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Fu M, Qu H, Wang Y, Guan J, Xia T, Zheng K, Tang L, Zhou C, Zhou H, Cong W, Zhang J, Han B. Overcoming research challenges: In vitro cultivation of Ameson portunus (Phylum Microsporidia). J Invertebr Pathol 2024; 204:108091. [PMID: 38462166 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2024.108091] [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: 08/24/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Ameson portunus is an intracellular pathogen that infects marine crabs Portunus trituberculatus and Scylla paramamosain, causing significant economic losses. However, research into this important parasite has been limited due to the absence of an in vitro culture system. To address this challenge, we developed an in vitro cultivation model of A. portunus using RK13 cell line in this study. The fluorescent labeling assay indicated a high infection rate (∼60 %) on the first day post-infection and quantitative PCR (qPCR) detection demonstrated successful infection as early as six hours post-inoculation. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and qPCR were used for the detection of A. portunus infected cells. The FISH probe we designed allowed detection of A. portunus in infected cells and qPCR assay provided accurate quantification of A. portunus in the samples. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed that A. portunus could complete its entire life cycle and produce mature spores in RK13 cells. Additionally, we have identified novel life cycle characteristics during the development of A. portunus in RK 13 cells using TEM. These findings contribute to our understanding of new life cycle pathways of A. portunus. The establishment of an in vitro culture model for A. portunus is critical as it provides a valuable tool for understanding the molecular and immunological events that occur during infection. Furthermore, it will facilitate the development of effective treatment strategies for this intracellular pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Fu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China; Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai 264209, China
| | - Hongnan Qu
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Yongliang Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Jingyu Guan
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Tian Xia
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Kai Zheng
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Liyuan Tang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Chunxue Zhou
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Huaiyu Zhou
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Wei Cong
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai 264209, China.
| | - Jinyong Zhang
- School of Marine Science and Engineering, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao 266109, China.
| | - Bing Han
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China.
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Lv Q, Hong L, Qi L, Chen Y, Xie Z, Liao H, Li C, Li T, Meng X, Chen J, Bao J, Wei J, Han B, Shen Q, Weiss LM, Zhou Z, Long M, Pan G. Microsporidia dressing up: the spore polaroplast transport through the polar tube and transformation into the sporoplasm membrane. mBio 2024; 15:e0274923. [PMID: 38193684 PMCID: PMC10865828 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02749-23] [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: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Microsporidia are obligate intracellular parasites that infect a wide variety of hosts including humans. Microsporidian spores possess a unique, highly specialized invasion apparatus involving the polar filament, polaroplast, and posterior vacuole. During spore germination, the polar filament is discharged out of the spore forming a hollow polar tube that transports the sporoplasm components including the nucleus into the host cell. Due to the complicated topological changes occurring in this process, the details of sporoplasm formation are not clear. Our data suggest that the limiting membrane of the nascent sporoplasm is formed by the polaroplast after microsporidian germination. Using electron microscopy and 1,1'-dioctadecyl-3,3,3',3' tetramethyl indocarbocyanine perchlorate staining, we describe that a large number of vesicles, nucleus, and other cytoplasm contents were transported out via the polar tube during spore germination, while the posterior vacuole and plasma membrane finally remained in the empty spore coat. Two Nosema bombycis sporoplasm surface proteins (NbTMP1 and NoboABCG1.1) were also found to localize in the region of the polaroplast and posterior vacuole in mature spores and in the discharged polar tube, which suggested that the polaroplast during transport through the polar tube became the limiting membrane of the sporoplasm. The analysis results of Golgi-tracker green and Golgi marker protein syntaxin 6 were also consistent with the model of the transported polaroplast derived from Golgi transformed into the nascent sporoplasm membrane.IMPORTANCEMicrosporidia, which are obligate intracellular pathogenic organisms, cause huge economic losses in agriculture and even threaten human health. The key to successful infection by the microsporidia is their unique invasion apparatus which includes the polar filament, polaroplast, and posterior vacuole. When the mature spore is activated to geminate, the polar filament uncoils and undergoes a rapid transition into the hollow polar tube that transports the sporoplasm components including the microsporidian nucleus into host cells. Details of the structural difference between the polar filament and polar tube, the process of cargo transport in extruded polar tube, and the formation of the sporoplasm membrane are still poorly understood. Herein, we verify that the polar filament evaginates to form the polar tube, which serves as a conduit for transporting the nucleus and other sporoplasm components. Furthermore, our results indicate that the transported polaroplast transforms into the sporoplasm membrane during spore germination. Our study provides new insights into the cargo transportation process of the polar tube and origin of the sporoplasm membrane, which provide important clarification of the microsporidian infection mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Liuyi Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Lei Qi
- Biomedical Research Center for Structural Analysis, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuqing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Zhengkai Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongjie Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Chunfeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Xianzhi Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jialing Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Junhong Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Bing Han
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qingtao Shen
- School of Life Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Louis M. Weiss
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Zeyang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- College of Life Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, China
| | - Mengxian Long
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guoqing Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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Velázquez-Lizárraga AE, Sukonthamarn P, Junprung W, Nanakorn Z, Itsathitphaisarn O, Jaroenlak P, Tassanakajon A. Molecular characterization of turtle-like protein in whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) and its role in Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei infection. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2023; 140:108976. [PMID: 37506856 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2023.108976] [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: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) is a microsporidian parasite that infects shrimp hepatopancreas, causing growth retardation and disease susceptibility. Knowledge of the host-pathogen molecular mechanisms is essential to understanding the microsporidian pathogenesis. Turtle-like protein (TLP) is part of the immunoglobulin superfamily of proteins, which is widely distributed in the animal kingdom. TLP has multiple functions, such as cell surface receptors and cell adhesion molecules. The spore wall proteins (SWPs) of microsporidia are involved in the infection mechanisms. Some SWPs are responsible for spore adherence, which is part of the activation and host cell invasion processes. Previous studies showed that TLP from silkworms (Bombyx mori) interacted with SWP26, contributing to the infectivity of Nosema bombycis to its host. In this study, we identified and characterized for the first time, the Litopenaeus vannamei TLP gene (LvTLP), which encodes an 827-aa protein (92.4 kDa) composed of five immunoglobulin domains, two fibronectin type III domains, and a transmembrane region. The LvTLP transcript was expressed in all tested tissues and upregulated in the hepatopancreas at 1 and 7 days post-cohabitation (dpc) and at 9 dpc in hemocytes. To identify the LvTLP binding counterpart, recombinant (r)LvTLP and recombinant (r)EhSWP1 were produced in Escherichia coli. Coimmunoprecipitation and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays demonstrated that rLvTLP interacted with rEhSWP with high affinity (KD = 1.20 × 10-7 M). In EHP-infected hepatopancreases, LvTLP was clustered and co-localized with some of the developing EHP plasmodia. Furthermore, LvTLP gene silencing reduced the EHP copy numbers compared with those of the control group, suggesting the critical role of LvTLP in EHP infection. These results provide insight into the molecular mechanisms of the host-pathogen interactions during EHP infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián E Velázquez-Lizárraga
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Biology and Genomic of Shrimp, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phaya Thai Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Pongsakorn Sukonthamarn
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Biology and Genomic of Shrimp, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phaya Thai Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Wisarut Junprung
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Biology and Genomic of Shrimp, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phaya Thai Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Zittipong Nanakorn
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Biology and Genomic of Shrimp, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phaya Thai Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Ornchuma Itsathitphaisarn
- Center of Excellence for Shrimp Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (Centex Shrimp), Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, 272 Rama VI, Road, Thung Phaya Thai, Ratchathewi, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Pattana Jaroenlak
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Biology and Genomic of Shrimp, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phaya Thai Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Tassanakajon
- Center of Excellence for Molecular Biology and Genomic of Shrimp, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, 254 Phaya Thai Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
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Chen Y, Lv Q, Liao H, Xie Z, Hong L, Qi L, Pan G, Long M, Zhou Z. The microsporidian polar tube: origin, structure, composition, function, and application. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:305. [PMID: 37649053 PMCID: PMC10468886 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05908-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Microsporidia are a class of obligate intracellular parasitic unicellular eukaryotes that infect a variety of hosts, even including humans. Although different species of microsporidia differ in host range and specificity, they all share a similar infection organelle, the polar tube, which is also defined as the polar filament in mature spores. In response to the appropriate environmental stimulation, the spore germinates with the polar filament everted, forming a hollow polar tube, and then the infectious cargo is transported into host cells via the polar tube. Hence, the polar tube plays a key role in microsporidian infection. Here, we review the origin, structure, composition, function, and application of the microsporidian polar tube, focusing on the origin of the polar filament, the structural differences between the polar filament and polar tube, and the characteristics of polar tube proteins. Comparing the three-dimensional structure of PTP6 homologous proteins provides new insight for the screening of additional novel polar tube proteins with low sequence similarity in microsporidia. In addition, the interaction of the polar tube with the spore wall and the host are summarized to better understand the infection mechanism of microsporidia. Due to the specificity of polar tube proteins, they are also used as the target in the diagnosis and prevention of microsporidiosis. With the present findings, we propose a future study on the polar tube of microsporidia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuqing Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Qing Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Hongjie Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Zhengkai Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Liuyi Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Lei Qi
- Biomedical Research Center for Structural Analysis, Shandong University, Jinan, 250012, China
| | - Guoqing Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Mengxian Long
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Zeyang Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Resource Insects, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Microsporidia Infection and Control, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
- College of Life Sciences, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing, 400047, China
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Bukhari T, Pevsner R, Herren JK. Microsporidia: a promising vector control tool for residual malaria transmission. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2022.957109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS) have resulted in a major decrease in malaria transmission. However, it has become apparent that malaria can be effectively transmitted despite high coverage of LLINs/IRS. Residual transmission can occur due to Plasmodium-carrying Anopheles mosquitoes that are insecticide resistant and have feeding and resting behavior that reduces their chance of encountering the currently deployed indoor malaria control tools. Residual malaria transmission is likely to be the most significant hurdle to achieving the goal of malaria eradication and research and development towards new tools and strategies that can control residual malaria transmission is therefore critical. One of the most promising strategies involves biological agents that are part of the mosquito microbiome and influence the ability of Anopheles to transmit Plasmodium. These differ from biological agents previously used for vector control in that their primary effect is on vectoral capacity rather than the longevity and fitness of Anopheles (which may or may not be affected). An example of this type of biological agent is Microsporidia MB, which was identified in field collected Anopheles arabiensis and caused complete inhibition of Plasmodium falciparum transmission without effecting the longevity and fitness of the host. Microsporidia MB belongs to a unique group of rapidly adapting and evolving intracellular parasites and symbionts called microsporidia. In this review we discuss the general biology of microsporidians and the inherent characteristics that make some of them particularly suitable for malaria control. We then discuss the research priorities for developing a transmission blocking strategy for the currently leading microsporidian candidate Microsporidia MB for malaria control.
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Seatamanoch N, Kongdachalert S, Sunantaraporn S, Siriyasatien P, Brownell N. Microsporidia, a Highly Adaptive Organism and Its Host Expansion to Humans. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:924007. [PMID: 35782144 PMCID: PMC9245026 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.924007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging infectious disease has become the center of attention since the outbreak of COVID-19. For the coronavirus, bats are suspected to be the origin of the pandemic. Consequently, the spotlight has fallen on zoonotic diseases, and the focus now expands to organisms other than viruses. Microsporidia is a single-cell organism that can infect a wide range of hosts such as insects, mammals, and humans. Its pathogenicity differs among species, and host immunological status plays an important role in infectivity and disease severity. Disseminated disease from microsporidiosis can be fatal, especially among patients with a defective immune system. Recently, there were two Trachipleistophora hominis, a microsporidia species which can survive in insects, case reports in Thailand, one patient had disseminated microsporidiosis. This review gathered data of disseminated microsporidiosis and T. hominis infections in humans covering the biological and clinical aspects. There was a total of 22 cases of disseminated microsporidiosis reports worldwide. Ten microsporidia species were identified. Maximum likelihood tree results showed some possible correlations with zoonotic transmissions. For T. hominis, there are currently eight case reports in humans, seven of which had Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. It is observed that risks are higher for the immunocompromised to acquire such infections, however, future studies should look into the entire life cycle, to identify the route of transmission and establish preventive measures, especially among the high-risk groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirin Seatamanoch
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Vector Biology and Vector Borne Disease Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Switt Kongdachalert
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Vector Biology and Vector Borne Disease Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Sakone Sunantaraporn
- Vector Biology and Vector Borne Disease Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Padet Siriyasatien
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Vector Biology and Vector Borne Disease Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Narisa Brownell
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Vector Biology and Vector Borne Disease Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- *Correspondence: Narisa Brownell,
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Figuerêdo Moreira I, Marcelino Alvares-Saraiva A, Cristin Pérez E, Guilherme Xavier J, Denelle Spadacci-Morena D, Silva de Araújo R, Ricardo Dell'Armelina Rocha P, Anete Lallo M. Opportunistic pneumonia caused by E. cuniculi in mice immunosuppressed with cyclophosphamide. Immunobiology 2022; 227:152194. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imbio.2022.152194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Han B, Takvorian PM, Weiss LM. The Function and Structure of the Microsporidia Polar Tube. EXPERIENTIA SUPPLEMENTUM (2012) 2022; 114:179-213. [PMID: 35544004 PMCID: PMC10037675 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-93306-7_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Microsporidia are obligate intracellular pathogens that were initially identified about 160 years ago. Current phylogenetic analysis suggests that they are grouped with Cryptomycota as a basal branch or sister group to the fungi. Microsporidia are found worldwide and can infect a wide range of animals from invertebrates to vertebrates, including humans. They are responsible for a variety of diseases once thought to be restricted to immunocompromised patients but also occur in immunocompetent individuals. The small oval spore containing a coiled polar filament, which is part of the extrusion and invasion apparatus that transfers the infective sporoplasm to a new host, is a defining characteristic of all microsporidia. When the spore becomes activated, the polar filament uncoils and undergoes a rapid transition into a hollow tube that will transport the sporoplasm into a new cell. The polar tube has the ability to increase its diameter from approximately 100 nm to over 600 nm to accommodate the passage of an intact sporoplasm and penetrate the plasmalemma of the new host cell. During this process, various polar tube proteins appear to be involved in polar tube attachment to host cell and can interact with host proteins. These various interactions act to promote host cell infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Han
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Peter M Takvorian
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Louis M Weiss
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA.
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Abstract
Microsporidia are obligate intracellular pathogens identified ∼150 years ago as the cause of pébrine, an economically important infection in silkworms. There are about 220 genera and 1,700 species of microsporidia, which are classified based on their ultrastructural features, developmental cycle, host-parasite relationship, and molecular analysis. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that microsporidia are related to the fungi, being grouped with the Cryptomycota as a basal branch or sister group to the fungi. Microsporidia can be transmitted by food and water and are likely zoonotic, as they parasitize a wide range of invertebrate and vertebrate hosts. Infection in humans occurs in both immunocompetent and immunodeficient hosts, e.g., in patients with organ transplantation, patients with advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, and patients receiving immune modulatory therapy such as anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha antibody. Clusters of infections due to latent infection in transplanted organs have also been demonstrated. Gastrointestinal infection is the most common manifestation; however, microsporidia can infect virtually any organ system, and infection has resulted in keratitis, myositis, cholecystitis, sinusitis, and encephalitis. Both albendazole and fumagillin have efficacy for the treatment of various species of microsporidia; however, albendazole has limited efficacy for the treatment of Enterocytozoon bieneusi. In addition, immune restoration can lead to resolution of infection. While the prevalence rate of microsporidiosis in patients with AIDS has fallen in the United States, due to the widespread use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART), infection continues to occur throughout the world and is still seen in the United States in the setting of cART if a low CD4 count persists.
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Aseeja P, Shaikh Y, Bajpai A, Sirsikar P, Kalra SK. Advancement in our understanding of immune response against Encephalitozoon infection. Parasite Immunol 2021; 43:e12828. [PMID: 33682117 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Microsporidia are a group of obligate, intracellular, spore-forming eukaryotic pathogens, which predominantly infects immunocompromised individuals worldwide. Encephalitozoon spp. is one of the most prevalent microsporidia known to infect humans. Host immune system plays a major role in combating pathogens including Encephalitozoon spp. infecting humans. Both innate and adaptive arms of host immune system work together in combating Encephalitozoon infection. Researchers are conducting studies to elucidate the role of both arms of immune system against Encephalitozoon infection. In addition to cell-mediated adaptive immunity, role of innate immunity is also being highlighted in clearance of Encephalitozoon spp. from host body. Therefore, the current review will give a clear and consolidated update on the role of innate as well as adaptive immunity in protection against Encephalitozoon spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Praisy Aseeja
- Faculty of Applied Sciences & Biotechnology, Shoolini university of Biotechnology & Management Sciences, Solan, India
| | - Yasmin Shaikh
- Faculty of Applied Sciences & Biotechnology, Shoolini university of Biotechnology & Management Sciences, Solan, India
| | - Anamika Bajpai
- Centre for Translational Medicine, Lewis Katz School of Medicine, Medicine Education & Research Building, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Prachitee Sirsikar
- Faculty of Applied Sciences & Biotechnology, Shoolini university of Biotechnology & Management Sciences, Solan, India
| | - Sonali K Kalra
- Faculty of Applied Sciences & Biotechnology, Shoolini university of Biotechnology & Management Sciences, Solan, India
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Flores J, Takvorian PM, Weiss LM, Cali A, Gao N. Human microsporidian pathogen Encephalitozoon intestinalis impinges on enterocyte membrane trafficking and signaling. J Cell Sci 2021; 134:jcs.253757. [PMID: 33589497 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.253757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Microsporidia are a large phylum of obligate intracellular parasites. Approximately a dozen species of microsporidia infect humans, where they are responsible for a variety of diseases and occasionally death, especially in immunocompromised individuals. To better understand the impact of microsporidia on human cells, we infected human colonic Caco2 cells with Encephalitozoon intestinalis, and showed that these enterocyte cultures can be used to recapitulate the life cycle of the parasite, including the spread of infection with infective spores. Using transmission electron microscopy, we describe this lifecycle and demonstrate nuclear, mitochondrial and microvillar alterations by this pathogen. We also analyzed the transcriptome of infected cells to reveal host cell signaling alterations upon infection. These high-resolution imaging and transcriptional profiling analysis shed light on the impact of the microsporidial infection on its primary human target cell type.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first authors of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Flores
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey 07102, USA
| | - Peter M Takvorian
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey 07102, USA.,Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine Bronx, New York 10461, USA
| | - Louis M Weiss
- Departments of Medicine and Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine Bronx, New York 10461, USA
| | - Ann Cali
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey 07102, USA
| | - Nan Gao
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, New Jersey 07102, USA
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12
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Zhang Y, Koehler AV, Wang T, Gasser RB. Enterocytozoon bieneusi of animals-With an 'Australian twist'. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2021; 111:1-73. [PMID: 33482973 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Enterocytozoon bieneusi is a microsporidian microorganism that causes intestinal disease in animals including humans. E. bieneusi is an obligate intracellular pathogen, typically causing severe or chronic diarrhoea, malabsorption and/or wasting. Currently, E. bieneusi is recognised as a fungus, although its exact classification remains contentious. The transmission of E. bieneusi can occur from person to person and/or animals to people. Transmission is usually via the faecal-oral route through E. bieneusi spore-contaminated water, environment or food, or direct contact with infected individuals. Enterocytozoon bieneusi genotypes are usually identified and classified by PCR-based sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA. To date, ~600 distinct genotypes of E. bieneusi have been recorded in ~170 species of animals, including various orders of mammals and reptiles as well as insects in >40 countries. Moreover, E. bieneusi has also been found in recreational water, irrigation water, and treated raw- and waste-waters. Although many studies have been conducted on the epidemiology of E. bieneusi, prevalence surveys of animals and humans are scant in some countries, such as Australia, and transmission routes of individual genotypes and related risk factors are poorly understood. This article/chapter reviews aspects of the taxonomy, biology and epidemiology of E. bieneusi; the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of microsporidiosis; critically appraises the naming system for E. bieneusi genotypes as well as the phylogenetic relationships of these genotypes; provides new insights into the prevalence and genetic composition of E. bieneusi populations in animals in parts of Australia using molecular epidemiological tools; and proposes some areas for future research in the E. bieneusi/microsporidiosis field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Anson V Koehler
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
| | - Tao Wang
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Robin B Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia.
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13
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Ecological and public health significance of Enterocytozoon bieneusi. One Health 2020; 12:100209. [PMID: 33426263 PMCID: PMC7779778 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2020.100209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterocytozoon bieneusi, a fungus-like protist parasite, causes symptomatic and asymptomatic intestinal infections in terrestrial animals and is also abundant in the environment. This parasite has been isolated from a variety of host types including humans, livestock, companion animals, birds, and wildlife, as well as the natural and urban environments including drinking source water, coastal water, recreational water, wastewater, vegetables in retail markets, and raw milk on farms. E. bieneusi exhibits high genetic diversity among host species and environmental sources and at least 500 genotypes have been identified thus far. Since its discovery in AIDS patients in 1985, scientists across the world have worked to demonstrate the natural history and public health potential of this pathogen. Here we review molecular typing studies on E. bieneusi and summarize relevant data to identify the potential sources of human and nonhuman infections and environmental contamination. This review also discusses the possible transmission routes of E. bieneusi and the associated risk factors, and advocates the importance of the One Health approach to tackle E. bieneusi infections.
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14
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Li W, Feng Y, Xiao L. Diagnosis and molecular typing of Enterocytozoon bieneusi: the significant role of domestic animals in transmission of human microsporidiosis. Res Vet Sci 2020; 133:251-261. [PMID: 33035931 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2020.09.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Enterocytozoon bieneusi is an obligate intracellular fungus-like parasite with high genetic diversity among mammalian and avian hosts. Based on polymorphism analysis of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS), nearly 500 genotypes were identified within E. bieneusi. Those genotypes form several genetic groups that exhibit phenotypic differences in host specificity and zoonotic potential and probably have varying public health implications. Some of the genotypes in Group 1 (e.g., D, EbpC, and Type IV) and Group 2 (e.g., BEB4, BEB6, I, and J) are the most common ones that infect a variety of hosts including humans and thus are of public health importance. By contrast, those genotypes in other genetic groups (Groups 3-11) are mostly restricted to the hosts from which they were originally isolated, which would have unknown or limited impacts on public health. Advances on diagnosis and molecular typing of E. bieneusi are introduced in this review. Genotype distribution pattern of E. bieneusi in major domestic animal groups (pigs, cattle, sheep, goats, cats, and dogs), the role of those animals in zoonotic transmission of microsporidiosis, and food and water as potential vehicles for transmission are interpreted here as well. This review highlights the importance of including more genetic or epidemiological data obtained in the same geographical areas and using more reliable genetic markers to analyze the actual extent of host specificity in E. bieneusi, for the purpose of fully appreciating zoonotic risks of those domestic animals in close contacts with men and enhancing our understanding of the modes of transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Zoonosis, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, Heilongjiang, China.
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China.
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15
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Han B, Takvorian PM, Weiss LM. Invasion of Host Cells by Microsporidia. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:172. [PMID: 32132983 PMCID: PMC7040029 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Microsporidia are found worldwide and both vertebrates and invertebrates can serve as hosts for these organisms. While microsporidiosis in humans can occur in both immune competent and immune compromised hosts, it has most often been seen in the immune suppressed population, e.g., patients with advanced HIV infection, patients who have had organ transplantation, those undergoing chemotherapy, or patients using other immune suppressive agents. Infection can be associated with either focal infection in a specific organ (e.g., keratoconjunctivitis, cerebritis, or hepatitis) or with disseminated disease. The most common presentation of microsporidiosis being gastrointestinal infection with chronic diarrhea and wasting syndrome. In the setting of advanced HIV infection or other cases of profound immune deficiency microsporidiosis can be extremely debilitating and carries a significant mortality risk. Microsporidia are transmitted as spores which invade host cells by a specialized invasion apparatus the polar tube (PT). This review summarizes recent studies that have provided information on the composition of the spore wall and PT, as well as insights into the mechanism of invasion and interaction of the PT and spore wall with host cells during infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Han
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Peter M. Takvorian
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Louis M. Weiss
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, United States
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16
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Intestinal Parasitic Infections in Internationally Adopted Children: A 10-Year Retrospective Study. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2019; 38:983-989. [PMID: 31460872 DOI: 10.1097/inf.0000000000002399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) represent one of the leading causes of morbidity in the world. Children involved in international adoptions constitute a special group of subjects with specific problems and specific healthcare needs. Nevertheless, in current literature there are insufficient data on IPI in this subset of children. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of IPI in a cohort of internationally adopted children and to investigate epidemiologic factors and clinical features related to IPIs. METHODS A retrospective study involving internationally adopted children <18 years old for which results from 3 fecal parasitologic tests were available, evaluated between September 1, 2008 and April 31, 2018 at a tertiary level university hospital in Rome. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify demographic factors and clinical features associated with IPIs. Two comparisons were performed, the first one according to the positivity of the parasitologic examination of the feces and the second one according to the pathogenicity of the identified strains. RESULTS Of 584 children evaluated, 346 (59.3%) had a positive parasitologic examination (143 pathogenic parasites and 203 nonpathogenic parasites) and 238 (40.8%) had a negative parasitologic examination. About 28.9% of children were positive for 2 or more parasites. A statistically significant positive association was found between IPIs and age, macroarea of origin (Africa and Latin America), living in institutions before adoption and vitamin D deficiency (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Intestinal parasites represent a widespread infection among internationally adopted children, especially in school-age children and those from Latin America and Africa. Importantly, the parasites found in adopted children were not pathogenic in most cases and did not cause significant alterations in growth, major micronutrient deficits or malnutrition.
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17
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Chen D, Du Y, Chen H, Fan Y, Fan X, Zhu Z, Wang J, Xiong C, Zheng Y, Hou C, Diao Q, Guo R. Comparative Identification of MicroRNAs in Apis cerana cerana Workers' Midguts in Responseto Nosema ceranae Invasion. INSECTS 2019; 10:E258. [PMID: 31438582 PMCID: PMC6780218 DOI: 10.3390/insects10090258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2019] [Revised: 08/19/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Here, the expression profiles and differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) in the midguts of Apis cerana cerana workers at 7 d and 10 d post-inoculation (dpi) with N. ceranae were investigated via small RNA sequencing and bioinformatics. Five hundred and twenty nine (529) known miRNAs and 25 novel miRNAs were identified in this study, and the expression of 16 predicted miRNAs was confirmed by Stem-loop RT-PCR. A total of 14 DEmiRNAs were detected in the midgut at 7 dpi, including eight up-regulated and six down-regulated miRNAs, while 12 DEmiRNAs were observed in the midgut at 10 dpi, including nine up-regulated and three down-regulated ones. Additionally, five DEmiRNAs were shared, while nine and seven DEmiRNAs were specifically expressed in midguts at 7 dpi and 10 dpi. Gene ontology analysis suggested some DEmiRNAs and corresponding target mRNAs were involved in various functions including immune system processes and response to stimulus. KEGG pathway analysis shed light on the potential functions of some DEmiRNAs in regulating target mRNAs engaged in material and energy metabolisms, cellular immunity and the humoral immune system. Further investigation demonstrated a complex regulation network between DEmiRNAs and their target mRNAs, with miR-598-y, miR-252-y, miR-92-x and miR-3654-y at the center. Our results can facilitate future exploration of the regulatory roles of miRNAs in host responses to N. ceranae, and provide potential candidates for further investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlying eastern honeybee-microsporidian interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dafu Chen
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yu Du
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Huazhi Chen
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yuanchan Fan
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Xiaoxue Fan
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Zhiwei Zhu
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Jie Wang
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Cuiling Xiong
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yanzhen Zheng
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Chunsheng Hou
- Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Qingyun Diao
- Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Rui Guo
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China.
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18
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Han B, Ma Y, Tu V, Tomita T, Mayoral J, Williams T, Horta A, Huang H, Weiss LM. Microsporidia Interact with Host Cell Mitochondria via Voltage-Dependent Anion Channels Using Sporoplasm Surface Protein 1. mBio 2019; 10:e01944-19. [PMID: 31431557 PMCID: PMC6703431 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01944-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Microsporidia are opportunistic intracellular pathogens that can infect a wide variety of hosts ranging from invertebrates to vertebrates. During invasion, the microsporidian polar tube pushes into the host cell, creating a protective microenvironment, the invasion synapse, into which the sporoplasm extrudes. Within the synapse, the sporoplasm then invades the host cell, forming a parasitophorous vacuole (PV). Using a proteomic approach, we identified Encephalitozoon hellem sporoplasm surface protein 1 (EhSSP1), which localized to the surface of extruded sporoplasms. EhSSP1 was also found to interact with polar tube protein 4 (PTP4). Recombinant EhSSP1 (rEhSSP1) bound to human foreskin fibroblasts, and both anti-EhSSP1 and rEhSSP1 caused decreased levels of host cell invasion, suggesting that interaction of SSP1 with the host cell was involved in invasion. Coimmunoprecipitation (Co-IP) followed by proteomic analysis identified host cell voltage-dependent anion channels (VDACs) as EhSSP1 interacting proteins. Yeast two-hybrid assays demonstrated that EhSSP1 was able to interact with VDAC1, VDAC2, and VDAC3. rEhSSP1 colocalized with the host mitochondria which were associated with microsporidian PVs in infected cells. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the outer mitochondrial membrane interacted with meronts and the PV membrane, mitochondria clustered around meronts, and the VDACs were concentrated at the interface of mitochondria and parasite. Knockdown of VDAC1, VDAC2, and VDAC3 in host cells resulted in significant decreases in the number and size of the PVs and a decrease in mitochondrial PV association. The interaction of EhSSP1 with VDAC probably plays an important part in energy acquisition by microsporidia via its role in the association of mitochondria with the PV.IMPORTANCE Microsporidia are important opportunistic human pathogens in immune-suppressed individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS and recipients of organ transplants. The sporoplasm is critical for establishing microsporidian infection. Despite the biological importance of this structure for transmission, there is limited information about its structure and composition that could be targeted for therapeutic intervention. Here, we identified a novel E. hellem sporoplasm surface protein, EhSSP1, and demonstrated that it can bind to host cell mitochondria via host VDAC. Our data strongly suggest that the interaction between SSP1 and VDAC is important for the association of mitochondria with the parasitophorous vacuole during microsporidian infection. In addition, binding of SSP1 to the host cell is associated with the final steps of invasion in the invasion synapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Han
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Yanfen Ma
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Vincent Tu
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Tadakimi Tomita
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Joshua Mayoral
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Tere Williams
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Aline Horta
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Huan Huang
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
| | - Louis M Weiss
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
- Department of Medicine, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, USA
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19
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Chen D, Chen H, Du Y, Zhou D, Geng S, Wang H, Wan J, Xiong C, Zheng Y, Guo R. Genome-Wide Identification of Long Non-Coding RNAs and Their Regulatory Networks Involved in Apis mellifera ligustica Response to Nosema ceranae Infection. INSECTS 2019; 10:insects10080245. [PMID: 31405016 PMCID: PMC6723323 DOI: 10.3390/insects10080245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Revised: 08/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a diverse class of transcripts that structurally resemble mRNAs but do not encode proteins, and lncRNAs have been proven to play pivotal roles in a wide range of biological processes in animals and plants. However, knowledge of expression patterns and potential roles of honeybee lncRNA response to Nosema ceranae infection is completely unknown. Here, we performed whole transcriptome strand-specific RNA sequencing of normal midguts of Apis mellifera ligustica workers (Am7CK, Am10CK) and N. ceranae-inoculated midguts (Am7T, Am10T), followed by comprehensive analyses using bioinformatic and molecular approaches. A total of 6353 A. m. ligustica lncRNAs were identified, including 4749 conserved lncRNAs and 1604 novel lncRNAs. These lncRNAs had minimal sequence similarities with other known lncRNAs in other species; however, their structural features were similar to counterparts in mammals and plants, including shorter exon and intron length, lower exon number, and lower expression level, compared with protein-coding transcripts. Further, 111 and 146 N. ceranae-responsive lncRNAs were identified from midguts at 7-days post-inoculation (dpi) and 10 dpi compared with control midguts. Twelve differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) were shared by Am7CK vs. Am7T and Am10CK vs. Am10T comparison groups, while the numbers of unique DElncRNAs were 99 and 134, respectively. Functional annotation and pathway analysis showed that the DElncRNAs may regulate the expression of neighboring genes by acting in cis and trans fashion. Moreover, we discovered 27 lncRNAs harboring eight known miRNA precursors and 513 lncRNAs harboring 2257 novel miRNA precursors. Additionally, hundreds of DElncRNAs and their target miRNAs were found to form complex competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks, suggesting that these DElncRNAs may act as miRNA sponges. Furthermore, DElncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks were constructed and investigated, the results demonstrated that a portion of the DElncRNAs were likely to participate in regulating the host material and energy metabolism as well as cellular and humoral immune host responses to N. ceranae invasion. Our findings revealed here offer not only a rich genetic resource for further investigation of the functional roles of lncRNAs involved in the A. m. ligustica response to N. ceranae infection, but also a novel insight into understanding the host-pathogen interaction during honeybee microsporidiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dafu Chen
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Huazhi Chen
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yu Du
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Dingding Zhou
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Sihai Geng
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Haipeng Wang
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Jieqi Wan
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Cuiling Xiong
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Yanzhen Zheng
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Rui Guo
- College of Bee Science, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China.
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20
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González-Machorro JR, Rodríguez-Tovar LE, Gómez-Flores R, Soto-Dominguez A, Rodríguez-Rocha H, Garcia-García A, Tamez-Guerra P, Castillo-Velázquez U. Increased phagocytosis and growth inhibition of Encephalitozoon cuniculi by LPS-activated J774A.1 murine macrophages. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:1841-1848. [PMID: 31001676 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06310-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Encephalitozoon cuniculi is an obligate macrophage parasite of vertebrates that commonly infects rodents, monkeys, dogs, birds, and humans. In the present study, we aimed to assess the phagocytosis and intracellular survival of E. cuniculi spores using untreated and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-activated J774A.1 murine macrophages and assess the macrophage viability. The experimental groups comprised untreated spores, spores killed by heat treatment at 90 °C, and spores killed by treatment with 10% formalin. LPS-activated macrophages significantly increased the phagocytosis of spores and reduced their intracellular growth after 24 and 48 h (P < 0.01); however, after 72 h, we observed an increase in spore replication but no detectable microbicidal activity. These results indicate that LPS activation enhanced E. cuniculi phagocytosis between 24 and 48 h of treatment, but the effect was lost after 72 h, enabling parasitic growth. This study contributes to the understanding of the phagocytosis and survival of E. cuniculi in murine macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R González-Machorro
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Departamento de Inmunología Veterinaria, Campus de Agricultura y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Francisco Villa S/N, Colonia Ex-Hacienda el Canadá, CP 66050, Escobedo, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - L E Rodríguez-Tovar
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Departamento de Inmunología Veterinaria, Campus de Agricultura y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Francisco Villa S/N, Colonia Ex-Hacienda el Canadá, CP 66050, Escobedo, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - R Gómez-Flores
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Departamento de Microbiología e Inmunología, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - A Soto-Dominguez
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Histología, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - H Rodríguez-Rocha
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Histología, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - A Garcia-García
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Departamento de Inmunología Veterinaria, Campus de Agricultura y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Francisco Villa S/N, Colonia Ex-Hacienda el Canadá, CP 66050, Escobedo, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - P Tamez-Guerra
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Departamento de Microbiología e Inmunología, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, San Nicolás de los Garza, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - U Castillo-Velázquez
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Departamento de Inmunología Veterinaria, Campus de Agricultura y Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Francisco Villa S/N, Colonia Ex-Hacienda el Canadá, CP 66050, Escobedo, Nuevo León, Mexico.
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21
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Han B, Moretto M, M Weiss L. Encephalitozoon: Tissue Culture, Cryopreservation, and Murine Infection. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 52:e72. [PMID: 30444582 DOI: 10.1002/cpmc.72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Microsporidia are eukaryotic unicellular parasites that have been studied for more than 150 years. They are found throughout the world and are capable of infecting various invertebrate and vertebrate hosts. They can cause disease in both immune-compromised and immune-competent humans. In immune-compromised individuals, infections can be severe and often fatal. Microsporidia possess a unique, highly specialized invasion mechanism that involves a structure known as the polar tube as well as the spore wall. During spore germination, the polar tube rapidly discharges from the spore and deliver the sporoplasm into the host cell. Spores are the only stage of microsporidia that can survive outside of host cells. Since the first attempt to culture microsporidia in vitro in 1930s, their cultivation has served a critical role in the study and diagnosis of these parasites. In this chapter, we include methods on the cultivation, isolation, and cryopreservation of Encephalitozoon cuniculi, which can infect humans and provides a useful model for other microsporidia. These methods can also be utilized for the culture of Encephalitozoon hellem or Encephalitozoon intestinalis. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Han
- Department of Pathology, Division of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Magali Moretto
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Tropical Medicine, George Washington University, Washington, D.C
| | - Louis M Weiss
- Department of Pathology, Division of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York.,Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Microsporidia have been increasingly reported to infect humans. The most common presentation of microsporidiosis is chronic diarrhea, a significant mortality risk in immune-compromised patients. Albendazole, which inhibits tubulin, and fumagillin, which inhibits methionine aminopeptidase type 2 (MetAP2), are the two main therapeutic agents used for treatment of microsporidiosis. In addition, to their role as emerging pathogens in humans, microsporidia are important pathogens in insects, aquaculture, and veterinary medicine. New therapeutic targets and therapies have become a recent focus of attention for medicine, veterinary, and agricultural use. Areas covered: Herein, we discuss the detection and symptoms of microsporidiosis in humans and the therapeutic targets that have been utilized for the design of new drugs for the treatment of this infection, including triosephosphate isomerase, tubulin, MetAP2, topoisomerase IV, chitin synthases, and polyamines. Expert opinion: Enterocytozoon bieneusi is the most common microsporidia in human infection. Fumagillin has a broader anti-microsporidian activity than albendazole and is active against both Ent. bieneusi and Encephaliozoonidae. Microsporidia lack methionine aminopeptidase type 1 and are, therefore, dependent on MetAP2, while mammalian cells have both enzymes. Thus, MetAP2 is an essential enzyme in microsporidia and new inhibitors of this pathway have significant promise as therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Han
- Department of Pathology, Division of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461
| | - Louis M. Weiss
- Department of Pathology, Division of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461
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Smith RM, Muehlenbachs A, Schaenmann J, Baxi S, Koo S, Blau D, Chin-Hong P, Thorner AR, Kuehnert MJ, Wheeler K, Liakos A, Jackson JW, Benedict T, da Silva AJ, Ritter JM, Rollin D, Metcalfe M, Goldsmith CS, Visvesvara GS, Basavaraju SV, Zaki S. Three Cases of Neurologic Syndrome Caused by Donor-Derived Microsporidiosis. Emerg Infect Dis 2018; 23:387-395. [PMID: 28220747 PMCID: PMC5382757 DOI: 10.3201/eid2303.161580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Encephalitozoon cuniculi was transmitted from an infected donor to 3 solid organ recipients, 1 of whom died. In April 2014, a kidney transplant recipient in the United States experienced headache, diplopia, and confusion, followed by neurologic decline and death. An investigation to evaluate the possibility of donor-derived infection determined that 3 patients had received 4 organs (kidney, liver, heart/kidney) from the same donor. The liver recipient experienced tremor and gait instability; the heart/kidney and contralateral kidney recipients were hospitalized with encephalitis. None experienced gastrointestinal symptoms. Encephalitozoon cuniculi was detected by tissue PCR in the central nervous system of the deceased kidney recipient and in renal allograft tissue from both kidney recipients. Urine PCR was positive for E. cuniculi in the 2 surviving recipients. Donor serum was positive for E. cuniculi antibodies. E. cuniculi was transmitted to 3 recipients from 1 donor. This rare presentation of disseminated disease resulted in diagnostic delays. Clinicians should consider donor-derived microsporidial infection in organ recipients with unexplained encephalitis, even when gastrointestinal manifestations are absent.
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Garcia LS, Arrowood M, Kokoskin E, Paltridge GP, Pillai DR, Procop GW, Ryan N, Shimizu RY, Visvesvara G. Practical Guidance for Clinical Microbiology Laboratories: Laboratory Diagnosis of Parasites from the Gastrointestinal Tract. Clin Microbiol Rev 2018; 31:e00025-17. [PMID: 29142079 PMCID: PMC5740970 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00025-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This Practical Guidance for Clinical Microbiology document on the laboratory diagnosis of parasites from the gastrointestinal tract provides practical information for the recovery and identification of relevant human parasites. The document is based on a comprehensive literature review and expert consensus on relevant diagnostic methods. However, it does not include didactic information on human parasite life cycles, organism morphology, clinical disease, pathogenesis, treatment, or epidemiology and prevention. As greater emphasis is placed on neglected tropical diseases, it becomes highly probable that patients with gastrointestinal parasitic infections will become more widely recognized in areas where parasites are endemic and not endemic. Generally, these methods are nonautomated and require extensive bench experience for accurate performance and interpretation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael Arrowood
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, Waterborne Disease Prevention Branch, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Evelyne Kokoskin
- Public Health Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Public Health Laboratories-Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Dylan R Pillai
- Calgary Laboratory Services, Diagnostic and Scientific Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Gary W Procop
- Enterprise Test Utilization and Pathology Consultative Services, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
- Molecular Microbiology, Parasitology, and Mycology Laboratories, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Norbert Ryan
- Bacteriology and Parasitology, Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory, Peter Doherty Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Govinda Visvesvara
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, Waterborne Disease Prevention Branch, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Santhoshkumar S, Sivakumar S, Vimal S, Abdul Majeed S, Taju G, Haribabu P, Uma A, Sahul Hameed AS. Biochemical changes and tissue distribution of Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) in naturally and experimentally EHP-infected whiteleg shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei (Boone, 1931), in India. JOURNAL OF FISH DISEASES 2017; 40:529-539. [PMID: 27524805 DOI: 10.1111/jfd.12530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Revised: 06/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Stunted growth in pond-reared Litopenaeus vannamei was observed in different farms located in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, India. No mortality was associated with stunted growth. PCR assay on these samples revealed the presence of Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) in stunted shrimp. Tissue distribution of EHP in naturally and experimentally infected shrimp was studied by PCR and histology. Histological examination revealed the presence of EHP in hepatopancreas and gut, but not in other organs. The PCR assay revealed the presence of EHP in all the organs tested in both naturally and experimentally infected shrimp. Healthy shrimp were challenged with E. hepatopenaei by intramuscular injection and oral route, and no mortality was observed in both routes after 30 days post-challenge. Different developmental stages of the microsporidian parasite were observed in the hepatopancreatic epithelial cells. Biochemical parameters such as total protein, albumin, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase were measured in the haemolymph of naturally and experimentally EHP-infected shrimp. All biochemical parameters mentioned were found to be significantly higher in EHP-infected shrimp when compared to normal shrimp. This is the first report relating AST and ALT levels to EHP infection in naturally and experimentally infected shrimp.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Santhoshkumar
- OIE Reference Laboratory for WTD, Department of Zoology, C. Abdul Hakeem College, Melvisharam, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S Sivakumar
- OIE Reference Laboratory for WTD, Department of Zoology, C. Abdul Hakeem College, Melvisharam, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S Vimal
- Biomolecules Division, School of Biosciences and Technology, VIT University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S Abdul Majeed
- OIE Reference Laboratory for WTD, Department of Zoology, C. Abdul Hakeem College, Melvisharam, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - G Taju
- OIE Reference Laboratory for WTD, Department of Zoology, C. Abdul Hakeem College, Melvisharam, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - P Haribabu
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health Management, College of Fishery Science, S.V.V. University, Mutukur, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - A Uma
- Fisheries Research and Extension Centre, Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - A S Sahul Hameed
- OIE Reference Laboratory for WTD, Department of Zoology, C. Abdul Hakeem College, Melvisharam, Tamil Nadu, India
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26
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McGowan J, De la Mora A, Goodwin PH, Habash M, Hamiduzzaman MM, Kelly PG, Guzman-Novoa E. Viability and infectivity of fresh and cryopreserved Nosema ceranae spores. J Microbiol Methods 2016; 131:16-22. [PMID: 27693753 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2016.09.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2016] [Revised: 09/26/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The microsporidium fungus Nosema ceranae is an intracellular parasite that infects the midgut of the honey bee, Apis mellifera. A major limitation of research on N. ceranae is that the fungus is non-culturable and thus studying it depends on the seasonal availability of Nosema spores. Also, spore viability and infectivity can vary considerably, and thus there is a need for reliable methods for determining those traits. This study examined different conditions for N. ceranae spore cryopreservation at -70°C, assessing spore viability and infectivity. Viability was determined by a staining procedure counting total spores numbers with bright field microscopy and un-viable spore numbers with the fluorescent dye, propidium iodide. Spore infectivity was determined with a dilution inoculation assay. Infectivity was dependent on the inoculum dose for the proportion of bees with detectable Nosema infections based on the number of spores per bee at 18days after inoculation; 4000 spores per bee or higher were needed to get approx. 100% of the inoculated bees infected. The median infective dose (ID50) was 149 spores per bee, and the minimum dose capable of causing a detectable infection was 1.28 spores. The proportion of N. ceranae infected bees correlated significantly with the number of spores per bee (r=0.98, P<0.0001). N. ceranae spores cryopreserved in water or 10% glycerol did not differ in viability compared to fresh spores, but lost infectivity when inoculated into bees. This study shows that while cryopreservation of N. ceranae spores can preserve viability, the spores can have reduced infectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine McGowan
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Alvaro De la Mora
- Departamento de Producción Animal: Abejas, FMVZ, UNAM, Cd. Univ., Mexico DF 04510, Mexico
| | - Paul H Goodwin
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Marc Habash
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Mollah Md Hamiduzzaman
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Paul G Kelly
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G2W1, Canada
| | - Ernesto Guzman-Novoa
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East, Guelph, Ontario N1G2W1, Canada.
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Abstract
ABSTRACT
Parasites are an important cause of human disease worldwide. The clinical severity and outcome of parasitic disease is often dependent on the immune status of the host. Specific parasitic diseases discussed in this chapter are amebiasis, giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, cyclosporiasis, cystoisosporiasis, microsporidosis, granulomatous amebic encephalitis, toxoplasmosis, leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, malaria, babesiosis, strongyloidiasis, and scabies.
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Lallo MA, Vidoto Da Costa LF, Alvares-Saraiva AM, Rocha PRD, Spadacci-Morena DD, Konno FTDC, Suffredini IB. Culture and propagation of microsporidia of veterinary interest. J Vet Med Sci 2015; 78:171-6. [PMID: 26346746 PMCID: PMC4785104 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.15-0401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Microsporidia are obligate intracellular mitochrondria-lacking pathogens that rely on host cells to grow and
multiply. Microsporidia, currently classified as fungi, are ubiquitous in nature and are found worldwide. They
infect a large number of mammals and are recognized as opportunistic infection agents in HIV-AIDS patients.
Its importance for veterinary medicine has been unveiled in recent years through the description of clinical
and subclinical forms of infection in domestic and wild animals. Domestic and wild birds may be infected by
the same human microsporidia, reinforcing their zoonotic potential. Microsporidiosis in fish is prevalent and
causes significant economic losses for fish farming. Some species of microsporidia have been propagated in
cell cultures, which may provide conditions for the development of diagnostic techniques, understanding of
pathogenesis and immune responses and for the discovery of potential therapies. Unfortunately, the cultivation
of these parasites is not fully standardized in most research laboratories, especially in the veterinary
field. The aim of this review is to relate the most important microsporidia of veterinary interest and
demonstrate how these pathogens can be grown and propagated in cell culture for diagnostic purposes or for
pathogenesis studies. Cultivation of microsporidia allowed the study of its life cycle, metabolism,
pathogenesis and diagnosis, and may also serve as a repository for these pathogens for molecular, biochemical,
antigenic and epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Anete Lallo
- Environmental and Experimental Pathology, Paulista University, São Paulo, Brazil
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He X, Fu Z, Li M, Liu H, Cai S, Man N, Lu X. Nosema bombycis (Microsporidia) suppresses apoptosis in BmN cells (Bombyx mori). Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2015; 47:696-702. [PMID: 26188202 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmv062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 05/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Nosema bombycis (N. bombycis, Nb) is a fungus-related and obligate intracellular parasite that causes chronic pebrine disease in the silkworm. After infecting the host, spores obtain energy from host cells and survive for several days. This symbiosis between the pathogen and the host cell suggests that N. bombycis prevents apoptosis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production of host cells to create the optimal environmental conditions for its growth and development. In this study, different methods were used to prove that N. bombycis suppressed apoptosis in BmN cells. Flow cytometry analysis results showed that spores suppressed apoptosis of BmN cells at 2 and 5 days after infection (P < 0.05). Compared with actinomycin D (ActD) treatment, apoptosis of BmN cells was apparently reduced after spore infection (P < 0.01). Forty-eight hours after infection, the ROS production of BmN cells was down-regulated compared with that after ActD treatment for 6 h. Furthermore, N. bombycis prevented the formation of apoptosomes by down-regulating the expression of apaf-1 and cytochrome C. In addition, N. bombycis also up-regulated the expression of buffy. Western blot analysis demonstrated that spores decreased the level of host cytochrome C at 48 and 98 h post infection. Thus, our results suggested that N. bombycis inhibited the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway of the host cells to create an optimal environment for its own survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi He
- Laboratory of Invertebrate Pathology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Zhangwuke Fu
- Laboratory of Invertebrate Pathology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Mingqian Li
- TongDe Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Han Liu
- Laboratory of Invertebrate Pathology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Shunfeng Cai
- Laboratory of Invertebrate Pathology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Nana Man
- Hangzhou Seed Station, Hangzhou 310029, China
| | - Xingmeng Lu
- Laboratory of Invertebrate Pathology, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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Ghamiloui MM, Valadkhani Z, Rahimi F. A study of microsporidiosis in corneal scrapings of keratitis patients referring to Farabi Eye Hospital, Tehran, Iran in 2013-14. Curr Med Mycol 2015; 1:39-44. [PMID: 28680995 PMCID: PMC5490328 DOI: 10.18869/acadpub.cmm.1.3.39] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Microsporidiosis is one of the emerging and opportunistic infections, which causing various clinical symptoms in humans. The prevalence of this infection varies, depending on the infected organ, diagnostic methods, and geographical conditions. In the present study, we aimed to investigate microsporidial keratitis in patients referring to Farabi Eye Hospital Tehran, Iran in 2013-14. Materials and Methods: Two scraping samples were collected from 91 keratitis patients, five cases had prior history of receiving immune suppressive drugs. One of the two collected samples from each participant was used for Vero cell culture and the other was used for the preparation of Giemsa and Gram staining slides. After 30 days, the cells were scrapped and used for DNA extraction; afterwards, nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection method was applied. Primer pairs of small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene were designed by CLC Genomics workbench software to amplify all major microsporidian pathogens, as well as E. bieneusi , which was used as the positive control in this study. Results: The nested PCR showed negative results regarding the presence of microsporidia in the samples. Similarly, Giemsa and Gram staining slides did not detect any spores. Conclusion: The prevalence of human microsporidiosis ranges between 0% and 50%, worldwide. Based on all the negative samples in the present study, we can conclude that the prevalence of this infection among Iranian patients falls in the lower quartile. By gathering further evidence, researchers can take a step forward in this area and open new doors for the assessment of AIDS patients and users of immunosuppressive drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Ghamiloui
- Department of Parasitology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Z Valadkhani
- Department of Parasitology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Rahimi
- Cornea Clinic, Farabi Research Eye Hospital, Professor of ophthalmology, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
Parasite cultivation techniques constitute a substantial segment of present-day study of parasites, especially of protozoa. Success in establishing in vitro and in vivo culture of parasites not only allows their physiology, behavior and metabolism to be studied dynamically, but also allows the nature of the antigenic molecules in the excretory and secretory products to be vigorously pursued and analyzed. The complex life-cycles of various parasites having different stages and host species requirements, particularly in the case of parasitic helminths, often make parasite cultivation an uphill assignment. Culturing of parasites depends on the combined expertise of all types of microbiological cultures. Different parasites require different cultivation conditions such as nutrients, temperature and even incubation conditions. Cultivation is an important method for diagnosis of many clinically important parasites, for example, Entamoeba histolytica, Trichomonas vaginalis, Leishmania spp., Strongyloides stercoralis and free-living amoebae. Many commercial systems like InPouch TV for T. vaginalis, microaerophilous stationary phase culture for Babesia bovis and Harada-Mori culture technique for larval-stage nematodes have been developed for the rapid diagnosis of the parasitic infections. Cultivation also has immense utility in the production of vaccines, testing vaccine efficacy, and antigen - production for obtaining serological reagents, detection of drug-resistance, screening of potential therapeutic agents and conducting epidemiological studies. Though in vitro cultivation techniques are used more often compared with in vivo techniques, the in vivo techniques are sometimes used for diagnosing some parasitic infections such as trypanosomiasis and toxoplasmosis. Parasite cultivation continues to be a challenging diagnostic option. This review provides an overview of intricacies of parasitic culture and update on popular methods used for cultivating parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nishat Hussain Ahmed
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Delhi State Cancer Institute, New Delhi, India
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Abstract
Microsporidia are highly specialized obligate intracellular organisms that are closely related to fungi. Although traditionally associated with diarrheal illness in patients with AIDS, extraintestinal infections involving various organs have been reported with increasing frequency in the past decade, particularly in immunocompromised hosts. Diagnosis is usually accomplished by light microscopic identification of spores in body fluids and tissues, using a variety of stains. Transmission electron microscopy, immunofluorescence assays, or molecular methods are necessary for identification to the genus and species level. Early diagnosis is essential for preventing the significant associated morbidity and mortality of extraintestinal microsporidiosis.
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Leonard CA, Schell M, Schoborg RV, Hayman JR. Encephalitozoon intestinalis infection increases host cell mutation frequency. Infect Agent Cancer 2013; 8:43. [PMID: 24188884 PMCID: PMC4174903 DOI: 10.1186/1750-9378-8-43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2013] [Accepted: 09/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Microsporidia are obligate intracellular opportunistic fungi that cause significant pathology in immunocompromised hosts. However, 11 percent of immunocompetent individuals in the general population are microsporidia-seropositive, indicating that severe immune suppression may not be a prerequisite for infection. Encephalitozoon intestinalis is transmitted in contaminated water and initially infects gastro-intestinal enterocytes, leading to diarrheal disease. This organism can also disseminate to many other organs. A recent report suggests that microsporidia can establish persistent infections, which anti-fungal treatment does not eradicate. Like other intracellular pathogens, microsporidia infection stresses the host cell and infected individuals have elevated hydrogen peroxide and free radical levels. Findings As oxidative stress can lead to DNA damage, we hypothesized that E. intestinalis-infection would increase host cell nuclear mutation rate. Embryo fibroblasts from Big BlueTM transgenic mice were E. intestinalis-infected and host nuclear mutation frequency was determined by selection of temperature-sensitive c-II gene mutant λ phage. The host mutation frequency in E. intestinalis-infected cultures was 2.5-fold higher than that observed in either mock-infected cells or cells infected with UV-inactivated E. intestinalis spores. Conclusions These data provide the first evidence that microsporidia infection can directly increase host cellular mutation frequency. Additionally, some event in the microsporidia developmental cycle between host cell attachment and parasitophorous vacuole formation is required for the observed effect. As there is considerable evidence linking infection with other intracellular pathogens and cancer, future studies to dissect the mechanism by which E. intestinalis infection increases host mutation frequency are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - James Russell Hayman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, James H, Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN 37614-0579, USA.
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Key Diagnostic Features of Granulomatous Interstitial Nephritis Due to Encephalitozoon cuniculi in a Lung Transplant Recipient. Am J Surg Pathol 2013; 37:447-52. [DOI: 10.1097/pas.0b013e31827e1968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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El-Taweel HA, Tolba MM, Sadaka HA, El-Zawawy LA, Osman MM. Zinc PVA versus potassium dichromate for preservation of microsporidian spores of human origin. Parasitol Res 2012; 111:689-94. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-012-2888-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2011] [Accepted: 03/01/2012] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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36
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In vitro growth of microsporidia Anncaliia algerae in cell lines from warm water fish. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2010; 47:104-13. [DOI: 10.1007/s11626-010-9366-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2010] [Accepted: 10/20/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Gisder S, Möckel N, Linde A, Genersch E. A cell culture model for Nosema ceranae and Nosema apis allows new insights into the life cycle of these important honey bee-pathogenic microsporidia. Environ Microbiol 2010; 13:404-13. [PMID: 20880328 DOI: 10.1111/j.1462-2920.2010.02346.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The population of managed honey bees has been dramatically declining in the recent past in many regions of the world. Consensus now seems to be that pathogens and parasites (e.g. the ectoparasitic mite Varroa destructor, the microsporidium Nosema ceranae and viruses) play a major role in this demise. However, little is known about host-pathogen interactions for bee pathogens and attempts to develop novel strategies to combat bee diseases have been hampered by this gap in our knowledge. One reason for this dire situation is the complete lack of cell cultures for the propagation and study of bee pathogens. Here we present a cell culture model for two honey bee-pathogenic microsporidian species, Nosema apis and N. ceranae. Our cell culture system is based on a lepidopteran cell line, which proved to be susceptible to infection by both N. ceranae and N. apis and enabled us to illustrate the entire life cycle of these microsporidia. We observed hitherto undescribed spindle-shaped meronts and confirmed our findings in infected bees. Our cell culture model provides a previously unavailable means to explore the nature of interactions between the honey bee and its pathogen complex at a mechanistic level and will allow the development of novel treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Gisder
- Institute for Bee Research, Friedrich-Engels-Str. 32, D-16540 Hohen Neuendorf, Germany
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Phylogenetic approach to the variability of the microsporidian Enterocytozoon bieneusi and its implications for inter- and intrahost transmission. Appl Environ Microbiol 2010; 76:3333-42. [PMID: 20228101 DOI: 10.1128/aem.03026-09] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Enterocytozoon bieneusi is a microsporidian parasite that infects many vertebrate animals, including humans. The rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) shows a hypervariable sequence; however, so far no clear information has been inferred about strain evolution in this species. We reviewed all the sequences described and performed a phylogenetic study. Four groups of sequences strongly differentiated from each other were detected, although most of the isolates (94%) corresponded to group I. The highly diverse sequences of this group were analyzed using median-joining networks. The host species (humans, pets, swine, cattle, birds, and wild animals) and the continents of origin of the isolates were considered. Central haplotypes in the network were obtained from very diverse hosts and geographical origins. The results show that although E. bieneusi has a broad host specificity, transmission is not completely free: some strains were able to circulate within a given host species and were only occasionally transmitted to another host. Additionally, while not relevant for swine or cattle hosts, geography seems to be a relevant factor for human infection by E. bieneusi.
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Chen YR, Solter LF, Chien TY, Jiang MH, Lin HF, Fan HS, Lo CF, Wang CH. Characterization of a new insect cell line (NTU-YB) derived from the common grass yellow butterfly, Eurema hecabe (Linnaeus) (Pieridae: Lepidoptera) and its susceptibility to microsporidia. J Invertebr Pathol 2009; 102:256-62. [PMID: 19761771 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2009.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2009] [Revised: 09/02/2009] [Accepted: 09/10/2009] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A new lepidopteran cell line, NTU-YB, was derived from pupal tissue of Eurema hecabe (Linnaeus) (Pieridae: Lepidoptera). The doubling time of YB cells in TNM-FH medium supplemented with 8% FBS at 28 degrees C was 26.87h. The chromosome numbers of YB cells varied widely from 21 to 196 with a mean of 86. Compared to other insect cell lines, the YB cells produced distinct esterase, malate dehydrogenase, and lactate dehydrogenase isozyme patterns. Identity of the internal transcribed spacer region-I (ITS-I) of YB cells to E. hecabe larvae was 96% and to Eurema blanda larvae (tissue isolated from head) was 81%. The YB cells were permissive to Nosema sp. isolated from E. blanda and the infected YB cells showed obvious cytopathic effects after 3weeks post inoculation. The highest level of spore production was at 4weeks post inoculation when cells were infected with the Nosema isolate, and spore production was 1.34+/-0.9x10(6)spore/ml. Ultrastructrual studies showed that YB cells can host in vitro propagation of the E. blanda Nosema isolate, and developing stages were observed in the host cell nuclei as observed in the natural host, E. blanda. The NTU-YB cell line is also susceptible to Nosema bombycis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Ru Chen
- Department of Entomology, College of Bioresources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan, ROC
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Molecular diagnostic tests for microsporidia. Interdiscip Perspect Infect Dis 2009; 2009:926521. [PMID: 19657457 PMCID: PMC2719812 DOI: 10.1155/2009/926521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2009] [Accepted: 05/12/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The Microsporidia are a ubiquitous group of eukaryotic obligate intracellular parasites which were recognized over 100 years ago with the description of Nosema bombycis, a parasite of silkworms. It is now appreciated that these organisms are related to the Fungi. Microsporidia infect all major animal groups most often as gastrointestinal pathogens; however they have been reported from every tissue and organ, and their spores are common in environmental sources such as ditch water. Several different genera of these organisms infect humans, but the majority of infections are due to either
Enterocytozoon bieneusi or Encephalitozoon species. These pathogens can be difficult to diagnose, but significant progress has been made in the last decade in the development of molecular diagnostic reagents for these organisms. This report reviews the molecular diagnostic tests that have been described for the identification of the microsporidia that infect humans.
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VISVESVARA GOVINDAS, SRIRAM RAMA, QVARNSTROM YVONNE, BANDYOPADHYAY KAKALI, DA SILVA ALEXANDREJ, PIENIAZEK NORMANJ, CABRAL GUYA. Paravahlkampfia francinaen. sp. Masquerading as an Agent of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis. J Eukaryot Microbiol 2009; 56:357-66. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1550-7408.2009.00410.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei sp. nov. (Microsporida: Enterocytozoonidae), a parasite of the black tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon (Decapoda: Penaeidae): Fine structure and phylogenetic relationships. J Invertebr Pathol 2009; 102:21-9. [PMID: 19527727 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2009.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2008] [Revised: 06/01/2009] [Accepted: 06/06/2009] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
A new microsporidian species, Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei sp. nov., is described from the hepatopancreas of the black tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon (Crustacea: Decapoda). Different stages of the parasite are described, from early sporogonal plasmodia to mature spores in the cytoplasm of host-cells. The multinucleate sporogonal plasmodia existed in direct contact with the host-cell cytoplasm and contained numerous small blebs at the surface. Binary fission of the plasmodial nuclei occurred during early plasmodial development and numerous pre-sporoblasts were formed within the plasmodium. Electron-dense disks and precursors of the polar tubule developed in the cytoplasm of the plasmodium prior to budding of early sporoblasts from the plasmodial surface. Mature spores were oval, measuring 0.7x1.1microm and contained a single nucleus, 5-6 coils of the polar filament, a posterior vacuole, an anchoring disk attached to the polar filament, and a thick electron-dense wall. The wall was composed of a plasmalemma, an electron-lucent endospore (10nm) and an electron-dense exospore (2nm). DNA primers designed from microsporidian SSU rRNA were used to amplify an 848bp product from the parasite genome (GenBank FJ496356). The sequenced product had 84% identity to the matching region of SSU rRNA from Enterocytozoon bieneusi. Based upon ultrastructural features unique to the family Enterocytozoonidae, cytoplasmic location of the plasmodia and SSU rRNA sequence identity 16% different from E. bieneusi, the parasite was considered to be a new species, E. hepatopenaei, within the genus Enterocytozoon.
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Monaghan SR, Kent ML, Watral VG, Kaufman RJ, Lee LEJ, Bols NC. Animal cell cultures in microsporidial research: their general roles and their specific use for fish microsporidia. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2009; 45:135-47. [PMID: 19184249 PMCID: PMC4760642 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-008-9172-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2008] [Accepted: 12/20/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The use of animal cell cultures as tools for studying the microsporidia of insects and mammals is briefly reviewed, along with an in depth review of the literature on using fish cell cultures to study the microsporidia of fish. Fish cell cultures have been used less often but have had some success. Very short-term primary cultures have been used to show how microsporidia spores can modulate the activities of phagocytes. The most successful microsporidia/fish cell culture system has been relatively long-term primary cultures of salmonid leukocytes for culturing Nucleospora salmonis. Surprisingly, this system can also support the development of Enterocytozoon bienusi, which is of mammalian origin. Some modest success has been achieved in growing Pseudoloma neurophilia on several different fish cell lines. The eel cell line, EP-1, appears to be the only published example of any fish cell line being permanently infected with microsporidia, in this case Heterosporis anguillarum. These cell culture approaches promise to be valuable in understanding and treating microsporidia infections in fish, which are increasingly of economic importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Richelle Monaghan
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, N2L 3G1, Canada.
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CHOUDHRY N, KORBEL DS, ZAALOUK TK, BLANSHARD C, BAJAJ-ELLIOTT M, MCDONALD V. Interferon-γ-mediated activation of enterocytes in immunological control ofEncephalitozoon intestinalisinfection. Parasite Immunol 2009; 31:2-9. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2008.01068.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Joseph J, Sharma S. IN VITRO CULTURE OF VARIOUS SPECIES OF MICROSPORIDIA CAUSING KERATITIS: EVALUATION OF THREE IMMORTALIZED CELL LINES. Indian J Med Microbiol 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s0255-0857(21)01750-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Johny S, Larson TM, Solter LF, Edwards KA, Whitman DW. Phylogenetic characterization of Encephalitozoon romaleae (Microsporidia) from a grasshopper host: relationship to Encephalitozoon spp. infecting humans. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2008; 9:189-95. [PMID: 19027883 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2008.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2008] [Revised: 10/21/2008] [Accepted: 10/26/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Encephalitozoon species are the most common microsporidian pathogens of humans and domesticated animals. We recently discovered a new microsporidium, Encephalitozoon romaleae, infecting the eastern lubber grasshopper Romalea microptera. To understand its evolutionary relationships, we compared partial gene sequences of alpha- and beta-tubulin and methionine aminopeptidase 2 enzyme from this and related species. We also analyzed the rRNA internal transcribed spacer. Based on tubulin and MetAP-2 gene phylogenetic analysis, E. romaleae clustered with the Encephalitzoon group with strong bootstrap support (>99%). Within the Encephalitozoon clade, E. romaleae clustered with Encephalitozoon hellem for both the beta-tubulin and MetAP-2 phylogenies based on ML tree. The alpha-tubulin based ML tree, however, placed the new microsporidium closer to Encephalitozoon cuniculi. The rRNA internal transcribed spacer region of E. romaleae has 91% homology with E. hellem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shajahan Johny
- Illinois State University, 4120 Department of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790-4120, USA
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Johny S, Nimmo AS, Fisher MA, Inks ES, Kirkpatrick RM, Miller PA, Johnson AL, Lites KR, Whitehouse CC, Whitman DW. Testing intra-hemocelic injection of antimicrobials against Encephalitozoon sp. (Microsporidia) in an insect host. Parasitol Res 2008; 104:419-24. [PMID: 18850113 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-008-1214-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2008] [Accepted: 09/23/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Encephalitozoon spp. are the primary microsporidial pathogens of humans and domesticated animals. In this experiment, we test the efficacy of four commercial antimicrobials against an Encephalitozoon sp. in an insect host by intra-hemocelic injection. All four antimicrobials, viz., thiabendazole, quinine, albendazole, and fumagillin, significantly reduced but did not eliminate microsporidia spore counts in the grasshopper host. Among these four drugs, thiabendazole was most effective in reducing the microsporidia spore level up to 90%, followed by quinine (70%), albendazole (62%), and fumagillin (59%). No control or quinine-treated animals died, whereas 45% of albendazole animals died. Despite the high mortality induced by albendazole, this drug significantly reduced spore counts, a result not seen in previous per os trials. Among the treatment groups, grasshoppers injected with thiabendazole lost a significant mass. Our study suggests that quinine and related alkaloids should be further examined for antimicrosporidial activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shajahan Johny
- Department of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, IL 61790-4120, USA
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Johny S, Whitman DW. Effect of four antimicrobials against an Encephalitozoon sp. (Microsporidia) in a grasshopper host. Parasitol Int 2008; 57:362-7. [PMID: 18495525 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2008.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2008] [Revised: 03/13/2008] [Accepted: 03/20/2008] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Encephalitozoon spp. are the primary microsporidial pathogens of humans and domesticated animals. In this experiment, we test the efficacy of 4 commercial antimicrobials against an Encephalitozoon sp. infecting a grasshopper (Romalea microptera) host. Oral treatment with fumagillin or thiabendazole significantly reduced pathogen spore counts (93% and 88% respectively), whereas spore counts of grasshoppers fed quinine produced a non-significant 53% reduction in spores, and those fed streptomycin a non-significant 29% increase in spores, compared to the control. We observed a moderate dose-response effect for thiabendazole, whereby spore count decreased as drug consumption increased. No thiabendazole-treated animals died, whereas 27% of streptomycin-treated animals died, suggesting that thiabendazole was not toxic at the doses administered. The deaths among streptomycin-treated animals may have been caused by drug toxicity, parasite burden, or both. Although fumagillin and thiabendazole significantly reduced spore counts, in no individual was the pathogen totally eliminated. Our data confirm that microsporidia are difficult to control and that fumagillin and thiabendazole are partially effective antimicrobials against this group. Our study suggests that quinine and related alkaloids should be further examined for antimicrosporidial activity, and streptomycin should be examined as a possible enhancer of microsporidiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shajahan Johny
- Department of Biological Sciences, Illinois State University, Normal, Illinois 61790-4120, USA
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Fischer J, Tran D, Juneau R, Hale-Donze H. Kinetics of Encephalitozoon Spp. Infection of Human Macrophages. J Parasitol 2008; 94:169-75. [DOI: 10.1645/ge-1303.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Fischer J, West J, Agochukwu N, Suire C, Hale-Donze H. Induction of host chemotactic response by Encephalitozoon spp. Infect Immun 2006; 75:1619-25. [PMID: 17178789 PMCID: PMC1865724 DOI: 10.1128/iai.01535-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Microsporidians are a group of emerging pathogens typically associated with chronic diarrhea in immunocompromised individuals. The number of reports of infections with these organisms and the disseminated pathology is growing as diagnostic tools become more readily available. However, little is known about the innate immune response induced by and generated against these parasites. Using a coculture chemotaxis system, primary human macrophages were infected with Encephalitozoon cuniculi or Encephalitozoon intestinalis, and the recruitment of naïve monocytes was monitored. Encephalitozoon spp. induced an average threefold increase in migration of naïve cells 48 h postinfection, which corresponded to optimal infection of monocyte-derived-macrophages. A limited microarray analysis of infected macrophages revealed several chemokines involved in the inflammatory responses whose expression was upregulated, including CCL1, CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, CCL7, CCL15, CCL20, CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL3, CXCL5, and CXCL8. The levels of 6 of 11 chemokines also present in the microarray were confirmed to be elevated by protein profiling. Kinetic studies confirmed that secreted CCL2, CCL3, and CCL4 were expressed as early as 6 h postinfection, with peak expression at 12 to 24 h and expression remaining until 48 h postinfection. Neutralization of these chemokines, specifically CCL4, significantly reduced the number of migrating cells in vitro, indicating their role in the induction of monocyte migration. This mechanism of recruitment not only supports the evidence that in vivo cellular infiltration occurs but also provides new hosts for the parasites, which escape macrophages by rupturing the host cell. To our knowledge, this is the first documentation that chemokine production is induced by microsporidian infections in human macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Fischer
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University, 202 Life Sciences Building, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
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