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Córdoba-Lanús E, Reyes-Batlle M, Domínguez-de-Barros A, Pérez-Pérez P, Rodríguez-Expósito RL, García-Ramos A, Sifaoui I, García-Pérez O, Aneiros-Giraldez G, Piñero JE, Lorenzo-Morales J. Multiplex Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction Assay To Detect Acanthamoeba spp., Vermamoeba vermiformis, Naegleria fowleri, and Balamuthia mandrillaris in Different Water Sources. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2024; 111:785-790. [PMID: 39106847 PMCID: PMC11448538 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.24-0028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Free-living amoebae (FLA) are widely distributed in the environment. Among these, Acanthamoeba spp., Naegleria fowleri, Balamuthia mandrillaris, and Vermamoeba vermiformis have been reported as human pathogens with health effects ranging from lethal encephalitis to different epithelial disorders. Despite this, FLA still present many diagnostic challenges. The aim of this study was to develop a rapid and efficient multiplex real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to simultaneously detect Acanthamoeba spp., N. fowleri, B. mandrillaris, and V. vermiformis in different water sources. For the validation of the qPCR assay, 38 samples (19 tap water and 19 stagnant water sources) were analyzed. The qPCR assay accurately identified the four types of FLA with no cross-reactivity. Considering water samples with results subsequently confirmed by conventional PCR, the multiplex qPCR assay detected 18/38 (47.4%) positive samples (Acanthamoeba spp. in 44.7% and V. vermiformis in 31.6%) and growth in nonnutritive agar (NNA) cultures identified 7/38 (18.4%) positive samples. Of the tap water samples analyzed, 26.3% of samples positive for FLA were detected by growth in NNA culture whereas 31.6% were identified by qPCR. In addition, FLA were detected in 2/19 stagnant water samples (10.5%) by growth in NNA culture and in 12/19 stagnant water samples (63.2%) by qPCR. Neither N. fowleri nor B. mandrillaris was detected in the water samples analyzed. In conclusion, the qPCR developed showed its potential as a rapid tool for detection of Acanthamoeba spp., N. fowleri, B. mandrillaris, and V. vermiformis. Moreover, FLA species were detected in half of the water sources evaluated, suggesting the importance of the surveillance of these potential infectious agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Córdoba-Lanús
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Islas Canarias, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Reyes-Batlle
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Islas Canarias, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Angélica Domínguez-de-Barros
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Islas Canarias, Spain
| | - Patricia Pérez-Pérez
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Rubén L Rodríguez-Expósito
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Alma García-Ramos
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Islas Canarias, Spain
| | - Inés Sifaoui
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Omar García-Pérez
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Germán Aneiros-Giraldez
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Islas Canarias, Spain
| | - José E Piñero
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Islas Canarias, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Jacob Lorenzo-Morales
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias, Universidad de La Laguna, La Laguna, Tenerife, Islas Canarias, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, Tenerife, Spain
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Ling X, Gu X, Shen Y, Fu C, Zhou Y, Yin Y, Gao Y, Zhu Y, Lou Y, Zheng M. Comparative genomic analysis of Acanthamoeba from different sources and horizontal transfer events of antimicrobial resistance genes. mSphere 2024:e0054824. [PMID: 39352766 DOI: 10.1128/msphere.00548-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 10/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba species are among the most common free-living amoeba and ubiquitous protozoa, mainly distributed in water and soil, and cause Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) and severe visual impairment in patients. Although several studies have reported genomic characteristics of Acanthamoeba, limited sample sizes and sources have resulted in an incomplete understanding of the genetic diversity of Acanthamoeba from different sources. While endosymbionts exert a significant influence on the phenotypes of Acanthamoeba, including pathogenicity, virulence, and drug resistance, the species diversity and functional characterization remain largely unexplored. Herein, our study sequenced and analyzed the whole genomes of 19 Acanthamoeba pathogenic strains that cause AK, and by integrating publicly available genomes, we sampled 29 Acanthamoeba strains from ocular, environmental, and other sources. Combined pan-genomic and comparative functional analyses revealed genetic differences and evolutionary relationships among the different sources of Acanthamoeba, as well as classification into multiple functional groups, with ocular isolates in particular showing significant differences that may account for differences in pathogenicity. Phylogenetic and rhizome gene mosaic analyses of ocular Acanthamoeba strains suggested that genomic exchanges between Acanthamoeba and endosymbionts, particularly potential antimicrobial resistance genes trafficking including the adeF, amrA, and amrB genes exchange events, potentially contribute to Acanthamoeba drug resistance. In conclusion, this study elucidated the adaptation of Acanthamoeba to different ecological niches and the influence of gene exchange on the evolution of ocular Acanthamoeba genome, guiding the clinical diagnosis and treatment of AK and laying a theoretical groundwork for developing novel therapeutic approaches. IMPORTANCE Acanthamoeba causes a serious blinding keratopathy, Acanthamoeba keratitis, which is currently under-recognized by clinicians. In this study, we analyzed 48 strains of Acanthamoeba using a whole-genome approach, revealing differences in pathogenicity and function between strains of different origins. Horizontal transfer events of antimicrobial resistance genes can help provide guidance as potential biomarkers for the treatment of specific Acanthamoeba keratitis cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Ling
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Sanitary Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xiaobin Gu
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Sanitary Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yue Shen
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Chunyan Fu
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yumei Zhou
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiling Yin
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yanqiu Gao
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Sanitary Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yiwei Zhu
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yongliang Lou
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Sanitary Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Meiqin Zheng
- Wenzhou Key Laboratory of Sanitary Microbiology, Key Laboratory of Laboratory Medicine, Ministry of Education, School of Laboratory Medicine and Life Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Eye Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Eye Hospital, School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Periwal N, Arora P, Thakur A, Agrawal L, Goyal Y, Rathore AS, Anand HS, Kaur B, Sood V. Antiprotozoal peptide prediction using machine learning with effective feature selection techniques. Heliyon 2024; 10:e36163. [PMID: 39247292 PMCID: PMC11380031 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e36163] [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: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Protozoal pathogens pose a considerable threat, leading to notable mortality rates and the ongoing challenge of developing resistance to drugs. This situation underscores the urgent need for alternative therapeutic approaches. Antimicrobial peptides stand out as promising candidates for drug development. However, there is a lack of published research focusing on predicting antimicrobial peptides specifically targeting protozoal pathogens. In this study, we introduce a successful machine learning-based framework designed to predict potential antiprotozoal peptides effective against protozoal pathogens. Objective The primary objective of this study is to classify and predict antiprotozoal peptides using diverse negative datasets. Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted to gather experimentally validated antiprotozoal peptides, forming the positive dataset for our study. To construct a robust machine learning classifier, multiple negative datasets were incorporated, including (i) non-antimicrobial, (ii) antiviral, (iii) antibacterial, (iv) antifungal, and (v) antimicrobial peptides excluding those targeting protozoal pathogens. Various compositional features of the peptides were extracted using the pfeature algorithm. Two feature selection methods, SVC-L1 and mRMR, were employed to identify highly relevant features crucial for distinguishing between the positive and negative datasets. Additionally, five popular classifiers i.e. Decision Tree, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine, Logistic Regression, and XGBoost were used to build efficient decision models. Results XGBoost was the most effective in classifying antiprotozoal peptides from each negative dataset based on the features selected by the mRMR feature selection method. The proposed machine learning framework efficiently differentiate the antiprotozoal peptides from (i) non-antimicrobial (ii) antiviral (iii) antibacterial (iv) antifungal and (v) antimicrobial with accuracy of 97.27 %, 93.64 %, 86.36 %, 90.91 %, and 89.09 % respectively on the validation dataset. Conclusion The models are incorporated in a user-friendly web server (www.soodlab.com/appred) to predict the antiprotozoal activity of given peptides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neha Periwal
- Department of Biochemistry, Jamia Hamdard, India
| | - Pooja Arora
- Department of Zoology, Hansraj College, University of Delhi, India
| | | | | | - Yash Goyal
- Department of Computer Science, Hansraj College, University of Delhi, India
| | - Anand S Rathore
- Department of Zoology, Hansraj College, University of Delhi, India
| | | | - Baljeet Kaur
- Department of Computer Science, Hansraj College, University of Delhi, India
| | - Vikas Sood
- Department of Biochemistry, Jamia Hamdard, India
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Garg D, Daigavane S. A Comprehensive Review on Acanthamoeba Keratitis: An Overview of Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Therapeutic Strategies. Cureus 2024; 16:e67803. [PMID: 39328676 PMCID: PMC11424229 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.67803] [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: 08/05/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a rare but severe corneal infection caused by the free-living amoeba, Acanthamoeba, which is ubiquitously present in the environment. This condition predominantly affects contact lens wearers but can also occur in non-lens users, particularly those exposed to contaminated water or with compromised immune systems. AK is characterized by progressive corneal inflammation, epithelial defects, and ulceration, which can lead to significant visual impairment or blindness if not promptly diagnosed and treated. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of AK by synthesizing current knowledge on its epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and therapeutic strategies. The review also highlights preventive measures and public health strategies to reduce the incidence of this debilitating condition. A detailed examination of existing literature was conducted, focusing on the global incidence of AK, demographic trends, and various risk factors such as contact lens use, environmental exposures, and immunity status. The review also delves into the pathophysiology of Acanthamoeba infection, the host immune response, and the challenges in distinguishing AK from other forms of infectious keratitis. Therapeutic strategies, including medical and surgical interventions, are analyzed, along with emerging treatments. The global incidence of AK has increased, particularly among contact lens users, due to poor hygiene practices and environmental exposures. Early diagnosis remains challenging, often leading to delayed treatment and poorer outcomes. Biguanides and diamidines are the mainstays of medical therapy, with surgical options considered in advanced cases. Emerging therapies, such as photodynamic therapy and antimicrobial peptides, show promise in enhancing treatment outcomes. AK poses a significant threat to ocular health due to its potential for severe visual impairment and the complexities associated with its diagnosis and treatment. Early recognition, appropriate management, and public health initiatives focused on prevention are crucial for improving patient outcomes. Ongoing research and a collaborative approach among healthcare providers are essential to advancing the understanding and management of AK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Garg
- Ophthalmology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Sachin Daigavane
- Ophthalmology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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Soleymani E, Fakhar M, Davoodi L, Motavallihaghi S, Sharifpour A, Maghsood AH. Isolation, characterization, and pathogenicity assay of Acanthamoeba and its endosymbionts in respiratory disorders and COVID-19 hospitalized patients, northern Iran. Exp Parasitol 2024; 262:108774. [PMID: 38754618 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2024.108774] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp., are common free-living amoebae found in nature that can serve as reservoirs for certain microorganisms. The SARS-CoV-2 virus is a newly emerged respiratory infection, and the investigation of parasitic infections remains an area of limited research. Given that Acanthamoeba can act as a host for various endosymbiotic microbial pathogens and its pathogenicity assay is not fully understood, this study aimed to identify Acanthamoeba and its bacterial and fungal endosymbionts in patients with chronic respiratory disorders and hospitalized COVID-19 patients in northern Iran. Additionally, a pathogenicity assay was conducted on Acanthamoeba isolates. Urine, nasopharyngeal swab, and respiratory specimens were collected from two groups, and each sample was cultured on 1.5% non-nutrient agar medium. The cultures were then incubated at room temperature and monitored daily for a period of two weeks. Eight Acanthamoeba isolates were identified, and PCR was performed to confirm the presence of amoebae and identify their endosymbionts. Four isolates were found to have bacterial endosymbionts, including Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Achromobacter sp., while two isolates harbored fungal endosymbionts, including an uncultured fungus and Gloeotinia sp. In the pathogenicity assay, five isolates exhibited a higher degree of pathogenicity compared to the other three. This study provides significant insights into the comorbidity of acanthamoebiasis and COVID-19 on a global scale, and presents the first evidence of Gloeotinia sp. as a fungal endosymbiont. Nevertheless, further research is required to fully comprehend the symbiotic patterns and establish effective treatment protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eissa Soleymani
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mahdi Fakhar
- Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Lotfollah Davoodi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Seyedmousa Motavallihaghi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Ali Sharifpour
- Department of Internal Ward, Pulmonary and Critical Care Division, Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Maghsood
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
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Cecil RE, Yoder-Himes DR. Examining the influence of environmental factors on Acanthamoeba castellanii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in co-culture. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305973. [PMID: 38913685 PMCID: PMC11195979 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Exploration of interspecies interactions between microorganisms can have taxonomic, ecological, evolutionary, or medical applications. To better explore interactions between microorganisms it is important to establish the ideal conditions that ensure survival of all species involved. In this study, we sought to identify the ideal biotic and abiotic factors that would result in high co-culture viability of two interkingdom species, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acanthamoeba castellanii, two soil dwelling microbes. There have been limited studies showing long-term interactions between these two organisms as co-culture can result in high mortality for one or both organisms suggesting a predator-predator interaction may exist between them. In this study, we identified biotic and abiotic conditions that resulted in a high viability for both organisms in long-term co-culture, including optimizing temperature, nutrient concentration, choice of bacterial strains, and the initial ratio of interacting partners. These two species represent ideal partners for studying microbial interactions because amoebae act similarly to mammalian immune cells in many respects, and this can allow researchers to study host-pathogen interactions in vitro. Therefore, long-term interaction studies between these microbes might reveal the evolutionary steps that occur in bacteria when subjected to intense predation, like what occurs when pathogens enter the human body. The culture conditions characterized here resulted in high viability for both organisms for at least 14-days in co-culture suggesting that long-term experimental studies between these species can be achieved using these culture conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhiannon E. Cecil
- Biology Department, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
| | - Deborah R. Yoder-Himes
- Biology Department, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky, United States of America
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Sifaoui I, Rodríguez-Expósito RL, Reyes-Batlle M, Sutak R, Piñero JE, Lorenzo-Morales J. Amoebicidal Effect of COVID Box Molecules against Acanthamoeba: A Study of Cell Death. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:808. [PMID: 38931475 PMCID: PMC11206913 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. can cause a sight threatening disease. At present, the current treatments used to treat Acanthamoeba spp. Infections, such as biguanide-based antimicrobials, remain inefficacious, with the appearance of resistant forms and high cytotoxicity to host cells. In this study, an initial screening was conducted against Acanthamoeba castellanii Neff and murine macrophages J774A.1 using alamarBlue™. Among the 160 compounds included in the cited box, 90% exhibited an inhibition of the parasite above 80%, while only 18.75% of the compounds inhibited the parasite with a lethality towards murine macrophage lower than 20%. Based on the amoebicidal activity, the cytotoxicity assay, and availability, Terconazole was chosen for the elucidation of the action mode in two clinical strains, Acanthamoeba culbertsoni and Acanthamoeba castellanii L10. A fluorescence image-based system and proteomic techniques were used to investigate the effect of the present azole on the cytoskeleton network and various programmed cell death features, including chromatin condensation and mitochondria dysfunction. Taking all the results together, we can suggest that Terconazole can induce programmed cell death (PCD) via the inhibition of sterol biosynthesis inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Sifaoui
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (I.S.); (R.L.R.-E.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación on Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Área de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rubén L. Rodríguez-Expósito
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (I.S.); (R.L.R.-E.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación on Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Área de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Reyes-Batlle
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (I.S.); (R.L.R.-E.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación on Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Área de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Robert Sutak
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic;
| | - José E. Piñero
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (I.S.); (R.L.R.-E.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación on Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Área de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jacob Lorenzo-Morales
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (I.S.); (R.L.R.-E.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación on Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Área de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
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Medeiros EG, Valente MR, Honorato L, Ferreira MDS, Mendoza SR, Gonçalves DDS, Martins Alcântara L, Gomes KX, Pinto MR, Nakayasu ES, Clair G, da Rocha IFM, dos Reis FCG, Rodrigues ML, Alves LR, Nimrichter L, Casadevall A, Guimarães AJ. Comprehensive characterization of extracellular vesicles produced by environmental (Neff) and clinical (T4) strains of Acanthamoeba castellanii. mSystems 2024; 9:e0122623. [PMID: 38717186 PMCID: PMC11237502 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.01226-23] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
We conducted a comprehensive comparative analysis of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from two Acanthamoeba castellanii strains, Neff (environmental) and T4 (clinical). Morphological analysis via transmission electron microscopy revealed slightly larger Neff EVs (average = 194.5 nm) compared to more polydisperse T4 EVs (average = 168.4 nm). Nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) and dynamic light scattering validated these differences. Proteomic analysis of the EVs identified 1,352 proteins, with 1,107 common, 161 exclusive in Neff, and 84 exclusively in T4 EVs. Gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) mapping revealed distinct molecular functions and biological processes and notably, the T4 EVs enrichment in serine proteases, aligned with its pathogenicity. Lipidomic analysis revealed a prevalence of unsaturated lipid species in Neff EVs, particularly triacylglycerols, phosphatidylethanolamines (PEs), and phosphatidylserine, while T4 EVs were enriched in diacylglycerols and diacylglyceryl trimethylhomoserine, phosphatidylcholine and less unsaturated PEs, suggesting differences in lipid metabolism and membrane permeability. Metabolomic analysis indicated Neff EVs enrichment in glycerolipid metabolism, glycolysis, and nucleotide synthesis, while T4 EVs, methionine metabolism. Furthermore, RNA-seq of EVs revealed differential transcript between the strains, with Neff EVs enriched in transcripts related to gluconeogenesis and translation, suggesting gene regulation and metabolic shift, while in the T4 EVs transcripts were associated with signal transduction and protein kinase activity, indicating rapid responses to environmental changes. In this novel study, data integration highlighted the differences in enzyme profiles, metabolic processes, and potential origins of EVs in the two strains shedding light on the diversity and complexity of A. castellanii EVs and having implications for understanding host-pathogen interactions and developing targeted interventions for Acanthamoeba-related diseases.IMPORTANCEA comprehensive and fully comparative analysis of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from two Acanthamoeba castellanii strains of distinct virulence, a Neff (environmental) and T4 (clinical), revealed striking differences in their morphology and protein, lipid, metabolites, and transcripts levels. Data integration highlighted the differences in enzyme profiles, metabolic processes, and potential distinct origin of EVs from both strains, shedding light on the diversity and complexity of A. castellanii EVs, with direct implications for understanding host-pathogen interactions, disease mechanisms, and developing new therapies for the clinical intervention of Acanthamoeba-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Gonçalves Medeiros
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Microbiologia e Parasitologia Aplicadas, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Michele Ramos Valente
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Microbiologia e Parasitologia Aplicadas, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leandro Honorato
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Laboratório de Glicobiologia de Eucariotos, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marina da Silva Ferreira
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia e Inflamação, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Susana Ruiz Mendoza
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia e Inflamação, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Diego de Souza Gonçalves
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lucas Martins Alcântara
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Microbiologia e Parasitologia Aplicadas, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Kamilla Xavier Gomes
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Laboratório de Glicobiologia de Eucariotos, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcia Ribeiro Pinto
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Microbiologia e Parasitologia Aplicadas, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ernesto S. Nakayasu
- Biological Science Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington, USA
| | - Geremy Clair
- Biological Science Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, Washington, USA
| | | | - Flavia C. G. dos Reis
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
- Centro de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Saúde (CDTS), Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcio L. Rodrigues
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lysangela R. Alves
- Instituto Carlos Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Leonardo Nimrichter
- Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Laboratório de Glicobiologia de Eucariotos, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia e Inflamação, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rede Micologia RJ–Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Allan Jefferson Guimarães
- Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Microbiologia e Parasitologia Aplicadas, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia e Inflamação, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rede Micologia RJ–Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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9
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Jiang Q, Zhang Z, Cai Y, Chen L, Deng L, Xiong Y. Disseminated Acanthamoeba castellanii infection in a patient with AIDS: a case report and literature review. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1377302. [PMID: 38952864 PMCID: PMC11215114 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1377302] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Acanthamoeba castellanii infection is a rare condition primarily occurring in immunocompromised patients with extremely high mortality. Currently, there is no standard treatment for this condition, and successful treatment reports are scarce. Case presentation We present a case of Acanthamoeba castellanii infection in a 63-year-old female patient with AIDS, who was admitted to our hospital with symptoms of fever, skin ulcers, subcutaneous nodules, and food regurgitation from the nose while eating. After initial empirical treatment failed, a biopsy of the subcutaneous nodule was performed, and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) technology was used to detect pathogenic microorganisms in both the biopsy specimen and blood samples. The results revealed Acanthamoeba castellanii infection. Additionally, histopathological examination of the biopsy specimen and cytological examination of the secretions from the ulcer surface also confirmed this pathogenic infection. The patient's symptoms significantly improved upon discharge after adjusting the treatment regimen to a combination of anti-amebic therapy. Conclusion Immunocompromised patients presenting with unexplained fever and skin or sinus lesions should be evaluated for Acanthamoeba castellanii infection. Multi-drug combination therapy is required for this organism infection, and a standard treatment protocol still needs further research. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing is a valuable tool for early diagnosis of unknown pathogen infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qunqun Jiang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhongwei Zhang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuxiang Cai
- Department of Pathology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liangjun Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liping Deng
- Department of Infectious Disease, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yong Xiong
- Department of Infectious Disease, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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10
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de Souza-Maciel E, Carvalho-Kelly LF, Freitas-Mesquita AL, Meyer-Fernandes JR. The ecto-3'-nucleotidase activity of Acanthamoeba castellanii trophozoites increases their adhesion to host cells through the generation of extracellular adenosine. Eur J Protistol 2024; 94:126086. [PMID: 38688045 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejop.2024.126086] [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: 02/16/2024] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba castellanii, a free-living amoeba, can be pathogenic to humans causing a corneal infection named Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK). The mannose-binding protein (MBP) is well established as the major factor related to Acanthamoeba pathogenesis. However, additional factors that participate in the adhesion process and protect trophozoites from cytolytic effects caused by host immune responses remain unknown. Ectonucleotidases, including 3'-nucleotidase/nuclease (3'-NT/NU), a bifunctional enzyme that was recently reported in A. castellanii, are frequently related to the establishment of parasitic infections. We verified that trophozoites can hydrolyze 3'-AMP, and this activity is similar to that observed in other protists. The addition of 3'-AMP increases the adhesion of trophozoites to LLC-MK2 epithelial cells, and this stimulation is completely reversed by DTT, an inhibitor of ecto-3'-nucleotidase activity. Lesions in corneal cells caused by AK infection may elevate the extracellular level of 3'-AMP. We believe that ecto-3'-nucleotidase activity can modulate the host immune response, thus facilitating the establishment of parasitic infection. This activity results from the generation of extracellular adenosine, which can bind to purinergic receptors present in host immune cells. Positive feedback may occur in this cascade of events once the ecto-3'-nucleotidase activity of trophozoites is increased by the adhesion of trophozoites to LLC-MK2 cells.
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11
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Loufouma-Mbouaka A, Martín-Pérez T, Köhsler M, Danisman Z, Schwarz M, Mazumdar R, Samba-Louaka A, Walochnik J. Characterization of novel extracellular proteases produced by Acanthamoeba castellanii after contact with human corneal epithelial cells and their relevance to pathogenesis. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:242. [PMID: 38812022 PMCID: PMC11137893 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06304-7] [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: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Proteases produced by Acanthamoeba spp. play an important role in their virulence and may be the key to understanding Acanthamoeba pathogenesis; thus, increasing attention has been directed towards these proteins. The present study aimed to investigate the lytic factors produced by Acanthamoeba castellanii during the first hours of in vitro co-culture with human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs). METHODS We used one old and one recent Acanthamoeba isolate, both from patients with severe keratitis, and subsets of these strains with enhanced pathogenic potential induced by sequential passaging over HCEC monolayers. The proteolytic profiles of all strains and substrains were examined using 1D in-gel zymography. RESULTS We observed the activity of additional proteases (ranging from 33 to 50 kDa) during the early interaction phase between amoebae and HCECs, which were only expressed for a short time. Based on their susceptibilities to protease inhibitors, these proteases were characterized as serine proteases. Protease activities showed a sharp decline after 4 h of co-incubation. Interestingly, the expression of Acanthamoeba mannose-binding protein did not differ between amoebae in monoculture and those in co-culture. Moreover, we observed the activation of matrix metalloproteinases in HCECs after contact with Acanthamoeba. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed the involvement of two novel serine proteases in Acanthamoeba pathogenesis and suggests a pivotal role of serine proteases during Acanthamoeba-host cell interaction, contributing to cell adhesion and lysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvie Loufouma-Mbouaka
- Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tania Martín-Pérez
- Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martina Köhsler
- Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Zeynep Danisman
- Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maya Schwarz
- Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Rounik Mazumdar
- Max Perutz Labs Vienna, Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- GenomeByte Ltd, London, UK
| | - Ascel Samba-Louaka
- Laboratoire Ecologie Et Biologie Des Interactions, Université de Poitiers, UMR CNRS, 7267, Poitiers, France
| | - Julia Walochnik
- Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
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12
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Chen L, Han W, Jing W, Feng M, Zhou Q, Cheng X. Novel anti- Acanthamoeba effects elicited by a repurposed poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor AZ9482. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1414135. [PMID: 38863831 PMCID: PMC11165085 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1414135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Acanthamoeba infection is a serious public health concern, necessitating the development of effective and safe anti-Acanthamoeba chemotherapies. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) govern a colossal amount of biological processes, such as DNA damage repair, protein degradation and apoptosis. Multiple PARP-targeted compounds have been approved for cancer treatment. However, repurposing of PARP inhibitors to treat Acanthamoeba is poorly understood. Methods In the present study, we attempted to fill these knowledge gaps by performing anti-Acanthamoeba efficacy assays, cell biology experiments, bioinformatics, and transcriptomic analyses. Results Using a homology model of Acanthamoeba poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs), molecular docking of approved drugs revealed three potential inhibitory compounds: olaparib, venadaparib and AZ9482. In particular, venadaparib exhibited superior docking scores (-13.71) and favorable predicted binding free energy (-89.28 kcal/mol), followed by AZ9482, which showed a docking score of -13.20 and a binding free energy of -92.13 kcal/mol. Notably, the positively charged cyclopropylamine in venadaparib established a salt bridge (through E535) and a hydrogen bond (via N531) within the binding pocket. For comparison, AZ9482 was well stacked by the surrounding aromatic residues including H625, Y652, Y659 and Y670. In an assessment of trophozoites viability, AZ9482 exhibited a dose-and time-dependent anti-trophozoite effect by suppressing Acanthamoeba PARP activity, unlike olaparib and venadaparib. An Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide apoptosis assay revealed AZ9482 induced trophozoite necrotic cell death rather than apoptosis. Transcriptomics analyses conducted on Acanthamoeba trophozoites treated with AZ9482 demonstrated an atlas of differentially regulated proteins and genes, and found that AZ9482 rapidly upregulates a multitude of DNA damage repair pathways in trophozoites, and intriguingly downregulates several virulent genes. Analyzing gene expression related to DNA damage repair pathway and the rate of apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites indicated DNA damage efficacy and repair modulation in Acanthamoeba trophozoites following AZ9482 treatment. Discussion Collectively, these findings highlight AZ9482, as a structurally unique PARP inhibitor, provides a promising prototype for advancing anti-Acanthamoeba drug research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Chen
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Han
- Research Center for Intelligent Computing Platforms, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Jing
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Feng
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingtong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xunjia Cheng
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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13
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Fan W, Li P, Wei Q, Liu X, Cai Y, Li B, Lu Y. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing-assisted diagnosis of a rare case of primary cutaneous acanthamoebiasis in an HIV patient: a case report. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1356095. [PMID: 38863830 PMCID: PMC11165212 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1356095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic and free-living Acanthamoeba are widely distributed in the environment and have been reported to cause keratitis and universally fatal encephalitis. Primary cutaneous acanthamoebiasis caused by Acanthamoeba is exceedingly rare and presents as isolated necrotic cutaneous lesions without involvement of the cornea or central nervous system. Cutaneous acanthamoebiasis often occurs in immunocompromised patients and is likely overlooked or even misdiagnosed only by cutaneous biopsy tissue histopathological analysis. Here, we report a HIV-infected 63-year-old female with oral leukoplakia for 4 months and scattered large skin ulcers all over the body for 2 months. The cause of the cutaneous lesions was unclear through cutaneous specimens histopathological analysis, and subsequently Acanthamoeba were detected by metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS), which may be the cause of cutaneous lesions. Based on the mNGS results, a pathologist subsequently reviewed the previous pathological slides and found trophozoites of Acanthamoeba so that the cause was identified, and the skin ulcers improved significantly after treatment with multi-drug combination therapy. Acanthamoeba is also a host of pathogenic microorganisms. The presence of endosymbionts enhances the pathogenicity of Acanthamoeba, and no other pathogens were reported in this case. mNGS is helpful for rapidly diagnosing the etiology of rare skin diseases and can indicate the presence or absence of commensal microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Fan
- Department of Pathology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Pin Li
- Research and Development Department, Sinopharm Medical Laboratory (Wuhan) Co., Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Qihao Wei
- Research and Development Department, Sinopharm Genomics Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Xinru Liu
- Research and Development Department, Sinopharm Medical Laboratory (Wuhan) Co., Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Yuxiang Cai
- Department of Pathology, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Bin Li
- Research and Development Department, Sinopharm Genomics Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan, China
| | - Yaping Lu
- Research and Development Department, Sinopharm Medical Laboratory (Wuhan) Co., Ltd., Wuhan, China
- Research and Development Department, Sinopharm Genomics Technology Co., Ltd., Wuhan, China
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14
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Hargrove T, Lamb DC, Wawrzak Z, Hull M, Kelly SL, Guengerich FP, Lepesheva GI. Identification of Potent and Selective Inhibitors of Acanthamoeba: Structural Insights into Sterol 14α-Demethylase as a Key Drug Target. J Med Chem 2024; 67:7443-7457. [PMID: 38683753 PMCID: PMC11089504 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.4c00303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba are free-living pathogenic protozoa that cause blinding keratitis, disseminated infection, and granulomatous amebic encephalitis, which is generally fatal. The development of efficient and safe drugs is a critical unmet need. Acanthamoeba sterol 14α-demethylase (CYP51) is an essential enzyme of the sterol biosynthetic pathway. Repurposing antifungal azoles for amoebic infections has been reported, but their inhibitory effects on Acanthamoeba CYP51 enzymatic activity have not been studied. Here, we report catalytic properties, inhibition, and structural characterization of CYP51 from Acanthamoeba castellanii. The enzyme displays a 100-fold substrate preference for obtusifoliol over lanosterol, supporting the plant-like cycloartenol-based pathway in the pathogen. The strongest inhibition was observed with voriconazole (1 h IC50 0.45 μM), VT1598 (0.25 μM), and VT1161 (0.20 μM). The crystal structures of A. castellanii CYP51 with bound VT1161 (2.24 Å) and without an inhibitor (1.95 Å), presented here, can be used in the development of azole-based scaffolds to achieve optimal amoebicidal effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana
Y. Hargrove
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - David C. Lamb
- Faculty
of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea
University, Swansea SA2 8PP, U.K.
| | - Zdzislaw Wawrzak
- Synchrotron
Research Center, Life Science Collaborative Access Team, Northwestern University, Argonne, Illinois 60439, United States
| | - Marcus Hull
- Faculty
of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea
University, Swansea SA2 8PP, U.K.
| | - Steven L. Kelly
- Faculty
of Medicine, Health and Life Science, Swansea
University, Swansea SA2 8PP, U.K.
| | - F. Peter Guengerich
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
| | - Galina I. Lepesheva
- Department
of Biochemistry, Vanderbilt University School
of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Vanderbilt
Institute of Chemical Biology, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
- Center
for Structural Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, United States
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15
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Cardoso IR, de Lima CS, dos Reis RB, Pinto ACA, Pissinatti T, Kugelmeier T, Neto SFDC, da Silva FA, Santos HLC. Occurrence of Free-Living Amoebae in Non-Human Primate Gut. Trop Med Infect Dis 2024; 9:108. [PMID: 38787041 PMCID: PMC11125615 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed9050108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiome reflects health and predicts possible disease in hosts. A holistic view of this community is needed, focusing on identifying species and dissecting how species interact with their host and each other, regardless of whether their presence is beneficial, inconsequential, or detrimental. The distribution of gut-associated eukaryotes within and across non-human primates is likely driven by host behavior and ecology. To ascertain the existence of free-living amoebae (FLA) in the gut of wild and captive non-human primates, 101 stool samples were collected and submitted to culture-dependent microscopy examination and DNA sequencing. Free-living amoebae were detected in 45.4% (46/101) of fecal samples analyzed, and their morphological characteristics matched those of Acanthamoeba spp., Vermamoeba spp., heterolobosean amoeboflagellates and fan-shaped amoebae of the family Vannellidae. Sequence analysis of the PCR products revealed that the suspected amoebae are highly homologous (99% identity and 100% query coverage) with Acanthamoeba T4 genotype and Vermamoeba vermiformis amoebae. The results showed a great diversity of amoebae in the non-human primate's microbiome, which may pose a potential risk to the health of NHPs. To our knowledge, this is the first report of free-living amoebae in non-human primates that are naturally infected. However, it is unknown whether gut-borne amoebae exploit a viable ecological niche or are simply transient residents in the gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Rodrigues Cardoso
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil; (I.R.C.); (C.S.d.L.); (R.B.d.R.)
| | - Clezia Siqueira de Lima
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil; (I.R.C.); (C.S.d.L.); (R.B.d.R.)
- Instituto de Saúde de Nova Friburgo, da Universidade Federal Fluminense, Nova Friburgo 28625-650, Brazil
| | - Rhagner Bonono dos Reis
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil; (I.R.C.); (C.S.d.L.); (R.B.d.R.)
| | - Ana Cristina Araujo Pinto
- Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia em Biomodelos/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 26382-462, Brazil; (A.C.A.P.); (T.P.); (T.K.); (F.A.d.S.)
| | - Thalita Pissinatti
- Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia em Biomodelos/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 26382-462, Brazil; (A.C.A.P.); (T.P.); (T.K.); (F.A.d.S.)
| | - Tatiana Kugelmeier
- Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia em Biomodelos/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 26382-462, Brazil; (A.C.A.P.); (T.P.); (T.K.); (F.A.d.S.)
| | | | - Fabio Alves da Silva
- Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia em Biomodelos/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 26382-462, Brazil; (A.C.A.P.); (T.P.); (T.K.); (F.A.d.S.)
| | - Helena Lúcia Carneiro Santos
- Laboratório de Doenças Parasitárias, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz/FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, Brazil; (I.R.C.); (C.S.d.L.); (R.B.d.R.)
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Raghavan A, Rammohan R. Acanthamoeba keratitis - A review. Indian J Ophthalmol 2024; 72:473-482. [PMID: 38454853 PMCID: PMC11149514 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_2627_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024] Open
Abstract
This is a comprehensive review after a thorough literature search in PubMed-indexed journals, incorporating current information on the pathophysiology, clinical features, diagnosis, medical and surgical therapy, as well as outcomes of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK). AK is a significant cause of ocular morbidity, and early diagnosis with timely institution of appropriate therapy is the key to obtaining good outcomes. The varied presentations result in frequent misdiagnosis, and co-infections can increase the morbidity of the disease. The first line of therapy continues to be biguanides and diamidines, with surgery as a last resort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Raghavan
- Cornea & Refractive Surgery, Department of Microbiology, Aravind Eye Hospital and Post-Graduate Institute of Ophthalmology, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Rivera J, Valerdi-Negreros JC, Vázquez-Enciso DM, Argueta-Zepeda FS, Vinuesa P. Phylogenomic, structural, and cell biological analyses reveal that Stenotrophomonas maltophilia replicates in acidified Rab7A-positive vacuoles of Acanthamoeba castellanii. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0298823. [PMID: 38319117 PMCID: PMC10913462 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02988-23] [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: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba species are clinically relevant free-living amoebae (FLA) ubiquitously found in soil and water bodies. Metabolically active trophozoites graze on diverse microbes via phagocytosis. However, functional studies on Rab GTPases (Rabs), which are critical for controlling vesicle trafficking and maturation, are scarce for this FLA. This knowledge gap can be partly explained by the limited genetic tools available for Acanthamoeba cell biology. Here, we developed plasmids to generate fusions of A. castellanii strain Neff proteins to the N- or C-termini of mEGFP and mCherry2. Phylogenomic and structural analyses of the 11 Neff Rab7 paralogs found in the RefSeq assembly revealed that eight of them had non-canonical sequences. After correcting the gene annotation for the Rab7A ortholog, we generated a line stably expressing an mEGFP-Rab7A fusion, demonstrating its correct localization to acidified macropinocytic and phagocytic vacuoles using fluorescence microscopy live cell imaging (LCI). Direct labeling of live Stenotrophomonas maltophilia ESTM1D_MKCAZ16_6a (Sm18) cells with pHrodo Red, a pH-sensitive dye, demonstrated that they reside within acidified, Rab7A-positive vacuoles. We constructed new mini-Tn7 delivery plasmids and tagged Sm18 with constitutively expressed mScarlet-I. Co-culture experiments of Neff trophozoites with Sm18::mTn7TC1_Pc_mScarlet-I, coupled with LCI and microplate reader assays, demonstrated that Sm18 underwent multiple replication rounds before reaching the extracellular medium via non-lytic exocytosis. We conclude that S. maltophilia belongs to the class of bacteria that can use amoeba as an intracellular replication niche within a Stenotrophomonas-containing vacuole that interacts extensively with the endocytic pathway.IMPORTANCEDiverse Acanthamoeba lineages (genotypes) are of increasing clinical concern, mainly causing amoebic keratitis and granulomatous amebic encephalitis among other infections. S. maltophilia ranks among the top 10 most prevalent multidrug-resistant opportunistic nosocomial pathogens and is a recurrent member of the microbiome hosted by Acanthamoeba and other free-living amoebae. However, little is known about the molecular strategies deployed by Stenotrophomonas for an intracellular lifestyle in amoebae and other professional phagocytes such as macrophages, which allow the bacterium to evade the immune system and the action of antibiotics. Our plasmids and easy-to-use microtiter plate co-culture assays should facilitate investigations into the cellular microbiology of Acanthamoeba interactions with Stenotrophomonas and other opportunistic pathogens, which may ultimately lead to the discovery of new molecular targets and antimicrobial therapies to combat difficult-to-treat infections caused by these ubiquitous microbes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Rivera
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Julio C. Valerdi-Negreros
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Biomédicas, UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Diana M. Vázquez-Enciso
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
- Programa de Maestría y Doctorado en Ciencias Bioquímicas, UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Fulvia-Stefany Argueta-Zepeda
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
- Programa de Maestría y Doctorado en Ciencias Bioquímicas, UNAM, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pablo Vinuesa
- Centro de Ciencias Genómicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
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da Silva TCB, Chaúque BJM, Benitez GB, Rott MB. Global prevalence of potentially pathogenic free-living amoebae in sewage and sewage-related environments-systematic review with meta-analysis. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:148. [PMID: 38433138 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08164-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Free-living amoebae (FLA) include amphizoic microorganisms important in public health, widely isolated from air, water, and soil. However, its occurrence in sewage-related environments still needs to be systematically documented. This study summarizes the occurrence of FLA in sewage-related environments through a systematic review with meta-analysis. A total of 1983 scientific article were retrieved from different databases, of which 35 were selected and analyzed using a random effects forest plot model with a 95% confidence interval (IC). The pooled overall prevalence of FLA in sewage across 12 countries was 68.96% (95% IC = 58.5-79.42). Subgroup analysis indicates high prevalence in all environments analyzed, including sewage water from the sewage treatment plant (81.19%), treated sewage water (75.57%), sewage-contaminated water (67.70%), sediment contaminated by sewage (48.91%), and sewage water (47.84%). Prevalence values of Acanthamoeba spp., Hartmanella/Vermamoeba spp., and Naegleria spp. are 47.48%, 28.24%, and 16.69%, respectively. Analyzing the species level, the distribution is as follows: Acanthamoeba palestinensis (88%), A. castellanii (23.74%), A. astronyxis (19.18%), A. polyphaga (13.59%), A. culbertsoni (12.5%), A. stevensoni (8.33%), A. tubiashi (4.35%) and A. hatchetti (1.1%), Naegleria fowleri (28.4%), N. gruberi (25%), N. clarki (8.33%), N. australiensis (4.89%) and N. italica (4.29%), Hartmannella/Vermamoeba exundans (40%) and H.V. vermiform (32.61%). Overall, our findings indicate a high risk associated with sewage-related environments, as the prevalence of FLA, including pathogenic strains, is high, even in treated sewage water. The findings of this study may be valuable both for risk remediation actions against amoebic infections and for future research endeavors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaisla Cristiane Borella da Silva
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, Brazil
| | - Beni Jequicene Mussengue Chaúque
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, Brazil
- Postgraduate Program in Biological Sciences: Pharmacology and Therapeutics, UFRGS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, Brazil
- Center of Studies in Science and Technology (NECET), Biology Course, Universidade Rovuma, Niassa Branch, Lichinga, Mozambique
| | - Guilherme Brittes Benitez
- Industrial and Systems Engineering Graduate Program, Polytechnic School, Pontifical Catholic University of Parana (PUCPR), Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Marilise Brittes Rott
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, Brazil.
- Laboratory 520, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul, Ramiro Barcelos Street, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande Do Sul, N 2600, Brazil.
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Bahrami S, Avarseji AA, Zarei M, Haji Hajikolaei MR. First Report of Isolation and Characterization of Acanthamoeba spp. from the Milk Used for Calf Feeding. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:609-615. [PMID: 38285086 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00805-2] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Acanthamoeba spp. can be found in natural and artificial environments, which reflects their high adaptability to different conditions. Based on the available data, there is scarce information about the isolation of amoeba from milk. This study aimed to investigate the probable presence of Acanthamoeba in milk used for calf feeding. METHODS 200 milk samples from 50 industrial and traditional farms were collected. The samples were filtered and cultured on the 1.5% Non-nutrient agar medium. The amoebic growth was examined with an inverted microscope daily. DNA was extracted from the positive plates, and a PCR reaction was undertaken using the primers amplifying the Acanthamoeba 18 S rRNA gene. Five samples were purified and sequenced using specific primers. Maximum likelihood reconstructions were performed using the phylogenetic program MEGA software. The osmo and thermotolerance of isolated trophozoites were examined as well. RESULTS Out of 200 milk samples, Acanthamoeba was isolated from 27 (13.5%). The phylogenetic tree represents that all the isolates belonged to the genotype T4. Results of thermo and osmotolerance tests showed that isolates could develop at 37 and 43 ◦C. Besides, trophozoites survived at 0.5 M mannitol and 1 M. CONCLUSION For the first time, Acanthamoeba spp. were isolated from milk used to feed dairy calves. Due to Acanthamoeba's neglected role in pathogen persistence and survival, hygiene instructions should be reconsidered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Bahrami
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Amir Ali Avarseji
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Zarei
- Department of Food Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, Ahvaz, Iran
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Memariani H, Memariani M, Ghasemian A. Quercetin as a Promising Antiprotozoan Phytochemical: Current Knowledge and Future Research Avenues. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 2024:7632408. [PMID: 38456097 PMCID: PMC10919984 DOI: 10.1155/2024/7632408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Despite tremendous advances in the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases, only few antiparasitic drugs have been developed to date. Protozoan infections such as malaria, leishmaniasis, and trypanosomiasis continue to exact an enormous toll on public health worldwide, underscoring the need to discover novel antiprotozoan drugs. Recently, there has been an explosion of research into the antiprotozoan properties of quercetin, one of the most abundant flavonoids in the human diet. In this review, we tried to consolidate the current knowledge on the antiprotozoal effects of quercetin and to provide the most fruitful avenues for future research. Quercetin exerts potent antiprotozoan activity against a broad spectrum of pathogens such as Leishmania spp., Trypanosoma spp., Plasmodium spp., Cryptosporidium spp., Trichomonas spp., and Toxoplasma gondii. In addition to its immunomodulatory roles, quercetin disrupts mitochondrial function, induces apoptotic/necrotic cell death, impairs iron uptake, inhibits multiple enzymes involved in fatty acid synthesis and the glycolytic pathways, suppresses the activity of DNA topoisomerases, and downregulates the expression of various heat shock proteins in these pathogens. In vivo studies also show that quercetin is effective in reducing parasitic loads, histopathological damage, and mortality in animals. Future research should focus on designing effective drug delivery systems to increase the oral bioavailability of quercetin. Incorporating quercetin into various nanocarrier systems would be a promising approach to manage localized cutaneous infections. Nevertheless, clinical trials are needed to validate the efficacy of quercetin in treating various protozoan infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Memariani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Memariani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolmajid Ghasemian
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
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Ferreira MDS, Gonçalves DDS, Mendoza SR, de Oliveira GA, Pontes B, la Noval CRD, Honorato L, Ramos LFC, Nogueira FCS, Domont GB, Casadevall A, Nimrichter L, Peralta JM, Guimaraes AJ. β-1,3-Glucan recognition by Acanthamoeba castellanii as a putative mechanism of amoeba-fungal interactions. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0173623. [PMID: 38259076 PMCID: PMC10880599 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01736-23] [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: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
In this study, we conducted an in-depth analysis to characterize potential Acanthamoeba castellanii (Ac) proteins capable of recognizing fungal β-1,3-glucans. Ac specifically anchors curdlan or laminarin, indicating the presence of surface β-1,3-glucan-binding molecules. Using optical tweezers, strong adhesion of laminarin- or curdlan-coated beads to Ac was observed, highlighting their adhesive properties compared to controls (characteristic time τ of 46.9 and 43.9 s, respectively). Furthermore, Histoplasma capsulatum (Hc) G217B, possessing a β-1,3-glucan outer layer, showed significant adhesion to Ac compared to a Hc G186 strain with an α-1,3-glucan outer layer (τ of 5.3 s vs τ 83.6 s). The addition of soluble β-1,3-glucan substantially inhibited this adhesion, indicating the involvement of β-1,3-glucan recognition. Biotinylated β-1,3-glucan-binding proteins from Ac exhibited higher binding to Hc G217B, suggesting distinct recognition mechanisms for laminarin and curdlan, akin to macrophages. These observations hinted at the β-1,3-glucan recognition pathway's role in fungal entrance and survival within phagocytes, supported by decreased fungal viability upon laminarin or curdlan addition in both phagocytes. Proteomic analysis identified several Ac proteins capable of binding β-1,3-glucans, including those with lectin/glucanase superfamily domains, carbohydrate-binding domains, and glycosyl transferase and glycosyl hydrolase domains. Notably, some identified proteins were overexpressed upon curdlan/laminarin challenge and also demonstrated high affinity to β-1,3-glucans. These findings underscore the complexity of binding via β-1,3-glucan and suggest the existence of alternative fungal recognition pathways in Ac.IMPORTANCEAcanthamoeba castellanii (Ac) and macrophages both exhibit the remarkable ability to phagocytose various extracellular microorganisms in their respective environments. While substantial knowledge exists on this phenomenon for macrophages, the understanding of Ac's phagocytic mechanisms remains elusive. Recently, our group identified mannose-binding receptors on the surface of Ac that exhibit the capacity to bind/recognize fungi. However, the process was not entirely inhibited by soluble mannose, suggesting the possibility of other interactions. Herein, we describe the mechanism of β-1,3-glucan binding by A. castellanii and its role in fungal phagocytosis and survival within trophozoites, also using macrophages as a model for comparison, as they possess a well-established mechanism involving the Dectin-1 receptor for β-1,3-glucan recognition. These shed light on a potential parallel evolution of pathways involved in the recognition of fungal surface polysaccharides.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina da Silva Ferreira
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia e Inflamação, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Diego de Souza Gonçalves
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Susana Ruiz Mendoza
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia e Inflamação, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Afonso de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bruno Pontes
- Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas e Centro Nacional de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudia Rodríguez-de la Noval
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leandro Honorato
- Laboratório de Glicobiologia de Eucariotos, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luis Felipe Costa Ramos
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Fábio C. S. Nogueira
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gilberto B. Domont
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Arturo Casadevall
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Leonardo Nimrichter
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia e Inflamação, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Laboratório de Glicobiologia de Eucariotos, Departamento de Microbiologia Geral, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rede Micologia RJ - Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jose Mauro Peralta
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Allan J. Guimaraes
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia das Micoses, Departamento de Microbiologia e Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Imunologia e Inflamação, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Rede Micologia RJ - Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Rio de Janeiro (FAPERJ), Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Pós-Graduação em Microbiologia e Parasitologia Aplicadas, Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Rahmati-Holasoo H, Niyyati M, Fatemi M, Mahdavi Abhari F, Shokrpoor S, Nassiri A, Marandi A. Molecular identification, phylogenetic analysis and histopathological study of pathogenic free-living amoebae isolated from discus fish (Symphysodon aequifasciatus) in Iran: 2020-2022. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:54. [PMID: 38347572 PMCID: PMC10860241 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03902-6] [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: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Free-living amoebae (FLA) are capable of inhabiting diverse reservoirs independently, without relying on a host organism, hence their designation as "free-living". The majority of amoebae that infect freshwater or marine fish are amphizoic, or free-living forms that may colonize fish under particular circumstances. Symphysodon aequifasciatus, commonly referred to as the discus, is widely recognized as a popular ornamental fish species. The primary objective of the present study was to determine the presence of pathogenic free-living amoebae (FLA) in samples of discus fish. Fish exhibiting clinical signs, sourced from various fish farms, were transferred to the ornamental fish clinic. The skin, gills, and intestinal mucosa of the fish were collected and subjected to culturing on plates containing a 1% non-nutrient agar medium. The detection of FLA was conducted through morphological, histopathological and molecular methods. The construction of the phylogenetic tree for Acanthamoeba genotypes was achieved using the maximum likelihood approach. The molecular sequence analysis revealed that all cultures that tested positive for FLA were T4 genotype of Acanthamoeba and Acanthamoeba sp. The examination of gill samples using histopathological methods demonstrated the presence of lamellar epithelial hyperplasia, significant fusion of secondary lamellae, and infiltration of inflammatory cells. A multitude of cysts, varying in shape from circular to elliptical, were observed within the gills. The occurrence of interlamellar vesicles and amoeboid organisms could be observed within the epithelial tissue of the gills. In the current study, presence of the Acanthamoeba T4 genotype on the skin and gills of discus fish exhibiting signs of illness in freshwater ornamental fish farms was identified. This observation suggests the potential of a transmission of amoebic infection from ornamental fish to humans, thereby highlighting the need for further investigation into this infection among ornamental fish maintained as pets, as well as individuals who interact with them and their environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hooman Rahmati-Holasoo
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Niyyati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Marziye Fatemi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mahdavi Abhari
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Shokrpoor
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Alireza Nassiri
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amin Marandi
- Department of Aquatic Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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Haldar SN, Banerjee K, Modak D, Mondal A, Sharma C, Vasireddy T, Karad RK, Patel HB, Majumdar D, Bhattacharjee B, Khurana S, Ghosh T, Guha SK, Saha B. Case Report: A Series of Three Meningoencephalitis Cases Caused by Acanthamoeba spp. from Eastern India. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2024; 110:246-249. [PMID: 38190743 PMCID: PMC10859797 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. are rare etiological agents of meningoencephalitis with high mortality. We present three cases of Acanthamoeba meningoencephalitis in immunocompetent individuals from Eastern India. The first patient presented with fever and headache; the second with headache, visual disturbance, and squint; and the third presented in a drowsy state. The cases presented on March 3, 18, and 21, 2023 respectively. The first two patients had concomitant tubercular meningitis for which they received antitubercular therapy and steroid. Their cerebrospinal fluid showed slight lymphocytic pleocytosis and increased protein. The diagnosis was done by microscopy, culture, and polymerase chain reaction. They received a combination therapy comprising rifampicin, fluconazole, and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. The first patient additionally received miltefosine. She responded well to therapy and survived, but the other two patients died despite intensive care. Detection of three cases within a period of 1 month from Eastern India is unusual. It is imperative to sensitize healthcare providers about Acanthamoeba meningoencephalitis to facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumendra Nath Haldar
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Advanced Microbiology, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Dolanchampa Modak
- Department of Tropical Medicine, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
| | - Agnibho Mondal
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Advanced Microbiology, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
| | - Chayan Sharma
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Teja Vasireddy
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Advanced Microbiology, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
| | - Rucha Kalyan Karad
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Advanced Microbiology, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
| | - Hardik Bharatbhai Patel
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Advanced Microbiology, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
| | - Debajyoti Majumdar
- Department of Tropical Medicine, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
| | - Boudhayan Bhattacharjee
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Advanced Microbiology, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
| | - Sumeeta Khurana
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Tapashi Ghosh
- Department of Microbiology, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
| | | | - Bibhuti Saha
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Advanced Microbiology, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata, India
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Ilyas M, Stapleton F, Willcox MDP, Henriquez F, Peguda HK, Rayamajhee B, Zahid T, Petsoglou C, Carnt NA. Epidemiology of and Genetic Factors Associated with Acanthamoeba Keratitis. Pathogens 2024; 13:142. [PMID: 38392880 PMCID: PMC10892102 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13020142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a severe, rare protozoal infection of the cornea. Acanthamoeba can survive in diverse habitats and at extreme temperatures. AK is mostly seen in contact lens wearers whose lenses have become contaminated or who have a history of water exposure, and in those without contact lens wear who have experienced recent eye trauma involving contaminated soil or water. Infection usually results in severe eye pain, photophobia, inflammation, and corneal epithelial defects. The pathophysiology of this infection is multifactorial, including the production of cytotoxic proteases by Acanthamoeba that degrades the corneal epithelial basement membrane and induces the death of ocular surface cells, resulting in degradation of the collagen-rich corneal stroma. AK can be prevented by avoiding risk factors, which includes avoiding water contact, such as swimming or showering in contact lenses, and wearing protective goggles when working on the land. AK is mostly treated with an antimicrobial therapy of biguanides alone or in combination with diaminidines, although the commercial availability of these medicines is variable. Other than anti-amoeba therapies, targeting host immune pathways in Acanthamoeba disease may lead to the development of vaccines or antibody therapeutics which could transform the management of AK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ilyas
- Primary & Secondary Healthcare Department, Punjab 54000, Pakistan; (M.I.)
| | - Fiona Stapleton
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia (H.K.P.)
| | - Mark D. P. Willcox
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia (H.K.P.)
| | - Fiona Henriquez
- School of Health and Life Sciences, The University of the West of Scotland, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK
| | - Hari Kumar Peguda
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia (H.K.P.)
| | - Binod Rayamajhee
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia (H.K.P.)
| | - Tasbiha Zahid
- Primary & Secondary Healthcare Department, Punjab 54000, Pakistan; (M.I.)
| | | | - Nicole A. Carnt
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia (H.K.P.)
- Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
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Akbar N, Siddiqui R, El-Gamal MI, Zaraei SO, Saeed BQ, Alawfi BS, Khan NA. Potential anti-amoebic activity of sulfonate- and sulfamate-containing carboxamide derivatives against pathogenic Acanthamoeba castellanii belonging to the genotype T4. Parasitol Int 2024; 98:102814. [PMID: 37806551 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2023.102814] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba are ubiquitously distributed in the environment and can cause infection of the central nervous system as well a sight-threatening eye infection. Herein, the potential anti-amoebic activity of a series of sulfonate/sulfamate derivatives against pathogenic A. castellanii was evaluated. These compounds were tested using several assays namely amoebicidal, adhesion, excystation, cytotoxic, and cytopathogenicity. Amoebicidal assays revealed that the selected compounds reduced amoebae viability significantly (P < 0.05), and exhibited IC50 values at two-digit micromolar concentrations. Sulfamate derivatives 1j & 1k inhibited 50% of amoebae at 30.65 μM and 27.21 μM, respectively. The tested compounds blocked amoebae binding to host cells as well as inhibited amoebae excystation. Notably, the selected derivatives exhibited minimal human cell cytotoxicity but reduced parasite-mediated host cell damage. Overall, our study showed that sulfamate derivatives 1j & 1k have anti-amoebic potential and offer a promising avenue in the development of potential anti-amoebic drug candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Akbar
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Microbiota Research Center, Istinye University, Istanbul 34010, Turkey; College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mohammed I El-Gamal
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Seyed-Omar Zaraei
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Balsam Qubais Saeed
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Bader Saleem Alawfi
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madinah 42353, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Microbiota Research Center, Istinye University, Istanbul 34010, Turkey; Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates.
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26
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Haapanen S, Barker H, Carta F, Supuran CT, Parkkila S. Novel Drug Screening Assay for Acanthamoeba castellanii and the Anti-Amoebic Effect of Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors. J Med Chem 2024; 67:152-164. [PMID: 38150360 PMCID: PMC10788897 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.3c01020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba castellanii is an amoeba that inhabits soil and water in every part of the world. Acanthamoeba infection of the eye causes keratitis and can lead to a loss of vision. Current treatment options are only moderately effective, have multiple harmful side effects, and are tedious. In our study, we developed a novel drug screening method to define the inhibitory properties of potential new drugs against A. castellanii in vitro. We found that the clinically used carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, acetazolamide, ethoxzolamide, and dorzolamide, have promising antiamoebic properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanna Haapanen
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, FI-33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Harlan Barker
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, FI-33520 Tampere, Finland
- Fimlab
Ltd, Tampere University Hospital, FI-33520 Tampere, Finland
| | - Fabrizio Carta
- Neurofarba
Department, Sezione di Chimica Farmaceutica e Nutraceutica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Via U. Schiff 6, Sesto Fiorentino, I-50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Claudiu T. Supuran
- Neurofarba
Department, Sezione di Chimica Farmaceutica e Nutraceutica, Università degli Studi di Firenze, Via U. Schiff 6, Sesto Fiorentino, I-50019 Firenze, Italy
| | - Seppo Parkkila
- Faculty
of Medicine and Health Technology, Tampere
University, FI-33520 Tampere, Finland
- Fimlab
Ltd, Tampere University Hospital, FI-33520 Tampere, Finland
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27
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Mahdavi Poor B, Rashedi J, Asgharzadeh V, Mirmazhary A, Gheitarani N. Proteases of Acanthamoeba. Parasitol Res 2023; 123:19. [PMID: 38063887 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-08059-z] [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: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The members of genus Acanthamoeba are the etiological agent of uncommon but severe or even fatal opportunistic infections in human beings. The presence of different classes of intracellular and extracellular proteases including serine proteases, cysteine proteases, and metalloproteases has been well documented in environmental and clinical isolates of Acanthamoeba spp. However, the role of the proteolytic enzymes in physiological, biological, and pathological mechanisms of the amoeba remains partially investigated. Some attempts have been conducted using various methods to determine the profile of proteases (number, class, optimal conditions, and activity of the enzymes), and possible pathogenicity mechanism of the proteolytic enzymes (various protein substrate degradation, cytopathic effect on different cell lines). In some cases, it was attempted to correlate intracellular and extracellular protease profile with pathogenicity potential of strains. This review revealed that the protease profile of different strains of Acanthamoeba was extremely complex, therefore, further comprehensive studies with application of a combination of various methods may help to elucidate the role of the enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behroz Mahdavi Poor
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Golgasht Ave, Azadi St, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Jalil Rashedi
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Golgasht Ave, Azadi St, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Vahid Asgharzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amirali Mirmazhary
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Paramedicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Golgasht Ave, Azadi St, Tabriz, Iran
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28
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Rodríguez-Expósito RL, Sifaoui I, Reyes-Batlle M, Fuchs F, Scheid PL, Piñero JE, Sutak R, Lorenzo-Morales J. Induction of Programmed Cell Death in Acanthamoeba culbertsoni by the Repurposed Compound Nitroxoline. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:2081. [PMID: 38136200 PMCID: PMC10740438 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12122081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba is a ubiquitous genus of amoebae that can act as opportunistic parasites in both humans and animals, causing a variety of ocular, nervous and dermal pathologies. Despite advances in Acanthamoeba therapy, the management of patients with Acanthamoeba infections remains a challenge for health services. Therefore, there is a need to search for new active substances against Acanthamoebae. In the present study, we evaluated the amoebicidal activity of nitroxoline against the trophozoite and cyst stages of six different strains of Acanthamoeba. The strain A. griffini showed the lowest IC50 value in the trophozoite stage (0.69 ± 0.01 µM), while the strain A. castellanii L-10 showed the lowest IC50 value in the cyst stage (0.11 ± 0.03 µM). In addition, nitroxoline induced in treated trophozoites of A. culbertsoni features compatibles with apoptosis and autophagy pathways, including chromatin condensation, mitochondrial malfunction, oxidative stress, changes in cell permeability and the formation of autophagic vacuoles. Furthermore, proteomic analysis of the effect of nitroxoline on trophozoites revealed that this antibiotic induced the overexpression and the downregulation of proteins involved in the apoptotic process and in metabolic and biosynthesis pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén L. Rodríguez-Expósito
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (R.L.R.-E.); (I.S.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Ines Sifaoui
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (R.L.R.-E.); (I.S.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - María Reyes-Batlle
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (R.L.R.-E.); (I.S.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Frieder Fuchs
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Hospital Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, 50935 Cologne, Germany;
- Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Bundeswehr Central Hospital Koblenz, 56072 Koblenz, Germany
| | - Patrick L. Scheid
- Parasitology Lab., Central Military Hospital Koblenz, 56072 Koblenz, Germany
- Department of Biology, Working Group Parasitology and Infection Biology, University Koblenz, 56070 Koblenz, Germany
| | - José E. Piñero
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (R.L.R.-E.); (I.S.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Robert Sutak
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Jacob Lorenzo-Morales
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (R.L.R.-E.); (I.S.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
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29
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Rozo-Montoya N, Bedoya-Urrego K, Alzate JF. Monitoring potentially pathogenic protists in sewage sludge using Metataxonomics. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2023; 33:e00210. [PMID: 37808003 PMCID: PMC10558727 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2023.e00210] [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: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Intestinal parasites continue to pose a significant threat to human health worldwide, particularly among children. Contaminated water and soil serve as major transmission vehicles for these parasites and intestinal protists are among the most prevalent parasites in both developed and developing nations. Traditionally, parasites have been studied using human or animal fecal samples, while studying them in environmental samples has been challenging due to technical limitations. However, advancements in Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and bioinformatic approaches now enable the detection of parasite DNA in environmental samples. In this study, we applied a metataxonomic and phylogenetic strategy to detect and classify DNA of protists present in sewage sludge from two major cities in Colombia: Medellin and Cali. We successfully detected several human pathogenic parasites including Giardia intestinalis, Entamoeba histolytica, and Blastocystis sp., among other protists, in all sludge samples examined. We also investigated the entry and exit of parasite DNA from the San Fernando wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). We observed a higher number of parasite DNA sequences in the plant's influent wastewater, but we also detected the discharge of DNA from pathogenic parasites in both effluent waters and biosolids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Rozo-Montoya
- Centro Nacional de Secuenciación Genómica CNSG, Sede de Investigación Universitaria-SIU, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Katherine Bedoya-Urrego
- Centro Nacional de Secuenciación Genómica CNSG, Sede de Investigación Universitaria-SIU, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
| | - Juan F. Alzate
- Centro Nacional de Secuenciación Genómica CNSG, Sede de Investigación Universitaria-SIU, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
- Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
- Grupo Pediaciencias, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
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30
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Siddiqui R, El-Gamal MI, Sajeev S, Zaraei SO, Khan NA. Novel anti-Acanthamoebic properties of raloxifene sulfonate/sulfamate derivatives. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2023; 256:111582. [PMID: 37562558 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2023.111582] [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: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba are known to cause a vision threatening eye infection typically due to contact lens wear, and an infection of the central nervous system. The ability of these amoebae to switch phenotypes, from an active trophozoite to a resistant cyst form is not well understood; the cyst stage is often resistant to chemotherapy, which is of concern given the rise of contact lens use and the ineffective disinfectants available, versus the cyst stage. Herein, for the first time, a range of raloxifene sulfonate/sulfamate derivatives which target nucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase enzymes, were assessed using amoebicidal and excystation tests versus the trophozoite and cyst stage of Acanthamoeba. Moreover, the potential for cytopathogenicity inhibition in amoebae was assessed. Each of the derivatives showed considerable anti-amoebic activity as well as the ability to suppress phenotypic switching (except for compound 1a). Selected raloxifene derivatives reduced Acanthamoeba-mediated host cell damage using lactate dehydrogenase assay. These findings suggest that pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase enzymes may be valuable targets against Acanthamoeba infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates; Microbiota Research Center, Istinye University, Istanbul 34010, Turkey
| | - Mohammed I El-Gamal
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt.
| | - Sreedevi Sajeev
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, 27272, Unites Arab Emirates
| | - Seyed-Omar Zaraei
- Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Microbiota Research Center, Istinye University, Istanbul 34010, Turkey; Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates.
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31
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Kim MJ, Moon EK, Jo HJ, Quan FS, Kong HH. Phagocytosis-associated genes in Acanthamoeba castellanii feeding on Escherichia coli. PARASITES, HOSTS AND DISEASES 2023; 61:397-404. [PMID: 38043535 PMCID: PMC10693966 DOI: 10.3347/phd.23088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba species are free-living amoebae those are widely distributed in the environment. They feed on various microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and algae. Although majority of the microbes phagocytosed by Acanthamoeba spp. are digested, some pathogenic bacteria thrive within them. Here, we identified the roles of 3 phagocytosis-associated genes (ACA1_077100, ACA1_175060, and AFD36229.1) in A. castellanii. These 3 genes were upregulated after the ingestion of Escherichia coli. However, after the ingestion of Legionella pneumophila, the expression of these 3 genes was not altered after the consumption of L. pneumophila. Furthermore, A. castellanii transfected with small interfering RNS (siRNA) targeting the 3 phagocytosis-associated genes failed to digest phagocytized E. coli. Silencing of ACA1_077100 disabled phagosome formation in the E. coli-ingesting A. castellanii. Alternatively, silencing of ACA1_175060 enabled phagosome formation; however, phagolysosome formation was inhibited. Moreover, suppression of AFD36229.1 expression prevented E. coli digestion and consequently led to the rupturing of A. castellanii. Our results demonstrated that the ACA1_077100, ACA1_175060, and AFD36229.1 genes of Acanthamoeba played crucial roles not only in the formation of phagosome and phagolysosome but also in the digestion of E. coli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jeong Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Korea
| | - Eun-Kyung Moon
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul 02447,
Korea
| | - Hye-Jeong Jo
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul 02447,
Korea
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, Core Research Institute, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447,
Korea
| | - Hyun-Hee Kong
- Department of Parasitology, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan 49201,
Korea
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32
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de Aquino ILM, Barcelos MG, Machado TB, Serafim MSM, Abrahão JS. Surface fibrils on the particles of nucleocytoviruses: A review. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2023; 248:2045-2052. [PMID: 37955170 PMCID: PMC10800130 DOI: 10.1177/15353702231208410] [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] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The capsid has a central role in viruses' life cycle. Although one of its major functions is to protect the viral genome, the capsid may be composed of elements that, at some point, promote interaction with host cells and trigger infection. Considering the scenario of multiple origins of viruses along the viral evolution, a substantial number of capsid shapes, sizes, and symmetries have been described. In this context, capsids of giant viruses (GV) that infect protists have drawn the attention of the scientific community, especially in the last 20 years, specifically for having bacterial-like dimensions with hundreds of different proteins and exclusive features. For instance, the surface fibrils present on the mimivirus capsid are one of the most intriguing features of the known virosphere. They are 150-nm-long structures attached to a 450-nm capsid, resulting in a particle with a hairy appearance. Surface fibrils have also been described in the capsids of other nucleocytoviruses, although they may differ substantially among them. In this mini review for non-experts, we compile the most important available information on surface fibrils of nucleocytoviruses, discussing their putative functions, composition, length, organization, and origins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabella Luiza Martins de Aquino
- Laboratório de Vírus, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Matheus Gomes Barcelos
- Laboratório de Vírus, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Talita Bastos Machado
- Laboratório de Vírus, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Mateus Sá Magalhães Serafim
- Laboratório de Vírus, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Jônatas Santos Abrahão
- Laboratório de Vírus, Departamento de Microbiologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil
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33
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Bunma C, Noinarin P, Phetcharaburanin J, Chareonsudjai S. Burkholderia pseudomallei biofilm resists Acanthamoeba sp. grazing and produces 8-O-4'-diferulic acid, a superoxide scavenging metabolite after passage through the amoeba. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16578. [PMID: 37789212 PMCID: PMC10547685 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43824-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Burkholderia pseudomallei, an etiological agent of melioidosis is an environmental bacterium that can survive as an intracellular pathogen. The biofilm produced by B. pseudomallei is crucial for cellular pathogenesis of melioidosis. The purpose of this investigation is to explore the role of biofilm in survival of B. pseudomallei during encounters with Acanthamoeba sp. using B. pseudomallei H777 (a biofilm wild type), M10 (a biofilm defect mutant) and C17 (a biofilm-complemented strain). The results demonstrated similar adhesion to amoebae by both the biofilm wild type and biofilm mutant strains. There was higher initial internalisation, but the difference diminished after longer encounter with the amoeba. Interestingly, confocal laser scanning microscopy demonstrated that pre-formed biofilm of B. pseudomallei H777 and C17 were markedly more persistent in the face of Acanthamoeba sp. grazing than that of M10. Metabolomic analysis revealed a significant increased level of 8-O-4'-diferulic acid, a superoxide scavenger metabolite, in B. pseudomallei H777 serially passaged in Acanthamoeba sp. The interaction between B. pseudomallei with a free-living amoeba may indicate the evolutionary pathway that enables the bacterium to withstand superoxide radicals in intracellular environments. This study supports the hypothesis that B. pseudomallei biofilm persists under grazing by amoebae and suggests a strategy of metabolite production that turns this bacterium from saprophyte to intracellular pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chainarong Bunma
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Parumon Noinarin
- Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Jutarop Phetcharaburanin
- Department of Systems Biosciences and Computational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
- Khon Kaen University Phenome Center, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
- Cholangiocarcinoma Research Institute, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Sorujsiri Chareonsudjai
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.
- Research and Diagnostic Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases (RCEID), Khon Kaen, Thailand.
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Borella da Silva TC, Dos Santos DL, Rott MB. First report of free-living amoebae in sewage treatment plants in Porto Alegre, southern Brazil. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2023; 21:1611-1624. [PMID: 37902214 PMCID: wh_2023_261 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2023.261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
Free-living amoebae (FLA) are amphizoic protozoans with a cosmopolitan distribution. Some strains of species are associated with infections in humans. They feed on microorganisms by phagocytosis; however, some of these can become endocytobionts by resisting this process and taking shelter inside the amoeba. The whole world is experiencing increasing shortage of water, and sewage is being reused, so the study of this environment is important in public health context. The objective of this work was to identify FLA present in sewage treatment plants in Porto Alegre, Brazil. About 1 L samples were collected from eight stations (raw and treated sewage) in January, February, July, and August 2022. The samples were sown in monoxenic culture, and the isolated amoebae were subjected to morphological and molecular identification. Polymerase chain reaction results indicated the presence of the genus Acanthamoeba in 100% of the samples. Gene sequencing showed the presence of Acanthamoeba lenticulata and Acanthamoeba polyphaga - T5 and T4 genotypes - respectively, which are related to pathogenicity. The environment where the sewage is released can be used in recreational activities, exposing individuals to potential interactions with these amoebae and their potential endocytobionts, which may pose risks to public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thaisla Cristiane Borella da Silva
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil E-mail:
| | - Daniel Leal Dos Santos
- Faculty of Geography, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul, Ipiranga Avenue, N 6681, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul 90619-900, Brazil
| | - Marilise Brittes Rott
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Institute of Basic Health Sciences, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil
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Park JH, Park CY. Effects of In Vitro Combination of Nitric Oxide Donors and Hypochlorite on Acanthamoeba castellanii Viability. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2023; 12:23. [PMID: 37768280 PMCID: PMC10541239 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.12.9.23] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the combined anti-Acanthamoeba effects of nitric oxide (NO) donors and hypochlorite to maximize amoebicidal outcomes while minimizing damage to human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs). Methods Acanthamoeba castellanii and primary cultured HCECs and keratocytes were treated with sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), NO donors (sodium nitroprusside [SNP] and sodium nitrite [NaNO2]), or a combination of hypochlorite and NO donors. The viability of A. castellanii, HCECs, and keratocytes was assessed. Minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and fractional inhibitory concentration of NaOCl and NO donors were determined. The activation of mammalian targets of rapamycin (mTOR) and ERK and the expression of nitrite reductase and Nrf2 were assessed in HCECs using Western blot analysis. The cysticidal effects of combined NaOCl and NO donors were also evaluated. Results A dose-dependent toxicity was observed in A. castellanii, HCECs, and keratocytes when treated with NaOCl and SNP. The range of tested NaNO2 concentrations showed no significant toxicity to HCECs; however, dose-dependent toxicity to A. castellanii was observed. The MIC of NaOCl against HCECs and A. castellanii was 8.0 mg/mL. The MIC of NaNO2 and SNP was 500 mM and 10 mM in both HCECs and A. castellanii, respectively. Weak attenuation of the mTOR and ERK phosphorylation was observed and Nrf2 expression decreased slightly after exposure of HCECs to 2.0 mg/mL NaOCl. For the combination treatment, NaOCl (0.125 mg/mL) was selected based on the safety of HCECs and the toxicity of A. castellanii. A more potent anti-Acanthamoeba effect and HCEC toxicity were observed when NaOCl was combined with SNP rather than NaNO2. Conclusions Combined NaOCl and NO donors had a stronger anti-Acanthamoeba effect compared to either drug alone. Translational Relevance This study demonstrates that the combined use of various drugs for the treatment of Acanthamoeba infection can enhance the anti-Acanthamoeba effect while minimizing the toxicity of the individual drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joo-Hee Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dongguk University, Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, South Korea
| | - Choul Yong Park
- Department of Ophthalmology, Dongguk University, Ilsan Hospital, Goyang, South Korea
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Abdul Halim R, Mohd Hussain RH, Aazmi S, Halim H, Ahmed Khan N, Siddiqui R, Shahrul Anuar T. Molecular characterisation and potential pathogenicity analysis of Acanthamoeba isolated from recreational lakes in Peninsular Malaysia. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2023; 21:1342-1356. [PMID: 37756200 PMCID: wh_2023_186 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2023.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The present study aims to identify the Acanthamoeba genotypes and their pathogenic potential in three recreational lakes in Malaysia. Thirty water samples were collected by purposive sampling between June and July 2022. Physical parameters of water quality were measured in situ while chemical and microbiological analyses were performed in the laboratory. The samples were vacuum filtered through nitrate filter, cultured onto non-nutrient agar and observed microscopically for amoebic growth. DNAs from positive samples were extracted and made to react with polymerase chain reaction using specific primers. Physiological tolerance tests were performed for all Acanthamoeba-positive samples. The presence of Acanthamoeba was found in 26 of 30 water samples by PCR. The highest rate in lake waters contaminated with amoeba was in Biru Lake (100%), followed by Titiwangsa Lake (80%) and Shah Alam Lake (80%). ORP, water temperature, pH and DO were found to be significantly correlated with the presence of Acanthamoeba. The most common genotype was T4. Temperature- and osmo-tolerance tests showed that 8 (30.8%) of the genotypes T4, T9 and T11 were highly pathogenic. The presence of genotype T4 in habitats related to human activities supports the relevance of this amoeba as a potential public health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohaya Abdul Halim
- Centre for Medical Laboratory Technology Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia E-mail:
| | - Rosnani Hanim Mohd Hussain
- Centre for Medical Laboratory Technology Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Shafiq Aazmi
- School of Biology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; Microbiome Health and Environment (MiHeaRT), Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hasseri Halim
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; Integrative Pharmacogenomics Institute, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey; College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tengku Shahrul Anuar
- Centre for Medical Laboratory Technology Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; Microbiome Health and Environment (MiHeaRT), Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
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Carvalho JHDS, Nascimento JKC, Silva KGV, Silveira Neto S, Macedo ATD, Lima França H, Ferreira LDR, Silva RDS, Sa JC, Ramos DG, Marques DDAV, Furst C, Santos DA, Santos JRA, Holanda RA. Yeast-amoeba interaction influences murine cryptococcosis. Microbes Infect 2023; 25:105153. [PMID: 37244475 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2023.105153] [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: 08/04/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The virulence of Cryptococcus spp. is modulated in the natural environment through interaction with abiotic and biotic factors, and this can occasionally have implications for the progression of cryptococcosis in mammals. Hence, we evaluated whether the prior interaction of highly virulent Cryptococcus gattii strain R265 with Acanthamoeba castellanii influenced the progression of cryptococcosis. The influence of the capsule on endocytosis was evaluated using amoeba and yeast morphometrics. Mice were intratracheally infected with yeast re-isolated from the amoeba (Interaction), yeast without prior contact with the amoeba (Non-Interaction), or sterile phosphate-buffered saline (SHAM). Morbidity signs and symptoms were monitored during the survival curve, while cytokine and fungal burden measurements and histopathological analysis were performed on the 10th day post infection. Morbidity and mortality parameters in experimental cryptococcosis were influenced by the prior interaction of yeast with amoeba, which led to phenotypic changes in the cryptococcal cells, polysaccharide secretion, and their tolerance to oxidative stress. Our results suggest that a prior yeast-amoeba interaction modulates yeast virulence, which is associated with a greater tolerance to oxidative stress related to the exo-polysaccharide content and influences the progression of cryptococcal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Sebastiao Silveira Neto
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Microrganismos Patogênicos, Universidade CEUMA, São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil
| | | | - Hermeson Lima França
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Microrganismos Patogênicos, Universidade CEUMA, São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil
| | - Larissa Dos Reis Ferreira
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Microrganismos Patogênicos, Universidade CEUMA, São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil
| | - Rayssa de Sousa Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Microrganismos Patogênicos, Universidade CEUMA, São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil
| | - Joicy Cortez Sa
- Laboratório de Imunologia, Universidade CEUMA, São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil
| | - Diego Gomes Ramos
- Laboratório Integrado de Biotecnologia Aplicada, Universidade de Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | - Cinthia Furst
- Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Daniel Assis Santos
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Rodrigo Assuncao Holanda
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Microrganismos Patogênicos, Universidade CEUMA, São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil.
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Moreno-Mesonero L, Soler L, Amorós I, Moreno Y, Ferrús M, Alonso J. Protozoan parasites and free-living amoebae contamination in organic leafy green vegetables and strawberries from Spain. Food Waterborne Parasitol 2023; 32:e00200. [PMID: 37405064 PMCID: PMC10316001 DOI: 10.1016/j.fawpar.2023.e00200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, the presence of Acanthamoeba spp., Blastocystis sp., Cryptosporidium spp., Cyclospora cayetanensis, Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia sp., Toxoplasma gondii and Vermamoeba vermiformis was assessed in organic leafy green vegetables (lettuce, spinach, cabbage) and fruits (strawberry), which are usually consumed raw. A total of 110 organic samples were collected in Valencia (Spain). Protozoa were concentrated before detection by immunofluorescence (Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia sp.) or real-time qPCR (Acanthamoeba spp., Blastocystis sp., C. cayetanensis, E. histolytica, T. gondii and V. vermiformis). The most abundant protozoa in organic vegetables and berry fruits were Acanthamoeba (65.5%), followed by T. gondii (37.2%), V. vermiformis (17.3%), C. cayetanensis (12.7%), Cryptosporidium spp. (6.8%), Blastocystis sp. (1.8%) and Giardia sp. (1.7%). E. histolytica was not found in any of the organic samples. Thus, results showed that consumers can be exposed to protozoan parasites by consuming organic vegetables and berry fruits. This is the first report in Spain describing the presence of the protozoan pathogens Acanthamoeba spp., Blastocystis sp., C. cayetanensis, T. gondii and V. vermiformis, Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia sp. in organic fresh produce. The results of this research will help determine the risk of foodborne protozoan parasites on organic leafy greens and strawberries that are available at local markets.
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Affiliation(s)
- L. Moreno-Mesonero
- Instituto de Ingeniería del Agua y Medio Ambiente (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Centro Avanzado de Microbiología de Alimentos, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - L. Soler
- Instituto de Ingeniería del Agua y Medio Ambiente (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - I. Amorós
- Instituto de Ingeniería del Agua y Medio Ambiente (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - Y. Moreno
- Instituto de Ingeniería del Agua y Medio Ambiente (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain
| | - M.A. Ferrús
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Centro Avanzado de Microbiología de Alimentos, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - J.L. Alonso
- Instituto de Ingeniería del Agua y Medio Ambiente (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022, Valencia, Spain
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Sharma C, Khurana S, Megha K, Thakur A, Bhatia A, Gupta A. Assessment of pathogenic potential of Acanthamoeba isolates by in vitro and in vivo tests. Parasitol Res 2023; 122:2109-2118. [PMID: 37418019 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07910-7] [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: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba are free-living protozoa present ubiquitously in numerous environmental reservoirs that exist as an actively feeding trophozoite or a dormant cyst stage. The pathogenic Acanthamoeba are known to cause Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) and granulomatous amoebic encephalitis (GAE). Despite their omnipresence, the number of infections is quite low. The reason behind this low frequency of Acanthamoeba infections could be the existence of many non-pathogenic strains or a successful host immune response to these infections. Studies in the past have proposed a few physiological parameters for the differentiation of pathogenic and non-pathogenic strains. Additionally, in vivo experiments are known to play an essential role in understanding the virulence of parasites, immunological aspects, and disease pathogenesis. The thermotolerance (30 °C, 37 °C, and 40 °C) and osmotolerance (0.5 M, 1 M, and 1.5 M) tests were performed on 43 Acanthamoeba isolates from patients with keratitis (n = 22), encephalitis (n = 5), and water samples (n = 16). In addition, the genotype of 10 Acanthamoeba isolates (keratitis (n = 2), encephalitis (n = 2), water (n = 6)) was determined and were then evaluated for pathogenicity on mouse model by inducing Acanthamoeba keratitis and amoebic encephalitis. The results of the thermotolerance and osmotolerance assays categorized 29/43 (67.4%) isolates as pathogenic, 8 as low pathogenic (18.6%), and the remaining 6 (13.9%) as non-pathogenic. The 10 Acanthamoeba isolates were categorized as T11 (5 isolates), T5 (2 isolates), T4 (2 isolates), and T10 (1 isolate) genotypes. Out of 10 Acanthamoeba isolates, 9 were successful in establishing AK, amoebic encephalitis, or both in the mice model, and a single isolate was found non-pathogenic. Two isolates from water samples were non-pathogenic in the physiological tests but successfully established Acanthamoeba infection in the mice model. The results of the physiological assays and in vivo experiments were analogous for 7 isolates while 1 isolate from the water was low pathogenic in the physiological assays but failed to produce pathogenicity during in vivo experiments. The physiological parameters are not very dependable to test the pathogenic potential of Acanthamoeba isolates, and thus results must always be validated by in vivo experiments. There is no infallible approach for determining the potential pathogenicity of environmental isolates of Acanthamoeba because several parameters regulate the pathogenic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chayan Sharma
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Sumeeta Khurana
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
| | - Kirti Megha
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Anchal Thakur
- Advanced Eye Centre, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Alka Bhatia
- Department of Experimental Medicine and Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
| | - Amit Gupta
- Advanced Eye Centre, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh, 160012, India
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Soler L, Moreno Y, Moreno-Mesonero L, Amorós I, Alonso JL, Ferrús MA. Microbiome of Free-Living Amoebae (FLA) Isolated from Fresh Organic Produce: Potential Risk to Consumers? Foods 2023; 12:3102. [PMID: 37628102 PMCID: PMC10453443 DOI: 10.3390/foods12163102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In response to growing global interest in organic agriculture, this study delves into the microbial landscape of organically grown raw produce with a focus on food safety. Vegetables that are consumed raw are potential vehicles for the transmission of any type of microorganism capable of causing human disease. Free-living amoebae (FLA) are ubiquitous protozoa found in many ecosystems and can serve as hosts to pathogenic bacteria. So far, data regarding the FLA bacterial microbiome in fresh produce remain scarce and are non-existent for those of organic origin. Thus, the aim of this preliminary work is to characterize the microbiome of FLA in commonly consumed raw vegetables to know their possible implications for consumers. A total of 40 organic cabbage, lettuce, spinach, and strawberry samples were analyzed. FLA were found in all samples, and their bacterial microbiome was obtained via amplicon sequencing using the Illumina MiSeq platform and pair-end protocol. Acanthamoeba spp. and Vermamoeba vermiformis were identified via qPCR in 65.0% and 25.0% of the samples, respectively. Regarding the bacterial microbiome of FLA, the most abundant genera were Pseudomonas (1.8-17.8%) and Flavobacterium (1.7-12.6%). Bacteria not previously related to FLA, such as Prosthecobacter or Cellvibrio, are described in this work. Importantly, several bacterial genera found within the FLA microbiome were identified as potential human pathogens, including Pseudomonas, Flavobacterium, Arcobacter, Klebsiella, Mycobacterium, Salmonella and Legionella. This is the first work in which FLA microbiome isolated from organic products has been characterized, underscoring the significance of understanding FLA's role as carriers of pathogenic bacteria in the context of organic food safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Soler
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (L.M.-M.); (I.A.); (J.L.A.)
| | - Yolanda Moreno
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (L.M.-M.); (I.A.); (J.L.A.)
| | - Laura Moreno-Mesonero
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (L.M.-M.); (I.A.); (J.L.A.)
- Biotechnology Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Inmaculada Amorós
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (L.M.-M.); (I.A.); (J.L.A.)
| | - José Luís Alonso
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (L.M.-M.); (I.A.); (J.L.A.)
| | - María Antonia Ferrús
- Biotechnology Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain;
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41
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Soler L, Moreno Y, Moreno-Mesonero L, Amorós I, Alonso JL, Ferrús MA. Microbiome of Free-Living Amoebae (FLA) Isolated from Fresh Organic Produce: Potential Risk to Consumers? Foods 2023; 12:3102. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.3390/foods12163102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In response to growing global interest in organic agriculture, this study delves into the microbial landscape of organically grown raw produce with a focus on food safety. Vegetables that are consumed raw are potential vehicles for the transmission of any type of microorganism capable of causing human disease. Free-living amoebae (FLA) are ubiquitous protozoa found in many ecosystems and can serve as hosts to pathogenic bacteria. So far, data regarding the FLA bacterial microbiome in fresh produce remain scarce and are non-existent for those of organic origin. Thus, the aim of this preliminary work is to characterize the microbiome of FLA in commonly consumed raw vegetables to know their possible implications for consumers. A total of 40 organic cabbage, lettuce, spinach, and strawberry samples were analyzed. FLA were found in all samples, and their bacterial microbiome was obtained via amplicon sequencing using the Illumina MiSeq platform and pair-end protocol. Acanthamoeba spp. and Vermamoeba vermiformis were identified via qPCR in 65.0% and 25.0% of the samples, respectively. Regarding the bacterial microbiome of FLA, the most abundant genera were Pseudomonas (1.8–17.8%) and Flavobacterium (1.7–12.6%). Bacteria not previously related to FLA, such as Prosthecobacter or Cellvibrio, are described in this work. Importantly, several bacterial genera found within the FLA microbiome were identified as potential human pathogens, including Pseudomonas, Flavobacterium, Arcobacter, Klebsiella, Mycobacterium, Salmonella and Legionella. This is the first work in which FLA microbiome isolated from organic products has been characterized, underscoring the significance of understanding FLA’s role as carriers of pathogenic bacteria in the context of organic food safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Soler
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Yolanda Moreno
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Laura Moreno-Mesonero
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
- Biotechnology Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Amorós
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - José Luís Alonso
- Research Institute of Water and Environmental Engineering (IIAMA), Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
| | - María Antonia Ferrús
- Biotechnology Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 Valencia, Spain
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Salazar-Villatoro L, Chávez-Munguía B, Guevara-Estrada CE, Lagunes-Guillén A, Hernández-Martínez D, Castelan-Ramírez I, Omaña-Molina M. Taurine, a Component of the Tear Film, Exacerbates the Pathogenic Mechanisms of Acanthamoeba castellanii in the Ex Vivo Amoebic Keratitis Model. Pathogens 2023; 12:1049. [PMID: 37624009 PMCID: PMC10458499 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12081049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. is the etiological agent of amoebic keratitis. In this study, the effect of taurine in physiological concentrations in tears (195 μM) on trophozoites of Acanthamoeba castellanii through the ex vivo amoebic keratitis model was evaluated. Trophozoites were coincubated with the Syrian golden hamster cornea (Mesocricetus auratus) for 3 and 6 h. Group 1: Control (-). Corneas coincubated with amoebic culture medium and taurine. Group 2: Control (+). Corneas coincubated with trophozoites without taurine. Group 3: Corneas coincubated with taurine 15 min before adding trophozoites. Group 4: Trophozoites coincubated 15 min with taurine before placing them on the cornea. Group 5: Corneas coincubated for 15 min with trophozoites; subsequently, taurine was added. Results are similar for both times, as evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. As expected, in the corneas of Group 1, no alterations were observed in the corneal epithelium. In the corneas of Group 2, few adhered trophozoites were observed on the corneal surface initiating migrations through cell junctions as previously described; however, in corneas of Groups 3, 4 and 5, abundant trophozoites were observed, penetrating through different corneal cell areas, emitting food cups and destabilizing corneal surface in areas far from cell junctions. Significant differences were confirmed in trophozoites adherence coincubated with taurine (p < 0.05). Taurine does not prevent the adhesion and invasion of the amoebae, nor does it favor its detachment once these have adhered to the cornea, suggesting that taurine in the physiological concentrations found in tears stimulates pathogenic mechanisms of A. castellanii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lizbeth Salazar-Villatoro
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Ciudad de Mexico 07360, Mexico; (L.S.-V.); (B.C.-M.); (A.L.-G.)
| | - Bibiana Chávez-Munguía
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Ciudad de Mexico 07360, Mexico; (L.S.-V.); (B.C.-M.); (A.L.-G.)
| | - Celia Esther Guevara-Estrada
- Laboratorio de Amibas Anfizóicas, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico; (C.E.G.-E.); (D.H.-M.); (I.C.-R.)
| | - Anel Lagunes-Guillén
- Departamento de Infectómica y Patogénesis Molecular, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del IPN, Ciudad de Mexico 07360, Mexico; (L.S.-V.); (B.C.-M.); (A.L.-G.)
| | - Dolores Hernández-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Amibas Anfizóicas, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico; (C.E.G.-E.); (D.H.-M.); (I.C.-R.)
| | - Ismael Castelan-Ramírez
- Laboratorio de Amibas Anfizóicas, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico; (C.E.G.-E.); (D.H.-M.); (I.C.-R.)
| | - Maritza Omaña-Molina
- Laboratorio de Amibas Anfizóicas, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Iztacala, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlalnepantla 54090, Mexico; (C.E.G.-E.); (D.H.-M.); (I.C.-R.)
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Łanocha-Arendarczyk N, Kot K, Baranowska-Bosiacka I, Kupnicka P, Przydalska D, Łanocha A, Chlubek D, Wojciechowska-Koszko I, Kosik-Bogacka DI. Macroelement and Microelement Levels in the Urine in Experimental Acanthamoebiasis. Pathogens 2023; 12:1039. [PMID: 37623999 PMCID: PMC10458488 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12081039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Free-living amoebas can impact the excretion of macroelements and microelements in urine. The aim of the present study was to examine the concentrations of macroelements, including calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), sodium (Na), potassium (K), and magnesium (Mg), as well as microelements such as manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), and chromium (Cr), in the urine during acanthamoebiasis while considering the host's immunological status. This is the first study to show an increase in urinary excretion of Ca, Mn, Cu, Fe, Na, and Cr, along with a decreased excretion of K, in immunocompetent mice 16 days post Acanthamoeba sp. infection. In the final phase of infection (24 dpi), there was a further decrease in urinary K excretion and a lower level of P in Acanthamoeba sp. infected immunocompetent hosts. During acanthamoebiasis in immunosuppressed hosts, increased excretion of Zn, Fe, and Cr was observed at the beginning of the infection, and increased Na excretion only at 16 days post Acanthamoeba sp. infection. Additionally, host immunosuppression affected the concentration of Fe, Cr, Zn, Cu, Mn, and Ca in urine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Łanocha-Arendarczyk
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (N.Ł.-A.); (K.K.); (D.P.)
| | - Karolina Kot
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (N.Ł.-A.); (K.K.); (D.P.)
| | - Irena Baranowska-Bosiacka
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (I.B.-B.); (P.K.); (D.C.)
| | - Patrycja Kupnicka
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (I.B.-B.); (P.K.); (D.C.)
| | - Dagmara Przydalska
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (N.Ł.-A.); (K.K.); (D.P.)
| | - Aleksandra Łanocha
- Department of Haematology and Transplantology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Dariusz Chlubek
- Department of Biochemistry and Medical Chemistry, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland; (I.B.-B.); (P.K.); (D.C.)
| | - Iwona Wojciechowska-Koszko
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Laboratory Medicine, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland;
| | - Danuta Izabela Kosik-Bogacka
- Independent Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Botany, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, 70-204 Szczecin, Poland
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Ferrins L, Buskes MJ, Kapteyn MM, Engels HN, Enos SE, Lu C, Klug DM, Singh B, Quotadamo A, Bachovchin K, Tear WF, Spaulding AE, Forbes KC, Bag S, Rivers M, LeBlanc C, Burchfield E, Armand JR, Diaz-Gonzalez R, Ceballos-Perez G, García-Hernández R, Pérez-Moreno G, Bosch-Navarrete C, Gómez-Liñán C, Ruiz-Pérez LM, Gamarro F, González-Pacanowska D, Navarro M, Mensa-Wilmot K, Pollastri MP, Kyle DE, Rice CA. Identification of novel anti-amoebic pharmacophores from kinase inhibitor chemotypes. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1149145. [PMID: 37234530 PMCID: PMC10206040 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1149145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba species, Naegleria fowleri, and Balamuthia mandrillaris are opportunistic pathogens that cause a range of brain, skin, eye, and disseminated diseases in humans and animals. These pathogenic free-living amoebae (pFLA) are commonly misdiagnosed and have sub-optimal treatment regimens which contribute to the extremely high mortality rates (>90%) when they infect the central nervous system. To address the unmet medical need for effective therapeutics, we screened kinase inhibitor chemotypes against three pFLA using phenotypic drug assays involving CellTiter-Glo 2.0. Herein, we report the activity of the compounds against the trophozoite stage of each of the three amoebae, ranging from nanomolar to low micromolar potency. The most potent compounds that were identified from this screening effort were: 2d (A. castellanii EC50: 0.92 ± 0.3 μM; and N. fowleri EC50: 0.43 ± 0.13 μM), 1c and 2b (N. fowleri EC50s: <0.63 μM, and 0.3 ± 0.21 μM), and 4b and 7b (B. mandrillaris EC50s: 1.0 ± 0.12 μM, and 1.4 ± 0.17 μM, respectively). With several of these pharmacophores already possessing blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability properties, or are predicted to penetrate the BBB, these hits present novel starting points for optimization as future treatments for pFLA-caused diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lori Ferrins
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Melissa J. Buskes
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Madison M. Kapteyn
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Hannah N. Engels
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Suzanne E. Enos
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Chenyang Lu
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
| | - Dana M. Klug
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Baljinder Singh
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Antonio Quotadamo
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Kelly Bachovchin
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Westley F. Tear
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Andrew E. Spaulding
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Katherine C. Forbes
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Seema Bag
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Mitch Rivers
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Catherine LeBlanc
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Erin Burchfield
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jeremy R. Armand
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rosario Diaz-Gonzalez
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina “López-Neyra” Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Gloria Ceballos-Perez
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina “López-Neyra” Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Raquel García-Hernández
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina “López-Neyra” Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Guiomar Pérez-Moreno
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina “López-Neyra” Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Cristina Bosch-Navarrete
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina “López-Neyra” Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Claudia Gómez-Liñán
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina “López-Neyra” Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Luis Miguel Ruiz-Pérez
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina “López-Neyra” Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Francisco Gamarro
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina “López-Neyra” Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Dolores González-Pacanowska
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina “López-Neyra” Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Miguel Navarro
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina “López-Neyra” Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), Granada, Spain
| | - Kojo Mensa-Wilmot
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Kennesaw State University, Kennesaw, GA, United States
| | - Michael P. Pollastri
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Dennis E. Kyle
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Christopher A. Rice
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, United States
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Chomicz L, Szaflik JP, Szostakowska B, Izdebska J, Baltaza W, Łazicka-Gałecka M, Kuligowska A, Machalińska A, Zawadzki PJ, Szaflik J. Successive Acanthamoeba Corneal Isolates Identified in Poland Monitored in Terms of In Vitro Dynamics. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1174. [PMID: 37317148 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amoebae of the genus Acanthamoeba cause a sight-threatening infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis. It is considered a rare disease in humans but poses an increasing threat to public health worldwide, including in Poland. We present successive isolates from serious keratitis preliminary examined in terms of the identification and monitoring of, among others, the in vitro dynamics of the detected strains. METHODS Clinical and combined laboratory methods were applied; causative agents of the keratitis were identified at the cellular and molecular levels; isolates were cultivated in an axenic liquid medium and regularly monitored. RESULTS In a phase-contrast microscope, Acanthamoeba sp. cysts and live trophozoites from corneal samples and in vitro cultures were assessed on the cellular level. Some isolates that were tested at the molecular level were found to correspond to A. mauritanensis, A. culbertsoni, A. castellanii, genotype T4. There was variability in the amoebic strain dynamics; high viability was expressed as trofozoites' long duration ability to intense multiply. CONCLUSIONS Some strains from keratitis under diagnosis verification and dynamics assessment showed enough adaptive capability to grow in an axenic medium, allowing them to exhibit significant thermal tolerance. In vitro monitoring that was suitable for verifying in vivo examinations, in particular, was useful to detect the strong viability and pathogenic potential of successive Acanthamoeba strains with a long duration of high dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidia Chomicz
- Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-575 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jacek P Szaflik
- Department of Ophthalmology, Independent Public Clinical Ophthalmology Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-576 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Beata Szostakowska
- Department of Tropical Parasitology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Gdansk, 80-210 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Justyna Izdebska
- Department of Ophthalmology, Independent Public Clinical Ophthalmology Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-576 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Wanda Baltaza
- Department of Public Health, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Monika Łazicka-Gałecka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Independent Public Clinical Ophthalmology Hospital, Medical University of Warsaw, 00-576 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Kuligowska
- First Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Anna Machalińska
- First Department of Ophthalmology, Pomeranian Medical University, 70-111 Szczecin, Poland
| | - Paweł J Zawadzki
- Clinic of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial and Oral Surgery and Implantology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-005 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jerzy Szaflik
- Laser Eye Microsurgery Centre Clinic of Prof. Jerzy Szaflik, Brand Med Medical Research Centre, 00-215 Warsaw, Poland
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46
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Siddiqui R, Niyyati M, Abouleish MY, Khamis M, Ibrahim T, Khan NA. COVID-19: Acanthamoeba Creeps into the Brain. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2023; 18:272-274. [PMID: 37583628 PMCID: PMC10423902 DOI: 10.18502/ijpa.v18i2.13196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
The Article Abstract is not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, 34010, Turkey
| | - Maryam Niyyati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mustafa Khamis
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Taleb Ibrahim
- College of Engineering, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, 34010, Turkey
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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Kim MJ, Jo HJ, Sohn HJ, Shin HJ, Quan FS, Kong HH, Moon EK. Evaluating the Diagnostic Potential of Chorismate Mutase Poly-Clonal Peptide Antibody for the Acanthamoeba Keratitis in an Animal Model. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12040526. [PMID: 37111412 PMCID: PMC10145577 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12040526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. is the causative agent of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a vision-threatening parasitic disease whose primary risk factor has been attributed to poor contact lens hygiene. Unfortunately, differential diagnosis of AK is challenging as the clinical manifestations for AK are similar to those of bacterial, fungal, or even viral keratitis. Since delayed AK diagnosis can incur permanent vision impairment, a rapid and sensitive diagnostic method is urgently needed. Here, the diagnostic potential of polyclonal antibodies targeting the chorismate mutase (CM) of Acanthamoeba spp. was evaluated in AK animal models. CM antibody specificity against Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts was confirmed by immunocytochemistry after co-culturing Acanthamoeba with Fusarium solani, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, and human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed using CM-specific immune sera raised in rabbits, which demonstrated that the antibodies specifically interacted with the Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts in a dose-dependent manner. To evaluate the diagnostic potential of the CM antibody, AK animal models were established by incubating contact lenses with an inoculum containing A. castellanii trophozoites and subsequently overlaying these lenses onto the corneas of BALB/c mice for 7 and 21 days. The CM antibody specifically detected Acanthamoeba antigens in the murine lacrimal and eyeball tissue lysates at both time points. Our findings underscore the importance of antibody-based AK diagnosis, which could enable early and differential AK diagnosis in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jeong Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Jeong Jo
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Jin Sohn
- Department of Microbiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Joon Shin
- Department of Microbiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Department of Medical Zoology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, Core Research Institute (CRI), Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Hee Kong
- Department of Parasitology, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan 49201, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Kyung Moon
- Department of Medical Zoology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence:
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48
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Nugraha DK, Nishida T, Tamaki Y, Hiramatsu Y, Yamaguchi H, Horiguchi Y. Survival of Bordetella bronchiseptica in Acanthamoeba castellanii. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0048723. [PMID: 36971600 PMCID: PMC10100856 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00487-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The respiratory pathogenic bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica can persistently survive in terrestrial and aquatic environments, providing a source of infection. However, the environmental lifestyle of the bacterium is poorly understood. In this study, expecting repeated encounters of the bacteria with environmental protists, we explored the interaction between B. bronchiseptica and a representative environmental amoeba, Acanthamoeba castellanii, and found that the bacteria resisted amoeba digestion and entered contractile vacuoles (CVs), which are intracellular compartments involved in osmoregulation, to escape amoeba cells. In prolonged coculture, A. castellanii supported the proliferation of B. bronchiseptica. The avirulent Bvg- phase, but not the virulent Bvg+ phase, of the bacteria was advantageous for survival in the amoebae. We further demonstrate that two Bvg+ phase-specific virulence factors, filamentous hemagglutinin and fimbriae, were targeted for predation by A. castellanii. These results are evidence that the BvgAS two-component system, the master regulator for Bvg phase conversion, plays an indispensable role in the survival of B. bronchiseptica in amoebae. IMPORTANCE The pathogenic bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica, which causes respiratory diseases in various mammals, exhibits distinct Bvg+ and Bvg- phenotypes. The former represents the virulent phase, in which the bacteria express a set of virulence factors, while the role of the latter in the bacterial life cycle remains to be understood. In this study, we demonstrate that B. bronchiseptica in the Bvg- phase, but not the Bvg+ phase, survives and proliferates in coculture with Acanthamoeba castellanii, an environmental amoeba. Two Bvg+ phase-specific virulence factors, filamentous hemagglutinin and fimbriae, were targeted by A. castellanii predation. B. bronchiseptica turns into the Bvg- phase at temperatures in which the bacteria normally encounter these amoebae. These findings demonstrate that the Bvg- phase of B. bronchiseptica is advantageous for survival outside mammalian hosts and that the bacteria can utilize protists as transient hosts in natural environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dendi Krisna Nugraha
- Department of Molecular Bacteriology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Takashi Nishida
- Department of Molecular Bacteriology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuki Tamaki
- Department of Molecular Bacteriology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Hiramatsu
- Department of Molecular Bacteriology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Yamaguchi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Yasuhiko Horiguchi
- Department of Molecular Bacteriology, Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
- Center for Infectious Disease Education and Research, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka, Japan
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Siddiqui R, Muhammad JS, Alharbi AM, Alfahemi H, Khan NA. Can Acanthamoeba Harbor Monkeypox Virus? Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11040855. [PMID: 37110278 PMCID: PMC10146756 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11040855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba is well known to host a variety of microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and yeast. Given the recent number of cases of monkeypox infection, we speculate that amoebae may be aiding viral transmission to the susceptible hosts. Although there is no confirmatory evidence to suggest that Acanthamoeba is a host to monkeypox (a double-stranded DNA virus), the recent discovery of mimivirus (another double-stranded DNA virus) from Acanthamoeba, suggests that amoebae may shelter monkeypox virus. Furthermore, given the possible spread of monkeypox virus from animals to humans during an earlier outbreak, which came about after patients came in contact with prairie dogs, it is likely that animals may also act as mixing vessel between ubiquitously distributed Acanthamoeba and monkeypox virus, in addition to the environmental habitat that acts as an interface in complex interactions between diverse microorganisms and the host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul 34010, Turkey
| | | | - Ahmad M. Alharbi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hasan Alfahemi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Baha University, Al-Baha 65799, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul 34010, Turkey
- College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +971-65057722
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50
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Fukaya S, Masuda L, Takemura M. Analysis of Morphological Changes in the Nucleus and Vacuoles of Acanthamoeba castellanii following Giant Virus Infection. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0418222. [PMID: 36943052 PMCID: PMC10100661 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04182-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba castellanii medusavirus is a member of the phylum Nucleocytoviricota, also known as giant viruses, and has a unique strategy of infecting Acanthamoeba castellanii and replicating viral genes in the host nucleus. Here, we show time series changes in the intracellular morphology, including the nucleus, of host cells infected with four types of giant viruses, including medusavirus, using time-lapse phase-contrast microscopy and image analysis. We updated our phase-contrast-based kinetic analysis algorithm for amoebae (PKA3) to use multiple microscopic images with different focus positions to allow a more detailed analysis of their intracellular structures. Image analysis using PKA3 revealed that as medusavirus infection progressed, the host nucleus increased in size and the number of vacuoles decreased. In addition, infected host cells are known to become smaller and rounder at later stages of infection, but here they were found to be larger than uninfected cells at earlier stages. These results suggested that the propagation mechanism of medusavirus includes the formation of empty virus particles in the host cytoplasm, packaging of the viral genome replicated in the host nucleus, and then the release of viral particles. IMPORTANCE In this study, we quantitatively revealed how long the increase in host cell size or the increase in host nucleus size occurs after infection with giant viruses, especially medusavirus. To understand the underlying mechanism, we performed image analysis and determined that the host cell size increased at approximately 6 h postinfection (hpi) and the host nucleus enlarged at approximately 22 hpi, pointing to the importance of biochemical experiments. In addition, we showed that the intracellular structures could be quantitatively analyzed using multiple phase-contrast microscopy images with different focus positions at the same time point. Hence, morphological analyses of intracellular structures using phase-contrast microscopy, which have wide applications in live-cell observations, may be useful in studying various organisms that infect or are symbiotic with A. castellanii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sho Fukaya
- Department of Applied Information Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Suwa University of Science, Chino, Nagano, Japan
- Laboratory of Biology, Institute of Arts and Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Lisa Masuda
- Laboratory of Biology, Graduate School of Mathematics and Science Education, Tokyo University of Science, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masaharu Takemura
- Laboratory of Biology, Institute of Arts and Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
- Laboratory of Biology, Graduate School of Mathematics and Science Education, Tokyo University of Science, Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
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