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Elgendy DI, Elmahy RA, Amer AIM, Ibrahim HA, Eltantawy AF, Mansour FR, Salama AM. Efficacy of artemether against toxocariasis in mice: parasitological and immunopathological changes in brain, liver, and lung. Pathog Glob Health 2024; 118:47-64. [PMID: 37978995 PMCID: PMC10769145 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2023.2285182] [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] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxocariasis is a zoonosis that represents a serious threat to public health particularly in tropical and subtropical areas. Currently, albendazole, the most effective drug for treating visceral toxocariasis, shows moderate efficacy against the larvae in tissues and has some adverse effects. Artemether is an antiparasitic drug mainly used in the treatment of malaria and showed effectiveness against numerous helminthic infections. Besides, it possesses potent anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, antifibrotic, and neuroprotective properties. Thus, the study's aim was to investigate artemether's effects in comparison with albendazole on the therapeutic outcome of experimental toxocariasis. For this aim, 140 laboratory-bred mice were divided into four main groups: uninfected control, treatment control, albendazole-treated, and artemether-treated groups. The treatment regimens were started at the 15th dpi (early treatment), and at the 35th dpi (late treatment). The effectiveness of treatment was determined by brain larval count, histopathological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical examination. Artemether showed more effectiveness than albendazole in reducing brain larval counts, markers of brain injury including NF-κB, GFAP, and caspase-3, the diameter and number of hepatic granulomas, hepatic oxidative stress, hepatic IL-6, and TG2 mRNA, and pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis. The efficacy of artemether was the same when administered early or late in the infection. Finally, our findings illustrated that artemether might be a promising therapy for T. canis infection and it could be a good substitution for albendazole in toxocariasis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina I. Elgendy
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Rasha A. Elmahy
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | | | - Hoda A. Ibrahim
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Asmaa Fawzy Eltantawy
- Medical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Fotouh Rashed Mansour
- Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Amina M. Salama
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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Park S, Oh HN, Kim WK. Human coculture model of astrocytes and SH-SY5Y cells to test the neurotoxicity of chemicals. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 269:115912. [PMID: 38181562 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
In this study, we established a coculture model comprising human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived astrocytes, faithfully replicating the human brain environment for in vitro neurotoxicity assessment. We optimized the cell differentiation duration and cell ratios to obtain images conducive to neurite outgrowth evaluation. Subsequently, the neurotoxic effects in the coculture and monoculture of SH-SY5Y cells were confirmed using neurotoxic agents such as acrylamide (ACR) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Disparities in the neurotoxic impacts of ACR and H2O2 within the coculture were mirrored in the expression of genes associated with early neuronal injury. Notably, the reduction in neurite outgrowth induced by neurotoxic agents revealed the coculture's lower sensitivity compared to monocultures. Furthermore, the coculture system exhibited distinct effects of test agents on nerve damage and manifested protective influences on nerve cells. The proposed methodology holds promise for large-scale chemical neurotoxicity screening through neurite change measurements. This in vitro coculture model, accounting for cell interactions, emerges as a valuable tool in toxicity testing, offering insights into the potential effects of chemicals within the human body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seungmin Park
- Department of Predictive Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, South Korea; Human and Environmental Toxicology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, South Korea
| | - Ha-Na Oh
- Department of Predictive Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, South Korea
| | - Woo-Keun Kim
- Department of Predictive Toxicology, Korea Institute of Toxicology, Daejeon 34114, South Korea; Human and Environmental Toxicology, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, South Korea.
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Salama AM, Elmahy RA, Ibrahim HA, Amer AIM, Eltantawy AF, Elgendy DI. Effects of metformin on parasitological, pathological changes in the brain and liver and immunological aspects during visceral toxocariasis in mice. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:3213-3231. [PMID: 37874393 PMCID: PMC10667394 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-08011-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
There are currently insufficient anthelmintic medications available for the treatment of toxocariasis. For instance, Albendazole (ABZ) is the preferred medication, but its effectiveness against tissue-dwelling parasites is limited. In addition, Metformin (MTF) is a widely used oral antidiabetic medication that is considered to be safe for treatment. This study aimed to investigate any potential effects of MTF, alone or in combination with ABZ, on mice infections caused by Toxocara canis (T. canis). The efficacy of the treatment was assessed in the acute and chronic phases of the infection by larval recovery and histopathological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical studies. The results showed that combined therapy significantly reduced larval counts in the liver, brain, and muscles and ameliorated hepatic and brain pathology. It reduced oxidative stress and TGF-β mRNA expression and increased FGF21 levels in the liver. It decreased TNF-α levels and MMP-9 expression in the brain. In addition, it increased serum levels of IL-12 and IFN-γ and decreased serum levels of IL-4 and IL-10. In the acute and chronic phases of the infection, the combined treatment was more effective than ABZ alone. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential role of MTF as an adjuvant in the treatment of experimental T. canis infection when administered with ABZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amina M Salama
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Rasha A Elmahy
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
| | - Hoda A Ibrahim
- Medical Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | | | - Asmaa Fawzy Eltantawy
- Medical Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Dina I Elgendy
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt.
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Song G, Yang C, Qu Z, Lin X, Liu M, Wang Y. Association between seropositivity for toxocariasis and cognitive functioning in older adults: an analysis of cross-sectional data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), 2011-2014. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e068974. [PMID: 36858467 PMCID: PMC9980365 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-068974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study sought to examine the relationship between seropositivity for toxocariasis and cognitive functioning in a nationally representative sample of US older adults. DESIGN A cross-sectional study. SETTING National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data collection took place in the US at participants' homes and mobile examination centres with specialised equipment. PARTICIPANTS The study population consisted of 3188 community-dwelling US older adults aged 60 and above from the NHANES 2011 to 2014. OUTCOME MEASURES IgG antibody against Toxocara spp was tested by a Luminex assay using recombinant rTc-CTL-1 antigen. A value >23.1 mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) indicated positive for toxocariasis and a value ≤23.1 MFI as negative for toxocariasis. The Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease Word Learning subtest immediate and delayed memory, the Animal Fluency test and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST) were used to assess cognitive functioning. Cognitive test-specific and global cognitive z scores were computed using sample means and SD. RESULTS The study population consisted of 3188 participants who represented a total of 111 896 309 civilian citizens in the USA. The mean age of the participants was 69.6 years (standard deviation 6.8). The prevalence of toxocariasis in this population was 7.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.1% to 8.5%). The survey-weighted linear regression model showed that compared with participants who were toxocariasis seronegative, those who were seropositive had lower DSST z score (beta [β] = -0.12, 95% CI -0.22 to -0.01) and global cognition z score (β=-0.11, 95% CI -0.22 to -0.01), after controlling for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, depressive symptoms, smoking status, body mass index, prevalent coronary heart disease, prevalent stroke, and systolic blood pressure, physical activity, and total cholesterol. CONCLUSIONS In our study, seropositive toxocariasis was independently and significantly associated with worse working memory, sustained attention, processing speed and global cognition in older adults. If this association is causal, public health measures to prevent human toxocariasis might help protect older adults' cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ge Song
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of Houston-Downtown, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Chao Yang
- The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Zhe Qu
- School of Nursing, Xu Zhou Medical College, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuechun Lin
- Department of Nutrition and Food hygiene, Hubei Key Laboratory of Food Nutrition and Safety, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Minhui Liu
- Central South University Xiangya School of Nursing, Changsha, Hunan Sheng, China
| | - Yanhong Wang
- School of Nursing, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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Chen Z, Yu H, Chen X, Chen W, Song W, Li Z. Mutual regulation between glycosylation and transforming growth factor-β isoforms signaling pathway. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 236:123818. [PMID: 36858092 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily members orchestrate a wide breadth of biological processes. Through Sma and Mad (Smad)-related dependent or noncanonical pathways, TGF-β members involve in the occurrence and development of many diseases such as cancers, fibrosis, autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases and brain diseases. Glycosylation is one kind of the most common posttranslational modifications on proteins or lipids. Abnormal protein glycosylation can lead to protein malfunction and biological process disorder, thereby causing serious diseases. Previously, researchers commonly make comprehensive systematic overviews on the roles of TGF-β signaling in a specific disease or biological process. In recent years, more and more evidences associate glycosylation modification with TGF-β signaling pathway, and we can no longer disengage and ignore the roles of glycosylation from TGF-β signaling to make investigation. In this review, we provide an overview of current findings involved in glycosylation within TGF-βs and theirs receptors, and the interaction effects between glycosylation and TGF-β subfamily signaling, concluding that there is an intricate mutual regulation between glycosylation and TGF-β signaling, hoping to present the glycosylation regulatory patterns that concealed in TGF-βs signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuo Chen
- Laboratory for Functional Glycomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Hanjie Yu
- Laboratory for Functional Glycomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Xiangqin Chen
- Laboratory for Functional Glycomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Wentian Chen
- Laboratory for Functional Glycomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Wanghua Song
- Laboratory for Functional Glycomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China
| | - Zheng Li
- Laboratory for Functional Glycomics, College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an 710069, PR China.
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Vojtechova I, Machacek T, Kristofikova Z, Stuchlik A, Petrasek T. Infectious origin of Alzheimer’s disease: Amyloid beta as a component of brain antimicrobial immunity. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010929. [PMCID: PMC9671327 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The amyloid cascade hypothesis, focusing on pathological proteins aggregation, has so far failed to uncover the root cause of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), or to provide an effective therapy. This traditional paradigm essentially explains a mechanism involved in the development of sporadic AD rather than its cause. The failure of an overwhelming majority of clinical studies (99.6%) demonstrates that a breakthrough in therapy would be difficult if not impossible without understanding the etiology of AD. It becomes more and more apparent that the AD pathology might originate from brain infection. In this review, we discuss a potential role of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and eukaryotic parasites as triggers of AD pathology. We show evidence from the current literature that amyloid beta, traditionally viewed as pathological, actually acts as an antimicrobial peptide, protecting the brain against pathogens. However, in case of a prolonged or excessive activation of a senescent immune system, amyloid beta accumulation and aggregation becomes damaging and supports runaway neurodegenerative processes in AD. This is paralleled by the recent study by Alam and colleagues (2022) who showed that alpha-synuclein, the protein accumulating in synucleinopathies, also plays a critical physiological role in immune reactions and inflammation, showing an unforeseen link between the 2 unrelated classes of neurodegenerative disorders. The multiplication of the amyloid precursor protein gene, recently described by Lee and collegues (2018), and possible reactivation of human endogenous retroviruses by pathogens fits well into the same picture. We discuss these new findings from the viewpoint of the infection hypothesis of AD and offer suggestions for future research. More than a century after its discovery, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains incurable and mysterious. The dominant hypothesis of amyloid cascade has succeeded in explaining the key pathological mechanism, but not its trigger. Amyloid beta has been traditionally considered a pathological peptide, and its physiological functions remain poorly known. These knowledge gaps have contributed to repeated failures of clinical studies. The emerging infectious hypothesis of AD considers central nervous system (CNS) infection the primary trigger of sporadic AD. A closely connected hypothesis claims that amyloid beta is an antimicrobial peptide. In this review, we discuss the available evidence for the involvement of infections in AD, coming from epidemiological studies, post mortem analyses of brain tissue, and experiments in vitro and in vivo. We argue there is no unique “Alzheimer’s germ,” instead, AD is a general reaction of the CNS to chronic infections, in the milieu of an aged immune system. The pathology may become self-sustained even without continuous presence of microbes in the brain. Importantly, the infectious hypothesis leads to testable predictions. Targeting amyloid beta should be ineffective, unless the triggering pathogen and inflammatory response are addressed as well. Meticulous control of selected infections might be the best near-term strategy for AD prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iveta Vojtechova
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- * E-mail: , (IV); , (TP)
| | - Tomas Machacek
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | | | - Ales Stuchlik
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Tomas Petrasek
- National Institute of Mental Health, Klecany, Czech Republic
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology of Memory, Institute of Physiology of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- * E-mail: , (IV); , (TP)
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Wu Y, Duffey M, Alex SE, Suarez-Reyes C, Clark EH, Weatherhead JE. The role of helminths in the development of non-communicable diseases. Front Immunol 2022; 13:941977. [PMID: 36119098 PMCID: PMC9473640 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.941977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory diseases, cancers, diabetes, and neuropsychiatric diseases cause significant global morbidity and mortality which disproportionately affect those living in low resource regions including low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In order to reduce NCD morbidity and mortality in LMIC it is imperative to understand risk factors associated with the development of NCDs. Certain infections are known risk factors for many NCDs. Several parasitic helminth infections, which occur most commonly in LMICs, have been identified as potential drivers of NCDs in parasite-endemic regions. Though understudied, the impact of helminth infections on the development of NCDs is likely related to helminth-specific factors, including species, developmental stage and disease burden. Mechanical and chemical damage induced by the helminth in combination with pathologic host immune responses contribute to the long-term inflammation that increases risk for NCD development. Robust studies from animal models and human clinical trials are needed to understand the immunologic mechanisms of helminth-induced NCDs. Understanding the complex connection between helminths and NCDs will aid in targeted public health programs to reduce helminth-induced NCDs and reduce the high rates of morbidity that affects millions of people living in parasite-endemic, LMICs globally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Megan Duffey
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States,Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Saira Elizabeth Alex
- National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Charlie Suarez-Reyes
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Eva H. Clark
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States,Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States,National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jill E. Weatherhead
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States,Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States,National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States,*Correspondence: Jill E. Weatherhead,
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Leal-Silva T, Lopes CDA, Vieira-Santos F, Oliveira FMS, Kraemer L, Padrão LDLS, Amorim CCO, Souza JLN, Barbosa FS, Rachid MA, Russo RC, Fujiwara RT, Bueno LL. Tissue eosinophilia correlates with mice susceptibility, granuloma formation, and damage during Toxocara canis infection. Parasitology 2022; 149:1-38. [PMID: 35139931 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182022000075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
AbstractAn increase in peripheral blood eosinophils in helminth infections is expected, and these cells are known to promote immunity against these parasites. However, studies have suggested that in some specific helminths, eosinophils may promote the needs and longevity of these parasites, and their role in these infections remains undefined, including in Toxocara canis infection. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the role of eosinophils in the context of larval migration of T. canis and the immunopathological aspects of infection. For this, we used wild-type mice and mice genetically deficient for the transcription factor GATA-binding factor 1 (GATA1−/−), infected with 1000 eggs of T. canis. At 0, 3, 14 and 63 days post-infection, parasite load, tissue cytokine production, leucocyte profile, bronchoalveolar lavage cells and histopathological analyses were carried out. Collectively, our results demonstrate that the presence of eosinophils mediates susceptibility to T. canis, inducing leucocytosis and the formation of granulomas, increasing the pulmonary and cerebral parasite load, and reducing the number of neutrophils, which may be necessary to control the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaís Leal-Silva
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais,Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Post-graduation Program in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Camila de Almeida Lopes
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais,Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Flaviane Vieira-Santos
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais,Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fabrício Marcus Silva Oliveira
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais,Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lucas Kraemer
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais,Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Luiza de Lima Silva Padrão
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais,Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Post-graduation Program in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Chiara Cássia Oliveira Amorim
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais,Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Jorge Lucas Nascimento Souza
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais,Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fernando Sérgio Barbosa
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais,Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Milene Alvarenga Rachid
- Laboratory of Protozooses, Department of General Pathology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Remo Castro Russo
- Laboratory of Pulmonary Immunology and Mechanics, Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Toshio Fujiwara
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais,Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Post-graduation Program in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Lilian Lacerda Bueno
- Laboratory of Immunology and Genomics of Parasites, Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais,Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- Post-graduation Program in Health Sciences: Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Abstract
PURPOSE Toxocariasis is a helminthozoonosis caused by the infection of a human host by the larva of Toxocara spp., predominately involving Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati, which are common nematodes in dogs and cats, respectively. Human transmission occurs through contact with animals or by consumption of food contaminated with parasite's eggs. The purpose of this article is to review the current knowledge regarding human neurotoxocariasis. METHODS We conducted a systematic review of the existing literature concerning toxocariasis of the nervous system. RESULTS Clinical spectrum of human toxocariasis varies widely from a subclinical course to significant organ morbidity. Clinical course depends on parasitic load, the migration route of the larvae and host response. Human neurotoxocariasis is a relatively rare entity yet associated with severe sequelae. Manifestations include meningitis (usually eosinophilic), encephalitis, myelitis, cerebellar vasculitis, space-occupying lesion, behavioral abnormalities, and optic neuritis. Even though valid diagnostic criteria are lacking, neurotoxocariasis should be suspected in patients with neurologic symptoms and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis with eosinophilia, positive serology for anti-Toxocara antibodies, in serum and/or CSF, sterile CSF and clinical improvement after antihelminthic treatment. Neurotoxocariasis is treated by benzimidazole components, most frequently albendazole, corticosteroids, or diethylcarbamazine. CONCLUSION Parasite larvae migrate through tissues and are able to reach the nervous system causing neurotoxocariasis. Its clinical spectrum varies and includes myelitis, meningoencephalitis, brain abscess, and vasculitis. Neurotoxocariasis should always be suspected in patients with neurologic symptoms accompanied by eosinophilia in blood and/or CSF. Early diagnosis and treatment could prevent long-term neurologic impairment.
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Gale SD, Hedges DW. Neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric effects of toxocariasis. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:261-272. [PMID: 32381201 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Caused by the neuroinvasive nematodes Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati, human toxocariasis has a worldwide distribution with seroprevalence in humans associated with low socioeconomic status and low educational attainment. Third-stage Toxocara larvae can invade human tissues, including the brain and spine, where they can result in encephalitis, meningitis, and inflammation. Toxocara infection in animal models has been associated with cognitive and behavioural changes. In humans, preliminary cross-sectional research suggests that Toxocara seropositivity is associated with worse cognitive function in children and adults. Additional preliminary cross-sectional findings suggest associations between Toxocara seropositivity and neuropsychiatric function, including schizophrenia and neurologic conditions such as epilepsy. Given the widespread distribution of human toxocariasis and early evidence suggesting that it can be associated with cognitive and neuropsychiatric function in humans, additional research regarding the effects of toxocariasis on the human brain is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn D Gale
- Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, United States; The Neuroscience Centre, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, United States.
| | - Dawson W Hedges
- Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, United States; The Neuroscience Centre, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, United States
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Identification of Methylated Gene Biomarkers in Patients with Alzheimer's Disease Based on Machine Learning. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:8348147. [PMID: 32309439 PMCID: PMC7139879 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8348147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder and characterized by the cognitive impairments. It is essential to identify potential gene biomarkers for AD pathology. Methods DNA methylation expression data of patients with AD were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially methylated sites were identified. The functional annotation analysis of corresponding genes in the differentially methylated sites was performed. The optimal diagnostic gene biomarkers for AD were identified by using random forest feature selection procedure. In addition, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) diagnostic analysis of differentially methylated genes was performed. Results A total of 10 differentially methylated sites including 5 hypermethylated sites and 5 hypomethylated sites were identified in AD. There were a total of 8 genes including thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP), noggin (NOG), regulator of microtubule dynamics 2 (FAM82A1), myoneurin (MYNN), ankyrin repeat domain 34B (ANKRD34B), STAM-binding protein like 1, ALMalpha (STAMBPL1), cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1C (CDKN1C), and coronin 2B (CORO2B) that correspond to 10 differentially methylated sites. The cell cycle (FDR = 0.0284087) and TGF-beta signaling pathway (FDR = 0.0380372) were the only two significantly enriched pathways of these genes. MYNN was selected as optimal diagnostic biomarker with great diagnostic value. The random forests model could effectively predict AD. Conclusion Our study suggested that MYNN could be served as optimal diagnostic biomarker of AD. Cell cycle and TGF-beta signaling pathway may be associated with AD.
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Mesenchymal stem cells combined with albendazole as a novel therapeutic approach for experimental neurotoxocariasis. Parasitology 2020; 147:799-809. [PMID: 32178741 DOI: 10.1017/s003118202000044x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Neurotoxocariasis (NT) is a serious condition that has been linked to reduced cognitive function, behavioural alterations and neurodegenerative diseases. Unfortunately, the available drugs to treat toxocariasis are limited with unsatisfactory results, because of the initiation of treatment at late chronic stages after the occurrence of tissue damage and scars. Therefore, searching for a new therapy for this important disease is an urgent necessity. In this context, cytotherapy is a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of many diseases and tissue damages through the introduction of new cells into the damaged sites. They exert therapeutic effects by their capability of renewal, differentiation into specialized cells, and being powerful immunomodulators. The most popular cell type utilized in cytotherapy is the mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) type. In the current study, the efficacy of MSCs alone or combined with albendazole was evaluated against chronic brain insults induced by Toxocara canis infection in an experimental mouse model. Interestingly, MSCs combined with albendazole demonstrated a healing effect on brain inflammation, gliosis, apoptosis and significantly reduced brain damage biomarkers (S100B and GFAP) and T. canis DNA. Thus, MSCs would be protective against the development of subsequent neurodegenerative diseases with chronic NT.
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Strube C, Waindok P, Raulf MK, Springer A. Toxocara-induced neural larva migrans (neurotoxocarosis) in rodent model hosts. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:189-218. [PMID: 32381198 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Neural larva migrans (NLM), or neurotoxocarosis, induced by Toxocara canis or Toxocara cati results from migrating and persisting larvae in the central nervous system of paratenic hosts, including humans. As the diagnosis of NLM in humans is not straightforward, most knowledge on the disease is derived from only a few published clinical cases. To improve our understanding of human NLM, studies on the pathogenesis and clinical symptoms in laboratory animal model systems are indispensable, and rodents have been accepted as the most appropriate model organisms for NLM. As research has mostly focused on neuroinvasive T. canis-larvae, information regarding the pathogenesis of T. cati-induced NLM remains scarce. This review summarises the current state of knowledge on neuroinvasion by both T. canis and T. cati in different rodent model hosts, the resulting behavioural changes, and histopathological alterations during the course of NLM as well as the potential molecular pathogenic mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany.
| | - Patrick Waindok
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Marie-Kristin Raulf
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany; Immunology Unit & Research Centre for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Andrea Springer
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
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Fan CK. Pathogenesis of cerebral toxocariasis and neurodegenerative diseases. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2020; 109:233-259. [PMID: 32381200 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Toxocara canis belongs to one of zoonotic parasites that commonly infects canines worldwide, and its eggs in host faeces may contaminate the food, water, soil and their fur as well as the larvae entrapped in the granuloma can infect paratenic hosts including mice and humans. Survivability of T. canis embryonated eggs under moist, cool conditions may be as long as 2-4 years or more. In paratenic hosts such as mice and humans, T. canis L3 larvae neither moult, grow, nor replicate and will wander through a number of internal organs in humans so as to cause Th2-dominant pathology in various internal organs as leading to neurotoxocariasis (NT), ocular toxocariasis (OT), or visceral larva migrans (VLM). Although the systemic immune response to T. canis has been widely reported, the immune response in the brain has received little attention. Differential cytokine expression and other brain injury-associated biomarkers or neurodegeneration-associated factors have been observed in infected versus uninfected outbred and inbred mice. Preliminary data have also suggested a possible link between significant memory impairment and cytokine production associated with T. canis infection in the hippocampus which has been long recognised as being responsible for learning and memory functions. Notably, it remains an enigma concerning cerebral invasion by T. canis larvae rarely induces a recognisable neurological syndrome or its involvement in neuropathological disorders in humans. Exploration of the relationship between host and parasite in the brain may elucidate the cryptic symptoms of human cerebral toxocariasis, with patients presenting with mental retardation, epilepsy, neurodegeneration and other central nervous system (CNS) disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Kwung Fan
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Research Center of International Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan; Tropical Medicine Division, International PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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Migratory parasites esp larva migrans and its changing patterns. Trop Parasitol 2020; 10:65-67. [PMID: 32775298 PMCID: PMC7365509 DOI: 10.4103/tp.tp_20_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
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Histopathological characterization of Toxocara canis- and T. cati-induced neurotoxocarosis in the mouse model. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:2591-2600. [PMID: 31350619 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06395-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Infective larvae of Toxocara canis and T. cati, the common roundworms of dogs and cats, may invade the central nervous system of paratenic hosts, including humans, causing neurotoxocarosis (NT). Previous studies on NT in the model organism "mouse" have indicated distinct differences between T. canis and T. cati regarding larval migration patterns as well as the severity of clinical symptoms and behavioural alterations. The objective of the present study was to provide an extensive characterization of the underlying histopathological alterations, comparing T. canis- and T. cati-induced changes in different brain areas over the course of murine infection. Four histological sections of five brains each of T. canis- and T. cati-infected as well as uninfected C57Bl/6 mice were investigated 7, 14, 28, 42, 70 and 98 days post infection (dpi), while brains of T. cati-infected and control mice were also available 120 and 150 dpi. In addition to haematoxylin-eosin and luxol fast blue-cresyl violet staining, immunohistochemistry was employed to study microglia/macrophage cell morphology and to detect accumulation of β-amyloid precursor protein (β-APP) as an indicator of axonal damage. Haemorrhages, eosinophilic vasculitis and activated microglia/macrophages were detected in both infection groups starting 7 dpi, followed by eosinophilic meningitis in cerebra as from 14 dpi. Overall, little differences in the proportion of animals affected by these alterations were found between the two infection groups. In contrast, the proportion of animals displaying β-APP accumulation was significantly higher in the T. canis than T. cati group as from 28 dpi regarding the cerebrum as well as at 98 dpi regarding the cerebellum. In T. canis-infected mice, myelinophagic microglia/macrophages ("gitter cells") appeared as from 14 dpi, whereas these were first observed at 70 dpi in T. cati-infected animals. The proportion of animals displaying demyelination and/or gitter cells in the cerebrum was significantly higher in the T. canis than T. cati group as from 28 dpi, and at 28 and 42 dpi regarding the cerebellum. Earlier and more severe neurodegeneration during T. canis- than T. cati-induced NT, especially in the cerebrum, may explain the differences in behavioural alterations observed in previous studies. In addition to differences in larval migration preferences, immunological processes may contribute to these patterns, which warrant further investigation.
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Waindok P, Strube C. Neuroinvasion of Toxocara canis- and T. cati-larvae mediates dynamic changes in brain cytokine and chemokine profile. J Neuroinflammation 2019; 16:147. [PMID: 31315623 PMCID: PMC6637622 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-019-1537-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Neurotoxocarosis (NT) is induced by larvae of the dog or cat roundworm (Toxocara canis or T. cati) migrating and persisting in the central nervous system of paratenic hosts, including humans, and may be accompanied by severe neurological symptoms. Host- or parasite-induced immunoregulatory processes contribute to the pathogenesis, but detailed data on pathogenic mechanisms and involvement of signalling molecules during cerebral Toxocara species infections are scarce. Methods To elucidate alterations in immunomodulatory mediator pattern, comprehensive multiplex bead array assays profiling comprising 23 different cytokines and chemokines were performed during the course of T. canis- and T. cati-induced NT. To this end, cerebra and cerebella of experimentally infected C57Bl/6 J mice serving as paratenic host models were analysed at six different time points (days 7, 14, 28, 42, 70 and 98) post infectionem (pi). Results Brain-body mass ratios of T. canis and T. cati-infected mice were significantly lower than those of the uninfected control group at day 14 pi, and also at day 28 pi for T. canis-infected mice. Both infection groups showed a continuous decrease of pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations, including TNF-α, IFN-γ, GM-CSF and IL-6, in the cerebrum over the course of infection. Additionally, T. canis but not T. cati-induced neurotoxocarosis was characterised by significantly elevated levels of anti-inflammatory IL-4 and IL-5 in the cerebrum in the acute and subacute phase of the disease. The higher neuroaffinity of T. canis led to a prominent increase of eotaxin and MIP-1α in both the cerebrum and cerebellum, while in T. cati-infected mice, these chemokines were significantly elevated only in the cerebellum. Conclusions The direct comparison of T. canis- and T. cati-induced NT provides valuable insights into key regulatory mechanisms of Toxocara species in paratenic hosts. The cerebral cyto-/chemokine milieu is shifted to a predominantly anti-inflammatory immune response during NT, possibly enabling both survival of the parasite and the neuroinfected paratenic host. Alteration of eotaxin and MIP-1α concentrations are congruent with the higher neuroaffinity of T. canis and species-specific tropism of T. canis to the cerebrum and T. cati to the cerebellum. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12974-019-1537-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Waindok
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559, Hanover, Germany.
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Yi S, Liu Q, Wang X, Qian T, Wang H, Zha G, Yu J, Wang P, Gu X, Chu D, Li S. Tau modulates Schwann cell proliferation, migration and differentiation following peripheral nerve injury. J Cell Sci 2019; 132:jcs.222059. [PMID: 30782778 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.222059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tau protein (encoded by the gene microtubule-associated protein tau, Mapt) is essential for the assembly and stability of microtubule and the functional maintenance of the nervous system. Tau is highly abundant in neurons and is detectable in astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. However, whether tau is present in Schwann cells, the unique glial cells in the peripheral nervous system, is unclear. Here, we investigated the presence of tau and its coding mRNA, Mapt, in cultured Schwann cells and find that tau is present in these cells. Gene silencing of Mapt promoted Schwann cell proliferation and inhibited Schwann cell migration and differentiation. In vivo application of Mapt siRNA suppressed the migration of Schwann cells after sciatic nerve injury. Consistent with this, Mapt-knockout mice showed elevated proliferation and reduced migration of Schwann cells. Rats injected with Mapt siRNA and Mapt-knockout mice also exhibited impaired myelin and lipid debris clearance. The expression and distribution of the cytoskeleton proteins α-tubulin and F-actin were also disrupted in these animals. These findings demonstrate the existence and biological effects of tau in Schwann cells, and expand our understanding of the function of tau in the nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Yi
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Qianyan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Xinghui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Tianmei Qian
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Hongkui Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Guangbin Zha
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Jun Yu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Pan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Xiaosong Gu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Dandan Chu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
| | - Shiying Li
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration of Jiangsu and Ministry of Education, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, China
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Chou CM, Fan CK. Significant apoptosis rather autophagy predominates in astrocytes caused by Toxocara canis larval excretory-secretory antigens. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2018; 53:250-258. [PMID: 30033092 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2018.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Toxocariasis is a worldwide parasitic zoonosis and mainly caused by Toxocara canis. Humans can be infected by accidental ingestion of T. canis embryonated ova through contacting with contaminated food, water, or encapsulated larvae in paratenic hosts' viscera or meat. Since humans are the paratenic host of T. canis, the wandering and neuroinvasive larvae can cause mechanical tissue damage and the excretory-secretory antigens (TcES Ag) might induce neuroinflammatory responses in the brain. Human cerebral toxocariasis (CT) has been reported to cause several neurological symptoms and may develop into neurodegenerative diseases. However, the roles of astrocytes involved in the pathogenesis of CT remained largely unclear. METHODS This study intended to investigate the cytotoxic effects of TcES Ag on astrocytes as assessed by apoptosis and autophagy expression. RESULTS Our results showed TcES Ag treatment reduced cell viability and caused morphological changes. Expressions of autophagy associated proteins including Beclin 1, phosphor-mTOR and LC3-Ⅱ were not significantly changed; however, p62 as well as the cell survival protein, mTOR, was concomitantly decreased in TcES Ag treatment. Significantly accelerated cleaved caspase-3 and cytochrome c expression as well as enhanced caspase-9 and caspase-8 activation were found in astrocytes with TcES Ag treatment. Caspase-3 activity and apoptotic cells numbers were also increased as detected by fluorescence microscopy. CONCLUSION We concluded that TcES Ag may trigger astrocytes apoptosis predominantly through intrinsic and extrinsic pathways rather autophagy, revealing a novel role of astrocytes in the pathogenesis of CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Mei Chou
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Taipei 11031, Taiwan; Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Kwung Fan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Taipei 11031, Taiwan; Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Taipei 11031, Taiwan; Research Center of International Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Taipei 11031, Taiwan; Tropical Medicine Division, International PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St., Taipei 11031, Taiwan.
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Chen M, Lee HK, Moo L, Hanlon E, Stein T, Xia W. Common proteomic profiles of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived three-dimensional neurons and brain tissue from Alzheimer patients. J Proteomics 2018; 182:21-33. [PMID: 29709615 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2018.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
We established a unique platform for proteomic analysis of cultured three-dimensional (3D) neurons and brain tissue from Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. We collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), converted PBMC to induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) lines, and differentiated the iPSC into human 3D neuro-spheroids. The postmortem brain tissue from the superior frontal cortex, inferior frontal cortex and cerebellum area of the AD patients was compared to the same regions from the control subjects. Proteomic analysis of 3D neuro-spheroids derived from AD subjects revealed the alteration of a number of proteins involved in axon growth, mitochondrial function, and antioxidant defense. Similar analysis of post-mortem AD brain tissue revealed significant alteration in proteins involved in oxidative stress, neuro-inflammation, along with proteins related to axonal injury. These results clearly indicate that the dysfunction of 3D neurons from AD patients in our in vitro environment is comparable to the post-mortem AD brain tissue in vivo. In conclusion, our study revealed a number of candidate proteins that have important implications in AD pathogenesis and supports the notion that the iPSC-derived 3D neuronal system functions as a model to examine novel aspects of AD pathology. SIGNIFICANCE In this study, we present a unique platform for proteomic analysis of induced pluripotent stem cell-derived three dimensional (3D) neurons and compare the results to those from three regions of post-mortem brain tissue from Alzheimer's disease patients and normal control subjects. Our results show that the dysfunction of 3D neurons from AD patients in our in vitro environment is comparable to the post-mortem AD brain tissue in vivo. Our results revealed several candidate proteins that have important implications in AD pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Chen
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, United States; Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T H Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Han-Kyu Lee
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, United States
| | - Lauren Moo
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, United States
| | - Eugene Hanlon
- Office of Research and Development, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, United States
| | - Thor Stein
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, United States; Department of Pathology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Weiming Xia
- Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, Bedford, MA, United States; Department of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, United States.
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Chou CM, Lee YL, Liao CW, Huang YC, Fan CK. Enhanced expressions of neurodegeneration-associated factors, UPS impairment, and excess Aβ accumulation in the hippocampus of mice with persistent cerebral toxocariasis. Parasit Vectors 2017; 10:620. [PMID: 29273062 PMCID: PMC5741903 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-017-2578-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxocariasis is a worldwide zoonotic parasitic disease mainly caused by Toxocara canis. Humans can be infected by accidental ingestion of T. canis embryonated ovum-contaminated food, water, or encapsulated larvae in paratenic hosts' viscera or meat. Since humans and mice are paratenic hosts of T. canis, the wandering larvae might cause mechanical tissue damage and excretory-secretory antigens may trigger inflammatory injuries to local organs. Long-term residence of T. canis larvae in a paratenic host's brain may cause cerebral toxocariasis (CT) that contributes to cerebral damage, neuroinflammation and neuropsychiatric disorders in mice and clinical patients. Since the hippocampus has been long recognized as being responsible for learning and memory functions, parasitic invasion of this site may cause neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders. The present study intended to assess pathological changes, expressions of neurodegeneration-associated factors (NDAFs), including transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, S100B, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), transglutaminase type 2 (TG2), claudin-5, substance P (SP) and interleukin (IL)-1β, and the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) function in the hippocampus and associated cognitive behavior in ICR mice orally inoculated with a high, medium or low-dose of T. canis embryonated ova during a 20-week investigation. RESULTS Results indicated although there were insignificant differences in learning and memory function between the experimental mice and uninfected control mice, possibly because the site where T. canis larvae invaded was the surrounding area but not the hippocampus per se. Nevertheless, enhanced expressions of NDAF, persistent UPS impairment and excess amyloid β (Aβ) accumulation concomitantly emerged in the experimental mice hippocampus at 8, 16 and 20 weeks post-infection. CONCLUSIONS We thus postulate that progressive CT may still progress to neurodegeneration due to enhanced NDAF expressions, persistent UPS impairment and excess Aβ accumulation in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Mei Chou
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.,Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Yueh-Lun Lee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Wei Liao
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.,Research Center of International Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chieh Huang
- Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Kwung Fan
- Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan. .,Department of Molecular Parasitology and Tropical Diseases, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan. .,Research Center of International Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan. .,Tropical Medicine Division, International PhD Program in Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, 250 Wuxing St, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
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Lauer AN, Tenenbaum T, Schroten H, Schwerk C. The diverse cellular responses of the choroid plexus during infection of the central nervous system. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2017; 314:C152-C165. [PMID: 29070490 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00137.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The choroid plexus (CP) is responsible for the production of a large amount of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). As a highly vascularized structure, the CP also presents a significant frontier between the blood and the central nervous system (CNS). To seal this border, the epithelium of the CP forms the blood-CSF barrier, one of the most important barriers separating the CNS from the blood. During the course of infectious disease, cells of the CP can experience interactions with intruding pathogens, especially when the CP is used as gateway for entry into the CNS. In return, the CP answers to these encounters with diverse measures. Here, we will review the distinct responses of the CP during infection of the CNS, which include engaging of signal transduction pathways, the regulation of gene expression in the host cells, inflammatory cell response, alterations of the barrier, and, under certain circumstances, cell death. Many of these actions may contribute to stage an immunological response against the pathogen and subsequently help in the clearance of the infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa N Lauer
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University , Mannheim , Germany
| | - Tobias Tenenbaum
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University , Mannheim , Germany
| | - Horst Schroten
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University , Mannheim , Germany
| | - Christian Schwerk
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University , Mannheim , Germany
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Janecek E, Waindok P, Bankstahl M, Strube C. Abnormal neurobehaviour and impaired memory function as a consequence of Toxocara canis- as well as Toxocara cati-induced neurotoxocarosis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005594. [PMID: 28481889 PMCID: PMC5436879 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [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: 01/13/2017] [Revised: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroinvasive larvae of the worldwide occurring zoonotic roundworms Toxocara canis and T. cati may induce neurotoxocarosis (NT) in humans, provoking a variety of symptoms including cognitive deficits as well as neurological dysfunctions. An association with neuropsychological disorders has been discussed. Similar symptoms have been described in T. canis-infected mice, whereas data on T. cati-induced NT are rare. Therefore, it was aimed to obtain insights into the impact on neurobehaviour as well as progression of neurological symptoms and behavioural alterations during the course of NT directly comparing T. canis- and T. cati-infected mice as models for human NT. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS C57BL/6 mice were orally infected with 2000 embryonated T. canis or T. cati eggs, respectively, the control group received tap water. Mice were screened weekly for neurobehavioural alterations and memory function starting one day prior infection until 97 days post infection (pi; T. canis-infection) and day 118 pi (T. cati-infection, uninfected control). Mostly motoric and neurological parameters were affected in T. canis-infected mice starting day 20 pi with severe progression accompanied by stereotypical circling. In contrast, T. cati-infected mice mostly showed reduced response to sudden sound stimulus (indicator for excitability) and flight behaviour starting day 6 pi. Interestingly, enhanced grooming behaviour was observed exclusively in T. cati-infected mice, indicating a possible role of neurotransmitter dysregulation. Reduced exploratory behaviour and memory impairment was observed in both infection groups with delayed onset and less severe progression in T. cati- compared to T. canis-infected mice. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Results highlight the need to consider T. cati beside T. canis as causative agent of human NT. Findings provide valuable hints towards differences in key regulatory mechanisms during T. canis- and T. cati-induced NT, contributing to a comprehensive picture and consequently a broader understanding of NT, which will aid in developing strategies towards prevention in addition to novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Janecek
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Patrick Waindok
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
| | - Marion Bankstahl
- Department of Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmacy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hanover, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Centre for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hanover, Germany
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Soliman RH, Ismail OA, Badr MS, Nasr SM. Resveratrol ameliorates oxidative stress and organ dysfunction in Schistosoma mansoni infected mice. Exp Parasitol 2017; 174:52-58. [PMID: 28167208 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2017.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Revised: 01/04/2017] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Schistosoma mansoni causes a major chronic debilitating disease in more than 230 million people around the world. The pathognomonic granuloma is a major cause of the oxidative stress encountered as a consequence of infection not only in the liver, but also in other important organs as spleen, lung, brain and kidney. Resveratrol administration at a dose of 20 mg/kg once daily for two weeks to mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni resulted in improvement in serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Enzymatic antioxidant profile showed significant modulations in Superoxide dismutase, catalase activities and reduced glutathione levels. Specific biomarkers for homeostasis of brain and lung i.e. Tau and RAGE respectively, showed significant improvement after resveratrol administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- R H Soliman
- Faculty of Medicine, Parasitology Department, Suez Canal University, Ismaillia, Egypt; Faculty of Medicine, Parasitology Department, Taif University, KSA.
| | - O A Ismail
- Faculty of Medicine, Parasitology Department, Suez Canal University, Ismaillia, Egypt
| | - M S Badr
- Medical Research Center, Ain Shams University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Egypt
| | - S M Nasr
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Giza, Egypt
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Li S, Gu X, Yi S. The Regulatory Effects of Transforming Growth Factor-β on Nerve Regeneration. Cell Transplant 2016; 26:381-394. [PMID: 27983926 DOI: 10.3727/096368916x693824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) belongs to a group of pleiotropic cytokines that are involved in a variety of biological processes, such as inflammation and immune reactions, cellular phenotype transition, extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. TGF-β is widely distributed throughout the body, including the nervous system. Following injury to the nervous system, TGF-β regulates the behavior of neurons and glial cells and thus mediates the regenerative process. In the current article, we reviewed the production, activation, as well as the signaling pathway of TGF-β. We also described altered expression patterns of TGF-β in the nervous system after nerve injury and the regulatory effects of TGF-β on nerve repair and regeneration in many aspects, including inflammation and immune response, phenotypic modulation of neural cells, neurite outgrowth, scar formation, and modulation of neurotrophic factors. The diverse biological actions of TGF-β suggest that it may become a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of nerve injury and regeneration.
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Nitric oxide and cytokine production by glial cells exposed in vitro to neuropathogenic schistosome Trichobilharzia regenti. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:579. [PMID: 27842570 PMCID: PMC5109812 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1869-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 11/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Helminth neuroinfections represent a serious health problem, but host immune mechanisms in the nervous tissue often remain undiscovered. This study aims at in vitro characterization of the response of murine astrocytes and microglia exposed to Trichobilharzia regenti which is a neuropathogenic schistosome migrating through the central nervous system of vertebrate hosts. Trichobilharzia regenti infects birds and mammals in which it may cause severe neuromotor impairment. This study was focused on astrocytes and microglia as these are immunocompetent cells of the nervous tissue and their activation was recently observed in T. regenti-infected mice. Results Primary astrocytes and microglia were exposed to several stimulants of T. regenti origin. Living schistosomulum-like stages caused increased secretion of IL-6 in astrocyte cultures, but no changes in nitric oxide (NO) production were noticed. Nevertheless, elevated parasite mortality was observed in these cultures. Soluble fraction of the homogenate from schistosomulum-like stages stimulated NO production by both astrocytes and microglia, and IL-6 and TNF-α secretion in astrocyte cultures. Similarly, recombinant cathepsins B1.1 and B2 triggered IL-6 and TNF-α release in astrocyte and microglia cultures, and NO production in astrocyte cultures. Stimulants had no effect on production of anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-10 or TGF-β1. Conclusions Both astrocytes and microglia are capable of production of NO and proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α following in vitro exposure to various stimulants of T. regenti origin. Astrocytes might be involved in triggering the tissue inflammation in the early phase of T. regenti infection and are proposed to participate in destruction of migrating schistosomula. However, NO is not the major factor responsible for parasite damage. Both astrocytes and microglia can be responsible for the nervous tissue pathology and maintaining the ongoing inflammation since they are a source of NO and proinflammatory cytokines which are released after exposure to parasite antigens. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-016-1869-7) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Zha GB, Shen M, Gu XS, Yi S. Changes in microtubule-associated protein tau during peripheral nerve injury and regeneration. Neural Regen Res 2016; 11:1506-1511. [PMID: 27857758 PMCID: PMC5090857 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.191227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Tau, a primary component of microtubule-associated protein, promotes microtubule assembly and/or disassembly and maintains the stability of the microtubule structure. Although the importance of tau in neurodegenerative diseases has been well demonstrated, whether tau is involved in peripheral nerve regeneration remains unknown. In the current study, we obtained sciatic nerve tissue from adult rats 0, 1, 4, 7, and 14 days after sciatic nerve crush and examined tau mRNA and protein expression levels and the location of tau in the sciatic nerve following peripheral nerve injury. The results from our quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that compared with the uninjured control sciatic nerve, mRNA expression levels for both tau and tau tubulin kinase 1, a serine/threonine kinase that regulates tau phosphorylation, were decreased following peripheral nerve injury. Our western blot assay results suggested that the protein expression levels of tau and phosphorylated tau initially decreased 1 day post nerve injury but then gradually increased. The results of our immunohistochemical labeling showed that the location of tau protein was not altered by nerve injury. Thus, these results showed that the expression of tau was changed following sciatic nerve crush, suggesting that tau may be involved in peripheral nerve repair and regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang-Bin Zha
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Mi Shen
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xiao-Song Gu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Sheng Yi
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Co-innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province, China
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Abstract
Toxocara canis and T. cati are highly prevalent nematode infections of the intestines of dogs and cats. In paratenic hosts, larvae do not mature in the intestine but instead migrate through the somatic tissues and organs of the body. The presence of these migrating larvae can contribute to pathology. Toxocara larvae can invade the brains of humans, and while case descriptions of cerebral toxocariasis are historically rare, improved diagnosis and greater awareness have contributed to increased detection. Despite this, cerebral or neurological toxocariasis (NT) remains a poorly understood phenomenon. Furthermore, our understanding of cognitive deficits due to toxocariasis in human populations remains particularly deficient. Recent data describe an enhanced expression of biomarkers associated with brain injury, such as GFAP, AβPP, transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1), NF-L, S100B, tTG, and p-tau, in mice receiving even low doses of Toxocara ova. Finally, this review outlines a hypothesis to explore the relationship between the presence of T. canis larvae in the brain and the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) due to enhanced AD-associated neurodegenerative biomarker expression.
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Chanaday NL, Roth GA. Microglia and astrocyte activation in the frontal cortex of rats with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. Neuroscience 2015; 314:160-9. [PMID: 26679600 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2015.11.060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2015] [Revised: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 11/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a widely used animal model for the human disease multiple sclerosis (MS), a demyelinating and neurodegenerative pathology of the central nervous system. Both diseases share physiopathological and clinical characteristics, mainly associated with a neuroinflammatory process that leads to a set of motor, sensory, and cognitive symptoms. In MS, gray matter atrophy is related to the emergence of cognitive deficits and contributes to clinical progression. In particular, injury and dysfunction in certain areas of the frontal cortex (FrCx) have been related to the development of cognitive impairments with high incidence, like central fatigue and executive dysfunction. In the present work we show the presence of region-specific microglia and astrocyte activation in the FrCx, during the first hours of acute EAE onset. It is accompanied by the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α, in the absence of detectable leukocyte infiltration. These findings expand previous studies showing presynaptic neural dysfunction occurring at the FrCx and might contribute to the understanding of the mechanisms involved in the genesis and prevalence of common MS symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- N L Chanaday
- Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC, CONICET-UNC), Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina.
| | - G A Roth
- Centro de Investigaciones en Química Biológica de Córdoba (CIQUIBIC, CONICET-UNC), Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina.
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Erickson LD, Gale SD, Berrett A, Brown BL, Hedges DW. Association between toxocariasis and cognitive function in young to middle-aged adults. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2015; 62. [DOI: 10.14411/fp.2015.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 07/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Abstract
Neuroinvasive larvae of the common dog and cat roundworms, Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati, may cause severe neurological and neuropsychological disturbances in humans. Despite their pathogenic potential and high prevalence worldwide, little is known about their cell-specific influences and cerebral host-pathogen interactions in neurotoxocarosis. To address this discrepancy, a co-culture system of viable larvae with murine neuronal (CAD), oligodendrocytal (BO-1) and microglial (BV-2) cell lines has been established. Additionally, murine adult brain slices have been co-cultured with Toxocara larvae to consider complex organotypic cell-cell interplay. Cytotoxicity of larval presence was measured enzymatically and microscopically. Microscopic evaluation using trypan blue exclusion assay revealed to be less reliable and sensitive than the lactate dehydrogenase activity assay. Ultimately, even low numbers of both T. canis and T. cati larvae have impaired survival of differentiated CAD cells, which morphologically resemble primary neurons. In contrast, viability of oligodendrocytal and microglial cells as well as brain slices was not impaired by larval presence. Therefore, immune-mediated mechanisms or trauma by migrating larvae presumably induce the in vivo pathology rather than acute cytotoxic effects. Conclusively, the helminthic larvae co-culture system presented here is a valuable in vitro tool to study cell-specific effects of parasitic larvae and their products.
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Heidari K, Vafaee A, Rastekenari AM, Taghizadeh M, Shad EG, Eley R, Sinnott M, Asadollahi S. S100B protein as a screening tool for computed tomography findings after mild traumatic brain injury: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Brain Inj 2015; 29:1146-1157. [PMID: 26067622 DOI: 10.3109/02699052.2015.1037349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE To determine whether S100B protein in serum can predict intracranial lesions on computed tomography (CT) scan after mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI). RESEARCH DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis Methods and procedures: A literature search was conducted using Medline, Embase, Cochrane, Google Scholar, CINAHL, SUMSearch, Bandolier, Trip databases, bibliographies from identified articles and review article references. Eligible articles were defined as observational studies including patients with MTBI who underwent post-traumatic head CT scan and assessing the screening role of S100B protein. MAIN OUTCOMES AND RESULTS There was a significant positive association between S100B protein concentration and positive CT scan (22 studies, SMD = 1.92, 95% CI = 1.29-2.45, I2 = 100%; p < 0.001). The pooled sensitivity and specificity values for a cut-point range = 0.16-0.20 µg L-1 were 98.65 (95% CI = 95.53-101.77; I2 = 0.0%) and 50.69 (95% CI = 40.69-60.69; I2 = 76.3%), respectively. The threshold for serum S100B protein with 99.63 (95% CI = 96.00-103.25; I2 = 0.0%) sensitivity and 46.94 (95% CI = 39.01-54.87; I2 = 95.5%) specificity was > 0.20 µg L-1. CONCLUSIONS After MTBI, serum S100B protein levels are significantly associated with the presence of intracranial lesions on CT scan. Measuring the protein could be useful in screening high risk MTBI patients and decreasing unnecessary CT examinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamran Heidari
- a Department of Emergency Medicine , Loghmane-Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Ali Vafaee
- a Department of Emergency Medicine , Loghmane-Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | | | - Mehrdad Taghizadeh
- a Department of Emergency Medicine , Loghmane-Hakim Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Ensieh Ghaffari Shad
- c School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences , Karaj , Tehran , Iran
| | - Rob Eley
- d Department of Emergency Medicine , Princess Alexandra Hospital , Queensland , Australia.,e School of Medicine, The University of Queensland , Brisbane , Australia , and
| | - Michael Sinnott
- d Department of Emergency Medicine , Princess Alexandra Hospital , Queensland , Australia
| | - Shadi Asadollahi
- f School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
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Janecek E, Wilk E, Schughart K, Geffers R, Strube C. Microarray gene expression analysis reveals major differences between Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati neurotoxocarosis and involvement of T. canis in lipid biosynthetic processes. Int J Parasitol 2015; 45:495-503. [PMID: 25843806 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2015.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2015] [Revised: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 02/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Toxocara canis and Toxocara cati are globally occurring intestinal nematodes of dogs and cats with a high zoonotic potential. Migrating larvae in the CNS of paratenic hosts, including humans, may cause neurotoxocarosis resulting in a variety of neurological symptoms. Toxocara canis exhibits a stronger affinity to the CNS than T. cati, causing more severe neurological symptoms in the mouse model. Pathomechanisms of neurotoxocarosis as well as host responses towards the respective parasite are mostly unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterise the pathogenesis at a transcriptional level using whole genome microarray expression analysis and identify differences and similarities between T. canis- and T. cati-infected brains. Microarray analysis was conducted in cerebra and cerebella of infected C57Bl/6J mice 42daysp.i. revealing more differentially transcribed genes for T. canis- than T. cati-infected brains. In cerebra and cerebella of T. canis-infected mice, a total of 2304 and 1954 differentially transcribed genes, respectively, were identified whereas 113 and 760 differentially transcribed genes were determined in cerebra and cerebella of T. cati-infected mice. Functional annotation analysis revealed major differences in host responses in terms of significantly enriched biological modules. Up-regulated genes were mainly associated with the terms "immune and defence response", "sensory perception" as well as "behaviour/taxis" retrieved from the Gene Ontology database. These observations indicate a strong immune response in both infection groups with T. cati-infected brains revealing less severe reactions. Down-regulated genes in T. canis-infected cerebra and cerebella revealed a significant enrichment for the Gene Ontology term "lipid/cholesterol biosynthetic process". Cholesterol is a highly abundant and important component in the brain, representing several functions. Disturbances of synthesis as well as concentration changes may lead to dysfunction in signal transduction and neurodegenerative disease. Overall, only a minor overlap of differentially transcribed genes was observed between the two infection groups in both brain parts. Most genes are regulated individually in each infection group, supporting the evident differences of both roundworm species observed in the paratenic host in previous studies. In summary the present study underlines the differences in pathogenicity of T. canis and T. cati. It furthermore provides a comprehensive basis for future analyses over the course of infection as well as functional tests to identify gene regulatory circuits that are crucial for pathogenesis of neurotoxocarosis. The results of this study provide a promising foundation for further specific research to evaluate the particular pathogenetic mechanisms and to identify possible therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Janecek
- Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany
| | - Esther Wilk
- Department Infection Genetics, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Klaus Schughart
- Department Infection Genetics, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany; University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, USA
| | - Robert Geffers
- Research Group Genome Analytics, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Germany.
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Neurotoxocarosis alters myelin protein gene transcription and expression. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:2175-86. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4407-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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Gao HC, Zhu K, Gao HM, Miao CS, Zhang LEN, Liu W, Xin H. Role of tissue transglutaminase in the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy and the intervention effect of rutin. Exp Ther Med 2015; 9:1103-1108. [PMID: 25780394 PMCID: PMC4353750 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2015.2223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the role of tissue transglutaminase (tTG) in the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) and the intervention effect of rutin. DCM was induced in rats by the injection of streptozotocin (STZ; 25 mg/kg). After a preliminary examination, the rats were randomly divided into four groups: Control (n=8), STZ-induced DCM (n=8), STZ + positive drug (captopril; n=6) and STZ + rutin (n=8) groups. The DCM model was evaluated using blood sugar values, serum enzyme levels, hematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson’s staining, ex vivo. The protein and mRNA expression of tTG was assessed with immunohistochemistry, western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The rat model of DCM was successfully established by STZ administration, and the expression levels of tTG were significantly increased in the DCM model. Following the injection of captopril or rutin, the blood sugar values, collagen content and expression levels of tTG were gradually reduced and serum enzyme levels were increased, as compared with those in the STZ-induced DCM group. In conclusion, tTG plays an important role in STZ-induced DCM. In addition, rutin may inhibit the expression of tTG and regulate myocardial injury in STZ-induced DCM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hai-Cheng Gao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Management, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - Kun Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology, The 208th Hospital of PLA, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Hai-Mei Gao
- Patient's Information Recording Room, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China
| | - Chun-Sheng Miao
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Management, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130021, P.R. China
| | - LE-Ning Zhang
- Department of Chest Surgery, The China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, The 208th Hospital of PLA, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
| | - Hua Xin
- Department of Chest Surgery, The China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130000, P.R. China
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ALLAHDIN S, KHADEMVATAN S, RAFIEI A, MOMEN A, RAFIEI R. Frequency of Toxoplasma and Toxocara Sp. Antibodies in Epileptic Patients, in South Western Iran. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF CHILD NEUROLOGY 2015; 9:32-40. [PMID: 26664439 PMCID: PMC4670975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain characterized by an enduring predisposition to generate seizures. Infectious agents are mentioned in its etiology. With identifying and appropriate treatment of these infectious agents, preventing their secondary outcomes, including seizure is possible. This study was conducted to determine frequency of anti-Toxoplasma antibodies (IgG, IgM) and anti-Toxocara antibody (IgG) in epileptic patients. MATERIALS & METHODS Study sample consisted of 141 epileptic patients and 144 healthy people. After obtaining informed consents and completing demographic questionnaire, serum samples were taken from participants. The diagnostic test of Toxoplasma IgG & IgM and Toxocara antibodies was performed under the same conditions using ELISA method in a qualified private laboratory. Samples from patients and control groups with positive ELISA test in terms of anti-Toxocara antibody were also used for confirmatory Western blot test. RESULT According to ELISA results, 28 (19.85%) epileptic patients and 2(1.38%) of healthy people had anti-Toxocara antibodies (P<001), while 39 (30.46%) of the control group people and 14.18% of patients had anti-Toxoplsma antibodies (P=0.001). CONCLUSION Frequency of anti-Toxoplasma gondii is lower in epileptic than healthy individuals and this result is contrary to investigations that have reported higher levels of this antibody in such patient groups. ELISA results for Toxocara showed that the frequency of anti-Toxocara antibody in epileptic patients might empower the probability that this parasite may cause central nervous system damage. Western blotting has high specificity and is a proper confirmative method for diagnosis of toxocariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sudabeh ALLAHDIN
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center & Dept. Parasitology, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Shahram KHADEMVATAN
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology & Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran ,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Abdollah RAFIEI
- Dept. of Medical Parasitology &Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Aliakbar MOMEN
- Dept. of Pediatrics, Neurology Ward, Golestan Teaching Hospital, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Reza RAFIEI
- Dept. of Medical Parasitology &Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Role of TGF-β signaling pathway on Tenascin C protein upregulation in a pilocarpine seizure model. Epilepsy Res 2014; 108:1694-704. [PMID: 25445237 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2014.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2014] [Revised: 08/29/2014] [Accepted: 09/21/2014] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Seizures have been shown to upregulate the expression of numerous extracellular matrix molecules. Tenascin C (TNC) is an extracellular matrix protein involved in several physiological roles and in pathological conditions. Though TNC upregulation has been described after excitotoxins injection, to date there is no research work on the signal transduction pathway(s) participating in TNC protein overproduction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of TGF-β signaling pathway on TNC upregulation. In this study, we used male rats, which were injected with saline or pilocarpine to induce status epilepticus (SE) and killed 24h, 3 and 7 days after pilocarpine administration. For evaluating biochemical changes, we measured protein content of TNC, TGF-β1 and phospho-Smad2/3 for localization of TNC in coronal brain hippocampus at 24h, 3 and 7 days after pilocarpine-caused SE. We found a significant increase of TNC protein content in hippocampal homogenates after 1, 3, and 7 days of pilocarpine-caused SE, together with an enhancement of TNC immunoreactivity in several hippocampal layers and the dentate gyrus field where more dramatic changes occurred. We also observed a significant enhancement of protein content of both the TGF-β1 and the critical downstream transduction effector phospho-Smad2/3 throughout the chronic exposure. Interestingly, animals injected with SB-431542, a TGF-β-type I receptor inhibitor, decreased TNC content in cytosolic fraction and diminished phospho-Smad2/3 content in both cytoplasmic and nuclear fraction compared with pilocarpine vehicle-injected. These findings suggest the participation of TGF-β signaling pathway on upregulation of TNC which in turn support the idea that misregulation of this signaling pathway produces changes that may contribute to disease.
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A cross-sectional serological study of cysticercosis, schistosomiasis, toxocariasis and echinococcosis in HIV-1 infected people in Beira, Mozambique. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2014; 8:e3121. [PMID: 25188395 PMCID: PMC4154675 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Accepted: 07/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Helminthic infections are highly endemic in Mozambique, due to limited access to healthcare and resources for disease prevention. Data on the subclinical prevalence of these diseases are scarce due to the fact that an immunological and imaging diagnosis is not often available in endemic areas. We conducted a cross-sectional study on HIV1+ patients from Beira city in order to determine the seroprevalence of cysticercosis, schistosomiasis, toxocariasis and echinoccocosis and its possible interaction with HIV infection. Methodology/Principal Findings Patients (601) were voluntarily recruited at the Ponta Gea Health Center and their demographic and clinical data were recorded (including CD4+ cell count and antiretroviral regimen). Mean age was 39.7 years, 378 (62.9%) were women and 223 (37.1%) were men. Four hundred seventy-five (475) patients (79%) were already on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), and 90 started therapy after being enrolled in the study. For serological testing we used a Multiplex Western Blot IgG from LDBIO Diagnostics. The overall seroprevalence was 10.2% for cysticercosis, 23% for schistosomiasis, 7.3% for toxocariasis and 17.3% for echinococcosis. Conclusions/Significance Neither age nor the CD4+ count were significantly associated with the seroprevalence of the helminths studied. However, patients with CD4+ between 200–500/µl had a higher seroprevalence to all helminths than those with less than 200/µl cells/and those with more than 500 cells/µl. Female gender was significantly associated with cysticercosis and schistosomiasis, and being in HAART with toxocariasis. Headache was significantly associated with cysticercosis and toxocariasis. There was no association between epilepsy and seropositivity to any of the parasites. The study concluded that a clear understanding of the prevalence and manifestations of these coinfections, how best to diagnose subclinical cases, and how to manage diseases with concomitant antiretroviral therapy is needed. In Mozambique many parasitic diseases persist as a result of low living standards and environmental contamination from human and animal fecal waste. Parasites undermine the health of Mozambique's poorest inhabitants and will be difficult to eradicate without a considerable improvement in the sanitary conditions. Many helminthic infections are undiagnosed because of the need to employ immunologic and image analysis methods, both of which are very costly. We want to know the scope of these co-infections, their possible interaction with HIV, and the course of the disease. We have therefore investigated the seroprevalence against four tisular helminth diseases (cysticercosis, schistosomiasis, toxocariasis and echinococcosis) in a group of HIV infected patients, obtaining data previously absent and relevant conclusions that will enable us to continue working in this field and design strategies in order to improve the quality of life of our people.
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Janecek E, Beineke A, Schnieder T, Strube C. Neurotoxocarosis: marked preference of Toxocara canis for the cerebrum and T. cati for the cerebellum in the paratenic model host mouse. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:194. [PMID: 24754900 PMCID: PMC4017833 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-7-194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infective larvae of the worldwide occurring zoonotic roundworm T. canis exhibit a marked affinity to the nervous tissues of paratenic hosts. In humans, most cases of neurotoxocarosis are considered to be caused by larvae of T. canis as T. cati larvae have rarely been found in the CNS in previous studies. However, direct comparison of studies is difficult as larval migration depends on a variety of factors including mouse strains and inoculation doses. Therefore, the present study aims to provide a direct comparison of both roundworm species in mice as a model for paratenic hosts with specific focus on the CNS during the acute and chronic phase of disease to provide a basis for further studies dealing with neurotoxocarosis. Methods C57Bl/6J mice were infected with 2000 embryonated T. canis and T. cati eggs, respectively as well as Balb/c mice infected with T. cati eggs only. On 8 time points post infection, organs were removed and microscopically examined for respective larvae. Special focus was put on the CNS, including analysis of larval distribution in the cerebrum and cerebellum, right and left hemisphere as well as eyes and spinal cord. Additionally, brains of all infection groups as well as uninfected controls were examined histopathologically to characterize neurostructural damage. Results Significant differences in larval distribution were observed between and within the infection groups during the course of infection. As expected, significantly higher recovery rates of T. canis than T. cati larvae were determined in the brain. Surprisingly, significantly more T. canis larvae could be found in cerebra of infected mice whereas T. cati larvae were mainly located in the cerebellum. Structural damage in brain tissue could be observed in all infection groups, being more severe in brains of T. canis infected mice. Conclusions The data obtained provides an extensive characterization of migrational routes of T. canis and T. cati in the paratenic host mouse in direct comparison. Even though to a lesser extent, structural damage in the brain was also caused by T. cati larvae and therefore, the potential as pathogenic agents should not be underestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany.
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Sareen D, Gowing G, Sahabian A, Staggenborg K, Paradis R, Avalos P, Latter J, Ornelas L, Garcia L, Svendsen CN. Human induced pluripotent stem cells are a novel source of neural progenitor cells (iNPCs) that migrate and integrate in the rodent spinal cord. J Comp Neurol 2014; 522:2707-28. [PMID: 24610630 DOI: 10.1002/cne.23578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2013] [Revised: 02/10/2014] [Accepted: 02/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Transplantation of human neural progenitor cells (NPCs) into the brain or spinal cord to replace lost cells, modulate the injury environment, or create a permissive milieu to protect and regenerate host neurons is a promising therapeutic strategy for neurological diseases. Deriving NPCs from human fetal tissue is feasible, although problematic issues include limited sources and ethical concerns. Here we describe a new and abundant source of NPCs derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). A novel chopping technique was used to transform adherent iPSCs into free-floating spheres that were easy to maintain and were expandable (EZ spheres) (Ebert et al. [2013] Stem Cell Res 10:417-427). These EZ spheres could be differentiated towards NPC spheres with a spinal cord phenotype using a combination of all-trans retinoic acid (RA) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) and fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) mitogens. Suspension cultures of NPCs derived from human iPSCs or fetal tissue have similar characteristics, although they were not similar when grown as adherent cells. In addition, iPSC-derived NPCs (iNPCs) survived grafting into the spinal cord of athymic nude rats with no signs of overgrowth and with a very similar profile to human fetal-derived NPCs (fNPCs). These results suggest that human iNPCs behave like fNPCs and could thus be a valuable alternative for cellular regenerative therapies of neurological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dhruv Sareen
- Regenerative Medicine Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 90048; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, 90048
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Yeung PKK, Shen J, Chung SSM, Chung SK. Targeted over-expression of endothelin-1 in astrocytes leads to more severe brain damage and vasospasm after subarachnoid hemorrhage. BMC Neurosci 2013; 14:131. [PMID: 24156724 PMCID: PMC3815232 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-14-131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2013] [Accepted: 10/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a potent vasoconstrictor, and astrocytic ET-1 is reported to play a role in the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemic injury and cytotoxic edema. However, it is still unknown whether astrocytic ET-1 also contributes to vasogenic edema and vasospasm during subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). In the present study, transgenic mice with astrocytic endothelin-1 over-expression (GET-1 mice) were used to investigate the pathophysiological role of ET-1 in SAH pathogenesis. Results The GET-1 mice experienced a higher mortality rate and significantly more severe neurological deficits, blood–brain barrier breakdown and vasogenic edema compared to the non-transgenic (Ntg) mice following SAH. Oral administration of vasopressin V1a receptor antagonist, SR 49059, significantly reduced the cerebral water content in the GET-1 mice. Furthermore, the GET-1 mice showed significantly more pronounced middle cerebral arterial (MCA) constriction after SAH. Immunocytochemical analysis showed that the calcium-activated potassium channels and the phospho-eNOS were significantly downregulated, whereas PKC-α expression was significantly upregulated in the MCA of the GET-1 mice when compared to Ntg mice after SAH. Administration of ABT-627 (ETA receptor antagonist) significantly down-regulated PKC-α expression in the MCA of the GET-1 mice following SAH. Conclusions The present study suggests that astrocytic ET-1 involves in SAH-induced cerebral injury, edema and vasospasm, through ETA receptor and PKC-mediated potassium channel dysfunction. Administration of ABT-627 (ETA receptor antagonist) and SR 49059 (vasopressin V1a receptor antagonist) resulted in amelioration of edema and vasospasm in mice following SAH. These data provide a strong rationale to investigate SR 49059 and ABT-627 as therapeutic drugs for the treatment of SAH patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sookja K Chung
- Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Holland CV, Hamilton CM. The significance of cerebral toxocariasis: a model system for exploring the link between brain involvement, behaviour and the immune response. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 216:78-83. [PMID: 23225870 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.074120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Toxocara canis is a parasitic nematode that infects canines worldwide, and as a consequence of the widespread environmental dissemination of its ova in host faeces, other abnormal hosts including mice and humans are exposed to infection. In such abnormal or paratenic hosts, the immature third-stage larvae undergo a somatic migration through the organs of the body but fail to reach maturity as adult worms in the intestine. The presence of the migrating larvae contributes to pathology that is dependent upon the intensity of infection and the location of the larvae. A phenomenon of potential public health significance in humans and of ecological significance in mice is that T. canis larvae exhibit neurotrophic behaviour, which results in a greater concentration of parasites in the brain, as infection progresses. Toxocara larval burdens vary between individual outbred mice receiving the same inocula, suggesting a role for immunity in the establishment of cerebral infection. Although the systemic immune response to T. canis has been widely reported, the immune response in the brain has received little attention. Differential cytokine expression and other brain injury-associated biomarkers have been observed in infected versus uninfected outbred and inbred mice. Preliminary data have also suggested a possible link between significant memory impairment and cytokine production associated with T. canis infection. Mice provide a useful, replicable animal model with significant applicability and ease of manipulation. Understanding the cerebral host-parasite relationship may shed some light on the cryptic symptoms of human infection where patients often present with other CNS disorders such as epilepsy and mental retardation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia V Holland
- Department of Zoology, School of Natural Sciences, Trinity College, Dublin 2, Ireland
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Fan CK, Liao CW, Cheng YC. Factors affecting disease manifestation of toxocarosis in humans: Genetics and environment. Vet Parasitol 2013; 193:342-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Gatson JW, Warren V, Abdelfattah K, Wolf S, Hynan LS, Moore C, Diaz-Arrastia R, Minei JP, Madden C, Wigginton JG. Detection of β-amyloid oligomers as a predictor of neurological outcome after brain injury. J Neurosurg 2013; 118:1336-42. [PMID: 23540266 DOI: 10.3171/2013.2.jns121771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is known to be a risk factor for Alzheimer-like dementia. In previous studies, an increase in β-amyloid (Aβ) monomers, such as β-amyloid 42 (Aβ42), in the CSF of patients with TBI has been shown to correlate with a decrease in amyloid plaques in the brain and improved neurological outcomes. In this study, the authors hypothesized that the levels of toxic high-molecular-weight β-amyloid oligomers are increased in the brain and are detectable within the CSF of TBI patients with poor neurological outcomes. METHODS Samples of CSF were collected from 18 patients with severe TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale Scores 3-8) and a ventriculostomy. In all cases the CSF was collected within 72 hours of injury. The CSF levels of neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and Aβ42 were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The levels of high-molecular-weight β-amyloid oligomers were measured using Western blot analysis. RESULTS Patients with good outcomes showed an increase in the levels of CSF Aβ42 (p = 0.003). Those with bad outcomes exhibited an increase in CSF levels of β-amyloid oligomers (p = 0.009) and NSE (p = 0.001). In addition, the CSF oligomer levels correlated with the scores on the extended Glasgow Outcome Scale (r = -0.89, p = 0.0001), disability rating scale scores (r = 0.77, p = 0.005), CSF Aβ42 levels (r = -0.42, p = 0.12), and CSF NSE levels (r = 0.70, p = 0.004). Additionally, the receiver operating characteristic curve yielded an area under the curve for β-amyloid oligomers of 0.8750 ± 0.09. CONCLUSIONS Detection of β-amyloid oligomers may someday become a useful clinical tool for determining injury severity and neurological outcomes in patients with TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Wayne Gatson
- Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390-9160, USA.
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HSIAO WW, LIAO HS, LIN HH, LEE YL, FAN CK, LIAO CW, LIN PY, HWU ET, CHANG CS. Biophysical Analysis of Astrocytes Apoptosis Triggered by Larval E/S Antigen from Cerebral Toxocarosis-Causing Pathogen Toxocara canis. ANAL SCI 2013; 29:885-92. [DOI: 10.2116/analsci.29.885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wesley W. HSIAO
- Institute of Physics, Academia Sinica
- Taiwan International Graduate Program–Chemical Biology and Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica
- College of Life Sciences, National Tsing Hua University
| | | | - Hsing-Hung LIN
- Genomics Research Center, Academia Sinica
- Taiwan International Graduate Program–Chemical Biology and Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica
| | - Yueh-Lun LEE
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Taipei Medical University
| | - Chia-Kwung FAN
- Department of Parasitology, Taipei Medical University
- Master Program in Global Health and Development, Taipei Medical University
| | - Chien-Wei LIAO
- Department of Parasitology, Taipei Medical University
- Master Program in Global Health and Development, Taipei Medical University
| | | | - En-Te HWU
- Institute of Physics, Academia Sinica
| | - Chia-Seng CHANG
- Institute of Physics, Academia Sinica
- Taiwan International Graduate Program–Chemical Biology and Molecular Biophysics, Institute of Biological Chemistry, Academia Sinica
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Xu H, Tan G, Zhang S, Zhu H, Liu F, Huang C, Zhang F, Wang Z. Minocycline reduces reactive gliosis in the rat model of hydrocephalus. BMC Neurosci 2012; 13:148. [PMID: 23217034 PMCID: PMC3529686 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2202-13-148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2012] [Accepted: 11/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Reactive gliosis had been implicated in injury and recovery patterns associated with hydrocephalus. Our aim is to determine the efficacy of minocycline, an antibiotic known for its anti-inflammatory properties, to reduce reactive gliosis and inhibit the development of hydrocephalus. Results The ventricular dilatation were evaluated by MRI at 1-week post drugs treated, while GFAP and Iba-1were detected by RT-PCR, Immunohistochemistry and Western blot. The expression of GFAP and Iba-1 was significantly higher in hydrocephalic group compared with saline control group (p < 0.05). Minocycline treatment of hydrocephalic animals reduced the expression of GFAP and Iba-1 significantly (p < 0.05). Likewise, the severity of ventricular dilatation is lower in minocycline treated hydrocephalic animals compared with the no minocycline group (p < 0.05). Conclusion Minocycline treatment is effective in reducing the gliosis and delaying the development of hydrocephalus with prospective to be the auxiliary therapeutic method of hydrocephalus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliate Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian Province 361003, China
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Reactive gliosis and neuroinflammation in rats with communicating hydrocephalus. Neuroscience 2012; 218:317-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2012.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2012] [Revised: 04/05/2012] [Accepted: 05/03/2012] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Wakabayashi T, Kosaka J, Mori T, Yamada H. Prolonged expression of Puma in cholinergic amacrine cells during the development of rat retina. J Histochem Cytochem 2012; 60:777-88. [PMID: 22736709 DOI: 10.1369/0022155412452737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
During development of the nervous system, large numbers of neurons are overproduced and then eliminated by programmed cell death. Puma is a BH3-only protein that is reported to be involved in the initiation of developmental programmed cell death in rodent retinal neurons. The expression and cellular localization of Puma in retinal tissues during development are not, however, well known. Here the authors report the expression pattern of Puma during retinal development in the rat. During the period of programmed cell death in the retina, Puma was expressed in some members of each retinal neuron, including retinal ganglion cells, amacrine cells, bipolar cells, horizontal cells, and photoreceptor cells. Although the developmental programmed cell death of cholinergic amacrine cells is known to be independent of Puma, this protein was expressed in almost all their dendrites and somata of cholinergic amacrine cells at postnatal age 2 to 3 weeks, and it continued to be detected in cholinergic dendrites in the inner plexiform layer for up to 8 weeks after birth. These results suggest that Puma has some significant roles in retinal neurons after eye opening, especially that of cholinergic amacrine cells, in addition to programmed cell death of retinal neurons before eye opening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taketoshi Wakabayashi
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Science, Kansai Medical University, Moriguchi, Japan.
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Baird A, Eliceiri BP, Gonzalez AM, Johanson CE, Leadbeater W, Stopa EG. Targeting the choroid plexus-CSF-brain nexus using peptides identified by phage display. Methods Mol Biol 2011; 686:483-98. [PMID: 21082389 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-60761-938-3_25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Drug delivery to the central nervous system requires the use of specific portals to enable drug entry into the brain and, as such, there is a growing need to identify processes that can enable drug transfer across both blood-brain and blood-cerebrospinal fluid barriers. Phage display is a powerful combinatorial technique that identifies specific peptides that can confer new activities to inactive particles. Identification of these peptides is directly dependent on the specific screening strategies used for their selection and retrieval. This chapter describes three selection strategies, which can be used to identify peptides that target the choroid plexus (CP) directly or for drug translocation across the CP and into cerebrospinal fluid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Baird
- Department of Surgery, Division of Trauma, Burns and Critical Care, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
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