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Vareta J, Horstman NA, Adams M, Seydel KB, McCann RS, Cohee LM, Laufer MK, Takala-Harrison S. Genotyping Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes using amplicon deep sequencing. Malar J 2024; 23:96. [PMID: 38582837 PMCID: PMC10999092 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-024-04920-3] [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: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the dynamics of gametocyte production in polyclonal Plasmodium falciparum infections requires a genotyping method that detects distinct gametocyte clones and estimates their relative frequencies. Here, a marker was identified and evaluated to genotype P. falciparum mature gametocytes using amplicon deep sequencing. METHODS A data set of polymorphic regions of the P. falciparum genome was mined to identify a gametocyte genotyping marker. To assess marker resolution, the number of unique haplotypes in the marker region was estimated from 95 Malawian P. falciparum whole genome sequences. Specificity of the marker for detection of mature gametocytes was evaluated using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction of RNA extracted from NF54 mature gametocytes and rings from a non-gametocyte-producing strain of P. falciparum. Amplicon deep sequencing was performed on experimental mixtures of mature gametocytes from two distinct parasite clones, as well as gametocyte-positive P. falciparum field isolates to evaluate the quantitative ability and determine the limit of detection of the genotyping approach. RESULTS A 400 bp region of the pfs230 gene was identified as a gametocyte genotyping marker. A larger number of unique haplotypes was observed at the pfs230 marker (34) compared to the sera-2 (18) and ama-1 (14) markers in field isolates from Malawi. RNA and DNA genotyping accurately estimated gametocyte and total parasite clone frequencies when evaluating agreement between expected and observed haplotype frequencies in gametocyte mixtures, with concordance correlation coefficients of 0.97 [95% CI: 0.92-0.99] and 0.92 [95% CI: 0.83-0.97], respectively. The detection limit of the genotyping method for male gametocytes was 0.41 pfmget transcripts/µl [95% CI: 0.28-0.72] and for female gametocytes was 1.98 ccp4 transcripts/µl [95% CI: 1.35-3.68]. CONCLUSIONS A region of the pfs230 gene was identified as a marker to genotype P. falciparum gametocytes. Amplicon deep sequencing of this marker can be used to estimate the number and relative frequency of parasite clones among mature gametocytes within P. falciparum infections. This gametocyte genotyping marker will be an important tool for studies aimed at understanding dynamics of gametocyte production in polyclonal P. falciparum infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jimmy Vareta
- Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Natalie A Horstman
- Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Matthew Adams
- Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Karl B Seydel
- Blantyre Malaria Project, Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
- College of Osteopathic Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Robert S McCann
- Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lauren M Cohee
- Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Miriam K Laufer
- Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shannon Takala-Harrison
- Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
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2
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Carrillo-Bustamante P, Costa G, Lampe L, Levashina EA. Evolutionary modelling indicates that mosquito metabolism shapes the life-history strategies of Plasmodium parasites. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8139. [PMID: 38097582 PMCID: PMC10721866 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43810-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Within-host survival and between-host transmission are key life-history traits of single-celled malaria parasites. Understanding the evolutionary forces that shape these traits is crucial to predict malaria epidemiology, drug resistance, and virulence. However, very little is known about how Plasmodium parasites adapt to their mosquito vectors. Here, we examine the evolution of the time Plasmodium parasites require to develop within the vector (extrinsic incubation period) with an individual-based model of malaria transmission that includes mosquito metabolism. Specifically, we model the metabolic cascade of resource allocation induced by blood-feeding, as well as the influence of multiple blood meals on parasite development. Our model predicts that successful vector-to-human transmission events are rare, and are caused by long-lived mosquitoes. Importantly, our results show that the life-history strategies of malaria parasites depend on the mosquito's metabolic status. In our model, additional resources provided by multiple blood meals lead to selection for parasites with slow or intermediate developmental time. These results challenge the current assumption that evolution favors fast developing parasites to maximize their chances to complete their within-mosquito life cycle. We propose that the long sporogonic cycle observed for Plasmodium is not a constraint but rather an adaptation to increase transmission potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Costa
- Vector Biology Unit, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Lena Lampe
- Vector Biology Unit, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, 10117, Berlin, Germany
- Physiology and Metabolism Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, NW11AT, London, UK
| | - Elena A Levashina
- Vector Biology Unit, Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
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3
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Moussaoui D, Robblee JP, Robert-Paganin J, Auguin D, Fisher F, Fagnant PM, Macfarlane JE, Schaletzky J, Wehri E, Mueller-Dieckmann C, Baum J, Trybus KM, Houdusse A. Mechanism of small molecule inhibition of Plasmodium falciparum myosin A informs antimalarial drug design. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3463. [PMID: 37308472 PMCID: PMC10261046 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-38976-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria results in more than 500,000 deaths per year and the causative Plasmodium parasites continue to develop resistance to all known agents, including different antimalarial combinations. The class XIV myosin motor PfMyoA is part of a core macromolecular complex called the glideosome, essential for Plasmodium parasite mobility and therefore an attractive drug target. Here, we characterize the interaction of a small molecule (KNX-002) with PfMyoA. KNX-002 inhibits PfMyoA ATPase activity in vitro and blocks asexual blood stage growth of merozoites, one of three motile Plasmodium life-cycle stages. Combining biochemical assays and X-ray crystallography, we demonstrate that KNX-002 inhibits PfMyoA using a previously undescribed binding mode, sequestering it in a post-rigor state detached from actin. KNX-002 binding prevents efficient ATP hydrolysis and priming of the lever arm, thus inhibiting motor activity. This small-molecule inhibitor of PfMyoA paves the way for the development of alternative antimalarial treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dihia Moussaoui
- Structural Motility, Institut Curie, Université Paris Sciences et Lettres, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR144, 75248, Paris, France
- Structural Biology group, European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), 71, Avenue des Martyrs, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - James P Robblee
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Julien Robert-Paganin
- Structural Motility, Institut Curie, Université Paris Sciences et Lettres, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR144, 75248, Paris, France
| | - Daniel Auguin
- Structural Motility, Institut Curie, Université Paris Sciences et Lettres, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR144, 75248, Paris, France
- Laboratoire de Biologie des Ligneux et des Grandes Cultures (LBLGC), Université d'Orléans, INRAE, USC1328, Orléans, France
| | - Fabio Fisher
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Patricia M Fagnant
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Jill E Macfarlane
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA
| | - Julia Schaletzky
- Center for Emerging and Neglected Diseases, Drug Discovery Center, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Eddie Wehri
- Center for Emerging and Neglected Diseases, Drug Discovery Center, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Christoph Mueller-Dieckmann
- Structural Biology group, European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF), 71, Avenue des Martyrs, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Jake Baum
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Exhibition Road, South Kensington, London, SW7 2AZ, UK
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Kathleen M Trybus
- Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT, USA.
| | - Anne Houdusse
- Structural Motility, Institut Curie, Université Paris Sciences et Lettres, Sorbonne Université, CNRS UMR144, 75248, Paris, France.
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4
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Cruz Camacho A, Kiper E, Oren S, Zaharoni N, Nir N, Soffer N, Noy Y, Ben David B, Rivkin A, Rotkopf R, Michael D, Carvalho TG, Regev-Rudzki N. High-throughput analysis of the transcriptional patterns of sexual genes in malaria. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:14. [PMID: 36639683 PMCID: PMC9838061 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05624-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Plasmodium falciparum (Pf) is the leading protozoan causing malaria, the most devastating parasitic disease. To ensure transmission, a small subset of Pf parasites differentiate into the sexual forms (gametocytes). Since the abundance of these essential parasitic forms is extremely low within the human host, little is currently known about the molecular regulation of their sexual differentiation, highlighting the need to develop tools to investigate Pf gene expression during this fundamental mechanism. METHODS We developed a high-throughput quantitative Reverse-Transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) platform to robustly monitor Pf transcriptional patterns, in particular, systematically profiling the transcriptional pattern of a large panel of gametocyte-related genes (GRG). Initially, we evaluated the technical performance of the systematic RT-qPCR platform to ensure it complies with the accepted quality standards for: (i) RNA extraction, (ii) cDNA synthesis and (iii) evaluation of gene expression through RT-qPCR. We then used this approach to monitor alterations in gene expression of a panel of GRG upon treatment with gametocytogenesis regulators. RESULTS We thoroughly elucidated GRG expression profiles under treatment with the antimalarial drug dihydroartemisinin (DHA) or the metabolite choline over the course of a Pf blood cycle (48 h). We demonstrate that both significantly alter the expression pattern of PfAP2-G, the gametocytogenesis master regulator. However, they also markedly modify the developmental rate of the parasites and thus might bias the mRNA expression. Additionally, we screened the effect of the metabolites lactate and kynurenic acid, abundant in severe malaria, as potential regulators of gametocytogenesis. CONCLUSIONS Our data demonstrate that the high-throughput RT-qPCR method enables studying the immediate transcriptional response initiating gametocytogenesis of the parasites from a very low volume of malaria-infected RBC samples. The obtained data expand the current knowledge of the initial alterations in mRNA profiles of GRG upon treatment with reported regulators. In addition, using this method emphasizes that asexual parasite stage composition is a crucial element that must be considered when interpreting changes in GRG expression by RT-qPCR, specifically when screening for novel compounds that could regulate Pf sexual differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abel Cruz Camacho
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Edo Kiper
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Sonia Oren
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Nir Zaharoni
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Netta Nir
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Noam Soffer
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Yael Noy
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Bar Ben David
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Anna Rivkin
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Ron Rotkopf
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Department of Life Sciences Core Facilities, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Dan Michael
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Feinberg Graduate School, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
| | - Teresa G. Carvalho
- grid.1018.80000 0001 2342 0938Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC 3086 Australia
| | - Neta Regev-Rudzki
- grid.13992.300000 0004 0604 7563Faculty of Biochemistry, Department of Biomolecular Sciences, Weizmann Institute of Science, 7610001 Rehovot, Israel
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5
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Omorou R, Bin Sa'id I, Delves M, Severini C, Kouakou YI, Bienvenu AL, Picot S. Protocols for Plasmodium gametocyte production in vitro: an integrative review and analysis. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:451. [PMID: 36471426 PMCID: PMC9720971 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05566-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The production of Plasmodium gametocytes in vitro is a real challenge. Many protocols have been described, but few have resulted in the production of viable and infectious gametocytes in sufficient quantities to conduct research on-but not limited to-transmission-blocking drug and vaccine development. The aim of this review was to identify and discuss gametocyte production protocols that have been developed over the last two decades. METHODS We analyzed the original gametocyte production protocols published from 2000 onwards based on a literature search and a thorough review. A systematic review was performed of relevant articles identified in the PubMed, Web of Sciences and ScienceDirect databases. RESULTS A total 23 studies on the production of Plasmodium gametocytes were identified, 19 involving in vitro Plasmodium falciparum, one involving Plasmodium knowlesi and three involving ex vivo Plasmodium vivax. Of the in vitro studies, 90% used environmental stressors to trigger gametocytogenesis. Mature gametocytemia of up to 4% was reported. CONCLUSIONS Several biological parameters contribute to an optimal production in vitro of viable and infectious mature gametocytes. The knowledge gained from this systematic review on the molecular mechanisms involved in gametocytogenesis enables reproducible gametocyte protocols with transgenic parasite lines to be set up. This review highlights the need for additional gametocyte production protocols for Plasmodium species other than P. falciparum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roukayatou Omorou
- Malaria Research Unit, UMR 5246 CNRS-INSA-CPE-University Lyon1, University of Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France.
| | - Ibrahim Bin Sa'id
- Malaria Research Unit, UMR 5246 CNRS-INSA-CPE-University Lyon1, University of Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France.,Institut Agama Islam Negeri (IAIN) Kediri, 64127, Kota Kediri, Jawa Timur, Indonesia
| | - Michael Delves
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, Keppel Street, London, WC1A 7HT, UK
| | - Carlo Severini
- Dipartimento Di Malattie Infettive, Istituto Superiore Di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Yobouet Ines Kouakou
- Malaria Research Unit, UMR 5246 CNRS-INSA-CPE-University Lyon1, University of Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Anne-Lise Bienvenu
- Malaria Research Unit, UMR 5246 CNRS-INSA-CPE-University Lyon1, University of Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France.,Service Pharmacie, Groupement Hospitalier Nord, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Stephane Picot
- Malaria Research Unit, UMR 5246 CNRS-INSA-CPE-University Lyon1, University of Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France.,Institut de Parasitologie Et Mycologie Médicale, Groupement Hospitalier Nord, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
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6
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ApiAP2 Gene-Network Regulates Gametocytogenesis in Plasmodium Parasites. Cell Microbiol 2022. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/5796578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Malaria is a mosquito-borne infectious disease, caused by unicellular Apicomplexan protozoa of the genus Plasmodium. The sexual stage of Plasmodium is one of the most fascinating aspects of the Plasmodium life cycle, yet relatively less explored until now. The production of sexually fit gametocytes through gametocytogenesis is essential to the transmission of the Plasmodium parasite into an anopheline mosquito vector. Understanding how gametocytogenesis is regulated promotes the identification of novel drug targets and also the development of transmission-blocking vaccines that would help reduce the disease burden in endemic areas. Transcriptional regulation in Plasmodium parasites is primarily controlled by a family of twenty-seven Apicomplexan Apetela 2 (ApiAP2) genes which act in a cascade to enable the parasite to progress through its asexual replication as well as gametocytogenesis. Here, we review the latest progress made on members of the ApiAP2 family characterized as key players of the transcriptional machinery of gametocytes. Further, we will highlight the transcriptional regulation network of ApiAP2 genes at each stage of gametocytogenesis.
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7
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Orwa TO, Mbogo RW, Luboobi LS. Optimal control analysis of hepatocytic-erythrocytic dynamics of Plasmodium falciparum malaria. Infect Dis Model 2022; 7:82-108. [PMID: 34977436 PMCID: PMC8686038 DOI: 10.1016/j.idm.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper presents an in-host malaria model subject to anti-malarial drug treatment and malaria vaccine antigens combinations. Pontryagin's Maximum Principle is applied to establish optimal control strategies against infected erythrocytes, infected hepatocytes and malaria parasites. Results from numerical simulation reveal that a combination of pre-erythrocytic vaccine antigen, blood schizontocide and gametocytocide drugs would offer the best strategy to eradicate clinical P. falciparum malaria. Sensitivity analysis, further reveal that the efficacy of blood schizontocides and blood stage vaccines are crucial in the control of clinical malaria infection. Futhermore, we found that an effective blood schizontocide should be used alongside efficacious blood stage vaccine for rapid eradication of infective malaria parasites. The authors hope that the results of this study will help accelerate malaria elimination efforts by combining malaria vaccines and anti-malarial drugs against the deadly P. falciparum malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Titus Okello Orwa
- Institute of Mathematical Sciences, Strathmore University, P.O Box 59 857-00 200, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rachel Waema Mbogo
- Institute of Mathematical Sciences, Strathmore University, P.O Box 59 857-00 200, Nairobi, Kenya
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8
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Alzan HF, Bastos RG, Laughery JM, Scoles GA, Ueti MW, Johnson WC, Suarez CE. A Culture-Adapted Strain of Babesia bovis Has Reduced Subpopulation Complexity and Is Unable to Complete Its Natural Life Cycle in Ticks. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:827347. [PMID: 35223550 PMCID: PMC8867610 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.827347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Babesia bovis natural field strains are composed of several geno-phenotypically distinct subpopulations. This feature, together with possible epigenetic modifications, may facilitate adaptation to variable environmental conditions. In this study we compare geno-phenotypical features among long-term (more than 12 years) (LTCP) and short-term cultured B. bovis parasites (STCP) derived from the B. bovis S74-T3Bo strain. LTCPs intraerythrocytic forms are smaller in size than STCPs and have faster in vitro growth rate. In contrast to its parental strain, the LTCP lack expression of the sexual stage specific 6cysA and 6cysB proteins and are unable to develop sexual forms upon in vitro sexual stage induction. Consistently, in contrast to its parental strain, LTCPs have reduced virulence and are not transmissible to cattle by vector competent Rhipicephalus microplus (R. microplus). Similar to previous comparisons among attenuated and virulent B. bovis strains, the LTCP line has decreased genomic diversity compared to the STCP line. Thus, LTCP may contribute to our understanding of adaptive mechanisms used by the parasites in response to environmental changes, protective immunity, virulence, and transmission by ticks. In addition, LTCPs may be considered as candidates for a non-tick transmissible vaccine against bovine babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heba F. Alzan
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
- Parasitology and Animal Diseases Department, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
- Tick and Tick-Borne Disease Research Unit, National Research Center, Giza, Egypt
- *Correspondence: Heba F. Alzan, ; Carlos E. Suarez,
| | - Reginaldo G. Bastos
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Jacob M. Laughery
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Glen A. Scoles
- Invasive Insect Biocontrol and Behavior Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville, MD, United States
| | - Massaro W. Ueti
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
- Animal Disease Research Unit, United States Department of Agricultural - Agricultural Research Service, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Wendell C. Johnson
- Animal Disease Research Unit, United States Department of Agricultural - Agricultural Research Service, Pullman, WA, United States
| | - Carlos E. Suarez
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States
- Animal Disease Research Unit, United States Department of Agricultural - Agricultural Research Service, Pullman, WA, United States
- *Correspondence: Heba F. Alzan, ; Carlos E. Suarez,
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9
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Rasmussen C, Alonso P, Ringwald P. Current and emerging strategies to combat antimalarial resistance. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2021; 20:353-372. [PMID: 34348573 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2021.1962291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Since the spread of chloroquine resistance in Plasmodium falciparum in the 1960s, recommendations have been made on how to respond to antimalarial resistance. Only with the advent of artemisinin partial resistance were large scale efforts made in the Greater Mekong Subregion to carry out recommendations in a coordinated and well-funded manner. Independent emergence of parasites partially resistant to artemisinins has now been reported in Rwanda. AREAS COVERED We reviewed past recommendations and activities to respond to resistance as well as the research ongoing into new ways to stop or delay the spread of resistant parasites. EXPERT OPINION Inadequate information limits the options and support for a strong, coordinated response to artemisinin partial resistance in Africa, making better phenotypic and genotypic surveillance a priority. A response to resistance needs to address factors that may have hastened the emergence and could speed the spread, including overuse of drugs and lack of access to quality treatment. New ways to use the existing treatments in the response to resistance such as multiple first-lines are currently impeded by the limited number of drugs available.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Pedro Alonso
- Global Malaria Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Ringwald
- Global Malaria Programme, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
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10
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Yaméogo KB, Yerbanga RS, Ouattara SB, Yao FA, Lefèvre T, Zongo I, Nikièma F, Compaoré YD, Tinto H, Chandramohan D, Greenwood B, Belem AMG, Cohuet A, Ouédraogo JB. Effect of seasonal malaria chemoprevention plus azithromycin on Plasmodium falciparum transmission: gametocyte infectivity and mosquito fitness. Malar J 2021; 20:326. [PMID: 34315475 PMCID: PMC8314489 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-021-03855-3] [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: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) consists of administration of sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) + amodiaquine (AQ) at monthly intervals to children during the malaria transmission period. Whether the addition of azithromycin (AZ) to SMC could potentiate the benefit of the intervention was tested through a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. The effect of SMC and the addition of AZ, on malaria transmission and on the life history traits of Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes have been investigated. Methods The study included 438 children randomly selected from among participants in the SMC + AZ trial and 198 children from the same area who did not receive chemoprevention. For each participant in the SMC + AZ trial, blood was collected 14 to 21 days post treatment, examined for the presence of malaria sexual and asexual stages and provided as a blood meal to An. gambiae females using a direct membrane-feeding assay. Results The SMC treatment, with or without AZ, significantly reduced the prevalence of asexual Plasmodium falciparum (LRT X22 = 69, P < 0.0001) and the gametocyte prevalence (LRT X22 = 54, P < 0.0001). In addition, the proportion of infectious feeds (LRT X22 = 61, P < 0.0001) and the prevalence of oocysts among exposed mosquitoes (LRT X22 = 22.8, P < 0.001) was reduced when mosquitoes were fed on blood from treated children compared to untreated controls. The addition of AZ to SPAQ was associated with an increased proportion of infectious feeds (LRT X21 = 5.2, P = 0.02), suggesting a significant effect of AZ on gametocyte infectivity. There was a slight negative effect of SPAQ and SPAQ + AZ on mosquito survival compared to mosquitoes fed with blood from control children (LRTX22 = 330, P < 0.0001). Conclusion This study demonstrates that SMC may contribute to a reduction in human to mosquito transmission of P. falciparum, and the reduced mosquito longevity observed for females fed on treated blood may increase the benefit of this intervention in control of malaria. The addition of AZ to SPAQ in SMC appeared to enhance the infectivity of gametocytes providing further evidence that this combination is not an appropriate intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koudraogo Bienvenue Yaméogo
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso. .,Université Nazi Boni, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.
| | - Rakiswendé Serge Yerbanga
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.,Institut des Sciences et Techniques (INSTech Bobo), BP2779, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Franck A Yao
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Thierry Lefèvre
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.,MIVEGEC, University of Montpellier, IRD, CNRS, Montpellier, France.,Laboratoire Mixte International Sur Les Vecteurs (LAMIVECT), Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.,Centre de Recherche en Écologie et Évolution de la Santé (CREES), Montpellier, France
| | - Issaka Zongo
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Frederic Nikièma
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Halidou Tinto
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | | | | | | | - Anna Cohuet
- MIVEGEC, University of Montpellier, IRD, CNRS, Montpellier, France.,Laboratoire Mixte International Sur Les Vecteurs (LAMIVECT), Bobo Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Jean Bosco Ouédraogo
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.,Institut des Sciences et Techniques (INSTech Bobo), BP2779, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
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11
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Schneider P, Reece SE. The private life of malaria parasites: Strategies for sexual reproduction. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2021; 244:111375. [PMID: 34023299 PMCID: PMC8346949 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2021.111375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Malaria parasites exhibit a complex lifecycle, requiring extensive asexual replication in the liver and blood of the vertebrate host, and in the haemocoel of the insect vector. Yet, they must also undergo a single round of sexual reproduction, which occurs in the vector's midgut upon uptake of a blood meal. Sexual reproduction is obligate for infection of the vector and thus, is essential for onwards transmission to new hosts. Sex in malaria parasites involves several bottlenecks in parasite number, making the stages involved attractive targets for blocking disease transmission. Malaria parasites have evolved a suite of adaptations ("strategies") to maximise the success of sexual reproduction and transmission, which could undermine transmission-blocking interventions. Yet, understanding parasite strategies may also reveal novel opportunities for such interventions. Here, we outline how evolutionary and ecological theories, developed to explain reproductive strategies in multicellular taxa, can be applied to explain two reproductive strategies (conversion rate and sex ratio) expressed by malaria parasites within the vertebrate host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Schneider
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Sarah E Reece
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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12
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Chawla J, Oberstaller J, Adams JH. Targeting Gametocytes of the Malaria Parasite Plasmodium falciparum in a Functional Genomics Era: Next Steps. Pathogens 2021; 10:346. [PMID: 33809464 PMCID: PMC7999360 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Mosquito transmission of the deadly malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum is mediated by mature sexual forms (gametocytes). Circulating in the vertebrate host, relatively few intraerythrocytic gametocytes are picked up during a bloodmeal to continue sexual development in the mosquito vector. Human-to-vector transmission thus represents an infection bottleneck in the parasite's life cycle for therapeutic interventions to prevent malaria. Even though recent progress has been made in the identification of genetic factors linked to gametocytogenesis, a plethora of genes essential for sexual-stage development are yet to be unraveled. In this review, we revisit P. falciparum transmission biology by discussing targetable features of gametocytes and provide a perspective on a forward-genetic approach for identification of novel transmission-blocking candidates in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsna Chawla
- Molecular Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, 12901 Bruce B Downs Blvd, MDC 7, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - Jenna Oberstaller
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research and USF Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Suite 404, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
| | - John H. Adams
- Center for Global Health and Infectious Diseases Research and USF Genomics Program, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, 3720 Spectrum Blvd, Suite 404, Tampa, FL 33612, USA;
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13
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Kumari S, Chauhan C, Tevatiya S, Singla D, De TD, Sharma P, Thomas T, Rani J, Savargaonkar D, Pandey KC, Pande V, Dixit R. Genetic changes of Plasmodium vivax tempers host tissue-specific responses in Anopheles stephensi. CURRENT RESEARCH IN IMMUNOLOGY 2021; 2:12-22. [PMID: 35492403 PMCID: PMC9040150 DOI: 10.1016/j.crimmu.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2021] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, we showed how an early restriction of gut flora proliferation by Plasmodium vivax favors immune-suppression and Plasmodium survival in the gut lumen (Sharma et al., 2020). Here, we asked post gut invasion how P. vivax interacts with individual tissues such as the midgut, hemocyte, and salivary glands, and manages its survival in the mosquito host. Our data from tissue-specific comparative RNA-Seq analysis and extensive temporal/spatial expression profiling of selected mosquito transcripts in the uninfected and P. vivax infected mosquito’s tissues indicated that (i) a transient suppression of gut metabolic machinery by early oocysts; (ii) enriched expression of nutritional responsive proteins and immune proteins against late oocysts, together may ensure optimal parasite development and gut homeostasis restoration; (iii) pre-immune activation of hemocyte by early gut-oocysts infection via REL induction (p < 0.003); and altered expression of hemocyte-encoded immune proteins may cause rapid removal of free circulating sporozoites from hemolymph; (iv) while a strong suppression of salivary metabolic activities, and elevated expression of salivary specific secretory, as well as immune proteins together, may favor the long-term storage and survival of invaded sporozoites. Finally, our RNA-Seq-based discovery of 4449 transcripts of Plasmodium vivax origin, and their developmental stage-specific expression modulation in the corresponding infected mosquito tissues, predicts a possible mechanism of mosquito responses evasion by P. vivax. Conclusively, our system-wide RNA-Seq analysis provides the first genetic evidence of direct mosquito-Plasmodium interaction and establishes a functional correlation. System-wide RNASeq analysis discloses direct mosquito-Plasmodium vivax interaction and establishes a functional correlation. Discovery of 4449 transcripts specific to P. vivax developmental stages sheds light on possible immune evasion mechanisms. Upregulation of nutritional related transcripts ensures optimal late oocyst development and midgut homeostasis. Hemocyte activation by early oocysts ensure removal of free circulatory sporozoites by proliferating immune transcripts. Heightened levels of salivary immune transcripts show that an active local immune response restricts salivary invaded sporozoite
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14
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Kumari S, Chauhan C, Tevatiya S, Singla D, De TD, Sharma P, Thomas T, Rani J, Savargaonkar D, Pandey KC, Pande V, Dixit R. Genetic changes of Plasmodium vivax tempers host tissue-specific responses in Anopheles stephensi. CURRENT RESEARCH IN IMMUNOLOGY 2021. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.crimmu.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
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15
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Kumari S, Chauhan C, Tevatiya S, Singla D, De TD, Sharma P, Thomas T, Rani J, Savargaonkar D, Pandey KC, Pande V, Dixit R. Genetic changes of Plasmodium vivax tempers host tissue-specific responses in Anopheles stephensi. CURRENT RESEARCH IN IMMUNOLOGY 2021. [DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.crimmu.2021.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
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16
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Chipoya MN, Shimaponda-Mataa NM. Prevalence, characteristics and risk factors of imported and local malaria cases in North-Western Province, Zambia: a cross-sectional study. Malar J 2020; 19:430. [PMID: 33228684 PMCID: PMC7686676 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-03504-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Imported malaria is a major challenge for countries that are in malaria elimination stage such as Zambia. Legitimate cross-border activities add to the risk of transmission, necessitating determination of prevalence, characteristics and risk factors of imported and local malaria. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted in 103 consented child and adult patients with clinical malaria symptoms, from selected health facilities in north-western Zambia. Patient demographic data and blood samples for malaria microscopy and full blood count were obtained. Chi-square and penalized logistic regression were performed to describe the characteristics and assess the risk factors of imported and local malaria in North-Western Province. RESULTS Overall, malaria prevalence was 78.6% with 93.8% Plasmodium falciparum and 6.2% other species. The local cases were 72 (88.9%) while the imported were 9 (11.1%) out of the 81 positive participants. About 98.6% of the local cases were P. falciparum compared to 55.6% (χ2 = 52.4; p < 0.01) P. falciparum among the imported cases. Among the imported cases, 44% were species other than P. falciparum (χ2 = 48; p < 0.01) while among the local cases only 1.4% were. Gametocytes were present in 44% of the imported malaria cases and only in 2.8% of the local cases (χ2 = 48; p < 0.01). About 48.6% of local participants had severe anaemia compared to 33.3% of participants from the two neighbouring countries who had (χ2 = 4.9; p = 0.03). In the final model, only country of residence related positively to presence of species other than P. falciparum (OR = 39.0, CI [5.9, 445.9]; p < 0.01) and presence of gametocytes (OR = 23.1, CI [4.2, 161.6]; p < 0.01). CONCLUSION Malaria prevalence in North-Western Province is high, with P. falciparum as the predominant species although importation of Plasmodium ovale and Plasmodium malariae is happening as well. Country of residence of patients is a major risk factor for malaria species and gametocyte presence. The need for enhanced malaria control with specific focus on border controls to detect and treat, for specific diagnosis and treatment according to species obtaining, for further research in the role of species and gametocytaemia in imported malaria, cannot be overemphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen N Chipoya
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Ridgeway Campus, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Nzooma M Shimaponda-Mataa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Ridgeway Campus, Lusaka, Zambia.
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17
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NGWA GIDEONA, WOLDEGERIMA WOLDEGEBRIELA, TEBOH-EWUNGKEM MIRANDAI. A MATHEMATICAL STUDY OF THE IMPLICIT ROLE OF INNATE AND ADAPTIVE IMMUNE RESPONSES ON WITHIN-HUMAN PLASMODIUM FALCIPARUM PARASITE LEVELS. J BIOL SYST 2020. [DOI: 10.1142/s0218339020400069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
A within-human-host malaria parasite model, integrating key variables that influence parasite evolution-progression-advancement, under innate and adaptive immune responses, is analyzed. The implicit role of immunity on the steady state parasite loads and parasitemia reproduction number ([Formula: see text]), a threshold parameter measuring the parasite’s annexing ability of healthy red blood cells (HRBCs), eventually rendering a human infectious to mosquitoes, is investigated. The impact of the type of recruitment function used to model HRBC growth is also investigated. The model steady states and [Formula: see text], both obtained as functions of immune system variables, are analyzed at snapshots of immune sizes. Model results indicate that the more the immune cells, innate and adaptive, the more efficient they are at inhibiting parasite development and progression; consequently, the less severe the malaria disease in a patient. Our analysis also illustrates the existence of a Hopf bifurcation leading to a limit cycle, observable only for the nonlinear recruitment functions, at reasonably large [Formula: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- GIDEON A. NGWA
- Department of Mathematics, University of Buea, P. O. Box 63, Buea, Cameroon
| | - WOLDEGEBRIEL A. WOLDEGERIMA
- Department of Mathematics, University of Buea, P. O. Box 63, Buea, Cameroon
- African Institute for the Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) Cameroon, P. O. Box 608, Limbe, Cameroon
- CNCS, Department of Mathematics, Mekelle University, P. O. Box 231, Tigray, Ethiopia
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18
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Pilotte N, Cook DA, Pryce J, Zulch MF, Minetti C, Reimer LJ, Williams SA. Laboratory evaluation of molecular xenomonitoring using mosquito and tsetse fly excreta/feces to amplify Plasmodium, Brugia, and Trypanosoma DNA. Gates Open Res 2020; 3:1734. [PMID: 32596646 PMCID: PMC7308644 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.13093.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Results from an increasing number of studies suggest that mosquito excreta/feces (E/F) testing has considerable potential to serve as a supplement for traditional molecular xenomonitoring techniques. However, as the catalogue of possible use-cases for this methodology expands, and the list of amenable pathogens grows, a number of fundamental methods-based questions remain. Answering these questions is critical to maximizing the utility of this approach and to facilitating its successful implementation as an effective tool for molecular xenomonitoring. Methods: Utilizing E/F produced by mosquitoes or tsetse flies experimentally exposed to Brugia malayi, Plasmodium falciparum, or Trypanosoma brucei brucei, factors such as limits of detection, throughput of testing, adaptability to use with competent and incompetent vector species, and effects of additional blood feedings post parasite-exposure were evaluated. Two platforms for the detection of pathogen signal (quantitative real-time PCR and digital PCR (dPCR)) were also compared, with strengths and weaknesses examined for each. Results: Experimental results indicated that high throughput testing is possible when evaluating mosquito E/F for the presence of either B. malayi or P. falciparum from both competent and incompetent vector mosquito species. Furthermore, following exposure to pathogen, providing mosquitoes with a second, uninfected bloodmeal did not expand the temporal window for E/F collection during which pathogen detection was possible. However, this collection window did appear longer in E/F collected from tsetse flies following exposure to T. b. brucei. Testing also suggested that dPCR may facilitate detection through its increased sensitivity. Unfortunately, logistical obstacles will likely make the large-scale use of dPCR impractical for this purpose. Conclusions: By examining many E/F testing variables, expansion of this technology to a field-ready platform has become increasingly feasible. However, translation of this methodology from the lab to the field will first require field-based pilot studies aimed at assessing the efficacy of E/F screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Pilotte
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, Massachusetts, 01063, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, USA
| | - Darren A.N. Cook
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Joseph Pryce
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Michael F. Zulch
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, Massachusetts, 01063, USA
| | - Corrado Minetti
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Lisa J. Reimer
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Steven A. Williams
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, Massachusetts, 01063, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, USA
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19
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Abraham M, Gagaring K, Martino ML, Vanaerschot M, Plouffe DM, Calla J, Godinez-Macias KP, Du AY, Wree M, Antonova-Koch Y, Eribez K, Luth MR, Ottilie S, Fidock DA, McNamara CW, Winzeler EA. Probing the Open Global Health Chemical Diversity Library for Multistage-Active Starting Points for Next-Generation Antimalarials. ACS Infect Dis 2020; 6:613-628. [PMID: 32078764 PMCID: PMC7155171 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.9b00482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Most phenotypic screens aiming to discover new antimalarial chemotypes begin with low cost, high-throughput tests against the asexual blood stage (ABS) of the malaria parasite life cycle. Compounds active against the ABS are then sequentially tested in more difficult assays that predict whether a compound has other beneficial attributes. Although applying this strategy to new chemical libraries may yield new leads, repeated iterations may lead to diminishing returns and the rediscovery of chemotypes hitting well-known targets. Here, we adopted a different strategy to find starting points, testing ∼70,000 open source small molecules from the Global Health Chemical Diversity Library for activity against the liver stage, mature sexual stage, and asexual blood stage malaria parasites in parallel. In addition, instead of using an asexual assay that measures accumulated parasite DNA in the presence of compound (SYBR green), a real time luciferase-dependent parasite viability assay was used that distinguishes slow-acting (delayed death) from fast-acting compounds. Among 382 scaffolds with the activity confirmed by dose response (<10 μM), we discovered 68 novel delayed-death, 84 liver stage, and 68 stage V gametocyte inhibitors as well. Although 89% of the evaluated compounds had activity in only a single life cycle stage, we discovered six potent (half-maximal inhibitory concentration of <1 μM) multistage scaffolds, including a novel cytochrome bc1 chemotype. Our data further show the luciferase-based assays have higher sensitivity. Chemoinformatic analysis of positive and negative compounds identified scaffold families with a strong enrichment for activity against specific or multiple stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Abraham
- School
of Medicine, University of California San
Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Kerstin Gagaring
- Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Marisa L. Martino
- School
of Medicine, University of California San
Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Manu Vanaerschot
- Department
of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia
University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - David M. Plouffe
- Genomics
Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, 10675 John Jay Hopkins Drive, San Diego, California 92121, United States
| | - Jaeson Calla
- School
of Medicine, University of California San
Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Karla P. Godinez-Macias
- School
of Medicine, University of California San
Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Alan Y. Du
- School
of Medicine, University of California San
Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Melanie Wree
- School
of Medicine, University of California San
Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Yevgeniya Antonova-Koch
- School
of Medicine, University of California San
Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Korina Eribez
- School
of Medicine, University of California San
Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Madeline R. Luth
- School
of Medicine, University of California San
Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - Sabine Ottilie
- School
of Medicine, University of California San
Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
| | - David A. Fidock
- Department
of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia
University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, United States
- Division
of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, United States
| | - Case W. McNamara
- Calibr, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, United States
| | - Elizabeth A. Winzeler
- School
of Medicine, University of California San
Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, California 92093, United States
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20
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Kulkeaw K, Ketprasit N, Tungtrongchitr A, Palasuwan D. A simple monochromatic flow cytometric assay for assessment of intraerythrocytic development of Plasmodium falciparum. Malar J 2020; 19:74. [PMID: 32070344 PMCID: PMC7027058 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-03156-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gold standard microscopic examination of Plasmodium falciparum intraerythrocytic stage remains an important process for staging and enumerating parasitized erythrocytes in culture; however, microscopy is laborious and its accuracy is dependent upon the skill of the examiner. Methods In this study, ViSafe Green (VSG), which is a nucleic acid-binding fluorescent dye, was used for assessing in vitro development of P. falciparum using flow cytometry. Results Fluorescence intensity of VSG was found to depend on the developmental stage of parasites. Specifically, multiple-nuclei-containing schizonts were observed in the VSGhigh population, and growing trophozoites and ring-shaped forms were observed in the VSGintermediate and VSGlow populations. The efficacy of VSG-based assay was found to be comparable to the microscopic examination method, and it demonstrated an ability to detect as low as 0.001% of the parasitaemia estimated by Giemsa staining. Moreover, when applying VSG for anti-malarial drug test, it was able to observe the growth inhibitory effect of dihydroartemisinin, the front-line drug for malaria therapy. Conclusions Taken together, the results of this study suggest the VSG-based flow cytometric assay to be a simple and reliable assay for assessing P. falciparum malaria development in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kasem Kulkeaw
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2, Wanglang Road, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
| | - Nutpakal Ketprasit
- Oxidation in Red Cell Disorders and Health Research Unit, Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, 154 Rama 1 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Tungtrongchitr
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2, Wanglang Road, Bangkoknoi, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Duangdao Palasuwan
- Oxidation in Red Cell Disorders and Health Research Unit, Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, 154 Rama 1 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.
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21
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Ararat-Sarria M, Prado CC, Camargo M, Ospina LT, Camargo PA, Curtidor H, Patarroyo MA. Sexual forms obtained in a continuous in vitro cultured Colombian strain of Plasmodium falciparum (FCB2). Malar J 2020; 19:57. [PMID: 32014000 PMCID: PMC6998264 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-3142-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The epidemiological control of malaria has been hampered by the appearance of parasite resistance to anti-malarial drugs and by the resistance of mosquito vectors to control measures. This has also been associated with weak transmission control, mostly due to poor control of asymptomatic patients associated with host-vector transmission. This highlights the importance of studying the parasite’s sexual forms (gametocytes) which are involved in this phase of the parasite’s life-cycle. Some African and Asian strains of Plasmodium falciparum have been fully characterized regarding sexual forms’ production; however, few Latin-American strains have been so characterized. This study was aimed at characterizing the Colombian FCB2 strain as a gametocyte producer able to infect mosquitoes. Methods Gametocyte production was induced in in vitro cultured P. falciparum FCB2 and 3D7 strains. Pfap2g and Pfs25 gene expression was detected in FCB2 strain gametocyte culture by RT-PCR. Comparative analysis of gametocytes obtained from both strains was made (counts and morphological changes). In vitro zygote formation from FCB2 gametocytes was induced by incubating a gametocyte culture sample at 27 °C for 20 min. A controlled Anopheles albimanus infection was made using an artificial feed system with cultured FCB2 gametocytes (14–15 days old). Mosquito midgut dissection was then carried out for analyzing oocysts. Results The FCB2 strain expressed Pfap2g, Pfs16, Pfg27/25 and Pfs25 sexual differentiation-related genes after in vitro sexual differentiation induction, producing gametocytes that conserved the expected morphological features. The amount of FCB2 gametocytes produced was similar to that from the 3D7 strain. FCB2 gametocytes were differentiated into zygotes and ookinetes after an in vitro low-temperature stimulus and infected An. albimanus mosquitoes, developing to oocyst stage. Conclusions Even with the history of long-term FCB2 strain in vitro culture maintenance, it has retained its sexual differentiation ability. The gametocytes produced here preserved these parasite forms’ usual characteristics and An. albimanus infection capability, thus enabling its use as a tool for studying sexual form biology, An. albimanus infection comparative analysis and anti-malarial drug and vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Ararat-Sarria
- Receptor-Ligand Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia.,PhD Programme in Biomedical and Biological Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Cesar Camilo Prado
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Milena Camargo
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Laura Tatiana Ospina
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Paola Andrea Camargo
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Hernando Curtidor
- Receptor-Ligand Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia.,Animal Science Faculty, Universidad de Ciencias Aplicadas y Ambientales (U.D.C.A), Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Manuel Alfonso Patarroyo
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá, Colombia. .,School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia.
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22
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Emami SN, Hajkazemian M, Mozūraitis R. Can Plasmodium's tricks for enhancing its transmission be turned against the parasite? New hopes for vector control. Pathog Glob Health 2020; 113:325-335. [PMID: 31910740 PMCID: PMC7008238 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2019.1703398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 120 years ago the link between mosquito and the malaria transmission was discovered. However, even today it remains an open question whether the parasite is able to direct the blood-seeking and feeding behavior of its mosquito vector to maximize the probability of transmission. If the parasite has this ability, could it occur only through the alteration of the vertebrate host's volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and/or the parasite alteration of the behavior of the infected vector in a manner that favors its transmission? Although some recent empirical evidence supports the hypothesis regarding the parasite ability in alteration of the vertebrate host's VOCs, the role of parasite alteration and behavioral differences between infected and uninfected female mosquitoes toward infected and uninfected hosts has not yet been considered in the implementation of control measures. This review will discuss the current evidence, which shows 1. Plasmodium can direct uninfected mosquito blood-seeking and feeding behavior via alteration of vertebrate-host odor profiles and production of phagostimulants and 2. Plasmodium also manipulates its vector during the sporogony cycle to increase transmission. Briefly, we also consider the next generation of methods for moving the empirical laboratory evidence to potential application in future integrated malaria control programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Noushin Emami
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Melika Hajkazemian
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Wenner-Gren Institute, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Raimondas Mozūraitis
- Department of Zoology, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden.,Laboratory of Chemical and Behavioral Ecology, Institute of Ecology, Nature Research Centre, Vilnius, Lithuania
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23
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Pilotte N, Cook DA, Pryce J, Zulch MF, Minetti C, Reimer LJ, Williams SA. Laboratory evaluation of molecular xenomonitoring using mosquito excreta/feces to amplify Plasmodium, Brugia, and Trypanosoma DNA. Gates Open Res 2019; 3:1734. [PMID: 32596646 PMCID: PMC7308644 DOI: 10.12688/gatesopenres.13093.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 03/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Results from an increasing number of studies suggest that mosquito excreta/feces (E/F) testing has considerable potential to serve as a supplement for traditional molecular xenomonitoring techniques. However, as the catalogue of possible use-cases for this methodology expands, and the list of amenable pathogens grows, a number of fundamental methods-based questions remain. Answering these questions is critical to maximizing the utility of this approach and to facilitating its successful implementation as an effective tool for molecular xenomonitoring. Methods: Utilizing E/F produced by mosquitoes or tsetse flies experimentally exposed to Brugia malayi, Plasmodium falciparum, or Trypanosoma brucei brucei, factors such as limits of detection, throughput of testing, adaptability to use with competent- and incompetent-vector species, and effects of additional blood feedings post parasite-exposure were evaluated. Two platforms for the detection of pathogen signal (quantitative real-time PCR and digital PCR [dPCR]) were also compared, with strengths and weaknesses examined for each. Results: Experimental results indicated that high throughput testing is possible when evaluating mosquito E/F for the presence of either B. malayi or P. falciparum from both competent- and incompetent-vector mosquito species. Furthermore, following exposure to pathogen, providing mosquitoes with a second, uninfected bloodmeal did not expand the temporal window for E/F collection during which pathogen detection was possible. However, this collection window did appear longer in E/F collected from tsetse flies following exposure to T. b. brucei. Testing also suggested that dPCR may facilitate detection through its increased sensitivity. Unfortunately, logistical obstacles will likely make the large-scale use of dPCR impractical for this purpose. Conclusions: By examining many E/F testing variables, expansion of this technology to a field-ready platform has become increasingly feasible. However, translation of this methodology from the lab to the field will first require the completion of field-based pilot studies aimed at assessing the efficacy of E/F screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nils Pilotte
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, Massachusetts, 01063, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, USA
| | - Darren A.N. Cook
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Joseph Pryce
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Michael F. Zulch
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, Massachusetts, 01063, USA
| | - Corrado Minetti
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Lisa J. Reimer
- Department of Vector Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Steven A. Williams
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, Massachusetts, 01063, USA
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Program, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Massachusetts, 01003, USA
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24
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Li X, Kumar S, McDew-White M, Haile M, Cheeseman IH, Emrich S, Button-Simons K, Nosten F, Kappe SHI, Ferdig MT, Anderson TJC, Vaughan AM. Genetic mapping of fitness determinants across the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum life cycle. PLoS Genet 2019; 15:e1008453. [PMID: 31609965 PMCID: PMC6821138 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1008453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Determining the genetic basis of fitness is central to understanding evolution and transmission of microbial pathogens. In human malaria parasites (Plasmodium falciparum), most experimental work on fitness has focused on asexual blood stage parasites, because this stage can be easily cultured, although the transmission of malaria requires both female Anopheles mosquitoes and vertebrate hosts. We explore a powerful approach to identify the genetic determinants of parasite fitness across both invertebrate and vertebrate life-cycle stages of P. falciparum. This combines experimental genetic crosses using humanized mice, with selective whole genome amplification and pooled sequencing to determine genome-wide allele frequencies and identify genomic regions under selection across multiple lifecycle stages. We applied this approach to genetic crosses between artemisinin resistant (ART-R, kelch13-C580Y) and ART-sensitive (ART-S, kelch13-WT) parasites, recently isolated from Southeast Asian patients. Two striking results emerge: we observed (i) a strong genome-wide skew (>80%) towards alleles from the ART-R parent in the mosquito stage, that dropped to ~50% in the blood stage as selfed ART-R parasites were selected against; and (ii) repeatable allele specific skews in blood stage parasites with particularly strong selection (selection coefficient (s) ≤ 0.18/asexual cycle) against alleles from the ART-R parent at loci on chromosome 12 containing MRP2 and chromosome 14 containing ARPS10. This approach robustly identifies selected loci and has strong potential for identifying parasite genes that interact with the mosquito vector or compensatory loci involved in drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Sudhir Kumar
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Marina McDew-White
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Meseret Haile
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Ian H. Cheeseman
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
| | - Scott Emrich
- Eck Institute for Global Health, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, United States of America
- Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Katie Button-Simons
- Eck Institute for Global Health, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, United States of America
| | - François Nosten
- Shoklo Malaria Research Unit, Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Mae Sot, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan H. I. Kappe
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Michael T. Ferdig
- Eck Institute for Global Health, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana, United States of America
| | - Tim J. C. Anderson
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (TJCA); (AMV)
| | - Ashley M. Vaughan
- Center for Global Infectious Disease Research, Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail: (TJCA); (AMV)
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25
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Bennink S, Pradel G. The molecular machinery of translational control in malaria parasites. Mol Microbiol 2019; 112:1658-1673. [PMID: 31531994 DOI: 10.1111/mmi.14388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Translational control regulates the levels of protein synthesized from its transcript and is key for the rapid adjustment of gene expression in response to environmental stimuli. The regulation of translation is of special importance for malaria parasites, which pass through a complex life cycle that includes various replication phases in the different organs of the human and mosquito hosts and a sexual reproduction phase in the mosquito midgut. In particular, the quiescent transmission stages rely on translational control to rapidly adapt to the new environment, once they switch over from the human to the mosquito and vice versa. Three control mechanisms are currently proposed in Plasmodium, (1) global regulation that acts on the translation initiation complex; (2) mRNA-specific regulation, involving cis control elements, mRNA-binding proteins and translational repressors; and (3) induced mRNA decay by the Ccr4-Not and the RNA exosome complex. The main molecules controlling translation are highly conserved in malaria parasites and an increasing number of studies shed light on the interwoven pathways leading to the up or downregulation of protein synthesis in the diverse plasmodial stages. We here highlight recent findings on translational control during life cycle progression of Plasmodium and discuss the molecules involved in regulating protein synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Bennink
- Division of Cellular and Applied Infection Biology, Institute of Zoology, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Gabriele Pradel
- Division of Cellular and Applied Infection Biology, Institute of Zoology, RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1, 52074, Aachen, Germany
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26
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Vantaux A, Samreth R, Piv E, Khim N, Kim S, Berne L, Chy S, Lek D, Siv S, Taylor WR, Ménard D. Contribution to Malaria Transmission of Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Parasite Carriers in Cambodia. J Infect Dis 2019; 217:1561-1568. [PMID: 29394367 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Eliminating falciparum malaria in Cambodia is a top priority, requiring the implementation of novel tools and strategies to interrupt its transmission. To date, few data are available regarding the contributions to malaria transmission of symptomatic and asymptomatic carriers. Methods Direct-membrane and skin feeding assays (DMFAs, SFAs) were performed, using Anopheles minimus and Anopheles dirus, to determine infectivity of symptomatic falciparum-infected patients and malaria asymptomatic carriers; a subset of the latter were followed up for 2 months to assess their transmission potential. Results By microscopy and real-time polymerase chain reaction, Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte prevalence rates were, respectively, 19.3% (n = 21/109) and 44% (n = 47/109) on day (D) 0 and 17.9% (n = 5/28) and 89.3% (n = 25/28) in recrudescent patients (Drec) (RT-PCR Drec vs D0 P = .002). Falciparum malaria patient infectivity was low on D0 (6.2%; n = 3/48) and in Drec (8.3%; n = 1/12). Direct-membrane feeding assays and SFAs gave similar results. None of the falciparum (n = 0/19) and 3 of 28 Plasmodium vivax asymptomatic carriers were infectious to mosquitoes, including those that were followed up for 2 months. Overall, P. falciparum gametocytemias were low except in a few symptomatic carriers. Conclusions Only symptomatic falciparum malaria patients were infectious to mosquito vectors at baseline and recrudescence, highlighting the need to detect promptly and treat effectively P. falciparum patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amélie Vantaux
- Malaria Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Institut Pasteur in Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Reingsey Samreth
- Malaria Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Institut Pasteur in Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Eakpor Piv
- Malaria Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Institut Pasteur in Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Nimol Khim
- Malaria Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Institut Pasteur in Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Saorin Kim
- Malaria Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Institut Pasteur in Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Laura Berne
- Malaria Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Institut Pasteur in Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.,Xeno Cell Innovations, Plzen, Czech Republic
| | - Sophy Chy
- Malaria Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Institut Pasteur in Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Dysoley Lek
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control Program, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.,School of Public Health, National Institute of Public Health, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Sovannaroth Siv
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology and Malaria Control Program, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Walter R Taylor
- Mahidol Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Didier Ménard
- Malaria Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Institut Pasteur in Cambodia, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.,Unité Biologie des Interactions Hôte-Parasite, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
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27
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Essangui E, Eboumbou Moukoko CE, Nguedia N, Tchokwansi M, Banlanjo U, Maloba F, Fogang B, Donkeu C, Biabi M, Cheteug G, Kemleu S, Elanga-Ndille E, Lehman L, Ayong L. Demographical, hematological and serological risk factors for Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte carriage in a high stable transmission zone in Cameroon. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0216133. [PMID: 31022294 PMCID: PMC6483257 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0216133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Presence of mature gametocyte forms of malaria parasites in peripheral blood is a key requirement for malaria transmission. Yet, studies conducted in most malaria transmission zones report the absence of gametocyte in the majority of patients. We therefore sought to determine the risk factors of both all-stage and mature gametocyte carriage in an area with high stable transmission of Plasmodium falciparum in Cameroon. Gametocyte positivity was determined using three complementary methods: thick blood smear microscopy, RT-PCR and RT-LAMP, whereas exposure to the infection was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Of 361 malaria endemic residents randomly included in the study (mean age: 28±23 years, age range: 2–100 years, male/female sex ratio: 1.1), 87.8% were diagnosed with P. falciparum infection, of whom 45.7% presented with fever (axillary body temperature ≥37.5°C). Mature gametocyte positivity was 1.9% by thick blood smear microscopy and 8.9% by RT-PCR targeting the mature gametocyte transcript, Pfs25. The gametocyte positivity rate was 24.1% and 36.3% by RT-PCR or RT-LAMP, respectively, when targeting the sexual stage marker, Pfs16. Multivariate analyses revealed anemia as a common independent risk factor for both mature and all-stage gametocyte carriage, whereas fever and low anti-gametocyte antibody levels were independently associated with all-stage gametocyte carriage only. Taken together, the data suggest important differences in risk factors of gametocyte carriage depending on stage analyzed, with anemia, fever and low antiplasmodial plasma antibody levels representing the major contributing risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estelle Essangui
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Carole Else Eboumbou Moukoko
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Niels Nguedia
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | | | - Umaru Banlanjo
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Franklin Maloba
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Balotin Fogang
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaounde, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Christiane Donkeu
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaounde, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Marie Biabi
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Glwadys Cheteug
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Sylvie Kemleu
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Emmanuel Elanga-Ndille
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Léopold Lehman
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Douala, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Lawrence Ayong
- Malaria Research Unit, Centre Pasteur Cameroon, Yaounde, Cameroon
- * E-mail:
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28
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Rajapandi T. Upregulation of gametocytogenesis in anti-malarial drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum. J Parasit Dis 2019; 43:458-463. [PMID: 31406411 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-019-01110-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The deadliest form of human malaria is primarily caused by the protozoan parasite Plasmodium falciparum. These parasites establish pathogenicity in the human host with a very low number of sexual forms or gametocytes, which are transmitted to the mosquitoes. Several studies have reported that exposing artemisinin-sensitive P. falciparum rings to a low concentration of dihydroartemisinin (DHA) results in dormancy, and the artemisinin-induced dormant (AID) forms are recovered into normal growth stages after 5-20 days. In this study, artemisinin-resistant P. falciparum parasites were tested for the development of AID forms and their recovery. Interestingly, it was found that exposure of an asynchronous culture of artemisinin-resistant P. falciparum IPC 5202 to DHA, a line carrying a mutation in the PfK13 gene that is linked to artemisinin resistance, also results in dormancy. Both the ring and some late stages of these AID forms recovered after 10-15 days. Furthermore, a high proportion of the recovered dormant forms developed into sexual forms or gametocytes after 3-4 weeks, which is almost a 7-8 times higher rate of conversion of asexual to sexual forms (gametocytes) or the malaria transmissible forms. In contrast, only early ring forms of artemisinin-sensitive parasites recovered slowly, and additional exposure of these parasites to artemisinin resulted in complete clearance within a week. This is in contrast to the resistant parasites exposed to a second dose of artemisinin, which resulted in a very high rate of dormancy and recovery into sexual forms or gametocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thavamani Rajapandi
- Department of Natural Sciences, Science and Technology Center, Coppin State University, Room # 204, 2500 West North Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21216-3698 USA
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29
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Ghanchi NK, Khan MH, Arain MA, Zubairi MBA, Raheem A, Khan MA, Beg MA. Hematological Profile and Gametocyte Carriage in Malaria Patients from Southern Pakistan. Cureus 2019; 11:e4256. [PMID: 31131179 PMCID: PMC6516616 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.4256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Malarial infection is a major cause of concern, both worldwide and in Pakistan. Gametocytes are the sexual forms of the parasite that are essential for transmission. They fuse inside the mosquito to develop sporozoites. Gametocytes of the plasmodium parasites, which cause the infection, differentiate into male and female gametocytes. These gametocytes constitute the sexual stage of the malaria parasite and are essential in transmission of the disease from human to vector Anopheles. Gametocytes are affected by factors such as host immunity, drug treatment, reticulocytemia, anemia, low levels of asexual parasitemia and stress to the parasite. The aim of this study was to observe the hematological parameters, age and gametocyte carriage in an area of seasonal malaria transmission. Methods The study was conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) Laboratory over the period of one year and 294 patients with uncomplicated malaria were recruited. Patients infected with Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) or Plasmodium vivax (P. vivax) malaria and no co-morbidities were included in the study. Results Gametocytemia was highest during the period of July to November, with P. vivax, 267 (90.8%), predominating compared to P. falciparum, 27 (9.2%). P. vivax gametocytes were observed from May to October and P. falciparum gametocytes were observed from July to December. Low hemoglobin in females and low platelet levels were observed. The mean platelet count was significantly lower in cases of P. vivax having gametocytes compared to P. falciparum with gametocytes. Higher parasitic index was associated with lower platelet count. The most significantly altered parameters were hemoglobin, hematocrit, white blood cell (WBC), and platelet count. Hemoglobin and platelets were significantly lower during the malaria season in study participants, both male and female. Conclusion In conclusion, infection with P. falciparum and P. vivax modulates significant changes in hematological parameters in populations living in malaria endemic regions. In the malaria season males were more frequently affected by malaria with thrombocytopenia. Gametocyte carriage remains unaffected by seasonal changes thus ensuring parasite transmission during the dry season.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Ahmed Raheem
- Pathology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, PAK
| | - Muhammad A Khan
- Community Health Sciences, Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, PAK
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30
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Tadesse FG, Meerstein-Kessel L, Gonçalves BP, Drakeley C, Ranford-Cartwright L, Bousema T. Gametocyte Sex Ratio: The Key to Understanding Plasmodium falciparum Transmission? Trends Parasitol 2018; 35:226-238. [PMID: 30594415 PMCID: PMC6396025 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2018.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A mosquito needs to ingest at least one male and one female gametocyte to become infected with malaria. The sex of Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes can be determined microscopically but recent transcriptomics studies paved the way for the development of molecular methods that allow sex-ratio assessments at much lower gametocyte densities. These sex-specific gametocyte diagnostics were recently used to examine gametocyte dynamics in controlled and natural infections as well as the impact of different antimalarial drugs. It is currently unclear to what extent sex-specific gametocyte diagnostics obviate the need for mosquito feeding assays to formally assess transmission potential. Here, we review recent and historic assessments of gametocyte sex ratio in relation to host and parasite characteristics, treatment, and transmission potential. Recent RNA sequencing studies have uncovered a number of P. falciparum gametocyte sex-specific targets and provided new insights in gametocyte biology. After decades when gametocyte sex-ratio research was restricted to nonhuman malarias or in vitro experiments, molecular tools for assessing gametocyte sex ratio are now increasingly available for use in natural P. falciparum infections. Evidence that gametocyte sex ratio is influenced by total gametocyte density and antimalarial treatment, and improves predictions of transmission potential, highlight the relevance of understanding the gametocyte sex ratio during natural infections. The finding that the most widely used P. falciparum gametocyte marker Pfs25 is expressed predominantly by female gametocytes and has non-negligible levels of background expression in asexual parasites necessitates a re-evaluation of existing gametocyte data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fitsum G Tadesse
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Institute of Biotechnology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; These authors contributed equally
| | - Lisette Meerstein-Kessel
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; These authors contributed equally
| | - Bronner P Gonçalves
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Chris Drakeley
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Lisa Ranford-Cartwright
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Teun Bousema
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
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31
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Shivapurkar R, Hingamire T, Kulkarni AS, Rajamohanan PR, Reddy DS, Shanmugam D. Evaluating antimalarial efficacy by tracking glycolysis in Plasmodium falciparum using NMR spectroscopy. Sci Rep 2018; 8:18076. [PMID: 30584241 PMCID: PMC6305384 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-36197-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucose is an essential nutrient for Plasmodium falciparum and robust glycolytic activity is indicative of viable parasites. Using NMR spectroscopy, we show that P. falciparum infected erythrocytes consume ~20 times more glucose, and trophozoites metabolize ~6 times more glucose than ring stage parasites. The glycolytic activity, and hence parasite viability, can be measured within a period of 2 h to 5 h, using this method. This facilitates antimalarial bioactivity screening on ring and trophozoite stage parasites, exclusively. We demonstrate this using potent and mechanistically distinct antimalarial compounds such as chloroquine, atovaquone, cladosporin, DDD107498 and artemisinin. Our findings indicate that ring stage parasites are inherently more tolerant to antimalarial inhibitors, a feature which may facilitate emergence of drug resistance. Thus, there is a need to discover novel antimalarial compounds, which are potent and fast acting against ring stage parasites. The NMR method reported here can facilitate the identification of such molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rupali Shivapurkar
- Biochemical Sciences Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, India
| | - Tejashri Hingamire
- Biochemical Sciences Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, India.,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), New Delhi, India
| | - Akshay S Kulkarni
- Organic Chemistry Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, India
| | - P R Rajamohanan
- Central NMR facility, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, India
| | - D Srinivasa Reddy
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), New Delhi, India.,Organic Chemistry Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, India
| | - Dhanasekaran Shanmugam
- Biochemical Sciences Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune, India. .,Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), New Delhi, India.
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Ouologuem DT, Kone CO, Fofana B, Sidibe B, Togo AH, Dembele D, Toure S, Koumare S, Toure O, Sagara I, Toure A, Dao A, Doumbo OK, Djimde AA. Differential infectivity of gametocytes after artemisinin-based combination therapy of uncomplicated falciparum malaria. Afr J Lab Med 2018; 7:784. [PMID: 30568901 PMCID: PMC6295776 DOI: 10.4102/ajlm.v7i2.784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Most malaria-endemic countries use artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) as their first-line treatment. ACTs are known to be highly effective on asexual stages of the malaria parasite. Malaria transmission and the spread of resistant parasites depend on the infectivity of gametocytes. The effect of the current ACT regimens on gametocyte infectivity is unclear. Objectives This study aimed to determine the infectivity of gametocytes to Anopheles gambiae following ACT treatment in the field. Methods During a randomised controlled trial in Bougoula-Hameau, Mali, conducted from July 2005 to July 2007, volunteers with uncomplicated malaria were randomised to receive artemether-lumefantrine, artesunate-amodiaquine, or artesunate-sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine. Volunteers were followed for 28 days, and gametocyte carriage was assessed. Direct skin feeding assays were performed on gametocyte carriers before and after ACT administration. Results Following artemether-lumefantrine treatment, gametocyte carriage decreased steadily from Day 0 to Day 21 post-treatment initiation. In contrast, for the artesunate-amodiaquine and artesunate-sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine arms, gametocyte carriage increased on Day 3 and remained constant until Day 7 before decreasing afterward. Mosquito feeding assays showed that artemether-lumefantrine and artesunate-amodiaquine significantly increased gametocyte infectivity to Anopheles gambiae sensu lato (s.l.) (p < 10-4), whereas artesunate-sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine decreased gametocyte infectivity in this setting (p = 0.03). Conclusion Different ACT regimens could lead to gametocyte populations with different capacity to infect the Anopheles vector. Frequent assessment of the effect of antimalarials on gametocytogenesis and gametocyte infectivity may be required for the full assessment of treatment efficacy, the potential for spread of drug resistance and malaria transmission in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinkorma T Ouologuem
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Cheick O Kone
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Bakary Fofana
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Bakary Sidibe
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Amadou H Togo
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Demba Dembele
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Sekou Toure
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Sekou Koumare
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Ousmane Toure
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Issaka Sagara
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Abdoulaye Toure
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Adama Dao
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Ogobara K Doumbo
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Abdoulaye A Djimde
- Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
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Meerstein-Kessel L, Andolina C, Carrio E, Mahamar A, Sawa P, Diawara H, van de Vegte-Bolmer M, Stone W, Collins KA, Schneider P, Dicko A, Drakeley C, Felger I, Voss T, Lanke K, Bousema T. A multiplex assay for the sensitive detection and quantification of male and female Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes. Malar J 2018; 17:441. [PMID: 30497508 PMCID: PMC6267050 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-018-2584-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The transmission of malaria to mosquitoes depends on the presence of gametocytes that circulate in the peripheral blood of infected human hosts. Sensitive estimates of the densities of female gametocytes (FG) and male gametocytes (MG) may allow the prediction of infectivity to mosquitoes and thus a molecular estimate of the human infectious reservoir for transmission. Methods A novel multiplex qRT-PCR assay with intron-spanning primers was developed for the parallel quantification of FG and MG. CCp4 (PF3D7_0903800) transcripts specific for FG and PfMGET (PF3D7_1469900) transcripts specific for MG were quantified in total nucleic acids. The assay was validated on sex-sorted gametocytes from culture material and on samples from clinical trials with gametocytocidal drugs. Synthetic RNA standards were generated for the two targets genes and calibrated against known gametocyte quantities. Results The limit of detection was determined at 0.1 male and 0.1 female gametocyte/µL, which was equal to the limit of quantification (LOQ) for MG, while the LOQ for FG was 1 FG/µL. Results from previously reported clinical trials that used separate gametocyte qRT-PCR assays for FG (targeting Pfs25) and MG (targeting PfMGET) were reproduced with the multiplex assay. High levels of agreement between separate assays and the multiplex approach were observed (R2 = 0.9473, 95% CI 0.9314–0.9632, for FG measured by transcript levels of Pfs25 in qRT-PCR or CCp4 in multiplex; R2 = 0.8869, 95% CI 0.8541–0.9197, for MG measured by PfMGET in either single or multiplex qRT-PCR). FG and MG transcripts were detected in pure ring stage parasites at 10,000- and 100,000-fold reduced frequency for CCp4 and PfMGET, respectively. The CCp4 and PfMGET transcripts were equally stable under suboptimal storage conditions. Conclusions Gametocyte densities and their sex ratios can be determined in the presented one-step multiplex assay with higher throughput than single assays. The interpretation of low gametocyte densities at asexual parasite densities above 1000 parasites/µL requires caution to avoid false positive gametocyte signals from spurious transcript levels in ring stage parasites. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12936-018-2584-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisette Meerstein-Kessel
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.,Centre for Molecular and Biomolecular Informatics, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Chiara Andolina
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Elvira Carrio
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Almahamoudou Mahamar
- Malaria Research and Training Centre, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Patrick Sawa
- Human Health Division, International Centre for Insect Physiology and Ecology, Mbita Point, Kenya
| | - Halimatou Diawara
- Malaria Research and Training Centre, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | | | - Will Stone
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Katharine A Collins
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Petra Schneider
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology and Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Alassane Dicko
- Malaria Research and Training Centre, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Chris Drakeley
- Department of Immunology and Infection, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ingrid Felger
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Till Voss
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kjerstin Lanke
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Teun Bousema
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
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Lamptey H, Ofori MF, Kusi KA, Adu B, Owusu-Yeboa E, Kyei-Baafour E, Arku AT, Bosomprah S, Alifrangis M, Quakyi IA. The prevalence of submicroscopic Plasmodium falciparum gametocyte carriage and multiplicity of infection in children, pregnant women and adults in a low malaria transmission area in Southern Ghana. Malar J 2018; 17:331. [PMID: 30223841 PMCID: PMC6142636 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-018-2479-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The gametocyte stage of Plasmodium falciparum is considered an important target for disrupting malaria transmission. Indications are that various demographic groups, such as children and pregnant women may differ in risk of harbouring gametocytes, which may be crucial for targeted control. In this study, the relationship between the prevalence and multiplicity of P. falciparum, asexual parasite infections and gametocytaemia was assessed in three different demographic groups in an area of southern Ghana with low malaria endemicity. Levels of antibody responses to Pfs230 were also assessed as a proxy for the presence of gametocytes. METHODS The study involved multiple cross-sectional sampling of children (N = 184, aged 2-15 years), male and non-pregnant female adults (N = 154, aged 16-65 years) and pregnant women (N = 125, aged 18-45 years) from Asutsuare in the Shai Osudoku District of Greater Accra Region in Ghana. Asexual parasitaemia was detected by microscopy and PCR, and gametocytaemia was assessed by Pfs25-real time PCR. Multiclonal P. falciparum infections were estimated by msp2 genotyping and an indirect ELISA was used to measure plasma IgG antibodies to Pfs230 antigen. RESULTS Overall, children and pregnant women had higher prevalence of submicroscopic gametocytes (39.5% and 29.7%, respectively) compared to adults (17.4%). Multiplicity of infection observed amongst children (3.1) and pregnant women (3.9) were found to be significantly higher (P = 0.006) compared with adults (2.7). Risk of gametocyte carriage was higher in individuals infected with P. falciparum having both Pfmsp2 3D7 and FC27 parasite types (OR = 5.92, 95% CI 1.56-22.54, P = 0.009) compared with those infected with only 3D7 or FC27 parasite types. In agreement with the parasite prevalence data, anti-Pfs230 antibody levels were lower in gametocyte positive adults (β = - 0.57, 95% CI - 0.81, - 0.34, P < 0.001) compared to children. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that children and pregnant women are particularly important as P. falciparum submicroscopic gametocyte reservoirs and represent important focus groups for control interventions. The number of clones increased in individuals carrying gametocytes compared to those who did not carry gametocytes. The higher anti-gametocyte antibody levels in children suggests recent exposure and may be a marker of gametocyte carriage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Lamptey
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.
| | - Michael Fokuo Ofori
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Kwadwo Asamoah Kusi
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Bright Adu
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Eunice Owusu-Yeboa
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Eric Kyei-Baafour
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Andrea Twumwaa Arku
- Immunology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Samuel Bosomprah
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Michael Alifrangis
- Centre for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Disease, National University Hospital (Rigshospitalet), Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Isabella A Quakyi
- Department of Biological, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
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35
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Josling GA, Williamson KC, Llinás M. Regulation of Sexual Commitment and Gametocytogenesis in Malaria Parasites. Annu Rev Microbiol 2018; 72:501-519. [PMID: 29975590 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-micro-090817-062712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Sexual differentiation of malaria parasites from the asexual blood stage into gametocytes is an essential part of the life cycle, as gametocytes are the form that is taken up by the mosquito host. Because of the essentiality of this process for transmission to the mosquito, gametocytogenesis is an extremely attractive target for therapeutic interventions. The subject of this review is the considerable progress that has been made in recent years in elucidating the molecular mechanisms governing this important differentiation process. In particular, a number of critical transcription factors and epigenetic regulators have emerged as crucial elements in the regulation of commitment. The identification of these factors has allowed us to understand better than ever before the events occurring prior to and during commitment to sexual development and offers potential for new therapeutic interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle A Josling
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA; .,Huck Center for Malaria Research, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Kim C Williamson
- Microbiology and Immunology Department, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, USA
| | - Manuel Llinás
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA; .,Huck Center for Malaria Research, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA.,Department of Chemistry, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
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36
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Nair DN, Prasad R, Singhal N, Bhattacharjee M, Sudhakar R, Singh P, Thanumalayan S, Kiran U, Sharma Y, Sijwali PS. A conserved human DJ1-subfamily motif (DJSM) is critical for anti-oxidative and deglycase activities of Plasmodium falciparum DJ1. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2018; 222:70-80. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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The Impact of Recruitment on the Dynamics of an Immune-Suppressed Within-Human–Host Model of the Plasmodium falciparum Parasite. Bull Math Biol 2018; 81:4564-4619. [DOI: 10.1007/s11538-018-0436-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
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38
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Jaffe K. Synergy from reproductive division of labor and genetic complexity drive the evolution of sex. J Biol Phys 2018; 44:317-329. [PMID: 29663185 DOI: 10.1007/s10867-018-9485-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Computer experiments that mirror the evolutionary dynamics of sexual and asexual organisms as they occur in nature were used to test features proposed to explain the evolution of sexual recombination. Results show that this evolution is better described as a network of interactions between possible sexual forms, including diploidy, thelytoky, facultative sex, assortation, bisexuality, and division of labor between the sexes, rather than a simple transition from parthenogenesis to sexual recombination. Diploidy was shown to be fundamental for the evolution of sex; bisexual reproduction emerged only among anisogamic diploids with a synergistic division of reproductive labor; and facultative sex was more likely to evolve among haploids practicing assortative mating. Looking at the evolution of sex as a complex system through individual-based simulations explains better the diversity of sexual strategies known to exist in nature, compared to classical analytical models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Jaffe
- Universidad Simón Bolivar, Caracas, Venezuela.
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39
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Modulation of transmission success of Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes (sexual stages) in various species of Anopheles by erythrocytic asexual stage parasites. Acta Trop 2017; 176:263-269. [PMID: 28859956 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
During malaria infection, a small proportion of erythrocytic asexual stages undergo sexual differentiation. Male and female gametocytes ingested in the blood meal initiate the sexual development of malaria parasites in the mosquito midgut. During blood feeding on a host, a mosquito ingests, in addition to mature gametocytes, host immune factors present in the blood, as well as large excess of erythrocytic asexual stages. In the current study we addressed the impact of the presence of large excess of asexual stages, hitherto not known or even suspected to influence, on the infectivity of gametocytes in the mosquito. Asexual stages resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of infectiousness of gametocytes, and some of this could be explained by the presumed effect of hemozoin and other unknown asexual-stage components on the mosquito immune system, affecting survival and maturation of parasites in the mosquito midgut. Interactions between asexual and sexual stages, maturity and ratio of male and female gametocytes, host immune factors and mosquito innate immune factors are some of the variables that determine the infectiousness of gametocytes in the mosquitoes and ultimately malaria transmission success. Understanding of determinants affecting malaria transmission will be critical to approaches directly targeting the transmission process for malaria elimination.
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40
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Abstract
In the last 2 decades, renewed attention to neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) has spurred the development of antiparasitic agents, especially in light of emerging drug resistance. The need for new drugs has required in vitro screening methods using parasite culture. Furthermore, clinical laboratories sought to correlate in vitro susceptibility methods with treatment outcomes, most notably with malaria. Parasites with their various life cycles present greater complexity than bacteria, for which standardized susceptibility methods exist. This review catalogs the state-of-the-art methodologies used to evaluate the effects of drugs on key human parasites from the point of view of drug discovery as well as the need for laboratory methods that correlate with clinical outcomes.
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41
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Okumu MO, Ochola FO, Mbaria JM, Kanja LW, Gakuya DW, Kinyua AW, Okumu PO, Kiama SG. Mitigative effects of Moringa oleifera against liver injury induced by artesunate-amodiaquine antimalarial combination in wistar rats. CLINICAL PHYTOSCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1186/s40816-017-0052-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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42
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Laporta GZ. Spotlight on Plasmodium falciparum evolutionary system in the southeastern Atlantic forest. BIOTA NEOTROPICA 2017. [DOI: 10.1590/1676-0611-bn-2016-0314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Malaria elimination is now set to occur in Brazil until 2030. While this achievement is feasible, as it is for other endemic regions worldwide, it is important to recognize resistance of parasites and vectors against anti-malarial interventions. Resistance against drugs and insecticides can lead to discontinuities of malaria transmission, known as residual malaria transmission. Herein, we described a novel phenomenon that is occurring in a residual malaria transmission scenario in the southeastern Atlantic forest. This novel phenomenon does not belong to what is known and therefore we decided to explain it based on an evolutionary perspective. Although it shall not be viewed as a threat to public health, the phenomenon has important aspects that should be highlighted. Specifically, it represents an adaptation of P. falciparum among vectors and hosts in the southeastern Atlantic forest. Knowledge about this phenomenon could be of importance, including to the on-going malaria elimination programs.
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Singh V, Kumar A, Gupta P. In vitro sensitivity to antimalarial drugs and polymorphisms in Pfg377 gene in Plasmodium falciparum field isolates from Mewat, India. Pathog Glob Health 2017; 111:225-233. [PMID: 28605993 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2017.1337300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The malaria infection is the interplay of several complex factors, among which drug resistance and gametocyte biology are the crucial ones. Measurements of the drug sensitivity assays and prevalence of gametocyte genes play a major role in malaria eradication programmes. The purpose of this study was to assess the current drug sensitivity profile in the field isolates and type the Pfg377 gene. In vitro drug sensitivity assay was used to assess the susceptibility of Plasmodium falciparum field isolates collected from Mewat (Haryana), located in Northern region of India to four anti-malarial drugs. The inhibitory concentrations (IC50) for the four drugs viz Chloroquine (CQ), Artesunate (AS), Sulphadoxine (SD) and Pyrimethamine (PYR) were in the range of 10.11-113.2, 2.26-4.08, 13.31-43.91 and 0.76-4.91 nM respectively in the evaluated 25 field isolates. The Pfg377 allele typing in the 26 field isolates revealed different types of haplotypes (A, B, C and D) varying by the size and number of repeats and deletions. The Pfg377 allelic types in the cryopreserved and adapted isolates of P. falciparum were compared to determine the parasite lines in them. The allele types or presence of different clones in the same sample could not be correlated significantly with resistance to any of the four drugs tested in the study. Our study revealed different drug sensitivity profiles of field isolates from Mewat region and allele typing of Pfg377 gene revealed different haplotypes of field isolates were circulating in parasite population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vineeta Singh
- a National Institute of Malaria Research [ICMR] , New Delhi , India
| | - Amit Kumar
- a National Institute of Malaria Research [ICMR] , New Delhi , India
| | - Purva Gupta
- a National Institute of Malaria Research [ICMR] , New Delhi , India
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Evolutionary implications for the determination of gametocyte sex ratios under fecundity variation for the malaria parasite. J Theor Biol 2016; 408:260-273. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2016.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2016] [Revised: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Jalovecka M, Bonsergent C, Hajdusek O, Kopacek P, Malandrin L. Stimulation and quantification of Babesia divergens gametocytogenesis. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:439. [PMID: 27502772 PMCID: PMC4977898 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1731-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesia divergens is the most common blood parasite in Europe causing babesiosis, a tick-borne malaria-like disease. Despite an increasing focus on B. divergens, especially regarding veterinary and human medicine, the sexual development of Babesia is poorly understood. Development of Babesia sexual stages in the host blood (gametocytes) plays a decisive role in parasite acquisition by the tick vector. However, the exact mechanism of gametocytogenesis is still unexplained. METHODS Babesia divergens gametocytes are characterized by expression of bdccp1, bdccp2 and bdccp3 genes. Using previously described sequences of bdccp1, bdccp2 and bdccp3, we have established a quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) assay for detection and assessment of the efficiency of B. divergens gametocytes production in bovine blood. We analysed fluctuations in expression of bdccp genes during cultivation in vitro, as well as in cultures treated with different drugs and stimuli. RESULTS We demonstrated that all B. divergens clonal lines tested, originally derived from naturally infected cows, exhibited sexual stages. Furthermore, sexual commitment was stimulated during continuous growth of the cultures, by addition of specific stress-inducing drugs or by alternating cultivation conditions. Expression of bdccp genes was greatly reduced or even lost after long-term cultivation, suggesting possible problems in the artificial infections of ticks in feeding assays in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Our research provides insight into sexual development of B. divergens and may facilitate the development of transmission models in vitro, enabling a more detailed understanding of Babesia-tick interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Jalovecka
- INRA, UMR1300 Biology, Epidemiology and Risk Analysis in Animal Health, CS 40706, F-44307, Nantes, France. .,LUNAM University, Nantes-Atlantic College of Veterinary Medicine and Food Sciences and Engineering, UMR BioEpAR, F-44307, Nantes, France. .,Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, CZ-370 05, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic. .,Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia, CZ-370 05, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic.
| | - Claire Bonsergent
- INRA, UMR1300 Biology, Epidemiology and Risk Analysis in Animal Health, CS 40706, F-44307, Nantes, France.,LUNAM University, Nantes-Atlantic College of Veterinary Medicine and Food Sciences and Engineering, UMR BioEpAR, F-44307, Nantes, France
| | - Ondrej Hajdusek
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, CZ-370 05, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Kopacek
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, CZ-370 05, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Laurence Malandrin
- INRA, UMR1300 Biology, Epidemiology and Risk Analysis in Animal Health, CS 40706, F-44307, Nantes, France.,LUNAM University, Nantes-Atlantic College of Veterinary Medicine and Food Sciences and Engineering, UMR BioEpAR, F-44307, Nantes, France
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A Novel Xenomonitoring Technique Using Mosquito Excreta/Feces for the Detection of Filarial Parasites and Malaria. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004641. [PMID: 27096156 PMCID: PMC4838226 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Given the continued successes of the world’s lymphatic filariasis (LF) elimination programs and the growing successes of many malaria elimination efforts, the necessity of low cost tools and methodologies applicable to long-term disease surveillance is greater than ever before. As many countries reach the end of their LF mass drug administration programs and a growing number of countries realize unprecedented successes in their malaria intervention efforts, the need for practical molecular xenomonitoring (MX), capable of providing surveillance for disease recrudescence in settings of decreased parasite prevalence is increasingly clear. Current protocols, however, require testing of mosquitoes in pools of 25 or fewer, making high-throughput examination a challenge. The new method we present here screens the excreta/feces from hundreds of mosquitoes per pool and provides proof-of-concept for a practical alternative to traditional methodologies resulting in significant cost and labor savings. Methodology/Principal Findings Excreta/feces of laboratory reared Aedes aegypti or Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes provided with a Brugia malayi microfilaria-positive or Plasmodium vivax-positive blood meal respectively were tested for the presence of parasite DNA using real-time PCR. A titration of samples containing various volumes of B. malayi-negative mosquito feces mixed with positive excreta/feces was also tested to determine sensitivity of detection. Real-time PCR amplification of B. malayi and P. vivax DNA from the excreta/feces of infected mosquitoes was demonstrated, and B. malayi DNA in excreta/feces from one to two mf-positive blood meal-receiving mosquitoes was detected when pooled with volumes of feces from as many as 500 uninfected mosquitoes. Conclusions/Significance While the operationalizing of excreta/feces testing may require the development of new strategies for sample collection, the high-throughput nature of this new methodology has the potential to greatly reduce MX costs. This will prove particularly useful in post-transmission-interruption settings, where this inexpensive approach to long-term surveillance will help to stretch the budgets of LF and malaria elimination programs. Furthermore, as this methodology is adaptable to the detection of both single celled (P. vivax) and multicellular eukaryotic pathogens (B. malayi), exploration of its use for the detection of various other mosquito-borne diseases including viruses should be considered. Additionally, integration strategies utilizing excreta/feces testing for the simultaneous surveillance of multiple diseases should be explored. As a non-invasive method of indirectly monitoring insect-borne disease, molecular xenomonitoring (MX), the molecular testing of insects for the presence of a pathogen, can provide important information about disease prevalence without the need for human sampling. However, given the successes of tropical disease elimination programs, including many lymphatic filariasis and malaria elimination efforts, parasite levels in many locations are declining. This decrease in prevalence requires the sampling of increased numbers of vectors for disease surveillance and recrudescence monitoring. Such increased sampling poses a challenge since it results in additional costs and labor. In light of these difficulties, high-throughput methodologies for MX are necessary to provide elimination programs with cost-reducing alternatives to long-term disease surveillance. Here we demonstrate proof-of-concept for a new method that samples large numbers of mosquitoes using PCR to screen excreta/feces for filarial or malarial parasites. If operationalized, this approach to MX will provide a practical “first-alert” system that will enable cost-minimizing surveillance in post-transmission-interruption settings. Given this potential, the applicability of this approach to the monitoring of various mosquito-borne diseases should be explored further, as this platform will prove useful for surveillance efforts for a wide variety of pathogens.
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Djimde AA, Maiga AW, Ouologuem D, Fofana B, Sagara I, Dembele D, Toure S, Sanogo K, Dama S, Sidibe B, Doumbo OK. Gametocyte clearance dynamics following oral artesunate treatment of uncomplicated falciparum malaria in Malian children. Parasite 2016; 23:3. [PMID: 26839003 PMCID: PMC4738184 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2016003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2015] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Artemisinin-based combination therapies decrease Plasmodium gametocyte carriage. However, the role of artesunate in monotherapy in vivo, the mechanisms involved, and the utility of gametocyte carriage as a potential tool for the surveillance of antimalarial resistance are poorly understood. In 2010-2011, we conducted an open-label, prospective efficacy study of artesunate as monotherapy in children 1-10 years of age with uncomplicated falciparum malaria in Bougoula-Hameau, Mali. Standard oral doses of artesunate were administered for 7 days and patients were followed up for 28 days. The data were compared to a similar study conducted in 2002-2004. Of 100 children enrolled in the 2010-2011 study, 92 were analyzed and compared to 217 children enrolled in the 2002-2004 study. The proportion of gametocyte carriers was unchanged at the end of treatment (23% at baseline vs. 24% on day 7, p = 1.0) and did not significantly decline until day 21 of follow-up (23% vs. 6%, p = 0.003). The mean gametocyte density at inclusion remained unchanged at the end of treatment (12 gametocytes/μL vs. 16 gametocytes/μL, p = 0.6). Overall, 46% of the 71 initial non-carriers had gametocytes detected by day 7. Similar results were found in the 2002-2004 study. In both studies, although gametocyte carriage significantly decreased by the end of the 28-day follow-up, artesunate did not clear mature gametocytes during treatment and did not prevent the appearance of new stage V gametocytes as assessed by light microscopy. Baseline gametocyte carriage was significantly higher 6 years after the deployment of artemisinin-based combination therapies in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdoulaye A. Djimde
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Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako P.O. Box 1805 Mali
| | - Amelia W. Maiga
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Vanderbilt University Medical Center Nashville TN
37232 USA
| | - Dinkorma Ouologuem
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Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako P.O. Box 1805 Mali
| | - Bakary Fofana
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Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako P.O. Box 1805 Mali
| | - Issaka Sagara
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Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako P.O. Box 1805 Mali
| | - Demba Dembele
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Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako P.O. Box 1805 Mali
| | - Sekou Toure
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Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako P.O. Box 1805 Mali
| | - Kassim Sanogo
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Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako P.O. Box 1805 Mali
| | - Souleymane Dama
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Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako P.O. Box 1805 Mali
| | - Bakary Sidibe
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Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako P.O. Box 1805 Mali
| | - Ogobara K. Doumbo
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Malaria Research and Training Center, Department of Epidemiology of Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako P.O. Box 1805 Mali
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Gonçalves BP, Gupta S, Penman BS. Sickle haemoglobin, haemoglobin C and malaria mortality feedbacks. Malar J 2016; 15:26. [PMID: 26753833 PMCID: PMC4709991 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-015-1077-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sickle haemoglobin (HbS) and haemoglobin C (HbC) are both caused by point mutations in the beta globin gene, and both offer substantial malaria protection. Despite the fact that the blood disorder caused by homozygosity for HbC is much less severe than that caused by homozygosity for HbS (sickle cell anaemia), it is the sickle mutation which has come to dominate many old-world malarious regions, whilst HbC is highly restricted in its geographical distribution. It has been suggested that this discrepancy may be due to sickle cell heterozygotes enjoying a higher level of malaria protection than heterozygotes for HbC. A higher fitness of sickle cell heterozygotes relative to HbC heterozygotes could certainly have allowed the sickle cell allele to spread more rapidly. However, observations that carrying either HbC or HbS enhances an individual's capacity to transmit malaria parasites to mosquitoes could also shed light on this conundrum. METHODS A population genetic model was used to investigate the evolutionary consequences of the strength of malaria selection being correlated with either HbS frequency or HbC frequency. RESULTS If the selection pressure from malaria is positively correlated with the frequency of either HbS or HbC, it is easier for HbS to succeed in the competitive interaction between the two alleles. CONCLUSIONS A feedback process whereby the presence of variant haemoglobins increases the level of malaria selection in a population could have contributed to the global success of HbS relative to HbC, despite the former's higher blood disorder cost.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bronner P Gonçalves
- Department of Immunology and Infection, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, W1CE 7HT, UK.
| | - Sunetra Gupta
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK.
| | - Bridget S Penman
- Department of Zoology, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3PS, UK.
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Abdul-Ghani R, Basco LK, Beier JC, Mahdy MAK. Inclusion of gametocyte parameters in anti-malarial drug efficacy studies: filling a neglected gap needed for malaria elimination. Malar J 2015; 14:413. [PMID: 26481312 PMCID: PMC4617745 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-015-0936-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Accepted: 10/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Standard anti-malarial drug efficacy and drug resistance assessments neglect the gametocyte parameters in their protocols. With the spread of drug resistance and the absence of clinically proven vaccines, the use of gametocytocidal drugs or drug combinations with transmission-blocking activity is a high priority for malaria control and elimination. However, the limited repertoire of gametocytocidal drugs and induction of gametocytogenesis after treatment with certain anti-malarial drugs necessitate both regular monitoring
of gametocytocidal activities of anti-malarial drugs in clinical use and the effectiveness of candidate gametocytocidal agents. Therefore, updating current protocols of anti-malarial drug efficacy is needed to reflect the effects of anti-malarial drugs or drug combinations on gametocyte carriage and gametocyte density along with asexual parasite density. Developing protocols of anti-malarial drug efficacy that include gametocyte parameters related to both microscopic and submicroscopic gametocytaemias is important if drugs or drug combinations are to be strategically used in transmission-blocking interventions in the context of malaria elimination. The present piece of opinion highlights the challenges in gametocyte detection and follow-up and discuss the need for including the gametocyte parameter in anti-malarial efficacy studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashad Abdul-Ghani
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen. .,Tropical Disease Research Center, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen.
| | - Leonardo K Basco
- Unité de Recherche 198, Unité de Recherche sur les Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales Emergentes, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, Faculté de Médecine La Timone, Aix-Marseille Université, Marseille, France.
| | - John C Beier
- Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| | - Mohammed A K Mahdy
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Sana'a University, Sana'a, Yemen. .,Tropical Disease Research Center, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen.
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50
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Jacot D, Waller RF, Soldati-Favre D, MacPherson DA, MacRae JI. Apicomplexan Energy Metabolism: Carbon Source Promiscuity and the Quiescence Hyperbole. Trends Parasitol 2015; 32:56-70. [PMID: 26472327 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2015.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Revised: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The nature of energy metabolism in apicomplexan parasites has been closely investigated in the recent years. Studies in Plasmodium spp. and Toxoplasma gondii in particular have revealed that these parasites are able to employ enzymes in non-traditional ways, while utilizing multiple anaplerotic routes into a canonical tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle to satisfy their energy requirements. Importantly, some life stages of these parasites previously considered to be metabolically quiescent are, in fact, active and able to adapt their carbon source utilization to survive. We compare energy metabolism across the life cycle of malaria parasites and consider how this varies in other apicomplexans and related organisms, while discussing how this can be exploited for therapeutic intervention in these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Jacot
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ross F Waller
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1QW, UK
| | - Dominique Soldati-Favre
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - James I MacRae
- The Francis Crick Institute, The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London NW7 1AA, UK.
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