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Parkash V, Ashwin H, Dey S, Sadlova J, Vojtkova B, Van Bocxlaer K, Wiggins R, Thompson D, Dey NS, Jaffe CL, Schwartz E, Volf P, Lacey CJN, Layton AM, Kaye PM. Safety and reactogenicity of a controlled human infection model of sand fly-transmitted cutaneous leishmaniasis. Nat Med 2024:10.1038/s41591-024-03146-9. [PMID: 39095597 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-03146-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
The leishmaniases are globally important parasitic diseases for which no human vaccines are currently available. To facilitate vaccine development, we conducted an open-label observational study to establish a controlled human infection model (CHIM) of sand fly-transmitted cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) caused by Leishmania major. Between 24 January and 12 August 2022, we exposed 14 participants to L. major-infected Phlebotomus duboscqi. The primary objective was to demonstrate effectiveness of lesion development (take rate) and safety (absence of CL lesion at 12 months). Secondary and exploratory objectives included rate of lesion development, parasite load and analysis of local immune responses by immunohistology and spatial transcriptomics. Lesion development was terminated by therapeutic biopsy (between days 14 and 42 after bite) in ten participants with clinically compatible lesions, one of which was not confirmed by parasite detection. We estimated an overall take rate for CL development of 64% (9/14). Two of ten participants had one and one of ten participants had two lesion recurrences 4-8 months after biopsy that were treated successfully with cryotherapy. No severe or serious adverse events were recorded, but as expected, scarring due to a combination of CL and the biopsy procedure was evident. All participants were lesion free at >12-month follow-up. We provide the first comprehensive map of immune cell distribution and cytokine/chemokine expression in human CL lesions, revealing discrete immune niches. This CHIM offers opportunities for vaccine candidate selection based on human efficacy data and for a greater understanding of immune-mediated pathology. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04512742 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivak Parkash
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Helen Ashwin
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Shoumit Dey
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Jovana Sadlova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Barbora Vojtkova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Katrien Van Bocxlaer
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
- Skin Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, York, UK
| | - Rebecca Wiggins
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - David Thompson
- York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, York, UK
| | - Nidhi Sharma Dey
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Charles L Jaffe
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Kuvin Center for the Study of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, IMRIC, The Hebrew University - Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Eli Schwartz
- Center for Geographic Medicine and Tropical Diseases, Chaim Sheba Medical Center and the School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Petr Volf
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Charles J N Lacey
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK
| | - Alison M Layton
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK.
- Skin Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, York, UK.
| | - Paul M Kaye
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Hull York Medical School, University of York, York, UK.
- Skin Research Centre, Hull York Medical School, York, UK.
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Naouar I, Kammoun Rebai W, Ben Salah A, Bouguerra H, Toumi A, Hamida NB, Louzir H, Meddeb-Garnaoui A. A Prospective cohort study of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis in tunisia: Clinical and Immunological features and immune correlates of protection. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011784. [PMID: 38064516 PMCID: PMC10732404 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to define immunological markers of exposure to L. major parasites and identify correlates of protection against infection. METHODS We analyzed a cohort of 790 individuals at risk of developing ZCL living in endemic areas with varying L. major infection prevalence. One area had a high infection prevalence indicated by high proportions of leishmanin skin test (LST) positive subjects, while the other areas were recent foci with lower infection prevalence. Blood samples were collected before the transmission season to measure Interferon gamma (IFN-γ), Interleukin 10 (IL-10), and Granzyme B (GrB) levels in response to parasite stimulation in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. A one-year follow-up period involved active detection of new ZCL cases to estimate disease incidence after a transmission season and identify immune correlates of protection. RESULTS The study population showed heterogeneity in parasite contact, evident from specific scars and/or positive LST results, significantly higher in the old focus compared to recent foci. IFN-γ and GrB were markers of parasite exposure and reliable indicators of immunity to L. major. Positive correlations were observed between IFN-γ/IL-10 and GrB/IL-10 ratios and LST results. Unexpectedly, only 29 new ZCL cases (4%) appeared after a transmission season, with 27 cases reported in recent foci and 2 in the oldest focus. Our findings indicate that individuals in L. major endemic areas are likely to develop ZCL regardless of their LST status. We showed that high pre-transmission season levels of IFN-γ and GrB produced by PBMC, along with a high IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio, were associated with protection. CONCLUSION This study on a large cohort at risk of ZCL confirmed IFN-γ and GrB as protective factors against the disease. A high IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio, but not GrB/IL-10 ratio was associated with resistance. These results are valuable for developing and evaluating of a vaccine against human leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikbel Naouar
- Laboratory of Transmission Control and Immunobiology of Infection, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Immunology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Wafa Kammoun Rebai
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecular, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Afif Ben Salah
- Laboratory of Transmission Control and Immunobiology of Infection, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Manama, Bahrain
| | - Hind Bouguerra
- National Observatory of New and Emerging Diseases, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Amine Toumi
- Health Information and Intelligence Section, Ministry of Public Health, Doha, Qatar
| | - Nabil Belhadj Hamida
- Laboratory of Transmission Control and Immunobiology of Infection, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Hechmi Louzir
- Laboratory of Transmission Control and Immunobiology of Infection, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
- National Observatory of New and Emerging Diseases, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Amel Meddeb-Garnaoui
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecular, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
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de Lima SKS, Cavallone ÍN, Serrano DR, Anaya BJ, Lalatsa A, Laurenti MD, Lago JHG, da Silva Souza DC, Marinsek GP, Lopes BS, de Britto Mari R, Passero LFD. Therapeutic Activity of a Topical Formulation Containing 8-Hydroxyquinoline for Cutaneous Leishmaniasis. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2602. [PMID: 38004580 PMCID: PMC10675550 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15112602] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis exhibits a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations; however, only a limited number of drugs are available and include Glucantime® and amphotericin B, which induce unacceptable side effects in patients, limiting their use. Thus, there is an urgent demand to develop a treatment for leishmaniasis. Recently, it was demonstrated that 8-hydroxyquinoline (8-HQ) showed significant leishmanicidal effects in vitro and in vivo. Based on that, this work aimed to develop a topical formulation containing 8-HQ and assess its activity in experimental cutaneous leishmaniasis. 8-HQ was formulated using a Beeler base at 1 and 2% and showed an emulsion size with a D50 of 25 and 51.3 µm, respectively, with a shear-thinning rheological behaviour. The creams were able to permeate artificial Strat-M membranes and excised porcine skin without causing any morphological changes in the porcine skin or murine skin tested. In BALB/c mice infected with L. (L.) amazonensis, topical treatment with creams containing 1 or 2% of 8-HQ was found to reduce the parasite burden and lesion size compared to infected controls with comparable efficacy to Glucantime® (50 mg/kg) administered at the site of the cutaneous lesion. In the histological section of the skin from infected controls, a diffuse inflammatory infiltrate with many heavily infected macrophages that were associated with areas of necrosis was observed. On the other hand, animals treated with both creams showed only moderate inflammatory infiltrate, characterised by few infected macrophages, while tissue necrosis was not observed. These histological characteristics in topically treated animals were associated with an increase in the amount of IFN-γ and a reduction in IL-4 levels. The topical use of 8-HQ was active in decreasing tissue parasitism and should therefore be considered an interesting alternative directed to the treatment of leishmaniasis, considering that this type of treatment is non-invasive, painless, and, importantly, does not require hospitalisation, improving patient compliance by allowing the treatment to be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Kymberly Santos de Lima
- Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n, São Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil; (S.K.S.d.L.); (Í.N.C.); (G.P.M.); (B.S.L.); (R.d.B.M.)
- Laboratory of Pathology of Infectious Diseases (LIM50), Department of Pathology, Medical School, São Paulo University, São Paulo 01246-903, SP, Brazil;
| | - Ítalo Novaes Cavallone
- Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n, São Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil; (S.K.S.d.L.); (Í.N.C.); (G.P.M.); (B.S.L.); (R.d.B.M.)
- Laboratory of Pathology of Infectious Diseases (LIM50), Department of Pathology, Medical School, São Paulo University, São Paulo 01246-903, SP, Brazil;
| | - Dolores Remedios Serrano
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad Complutense of Madrid, Plaza Ramon y Cajal s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (D.R.S.); (B.J.A.)
| | - Brayan J. Anaya
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad Complutense of Madrid, Plaza Ramon y Cajal s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (D.R.S.); (B.J.A.)
| | - Aikaterini Lalatsa
- CRUK Formulation Unit, Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, 161 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK;
| | - Márcia Dalastra Laurenti
- Laboratory of Pathology of Infectious Diseases (LIM50), Department of Pathology, Medical School, São Paulo University, São Paulo 01246-903, SP, Brazil;
| | - João Henrique Ghilardi Lago
- Center for Natural and Human Science (CCNH), Federal University of ABC, Santo André, São Paulo 09210-580, SP, Brazil; (J.H.G.L.); (D.C.d.S.S.)
| | - Dalete Christine da Silva Souza
- Center for Natural and Human Science (CCNH), Federal University of ABC, Santo André, São Paulo 09210-580, SP, Brazil; (J.H.G.L.); (D.C.d.S.S.)
| | - Gabriela Pustiglione Marinsek
- Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n, São Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil; (S.K.S.d.L.); (Í.N.C.); (G.P.M.); (B.S.L.); (R.d.B.M.)
| | - Beatriz Soares Lopes
- Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n, São Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil; (S.K.S.d.L.); (Í.N.C.); (G.P.M.); (B.S.L.); (R.d.B.M.)
| | - Renata de Britto Mari
- Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n, São Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil; (S.K.S.d.L.); (Í.N.C.); (G.P.M.); (B.S.L.); (R.d.B.M.)
| | - Luiz Felipe Domingues Passero
- Institute of Biosciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n, São Vicente 11330-900, SP, Brazil; (S.K.S.d.L.); (Í.N.C.); (G.P.M.); (B.S.L.); (R.d.B.M.)
- Institute for Advanced Studies of Ocean, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua João Francisco Bensdorp, 1178, São Vicente 11350-011, SP, Brazil
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Identification and Characterization of the miRNAs and Cytokines in Response to Leishmania infantum Infection with Different Response to Treatment. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:403-410. [PMID: 34622398 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00474-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Due to the complexity of cytokine and microRNA function in progression and/or suppression of an infection, in this study, we examined miR-3473f, miR-2128, miR-6994-5p, miR-7093-3p, miR-5128, miR-574-5p, miR-7235, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10 and IL-13 in patients with VL caused by Leishmania infantum in an in vivo study. METHODS Sampling was carried out from patient with leishmaniasis and with different responses to treatment during March 2016-January 2020. DNA was extracted and purified using QIAamp Kit. The L. infantum were cultured in DMEM medium and protein content was determined by the Micro BCA Protein Assay Kit. Cytokines were evaluated using a MILLIPLEX MAP Mouse Cytokine/Chemokine Panel I kit. The relative expression of miRNAs was measured in duplicate using automatic thermocycler ABI Prism 7500 sequence detection system (Applied Bio-systems) using the TaqMan MicroRNA Assay kit. RESULTS The real-time PCR assay revealed that miR-2128, miR-6994-5p, miR-7093-3p, miR-5128, miR-574-5p and miR-7235 were down-regulated and miR-3473 were up-regulated in patients with semi-resistance and resistance parasite strain (P < 0.05). In the current work, cytokine patterns in patients who were slow-to-clear or unable-to-clear L. infantum infection during drug treatment were seen to have decreased protective Th1 cytokines (IL-2, IL-12, TNF-α, and IFN-ɤ, P < 0.001) and increased Th2 cytokines (IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13, P < 0.001). No association was seen with IL-4 in patients with different treatment outcomes. CONCLUSION Overall, the results of a recent study have shown that cytokines and microRNAs can play a key role in response to treatment, and more comprehensive studies are needed to support this hypothesis.
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A Historic Review of the Role of CD4+ T-Cell Subsets in Development of the Immune Responses against Cutaneous and Visceral Leishmaniases. IRANIAN BIOMEDICAL JOURNAL 2022; 26:99-109. [PMID: 35090305 PMCID: PMC8987415 DOI: 10.52547/ibj.26.2.99] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The heterogeneity of CD4+ T cells has been investigated since the late 1970s, when their Th1 and Th2 subsets were coined. Later studies on the cutaneous form of the Leishmaniasis were focused on the experimental models of Leishmania major infection using the susceptible BALB/c and the resistant C57BL/6 mice. At the early 21st century, the regulatory T-cells subpopulation was introduced and its role in concomitant immunity, responsible for lifelong resistance of the host to the reinfection was proposed. Subsequent studies, mainly focused on the visceral form of the infection pointed to the role of IL-17, produced by Th17 subset of CD4+ T cells that along the neutrophils were shown to have important yet equivocal functions in protection against or exacerbation of the infection. Altogether, the current knowledge indicates that the above four subsets could orchestrate the immune, the regulatory and the inflammatory responses of the host against different forms of leishmaniases.
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Thakur L, Madaan P, Jain A, Shankar V, Negi A, Chauhan SB, Sundar S, Singh OP, Jain M. An Insight Into Systemic Immune Response in Leishmania donovani Mediated Atypical Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in the New Endemic State of Himachal Pradesh, India. Front Immunol 2022; 12:765684. [PMID: 35087516 PMCID: PMC8787830 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.765684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis continues to afflict known and newer endemic sites despite global efforts towards its control and elimination. In this regard, the emergence of newer endemic sites with unusual disease formats is recognized wherein Leishmania donovani complex classically known to cause visceral disease is demonstrated to cause cutaneous manifestation. In this context, atypical cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) cases caused by L. donovani genetic variants from the newer endemic state of Himachal Pradesh (HP) in India are beginning to be understood in terms of parasite determinants. The atypical CL manifestation further needs to be explored to define host immune correlates with a possible role in driving the unusual disease progression. In the given study, we performed comprehensive systemic-immune profiling of the atypical CL patients from the study area in HP, India, in comparison with the classical visceral leishmaniasis (VL) patients from the northeast region of India. The systemic immune response was studied using ELISA-based assessment of Th1, Th2, Th17, Treg, and Th22 specific plasma cytokine expression pattern and parasite-specific total serum IgG/IgG subclasses. The specified immune correlates are known to exhibit heterogeneous association with the different infecting parasite species, infection load, and co-lateral host immunopathology in classical CL and VL. In the atypical CL patient group, altered expression of IL-10 emerged as the key finding that could potentially fine-tune the Th1/Th17/Th22 effector cytokine axis towards a localized cutaneous manifestation. A reduced expression of IL-10 along with a high IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio as a readout of effective parasite killing defined atypical cutaneous outcome. In contrast, high circulatory IL-10 levels and a depressed IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio were seen in classical VL patients in line with an ineffective parasite-killing cytokine response. Overall, the study highlights new knowledge on host immune correlates in terms of cytokine expression pattern and IgG subclasses that underline atypical disease manifestation such that L. donovani, a generally visceralizing parasite species cause skin localized cutaneous lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lovlesh Thakur
- Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, India
| | - Priyanka Madaan
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, India
| | - Aklank Jain
- Department of Zoology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, India
| | - Vinay Shankar
- Department of Dermatology, Maharishi Markandeshwar Medical College and Hospital, Kumarhatti, Solan, India
| | - Ajeet Negi
- Department of Dermatology, Indira Gandhi Medical College, Shimla, India
| | - Shashi Bhushan Chauhan
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Shyam Sundar
- Department of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Om Prakash Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Manju Jain
- Department of Biochemistry, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, India
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Antonia AL, Barnes AB, Martin AT, Wang L, Ko DC. Variation in Leishmania chemokine suppression driven by diversification of the GP63 virulence factor. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009224. [PMID: 34710089 PMCID: PMC8577781 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease with diverse outcomes ranging from self-healing lesions, to progressive non-healing lesions, to metastatic spread and destruction of mucous membranes. Although resolution of cutaneous leishmaniasis is a classic example of type-1 immunity leading to self-healing lesions, an excess of type-1 related inflammation can contribute to immunopathology and metastatic spread. Leishmania genetic diversity can contribute to variation in polarization and robustness of the immune response through differences in both pathogen sensing by the host and immune evasion by the parasite. In this study, we observed a difference in parasite chemokine suppression between the Leishmania (L.) subgenus and the Viannia (V.) subgenus, which is associated with severe immune-mediated pathology such as mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. While Leishmania (L.) subgenus parasites utilize the virulence factor and metalloprotease glycoprotein-63 (gp63) to suppress the type-1 associated host chemokine CXCL10, L. (V.) panamensis did not suppress CXCL10. To understand the molecular basis for the inter-species variation in chemokine suppression, we used in silico modeling to identify a putative CXCL10-binding site on GP63. The putative CXCL10 binding site is in a region of gp63 under significant positive selection, and it varies from the L. major wild-type sequence in all gp63 alleles identified in the L. (V.) panamensis reference genome. Mutating wild-type L. (L.) major gp63 to the L. (V.) panamensis sequence at the putative binding site impaired cleavage of CXCL10 but not a non-specific protease substrate. Notably, Viannia clinical isolates confirmed that L. (V.) panamensis primarily encodes non-CXCL10-cleaving gp63 alleles. In contrast, L. (V.) braziliensis has an intermediate level of activity, consistent with this species having more equal proportions of both alleles. Our results demonstrate how parasite genetic diversity can contribute to variation in immune responses to Leishmania spp. infection that may play critical roles in the outcome of infection. Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by Leishmania parasites and spread by the bites of infected sand flies. Most cases of leishmaniasis present as self-healing sores that are resolved by a balanced immune response. Other cases of leishmaniasis involve spread to sites distant from the original bite, including damage of the inner surfaces of the mouth and nose. These cases of leishmaniasis involve an excessive immune response. Leishmania parasites produce virulence factor proteins, such as GP63, to trick the immune system into mounting a weaker response. GP63 specifically degrades signaling proteins that attract and activate certain immune cells. Here, we demonstrate that Leishmania parasite species have evolved to differ in their ability to degrade signaling proteins. In Leishmania species known to cause more immune-mediated tissue damage, the GP63 virulence factor has evolved to not degrade specific immune signaling proteins, thus attracting, and activating more immune cells. Our results demonstrate how diversity among Leishmania parasite species can contribute to variation in immune responses that may play critical roles in the outcome of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro L. Antonia
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Alyson B. Barnes
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Amelia T. Martin
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Liuyang Wang
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Dennis C. Ko
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Taraghian M, Hanif H, Mousavi P, Cheshmeh ZB, Samei A, Abdollahi A, Vazini H. The Comparison of the IFN-ɤ, TNF-α and IL-10 Cytokines in Healing and Non-healing Cutaneous Leishmaniasis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2021; 16:490-498. [PMID: 34630595 PMCID: PMC8476719 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v16i3.7103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background: Leishmaniasis is one of the main vectors borne and neglected tropical parasitic diseases. T cell cytokine responses are highly important in the presentations of disease such as control or progression, and understanding of the host immunological response is valuable in diagnosis, follow-up, and vaccine designs. In the current study, the profile of IFN-ɤ, TNF-α, and IL-10 cytokines was investigated through the ELISA technique in PBMCs isolated from antimony resistance and susceptible patients. Methods: In this experimental study, 54 patients with healing (n=27) or non-healing (n=27) CL were recruited. Lesion samples were collected to determine the genotype of Leishmania spp. and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were obtained to evaluate the cytokines profiles using soluble Leishmania antigen (SLA) and phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) mitogen. Cytokines were assessed by the ELISA technique Results: The IFN-ɤ and TNF-α cytokines were significantly increased in the healing group treated with both SLA antigen and PHA mitogen (P<0.001). The level of IL-10 was significantly increased in non-healing and significantly declined in healing groups (P<0.001). Conclusion: The profile of IFN-ɤ, TNF-α, and IL-10 cytokines are crucially associated with the response of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Taraghian
- Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Sciences, Hamedan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Helena Hanif
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Education, Herat University, Herat, Afghanistan
| | - Parisa Mousavi
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Azam Samei
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Abbas Abdollahi
- Department of Microbiology, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Hossein Vazini
- Nursing Department, Basic Sciences Faculty, Hamedan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran
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Seif MA, Al-Mohammed HI. ASSESSMENT OF THE OXIDATIVE AND NITROSATIVE STRESS IN THE SERUM OF SAUDI PATIENTS WITH CUTANEOUS LEISHMANIASIS BEFORE AND AFTER TREATMENT. J Parasitol 2021; 107:810-816. [PMID: 34648629 DOI: 10.1645/20-109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophages, within which Leishmania species replicate, generate large amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) to kill these parasites. The present study assessed the oxidative and nitrosative stress, and specific immune enzymes in the serum of patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis (Cl) before and after treatment and in the control individuals. Serum activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), L-arginase, myeloperoxidase (MPO), and adenosine deaminase (ADA) and the levels of reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO) were studied. The activities of L-arginase, MPO, and ADA and the levels of MDA and NO were significantly elevated (P < 0.001), while the activities of SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px, and the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) were significantly (P < 0.001) reduced in untreated patients as compared with values of patients after treatment and of control individuals. The treatment, which included intramuscular injection of sodium stibogluconate and meglumine antimoniate, ameliorated these factors in comparison to the untreated group. These results suggest that oxidative and nitrosative stress may play an important role in the pathogenesis of untreated cutaneous leishmaniasis. Furthermore, the reduction in oxidative and nitrosative stress in the treated Cl patients may be due to the drug decreasing energy production by the parasite, which eventually leads to its death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mossad A Seif
- Division of Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 10950, Hufof, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamdan I Al-Mohammed
- Division of Parasitology, Biomedical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, P.O. Box 10950, Hufof, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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10
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Flórez MM, Rodríguez R, Cabrera JA, Robledo SM, Delgado G. Leishmania spp Epitopes in Humans Naturally Resistant to the Disease: Working Toward a Synthetic Vaccine. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:631019. [PMID: 34164345 PMCID: PMC8216392 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.631019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccines are one of the most effective strategies to fight infectious diseases. Reverse vaccinology strategies provide tools to perform in silico screening and a rational selection of potential candidates on a large scale before reaching in vitro and in vivo evaluations. Leishmania infection in humans produces clinical symptoms in some individuals, while another part of the population is naturally resistant (asymptomatic course) to the disease, and therefore their immune response controls parasite replication. By the identification of epitopes directly in humans, especially in those resistant to the disease, the probabilities of designing an effective vaccine are higher. The aim of this work was the identification of Leishmania epitopes in resistant humans. To achieve that, 11 peptide sequences (from Leishmania antigenic proteins) were selected using epitope prediction tools, and then, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated from human volunteers who were previously divided into four clinical groups: susceptible, resistant, exposed and not exposed to the parasite. The induction of inflammatory cytokines and lymphoproliferation was assessed using monocyte-derived dendritic cells (moDCs) as antigen-presenting cells (APCs). The response was evaluated after exposing volunteers’ cells to each peptide. As a result, we learned that STI41 and STI46 peptides induced IL-8 and IL-12 in moDCs and lymphoproliferation and low levels of IL-10 in lymphocytes differentially in resistant volunteers, similar behavior to that observed in those individuals to L. panamensis lysate antigens. We conclude that, in silico analysis allowed for the identification of natural Leishmania epitopes in humans, and also STI41 and STI46 peptides could be epitopes that lead to a cellular immune response directed at parasite control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magda Melissa Flórez
- Grupo de Investigación en Inmunotoxicología, Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
| | - Rocío Rodríguez
- Secretaría Municipal de Salud, Municipio de Rovira, Tolima, Colombia
| | | | - Sara M Robledo
- Programa de Estudio y Control de Enfermedades Tropicales (PECET)-Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Gabriela Delgado
- Grupo de Investigación en Inmunotoxicología, Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá D.C., Colombia
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11
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Miramin-Mohammadi A, Javadi A, Eskandari SE, Nateghi-Rostami M, Khamesipour A. Immune Responses in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: In vitro Thelper1/Thelper2 Cytokine Profiles Using Live Versus Killed Leishmania major. J Arthropod Borne Dis 2021; 15:126-135. [PMID: 34277861 PMCID: PMC8271235 DOI: 10.18502/jad.v15i1.6491] [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: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recovery from cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) leads to protection against further lesion development. In contrast, vaccination using killed parasites does not induce enough protection; the reason(s) is not currently known but might be related to different immune response induced against live versus killed parasites. In this study, Th1/Th2 cytokine profiles of CL patients were evaluated against live versus killed Leishmania major. Methods In this study peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of the volunteers with active CL lesion (CL), history of CL (HCL) and healthy volunteers were cultured and stimulated with live or killed Leishmania major, the supernatants were collected and levels of IFN-γ, IL-5 and IL-10 were titrated using ELISA method. Results The results showed that IFN-γ levels in CL patients (p< 0.001) and HCL volunteers (p< 0.005) are significantly higher when stimulated with live than stimulated with killed L. major. IFN-γ production in PBMC volunteers with CL and HCL stimulated with live or heat-killed L. major was significantly (p< 0.001) higher than in unstimulated ones. The level of IL-5 in CL patients (p< 0.005) and HCL volunteers (p< 0.001) are significantly lower when stimulated with live than killed L. major. There was no significant difference between the levels of IL-10 in PBMC stimulated with either live or killed L. major. Conclusion It is concluded that using live Leishmania induces a stronger Th1 type of immune response which justify using leishmanization as a control measure against CL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akram Miramin-Mohammadi
- Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Javadi
- Department of Social Medicines, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Seyyed Ebrahim Eskandari
- Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ali Khamesipour
- Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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12
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Immunotherapy in treatment of leishmaniasis. Immunol Lett 2021; 233:80-86. [PMID: 33771555 DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2021.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis caused by various species of protozoan transmitted by sand fly vectors occurs as a spectrum of clinical features including cutaneous, mucocutaneous and visceral forms. It is a geographically distributed parasitic disease and a major public health problem in the world. The clinical syndromes are highly variable depending on the parasite species, host genetics, vectors and environment. To date, there is no effective vaccine and traditional treatments are toxic, expensive with long administration duration and many adverse side effects and/or drug resistance. Instead of treatments based on chemotherapy, certain strategies aim to recover leishmaniasis and reduce the parasitic burden. Immunotherapy has focused on the induction of effective immune response to rapidly control the disease. Recent studies have indicated that a single dose of a suitable therapeutic vaccine induces a quick and lasting recovery in patients. Immunotherapy reduces the toxicity of drug and the emergence of resistance dramatically. It could be an effective addition to chemotherapy with a safe and potent drug compared with monotherapy, resulting in a prophylactic and therapeutic cure of leishmaniasis. This review has focused on treatment of leishmaniasis with particular emphasis on immunotherapy as an alternative to conventional drug treatment.
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13
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Mohammadzadeh S, Roohvand F, Ehsani P, Salmanian AH, Ajdary S. Canola oilseed- and Escherichia coli- derived hepatitis C virus (HCV) core proteins adjuvanted with oil bodies, induced robust Th1-oriented immune responses in immunized mice. APMIS 2020; 128:593-602. [PMID: 32870528 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Induction of broad Th1 cellular immune responses and cytokines is crucial characteristics for vaccines against intracellular infections such as hepatitis C virus (HCV). Plants (especially oilseed tissues) and plant-immunomodulators (like oil bodies) offer cost-effective and scalable possibilities for the production of immunologically relevant and safe vaccine antigens and adjuvants, respectively. Herein, we provide data of the murine immunization by transgenic canola oilseed-derived HCV core protein (HCVcp) soluble extract (TSE) and Escherichia coli- derived rHCVcp in combination with Canola oil bodies (oil) compared to that of the Freund's (FA) adjuvant. Mice immunized by TSE+ oil developed both strong humeral (IgG) and Th1-biased cellular responses, manifested by high levels of IFN-γ and lower IgG1/IgG2a ratio and IL-4 secretion. Results of the intracellular cytokine staining indicated that TSE+ oil immunization in mice triggered both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells to release IFN-γ, while CD4+ cells were mostly triggered when FA was used. Analyses by qRT-PCR indicated that a combination of rHCVcp/TSE with oil body induced high levels of IL-10 cytokines compared to that of the FA adjuvant. These characteristics are important properties for the design of an HCV vaccine candidate and indicate the potential of Canola-derived antigen and oil bodies in addressing these concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Mohammadzadeh
- Medical Biology Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.,Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzin Roohvand
- Department of Virology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parastoo Ehsani
- Department of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Hatef Salmanian
- Department Plant Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soheila Ajdary
- Department of Immunology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Miramin-Mohammadi A, Javadi A, Eskandari SE, Mortazavi H, Rostami MN, Khamesipour A. Immune response in cutaneous leishmaniasis patients with healing vs. non-healing lesions. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY 2020; 12:249-255. [PMID: 32685122 PMCID: PMC7340611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The outcome of Leishmania infection mainly depends upon the Leishmania species which causes the disease and the generation of the type of host immune response, the healing process and protection in leishmaniasis depends upon induction of Th1 response. In this study, the Th1/Th2 cytokine profile in cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is evaluated. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was carried out in leishmaniasis clinic of CRTSDL, TUMS, during March 2018 to March 2019. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of volunteers with active healing and non-healing lesion (s) of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), volunteers with and without history of CL were cultured and stimulated with Soluble Leishmania antigen (SLA). The supernatants were collected and the levels of IFN-γ, IL-5 and IL-10 were titrated using ELISA method. RESULTS The results showed a significantly higher levels of IFN-γ in volunteers with active CL healing form (p<0.005), history of CL (p<0.005) than healthy volunteers. A significantly (p<0.005) higher level of IFN-γ was seen in volunteers with active healing form of lesion than non-healing form. There was a significantly (p<0.005) higher level of IL-10 in volunteers with a history of non-healing form and active non-healing form of CL. There was no significant difference in IL-5 production in PBMC of different groups. CONCLUSION IFN-γ production starts at early stage of cutaneous leishmaniasis and enhance during course of lesion healing, IFN-γ level is significantly higher in all patients compared to healthy volunteers, IFN-γ is significantly higher in patients with healing form than non-healing form of lesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akram Miramin-Mohammadi
- Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Javadi
- Department of Social Medicines, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Seyed Ebrahim Eskandari
- Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hossein Mortazavi
- Department of Dermatology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Razi Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Ali Khamesipour
- Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author: Ali Khamesipour, Ph.D, Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Tel: +98-21-88970657, Fax: +98-21-88970658,
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15
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Hamrouni S, Bras-Gonçalves R, Kidar A, Aoun K, Chamakh-Ayari R, Petitdidier E, Messaoudi Y, Pagniez J, Lemesre JL, Meddeb-Garnaoui A. Design of multi-epitope peptides containing HLA class-I and class-II-restricted epitopes derived from immunogenic Leishmania proteins, and evaluation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses induced in cured cutaneous leishmaniasis subjects. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008093. [PMID: 32176691 PMCID: PMC7098648 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Human leishmaniasis is a public health problem worldwide for which the development of a vaccine remains a challenge. T cell-mediated immune responses are crucial for protection. Peptide vaccines based on the identification of immunodominant T cell epitopes able to induce T cell specific immune responses constitute a promising strategy. Here, we report the identification of human leukocyte antigen class-I (HLA-I) and -II (HLA-II)-restricted multi-epitope peptides from Leishmania proteins that we have previously described as vaccine candidates. Promastigote Surface Antigen (PSA), LmlRAB (L. major large RAB GTPase) and Histone (H2B) were screened, in silico, for T cell epitopes. 6 HLA-I and 5 HLA-II-restricted multi-epitope peptides, able to bind to the most frequent HLA molecules, were designed and used as pools to stimulate PBMCs from individuals with healed cutaneous leishmaniasis. IFN-γ, IL-10, TNF-α and granzyme B (GrB) production was evaluated by ELISA/CBA. The frequency of IFN-γ-producing T cells was quantified by ELISpot. T cells secreting cytokines and memory T cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. 16 of 25 peptide pools containing HLA-I, HLA-II or HLA-I and -II peptides were able to induce specific and significant IFN-γ levels. No IL-10 was detected. 6 peptide pools were selected among those inducing the highest IFN-γ levels for further characterization. 3/6 pools were able to induce a significant increase of the percentages of CD4+IFN-γ+, CD8+IFN-γ+ and CD4+GrB+ T cells. The same pools also induced a significant increase of the percentages of bifunctional IFN-γ+/TNF-α+CD4+ and/or central memory T cells. We identified highly promiscuous HLA-I and -II restricted epitope combinations from H2B, PSA and LmlRAB proteins that stimulate both CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses in recovered individuals. These multi-epitope peptides could be used as potential components of a polytope vaccine for human leishmaniasis. The control of leishmaniasis, a neglected tropical disease of public health importance, caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania, mainly relies on chemotherapy, which is highly toxic. Currently, there is no vaccine against human leishmaniasis. Peptide-based vaccines consisting of T cell epitopes identified within proteins of interest by epitope predictive algorithms are a promising strategy for vaccine development. Here, we identified multi-epitope peptides composed of HLA-I and -II-restricted epitopes, using immunoinformatic tools, within Leishmania proteins previously described as potential vaccine candidates. We showed that multi-epitope peptides used as pools were able to activate IFN-γ producing CD4+ as well as CD8+ T cells, both required for parasite elimination. In addition, granzyme B-producing CD4+ T cells, bifunctional CD4+ IFN-γ+/TNF-α+ and/or TNF-α+/IL-2+ T cells as well as CD4+ and CD8+ central memory T cells, all involved in Leishmania infection control, were significantly increased in response to multi-epitope peptide stimulation. As far as we know, no study has described the detection of both CD4+ and CD8+ T cell populations in response to stimulation by both HLA-I and II-restricted peptides in humans. The immunogenic HLA-I and -II-restricted multi-epitope peptides identified in this study could constitute potential vaccine candidates against human leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarra Hamrouni
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie Médicale, Biotechnologie et Biomolécules, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisie
- Faculté des Sciences de Bizerte, Université de Carthage, Tunis, Tunisie
- UMR INTERTRYP, Université de Montpellier, IRD, CIRAD, Montpellier, France
| | | | | | - Karim Aoun
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie Médicale, Biotechnologie et Biomolécules, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisie
| | - Rym Chamakh-Ayari
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie Médicale, Biotechnologie et Biomolécules, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisie
- Faculté des Sciences de Bizerte, Université de Carthage, Tunis, Tunisie
| | - Elodie Petitdidier
- UMR INTERTRYP, Université de Montpellier, IRD, CIRAD, Montpellier, France
| | - Yasmine Messaoudi
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie Médicale, Biotechnologie et Biomolécules, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisie
- Faculté des Sciences de Bizerte, Université de Carthage, Tunis, Tunisie
- UMR INTERTRYP, Université de Montpellier, IRD, CIRAD, Montpellier, France
| | - Julie Pagniez
- UMR INTERTRYP, Université de Montpellier, IRD, CIRAD, Montpellier, France
| | - Jean-Loup Lemesre
- UMR INTERTRYP, Université de Montpellier, IRD, CIRAD, Montpellier, France
| | - Amel Meddeb-Garnaoui
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie Médicale, Biotechnologie et Biomolécules, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisie
- * E-mail:
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16
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Antonia AL, Gibbs KD, Trahair ED, Pittman KJ, Martin AT, Schott BH, Smith JS, Rajagopal S, Thompson JW, Reinhardt RL, Ko DC. Pathogen Evasion of Chemokine Response Through Suppression of CXCL10. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2019; 9:280. [PMID: 31440475 PMCID: PMC6693555 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2019.00280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Clearance of intracellular pathogens, such as Leishmania (L.) major, depends on an immune response with well-regulated cytokine signaling. Here we describe a pathogen-mediated mechanism of evading CXCL10, a chemokine with diverse antimicrobial functions, including T cell recruitment. Infection with L. major in a human monocyte cell line induced robust CXCL10 transcription without increasing extracellular CXCL10 protein concentrations. We found that this transcriptionally independent suppression of CXCL10 is mediated by the virulence factor and protease, glycoprotein-63 (gp63). Specifically, GP63 cleaves CXCL10 after amino acid A81 at the base of a C-terminal alpha-helix. Cytokine cleavage by GP63 demonstrated specificity, as GP63 cleaved CXCL10 and its homologs, which all bind the CXCR3 receptor, but not distantly related chemokines, such as CXCL8 and CCL22. Further characterization demonstrated that CXCL10 cleavage activity by GP63 was produced by both extracellular promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes. Crucially, CXCL10 cleavage impaired T cell chemotaxis in vitro, indicating that cleaved CXCL10 cannot signal through CXCR3. Ultimately, we propose CXCL10 suppression is a convergent mechanism of immune evasion, as Salmonella enterica and Chlamydia trachomatis also suppress CXCL10. This commonality suggests that counteracting CXCL10 suppression may provide a generalizable therapeutic strategy against intracellular pathogens. Importance Leishmaniasis, an infectious disease that annually affects over one million people, is caused by intracellular parasites that have evolved to evade the host's attempts to eliminate the parasite. Cutaneous leishmaniasis results in disfiguring skin lesions if the host immune system does not appropriately respond to infection. A family of molecules called chemokines coordinate recruitment of the immune cells required to eliminate infection. Here, we demonstrate a novel mechanism that Leishmania (L.) spp. employ to suppress host chemokines: a Leishmania-encoded protease cleaves chemokines known to recruit T cells that fight off infection. We observe that other common human intracellular pathogens, including Chlamydia trachomatis and Salmonella enterica, reduce levels of the same chemokines, suggesting a strong selective pressure to avoid this component of the immune response. Our study provides new insights into how intracellular pathogens interact with the host immune response to enhance pathogen survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro L. Antonia
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Kyle D. Gibbs
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Esme D. Trahair
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Kelly J. Pittman
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Amelia T. Martin
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Benjamin H. Schott
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Jeffrey S. Smith
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Sudarshan Rajagopal
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - J. Will Thompson
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Shared Resource, Center for Genomics and Computational Biology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Richard Lee Reinhardt
- Department of Biomedical Research, National Jewish Health, Denver, CO, United States
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Dennis C. Ko
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
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17
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Bamorovat M, Sharifi I, Aflatoonian MR, Sadeghi B, Shafiian A, Oliaee RT, Keyhani A, Afshar AA, Khosravi A, Mostafavi M, Parizi MH, Khatami M, Arefinia N. Host's immune response in unresponsive and responsive patients with anthroponotic cutaneous leishmaniasis treated by meglumine antimoniate: A case-control study of Th1 and Th2 pathways. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 69:321-327. [PMID: 30771740 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2018] [Revised: 01/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to compare the host's immune responses between unresponsive and responsive patients with anthroponotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) treated by meglumine antimoniate. A case-control study was carried out in an endemic focus in Iran. Blood samples were taken from patients and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were isolated. Two wells were considered for each isolate of unresponsive and responsive patients; one was exposed to L. tropica (Lt-stimulated cells) and the other remained non-exposed (non-stimulated cells). After 24 h of incubation, whole RNA was extracted from each sample. Real-time quantitative PCR was carried out to confirm the differences in expression levels of IL-12 P40, IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-4 and IL-10 among isolates. Data were analyzed and P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. In our study, Lt-stimulated cells and non-stimulated cells in unresponsive groups demonstrated significantly lower expression levels of IL-1β, IL-12 P40 and IFN-γ genes and higher expression levels of IL-4 and IL-10 genes, compared to Lt-stimulated cells and non-stimulated cells in responsive groups. There was a negative correlation between IL-12 P40 with IL-10 and IL-1β with IL-10 in ACL Lt-stimulated cells in unresponsive group, while a positive correlation between IL-12 P40 with IL-1β and IL-12 P40 with IFN-γ in ACL Lt-stimulated cells in responsive group. Probably, different immune responses caused by various factors play a major role in the pathogenesis and development of unresponsiveness in ACL patients. The profile and timing of cytokine production correlated well with the treatment outcome of Leishmania infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Bamorovat
- Research Center of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Iraj Sharifi
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Reza Aflatoonian
- Research Center of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Balal Sadeghi
- Food Hygiene and Public Health Dept., Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Alireza Shafiian
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Alireza Keyhani
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Abbas Aghaei Afshar
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ahmad Khosravi
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mahshid Mostafavi
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Maryam Hakimi Parizi
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Khatami
- School of Medicine, Bam University of Medical Sciences, Bam, Iran
| | - Nasir Arefinia
- Dadbin Health Clinic, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Galgamuwa LS, Sumanasena B, Iddawela D, Wickramasinghe S, Yatawara L. Assessment of intralesional cytokine profile of cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania donovani in Sri Lanka. BMC Microbiol 2019; 19:14. [PMID: 30642262 PMCID: PMC6332851 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-018-1384-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cytokines play a vital role in the host immune response to infection by initiating the healing process and/or accelerating the progression of the disease in cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Very little evidence is available on cytokine profiles and their regulatory function in CL patients in Sri Lanka. The aim of this study was to determine the cytokine expression pattern of IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-11 and IL-12p40 in CL patients and in healthy volunteers. Patients with suspected CL lesions attending to the Dermatology Clinic at the Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital were included in the study. Reverse transcription real time polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT-PCR) was performed to determine the relative expression level of target cytokines. Expression levels were quantified by 2- ∆∆CT equation. RESULTS The expression of cytokines IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-11 and IL-12p40 were significantly higher in CL patients compared to healthy volunteers (p < 0.05). There was a significant association between the expression of IFN-γ and the duration of the lesion (p = 0.021). Wet CL lesions showed significantly higher expression of IL-4, IL-11 and IL-12p40 (p = 0.039, 0.018 and 0.021 respectively) compared to dry lesions. Papulo-nodular lesions showed significantly high expression of IFN-γ (p = 0.023). However, cytokine expression was not significantly associated with the number, size and the locations of lesions. CONCLUSIONS The expression levels of all cytokines tested in the present study were significantly (p < 0.05) high in CL patients. Th1 response (IFN-γ and IL-12p40) had higher expression levels compared to Th2 (IL-4) and IL-11 in CL patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Buthsiri Sumanasena
- Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital, Harischandra Mawatha, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
| | - Devika Iddawela
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, 20400 Sri Lanka
| | - Susiji Wickramasinghe
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, 20400 Sri Lanka
| | - Lalani Yatawara
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, 20400 Sri Lanka
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Botana L, Matía B, San Martin JV, Romero-Maté A, Castro A, Molina L, Fernandez L, Ibarra-Meneses A, Aguado M, Sánchez C, Horrillo L, Chicharro C, Nieto J, Ortega S, Ruiz-Giardin JM, Carrillo E, Moreno J. Cellular Markers of Active Disease and Cure in Different Forms of Leishmania infantum-Induced Disease. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2018; 8:381. [PMID: 30483480 PMCID: PMC6243388 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2018.00381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Increased numbers of peripheral blood mononucleocytes (PBMC) and increased IFN-γ secretion following in vitro challenge of blood samples with soluble Leishmania antigen (SLA), have been proposed as biomarkers of specific cell-mediated immunity, indicating that treatment of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) has been successful. However, Leishmania infantum infection may manifest as cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), and less commonly as localized leishmanial lymphadenopathy (LLL) or mucosal leishmaniasis (ML). The present work examines the value of these biomarkers as indicators of cured leishmaniasis presenting in these different forms. Blood samples were collected before and after treatment from patients living in Fuenlabrada (Madrid, Spain), an L. infantum-endemic area recently the center of a leishmaniasis outbreak. All samples were subjected to Leishmania-specific PCR, serological tests (IFAT and rK39-ICT), and the SLA-cell proliferation assay (SLA-CPA), recording PBMC proliferation and the associated changes in IFN-γ production. Differences in the results recorded for the active and cured conditions were only significant for VL. PCR returned positive results in 67% of patients with active VL and in 3% of those with cured leishmaniasis. Similarly, rK39-ICT returned a positive result in 77% of active VL samples vs. 52% in cured VL samples, and IFAT in 90% vs. 56%; in the SLA-CPA, PBMC proliferation was seen in 16% vs. 90%, and an associated increase in IFN-γ production of 14 and 84%, respectively. The present findings reinforce the idea that PBMC proliferation and increased IFN-γ production in SLA-stimulated PBMC provide biomarkers of clinical cure in VL. Other tests are urgently needed to distinguish between the cured and active forms of the other types of clinical leishmaniasis caused by L. infantum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Botana
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Belén Matía
- Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain.,Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias de la Salud, Escuela Internacional de Doctorado, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Mostoles, Spain
| | | | | | - Alicia Castro
- Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Molina
- Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Fernandez
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Ibarra-Meneses
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Aguado
- Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Sánchez
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis Horrillo
- Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Chicharro
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Nieto
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sheila Ortega
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Eugenia Carrillo
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Moreno
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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20
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Combination of flow cytometry and qPCR to study the immune response of american cutaneous leishmaniasis patients. Microb Pathog 2018; 123:433-439. [PMID: 30076983 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2018.07.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/31/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
American Cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) is a public health problem. The immunological response is mainly dependent on T cell cytokine responses and might influence disease presentation, susceptibility and development. The understanding of the host immune response role in the control and in the pathology of leishmaniasis is relevant and has implications on diagnosis, follow-up and vaccine development. In this study, the differences in the immune response and T cell profile of patients before treatment was investigated through flow cytometry and real time PCR in peripheral blood mononuclear cells after different antigenic stimulations. Among the main findings are the significant presence of TNF and IFN-γ gene expression after 24 h of in vitro stimulation, and 48 h later the presence of CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells producing IL-10 and IL-4. This may be due to the differences in cytokine release over time and the presence of cells other than lymphocytes influencing the mRNA transcript detection. Evaluation of the immune response of individuals with leishmaniasis or other diseases should associate different technologies and times points for a clear and more reliable assessment of the immune response. This would help in the design of vaccine strategies/immunotherapies.
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21
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Leishmania tropica isolates from non-healed and healed patients in Iran: A molecular typing and phylogenetic analysis. Microb Pathog 2018; 116:124-129. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2018.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2017] [Revised: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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22
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Gonçalves-de-Albuquerque SDC, Pessoa-e-Silva R, Trajano-Silva LAM, de Goes TC, de Morais RCS, da C. Oliveira CN, de Lorena VMB, de Paiva-Cavalcanti M. The Equivocal Role of Th17 Cells and Neutrophils on Immunopathogenesis of Leishmaniasis. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1437. [PMID: 29163510 PMCID: PMC5670345 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Advances in the understanding of leishmaniasis progression indicate that cellular interactions more complex than the Th1/Th2 paradigm define the course of infection. Th17 cells are a crucial modulator of adaptive immunity against Leishmania parasites acting mainly on neutrophil recruitment and playing a dual role at the site of infection. This review describes the roles of both these cell types in linking innate defense responses to the establishment of specific immunity. We focus on the Th17-neutrophil interaction as a crucial component of anti-Leishmania immunity, and the clinical evolution of cutaneous or visceral leishmaniasis. To date, information obtained through experimental models and patient evaluations suggests that the influence of the presence of interleukin (IL)-17 (the main cytokine produced by Th17 cells) and neutrophils during Leishmania infections is strictly dependent on the tissue (skin or liver/spleen) and parasite species. Also, the time at which neutrophils are recruited, and the persistence of IL-17 in the infection microenvironment, may also be significant. A clearer understanding of these interactions will enable better measurement of the influence of IL-17 and its regulators, and contribute to the identification of disease/resistance biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rômulo Pessoa-e-Silva
- Department of Microbiology, Aggeu Magalhães Research Center, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Lays A. M. Trajano-Silva
- Department of Microbiology, Aggeu Magalhães Research Center, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Tayná Correia de Goes
- Department of Microbiology, Aggeu Magalhães Research Center, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Rayana C. S. de Morais
- Department of Microbiology, Aggeu Magalhães Research Center, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Cíntia N. da C. Oliveira
- Department of Microbiology, Aggeu Magalhães Research Center, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Virgínia M. B. de Lorena
- Department of Microbiology, Aggeu Magalhães Research Center, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Milena de Paiva-Cavalcanti
- Department of Microbiology, Aggeu Magalhães Research Center, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
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23
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Moafi M, Rezvan H, Sherkat R, Taleban R, Asilian A, Hamid Zarkesh-Esfahani S, Nilforoushzadeh MA, Jaffary F, Mansourian M, Sokhanvari F, Ansari N. Comparison of pro-inflammatory cytokines of non-healing and healing cutaneous leishmaniasis. Scand J Immunol 2017; 85:291-299. [PMID: 28168727 DOI: 10.1111/sji.12534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) heals spontaneously within several weeks or months, but, in rare cases, CL-active lesions last for many years. In this study, we assessed cell-mediated immunity in non-healing CL through the measurement of three pro-inflammatory cytokines: Interferon-γ (IFN-γ), IL-17a and CXCL-11. For this, 32 patients afflicted with healing or non-healing CL were recruited in this study. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of every patient were treated with three antigens: purified protein derivative (PPD), soluble Leishmania antigen (SLA) and phytohaemagglutinin (PHA). Cytokine quantification was performed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. Results of our study showed that neither cytokine produced in the presence of a PPD stimulator (as an irrelevant antigen) significantly differed between the healing and non-healing groups (P-value ≥0.05 for all of them). However, IFN-γ, CXCL-11 and IL-17a levels produced in the presence of PHA or SLA were significantly higher within the healing than in the non-healing group (P-value <0.01 for all of them). It seems that appropriate levels of IFN-γ, as well as IL-17a and CXCL-11, contribute to the control of Leishmania infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Moafi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - H Rezvan
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - R Sherkat
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - R Taleban
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - A Asilian
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - M A Nilforoushzadeh
- Skin and Stem Cell Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Jaffary
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - M Mansourian
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - F Sokhanvari
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - N Ansari
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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24
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Chamakh-Ayari R, Chenik M, Chakroun AS, Bahi-Jaber N, Aoun K, Meddeb-Garnaoui A. Leishmania major large RAB GTPase is highly immunogenic in individuals immune to cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:185. [PMID: 28416006 PMCID: PMC5393016 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2127-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We previously identified a Leishmania (L.) major large RAB GTPase (LmlRAB), a new atypical RAB GTPase protein. It is highly conserved in Leishmania species while displaying low level of homology with mammalian homologues. Leishmania small RAB GTPases proteins have been involved in regulation of exocytic and endocytic pathways whereas the role of large RAB GTPases proteins has not been characterized yet. We report here the immunogenicity of both recombinant rLmlRAB and rLmlRABC, in individuals with immunity against L. major or L. infantum. Methods PBMC were isolated from individuals cured of L. major (CCLm) or from healthy individuals. The latter were subdivided into high or low IFN-γ responders. Healthy high IFN-γ responders, considered as asymptomatics, were living in an endemic area for L. major (HHRLm) or L. infantum (HHRLi). Healthy low IFN-γ responders (HLR) were considered as naïve controls. Cells from all volunteers were stimulated with rLmlRAB or rLmlRABC. Cytokines were analysed by CBA and ELISA and phenotypes of IFN-γ-producing cells were analysed by flow cytometry. Results Both rLmlRAB and rLmlRABC induced high significant levels of IFN-γ in CCLm, HHRLm and HHRLi groups. Phenotype analysis of rLmlRAB and rLmlRABC-stimulated T cells in CCLm individuals showed a significant increase in the percentage of specific IFN-γ-producing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. rLmlRAB induced significant granzyme B levels in CCLm and HHRLm. Low but significant granzyme B levels were detected in naïve group. IL-10 was detected in immune and naïve individuals. Conclusion We showed that rLmlRAB protein and its divergent carboxy-terminal part induced a predominant Th1 response in individuals immune to L. major or L. infantum. Our results suggest that rLmlRAB and rLmlRABC proteins are potential cross-species vaccine candidates against cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rym Chamakh-Ayari
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, LR11-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia.,University of Carthage, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Mehdi Chenik
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, LR11-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ahmed Sahbi Chakroun
- Molecular Epidemiology and Experimental Pathology Applied to Infectious Diseases Laboratory, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | | | - Karim Aoun
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, LR11-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Amel Meddeb-Garnaoui
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, LR11-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia.
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25
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Moafi M, Rezvan H, Sherkat R, Taleban R, Asilian A, Zarkesh Esfahani SH, Nilforoushzadeh MA, Jaffary F, Feizi A. Evaluation of IL-12RB1, IL-12B, CXCR-3 and IL-17a expression in cases affected by a non-healing form of cutaneous leishmaniasis: an observational study design. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e013006. [PMID: 28132002 PMCID: PMC5278291 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-013006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Seldom cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) may present as a lasting and active lesion(s), known as a non-healing form of CL (NHCL). Non-functional type 1 T helper (Th1) cells are assumed the most important factor in the outcome of the disease. The present study aims to assess some molecular defects that potentially contribute to Th1 impairment in NHCL. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This prospective observational study will be implemented among five groups. The first and second groups comprise patients afflicted with non-healing and healing forms of CL, respectively. The third group consists of those recovered participants who have scars as a result of CL. Those participants who have never lived or travelled to endemic areas of leishmaniasis will comprise the fourth group. The fifth group comprises participants living in hyperendemic areas for leishmaniasis, although none of them have been afflicted by CL. The aim is to recruit 10 NHCL cases and 30 participants in each of the other groups. A leishmanin skin test (LST) will be performed to assess in vivo immunity against the Leishmania infection. The cytokine profile (interleukin (IL)-12p70, interferon (IFN)-γ, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL)-11 and IL-17a) of the isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) will be evaluated through ELISA. Real-time PCR will determine the C-X-C motif chemokine receptor (CXCR)-3 and IL-17a gene expression and expression of IL-12Rβ1 will be assessed by flow cytometry. Furthermore, IL-12B and IL-12RB1 mutation analysis will be performed. DISCUSSION It is anticipated that the outcome of the current study will identify IL-12B and IL-12RB1 mutations, which lead to persistent lesions of CL. Furthermore, our expected results will reveal an association between NHCL and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-12p70, IFN-γ IL-17a and CXCL-11), as well as CXCR-3 expression. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study has been approved by a local ethical committee. The final results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and scientific conferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Moafi
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Department of Pathobiology, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Hossein Rezvan
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Department of Pathobiology, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Roya Sherkat
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Roya Taleban
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Ali Asilian
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | | | - Fariba Jaffary
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Awat Feizi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Rationale for selection of developmentally regulated genes as vaccine candidates against Leishmania infantum infection. Vaccine 2016; 34:5474-5478. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2016.08.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2016] [Revised: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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27
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Petitdidier E, Pagniez J, Papierok G, Vincendeau P, Lemesre JL, Bras-Gonçalves R. Recombinant Forms of Leishmania amazonensis Excreted/Secreted Promastigote Surface Antigen (PSA) Induce Protective Immune Responses in Dogs. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004614. [PMID: 27223609 PMCID: PMC4880307 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Preventive vaccination is a highly promising strategy for interrupting leishmaniasis transmission that can, additionally, contribute to elimination. A vaccine formulation based on naturally excreted secreted (ES) antigens was prepared from L. infantum promastigote culture supernatant. This vaccine achieved successful results in Phase III trials and was licensed and marketed as CaniLeish. We recently showed that newly identified ES promastigote surface antigen (PSA), from both viable promastigotes and axenically-grown amastigotes, represented the major constituent and the highly immunogenic antigen of L. infantum and L. amazonensis ES products. We report here that three immunizations with either the recombinant ES LaPSA-38S (rPSA) or its carboxy terminal part LaPSA-12S (Cter-rPSA), combined with QA-21 as adjuvant, confer high levels of protection in naive L. infantum-infected Beagle dogs, as checked by bone marrow parasite absence in respectively 78.8% and 80% of vaccinated dogs at 6 months post-challenge. The parasite burden in infected vaccinated dogs was significantly reduced compared to placebo group, as measured by q-PCR. Moreover, our results reveal humoral and cellular immune response clear-cut differences between vaccinated and control dogs. An early increase in specific IgG2 antibodies was observed in rPSA/QA-21- and Cter-rPSA/QA-21-immunized dogs only. They were found functionally active in vitro and were highly correlated with vaccine protection. In vaccinated protected dogs, IFN-γ and NO productions, as well as anti-leishmanial macrophage activity, were increased. These data strongly suggest that ES PSA or its carboxy-terminal part, in recombinant forms, induce protection in a canine model of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis by inducing a Th1-dominant immune response and an appropriate specific antibody response. These data suggest that they could be considered as important active components in vaccine candidates. Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a potentially fatal disease caused by L. infantum, represents perfectly the need for a “One Health” approach for disease control, since it affects both humans and dogs, with similar clinical outcome and T-cell mediated immunity commitment. The dog vaccine development is highly required as our present resources for VL treatment and control have a limited effectiveness. It would represent the most convenient and efficient control way to decrease the dog-sandfly-dog transmission cycle, essential for human incidence reduction. The results indicate that recombinant forms of soluble promastigote surface antigen (PSA) are very promising effective vaccine candidates against canine VL. The elicited immune responses effectively reduced parasite load in in vitro pre-infected macrophages and in experimentally infected dogs. Through this approach, we aim to reduce the number of infected animals developing progressive infections thereby positively influencing human public health.
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MESH Headings
- Adaptive Immunity
- Adjuvants, Immunologic
- Animals
- Antibodies, Protozoan/blood
- Antigens, Protozoan/genetics
- Antigens, Protozoan/immunology
- Antigens, Surface/genetics
- Antigens, Surface/immunology
- Bone Marrow/parasitology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Dog Diseases/immunology
- Dog Diseases/parasitology
- Dog Diseases/prevention & control
- Dogs
- Female
- Immunity, Cellular
- Immunoglobulin G/blood
- Interferon-gamma/biosynthesis
- Leishmania infantum/immunology
- Leishmania infantum/physiology
- Leishmania mexicana/chemistry
- Leishmania mexicana/genetics
- Leishmania mexicana/immunology
- Leishmaniasis Vaccines/administration & dosage
- Leishmaniasis Vaccines/genetics
- Leishmaniasis Vaccines/immunology
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/immunology
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/parasitology
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/prevention & control
- Leishmaniasis, Visceral/veterinary
- Macrophages/immunology
- Nitric Oxide/biosynthesis
- Parasite Load
- Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Protozoan Proteins/genetics
- Protozoan Proteins/immunology
- Recombinant Proteins/administration & dosage
- Recombinant Proteins/immunology
- Th1 Cells/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julie Pagniez
- IRD, UMR 177 INTERTRYP IRD CIRAD, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Philippe Vincendeau
- University Hospital of Bordeaux, Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Bordeaux, France
- Université de Bordeaux, UMR 177 INTERTRYP IRD CIRAD, Bordeaux, France
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Srivastava S, Shankar P, Mishra J, Singh S. Possibilities and challenges for developing a successful vaccine for leishmaniasis. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:277. [PMID: 27175732 PMCID: PMC4866332 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1553-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease caused by different species of protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania. It is a major health problem yet neglected tropical diseases, with approximately 350 million people worldwide at risk and more than 1.5 million infections occurring each year. Leishmaniasis has different clinical manifestations, including visceral (VL or kala-azar), cutaneous (CL), mucocutaneous (MCL), diffuse cutaneous (DCL) and post kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL). Currently, the only mean to treat and control leishmaniasis is by rational medications and vector control. However, the number of available drugs is limited and even these are either exorbitantly priced, have toxic side effects or prove ineffective due to the emergence of resistant strains. On the other hand, the vector control methods are not so efficient. Therefore, there is an urgent need for developing a safe, effective, and affordable vaccine for the prevention of leishmaniasis. Although in recent years a large body of researchers has concentrated their efforts on this issue, yet only three vaccine candidates have gone for clinical trial, until date. These are: (i) killed vaccine in Brazil for human immunotherapy; (ii) live attenuated vaccine for humans in Uzbekistan; and (iii) second-generation vaccine for dog prophylaxis in Brazil. Nevertheless, there are at least half a dozen vaccine candidates in the pipeline. One can expect that, in the near future, the understanding of the whole genome of Leishmania spp. will expand the vaccine discovery and strategies that may provide novel vaccines. The present review focuses on the development and the status of various vaccines and potential vaccine candidates against leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saumya Srivastava
- Division of Clinical Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Prem Shankar
- Division of Clinical Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Jyotsna Mishra
- Division of Clinical Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India
| | - Sarman Singh
- Division of Clinical Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Ansari Nagar, New Delhi, 110029, India.
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Kammoun-Rebai W, Naouar I, Libri V, Albert M, Louzir H, Meddeb-Garnaoui A, Duffy D. Protein biomarkers discriminate Leishmania major-infected and non-infected individuals in areas endemic for cutaneous leishmaniasis. BMC Infect Dis 2016; 16:138. [PMID: 27009263 PMCID: PMC4806467 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-1458-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background A successful host immune response to infection is dependent upon both innate and adaptive immune effector mechanisms. Cutaneous leishmaniasis results in an adaptive Th1 CD4+ T cell response that efficiently clears the parasite, but may also result in scaring. However the role of innate mechanisms during parasite clearance remains less well defined. Methods We examined a unique cohort of individuals, living in a Leishmania major endemic region, that were stratified among 3 distinct clinical groups in a cross-sectional study. Specifically, patients were classified either as healed (n = 17), asymptomatic (23), or naïve to infection (18) based upon the classical Leishmanin Skin Test (LST) and the presence or absence of scars. Utilizing a multiplexed immunoassay approach we characterized the induced cytokine and chemokine response to L. major. Results A subset of innate immune molecules was induced in all groups. By contrast, T cell-associated cytokines were largely induced in exposed groups as compared to L. major-infection naïve individuals. Two exceptions were IL-17A and IL-12p70, induced and not induced, respectively, in naïve individuals. In addition, GM-CSF was more strongly induced in healed patients as compared to the other two groups. Surprisingly an IL-13 response was the best cytokine for classifying previously infected donors. Conclusions Exploratory data analysis, utilizing principle component analysis (PCA), revealed distinct patient clusters of the healed and naïve groups based on the most differentially induced proteins. Asymptomatic previously infected individuals were more difficult to assign to a particular cluster based on these induced proteins. Analysis of these proteins may enable the identification of biomarkers associated with disease, leading to a better understanding of the protective mechanisms of immune response against leishmaniasis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12879-016-1458-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wafa Kammoun-Rebai
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnologies and Biomolecules, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia.,University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, 1068, Tunisia
| | - Ikbel Naouar
- University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, 1068, Tunisia.,Laboratory of Transmission Control and Immunobiology of Infection, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Valentina Libri
- Center for Human Immunology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Matthew Albert
- Center for Human Immunology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Department of Immunology, Laboratory of Dendritic Cell Immunobiology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France.,Inserm U818, Paris, France
| | - Hechmi Louzir
- University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, 1068, Tunisia.,Laboratory of Transmission Control and Immunobiology of Infection, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia.,Faculty of Medicine, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Amel Meddeb-Garnaoui
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnologies and Biomolecules, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Darragh Duffy
- Center for Human Immunology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France. .,Department of Immunology, Laboratory of Dendritic Cell Immunobiology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France. .,Inserm U818, Paris, France.
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Mashayekhi Goyonlo V, Elnour H, Nordlind K. Interleukin-2 expression in lupoid and usual types of old world cutaneous leishmaniasis. IRANIAN RED CRESCENT MEDICAL JOURNAL 2014; 16:e5410. [PMID: 25763226 PMCID: PMC4329931 DOI: 10.5812/ircmj.5410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2012] [Revised: 11/12/2013] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Background: Interleukin (IL)-2 plays a central role in T cell-dependent immune responses. Objectives: We conducted this study to determine and compare IL-2 expression in lupoid and usual types of Old World Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (OWCL), using immunohistochemistry. Patients and Methods: Thirteen paraffin-embedded specimens of lupoid and 12 specimens of usual types of OWCL were used. A mouse monoclonal anti IL-2 antibody was used for staining by the envision technique. Results: There were strongly stained discrete foci of staining through inflammatory infiltrates of dermis and also in basal layers of epidermis and adnexal structures, with a distinctive pattern of hot spot activity foci (mean of 9.31 ± 6.4 versus 8.17 ± 6.9 foci per HPF for lupoid and usual types, respectively). The expression of IL-2 had no correlation with the pattern of granulomatous inflammation (tuberculoid, sarcoidal or mixed suppurative). Conclusions: Interleukin-2 takes part in the immunological response of the granulomatous reaction of OWCL and is not statistically different between lupoid and usual types (P = 0.674).
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Mashayekhi Goyonlo
- Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Rsearch Center for Skin Disease and Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, Emam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IR Iran
- Corresponding Author: Vahid Mashayekhi Goyonlo, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Rsearch Center for Skin Disease and Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, Emam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IR Iran. Tel: +98-5118022490, E-mail:
| | - Hesameldin Elnour
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Dermatology and Venereology, Solna, Karolinska Instititutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Klas Nordlind
- Department of Medicine, Unit of Dermatology and Venereology, Solna, Karolinska Instititutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Cañeda-Guzmán IC, Salaiza-Suazo N, Fernández-Figueroa EA, Carrada-Figueroa G, Aguirre-García M, Becker I. NK cell activity differs between patients with localized and diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis infected with Leishmania mexicana: a comparative study of TLRs and cytokines. PLoS One 2014; 9:e112410. [PMID: 25397678 PMCID: PMC4232367 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0112410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 10/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania mexicana causes localized (LCL) or diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis (DCL). The cause of dissemination in DCL remains unknown, yet NK cells possibly play a role in activating leishmanicidal mechanisms during innate and adaptive immune responses. We had previously shown that Leishmania lipophosphoglycan (LPG) is a ligand for TLR2, activating human NK cells. We have now analyzed NK cells in LCL and DCL patients. NK numbers and effector mechanisms differed drastically between both groups of patients: DCL patients showed reduced NK cell numbers; diminished IFN-γ and TNF-α production; and lower TLR2, TLR1, and TLR6 expression as compared to LCL patients. The altered protein expression found in NK cells of DCL patients correlated with their down-regulation of IFN-γ gene expression in LPG-stimulated and non-stimulated cells as compared to LCL patients. NK cell response was further analyzed according to gender, age, and disease evolution in LCL patients showing that female patients produced higher IFN-γ levels throughout the disease progression, whereas TLR2 expression diminished in both genders with prolonged disease evolution and age. We furthermore show the activation pathway of LPG binding to TLR2 and demonstrated that TLR2 forms immunocomplexes with TLR1 and TLR6. In addition to the reduced NK cell numbers in peripheral blood, DCL patients also showed reduced NK cell numbers in the lesions. They were randomly scattered within the lesions, showing diminished cytokine production, which contrasts with those of LCL lesions, where NK cells produced IFN-γ and TNF-α and were found within organized granulomas. We conclude that in DCL patients the reduced NK-cell numbers and their diminished activity, evidenced by low TLR expression and low cytokine production, are possibly involved in the severity of the disease. Our results provide new information on the contribution of NK cells in Leishmania infections of the human host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Cristina Cañeda-Guzmán
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Hospital General de México, México, D.F., México
| | - Norma Salaiza-Suazo
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Hospital General de México, México, D.F., México
| | - Edith A. Fernández-Figueroa
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Hospital General de México, México, D.F., México
| | | | - Magdalena Aguirre-García
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Hospital General de México, México, D.F., México
| | - Ingeborg Becker
- Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Hospital General de México, México, D.F., México
- * E-mail:
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FOXP3 expression and frequency of regulatory T cells in healed individuals from Leishmania major infection and the asymptomatic cases. Hum Immunol 2014; 75:1026-33. [PMID: 25167770 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2014.08.204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2014] [Revised: 08/18/2014] [Accepted: 08/18/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Two groups of residents in an endemic area of Leishmania major infection in Iran with positive leishmanin skin tests who were either asymptomatic or had healed cutaneous leishmaniasis lesions were compared with respect to their T helper responses. The percentages of regulatory T cells (Treg; CD4(+)CD25(high) FoxP3(+)) from the peripheral blood and CD4(+) T cells producing intracellular cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, IL-17 and IFN-γ) from the stimulated PBMCs were evaluated by flow cytometry and the expressions of RORC and FOXP3 genes were quantified by real-time RT-PCR. T responder (CD4(+)CD25(-)) and Treg-enriched (CD4(+)CD25(+)) cells were isolated magnetically and the suppressive capacity of the latter and the cytokines (IFN-γ, TGF-β and IL-10) secreted from them were evaluated by in vitro assays. The results showed that the frequency of Treg in the studied groups were similar and Treg from both groups exhibited high yet similar suppressive capacities while significantly higher levels of FOXP3 expression was observed in the asymptomatic group. Taken together, similar frequency and suppressiveness of Treg combined with high ratios of IFN-γ/IL-10 producing CD4(+) T cells were common in both groups; however the members of the asymptomatic group appeared to require higher expression of FOXP3 to maintain their immunity to re-infection.
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Abstract
SUMMARY Leishmania are protozoan parasites spread by a sandfly insect vector and causing a spectrum of diseases collectively known as leishmaniasis. The disease is a significant health problem in many parts of the world, resulting in an estimated 1·3 million new cases and 30 000 deaths annually. Current treatment is based on chemotherapy, which is difficult to administer, expensive and becoming ineffective in several endemic regions. To date there is no vaccine against leishmaniasis, although extensive evidence from studies in animal models indicates that solid protection can be achieved upon immunization. This review focuses on immune responses to Leishmania in both cutaneous and visceral forms of the disease, pointing to the complexity of the immune response and to a range of evasive mechanisms utilized by the parasite to bypass those responses. The amalgam of innate and acquired immunity combined with the paucity of data on the human immune response is one of the major problems currently hampering vaccine development and implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz Kedzierski
- Inflammation Division,The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research,1G Royal Pde, Parkville 3052, Victoria,Australia
| | - Krystal J Evans
- Department of Medical Biology,University of Melbourne,Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria 3010,Australia
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Chamakh-Ayari R, Bras-Gonçalves R, Bahi-Jaber N, Petitdidier E, Markikou-Ouni W, Aoun K, Moreno J, Carrillo E, Salotra P, Kaushal H, Negi NS, Arevalo J, Falconi-Agapito F, Privat A, Cruz M, Pagniez J, Papierok GM, Rhouma FBH, Torres P, Lemesre JL, Chenik M, Meddeb-Garnaoui A. In vitro evaluation of a soluble Leishmania promastigote surface antigen as a potential vaccine candidate against human leishmaniasis. PLoS One 2014; 9:e92708. [PMID: 24786587 PMCID: PMC4008367 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0092708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2013] [Accepted: 02/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
PSA (Promastigote Surface Antigen) belongs to a family of membrane-bound and secreted proteins present in several Leishmania (L.) species. PSA is recognized by human Th1 cells and provides a high degree of protection in vaccinated mice. We evaluated humoral and cellular immune responses induced by a L. amazonensis PSA protein (LaPSA-38S) produced in a L. tarentolae expression system. This was done in individuals cured of cutaneous leishmaniasis due to L. major (CCLm) or L. braziliensis (CCLb) or visceral leishmaniasis due to L. donovani (CVLd) and in healthy individuals. Healthy individuals were subdivided into immune (HHR-Lm and HHR-Li: Healthy High Responders living in an endemic area for L. major or L. infantum infection) or non immune/naive individuals (HLR: Healthy Low Responders), depending on whether they produce high or low levels of IFN-γ in response to Leishmania soluble antigen. Low levels of total IgG antibodies to LaPSA-38S were detected in sera from the studied groups. Interestingly, LaPSA-38S induced specific and significant levels of IFN-γ, granzyme B and IL-10 in CCLm, HHR-Lm and HHR-Li groups, with HHR-Li group producing TNF-α in more. No significant cytokine response was observed in individuals immune to L. braziliensis or L. donovani infection. Phenotypic analysis showed a significant increase in CD4+ T cells producing IFN-γ after LaPSA-38S stimulation, in CCLm. A high positive correlation was observed between the percentage of IFN-γ-producing CD4+ T cells and the released IFN-γ. We showed that the LaPSA-38S protein was able to induce a mixed Th1 and Th2/Treg cytokine response in individuals with immunity to L. major or L. infantum infection indicating that it may be exploited as a vaccine candidate. We also showed, to our knowledge for the first time, the capacity of Leishmania PSA protein to induce granzyme B production in humans with immunity to L. major and L. infantum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rym Chamakh-Ayari
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, LR11-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Rachel Bras-Gonçalves
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, UMR177 IRD/CIRAD «INTERTRYP», Montpellier, France
| | - Narges Bahi-Jaber
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infection, LR11-IPT-02, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisie
- UPSP EGEAL Institut Polytechnique LaSalle Beauvais, Beauvais, France
| | - Elodie Petitdidier
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, UMR177 IRD/CIRAD «INTERTRYP», Montpellier, France
| | - Wafa Markikou-Ouni
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, LR11-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Karim Aoun
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, LR11-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Javier Moreno
- WHO Collaborating Center for Leishmaniasis, Centro Nacional de Microbiologia, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eugenia Carrillo
- WHO Collaborating Center for Leishmaniasis, Centro Nacional de Microbiologia, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Poonam Salotra
- National Institute of Pathology (ICMR), Safdarjung Hospital Campus, New Delhi, India
| | - Himanshu Kaushal
- National Institute of Pathology (ICMR), Safdarjung Hospital Campus, New Delhi, India
| | - Narender Singh Negi
- National Institute of Pathology (ICMR), Safdarjung Hospital Campus, New Delhi, India
| | - Jorge Arevalo
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical “Alexander von Humboldt”, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia (UPCH), Lima, Peru
| | - Francesca Falconi-Agapito
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical “Alexander von Humboldt”, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia (UPCH), Lima, Peru
| | - Angela Privat
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical “Alexander von Humboldt”, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia (UPCH), Lima, Peru
| | - Maria Cruz
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical “Alexander von Humboldt”, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia (UPCH), Lima, Peru
| | - Julie Pagniez
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, UMR177 IRD/CIRAD «INTERTRYP», Montpellier, France
| | | | - Faten Bel Haj Rhouma
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infection, LR11-IPT-02, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisie
| | - Pilar Torres
- Centro de Transfusión de la Comunidad de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jean-Loup Lemesre
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, UMR177 IRD/CIRAD «INTERTRYP», Montpellier, France
| | - Mehdi Chenik
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, LR11-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Amel Meddeb-Garnaoui
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, LR11-IPT-06, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
- * E-mail:
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Keyhani A, Riazi-Rad F, Pakzad SR, Ajdary S. Human polymorphonuclear leukocytes produce cytokines in response to Leishmania major promastigotes. APMIS 2014; 122:891-7. [PMID: 24698213 DOI: 10.1111/apm.12252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2013] [Accepted: 12/20/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) release cytokines that may influence the development of the subsequent adaptive immune response. Little is known about cytokines produced by human PMN in response to Leishmania (L.). In this study, mRNA expression of Interleukin (IL)-12p40, IL-12p35, Interferon (IFN)-γ, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β, IL-1, and IL-4 in PMN of volunteers stimulated with L. major promastigotes has been investigated by real-time PCR and the results were confirmed by flow cytometer. The results showed that L. major did not induce mRNA expression of IL12p40, IL12p35, IFN-γ, and TGF-β in PMN, while IL-1 and IL-4 mRNA were induced. Flow cytometry results confirmed no IFN-γ production by PMN with or without stimulation. IL-12p70 was present in untreated and L. major-treated PMN, and these cells release IL-12 following incubation with L. major. Significant amount of IL-1 even without treatment with promastigotes was detected in PMN. Moreover, the proportion of PMN, which produce IL-1 in response to L. major, was increased compared with the percent of unstimulated IL-1-producing PMN. The results showed the accumulation of small amounts of IL-4 in PMN after stimulation. In conclusion, our results indicate that IL-12 and IL-1 are pre-stored in human PMN, nor L. major induces IL-1 and IL-4, but not IL-12, IFN-γ, nor TGF-β expression in these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Keyhani
- Islamic Azad University-Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch (IAUPS), Tehran, Iran
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Tolouei S, Hejazi SH, Ghaedi K, Hasheminia SJ. Identification of leishmania isolates from healing and nonhealing cutaneous leishmaniasis patients using internal transcribed spacer region PCR. Jundishapur J Microbiol 2014; 7:e9529. [PMID: 25147707 PMCID: PMC4138626 DOI: 10.5812/jjm.9529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2012] [Revised: 01/23/2013] [Accepted: 02/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is a parasitic disease in most parts of Iran, especially in the Isfahan province. The most common form of CL is a self-healing lesion but in rare situations, infection might develop to non-healing forms. Clinical symptoms and treatment process might be influenced by several agents such as host immune response and parasite strains. In this study, the isolates which caused healing and nonhealing forms of CL in Isfahan were characterized by internal transcribed spacer (ITS) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify Leishmania species isolated from healing and non-healing CLs using PCR method. Patients and Methods: Thirty patients resident in Isfahan province, with healing or non-healing form of CL were entered into this study. After DNA extraction, the identification of Leishmania isolates was done by ITS1-PCR method. Results: Leishmania major was found as the predominant species (100%) in both healing and non-healing forms of CL. Conclusions: It seems that there is no difference between Leishmania species in healing and non-healing forms of CL. In order to recognize the reason of long lasting lesions in non-healing patients, the study about parasite strains and immune factors at the molecular level mostly in nonhealing patient is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Tolouei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, IR Iran
| | - Seyed Hossein Hejazi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, IR Iran
- Corresponding author: Seyed Hossein Hejazi, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, IR Iran. Tel: +98-3117922427, E-mail:
| | - Kamran Ghaedi
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, IR Iran
| | - Seyed Javad Hasheminia
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, IR Iran
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PCR and microscopic identification of isolated Leishmania tropica from clinical samples of cutaneous leishmaniasis in human population of Kohat region in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:861831. [PMID: 24804255 PMCID: PMC3988733 DOI: 10.1155/2014/861831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2014] [Revised: 02/16/2014] [Accepted: 02/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Leishmania tropica was isolated from the clinical patients of cutaneous leishmaniasis in rural community of Kohat district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province and was identified through PCR, microscopy, and culture techniques. A total of 113 samples from the clinical patients were examined through PCR, microscopy, and culture which showed 87.61% (99/113), 53.98% (61/113), and 46.90% (53/113) prevalence. During the study, 186 bp Leishmania tropica was identified through PCR. Thus the sensitivity of PCR is very high as compared to the conventional techniques.
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Taheri AR, Mashayekhi Goyonlo V, Nahidi Y, Moheghi N, Tavakkol Afshari J. Plasma levels of interlukin-4 and Interferon-γ in patients with chronic or healed cutaneous leishmaniasis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2014; 17:216-9. [PMID: 24847425 PMCID: PMC4016693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2013] [Accepted: 11/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE(S) In this study, the serum level of interferon-γ (IFN- γ) and interlukin-4 (IL-4) was evaluated as a marker of Th1 and Th2 immune response that influence the clinical course of cutaneous leishmaniasis . MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted on 44 cases of cutaneous leishmaniasis (21 cases with healed lesions and 23 cases with chronic non-healing lesions. Thirty-two non-infected persons living in the area were considered as controls. Serum levels of IFN- γ and IL-4 were determined using ELISA, and the results along with clinical data were analyzed using SPSS 11.5. RESULTS Serum IFN-γ level was not significantly different between various patient groups and control (P=0.27), but the serum level of IL-4 in patient groups was higher than in healthy subjects, and it was higher in patients with non-healed chronic cutaneous leishmaniasis than those with healed lesions (P<0.01). CONCLUSION Serum IL-4 level is a good marker for evaluation of the clinical course of cutaneous leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Reza Taheri
- Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Research Center, Emam Reza Hospital, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Vahid Mashayekhi Goyonlo
- Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Research Center, Emam Reza Hospital, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Yalda Nahidi
- Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Research Center, Emam Reza Hospital, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Nasrin Moheghi
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Jalil Tavakkol Afshari
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran,Corresponding author: Jalil Tavakkol Afshari. Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. Tel: +98-511-8022490; Fax: +98-511-8525008;
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Loria-Cervera EN, Sosa-Bibiano EI, Villanueva-Lizama LE, Van Wynsberghe NR, Schountz T, Andrade-Narvaez FJ. Cloning and sequence analysis of Peromyscus yucatanicus (Rodentia) Th1 (IL-12p35, IFN-γ and TNF) and Th2 (IL-4, IL-10 and TGF-β) cytokines. Cytokine 2013; 65:48-55. [PMID: 24120849 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2013.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2013] [Revised: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The Yucatan deer mouse, Peromyscus yucatanicus (order Rodentia), is the principal reservoir of Leishmania (Leishmania) mexicana in the Yucatan peninsula of Mexico. Experimental infection results in clinical and histopathological features similar to those observed in humans with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) as well as peritoneal macrophage production of nitric oxide. These results support the possible use of P. yucatanicus as a novel experimental model to study CL caused by L. (L.) mexicana. However, immunological studies in these rodents have been limited by the lack of specific reagents. To address this issue, we cloned and analyzed cytokine sequences of P. yucatanicus as part of an effort to develop this species as a CL model. We cloned P. yucatanicus interleukin 4 (IL-4), IL-10, IL-12p35, gamma interferon, transforming growth factor beta and tumor necrosis factor partial cDNAs. Most of the P. yucatanicus sequences were highly conserved with orthologs of other mammalian species and the identity of all sequences were confirmed by the presence of conserved amino acids with possible biological functions in each putative polypeptide. The availability of these sequences is a first step which will allow us to carry out studies characterizing the immune response during pathogenic and nonpathogenic L. (L.) mexicana infections in P. yucatanicus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elsy Nalleli Loria-Cervera
- Universidad Autonoma de Yucatan, Centro de Investigaciones Regionales "Dr. Hideyo Noguchi", Laboratorio de Inmunologia, Ave. Itzaes No. 490 x 59-A, Merida, Yucatan, Mexico.
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Serotonin transporter protein overexpression and association to Th 17 and T regulatory cells in lupoid leishmaniasis. Arch Dermatol Res 2013; 306:181-8. [DOI: 10.1007/s00403-013-1395-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2013] [Revised: 06/26/2013] [Accepted: 07/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
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Shahi M, Mohajery M, Shamsian SAA, Nahrevanian H, Yazdanpanah SMJ. Comparison of Th1 and Th2 responses in non-healing and healing patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis. Rep Biochem Mol Biol 2013; 1:43-48. [PMID: 26989708 PMCID: PMC4757055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Accepted: 02/06/2013] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cutaneous leishmaniasis is an endemic disease in many regions of Iran, including the city of Mashhad. In recent years, some cases have not responded to Glucantime, the usual treatment for this disease. The cellular immune response caused by T-helper type 1 (Th1) cells has an important role in protection against leishmaniasis, and activation of the T-helper type 2 (Th2) response causes progression of the disease. By analyzing these responses we hope to find a more effective treatment than that currently in use for leishmaniasis patients. METHODS The cellular immune responses in 60 cases of non-healing and healing cutaneous leishmaniasis, and individuals in a control group, were analyzed by measuring cytokines released by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) when stimulated with Leishmania major antigens by Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (ELISA). RESULTS Subjects from the healing group secreted more interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) (p<0.05) and less interleukins -4, -5, -10 (IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10) (p<0.005) and -18 (IL-18) (p=0.003) than the non-healing group. CONCLUSIONS The results demonstrate that secretion of cytokines that activate Th2 response including IL-4, IL-5 and IL-10 in non-healing subjects was higher than healing subjects and secretion of cytokines that activate Th1 response including IL-12 and IFN-γ in healing subjects was higher relative to the non-healing subjects. In this study it has been shown that the level of IL-18 progresses disease in non-healing patients when the level of IL-12 gets decreased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Shahi
- Ghazvin University of Medical Sciences, Ghazvin, Iran
| | - Masoud Mohajery
- Parasitology & Medical Mycology Department, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences Mashhad, Iran
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Pezeshkpoor F, Rezaei SAR, Shirdel A, Khajedaluee M, Alizadeh M, Yazdanpanah MJ. Association Between HTLV-I Infection with Chronic Lupoid Leishmaniasis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2013; 16:281-3. [PMID: 24470878 PMCID: PMC3881244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2012] [Accepted: 08/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE(S) One of the different types of skin leishmaniasis is the Chronic Lupoid Leishmaniasis (CLL), which is caused by abnormal immune response. On the other hand, HTLV-I has been known to exist in some infectious diseases. Human T cell lymphotropic virus type1 (HTLV-I) and cutanous leishmaniasis exists endemically in Mashhad. The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of HTLV-I in CLL patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS This cross sectional study involved 51 CLL patients admitted to cutaneous leishmaniasis clinics of Ghaem and Imam Reza hospitals in Mashhad, Iran. The blood samples were examined for serology tests through ELISA method. RESULTS The results of the experiments for evaluating the existence of HTLV-I in 51 patients under study in this research were proved to be negative. CONCLUSION According to this pilot study, the distribution of HTLV-I in CLL patients is not higher than normal population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fakhrozaman Pezeshkpoor
- Research Centre for Skin Diseases and Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Abbas Shirdel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Khajedaluee
- Department of Social Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mansoreh Alizadeh
- Research Centre for Skin Diseases and Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Yazdanpanah
- Research Centre for Skin Diseases and Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran,Corresponding author: Mohammad Javad Yazdanpanah, Research Centre for Skin Diseases and Cutaneous Leishmaniasis, Department of Dermatology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. Tel: +98- 511-8012861; Fax: +98-511-8409612; E-mail:
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Cellular immune response evaluation of cutaneous leishmaniasis patients cells stimulated with Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis antigenic fractions before and after clinical cure. Cell Immunol 2012; 279:180-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2012.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2012] [Revised: 10/08/2012] [Accepted: 11/06/2012] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Alimohammadian MH, Jones SL, Darabi H, Riazirad F, Ajdary S, Shabani A, Rezaee MA, Mohebali M, Hosseini Z, Modabber F. Assessment of interferon-γ levels and leishmanin skin test results in persons recovered for leishmaniasis. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2012; 87:70-5. [PMID: 22764294 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.2012.11-0479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients who recover from leishmaniasis usually show development of strong immunity and induction of interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and delayed type hypersensitivity. In a randomized trial, we analyzed the IFN-γ response by using a Quantiferon-Leishmania assay against three Leishmania peptide antigens and compared it with results of the leishmanin skin test (LST) in persons residing in areas in Iran to which zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL, 181 persons), anthroponotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL, 104 persons), and zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis (ZVL, 67 persons) are endemic. The percentage of persons with an IFN-γ-positive response (> 0.2 IU/mL) to three antigens and the mean concentration of IFN-γ induced by the antigens were higher for persons from areas endemic for ZVL than for persons from areas endemic for ZCL and ACL. The percentage of persons with LST-positive results (≥ 5 mm indurations) was 99%, 94%, and 70% for areas with ZCL, ACL, and ZVL, respectively. Our data indicate that the LST is significantly more sensitive than IFN-γ levels in persons who have been cured of cutaneous leishmaniasis than in persons who have been cured of ZVL.
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Kedzierska K, Curtis JM, Valkenburg SA, Hatton LA, Kiu H, Doherty PC, Kedzierski L. Induction of protective CD4+ T cell-mediated immunity by a Leishmania peptide delivered in recombinant influenza viruses. PLoS One 2012; 7:e33161. [PMID: 22470440 PMCID: PMC3310046 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0033161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2011] [Accepted: 02/05/2012] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The available evidence suggests that protective immunity to Leishmania is achieved by priming the CD4+ Th1 response. Therefore, we utilised a reverse genetics strategy to generate influenza A viruses to deliver an immunogenic Leishmania peptide. The single, immunodominant Leishmania-specific LACK158–173 CD4+ peptide was engineered into the neuraminidase stalk of H1N1 and H3N2 influenza A viruses. These recombinant viruses were used to vaccinate susceptible BALB/c mice to determine whether the resultant LACK158–173-specific CD4+ T cell responses protected against live L. major infection. We show that vaccination with influenza-LACK158–173 triggers LACK158–173-specific Th1-biased CD4+ T cell responses within an appropriate cytokine milieu (IFN-γ, IL-12), essential for the magnitude and quality of the Th1 response. A single intraperitoneal exposure (non-replicative route of immunisation) to recombinant influenza delivers immunogenic peptides, leading to a marked reduction (2–4 log) in parasite burden, albeit without reduction in lesion size. This correlated with increased numbers of IFN-γ-producing CD4+ T cells in vaccinated mice compared to controls. Importantly, the subsequent prime-boost approach with a serologically distinct strain of influenza (H1N1->H3N2) expressing LACK158–173 led to a marked reduction in both lesion size and parasite burdens in vaccination trials. This protection correlated with high levels of IFN-γ producing cells in the spleen, which were maintained for 6 weeks post-challenge indicating the longevity of this protective effector response. Thus, these experiments show that Leishmania-derived peptides delivered in the context of recombinant influenza viruses are immunogenic in vivo, and warrant investigation of similar vaccine strategies to generate parasite-specific immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Kedzierska
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail: (KK); (LK)
| | - Joan M. Curtis
- The Walter + Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sophie A. Valkenburg
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lauren A. Hatton
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hiu Kiu
- The Walter + Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter C. Doherty
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Immunology, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Lukasz Kedzierski
- The Walter + Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail: (KK); (LK)
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Tolouei S, Ghaedi K, Khamesipour A, Akbari M, Baghaei M, Hasheminia SJ, Narimani M, Hejazi SH. IL-23 and IL-27 Levels in Macrophages Collected from Peripheral Blood of Patients with Healing Vs Non-Healing Form of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2012; 7:18-25. [PMID: 23133467 PMCID: PMC3488816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2011] [Accepted: 12/11/2011] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this study the level of IL-23 and IL-27 produced by macrophages derived from peripheral blood mononuclear cell culture collected from patients with healing or non-healing form of cutaneous leishmaniasis lesion were compared before and after treatment with live Leishmania to explore whether IL-23 or IL-27 plays any role in healing process of cutaneous lesions induced by L. major. METHODS Twenty patients resident in Isfahan Province, with healing or non-healing form of cutaneous leishmaniasis lesion caused by Leishmania major participated in this study. In vitro productions of IL-23 and IL-27 by peripheral blood derived macrophages, before and after stimulation with live L. major (MRHO/IR/75/ER) promastigotes were evaluated using ELISA method. Patient with healing form of lesion received no treatment and patient with non-healing form of lesion received at least 2 courses of glucantime. RESULTS The mean production of IL-23 and IL-27 from macrophages of patients with healing form of lesion was significantly higher than patients with non-healing form of lesion. The levels of IL-23 and IL-27 in culture supernatants before and after stimulation in healing form of CL was significantly higher than non- healing form of CL (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION IL-23 and IL-27 might play a role in human leishmaniasis and further studies are needed to understand the role of IL-23 and IL-27 in leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Tolouei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - K Ghaedi
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences, University of Isfahan, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Royan Institute for Animal Biotechnology, ACECR, Isfahan, Iran
| | - A Khamesipour
- Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Akbari
- School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - M Baghaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Islamic Azad University Shahrekord Branch, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - SJ Hasheminia
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - M Narimani
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - SH Hejazi
- Skin Disease and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran,Corresponding author:Tel: 0098-311-7922427, E-mail:
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Hejazi SH, Hoseini SG, Javanmard SH, Zarkesh SH, Khamesipour A. Interleukin-10 and Transforming Growth Factor-β in Early and Late Lesions of Patients with Leishmania major Induced Cutaneous Leishmaniasis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2012; 7:16-23. [PMID: 23109957 PMCID: PMC3469167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2011] [Accepted: 07/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a neglected parasitic disease, which imposes massive human distress and financial costs to the endemic countries. Better understanding of host immune response to the parasite leads to helpful strategies for disease control. Interleukin (IL)-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β are important immune regulatory cytokines, which appear to develop non-healing forms of leishmaniasis. However, there is little information about the function of IL-10 and TGF-β in old world cutaneous leismaniasis. The aim of this study was to analyze the role of IL-10 and TGF-β in human cutaneous leishmaniasis due to Leishmania major infection. METHODS Biopsies were obtained from lesions of twenty proven cases of L. major induced cutaneous leishmaniasis. IL-10 and TGF-β positive cells were detected by immunofluorescence staining of frozen sections and compared between two groups of patients with early and late lesions. RESULTS The mean percentage of IL-10 positive cells were significantly (P= 0.035) higher in late lesions (0.51±0.24) than early ones (0.15±0.07). Similar results were obtained for TGF-β with mean percentages of 0.16±0.05 and 0.53±0.28 in early and late lesions respectively (P= 0.008). CONCLUSION IL-10 and TGF-β are present in lesions of L. major induced cutaneous leishmaniasis and contribute to the pathogenesis of long lasting disease forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- SH Hejazi
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Department of Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - SG Hoseini
- Department of Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran,Corresponding author:Tel.: +98 311-7922427, E-mail:
| | - SH Javanmard
- Physiology Research Center, Department of Physiology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - SH Zarkesh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - A Khamesipour
- Center for Research in Skin Disease and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Nahrevanian H, Jalalian M, Farahmand M, Assmar M, Rastaghi ARE, Sayyah M. Inhibition of Murine Systemic Leishmaniasis by Acetyl Salicylic Acid via Nitric Oxide Immunomodulation. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2012; 7:21-8. [PMID: 23109942 PMCID: PMC3469184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2011] [Accepted: 04/14/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to evaluate antileishmanial effects of ASA via NO pathway in Leishmania major infected Balb/c mice. Moreover, toxicity and pathological consequences of ASA administration were investigated. METHODS Balb/c mice were infected with L. major and ASA was inoculated orally after lesion appearance for its ability to modulate NO and to modify Leishmania infection in host, in order to evaluate the effects of NO production on size and lesion macroscopy, delay of lesion formation and proliferation of amastigotes inside macrophages. Liver, spleen, and lymph nodes were also studied as target organs to detect amastigotes. In addition, plasma was investigated for NO induction using Griess microassay. RESULTS ASA increased NO production in plasma of both naïve and Leishmania test groups at the ultimate of the experimental period. A decline was observed in proliferation of amastigotes inside macrophages of test group when compared with control one. ASA reduced lesion size, inhibited Leishmania visceralisation in spleen, lymph node, and decreased hepato/splenomegaly in ASA treated animals. CONCLUSIONS Some antileishmanial effects of ASA by NO-modulation were indicated during systemic leishmaniasis in mice. Despite slight effects on lesion size, ASA decreased parasite visceralization in target organs and declined their proliferation inside macrophages. Therefore, ASA may be indicated to inhibit systemic leishmaniasis via NO pathway in mice model.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Nahrevanian
- Department of Parasitology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Jalalian
- Department of Microbiology, Islamic Azad University of Lahijan, Gilan, Iran
| | - M Farahmand
- Department of Parasitology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Assmar
- Department of Microbiology, Islamic Azad University of Lahijan, Gilan, Iran
| | | | - M Sayyah
- Department of Physiology & Pharmacology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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Hejazi SH, Hoseini SG, Javanmard SH, Zarkesh SH, Khamesipour A. Interleukin-10 and Transforming Growth Factor-β in Early and Late Lesions of Patients with Leishmania major induced Cutaneous Leishmaniasis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2012; 7:53-60. [PMID: 23109946 PMCID: PMC3469188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2011] [Accepted: 04/18/2012] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cutaneous leishmaniasis is a neglected parasitic disease, which imposes massive human distress and financial costs to the endemic countries. Better understanding of host immune response to the parasite leads to helpful strategies for disease control. Interleukin (IL)-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β are important immune regulatory cytokines, which appear to develop non-healing forms of leishmaniasis. However, there is little information about the function of IL-10 and TGF-β in old world cutaneous leismaniasis. The aim of this study was to analyze the role of IL-10 and TGF-β in human cutaneous leishmaniasis due to Leishmania major infection. METHODS Biopsies were obtained from lesions of twenty proven cases of L. major induced cutaneous leishmaniasis. IL-10 and TGF-β positive cells were detected by immunofluorescence staining of frozen sections and compared between two groups of patients with early and late lesions. RESULTS The mean percentage of IL-10 positive cells were significantly (P= 0.035) higher in late lesions (0.51±0.24) than early ones (0.15±0.07). Similar results were obtained for TGF-β with mean percentages of 0.16±0.05 and 0.53±0.28 in early and late lesions respectively (P= 0.008). CONCLUSION IL-10 and TGF-β are present in lesions of L. major induced cutaneous leishmaniasis and contribute to the pathogenesis of long lasting disease forms.
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Affiliation(s)
- SH Hejazi
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Department of Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - SG Hoseini
- Department of Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran,Corresponding author:Tel: +98 311-7922427, E-mail:
| | - SH Javanmard
- Physiology Research Center, Department of Physiology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - SH Zarkesh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - A Khamesipour
- Center for Research in Skin Disease and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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50
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Faria AR, Costa MM, Giusta MS, Grimaldi G, Penido MLO, Gazzinelli RT, Andrade HM. High-throughput analysis of synthetic peptides for the immunodiagnosis of canine visceral leishmaniasis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2011; 5:e1310. [PMID: 21931874 PMCID: PMC3172188 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2011] [Accepted: 07/26/2011] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Visceral leishmaniasis is the most severe form of leishmaniasis. Approximately 20% of zoonotic human visceral leishmaniasis worldwide is caused by Leishmania infantum, which is also known as Leishmania chagasi in Latin America, and disease incidence is increasing in urban and peri-urban areas of the tropics. In this form of disease, dogs are the main reservoirs. Diagnostic methods used to identify Leishmania infected animals are not able to detect all of the infected ones, which can compromise the effectiveness of disease control. Therefore, to contribute to the improvement of diagnostic methods for canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL), we aimed to identify and test novel antigens using high-throughput analysis. Methodology/Principal Findings Immunodominant proteins from L. infantum were mapped in silico to predict B cell epitopes, and the 360 predicted peptides were synthesized on cellulose membranes. Immunoassays were used to select the most reactive peptides, which were then investigated with canine sera. Next, the 10 most reactive peptides were synthesized using solid phase peptide synthesis protocol and tested using ELISA. The sensitivity and specificity of these peptides were also compared to the EIE-LVC Bio-Manguinhos kit, which is recommended by the Brazilian Ministry of Health for use in leishmaniasis control programs. The sensitivity and specificity of the selected synthesized peptides was as high as 88.70% and 95.00%, respectively, whereas the EIE-LVC kit had a sensitivity of 13.08% and 100.00% of specificity. Although the tests based on synthetic peptides were able to diagnose up to 94.80% of asymptomatic dogs with leishmaniasis, the EIE-LVC kit failed to detect the disease in any of the infected asymptomatic dogs. Conclusions/Significance Our study shows that ELISA using synthetic peptides is a technique with great potential for diagnosing CVL; furthermore, the use of these peptides in other diagnostic methodologies, such as immunochromatographic tests, could be beneficial to CVL control programs. Globally, the number of new human cases of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is estimated to be approximately 500,000 per year. This is the most severe of all forms of leishmaniasis, and the zoonotic form of VL, caused by Leishmania infantum (also known as Leishmania chagasi), represents 20% of human visceral leishmaniasis worldwide; additionally, its prevalence is increasing in urban and peri-urban areas of the tropics. In Brazil, the identification and elimination of infected dogs, which act as a reservoir for Leishmania parasites, is a control measure employed in addition to the use of insecticides against the vectors and the identification and treatment of infected humans. Currently, the diagnostic methods employed to identify infected animals are not able to detect all of these dogs, which compromises the effectiveness of control measures. Moreover, one of the most important issues in controlling VL is the difficulty of diagnosing asymptomatic dogs, which act as parasite reservoirs. Therefore, to contribute to the improvement of the diagnostic methods for CVL, we aimed to identify and characterize new antigens that were more sensitive and specific and could be applied in epidemiologic surveys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angélica R. Faria
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brasil
| | - Míriam M. Costa
- Departamento de Bioqu$mica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brasil
| | - Mário S. Giusta
- Departamento de Bioqu$mica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brasil
| | - Gabriel Grimaldi
- Instituto Oswaldo Cruz – Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brasil
| | - Marcus L. O. Penido
- Departamento de Bioqu$mica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brasil
| | - Ricardo T. Gazzinelli
- Departamento de Bioqu$mica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brasil
- Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou – Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Brasil
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Hélida M. Andrade
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brasil
- * E-mail:
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