1
|
Kambouris ME. Global Catastrophic Biological Risks in the Post-COVID-19 World: Time to Act Is Now. OMICS : A JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE BIOLOGY 2023; 27:153-170. [PMID: 36946656 DOI: 10.1089/omi.2022.0178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Global Catastrophic Biological Risks (GCBRs) refer to events with biological agents that can result in unprecedented or catastrophic disasters that are beyond the collective response-abilities of nation-states and the existing governance instruments of global governance and international affairs. This article offers a narrative review, with a view to new hypothesis development to rethink GCBRs after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) so as to better prepare for future pandemics and ecological crises, if not to completely prevent them. To determine GCBRs' spatiotemporal contexts, define causality, impacts, differentiate the risk and the event, would improve theorization of GCBRs compared to the impact-centric current definition. This could in turn lead to improvements in preparedness, response, allocation of resources, and possibly deterrence, while actively discouraging lack of due biosecurity diligence. Critical governance of GCBRs in ways that unpack the political power-related dimensions could be particularly valuable because the future global catastrophic events might be different in quality, scale, and actors. Theorization of GCBRs remains an important task going forward in the 21st century in ways that draw from experiences in the field, while integrating flexibility, versatility, and critically informed responses to GCBRs.
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhao F, Zhao C, Bai S, Yao L, Zhang Y. Triage Algorithms for Mass-Casualty Bioterrorism: A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20065070. [PMID: 36981980 PMCID: PMC10049471 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20065070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand existing triage algorithms, propose improvement measures through comparison to better deal with mass-casualty incidents caused by bioterrorism. STUDY DESIGN Systematic review. METHODS Medline, Scopus and Web of Science were searched up to January 2022. The studies investigating triage algorithms for mass-casualty bioterrorism. Quality assessment was performed using the International Narrative Systematic Assessment tool. Data extractions were performed by four reviewers. RESULTS Of the 475 titles identified in the search, 10 studies were included. There were four studies on triage algorithms for most bioterrorism events, four studies on triage algorithms for anthrax and two studies on triage algorithms for mental or psychosocial problems caused by bioterrorism events. We introduced and compared 10 triage algorithms used for different bioterrorism situations. CONCLUSION For triage algorithms for most bioterrorism events, it is necessary to determine the time and place of the attack as soon as possible, control the number of exposed and potentially exposed people, prevent infection and determine the type of biological agents used. Research on the effects of decontamination on bioterrorism attacks needs to continue. For anthrax triage, future research should improve the distinction between inhalational anthrax symptoms and common disease symptoms and improve the efficiency of triage measures. More attention should be paid to triage algorithms for mental or psychosocial problems caused by bioterrorism events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feida Zhao
- Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Chao Zhao
- Center for Biosafety Research and Strategy, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Song Bai
- Evaluation and Optimization of Health Emergency Response Capacity, Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Lulu Yao
- Emergency Medicine, Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Yongzhong Zhang
- Epidemiology and Health Statistics, Institute of Disaster and Emergency Medicine, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Shishkina LN, Mazurkov OY, Bormotov NI, Skarnovich MO, Serova OA, Mazurkova NA, Skarnovich MA, Chernonosov AA, Selivanov BA, Tikhonov AY, Gamaley SG, Shimina GG, Sysoyeva GM, Taranov OS, Danilenko ED, Agafonov AP, Maksyutov RA. Safety and Pharmacokinetics of the Substance of the Anti-Smallpox Drug NIOCH-14 after Oral Administration to Laboratory Animals. Viruses 2023; 15:205. [PMID: 36680245 PMCID: PMC9863109 DOI: 10.3390/v15010205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since most of the modern human population has no anti-smallpox immunity, it is extremely important to develop and implement effective drugs for the treatment of smallpox and other orthopoxvirus infections. The objective of this study is to determine the main characteristics of the chemical substance NIOCH-14 and its safety and bioavailability in the body of laboratory animals. METHODS The safety of NIOCH-14 upon single- or multiple-dose intragastric administration was assessed according to its effect on the main hematological and pathomorphological parameters of laboratory mice and rats. In order to evaluate the pharmacokinetic parameters of NIOCH-14 administered orally, a concentration of ST-246, the active metabolite of NIOCH-14, in mouse blood and organs was determined by tandem mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography. RESULTS The intragastric administration of NIOCH-14 at a dose of 5 g/kg body weight caused neither death nor signs of intoxication in mice. The intragastric administration of NIOCH-14 to mice and rats at doses of 50 and 150 µg/g body weight either as a single dose or once daily during 30 days did not cause animal death or critical changes in hematological parameters and the microstructure of internal organs. The tissue availability of NIOCH-14 administered orally to the mice at a dose of 50 µg/g body weight, which was calculated according to concentrations of its active metabolite ST-246 for the lungs, liver, kidney, brain, and spleen, was 100, 69.6, 63.3, 26.8 and 20.3%, respectively. The absolute bioavailability of the NIOCH-14 administered orally to mice at a dose of 50 µg/g body weight was 22.8%. CONCLUSION Along with the previously determined efficacy against orthopoxviruses, including the smallpox virus, the substance NIOCH-14 was shown to be safe and bioavailable in laboratory animal experiments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Larisa N. Shishkina
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Oleg Yu. Mazurkov
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Nikolai I. Bormotov
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Maksim O. Skarnovich
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Olga A. Serova
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Natalia A. Mazurkova
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Maria A. Skarnovich
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Alexander A. Chernonosov
- The Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Boris A. Selivanov
- N.N. Vorozhtsov Novosibirsk Institute of Organic Chemistry of the Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Alexey Ya. Tikhonov
- N.N. Vorozhtsov Novosibirsk Institute of Organic Chemistry of the Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Svetlana G. Gamaley
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Galina G. Shimina
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Galina M. Sysoyeva
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Oleg S. Taranov
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Elena D. Danilenko
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Alexander P. Agafonov
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| | - Rinat A. Maksyutov
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution—State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Federal Service for Surveillance on Consumer Rights Protection and Human Well-Being, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Nikitina PA, Basanova EI, Nikolaenkova EB, Os'kina IA, Serova OA, Bormotov NI, Shishkina LN, Perevalov VP, Tikhonov AY. Synthesis of esters and amides of 2-aryl-1-hydroxy-4-methyl-1H-imidazole-5-carboxylic acids and study of their antiviral activity against orthopoxviruses. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2023; 79:129080. [PMID: 36414175 PMCID: PMC9674569 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2022.129080] [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: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Smallpox was eradicated >40 years ago but it is not a reason to forget forever about orthopoxviruses pathogenic to humans. Though in 1980 the decision of WHO to cease vaccination against smallpox had seemed logical, it led to the decrease of cross immunity against other infections caused by orthopoxviruses. As a result, in 2022 the multi-country monkeypox outbreak becomes a topic of great concern. In spite of existing FDA-approved drugs for the treatment of such diseases, the search for new small-molecule orthopoxvirus inhibitors continues. In the course of this search a series of novel 2-aryl-1-hydroxyimidazole derivatives containing ester or carboxamide moieties in position 5 of heterocycle has been synthesized and tested for activity against Vaccinia virus in Vero cell culture. Some of the compounds under consideration revealed a selectivity index higher than that of the reference drug Cidofovir. The highest selectivity index SI = 919 was exhibited by ethyl 1-hydroxy-4-methyl-2-[4-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]-1H-imidazole-5-carboxylate 1f. The most active compound also demonstrated inhibitory activity against the cowpox virus (SI = 20) and the ectromelia virus (SI = 46).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P A Nikitina
- D.I. Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia, Miusskaya sq., 9, Moscow 125047, Russia.
| | - E I Basanova
- D.I. Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia, Miusskaya sq., 9, Moscow 125047, Russia
| | - E B Nikolaenkova
- N.N. Vorozhtsov Novosibirsk Institute of Organic Chemistry, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Lavrentiev Avenue, 9, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - I A Os'kina
- N.N. Vorozhtsov Novosibirsk Institute of Organic Chemistry, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Lavrentiev Avenue, 9, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - O A Serova
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Koltsovo, Novosibirsk Region, 630559, Russia
| | - N I Bormotov
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Koltsovo, Novosibirsk Region, 630559, Russia
| | - L N Shishkina
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Koltsovo, Novosibirsk Region, 630559, Russia
| | - V P Perevalov
- D.I. Mendeleev University of Chemical Technology of Russia, Miusskaya sq., 9, Moscow 125047, Russia
| | - A Ya Tikhonov
- N.N. Vorozhtsov Novosibirsk Institute of Organic Chemistry, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Lavrentiev Avenue, 9, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Basu N, Ghosh R. Recent chemical syntheses of bacteria related oligosaccharides using modern expeditious approaches. Carbohydr Res 2021; 507:108295. [PMID: 34271477 DOI: 10.1016/j.carres.2021.108295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Apart from some essential and crucial roles in life processes carbohydrates also are involved in a few detrimental courses of action related to human health, like infections by pathogenic microbes, cancer metastasis, transplanted tissue rejection, etc. Regarding management of pathogenesis by microbes, keeping in mind of multi drug-resistant bacteria and epidemic or endemic incidents, preventive measure by vaccination is the best pathway as also recommended by the WHO; by vaccination, eradication of bacterial diseases is also possible. Although some valid vaccines based on attenuated bacterial cells or isolated pure polysaccharide-antigens or the corresponding conjugates thereof are available in the market for prevention of several bacterial diseases, but these are not devoid of some disadvantages also. In order to develop improved conjugate T-cell dependent vaccines oligosaccharides related to bacterial antigens are synthesized and converted to the corresponding carrier protein conjugates. Marketed Cuban Quimi-Hib is such a vaccine being used since 2004 to resist Haemophilus influenza b infections. During nearly the past two decades research is going on worldwide for improved synthesis of bacteria related oligosaccharides or polysaccharides towards development of such semisynthetic or synthetic glycoconjugate vaccines. The present dissertation is an endeavour to encompass the recent syntheses of several pathogenic bacterial oligosaccharides or polysaccharides, made during the past ten-eleven years with special reference to modern expeditious syntheses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nabamita Basu
- Department of Chemistry, Nabagram Hiralal Paul College, Konnagar, Hoogly, West Bengal, 712246, India
| | - Rina Ghosh
- Department of Chemistry, Jadavpur University, Kolkata, 700 032, India.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
de Matos Nascimento A, de Paula VR, Dias EHO, da Costa Carneiro J, Otenio MH. Quantitative microbial risk assessment of occupational and public risks associated with bioaerosols generated during the application of dairy cattle wastewater as biofertilizer. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 745:140711. [PMID: 32763641 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2020] [Revised: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The reuse or recycling of wastewater provides environmental and economic benefits, representing a sustainable and circular alternative for the management of liquid waste. However, the application of effluents to agricultural crops via spraying creates a potentially dangerous situation for individuals exposed to airborne pathogens. This study used Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) tools to quantitatively assess the microbial risks of occupational and public exposures to bioaerosols in fertigation scenarios by spraying untreated and treated dairy cattle wastewater. Analyses of Escherichia coli (EC) and spores of Clostridium perfringens (CpSP) in raw and treated effluents as well as pathogen / indicator ratios from the literature were used to estimate the concentrations of Escherichia coli O157:H7 (EC O157:H7) and Cryptospodirium spp. (Crypto) in the air, and the results were applied to an atmospheric microbiological dispersion model. From the concentrations of pathogens in the air, infectious risks for downwind receptors were calculated. The risks of infection by EC O157:H7 to workers at 10 m and 50 m away from the emission source ranged between 3.81 × 10 1 and 2.68 × 10 3 pppy (per person per year), whereas to residents at 100 m and 500 m ranged from 4.59 × 10 1 to 1.51 × 10 4 pppy. Peak values (95th percentile) of occupational and public risks associated with the exposure to Crypto were 3.41 × 10 3 and 6.84 × 10 4 pppy at 10 m and 50 m from the source, respectively, and were lower than 1.48 × 10 6 pppy regarding exposures to CpSP. Anaerobic digestion reduced risks by approximately one order of magnitude. The distance from the source was inversely proportional to the risk of exposure. It is recommended that wastewater is treated prior to its reuse and the adoption of application methods with low aerosolization potential. In addition, the need for workers to use personal protective equipment (PPE) is highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andressa de Matos Nascimento
- Post-Graduation Programme in Animal Biology Behaviour and Ecology (PGECOL), Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, s/n, Sao Pedro, Juiz de fora CEP 36.036-900, Brazil.
| | - Vanessa Romário de Paula
- Embrapa Dairy Cattle (Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation - Embrapa), Rua Eugênio do Nascimento, 610, Dom Bosco, Juiz de Fora CEP 36.038-330, Brazil.
| | - Edgard Henrique Oliveira Dias
- Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering (ESA), Faculty of Engineering, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, s/n, Sao Pedro, Juiz de fora CEP 36.036-900, Brazil.
| | - Jailton da Costa Carneiro
- Embrapa Dairy Cattle (Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation - Embrapa), Rua Eugênio do Nascimento, 610, Dom Bosco, Juiz de Fora CEP 36.038-330, Brazil.
| | - Marcelo Henrique Otenio
- Embrapa Dairy Cattle (Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation - Embrapa), Rua Eugênio do Nascimento, 610, Dom Bosco, Juiz de Fora CEP 36.038-330, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Martínez-Periñán E, Gutiérrez-Sánchez C, García-Mendiola T, Lorenzo E. Electrochemiluminescence Biosensors Using Screen-Printed Electrodes. BIOSENSORS-BASEL 2020; 10:bios10090118. [PMID: 32916838 PMCID: PMC7559215 DOI: 10.3390/bios10090118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Electrogenerated chemiluminescence (also called electrochemiluminescence (ECL)) has become a great focus of attention in different fields of analysis, mainly as a consequence of the potential remarkably high sensitivity and wide dynamic range. In the particular case of sensing applications, ECL biosensor unites the benefits of the high selectivity of biological recognition elements and the high sensitivity of ECL analysis methods. Hence, it is a powerful analytical device for sensitive detection of different analytes of interest in medical prognosis and diagnosis, food control and environment. These wide range of applications are increased by the introduction of screen-printed electrodes (SPEs). Disposable SPE-based biosensors cover the need to perform in-situ measurements with portable devices quickly and accurately. In this review, we sum up the latest biosensing applications and current progress on ECL bioanalysis combined with disposable SPEs in the field of bio affinity ECL sensors including immunosensors, DNA analysis and catalytic ECL sensors. Furthermore, the integration of nanomaterials with particular physical and chemical properties in the ECL biosensing systems has improved tremendously their sensitivity and overall performance, being one of the most appropriates research fields for the development of highly sensitive ECL biosensor devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Martínez-Periñán
- Departamento de Química Analítica y Análisis Instrumental Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.-P.); (C.G.-S.); (T.G.-M.)
| | - Cristina Gutiérrez-Sánchez
- Departamento de Química Analítica y Análisis Instrumental Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.-P.); (C.G.-S.); (T.G.-M.)
| | - Tania García-Mendiola
- Departamento de Química Analítica y Análisis Instrumental Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.-P.); (C.G.-S.); (T.G.-M.)
- Institute for Advanced Research in Chemical Sciences (IAdChem) Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- IMDEA-Nanociencia, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Encarnación Lorenzo
- Departamento de Química Analítica y Análisis Instrumental Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain; (E.M.-P.); (C.G.-S.); (T.G.-M.)
- Institute for Advanced Research in Chemical Sciences (IAdChem) Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- IMDEA-Nanociencia, Ciudad Universitaria de Cantoblanco, 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-91-497-4488
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Piochon M, Coulon PML, Caulet A, Groleau MC, Déziel E, Gauthier C. Synthesis and Antimicrobial Activity of Burkholderia-Related 4-Hydroxy-3-methyl-2-alkenylquinolines (HMAQs) and Their N-Oxide Counterparts. JOURNAL OF NATURAL PRODUCTS 2020; 83:2145-2154. [PMID: 32631063 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jnatprod.0c00171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The Burkholderia genus offers a promising potential in medicine because of the diversity of biologically active natural products encoded in its genome. Some pathogenic Burkholderia spp. biosynthesize a specific class of antimicrobial 2-alkyl-4(1H)-quinolones, i.e., 4-hydroxy-3-methyl-2-alkenylquinolines (HMAQs) and their N-oxide derivatives (HMAQNOs). Herein, we report the synthesis of a series of six HMAQs and HMAQNOs featuring a trans-Δ2 double bond at the C2-alkyl chain. The quinolone scaffold was obtained via the Conrad-Limpach approach, while the (E)-2-alkenyl chain was inserted through Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling under microwave radiation without noticeable isomerization according to the optimized conditions. Subsequent oxidation of enolate-protected HMAQs cleanly led to the formation of HMAQNOs following cleavage of the ethyl carbonate group. Synthetic HMAQs and HMAQNOs were evaluated in vitro for their antimicrobial activity against different Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria as well as against molds and yeasts. The biological results support and extend the potential of HMAQs and HMAQNOs as antimicrobials, especially against Gram-positive bacteria. We also confirm the involvement of HMAQs in the autoregulation of the Hmq system in Burkholderia ambifaria.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Piochon
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), 531, Boulevard des Prairies, Laval (Québec), Canada, H7V 1B7
| | - Pauline M L Coulon
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), 531, Boulevard des Prairies, Laval (Québec), Canada, H7V 1B7
| | - Armand Caulet
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), 531, Boulevard des Prairies, Laval (Québec), Canada, H7V 1B7
| | - Marie-Christine Groleau
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), 531, Boulevard des Prairies, Laval (Québec), Canada, H7V 1B7
| | - Eric Déziel
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), 531, Boulevard des Prairies, Laval (Québec), Canada, H7V 1B7
| | - Charles Gauthier
- Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS), 531, Boulevard des Prairies, Laval (Québec), Canada, H7V 1B7
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Stawicki S, Le N, Garg M, Izurieta R, Garg S, Papadimos T, Arquilla B, Miller A, Khan A, Worlton T, Firstenberg M, Galwankar S, Raina S, Anderson H, Jeanmonod R, Kaufmann K, Jeanmonod D, De Wulf A, McCallister D, Bloem C, Opara I, Martin N, Asensio J. What's new in Academic International Medicine? International health security agenda – Expanded and re-defined. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ACADEMIC MEDICINE 2020. [DOI: 10.4103/ijam.ijam_113_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
|
10
|
Gohli J, Bøifot KO, Moen LV, Pastuszek P, Skogan G, Udekwu KI, Dybwad M. The subway microbiome: seasonal dynamics and direct comparison of air and surface bacterial communities. MICROBIOME 2019; 7:160. [PMID: 31856911 PMCID: PMC6924074 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-019-0772-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mass transit environments, such as subways, are uniquely important for transmission of microbes among humans and built environments, and for their ability to spread pathogens and impact large numbers of people. In order to gain a deeper understanding of microbiome dynamics in subways, we must identify variables that affect microbial composition and those microorganisms that are unique to specific habitats. METHODS We performed high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing of air and surface samples from 16 subway stations in Oslo, Norway, across all four seasons. Distinguishing features across seasons and between air and surface were identified using random forest classification analyses, followed by in-depth diversity analyses. RESULTS There were significant differences between the air and surface bacterial communities, and across seasons. Highly abundant groups were generally ubiquitous; however, a large number of taxa with low prevalence and abundance were exclusively present in only one sample matrix or one season. Among the highly abundant families and genera, we found that some were uniquely so in air samples. In surface samples, all highly abundant groups were also well represented in air samples. This is congruent with a pattern observed for the entire dataset, namely that air samples had significantly higher within-sample diversity. We also observed a seasonal pattern: diversity was higher during spring and summer. Temperature had a strong effect on diversity in air but not on surface diversity. Among-sample diversity was also significantly associated with air/surface, season, and temperature. CONCLUSIONS The results presented here provide the first direct comparison of air and surface bacterial microbiomes, and the first assessment of seasonal variation in subways using culture-independent methods. While there were strong similarities between air and surface and across seasons, we found both diversity and the abundances of certain taxa to differ. This constitutes a significant step towards understanding the composition and dynamics of bacterial communities in subways, a highly important environment in our increasingly urbanized and interconnect world. Video abstract.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jostein Gohli
- Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, P.O. Box 25, NO-2027, Kjeller, Norway.
| | - Kari Oline Bøifot
- Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, P.O. Box 25, NO-2027, Kjeller, Norway
- Department of Analytics, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Line Victoria Moen
- Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, P.O. Box 25, NO-2027, Kjeller, Norway
| | - Paulina Pastuszek
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Stockholm University, SE 10691, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Skogan
- Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, P.O. Box 25, NO-2027, Kjeller, Norway
| | - Klas I Udekwu
- SoS BIOs Sweden, Tiundagatan 41, SE 752 30, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marius Dybwad
- Norwegian Defence Research Establishment, P.O. Box 25, NO-2027, Kjeller, Norway
- Department of Analytics, Environmental & Forensic Sciences, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Kumar M, Seema K, Prasad A, Sharma AK, Sherwal BL. Molecular confirmation of the circulating Bacillus anthracis during outbreak of anthrax in different villages of Simdega District, Jharkhand. Indian J Med Microbiol 2019; 37:116-119. [PMID: 31424022 DOI: 10.4103/ijmm.ijmm_19_111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Aims and Objectives Molecular confirmation of the circulating Bacillus anthracis during outbreak of anthrax in different villages of Simdega district, Jharkhand, India. Materials and Methods Blood samples with swabs from skin lesions (eschar) were collected from the suspected cases of Anthrax from October 2014 to June 2016 from Simdega district, Jharkhand. All the swabs were inoculated on polymyxin lysozyme EDTA thallous acetate media, nutrient agar media as well as 5% sheep blood agar media. Gamma-phage lysis was done. DNA extraction was done using a QIAamp DNA Mini Kit (QIAGEN, Valencia, CA, USA) and subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using anthrax-specific primers. Results On Gram and acid fast staining, purple rods and pink-coloured anthrax spores were detected. Capsular and M'Fadyean staining was done. Gamma-phage lysed B. anthracis culture. Of 39 suspected cases, 8 were culture and PCR positive and showed gamma-phage lysis. 3 deaths were reported. Discussion and Conclusion The conventional and real-time PCR methods are suitable for both the clinical and the epidemiological practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar
- Department of Microbiology, RIMS, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Kumari Seema
- Department of Microbiology, RIMS, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Amber Prasad
- Department of Microbiology, RIMS, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cloutier M, Muru K, Ravicoularamin G, Gauthier C. Polysaccharides from Burkholderia species as targets for vaccine development, immunomodulation and chemical synthesis. Nat Prod Rep 2019; 35:1251-1293. [PMID: 30023998 DOI: 10.1039/c8np00046h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Covering: up to 2018 Burkholderia species are a vast group of human pathogenic, phytopathogenic, and plant- or environment-associated bacteria. B. pseudomallei, B. mallei, and B. cepacia complex are the causative agents of melioidosis, glanders, and cystic fibrosis-related infections, respectively, which are fatal diseases in humans and animals. Due to their high resistance to antibiotics, high mortality rates, and increased infectivity via the respiratory tract, B. pseudomallei and B. mallei have been listed as potential bioterrorism agents by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Burkholderia species are able to produce a large network of surface-exposed polysaccharides, i.e., lipopolysaccharides, capsular polysaccharides, and exopolysaccharides, which are virulence factors, immunomodulators, major biofilm components, and protective antigens, and have crucial implications in the pathogenicity of Burkholderia-associated diseases. This review provides a comprehensive and up-to-date account regarding the structural elucidation and biological activities of surface polysaccharides produced by Burkholderia species. The chemical synthesis of oligosaccharides mimicking Burkholderia polysaccharides is described in detail. Emphasis is placed on the recent research efforts toward the development of glycoconjugate vaccines against melioidosis and glanders based on synthetic or native Burkholderia oligo/polysaccharides.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maude Cloutier
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Université du Québec, 531, boul. des Prairies, Laval, Québec H7V 1B7, Canada.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Adler D, Linden JR, Shetty SV, Ma Y, Bokori-Brown M, Titball RW, Vartanian T. Clostridium perfringens Epsilon Toxin Compromises the Blood-Brain Barrier in a Humanized Zebrafish Model. iScience 2019; 15:39-54. [PMID: 31030181 PMCID: PMC6487375 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2019.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 12/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Clostridium perfringens epsilon toxin (ETX) is hypothesized to mediate blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability by binding to the myelin and lymphocyte protein (MAL) on the luminal surface of endothelial cells (ECs). However, the kinetics of this interaction and a general understanding of ETX's behavior in a live organism have yet to be appreciated. Here we investigate ETX binding and BBB breakdown in living Danio rerio (zebrafish). Wild-type zebrafish ECs do not bind ETX. When zebrafish ECs are engineered to express human MAL (hMAL), proETX binding occurs in a time-dependent manner. Injection of activated toxin in hMAL zebrafish initiates BBB leakage, hMAL downregulation, blood vessel stenosis, perivascular edema, and blood stasis. We propose a kinetic model of MAL-dependent ETX binding and neurovascular pathology. By generating a humanized zebrafish BBB model, this study contributes to our understanding of ETX-induced BBB permeability and strengthens the proposal that MAL is the ETX receptor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Drew Adler
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA; Department of Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
| | - Jennifer R Linden
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Samantha V Shetty
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Yinghua Ma
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | - Richard W Titball
- Department of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, Devon EX4 4SB, UK
| | - Timothy Vartanian
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY 10065, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Nikitina PA, Bormotov NI, Shishkina LN, Tikhonov AY, Perevalov VP. Synthesis and antiviral activity of 1-hydroxy-2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)imidazoles against vaccinia virus. Russ Chem Bull 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11172-019-2467-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
|
15
|
Dynamics of Pathological and Virological Findings During Experimental Calpox Virus Infection of Common Marmosets (Callithrix jacchus). Viruses 2017; 9:v9120363. [PMID: 29182537 PMCID: PMC5744138 DOI: 10.3390/v9120363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Revised: 11/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Experimental intranasal infection of marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) with calpox virus results in fatal disease. Route and dose used for viral inoculation of the test animals mimics the natural transmission of smallpox, thus representing a suitable model to study pathogenesis and to evaluate new vaccines against orthopoxvirus infection. However, the pathogenic mechanisms leading to death are still unclear. Therefore, our study aimed at investigating the kinetics of pathological alterations to clarify the pathogenesis in calpox virus infection. Following intranasal inoculation with two different viral doses, common marmosets were sacrificed on days 3, 5, 7, 10 and 12 post inoculation. Collected tissue was screened using histopathology, immunohistochemistry, transmission electron microscopy, and virological assays. Our data suggest that primary replication took place in nasal and bronchial epithelia followed by secondary replication in submandibular lymph nodes and spleen. Parallel to viremia at day 7, virus was detectable in many organs, mainly located in epithelial cells and macrophages, as well as in endothelial cells. Based on the onset of clinical signs, the histological and ultrastructural lesions and the immunohistochemical distribution pattern of the virus, the incubation period was defined to last 11 days, which resembles human smallpox. In conclusion, the data indicate that the calpox model is highly suitable for studying orthopoxvirus-induced disease.
Collapse
|
16
|
Nualnoi T, Kirosingh A, Pandit SG, Thorkildson P, Brett PJ, Burtnick MN, AuCoin DP. In vivo Distribution and Clearance of Purified Capsular Polysaccharide from Burkholderia pseudomallei in a Murine Model. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0005217. [PMID: 27941991 PMCID: PMC5179125 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 12/22/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Burkholderia pseudomallei is the causative agent of melioidosis, a severe infection prominent in northern Australia and Southeast Asia. The “gold standard” for melioidosis diagnosis is bacterial isolation, which takes several days to complete. The resulting delay in diagnosis leads to delayed treatments, which could result in death. In an attempt to develop better methods for early diagnosis of melioidosis, B. pseudomallei capsular polysaccharide (CPS) was identified as an important diagnostic biomarker. A rapid lateral flow immunoassay utilizing CPS-specific monoclonal antibody was developed and tested in endemic regions worldwide. However, the in vivo fate and clearance of CPS has never been thoroughly investigated. Here, we injected mice with purified CPS intravenously and determined CPS concentrations in serum, urine, and major organs at various intervals. The results indicate that CPS is predominantly eliminated through urine and no CPS accumulation occurs in the major organs. Immunoblot analysis demonstrated that intact CPS was excreted through urine. To understand how a large molecule like CPS was eliminated without degradation, a 3-dimenational structure of CPS was modeled. The predicted CPS structure has a rod-like shape with a small diameter that could allow it to flow through the glomerulus of the kidney. CPS clearance was determined using exponential decay models and the corrected Akaike Information Criterion. The results show that CPS has a relatively short serum half-life of 2.9 to 4.4 hours. Therefore, the presence of CPS in the serum and/or urine suggests active melioidosis infection and provides a marker to monitor treatment of melioidosis. An outer membrane component, capsular polysaccharide (CPS), is a virulence factor expressed by many Gram-negative bacteria including Burkholderia pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis. Recently, B. pseudomallei CPS was identified as a useful diagnostic biomarker, leading to the development of a lateral flow immunoassay (LFI) targeting CPS for B. pseudomallei detection. In this current work, we studied the in vivo fate of CPS using a murine model, to better understand the clinical applications and potential limitations of the LFI. Interestingly, we found that B. pseudomallei CPS has a unique set of characteristics (as compared to other bacterial capsule antigens) including rapid kidney clearance from serum, no deposition in major internal organs, and ability to be cleared without degradation. Clinically, these findings suggest that CPS may be a potential biomarker for detecting active melioidosis and monitoring melioidosis treatment outcome. Additionally, urine may be used as a non-invasive sample for detecting melioidosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teerapat Nualnoi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, United States of America
| | - Adam Kirosingh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, United States of America
| | - Sujata G. Pandit
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, United States of America
| | - Peter Thorkildson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, United States of America
| | - Paul J. Brett
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Mary N. Burtnick
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama, United States of America
| | - David P. AuCoin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, Nevada, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chukwu EE, Nwaokorie FO, Coker AO, Avila-Campos MJ, Solis RL, Llanco LA, Ogunsola FT. Detection of toxigenic Clostridium perfringens and Clostridium botulinum from food sold in Lagos, Nigeria. Anaerobe 2016; 42:176-181. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2016.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Revised: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 10/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
18
|
Mölsä M, Kalin-Mänttäri L, Tonteri E, Hemmilä H, Nikkari S. Comparison of four commercial DNA extraction kits for the recovery of Bacillus spp. spore DNA from spiked powder samples. J Microbiol Methods 2016; 128:69-73. [PMID: 27435532 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2016.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2016] [Revised: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 07/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Bacillus spp. include human pathogens such as Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax and a biothreat agent. Bacillus spp. form spores that are physically highly resistant and may remain active over sample handling. We tested four commercial DNA extraction kits (QIAamp DNA Mini Kit, RTP Pathogen Kit, ZR Fungal/Bacterial DNA MiniPrep, and genesig Easy DNA/RNA Extraction kit) for sample inactivation and DNA recovery from two powders (icing sugar and potato flour) spiked with Bacillus thuringiensis spores. The DNA was analysed using a B. thuringiensis-specific real-time PCR assay. The detection limit was 3×10(1)CFU of spiked B. thuringiensis spores with the QIAamp DNA Mini, RTP Pathogen, and genesig Easy DNA/RNA Extraction kits, and 3×10(3)CFU with the ZR Fungal/Bacterial DNA MiniPrep kit. The results showed that manual extraction kits are effective and safe for fast and easy DNA extraction from powder samples even in field conditions. Adding a DNA filtration step to the extraction protocol ensures the removal of Bacillus spp. spores from DNA samples without affecting sensitivity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markos Mölsä
- Centres for Military Medicine and for Biological Threat Preparedness, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | | - Elina Tonteri
- Centres for Military Medicine and for Biological Threat Preparedness, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Heidi Hemmilä
- Centres for Military Medicine and for Biological Threat Preparedness, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Simo Nikkari
- Centres for Military Medicine and for Biological Threat Preparedness, Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Mazurkov OY, Kabanov AS, Shishkina LN, Sergeev AA, Skarnovich MO, Bormotov NI, Skarnovich MA, Ovchinnikova AS, Titova KA, Galahova DO, Bulychev LE, Sergeev AA, Taranov OS, Selivanov BA, Tikhonov AY, Zavjalov EL, Agafonov AP, Sergeev AN. New effective chemically synthesized anti-smallpox compound NIOCH-14. J Gen Virol 2016; 97:1229-1239. [PMID: 26861777 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.000422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Antiviral activity of the new chemically synthesized compound NIOCH-14 (a derivative of tricyclodicarboxylic acid) in comparison with ST-246 (the condensed derivative of pyrroledione) was observed in experiments in vitro and in vivo using orthopoxviruses including highly pathogenic ones. After oral administration of NIOCH-14 to outbred ICR mice infected intranasally with 100 % lethal dose of ectromelia virus, it was shown that 50 % effective doses of NIOCH-14 and ST-246 did not significantly differ. The 'therapeutic window' varied from 1 day before infection to 6 days post-infection (p.i.) to achieve 100-60 % survival rate. The administration of NIOCH-14 and ST-246 to mice resulted in a significant reduction of ectromelia virus titres in organs examined as compared with the control and also reduced pathological changes in the lungs 6 days p.i. Oral administration of NIOCH-14 and ST-246 to ICR mice and marmots challenged with monkeypox virus as compared with the control resulted in a significant reduction of virus production in the lungs and the proportion of infected mice 7 days p.i. as well as the absence of disease in marmots. Significantly lower proportions of infected mice and virus production levels in the lungs as compared with the control were demonstrated in experiments after oral administration of NIOCH-14 and ST-246 to ICR mice and immunodeficient SCID mice challenged with variola virus 3 and 4 days p.i., respectively. The results obtained suggest good prospects for further study of the chemical compound NIOCH-14 to create a new smallpox drug on its basis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oleg Yu Mazurkov
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Alexey S Kabanov
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Larisa N Shishkina
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Alexander A Sergeev
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Maksim O Skarnovich
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Nikolay I Bormotov
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Maria A Skarnovich
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Alena S Ovchinnikova
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Ksenya A Titova
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Darya O Galahova
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Leonid E Bulychev
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Artemiy A Sergeev
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Oleg S Taranov
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Boris A Selivanov
- N. N. Vorozhtsov Novosibirsk Institute of Organic Chemistry (NIOCH),Novosibirsk,Russian Federation
| | - Alexey Ya Tikhonov
- N. N. Vorozhtsov Novosibirsk Institute of Organic Chemistry (NIOCH),Novosibirsk,Russian Federation
| | | | - Alexander P Agafonov
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| | - Alexander N Sergeev
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology Vector (SRC VB Vector),Koltsovo, Novosibirsk region,Russian Federation
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Van Leuken J, Swart A, Havelaar A, Van Pul A, Van der Hoek W, Heederik D. Atmospheric dispersion modelling of bioaerosols that are pathogenic to humans and livestock - A review to inform risk assessment studies. MICROBIAL RISK ANALYSIS 2016; 1:19-39. [PMID: 32289056 PMCID: PMC7104230 DOI: 10.1016/j.mran.2015.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Revised: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
In this review we discuss studies that applied atmospheric dispersion models (ADM) to bioaerosols that are pathogenic to humans and livestock in the context of risk assessment studies. Traditionally, ADMs have been developed to describe the atmospheric transport of chemical pollutants, radioactive matter, dust, and particulate matter. However, they have also enabled researchers to simulate bioaerosol dispersion. To inform risk assessment, the aims of this review were fourfold, namely (1) to describe the most important physical processes related to ADMs and pathogen transport, (2) to discuss studies that focused on the application of ADMs to pathogenic bioaerosols, (3) to discuss emission and inactivation rate parameterisations, and (4) to discuss methods for conversion of concentrations to infection probabilities (concerning quantitative microbial risk assessment). The studies included human, livestock, and industrial sources. Important factors for dispersion included wind speed, atmospheric stability, topographic effects, and deposition. Inactivation was mainly governed by humidity, temperature, and ultraviolet radiation. A majority of the reviewed studies, however, lacked quantitative analyses and application of full quantitative microbial risk assessments (QMRA). Qualitative conclusions based on geographical dispersion maps and threshold doses were encountered frequently. Thus, to improve risk assessment for future outbreaks and releases, we recommended determining well-quantified emission and inactivation rates and applying dosimetry and dose-response models to estimate infection probabilities in the population at risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J.P.G. Van Leuken
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Corresponding author: Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands. Tel.: +31 30 274 2003.
| | - A.N. Swart
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - A.H. Havelaar
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Emerging Pathogens Institute and Animal Sciences Department, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States of America
| | - A. Van Pul
- Environment & Safety (M&V), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - W. Van der Hoek
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control (CIb), National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - D. Heederik
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences (IRAS), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Molecular characterization of the circulating Bacillus anthracis in Jordan. Trop Anim Health Prod 2015; 47:1621-4. [PMID: 26156620 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-015-0882-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2014] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
To understand the biomolecular charcteristics of Bacillus anthracis in Jordan, 20 blood smear slides from dead animals with suspected anthrax were analyzed using conventional and molecular approaches. All slides were positive for B. anthracis by conventional staining but no growth of the organism on selective media was detected. However, of the 20 samples, 16 were B. anthracis DNA-positive using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Seven samples provided enough quantity and quality of DNA, and their multilocus variable tandem repeat analysis (MLVA)-15 loci analysis revealed two different genotypes. All genotypes were belonging to A.B..r. 008/009 which is very common in Asia and Europe. Single nucleotide repeat (SNR) analysis revealed that there were no sub genotypes. Molecular diagnosis of animal anthrax in Jordan is not used routinely; henceforth, official diagnosis of anthrax is based on the observation of the slides by optical microscope and this can often cause reading errors. Therefore, the prevalence of the disease in Jordan might be slightly lower than that reported by the official bodies.
Collapse
|
22
|
Spehar-Délèze AM, Gransee R, Martinez-Montequin S, Bejarano-Nosas D, Dulay S, Julich S, Tomaso H, O’Sullivan CK. Electrochemiluminescence DNA sensor array for multiplex detection of biowarfare agents. Anal Bioanal Chem 2015; 407:6657-67. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-015-8831-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2015] [Revised: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 06/05/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
23
|
Mölsä M, Hemmilä H, Katz A, Niemimaa J, Forbes KM, Huitu O, Stuart P, Henttonen H, Nikkari S. Monitoring biothreat agents (Francisella tularensis, Bacillus anthracis and Yersinia pestis) with a portable real-time PCR instrument. J Microbiol Methods 2015; 115:89-93. [PMID: 26043838 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2015.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2015] [Revised: 05/29/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In the event of suspected releases or natural outbreaks of contagious pathogens, rapid identification of the infectious agent is essential for appropriate medical intervention and disease containment. The purpose of this study was to compare the performance of a novel portable real-time PCR thermocycler, PikoReal™, to the standard real-time PCR thermocycler, Applied Biosystems® 7300 (ABI 7300), for the detection of three high-risk biothreat bacterial pathogens: Francisella tularensis, Bacillus anthracis and Yersinia pestis. In addition, a novel confirmatory real-time PCR assay for the detection of F. tularensis is presented and validated. The results show that sensitivity of the assays, based on a dilution series, for the three infectious agents ranged from 1 to 100 fg of target DNA with both instruments. No cross-reactivity was revealed in specificity testing. Duration of the assays with the PikoReal and ABI 7300 systems were 50 and 100 min, respectively. In field testing for F. tularensis, results were obtained with the PikoReal system in 95 min, as the pre-PCR preparation, including DNA extraction, required an additional 45 min. We conclude that the PikoReal system enables highly sensitive and rapid on-site detection of biothreat agents under field conditions, and may be a more efficient alternative to conventional diagnostic methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Markos Mölsä
- Centres for Military Medicine and for Biological Threat Preparedness, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Heidi Hemmilä
- Centres for Military Medicine and for Biological Threat Preparedness, Helsinki, Finland.
| | - Anna Katz
- Centres for Military Medicine and for Biological Threat Preparedness, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | | | | - Otso Huitu
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, Suonenjoki, Finland.
| | - Peter Stuart
- Natural Resources Institute Finland, Suonenjoki, Finland.
| | | | - Simo Nikkari
- Centres for Military Medicine and for Biological Threat Preparedness, Helsinki, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Martínez O, Miranda E, Ramírez M, Santos S, Rivera C, Vázquez L, Sánchez T, Tremblay RL, Ríos-Olivares E, Otero M. Immunomodulator-based enhancement of anti smallpox immune responses. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0123113. [PMID: 25875833 PMCID: PMC4395221 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0123113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2014] [Accepted: 02/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The current live vaccinia virus vaccine used in the prevention of smallpox is contraindicated for millions of immune-compromised individuals. Although vaccination with the current smallpox vaccine produces protective immunity, it might result in mild to serious health complications for some vaccinees. Thus, there is a critical need for the production of a safe virus-free vaccine against smallpox that is available to everyone. For that reason, we investigated the impact of imiquimod and resiquimod (Toll-like receptors agonists), and the codon-usage optimization of the vaccinia virus A27L gene in the enhancement of the immune response, with intent of producing a safe, virus-free DNA vaccine coding for the A27 vaccinia virus protein. Methods We analyzed the cellular-immune response by measuring the IFN-γ production of splenocytes by ELISPOT, the humoral-immune responses measuring total IgG and IgG2a/IgG1 ratios by ELISA, and the TH1 and TH2 cytokine profiles by ELISA, in mice immunized with our vaccine formulation. Results The proposed vaccine formulation enhanced the A27L vaccine-mediated production of IFN-γ on mouse spleens, and increased the humoral immunity with a TH1-biased response. Also, our vaccine induced a TH1 cytokine milieu, which is important against viral infections. Conclusion These results support the efforts to find a new mechanism to enhance an immune response against smallpox, through the implementation of a safe, virus-free DNA vaccination platform.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Osmarie Martínez
- Department of Microbiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Eric Miranda
- Department of Microbiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Department of Microbiology Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine, Bayamón, Puerto Rico
| | - Maite Ramírez
- Department of Microbiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Saritza Santos
- Department of Microbiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Carlos Rivera
- Department Biology, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Luis Vázquez
- Department Biology, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Tomás Sánchez
- Department Biology, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Raymond L. Tremblay
- Department of Biology, University of Puerto Rico, Humacao, Puerto Rico
- Department of Biology, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- Center for Applied Tropical Ecology and Conservation, University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
| | - Eddy Ríos-Olivares
- Department of Microbiology Universidad Central del Caribe School of Medicine, Bayamón, Puerto Rico
| | - Miguel Otero
- Department of Microbiology, University of Puerto Rico, Medical Sciences Campus, San Juan, Puerto Rico
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Siciliano NA, Hersperger AR, Lacuanan AM, Xu RH, Sidney J, Sette A, Sigal LJ, Eisenlohr LC. Impact of distinct poxvirus infections on the specificities and functionalities of CD4+ T cell responses. J Virol 2014; 88:10078-91. [PMID: 24965457 PMCID: PMC4136331 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01150-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2014] [Accepted: 06/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
UNLABELLED The factors that determine CD4+ T cell (TCD4+) specificities, functional capacity, and memory persistence in response to complex pathogens remain unclear. We explored these parameters in the C57BL/6 mouse through comparison of two highly related (>92% homology) poxviruses: ectromelia virus (ECTV), a natural mouse pathogen, and vaccinia virus (VACV), a heterologous virus that nevertheless elicits potent immune responses. In addition to elucidating several previously unidentified major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-II)-restricted epitopes, we observed many qualitative and quantitative differences between the TCD4+ repertoires, including responses not elicited by VACV despite complete sequence conservation. In addition, we observed functional heterogeneity between ECTV- and VACV-specific TCD4+ at both a global and individual epitope level, particularly greater expression of the cytolytic marker CD107a from TCD4+ following ECTV infection. Most striking were differences during the late memory phase where, in contrast to ECTV, VACV infection failed to elicit measurable epitope-specific TCD4+ as determined by intracellular cytokine staining. These findings illustrate the strong influence of epitope-extrinsic factors on TCD4+ responses and memory. IMPORTANCE Much of our understanding concerning host-pathogen relationships in the context of poxvirus infections stems from studies of VACV in mice. However, VACV is not a natural mouse pathogen, and therefore, the relevance of results obtained using this model may be limited. Here, we explored the MHC class II-restricted TCD4+ repertoire induced by mousepox (ECTV) infection and the functional profile of the responding epitope-specific TCD4+, comparing these results to those induced by VACV infection under matched conditions. Despite a high degree of homology between the two viruses, we observed distinct specificity and functional profiles of TCD4+ responses at both acute and memory time points, with VACV-specific TCD4+ memory being notably compromised. These data offer insight into the impact of epitope-extrinsic factors on the resulting TCD4+ responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Siciliano
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Adam R Hersperger
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA Department of Biology, Albright College, Reading, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Aimee M Lacuanan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ren-Huan Xu
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Immune Cell Development and Host Defense Program, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - John Sidney
- Division of Vaccine Discovery, La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Alessandro Sette
- Division of Vaccine Discovery, La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Luis J Sigal
- Fox Chase Cancer Center, Immune Cell Development and Host Defense Program, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Laurence C Eisenlohr
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Kimmel Cancer Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
|
27
|
Comprehensive multiplex one-step real-time TaqMan qRT-PCR assays for detection and quantification of hemorrhagic fever viruses. PLoS One 2014; 9:e95635. [PMID: 24752452 PMCID: PMC3994070 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0095635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2014] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHFs) are a group of animal and human illnesses that are mostly caused by several distinct families of viruses including bunyaviruses, flaviviruses, filoviruses and arenaviruses. Although specific signs and symptoms vary by the type of VHF, initial signs and symptoms are very similar. Therefore rapid immunologic and molecular tools for differential diagnosis of hemorrhagic fever viruses (HFVs) are important for effective case management and control of the spread of VHFs. Real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) assay is one of the reliable and desirable methods for specific detection and quantification of virus load. Multiplex PCR assay has the potential to produce considerable savings in time and resources in the laboratory detection. Results Primers/probe sets were designed based on appropriate specific genes for each of 28 HFVs which nearly covered all the HFVs, and identified with good specificity and sensitivity using monoplex assays. Seven groups of multiplex one-step real-time qRT-PCR assays in a universal experimental system were then developed by combining all primers/probe sets into 4-plex reactions and evaluated with serial dilutions of synthesized viral RNAs. For all the multiplex assays, no cross-reactivity with other HFVs was observed, and the limits of detection were mainly between 45 and 150 copies/PCR. The reproducibility was satisfactory, since the coefficient of variation of Ct values were all less than 5% in each dilution of synthesized viral RNAs for both intra-assays and inter-assays. Evaluation of the method with available clinical serum samples collected from HFRS patients, SFTS patients and Dengue fever patients showed high sensitivity and specificity of the related multiplex assays on the clinical specimens. Conclusions Overall, the comprehensive multiplex one-step real-time qRT-PCR assays were established in this study, and proved to be specific, sensitive, stable and easy to serve as a useful tool for rapid detection of HFVs.
Collapse
|
28
|
Verma AK, . MS, . N, . RT, . KD, . SVS. Glanders-A Re-emerging Zoonotic Disease: A Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.3923/jbs.2014.38.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|
29
|
Allocati N, Masulli M, Alexeyev MF, Di Ilio C. Escherichia coli in Europe: an overview. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2013; 10:6235-54. [PMID: 24287850 PMCID: PMC3881111 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph10126235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 214] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2013] [Revised: 11/04/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Escherichia coli remains one of the most frequent causes of several common bacterial infections in humans and animals. E. coli is the prominent cause of enteritis, urinary tract infection, septicaemia and other clinical infections, such as neonatal meningitis. E. coli is also prominently associated with diarrhoea in pet and farm animals. The therapeutic treatment of E. coli infections is threatened by the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. The prevalence of multidrug-resistant E. coli strains is increasing worldwide principally due to the spread of mobile genetic elements, such as plasmids. The rise of multidrug-resistant strains of E. coli also occurs in Europe. Therefore, the spread of resistance in E. coli is an increasing public health concern in European countries. This paper summarizes the current status of E. coli strains clinically relevant in European countries. Furthermore, therapeutic interventions and strategies to prevent and control infections are presented and discussed. The article also provides an overview of the current knowledge concerning promising alternative therapies against E. coli diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nerino Allocati
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti I-66013, Italy; E-Mails: (M.M.); (C.D.I.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +39-0871-355-4807; Fax: +39-0871-355-4808
| | - Michele Masulli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti I-66013, Italy; E-Mails: (M.M.); (C.D.I.)
| | - Mikhail F. Alexeyev
- Department of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL 36688, USA; E-Mail:
| | - Carmine Di Ilio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Sciences, “G. d’Annunzio” University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti I-66013, Italy; E-Mails: (M.M.); (C.D.I.)
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Smee DF. Orthopoxvirus inhibitors that are active in animal models: an update from 2008 to 2012. Future Virol 2013; 8:891-901. [PMID: 24563659 DOI: 10.2217/fvl.13.76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Antiviral agents are being sought as countermeasures for the potential deliberate release of smallpox (variola) and monkeypox viruses, for the treatment of naturally acquired monkeypox virus infections, and as therapy for complications due to smallpox (live-attenuated vaccinia virus) vaccination or accidental infection after exposure to vaccinated persons. Reviews of the scientific literature spanning 1950-2008 have documented the progress made in developing small-animal models of poxvirus infection and identifying novel antiviral agents. Compounds of considerable interest include cidofovir, CMX001 and ST-246® (tecovirimat; SIGA Technologies, NY, USA). New inhibitors have been identified since 2008, most of which do not exhibit the kind of potency and selectivity required for drug development. Two promising agents include 4'-thioidoxuridine (a nucleoside analog) and mDEF201 (an adenovirus-vectored interferon). Compounds that have been effectively used in combination studies include vaccinia immune globulin, cidofovir, ST-246 and CMX001. In the future there may be an increase in experimental work using active compounds in combination.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Donald F Smee
- Institute for Antiviral Research, Department of Animal, Dairy & Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322-5600, USA, Tel.: +1 435 797 2897, ,
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Sjödin A, Broman T, Melefors Ö, Andersson G, Rasmusson B, Knutsson R, Forsman M. The Need for High-Quality Whole-Genome Sequence Databases in Microbial Forensics. Biosecur Bioterror 2013; 11 Suppl 1:S78-86. [DOI: 10.1089/bsp.2013.0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
|
32
|
Wioland L, Dupont JL, Bossu JL, Popoff MR, Poulain B. Attack of the nervous system by Clostridium perfringens Epsilon toxin: from disease to mode of action on neural cells. Toxicon 2013; 75:122-35. [PMID: 23632158 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2013.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2012] [Revised: 03/29/2013] [Accepted: 04/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Epsilon toxin (ET), produced by Clostridium perfringens types B and D, ranks among the four most potent poisonous substances known so far. ET-intoxication is responsible for enterotoxaemia in animals, mainly sheep and goats. This disease comprises several manifestations indicating the attack of the nervous system. This review aims to summarize the effects of ET on central nervous system. ET binds to endothelial cells of brain capillary vessels before passing through the blood-brain barrier. Therefore, it induces perivascular oedema and accumulates into brain. ET binding to different brain structures and to different component in the brain indicates regional susceptibility to the toxin. Histological examination has revealed nerve tissue and cellular lesions, which may be directly or indirectly caused by ET. The naturally occurring disease caused by ET-intoxication can be reproduced experimentally in rodents. In mice and rats, ET recognizes receptor at the surface of different neural cell types, including certain neurons (e.g. the granule cells in cerebellum) as well as oligodendrocytes, which are the glial cells responsible for the axons myelination. Moreover, ET induces release of glutamate and other transmitters, leading to firing of neural network. The precise mode of action of ET on neural cells remains to be determined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Wioland
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) and Université de Strasbourg, Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives (INCI), UPR 3212, Strasbourg, France
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Abstract
Terrorism involving radioactive materials includes improvised nuclear devices, radiation exposure devices, contamination of food sources, radiation dispersal devices, or an attack on a nuclear power plant or a facility/vehicle that houses radioactive materials. Ionizing radiation removes electrons from atoms and changes the valence of the electrons enabling chemical reactions with elements that normally do not occur. Ionizing radiation includes alpha rays, beta rays, gamma rays, and neutron radiation. The effects of radiation consist of stochastic and deterministic effects. Cancer is the typical example of a stochastic effect of radiation. Deterministic effects include acute radiation syndrome (ARS). The hallmarks of ARS are damage to the skin, gastrointestinal tract, hematopoietic tissue, and in severe cases the neurovascular structures. Radiation produces psychological effects in addition to physiological effects. Radioisotopes relevant to terrorism include titrium, americium 241, cesium 137, cobalt 60, iodine 131, plutonium 238, califormium 252, iridium 192, uranium 235, and strontium 90. Medications used for treating a radiation exposure include antiemetics, colony-stimulating factors, antibiotics, electrolytes, potassium iodine, and chelating agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gyula Bokor
- Staff Psychiatrist Taunton State Hospital, Taunton, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|