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Kochanowsky JA, Mira PM, Elikaee S, Muratore K, Rai AK, Riestra AM, Johnson PJ. Trichomonas vaginalis extracellular vesicles up-regulate and directly transfer adherence factors promoting host cell colonization. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2401159121. [PMID: 38865261 PMCID: PMC11194581 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2401159121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis, a common sexually transmitted parasite that colonizes the human urogenital tract, secretes extracellular vesicles (TvEVs) that are taken up by human cells and are speculated to be taken up by parasites as well. While the crosstalk between TvEVs and human cells has led to insight into host:parasite interactions, roles for TvEVs in infection have largely been one-sided, with little known about the effect of TvEV uptake by T. vaginalis. Approximately 11% of infections are found to be coinfections of multiple T. vaginalis strains. Clinical isolates often differ in their adherence to and cytolysis of host cells, underscoring the importance of understanding the effects of TvEV uptake within the parasite population. To address this question, our lab tested the ability of a less adherent strain of T. vaginalis, G3, to take up fluorescently labeled TvEVs derived from both itself (G3-EVs) and TvEVs from a more adherent strain of the parasite (B7RC2-EVs). Here, we showed that TvEVs generated from the more adherent strain are internalized more efficiently compared to the less adherent strain. Additionally, preincubation of G3 parasites with B7RC2-EVs increases parasite aggregation and adherence to host cells. Transcriptomics revealed that TvEVs up-regulate expression of predicted parasite membrane proteins and identified an adherence factor, heteropolysaccharide binding protein (HPB2). Finally, using comparative proteomics and superresolution microscopy, we demonstrated direct transfer of an adherence factor, cadherin-like protein, from TvEVs to the recipient parasite's surface. This work identifies TvEVs as a mediator of parasite:parasite communication that may impact pathogenesis during mixed infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua A. Kochanowsky
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Portia M. Mira
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Samira Elikaee
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Katherine Muratore
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Anand Kumar Rai
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
| | - Angelica M. Riestra
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
- Department of Biology, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA92182
| | - Patricia J. Johnson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA90095
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2
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Ortiz SFDN, Verdan R, Fortes FDSDA, Benchimol M. Trichomonas vaginalis: Monolayer and Cluster Formation-Ultrastructural Aspects Using High-Resolution Scanning Electron Microscopy. Pathogens 2023; 12:1381. [PMID: 38133266 PMCID: PMC10747464 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12121381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is an extracellular protozoan parasite that causes human trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects approximately 270 million people worldwide. The phenomenon of T. vaginalis adhesion to inert substrates has been described in several reports. Still, very few studies on cluster formation have been conducted, and more detailed analyses of the contact regions between the parasites' membranes in these aggregate formations have not been carried out. The present study aims to show that T. vaginalis forms a tight monolayer, similar to an epithelium, with parasites firmly adhered to the culture flask bottom by interdigitations and in the absence of host cells. In addition, we analyzed and compared the formation of the clusters, focusing on parasite aggregates that float in the culture flasks. We employed various imaging techniques, including high-resolution scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, cytochemistry, TEM tomography, and dye injection. We analyzed whether the monolayer behaves as an epithelium, analyzing cell junctions, cell communication, and ultrastructural aspects, and concluded that monolayer formation differs from cluster formation in many aspects. The monolayers form strong adhesion, whereas the clusters have fragile attachments. We did not find fusion or the passage of molecules between neighbor-attached cells; there is no need for different strains to form filopodia, cytonemes, and extracellular vesicles during cluster and monolayer formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharmila Fiama das Neves Ortiz
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Centro de Pesquisa em Medicina de Precisão, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil; (S.F.d.N.O.); (R.V.)
| | - Raphael Verdan
- Laboratório de Ultraestrutura Celular Hertha Meyer, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Centro de Pesquisa em Medicina de Precisão, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil; (S.F.d.N.O.); (R.V.)
| | - Fabio da Silva de Azevedo Fortes
- BIOTRANS-CAXIAS Campus, Universidade do Grande Rio, UNIGRANRIO, Rio de Janeiro 96200-000, Brazil;
- Laboratório de Terapia e Fisiologia Celular e Molecular, Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências Biológicas e Saúde, Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 23070-200, Brazil
| | - Marlene Benchimol
- BIOTRANS-CAXIAS Campus, Universidade do Grande Rio, UNIGRANRIO, Rio de Janeiro 96200-000, Brazil;
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagens e Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagens, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-901, Brazil
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Zhang Z, Song X, Deng Y, Li Y, Li F, Sheng W, Tian X, Yang Z, Mei X, Wang S. Trichomonas vaginalis adhesion protein 65 (TvAP65) modulates parasite pathogenicity by interacting with host cell proteins. Acta Trop 2023; 246:106996. [PMID: 37536435 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis) is a widespread and important sexually transmitted pathogen. Adherence to the surface of the host cell is the precondition forthis parasite's parasitism and pathogenicity. Adhesion protein 65 (TvAP65) plays a key role in the process of adhesion. However, how TvAP65 mediates the adhesion and pathogenicity of T. vaginalis to host cellsis unclear. In this study, we knocked down the expression of TvAP65 in trophozoites by small RNA interference. The number of T. vaginalis trophozoites adhering to VK2/E6E7 cells was decreased significantly, and the inhibition of VK2/E6E7 cells proliferation and VK2/E6E7 cells apoptosis and death induced by T. vaginalis were reduced, after the expression of TvAP65 was knocked down. Animal challenge experiments showed that the pathogenicity of trophozoites was decreased by passive immunization with anti-rTvAP65 PcAbs or blocking the TvAP65 protein. Immunofluorescence analysis showed that TvAP65 could bind to VK2/E6E7 cells. In order to screen the molecules interacting with TvAP65 on the host cells, we successfully constructed the cDNA library of VK2/E6E7 cells, and thirteen protein molecules interacting with TvAP65 were screened by yeast two-hybrid system. The interaction between TvAP65 and BNIP3 was further confirmed by coimmunoprecipitation and colocalization. When both TvAP65 and BNIP3 were knocked down by small RNA interference, the number of T. vaginalis adhering to VK2/E6E7 cells and the inhibition of VK2/E6E7 cells proliferation were significantly lower than those of the group with knockdown of TvAP65 or BNIP3 alone. Therefore, the interaction of TvAP65 and BNIP3 in the pathogenesis of T. vaginalis infecting host cells is not unique and involves other molecules. Our study elucidated that the interaction between TvAP65 and BNIP3 mediated the adhesion and pathogenicity of T. vaginalis to host cells, provided a basis for searching for the drug targets of anti-T. vaginalis, and afforded new ideas for the prevention and treatment of trichomoniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenchao Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China
| | - Xiaoxiao Song
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China
| | - Yangyang Deng
- The Third Affiliated Hospital Of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China
| | - Yuhua Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China
| | - Fakun Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China
| | - Wanxin Sheng
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China
| | - Xiaowei Tian
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China
| | - Zhenke Yang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China
| | - Xuefang Mei
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China.
| | - Shuai Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China; Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, PR China.
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Wang KH, Chang JY, Li FA, Wu KY, Hsu SH, Chen YJ, Chu TL, Lin J, Hsu HM. An Atypical F-Actin Capping Protein Modulates Cytoskeleton Behaviors Crucial for Trichomonas vaginalis Colonization. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0059623. [PMID: 37310229 PMCID: PMC10434240 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00596-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cytoadherence and migration are crucial for pathogens to establish colonization in the host. In contrast to a nonadherent isolate of Trichomonas vaginalis, an adherent one expresses more actin-related machinery proteins with more active flagellate-amoeboid morphogenesis, amoeba migration, and cytoadherence, activities that were abrogated by an actin assembly blocker. By immunoprecipitation coupled with label-free quantitative proteomics, an F-actin capping protein (T. vaginalis F-actin capping protein subunit α [TvFACPα]) was identified from the actin-centric interactome. His-TvFACPα was detected at the barbed end of a growing F-actin filament, which inhibited elongation and possessed atypical activity in binding G-actin in in vitro assays. TvFACPα partially colocalized with F-actin at the parasite pseudopod protrusion and formed a protein complex with α-actin through its C-terminal domain. Meanwhile, TvFACPα overexpression suppressed F-actin polymerization, amoeboid morphogenesis, and cytoadherence in this parasite. Ser2 phosphorylation of TvFACPα enriched in the amoeboid stage of adhered trophozoites was reduced by a casein kinase II (CKII) inhibitor. Site-directed mutagenesis and CKII inhibitor treatment revealed that Ser2 phosphorylation acts as a switching signal to alter TvFACPα actin-binding activity and the consequent actin cytoskeleton behaviors. Through CKII signaling, TvFACPα also controls the conversion of adherent trophozoites from amoeboid migration to the flagellate form with axonemal motility. Together, CKII-dependent Ser2 phosphorylation regulates TvFACPα binding to actin to fine-tune cytoskeleton dynamics and drive crucial behaviors underlying host colonization by T. vaginalis. IMPORTANCE Trichomoniasis is one of the most prevalent nonviral sexually transmitted diseases. T. vaginalis cytoadherence to urogenital epithelium cells is the first step in the colonization of the host. However, studies on the mechanisms of cytoadherence have focused mainly on the role of adhesion molecules, and their effects are limited when analyzed by loss- or gain-of-function assays. This study proposes an extra pathway in which the actin cytoskeleton mediated by a capping protein α-subunit may play roles in parasite morphogenesis, cytoadherence, and motility, which are crucial for colonization. Once the origin of the cytoskeleton dynamics could be manipulated, the consequent activities would be controlled as well. This mechanism may provide new potential therapeutic targets to impair this parasite infection and relieve the increasing impact of drug resistance on clinical and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai-Hsuan Wang
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jing-Yang Chang
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Fu-An Li
- The Proteomic Core, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Academia Sinica, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Yi Wu
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Hao Hsu
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Ju Chen
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | - Jessica Lin
- Taipei First Girls High School, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hong-Ming Hsu
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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5
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Zhang Z, Deng Y, Sheng W, Song X, Li Y, Li F, Pan Y, Tian X, Yang Z, Wang S, Wang M, Mei X. The interaction between adhesion protein 33 (TvAP33) and BNIP3 mediates the adhesion and pathogenicity of Trichomonas vaginalis to host cells. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:210. [PMID: 37344876 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05798-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trichomonas vaginalis is a widespread and important sexually transmitted pathogen. Adherence to the surface of the host cell is the precondition for the parasitism and pathogenicity of this parasite. Trichomonas vaginalis adhesion protein 33 (TvAP33) plays a key role in the process of adhesion, but how this protein mediates the adhesion and pathogenicity of T. vaginalis to host cells is unclear. METHODS The expression of TvAP33 in trophozoites was knocked down by small interfering RNA. VK2/E6E7 cells and mice infected with T. vaginalis were used to evaluate the pathogenicity of T. vaginalis. We constructed a complementary DNA library of VK2/E6E7 cells and screened the protein molecules interacting with TvAP33 by the yeast two-hybrid system. The interaction between TvAP33 and BNIP3 (Bcl-2 interacting protein 3) was analyzed by co-immunoprecipitation and colocalization. RESULTS Following knockdown of TvAP33 expression, the number of T. vaginalis trophozoites adhering to VK2/E6E7 cells decreased significantly, and the inhibition of VK2/E6E7 cell proliferation and VK2/E6E7 cell apoptosis and death induced by T. vaginalis were reduced. Animal challenge experiments showed that the pathogenicity of trophozoites decreased following passive immunization with TvAP33 antiserum or blocking of the TvAP33 protein. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed that TvAP33 could bind to VK2/E6E7 cells. Eighteen protein molecules interacting with TvAP33 were identified by the yeast two-hybrid system. The interaction between TvAP33 and BNIP3 was further confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation and colocalization. When the expression of both TvAP33 and BNIP3 in trophozoites was knocked down by small RNA interference, the number of T. vaginalis adhering to VK2/E6E7 cells and the inhibition of VK2/E6E7 cell proliferation were significantly lower compared to trophozoites with only knockdown of TvAP33 or only BNIP3. Therefore, the interaction of TvAP33 and BNIP3 in the pathogenesis of T. vaginalis infecting host cells is not unique and involves other molecules. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed that the interaction between TvAP33 and BNIP3 mediated the adhesion and pathogenicity of T. vaginalis to host cells, providing a basis for searching for drug targets for T. vaginalis as well as new ideas for the prevention and treatment of trichomoniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenchao Zhang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yangyang Deng
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Wanxin Sheng
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao Song
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuhua Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Fakun Li
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Ying Pan
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaowei Tian
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenke Yang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingyong Wang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Immunoregulation and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Laboratory Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
- School of Medical Technology, Shangqiu Medical College, Shangqiu, 476100, China.
| | - Xuefang Mei
- Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China.
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, 453003, Henan, People's Republic of China.
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Salas N, Coceres VM, Melo TDS, Pereira-Neves A, Maguire VG, Rodriguez TM, Sabatke B, Ramirez MI, Sha J, Wohlschlegel JA, de Miguel N. VPS32, a member of the ESCRT complex, modulates adherence to host cells in the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis by affecting biogenesis and cargo sorting of released extracellular vesicles. Cell Mol Life Sci 2021; 79:11. [PMID: 34951683 PMCID: PMC11073171 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-021-04083-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is a common sexually transmitted extracellular parasite that adheres to epithelial cells in the human urogenital tract. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been described as important players in the pathogenesis of this parasite as they deliver proteins and RNA into host cells and modulate parasite adherence. EVs are heterogeneous membrane vesicles released from virtually all cell types that collectively represent a new dimension of intercellular communication. The Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport (ESCRT) machinery contributes to several key mechanisms in which it reshapes membranes. Based on this, some components of the ESCRT have been implicated in EVs biogenesis in other cells. Here, we demonstrated that VPS32, a member of ESCRTIII complex, contribute to the biogenesis and cargo sorting of extracellular vesicles in the parasite T. vaginalis. Moreover, we observe that parasites overexpressing VPS32 have a striking increase in adherence to host cells compared to control parasites; demonstrating a key role for this protein in mediating host: parasite interactions. These results provide valuable information on the molecular mechanisms involved in extracellular vesicles biogenesis, cargo-sorting, and parasite pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nehuén Salas
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Intendente Marino Km 8.2, B7130IWA, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Veronica M Coceres
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Intendente Marino Km 8.2, B7130IWA, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tuanne Dos Santos Melo
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Antonio Pereira-Neves
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Fiocruz, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Vanina G Maguire
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Intendente Marino Km 8.2, B7130IWA, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Tania M Rodriguez
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Intendente Marino Km 8.2, B7130IWA, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Bruna Sabatke
- Laboratorio de Biologia Molecular e Sistémica de Tripanossomatideos, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fiocruz Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Marcel I Ramirez
- Laboratorio de Biologia Molecular e Sistémica de Tripanossomatideos, Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fiocruz Curitiba, Parana, Brazil
| | - Jihui Sha
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1489, USA
| | - James A Wohlschlegel
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095-1489, USA
| | - Natalia de Miguel
- Laboratorio de Parásitos Anaerobios, Instituto Tecnológico Chascomús (INTECH), CONICET-UNSAM, Intendente Marino Km 8.2, B7130IWA, Chascomús, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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7
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Zhao N, Ming S, Sun L, Wang B, Li H, Zhang X, Zhao X. Identification and Characterization of Eimeria tenella Microneme Protein (EtMIC8). Microbiol Spectr 2021; 9:e0022821. [PMID: 34479414 PMCID: PMC8562341 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00228-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Microneme proteins (MICs) of Eimeria tenella play key roles in motility, migration, attachment, and invasion processes. More than 20 apicomplexan parasite's MICs have been identified, with nine Eimeria MICs being reported. In this study, a novel E. tenella MIC was identified, and its gene structural features, developmental expression levels, localization, role in adhesion and invasion, and immunogenicity were studied. The results showed that the open reading frame was 1,650 bp, encoding 550 amino acids. It contains a signal sequence, a transmembrane region, four low-complexity boxes, and five epidermal growth factor-like domains (EGF). Subcellular localization revealed its distribution on the membrane surface of the parasite. These characteristics are consistent with the common features of MICs and are named EtMIC8. Anti-EtMIC8 antibodies recognized a specific binding of about 100 kDa in E. tenella, which was twice as large as the prokaryotic expression (about 50 kDa), suggesting that MIC8 may exist naturally as a dimer. EtMIC8 was expressed at higher levels in sporozoites (3.08-fold) and merozoites (2.1-fold) than in sporulated oocysts. The attachment assays using a yeast surface display of MIC8 and its different domains showed that the adherence rates of EtMIC8 to host cells were significantly higher than those of the control (3.17-fold), which was the full contribution of EGF, but neither was alone. Anti-EtMIC8 antibodies significantly reduced the invasion rate of sporozoites into host cells compared to those of the control (P < 0.01). Recombinant EtMIC8-EGF peptides could provide moderate protective efficacy (anticoccidial index [ACI]: 169.7), induce humoral responses, and upregulate CD3+CD8+ lymphocyte cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ningning Zhao
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian City, Shandong Province, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Shuzhen Ming
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Lingyu Sun
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Bingxiang Wang
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Hongmei Li
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiao Zhang
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian City, Shandong Province, China
| | - Xiaomin Zhao
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian City, Shandong Province, China
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Biotechnology and Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian City, Shandong Province, China
- Shandong Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center of Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian City, Shandong Province, China
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8
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Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is an anaerobic/microaerophilic protist parasite which causes trichomoniasis, one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted diseases worldwide. T. vaginalis not only is important as a human pathogen but also is of great biological interest because of its peculiar cell biology and metabolism, in earlier times fostering the erroneous notion that this microorganism is at the root of eukaryotic evolution. This review summarizes the major advances in the last five years in the T. vaginalis field with regard to genetics, molecular biology, ecology, and pathogenicity of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Leitsch
- Department of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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9
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Molgora BM, Rai AK, Sweredoski MJ, Moradian A, Hess S, Johnson PJ. A Novel Trichomonas vaginalis Surface Protein Modulates Parasite Attachment via Protein:Host Cell Proteoglycan Interaction. mBio 2021; 12:e03374-20. [PMID: 33563826 PMCID: PMC7885099 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03374-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis is a highly prevalent, sexually transmitted parasite which adheres to mucosal epithelial cells to colonize the human urogenital tract. Despite adherence being crucial for this extracellular parasite to thrive within the host, relatively little is known about the mechanisms or key molecules involved in this process. Here, we have identified and characterized a T. vaginalis hypothetical protein, TVAG_157210 (TvAD1), as a surface protein that plays an integral role in parasite adherence to the host. Quantitative proteomics revealed TvAD1 to be ∼4-fold more abundant in parasites selected for increased adherence (MA parasites) than the isogenic parental (P) parasite line. De novo modeling suggested that TvAD1 binds N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc), a sugar comprising host glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Adherence assays utilizing GAG-deficient cell lines determined that host GAGs, primarily heparan sulfate (HS), mediate adherence of MA parasites to host cells. TvAD1 knockout (KO) parasites, generated using CRISPR-Cas9, were found to be significantly reduced in host cell adherence, a phenotype that is rescued by overexpression of TvAD1 in KO parasites. In contrast, there was no significant difference in parasite adherence to GAG-deficient lines by KO parasites compared with wild-type, which is contrary to that observed for KO parasites overexpressing TvAD1. Isothermal titration calorimetric (ITC) analysis showed that TvAD1 binds to HS, indicating that TvAD1 mediates host cell adherence via HS interaction. In addition to characterizing the role of TvAD1 in parasite adherence, these studies reveal a role for host GAG molecules in T. vaginalis adherence.IMPORTANCE The ability of the sexually transmitted parasite Trichomonas vaginalis to adhere to its human host is critical for establishing and maintaining an infection. Yet how parasites adhere to host cells is poorly understood. In this study, we employed a novel adherence selection method to identify proteins involved in parasite adherence to the host. This method led to the identification of a protein, with no previously known function, that is more abundant in parasites with increased capacity to bind host cells. Bioinformatic modeling and biochemical analyses revealed that this protein binds a common component on the host cell surface proteoglycans. Subsequent creation of parasites that lack this protein directly demonstrated that the protein mediates parasite adherence via an interaction with host cell proteoglycans. These findings both demonstrate a role for this protein in T. vaginalis adherence to the host and shed light on host cell molecules that participate in parasite colonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda M Molgora
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Anand Kumar Rai
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Michael J Sweredoski
- Proteome Exploration Laboratory, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Beckman Institute, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Annie Moradian
- Proteome Exploration Laboratory, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Beckman Institute, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Sonja Hess
- Proteome Exploration Laboratory, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Beckman Institute, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Patricia J Johnson
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, & Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
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10
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Adherence of Trichomonas vaginalis to SiHa Cells is Inhibited by Diphenyleneiodonium. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8101570. [PMID: 33066000 PMCID: PMC7600062 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8101570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Microbial adhesion is critical for parasitic infection and colonization of host cells. To study the host–parasite interaction in vitro, we established a flow cytometry-based assay to measure the adherence of Trichomonas vaginalis to epithelial cell line SiHa. SiHa cells and T. vaginalis were detected as clearly separated, quantifiable populations by flow cytometry. We found that T. vaginalis attached to SiHa cells as early as 30 min after infection and the binding remained stable up to several hours, allowing for analysis of drug treatment efficacy. Importantly, NADPH oxidase inhibitor DPI treatment induced the detachment of T. vaginalis from SiHa cells in a dose-dependent manner without affecting host cell viability. Thus, this study may provide an understanding for the potential development of therapies against T. vaginalis and other parasite infections.
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11
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Li Y, Wang S, Li H, Song X, Zhang H, Duan Y, Luo C, Wang B, Ji S, Xie Q, Zhang Z. Development of a convenient detection method for Trichomonas vaginalis based on loop-mediated isothermal amplification targeting adhesion protein 65. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:319. [PMID: 32357839 PMCID: PMC7195720 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-05048-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trichomoniasis resulting from Trichomonas vaginalis (T. vaginalis) has been considered as a commonly seen disease with the transmission way of sex. At present, the detection methods of T. vaginalis mainly include wet mount microscopy, culture, PCR, immunofluorescence and ELISA. However, all of these detection methods exist shortcomings. METHODS In this study, a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay that targeted the species-specific sequence of adhesion protein 65 (AP65) gene had been conducted to detect T. vaginalis. The optimum reaction system and conditions were optimized in this rapid detection method. RESULTS The results of sensitivity analysis showed that the LAMP assay targeting the AP65 gene was 1000 times more sensitive than the nested PCR targeting the actin gene commonly used for detection of T. vaginalis, and the detecting limitation of the former was 10 trichomonad. Moreover, the amplification of the target gene AP65 by LAMP assay exhibited high specificity and the product was exclusively from T. vaginalis. The detection technique of LAMP did not exhibit cross-reactivity with the common pathogens of Trichinella spiralis, Toxoplasma gondii, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, Haemophilus. CONCLUSIONS According to the present study, the LAMP assay with the target of AP65 gene, was suitable for the early diagnosis of T. vaginalis infections. Consequently, the LAMP assay was proposed by the current study as a point-of-care examination and an alternative molecular tool which exhibited the potential value in the treatment, control and prevention of trichomoniasis transmission and relevant complication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuhua Li
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuai Wang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Haoran Li
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoxiao Song
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Hao Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Yujuan Duan
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Chengyang Luo
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Bingli Wang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Sifan Ji
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Xie
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhenchao Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan, 453003, People's Republic of China.
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12
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Malli S, Loiseau PM, Bouchemal K. Trichomonas vaginalis Motility Is Blocked by Drug-Free Thermosensitive Hydrogel. ACS Infect Dis 2020; 6:114-123. [PMID: 31713413 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.9b00243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis motility in biological fluids plays a prominent, but understudied, role in parasite infectivity. In this study, the ability of a thermosensitive hydrogel (pluronic F127) to physically immobilize T. vaginalis was investigated. Blocking parasite motility could prevent its attachment to the mucosa, thus reducing the acquisition of the infection. The trajectory of individual parasites was monitored by multiple particle tracking. Mean square displacement, diffusivity, and velocity were calculated from x, y coordinates during time. Major results are that T. vaginalis exhibited different types of trajectories in a diluted solution composed of lactate buffer similar to "run-and-tumble" motion reported for flagellated bacteria. The fastest T. vaginalis specimen moves with a velocity of 19 μm/s. Observation of T. vaginalis movements showed that the cell body remains rigid during swimming and that the propulsive forces necessary to generate the movement are the result of flagellar beating. Parasite motility was partially slowed down using hydroxyethylcellulose hydrogel, used as a reference for the development of vaginal microbicides, while 100% of T. vaginalis were immobile in F127 hydrogel. Once completed by biological investigations on mice, this report suggests using drug-free formulation composed of F127 as a new strategy to prevent T. vaginalis attachment to the mucosa. The concept will be extended to other flagellated organisms where the motility is driven by cilia and flagella.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Malli
- Institut Galien Paris Sud, UMR CNRS 8612, Université Paris-Sud, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris-Saclay, 5, rue J-B. Clément, 92296, Châtenay-Malabry, France
- Institut Galien Paris Sud, Junior member of the Institut Universitaire de France, UMR CNRS 8612, Université Paris-Sud, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris-Saclay, 5, rue J-B. Clément, 92296 Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Philippe M. Loiseau
- Antiparasite Chemotherapy PARACHEM, Université Paris-Sud, CNRS, 5, rue J-B. Clément, 92290 Châtenay-Malabry, France
| | - Kawthar Bouchemal
- Institut Galien Paris Sud, Junior member of the Institut Universitaire de France, UMR CNRS 8612, Université Paris-Sud, Faculté de Pharmacie, Université Paris-Saclay, 5, rue J-B. Clément, 92296 Châtenay-Malabry, France
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