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de Paula NA, Leite MN, de Faria Bertoluci DF, Soares CT, Rosa PS, Frade MAC. Human Skin as an Ex Vivo Model for Maintaining Mycobacterium leprae and Leprosy Studies. Trop Med Infect Dis 2024; 9:135. [PMID: 38922047 PMCID: PMC11209558 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed9060135] [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: 05/04/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The in vitro cultivation of M. leprae has not been possible since it was described as causing leprosy, and the limitation of animal models for clinical aspects makes studies on leprosy and bacteria-human host interaction a challenge. Our aim was to standardize the ex vivo skin model (hOSEC) to maintenance and study of M. leprae as an alternative animal model. Bacillary suspensions were inoculated into human skin explants and sustained in DMEM medium for 60 days. Explants were evaluated by RT-PCR-16SrRNA and cytokine gene expression. The viability and infectivity of bacilli recovered from explants (D28 and D60) were evaluated using the Shepard's model. All explants were RT-PCR-16SrRNA positive. The viability and infectivity of recovered bacilli from explants, analyzed after 5 months of inoculation in mice, showed an average positivity of 31%, with the highest positivity in the D28 groups (80%). Furthermore, our work showed different patterns in cytokine gene expression (TGF-β, IL-10, IL-8, and TNF-α) in the presence of alive or dead bacilli. Although changes can be made to improve future experiments, our results have demonstrated that it is possible to use the hOSEC to maintain M. leprae for 60 days, interacting with the host system, an important step in the development of experimental models for studies on the biology of the bacillus, its interactions, and drug susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natália Aparecida de Paula
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto14049-900, Brazil;
- Dermatology Division, Department of Medical Clinics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, Brazil;
- Reference Center for Sanitary Dermatology with Emphasis on Leprosy, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, Brazil
| | - Marcel Nani Leite
- Dermatology Division, Department of Medical Clinics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, Brazil;
| | | | - Cleverson Teixeira Soares
- Department of Anatomic Pathology, Lauro de Souza Lima Institute, Bauru 17034-971, Brazil; (D.F.d.F.B.); (C.T.S.)
| | - Patrícia Sammarco Rosa
- Division of Research and Education, Lauro de Souza Lima Institute, Bauru 17034-971, Brazil;
| | - Marco Andrey Cipriani Frade
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology and Pathogenic Bioagents, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto14049-900, Brazil;
- Dermatology Division, Department of Medical Clinics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, Brazil;
- Reference Center for Sanitary Dermatology with Emphasis on Leprosy, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto 14049-900, Brazil
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Gurnani B, Kaur K, Savla HR, Prajjwal P, Pentapati SSK, Kutikuppala LVS. Navigating diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in ocular manifestations of Hansen's disease and trachoma: A narrative review. Indian J Ophthalmol 2024; 72:816-823. [PMID: 38454868 PMCID: PMC11232850 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_793_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) encompass a group of approximately 20 diseases prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, closely associated with poverty, affecting over a billion people in low-income countries. This manuscript aims to explore the ocular manifestations and burden of two significant NTDs, namely Hansen's disease and trachoma while addressing gaps in understanding and management. Hansen's disease, caused by Mycobacterium leprae , has a long history and presents with diverse neurological and ocular manifestations. Despite the availability of treatment, ocular complications persist, leading to significant visual impairment in some cases. The manuscript emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, regular ophthalmic examinations, and follow-ups to prevent and control ocular complications, reducing the burden of visual impairment and blindness. Trachoma, caused by Chlamydia trachomatis , remains the leading infectious cause of blindness in underdeveloped and remote areas. The manuscript highlights the clinical diagnosis and implementation of the World Health Organization's (WHO's) SAFE (surgery, antibiotics, facial hygiene, and environmental sanitation) strategy to prevent transmission and associated blindness. However, challenges in health surveillance tools and underreporting of trachoma cases are addressed, emphasizing the need for improved strategies to combat the disease effectively. Through a comprehensive review of the ocular manifestations and management of Hansen's disease and trachoma, this manuscript contributes to the existing knowledge base and enhances a deeper understanding of these NTDs. Addressing gaps in understanding and management emphasizes the importance of implementing WHO's strategies and collaborative efforts to achieve the global goal of reducing the burden of NTDs and improving community health and well-being. The manuscript underscores the significance of early intervention, preventive measures, and technological advancements, providing valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and researchers working in the field of NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharat Gurnani
- Cataract, Cornea, Trauma, Refractive Surgery, Ocular Surface and External Diseases, ASG Eye Hospital, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Kirandeep Kaur
- Consultant Cataract, Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, ASG Eye Hospital, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Hritik R Savla
- Department of General Ophthalmology, Grant Government Medical College and Sir JJ Group of Hospitals, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Priyadarshi Prajjwal
- Department of Medicine, Bharati Vidyapeeth University Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Santana-da-Silva MN, Sena-dos-Santos C, Cáceres-Durán MÁ, de Souza FG, Gobbo AR, Pinto P, Salgado CG, dos Santos SEB. ncRNAs: an unexplored cellular defense mechanism in leprosy. Front Genet 2023; 14:1295586. [PMID: 38116294 PMCID: PMC10729009 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2023.1295586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Leprosy is an infectious disease primarily caused by the obligate intracellular parasite Mycobacterium leprae. Although it has been considered eradicated in many countries, leprosy continues to be a health issue in developing nations. Besides the social stigma associated with it, individuals affected by leprosy may experience nerve damage leading to physical disabilities if the disease is not properly treated or early diagnosed. Leprosy is recognized as a complex disease wherein socioenvironmental factors, immune response, and host genetics interact to contribute to its development. Recently, a new field of study called epigenetics has emerged, revealing that the immune response and other mechanisms related to infectious diseases can be influenced by noncoding RNAs. This review aims to summarize the significant advancements concerning non-coding RNAs in leprosy, discussing the key perspectives on this novel approach to comprehending the pathophysiology of the disease and identifying molecular markers. In our view, investigations on non-coding RNAs in leprosy hold promise and warrant increased attention from researches in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayara Natália Santana-da-Silva
- Laboratório de Genética Humana e Médica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
- Laboratório de Imunologia, Seção de Virologia (SAVIR), Instituto Evandro Chagas, Ananindeua, Brazil
| | - Camille Sena-dos-Santos
- Laboratório de Genética Humana e Médica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
| | - Miguel Ángel Cáceres-Durán
- Laboratório de Genética Humana e Médica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
| | - Felipe Gouvea de Souza
- Laboratório de Genética Humana e Médica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
| | - Angelica Rita Gobbo
- Laboratório de Dermato-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
| | - Pablo Pinto
- Laboratório de Genética Humana e Médica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
- Laboratório de Dermato-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
| | - Claudio Guedes Salgado
- Laboratório de Dermato-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
| | - Sidney Emanuel Batista dos Santos
- Laboratório de Genética Humana e Médica, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
- Laboratório de Dermato-Imunologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas (ICB), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Belém, Brazil
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Brügger LMDO, dos Santos MML, Lara FA, Mietto BS. What happens when Schwann cells are exposed to Mycobacterium leprae - A systematic review. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2023; 15:11-16. [PMID: 38204570 PMCID: PMC10776321 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2023.05.009] [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: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium leprae, the pathogen that causes human leprosy, has a unique affinity for infecting and persisting inside Schwann cells, the principal glia of the peripheral nervous system. Several studies have focused on this intricate host-pathogen interaction as an attempt to advance the current knowledge of the mechanisms governing nerve destruction and disease progression. However, during the chronic course of leprosy neuropathy, Schwann cells can respond to and internalize both live and dead M. leprae and bacilli-derived antigens, and this may result in divergent cellular pathobiological responses. This may also distinctly contribute to tissue degeneration, failure to repair, inflammatory reactions, and nerve fibrosis, hallmarks of the disease. Therefore, the present study systematically searched for published studies on M. leprae-Schwann cell interaction in vitro to summarize the findings and provide a focused discussion of Schwann cell dynamics following challenge with leprosy bacilli.
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Shin S, Choi EJ, Moon SW, Lee SB, Chung YJ, Lee SH. Leprosy-specific subsets of macrophages and Schwann cells identified by single-cell RNA-sequencing. Pathol Res Pract 2023; 250:154821. [PMID: 37757621 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2023.154821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
In Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae)-infection, inflammatory cells' subsets and dynamics as well as the interactions with Schwann cells have remained elusive. We investigated individual cells in M. leprae-inoculated nude mice by single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq). For macrophages, we dissected two M1-like subsets and five M2-like subsets, where lipid-associated signatures were pervasive in both M1-like and M2-like subsets. There were four macrophage trajectories showing: (i) pro-inflammatory (M1), (ii) lipid metabolism-related (M2), (iii) anti-inflammatory (M2), and (iv) interferon-stimulated gene-related (M2) fates. They displayed early divergence without ever rejoining along the paths, suggesting simultaneous or continuous stimuli for macrophage activation in leprosy. The scRNA-seq predicted Schwann cell-macrophage interactions (Notch1-Jag1, Plxnb1-Sema4d interactions). An immature Schwann cell subset showing Tfap2a expression was identified, indicating Schwann cell dedifferentiation in leprosy tissues. Expressions of Notch1, Jag1, Plxnb1, Sema4d, and Tfap2a were validated in mouse or human leprosy tissues by immunohistochemistry. We identified both pro-inflammatory and inflammation-resolution signatures, where lipid-associated signatures were pervasive to the macrophages, representing leprosy-specific macrophage states for prolonged and repeated episodes of inflammation and resolution. Our study identified refined molecular states and interactions of macrophages and Schwann cells, suggesting novel insights into the pathogenesis of unhealed inflammation with neuropathy and potential therapeutic targets for leprosy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Shin
- Departments of Microbiology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea; Integrated Research Center for Genome Polymorphism, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Ji Choi
- Departments of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong Won Moon
- Departments of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea; Departments of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Beom Lee
- Institute of Hansen's Disease, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea; Departments of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeun-Jun Chung
- Departments of Microbiology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea; Integrated Research Center for Genome Polymorphism, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea; Cancer Evolution Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sug Hyung Lee
- Departments of Pathology, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea; Departments of Biomedicine & Health Sciences, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea; Cancer Evolution Research Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Republic of Korea.
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Ma S, Mi Z, Wang Z, Sun L, Liu T, Shi P, Wang C, Xue X, Chen W, Wang Z, Yu Y, Zhang Y, Bao F, Wang N, Wang H, Xia Q, Liu H, Sun Y, Zhang F. Single-cell sequencing analysis reveals development and differentiation trajectory of Schwann cells manipulated by M. leprae. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011477. [PMID: 37478057 PMCID: PMC10361531 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND M. leprae preferentially infects Schwann cells (SCs) in the peripheral nerves leading to nerve damage and irreversible disability. Knowledge of how M. leprae infects and interacts with host SCs is essential for understanding mechanisms of nerve damage and revealing potential new therapeutic strategies. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We performed a time-course single-cell sequencing analysis of SCs infected with M. leprae at different time points, further analyzed the heterogeneity of SCs, subpopulations associated with M. leprae infection, developmental trajectory of SCs and validated by Western blot or flow cytometry. Different subpopulations of SCs exhibiting distinct genetic features and functional enrichments were present. We observed two subpopulations associated with M. leprae infection, a stem cell-like cell subpopulation increased significantly at 24 h but declined by 72 h after M. leprae infection, and an adipocyte-like cell subpopulation, emerged at 72 h post-infection. The results were validated and confirmed that a stem cell-like cell subpopulation was in the early stage of differentiation and could differentiate into an adipocyte-like cell subpopulation. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Our results present a systematic time-course analysis of SC heterogeneity after infection by M. leprae at single-cell resolution, provide valuable information to understand the critical biological processes underlying reprogramming and lipid metabolism during M. leprae infection of SCs, and increase understanding of the disease-causing mechanisms at play in leprosy patients as well as revealing potential new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Ma
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zihao Mi
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhenzhen Wang
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Lele Sun
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Tingting Liu
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Peidian Shi
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Chuan Wang
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaotong Xue
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wenjie Chen
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zhe Wang
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yueqian Yu
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Fangfang Bao
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Na Wang
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Honglei Wang
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qianqian Xia
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Yonghu Sun
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Furen Zhang
- Shandong Provincial Hospital for Skin Diseases & Shandong Provincial Institute of Dermatology and Venereology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Khan M, Khan S, Bushara NZA, Ali R, Tabassum Z, Ishrat R, Marouf HAA, Sherwani S, Mirza S, Haque S. Inhibitory effect of natural compounds on Dihydropteroate synthase of Mycobacterium leprae: Molecular dynamic study. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:13857-13872. [PMID: 37070201 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2193992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by a bacillus, Mycobacterium leprae. According to official data from 139 countries in the 6 WHO Regions, there were 127558 new leprosy cases worldwide in 2020. Leprosy mainly affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and the eyes. If this disease is left untreated, can harm the skin, nerves, limbs, eyes, and skin permanently. The disease is curable with multidrug therapy. Over a period of time Mycobacterium leprae has become resistant to these drugs. Therefore, new therapeutic molecules are warranted. This study was aimed to carry out the in-silico analysis to determine the inhibitory effect of natural compounds on Dihydropteroate synthase (DHPS) of Mycobacterium leprae. The DHPS is a key enzyme in the folate biosynthesis pathway in M. leprae and acts as a competitive inhibitor of PABA. The 3D structure of DHPS protein was modeled using homology modeling and was validated. Molecular docking and simulation along with other in-silico methods were employed to determine the inhibitory effect of ligand molecules towards DHPS target protein. Results revealed ZINC03830554 molecule as a potential inhibitor of DHPS. Binding experiments and bioassays utilizing this strong inhibitor molecule against purified DHPS protein are necessary to validate these early findings.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahvish Khan
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Ha'il University, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saif Khan
- Department of Basic Dental and Medical Sciences, College of Dentistry, Ha'il University, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nashwa Zaki Ali Bushara
- Department of Preventive Dental Sciences, College of Dentistry, Ha'il University, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rafat Ali
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia (Central University), New Delhi, India
| | - Zainab Tabassum
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia (Central University), New Delhi, India
| | - Romana Ishrat
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Basic Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia (Central University), New Delhi, India
| | - Hussein Abdel-Aziz Marouf
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Dentistry, Ha'il University, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Subuhi Sherwani
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Ha'il University, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shadab Mirza
- Department of Health Services Administration, College of Dentistry, Ha'il University, Ha'il, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shafiul Haque
- Research and Scientific Studies Unit, College of Nursing & Allied Health Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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Girardi KDCDV, Mietto BS, Dos Anjos Lima K, Atella GC, da Silva DS, Pereira AMR, Rosa PS, Lara FA. Phenolic glycolipid-1 of Mycobacterium leprae is involved in human Schwann cell line ST8814 neurotoxic phenotype. J Neurochem 2023; 164:158-171. [PMID: 36349509 DOI: 10.1111/jnc.15722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae infection in Schwann cells. Axonopathy is considered a hallmark of leprosy neuropathy and is associated with the irreversible motor and sensory loss seen in infected patients. Although M. leprae is recognized to provoke Schwann cell dedifferentiation, the mechanisms involved in the contribution of this phenomenon to neural damage remain unclear. In the present work, we used live M. leprae to infect the immortalized human Schwann cell line ST8814. The neurotoxicity of infected Schwann cell-conditioned medium (SCCM) was then evaluated in a human neuroblastoma cell lineage and mouse neurons. ST8814 Schwann cells exposed to M. leprae affected neuronal viability by deviating glial 14 C-labeled lactate, important fuel of neuronal central metabolism, to de novo lipid synthesis. The phenolic glycolipid-1 (PGL-1) is a specific M. leprae cell wall antigen proposed to mediate bacterial-Schwann cell interaction. Therefore, we assessed the role of the PGL-1 on Schwann cell phenotype by using transgenic M. bovis (BCG)-expressing the M. leprae PGL-1. We observed that BCG-PGL-1 was able to induce a phenotype similar to M. leprae, unlike the wild-type BCG strain. We next demonstrated that this Schwann cell neurotoxic phenotype, induced by M. leprae PGL-1, occurs through the protein kinase B (Akt) pathway. Interestingly, the pharmacological inhibition of Akt by triciribine significantly reduced free fatty acid content in the SCCM from M. leprae- and BCG-PGL-1-infected Schwann cells and, hence, preventing neuronal death. Overall, these findings provide novel evidence that both M. leprae and PGL-1, induce a toxic Schwann cell phenotype, by modifying the host lipid metabolism, resulting in profound implications for neuronal loss. We consider this metabolic rewiring a new molecular mechanism to be the basis of leprosy neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Bruno Siqueira Mietto
- Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Brazil
| | - Karoline Dos Anjos Lima
- Laboratório de Bioquímica de Lipídeos e Lipoproteínas, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Geórgia Correa Atella
- Laboratório de Bioquímica de Lipídeos e Lipoproteínas, Instituto de Bioquímica Médica, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Débora Santos da Silva
- Laboratório de Microbiologia Celular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Flavio Alves Lara
- Laboratório de Microbiologia Celular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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9
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Hess S, Kendall TJ, Pena M, Yamane K, Soong D, Adams L, Truman R, Rambukkana A. In vivo partial reprogramming by bacteria promotes adult liver organ growth without fibrosis and tumorigenesis. Cell Rep Med 2022; 3:100820. [PMID: 36384103 PMCID: PMC9729881 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Ideal therapies for regenerative medicine or healthy aging require healthy organ growth and rejuvenation, but no organ-level approach is currently available. Using Mycobacterium leprae (ML) with natural partial cellular reprogramming capacity and its animal host nine-banded armadillos, we present an evolutionarily refined model of adult liver growth and regeneration. In infected armadillos, ML reprogram the entire liver and significantly increase total liver/body weight ratio by increasing healthy liver lobules, including hepatocyte proliferation and proportionate expansion of vasculature, and biliary systems. ML-infected livers are microarchitecturally and functionally normal without damage, fibrosis, or tumorigenesis. Bacteria-induced reprogramming reactivates liver progenitor/developmental/fetal genes and upregulates growth-, metabolism-, and anti-aging-associated markers with minimal change in senescence and tumorigenic genes, suggesting bacterial hijacking of homeostatic, regeneration pathways to promote de novo organogenesis. This may facilitate the unraveling of endogenous pathways that effectively and safely re-engage liver organ growth, with broad therapeutic implications including organ regeneration and rejuvenation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Hess
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Centre for Regenerative Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Timothy J Kendall
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Edinburgh Pathology, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Maria Pena
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, Healthcare Systems Bureau, National Hansen's Disease Program, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Keitaro Yamane
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Centre for Regenerative Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Daniel Soong
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Linda Adams
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, Healthcare Systems Bureau, National Hansen's Disease Program, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Richard Truman
- US Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration, Healthcare Systems Bureau, National Hansen's Disease Program, Baton Rouge, LA, USA; Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
| | - Anura Rambukkana
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Centre for Regenerative Medicine, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Edinburgh Infectious Diseases, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK; Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
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10
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Ebenezer GJ, Pena MT, Daniel AS, Truman RW, Adams L, Duthie MS, Wagner K, Zampino S, Tolf E, Tsottles D, Polydefkis M. Mycobacterium leprae induces Schwann cell proliferation and migration in a denervated milieu following intracutaneous excision axotomy in nine-banded armadillos. Exp Neurol 2022; 352:114053. [PMID: 35341747 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Nine-banded armadillos develop peripheral neuropathy after experimental Mycobacterium leprae infection that recapitulates human disease. We used an intracutaneous excision axotomy model to assess the effect of infection duration by M. leprae on axonal sprouting and Schwan cell density. 34 armadillos (17 naïve and 17 M. leprae-infected) underwent 3 mm skin biopsies to create an intracutaneous excision axotomy followed by a concentric 4-mm overlapping biopsy 3 and 12-months post M. leprae inoculation. A traditional distal leg biopsy was obtained at 15mo for intraepidermal nerve fiber (IENF) density. Serial skin sections were immunostained against a axons (PGP9.5, GAP43), and Schwann cells (p75, s100) to visualize regenerating nerves. Regenerative axons and proliferation of Schwann cells was measured and the rate of growth at each time point was assessed. Increasing anti-PGL antibody titers and intraneural M. leprae confirmed infection. 15mo following infection, there was evidence of axon loss with reduced distal leg IENF versus naïve armadillos, p < 0.05. This was associated with an increase in Schwann cell density (11,062 ± 2905 vs. 7561 ± 2715 cells/mm3, p < 0.01). Following excisional biopsy epidermal reinnervation increased monotonically at 30, 60 and 90 days; the regeneration rate was highest at 30 days, and decreased at 60 and 90 days. The reinnervation rate was highest among animals infected for 3mo vs those infected for 12mo or naïve animals (mean ± SD, 27.8 ± 7.2 vs.16.2 ± 5.8vs. 15.3 ± 6.5 mm/mm3, p < 0.05). The infected armadillos displayed a sustained Schwann cell proliferation across axotomy time points and duration of infection (3mo:182 ± 26, 12mo: 256 ± 126, naive: 139 ± 49 cells/day, p < 0.05). M. leprae infection is associated with sustained Schwann cell proliferation and distal limb nerve fiber loss. Rates of epidermal reinnervation were highest 3mo after infection and normalized by 12 mo of infection. We postulate that excess Schwann cell proliferation is the main pathogenic process and is deleterious to sensory axons. There is a compensatory initial increase in regeneration rates that may be an attempt to compensate for the injury, but it is not sustained and eventually followed by axon loss. Aberrant Schwann cell proliferation may be a novel therapeutic target to interrupt the pathogenic cascade of M. leprae.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria T Pena
- DHHS/HRSA/HSB/National Hansen's Disease Program, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, USA
| | | | - Richard W Truman
- DHHS/HRSA/HSB/National Hansen's Disease Program, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, USA
| | - Linda Adams
- DHHS/HRSA/HSB/National Hansen's Disease Program, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, USA
| | | | - Kelly Wagner
- Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Eleanor Tolf
- Neurology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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11
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de Oliveira JADP, de Athaide MM, Rahman AU, de Mattos Barbosa MG, Jardim MM, Moraes MO, Pinheiro RO. Kynurenines in the Pathogenesis of Peripheral Neuropathy During Leprosy and COVID-19. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:815738. [PMID: 35281455 PMCID: PMC8907883 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.815738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory disorders are associated with the activation of tryptophan (TRYP) catabolism via the kynurenine pathway (KP). Several reports have demonstrated the role of KP in the immunopathophysiology of both leprosy and coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). The nervous system can be affected in infections caused by both Mycobacterium leprae and SARS-CoV-2, but the mechanisms involved in the peripheral neural damage induced by these infectious agents are not fully understood. In recent years KP has received greater attention due the importance of kynurenine metabolites in infectious diseases, immune dysfunction and nervous system disorders. In this review, we discuss how modulation of the KP may aid in controlling the damage to peripheral nerves and the effects of KP activation on neural damage during leprosy or COVID-19 individually and we speculate its role during co-infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Atta Ur Rahman
- Leprosy Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Marcia Maria Jardim
- Leprosy Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Department of Neurology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Milton Ozório Moraes
- Leprosy Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Roberta Olmo Pinheiro
- Leprosy Laboratory, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Roberta Olmo Pinheiro,
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12
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Abstract
Neuropathy and related disabilities are the major medical consequences of leprosy, which remains a global medical concern. Despite major advances in understanding the mechanisms of M. leprae entry into peripheral nerves, most aspects of the pathogenesis of leprosy neuropathy remain poorly understood. Sensory loss is characteristic of leprosy, but neuropathic pain is sometimes observed. Effective anti-microbial therapy is available, but neuropathy remains a problem especially if diagnosis and treatment are delayed. Currently there is intense interest in post-exposure prophylaxis with single-dose rifampin in endemic areas, as well as with enhanced prophylactic regimens in some situations. Some degree of nerve involvement is seen in all cases and neuritis may occur in the absence of leprosy reactions, but acute neuritis commonly accompanies both Type 1 and Type 2 leprosy reactions and may be difficult to manage. A variety of established as well as new methods for the early diagnosis and assessment of leprosy neuropathy are reviewed. Corticosteroids offer the primary treatment for neuritis and for subclinical neuropathy in leprosy, but success is limited if nerve function impairment is present at the time of diagnosis. A candidate vaccine has shown apparent benefit in preventing nerve injury in the armadillo model. The development of new therapeutics for leprosy neuropathy is greatly needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gigi J Ebenezer
- Neurology/Cutaneous Nerve Laboratory, Johns Hopkins University, The John G Rangos Bldg, room: 440, 855 North Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
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13
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Li Z, Lu G, Li Z, Wu B, Luo E, Qiu X, Guo J, Xia Z, Zheng C, Su Q, Zeng Y, Chan WY, Su X, Cai Q, Xu Y, Chen Y, Wang M, Poon WS, Luo X. Altered Actinobacteria and Firmicutes Phylum Associated Epitopes in Patients With Parkinson's Disease. Front Immunol 2021; 12:632482. [PMID: 34276644 PMCID: PMC8284394 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.632482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent evidence suggests that inflammation was participated in the pathogenesis of PD, thus, to understand the potential mechanism of gut microbiota in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD), we performed a metagenomic analysis of fecal samples from PD patient and controls. Using a two-stage metagenome-wide association strategy, fecal DNA samples from 69 PD patients and 244 controls in three groups (comprising 66 spouses, 97 age-matched, and 81 normal samples, respectively) were analyzed, and differences between candidate gut microbiota and microbiota-associated epitopes (MEs) were compared. In the study, 27 candidate bacterial biomarkers and twenty-eight candidate epitope peptides were significantly different between the PD patients and control groups. Further, enriched 4 and 13 MEs in PD were positively associated with abnormal inflammatory indicators [neutrophil percentage (NEUT.1), monocyte count/percentage (MONO/MONO.1), white blood cell count (WBC)] and five candidate bacterial biomarkers (c_Actinobacteria, f_Bifidobacteriaceae, g_Bifidobacterium, o_Bifidobacteriales, p_Actinobacteria) from Actinobacteria phylum, and they were also positively associated with histidine degradation and proline biosynthesis pathways, respectively. Additionally, enriched 2 MEs and 1 ME in PD were positively associated with above inflammatory indicators and two bacteria (f_Lactobacillaceae, g_Lactobacillus) from Firmicutes phylum, and they were also positively associated with pyruvate fermentation to propanoate I and negatively associated with isopropanol biosynthesis, respectively. Of these MEs, two MEs from GROEL2, RPSC were derived from Mycobacterium tuberculosis, triggered the T cell immune response, as previously reported. Additionally, other candidate epitope peptides derived from Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Mycobacterium leprae may also have potential immune effects in PD. In all, the altered MEs in PD may relate to abnormalities in immunity and glutamate and propionate metabolism, which furthers our understanding of the pathogenesis of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Li
- Genetic Testing Lab, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.,Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Gang Lu
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University (CUHK-SDU) Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Zhe Li
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bin Wu
- Genetic Testing Lab, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Enli Luo
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xinmin Qiu
- Genetic Testing Lab, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jianwen Guo
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhangyong Xia
- Department of Neurology, Liaocheng People's Hospital, Liaocheng, China.,Department of Neurology, Liaocheng Clinical School of Shandong First Medical University, Liaocheng, China
| | - Chunye Zheng
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qiaozhen Su
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yan Zeng
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wai Yee Chan
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University (CUHK-SDU) Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xianwei Su
- The Chinese University of Hong Kong-Shandong University (CUHK-SDU) Joint Laboratory on Reproductive Genetics, School of Biomedical Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Qiaodi Cai
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanjuan Xu
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yingjun Chen
- The Second Clinical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Mingbang Wang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, National Center for Children's Health, Shanghai, China
| | - Wai Sang Poon
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Xiaodong Luo
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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14
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Granger DL, Rosado-Santos H, Lo TS, Florell SR, Shimwella RAT. Functional Impairment of Skin Appendages Due to Peripheral Nerve Involvement by Mycobacterium leprae. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa419. [PMID: 33094119 PMCID: PMC7566401 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa419] [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: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
In the earliest stage of Mycobacterium leprae infection, bacteria parasitize fine fiber twigs of autonomic peripheral nerves supplying efferent impulses to appendages of the skin. This obligate intracellular pathogen invades Schwann cells, the glial cells of peripheral nerves. Intracellular events inhibit Schwann cell physiology in complex ways, which include demyelination and dedifferentiation. Ultimately, axons embraced by their surrounding dysfunctional glia are damaged by poorly understood mechanisms. Loss of nerve conduction impairs the functions of skin appendages including hair growth, sebaceous gland secretion, sweating, and skin pigmentation. At the clinical level, these changes may be subtle and may precede the more obvious anesthetic skin lesions associated with Hansen’s disease. Recognizing the early signs of skin appendage malfunction may aid in diagnosis leading to initiation of antimycobacterial treatment. Effective therapy administered early during infection may prevent irreversible peripheral nerve destruction, the presage for morbid complications of leprosy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald L Granger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA.,Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Harry Rosado-Santos
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Tze Shien Lo
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Fargo, North Dakota, USA.,Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Fargo, North Dakota, USA
| | - Scott R Florell
- Department of Dermatology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Rehema A T Shimwella
- Leprology-Venereology Service, Muhimbili National Hospital, Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania
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15
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Nogueira MRS, Amôr NG, Michellin LB, Cury M, Rosa PS, Latini ACP, Rodrigues LS, Lemes RMR, Lara FA, Pessolani MCV. Effect of Mycobacterium leprae on neurotrophins expression in human Schwann cells and mouse sciatic nerves. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2020; 115:e200075. [PMID: 32696914 PMCID: PMC7367213 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760200075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although Mycobacterium leprae (ML) is well characterised as the causative agent of leprosy, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying peripheral nerve damage still need further understanding. In vitro and in vivo studies have yielded insights into molecular mechanisms of ML interaction with Schwann cells (SC), indicating the regulation of genes and proteins crucial to neural plasticity. OBJECTIVES We aimed to investigate the effect of ML on neurotrophins expression in human SC (hSC) and mice sciatic nerves to better understand their role in leprosy neuropathy, and aiming to contribute to future therapeutic approaches. METHODS We evaluated mRNA and protein expression of BDNF, NGF, NT-3, NT-4 in hSC from amputation nerve fragments, as well as in athymic nude mice, infected by ML for eight months. FINDINGS AND MAIN CONCLUSIONS Our in vitro results showed a trend to decline in NGF and BDNF mRNA in ML-treated hSC, compared to controls. The immunodetection of BDNF and NT-4 was significantly downregulated in ML-treated hSC. Conversely, ML-infected mice demonstrated upregulation of NT-3, compared to non-infected animals. Our findings indicate that ML may be involved in neurotrophins regulation, suggesting that a pathogen-related imbalance of these growth factors may have a role in the neural impairment of leprosy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nádia Ghinelli Amôr
- Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Odontologia de Bauru, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Bauru, SP, Brasil
| | | | - Milton Cury
- Secretaria de Estado da Saúde de São Paulo, Instituto Lauro de Souza Lima, Bauru, SP, Brasil
| | - Patrícia Sammarco Rosa
- Secretaria de Estado da Saúde de São Paulo, Instituto Lauro de Souza Lima, Bauru, SP, Brasil
| | | | - Luciana Silva Rodrigues
- Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
| | | | - Flavio Alves Lara
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-Fiocruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Microbiologia Celular, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
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16
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Walkden H, Delbaz A, Nazareth L, Batzloff M, Shelper T, Beacham IR, Chacko A, Shah M, Beagley KW, Tello Velasquez J, St John JA, Ekberg JAK. Burkholderia pseudomallei invades the olfactory nerve and bulb after epithelial injury in mice and causes the formation of multinucleated giant glial cells in vitro. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008017. [PMID: 31978058 PMCID: PMC7002012 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 12/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The infectious disease melioidosis is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei. Melioidosis is characterised by high mortality and morbidity and can involve the central nervous system (CNS). We have previously discovered that B. pseudomallei can infect the CNS via the olfactory and trigeminal nerves in mice. We have shown that the nerve path is dependent on mouse strain, with outbred mice showing resistance to olfactory nerve infection. Damage to the nasal epithelium by environmental factors is common, and we hypothesised that injury to the olfactory epithelium may increase the vulnerability of the olfactory nerve to microbial insult. We therefore investigated this, using outbred mice that were intranasally inoculated with B. pseudomallei, with or without methimazole-induced injury to the olfactory neuroepithelium. Methimazole-mediated injury resulted in increased B. pseudomallei invasion of the olfactory epithelium, and only in pre-injured animals were bacteria found in the olfactory nerve and bulb. In vitro assays demonstrated that B. pseudomallei readily infected glial cells isolated from the olfactory and trigeminal nerves (olfactory ensheathing cells and trigeminal Schwann cells, respectively). Bacteria were degraded by some cells but persisted in other cells, which led to the formation of multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs), with olfactory ensheathing cells less likely to form MNGCs than Schwann cells. Double Cap mutant bacteria, lacking the protein BimA, did not form MNGCs. These data suggest that injuries to the olfactory epithelium expose the primary olfactory nervous system to bacterial invasion, which can then result in CNS infection with potential pathogenic consequences for the glial cells. Infections of the central nervous system (CNS), though uncommon, are associated with severe morbidity and mortality. Burkholderia pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis, can infect the CNS. We have shown that B. pseudomallei can enter the CNS via peripheral nerves extending between the nasal cavity and the brain (bypassing the blood-brain/blood-cerebrospinal fluid barriers). In the current study, we show that prior injury to the olfactory epithelium can increase B. pseudomallei invasion of the olfactory nerve and bulb, highlighting a novel risk factor for CNS infections. We also demonstrate the ability of peripheral nerve glia to internalise B. pseudomallei, resulting in the formation of multinucleated giant cells (MNGCs), dependent on the bacterial protein BimA. These findings provide important new insights into the pathogenesis of B. pseudomallei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi Walkden
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
- Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Ali Delbaz
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
- Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Lynn Nazareth
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
- Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Michael Batzloff
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
| | - Todd Shelper
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
- Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Ifor R. Beacham
- Institute for Glycomics, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
| | - Anu Chacko
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
- Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Megha Shah
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
- Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Kenneth W. Beagley
- Institute for Health and Biomedical Innovation, School of Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - James A. St John
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
- Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Jenny A. K. Ekberg
- Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Southport, Australia
- Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
- Griffith Institute for Drug Discovery, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
- * E-mail:
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