1
|
Jayaraman A, Walachowski S, Bosmann M. The complement system: A key player in the host response to infections. Eur J Immunol 2024:e2350814. [PMID: 39188171 DOI: 10.1002/eji.202350814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 08/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Infections are one of the most significant healthcare and economic burdens across the world as underscored by the recent coronavirus pandemic. Moreover, with the increasing incidence of antimicrobial resistance, there is an urgent need to better understand host-pathogen interactions to design effective treatment strategies. The complement system is a key arsenal of the host defense response to pathogens and bridges both innate and adaptive immunity. However, in the contest between pathogens and host defense mechanisms, the host is not always victorious. Pathogens have evolved several approaches, including co-opting the host complement regulators to evade complement-mediated killing. Furthermore, deficiencies in the complement proteins, both genetic and therapeutic, can lead to an inefficient complement-mediated pathogen eradication, rendering the host more susceptible to certain infections. On the other hand, overwhelming infection can provoke fulminant complement activation with uncontrolled inflammation and potentially fatal tissue and organ damage. This review presents an overview of critical aspects of the complement-pathogen interactions during infection and discusses perspectives on designing therapies to mitigate complement dysfunction and limit tissue injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Archana Jayaraman
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary Center, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sarah Walachowski
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary Center, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Markus Bosmann
- Department of Medicine, Pulmonary Center, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University, Mainz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhao M, Wang Y, Shen Y, Wei C, Zhang G, Sun L. A review of the roles of pathogens in Alzheimer's disease. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1439055. [PMID: 39224577 PMCID: PMC11366636 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1439055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the leading causes of dementia and is characterized by memory loss, mental and behavioral abnormalities, and impaired ability to perform daily activities. Even as a global disease that threatens human health, effective treatments to slow the progression of AD have not been found, despite intensive research and significant investment. In recent years, the role of infections in the etiology of AD has sparked intense debate. Pathogens invade the central nervous system through a damaged blood-brain barrier or nerve trunk and disrupt the neuronal structure and function as well as homeostasis of the brain microenvironment through a series of molecular biological events. In this review, we summarize the various pathogens involved in AD pathology, discuss potential interactions between pathogens and AD, and provide an overview of the promising future of anti-pathogenic therapies for AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Li Sun
- Department of Neurology, Neuroscience Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gupta P, Hiller A, Chowdhury J, Lim D, Lim DY, Saeij JPJ, Babaian A, Rodriguez F, Pereira L, Morales-Tapia A. A parasite odyssey: An RNA virus concealed in Toxoplasma gondii. Virus Evol 2024; 10:veae040. [PMID: 38817668 PMCID: PMC11137675 DOI: 10.1093/ve/veae040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 03/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
We are entering a 'Platinum Age of Virus Discovery', an era marked by exponential growth in the discovery of virus biodiversity, and driven by advances in metagenomics and computational analysis. In the ecosystem of a human (or any animal) there are more species of viruses than simply those directly infecting the animal cells. Viruses can infect all organisms constituting the microbiome, including bacteria, fungi, and unicellular parasites. Thus the complexity of possible interactions between host, microbe, and viruses is unfathomable. To understand this interaction network we must employ computationally assisted virology as a means of analyzing and interpreting the millions of available samples to make inferences about the ways in which viruses may intersect human health. From a computational viral screen of human neuronal datasets, we identified a novel narnavirus Apocryptovirus odysseus (Ao) which likely infects the neurotropic parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Previously, several parasitic protozoan viruses (PPVs) have been mechanistically established as triggers of host innate responses, and here we present in silico evidence that Ao is a plausible pro-inflammatory factor in human and mouse cells infected by T. gondii. T. gondii infects billions of people worldwide, yet the prognosis of toxoplasmosis disease is highly variable, and PPVs like Ao could function as a hitherto undescribed hypervirulence factor. In a broader screen of over 7.6 million samples, we explored phylogenetically proximal viruses to Ao and discovered nineteen Apocryptovirus species, all found in libraries annotated as vertebrate transcriptome or metatranscriptomes. While samples containing this genus of narnaviruses are derived from sheep, goat, bat, rabbit, chicken, and pigeon samples, the presence of virus is strongly predictive of parasitic Apicomplexa nucleic acid co-occurrence, supporting the fact that Apocryptovirus is a genus of parasite-infecting viruses. This is a computational proof-of-concept study in which we rapidly analyze millions of datasets from which we distilled a mechanistically, ecologically, and phylogenetically refined hypothesis. We predict that this highly diverged Ao RNA virus is biologically a T. gondii infection, and that Ao, and other viruses like it, will modulate this disease which afflicts billions worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Purav Gupta
- The Woodlands Secondary School, 3225 Erindale Station Rd,Mississauga, ON L5C 1Y5, Canada
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular + Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College St, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- The Woodlands Secondary School, 3225 Erindale Station Rd, Mississauga, ON L5C 1Y5, Canada
| | - Aiden Hiller
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular + Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College St, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- The Woodlands Secondary School, 3225 Erindale Station Rd, Mississauga, ON L5C 1Y5, Canada
| | - Jawad Chowdhury
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular + Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College St, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- The Woodlands Secondary School, 3225 Erindale Station Rd, Mississauga, ON L5C 1Y5, Canada
| | - Declan Lim
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular + Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College St, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- The Woodlands Secondary School, 3225 Erindale Station Rd, Mississauga, ON L5C 1Y5, Canada
| | - Dillon Yee Lim
- The Woodlands Secondary School, 3225 Erindale Station Rd, Mississauga, ON L5C 1Y5, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Sherrington Building, Sherrington Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 3PT, UK
| | - Jeroen P J Saeij
- The Woodlands Secondary School, 3225 Erindale Station Rd, Mississauga, ON L5C 1Y5, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Artem Babaian
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular + Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College St, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- The Woodlands Secondary School, 3225 Erindale Station Rd, Mississauga, ON L5C 1Y5, Canada
| | - Felipe Rodriguez
- The Woodlands Secondary School, 3225 Erindale Station Rd, Mississauga, ON L5C 1Y5, Canada
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, 1 Shields Ave, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Luke Pereira
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular + Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College St, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- The Woodlands Secondary School, 3225 Erindale Station Rd, Mississauga, ON L5C 1Y5, Canada
| | - Alejandro Morales-Tapia
- Department of Molecular Genetics, University of Toronto, 1 King’s College Circle, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
- The Donnelly Centre for Cellular + Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College St, Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
- The Woodlands Secondary School, 3225 Erindale Station Rd, Mississauga, ON L5C 1Y5, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yao Y, Yuan Y, Sheng S, Li Y, Tang X, Gu H. Observing astrocyte polarization in brains from mouse chronically infected with Toxoplasma gondii. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10433. [PMID: 38714696 PMCID: PMC11076485 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60304-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a protozoan parasite that infects approximately one-third of the global human population, often leading to chronic infection. While acute T. gondii infection can cause neural damage in the central nervous system and result in toxoplasmic encephalitis, the consequences of T. gondii chronic infection (TCI) are generally asymptomatic. However, emerging evidence suggests that TCI may be linked to behavioral changes or mental disorders in hosts. Astrocyte polarization, particularly the A1 subtype associated with neuronal apoptosis, has been identified in various neurodegenerative diseases. Nevertheless, the role of astrocyte polarization in TCI still needs to be better understood. This study aimed to establish a mouse model of chronic TCI and examine the transcription and expression levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), C3, C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α in the brain tissues of the mice. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blotting were employed to assess these levels. Additionally, the expression level of the A1 astrocyte-specific marker C3 was evaluated using indirect fluorescent assay (IFA). In mice with TCI, the transcriptional and expression levels of the inflammatory factors C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α followed an up-down-up pattern, although they remained elevated compared to the control group. These findings suggest a potential association between astrocyte polarization towards the A1 subtype and synchronized changes in these three inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, immunofluorescence assay (IFA) revealed a significant increase in the A1 astrocytes (GFAP+C3+) proportion in TCI mice. This study provides evidence that TCI can induce astrocyte polarization, a biological process that may be influenced by changes in the levels of three inflammatory factors: C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α. Additionally, the release of neurotoxic substances by A1 astrocytes may be associated with the development of TCI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yao
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
| | - Yaping Yuan
- Department of Medicine, Anhui College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhu, 241002, Anhui, China
| | - Shuyan Sheng
- First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yifan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Xiaoniu Tang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241002, Anhui, China
| | - Hao Gu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Xiao J, Huang J, Yolken RH. Elevated matrix Metalloproteinase-9 associated with reduced cerebellar perineuronal nets in female mice with toxoplasmosis. Brain Behav Immun Health 2024; 36:100728. [PMID: 38323226 PMCID: PMC10844038 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2024.100728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain infection by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii is thought to impair learning and memory, although the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Recent studies suggest that perineuronal nets (PNNs) and their key regulator, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), have essential roles in synaptic plasticity associated with learning and memory. We investigated their roles in a chronic toxoplasmosis model using female mice. In mice with a high parasite burden of chronic infection, we found that MMP-9 expression was increased in the peripheral circulation and the brain. A correlation was found between the serum levels of MMP-9 and antibodies to the Toxoplasma matrix antigen MAG1, a surrogate marker for Toxoplasma tissue cysts in the brain. MMP-9 elevation was accompanied by increased expression of its endogenous regulators, TIMP-1 and NGAL. An increase in the levels of GSK-3α/β was observed, alongside a decrease in inhibitory GSK-3α/β (Ser-21/Ser-9) phosphorylation. MMP-9 expression was notably associated with the loss of PNNs but increased expression of the synaptic vesicle protein synaptophysin. There was a trend toward a negative correlation between MMP-9 and aggrecan expression, a critical PNN component. Together, these results suggest that chronic Toxoplasma infection can cause an increase in MMP-9 expression, resulting in the degradation of PNNs, which provides a possible mechanism for Toxoplasma-associated deficits in learning and memory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianchun Xiao
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Jing Huang
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Robert H. Yolken
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Liu S, Yan Z, Peng Y, Liu Y, Li Y, Xu D, Gong Y, Cui Z, Wu Y, Zhang Y, Wang D, Pan W, Yang X. Lentinan has a beneficial effect on cognitive deficits induced by chronic Toxoplasma gondii infection in mice. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:454. [PMID: 38093309 PMCID: PMC10717010 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06023-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is increasingly considered a risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. However, there is only limited information on the development of drugs for T. gondii infection. Lentinan from Lentinula edodes is a bioactive ingredient with the potential to enhance anti-infective immunity. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of lentinan on T. gondii-associated cognitive deficits in mice. METHODS A chronic T. gondii infection mouse model was established by administering 10 cysts of T. gondii by gavage. Lentinan was intraperitoneally administered 2 weeks before infection. Behavioral tests, RNA sequencing, immunofluorescence, transmission electron microscopy and Golgi-Cox staining were performed to assess the effect of lentinan on cognitive deficits and neuropathology in vivo. In vitro, the direct and indirect effects of lentinan on the proliferation of T. gondii tachyzoites were evaluated in the absence and presence of BV-2 cells, respectively. RESULTS Lentinan prevented T. gondii-induced cognitive deficits and altered the transcriptome profile of genes related to neuroinflammation, microglial activation, synaptic function, neural development and cognitive behavior in the hippocampus of infected mice. Moreover, lentinan reduced the infection-induced accumulation of microglia and downregulated the mRNA expression of proinflammatory cytokines. In addition, the neurite and synaptic ultrastructural damage in the hippocampal CA1 region due to infection was ameliorated by lentinan administration. Lentinan decreased the cyst burden in the brains of infected mice, which was correlated with behavioral performance. In line with this finding, lentinan could significantly inhibit the proliferation of T. gondii tachyzoites in the microglial cell line BV2, although lentinan had no direct inhibitory effect on parasite growth. CONCLUSIONS Lentinan prevents cognitive deficits via the improvement of neurite impairment and synaptic loss induced by T. gondii infection, which may be associated with decreased cyst burden in the brain. Overall, our findings indicate that lentinan can ameliorate T. gondii-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuxi Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- National Experimental Demonstration Center for Basic Medicine Education, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ziyi Yan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
- National Experimental Demonstration Center for Basic Medicine Education, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuan Peng
- Department of Pharmacy, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, Sichuan, China
| | - Yunqiu Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yiling Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Daxiang Xu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yuying Gong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zeyu Cui
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yongshui Wu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yumei Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, Binzhou Medical University, Binzhou, 256603, Shandong, China
| | - Dahui Wang
- Liangshan College (Li Shui) China, Lishui University, Lishui, 323000, Zhejiang, China.
| | - Wei Pan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China.
- National Experimental Demonstration Center for Basic Medicine Education, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Xiaoying Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Jiangsu International Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004, Jiangsu, China.
- National Experimental Demonstration Center for Basic Medicine Education, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Taheri M, Bahrami A, Asadi KK, Mohammadi M, Molaei P, Hashemi M, Nouri F. A review on nonviral, nonbacterial infectious agents toxicity involved in neurodegenerative diseases. Neurodegener Dis Manag 2023; 13:351-369. [PMID: 38357803 DOI: 10.2217/nmt-2023-0004] [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] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuronal death, decreased activity or dysfunction of neurotransmitters are some of the pathophysiological reasons for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis. Also, there is evidence for the role of infections and infectious agents in neurodegenerative diseases and the effect of some metabolites in microorganisms in the pathophysiology of these diseases. In this study, we intend to evaluate the existing studies on the role of infectious agents and their metabolites on the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative diseases. PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and Web of Science search engines were searched. Some infectious agents have been observed in neurodegenerative diseases. Also, isolations of some fungi and microalgae have an improving effect on Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Taheri
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Ali Bahrami
- Student Research Committee, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Kiana Kimiaei Asadi
- Student Research Committee, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mojdeh Mohammadi
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Pejman Molaei
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Hashemi
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Advanced Science & Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Nouri
- Research Center for Molecular Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Anaya-Martínez V, Anacleto-Santos J, Mondragón-Flores R, Zepeda-Rodríguez A, Casarrubias-Tabarez B, de Jesús López-Pérez T, de Alba-Alvarado MC, Martínez-Ortiz-de-Montellano C, Carrasco-Ramírez E, Rivera-Fernández N. Changes in the Proliferation of the Neural Progenitor Cells of Adult Mice Chronically Infected with Toxoplasma gondii. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2671. [PMID: 38004683 PMCID: PMC10673519 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11112671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
During Toxoplasma gondii chronic infection, certain internal factors that trigger the proliferation of neural progenitor cells (NPCs), such as brain inflammation, cell death, and changes in cytokine levels, are observed. NPCs give rise to neuronal cell types in the adult brain of some mammals. NPCs are capable of dividing and differentiating into a restricted repertoire of neuronal and glial cell types. In this study, the proliferation of NPCs was evaluated in CD-1 adult male mice chronically infected with the T. gondii ME49 strain. Histological brain sections from the infected mice were evaluated in order to observe T. gondii tissue cysts. Sagittal and coronal sections from the subventricular zone of the lateral ventricles and from the subgranular zone of the hippocampal dentate gyrus, as well as sagittal sections from the rostral migratory stream, were obtained from infected and non-infected mice previously injected with bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU). A flotation immunofluorescence technique was used to identify BrdU+ NPC. The scanning of BrdU+ cells was conducted using a confocal microscope, and the counting was performed with ImageJ® software (version 1.48q). In all the evaluated zones from the infected mice, a significant proliferation of the NPCs was observed when compared with that of the control group. We concluded that chronic infection with T. gondii increased the proliferation of NPCs in the three evaluated zones. Regardless of the role these cells are playing, our results could be useful to better understand the pathogenesis of chronic toxoplasmosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Verónica Anaya-Martínez
- Centro de Investigación en Ciencias de la Salud, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Anáhuac, Lomas Anáhuac, Naucalpan de Juárez 52786, Estado de México, Mexico;
| | - Jhony Anacleto-Santos
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (J.A.-S.); (T.d.J.L.-P.); (M.C.d.A.-A.); (E.C.-R.)
| | | | - Armando Zepeda-Rodríguez
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Tisular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (A.Z.-R.); (B.C.-T.)
| | - Brenda Casarrubias-Tabarez
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Tisular, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (A.Z.-R.); (B.C.-T.)
| | - Teresa de Jesús López-Pérez
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (J.A.-S.); (T.d.J.L.-P.); (M.C.d.A.-A.); (E.C.-R.)
| | - Mariana Citlalli de Alba-Alvarado
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (J.A.-S.); (T.d.J.L.-P.); (M.C.d.A.-A.); (E.C.-R.)
| | - Cintli Martínez-Ortiz-de-Montellano
- Departamento de Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico;
| | - Elba Carrasco-Ramírez
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (J.A.-S.); (T.d.J.L.-P.); (M.C.d.A.-A.); (E.C.-R.)
| | - Norma Rivera-Fernández
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (J.A.-S.); (T.d.J.L.-P.); (M.C.d.A.-A.); (E.C.-R.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Guan PP, Ge TQ, Wang P. As a Potential Therapeutic Target, C1q Induces Synapse Loss Via Inflammasome-activating Apoptotic and Mitochondria Impairment Mechanisms in Alzheimer's Disease. J Neuroimmune Pharmacol 2023; 18:267-284. [PMID: 37386257 DOI: 10.1007/s11481-023-10076-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
C1q, the initiator of the classical pathway of the complement system, is activated during Alzheimer's disease (AD) development and progression and is especially associated with the production and deposition of β-amyloid protein (Aβ) and phosphorylated tau in β-amyloid plaques (APs) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs). Activation of C1q is responsible for induction of synapse loss, leading to neurodegeneration in AD. Mechanistically, C1q could activate glial cells, which results in the loss of synapses via regulation of synapse pruning and phagocytosis in AD. In addition, C1q induces neuroinflammation by inducing proinflammatory cytokine secretion, which is partially mediated by inflammasome activation. Activation of inflammasomes might mediate the effects of C1q on induction of synapse apoptosis. On the other hand, activation of C1q impairs mitochondria, which hinders the renovation and regeneration of synapses. All these actions of C1q contribute to the loss of synapses during neurodegeneration in AD. Therefore, pharmacological, or genetic interventions targeting C1q may provide potential therapeutic strategies for combating AD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Pei Guan
- College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, 110819, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Tong-Qi Ge
- College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, 110819, Shenyang, People's Republic of China
| | - Pu Wang
- College of Life and Health Sciences, Northeastern University, 110819, Shenyang, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Brito RMDM, da Silva MCM, Vieira-Santos F, de Almeida Lopes C, Souza JLN, Bastilho AL, de Barros Fernandes H, de Miranda AS, de Oliveira ACP, de Almeida Vitor RW, de Andrade-Neto VF, Bueno LL, Fujiwara RT, Magalhães LMD. Chronic infection by atypical Toxoplasma gondii strain induces disturbance in microglia population and altered behaviour in mice. Brain Behav Immun Health 2023; 30:100652. [PMID: 37396335 PMCID: PMC10308216 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbih.2023.100652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii chronic infection is characterized by the establishment of tissue cysts in the brain and increased levels of IFN-γ, which can lead to brain circuitry interference and consequently abnormal behaviour in mice. In this sense, the study presented here sought to investigate the impact of chronic infection by two T. gondii strains in the brain of infection-resistant mice, as a model for studying the involvement of chronic neuroinflammation with the development of behavioural alterations. For that, male BALB/c mice were divided into three groups: non-infected (Ni), infected with T. gondii ME49 clonal strain (ME49), and infected with TgCkBrRN2 atypical strain (CK2). Mice were monitored for 60 days to establish the chronic infection and then submitted to behavioural assessment. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used for measurement of specific IgG in the blood and levels of inflammatory cytokines and neurotrophic factors in the brain, and the cell's immunophenotype was determined by multiparametric flow cytometry. Mice infected with ME49 clonal strain displayed hyperlocomotor activity and memory deficit, although no signs of depressive- and/or anxiety-like behaviour were detected; on the other hand, chronic infection with CK2 atypical strain induced anxiety- and depressive-like behaviour. During chronic infection by CK2 atypical strain, mice displayed a higher number of T. gondii brain tissue cysts and inflammatory infiltrate, composed mainly of CD3+ T lymphocytes and Ly6Chi inflammatory monocytes, compared to mice infected with the ME49 clonal strain. Infected mice presented a marked decrease of microglia population compared to non-infected group. Chronic infection with CK2 strain produced elevated levels of IFN-γ and TNF-ɑ in the brain, decreased NGF levels in the prefrontal cortex and striatum, and altered levels of fractalkine (CX3CL1) in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus. The persistent inflammation and the disturbance in the cerebral homeostasis may contribute to altered behaviour in mice, as the levels of IFN-γ were shown to be correlated with the behavioural parameters assessed here. Considering the high incidence and life-long persistence of T. gondii infection, this approach can be considered a suitable model for studying the impact of chronic infections in the brain and how it impacts in behavioural responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramayana Morais de Medeiros Brito
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
- Laboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biosciences Centre, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Maria Carolina Machado da Silva
- Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Flaviane Vieira-Santos
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Camila de Almeida Lopes
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Jorge Lucas Nascimento Souza
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Lazoski Bastilho
- Laboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biosciences Centre, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Heliana de Barros Fernandes
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Aline Silva de Miranda
- Laboratory of Neurobiology, Department of Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Antônio Carlos Pinheiro de Oliveira
- Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Wagner de Almeida Vitor
- Laboratory of Toxoplasmosis, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Valter Ferreira de Andrade-Neto
- Laboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Biosciences Centre, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Lilian Lacerda Bueno
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Toshio Fujiwara
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Luísa Mourão Dias Magalhães
- Laboratory of Immunobiology and Control of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Moradi F, Dashti N, Farahvash A, Baghaei Naeini F, Zarebavani M. Curcumin ameliorates chronic Toxoplasma gondii infection-induced affective disorders through modulation of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2023; 26:461-467. [PMID: 37009013 PMCID: PMC10008396 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2023.68487.14937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Long-term infection with Toxoplasma gondii is associated with affective disorders (i.e., anxiety and depression) in adults. We aimed to explore the effects of curcumin (CR) on anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors in mice infected with T. gondii. Materials and Methods Animals were studied in five groups: Control, Model, Model + CR20, 40, and 80 (with IP injection of 20, 40, and 80 mg/kg CR). T. gondii infection was prolonged for four weeks. The animals were then treated with CR or vehicle for two weeks and evaluated by behavioral tests at the end of the study. Hippocampal levels of oxidative stress biomarkers (superoxide dismutase; SOD, glutathione; GSH, and malondialdehyde; MDA) and gene expression and protein levels of hippocampal proinflammatory mediators (interleukin-1β; IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, and tumor necrosis factor- α; TNF-α) were determined. Results Behavioral tests confirmed that long-term infection with T. gondii led to anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors. Antidepressant effects of CR were linked to modulation of oxidative stress and cytokine network in the hippocampal region of infected mice. These results showed that CR reduced anxiety and depression symptoms via regulation of oxidative stress and proinflammatory cytokines in the hippocampus of T. gondii-infected mice. Conclusion Therefore, CR can be used as a potential antidepressant agent against T. gondii-induced affective disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Moradi
- School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Nasrin Dashti
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Mitra Zarebavani
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cui Z, Gong Y, Luo X, Zheng N, Tan S, Liu S, Li Y, Wang Q, Sun F, Hu M, Pan W, Yang X. β-Glucan alleviates goal-directed behavioral deficits in mice infected with Toxoplasma gondii. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:65. [PMID: 36782332 PMCID: PMC9926625 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05686-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a neuroinvasive parasite causing neuroinflammation, which in turn is associated with a higher risk for several psycho-behavioral disorders. There is an urgent need to identify drugs capable of improving cognitive deficits induced by T. gondii infection. β-Glucan, an active ingredient in mushrooms, could significantly enhance immunity. However, the effects of β-glucan against neuroinflammation and cognitive decline induced by T. gondii infection remain unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of β-glucan on goal-directed behavior of mice chronically infected by T. gondii Wh6 strain. METHODS A mice model of chronic T. gondii Wh6 infection was established by infecting mice by oral gavage with 10 cysts of T. gondii Wh6. Intraperitoneal injection of β-glucan was manipulated 2 weeks before T. gondii infection. Performance of the infected mice on the Y-maze test and temporal order memory (TOM) test was used to assess the goal-directed behavior. Golgi-Cox staining, transmission electron microscopy, immunofluorescence, real-time PCR and western blot assays were used to detect prefrontal cortex-associated pathological change and neuroinflammation. RESULTS The administration of β-glucan significantly prevented T. gondii Wh6-induced goal-directed behavioral impairment as assessed behaviorally by the Y-maze test and TOM test. In the prefrontal cortex, β-glucan was able to counter T. gondii Wh6-induced degeneration of neurites, impairment of synaptic ultrastructure and decrease of pre- and postsynaptic protein levels. Also, β-glucan significantly prevented the hyperactivation of pro-inflammatory microglia and astrocytes, as well as the upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines caused by chronic T. gondii Wh6 infection. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed that β-glucan prevents goal-directed behavioral impairment induced by chronic T. gondii infection in mice. These findings suggest that β-glucan may be an effective drug candidate to prevent T. gondii-associated psycho-behavioral disorders including goal-directed behavioral injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeyu Cui
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| | - Yuying Gong
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| | - Xiaotong Luo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| | - Niuyi Zheng
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| | - Shimin Tan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| | - Shuxi Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
- The First Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| | - Youwei Li
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| | - Qingling Wang
- Department of Pathology, Basic Medical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| | - Fenfen Sun
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| | - Minmin Hu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| | - Wei Pan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| | - Xiaoying Yang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Immunity and Metabolism, Department of Pathogen Biology and Immunology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, 221004 Jiangsu China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Carrillo GL, Su J, Cawley ML, Wei D, Gill SK, Blader IJ, Fox MA. Complement-dependent loss of inhibitory synapses on pyramidal neurons following Toxoplasma gondii infection. J Neurochem 2023:10.1111/jnc.15770. [PMID: 36683435 PMCID: PMC10363253 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii has developed mechanisms to establish a central nervous system infection in virtually all warm-blooded animals. Acute T. gondii infection can cause neuroinflammation, encephalitis, and seizures. Meanwhile, studies in humans, nonhuman primates, and rodents have linked chronic T. gondii infection with altered behavior and increased risk for neuropsychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. These observations and associations raise questions about how this parasitic infection may alter neural circuits. We previously demonstrated that T. gondii infection triggers the loss of inhibitory perisomatic synapses, a type of synapse whose dysfunction or loss has been linked to neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders. We showed that phagocytic cells (including microglia and infiltrating monocytes) contribute to the loss of these inhibitory synapses. Here, we show that these phagocytic cells specifically ensheath excitatory pyramidal neurons, leading to the preferential loss of perisomatic synapses on these neurons and not those on cortical interneurons. Moreover, we show that infection induces an increased expression of the complement C3 gene, including by populations of these excitatory neurons. Infecting C3-deficient mice with T. gondii revealed that C3 is required for the loss of perisomatic inhibitory synapses. Interestingly, loss of C1q did not prevent the loss of perisomatic synapses following infection. Together, these findings provide evidence that T. gondii induces changes in excitatory pyramidal neurons that trigger the selective removal of inhibitory perisomatic synapses and provide a role for a nonclassical complement pathway in the remodeling of inhibitory circuits in the infected brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela L. Carrillo
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, USA
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, 24061, USA
| | - Jianmin Su
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, USA
- School of Neuroscience, College of Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, 24061, USA
| | - Mikel L. Cawley
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, USA
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, 24061, USA
| | - Derek Wei
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, USA
- School of Neuroscience, College of Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, 24061, USA
| | - Simran K. Gill
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, USA
- Department of Psychology, Roanoke College, Salem, Virginia, 24153, USA
- NeuroSURF Program, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, USA
| | - Ira J. Blader
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, 14203, USA
| | - Michael A. Fox
- Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, USA
- School of Neuroscience, College of Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, 24061, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, 24061, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Xiao J, Li Y, Rowley T, Huang J, Yolken RH, Viscidi RP. Immunotherapy targeting the PD-1 pathway alleviates neuroinflammation caused by chronic Toxoplasma infection. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1288. [PMID: 36690687 PMCID: PMC9870997 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28322-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii can infect the host brain and trigger neuroinflammation. Such neuroinflammation might persist for years if the infection is not resolved, resulting in harmful outcomes for the brain. We have previously demonstrated the efficacy of immunotherapy targeting the programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) pathway on clearance of Toxoplasma tissue cysts. We aimed to test whether parasite clearance would lead to the resolution of neuroinflammation in infected brains. We established chronic Toxoplasma infection in BALB/c mice using the cyst-forming Prugniaud strain. Mice then received αPD-L1 or isotype control antibodies. After completion of the therapy, mice were euthanized six weeks later. The number of brain tissue cysts, Toxoplasma-specific CD8 + T cell proliferation and IFN-γ secretion, serum cytokine and chemokine levels, and CNS inflammation were measured. In αPD-L1-treated mice, we observed reduced brain tissue cysts, increased spleen weight, elevated IFN-γ production by antigen-specific CD8 + T cells, and a general increase in multiple serum cytokines and chemokines. Importantly, αPD-L1-treated mice displayed attenuation of meningeal lymphocytes, reactive astrocytes, and C1q expression. The reduction in inflammation-related proteins is correlated with reduced parasite burden. These results suggest that promoting systemic immunity results in parasite clearance, which in turn alleviates neuroinflammation. Our study may have implications for some brain infections where neuroinflammation is a critical component.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianchun Xiao
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA.
| | - Ye Li
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Treva Rowley
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Jing Huang
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Robert H Yolken
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Raphael P Viscidi
- Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
de Medeiros Brito RM, Meurer YDSR, Batista JAL, de Sá AL, de Medeiros Souza CR, de Souto JT, de Andrade-Neto VF. Chronic Toxoplasma gondii infection contributes to perineuronal nets impairment in the primary somatosensory cortex. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:487. [PMID: 36566237 PMCID: PMC9790132 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05596-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is able to manipulate the host immune system to establish a persistent and efficient infection, contributing to the development of brain abnormalities with behavioral repercussions. In this context, this work aimed to evaluate the effects of T. gondii infection on the systemic inflammatory response and structure of the primary somatosensory cortex (PSC). C57BL/6 and BALB/c mice were infected with T. gondii ME49 strain tissue cysts and accompanied for 30 days. After this period, levels of cytokines IFN-γ, IL-12, TNF-α and TGF-β were measured. After blood collection, mice were perfused and the brains were submitted to immunohistochemistry for perineuronal net (PNN) evaluation and cyst quantification. The results showed that C57BL/6 mice presented higher levels of TNF-α and IL-12, while the levels of TGF-β were similar between the two mouse lineages, associated with the elevated number of tissue cysts, with a higher occurrence of cysts in the posterior area of the PSC when compared to BALB/c mice, which presented a more homogeneous cyst distribution. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed a greater loss of PNN labeling in C57BL/6 animals compared to BALB/c. These data raised a discussion about the ability of T. gondii to stimulate a systemic inflammatory response capable of indirectly interfering in the brain structure and function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ramayana Morais de Medeiros Brito
- grid.411233.60000 0000 9687 399XPostgraduate Program in Parasitary Biology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte Brazil ,grid.411233.60000 0000 9687 399XLaboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte Brazil
| | - Ywlliane da Silva Rodrigues Meurer
- grid.411216.10000 0004 0397 5145Postgraduate Program in Cognitive Neuroscience and Behavior, Memory and Cognition Studies Laboratory, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba Brazil
| | - Jully Anne Lemos Batista
- grid.411233.60000 0000 9687 399XLaboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte Brazil
| | - Andréa Lima de Sá
- grid.411233.60000 0000 9687 399XLaboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte Brazil
| | - Cássio Ricardo de Medeiros Souza
- grid.411233.60000 0000 9687 399XLaboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte Brazil
| | - Janeusa Trindade de Souto
- grid.411233.60000 0000 9687 399XLaboratory of Immunopharmacology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte Brazil
| | - Valter Ferreira de Andrade-Neto
- grid.411233.60000 0000 9687 399XLaboratory of Malaria and Toxoplasmosis Biology, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Rio Grande do Norte Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Rashidi S, Mansouri R, Ali-Hassanzadeh M, Muro A, Nguewa P, Manzano-Román R. The Defensive Interactions of Prominent Infectious Protozoan Parasites: The Host's Complement System. Biomolecules 2022; 12:1564. [PMID: 36358913 PMCID: PMC9687244 DOI: 10.3390/biom12111564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The complement system exerts crucial functions both in innate immune responses and adaptive humoral immunity. This pivotal system plays a major role dealing with pathogen invasions including protozoan parasites. Different pathogens including parasites have developed sophisticated strategies to defend themselves against complement killing. Some of these strategies include the employment, mimicking or inhibition of host's complement regulatory proteins, leading to complement evasion. Therefore, parasites are proven to use the manipulation of the complement system to assist them during infection and persistence. Herein, we attempt to study the interaction´s mechanisms of some prominent infectious protozoan parasites including Plasmodium, Toxoplasma, Trypanosoma, and Leishmania dealing with the complement system. Moreover, several crucial proteins that are expressed, recruited or hijacked by parasites and are involved in the modulation of the host´s complement system are selected and their role for efficient complement killing or lysis evasion is discussed. In addition, parasite's complement regulatory proteins appear as plausible therapeutic and vaccine targets in protozoan parasitic infections. Accordingly, we also suggest some perspectives and insights useful in guiding future investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Rashidi
- Molecular and Medicine Research Center, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein 38811, Iran
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Khomein University of Medical Sciences, Khomein 38811, Iran
| | - Reza Mansouri
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd 8915173143, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali-Hassanzadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft 7861615765, Iran
| | - Antonio Muro
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Group (e-INTRO), Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca-Research Center for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Paul Nguewa
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, ISTUN Institute of Tropical Health, IdiSNA (Navarra Institute for Health Research), University of Navarra, C/Irunlarrea 1, 31008 Pamplona, Spain
| | - Raúl Manzano-Román
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Group (e-INTRO), Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca-Research Center for Tropical Diseases at the University of Salamanca (IBSAL-CIETUS), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Liu T, Gao P, Bu D, Liu D. Association between Toxoplasma gondii infection and psychiatric disorders: a cross-sectional study in China. Sci Rep 2022; 12:15092. [PMID: 36064811 PMCID: PMC9445102 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16420-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychiatric patients have become the focus of public attention, and current research suggests a possible link between Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection and mental illness. To understand the current situation of T. gondii infection in psychiatric patients in the study area, the relationship between T. gondii infection and mental diseases, and the influence of T. gondii infection on psychiatric patients, this study examined 3101 psychiatric inpatients from 2015 to 2020. All people included in the study were tested for anti-Toxoplasma IgM antibody and anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibody. Additionally, 4040 individuals from the general population were included as controls. The chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were carried out to determine the association between psychiatric disorders and T. gondii infection. The seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma IgM antibody was 0.23% (7/3101) in psychiatric inpatients and 0.11% (2/1846) in the general population, and there was no significant difference (p > 0.05). The seroprevalence rate of anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies was 3.03% (94/3101) in psychiatric inpatients and 1.05% (23/2194) in the general population, and there was a significant difference (p < 0.01). The seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibody in psychiatric inpatients was significantly different between different age groups (p < 0.01). The positivity rate of anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies was 5.17% (3/58) in patients with mania, 3.24% (8/247) in patients with recurrent depressive disorder, 3.54% (13/367) in patients with depression, 3.22% (39/1213) in patients with schizophrenia, 2.41% (18/748) in patients with bipolar disorder and 2.25% (2/89) in patients with dissociative disorder. Compared to the general population, patients with mania (OR = 5.149 95% CI 1.501–17.659 p = 0.009), schizophrenia (OR = 3.136 95% CI 1.864–5.275 p = 0.000), depression (OR = 3.466 95% CI 1.740–6.906 p = 0.000), recurrent depressive disorder (OR = 3.160 95% CI 1.398–7.142 p = 0.006) and bipolar disorder (OR = 2.327 95% CI 1.249–4.337 p = 0.008) were found to be significantly associated with the seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibody. This study suggests that the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in psychiatric patients was higher and that age was an influencing factor of T. gondii infection in psychiatric patients. T. gondii infection was associated with mania, schizophrenia, depression, recurrent depressive disorder and bipolar disorder.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taixiu Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shandong Daizhuang Hospital, Jining, 272051, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Gao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Shandong Daizhuang Hospital, Jining, 272051, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Deyun Bu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Qingdao Sanatorium of Shandong Province, Qingdao, 266071, Shandong, People's Republic of China
| | - Dong Liu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, Jining, 272029, Shandong, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
French T, Steffen J, Glas A, Osbelt L, Strowig T, Schott BH, Schüler T, Dunay IR. Persisting Microbiota and Neuronal Imbalance Following T. gondii Infection Reliant on the Infection Route. Front Immunol 2022; 13:920658. [PMID: 35898505 PMCID: PMC9311312 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.920658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a highly successful parasite capable of infecting all warm-blooded animals. The natural way of infection in intermediate hosts is the oral ingestion of parasite-contaminated water or food. In murine experimental models, oral infection (p.o.) of mice with T. gondii is applied to investigate mucosal and peripheral immune cell dynamics, whereas intraperitoneal infection (i.p.) is frequently used to study peripheral inflammation as well as immune cell – neuronal interaction in the central nervous system (CNS). However, the two infection routes have not yet been systematically compared along the course of infection. Here, C57BL/6 mice were infected p.o. or i.p. with a low dose of T. gondii cysts, and the acute and chronic stages of infection were compared. A more severe course of infection was detected following i.p. challenge, characterized by an increased weight loss and marked expression of proinflammatory cytokines particularly in the CNS during the chronic stage. The elevated proinflammatory cytokine expression in the ileum was more prominent after p.o. challenge that continued following the acute phase in both i.p. or p.o. infected mice. This resulted in sustained microbial dysbiosis, especially after p.o. challenge, highlighted by increased abundance of pathobionts from the phyla proteobacteria and a reduction of beneficial commensal species. Further, we revealed that in the CNS of i.p. infected mice CD4 and CD8 T cells displayed higher IFNγ production in the chronic stage. This corresponded with an increased expression of C1q and CD68 in the CNS and reduced expression of genes involved in neuronal signal transmission. Neuroinflammation-associated synaptic alterations, especially PSD-95, VGLUT, and EAAT2 expression, were more pronounced in the cortex upon i.p. infection highlighting the profound interplay between peripheral inflammation and CNS homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy French
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Steffen
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Albert Glas
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Lisa Osbelt
- Department of Microbial Immune Regulation, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Till Strowig
- Department of Microbial Immune Regulation, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Björn H. Schott
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Schüler
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ildiko Rita Dunay
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I), Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
- *Correspondence: Ildiko Rita Dunay,
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Xiao J. Behavioral Changes Induced by Latent Toxoplasmosis Could Arise from CNS Inflammation and Neuropathogenesis. Curr Top Behav Neurosci 2022; 61:303-313. [PMID: 35676595 DOI: 10.1007/7854_2022_370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Chronic infection with Toxoplasma gondii, a neurotropic parasite, has been linked to multiple behavioral changes in rodents and humans. The pathogenic mechanisms underlying these correlations are not known. I discuss here from animal studies the distribution of tissue cysts, the constant immune surveillance, the critical role of cyst burden, and the time-dependent consequences, which I believe are crucial to explaining the behavioral changes. In line with the brain-wide distribution of tissue cysts and chronic neuroinflammation, infected mice displayed a broad range of behavioral phenotypes. Many studies suggest that behavioral changes in mice are directly associated with tissue cyst presence or cyst burden and the host immune response. Cyst burden may not exert direct effects; however, the mechanisms causing behavioral and neuropathological changes are potentially the consequence of cyst burden over time, such as the neuroinflammation required to control the reactivation of tissue cysts. The reduction of neuroinflammation has proven that neuropathogenesis and behavioral abnormalities can be reversed, at least partially, in infected mice. Overall, Toxoplasma-induced behavioral changes are likely to be an indirect consequence of the host immune response in a parasite burden-dependent manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianchun Xiao
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Prodjinotho UF, Gres V, Henkel F, Lacorcia M, Dandl R, Haslbeck M, Schmidt V, Winkler AS, Sikasunge C, Jakobsson PJ, Henneke P, Esser-von Bieren J, Prazeres da Costa C. Helminthic dehydrogenase drives PGE 2 and IL-10 production in monocytes to potentiate Treg induction. EMBO Rep 2022; 23:e54096. [PMID: 35357743 PMCID: PMC9066053 DOI: 10.15252/embr.202154096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunoregulation of inflammatory, infection‐triggered processes in the brain constitutes a central mechanism to control devastating disease manifestations such as epilepsy. Observational studies implicate the viability of Taenia solium cysts as key factor determining severity of neurocysticercosis (NCC), the most common cause of epilepsy, especially in children, in Sub‐Saharan Africa. Viable, in contrast to decaying, cysts mostly remain clinically silent by yet unknown mechanisms, potentially involving Tregs in controlling inflammation. Here, we show that glutamate dehydrogenase from viable cysts instructs tolerogenic monocytes to release IL‐10 and the lipid mediator PGE2. These act in concert, converting naive CD4+ T cells into CD127−CD25hiFoxP3+CTLA‐4+ Tregs, through the G protein‐coupled receptors EP2 and EP4 and the IL‐10 receptor. Moreover, while viable cyst products strongly upregulate IL‐10 and PGE2 transcription in microglia, intravesicular fluid, released during cyst decay, induces pro‐inflammatory microglia and TGF‐β as potential drivers of epilepsy. Inhibition of PGE2 synthesis and IL‐10 signaling prevents Treg induction by viable cyst products. Harnessing the PGE2‐IL‐10 axis and targeting TGF‐ß signaling may offer an important therapeutic strategy in inflammatory epilepsy and NCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ulrich Fabien Prodjinotho
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Center for Global Health, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Vitka Gres
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Fiona Henkel
- Center of Allergy and Environment (ZAUM), Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Center Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Matthew Lacorcia
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Ramona Dandl
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University Munich (TUM), Garching, Germany
| | - Martin Haslbeck
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University Munich (TUM), Garching, Germany
| | - Veronika Schmidt
- Center for Global Health, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Center for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Andrea Sylvia Winkler
- Center for Global Health, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Department of Neurology, University Hospital, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Center for Global Health, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Chummy Sikasunge
- Department of Paraclinicals, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Per-Johan Jakobsson
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Solna, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Philipp Henneke
- Institute for Immunodeficiency, Center for Chronic Immunodeficiency, Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Center for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Medical Center, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Julia Esser-von Bieren
- Center of Allergy and Environment (ZAUM), Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Center Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Clarissa Prazeres da Costa
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Center for Global Health, TUM School of Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,German Center for Infection and Research (DZIF), Munich, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Lopez-Sanchez C, Poejo J, Garcia-Lopez V, Salazar J, Garcia-Martinez V, Gutierrez-Merino C. Kaempferol prevents the activation of complement C3 protein and the generation of reactive A1 astrocytes that mediate rat brain degeneration induced by 3-nitropropionic acid. Food Chem Toxicol 2022; 164:113017. [PMID: 35452770 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2022.113017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Kaempferol is a natural antioxidant present in vegetables and fruits used in human nutrition. In previous work, we showed that intraperitoneal (i.p.) kaempferol administration strongly protects against striatum neurodegeneration induced by i.p. injections of 3-nitropropionic acid (NPA), an animal model of Huntington's disease. Recently, we have shown that reactive A1 astrocytes generation is an early event in the neurodegeneration induced by NPA i.p. injections. In the present work, we have experimentally evaluated the hypothesis that kaempferol protects both against the activation of complement C3 protein and the generation of reactive A1 astrocytes in rat brain striatum and hippocampus. To this end, we have administered NPA and kaempferol i.p. injections to adult Wistar rats following the protocol described in previous work. Kaempferol administration prevents proteolytic activation of complement C3 protein and generation of reactive A1 astrocytes NPA-induced in the striatum and hippocampus. Also, it blocked the NPA-induced increase of NF-κB expression and enhanced secretion of cytokines IL-1α, TNFα, and C1q, which have been linked to the generation of reactive A1 astrocytes. In addition, kaempferol administration prevented the enhanced production of amyloid β peptides in the striatum and hippocampus, a novel finding in NPA-induced brain degeneration found in this work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Lopez-Sanchez
- Instituto de Biomarcadores de Patologías Moleculares, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006, Badajoz, Spain; Departamento de Anatomía y Embriología Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006, Badajoz, Spain.
| | - Joana Poejo
- Instituto de Biomarcadores de Patologías Moleculares, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Virginio Garcia-Lopez
- Instituto de Biomarcadores de Patologías Moleculares, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006, Badajoz, Spain; Departamento de Anatomía y Embriología Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Jairo Salazar
- Instituto de Biomarcadores de Patologías Moleculares, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006, Badajoz, Spain; Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua-León, León, 21000, Nicaragua
| | - Virginio Garcia-Martinez
- Instituto de Biomarcadores de Patologías Moleculares, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006, Badajoz, Spain; Departamento de Anatomía y Embriología Humana, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Carlos Gutierrez-Merino
- Instituto de Biomarcadores de Patologías Moleculares, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006, Badajoz, Spain; Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular y Genética, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Extremadura, 06006, Badajoz, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Cowan MN, Sethi I, Harris TH. Microglia in CNS infections: insights from Toxoplasma gondii and other pathogens. Trends Parasitol 2022; 38:217-229. [PMID: 35039238 PMCID: PMC8852251 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2021.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS), are poised to respond to neuropathology. Microglia play multiple roles in maintaining homeostasis and promoting inflammation in numerous disease states. The study of microglial innate immune programs has largely focused on exploring neurodegenerative disease states with the use of genetic targeting approaches. Our understanding of how microglia participate in immune responses against pathogens is just beginning to take shape. Here, we review existing animal models of CNS infection, with a focus on how microglial physiology and inflammatory processes control protozoan and viral infections of the brain. We further discuss how microglial participation in over-exuberant immune responses can drive immunopathology that is detrimental to CNS health and homeostasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maureen N. Cowan
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Ish Sethi
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States
| | - Tajie H. Harris
- Center for Brain Immunology and Glia, Department of Neuroscience, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, United States,Correspondence: (T. H. Harris)
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Nugraha RYB, Jeelani G, Nozaki T. Physiological roles and metabolism of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in parasitic protozoa. Trends Parasitol 2022; 38:462-477. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2022.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
24
|
Bando H, Fukuda Y, Watanabe N, Olawale JT, Kato K. Depletion of Intracellular Glutamine Pools Triggers Toxoplasma gondii Stage Conversion in Human Glutamatergic Neurons. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:788303. [PMID: 35096641 PMCID: PMC8793678 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.788303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii chronically infects the brain as latent cysts containing bradyzoites and causes various effects in the host. Recently, the molecular mechanisms of cyst formation in the mouse brain have been elucidated, but those in the human brain remain largely unknown. Here, we show that abnormal glutamine metabolism caused by both interferon-γ (IFN-γ) stimulation and T. gondii infection induce cyst formation in human neuroblastoma cells regardless of the anti-T. gondii host factor nitric oxide (NO) level or Indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase-1 (IDO1) expression. IFN-γ stimulation promoted intracellular glutamine degradation in human neuronal cells. Additionally, T. gondii infection inhibited the mRNA expression of the host glutamine transporters SLC38A1 and SLC38A2. These dual effects led to glutamine starvation and triggered T. gondii stage conversion in human neuronal cells. Furthermore, these mechanisms are conserved in human iPSC-derived glutamatergic neurons. Taken together, our data suggest that glutamine starvation in host cells is an important trigger of T. gondii stage conversion in human neurons.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hironori Bando
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Osaki, Japan
| | - Yasuhiro Fukuda
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Osaki, Japan
| | - Nina Watanabe
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Osaki, Japan
| | - Jeje Temitope Olawale
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Osaki, Japan
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Science, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
| | - Kentaro Kato
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Environment, Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Osaki, Japan
- *Correspondence: Kentaro Kato,
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Complement as a powerful "influencer" in the brain during development, adulthood and neurological disorders. Adv Immunol 2021; 152:157-222. [PMID: 34844709 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ai.2021.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The complement system was long considered as only a powerful effector arm of the immune system that, while critically protective, could lead to inflammation and cell death if overactivated, even in the central nervous system (CNS). However, in the past decade it has been recognized as playing critical roles in key physiological processes in the CNS, including neurogenesis and synaptic remodeling in the developing and adult brain. Inherent in these processes are the interactions with cells in the brain, and the cascade of interactions and functional consequences that ensue. As a result, investigations of therapeutic approaches for both suppressing excessive complement driven neurotoxicity and aberrant sculpting of neuronal circuits, require broad (and deep) knowledge of the functional activities of multiple components of this highly evolved and regulated system to avoid unintended negative consequences in the clinic. Advances in basic science are beginning to provide a roadmap for translation to therapeutics, with both small molecule and biologics. Here, we present examples of the critical roles of proper complement function in the development and sculpting of the nervous system, and in enabling rapid protection from infection and clearance of dying cells. Microglia are highlighted as important command centers that integrate signals from the complement system and other innate sensors that are programed to provide support and protection, but that direct detrimental responses to aberrant activation and/or regulation of the system. Finally, we present promising research areas that may lead to effective and precision strategies for complement targeted interventions to promote neurological health.
Collapse
|
26
|
Shinjyo N, Kita K. Infection and Immunometabolism in the Central Nervous System: A Possible Mechanistic Link Between Metabolic Imbalance and Dementia. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:765217. [PMID: 34795562 PMCID: PMC8592913 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.765217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndromes are frequently associated with dementia, suggesting that the dysregulation of energy metabolism can increase the risk of neurodegeneration and cognitive impairment. In addition, growing evidence suggests the link between infections and brain disorders, including Alzheimer's disease. The immune system and energy metabolism are in an intricate relationship. Infection triggers immune responses, which are accompanied by imbalance in cellular and organismal energy metabolism, while metabolic disorders can lead to immune dysregulation and higher infection susceptibility. In the brain, the activities of brain-resident immune cells, including microglia, are associated with their metabolic signatures, which may be affected by central nervous system (CNS) infection. Conversely, metabolic dysregulation can compromise innate immunity in the brain, leading to enhanced CNS infection susceptibility. Thus, infection and metabolic imbalance can be intertwined to each other in the etiology of brain disorders, including dementia. Insulin and leptin play pivotal roles in the regulation of immunometabolism in the CNS and periphery, and dysfunction of these signaling pathways are associated with cognitive impairment. Meanwhile, infectious complications are often comorbid with diabetes and obesity, which are characterized by insulin resistance and leptin signaling deficiency. Examples include human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and periodontal disease caused by an oral pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis. This review explores potential interactions between infectious agents and insulin and leptin signaling pathways, and discuss possible mechanisms underlying the relationship between infection, metabolic dysregulation, and brain disorders, particularly focusing on the roles of insulin and leptin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Shinjyo
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan.,Laboratory of Immune Homeostasis, WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Kita
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan.,Department of Host-Defense Biochemistry, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lan HW, Lu YN, Zhao XD, Jin GN, Lu JM, Jin CH, Ma J, Jin X, Xu X, Piao LX. New role of sertraline against Toxoplasma gondii-induced depression-like behaviours in mice. Parasite Immunol 2021; 43:e12893. [PMID: 34637545 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12893] [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: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a neurotropic protozoan parasite, which can cause mental and behavioural disorders. The present study aimed to elucidate the effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of sertraline (SERT) on T. gondii-induced depression-like behaviours. In the present study, a mouse model and a microglial cell line (BV2 cells) model were established by infecting with the T. gondii RH strain. In in vivo and in vitro experiments, the underlying molecular mechanisms of SERT in inhibiting depression-like behaviours and cellular perturbations caused by T. gondii infection were investigated in the mouse brain and BV2 cells. The administration of SERT significantly ameliorated depression-like behaviours in T. gondii-infected mice. Furthermore, SERT inhibited T. gondii proliferation. Treatment with SERT significantly inhibited the activation of microglia and decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor-alpha, and interferon-gamma, by down-regulating tumour necrosis factor receptor 1/nuclear factor-kappa B signalling pathway, thereby ameliorating the depression-like behaviours induced by T. gondii infection. Our study provides insight into the underlying molecular mechanisms of the newly discovered role of SERT against T. gondii-induced depression-like behaviours.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Wen Lan
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China
| | - Yu-Nan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China
| | - Xu-Dong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China
| | - Guang-Nan Jin
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China
| | - Jing-Mei Lu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China
| | - Cheng-Hua Jin
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China
| | - Juan Ma
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China
| | - Xuejun Jin
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China
| | - Xiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China
| | - Lian-Xun Piao
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, Molecular Medicine Research Center, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji, Jilin, China
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Comparative Review of Microglia and Monocytes in CNS Phagocytosis. Cells 2021; 10:cells10102555. [PMID: 34685535 PMCID: PMC8534258 DOI: 10.3390/cells10102555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrophages maintain tissue homeostasis by phagocytosing and removing unwanted materials such as dead cells and cell debris. Microglia, the resident macrophages of the central nervous system (CNS), are no exception. In addition, a series of recent studies have shown that microglia phagocytose the neuronal synapses that form the basis of neural circuit function. This discovery has spurred many neuroscientists to study microglia. Importantly, in the CNS parenchyma, not only microglia but also blood-derived monocytes, which essentially differentiate into macrophages after infiltration, exert phagocytic ability, making the study of phagocytosis in the CNS even more interesting and complex. In particular, in the diseased brain, the phagocytosis of tissue-damaging substances, such as myelin debris in multiple sclerosis (MS), has been shown to be carried out by both microglia and blood-derived monocytes. However, it remains largely unclear why blood-derived monocytes need to invade the parenchyma, where microglia are already abundant, to assist in phagocytosis. We will also discuss whether this phagocytosis can affect the fate of the phagocytosing cell itself as well as the substance being phagocytosed and the surrounding environment in addition to future research directions. In this review, we will introduce recent studies to answer a question that often arises when studying microglial phagocytosis: under what circumstances and to what extent blood-derived monocytes infiltrate the CNS and contribute to phagocytosis. In addition, the readers will learn how recent studies have experimentally distinguished between microglia and infiltrating monocytes. Finally, we aim to contribute to the progress of phagocytosis research by discussing the effects of phagocytosis on phagocytic cells.
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Cerebral toxoplasmosis and cerebral malaria are two important neurological diseases caused by protozoan parasites. In this review, we discuss recent findings regarding the innate immune responses of microglia and astrocytes to Toxoplasma and Plasmodium infection. In both infections, these tissue-resident glial cells perform a sentinel function mediated by alarmin crosstalk that licenses adaptive type 1 immunity in the central nervous system. Divergent protective or pathogenic effects of type 1 activation of these astrocytes and microglia are revealed depending on the inherent lytic potential of the protozoan parasite.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Nasuhidehnavi
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - George S Yap
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Shinjyo N, Kagaya W, Pekna M. Interaction Between the Complement System and Infectious Agents - A Potential Mechanistic Link to Neurodegeneration and Dementia. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:710390. [PMID: 34408631 PMCID: PMC8365172 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.710390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
As part of the innate immune system, complement plays a critical role in the elimination of pathogens and mobilization of cellular immune responses. In the central nervous system (CNS), many complement proteins are locally produced and regulate nervous system development and physiological processes such as neural plasticity. However, aberrant complement activation has been implicated in neurodegeneration, including Alzheimer's disease. There is a growing list of pathogens that have been shown to interact with the complement system in the brain but the short- and long-term consequences of infection-induced complement activation for neuronal functioning are largely elusive. Available evidence suggests that the infection-induced complement activation could be protective or harmful, depending on the context. Here we summarize how various infectious agents, including bacteria (e.g., Streptococcus spp.), viruses (e.g., HIV and measles virus), fungi (e.g., Candida spp.), parasites (e.g., Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium spp.), and prion proteins activate and manipulate the complement system in the CNS. We also discuss the potential mechanisms by which the interaction between the infectious agents and the complement system can play a role in neurodegeneration and dementia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Shinjyo
- Laboratory of Immune Homeostasis, WPI Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
| | - Wataru Kagaya
- Department of Parasitology and Research Center for Infectious Disease Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Marcela Pekna
- Laboratory of Regenerative Neuroimmunology, Center for Brain Repair, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Izuo N, Nitta A. New Insights Regarding Diagnosis and Medication for Schizophrenia Based on Neuronal Synapse-Microglia Interaction. J Pers Med 2021; 11:jpm11050371. [PMID: 34063598 PMCID: PMC8147599 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11050371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia is a common psychiatric disorder that usually develops during adolescence and young adulthood. Since genetic and environmental factors are involved in the disease, the molecular status of the pathology of schizophrenia differs across patients. Recent genetic studies have focused on the association between schizophrenia and the immune system, especially microglia–synapse interactions. Microglia physiologically eliminate unnecessary synapses during the developmental period. The overactivation of synaptic pruning by microglia is involved in the pathology of brain disease. This paper focuses on the synaptic pruning function and its molecular machinery and introduces the hypothesis that excessive synaptic pruning plays a role in the development of schizophrenia. Finally, we suggest a strategy for diagnosis and medication based on modulation of the interaction between microglia and synapses. This review provides updated information on the involvement of the immune system in schizophrenia and proposes novel insights regarding diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for this disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Atsumi Nitta
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-76-415-8822 (ext. 8823); Fax: +81-76-415-8826
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Shinjyo N, Nakayama H, Li L, Ishimaru K, Hikosaka K, Suzuki N, Yoshida H, Norose K. Hypericum perforatum extract and hyperforin inhibit the growth of neurotropic parasite Toxoplasma gondii and infection-induced inflammatory responses of glial cells in vitro. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 267:113525. [PMID: 33129946 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Hypericum perforatum L. has been widely used as a natural antidepressant. However, it is unknown whether it is effective in treating infection-induced neuropsychiatric disorders. AIM OF THE STUDY In order to evaluate the effectiveness of H. perforatum against infection with neurotropic parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which has been linked to neuropsychiatric disorders, this study investigated the anti-Toxoplasma activity using in vitro models. MATERIALS AND METHODS Dried alcoholic extracts were prepared from three Hypericum species: H. perforatum, H. erectum, and H. ascyron. H. perforatum extract was further separated by solvent-partitioning. Hyperforin and hypericin levels in the extracts and fractions were analyzed by high resolution LC-MS. Anti-Toxoplasma activities were tested in vitro, using cell lines (Vero and Raw264), murine primary mixed glia, and primary neuron-glia. Toxoplasma proliferation and stage conversion were analyzed by qPCR. Infection-induced damages to the host cells were analyzed by Sulforhodamine B cytotoxicity assay (Vero) and immunofluorescent microscopy (neurons). Infection-induced inflammatory responses in glial cells were analysed by qPCR and immunofluorescent microscopy. RESULTS Hyperforin was identified only in H. perforatum among the three tested species, whereas hypericin was present in H. perforatum and H. erectum. H. perforatum extract and hyperforin-enriched fraction, as well as hyperforin, exhibited significant anti-Toxoplasma property as well as inhibitory activity against infection-induced inflammatory responses in glial cells. In addition, H. perforatum-derived hyperforin-enriched fraction restored neuro-supportive environment in mixed neuron-glia culture. CONCLUSIONS H. perforatum and its major constituent hyperforin are promising anti-Toxoplasma agents that could potentially protect neurons and glial cells against infection-induced damages. Further study is warranted to establish in vivo efficacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Shinjyo
- Department of Infection and Host Defense, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan; School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4, Sakamoto, Nagasaki, 852-8523, Japan.
| | - Hideyuki Nakayama
- Saga Prefectural Institute of Public Health and Pharmaceutical Research, 1-20 Hacchounawate, Saga, 849-0925, Japan
| | - Li Li
- Department of Infection and Host Defense, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Kanji Ishimaru
- Department of Biological Resource Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Saga University, 1 Honjo, Saga, 840-8502, Japan
| | - Kenji Hikosaka
- Department of Infection and Host Defense, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Noriyuki Suzuki
- Department of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Hiroki Yoshida
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Immunoscience, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, 5-1-1 Nabeshima, Saga, 849-8501, Japan
| | - Kazumi Norose
- Department of Infection and Host Defense, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Shinjyo N, Hikosaka K, Kido Y, Yoshida H, Norose K. Toxoplasma Infection Induces Sustained Up-Regulation of Complement Factor B and C5a Receptor in the Mouse Brain via Microglial Activation: Implication for the Alternative Complement Pathway Activation and Anaphylatoxin Signaling in Cerebral Toxoplasmosis. Front Immunol 2021; 11:603924. [PMID: 33613523 PMCID: PMC7892429 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.603924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a neurotropic protozoan parasite, which is linked to neurological manifestations in immunocompromised individuals as well as severe neurodevelopmental sequelae in congenital toxoplasmosis. While the complement system is the first line of host defense that plays a significant role in the prevention of parasite dissemination, Toxoplasma artfully evades complement-mediated clearance via recruiting complement regulatory proteins to their surface. On the other hand, the details of Toxoplasma and the complement system interaction in the brain parenchyma remain elusive. In this study, infection-induced changes in the mRNA levels of complement components were analyzed by quantitative PCR using a murine Toxoplasma infection model in vivo and primary glial cells in vitro. In addition to the core components C3 and C1q, anaphylatoxin C3a and C5a receptors (C3aR and C5aR1), as well as alternative complement pathway components properdin (CFP) and factor B (CFB), were significantly upregulated 2 weeks after inoculation. Two months post-infection, CFB, C3, C3aR, and C5aR1 expression remained higher than in controls, while CFP upregulation was transient. Furthermore, Toxoplasma infection induced significant increase in CFP, CFB, C3, and C5aR1 in mixed glial culture, which was abrogated when microglial activation was inhibited by pre-treatment with minocycline. This study sheds new light on the roles for the complement system in the brain parenchyma during Toxoplasma infection, which may lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches to Toxoplasma infection-induced neurological disorders.
Collapse
MESH Headings
- Animals
- Brain/immunology
- Brain/metabolism
- Brain/parasitology
- Cells, Cultured
- Complement Factor B/genetics
- Complement Factor B/metabolism
- Complement Pathway, Alternative
- Disease Models, Animal
- Host-Parasite Interactions
- Male
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Microglia/immunology
- Microglia/metabolism
- Microglia/parasitology
- Receptor, Anaphylatoxin C5a/genetics
- Receptor, Anaphylatoxin C5a/metabolism
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/genetics
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Time Factors
- Toxoplasma/immunology
- Toxoplasma/pathogenicity
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/genetics
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/immunology
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/metabolism
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/parasitology
- Toxoplasmosis, Cerebral/genetics
- Toxoplasmosis, Cerebral/immunology
- Toxoplasmosis, Cerebral/metabolism
- Toxoplasmosis, Cerebral/parasitology
- Up-Regulation
- Mice
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Shinjyo
- Department of Infection and Host Defense, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Parasitology & Research Center for Infectious Disease Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Kenji Hikosaka
- Department of Infection and Host Defense, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yasutoshi Kido
- Department of Parasitology & Research Center for Infectious Disease Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka City University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroki Yoshida
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Immunoscience, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, Saga, Japan
| | - Kazumi Norose
- Department of Infection and Host Defense, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Lindell RB, Wolf MS, Alcamo AM, Silverman MA, Dulek DE, Otto WR, Olson TS, Kitko CL, Paueksakon P, Chiotos K. Case Report: Immune Dysregulation Due to Toxoplasma gondii Reactivation After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplant. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:719679. [PMID: 34447731 PMCID: PMC8382793 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.719679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Disseminated toxoplasmosis is an uncommon but highly lethal cause of hyperferritinemic sepsis after hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). We report two cases of disseminated toxoplasmosis from two centers in critically ill adolescents after HCT: a 19-year-old who developed fever and altered mental status on day +19 after HCT and a 20-year-old who developed fever and diarrhea on day +52 after HCT. Both patients developed hyperferritinemia with multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and profound immune dysregulation, which progressed to death despite maximal medical therapies. Because disseminated toxoplasmosis is both treatable and challenging to diagnose, it is imperative that intensivists maintain a high index of suspicion for Toxoplasma gondii infection when managing immunocompromised children, particularly in those with known positive T. gondii serologies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert B Lindell
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Division of Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Michael S Wolf
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt and the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Alicia M Alcamo
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Division of Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Michael A Silverman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Daniel E Dulek
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt and the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - William R Otto
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Timothy S Olson
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Carrie L Kitko
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt and the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Paisit Paueksakon
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt and the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Kathleen Chiotos
- Department of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Division of Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Carrillo GL, Ballard VA, Glausen T, Boone Z, Teamer J, Hinkson CL, Wohlfert EA, Blader IJ, Fox MA. Toxoplasma infection induces microglia-neuron contact and the loss of perisomatic inhibitory synapses. Glia 2020; 68:1968-1986. [PMID: 32157745 PMCID: PMC7423646 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Infection and inflammation within the brain induces changes in neuronal connectivity and function. The intracellular protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, is one pathogen that infects the brain and can cause encephalitis and seizures. Persistent infection by this parasite is also associated with behavioral alterations and an increased risk for developing psychiatric illness, including schizophrenia. Current evidence from studies in humans and mouse models suggest that both seizures and schizophrenia result from a loss or dysfunction of inhibitory synapses. In line with this, we recently reported that persistent T. gondii infection alters the distribution of glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 (GAD67), an enzyme that catalyzes GABA synthesis in inhibitory synapses. These changes could reflect a redistribution of presynaptic machinery in inhibitory neurons or a loss of inhibitory nerve terminals. To directly assess the latter possibility, we employed serial block face scanning electron microscopy (SBFSEM) and quantified inhibitory perisomatic synapses in neocortex and hippocampus following parasitic infection. Not only did persistent infection lead to a significant loss of perisomatic synapses, it induced the ensheathment of neuronal somata by myeloid-derived cells. Immunohistochemical, genetic, and ultrastructural analyses revealed that these myeloid-derived cells included activated microglia. Finally, ultrastructural analysis identified myeloid-derived cells enveloping perisomatic nerve terminals, suggesting they may actively displace or phagocytose synaptic elements. Thus, these results suggest that activated microglia contribute to perisomatic inhibitory synapse loss following parasitic infection and offer a novel mechanism as to how persistent T. gondii infection may contribute to both seizures and psychiatric illness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela L. Carrillo
- Center for Neurobiology Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA 24016
- Graduate Program in Translational Biology, Medicine, and Health, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Valerie A. Ballard
- Center for Neurobiology Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA 24016
- Roanoke Valley Governor’s School, Roanoke VA 24015
| | - Taylor Glausen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo NY 14260
| | - Zack Boone
- Center for Neurobiology Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA 24016
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Joseph Teamer
- Center for Neurobiology Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA 24016
- FBRI neuroSURF Program, Roanoke, VA 24016
| | - Cyrus L. Hinkson
- Center for Neurobiology Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA 24016
- Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016
| | | | - Ira J. Blader
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University at Buffalo, Buffalo NY 14260
| | - Michael A. Fox
- Center for Neurobiology Research, Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech Carilion, 2 Riverside Circle, Roanoke, VA 24016
- School of Neuroscience, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
- Department of Biological Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
- Department of Pediatrics, Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, Roanoke, VA 24016
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Tao Q, Wang X, Liu L, Ji Y, Luo Q, Du J, Yu L, Shen J, Chu D. Toxoplasma gondii Chinese I genotype Wh6 strain infection induces tau phosphorylation via activating GSK3β and causes hippocampal neuron apoptosis. Acta Trop 2020; 210:105560. [PMID: 32492398 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a neurophilic and intracellular parasite that can affect plenty of vertebrate animals, including humans. Recent researches indicate that T. gondii infection is associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease(AD). In addition, tau hyper-phosphorylation is a crucial event leading to the formation of nerve fiber tangles in AD. Despite the efforts to understand the interactions between T. gondii and AD, there are no clear results available so far. Here, we infected mice with the T. gondii of the Chinese 1 genotype Wh6 strain (TgCtwh6) for 60 days. Then we observed the formation of tissue cysts in the brain, the damage of neuron and the increased expression of phosphorylated tau (p-tau) in the hippocampal tissue of the mice. Similarly, we also found that p-tau, glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3β), and phosphorylated GSK3β (p-GSK3β) were upregulated in vitro in TgCtwh6 challenged hippocampal neuron cell strain, HT22 cells. We noted a down-regulated expression of GSK3β,p-GSK3β, and p-tau in HT22 cells, which were pretreated with LiCl, an inhibitor of GSK3β. These data suggested that p-GSK3β may mediate tau phosphorylation after TgCtwh6 infection. Furthermore, TgCtwh6 infection also caused the increased expression of Bax and Caspase3, the decreased expression of Bcl-XL in HT22 cells, which had both early and late apoptosis. In all, our results indicated that TgCtwh6 infection not only led to phosphorylation of tau via activating GSK3β but also promoted hippocampal neuron apoptosis. Our research may partially reveal the mechanism with which TgCtwh6 induce neurofibrillary pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qing Tao
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xianhe Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Heifei, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Yongsheng Ji
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Qingli Luo
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jian Du
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Li Yu
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jilong Shen
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Deyong Chu
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Meurer YDSR, Brito RMDM, da Silva VP, Andade JMDA, Linhares SSG, Pereira Junior A, de Andrade-Neto VF, de Sá AL, Oliveira CBSD. Toxoplasma gondii infection damages the perineuronal nets in a murine model. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2020; 115:e200007. [PMID: 32935749 PMCID: PMC7491278 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760200007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Behavioral and neurochemical alterations associated with toxoplasmosis may be influenced by the persistence of tissue cysts and activation of an immune response in the brain of Toxoplasma gondii-infected hosts. The cerebral extracellular matrix is organised as perineuronal nets (PNNs) that are both released and ensheath by some neurons and glial cells. There is evidences to suggest that PNNs impairment is a pathophysiological mechanism associated with neuropsychiatric conditions. However, there is a lack of information regarding the impact of parasitic infections on the PNNs integrity and how this could affect the host’s behavior. OBJECTIVES In this context, we aimed to analyse the impact of T. gondii infection on cyst burden, PNNs integrity, and possible effects in the locomotor activity of chronically infected mice. METHODS We infected mice with T. gondii ME-49 strain. After thirty days, we assessed locomotor performance of animals using the open field test, followed by evaluation of cysts burden and PNNs integrity in four brain regions (primary and secondary motor cortices, prefrontal and somesthetic cortex) to assess the PNNs integrity using Wisteria floribunda agglutinin (WFA) labeling by immunohistochemical analyses. FINDINGS AND MAIN CONCLUSIONS Our findings revealed a random distribution of cysts in the brain, the disruption of PNNs surrounding neurons in four areas of the cerebral cortex and hyperlocomotor behavior in T. gondii-infected mice. These results can contribute to elucidate the link toxoplasmosis with the establishment of neuroinflammatory response in neuropsychiatric disorders and to raise a discussion about the mechanisms related to changes in brain connectivity, with possible behavioral repercussions during chronic T. gondii infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ywlliane da Silva Rodrigues Meurer
- Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Neurociência Cognitiva e Comportamento, João Pessoa, PB, Brasil.,Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psicobiologia, Natal, RN, Brasil
| | - Ramayana Morais de Medeiros Brito
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Biologia da Málaria e Toxoplasmose - LABMAT, Natal, RN, Brasil
| | - Valeria Palheta da Silva
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Psicobiologia, Natal, RN, Brasil
| | - Joelma Maria de Araujo Andade
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Biologia da Málaria e Toxoplasmose - LABMAT, Natal, RN, Brasil
| | | | - Antonio Pereira Junior
- Universidade Federal do Pará, Instituto de Ciências da Sáude, Laboratório de Neuroplasticidade, Belém, PA, Brasil
| | - Valter Ferreira de Andrade-Neto
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Biologia da Málaria e Toxoplasmose - LABMAT, Natal, RN, Brasil
| | - Andrea Lima de Sá
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Biologia da Málaria e Toxoplasmose - LABMAT, Natal, RN, Brasil
| | - Claudio Bruno Silva de Oliveira
- Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Biologia da Málaria e Toxoplasmose - LABMAT, Natal, RN, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Infection with Toxoplasma gondii increases the risk of psychiatric disorders in Taiwan: a nationwide population-based cohort study. Parasitology 2020; 147:1577-1586. [PMID: 32729456 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182020001183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate associations between toxoplasmosis and psychiatric disorders in Taiwan based on the National Health Insurance Research Database, Taiwan (1997-2013). Patients newly diagnosed with toxoplasmosis formed the case group (n = 259), and the control group included propensity-score matched patients without toxoplasmosis (n = 1036). The primary outcome was incidence of psychiatric disorders. Cox proportional hazards regression and stratified analyses were performed to examine risk of developing specific psychiatric disorders between patients with and without toxoplasmosis. Patients with toxoplasmosis had significantly higher incidence of psychiatric disorders than those without toxoplasmosis (P = 0.016). A significant difference was found in numbers of psychiatric disorders between the two groups during 14 years of follow-up (log-rank P < 0.001). Those with toxoplasmosis had significantly higher risk of bipolar disorder [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR = 3.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.07, 7.26), depression (aHR = 4.94, 95% CI = 2.15, 11.80) and anxiety (aHR = 5.36, 95% CI = 2.98, 25.88), but no significant between-group differences were found for schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders. In conclusion, the present nationwide population-based analysis revealed that Toxoplasma gondii infection in Taiwan significantly increases the risk for developing bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety, but not for schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.
Collapse
|
39
|
Leucine-Rich Repeat Kinase 2 Controls Inflammatory Cytokines Production through NF-κB Phosphorylation and Antigen Presentation in Bone Marrow-Derived Dendritic Cells. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051890. [PMID: 32164260 PMCID: PMC7084871 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) is the causal molecule of familial Parkinson’s disease. Although the characteristics of LRRK2 have gradually been revealed, its true physiological functions remain unknown. LRRK2 is highly expressed in immune cells such as B2 cells and macrophages, suggesting that it plays important roles in the immune system. In the present study, we investigate the roles of LRRK2 in the immune functions of dendritic cells (DCs). Bone marrow-derived DCs from both C57BL/6 wild-type (WT) and LRRK2 knockout (KO) mice were induced by culture with granulocyte/macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM/CSF) in vitro. We observed the differentiation of DCs, the phosphorylation of the transcriptional factors NF-κB, Erk1/2, and p-38 after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation and antigen-presenting ability by flow cytometry. We also analyzed the production of inflammatory cytokines by ELISA. During the observation period, there was no difference in DC differentiation between WT and LRRK2-KO mice. After LPS stimulation, phosphorylation of NF-κB was significantly increased in DCs from the KO mice. Large amounts of inflammatory cytokines were produced by DCs from KO mice after both stimulation with LPS and infection with Leishmania. CD4+ T-cells isolated from antigen-immunized mice proliferated to a significantly greater degree upon coculture with antigen-stimulated DCs from KO mice than upon coculture with DCs from WT mice. These results suggest that LRRK2 may play important roles in signal transduction and antigen presentation by DCs.
Collapse
|
40
|
Cheng JH, Xu X, Li YB, Zhao XD, Aosai F, Shi SY, Jin CH, Piao JS, Ma J, Piao HN, Jin XJ, Piao LX. Arctigenin ameliorates depression-like behaviors in Toxoplasma gondii-infected intermediate hosts via the TLR4/NF-κB and TNFR1/NF-κB signaling pathways. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 82:106302. [PMID: 32086097 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a known neurotropic protozoan that remains in the central nervous system and induces neuropsychiatric diseases in intermediate hosts. Arctigenin (AG) is one of the major bioactive lignans of the fruit Arctium lappa L. and has a broad spectrum of pharmacological activities such as neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory and anti-T. gondii effects. However, the effect of AG against depressive behaviors observed in T. gondii-infected hosts has not yet been clarified. In the present study, we analyzed the effects of AG against T. gondii-induced depressive behaviors in intermediate hosts using a microglia cell line (BV2 cells) and brain tissues of BALB/c mice during the acute phase of infection with the RH strain of T. gondii. AG attenuated microglial activation and neuroinflammation via the Toll-like receptor/nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and tumor necrosis factor receptor 1/NF-κB signaling pathways, followed by up-regulating the dopamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine levels and inhibiting the depression-like behaviors of hosts. AG also significantly decreased the T. gondii burden in mouse brain tissues. In conclusion, we elucidated the effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of AG against depressive behaviors induced by T. gondii infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Hui Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, China
| | - Xiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, China
| | - Ying-Biao Li
- Department of Neurology, Affliated Hospital of Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, Jilin, China
| | - Xu-Dong Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, China
| | - Fumie Aosai
- Department of Infection and Host Defense, Graduate School of Medicine, Shinshu University, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Su-Yun Shi
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, China
| | - Cheng-Hua Jin
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, China
| | - Jing-Shu Piao
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, China
| | - Juan Ma
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, China
| | - Hu-Nan Piao
- Department of Neurology, Affliated Hospital of Yanbian University, Yanji 133000, Jilin, China.
| | - Xue-Jun Jin
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, China.
| | - Lian-Xun Piao
- Key Laboratory of Natural Resources of Changbai Mountain & Functional Molecules, Ministry of Education, College of Pharmacy, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, China. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8315-5918
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Chamera K, Trojan E, Szuster-Głuszczak M, Basta-Kaim A. The Potential Role of Dysfunctions in Neuron-Microglia Communication in the Pathogenesis of Brain Disorders. Curr Neuropharmacol 2020; 18:408-430. [PMID: 31729301 PMCID: PMC7457436 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x17666191113101629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The bidirectional communication between neurons and microglia is fundamental for the proper functioning of the central nervous system (CNS). Chemokines and clusters of differentiation (CD) along with their receptors represent ligand-receptor signalling that is uniquely important for neuron - microglia communication. Among these molecules, CX3CL1 (fractalkine) and CD200 (OX-2 membrane glycoprotein) come to the fore because of their cell-type-specific localization. They are principally expressed by neurons when their receptors, CX3CR1 and CD200R, respectively, are predominantly present on the microglia, resulting in the specific axis which maintains the CNS homeostasis. Disruptions to this balance are suggested as contributors or even the basis for many neurological diseases. In this review, we discuss the roles of CX3CL1, CD200 and their receptors in both physiological and pathological processes within the CNS. We want to underline the critical involvement of these molecules in controlling neuron - microglia communication, noting that dysfunctions in their interactions constitute a key factor in severe neurological diseases, such as schizophrenia, depression and neurodegeneration-based conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Chamera
- Department of Experimental Neuroendocrinology, Laboratory of Immunoendocrinology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna St. 31-343Kraków, Poland
| | - Ewa Trojan
- Department of Experimental Neuroendocrinology, Laboratory of Immunoendocrinology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna St. 31-343Kraków, Poland
| | - Magdalena Szuster-Głuszczak
- Department of Experimental Neuroendocrinology, Laboratory of Immunoendocrinology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna St. 31-343Kraków, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Basta-Kaim
- Department of Experimental Neuroendocrinology, Laboratory of Immunoendocrinology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology, Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smętna St. 31-343Kraków, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Figarella K, Wolburg H, Garaschuk O, Duszenko M. Microglia in neuropathology caused by protozoan parasites. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2019; 95:333-349. [PMID: 31682077 DOI: 10.1111/brv.12566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 10/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) is the most severe consequence of some parasitic infections. Protozoal infections comprise a group of diseases that together affect billions of people worldwide and, according to the World Health Organization, are responsible for more than 500000 deaths annually. They include African and American trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, malaria, toxoplasmosis, and amoebiasis. Mechanisms underlying invasion of the brain parenchyma by protozoa are not well understood and may depend on parasite nature: a vascular invasion route is most common. Immunosuppression favors parasite invasion into the CNS and therefore the host immune response plays a pivotal role in the development of a neuropathology in these infectious diseases. In the brain, microglia are the resident immune cells active in defense against pathogens that target the CNS. Beside their direct role in innate immunity, they also play a principal role in coordinating the trafficking and recruitment of other immune cells from the periphery to the CNS. Despite their evident involvement in the neuropathology of protozoan infections, little attention has given to microglia-parasite interactions. This review describes the most prominent features of microglial cells and protozoan parasites and summarizes the most recent information regarding the reaction of microglial cells to parasitic infections. We highlight the involvement of the periphery-brain axis and emphasize possible scenarios for microglia-parasite interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Figarella
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Hartwig Wolburg
- Institute of Pathology and Neuropathology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Olga Garaschuk
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Michael Duszenko
- Institute of Physiology, Department of Neurophysiology, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|