1
|
Altwaim SA, Alsaady IM, Gattan HS, Alruhaili MH, Khateb AM, El-Daly MM, Dubey A, Dwivedi VD, Azhar EI. Exploring the anti-protozoal mechanisms of Syzygium aromaticum phytochemicals targeting Cryptosporidium parvum lactate dehydrogenase through molecular dynamics simulations. Arch Biochem Biophys 2024; 760:110124. [PMID: 39154815 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2024.110124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum), a protozoan parasite, is known to induce significant gastrointestinal disease in humans. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), a protein of C. parvum, has been identified as a potential therapeutic target for developing effective drugs against infection. This study utilized a computational drug discovery approach to identify potential drug molecules against the LDH protein of C. parvum. In the present investigation, we conducted a structure-based virtual screening of 55 phytochemicals from the Syzygium aromaticum (S. aromaticum). This process identified four phytochemicals, including Gallotannin 23, Eugeniin, Strictinin, and Ellagitannin, that demonstrated significant binding affinity and dynamic stability with LDH protein. Interestingly, these four compounds have been documented to possess antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The docked complexes were simulated for 100 ns using Desmond to check the dynamic stability. Finally, the free binding energy was computed from the last 10ns MD trajectories. Gallotannin 23 and Ellagitannin exhibited considerable binding affinity and stability with the target protein among all four phytochemicals. These findings suggest that these predicted phytochemicals from S. aromaticum could be further explored as potential hit candidates for developing effective drugs against C. parvum infection. The in vitro and in vivo experimental validation is still required to confirm their efficacy and safety as LDH inhibitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Altwaim
- Special Infectious Agents Unit - BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Centre, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine. King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia
| | - Isra M Alsaady
- Special Infectious Agents Unit - BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Centre, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hattan S Gattan
- Special Infectious Agents Unit - BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Centre, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed H Alruhaili
- Special Infectious Agents Unit - BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Centre, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine. King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aiah M Khateb
- Special Infectious Agents Unit - BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Centre, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madinah, 42353, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mai M El-Daly
- Special Infectious Agents Unit - BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Centre, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amit Dubey
- Computational Chemistry & Drug Discovery Division, Quanta Calculus, Greater Noida, India
| | - Vivek Dhar Dwivedi
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha University, Chennai, 605102, India; Bioinformatics Research Division, Quanta Calculus, Greater Noida, India.
| | - Esam I Azhar
- Special Infectious Agents Unit - BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Centre, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 20136, Saudi Arabia.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ligda P, Mittas N, Kyzas GZ, Claerebout E, Sotiraki S. Machine learning and explainable artificial intelligence for the prevention of waterborne cryptosporidiosis and giardiosis. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 262:122110. [PMID: 39042970 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.122110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium and Giardia are important parasitic protozoa due to their zoonotic potential and impact on human health, and have often caused waterborne outbreaks of disease. Detection of (oo)cysts in water matrices is challenging and extremely costly, thus only few countries have legislated for regular monitoring of drinking water for their presence. Several attempts have been made trying to investigate the association between the presence of such (oo)cysts in waters with other biotic or abiotic factors, with inconclusive findings. In this regard, the aim of this study was the development of an holistic approach leveraging Machine Learning (ML) and eXplainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) techniques, in order to provide empirical evidence related to the presence and prediction of Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cysts in water samples. To meet this objective, we initially modelled the complex relationship between Cryptosporidium and Giardia (oo)cysts and a set of parasitological, microbiological, physicochemical and meteorological parameters via a model-agnostic meta-learner algorithm that provides flexibility regarding the selection of the ML model executing the fitting task. Based on this generic approach, a set of four well-known ML candidates were, empirically, evaluated in terms of their predictive capabilities. Then, the best-performed algorithms, were further examined through XAI techniques for gaining meaningful insights related to the explainability and interpretability of the derived solutions. The findings reveal that the Random Forest achieves the highest prediction performance when the objective is the prediction of both contamination and contamination intensity with Cryptosporidium oocysts in a given water sample, with meteorological/physicochemical and microbiological markers being informative, respectively. For the prediction of contamination with Giardia, the eXtreme Gradient Boosting with physicochemical parameters was the most efficient algorithm, while, the Support Vector Regression that takes into consideration both microbiological and meteorological markers was more efficient for evaluating the contamination intensity with cysts. The results of the study designate that the adoption of ML and XAI approaches can be considered as a valuable tool for unveiling the complicated correlation of the presence and contamination intensity with these zoonotic parasites that could constitute, in turn, a basis for the development of monitoring platforms and early warning systems for the prevention of waterborne disease outbreaks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panagiota Ligda
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization - DIMITRA, Thermi, Thessaloniki 57001, Greece.
| | - Nikolaos Mittas
- Hephaestus Laboratory, School of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Democritus University of Thrace, Kavala GR-65404, Greece
| | - George Z Kyzas
- Hephaestus Laboratory, School of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Democritus University of Thrace, Kavala GR-65404, Greece
| | - Edwin Claerebout
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, Merelbeke B-9820, Belgium
| | - Smaragda Sotiraki
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization - DIMITRA, Thermi, Thessaloniki 57001, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ali DH, Gaji RY. TKL family kinases in human apicomplexan pathogens. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2024; 259:111628. [PMID: 38719028 PMCID: PMC11182715 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2024.111628] [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: 01/18/2024] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Apicomplexan parasites are the primary causative agents of many human diseases, including malaria, toxoplasmosis, and cryptosporidiosis. These opportunistic pathogens undergo complex life cycles with multiple developmental stages, wherein many key steps are regulated by phosphorylation mechanisms. The genomes of apicomplexan pathogens contain protein kinases from different groups including tyrosine kinase-like (TKL) family proteins. Although information on the role of TKL kinases in apicomplexans is quite limited, recent studies have revealed the important role of this family of proteins in apicomplexan biology. TKL kinases in these protozoan pathogens show unique organization with many novel domains thus making them attractive candidates for drug development. In this mini review, we summarize the current understanding of the role of TKL kinases in human apicomplexan pathogens' (Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium falciparum and Cryptosporidium parvum) biology and pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dima Hajj Ali
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Rajshekhar Y Gaji
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tamrat H, Tekle Y, Hailemelekot M, Belayneh N. Prevalence and associated risk factors of Cryptosporidium infection in calves and hospitalized humans in Libo Kemkem, North Western Ethiopia. Vet Med Sci 2024; 10:e70040. [PMID: 39285771 PMCID: PMC11405928 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.70040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 07/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidium infection is one of the major causes of acute gastroenteritis and diarrhoea caused by a protozoan parasite affecting vertebrates and humans. The disease is prevalent in cases of immunocompromised individuals. Despite the impact of the diseases in calf and hospitalized humans, well-documented studies are not available in the study area. OBJECTIVES The objectives of this study were to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in calves and hospitalized humans and assess the major associated risk factors associated with Cryptosporidium infection in calves and hospitalized humans. METHOD A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2020 to March 2021 on calf and human Cryptosporidium infection in Libo Kemkem District, North West Ethiopia. A total of 193 calves and 122 human stool samples admitted to the hospital were used for this study. Three kebeles were selected purposely, and individual calves were selected using a simple random sampling method. A number of sampled calves were allocated proportionally to the selected kebeles. Human samples were collected using a systematic random sampling method. Faecal and stool samples were examined using a modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining method. RESULT The overall prevalence of calf and human Cryptosporidium infection found in this study was 15.5% and 11.5%, respectively. Age of calf, breed, body condition, water source, faecal consistency and hygienic condition were found significantly (p < 0.05) associated with Cryptosporidium infection in the calf. Similarly, the source of potable water, immunocompromisation and contact with domestic animals were found to be significantly (p < 0.05) associated with Cryptosporidium infection in humans. CONCLUSION There was a higher prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in calves and humans in Libo Kemkem District. Therefore, the implementation of proper prevention methods of zoonotic Cryptosporidium infection between calf and human beings through significant risk factors is mandatory. Furthermore, additional studies to investigate the levels of economic importance of the disease should be conducted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Habtamu Tamrat
- School of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineCollege of Agriculture and Environmental SciencesBahir Dar UniversityBahir DarEthiopia
| | | | - Mussie Hailemelekot
- School of Animal Science and Veterinary MedicineCollege of Agriculture and Environmental SciencesBahir Dar UniversityBahir DarEthiopia
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Back PS, Senthilkumar V, Choi CP, Quan JJ, Lou Q, Snyder AK, Ly AM, Lau JG, Zhou ZH, Ward GE, Bradley PJ. Alveolin proteins in the Toxoplasma inner membrane complex form a highly interconnected structure that maintains parasite shape and replication. PLoS Biol 2024; 22:e3002809. [PMID: 39264987 PMCID: PMC11421793 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3002809] [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: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 09/24/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Apicomplexan parasites possess several specialized structures to invade their host cells and replicate successfully. One of these is the inner membrane complex (IMC), a peripheral membrane-cytoskeletal system underneath the plasma membrane. It is composed of a series of flattened, membrane-bound vesicles and a cytoskeletal subpellicular network (SPN) comprised of intermediate filament-like proteins called alveolins. While the alveolin proteins are conserved throughout the Apicomplexa and the broader Alveolata, their precise functions and interactions remain poorly understood. Here, we describe the function of one of these alveolin proteins in Toxoplasma, IMC6. Disruption of IMC6 resulted in striking morphological defects that led to aberrant invasion and replication but surprisingly minor effects on motility. Deletion analyses revealed that the alveolin domain alone is largely sufficient to restore localization and partially sufficient for function. As this highlights the importance of the IMC6 alveolin domain, we implemented unnatural amino acid photoreactive crosslinking to the alveolin domain and identified multiple binding interfaces between IMC6 and 2 other cytoskeletal IMC proteins-IMC3 and ILP1. This provides direct evidence of protein-protein interactions in the alveolin domain and supports the long-held hypothesis that the alveolin domain is responsible for filament formation. Collectively, our study features the conserved alveolin proteins as critical components that maintain the parasite's structural integrity and highlights the alveolin domain as a key mediator of SPN architecture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter S Back
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Vignesh Senthilkumar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Charles P Choi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Justin J Quan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Qing Lou
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Anne K Snyder
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
| | - Andrew M Ly
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Justin G Lau
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Z Hong Zhou
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Gary E Ward
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, United States of America
| | - Peter J Bradley
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Chen S, Du F, Shang K, Chen H, Guo R, Liao C, Jia Y, Yu Z, Li J, Zhang C, Ding K. Colonization Mediated by T6SS-ClpV Disrupts Host Gut Microbiota and Enhances Virulence of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:19155-19166. [PMID: 39161106 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c03735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Typhimurium) is a common foodborne enteric pathogen that infects humans or mammals and colonizes the intestinal tract primarily by invading the host following ingestion. Meanwhile, ClpV is a core secreted protein of the bacterial type VI secretion system (T6SS). Because elucidating ClpV's role in the pathogenesis of T6SS is pivotal for revealing the virulence mechanism of Salmonella, in our study, clpV gene deletion mutants were constructed using a λ-red-based recombination system, and the effect of clpV mutation on SL1344's pathogenicity was examined in terms of stress resistance, motility, cytokine secretion, gut microbiota, and a BALB/c mouse model. Among the results, ClpV affected SL1344's motility and was also involved in cell invasion, adhesion, and intracellular survival in the MDBK cell model but did not affect invasion or intracellular survival in the RAW264.7 cell model. Moreover, clpV gene deletion significantly reduced the transcription levels of GBP2b, IFNB1, IL-6, NLRP3, NOS2, and TNF-α proinflammatory factor levels but significantly increased transcription levels of IL-4 and IL-10 anti-inflammatory factors. Last, ClpV appeared to closely relate to the pathogenicity of S. Typhimurium in vivo, which can change the gut environment and cause dysbiosis of gut microbiota. Our findings elucidate the functions of ClpV in S. Typhimurium and illustrating interactions between T6SS and gut microbiota help to clarify the mechanisms of the pathogenesis of foodborne diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Songbiao Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology/Laboratory of Functional Microbiology and Animal Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
- The Key Lab of Animal Disease and Public Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China
| | - Fuxi Du
- College of Animal Science and Technology/Laboratory of Functional Microbiology and Animal Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
- The Key Lab of Animal Disease and Public Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
| | - Ke Shang
- College of Animal Science and Technology/Laboratory of Functional Microbiology and Animal Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
- The Key Lab of Animal Disease and Public Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
| | - Huimin Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology/Laboratory of Functional Microbiology and Animal Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
- The Key Lab of Animal Disease and Public Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
| | - Rongxian Guo
- College of Animal Science and Technology/Laboratory of Functional Microbiology and Animal Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
- The Key Lab of Animal Disease and Public Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
| | - Chengshui Liao
- College of Animal Science and Technology/Laboratory of Functional Microbiology and Animal Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
- The Key Lab of Animal Disease and Public Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China
| | - Yanyan Jia
- College of Animal Science and Technology/Laboratory of Functional Microbiology and Animal Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
- The Key Lab of Animal Disease and Public Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
| | - Zuhua Yu
- College of Animal Science and Technology/Laboratory of Functional Microbiology and Animal Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
- The Key Lab of Animal Disease and Public Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
| | - Jing Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology/Laboratory of Functional Microbiology and Animal Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
- The Key Lab of Animal Disease and Public Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
| | - Chunjie Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology/Laboratory of Functional Microbiology and Animal Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
- The Key Lab of Animal Disease and Public Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
| | - Ke Ding
- College of Animal Science and Technology/Laboratory of Functional Microbiology and Animal Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Luoyang Key Laboratory of Live Carrier Biomaterial and Animal Disease Prevention and Control, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
- The Key Lab of Animal Disease and Public Health, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471023, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Animal Pathogens and Biosafety, Zhengzhou, Henan 450000, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Zhang Y, Lu Z, He L, Xiao G, Tian L, Zhu J, Liu T, Ou Q, Chen H, Hwong Y, Kang Y, Xu Q, Zhang Q, Yang C. Cryptosporidium spp. in captive snakes from 26 provinces in China: Prevalence, molecular characterization, and symptoms. Parasite 2024; 31:47. [PMID: 39109984 PMCID: PMC11305116 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2024047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Snakes are sometimes regarded as pets and are used in traditional Chinese medicine. Cryptosporidium spp. are frequently identified in snakes, representing an important pathogen and causing gastrointestinal diseases. Current data indicate that risk factors for infection and patterns of clinical symptom presentation may differ among Cryptosporidium spp. To better understand the infection status by Cryptosporidium spp., fecal samples were collected from 603 asymptomatic and 147 symptomatic snakes in 26 provinces of China. These samples came from Elaphe guttata, Elaphe obsoleta, Pituophis melanoleucus, Thamnophis sirtalis, Lampropeltis getulus, and Heterodon nasicus. The partial small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene was amplified using nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to investigate the infection rate of Cryptosporidium spp., and to assess evolutionary relationships and genetic characterization. A prevalence of 20% was recorded in asymptomatic snakes, with age identified as a significant risk factor. In contrast, 70% of symptomatic snakes were positive for Cryptosporidium spp., with Cryptosporidium serpentis and Cryptosporidium varanii (syn. C. saurophilum). Further analysis revealed a potential association between C. serpentis and regurgitation, and C. varanii and diarrhea, while neither species was linked to flatulence. To our knowledge, this is the first study to report Cryptosporidium spp. and associated clinical signs in symptomatic snakes in China. This study aims to enhance the understanding of Cryptosporidium infections, risk factors, and clinical manifestations in snakes, providing data crucial for the control and prevention of cryptosporidiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yilei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University Hefei Anhui Province 230036 PR China
| | - Zhenxiao Lu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University Hefei Anhui Province 230036 PR China
| | - Lingru He
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University Hefei Anhui Province 230036 PR China
| | - Guodong Xiao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University Hefei Anhui Province 230036 PR China
| | - Lijie Tian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University Hefei Anhui Province 230036 PR China
| | - Jiawei Zhu
- Beijing Biodiversity Conservation Research Center Beijing 100076 PR China
| | - Tian Liu
- Beijing Biodiversity Conservation Research Center Beijing 100076 PR China
| | - Qiangxin Ou
- School of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, Anhui Agricultural University Hefei Anhui Province 230036 PR China
| | - Haibo Chen
- Hengyuan Animal Hospital Hefei Anhui Province 230001 PR China
| | - Yew Hwong
- Chongmu Pet Clinic Nanjing Jiangsu Province 211800 PR China
| | - Yangjun Kang
- Mengdele Pet Clinic Xiamen Fujian Province 361021 PR China
| | - Qianming Xu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University Hefei Anhui Province 230036 PR China
| | - Qingxun Zhang
- Beijing Biodiversity Conservation Research Center Beijing 100076 PR China
| | - Congshan Yang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University Hefei Anhui Province 230036 PR China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sharafutdinov I, Friedrich B, Rottner K, Backert S, Tegtmeyer N. Cortactin: A major cellular target of viral, protozoal, and fungal pathogens. Mol Microbiol 2024; 122:165-183. [PMID: 38868928 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.15284] [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: 11/05/2023] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
Many viral, protozoal, and fungal pathogens represent major human and animal health problems due to their great potential of causing infectious diseases. Research on these pathogens has contributed substantially to our current understanding of both microbial virulence determinants and host key factors during infection. Countless studies have also shed light on the molecular mechanisms of host-pathogen interactions that are employed by these microbes. For example, actin cytoskeletal dynamics play critical roles in effective adhesion, host cell entry, and intracellular movements of intruding pathogens. Cortactin is an eminent host cell protein that stimulates actin polymerization and signal transduction, and recently emerged as fundamental player during host-pathogen crosstalk. Here we review the important role of cortactin as major target for various prominent viral, protozoal and fungal pathogens in humans, and its role in human disease development and cancer progression. Most if not all of these important classes of pathogens have been reported to hijack cortactin during infection through mediating up- or downregulation of cortactin mRNA and protein expression as well as signaling. In particular, pathogen-induced changes in tyrosine and serine phosphorylation status of cortactin at its major phospho-sites (Y-421, Y-470, Y-486, S-113, S-298, S-405, and S-418) are addressed. As has been reported for various Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, many pathogenic viruses, protozoa, and fungi also control these regulatory phospho-sites, for example, by activating kinases such as Src, PAK, ERK1/2, and PKD, which are known to phosphorylate cortactin. In addition, the recruitment of cortactin and its interaction partners, like the Arp2/3 complex and F-actin, to the contact sites between pathogens and host cells is highlighted, as this plays an important role in the infection process and internalization of several pathogens. However, there are also other ways in which the pathogens can exploit the function of cortactin for their needs, as the cortactin-mediated regulation of cellular processes is complex and involves numerous different interaction partners. Here, the current state of knowledge is summarized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irshad Sharafutdinov
- Department of Biology, Division of Microbiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Barbara Friedrich
- Department of Biology, Division of Microbiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Klemens Rottner
- Department of Cell Biology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
- Division of Molecular Cell Biology, Zoological Institute, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Steffen Backert
- Department of Biology, Division of Microbiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Nicole Tegtmeyer
- Department of Biology, Division of Microbiology, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ma M, Zhang Y, Fang Y, Lu Y, Huang H, Zeng Z, Zeng D. Pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution of LN002, a new compound alternative oxidase inhibitor against Cryptosporidium in rats. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1413872. [PMID: 39148541 PMCID: PMC11325084 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1413872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is considered a crucial zoonotic disease caused by widely distributing parasitic protozoa called Cryptosporidium spp. Nitazoxanide is the only FDA-approved drug but is only effective with a good immune response of the host. In addressing this unmet medical need, we previously identified a compound, namely, LN002, as a potent alternative oxidase inhibitor against cryptosporidiosis. To illustrate the pharmacokinetics, absolute bioavailability, and tissue distribution of LN002 in rats, rapid and sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography was developed and validated for the separation and detection of LN002 in plasma, tissue samples, and intestinal contents. In this study, a single dose of oral administration and intravenous injection of LN002 was used to determine the levels of LN002 in plasma, tissue samples, and intestinal contents by UHLC. Results of the study indicated that after intravenous administration of 1 mg/kg LN002, the AUC0-24 h, T1/2,Vd, and Cl were 7024.86 h·ng/mL, 10.91 h, 1.69 L/kg, and 0.11 L/h/kg, respectively. After oral administration of a single dosage of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg LN002, the Tmax, Cmax, AUC0-24 h, T1/2, F, Vd, and Cl/F in plasma of rats were 1 h, 849.88-4033.21 ng/mL, 2280.41-7498.10 h·ng/mL, 17.96-18.83 h, 0.27%-0.32%, 581.54-869.21 L/kg, and 25.97-39.00 L/h/kg, respectively. After oral administration of 200 mg/kg, LN002 was extensively distributed in the main tissues of rats, and massive amounts of LN002 were distributed in the intestine and intestinal contents, indicating its potential as an effective anti-Cryptosporidium compound. After oral administration of a single dosage of 200 mg/kg, LN002 has a low bioavailability and high levels in the intestine, which is crucial for the safe and effective treatment of cryptosporidiosis. Overall, the results of this study provide valuable data support for the future study of LN002.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minglang Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety. Evaluation, National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal. Original Bacteria, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yongxiang Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety. Evaluation, National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal. Original Bacteria, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanjun Fang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety. Evaluation, National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal. Original Bacteria, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yixing Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety. Evaluation, National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal. Original Bacteria, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
| | - Huiguo Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety. Evaluation, National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal. Original Bacteria, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhenling Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety. Evaluation, National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal. Original Bacteria, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongping Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety. Evaluation, National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal. Original Bacteria, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Cohn IS, Wallbank BA, Haskins BE, O’Dea KM, Pardy RD, Shaw S, Merolle MI, Gullicksrud JA, Christian DA, Striepen B, Hunter CA. Intestinal cDC1s provide cues required for CD4+ T cell-mediated resistance to Cryptosporidium. J Exp Med 2024; 221:e20232067. [PMID: 38829369 PMCID: PMC11148471 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20232067] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an enteric pathogen and a prominent cause of diarrheal disease worldwide. Control of Cryptosporidium requires CD4+ T cells, but how protective CD4+ T cell responses are generated is poorly understood. Here, Cryptosporidium parasites that express MHCII-restricted model antigens were generated to understand the basis for CD4+ T cell priming and effector function. These studies revealed that parasite-specific CD4+ T cells are primed in the draining mesenteric lymph node but differentiate into Th1 cells in the gut to provide local parasite control. Although type 1 conventional dendritic cells (cDC1s) were dispensable for CD4+ T cell priming, they were required for CD4+ T cell gut homing and were a source of IL-12 at the site of infection that promoted local production of IFN-γ. Thus, cDC1s have distinct roles in shaping CD4+ T cell responses to an enteric infection: first, to promote gut homing from the mesLN, and second, to drive effector responses in the intestine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian S. Cohn
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Bethan A. Wallbank
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Breanne E. Haskins
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Keenan M. O’Dea
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ryan D. Pardy
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sebastian Shaw
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Maria I. Merolle
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jodi A. Gullicksrud
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David A. Christian
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Boris Striepen
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Christopher A. Hunter
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Jiang Y, Jiang A, Ren G, Wang L, Xin X, Yuan Z, Liu J, Li Z, Sun Y, Zhou S, Lu G, Huang H, Zhao W. Cross-species transmission of Cryptosporidium in wild rodents from the southern region of Zhejiang Province of China and its possible impact on public health. Parasite 2024; 31:34. [PMID: 38949636 PMCID: PMC11216159 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2024033] [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: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Wild rodents serve as reservoirs for Cryptosporidium and are overpopulated globally. However, genetic data regarding Cryptosporidium in these animals from China are limited. Here, we have determined the prevalence and genetic characteristics of Cryptosporidium among 370 wild rodents captured from three distinct locations in the southern region of Zhejiang Province, China. Fresh feces were collected from the rectum of each rodent, and DNA was extracted from them. The rodent species was identified by PCR amplifying the vertebrate cytochrome b gene. Cryptosporidium was detected by PCR amplification and amplicon sequencing the small subunit of ribosomal RNA gene. Positive samples of C. viatorum and C. parvum were further subtyped by analyzing the 60-kDa glycoprotein gene. A positive Cryptosporidium result was found in 7% (26/370) of samples, involving five rodent species: Apodemus agrarius (36), Niviventer niviventer (75), Rattus losea (18), R. norvegicus (155), and R. tanezumi (86). Their respective Cryptosporidium positive rates were 8.3%, 5.3%, 11.1%, 7.1%, and 7.0%. Sequence analysis confirmed the presence of three Cryptosporidium species: C. parvum (4), C. viatorum (1), and C. muris (1), and two genotypes: Cryptosporidium rat genotype IV (16) and C. mortiferum-like (4). Additionally, two subtypes of C. parvum (IIdA15G1 and IIpA19) and one subtype of C. viatorum (XVdA3) were detected. These results demonstrate that various wild rodent species in Zhejiang were concurrently infected with rodent-adapted and zoonotic species/genotypes of Cryptosporidium, indicating that these rodents can play a role in maintaining and dispersing this parasite into the environment and other hosts, including humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanyan 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, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases 200025 Shanghai China
| | - Aiying Jiang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou Zhejiang 325035 China
| | - Guangxu Ren
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Hainan Medical University Haikou Hainan China
- Hainan Medical University – The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Hainan Medical University Haikou Hainan China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University Haikou 571199 China
| | - Long Wang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou Zhejiang 325035 China
| | - Xianming Xin
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou Zhejiang 325035 China
| | - Zhongying Yuan
- 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, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases 200025 Shanghai China
| | - Jiani Liu
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou Zhejiang 325035 China
| | - Zhen Li
- 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, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases 200025 Shanghai China
| | - Yanbin Sun
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou Zhejiang 325035 China
| | - Shanshan Zhou
- 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, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases 200025 Shanghai China
| | - Gang Lu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Hainan Medical University Haikou Hainan China
- Hainan Medical University – The University of Hong Kong Joint Laboratory of Tropical Infectious Diseases, Hainan Medical University Haikou Hainan China
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, Hainan Medical University Haikou 571199 China
| | - Huicong Huang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou Zhejiang 325035 China
| | - Wei Zhao
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wenzhou Medical University Wenzhou Zhejiang 325035 China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Zhang Y, Ma M, Yang J, Qiu X, Xin L, Lu Y, Huang H, Zeng Z, Zeng D. Preparation, Characterization, and Oral Bioavailability of Solid Dispersions of Cryptosporidium parvum Alternative Oxidase Inhibitors. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7025. [PMID: 39000132 PMCID: PMC11241238 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The phenylpyrazole derivative 5-amino-3-[1-cyano-2-(3-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl) vinyl]-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbonitrile (LN002), which was screened out through high-throughput molecular docking for the AOX target, exhibits promising efficacy against Cryptosporidium. However, its poor water solubility limits its oral bioavailability and therapeutic utility. In this study, solid dispersion agents were prepared by using HP-β-CD and Soluplus® and characterized through differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared, powder X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. Physical and chemical characterization showed that the crystal morphology of LN002 transformed into an amorphous state, thus forming a solid dispersion of LN002. The solid dispersion prepared with an LN002/HP-β-CD/Soluplus® mass ratio of 1:3:9 (w/w/w) exhibited significantly increased solubility and cumulative dissolution. Meanwhile, LN002 SDs showed good preservation stability under accelerated conditions of 25 °C and 75% relative humidity. The complexation of LN002 with HP-β-CD and Soluplus® significantly improved water solubility, pharmacological properties, absorption, and bioavailability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yongxiang Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Minglang Ma
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Jinyu Yang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Xiaotong Qiu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lin Xin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yixing Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Huiguo Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zhenling Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Dongping Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Veterinary Pharmaceutics Development and Safety Evaluation, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- National Risk Assessment Laboratory for Antimicrobial Resistance of Animal Original Bacteria, Guangzhou 510642, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Gattan HS, Fouad SS, Ellisy RA, Elshazly H, El-kady AM. Eugenol: effective complementary treatment for cryptosporidiosis in experimentally infected mice. J Parasit Dis 2024; 48:370-380. [PMID: 38840881 PMCID: PMC11147982 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-024-01676-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is an opportunistic, globally distributed parasitic disease. Whereas Cryptosporidium causes asymptomatic infection and diarrhea in healthy people, it may lead to severe illness in immunocompromised individuals. Limited, effective therapeutic alternatives are available against cryptosporidiosis in those categories of patients. So, we are in urgent need of better drugs for the treatment of cryptosporidiosis. Fifty male Swiss albino mice were used. Mice were grouped into five groups of ten mice each. Group I was left uninfected, and four groups were infected with 1000 oocysts of cryptosporidium. The first infected group was left untreated. The remaining three-infected groups received nitazoxanide (NTZ), eugenol, and eugenol + NTZ, respectively, on the 6th day post infection (dpi) for five days. Mice were sacrificed on the 30th dpi. The efficacy of treatment was evaluated using parasitological, biochemical, and histopathological parameters. Combination therapy of eugenol with NTZ caused a significant reduction of the number of oocysts secreted in stool and improved cryptosporidiosis-induced liver injury manifested by the restoration of normal levels of liver enzymes (ALT and AST). Treatment with eugenol-NTZ combination maintained a well-balanced antioxidant status, as evidenced by a reduced level of nitric oxide (NO) and increased antioxidant Superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme activity. Moreover, the combination of eugenol with NTZ resulted in the restoration of the normal morphology of intestinal villi, crypts, and muscularis mucosa. Based on the findings extracted from the present work, we can conclude that eugenol is a complementary therapeutic when used with NTZ in the treatment of cryptosporidiosis. The addition of eugenol to NTZ in the treatment of cryptosporidiosis synergized the effect of NTZ, causing a greater reduction of the number of shedded oocysts, improving liver enzyme levels, and restoring normal intestinal pathology. Therefore, we presume that eugenol's antioxidant capacity accounts for the protective effect seen in the current study. We suggest eugenol as a supplemental chemotherapeutic agent with good therapeutic potential and high levels of safety in the treatment of cryptosporidiosis based on the findings of the current study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hattan S. Gattan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, 21589 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, 21589 Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samer S. Fouad
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523 Egypt
| | - Reham A. Ellisy
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Hayam Elshazly
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences-Scientific Departments, Qassim University, 52571 Buraidah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, 62521 Egypt
| | - Asmaa M. El-kady
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83523 Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Li L, Sui Y, Li X, Song P, Chen G, Liu H, Zuo S, Guo J, Wang Q, Sun Q, Dai H, Li J, Zhang T, Liu F, Zhang L, Dong H. Molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia duodenalis in pet cats in Henan Province, central China. Acta Trop 2024; 254:107188. [PMID: 38531428 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis often infect humans, cats, and other mammals, causing diarrhea and being responsible for numerous outbreaks of waterborne and foodborne infections worldwide. The rapid increase in the number of pet cats poses a substantial public health risk. However, there were few reports about the infection of Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis infections in pet cats in Henan Province, central China. Thus, to understand the prevalence and genetic distribution of Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis in pet cats, and to evaluate the zoonotic potential, possible transmission routes and public health implications of isolates, fecal samples (n = 898) were randomly collected from pet cats in 11 cities in Henan Province, central China. Nested PCR based on the SSU rRNA gene and bg gene was used to the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis, respectively. The prevalence was 0.8 % (7/898) and 2.0 % (18/898) for Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis respectively. Additionally, the Cryptosporidium spp. positive isolates were identified as C. parvum subtype IIdA19G1 by gp60 gene. In the present study, the IIdA19G1 subtype was discovered in pet cats for the first time in China, enriching the information on the host type and geographical distribution of Cryptosporidium spp. in China. For G. duodenalis, a total of 18 G. duodenalis positive samples were identified, belonging to four assemblages: a zoonotic assemblage A1 (4/898), three host-specific assemblages C (8/898), D (5/898), and F (1/898). Interestingly, we found that pet cats infected with Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis are more likely to experience emaciation symptoms compared to the negative group. More importantly, the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. and G. duodenalis detected in the present study were low, but the subtype IIdA19G1 of Cryptosporidium spp. and the assemblages A1, C, D, and F of G. duodenalis have the potential for zoonotic transmission. Thus, we should focus on preventing and controlling the risk of cross-species transmission that may occur in pet cats in Henan Province.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liangliang Li
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuzhen Sui
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinmiao Li
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Pengtao Song
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Guizhen Chen
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Hu Liu
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Shoujun Zuo
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinjie Guo
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiong Wang
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiyuan Sun
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongyu Dai
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Junqiang Li
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Zhang
- The Beijing Key Laboratory of Veterinary Medicine (Traditional Chinese Medicine), Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Liu
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China; The Beijing Key Laboratory of Veterinary Medicine (Traditional Chinese Medicine), Beijing University of Agriculture, Beijing 102206, People's Republic of China.
| | - Longxian Zhang
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| | - Haiju Dong
- International Joint Research Center of National Animal Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bayona-Vásquez NJ, Sullivan AH, Beaudry MS, Khan A, Baptista RP, Petersen KN, Bhuiyan M, Brunelle B, Robinson G, Chalmers RM, Alves-Ferreira E, Grigg ME, Kissinger JC, Glenn TC. WHOLE GENOME TARGETED ENRICHMENT AND SEQUENCING OF HUMAN-INFECTING CRYPTOSPORIDIUM spp. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4294842. [PMID: 38798642 PMCID: PMC11118713 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4294842/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. are protozoan parasites that cause severe illness in vulnerable human populations. Obtaining pure Cryptosporidium DNA from clinical and environmental samples is challenging because the oocysts shed in contaminated feces are limited in quantity, difficult to purify efficiently, may derive from multiple species, and yield limited DNA (<40 fg/oocyst). Here, we develop and validate a set of 100,000 RNA baits (CryptoCap_100k) based on six human-infecting Cryptosporidium spp. (C. cuniculus, C. hominis, C. meleagridis, C. parvum, C. tyzzeri, and C. viatorum) to enrich Cryptosporidium spp. DNA from a wide array of samples. We demonstrate that CryptoCap_100k increases the percentage of reads mapping to target Cryptosporidium references in a wide variety of scenarios, increasing the depth and breadth of genome coverage, facilitating increased accuracy of detecting and analyzing species within a given sample, while simultaneously decreasing costs, thereby opening new opportunities to understand the complex biology of these important pathogens.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N J Bayona-Vásquez
- Division of Natural Science and Mathematics, Oxford College of Emory University, Oxford, GA, 30054, USA
| | - A H Sullivan
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - M S Beaudry
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Daicel Arbor Biosciences, Ann Arbor, MI, 48103, USA
| | - A Khan
- Animal Parasitic Disease Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, 20705, USA
| | - R P Baptista
- Infectious Diseases, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - K N Petersen
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Miu Bhuiyan
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - B Brunelle
- Daicel Arbor Biosciences, Ann Arbor, MI, 48103, USA
| | - G Robinson
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales, Microbiology and Health Protection, Singleton Hospital, Swansea SA2 8QA, UK
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - R M Chalmers
- Cryptosporidium Reference Unit, Public Health Wales, Microbiology and Health Protection, Singleton Hospital, Swansea SA2 8QA, UK
- Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Evc Alves-Ferreira
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - M E Grigg
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - J C Kissinger
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - T C Glenn
- Department of Environmental Health Science, College of Public Health, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Institute of Bioinformatics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
- Department of Genetics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Zhao Q, Qi M, Jing B, Jian F, Gong P, Lu C, Yan Y, Pei Z, Ning C. Cryptosporidium spp. in large-scale sheep farms in China: prevalence and genetic diversity. Sci Rep 2024; 14:11218. [PMID: 38755395 PMCID: PMC11099184 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62110-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. are significant zoonotic intestinal parasites that induce diarrhea and even death across most vertebrates, including humans. Previous studies showed that sheep are important hosts for Cryptosporidium and that its distribution in sheep is influenced by geography, feeding patterns, age, and season. Environmental factors also influence the transmission of Cryptosporidium. Molecular studies of Cryptosporidium in sheep have been conducted in only a few regions of China, and studies into the effect of sheep-housing environments on Cryptosporidium transmission are even rarer. To detect the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in large-scale sheep-housing farms, a total of 1241 fecal samples were collected from sheep, 727 environmental samples were taken from sheep housing, and 30 water samples were collected in six regions of China. To ascertain the existence of the parasite and identify the species of Cryptosporidium spp., we conducted nested PCR amplification of DNA extracted from all samples using the small-subunit (SSU) rRNA gene as a target. For a more in-depth analysis of Cryptosporidium spp. subtypes, C. xiaoi-and C. ubiquitum-positive samples underwent separate nested PCR amplification targeting the 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) gene. The amplification of the Cryptosporidium spp. SSU rRNA gene locus from the whole genomic DNA of all samples yielded a positive rate of 1.2% (20/1241) in fecal samples, 0.1% (1/727) in environmental samples, and no positive samples were found in water samples. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. infection in large-scale housed sheep was 1.7%, which was higher than that in free-ranging sheep (0.0%). The highest prevalence of infection was found in weaning lambs (6.8%). Among the different seasons, the peaks were found in the fall and winter. The most prevalent species were C. xiaoi and C. ubiquitum, with the former accounting for the majority of infections. The distribution of C. xiaoi subtypes was diverse, with XXIIIc (n = 1), XXIIId (n = 2), XXIIIe (n = 2), and XXIIIl (n = 4) identified. In contrast, only one subtype, XIIa (n = 9), was found in C. ubiquitum. In this study, C. xiaoi and C. ubiquitum were found to be the predominant species, and Cryptosporidium was found to be present in the environment. These findings provide an important foundation for the comprehensive prevention and management of Cryptosporidium in intensively reared sheep. Furthermore, by elucidating the prevalence of Cryptosporidium in sheep and its potential role in environmental transmission, this study deepens our understanding of the intricate interactions between animal health, environmental contamination, and public health dynamics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qianming Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Meng Qi
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Jing
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Fuchun Jian
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Pihong Gong
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Chenyang Lu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yaqun Yan
- School of Life Science and Agronomy, ZhouKou Normal University, Zhoukou, 466001, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiyang Pei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Tarim University, Alar, 843300, Xinjiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Changshen Ning
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ross R, Hasheminasab SS, Conejeros I, Gärtner U, Kamena F, Krueger A, Taubert A, Hermosilla C. Human dendritic cell interactions with the zoonotic parasite Cryptosporidium parvum result in activation and maturation. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1388366. [PMID: 38799470 PMCID: PMC11116633 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1388366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis in humans is caused by infection of the zoonotic apicomplexan parasite Cryptosporidium parvum. In 2006, it was included by the World Health Organization (WHO) in the group of the most neglected poverty-related diseases. It is characterized by enteritis accompanied by profuse catarrhalic diarrhea with high morbidity and mortality, especially in children of developing countries under the age of 5 years and in HIV patients. The vulnerability of HIV patients indicates that a robust adaptive immune response is required to successfully fight this parasite. Little is known, however, about the adaptive immune response against C. parvum. To have an insight into the early events of the adaptive immune response, we generated primary human dendritic cells (DCs) from monocytes of healthy blood donors and exposed them to C. parvum oocysts and sporozoites in vitro. DCs are equipped with numerous receptors that detect microbial molecules and alarm signals. If stimulation is strong enough, an essential maturation process turns DCs into unique activators of naïve T cells, a prerequisite of any adaptive immune response. Parasite exposure highly induced the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 in DCs. Moreover, antigen-presenting molecules (HLA-DR and CD1a), maturation markers, and costimulatory molecules required for T-cell stimulation (CD83, CD40, and CD86) and adhesion molecules (CD11b and CD58) were all upregulated. In addition, parasite-exposed human DCs showed enhanced cell adherence, increased mobility, and a boosted but time-limited phagocytosis of C. parvum oocysts and sporozoites, representing other prerequisites for antigen presentation. Unlike several other microbial stimuli, C. parvum exposure rather led to increased oxidative consumption rates (OCRs) than extracellular acidification rates (ECARs) in DCs, indicating that different metabolic pathways were used to provide energy for DC activation. Taken together, C. parvum-exposed human DCs showed all hallmarks of successful maturation, enabling them to mount an effective adaptive immune response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Ross
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Seyed Sajjad Hasheminasab
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Iván Conejeros
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Gärtner
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Faustin Kamena
- Laboratory for Molecular Parasitology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Andreas Krueger
- Institute of Molecular Immunology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Anja Taubert
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Carlos Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bertuccini L, Boussadia Z, Salzano AM, Vanni I, Passerò I, Nocita E, Scaloni A, Sanchez M, Sargiacomo M, Fiani ML, Tosini F. Unveiling Cryptosporidium parvum sporozoite-derived extracellular vesicles: profiling, origin, and protein composition. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1367359. [PMID: 38660488 PMCID: PMC11039866 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1367359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum is a common cause of a zoonotic disease and a main cause of diarrhea in newborns. Effective drugs or vaccines are still lacking. Oocyst is the infective form of the parasite; after its ingestion, the oocyst excysts and releases four sporozoites into the host intestine that rapidly attack the enterocytes. The membrane protein CpRom1 is a large rhomboid protease that is expressed by sporozoites and recognized as antigen by the host immune system. In this study, we observed the release of CpRom1 with extracellular vesicles (EVs) that was not previously described. To investigate this phenomenon, we isolated and resolved EVs from the excystation medium by differential ultracentrifugation. Fluorescence flow cytometry and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) experiments identified two types of sporozoite-derived vesicles: large extracellular vesicles (LEVs) and small extracellular vesicles (SEVs). Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) revealed mode diameter of 181 nm for LEVs and 105 nm for SEVs, respectively. Immunodetection experiments proved the presence of CpRom1 and the Golgi protein CpGRASP in LEVs, while immune-electron microscopy trials demonstrated the localization of CpRom1 on the LEVs surface. TEM and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that LEVs were generated by means of the budding of the outer membrane of sporozoites; conversely, the origin of SEVs remained uncertain. Distinct protein compositions were observed between LEVs and SEVs as evidenced by their corresponding electrophoretic profiles. Indeed, a dedicated proteomic analysis identified 5 and 16 proteins unique for LEVs and SEVs, respectively. Overall, 60 proteins were identified in the proteome of both types of vesicles and most of these proteins (48 in number) were already identified in the molecular cargo of extracellular vesicles from other organisms. Noteworthy, we identified 12 proteins unique to Cryptosporidium spp. and this last group included the immunodominant parasite antigen glycoprotein GP60, which is one of the most abundant proteins in both LEVs and SEVs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Zaira Boussadia
- National Center for Drug Research and Evaluation, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Salzano
- Proteomics, Metabolomics and Mass Spectrometry laboratory, ISPAAM, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Portici, Italy
| | - Ilaria Vanni
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, SANV, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Passerò
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Nocita
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Scaloni
- Proteomics, Metabolomics and Mass Spectrometry laboratory, ISPAAM, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Portici, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Sargiacomo
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Fiani
- National Center for Global Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Tosini
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Bayona-Vásquez NJ, Sullivan AH, Beaudry MS, Khan A, Baptista RP, Petersen KN, Bhuiyan M, Brunelle B, Robinson G, Chalmers RM, Alves-Ferreira E, Grigg ME, AlvesFerreira Kissinger JC, Glenn TC. WHOLE GENOME TARGETED ENRICHMENT AND SEQUENCING OF HUMAN-INFECTING CRYPTOSPORIDIUM spp. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.03.29.586458. [PMID: 38585809 PMCID: PMC10996700 DOI: 10.1101/2024.03.29.586458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. are protozoan parasites that cause severe illness in vulnerable human populations. Obtaining pure Cryptosporidium DNA from clinical and environmental samples is challenging because the oocysts shed in contaminated feces are limited in quantity, difficult to purify efficiently, may derive from multiple species, and yield limited DNA (<40 fg/oocyst). Here, we develop and validate a set of 100,000 RNA baits (CryptoCap_100k) based on six human-infecting Cryptosporidium spp. ( C. cuniculus , C. hominis , C. meleagridis , C. parvum , C. tyzzeri , and C. viatorum ) to enrich Cryptosporidium spp. DNA from a wide array of samples. We demonstrate that CryptoCap_100k increases the percentage of reads mapping to target Cryptosporidium references in a wide variety of scenarios, increasing the depth and breadth of genome coverage, facilitating increased accuracy of detecting and analyzing species within a given sample, while simultaneously decreasing costs, thereby opening new opportunities to understand the complex biology of these important pathogens.
Collapse
|
20
|
Suarez P, Vallejos-Almirall A, Fernández I, Gonzalez-Chavarria I, Alonso J, Vidal G. Identification of Cryptosporidium parvum and Blastocystis hominis subtype ST3 in Cholga mussel and treated sewage: Preliminary evidence of fecal contamination in harvesting area. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2024; 34:e00214. [PMID: 38188968 PMCID: PMC10770711 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2023.e00214] [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: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum and Blastocystis hominis are foodborne parasites known for causing diarrhea. They accumulate in mussels grown on contaminated water bodies, due to the discharge of treated sewage from sewage treatment plants (STP). Despite this, some countries like Chile do not include these parasites in the control or monitoring of sewage water. The objective of this research was to evaluate the contamination of C. parvum. and B. hominis from treated sewage (disinfected by chlorination) and Cholga mussels in a touristic rural cove from the bay of Concepción. Cholga mussels from commercial stores and a treated sewage sample were analyzed. Cryptosporidium spp. was identified by Ziehl-Neelsen-Staining (ZNS) and C. parvum by direct-immunofluorescence assay (IFA) from ZNS-positive samples. Blastocystis hominis was identified by PCR using locus SSU rDNA. C. parvum and B. hominis subtype ST3 were found in 40% and 45% of Cholga mussel samples, respectively, and both parasites were identified in the treated sewage. Blastocystis hominis SSU rDNA gene alignment from Cholga mussels and treated sewage showed 89% of similarity, indicating that could be the same parasite in both samples. We describe the first evidence of possible contamination with these parasites from treated sewage to Cholga mussel suggesting an environmental contamination with high human risk. Based on these results, further studies will consider all the rural coves and STP from the bay to prevent possible contamination of these parasites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P. Suarez
- Environmental Engineering & Biotechnology Group (GIBA-UDEC), Environmental Science Faculty & EULA-CHILE Center, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4030000, Chile
- Water Research Center for Agriculture and Mining (CRHIAM), ANID Fondap Center, Victoria 1295, Concepción, Chile
- Laboratorio de Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - A. Vallejos-Almirall
- Grupo Interdisciplinario de Biotecnología Marina (GIBMAR), Centro de Biotecnología, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - I. Fernández
- Laboratorio de Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - I. Gonzalez-Chavarria
- Laboratorio de Lipoproteínas y Cáncer, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - J.L. Alonso
- Instituto de Ingeniería del Agua y Medio Ambiente, Universitat Politècnica de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - G. Vidal
- Environmental Engineering & Biotechnology Group (GIBA-UDEC), Environmental Science Faculty & EULA-CHILE Center, Universidad de Concepción, Concepción 4030000, Chile
- Water Research Center for Agriculture and Mining (CRHIAM), ANID Fondap Center, Victoria 1295, Concepción, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Mthethwa-Hlongwa NP, Amoah ID, Gomez A, Davison S, Reddy P, Bux F, Kumari S. Profiling pathogenic protozoan and their functional pathways in wastewater using 18S rRNA and shotgun metagenomics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169602. [PMID: 38154626 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Despite extensive research, little is known about the composition of eukaryotic protists in environmental samples. This is due to low parasite concentrations, the complexity of parasite diversity, and a lack of suitable reference databases and standardized protocols. To bridge this knowledge gap, this study used 18S rRNA short amplicon and shotgun metagenomic sequencing approaches to profile protozoan microbial communities as well as their functional pathways in treated and untreated wastewater samples collected from different regions of South Africa. Results demonstrated that protozoan diversity (Shannon index P-value = 0.03) and taxonomic composition (PERMANOVA, P-value = 0.02) was mainly driven by the type of wastewater samples (treated & untreated) and geographic location. However, these WWTPs were also found to contain a core community of protozoan parasites. The untreated wastewater samples revealed a predominant presence of free-living, parasitic, and potentially pathogenic protists typically found in humans and animals, ranging from Alveolata (27 %) phylum (Apicomplexa and Ciliophora) to Excavata (3.88 %) (Discoba and Parasalia) and Amoebozoa (2.84 %) (Entamoeba and Acanthamoeba). Shotgun metagenomics analyses in a subset of the untreated wastewater samples confirmed the presence of public health-importance protozoa, including Cryptosporidium species (3.48 %), Entamoeba hystolitica (6.58 %), Blastocystis hominis (2.91 %), Naegleria gruberi (2.37 %), Toxoplasma gondii (1.98 %), Cyclospora cayetanensis (1.30 %), and Giardia intestinalis (0.31 %). Virulent gene families linked to pathogenic protozoa, such as serine/threonine protein phosphatase and mucin-desulfating sulfatase were identified. Additionally, enriched pathways included thiamine diphosphate biosynthesis III, heme biosynthesis, Methylerythritol 4-Phosphate Pathway, methyl erythritol phosphate (MEP), and pentose phosphate pathways. These findings suggest that protozoan pathogens may possess metabolic and growth potential within WWTPs, posing a severe risk of transmission to humans and animals if inadequately disinfected before release. This study provides a baseline for the future investigation of diverse protozoal communities in wastewater, which are of public health importance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nonsikelelo P Mthethwa-Hlongwa
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4000, South Africa; Department Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Isaac D Amoah
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4000, South Africa; Department of Environmental Science, The University of Arizona, Shantz Building Rm 4291177 E 4th St., Tucson, AZ 85721, USA
| | - Andres Gomez
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Sam Davison
- Department of Animal Science, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, USA
| | - Poovendhree Reddy
- Department Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Faizal Bux
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4000, South Africa
| | - Sheena Kumari
- Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology, Durban 4000, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Gomes-Gonçalves S, Santos-Silva S, Cruz AVS, Rodrigues C, Soeiro V, Barradas P, Mesquita JR. A Thorny Tale of Parasites: Screening for Enteric Protozoan Parasites in Hedgehogs from Portugal. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:326. [PMID: 38275786 PMCID: PMC10812701 DOI: 10.3390/ani14020326] [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: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Enteric protozoan parasites, such as Blastocystis sp., Balantioides coli, Cryptosporidium spp., and Giardia duodenalis, may have implications for both animal and human health.Transmitted through the fecal-oral route, these parasites cause symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss. This study investigated the presence of these enteric protozoan parasites and genetically characterized them in hedgehogs from Portugal. A total of 110 hedgehog stool samples were collected. Molecular detection methods showed an overall occurrence of protozoa in 1.82% (2/110 95% CI: 0.22-6.41) of hedgehogs, with Blastocystis being found in one hedgehog and Cryptosporidium being found in another. No evidence for the presence of B. coli or G. duodenalis was found. This study suggests that there is a need to stay aware of hedgehogs as potential hosts of enteric protozoa. Ongoing research and surveillance efforts are recommended to explore practical prevention and control strategies. The results contribute to the limited knowledge of these parasites in Portuguese hedgehog populations and underscore their potential relevance to both veterinary and public health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Gomes-Gonçalves
- Department of Biology, Campus de Santiago, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Sérgio Santos-Silva
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (S.S.-S.); (A.V.S.C.)
| | - Andreia V. S. Cruz
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (S.S.-S.); (A.V.S.C.)
| | - Clarisse Rodrigues
- Centro de Recuperação e Interpretação do Ouriço—CRIDO, 4470-372 Maia, Portugal;
| | - Vanessa Soeiro
- Parque Biológico de Gaia, 4430-812 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal;
| | - Patrícia Barradas
- 1H-TOXRUN—One Health Toxicology Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences, Cooperativa de Ensino Superior Politécnico e Universitário, CRL(CESPU, CRL), 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal;
- Epidemiology Research Unit (EPIUnit), Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| | - João R. Mesquita
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal; (S.S.-S.); (A.V.S.C.)
- Epidemiology Research Unit (EPIUnit), Instituto de Saúde Pública da Universidade do Porto, 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), 4050-600 Porto, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Alsaady IM. Cryptosporidium and irritable bowel syndrome. Trop Parasitol 2024; 14:8-15. [PMID: 38444793 PMCID: PMC10911187 DOI: 10.4103/tp.tp_10_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an apicomplexan parasite that causes gastrointestinal disease in a wide variety of hosts and is associated with waterborne outbreaks. Nonetheless, the parasite is underdiagnosed. Cryptosporidium has been proposed as an etiological cause of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in several studies. However, the exact mechanism of pathogenesis is unknown, and no direct link has been discovered. This review will discuss several parasite-induced modifications, such as immunological, microbiome, and metabolite modifications, as well as their interactions. To summarize, Cryptosporidium causes low inflammation, dysbiosis, and unbalanced metabolism, which leads to a lack of homeostasis in the intestine in a comparable pattern to postinfectious IBS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isra Mohammad Alsaady
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- King Fahad Medical Research Centre, Special Infectious Agents Unit, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Castellino J, Orentas M, Hassan D, Khandelwal S. IgA Vasculitis in an Adult Linked to Cryptosporidium and Giardia Co-Infection: A Comprehensive Case Study. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CASE REPORTS 2023; 24:e942394. [PMID: 38142296 PMCID: PMC10756396 DOI: 10.12659/ajcr.942394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunoglobulin A (IgA) vasculitis is a small-vessel vasculitis characterized by the deposition of IgA immune complexes primarily in the skin, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract. While it predominantly affects children, cases in adults are associated with more severe manifestations. Evidence suggests that infectious triggers play a pivotal role in its etiology. Often, it follows a self-limiting course and doesn't necessitate intervention. CASE REPORT We present the case of a 51-year-old man who presented with a maculopapular rash, arthralgia, and abdominal pain. An examination revealed a purpuric rash on lower extremities and abdomen. A lower extremity duplex ultrasound identified deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the right leg. Skin biopsy of the rash confirmed the diagnosis of IgA vasculitis, demonstrating perivascular neutrophilic infiltrate and IgA complex deposition. Stool studies revealed co-infection with Cryptosporidium and Giardia. The patient was treated with a prednisone taper with significant improvement in symptoms. CONCLUSIONS This case highlights the potential role of Cryptosporidium as a trigger for IgA vasculitis. The presence of concurrent infections underscores the complex interplay between infections and the development of IgA vasculitis. The co-infection with Giardia suggests that a secondary infection may be involved, further complicating the disease's etiology. The observation of DVT suggests a possible link between IgA vasculitis and a prothrombotic state. This report serves to expand the knowledge of IgA vasculitis triggers and associated complications, guiding clinicians in diagnosing and managing similar cases while emphasizing the importance of vigilance in adults with these symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Janelle Castellino
- Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Matas Orentas
- Department of Rheumatology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Dina Hassan
- Department of Pathology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sonali Khandelwal
- Department of Rheumatology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Liu Q, Liu X, Zhao X, Zhu XQ, Suo X. Live attenuated anticoccidial vaccines for chickens. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:1087-1099. [PMID: 37770352 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
Chicken coccidiosis, caused by infection with single or multiple Eimeria species, results in significant economic losses to the global poultry industry. Over the past decades, considerable efforts have been made to generate attenuated Eimeria strains, and the use of live attenuated anticoccidial vaccines for disease prevention has achieved tremendous success. In this review, we evaluate the advantages and limitations of the methods of attenuation as well as attenuated Eimeria strains in a historical perspective. Also, we summarize the recent exciting research advances in transient/stable transfection systems and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-based genome editing developed for Eimeria parasites, and discuss trends and challenges of developing live attenuated anticoccidial vaccines based on transgenesis and genome editing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Liu
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China
| | - Xianyong Liu
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Animal Protozoa Laboratory & College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100093, PR China
| | - Xiaomin Zhao
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian, Shandong Province 271018, PR China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China.
| | - Xun Suo
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology and Zoonosis of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, National Animal Protozoa Laboratory & College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100093, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Hurle GR, Brainard J, Tyler KM. Microbiome diversity is a modifiable virulence factor for cryptosporidiosis. Virulence 2023; 14:2273004. [PMID: 37872759 PMCID: PMC10653618 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2273004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. infection causes significant disease in immunosuppressed individuals and children under the age of 5 years. The severity of the pathological presentation of cryptosporidiosis is a function of the host and parasite genotypes, host immune status, and the enteric environment or microbiome of the host. Cryptosporidiosis often presents with abdominal pain and severe diarrhoea and is associated with intestinal dysbiosis and inflammation. Our systematic analysis of the available literature revealed that bacterial diversity is reduced during infection in larger animal models, lending support to recent studies which indicate that the use of probiotics or the presence of a naturally diverse gut microbiome can prevent or minimise pathology caused by gastrointestinal pathogens. In summary, we present evidence that the presence of a diverse gut microbiome, natural or induced, reduces both symptomatic pathology and oocyst output.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Julii Brainard
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Kevin. M. Tyler
- Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Ahmed W, Fisher P, Veal C, Sturm K, Sidhu J, Toze S. Decay of Cryptosporidium parvfum DNA in cowpats in subtropical environments determined using qPCR. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 899:165481. [PMID: 37442482 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium oocysts pose a significant threat to public health due to its ability to contaminate environmental waters, leading to outbreaks of waterborne diseases and emphasizing the crucial need for effective water treatment and monitoring systems. This study aimed to investigate the decay of Cryptosporidium oocyst DNA in cow fecal matter under different environmental conditions prevalent in sub-tropical Southeast Queensland (SEQ) during summer and winter seasons. The effects of ambient sunlight and shaded conditions on the decay rates of C. parvum DNA in cow fecal samples were evaluated. The results showed that measurable levels of C. parvum DNA were observed for up to 60 days during the summer experiments, with a slower decay rate on the surface (k = -0.029) and sub-surface (k = -0.043) of the cowpat under shaded conditions than those on the surface (k = -0.064) and sub-surface (k = -0.079) under sunlight conditions. The decay rates of C. parvum DNA on the surface and sub-surface of the cowpat under shaded conditions were significantly slower (p = 0.004; p = 0.004) than those on the surface and sub-surface under sunlight conditions during summer experiments. During the winter treatments, measurable levels of C. parvum DNA were observed for up to 90 days, and the decay rates were slower on the surface (k = -0.036) and sub-surface (k = -0.034) of the cowpat under shaded conditions than those under sunlight conditions (k = -0.067 for surface and k = -0.057 for sub-surface). The decay rates of C. parvum DNA on the surface and sub-surface of the cowpat under shaded conditions were significantly slower than those on the surface (p = 0.009) and sub-surface (p = 0.041) under sunlight conditions during winter experiments. Moreover, the decay rate in the summer sunlight surface treatment (k = -0.064) was significantly faster from those in the winter shaded surface (k = -0.036; p = 0.018) and sub-surface (k = -0.034; p = 0.011) treatments. Similar results were also observed for summer sunlight sub-surface (k = -0.079), which was significantly faster than winter shaded surface (k = -0.036; p = 0.0008) and sub-surface (k = -0.034; p = 0.0005) treatments. Overall, these findings are important to enhance our understanding on the degradation of C. parvum DNA in cow fecal matter in SEQ, particularly in relation to seasonal variations and environmental conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Warish Ahmed
- CSIRO Environment, Ecosciences Precinct, 41 Boggo Road, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia.
| | - Paul Fisher
- Seqwater, 117 Brisbane Street, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
| | - Cameron Veal
- Seqwater, 117 Brisbane Street, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
| | - Katrin Sturm
- Seqwater, 117 Brisbane Street, Ipswich, QLD 4305, Australia
| | - Jatinder Sidhu
- CSIRO Environment, Ecosciences Precinct, 41 Boggo Road, Dutton Park, QLD 4102, Australia
| | - Simon Toze
- Urban Water Futures, 93 Kays Road, The Gap, QLD 4061, Australia; Australian Centre for Water and Environmental Biotechnology, The University of Queensland, Hawken Drive, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Cohn IS, Wallbank BA, Haskins BE, O’Dea KM, Pardy RD, Shaw S, Merolle MI, Gullicksrud JA, Christian DA, Striepen B, Hunter CA. Intestinal cDC1s provide IL-12 dependent and independent functions required for CD4 + T cell-mediated resistance to Cryptosporidium. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.11.566669. [PMID: 38014026 PMCID: PMC10680586 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.11.566669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an enteric pathogen that is a prominent cause of diarrheal disease. Control of this infection requires CD4+ T cells, though the processes that lead to T cell-mediated resistance have been difficult to assess. Here, Cryptosporidium parasites that express MHCII-restricted model antigens were generated to dissect the early events that influence CD4+ T cell priming and effector function. These studies highlight that parasite-specific CD4+ T cells are primed in the draining mesenteric lymph node (mesLN) and differentiate into Th1 cells in the gut, where they mediate IFN-γ-dependent control of the infection. Although type 1 conventional dendritic cells (cDC1s) were not required for initial priming of CD4+ T cells, cDC1s were required for CD4+ T cell expansion and gut homing. cDC1s were also a major source of IL-12 that was not required for priming but promoted full differentiation of CD4+ T cells and local production of IFN-γ. Together, these studies reveal distinct roles for cDC1s in shaping CD4+ T cell responses to enteric infection: first to drive early expansion in the mesLN and second to drive effector responses in the gut.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ian S. Cohn
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Bethan A. Wallbank
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Breanne E. Haskins
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Keenan M. O’Dea
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ryan D. Pardy
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sebastian Shaw
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Maria I. Merolle
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jodi A. Gullicksrud
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - David A. Christian
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Boris Striepen
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Christopher A. Hunter
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Liu X, Wang J, Liu J, Li X, Guan Y, Qian S, Jia X. Cryptosporidiosis diagnosed using metagenomic next-generation sequencing in a healthy child admitted to pediatric intensive care unit: a case report. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1269963. [PMID: 37965251 PMCID: PMC10641789 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1269963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptosporidium infections in humans typically result in symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. When the diarrhea is severe, it can cause serious complications and even be life-threatening, especially in patients with compromised immune systems. Case presentation Here, we reported the use of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of a 10-year-old boy with severe Cryptosporidium infection. Despite the absence of any history of immunocompromise, the infection still resulted in severe symptoms, including shock, as well as damage to his pancreas and kidneys. The mNGS tests detected the presence of Cryptosporidium parvum when conventional methods failed. The patient received anti-parasite treatment along with supportive care to manage the condition. With disease surveillance based on regular clinical tests and sequential mNGS tests, the child recovered from the severe conditions. Conclusion Our study emphasized the importance of recognizing the potential severity of Cryptosporidium infection, even among individuals with normal immune systems. Timely diagnosis and ongoing monitoring are essential for patient prognosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyi Liu
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Scientific Affairs, Hugobiotech Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Jun Liu
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xuming Li
- Department of Scientific Affairs, Hugobiotech Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Yuanlin Guan
- Department of Scientific Affairs, Hugobiotech Co., Ltd., Beijing, China
| | - Suyun Qian
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xinlei Jia
- Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Roche K, Dalle F, Capelli N, Borne R, Jouffroy-Bapicot I, Valot B, Grenouillet F, Le Bailly M. From modern-day parasitology to paleoparasitology: the elusive past record and evolution of Cryptosporidium. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1249884. [PMID: 37928683 PMCID: PMC10622768 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1249884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent efforts have been made to review the state of the art on a variety of questions and targets in paleoparasitology, including protozoan taxa. Meanwhile, these efforts seemed to let aside Cryptosporidium, and we then intended to review its paleoparasitological record to assess its past distribution and favored detection methods, and eventually highlight needed research trajectories. This review shows that contrary to other parasites, most of the positive results came from South-American sites and coprolites rather than sediment samples, highlighting the need to test this kind of material, notably in Europe where many negative results were reported in the published literature from sediment samples. Moreover, aDNA-based detections are nearly absent from the paleoparasitological record of this parasite, though punctually shown successful. With their potential to address the evolutionary history of Cryptosporidium species, notably through their 18S rRNA tree, aDNA-based approaches should be encouraged in the future. In sum, and though the limits of currently used methods and materials remain unclear, this review highlights the potential role of coprolites and aDNA for the study of Cryptosporidium species in the past and how this history shaped their current diversity and distribution, notably among human populations but also farm animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kévin Roche
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Frédéric Dalle
- CNR LE Cryptosporidiosis Collaborating Laboratory, Santé Publique France, Dijon, France
- Department of Parasitology/Mycology, University Hospital of Dijon, Dijon, France
| | - Nicolas Capelli
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Romain Borne
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | | | - Benoit Valot
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Frédéric Grenouillet
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Matthieu Le Bailly
- UMR CNRS-UFC 6249 Chrono-environnement, University of Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Bhalchandra S, Gevers K, Heimburg-Molinaro J, van Roosmalen M, Coppens I, Cummings RD, Ward HD. Identification of the glycopeptide epitope recognized by a protective Cryptosporidium monoclonal antibody. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0027523. [PMID: 37725059 PMCID: PMC10580954 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00275-23] [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: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium species are a leading cause of pediatric diarrheal disease and death in low- and middle-income countries and pose a particular threat to immunocompromised individuals. As a zoonotic pathogen, Cryptosporidium can have devastating effects on the health of neonatal calves. Despite its impact on human and animal health, consistently effective drug treatments for cryptosporidiosis are lacking and no vaccine is available. We previously showed that C. parvum mucin-like glycoproteins, gp40, and gp900 express an epitope identified by a monoclonal antibody 4E9. 4E9 neutralized C. parvum infection in vitro as did glycan-binding proteins specific for the Tn antigen (GalNAc-α1-S/T). Here, we show that 4E9 ameliorates disease in vivo in a calf challenge model. The 4E9 epitope is present on C. hominis in addition to C. parvum gp40 and gp900 and localizes to the plasma membrane and dense granules of invasive and intracellular stages. To characterize the epitope recognized by 4E9, we probed a glycan array containing over 500 defined glycans together with a custom-made glycopeptide microarray containing glycopeptides from native mucins or C. parvum gp40 and gp15. 4E9 exhibited no binding to the glycan array but bound strongly to glycopeptides from native mucins or gp40 on the glycopeptide array, suggesting that the antibody epitope contains both peptide and glycan moieties. 4E9 only recognized glycopeptides with adjacent S or T residues in the motif S*/T*-X-S*/T* where X = 0 or 1. These data define the 4E9 epitope and have implications for the inclusion of the epitope in the development of vaccines or other immune-based therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seema Bhalchandra
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Jamie Heimburg-Molinaro
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Isabelle Coppens
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Richard D. Cummings
- Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Honorine D. Ward
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Jingyi J, Ping Y, Jian X, Jia C, Xujian M, Qiong L, Bowen T, Fengming W. Efficacy of a membrane concentration method combined with real-time PCR for detection of Giardia and Cryptosporidium in drinking water. Lett Appl Microbiol 2023; 76:ovad121. [PMID: 37833237 DOI: 10.1093/lambio/ovad121] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of Giardia and Cryptosporidium (oo)cysts in drinking source water poses a serious public health risk. Here, we established a method that combines membrane concentration and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to quantify Giardia and Cryptosporidium in drinking water. The water samples were filtered through a cellulose membrane to collect Giardia and Cryptosporidium, and then nucleic acids were extracted. Specific primers and probes were designed and synthesized according to the gph gene sequence of Giardia and 18S rRNA gene sequence of Cryptosporidium. The concentrations of the two targets were determined using real-time PCR technology. The sensitivity, specificity, and stability of the method were evaluated. Our findings revealed that the detection limits of real-time PCR method for detecting Giardia and Cryptosporidium were 0.926 and 0.65 copy/µL, respectively; the spiked recovery rates were above 60% and 38%, respectively, and relative standard deviations were under 0.95% and 2.26%, respectively. Therefore, this effective procedure based on the membrane concentration method and real-time PCR will be useful for detecting Giardia and Cryptosporidium in drinking water for purpose of continuous environmental monitoring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiang Jingyi
- Pathogen Inspection Center, Changzhou Center for Disease Prevention and Control, 203 TaiShan Road, Changzhou 213022, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yao Ping
- Pathogen Inspection Center, Changzhou Center for Disease Prevention and Control, 203 TaiShan Road, Changzhou 213022, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xu Jian
- Pathogen Inspection Center, Changzhou Center for Disease Prevention and Control, 203 TaiShan Road, Changzhou 213022, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chen Jia
- Pathogen Inspection Center, Changzhou Center for Disease Prevention and Control, 203 TaiShan Road, Changzhou 213022, Jiangsu, China
| | - Mao Xujian
- Pathogen Inspection Center, Changzhou Center for Disease Prevention and Control, 203 TaiShan Road, Changzhou 213022, Jiangsu, China
| | - Li Qiong
- Pathogen Inspection Center, Changzhou Center for Disease Prevention and Control, 203 TaiShan Road, Changzhou 213022, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tu Bowen
- Pathogen Inspection Center, Changzhou Center for Disease Prevention and Control, 203 TaiShan Road, Changzhou 213022, Jiangsu, China
| | - Wang Fengming
- Pathogen Inspection Center, Changzhou Center for Disease Prevention and Control, 203 TaiShan Road, Changzhou 213022, Jiangsu, China
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
de Alba P, Garro C, Florin-Christensen M, Schnittger L. Prevalence, risk factors and molecular epidemiology of neonatal cryptosporidiosis in calves: The Argentine perspective. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2023; 4:100147. [PMID: 37941927 PMCID: PMC10628544 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2023.100147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. are enteroparasitic protozoans that cause cryptosporidiosis in newborn calves. Clinical signs of the infection are diarrhoea and dehydration leading to decreased productivity and economic losses in cattle farms around the world. Additionally, cryptosporidiosis is a relevant zoonotic disease since the ingestion of oocysts can be fatal for children under five years of age, the elderly, and/or immunocompromised adults. This review aims to integrate existing knowledge on the epidemiological situation of calf cryptosporidiosis and associated risk factors in Argentina. In addition, the GP60 subtype diversity of the pathogen was analysed and related with the global distribution of corresponding GP60 subtypes. Depending on the study region and applied diagnostics, prevalence among calves up to 20 days of age varied between 25.2% and 42.5%, while a prevalence of 16.3-25.5% was observed at the age of 1-90 days. So far, molecular studies have determined exclusively Cryptosporidium parvum in preweaned calves. In addition, C. parvum infection was reported as the major cause of calf diarrhoea, followed by rotavirus A (RVA), while enteropathogens such as coronavirus, Escherichiacoli, and Salmonella sp. played a negligible role. Calf age of 20 days or less, incidence of diarrhoea, poorly drained soils, and large farm size were identified as risk factors for C. parvum-infection in Argentina. A total of nine GP60 subtypes (IIaAxxG1R1, xx = 16 to 24) were identified, showing a stepwise increase of the trinucleotide motif TCA, and including the zoonotic subtypes IIaA16G1R1, IIaA17G1R1, IIaA18G1R1, IIaA19G1R1, and IIaA20G1R1. We found that an increase in the A16→A24 trinucleotide repeat was accompanied by a gradual decrease in the global distribution of GP60 alleles, strongly suggesting that IIaA16G1R1 represents the primordial allelic variant of this group. Since identified GP60 alleles have a similar genetic background, we hypothesize that the continuous trinucleotide repeat array has been generated by stepwise repeat expansion of A16. The information gathered and integrated in this study contributes to an improved understanding of the epidemiological characteristics of bovine cryptosporidiosis in and beyond Argentina, which in turn can help to develop control strategies for this parasitosis of veterinary and medical relevance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paloma de Alba
- Instituto de Patobiología Veterinaria, Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas (CICVyA), INTA-Castelar, Los Reseros y Nicolas Repetto s/n, Hurlingham, 1686, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1033AAJ, Argentina
| | - Carlos Garro
- Instituto de Patobiología Veterinaria, Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas (CICVyA), INTA-Castelar, Los Reseros y Nicolas Repetto s/n, Hurlingham, 1686, Argentina
| | - Monica Florin-Christensen
- Instituto de Patobiología Veterinaria, Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas (CICVyA), INTA-Castelar, Los Reseros y Nicolas Repetto s/n, Hurlingham, 1686, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1033AAJ, Argentina
| | - Leonhard Schnittger
- Instituto de Patobiología Veterinaria, Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas (CICVyA), INTA-Castelar, Los Reseros y Nicolas Repetto s/n, Hurlingham, 1686, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires C1033AAJ, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Prabakaran M, Weible LJ, Champlain JD, Jiang RY, Biondi K, Weil AA, Van Voorhis WC, Ojo KK. The Gut-Wrenching Effects of Cryptosporidiosis and Giardiasis in Children. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2323. [PMID: 37764167 PMCID: PMC10538111 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11092323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium species and Giardia duodenalis are infectious intestinal protozoan pathogens that cause alarming rates of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Children are more likely to have clinical symptoms due to their less developed immune systems and factors such as undernutrition, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The severity of the symptoms and clinical manifestations in children may vary from asymptomatic to life-threatening depending on the Cryptosporidium species/G. duodenalis strains and the resulting complex stepwise interactions between the parasite, the host nutritional and immunologic status, and the gut microbiome profile. Structural damages inflicted by both parasites to epithelial cells in the large and small intestines could severely impair children's gut health, including the ability to absorb nutrients, resulting in stunted growth, diminished neurocognitive development, and other long-term effects. Clinically approved cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis drugs have broad antimicrobial effects that have incomprehensible impacts on growing children's gut health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mayuri Prabakaran
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (M.P.); (L.J.W.); (J.D.C.); (R.Y.J.); (A.A.W.); (W.C.V.V.)
| | - Lyssa J. Weible
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (M.P.); (L.J.W.); (J.D.C.); (R.Y.J.); (A.A.W.); (W.C.V.V.)
| | - Joshua D. Champlain
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (M.P.); (L.J.W.); (J.D.C.); (R.Y.J.); (A.A.W.); (W.C.V.V.)
| | - Ryan Ye Jiang
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (M.P.); (L.J.W.); (J.D.C.); (R.Y.J.); (A.A.W.); (W.C.V.V.)
| | - Katalina Biondi
- Human Center for Artificial Intelligence, Department of Computer Science, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32816, USA;
| | - Ana A. Weil
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (M.P.); (L.J.W.); (J.D.C.); (R.Y.J.); (A.A.W.); (W.C.V.V.)
| | - Wesley C. Van Voorhis
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (M.P.); (L.J.W.); (J.D.C.); (R.Y.J.); (A.A.W.); (W.C.V.V.)
| | - Kayode K. Ojo
- Center for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases (CERID), Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; (M.P.); (L.J.W.); (J.D.C.); (R.Y.J.); (A.A.W.); (W.C.V.V.)
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Shan H, Wei C, Zhang J, He M, Zhang Z. Case Report: Severe Diarrhea Caused by Cryptosporidium Diagnosed by Metagenome Next-Generation Sequencing in Blood. Infect Drug Resist 2023; 16:5777-5782. [PMID: 37675126 PMCID: PMC10478782 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s422799] [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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptosporidium is one of the major pathogens causing diarrhea worldwide. At present, cryptosporidiosis is difficult to prevent and control, especially in immunocompromised hosts. It may cause life-threatening diarrhea and malabsorption among children and immunocompromised patients. Therefore, it is very important to explore rapid diagnostic tools and treatment methods for Cryptosporidium infection. Case Presentation We reported a case of severe diarrhea caused by cryptosporidiosis in a liver transplant recipient, whose condition was finally confirmed by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and fecal microscopy. His illness was resolved with immunosuppression regulation, nitazoxanide administration, and infection control. Conclusion So far, nitazoxanide is still the first choice for the treatment of cryptosporidiosis. Our institutional experience suggested that nitazoxanide alone may be effective on the basis of adjusting immunosuppressant. In addition, even though diagnosis of Cryptosporidium infection is a challenge, mNGS can serve as a rapid screening tool in low-prevalence setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huifang Shan
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chunyan Wei
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jingyi Zhang
- Department of Pharmacy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min He
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhongwei Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Bacchetti R, Connelly L, Browning L, Alexander CL. Changing Molecular Profiles of Human Cryptosporidiosis Cases in Scotland as a Result of the Coronavirus Disease, COVID-19 Pandemic. Br J Biomed Sci 2023; 80:11462. [PMID: 37701073 PMCID: PMC10493326 DOI: 10.3389/bjbs.2023.11462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium, the most frequently reported parasite in Scotland, causes gastrointestinal illness resulting in diarrhoea, nausea and cramps. Two species are responsible for most cases: Cryptosporidium hominis (C. hominis) and Cryptosporidium parvum (C. parvum). Transmission occurs faecal-orally, through ingestion of contaminated food and water, or direct contact with faeces. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic led to global restrictions, including national lockdowns to limit viral transmission. Such interventions led to decreased social mixing, and reduced/no local and international travel, which are factors associated with transmission of multiple communicable diseases, including cryptosporidiosis. This report assessed the impact of the pandemic on Scottish cryptosporidiosis cases, and identified changes in circulating molecular variants of Cryptosporidium species. Molecular data generated using real time PCR and GP60 nested-PCR assays on laboratory-confirmed cryptosporidiosis cases reported during 2018-22 were analysed. The Scottish Microbiology Reference Laboratories (SMiRL), Glasgow, received 774 Cryptosporidium-positive faeces during 2018-22, of which 486 samples were successfully subtyped. During this time period, C. hominis (n = 155; 21%) and C. parvum (n = 572; 77%) were the most commonly detected species. The total number of cases during 2020, which was greatly affected by the pandemic, was markedly lower in comparison to case numbers in the 2 years before and after 2020. The most predominant C. hominis family detected prior to 2020 was the Ib family which shifted to the Ie family during 2022. The most common C. parvum variant during 2018-22 was the IIa family, however a rise in the IId family was observed (n = 6 in 2018 to n = 25 in 2022). The dominant C. hominis subtype IbA10G2, which accounted for 71% of C. hominis subtypes in 2018-19 was superseded by three rare subtypes: IeA11G3T3 (n = 15), IdA16 (n = 8) and IbA9G3 (n = 3) by 2022. Frequently reported C. parvum subtypes in 2018-19 were IIaA15G2R1 and IIaA17G1R1, accounting for 59% of total C. parvum subtypes. By 2022, IIaA15G2R1 remained the most common (n = 28), however three unusual subtypes in Scotland emerged: IIdA24G1 (n = 7), IIaA16G3R1 (n = 7) and IIaA15G1R2 (n = 7). Continuous monitoring of Cryptosporidium variants following the pandemic will be essential to explore further changes and emergence of strains with altered virulence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ross Bacchetti
- Scottish Microbiology Reference Laboratories (Glasgow), Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Lisa Connelly
- Scottish Microbiology Reference Laboratories (Glasgow), Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Lynda Browning
- Clinical and Protecting Health Directorate, Public Health Scotland, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Claire L. Alexander
- Scottish Microbiology Reference Laboratories (Glasgow), Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Gilchrist CA, Campo JJ, Pablo JV, Ma JZ, Teng A, Oberai A, Shandling AD, Alam M, Kabir M, Faruque A, Haque R, Petri WA. Specific Cryptosporidium antigens associate with reinfection immunity and protection from cryptosporidiosis. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e166814. [PMID: 37347553 PMCID: PMC10425216 DOI: 10.1172/jci166814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
There is no vaccine to protect from cryptosporidiosis, a leading cause of diarrhea in infants in low- and middle-income countries. Here, we comprehensively identified parasite antigens associated with protection from reinfection. A Cryptosporidium protein microarray was constructed by in vitro transcription and translation of 1,761 C. parvum, C. hominis, or C. meleagridis antigens, including proteins with a signal peptide and/or a transmembrane domain. Plasma IgG and/or IgA from Bangladeshi children longitudinally followed for cryptosporidiosis from birth to 3 years of age allowed for identification of 233 seroreactive proteins. Seven of these were associated with protection from reinfection. These included Cp23, Cp17, Gp900, and 4 additional antigens - CpSMP1, CpMuc8, CpCorA and CpCCDC1. Infection in the first year of life, however, often resulted in no detectable antigen-specific antibody response, and antibody responses, when detected, were specific to the infecting parasite genotype and decayed in the months after infection. In conclusion, humoral immune responses against specific parasite antigens were associated with acquired immunity. While antibody decay over time and parasite genotype-specificity may limit natural immunity, this work serves as a foundation for antigen selection for vaccine design.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carol A. Gilchrist
- Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | | | | | - Jennie Z. Ma
- Public Health Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| | - Andy Teng
- Antigen Discovery Inc, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Amit Oberai
- Antigen Discovery Inc, Irvine, California, USA
| | | | - Masud Alam
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mamun Kabir
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - A.S.G. Faruque
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Rashidul Haque
- International Centre for Diarrhoeal Diseases Research, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - William A. Petri
- Department of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
- Microbiology, Immunology and Cancer Biology, and
- Pathology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Back PS, Senthilkumar V, Choi CP, Ly AM, Snyder AK, Lau JG, Ward GE, Bradley PJ. The Toxoplasma subpellicular network is highly interconnected and defines parasite shape for efficient motility and replication. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.08.10.552545. [PMID: 37609316 PMCID: PMC10441382 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.10.552545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Apicomplexan parasites possess several specialized structures to invade their host cells and replicate successfully. One of these is the inner membrane complex (IMC), a peripheral membrane-cytoskeletal system underneath the plasma membrane. It is composed of a series of flattened, membrane-bound vesicles and a cytoskeletal subpellicular network (SPN) comprised of intermediate filament-like proteins called alveolins. While the alveolin proteins are conserved throughout the Apicomplexa and the broader Alveolata, their precise functions and interactions remain poorly understood. Here, we describe the function of one of these alveolin proteins, TgIMC6. Disruption of IMC6 resulted in striking morphological defects that led to aberrant motility, invasion, and replication. Deletion analyses revealed that the alveolin domain alone is largely sufficient to restore localization and partially sufficient for function. As this highlights the importance of the IMC6 alveolin domain, we implemented unnatural amino acid photoreactive crosslinking to the alveolin domain and identified multiple binding interfaces between IMC6 and two other cytoskeletal proteins - IMC3 and ILP1. To our knowledge, this provides the first direct evidence of protein-protein interactions in the alveolin domain and supports the long-held hypothesis that the alveolin domain is responsible for filament formation. Collectively, our study features the conserved alveolin proteins as critical components that maintain the parasite's structural integrity and highlights the alveolin domain as a key mediator of SPN architecture.
Collapse
|
39
|
Mathison BA, Pritt BS. The Landscape of Parasitic Infections in the United States. Mod Pathol 2023; 36:100217. [PMID: 37182583 DOI: 10.1016/j.modpat.2023.100217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The landscape of parasitic infections in the United States has shifted dramatically over the past century. Although infections such as malaria have been successfully eliminated, others remain endemic and pose a significant public health risk. Numerous parasitic infections are also imported each year. This article focuses on endemic parasitic infections that may be commonly seen in anatomical pathology preparations and discusses their biology, diagnostic histopathological features, and epidemiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Blaine A Mathison
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Pathology, ARUP Laboratories, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Bobbi S Pritt
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Divisions of Clinical Microbiology and Anatomic Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Campos-Ruiz M, Flamarich C, Fernández-Navarro A, Roura S, Martin L, Pillado P, Cardona PJ, Fernández-Rivas G. Clinical Performance of Lateral Flow Assay for Cryptosporidium spp. Diagnosis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2140. [PMID: 37626637 PMCID: PMC10452195 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11082140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/23/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. is an apicomplexan protozoan parasite associated with gastroenteritis in humans. In 2018, Spain showed 1511 confirmed cases, with a growing trend since 2014. Despite this fact, Cryptosporidium spp. is not usually routinely examined when a parasitological study is ordered, although accurate diagnosis is fundamental to prevent the spread of the illness. The main objectives of the present work is to demonstrate the circulation and to study the epidemiology of cryptosporidiosis in patients who were being tested for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. parasites in the faeces in the Metropolitan North Area of Barcelona, Maresme, and Vallés Occidental using a two-step algorithm. The stool samples were analysed using the Cryptosporidium/Giardia spp. immunochromatographic test; the positive samples were visualised under a microscope using auramine staining. The proportion of Cryptosporidium spp. cases was around 2% in the studied patients, with a pronounced seasonal incidence peak in late summer-early autumn. In our cohort, weight loss was the main symptom related to confirmed cases. The mean age of confirmed patients was 19 years old, and they were younger than the unconfirmed group. Cryptosporidium spp. is one of the parasites that currently circulate in many areas in Europe. Prevalence must be taken into account for active searching.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Campos-Ruiz
- Microbiology Department, Clinical Laboratory North Metropolitan Area, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Clara Flamarich
- CAP Sant Roc. Catalan Institut of Health, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Anabel Fernández-Navarro
- Microbiology Department, Clinical Laboratory North Metropolitan Area, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Silvia Roura
- North Metropolitan International Health Program (PROSICS), 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08196 Badalona, Spain
| | - Laura Martin
- CAP Doctor Robert Catalan Institut of Health, 08915 Badalona, Spain
| | - Pablo Pillado
- Microbiology Department, Clinical Laboratory North Metropolitan Area, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Pere-Joan Cardona
- Microbiology Department, Clinical Laboratory North Metropolitan Area, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| | - Gema Fernández-Rivas
- Microbiology Department, Clinical Laboratory North Metropolitan Area, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, 08916 Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Autonomous University of Barcelona, 08916 Badalona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Li J, Li N, Roellig DM, Zhao W, Guo Y, Feng Y, Xiao L. High subtelomeric GC content in the genome of a zoonotic Cryptosporidium species. Microb Genom 2023; 9:mgen001052. [PMID: 37399068 PMCID: PMC10438818 DOI: 10.1099/mgen.0.001052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium canis is a zoonotic species causing cryptosporidiosis in humans in addition to its natural hosts dogs and other fur animals. To understand the genetic basis for host adaptation, we sequenced the genomes of C. canis from dogs, minks, and foxes and conducted a comparative genomics analysis. While the genomes of C. canis have similar gene contents and organisations, they (~41.0 %) and C. felis (39.6 %) have GC content much higher than other Cryptosporidium spp. (24.3-32.9 %) sequenced to date. The high GC content is mostly restricted to subtelomeric regions of the eight chromosomes. Most of these GC-balanced genes encode Cryptosporidium-specific proteins that have intrinsically disordered regions and are involved in host-parasite interactions. Natural selection appears to play a more important role in the evolution of codon usage in GC-balanced C. canis, and most of the GC-balanced genes have undergone positive selection. While the identity in whole genome sequences between the mink- and dog-derived isolates is 99.9 % (9365 SNVs), it is only 96.0 % (362 894 SNVs) between them and the fox-derived isolate. In agreement with this, the fox-derived isolate possesses more subtelomeric genes encoding invasion-related protein families. Therefore, the change in subtelomeric GC content appears to be responsible for the more GC-balanced C. canis genomes, and the fox-derived isolate could represent a new Cryptosporidium species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Li
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Na Li
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Dawn M. Roellig
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA
| | - Wentao Zhao
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Yaqiong Guo
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Coppens I, Ward HD. Cryptosporidium secretome sheds new light on host-parasite interactions. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:499-500. [PMID: 37150658 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Invasive Cryptosporidium sporozoites contain organelles that secrete unique proteins to facilitate invasion and remodeling of the infected cell. By identifying a novel secretory organelle, 'small granules', and defining the global content of all the secretory organelles, Guérin et al. set the stage to uncover molecular determinants of virulence at the host cell interface.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Coppens
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Honorine D Ward
- Division of Geographic Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Bartley PM, Thomson S, Jonsson NN, Taroda A, Elisabeth AI, Katzer F. Differences in virulence and oocyst shedding profiles in lambs experimentally infected with different isolates of Cryptosporidium parvum. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2023; 4:100127. [PMID: 37456556 PMCID: PMC10344821 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2023.100127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
A wide spectrum of disease severity associated with cryptosporidiosis has been described, ranging from asymptomatic to fatal in both human and animal hosts. The reasons for the variations in severity are likely to be multifactorial, involving environmental, host and parasite factors. This paper describes two experimental infection trials in lambs, a symptomatic host for the parasite, to investigate variation in the clinical manifestations following infection with two distinct isolates of Cryptosporidium parvum. In the first experiment, groups of naïve lambs were challenged with one of two isolates (CP1 or CP2) at < 1 week of age, to test the effect of the isolates on disease outcome. In a second experiment one group of lambs challenged at < 1 week of age (CP1) was then re-challenged with the same isolate at 6 weeks of age (CP1), while a second group was challenged for the first time at 6 weeks of age (CP1). This experiment examined age-related disease symptoms, oocyst shedding and the effect of prior exposure to the parasite on a subsequent homologous challenge. The two isolates were associated with significant differences in the demeanour of the animals and in the numbers of oocysts shed in the faeces. There were also differences in the duration and severity of diarrhoea, though these were not significant. The age of the lamb, at the time of a primary challenge (<1 week or 6 weeks), also resulted in differences in clinical outcomes, with younger lambs showing more severe clinical disease than the older lambs (feeding profiles and presentation of diarrhoea), while older lambs showed virtually no signs of infection but still produced large numbers of oocysts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul M. Bartley
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Thomson
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, United Kingdom
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 464 Bearsden Rd, Glasgow, G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas N. Jonsson
- College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 464 Bearsden Rd, Glasgow, G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Alessandra Taroda
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, United Kingdom
- Protozoology Laboratory, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid – PR-445 Km 380, Londrina, Paraná State, 86057-970, Brazil
| | - A. Innes Elisabeth
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, United Kingdom
| | - Frank Katzer
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Król G, Fortunka K, Majchrzak M, Piktel E, Paprocka P, Mańkowska A, Lesiak A, Karasiński M, Strzelecka A, Durnaś B, Bucki R. Metallic Nanoparticles and Core-Shell Nanosystems in the Treatment, Diagnosis, and Prevention of Parasitic Diseases. Pathogens 2023; 12:838. [PMID: 37375528 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12060838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The usage of nanotechnology in the fight against parasitic diseases is in the early stages of development, but it brings hopes that this new field will provide a solution to target the early stages of parasitosis, compensate for the lack of vaccines for most parasitic diseases, and also provide new treatment options for diseases in which parasites show increased resistance to current drugs. The huge physicochemical diversity of nanomaterials developed so far, mainly for antibacterial and anti-cancer therapies, requires additional studies to determine their antiparasitic potential. When designing metallic nanoparticles (MeNPs) and specific nanosystems, such as complexes of MeNPs, with the shell of attached drugs, several physicochemical properties need to be considered. The most important are: size, shape, surface charge, type of surfactants that control their dispersion, and shell molecules that should assure specific molecular interaction with targeted molecules of parasites' cells. Therefore, it can be expected that the development of antiparasitic drugs using strategies provided by nanotechnology and the use of nanomaterials for diagnostic purposes will soon provide new and effective methods of antiparasitic therapy and effective diagnostic tools that will improve the prevention and reduce the morbidity and mortality caused by these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Grzegorz Król
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, IX Wieków Kielc 19A, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
| | - Kamila Fortunka
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, IX Wieków Kielc 19A, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
| | - Michał Majchrzak
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, IX Wieków Kielc 19A, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
| | - Ewelina Piktel
- Independent Laboratory of Nanomedicine, Medical University of Białystok, Mickiewicza 2B, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Paulina Paprocka
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, IX Wieków Kielc 19A, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
| | - Angelika Mańkowska
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, IX Wieków Kielc 19A, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
| | - Agata Lesiak
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, IX Wieków Kielc 19A, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
| | - Maciej Karasiński
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Nanobiomedical Engineering, Medical University of Białystok, Mickiewicza 2C, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Strzelecka
- Department of Public Health , Institute of Health Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, IX Wieków Kielc 19A, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
| | - Bonita Durnaś
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, IX Wieków Kielc 19A, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
| | - Robert Bucki
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Medical Science, Collegium Medicum, Jan Kochanowski University, IX Wieków Kielc 19A, 25-317 Kielce, Poland
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Nanobiomedical Engineering, Medical University of Białystok, Mickiewicza 2C, 15-222 Białystok, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
DeMichele E, Sosnowski O, Buret AG, Allain T. Regulatory Functions of Hypoxia in Host-Parasite Interactions: A Focus on Enteric, Tissue, and Blood Protozoa. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1598. [PMID: 37375100 PMCID: PMC10303274 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Body tissues are subjected to various oxygenic gradients and fluctuations and hence can become transiently hypoxic. Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is the master transcriptional regulator of the cellular hypoxic response and is capable of modulating cellular metabolism, immune responses, epithelial barrier integrity, and local microbiota. Recent reports have characterized the hypoxic response to various infections. However, little is known about the role of HIF activation in the context of protozoan parasitic infections. Growing evidence suggests that tissue and blood protozoa can activate HIF and subsequent HIF target genes in the host, helping or hindering their pathogenicity. In the gut, enteric protozoa are adapted to steep longitudinal and radial oxygen gradients to complete their life cycle, yet the role of HIF during these protozoan infections remains unclear. This review focuses on the hypoxic response to protozoa and its role in the pathophysiology of parasitic infections. We also discuss how hypoxia modulates host immune responses in the context of protozoan infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emily DeMichele
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (E.D.); (O.S.); (A.G.B.)
- Inflammation Research Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Host-Parasite Interactions, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Olivia Sosnowski
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (E.D.); (O.S.); (A.G.B.)
- Inflammation Research Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Host-Parasite Interactions, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Andre G. Buret
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (E.D.); (O.S.); (A.G.B.)
- Inflammation Research Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Host-Parasite Interactions, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Thibault Allain
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada; (E.D.); (O.S.); (A.G.B.)
- Inflammation Research Network, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
- Host-Parasite Interactions, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Dietrich J, Hammerl JA, Johne A, Kappenstein O, Loeffler C, Nöckler K, Rosner B, Spielmeyer A, Szabo I, Richter MH. Impact of climate change on foodborne infections and intoxications. JOURNAL OF HEALTH MONITORING 2023; 8:78-92. [PMID: 37342431 PMCID: PMC10278375 DOI: 10.25646/11403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/22/2023]
Abstract
Background Temperature, precipitation, and humidity are important factors that can influence the spread, reproduction, and survival of pathogens. Climate change affects these factors, resulting in higher air and water temperatures, increased precipitation, or water scarcity. Climate change may thus have an increasing impact on many infectious diseases. Methods The present review considers those foodborne pathogens and toxins in animal and plant foods that are most relevant in Germany, on the basis of a selective literature review: the bacterial pathogens of the genera Salmonella, Campylobacter and Vibrio, parasites of the genera Cryptosporidium and Giardia, and marine biotoxins. Results As climate change continues to progress, all infections and intoxications discussed here can be expected to increase in Germany. Conclusions The expected increase in foodborne infections and intoxications presents a growing public health risk in Germany.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Dietrich
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment Department for Safety in the Food Chain Berlin, Germany
| | - Jens-Andre Hammerl
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment Department for Biological Safety Berlin, Germany
| | - Annette Johne
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment Department for Biological Safety Berlin, Germany
| | - Oliver Kappenstein
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment Department for Safety in the Food Chain Berlin, Germany
| | - Christopher Loeffler
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment Department for Safety in the Food Chain Berlin, Germany
| | - Karsten Nöckler
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment Department for Biological Safety Berlin, Germany
| | - Bettina Rosner
- Robert Koch Institute Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology Berlin, Germany
| | - Astrid Spielmeyer
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment Department for Safety in the Food Chain Berlin, Germany
| | - Istvan Szabo
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment Department for Biological Safety Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin H. Richter
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment Department for Biological Safety Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Chen Y, Wu Y, Qin H, Xu H, Zhang L. Prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in children from China: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Acta Trop 2023; 244:106958. [PMID: 37257675 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an important zoonotic pathogen that causes diarrhea in humans and animals, and a leading cause of diarrhea morbidity and mortality in children under 5 years old. However, the meta-analysis of Cryptosporidium infection in children in China has not been published. We searched the databases for articles published on the prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in children in China since the inception of these databases to 31 October 2022. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium infection in children was estimated using a random effects model. The results showed that 111 datasets from 24 provinces were selected for the final quantitative analysis. The estimated pooled Cryptosporidium infection prevalence in children in China was 2.9% (3300/126,381). The highest prevalence rate was in southwestern China (4.8%, 365/7766). Subgroup analysis indicated that the Cryptosporidium infection rate in children aged < 3 years (4.9%, 330/8428) was significantly higher than that in children aged 3-6 years (2.5%, 609/26,080) and >6 years (2.6%, 647/27,586). Six Cryptosporidium species were detected in children in China from the selected studies. C. hominis was the dominant species (77.1%, 145/188) and the proportions of subgenotype IaA14R4 of C. hominis was highest (42.8%, 62/145). The findings suggest that Chinese children is in a low level of Cryptosporidium infection, however, the geographical distribution of the infection is extensive. We suggest that measures should be taken to ensure the healthy growth of Chinese children by improving the water environment, increasing public health facilities, strengthening children's health education, and developing sound Cryptosporidium infection control programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuancai Chen
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Yayun Wu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Huikai Qin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Huiyan Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; International Joint Research Laboratory for Zoonotic Diseases of Henan, Zhengzhou 450046, P. R. China; Key Laboratory of Quality and Safety Control of Poultry Products (Zhengzhou), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Zhengzhou 450046, China.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Boks M, Lilja M, Widerström M, Karling P, Lindam A, Sjöström M. Persisting symptoms after Cryptosporidium hominis outbreak: a 10-year follow-up from Östersund, Sweden. Parasitol Res 2023:10.1007/s00436-023-07866-8. [PMID: 37199767 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07866-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
In late 2010, an outbreak of Cryptosporidium hominis affected 27,000 inhabitants (45%) of Östersund, Sweden. Previous research shows that abdomen and joint symptoms commonly persist up to 5 years post-infection. It is unknown whether Cryptosporidium is associated with sequelae for a longer duration, how persisting symptoms present over time, and whether sequelae are associated with prolonged infection. In this prospective cohort study, a randomly selected cohort in Östersund was surveyed about cryptosporidiosis symptoms in 2011 (response rate 69.2%). A case was defined as a respondent reporting new diarrhoea episodes during the outbreak. Follow-up questionnaires were sent after 5 and 10 years. Logistic regressions were used to examine associations between case status and symptoms reported after 10 years, with results presented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals. Consistency of symptoms and associations with case status and number of days with symptoms during outbreak were analysed using X2 and Mann-Whitney U tests. The response rate after 10 years was 74% (n = 538). Case status was associated with reporting symptoms, with aOR of ~3 for abdominal symptoms and ~2 for joint symptoms. Cases were more likely to report consistent symptoms. Cases with consistent abdominal symptoms at follow-up reported 9.2 days with symptoms during the outbreak (SD 8.1), compared to 6.6 days (SD 6.1) for cases reporting varying or no symptoms (p = 0.003). We conclude that cryptosporidiosis was associated with an up to threefold risk for reporting symptoms 10 years post-infection. Consistent symptoms were associated with prolonged infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marije Boks
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
| | - Mikael Lilja
- Unit of Research, Education and Development - Östersund, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | | | - Pontus Karling
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anna Lindam
- Unit of Research, Education and Development - Östersund, Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Malin Sjöström
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Tie X, Zhang Z, Zhou R, Li Y, Xu J, Yin W. A case of septic shock due to delayed diagnosis of Cryptosporidium infection after liver transplantation. BMC Infect Dis 2023; 23:260. [PMID: 37101273 PMCID: PMC10131476 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-023-08252-6] [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: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidium is recognized as a significant pathogen of diarrhea disease in immunocompromised hosts, and studies have shown that Cryptosporidium infection is high in solid organ transplantation (SOT) patients and often has serious consequences. Because of the lack of specificity of diarrheasymptoms cased by Cryptosporidium infection, it is rarely reported in patients undergoing liver transplantation (LT). It frequently delays diagnosis, coming with severe consequences. In clinical work, diagnosing Cryptosporidium infection in LT patients is also complex but single, and the corresponding anti-infective treatment regimen has not yet been standardized. A rare case of septic shock due to a delayed diagnosis of Cryptosporidium infection after LT and relevant literature are discussed in the passage. CASE PRESENTATION A patient who had received LT for two years was admitted to the hospital with diarrhea more than 20 days after eating an unclean diet. After failing treatment at a local hospital, he was admitted to Intensive Care Unit after going into septic shock. The patient presented hypovolemia due to diarrhea, which progressed to septic shock. The patient's sepsis shock was controlled after receiving multiple antibiotic combinations and fluid resuscitation. However, the persistent diarrhea, as the culprit of the patient's electrolyte disturbance, hypovolemia, and malnutrition, was unsolved. The causative agent of diarrhea, Cryptosporidium infection, was identified by colonoscopy, faecal antacid staining, and blood high-throughput sequencing (NGS). The patient was treated by reducing immunosuppression and Nitazoxanide (NTZ), which proved effective in this case. CONCLUSION When LT patients present with diarrhea, clinicians should consider the possibility of Cryptosporidium infection, in addition to screening for conventional pathogens. Tests such as colonoscopy, stool antacid staining and blood NGS sequencing can help diagnose and treat of Cryptosporidium infection early and avoid serious consequences of delayed diagnosis. In treating Cryptosporidium infection in LT patients, the focus should be on the patient's immunosuppressive therapy, striking a balance between anti-immunorejection and anti-infection should be sought. Based on practical experience, NTZ therapy in combination with controlled CD4 + T cells at 100-300/mm3 was highly effective against Cryptosporidium without inducing immunorejection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Tie
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Zhongwei Zhang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ran Zhou
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Yi Li
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jinmei Xu
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Sichuan Provincial Corps Hospital of the Chinese People's Armed Police Force, Leshan, 614700, China
| | - Wanhong Yin
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Saraav I, Sibley LD. Dendritic Cells and Cryptosporidium: From Recognition to Restriction. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1056. [PMID: 37110479 PMCID: PMC10144555 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11041056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Host immune responses are required for the efficient control of cryptosporidiosis. Immunity against Cryptosporidium infection has been best studied in mice, where it is mediated by both innate and adaptive immune responses. Dendritic cells are the key link between innate and adaptive immunity and participate in the defense against Cryptosporidium infection. While the effector mechanism varies, both humans and mice rely on dendritic cells for sensing parasites and restricting infection. Recently, the use of mouse-adapted strains C. parvum and mouse-specific strain C. tyzzeri have provided tractable systems to study the role of dendritic cells in mice against this parasite. In this review, we provide an overview of recent advances in innate immunity acting during infection with Cryptosporidium with a major focus on the role of dendritic cells in the intestinal mucosa. Further work is required to understand the role of dendritic cells in the activation of T cells and to explore associated molecular mechanisms. The identification of Cryptosporidium antigen involved in the activation of Toll-like receptor signaling in dendritic cells during infection is also a matter of future study. The in-depth knowledge of immune responses in cryptosporidiosis will help develop targeted prophylactic and therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - L. David Sibley
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| |
Collapse
|