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Marques-da-Silva C, Schmidt-Silva C, Kurup SP. Hepatocytes and the art of killing Plasmodium softly. Trends Parasitol 2024; 40:466-476. [PMID: 38714463 PMCID: PMC11156546 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2024.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024]
Abstract
The Plasmodium parasites that cause malaria undergo asymptomatic development in the parenchymal cells of the liver, the hepatocytes, prior to infecting erythrocytes and causing clinical disease. Traditionally, hepatocytes have been perceived as passive bystanders that allow hepatotropic pathogens such as Plasmodium to develop relatively unchallenged. However, now there is emerging evidence suggesting that hepatocytes can mount robust cell-autonomous immune responses that target Plasmodium, limiting its progression to the blood and reducing the incidence and severity of clinical malaria. Here we discuss our current understanding of hepatocyte cell-intrinsic immune responses that target Plasmodium and how these pathways impact malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camila Marques-da-Silva
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA; Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Clyde Schmidt-Silva
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA; Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Samarchith P Kurup
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA; Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
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2
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Asmah RH, Squire DS, Adupko S, Adedia D, Kyei-Baafour E, Aidoo EK, Ayeh-Kumi PF. Host-parasite interaction in severe and uncomplicated malaria infection in ghanaian children. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 43:915-926. [PMID: 38472520 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-024-04804-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE During malarial infection, both parasites and host red blood cells (RBCs) come under severe oxidative stress due to the production of free radicals. The host system responds in protecting the RBCs against the oxidative damage caused by these free radicals by producing antioxidants. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant enzyme; superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and cytokine interactions with parasitaemia in Ghanaian children with severe and uncomplicated malaria. METHODOLOGY One hundred and fifty participants aged 0-12 years were administered with structured questionnaires. Active case finding approach was used in participating hospitals to identify and interview cases before treatment was applied. Blood samples were taken from each participant and used to quantify malaria parasitaemia, measure haematological parameters and SOD activity. Cytokine levels were measured by commercial ELISA kits. DNA comet assay was used to evaluate the extent of parasite DNA damage due to oxidative stress. RESULTS Seventy - Nine (79) and Twenty- Six (26) participants who were positive with malaria parasites were categorized as severe (56.75 × 103 ± 57.69 parasites/µl) and uncomplicated malaria (5.87 × 103 ± 2.87 parasites/µl) respectively, showing significant difference in parasitaemia (p < 0.0001). Significant negative correlation was found between parasitaemia and SOD activity levels among severe malaria study participants (p = 0.0428). Difference in cytokine levels (IL-10) amongst the control, uncomplicated and severe malaria groups was significant (p < 0.0001). The IFN-γ/IL-10 /TNF-α/IL-10 ratio differed significantly between the malaria infected and non- malaria infected study participants. DNA comet assay revealed damage to Plasmodium parasite DNA. CONCLUSION Critical roles played by SOD activity and cytokines as anti-parasitic defense during P. falciparum malaria infection in children were established.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard H Asmah
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Daniel Sai Squire
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Volta Region, Ghana.
| | - Selorme Adupko
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Microbiology, School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - David Adedia
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Basic and Biomedical Sciences, University of University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | - Eric Kyei-Baafour
- Department of Immunology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Ebenezer K Aidoo
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Accra Technical University, Accra, Ghana
| | - Patrick F Ayeh-Kumi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Ghana Medical School, Accra, Ghana
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3
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Zafar I, Galon EM, Kondoh D, Efstratiou A, Li J, Ji S, Liu M, Li Y, Hasegawa Y, Zhou J, Xuan X. The Cross-Species Immunity During Acute Babesia Co-Infection in Mice. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:885985. [PMID: 35719355 PMCID: PMC9198632 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.885985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesiosis causes high morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised individuals. An earlier study suggested that lethal Babesia rodhaini infection in murine can be evaded by Babesia microti primary infection via activated macrophage-based immune response during the chronic stage of infection. However, whether the same immune dynamics occur during acute B. microti co-infection is not known. Hence, we used the mouse model to investigate the host immunity during simultaneous acute disease caused by two Babesia species of different pathogenicity. Results showed that B. microti primary infection attenuated parasitemia and conferred immunity in challenge-infected mice as early as day 4 post-primary infection. Likewise, acute Babesia co-infection undermined the splenic immune response, characterized by the significant decrease in splenic B and T cells leading to the reduction in antibody levels and decline in humoral immunity. Interestingly, increased macrophage and natural killer splenic cell populations were observed, depicting their subtle role in the protection. Pro-inflammatory cytokines (i.e. IFN-γ, TNF-α) were downregulated, while the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was upregulated in mouse sera during the acute phase of Babesia co-infection. Herein, the major cytokines implicated in the lethality caused by B. rodhaini infection were IFN- γ and IL-10. Surprisingly, significant differences in the levels of serum IFN- γ and IL-10 between co-infected survival groups (day 4 and 6 challenge) indicated that even a two-day delay in challenge infection was crucial for the resulting pathology. Additionally, oxidative stress in the form of reactive oxygen species contributed to the severity of pathology during acute babesiosis. Histopathological examination of the spleen showed that the erosion of the marginal zone was more pronounced during B. rodhaini infection, while the loss of cellularity of the marginal zone was less evident during co-infection. Future research warrants investigation of the roles of various immune cell subtypes in the mechanism involved in the protection of Babesia co-infected hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iqra Zafar
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Livestock and Dairy Development Department, Veterinary Research Institute, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Eloiza May Galon
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kondoh
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | | | - Jixu Li
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,College of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Shengwei Ji
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Mingming Liu
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Basic Medicine, Hubei University of Arts and Science, Xiangyang, China
| | - Yongchang Li
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan.,Parasitology Laboratory, Veterinary College, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi, China
| | - Yae Hasegawa
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
| | - Jinlin Zhou
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Japan
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4
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Gomes ARQ, Cunha N, Varela ELP, Brígido HPC, Vale VV, Dolabela MF, de Carvalho EP, Percário S. Oxidative Stress in Malaria: Potential Benefits of Antioxidant Therapy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23115949. [PMID: 35682626 PMCID: PMC9180384 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23115949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria is an infectious disease and a serious public health problem in the world, with 3.3 billion people in endemic areas in 100 countries and about 200 million new cases each year, resulting in almost 1 million deaths in 2018. Although studies look for strategies to eradicate malaria, it is necessary to know more about its pathophysiology to understand the underlying mechanisms involved, particularly the redox balance, to guarantee success in combating this disease. In this review, we addressed the involvement of oxidative stress in malaria and the potential benefits of antioxidant supplementation as an adjuvant antimalarial therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Rafael Quadros Gomes
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutica Innovation, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (A.R.Q.G.); (H.P.C.B.); (V.V.V.); (M.F.D.)
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (N.C.); (E.L.P.V.); (E.P.d.C.)
| | - Natasha Cunha
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (N.C.); (E.L.P.V.); (E.P.d.C.)
| | - Everton Luiz Pompeu Varela
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (N.C.); (E.L.P.V.); (E.P.d.C.)
- Post-graduate Program in Biodiversity and Biotechnology (BIONORTE), Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
| | - Heliton Patrick Cordovil Brígido
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutica Innovation, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (A.R.Q.G.); (H.P.C.B.); (V.V.V.); (M.F.D.)
| | - Valdicley Vieira Vale
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutica Innovation, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (A.R.Q.G.); (H.P.C.B.); (V.V.V.); (M.F.D.)
| | - Maria Fâni Dolabela
- Post-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutica Innovation, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (A.R.Q.G.); (H.P.C.B.); (V.V.V.); (M.F.D.)
- Post-graduate Program in Biodiversity and Biotechnology (BIONORTE), Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
| | - Eliete Pereira de Carvalho
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (N.C.); (E.L.P.V.); (E.P.d.C.)
- Post-graduate Program in Biodiversity and Biotechnology (BIONORTE), Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
| | - Sandro Percário
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil; (N.C.); (E.L.P.V.); (E.P.d.C.)
- Post-graduate Program in Biodiversity and Biotechnology (BIONORTE), Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Pará, Belém 66075-110, PA, Brazil
- Correspondence:
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5
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Pack AD, Schwartzhoff PV, Zacharias ZR, Fernandez-Ruiz D, Heath WR, Gurung P, Legge KL, Janse CJ, Butler NS. Hemozoin-mediated inflammasome activation limits long-lived anti-malarial immunity. Cell Rep 2021; 36:109586. [PMID: 34433049 PMCID: PMC8432597 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2021.109586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
During acute malaria, most individuals mount robust inflammatory responses that limit parasite burden. However, long-lived sterilizing anti-malarial memory responses are not efficiently induced, even following repeated Plasmodium exposures. Using multiple Plasmodium species, genetically modified parasites, and combinations of host genetic and pharmacologic approaches, we find that the deposition of the malarial pigment hemozoin directly limits the abundance and capacity of conventional type 1 dendritic cells to prime helper T cell responses. Hemozoin-induced dendritic cell dysfunction results in aberrant Plasmodium-specific CD4 T follicular helper cell differentiation, which constrains memory B cell and long-lived plasma cell formation. Mechanistically, we identify that dendritic cell-intrinsic NLRP3 inflammasome activation reduces conventional type 1 dendritic cell abundance, phagocytosis, and T cell priming functions in vivo. These data identify biological consequences of hemozoin deposition during malaria and highlight the capacity of the malarial pigment to program immune evasion during the earliest events following an initial Plasmodium exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela D Pack
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | | | - Zeb R Zacharias
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Daniel Fernandez-Ruiz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - William R Heath
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence in Advanced Molecular Imaging, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
| | - Prajwal Gurung
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Kevin L Legge
- Department of Pathology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Chris J Janse
- Leiden Malaria Research Group, Centre of Infectious Diseases, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden 233 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - Noah S Butler
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA; Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Immunology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA.
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6
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Linzke M, Yan SLR, Tárnok A, Ulrich H, Groves MR, Wrenger C. Live and Let Dye: Visualizing the Cellular Compartments of the Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Cytometry A 2019; 97:694-705. [PMID: 31738009 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.23927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 10/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Malaria remains one of the deadliest diseases worldwide and it is caused by the protozoan parasite Plasmodium spp. Parasite visualization is an important tool for the correct detection of malarial cases but also to understand its biology. Advances in visualization techniques promote new insights into the complex life cycle and biology of Plasmodium parasites. Live cell imaging by fluorescence microscopy or flow cytometry are the foundation of the visualization technique for malaria research. In this review, we present an overview of possibilities in live cell imaging of the malaria parasite. We discuss some of the state-of-the-art techniques to visualize organelles and processes of the parasite and discuss limitation and advantages of each technique. © 2019 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marleen Linzke
- Unit for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes 1374, São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Sun Liu Rei Yan
- Unit for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes 1374, São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Attila Tárnok
- Institute for Medical Informatics, Statistics and Epidemiology, Medical Faculty, University Leipzig, D-04107, Härtelstraße 16-18, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Henning Ulrich
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Chemistry, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes 748, São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Matthew R Groves
- Structural Biology Unit, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Groningen, 9713AV, Antonius Deusinglaan 1, AV Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Carsten Wrenger
- Unit for Drug Discovery, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, Avenida Professor Lineu Prestes 1374, São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-000, Brazil
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7
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Nyariki JN, Ochola LA, Jillani NE, Nyamweya NO, Amwayi PE, Yole DS, Azonvide L, Isaac AO. Oral administration of Coenzyme Q 10 protects mice against oxidative stress and neuro-inflammation during experimental cerebral malaria. Parasitol Int 2019; 71:106-120. [PMID: 30981893 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2019.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In animal model of experimental cerebral malaria (ECM), the genesis of neuropathology is associated with oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators. There is limited progress in the development of new approaches to the treatment of cerebral malaria. Here, we tested whether oral supplementation of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) would offer protection against oxidative stress and brain associated inflammation following Plasmodium berghei ANKA (PbA) infection in C57BL/6 J mouse model. For this purpose, one group of C57BL/6 mice was used as control; second group of mice were orally supplemented with 200 mg/kg CoQ10 and then infected with PbA and the third group was PbA infected alone. Clinical, biochemical, immunoblot and immunological features of ECM was monitored. We observed that oral administration of CoQ10 for 1 month and after PbA infection was able to improve survival, significantly reduced oedema, TNF-α and MIP-1β gene expression in brain samples in PbA infected mice. The result also shows the ability of CoQ10 to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides lipids, levels of matrix metalloproteinases-9, angiopoietin-2 and angiopoietin-1 in the brain. In addition, CoQ10 was very effective in decreasing NF-κB phosphorylation. Furthermore, CoQ10 supplementation abrogated Malondialdehyde, and 8-OHDG and restored cellular glutathione. These results constitute the first demonstration that oral supplementation of CoQ10 can protect mice against PbA induced oxidative stress and neuro-inflammation usually observed in ECM. Thus, the need to study CoQ10 as a candidate of antioxidant and immunomodulatory molecule in ECM and testing it in clinical studies either alone or in combination with antimalaria regimens to provide insight into a potential translatable therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- James N Nyariki
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box, 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Lucy A Ochola
- Department of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Institute of Primate Research, P.O. Box, 24481, 00502 Karen, Kenya
| | - Ngalla E Jillani
- Department of Non-communicable diseases, Institute of Primate Research, P.O. Box, 24481, 00502 Karen, Kenya
| | - Nemwel O Nyamweya
- Departmwent of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Egerton University, P.O. Box 536, Egerton, Kenya
| | - Peris E Amwayi
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box, 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Dorcas S Yole
- School of Biological and Life Sciences, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box, 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Laurent Azonvide
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Alfred Orina Isaac
- School of Health Sciences, Technical University of Kenya, P.O. Box, 52428, 00200 Nairobi, Kenya
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8
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Kumar A, Singh KP, Bali P, Anwar S, Kaul A, Singh OP, Gupta BK, Kumari N, Noor Alam M, Raziuddin M, Sinha MP, Gourinath S, Sharma AK, Sohail M. iNOS polymorphism modulates iNOS/NO expression via impaired antioxidant and ROS content in P. vivax and P. falciparum infection. Redox Biol 2017; 15:192-206. [PMID: 29268202 PMCID: PMC5738204 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2017.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2017] [Revised: 11/30/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) has dicotomic influence on modulating host-parasite interplay, synchronizing physiological orchestrations and diagnostic potential; instigated us to investigate the plausible association and genetic regulation among NO level, components of oxidative stress, iNOS polymorphisms and risk of malaria. Here, we experimentally elucidate that iNOS promoter polymorphisms are associated with risk of malaria; employing mutation specific genotyping, functional interplay using western blot and RT-PCR, quantitative estimation of NO, total antioxidant content (TAC) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Genotyping revealed significantly associated risk of P. vivax (adjusted OR = 1.92 and 1.72) and P. falciparum (adjusted OR = 1.68 and 1.75) infection with SNP at iNOS-954G/C and iNOS-1173C/T positions, respectively; though vivax showed higher risk of infection. Intriguingly, mutation and infection specific differential upregulation of iNOS expression/NO level was observed and found to be significantly associated with mutant genotypes. Moreover, P. vivax showed pronounced iNOS protein (2.4 fold) and mRNA (2.5 fold) expression relative to healthy subjects. Furthermore, TAC and ROS were significantly decreased in infection; and differentially decreased in mutant genotypes. Our findings endorse polymorphic regulation of iNOS expression, altered oxidant-antioxidant components and evidences of risk association as the hallmark of malaria pathogenesis. iNOS/NO may serve as potential diagnostic marker in assessing clinical malaria. Polymorphism of iNOS revealed significantly associated risk of P. vivax and P. falciparum malaria and vivax showed higher risk of infection. We observed mutation and infection specific differential expression of iNOS/NO cascade. We investigated mutation specific antioxidant and ROS orchestration and observed lower TAC and ROS content in infection. Evaluated the clinical correlation among stratified axillary temperature, NO and haemoglobin content during infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amod Kumar
- University Department of Zoology, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribag, Jharkhand, India
| | - Krishn Pratap Singh
- University Department of Zoology, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribag, Jharkhand, India
| | - Prerna Bali
- National Institute of Malaria Research, Dawarka, Delhi, India
| | - Shadab Anwar
- School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India
| | - Asha Kaul
- National Institute of Malaria Research, Dawarka, Delhi, India
| | - Om P Singh
- National Institute of Malaria Research, Dawarka, Delhi, India
| | - Birendra Kumar Gupta
- University Department of Zoology, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribag, Jharkhand, India
| | - Nutan Kumari
- Department of Physiology, Patna Medical College and Hospital, Patna, India
| | - Md Noor Alam
- University Department of Zoology, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribag, Jharkhand, India
| | - Mohammad Raziuddin
- University Department of Zoology, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribag, Jharkhand, India
| | | | | | - Ajay Kumar Sharma
- University Department of Zoology, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribag, Jharkhand, India.
| | - Mohammad Sohail
- University Department of Zoology, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribag, Jharkhand, India.
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9
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Wezena CA, Krafczyk J, Staudacher V, Deponte M. Growth inhibitory effects of standard pro- and antioxidants on the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. Exp Parasitol 2017; 180:64-70. [PMID: 28242353 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2017.02.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Revised: 01/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The redox metabolism of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum and its human host has been suggested to play a central role for parasite survival and clearance. A common approach to test hypotheses in redox research is to challenge or rescue cells with pro- and antioxidants. However, quantitative data on the susceptibility of infected erythrocytes towards standard redox agents is surprisingly scarce. Here we determined the IC50 values of P. falciparum strains 3D7 and Dd2 for a set of redox agents using a SYBR green-based growth assay. Parasite killing in this assay required extremely high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide with a millimolar IC50 value, whereas IC50 values for tert-butyl hydroperoxide and diamide were between 67 and 121 μM. Thus, in contrast to tert-butyl hydroperoxide and the disulfide-inducing agent diamide, the host-parasite unit appears to be very robust against challenges with hydrogen peroxide with implications for host defense mechanisms. N-acetylcysteine, ascorbate, and dithiothreitol also had antiproliferative instead of growth-promoting effects with IC50 values around 12, 3 and 0.4 mM, respectively. So-called antioxidants can therefore also inhibit parasite growth with implications for clinical trials and studies on 'oxidative stress'. Furthermore, the addition of reductants to parasite cultures resulted in the gelation of albumin, the formation of methemoglobin and hemolysis. These effects can alter the fluorescence in SYBR green assays and have to be taken into account for the determination of IC50 values. In summary, standard oxidants and reductants both inhibit the growth of P. falciparum with IC50 values differing by three orders of magnitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cletus A Wezena
- Department of Parasitology, Ruprecht-Karls University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Johannes Krafczyk
- Department of Parasitology, Ruprecht-Karls University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Verena Staudacher
- Department of Parasitology, Ruprecht-Karls University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marcel Deponte
- Department of Parasitology, Ruprecht-Karls University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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10
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Myeloperoxidase Attenuates Pathogen Clearance during Plasmodium yoelii Nonlethal Infection. Infect Immun 2016; 85:IAI.00475-16. [PMID: 27795354 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00475-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Myeloperoxidase (MPO), a leukocyte-derived enzyme mainly secreted by activated neutrophils, is known to be involved in the immune response during bacterial and fungal infection and inflammatory diseases. Nevertheless, the role of MPO in a parasitic disease like malaria is unknown. We hypothesized that MPO contributes to parasite clearance. To address this hypothesis, we used Plasmodium yoelii nonlethal infection in wild-type and MPO-deficient mice as a murine malaria model. We detected high MPO plasma levels in wild-type mice with Plasmodium yoelii infection. Unexpectedly, infected MPO-deficient mice did not show increased parasite loads but were able to clear the infection more rapidly than wild-type mice. Additionally, the presence of neutrophils at the onset of infection seemed not to be essential for the control of the parasitemia. The effect of decreased parasite levels in MPO-deficient mice was absent from animals lacking mature T and B cells, indicating that this effect is most likely dependent on adaptive immune response mechanisms. Indeed, we observed increased gamma interferon and tumor necrosis factor alpha production by T cells in infected MPO-deficient mice. Together, these results suggest that MPO modulates the adaptive immune response during malaria infection, leading to an attenuated parasite clearance.
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Protective Effect of Aqueous Crude Extract of Neem (Azadirachta indica) Leaves on Plasmodium berghei-Induced Renal Damage in Mice. J Trop Med 2015; 2015:961205. [PMID: 26379714 PMCID: PMC4562167 DOI: 10.1155/2015/961205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2015] [Revised: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 08/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is a major public health problem in the world because it can cause of death in patients. Malaria-associated renal injury is associated with 45% of mortality in adult patients hospitalized with severe form of the disease. Therefore, new plant extracts to protect against renal injury induced by malaria infection are urgently needed. In this study, we investigated the protective effect of aqueous crude extract of Azadirachta indica (neem) leaves on renal injury induced by Plasmodium berghei ANKA infection in mice. ICR mice were injected intraperitoneally with 1 × 107 parasitized erythrocytes of PbANKA, and neem extracts (500, 1,000, and 2,000 mg/kg) were given orally for 4 consecutive days. Plasma blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels were subsequently measured. Malaria-induced renal injury was evidenced as marked increases of BUN and creatinine levels. However, the oral administration of neem leaf extract to PbANKA infected mice for 4 days brought back BUN and creatinine levels to near normalcy, and the highest activity was observed at doses of 1,000 and 2,000 mg/kg. Additionally, no toxic effects were found in normal mice treated with this extract. Hence, neem leaf extract can be considered a potential candidate for protection against renal injury induced by malaria.
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Hines SA, Ramsay JD, Kappmeyer LS, Lau AO, Ojo KK, Van Voorhis WC, Knowles DP, Mealey RH. Theileria equi isolates vary in susceptibility to imidocarb dipropionate but demonstrate uniform in vitro susceptibility to a bumped kinase inhibitor. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:33. [PMID: 25600252 PMCID: PMC4311422 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-014-0611-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The apicomplexan hemoparasite Theileria equi is a causative agent of equine piroplasmosis, eradicated from the United States in 1988. However, recent outbreaks have sparked renewed interest in treatment options for infected horses. Imidocarb dipropionate is the current drug of choice, however variation in clinical response to therapy has been observed. Methods We quantified the in vitro susceptibility of two T. equi isolates and a lab generated variant to both imidocarb dipropionate and a bumped kinase inhibitor compound 1294. We also evaluated the capacity of in vitro imidocarb dipropionate exposure to decrease susceptibility to that drug. The efficacy of imidocarb dipropionate for clearing infection in four T. equi infected ponies was also assessed. Results We observed an almost four-fold difference in imidocarb dipropionate susceptibility between two distinct isolates of T. equi. Four ponies infected with the less susceptible USDA Florida strain failed to clear the parasite despite two rounds of treatment. Importantly, a further 15-fold decrease in susceptibility was produced in this strain by continuous in vitro imidocarb dipropionate exposure. Despite a demonstrated difference in imidocarb dipropionate susceptibility, there was no difference in the susceptibility of two T. equi isolates to bumped kinase inhibitor 1294. Conclusions The observed variation in imidocarb dipropionate susceptibility, further reduction in susceptibility caused by drug exposure in vitro, and failure to clear T. equi infection in vivo, raises concern for the emergence of drug resistance in clinical cases undergoing treatment. Bumped kinase inhibitors may be effective as alternative drugs for the treatment of resistant T. equi parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddra A Hines
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-7040, USA.
| | - Joshua D Ramsay
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-7040, USA.
| | - Lowell S Kappmeyer
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-7040, USA. .,Animal Disease Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Pullman, WA, 99164-6630, USA.
| | - Audrey Ot Lau
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-7040, USA.
| | - Kayode K Ojo
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98109-4766, USA.
| | - Wesley C Van Voorhis
- Division of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, 98109-4766, USA.
| | - Donald P Knowles
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-7040, USA. .,Animal Disease Research Unit, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, Pullman, WA, 99164-6630, USA.
| | - Robert H Mealey
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, 99164-7040, USA.
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Antihemolytic Activities of Green Tea, Safflower, and Mulberry Extracts during Plasmodium berghei Infection in Mice. J Pathog 2014; 2014:203154. [PMID: 25485155 PMCID: PMC4251073 DOI: 10.1155/2014/203154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2014] [Revised: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 11/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria-associated hemolysis is associated with mortality in adult patients. It has been speculated that oxidative stress and inflammation induced by malaria parasite are involved in its pathophysiology. Hence, we aimed to investigate the antihemolytic effect of green tea, safflower, and mulberry extracts against Plasmodium berghei infection. Aqueous crude extracts of these plants were prepared using hot water method and used for oral treatment in mice. Groups of ICR mice were infected with 6 × 106 infected red blood cells of P. berghei ANKA by intraperitoneal injection and given the extracts (500, 1500, and 3000 mg/kg) twice a day for 4 consecutive days. To assess hemolysis, hematocrit levels were then evaluated. Malaria infection resulted in hemolysis. However, antihemolytic effects were observed in infected mice treated with these extracts at dose-dependent manners. In conclusion, aqueous crude extracts of green tea, safflower, and mulberry exerted antihemolysis induced by malaria infection. These plants may work as potential source in the development of variety of herbal formulations for malarial treatment.
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de Souza JB. Protective immunity against malaria after vaccination. Parasite Immunol 2014; 36:131-9. [PMID: 24188045 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A good understanding of the immunological correlates of protective immunity is an important requirement for the development of effective vaccines against malaria. However, this concern has received little attention even in the face of two decades of intensive vaccine research. Here, we review the immune response to blood-stage malaria, with a particular focus on the type of vaccine most likely to induce the kind of response required to give strong protection against infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B de Souza
- Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Department of Immunity and Infection, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Division of Infection & Immunity, University College London Medical School, London, UK
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Isah MB, Ibrahim MA. The role of antioxidants treatment on the pathogenesis of malarial infections: a review. Parasitol Res 2014; 113:801-9. [PMID: 24525759 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-014-3804-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative damage is one of the most important pathological consequences of malarial infections. It affects vital organs of the body manifesting in changes such as splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, endothelial and cognitive damages. The currently used antimalarials often leave traces of these damages after therapy, as evident in memory impairment after cerebral malaria. Hence, some research investigations have focused attention on the use of antioxidants, alone or in combination with antimalarials, as a viable therapeutic strategy aimed at alleviating plasmodium-induced oxidative stress and its associated complications. However, the practical application of this approach often yields conflicting outcomes because some antimalarials specifically act via induction of oxidative stress. This article critically reviews most of the studies conducted on the potential role of antioxidant therapy in malarial infections. The most frequently investigated antioxidants are vitamins C and E, N-acetylcystein, folate and desferroxamine. Some of the investigations measured the effects of direct administration of the antioxidants on the plasmodium parasites while others performed an adjunctive therapy with standard antimalarials. The therapeutic application of each of the antioxidants in malaria management depends on the targeted aspect of malarial pathology. It is hoped that this article will provide an informed basis for future research activities on the therapeutic role of antioxidants on malarial pathogenesis.
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Kling JC, Körner H. Different regulatory mechanisms in protozoan parasitic infections. Int J Parasitol 2013; 43:417-25. [PMID: 23470812 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2013.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2012] [Revised: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The immune response to the protozoan pathogens, Leishmania spp., Trypanosoma spp. and Plasmodium spp., has been studied extensively with particular focus on regulation of the immune response by immunological mechanisms. More specifically, in diseases caused by parasites, immunosuppression frequently prevents immunopathology that can injure the host. However, this allows a small number of parasites to evade the immune response and remain in the host after a clinical cure. The consequences can be chronic infections, which establish a zoonotic or anthroponotic reservoir. This review will highlight some of the identified regulatory mechanisms of the immune system that govern immune responses to parasitic diseases, in particular leishmaniasis, trypanosomiasis and malaria, and discuss implications for the development of efficient vaccines against these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica C Kling
- Menzies Research Institute Tasmania, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania 7000, Australia
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Percário S, Moreira DR, Gomes BAQ, Ferreira MES, Gonçalves ACM, Laurindo PSOC, Vilhena TC, Dolabela MF, Green MD. Oxidative stress in malaria. Int J Mol Sci 2012; 13:16346-72. [PMID: 23208374 PMCID: PMC3546694 DOI: 10.3390/ijms131216346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 184] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2012] [Revised: 11/08/2012] [Accepted: 11/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is a significant public health problem in more than 100 countries and causes an estimated 200 million new infections every year. Despite the significant effort to eradicate this dangerous disease, lack of complete knowledge of its physiopathology compromises the success in this enterprise. In this paper we review oxidative stress mechanisms involved in the disease and discuss the potential benefits of antioxidant supplementation as an adjuvant antimalarial strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Percário
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para (LAPEO/ICB/UFPA) Av. Augusto Correa, 1, Guama, Belem, Para 66075-110, Brazil; E-Mails: (D.R.M.); (B.A.Q.G.); (M.E.S.F.); (A.C.M.G.); (P.S.O.C.L.); (T.C.V.)
| | - Danilo R. Moreira
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para (LAPEO/ICB/UFPA) Av. Augusto Correa, 1, Guama, Belem, Para 66075-110, Brazil; E-Mails: (D.R.M.); (B.A.Q.G.); (M.E.S.F.); (A.C.M.G.); (P.S.O.C.L.); (T.C.V.)
| | - Bruno A. Q. Gomes
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para (LAPEO/ICB/UFPA) Av. Augusto Correa, 1, Guama, Belem, Para 66075-110, Brazil; E-Mails: (D.R.M.); (B.A.Q.G.); (M.E.S.F.); (A.C.M.G.); (P.S.O.C.L.); (T.C.V.)
| | - Michelli E. S. Ferreira
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para (LAPEO/ICB/UFPA) Av. Augusto Correa, 1, Guama, Belem, Para 66075-110, Brazil; E-Mails: (D.R.M.); (B.A.Q.G.); (M.E.S.F.); (A.C.M.G.); (P.S.O.C.L.); (T.C.V.)
| | - Ana Carolina M. Gonçalves
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para (LAPEO/ICB/UFPA) Av. Augusto Correa, 1, Guama, Belem, Para 66075-110, Brazil; E-Mails: (D.R.M.); (B.A.Q.G.); (M.E.S.F.); (A.C.M.G.); (P.S.O.C.L.); (T.C.V.)
| | - Paula S. O. C. Laurindo
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para (LAPEO/ICB/UFPA) Av. Augusto Correa, 1, Guama, Belem, Para 66075-110, Brazil; E-Mails: (D.R.M.); (B.A.Q.G.); (M.E.S.F.); (A.C.M.G.); (P.S.O.C.L.); (T.C.V.)
| | - Thyago C. Vilhena
- Oxidative Stress Research Laboratory, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Para (LAPEO/ICB/UFPA) Av. Augusto Correa, 1, Guama, Belem, Para 66075-110, Brazil; E-Mails: (D.R.M.); (B.A.Q.G.); (M.E.S.F.); (A.C.M.G.); (P.S.O.C.L.); (T.C.V.)
| | - Maria F. Dolabela
- Pharmacy Faculty, Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Para. Av. Augusto Correa, 1, Guama, Belem, Para 66075-110, Brazil; E-Mail:
| | - Michael D. Green
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road NE, mailstop G49, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA; E-Mail:
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Deshmukh R, Trivedi V. Methemoglobin exposure produces toxicological effects in macrophages due to multiple ROS spike induced apoptosis. Toxicol In Vitro 2012; 27:16-23. [PMID: 23041250 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2012.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2012] [Revised: 08/28/2012] [Accepted: 09/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Macrophages are an integral part of the immune system, required to produce a robust immune response against an infectious organism. Presence of methemoglobin in body fluids such as blood, cerebrospinal fluid and urine is associated with tissue damage. We tested cytotoxic effects of MetHb and underlying molecular events in mouse macrophage cell line J774A.1. MetHb exposure dose dependently reduced macrophage viability in an MTT assay. Light microscopy and scanning electron microscopic (SEM) observation of MetHb treated macrophage indicated death (less number of cells per field), severe damage to membrane structure and accumulation of particulate matter in the cytosol. The macrophage death during MetHb exposure was due to induction of apoptosis as indicated by annexin-V/FITC staining and DNA fragmentation analysis. MetHb treatment generated a periodic ROS spikes with time in the macrophage cytosol to develop oxidative stress. Scavenging ROS spikes with NAC, mannitol or PBN dose dependently protected macrophages against MetHb induced toxicity, apoptosis and cellular membrane damage. Our work highlighted the contributions of MetHb mediated toxicity toward macrophage and its potential role in tissue damage and immune depression during malaria and other hemolytic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohitas Deshmukh
- Malaria Research Group, Department of Biotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati, Assam 781039, India
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19
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Sharma L, Kaur J, Rishi P, Shukla G. Plasmodium berghei: influence of infection on the oxidant and antioxidants levels in pregnant BALB/c mice. Exp Parasitol 2012; 131:215-22. [PMID: 22542801 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2012.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2011] [Revised: 03/27/2012] [Accepted: 04/09/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Malarial infection during pregnancy has been associated with maternal anemia and death, abortion, still-birth and is a major cause of low birth weight, an important risk factor for infant morbidity and mortality in endemic areas. The present study was designed to delineate the oxidative stress in various organs (liver, spleen, kidney, brain and placenta) of pregnant Plasmodium berghei infected BALB/c mice. It was observed that pregnant-infected mice had higher parasitaemia than nonpregnant-infected mice. Most notably, levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), a measure of lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were significantly higher in the liver, spleen, kidney and brain of pregnant-infected mice compared with pregnant mice. Although MDA levels were significantly higher, GSH and SOD levels remained unaltered in the placenta of pregnant-infected mice compared with pregnant mice. Furthermore, catalase activity was significantly lower in all the organs of pregnant-infected mice compared with pregnant mice. Histopathological observations in the organs clearly show the cellular and morphological alterations that may be occurring due to increased lipid peroxidation. Taken together, the data suggest that the increased severity of malarial infection during pregnancy may be due to accentuated oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lalita Sharma
- Department of Microbiology, Panjab University, Chandigarh 160014, India
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20
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Santiago HC, Gonzalez Lombana CZ, Macedo JP, Utsch L, Tafuri WL, Campagnole-Santos MJ, Alves RO, Alves-Filho JCF, Romanha AJ, Cunha FQ, Teixeira MM, Radi R, Vieira LQ. NADPH phagocyte oxidase knockout mice control Trypanosoma cruzi proliferation, but develop circulatory collapse and succumb to infection. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1492. [PMID: 22348160 PMCID: PMC3279332 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2010] [Accepted: 12/09/2011] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
(•)NO is considered to be a key macrophage-derived cytotoxic effector during Trypanosoma cruzi infection. On the other hand, the microbicidal properties of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are well recognized, but little importance has been attributed to them during in vivo infection with T. cruzi. In order to investigate the role of ROS in T. cruzi infection, mice deficient in NADPH phagocyte oxidase (gp91(phox) (-/-) or phox KO) were infected with Y strain of T. cruzi and the course of infection was followed. phox KO mice had similar parasitemia, similar tissue parasitism and similar levels of IFN-γ and TNF in serum and spleen cell culture supernatants, when compared to wild-type controls. However, all phox KO mice succumbed to infection between day 15 and 21 after inoculation with the parasite, while 60% of wild-type mice were alive 50 days after infection. Further investigation demonstrated increased serum levels of nitrite and nitrate (NOx) at day 15 of infection in phox KO animals, associated with a drop in blood pressure. Treatment with a NOS2 inhibitor corrected the blood pressure, implicating NOS2 in this phenomenon. We postulate that superoxide reacts with (•)NO in vivo, preventing blood pressure drops in wild type mice. Hence, whilst superoxide from phagocytes did not play a critical role in parasite control in the phox KO animals, its production would have an important protective effect against blood pressure decline during infection with T. cruzi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helton C. Santiago
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Claudia Z. Gonzalez Lombana
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Juan P. Macedo
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lara Utsch
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Wagner L. Tafuri
- Departamento de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Maria José Campagnole-Santos
- Departamento de Fisiologia e Biofísica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rosana O. Alves
- Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, Fiocruz, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José C. F. Alves-Filho
- Departmento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Alvaro J. Romanha
- Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, Fiocruz, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Fernando Queiroz Cunha
- Departmento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, Brazil
| | - Mauro M. Teixeira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rafael Radi
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
- Center for Free Radical and Biomedical Research, Universidad de la República, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Leda Q. Vieira
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Núcleo de Pesquisas em Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Christe P, Glaizot O, Strepparava N, Devevey G, Fumagalli L. Twofold cost of reproduction: an increase in parental effort leads to higher malarial parasitaemia and to a decrease in resistance to oxidative stress. Proc Biol Sci 2011; 279:1142-9. [PMID: 21920974 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2011.1546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Parental effort is usually associated with high metabolism that could lead to an increase in the production of reactive oxidative species giving rise to oxidative stress. Since many antioxidants involved in the resistance to oxidative stress can also enhance immune function, an increase in parental effort may diminish the level of antioxidants otherwise involved in parasite resistance. In the present study, we performed brood size manipulation in a population of great tits (Parus major) to create different levels of parental effort. We measured resistance to oxidative stress and used a newly developed quantitative PCR assay to quantify malarial parasitaemia. We found that males with an enlarged brood had significantly higher level of malarial parasites and lower red blood cell resistance to free radicals than males rearing control and reduced broods. Brood size manipulation did not affect female parasitaemia, although females with an enlarged brood had lower red blood cell resistance than females with control and reduced broods. However, for both sexes, there was no relationship between the level of parasitaemia and resistance to oxidative stress, suggesting a twofold cost of reproduction. Our results thus suggest the presence of two proximate and independent mechanisms for the well-documented trade-off between current reproductive effort and parental survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Christe
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Cabrales P, Zanini GM, Meays D, Frangos JA, Carvalho LJM. Nitric oxide protection against murine cerebral malaria is associated with improved cerebral microcirculatory physiology. J Infect Dis 2011; 203:1454-63. [PMID: 21415018 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jir058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral malaria (CM) is a leading cause of death in Plasmodium falciparum infections. In the Plasmodium berghei ANKA (PbA) murine model, CM pathogenesis is associated with low nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and brain microcirculatory complications, with a marked decrease in cerebral blood flow, vasoconstriction, vascular plugging by adherent cells, and hemorrhages. Using intravital microscopy through a closed cranial window, here we show that NO supplementation in the form of a NO donor (dipropylenetriamine NONOate [DPTA-NO]) prevented vasoconstriction and improved blood flow in pial vessels of PbA-infected mice. Arterioles and venules of smaller diameters (20-35.5 μm) showed better response to treatment than vessels of larger diameters (36-63 μm). Exogenous NO provided protection against brain hemorrhages (mean, 1.4 vs 24.5 hemorrhagic foci per section) and inflammation (mean, 2.5 vs 10.9 adherent leukocytes per 100 μm vessel length) compared with saline treatment. In conclusion, NO protection against CM is associated with improved brain microcirculatory hemodynamics and decreased vascular pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Cabrales
- La Jolla Bioengineering Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA
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Buchholz K, Putrianti ED, Rahlfs S, Schirmer RH, Becker K, Matuschewski K. Molecular genetics evidence for the in vivo roles of the two major NADPH-dependent disulfide reductases in the malaria parasite. J Biol Chem 2010; 285:37388-95. [PMID: 20852334 PMCID: PMC2988344 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.123323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2010] [Revised: 08/27/2010] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria-associated pathology is caused by the continuous expansion of Plasmodium parasites inside host erythrocytes. To maintain a reducing intracellular milieu in an oxygen-rich environment, malaria parasites have evolved a complex antioxidative network based on two central electron donors, glutathione and thioredoxin. Here, we dissected the in vivo roles of both redox pathways by gene targeting of the respective NADPH-dependent disulfide reductases. We show that Plasmodium berghei glutathione reductase and thioredoxin reductase are dispensable for proliferation of the pathogenic blood stages. Intriguingly, glutathione reductase is vital for extracellular parasite development inside the insect vector, whereas thioredoxin reductase is dispensable during the entire parasite life cycle. Our findings suggest that glutathione reductase is the central player of the parasite redox network, whereas thioredoxin reductase fulfils a specialized and dispensable role for P. berghei. These results also indicate redundant roles of the Plasmodium redox pathways during the pathogenic blood phase and query their suitability as promising drug targets for antimalarial intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Buchholz
- From the Interdisciplinary Research Centre, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen 35390, Germany
- the Biochemistry Centre, Ruprecht-Karls University, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
- the Department of Parasitology, Heidelberg University School of Medicine, Heidelberg 69120, Germany, and
| | - Elyzana D. Putrianti
- the Parasitology Unit, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin 10117, Germany
| | - Stefan Rahlfs
- From the Interdisciplinary Research Centre, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen 35390, Germany
| | - R. Heiner Schirmer
- the Biochemistry Centre, Ruprecht-Karls University, Heidelberg 69120, Germany
| | - Katja Becker
- From the Interdisciplinary Research Centre, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen 35390, Germany
| | - Kai Matuschewski
- the Parasitology Unit, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, Berlin 10117, Germany
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Cambos M, Scorza T. Robust erythrophagocytosis leads to macrophage apoptosis via a hemin-mediated redox imbalance: role in hemolytic disorders. J Leukoc Biol 2010; 89:159-71. [PMID: 20884648 DOI: 10.1189/jlb.0510249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
MP from the RES are responsible for the clearance of senescent RBC. Although the frequency of senescent RBC is low under steady-state conditions, it increases dramatically during hemolytic disorders, resulting in enhanced erythrophagocytosis. As erythrophagocytosis has been involved in MP dysfunction and as certain hemolytic disorders associate to MP apoptosis, a possible link between erythrophagocytosis and the viability of phagocytes was investigated herein. To mimic hemolytic disorders, two distinct in vitro models, artificially oxidized RBC and DSRBC, were chosen to study the erythrophagocytosis impact on the viability of J774A.1 MP. Although CRBC were weakly phagocytosed and did not affect MP viability significantly, erythrophagocytosis of oxidized RBC and DSRBC was robust and resulted in a sharp decrease of MP viability via apoptosis. Under these conditions, Hb-derived HE was shown to be involved in the induction of apoptosis. Moreover, oxidized RBC, DSRBC, and HE generated ROS species, which were responsible for the apoptosis of MP. Furthermore, HO-1, strongly induced in response to treatment with oxidized RBC, DSRBC, or HE, was shown to protect MP partially against apoptosis, suggesting that robust erythro-phagocytosis may exceed the detoxification capabilities of MP. Taken together, these results suggest that enhanced erythrophagocytosis associated to hemolytic disorders leads to MP apoptosis in vitro and may have critical implications for the control of malaria infection and for the exacerbated susceptibility to bacterial infections during hemolytic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathieu Cambos
- Department of Biological Sciences, Université du Québec à Montreal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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25
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De-Oliveira ACAX, Carvalho RS, Paixão FHM, Tavares HS, Gueiros LS, Siqueira CM, Paumgartten FJR. Up- and down-modulation of liver cytochrome P450 activities and associated events in two murine malaria models. Malar J 2010; 9:81. [PMID: 20307316 PMCID: PMC2858213 DOI: 10.1186/1475-2875-9-81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2009] [Accepted: 03/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The mechanisms by which malaria up and down-regulates CYP activities are not understood yet. It is also unclear whether CYP activities are modulated during non-lethal malaria infections. This study was undertaken to evaluate the time course of CYP alterations in lethal (Plasmodium berghei ANKA) and non-lethal (Plasmodium chabaudi chabaudi) murine malaria. Additionally, hypotheses on the association of CYP depression with enhanced nitric oxide (NO) production, and of CYP2a5 induction with endoplasmic reticulum dysfunction, enhanced haem metabolism and oxidative stress were examined as well. Methods Female DBA-2 and C57BL/6 mice were infected with P.berghei ANKA or P. chabaudi and killed at different post-infection days. Infection was monitored by parasitaemia rates and clinical signs. NO levels were measured in the serum. Activities of CYP1a (ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase), 2b (benzyloxyresorufin-O-debenzylase), 2a5 (coumarin-7-hydroxylase) and uridine-diphosphoglucuronyl-transferase (UGT) were determined in liver microsomes. Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity and concentrations of gluthatione (GSH) and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) were determined in the liver. Levels of glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78) were evaluated by immunoblotting, while mRNAs of haemoxygenase-1 (HO-1) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were determined by quantitative RT-PCR. Results Plasmodium berghei depressed CYP1a and 2b and induced 2a5 in DBA-2 mice. In P.berghei-infected C57BL/6 mice CYP activities remained unaltered. In both strains, GST and UGT were not affected by P.berghei. Plasmodium c. chabaudi depressed CYP1a and 2b and induced 2a5 activities on the day of peak parasitaemia or near this day. CYP2a5 induction was associated with over-expression of HO-1 and enhanced oxidative stress, but it was not associated with GRP78 induction, a marker of endoplasmic reticulum stress. Plasmodium chabaudi increased serum NO on days near the parasitaemia peak in both strains. Although not elevating serum NO, P.berghei enhanced iNOS mRNA expression in the liver. Conclusion Down-regulation of CYP1a and 2b and induction of 2a5 occurred in lethal and non-lethal infections when parasitaemia rates were high. A contribution of NO for depression of CYP2b cannot be ruled out. Results were consistent with the view that CYP2a5 and HO-1 are concurrently up-regulated and suggested that CYP2a5 induction may occur in the absence of enhanced endoplasmic reticulum stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Cecilia A X De-Oliveira
- Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Department of Biological Sciences, National School of Public Health, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
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26
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Blanco YC, Farias AS, Goelnitz U, Lopes SCP, Arrais-Silva WW, Carvalho BO, Amino R, Wunderlich G, Santos LMB, Giorgio S, Costa FTM. Hyperbaric oxygen prevents early death caused by experimental cerebral malaria. PLoS One 2008; 3:e3126. [PMID: 18769544 PMCID: PMC2518956 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0003126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2007] [Accepted: 08/14/2008] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Cerebral malaria (CM) is a syndrome characterized by neurological signs, seizures and coma. Despite the fact that CM presents similarities with cerebral stroke, few studies have focused on new supportive therapies for the disease. Hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy has been successfully used in patients with numerous brain disorders such as stroke, migraine and atherosclerosis. Methodology/Principal Findings C57BL/6 mice infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA (PbA) were exposed to daily doses of HBO (100% O2, 3.0 ATA, 1–2 h per day) in conditions well-tolerated by humans and animals, before or after parasite establishment. Cumulative survival analyses demonstrated that HBO therapy protected 50% of PbA-infected mice and delayed CM-specific neurological signs when administrated after patent parasitemia. Pressurized oxygen therapy reduced peripheral parasitemia, expression of TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-10 mRNA levels and percentage of γδ and αβ CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes sequestered in mice brains, thus resulting in a reduction of blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction and hypothermia. Conclusions/Significance The data presented here is the first indication that HBO treatment could be used as supportive therapy, perhaps in association with neuroprotective drugs, to prevent CM clinical outcomes, including death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yara C. Blanco
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, State University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Parasitology, UNICAMP, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alessandro S. Farias
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, State University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Uta Goelnitz
- Department of Parasitology – ICB, University of São Paulo – USP, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Stefanie C. P. Lopes
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, State University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Parasitology, UNICAMP, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Wagner W. Arrais-Silva
- Department of Parasitology, UNICAMP, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruna O. Carvalho
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, State University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Parasitology, UNICAMP, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rogério Amino
- Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of São Paulo – UNIFESP, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Gerhard Wunderlich
- Department of Parasitology – ICB, University of São Paulo – USP, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Leonilda M. B. Santos
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, State University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Selma Giorgio
- Department of Parasitology, UNICAMP, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Fabio T. M. Costa
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, State University of Campinas – UNICAMP, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Parasitology, UNICAMP, State University of Campinas, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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27
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Vonlaufen N, Kanzok SM, Wek RC, Sullivan WJ. Stress response pathways in protozoan parasites. Cell Microbiol 2008; 10:2387-99. [PMID: 18647172 DOI: 10.1111/j.1462-5822.2008.01210.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Diseases caused by protozoan parasites have a dramatic impact on world health. Emerging drug resistance and a general lack of experimental understanding has created a void in the medicine cabinet used to treat these widespread infections. A novel therapeutic idea that is receiving more attention is centred on targeting the microbe's response to the multitude of environmental stresses it encounters. Protozoan pathogens have complex life cycles, often having to transition from one host to another, or survive in a cyst form in the environment until a new host arrives. The need to respond to environmental cues and stress, and endure in less than optimal conditions, is paramount to their viability and successful progression through their life cycle. This review summarizes the research on parasitic stress responses for Apicomplexa, kinetoplastids and anaerobic protozoa, with an eye towards how these processes may be exploited therapeutically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Vonlaufen
- Departments of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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28
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Buchholz K, Rahlfs S, Schirmer RH, Becker K, Matuschewski K. Depletion of Plasmodium berghei plasmoredoxin reveals a non-essential role for life cycle progression of the malaria parasite. PLoS One 2008; 3:e2474. [PMID: 18575607 PMCID: PMC2429964 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0002474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2008] [Accepted: 04/30/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Proliferation of the pathogenic Plasmodium asexual blood stages in host erythrocytes requires an exquisite capacity to protect the malaria parasite against oxidative stress. This function is achieved by a complex antioxidant defence system composed of redox-active proteins and low MW antioxidants. Here, we disrupted the P. berghei plasmoredoxin gene that encodes a parasite-specific 22 kDa member of the thioredoxin superfamily. The successful generation of plasmoredoxin knockout mutants in the rodent model malaria parasite and phenotypic analysis during life cycle progression revealed a non-vital role in vivo. Our findings suggest that plasmoredoxin fulfils a specialized and dispensable role for Plasmodium and highlights the need for target validation to inform drug development strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin Buchholz
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Biochemistry Centre, Ruprecht-Karls University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefan Rahlfs
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Katja Becker
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- * E-mail: (KB); (KM)
| | - Kai Matuschewski
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- * E-mail: (KB); (KM)
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29
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Hogg T, Nagarajan K, Herzberg S, Chen L, Shen X, Jiang H, Wecke M, Blohmke C, Hilgenfeld R, Schmidt CL. Structural and functional characterization of Falcipain-2, a hemoglobinase from the malarial parasite Plasmodium falciparum. J Biol Chem 2006; 281:25425-37. [PMID: 16777845 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m603776200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Malaria is caused by protozoan erythrocytic parasites of the Plasmodium genus, with Plasmodium falciparum being the most dangerous and widespread disease-causing species. Falcipain-2 (FP-2) of P. falciparum is a papain-family (C1A) cysteine protease that plays an important role in the parasite life cycle by degrading erythrocyte proteins, most notably hemoglobin. Inhibition of FP-2 and its paralogues prevents parasite maturation, suggesting these proteins may be valuable targets for the design of novel antimalarial drugs, but lack of structural knowledge has impeded progress toward the rational discovery of potent, selective, and efficacious inhibitors. As a first step toward this goal, we present here the crystal structure of mature FP-2 at 3.1 A resolution, revealing novel structural features of the FP-2 subfamily proteases including a dynamic beta-hairpin hemoglobin binding motif, a flexible N-terminal alpha-helical extension, and a unique active-site cleft. We also demonstrate by biochemical methods that mature FP-2 can proteolytically process its own precursor in trans at neutral to weakly alkaline pH, that the binding of hemoglobin to FP-2 is strictly pH-dependent, and that FP-2 preferentially binds methemoglobin over hemoglobin. Because the specificity and proteolytic activity of FP-2 toward its multiple targets appears to be pH-dependent, we suggest that environmental pH may play an important role in orchestrating FP-2 function over the different life stages of the parasite. Moreover, it appears that selectivity of FP-2 for methemoglobin may represent an evolutionary adaptation to oxidative stress conditions within the host cell.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanis Hogg
- Institute of Biochemistry, Center for Structural and Cell Biology in Medicine, University of Lübeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, 23538 Lübeck, Germany
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30
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Heussler V, Sturm A, Langsley G. Regulation of host cell survival by intracellular Plasmodium and Theileria parasites. Parasitology 2006; 132 Suppl:S49-60. [PMID: 17018165 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182006000850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Plasmodium and Theileria parasites are obligate intracellular protozoa of the phylum Apicomplexa. Theileria infection of bovine leukocytes induces transformation of host cells and infected leukocytes can be kept indefinitely in culture. Theileria-dependent host cell transformation has been the subject of interest for many years and the molecular basis of this unique phenomenon is quite well understood. The equivalent life cycle stage of Plasmodium is the infection of mammalian hepatocytes, where parasites reside for 2-7 days depending on the species. Some of the molecular details of parasite-host interactions in P. berghei-infected hepatocytes have emerged only very recently. Similar to what has been shown for Theileria-infected leukocytes these data suggest that malaria parasites within hepatocytes also protect their host cell from programmed cell death. However, the strategies employed to inhibit host cell apoptotic pathways appear to be different to those used by Theileria. This review discusses similarities and differences at the molecular level of Plasmodium- and Theileria-induced regulation of the host cell survival machinery.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Heussler
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Bernhard-Nocht-Str. 74, 20359 Hamburg, Germany.
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