, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Fondation Pour la Recherche Scientifique, ISBA, P.O. Box 88, Cotonou, Bénin
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA, Leiden, The Netherlands
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 27, 72074, Tübingen, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kim ES, Adriko M, Aidah W, Oseku KC, Lokure D, Sabapathy K, Webb EL. The impact of dual- versus single-dosing and fatty food co-administration on albendazole efficacy against hookworm among children in Mayuge district, Uganda: Results from a 2x2 factorial randomised controlled trial. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011439. [PMID: 37399169 PMCID: PMC10317238 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mass Drug Administration (MDA) is the main strategy for control of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections, with single-dose benzimidazole (albendazole or mebendazole) the principal MDA option. In Mayuge district, Uganda, an MDA programme has been in place for over fifteen years but hookworm infection remains common and there is concern that the effectiveness of single-dose albendazole as currently used for MDA may be sub-optimal. This study aims to assess the efficacy of dual- versus single-dose albendazole, with and without fatty food co-administration against hookworm, the dominant form of STHs in Mayuge district, Uganda. METHODOLOGY This was a 2x2 factorial randomised controlled trial to investigate two interventions simultaneously; 1) dual-dose versus single-dose albendazole, 2) taking albendazole with or without fatty food (200 grams of avocado eaten directly after medication). School children with hookworm infection were randomised in a 1:1:1:1 ratio to the four possible treatment groups. Three weeks after the treatment, stool samples were collected from trial participants to evaluate trial outcomes: cure rate and egg reduction rate (ERR). PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A total of 225 participants were enrolled, and 222 (98.7%) seen at 3 weeks. The cure rate in the dual-dose group was 96.4% (95% CI: 90.9-99%), higher than 83.9% (95% CI: 75.7-90.2%) in the single-dose group (OR: 5.07, 95% CI:1.61-15.96, p = 0.002). The ERR was 97.6% and 94.5% in the dual-dose group and single-dose drug group, respectively (ERR difference 3.1%, 95% CI: -3.89-16.39%, p = 0.553). The cure rates among participants taking albendazole with and without avocado were 90.1% and 89.1%, respectively, with no statistical difference between the two groups (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 0.51-3.03, p = 0.622). The ERR was 97.0% and 94.2% in the group receiving albendazole with and without avocado, respectively, and the difference in ERR between the two groups was 2.8% (95% CI -8.63-14.3%, p = 0.629). CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE In Ugandan school children, dual-dose albendazole improves the cure rate of hookworm compared to single-dose albendazole. However, there was no significant improvement in cure rate or egg reduction rate of hookworm with fatty-food co-administration. Dual-dose albendazole is a feasible alternative for improving drug effectiveness against hookworm infection and minimising drug resistance. TRIAL REGISTRATION PACTR202202738940158.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eun Seok Kim
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- World Vision Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Moses Adriko
- Vector-borne and NTDs Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Wamboko Aidah
- Vector-borne and NTDs Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - David Lokure
- Information and technology sector, Kotido district local government, Kotido, Uganda
| | - Kalpana Sabapathy
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Emily L. Webb
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wong MTJ, Anuar NS, Noordin R, Tye GJ. Soil-transmitted helminthic vaccines: Where are we now? Acta Trop 2023; 239:106796. [PMID: 36586174 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
It has been tested and proven that vaccination is still the best strategy to combat infectious diseases. However, to date, there are still no vaccines against human soil-transmitted helminthic diseases, despite their high prevalence globally, particularly in developing countries and rural areas with tropical climates and poor sanitation. The development of vaccines against helminths is riddled with obstacles. Helminths have a complex life cycle, multiple stages within the same host with stage-specific antigen expression, and the ability to regulate host immune reactions to evade the immune response. These elements contribute to the main challenge of helminthic vaccines: the identification of effective vaccine candidates. Therefore, this article reviews the current progress and potential future direction of soil-transmitted helminthic vaccines, particularly against Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides, Strongyloides stercoralis, Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale. The study design employed was a systematic review, using qualitative meta-summary synthesis. Preclinical studies and clinical trials on the development of protein subunit vaccines against the five soil-transmitted helminths were searched on PubMed and Scopus. Effectiveness was indicated by a reduction in worm burden or larval output, an increase in specific IgG levels, or an increase in cytokine production. Our findings show that only the hookworm vaccine against N. americanus is in the clinical trial phase, while the rest is still in exploratory research and pre-clinical development phase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Tze Jian Wong
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Nor Suhada Anuar
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Rahmah Noordin
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM Pulau Pinang, Malaysia
| | - Gee Jun Tye
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM Pulau Pinang, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tee MZ, Lee SC, Er YX, Yap NJ, Ngui R, Easton AV, Siow VWY, Ng KS, Boey CCM, Chua KH, Cadwell K, Loke P, Lim YAL. Efficacy of triple dose albendazole treatment for soil-transmitted helminth infections. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0272821. [PMID: 35960935 PMCID: PMC9374461 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0272821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In Malaysia, soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections still persist among indigenous communities. In the past, local studies have focused mostly on epidemiologic aspects of STH infections with a scarcity of information on the efficacy of deworming treatment. The present study consisted of 2 phases: a cross-sectional phase on current epidemiological status and risk factors of STH infections and a longitudinal study over 6 weeks on triple dose albendazole efficacy against STH infections. A total of 253 participants were recruited at baseline and a pre-tested questionnaire was administered to obtain information on socio-demographics, environmental and behavioural risk factors. Stool samples were evaluated using a modified Kato-Katz technique. Cure rate (CR) and egg reduction rate (ERR) were assessed at 3 weeks following a 3-day course of 400mg albendazole treatment and infection status were observed again at 6 weeks. Baseline positivity of trichuriasis, ascariasis and hookworm infections were 56.1%, 11.9% and 20.2%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed age below 18 years old (P = 0.004), without latrine in house (P = 0.042) and indiscriminate defecation (P = 0.032) were associated with STH infections. In the longitudinal study (N = 89), CR for trichuriasis was 64.6%, while CR of 100% was observed for both ascariasis and hookworm. ERR was above 90% for all three STH species. A rapid increased of Trichuris trichiura egg output was observed at 6 weeks. In conclusion, STH infections are highly prevalent among indigenous communities. Children and teenagers, poor sanitation and hygiene behaviour were determinants for STH infections. Triple dose albendazole is found to be efficacious against Ascaris lumbricoides and hookworm infections but has moderate curative effect with high ERR against T. trichiura. Although triple dose albendazole regimen has logistic challenges and may not be a routine option, consideration of this treatment regime may still be necessary in selective communities to reduce high intensity of T. trichiura infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mian Zi Tee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Soo Ching Lee
- Type 2 Immunity Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Yi Xian Er
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nan Jiun Yap
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Romano Ngui
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Alice V. Easton
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Vinnie Wei Yin Siow
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kee Seong Ng
- Department of Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Kek Heng Chua
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Ken Cadwell
- Department of Microbiology, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
- Kimmel Center for Biology and Medicine at the Skirball Institute, New York University Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, United States of America
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, New York University Langone Health, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - P’ng Loke
- Type 2 Immunity Section, Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
- * E-mail: (YALL); (PL)
| | - Yvonne Ai Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
- * E-mail: (YALL); (PL)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Jones BP, van Vliet AHM, LaCourse EJ, Betson M. In Silico Docking of Nematode β-Tubulins With Benzimidazoles Points to Gene Expression and Orthologue Variation as Factors in Anthelmintic Resistance. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2022.898814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of benzimidazole anthelmintics can vary depending on the target parasite, with Ascaris nematodes being highly responsive, and whipworms being less responsive. Anthelmintic resistance has become widespread, particularly in strongyle nematodes such as Haemonchus contortus in ruminants, and resistance has recently been detected in hookworms of humans and dogs. Past work has shown that there are multiple β-tubulin isotypes in helminths, yet only a few of these contribute to benzimidazole interactions and resistance. The β-tubulin isotypes of ascarids and soil-transmitted helminths were identified by mining available genome data, and phylogenetic analysis showed that the ascarids share a similar repertoire of seven β-tubulin isotypes. Strongyles also have a consistent pattern of four β-tubulin isotypes. In contrast, the whipworms only have two isotypes, with one of these clustering more basally and distinct from any other group. Key β-tubulin isotypes selected based on previous studies were the focus of in silico molecular docking simulations to look at the interactions with benzimidazoles. These showed that all β-tubulins had similar interactions with benzimidazoles and maintained the key bond with residue E198 in all species, indicating similar mechanisms of action. However, the interaction was stronger and more consistent in the strongyles and whipworms than it was in the ascarids. Alteration of β-tubulin isotypes with the common resistance-associated mutations originally identified in H. contortus resulted in similar interaction modeling for all species. In conclusion, ascarids, strongyles, and whipworms all have their own unique repertoire of β-tubulins, which could explain why benzimidazole resistance and susceptibility varies between these groups of parasites. These data complement recent work that has highlighted the roles of essential residues in benzimidazole drug binding and shows that there is a separation between strongyle parasites that frequently develop resistance and ascarid parasites, which have been much less prone to developing resistance.
Collapse
|
10
|
Naqvi FA, Das JK, Salam RA, Raza SF, Lassi ZS, Bhutta ZA. Interventions for Neglected Tropical Diseases Among Children and Adolescents: A Meta-analysis. Pediatrics 2022; 149:186947. [PMID: 35503336 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-053852e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a group of communicable diseases affecting the poorest populations around the world. OBJECTIVE To assess the effectiveness of interventions, including mass drug administration (MDA), water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), vector control, health education, and micronutrients supplementation, for NTDs among children and adolescents. METHODS We conducted a literature search on the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, Medline, and other databases until December 2020. We included randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental studies conducted among children and adolescents. Two authors independently screened studies for relevance. Two authors independently extracted data, assessed the risk of bias, performed metaanalysis, and rated the quality of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation. RESULTS We included 155 studies (231 articles) involving 262 299 participants. For soil-transmitted helminthiasis, MDA may reduce the prevalence of Ascaris, Trichuris, and hookworm by 58%, 36%, and 57%, respectively. We are uncertain of the effect of health education, WASH, and iron supplementation on soil-transmitted helminthiasis prevalence. For Schistosomiasis, health education probably reduces the intensity and prevalence of S. mansoni, whereas micronutrient supplementation may reduce anemia prevalence and the infection intensity of S. hematobium compared with no supplementation. We are uncertain of the effect of MDA and vector control on Schistosomiasis outcomes. For trachoma, health education probably reduces the prevalence of active Trachoma, whereas we are uncertain of the effect of MDA, WASH, and vector control on Trachoma outcomes. There is limited data on the effectiveness of interventions for NTDs targeting children and adolescents. CONCLUSION Future studies are needed to evaluate the relative effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of various interventions specifically targeting children and adolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Abbas Naqvi
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Jai K Das
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Rehana A Salam
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Syeda Fatima Raza
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Zohra S Lassi
- Robinson Research Institute, the University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Zulfiqar A Bhutta
- Division of Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan.,Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids), Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Patel C, Coulibaly JT, Hofmann D, N’Gbesso Y, Hattendorf J, Keiser J. Efficacy and Safety of Albendazole in Hookworm-infected Preschool-aged Children, School-aged Children, and Adults in Côte d'Ivoire: A Phase 2 Randomized, Controlled Dose-finding Trial. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e494-e502. [PMID: 32668456 PMCID: PMC8282316 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infections with hookworms affect about half a billion people worldwide. Recommended therapy includes 400 mg of albendazole, which is moderately efficacious. Higher doses have been rarely assessed. METHODS A randomized, controlled dose-finding trial was conducted in Côte d'Ivoire with the aim of recruiting 120 preschool-aged children (PSAC), 200 school-aged children (SAC), and 200 adults. Eligible PSAC were randomized 1:1:1 to 200 mg, 400 mg, or 600 mg of albendazole; the other age groups were randomized 1:1:1:1:1 to placebo or 200 mg, 400 mg, 600 mg, or 800 mg. The primary outcome was cure rates (CRs) assessed 14-21 days post-treatment by quadruplicate Kato-Katz thick smears. Hyperbolic Emax models were used to determine dose-response. RESULTS 38 PSAC, 133 SAC, and 196 adults were enrolled. In adults, predicted CRs increased with ascending doses of albendazole, with a CR of 74.9% (95% confidence interval [CI], 55.6%-87.7%) in the 800-mg arm. Observed CRs increased with ascending doses of albendazole reaching a maximum of 94.1% (95% CI, 80.3%-99.3%). In SAC, the predicted dose-response curve increased marginally, with CRs ranging from 64.0% in the 200-mg arm to 76.0% in the 800-mg arm. Sample size in PSAC was considered too small to derive meaningful conclusions. 10.7% and 5.1% of participants reported any adverse event at 3 hours and 24 hours post-treatment, respectively. CONCLUSIONS A single 800-mg albendazole dose provides higher efficacy against hookworm and is well tolerated in adults and should be considered for community-based strategies targeting adults. For PSAC and SAC, current recommendations suffice. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NCT03527745.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chandni Patel
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel Switzerland
| | - Jean T Coulibaly
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel Switzerland
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche Biosciences, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Daniela Hofmann
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel Switzerland
| | - Yves N’Gbesso
- Centre de Santé Urbain d’Azaguié, Department de Agboville, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Jan Hattendorf
- University of Basel, Basel Switzerland
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Anegagrie M, Lanfri S, Aramendia AA, Scavuzzo CM, Herrador Z, Benito A, Periago MV. Environmental characteristics around the household and their association with hookworm infection in rural communities from Bahir Dar, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009466. [PMID: 34157019 PMCID: PMC8219153 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Soil-Transmitted Helminths (STH) are highly prevalent Neglected Tropical Disease in Ethiopia, an estimated 26 million are infected. Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing (RS) technologies assist data mapping and analysis, and the prediction of the spatial distribution of infection in relation to environmental variables. The influence of socioeconomic, environmental and soil characteristics on hookworm infection at the individual and household level is explored in order to identify spatial patterns of infection in rural villages from Zenzelema (Amhara region). Inhabitants greater than 5 years old were recruited in order to assess the presence of STH. Socioeconomic and hookworm infection variables at the household level and environmental variables and soil characteristics using RS were obtained. The dominant STH found was hookworm. Individuals which practiced open defecation and those without electricity had a significant higher number of hookworm eggs in their stool. Additionally, adults showed statistically higher hookworm egg counts than children. Nonetheless, the probability of hookworm infection was not determined by socioeconomic conditions but by environmental characteristics surrounding the households, including a combination of vigorous vegetation and bare soil, high temperatures, and compacted soils (high bulk density) with more acidic pH, given a pH of 6.0 is optimal for hatching of hookworm eggs. The identification of high-risk environmental areas provides a useful tool for planning, targeting and monitoring of control measures, including not only children but also adults when hookworm is concerned.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melaku Anegagrie
- Fundación Mundo Sano, Madrid, Spain
- National Centre for Tropical Medicine, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sofía Lanfri
- Instituto de Altos Estudios Espaciales Mario Gulich, Comisión Nacional de Actividades Espaciales, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Fundación Mundo Sano, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Aranzazu Amor Aramendia
- Fundación Mundo Sano, Madrid, Spain
- National Centre for Tropical Medicine, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Matías Scavuzzo
- Instituto de Altos Estudios Espaciales Mario Gulich, Comisión Nacional de Actividades Espaciales, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Zaida Herrador
- National Centre for Tropical Medicine, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Agustín Benito
- National Centre for Tropical Medicine, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Joo H, Lee J, Maskery BA, Park C, Alpern JD, Phares CR, Weinberg M, Stauffer WM. The Effect of Drug Pricing on Outpatient Payments and Treatment for Three Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections in the United States, 2010-2017. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2021; 104:1851-1857. [PMID: 33684066 PMCID: PMC8103488 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.20-1452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The price of certain antiparasitic drugs (e.g., albendazole and mebendazole) has dramatically increased since 2010. The effect of these rising prices on treatment costs and use of standard of care (SOC) drugs is unknown. To measure the impact of drug prices on overall outpatient cost and quality of care, we identified outpatient visits associated with ascariasis, hookworm, and trichuriasis infections from the 2010 to 2017 MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters and Multi-state Medicaid databases using Truven Health MarketScan Treatment Pathways. Evaluation was limited to members with continuous enrollment in non-capitated plans 30 days prior, and 90 days following, the first diagnosis. The utilization of SOC prescriptions was considered a marker for quality of care. The impact of drug price on the outpatient expenses was measured by comparing the changes in drug and nondrug outpatient payments per patient through Welch's two sample t-tests. The total outpatient payments per patient (drug and nondrug), for the three parasitic infections, increased between 2010 and 2017. The increase was driven primarily by prescription drug payments, which increased 20.6-137.0 times, as compared with nondrug outpatient payments, which increased 0.3-2.2 times. As prices of mebendazole and albendazole increased, a shift to alternative SOC and non-SOC drug utilization was observed. Using parasitic infection treatment as a model, increases in prescription drug prices can act as the primary driver of increasing outpatient care costs. Simultaneously, there was a shift to alternative SOC, but also to non-SOC drug treatment, suggesting a decrease in quality of care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heesoo Joo
- Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia;,Address correspondence to Heesoo Joo, Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd NE, MS H16-4, Atlanta, GA 30329. E-mail:
| | - Junsoo Lee
- Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia;,Department of Economics, University at Albany, SUNY, Albany, New York
| | - Brian A. Maskery
- Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Chanhyun Park
- Department of Pharmacy and Health Systems Science, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jonathan D. Alpern
- HealthPartners Institute, Minneapolis, Minnesota;,Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Christina R. Phares
- Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Michelle Weinberg
- Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia
| | - William M. Stauffer
- Division of Global Migration and Quarantine, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia;,Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Bezie W, Aemero M, Tegegne Y, Eshetu T, Addisu A, Birhanie M, Derso A, Zeleke AJ. In vivo and in vitro efficacy of a single dose of albendazole against hookworm infection in northwest Ethiopia: open-label trial. Trop Med Health 2021; 49:25. [PMID: 33743835 PMCID: PMC7980320 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-021-00308-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Control of hookworm and other soil-transmitted helminth infections primarily relies on preventive chemotherapy using a single dose of albendazole/mebendazole drugs on high-risk groups. Herein, the efficacy of a single dose (400 mg) of albendazole (ALB) was investigated both in vivo and in vitro model in northwest Ethiopia. Methods An open-label, single-arm clinical trial was conducted to assess anti-hookworm effect of albendazole. Stool samples were collected and examined using McMaster and Harada-Mori filter paper culture. Eligible hookworm-infected patients were treated with a single dose of ALB. After 14–21 days post-treatment, stool samples were also taken again and re-examined using the abovementioned technique. Egg reduction rate (ERR) and larval motility were used as a therapeutic outcome measure. An independent t test was used to compare the mean difference in egg counts, and probit analysis was performed for calculating the lethal concentration dose of albendazole. P value < 0.05 at 95% CI was considered statistically significant. Results A total of 70 participants had completed the drug efficacy study. The efficacy of ALB against hookworm in terms of CR and ERR was 87% and 93%, respectively. Participants who had not eaten one or more hours prior to treatment had higher CR than those who had eaten within 1 h before treatment (97.4% vs 74.2%), while individuals with heavy infection intensity had a lower post-treatment ova clearing rate than those who were with light infection intensity (43% vs 94.6%). The in vitro larvicidal effect of ALB was 63–93% after applying 50–250 μg/ml concentration of ALB solution. The LC50 and LC99 were 152 μg/ml and 573 μg/ml, respectively. Conclusion A single dose of albendazole was found to be effective for treating hookworm infections according to WHO anthelminthic evaluation standard in the study area. Preventive chemotherapy might therefore be extended to risk groups, with proper continuous monitoring of its efficacy to strengthen and keep the ongoing control and prevention measures one step ahead. Trial registration This trial is retrospectively registered with www.pactr.org, number PACTR202010511829332 on October 26, 2020.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mulugeta Aemero
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Yalewayiker Tegegne
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Tegegne Eshetu
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Ayenew Addisu
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Meseret Birhanie
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Adane Derso
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Ayalew Jejaw Zeleke
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O.Box: 196, Gondar, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Japa I, Ancha B, Custodio A, Ohrenschall R, Cordero R, Deverlis A, Chapman J, Hickson MR, Steenhoff AP, Lowenthal ED. Effectiveness of Deworming with Single-Dose Albendazole for Preschool-Aged Children in the Dominican Republic. Glob Pediatr Health 2021; 8:2333794X211002949. [PMID: 33796636 PMCID: PMC7983463 DOI: 10.1177/2333794x211002949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. The World Health Organization recommends biannual deworming with single-dose albendazole for all children over 1 year in regions where soil-transmitted helminths (STH) are endemic. There are limited data from the Dominican Republic (DR) on the effectiveness of deworming programs. Methods. Between January and June 2019, we enrolled 63 preschool-aged children at a community clinic in the DR. Participants received albendazole at enrollment. Stool samples were collected and examined for parasites at enrollment, 2 to 4 and 12 to 16 weeks post-albendazole. Caregivers were surveyed on home hygiene practices and children’s symptoms. Findings. At enrollment, 1 or more parasites were noted in 89% of samples. Ascaris lumbricoides (68%) was the most common species, followed by Entamoeba histolytica (35%) and Giardia intestinalis (8%). Two-to-four weeks post-albendazole, fewer than half of those with A. lumbricoides infections at baseline had cleared the infection. STH symptoms significantly improved between enrollment and 2 to 4 weeks. By 12 to 16 weeks after treatment, A. lumbricoides infections were as high as baseline. Interpretation. Although limited by size and available technology, our study contributes data on STH in the DR. Single-dose deworming with albendazole did not reduce Ascaris lumbricoides infections in our sample. As STH are the most common neglected tropical diseases and negatively impact children’s health globally, further studies on both effective deworming programs and interventions to prevent STH are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Japa
- Niños Primeros en Salud, Consuelo, Dominican Republic.,Universidad Central del Este, San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic
| | - Bhavya Ancha
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Global Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Antonio Custodio
- Universidad Central del Este, San Pedro de Macorís, Dominican Republic
| | | | | | - Adriana Deverlis
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Global Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jennifer Chapman
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Global Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Meredith R Hickson
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Global Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Andrew P Steenhoff
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Center for Global Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Umbrello G, Pinzani R, Bandera A, Formenti F, Zavarise G, Arghittu M, Girelli D, Maraschini A, Muscatello A, Marchisio P, Bosis S. Hookworm infection in infants: a case report and review of literature. Ital J Pediatr 2021; 47:26. [PMID: 33563313 PMCID: PMC7871578 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-021-00981-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hookworm infections (Necator americanus, Ancylostoma duodenale) are common in rural areas of tropical and subtropical countries. Human acquisition results from direct percutaneous invasion of infective larvae from contaminated soil. Overall, almost 472 million people in developing rural countries are infected. According to simulation models, hookworm disease has a global financial impact of over US$100 billion a year. Hookworm infection in newborn or infancy is rare, and most of the cases reported in literature are from endemic countries. Here, we describe the case of an infant with an Ancylostoma duodenale infection and review the literature currently available on this topic. CASE PRESENTATION An Italian 2-month-old infant presented with vomit and weight loss. Her blood exams showed anemia and eosinophilia and stool analysis resulted positive for hookworms' eggs, identified as Ancylostoma duodenale with real time-PCR. Parasite research on parents' stools resulted negative, and since the mother travelled to Vietnam and Thailand during pregnancy, we assumed a transplacental transmission of the infection. The patient was treated successfully with oral Mebendazole and discharged in good conditions. DISCUSSION Hookworm helminthiasis is a major cause of morbidity in children in the tropics and subtropics, but rare in developed countries. Despite most of the patients is usually asymptomatic, children are highly exposed to negative sequelae such as malnutrition, retarded growth and impaired cognitive development. In infants and newborns, the mechanism of infection remains unclear. Although infrequent, vertical transmission of larvae can occur through breastfeeding and transplacentally. Hookworm infection should be taken into account in children with abdominal symptoms and unexplained persistent eosinophilia. The treatment of infants infected by hookworm has potential benefit, but further studies are needed to define the best clinical management of these cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Umbrello
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - R Pinzani
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - A Bandera
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - F Formenti
- Department of Infectious-Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Verona, Negrar, Italy.,Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - G Zavarise
- Tropical Pediatric Unit, IRCCS Ospedale Sacro Cuore Don Calabria, Verona, Negrar, Italy
| | - M Arghittu
- Laboratory of Clinical Chemistry and Microbiology, ASST Melegnano and Martesana, Milan, Italy
| | - D Girelli
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - A Maraschini
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - A Muscatello
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - P Marchisio
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.,Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| | - S Bosis
- Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Development of sustainable research excellence with a global perspective on infectious diseases: Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Gabon. Wien Klin Wochenschr 2021; 133:500-508. [PMID: 33398458 PMCID: PMC7781170 DOI: 10.1007/s00508-020-01794-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Medical research in sub-Saharan Africa is of high priority for societies to respond adequately to local health needs. Often enough it remains a challenge to build up capacity in infrastructure and human resources to highest international standards and to sustain this over mid-term to long-term periods due to difficulties in obtaining long-term institutional core funding, attracting highly qualified scientists for medical research and coping with ever changing structural and political environments. The Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) serves as model for how to overcome such challenges and to continuously increase its impact on medical care in Central Africa and beyond. Starting off as a research annex to the Albert Schweitzer Hospital in Lambaréné, Gabon, it has since then expanded its activities to academic and regulatory clinical trials for drugs, vaccines and diagnostics in the field of malaria, tuberculosis, and a wide range of poverty related and neglected tropical infectious diseases. Advancing bioethics in medical research in Africa and steadily improving its global networks and infrastructures, CERMEL serves as a reference centre for several international consortia. In close collaboration with national authorities, CERMEL has become one of the main training hubs for medical research in Central Africa. It is hoped that CERMEL and its leitmotiv “to improve medical care for local populations” will serve as an inspiration to other institutions in sub-Saharan Africa to further increase African capacity to advance medicine.
Collapse
|
18
|
Lagatie O, Verheyen A, Van Hoof K, Lauwers D, Odiere MR, Vlaminck J, Levecke B, Stuyver LJ. Detection of Ascaris lumbricoides infection by ABA-1 coproantigen ELISA. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008807. [PMID: 33057357 PMCID: PMC7591086 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Intestinal worms, or soil-transmitted helminths (STHs), affect hundreds of millions of people in all tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The most prevalent STH is Ascaris lumbricoides. Through large-scale deworming programs, World Health Organization aims to reduce morbidity, caused by moderate-to-heavy intensity infections, below 2%. In order to monitor these control programs, stool samples are examined microscopically for the presence of worm eggs. This procedure requires well-trained personnel and is known to show variability between different operators interpreting the slides. We have investigated whether ABA-1, one of the excretory-secretory products of A. lumbricoides can be used as a coproantigen marker for infection with this parasite. Polyclonal antibodies were generated and a coproantigen ELISA was developed. Using this ELISA, it was found that ABA-1 in stool detected Ascaris infection with a sensitivity of 91.5% and a specificity of 95.3%. Our results also demonstrate that there is a correlation between ABA-1 levels in stool and A. lumbricoides DNA detected in stool. Using a threshold of 18.2 ng/g stool the ABA-1 ELISA correctly assigned 68.4% of infected individuals to the moderate-to-heavy intensity infection group, with a specificity of 97.1%. Furthermore, the levels of ABA-1 in stool were shown to rapidly and strongly decrease upon administration of a standard anthelminthic treatment (single oral dose of 400 mg albendazole). In an Ascaris suum infection model in pigs, it was found that ABA-1 remained undetectable until day 28 and was detected at day 42 or 56, concurrent with the appearance of worm eggs in the stool. This report demonstrates that ABA-1 can be considered an Ascaris -specific coproantigen marker that can be used to monitor infection intensity. It also opens the path for development of point-of-care immunoassay-based tests to determine A. lumbricoides infection in stool at the sample collection site.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ole Lagatie
- Janssen Global Public Health, Janssen R&D, Beerse, Belgium
| | | | | | - Dax Lauwers
- Janssen Global Public Health, Janssen R&D, Beerse, Belgium
| | - Maurice R. Odiere
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Johnny Vlaminck
- Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, University of Ghent, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Bruno Levecke
- Department of Virology, Parasitology and Immunology, University of Ghent, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sapulete EJJ, de Dwi Lingga Utama IMG, Sanjaya Putra IGN, Kanya Wati D, Arimbawa IM, Gustawan IW. Efficacy of Albendazole-Pyrantel Pamoate Compared to Albendazole Alone for Trichuris trichiura Infection in Children: A Double Blind Randomised Controlled Trial. Malays J Med Sci 2020; 27:67-74. [PMID: 32684807 PMCID: PMC7337942 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2020.27.3.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Accepted: 05/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Soil transmitted helminths (STH) are intestinal nematodes and constitute one of the most neglected tropical diseases to exist. Objective: This study determined the efficacy of albendazole-pyrantel pamoate compared to albendazole in 8–12 years old children with Trichuris trichiura infection. Methods A randomised controlled trial was conducted between October 2017 and February 2018 on participants whose stool examinations confirmed the presence of Trichuris trichiura infection. The subjects were randomised into two groups. The statistical analysis used Chi-square test. Results There were 392 of 600 children at five public elementary schools in Bangli and Bali and were infected with Trichuris trichiura. The cure rate of Trichuris trichiura infection seven days following treatment was lower with the combination of albendazole and pyrantel pamoate compared to that of albendazole. The egg reduction rate of Trichuris trichiura infection was lower with the combination of albendazole and pyrantel pamoate compared to albendazole. Conclusion The study indicated that a combination of albendazole and pyrantel pamoate does not improve cure rate or egg reduction rate in 8–12 years old children with Trichuris trichiura infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dyah Kanya Wati
- Department of Child Health-Medical School of Udayana University and Sanglah Hospital Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | - I Made Arimbawa
- Department of Child Health-Medical School of Udayana University and Sanglah Hospital Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| | - I Wayan Gustawan
- Department of Child Health-Medical School of Udayana University and Sanglah Hospital Denpasar, Bali, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Impact of Helminth Infections during Pregnancy on Vaccine Immunogenicity in Gabonese Infants. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8030381. [PMID: 32664597 PMCID: PMC7563176 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Helminth infections are common in sub-Saharan Africa. Besides direct clinical effects, a bias towards a T helper type 2 (Th2) cell immune response is observed. The consequences of parasite infection during pregnancy for the mother and particularly for the fetus and the newborn can be severe and may include impaired immune response during acute infection and vaccination. Here, we present data of immune responses to vaccines given within the expanded program on immunization (EPI) of infants born to helminth infected or non-infected mothers. The study was conducted in Lambaréné and surroundings, Gabon. Maternal helminth infection was diagnosed microscopically using the Kato-Katz method for soil-transmitted helminths (STH), urine filtration for Schistosoma haematobium infections and the saponin-based method for filarial infections. Plasma antibody levels to different vaccine antigens were measured in mothers and their offspring by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) at different timepoints. We found 42.3% of the mothers to be infected with at least one helminth species. Significantly lower anti-tetanus toxoid immunoglobulin (Ig) G was detected in the cord blood of infants born to helminth infected mothers. Following vaccination, immune responses of the infants to EPI vaccines were similar between the two groups at nine and 12 months. Even though infection with helminths is still common in pregnant women in Gabon, in our setting, there was no evidence seen for a substantial effect on infants’ immune responses to vaccines given as part of the EPI.
Collapse
|
21
|
Oyegue-Liabagui SL, Ndjangangoye NK, Kouna LC, Lekolo GM, Mounioko F, Kwedi Nolna S, Lekana-Douki JB. Molecular prevalence of intestinal parasites infections in children with diarrhea in Franceville, Southeast of Gabon. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:350. [PMID: 32414337 PMCID: PMC7226932 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05071-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pediatric diarrhea caused by a range of pathogens, including intestinal parasites, is one of main causes of death among children under 5 years of age. The distribution of these parasitic infections overlaps in many environmental, socioeconomic and epidemiological settings. Their distribution and prevalence varies from region to region. In the current study, we assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites among pediatric patients with syndromic diarrheal disease living in Franceville, Gabon. Methods A cross-sectional study conducted in the Amissa Bongo Regional Hospital and Chinese-Gabonese Friendship Hospital in Franceville, between November 2016 and August 2017, enrolled a total of 100 diarrheic children between 0 and 180 months of age. Parasite detection in stool samples was performed using molecular diagnostic by PCR. Difference in means were tested by Student’s t test and ANOVA while principal component analysis was used to determine the correlation between parasite distributions and age groups. Results The overall prevalence of intestinal parasite infection was 61% (61/100). Hymenolepis sp and Cryptosporidium hominis/parvum were the most common parasites (31 and 19%, respectively), followed by Encephalitozoon intestinalis (15%), Trichuris trichiura (4%), Dientamoeba fragilis (4%), and Enterocytozoon bieneusi (2%). The polyparasitism rate was 19.7%, with 83.3% double and 16.7% triple infections. Protozoan infections (66.7%) were more prevalent than helminths infections (33.3%). Seasonal association of the circulation of intestinal parasite was statistically significant (p = 0.03). Correlations between different parasites was also observed. Conclusion The prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections is highest in diarrheic pediatric children. The prevalence of parasitic infections indicates that protozoa and helminths are the most common parasites in the Franceville environment. This study reinforces the importance of routine examination of diarrheic stool samples for the diagnostic of intestinal parasites. Further analyses are required to better understand the local epidemiology and risk factors associated with the transmission of intestinal parasites in Franceville, Gabon. Keyswords diarrhea, children, intestinal parasitic infections, molecular diagnostic, Franceville, Gabon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sandrine Lydie Oyegue-Liabagui
- Ecole Doctorale Régionale d'Afrique Centrale en Infectiologie Tropicale (ECODRAC), Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku, BP 876, Franceville, Gabon. .,Unité d'Evolution, Epidémiologie et Résistance Parasitaire (UNEEREP), Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), BP 769, Franceville, Gabon.
| | - Nal Kennedy Ndjangangoye
- Ecole Doctorale Régionale d'Afrique Centrale en Infectiologie Tropicale (ECODRAC), Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku, BP 876, Franceville, Gabon.,Unité d'Evolution, Epidémiologie et Résistance Parasitaire (UNEEREP), Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), BP 769, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Lady Charlene Kouna
- Unité d'Evolution, Epidémiologie et Résistance Parasitaire (UNEEREP), Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), BP 769, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Gwladys Mirlande Lekolo
- Unité d'Evolution, Epidémiologie et Résistance Parasitaire (UNEEREP), Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), BP 769, Franceville, Gabon
| | - Franck Mounioko
- Laboratoire d'Ecologie Vectoriel, Institut de Recherche en Ecologie Tropicale, BP 13354, Libreville, Gabon
| | - Sylvie Kwedi Nolna
- Capacity for Leadership Excellence And Research (CLEAR, Inc.), Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Jean Bernard Lekana-Douki
- Unité d'Evolution, Epidémiologie et Résistance Parasitaire (UNEEREP), Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), BP 769, Franceville, Gabon.,Département de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médecine Tropicale, Faculté de Médecine, Université des Sciences de la Santé, BP 4009, Libreville, Gabon
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ascaris lumbricoides is a common infection, and mainly affects children living in low-income areas. Water and sanitation improvement, health education, and drug treatment may help break the cycle of transmission, and effective drugs will reduce morbidity. OBJECTIVES To compare the efficacy and safety of anthelmintic drugs (albendazole, mebendazole, ivermectin) for treating people with Ascaris infection. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Infectious Disease Group Specialized Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS, three other databases, and reference lists of included studies, without language restrictions, up to 4 July 2019. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomized controlled trials (RCT) that compared albendazole, mebendazole, and ivermectin in children and adults with confirmed Ascaris infection. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed studies for inclusion, assessed risk of bias, and extracted data from the included trials. A third review author checked the quality of data extraction. We used the Cochrane 'Risk of bias' assessment tool to determine the risk of bias in included trials. We used risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to compare dichotomous outcomes in treatment and control groups. We used the fixed-effect model for studies with low heterogeneity and the random-effects model for studies with moderate to high heterogeneity. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach. We used the control rate average to provide illustrative cure rates in the comparison groups. MAIN RESULTS We included 30 parallel-group RCTs, which enrolled 6442 participants from 17 countries across Africa, Asia, Central America and the Caribbean, and South America. Participants were from 28 days to 82 years of age, recruited from school, communities, and health facilities. Twenty studies were funded or co-funded by manufacturers, while 10 studies were independent of manufacturer funding. Twenty-two trials had a high risk of bias for one or two domains (blinding, incomplete outcome data, selective reporting). Single dose of albendazole (four trials), mebendazole (three trials) or ivermectin (one trial) was compared to placebo. Parasitological cure at 14 to 60 days was high in all the studies (illustrative cure of 93.0% in the anthelmintic group and 16.1% in the placebo group; RR 6.29, 95% CI 3.91 to 10.12; 8 trials, 1578 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Single dose of albendazole is as effective as multiple doses of albendazole (illustrative cure of 93.2% with single dose, 94.3% with multiple doses; RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.05; 3 trials, 307 participants; high-certainty evidence); or as single dose of mebendazole (illustrative cure of 98.0% with albendazole, 96.9% with mebendazole; RR 1.01, 95% CI 1.00 to 1.02; 6 trials, 2131 participants; high-certainty evidence). Studies did not detect a difference between a single dose of albendazole and a single dose of ivermectin (cure rates of 87.8% with albendazole, 90.2% with ivermectin; RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.08; 3 trials, 519 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Across all the studies, failure after single dose of albendazole ranged from 0.0% to 30.3%, mebendazole from 0.0% to 22.2%, and ivermectin from 0.0% to 21.6%. The egg reduction rate (ERR) measured up to 60 days after the treatment was high in all treated groups, regardless of the anthelmintic used (range 96% to 100%). It was not possible to evaluate parasitological cure by classes of infection intensity. No included trials reported complication or serious adverse events. Other adverse events were apparently similar among the compared anthelmintic groups (moderate- to low-certainty evidence). The most commonly reported other adverse events were nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, headache, and fever. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Single-dose of albendazole, mebendazole, and ivermectin all appeared effective against Ascaris lumbricoides infection, yielding high parasitological cure and large reductions in eggs excreted, with no differences detected between them. The drugs appear to be safe to treat children and adults with confirmed Ascaris infection. There is little to choose between drugs and regimens in terms of cure or adverse events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lucieni O Conterno
- State University of Campinas (UNICAMP)Medical School, Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious Diseases DivisionRua Tessália Vieira de Camargo, 126Cidade Universitária "Zeferino Vaz"CampinasSão PauloBrazil13083‐887
| | - Marilia D Turchi
- Federal University of GoiasDepartment of Public Health, Institute of Tropical Pathology and Public HealthRua Amorinopolis QdR2 Lt13 Residencial GoiasAlphaville FlamboyantGoianiaGoiasBrazil74884‐540
| | - Ione Corrêa
- Botucatu Medical School, UNESP ‐ Univ Estadual PaulistaDepartment of NursingDistrito de Rubião Júnior, s/nBotucatuSão PauloBrazil18603‐970
| | - Ricardo Augusto Monteiro de Barros Almeida
- Botucatu Medical School, UNESP ‐ Univ Estadual PaulistaDepartment of Tropical Diseases and Imaging DiagnosisAv. Prof. Montenegro, s/nDistrito de Rubiao JrBotucatuSao PauloBrazil18618‐970
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Haldeman MS, Nolan MS, Ng'habi KRN. Human hookworm infection: Is effective control possible? A review of hookworm control efforts and future directions. Acta Trop 2020; 201:105214. [PMID: 31600519 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 10/01/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Human hookworm, a soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection caused by either Necator americanus or Anclystoma duodenale, is a major cause of morbidity globally and predominantly affects the world's poorest populations. Transmitted primarily by larval invasion of exposed skin, the adults inhabit the host small intestine, where they consume host blood. The resultant chronic iron deficiency anemia can lead to stunted growth and cognitive deficits in children, reduced work capacity in adults, and a variety of pregnancy complications. Historically, successful STH elimination has only been achieved in regions with concomitant significant economic growth. Since 2001, control of the STHs has been attempted via single-dose mass deworming of at-risk school-aged and preschool-aged children within STH-endemic countries, with the goal of morbidity reduction. Research questioning this strategy has grown in recent years, and current studies are evaluating the effectiveness of novel deworming strategies, including multidrug regimens and expansion of deworming to entire communities. While footwear campaigns may be associated with reduced odds of hookworm infection, the evidence supporting the impact of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions upon hookworm is mixed. Progress towards a human hookworm vaccine continues, with promising results from recent Phase 1 trials and several others ongoing. Integrated STH control programs, which combine mass deworming with WASH interventions, are relatively unstudied but may be a promising advancement. Whether interruption of STH transmission can be achieved apart from significant economic growth remains unanswered, but likely the implementation of intensive, integrated control programs will be necessary to achieve that goal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew S Haldeman
- Department of Health Promotion, Education and Behavior, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA; Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA.
| | - Melissa S Nolan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Kija R N Ng'habi
- Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences, University of Dar Es Salaam, Mbeya, Tanzania
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Sungkar S, Putri KQ, Taufik MIS, Gozali MN, Sudarmono P. The Effectiveness of Triple Dose Albendazole in Treating Soil Transmitted Helminths Infection. J Parasitol Res 2019; 2019:6438497. [PMID: 30863624 PMCID: PMC6378773 DOI: 10.1155/2019/6438497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2018] [Revised: 01/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Soil transmitted helminths (STH) infection is a major health problem in tropical countries such as Indonesia. Albendazole is an effective and widely used anthelmintic agent to treat STH; however, it is not effective towards T. trichiura and its effectiveness varies between populations. Hence, we conducted a study to determine the effectiveness of triple dose albendazole in children of Perobatang village, Southwest Sumba, Indonesia. A pre-post study was carried out in Perobatang village on July 2016. Children aged 1-15 years old were enrolled in the study and asked to collect stool samples which were then examined using Kato-Katz method. The children infected with STH were given albendazole 400 mg for three consecutive days. From 246 subjects examined, 192 (78%) were positive for any STH consisting of T. trichiura (64%), A. lumbricoides (60%), and hookworms (10%). After treatment, the prevalence of STH decreased significantly (McNemar test, p<0.001) to 27%, T. trichiura 25%, A. lumbricoides 2%, and hookworm 0%. Cure rate for T. trichiura, A. lumbricoides, and hookworms was 61%, 97%, and 100%, respectively. Significant decrease of eggs per gram of feces was found in all STH (Wilcoxon test, p value <0.001 for A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura, p value = 0.027 for hookworms); egg reduction rate for T. trichiura was 91%, A. lumbricoides was 100%, and hookworms was 100%. In conclusion, triple dose albendazole is effective in controlling STH in children of Perobatang village, Southwest Sumba, Indonesia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saleha Sungkar
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Kartika Q. Putri
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad I. S. Taufik
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Meutia N. Gozali
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Pratiwi Sudarmono
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Sungkar S, Tambunan FB, Gozali MN, Kusumowidagdo G, Wahdini S. The effect of albendazole toward anemia in children with soil-transmitted helminths infection in a remote and endemic area. MEDICAL JOURNAL OF INDONESIA 2018. [DOI: 10.13181/mji.v27i4.2857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) infections lead to nutritional disorder and anemia among children. Albendazole 400 mg is used to control STH, although it has a low cure rate for Trichuris trichiura. The effectiveness of albendazole could be increased by giving a dose of 400 mg for 3 consecutive days. The aim of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of the triple-dose albendazole 400 mg course in decreasing STH and anemia prevalence.Methods: This study used an experimental comparative design conducted in July 2016 and January 2017 in Perobatang Village, Southwest Sumba, Indonesia. Children aged 1–15 years were asked to collect fecal samples to be examined using a Kato-Katz method. Hemoglobin level (Hb) was tested using a rapid test diagnostic strip. STH positive subjects were given 400 mg of albendazole for 3 days witnessed by the researchers. Six months after, the stool samples and Hb levels were re-examined (post-test).Results: From the 156 subjects examined (pretest), the prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and hookworm were 65.4%, 55.8%, and 15.4%, respectively, and the prevalence of anemia was 71.2%. On post-test, the prevalence of A. lumbricoides, T. trichiura, and hookworm decreased to 8.3%, 12.8%, and 0%, respectively, and the prevalence of anemia decreased to 25%. There was a significant difference in the prevalence of STH infection and anemia before and after the administration of triple-dose albendazole (p=0.001).Conclusion: The triple-dose albendazole is effective in reducing the prevalence of STH and anemia in children with STH infection.
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
Worm infections continue to be among the most common diseases affecting children from low and middle income countries. Major worm infections of public health importance include Ascariasis, Trichuriasis, Hookworm, and Enterobiasis, which are transmitted through contaminated soil. In India, combined prevalence rates of worm infestation as per pooled data of 127 surveys is over 20%. Although most helminthic infections are mild and are often asymptomatic, but moderate to heavy worm infestations are generally associated with growth faltering, nutritional compromise, anemia and suboptimal academic performance among children from endemic regions. Migration of larval or adult worms also underpins pulmonary and gastrointestinal morbidity in affected children. Some of the distinctive life cycle and clinical features of various worms are discussed in the review. The gold standard diagnostic technique for evaluation of worm infestation includes stool microscopy for direct egg detection and species identification. Most of the community based surveys for detecting soil transmitted helminths (STH) use Kato-Katz technique. The drug armamentarium against worm infestation has evolved tremendously in last three to four decades with the availability of more efficacious and broad spectrum anthelminthics. The key strategies of a multi-component integrated management of worm infestation include individualized treatment, community management (mass drug administration) as well as preventive measures. Finally, barriers to diagnosis, treatment and prevention of worm infestations need to be identified and aggressively managed at individual, family and societal levels so that WHO's 75% coverage target can be achieved to eliminate soil transmitted helminthiasis in children by 2020.
Collapse
|
27
|
Krolewiecki AJ. Misconceptions and paradoxes in soil-transmitted helminthiases control as a public health problem. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006672. [PMID: 30212450 PMCID: PMC6136688 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminthiases (STHs) constitute a public health problem that requires immediate action to resolve the morbidity of those harboring the parasites in their guts, to prevent infection in all those at risk, and to interrupt the vicious circle of poverty and disease in the affected communities, structural poverty being the main determinant of this group of infectious diseases. Since the times of the Rockefeller initiatives over a hundred years ago, the strategy has been viewed as one requiring community-wide efforts rather than pure individual case management. The World Health Organization (WHO) and its regional offices, as the governing institutions endorsed by the countries and their governments, have been the leaders in stating the actual executive measures to reach the goals and endpoints for the management of the problem. With the task of setting a group of activities that could be launched, monitored, and measured, these actions were established with the available resources since this public health problem had to be launched immediately, resources were those available at the moment and not those appearing on a wish list. Considerable progress has been made in the establishment of policies for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), later followed by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through WHO-lead actions for the control of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). With an initial goal of morbidity control, there are already discussions and proposals for elimination of STH if support is sustained and empiric facts confirm data emerging from modeling and small-scale studies. The aim of these comments is to describe and question instances of currently accepted concepts, theories, and practices that conform to the dogmatic status quo that serves as the foundation on top of which the new elimination aspirations are supposed to be built on, which might not be serving the desired purpose if taken unrevised.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro J. Krolewiecki
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Enfermedades Tropicales, Universidad Nacional de Salta/Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Oran, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
New Advances in the Treatment of Trichuriasis. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40506-018-0169-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
29
|
Dejon-Agobé JC, Zinsou JF, Honkpehedji YJ, Ateba-Ngoa U, Edoa JR, Adegbite BR, Mombo-Ngoma G, Agnandji ST, Ramharter M, Kremsner PG, Lell B, Grobusch MP, Adegnika AA. Schistosoma haematobium effects on Plasmodium falciparum infection modified by soil-transmitted helminths in school-age children living in rural areas of Gabon. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006663. [PMID: 30080853 PMCID: PMC6095623 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria burden remains high in the sub-Saharan region where helminths are prevalent and where children are often infected with both types of parasites. Although the effect of helminths on malaria infection is evident, the impact of these co-infections is not clearly elucidated yet and the scarce findings are conflicting. In this study, we investigated the effect of schistosomiasis, considering soil-transmitted helminths (STH), on prevalence and incidence of Plasmodium falciparum infection. METHODOLOGY This longitudinal survey was conducted in school-age children living in two rural communities in the vicinity of Lambaréné, Gabon. Thick blood smear light microscopy, urine filtration and the Kato-Katz technique were performed to detect malaria parasites, S. haematobium eggs and, STH eggs, respectively. P. falciparum carriage was assessed at inclusion, and incidence of malaria and time to the first malaria event were recorded in correlation with Schistosoma carriage status. Stratified multivariate analysis using generalized linear model was used to assess the risk of plasmodium infection considering interaction with STH, and survival analysis to assess time to malaria. MAIN FINDINGS The overall prevalence on subject enrolment was 30%, 23% and 9% for S. haematobium, P. falciparum infections and co-infection with both parasites, respectively. Our results showed that schistosomiasis in children tends to increase the risk of plasmodium infection but a combined effect with Trichuris trichiura or hookworm infection clearly increase the risk (aOR = 3.9 [95%CI: 1.7-9.2]). The incidence of malaria over time was 0.51[95%CI: 0.45-0.57] per person-year and was higher in the Schistosoma-infected group compared to the non-infected group (0.61 vs 0.43, p = 0.02), with a significant delay of time-to first-malaria event only in children aged from 6 to 10-years-old infected with Schistosoma haematobium. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that STH enhance the risk for P. falciparum infection in schistosomiasis-positive children, and when infected, that schistosomiasis enhances susceptibility to developing malaria in young children but not in older children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean Claude Dejon-Agobé
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Center of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Jeannot Fréjus Zinsou
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Yabo Josiane Honkpehedji
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Ulysse Ateba-Ngoa
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Jean-Ronald Edoa
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Bayodé Roméo Adegbite
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Ghyslain Mombo-Ngoma
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Departement de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université des Sciences de la Santé, Owendo, Gabon
| | - Selidji Todagbe Agnandji
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen and Partner site Tübingen, German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michael Ramharter
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine & I, Department of Medicine, University Medical Centre, Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Peter Gottfried Kremsner
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen and Partner site Tübingen, German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bertrand Lell
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen and Partner site Tübingen, German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Martin Peter Grobusch
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Center of Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen and Partner site Tübingen, German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ayôla Akim Adegnika
- Centre de Recherche Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL) and African Partner Institution, German Center for Infection Research, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen and Partner site Tübingen, German Center for Infection Research, Tübingen, Germany
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Jourdan PM, Lamberton PHL, Fenwick A, Addiss DG. Soil-transmitted helminth infections. Lancet 2018; 391:252-265. [PMID: 28882382 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(17)31930-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 374] [Impact Index Per Article: 62.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Revised: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
More than a quarter of the world's population is at risk of infection with the soil-transmitted helminths Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus), Trichuris trichiura, and Strongyloides stercoralis. Infected children and adults present with a range of medical and surgical conditions, and clinicians should consider the possibility of infection in individuals living in, or returning from, endemic regions. Although safe and effective drugs are donated free to endemic countries, only half of at-risk children received treatment in 2016. This Seminar describes the epidemiology, lifecycles, pathophysiology, clinical diagnosis, management, and public health control of soil-transmitted helminths. Previous work has questioned the effect of population-level deworming; however, it remains beyond doubt that treatment reduces the severe consequences of soil-transmitted helminthiasis. We highlight the need for refined diagnostic tools and effective control options to scale up public health interventions and improve clinical detection and management of these infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Mark Jourdan
- Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, Imperial College London, St Mary's Campus, London, UK; DEWORM3, Natural History Museum, London, UK; Norwegian Centre for Imported and Tropical Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Oslo University Hospital, Ullevål, Oslo, Norway
| | - Poppy H L Lamberton
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, St Mary's Campus, London, UK; Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, The University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK; Wellcome Centre for Molecular Parasitology, The University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
| | - Alan Fenwick
- Schistosomiasis Control Initiative, Imperial College London, St Mary's Campus, London, UK
| | - David G Addiss
- The Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, GA, USA; Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Moser W, Schindler C, Keiser J. Efficacy of recommended drugs against soil transmitted helminths: systematic review and network meta-analysis. BMJ 2017; 358:j4307. [PMID: 28947636 PMCID: PMC5611648 DOI: 10.1136/bmj.j4307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 179] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate efficacies of anthelmintic drugs against soil transmitted helminths in terms of cure rates and egg reduction rates.Design Systematic review and network meta-analysis.Data Sources PubMed, ISI Web of Science, Embase, ScienceDirect, the Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials, and the World Health Organization library database from 1960 until 31 December 2016.Study selection Randomised controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of a single dose regimen of albendazole, mebendazole, levamisole, and pyrantel pamoate against Ascaris lumbricoides, hookworm (Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale) and Trichuris trichiura. The primary outcomes included cure rates analysed by network meta-analysis with mixed logistic regression models and egg reduction rates with mixed linear models.Results 55 and 46 randomised controlled trials were included in the analysis of cure rates and egg reduction rates, respectively. All drugs were highly efficacious against A lumbricoides Albendazole showed the highest efficacy against hookworm infections with a cure rate of 79.5% (95% confidence interval 71.5% to 85.6%) and an egg reduction rate of 89.6% (81.9% to 97.3%). All drugs had low efficacy against T trichiura, with mebendazole showing the highest cure rate of 42.1% (25.9% to 60.2%) and egg reduction rate of 66.0% (54.6% to 77.3%). Estimates for the years 1995 and 2015 showed significant reductions in efficacy of albendazole against T trichiura: by 2015 the egg reduction rates fell from 72.6% (53.7% to 91.5%) to 43.4% (23.5% to 63.3%; P=0.049) and the cure rates fell from 38.6% (26.2% to 52.7%) to 16.4 (7.7% to 31.3%; P=0.027).Conclusions All four currently recommended drugs show limitations in their efficacy profile. While only albendazole showed good efficacy against hookworm infection, all drugs had low efficacy against T trichiura The decrease in efficacy of albendazole against T trichiura over the past two decades is of concern. The findings indicate the need for strengthening efforts to develop new drug treatments, with a particular focus on drugs against T trichiura.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wendelin Moser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, PO Box, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Christian Schindler
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, PO Box, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, PO Box, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
|
33
|
Weaver KJ, May CJ, Ellis BL. Using a health-rating system to evaluate the usefulness of Caenorhabditis elegans as a model for anthelmintic study. PLoS One 2017. [PMID: 28632749 PMCID: PMC5478128 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) are intestinal parasitic nematodes that infect humans, and are transmitted through contaminated soil. These nematodes include the large roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides), whipworm (Trichuris trichiura), and hookworm (Ancylostoma ceylanicum, Ancylostoma duodenale, and Necator americanus). Nearly 1.5 billion people (~24% of the population) worldwide are infected with at least one species of these parasites, burdening the poor, in particular, children and pregnant women. To combat these diseases, the WHO only recognizes four anthelmintic drugs, including the preferred drug, albendazole, for mass drug administration (MDA). These four drugs have a total of two different mechanisms of action, and, as expected, resistance has been observed. This problem calls for new drugs with different mechanisms of action. Although there is precedence for the use of Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), a free-living nematode, as a model for drug screening and anthelmintic testing, their usefulness for such anthelmintic study is not clear as past research has shown that C. elegans did not show a strong response to albendazole, the MDA drug of choice, in comparison with various STHs under similar treatment. To further examine if C. elegans has the potential to be a good model organism for anthelmintic drug study, we employed a health rating scale in order to tease out potential effects of albendazole, and other anthelmintics, that may have been missed using a binary, dead/alive scale. Using the health-rating scale we found that although the worms may have not been dying, they were sick, showing dose responses to anthelmintic drugs, including albendazole, reinforcing C. elegans as a useful model for anthelmintic study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J. Weaver
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Bethel College, Mishawaka, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Cassandra J. May
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Bethel College, Mishawaka, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Brian L. Ellis
- Department of Biology and Chemistry, Bethel College, Mishawaka, Indiana, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Ndounga Diakou LA, Ntoumi F, Ravaud P, Boutron I. Published randomized trials performed in Sub-Saharan Africa focus on high-burden diseases but are frequently funded and led by high-income countries. J Clin Epidemiol 2017; 82:29-36.e6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jclinepi.2016.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2016] [Revised: 10/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
|
35
|
Loukas A, Hotez PJ, Diemert D, Yazdanbakhsh M, McCarthy JS, Correa-Oliveira R, Croese J, Bethony JM. Hookworm infection. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2016; 2:16088. [PMID: 27929101 DOI: 10.1038/nrdp.2016.88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Hookworms are soil-transmitted nematode parasites that can reside for many years in the small intestine of their human hosts; Necator americanus is the predominant infecting species. Adult worms feed on the blood of a host and can cause iron deficiency anaemia, especially in high-risk populations (children and women of childbearing age). Almost 500 million people in developing tropical countries are infected, and simulation models estimate that hookworm infection is responsible for >4 million disability-adjusted life years lost annually. Humans mount an immune response to hookworms, but it is mostly unsuccessful at removing adult worms from the bowel. Accordingly, the host switches to an immune-tolerant state that enables hookworms to reside in the gut for many years. Although anthelmintic drugs are available and widely used, their efficacy varies and the drugs do not prevent reinfection. Thus, other control strategies aimed at improving water quality, sanitation and hygiene are needed. In addition, efforts are underway to develop a human hookworm vaccine through public-private partnerships. However, hookworms could also be a resource; as hookworms have the capability to regulate the host's inflammation, researchers are experimentally infecting patients to treat some inflammatory diseases as an approach to discover new anti-inflammatory molecules. This area of endeavour might well yield new biotherapeutics for autoimmune and allergic diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alex Loukas
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, Building E4, James Cook University, McGregor Rd, Smithfield, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia
| | - Peter J Hotez
- Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology and Microbiology, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College Of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.,Sabin Vaccine Institute, Houston, Texas, USA.,Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - David Diemert
- Department of Microbiology, Tropical Medicine and Immunology, George Washington University, Washington DC, USA.,Sabin Vaccine Institute, Washington DC, USA
| | - Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - James S McCarthy
- Queensland Institute of Medical Research (QIMR) Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - John Croese
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, Building E4, James Cook University, McGregor Rd, Smithfield, Cairns, Queensland 4878, Australia.,Department of Gastroenterology, Prince Charles Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jeffrey M Bethony
- Department of Microbiology, Tropical Medicine and Immunology, George Washington University, Washington DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Bartsch SM, Hotez PJ, Asti L, Zapf KM, Bottazzi ME, Diemert DJ, Lee BY. The Global Economic and Health Burden of Human Hookworm Infection. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004922. [PMID: 27607360 PMCID: PMC5015833 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Even though human hookworm infection is highly endemic in many countries throughout the world, its global economic and health impact is not well known. Without a better understanding of hookworm's economic burden worldwide, it is difficult for decision makers such as funders, policy makers, disease control officials, and intervention manufacturers to determine how much time, energy, and resources to invest in hookworm control. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPLE FINDINGS We developed a computational simulation model to estimate the economic and health burden of hookworm infection in every country, WHO region, and globally, in 2016 from the societal perspective. Globally, hookworm infection resulted in a total 2,126,280 DALYs using 2004 disability weight estimates and 4,087,803 DALYs using 2010 disability weight estimates (excluding cognitive impairment outcomes). Including cognitive impairment did not significantly increase DALYs worldwide. Total productivity losses varied with the probability of anemia and calculation method used, ranging from $7.5 billion to $138.9 billion annually using gross national income per capita as a proxy for annual wages and ranging from $2.5 billion to $43.9 billion using minimum wage as a proxy for annual wages. CONCLUSION Even though hookworm is classified as a neglected tropical disease, its economic and health burden exceeded published estimates for a number of diseases that have received comparatively more attention than hookworm such as rotavirus. Additionally, certain large countries that are transitioning to higher income countries such as Brazil and China, still face considerable hookworm burden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M. Bartsch
- Public Health Computational and Operational Research (PHICOR), Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Global Obesity Prevention Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Peter J. Hotez
- National School of Tropical Medicine, and Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Sabin Vaccine Institute, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Lindsey Asti
- Public Health Computational and Operational Research (PHICOR), Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Global Obesity Prevention Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Kristina M. Zapf
- Public Health Computational and Operational Research (PHICOR), Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Global Obesity Prevention Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Maria Elena Bottazzi
- National School of Tropical Medicine, and Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Sabin Vaccine Institute, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - David J. Diemert
- Sabin Vaccine Institute, Washington, D.C., United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Bruce Y. Lee
- Public Health Computational and Operational Research (PHICOR), Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
- Global Obesity Prevention Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
Ascariasis is a common infestation in developing countries where there is poor hygiene. A majority of the cases are asymptomatic, with a few cases presenting with mild abdominal pain and nutritional deficiencies in the long term. Here we present a case of a young boy who presented as a diagnostic dilemma, with signs of acute intestinal obstruction without any supporting radiological evidence. A barium study revealed the presence of low-burden Ascaris infestation that was managed medically.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Waqas Khan
- Section of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Emergency Medicine and Trauma Care, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Sanniya Khan Ghauri
- Section of Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Emergency Medicine and Trauma Care, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Ascaris and hookworm transmission in preschool children in rural Panama: role of subsistence agricultural activities. Parasitology 2016; 143:1043-54. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182016000366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
SUMMARYThis longitudinal study explored whether aspects of subsistence agriculture were associated with presence and intensity of Ascaris and hookworm in preschool children in rural Panama. Questionnaires were used to collect data on household socio-demographics, child exposure to agriculture and household agricultural practices. Stool samples were collected from children (6 months–5 years) at 3 time points, with albendazole administered after each to clear infections, resulting in 1 baseline and 2 reinfection measures. A novel Agricultural Activity Index (AAI) was developed using principal components analysis to measure the intensity of household agricultural practices. Zero-inflated negative binomial regression models revealed baseline hookworm egg counts were higher if children went to the agricultural plot and if the plot was smaller. Baseline and reinfection Ascaris egg counts were higher if children went to the plot and households had higher AAI, and higher at baseline if the plot was smaller. Caregiver time in the plot was negatively associated with baseline Ascaris egg counts, but positively associated with baseline hookworm and Ascaris reinfection egg counts. Children who spent more time playing around the home were less likely to be infected with Ascaris at baseline. We conclude that preschool child exposure to subsistence agriculture increased Ascaris and hookworm intensity.
Collapse
|
39
|
Bartsch SM, Hotez PJ, Hertenstein DL, Diemert DJ, Zapf KM, Bottazzi ME, Bethony JM, Brown ST, Lee BY. Modeling the economic and epidemiologic impact of hookworm vaccine and mass drug administration (MDA) in Brazil, a high transmission setting. Vaccine 2016; 34:2197-206. [PMID: 27002501 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Revised: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although mass drug administration (MDA) has helped reduce morbidity attributed to soil-transmitted helminth infections in children, its limitations for hookworm infection have motivated the development of a human hookworm vaccine to both improve morbidity control and ultimately help block hookworm transmission leading to elimination. However, the potential economic and epidemiologic impact of a preventive vaccine has not been fully evaluated. METHODS We developed a dynamic compartment model coupled to a clinical and economics outcomes model representing both the human and hookworm populations in a high transmission region of Brazil. Experiments simulated different implementation scenarios of MDA and vaccination under varying circumstances. RESULTS Considering only intervention costs, both annual MDA and vaccination were highly cost-effective (ICERs ≤ $790/DALY averted) compared to no intervention, with vaccination resulting in lower incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs ≤ $444/DALY averted). From the societal perspective, vaccination was economically dominant (i.e., less costly and more effective) versus annual MDA in all tested scenarios, except when vaccination was less efficacious (20% efficacy, 5 year duration) and MDA coverage was 75%. Increasing the vaccine's duration of protection and efficacy, and including a booster injection in adulthood all increased the benefits of vaccination (i.e., resulted in lower hookworm prevalence, averted more disability-adjusted life years, and saved more costs). Assuming its target product profile, a pediatric hookworm vaccine drastically decreased hookworm prevalence in children to 14.6% after 20 years, compared to 57.2% with no intervention and 54.1% with MDA. The addition of a booster in adulthood further reduced the overall prevalence from 68.0% to 36.0% and nearly eliminated hookworm infection in children. CONCLUSION Using a human hookworm vaccine would be cost-effective and in many cases economically dominant, providing both health benefits and cost-savings. It could become a key technology in effecting control and elimination efforts for hookworm globally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Bartsch
- Public Health Computational and Operational Research (PHICOR), Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Global Obesity Prevention Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Peter J Hotez
- National School of Tropical Medicine, and Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, BCM113, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Sabin Vaccine Institute, 2000 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA
| | - Daniel L Hertenstein
- Public Health Computational and Operational Research (PHICOR), Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Global Obesity Prevention Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - David J Diemert
- Sabin Vaccine Institute, 2000 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Kristina M Zapf
- Public Health Computational and Operational Research (PHICOR), Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Global Obesity Prevention Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Maria Elena Bottazzi
- National School of Tropical Medicine, and Departments of Pediatrics and Molecular Virology & Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, BCM113, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Sabin Vaccine Institute, 2000 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Bethony
- Sabin Vaccine Institute, 2000 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006, USA; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20037, USA
| | - Shawn T Brown
- Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center, Carnegie Mellon University, 300S Craig St, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Bruce Y Lee
- Public Health Computational and Operational Research (PHICOR), Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA; Global Obesity Prevention Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Factors Associated with Retention to Care in an HIV Clinic in Gabon, Central Africa. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0140746. [PMID: 26473965 PMCID: PMC4608719 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0140746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Retention to HIV care is vital for patients’ survival, to prevent onward transmission and emergence of drug resistance. Travelling to receive care might influence adherence. Data on the functioning of and retention to HIV care in the Central African region are limited. Methods This retrospective study reports outcomes and factors associated with retention to HIV care at a primary HIV clinic in Lambaréné, Gabon. Adult patients who presented to this clinic between January 2010 and January 2012 were included. Outcomes were retention in care (defined as documented show-up for clinical visits, regardless of delay) or LTFU (defined as a patient not retained in care; on ART or ART naïve, not returning to care during the study period with a patient delay for scheduled visits of more than 6 months), and mortality. Cox regression analysis was used to assess factors associated with respective outcomes. Qualitative data on reasons for LTFU were obtained from focus-group discussions. Results Of 223 patients included, 67.3% were female. The mean age was 40.5 (standard deviation 11.4) years and the median CD4 count 275 (interquartile range 100.5–449.5) cells/μL. In total, 34.1% were lost to follow up and 8.1% died. Documented tuberculosis was associated with increased risk of being LTFU (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.80, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.05–3.11, P = 0.03), whereas early starting anti-retroviral therapy (ART) was associated with a decreased risk of LTFU (aHR 0.43, 95%CI 0.24–0.76, P = 0.004), as was confirmed by qualitative data. Conclusions Retention to HIV care in a primary clinic in Gabon is relatively poor and interventions to address this should be prioritized in the HIV program. Early initiation of ART might improve retention in care.
Collapse
|
41
|
|
42
|
Norman FF, Monge-Maillo B, Martínez-Pérez Á, Perez-Molina JA, López-Vélez R. Parasitic infections in travelers and immigrants: part II helminths and ectoparasites. Future Microbiol 2015; 10:87-99. [PMID: 25598339 DOI: 10.2217/fmb.14.106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Travel and migration contribute to the emergence of certain parasites which may be imported into nonendemic areas. Noncontrolled importation of food products and animals may also contribute to the diagnosis of infections caused by helminths in nonendemic countries. Some helminth infections such as strongyloidiasis may be life-threatening, especially in immunocompromised patients, and outcome depends on correct diagnosis and treatment. Other helminth infections are neglected tropical diseases associated with chronic disease and/or disability. Major challenges concern the development of improved diagnostic techniques, safer and more effective drug therapies and identification of markers of response to treatment. The study of these imported infections in travelers and immigrants may provide opportunities for research which may not be readily available in resource-poor endemic countries. Updated reviews and guidelines are necessary as new data become available. The second part of this review focuses on infections in travelers and immigrants caused by helminths and ectoparasites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesca F Norman
- Tropical Medicine & Clinical Parasitology, Infectious Diseases Department, Ramon y Cajal Hospital, Ctra. De Colmenar Km 9.1, 28034 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Brückner S, Agnandji ST, Berberich S, Bache E, Fernandes JF, Schweiger B, Massinga Loembe M, Engleitner T, Lell B, Mordmüller B, Adegnika AA, Yazdanbakhsh M, Kremsner PG, Esen M. Effect of Antihelminthic Treatment on Vaccine Immunogenicity to a Seasonal Influenza Vaccine in Primary School Children in Gabon: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0003768. [PMID: 26053679 PMCID: PMC4459874 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2014] [Accepted: 04/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helminth infections are a major public health problem, especially in the tropics. Infected individuals have an altered immune response with evidence that antibody response to vaccination is impaired. Hence, treatment of helminth infections before vaccination may be a simple intervention to improve vaccine immunogenicity. In the present study we investigated whether a single-dose antihelminthic treatment influences antibody responses to a seasonal influenza vaccine in primary school children living in Gabon, Central Africa. METHODS In this placebo-controlled double-blind trial conducted in Gabon the effect of a single-dose antihelminthic treatment with 400 mg albendazole versus a placebo one month prior to immunization with a seasonal influenza vaccine was investigated. Antiviral antibody titers against all three vaccine strains were assessed by haemagglutination inhibition (HI) test at baseline (Day 0; vaccination) and four weeks (Day 28) as well as 12 weeks (Day 84) following vaccination. Vaccine-specific memory B-cell response was measured at Day 0 and Day 84 by vaccine-specific Enzyme-linked Immunospot (ELISpot) assay. The trial is registered with the Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR) (PACTR201303000434188). RESULTS 98 school children aged 6-10 years were randomly allocated to receive either antihelminthic treatment or placebo and were vaccinated one month after the treatment. The prevalence of helminths at baseline was 21%. Vaccine-specific HI titers against at least one of the three vaccine strains increased at Day 28 and Day 84 in all participants. HI titers against both influenza A strains as well as memory B-cell response were modestly higher in the antihelminthic treated group compared to the placebo group but the difference was not statistically significant. Total but not specific IgA was elevated in the antihelminthic treated group compared to the control group at Day 28. CONCLUSION In our setting antihelminthic treatment had no significant effect on influenza vaccine immunogenicity. A trend towards better antiviral and vaccine immunogenicity in the antihelminthic treated group encourages studies to be conducted with alternative treatment schedules or in populations with a higher helminth burden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sina Brückner
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Selidji T. Agnandji
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Stefan Berberich
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Emmanuel Bache
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - José F. Fernandes
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Brunhilde Schweiger
- Nationales Referenzzentrum für Influenza, Robert-Koch-Institut, Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Thomas Engleitner
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Bertrand Lell
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Benjamin Mordmüller
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Ayola A. Adegnika
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Lambaréné, Gabon
- Leiden Medical University Center, Department of Parasitology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Leiden Medical University Center, Department of Parasitology, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Peter G. Kremsner
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Meral Esen
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, Albert Schweitzer Hospital, Lambaréné, Gabon
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Janssen S, Hermans S, Knap M, Moekotte A, Rossatanga EG, Adegnika AA, Bélard S, Hänscheid T, Grobusch MP. Impact of Anti-Retroviral Treatment and Cotrimoxazole Prophylaxis on Helminth Infections in HIV-Infected Patients in Lambaréné, Gabon. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0003769. [PMID: 25993501 PMCID: PMC4439024 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2015] [Accepted: 04/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Foci of the HIV epidemic and helminthic infections largely overlap geographically. Treatment options for helminth infections are limited, and there is a paucity of drug-development research in this area. Limited evidence suggests that antiretroviral therapy (ART) reduces prevalence of helminth infections in HIV-infected individuals. We investigated whether ART exposure and cotrimoxazole preventive therapy (CTX-P) is associated with a reduced prevalence of helminth infections. Methodology and Principal Findings This cross-sectional study was conducted at a primary HIV-clinic in Lambaréné, Gabon. HIV-infected adults who were ART-naïve or exposed to ART for at least 3 months submitted one blood sample and stool and urine samples on 3 consecutive days. Outcome was helminth infection with intestinal helminths, Schistosoma haematobium, Loa loa or Mansonella perstans. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess associations between ART or CTX-P and helminth infection. In total, 408 patients were enrolled. Helminth infection was common (77/252 [30.5%]). Filarial infections were most prevalent (55/310 [17.7%]), followed by infection with intestinal helminths (35/296 [11.8%]) and S. haematobium (19/323 [5.9%]). Patients on CTX-P had a reduced risk of Loa loa microfilaremia (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.47, 95% CI 0.23-0.97, P = 0.04), also in the subgroup of patients on ART (aOR 0.36, 95% CI 0.13-0.96, P = 0.04). There was no effect of ART exposure on helminth infection prevalence. Conclusions/Significance CTX-P use was associated with a decreased risk of Loa loa infection, suggesting an anthelminthic effect of antifolate drugs. No relation between ART use and helminth infections was established. The geographical distribution of helminth infections, which are highly prevalent in many areas, overlaps considerably with regions of high HIV sero-prevalence. The highest burden of infection is found in resource-poor settings, making it unattractive for the pharmaceutical industry to invest. Limited available treatment options and drug-resistance are increasing problems for soil-transmitted helminths, whereas for some other helminth infections, such as for the blood-dwelling microfilariae, effective and safe treatment options are still far from being optimal. Limited evidence suggests antihelminthic effects of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in HIV-infected individuals. We aimed to investigate whether ART or cotrimoxazole preventive treatment (CTX-P) reduces prevalence of helminth infection in HIV-infected individuals attending a primary HIV clinic in a semi-rural area in Gabon. The most important finding of our study was that the use of CTX-P was associated with a reduced prevalence of Loa loa microfilaremia. ART use was not associated with a reduced prevalence of helminth infections. Additional studies are needed to assess the effects of CTX on helminth infections, as this might be a promising safe and effective drug adding to the limited repertoire of anthelminthic drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saskia Janssen
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre de Traitement Ambulatoire (CTA), Lambaréné, Gabon
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Clinical Infectious Diseases Research Initiative, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- * E-mail:
| | - Sabine Hermans
- Desmond Tutu HIV Centre, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Martijn Knap
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon
| | - Alma Moekotte
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon
| | | | - Akim A. Adegnika
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Sabine Bélard
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Pediatric Pneumology and Immunology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Hänscheid
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon
- Instituto de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Martin P. Grobusch
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Travel Medicine, Department of Infectious Diseases, Division of Internal Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné (CERMEL), Lambaréné, Gabon
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Clinical Infectious Diseases Research Initiative, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Department of Global Health, Amsterdam Institute for Global Health and Development, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
|
46
|
Ateba-Ngoa U, Adegnika AA, Zinsou JF, Kassa Kassa RF, Smits H, Massinga-Loembe M, Mordmüller B, Kremsner PG, Yazdanbakhsh M. Cytokine and chemokine profile of the innate and adaptive immune response of Schistosoma haematobium and Plasmodium falciparum single and co-infected school-aged children from an endemic area of Lambaréné, Gabon. Malar J 2015; 14:94. [PMID: 25890010 PMCID: PMC4365807 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-015-0608-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2014] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Helminths and malaria are among the most prevalent infectious diseases in the world. They both occur in tropical area where they often affect the same populations. There are studies suggesting an effect of helminths on malariometric indices. For example, malaria attacks as well as disease severity has been shown to be influenced by a concurrent chronic helminth infection. However, there are also studies that show no effect of concurrent helminth infections on malarial outcomes. To start addressing this issue, the effect of chronic Schistosoma haematobium infection on both the innate and adaptive immune response of Plasmodium falciparum-infected subjects was assessed in an area endemic for both these infections in Gabon. METHOD Subjects infected with S. haematobium and or P. falciparum, as well as a control group with neither of these infections, were recruited. For innate immune response, heparinized blood was obtained and cultured for 24 hours with a panel of TLR ligands. For adaptive immune response, PBMC was isolated and stimulated with SEB for 72 hours. Cytokines and chemokines were measured in supernatants using a multiplex beads array immunoassay. Principal Component analysis was used to assess pattern of cytokine and chemokine responses representing the innate and adaptive components of the immune system. RESULTS Overall it was observed that the presence of P. falciparum infection was marked by an increase in innate and adaptive immune responsiveness while S. haematobium infection was characterized by an increased chemokine profile, with at the same time, lower pro inflammatory markers. When the study subjects were split into single infected and co-infected groups no effect of S. haematobium on the immune response of P. falciparum infected subjects was observed, neither for the innate nor for the adaptive component of the immune response. CONCLUSION This study provides original information on the cellular immune response of S. haematobium and/or P. falciparum in infected subjects. It rules out an effect of S. haematobium on the cytokine profile of subjects co-infected with P. falciparum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulysse Ateba-Ngoa
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333, Leiden, ZA, The Netherlands. .,Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen, Wilhelmstraβe 27, D-72074, Tübingen, Germany. .,Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, BP: 118, Lambaréné, Gabon.
| | - Ayola Akim Adegnika
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333, Leiden, ZA, The Netherlands. .,Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen, Wilhelmstraβe 27, D-72074, Tübingen, Germany. .,Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, BP: 118, Lambaréné, Gabon.
| | - Jeannot F Zinsou
- Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, BP: 118, Lambaréné, Gabon.
| | | | - Hermelijn Smits
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333, Leiden, ZA, The Netherlands.
| | - Marguerite Massinga-Loembe
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen, Wilhelmstraβe 27, D-72074, Tübingen, Germany. .,Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, BP: 118, Lambaréné, Gabon.
| | - Benjamin Mordmüller
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen, Wilhelmstraβe 27, D-72074, Tübingen, Germany. .,Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, BP: 118, Lambaréné, Gabon.
| | - Peter G Kremsner
- Institut für Tropenmedizin, Universität Tübingen, Wilhelmstraβe 27, D-72074, Tübingen, Germany. .,Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, BP: 118, Lambaréné, Gabon.
| | - Maria Yazdanbakhsh
- Department of Parasitology, Leiden University Medical Center, Albinusdreef 2, 2333, Leiden, ZA, The Netherlands. .,Centre de Recherches Médicales de Lambaréné, BP: 118, Lambaréné, Gabon.
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Ramamoorthi R, Graef KM, Dent J. WIPO Re:Search: Accelerating anthelmintic development through cross-sector partnerships. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2014; 4:220-5. [PMID: 25516832 PMCID: PMC4266808 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2014.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
WIPO Re:Search leverages pharmaceutical assets to advance anthelmintic research. BIO Ventures for Global Health (BVGH) facilitates collaborations and capacity building. Novartis scientists trained a Cameroonian researcher on advanced biochemistry skills. Researchers from Canada and Cameroon partnered to discover onchocerciasis drugs. Natural products were screened against schistosomes and soil-transmitted helminths.
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), malaria, and tuberculosis have a devastating effect on an estimated 1.6 billion people worldwide. The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Re:Search consortium accelerates the development of new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostics for these diseases by connecting the assets and resources of pharmaceutical companies, such as compound libraries and expertise, to academic or nonprofit researchers with novel product discovery or development ideas. As the WIPO Re:Search Partnership Hub Administrator, BIO Ventures for Global Health (BVGH) fields requests from researchers, identifies Member organizations able to fulfill these requests, and helps forge mutually beneficial collaborations. Since its inception in October 2011, WIPO Re:Search membership has expanded to more than 90 institutions, including leading pharmaceutical companies, universities, nonprofit research institutions, and product development partnerships from around the world. To date, WIPO Re:Search has facilitated over 70 research agreements between Consortium Members, including 11 collaborations focused on anthelmintic drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roopa Ramamoorthi
- BIO Ventures for Global Health, 401 Terry Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
| | - Katy M Graef
- BIO Ventures for Global Health, 401 Terry Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
| | - Jennifer Dent
- BIO Ventures for Global Health, 401 Terry Avenue North, Seattle, WA 98109, United States
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
|