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Dong H, Zhang J, Wang Q, Shen Y, Zhou B, Dai L, Zhu W, Sun H, Xie X, Xie H, Xu C, Zhao G, Yin K. Development of an indirect ELISA for detecting Toxoplasma gondii IgG antibodies based on a recombinant TgIMP1 protein. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012421. [PMID: 39141677 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is widely spread around the world, which can cause serious harm to immunosuppressed patients. Currently, the commercial test kits are poor at assessing T. gondii infection and vaccine effectiveness, making an urgent need to exploit effective enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with great performance to compensate for this deficiency. Here, the TgIMP1 recombinant protein was expressed in E. coli BL(21) cells. The TgIMP1 was purified with affinity chromatography and the reactivity was retained with anti-TgIMP1 antibodies. The TgIMP1 was then used to develop an indirect ELISA (IMP1-iELISA) and the reaction conditions of IMP1-iELISA were optimized. As a result, the cut-off value was determined to be 0.2833 by analyzing the OD450nm values of forty T. gondii-negative sera. The coefficient of variation of 6 T. gondii-positive sera within and between runs were both less than 10%. The IMP1-iELISA was non-cross-reactive with the sera of cytomegalovirus, herpes virus, rubella virus, Cryptosporidium spp., Theileria spp., Neospora spp. and Plasmodium spp.. Furthermore, the sensitivity and specificity of IMP1-iELISA were 98.9% and 96.7%, respectively, based on testing 150 serum samples. The results suggest that this IMP1-iELISA is specific, sensitive, repeatable and can be applied to the detection of T. gondii infections in the medical and health industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongjie Dong
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Junmei Zhang
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Qi Wang
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanmei Shen
- Digestive Disease Hospital of Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Beibei Zhou
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Lisha Dai
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenju Zhu
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Hang Sun
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaoman Xie
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Huanhuan Xie
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Xu
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Guihua Zhao
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
| | - Kun Yin
- Shandong Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jining, People's Republic of China
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Zorilla R, Ching LL, Elisara T, Kramer K, Nerurkar VR. Re-Emerging, Under-Recognized Zoonotic, and Neglected Tropical Diseases in Hawai'i. Jpn J Infect Dis 2024; 77:187-200. [PMID: 38825457 DOI: 10.7883/yoken.jjid.2023.476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
Hawai'i, the United States' most western geographic state in the Pacific, lies between the North and South American continents and the Indo-Pacific regions, including Japan. The tropical environmental conditions of the Hawaiian Islands provide favorable ecosystems for various infectious pathogens, their vectors, and reservoirs. This creates an environment conducive to the transmission of zoonotic diseases affecting both humans and animals. Hawai'i has experienced an increase in dengue, leptospirosis, and murine typhus outbreaks. Furthermore, toxoplasmosis and neuroangiostrongyliasis cases remain prevalent throughout the state, and the putative presence of autochthonous Zika cases identified in a retrospective study may be of national public health concern. Understanding the factors that affect the transmission and distribution of zoonoses is necessary to identify at-risk locations and populations. The One Health approach seeks to understand, report, and interpret these factors and requires collaboration between private and governmental institutions. One Health should focus on neglected tropical diseases (NTD) and prioritize development of interventions to control and prevent the transmission of diseases that spread between animals and humans. This review focuses on the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of under-recognized zoonotic and NTD affecting Hawai'i, including leptospirosis, murine typhus, neuroangiostrongyliasis, toxoplasmosis, dengue, and Zika.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodson Zorilla
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology, and Pharmacology, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
- Pacific Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
- Minority Health Research Training Program, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
| | - Lauren Lei Ching
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology, and Pharmacology, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
- Pacific Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
| | - Tiana Elisara
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology, and Pharmacology, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
- Pacific Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
- Minority Health Research Training Program, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
| | - Kenton Kramer
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology, and Pharmacology, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
| | - Vivek Ramchandra Nerurkar
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology, and Pharmacology, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
- Pacific Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
- Minority Health Research Training Program, John A Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, USA
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Zhang H, Duan Y, Chen Z. Toxoplasma gondii infection or acute retinal necrosis in early stage: a case report. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2024:107280. [PMID: 39047912 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2024.107280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 07/03/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Hainan Zhang
- Changsha Aier Eye Hospital, Furong South Road, Changsha, CN, CHINA
| | - Yiqin Duan
- Changsha Aier Eye Hospital, Furong South Road, Changsha, CN, CHINA.
| | - Zhongping Chen
- Changsha Aier Eye Hospital, Furong South Road, Changsha, CN, CHINA
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Wannapong N, Lertwatcharasarakul P, Rukkwamsuk T. Prevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection in dairy cattle from the Western Region of Thailand. Parasite 2024; 31:38. [PMID: 38995111 PMCID: PMC11242923 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2024038] [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: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
In total, 901 dairy cow sera and data were collected from 51 farms in Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi provinces (Western Region of Thailand). Serum samples were processed via the multispecies ELISA method to detect IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii infection. The results demonstrated that the calculated true prevalence was 1.48% (95% CI, 0.64-2.75%) for the individual-level and 29.41% (95% CI, 18.71-43%) for the farm-level. The univariate risk factor analysis showed that the number of total owned cats, the presence of stray cats, and the frequency of cleaning per day were significant factors (p < 0.2). These three factors were subjected to logistic regression analysis, and the results revealed that the frequency of cleaning farms per day was a potential risk factor for T. gondii-seropositive farms (OR = 2.745, 95% CI, 1.15-8.69, p = 0.02). The frequency of cleaning might increase the T. gondii oocyst distribution within the barn area, thus increasing the possibility of infection. Our findings show that T. gondii continues to circulate in the dairy cow population in the western part of Thailand. The presence of cats on farms was not found to be associated with T. gondii infection, but the high frequency of cleaning the floor was, and contributed to the potential risk of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Napasaporn Wannapong
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University Kamphaeng Saen Nakhon Pathom 73140 Thailand
| | - Preeda Lertwatcharasarakul
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University Kamphaeng Saen Nakhon Pathom 73140 Thailand
| | - Theera Rukkwamsuk
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University Kamphaeng Saen Nakhon Pathom 73140 Thailand
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Sun H, Fan J, Chu H, Gao Y, Fang J, Wu Q, Ding H, Zhuo X, Kong Q, Lv H, Zheng B, Lu S. RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a-LFA combined with a digital visualization instrument to detect Toxoplasma gondii in stray dogs and cats in Zhejiang province, China. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0399823. [PMID: 38809001 PMCID: PMC11218441 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03998-23] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, which causes toxoplasmosis, is prevalent in warm-blooded animals, such as cats, dogs, and humans. T. gondii causes economic losses to livestock production and represents a potential risk to public health. Dogs and cats are common hosts in the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis. The current molecular diagnostic tools for T. gondii infection require high technical skills, a laboratory environment, and complex instruments. Herein, we developed a recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA)-clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 12a (Cas12a) assay to detect T. gondii. The lowest limit of detection of the assay was 31 copies/μL for the T. gondii B1 gene. In addition, we established a visual RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a lateral flow band assay (RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a-LFA) combined with a digital visualization instrument, which minimized the problem of false-negative results for weakly positive samples and avoided misinterpretation of the results by the naked eye, making the LFA assay results more accurate. The assay established in this study could identify T. gondii within 55 min with high accuracy and sensitivity, without cross-reaction with other tested parasites. The developed assay was validated by establishing a mouse model of toxoplasmosis. Finally, the developed assay was used to investigate the prevalence of T. gondii in stray cats and dogs in Zhejiang province, Eastern China. The positive rates of T. gondii infection in stray cats and dogs were 8.0% and 4.0%, respectively. In conclusion, the RPA-CRISPR/Cas12a-LFA is rapid, sensitive, and accurate for the early diagnosis of T. gondii, showing promise for on-site surveillance. IMPORTANCE Toxoplasma gondii is a virulent pathogen that puts millions of infected people at risk of chronic disease reactivation. Hosts of T. gondii are distributed worldwide, and cats and dogs are common hosts of T. gondii. Therefore, rapid diagnosis of early T. gondii infection and investigation of its prevalence in stray dogs and cats are essential. Here, we established a visual recombinase polymerase amplification-clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein 12a-assay combined with a lateral flow band assay and a digital visualization instrument. Detailed analyses found that the assay could be used for the early diagnosis of T. gondii without false-negative results. Moreover, we detected the prevalence of T. gondii in stray cats and dogs in Zhejiang province, China. Our developed assay provides technical support for the early diagnosis of T. gondii and could be applied in prevalence surveys of T. gondii in stray dogs and cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Sun
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiyuan Fan
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Hongkun Chu
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yafan Gao
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiawen Fang
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qinli Wu
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haojie Ding
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xunhui Zhuo
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - QingMing Kong
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - HangJun Lv
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Bin Zheng
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shaohong Lu
- Laboratory of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center of Novel Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Bio-tech Vaccine of Zhejiang Province, School of Basic Medicine and Forensics, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
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Vatankhah M, Panahizadeh R, Safari A, Ziyabakhsh A, Mohammadi-Ghalehbin B, Soozangar N, Jeddi F. The role of Nrf2 signaling in parasitic diseases and its therapeutic potential. Heliyon 2024; 10:e32459. [PMID: 38988513 PMCID: PMC11233909 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e32459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
In response to invading parasites, one of the principal arms of innate immunity is oxidative stress, caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). However, oxidative stresses play dual functions in the disease, whereby free radicals promote pathogen removal, but they can also trigger inflammation, resulting in tissue injuries. A growing body of evidence has strongly supported the notion that nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF) signaling is one of the main antioxidant pathways to combat this oxidative burst against parasites. Given the important role of NRF2 in oxidative stress, in this review, we investigate the activation mechanism of the NRF2 antioxidant pathway in different parasitic diseases, such as malaria, leishmaniasis, trypanosomiasis, toxoplasmosis, schistosomiasis, entamoebiasis, and trichinosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadamin Vatankhah
- Zoonoses Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
- Students Research Committee, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Reza Panahizadeh
- Zoonoses Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
- Students Research Committee, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Ali Safari
- Zoonoses Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Alireza Ziyabakhsh
- Zoonoses Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | | | - Narges Soozangar
- Zoonoses Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Farhad Jeddi
- Department of Genetics and Pathology, School of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
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Miguel-Vicedo M, Cabello P, Ortega-Navas MC, González-Barrio D, Fuentes I. Prevalence of Human Toxoplasmosis in Spain Throughout the Three Last Decades (1993-2023): A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. J Epidemiol Glob Health 2024:10.1007/s44197-024-00258-w. [PMID: 38864976 DOI: 10.1007/s44197-024-00258-w] [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: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Humans are infected by Toxoplasma gondii worldwide and its consequences may seriously affect an immune deprived population such as HIV and transplanted patients or pregnant women and foetuses. A deep knowledge of toxoplasmosis seroprevalence in Spain is needed in order to better shape health policies and educational programs. We present the results of the first systematic review and meta-analysis on the human prevalence for this disease in Spain. Databases (PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS and Teseo) were searched for relevant studies that were published between January 1993 and December 2023 and all population-based cross-sectional and longitudinal studies reporting the human seroprevalence in Spain were revised. Within the population analysed, our targeted groups were immunocompetent population, pregnant women and immunocompromised patients. Among 572 studies and 35 doctoral theses retrieved, 15 studies and three doctoral theses were included in the meta-analysis. A random effects model was used for the meta-analyses due to the high heterogeneity found between studies (I2: 99.97), since it is a statistically conservative model, in addition to allowing better external validity. The global pooled seroprevalence was 32.3% (95% CI 28.7-36.2%). Most of the studies carried out were in pregnant women and the meta-analysis reported that the pooled seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Spain was 24.4% (24,737/85,703, 95% CI 21.2-28.0%), based on the random effects model. It is recommended to continue monitoring the seroprevalence status of T. gondii in order to obtain essential guidelines for the prevention and control of the infection in the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariola Miguel-Vicedo
- Toxoplasmosis and Protozoosis Unit, Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Educational Theory and Social Pedagogy, National University of Distance Education (UNED) Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Ph.D. Program in Biomedical Science and Public Health. IMIENS, National University of Distance Education (UNED) Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Cabello
- International University of Valencia-VIU, 46002, Valencia, Spain
| | - M Carmen Ortega-Navas
- Department of Educational Theory and Social Pedagogy, National University of Distance Education (UNED) Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - David González-Barrio
- Toxoplasmosis and Protozoosis Unit, Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Isabel Fuentes
- Toxoplasmosis and Protozoosis Unit, Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain.
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Fang T, Mohseni A, Lonardi S, Ben Mamoun C. Properties and predicted functions of large genes and proteins of apicomplexan parasites. NAR Genom Bioinform 2024; 6:lqae032. [PMID: 38584870 PMCID: PMC10993292 DOI: 10.1093/nargab/lqae032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Evolutionary constraints greatly favor compact genomes that efficiently encode proteins. However, several eukaryotic organisms, including apicomplexan parasites such as Toxoplasma gondii, Plasmodium falciparum and Babesia duncani, the causative agents of toxoplasmosis, malaria and babesiosis, respectively, encode very large proteins, exceeding 20 times their average protein size. Although these large proteins represent <1% of the total protein pool and are generally expressed at low levels, their persistence throughout evolution raises important questions about their functions and possible evolutionary pressures to maintain them. In this study, we examined the trends in gene and protein size, function and expression patterns within seven apicomplexan pathogens. Our analysis revealed that certain large proteins in apicomplexan parasites harbor domains potentially important for functions such as antigenic variation, erythrocyte invasion and immune evasion. However, these domains are not limited to or strictly conserved within large proteins. While some of these proteins are predicted to engage in conventional metabolic pathways within these parasites, others fulfill specialized functions for pathogen-host interactions, nutrient acquisition and overall survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany Fang
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520 USA
| | - Amir Mohseni
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521 USA
| | - Stefano Lonardi
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521 USA
| | - Choukri Ben Mamoun
- Department of Internal Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Department of Pathology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, 06520 USA
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Mady RF, El-Temsahy MM, Issa YA, Zaghloul AS, Khedr SI. MicroRNA mmu-miR-511-5p: A promising Diagnostic Biomarker in Experimental Toxoplasmosis Using Different Strains and Infective Doses in Mice with Different Immune States Before and After Treatment. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:1253-1266. [PMID: 38743178 PMCID: PMC11182863 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00851-w] [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: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Searching for a novel early diagnostic biomarker for toxoplasmosis, real-time-PCR was currently used to measure the serum mmu-miR-511-5p level in male Swiss-albino mice infected with either; ME49 or RH Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) strains. METHODS Three mice groups were used; (GI) constituted the non-infected control group, while (GII) and (GIII) were experimentally infected with ME49 or RH strains, respectively. GII mice were orally infected using 10 or 20 ME49 cysts (ME-10 and ME-20), both were subdivided into; non-treated (ME-10-NT and ME-20-NT) and were further subdivided into; immunocompetent (ME-10-IC and ME-20-IC) [euthanized 3-days, 1, 2, 6 or 8-weeks post-infection (PI)], and immunosuppressed using two Endoxan® injections (ME-10-IS and ME-20-IS) [euthanized 6- or 8-weeks PI], and spiramycin-treated (ME-10-SP and ME-20-SP) that received daily spiramycin, for one-week before euthanasia. GIII mice individually received 2500 intraperitoneal RH strain tachyzoites, then, were subdivided into; non-treated (RH-NT) [euthanized 3 or 5-days PI], and spiramycin-treated (RH-SP) that were euthanized 5 or 10-days PI (refer to the graphical abstract). RESULTS Revealed significant upregulation of mmu-miR-511-5p in GII, one-week PI, with gradually increased expression, reaching its maximum 8-weeks PI, especially in ME-20-NT group that received the higher infective dose. Immunosuppression increased the upregulation. Contrarily, treatment caused significant downregulation. GIII recorded significant upregulation 3-days PI, yet, treatment significantly decreased this expression. CONCLUSION Serum mmu-miR-511-5p is a sensitive biomarker for early diagnosis of ME49 and RH infection (as early as one-week and 3-days, respectively), and its expression varies according to T. gondii infective dose, duration of infection, spiramycin-treatment and host immune status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha Fadly Mady
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, 2nd Floor, El Mowasah Medical and Educational Complex, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mona Mohamed El-Temsahy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, 2nd Floor, El Mowasah Medical and Educational Complex, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Yasmine Amr Issa
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
- Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Arab Academy of Science, Technology and Maritime transport, New Alamein campus, Egypt
| | - Aya Saied Zaghloul
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, 2nd Floor, El Mowasah Medical and Educational Complex, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Safaa Ibrahim Khedr
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, 2nd Floor, El Mowasah Medical and Educational Complex, Alexandria, Egypt.
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Huertas-López A, Cantos-Barreda A, Sánchez-Sánchez R, Martínez-Carrasco C, Ibáñez-López FJ, Martínez-Subiela S, Cerón JJ, Álvarez-García G. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the validation of serological methods for detecting anti-Toxoplasma gondii antibodies in humans and animals. Vet Parasitol 2024; 328:110173. [PMID: 38537410 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2024.110173] [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: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a paradigmatic zoonotic parasite from the One Health perspective, since it is broadly distributed and virtually infects all warm-blooded species. A wide variety of serological techniques have been developed to detect T. gondii infection in humans and animals. Our aim was to describe and compare the main characteristics of these serological tests and validation processes and to critically analyze whether these tests meet the standards required to ensure an accurate serological diagnosis. The current systematic review and meta-analysis included 134 studies that were published from 2013 to 2023. QUADAS 2 tool was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies. A total of 52 variables related to the characteristics of the techniques and analytical and diagnostic validation parameters were studied. A wider panel of tests was developed for humans, including techniques exclusively developed for humans that involve costly equipment and the measurement of different Ig isotypes that are considered biomarkers of congenital toxoplasmosis. Studies conducted in humans frequently employed commercial techniques as reference tests, measured different immunoglobulin isotypes with a predominance for IgG (>50%) and discriminated between acute and chronic infections. In animals, the most commonly used reference techniques were in-house tests, which almost exclusively detected IgG. Common limitations identified in a large number of studies were some misunderstandings of the terms "gold standard" and "reference test" and the absence of information about the negative and positive control sera used or the exact cutoff employed, which were independent of the quality of the study. There is a lack of analytical validation, with few evaluations of cross-reactivity with other pathogens. Diagnostic odds ratio values showed that indirect ELISA based on native or chimeric antigens performed better than other tests. The reproducibility of serological test results in both humans and animals is not guaranteed due to a lack of relevant information and analytical validation. Thus, several key issues should be considered in the future, including interlaboratory ring trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Huertas-López
- SALUVET group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain; Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, Interlab-UMU, University of Murcia, Murcia, Espinardo 30100, Spain.
| | - Ana Cantos-Barreda
- Animal Health Department, University of Murcia, Murcia, Espinardo 30100, Spain; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-A, University of Murcia, Murcia, Espinardo 30100, Spain
| | - Roberto Sánchez-Sánchez
- SALUVET group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | | | - Francisco Javier Ibáñez-López
- Statistical Support Section (SAE), Scientific and Research Area (ACTI), University of Murcia, Murcia, Espinardo 30100, Spain
| | - Silvia Martínez-Subiela
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, Interlab-UMU, University of Murcia, Murcia, Espinardo 30100, Spain
| | - José Joaquín Cerón
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, Interlab-UMU, University of Murcia, Murcia, Espinardo 30100, Spain
| | - Gema Álvarez-García
- SALUVET group, Animal Health Department, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, Madrid 28040, Spain
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11
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Fadel EF, EL-Hady HA, Ahmed AM, Tolba MEM. Molecular diagnosis of human toxoplasmosis: the state of the art. J Parasit Dis 2024; 48:201-216. [PMID: 38840888 PMCID: PMC11147977 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-024-01667-1] [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: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an obligate intracellular apicomplexan protozoan that causes toxoplasmosis. Approximately one-third of the world's population is currently T. gondii-seropositive. Although most infections are symptomless, a few can produce retinal lesions and, in immunocompromised persons or when congenitally contracted, can progress to life-threatening central nervous system disseminated infections. Therefore, quick, and precise diagnosis is a must. Molecular techniques nowadays play a crucial role in toxoplasmosis diagnosis, particularly in immunocompromised patients or congenital toxoplasmosis. This review aimed to detail recent advancements in molecular diagnostics of T. gondii infections. The terms "Toxoplasmosis," "Molecular diagnostics," "PCR," "qPCR," "B1," and "rep529" were used to search the English-language literature. In developed nations, conventional PCR (PCR) and nested PCR have been supplanted by quantitative PCR (qPCR), although they are still widely employed in poor nations. The diagnosis of toxoplasmosis has been revolutionized by the emergence of molecular diagnostics. Unfortunately, there is still substantial interlaboratory variability. There is an immediate need for standardization to increase the comparability of results between laboratories and clinical trials. Graphical abstract A graphical abstract highlighting the summary of Toxoplasma molecular diagnostics, created using Biorender.com.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Fathi Fadel
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Hanaa Ahmed EL-Hady
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Amal Mostafa Ahmed
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Mohammed Essa Marghany Tolba
- Department of Microbiology and Clinical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, King Khaled University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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12
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Hasan MF, Harun AB, Hossain D, Bristi SZT, Uddin AHMM, Karim MR. Toxoplasmosis in animals and humans: a neglected zoonotic disease in Bangladesh. J Parasit Dis 2024; 48:189-200. [PMID: 38840887 PMCID: PMC11147975 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-024-01664-4] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii, is a zoonotic disease that affects a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including humans. The parasite undergoes both sexual and asexual reproduction in intermediate hosts (humans and animals) and definitive hosts (cats). Transmission in humans occurs through consuming oocyst-contaminated water, fruits, vegetables, and raw or undercooked meats. In Bangladesh, several factors contribute to an increased risk of contracting toxoplasmosis. The parasite is reported to cause diseases among livestock such as goats and sheep in this country, and it has also been associated with some human illnesses. Toxoplasmosis prevalence varies significantly worldwide, with developing countries like Bangladesh experiencing higher rates. Diagnostic methods include both conventional non-DNA-based tests and molecular detection techniques, while treatment options involve using antiparasitic drugs like sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine. To control toxoplasmosis, essential steps include improving sanitation, promoting safe food handling, and educating the public about risks related to cat ownership and undercooked meat consumption. Implementing prenatal screening and treatment is also important. With the growing popularity of pet ownership in urban areas, it becomes essential to emphasize the veterinary and public health significance of toxoplasmosis in Bangladesh. This article comprehensively reviews various aspects of toxoplasmosis, with a specific focus on the situation in Bangladesh.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Farhan Hasan
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706 Bangladesh
| | - Anas Bin Harun
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706 Bangladesh
| | - Delower Hossain
- Department of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, 1207 Bangladesh
| | - Sabiha Zarin Tasnim Bristi
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, 4225 Bangladesh
| | - A. H. M. Musleh Uddin
- Department of Surgery and Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, 3100 Bangladesh
| | - Md Robiul Karim
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706 Bangladesh
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13
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Fakhar M, Montazeri M, Nakhaei M, Soleymani M, Zakariaei Z, Abbasi A, Solaymani E. Potential Association Between Latent Toxoplasma gondii Infection and Suicide Attempts: A Case-Control Registry-Based Study. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2024; 21:360-365. [PMID: 38568136 DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2023.0087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous parasitic protozoan that may be an important cause of neurological and psychiatric diseases. The purpose of this case-control registry-based study was to evaluate the prevalence of T. gondii infection and related risk factors among subjects who attempted suicide by drug use and a control group at the Iranian National Registry Center for Toxoplasmosis in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. Baseline data were collected from participants using a questionnaire, and a blood sample was taken from each individual. The plasma was prepared for serological analysis, whereas the buffy coat was used for molecular analysis. Out of 282 individuals (147 cases with suicide attempters [SA] and 135 controls), 42.9% of patients and 16.3% of control subjects were positive for anti-Toxoplasma immunoglobin G (IgG), but all participants were negative for T. gondii DNA and anti-Toxoplasma immunoglobin M. Based on multiple logistic regressions, IgG seropositivity in SA in the age group of 20-30 years was 3.22 times higher than that in the control group (p < 0.001). These findings suggest that latent T. gondii infection among SA is significantly higher than that in healthy individuals, indicating a potential association between latent toxoplasmosis and SA at least in the studied area. Further research is needed to shed light on the potential association between T. gondii and suicide among different populations and areas of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Fakhar
- Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mahbobeh Montazeri
- Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Maryam Nakhaei
- Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mostafa Soleymani
- Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Zakaria Zakariaei
- Toxicology and Forensic Medicine Division, Mazandaran Registry Center for Opioids Poisoning, Antimicrobial Resistance Research Centers, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ali Abbasi
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Azad University, Sari, Iran
| | - Eissa Solaymani
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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14
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Fernandes ALP, de Melo Alves M, Silva JO, Bison I, de Castro Tavares Silva A, Parentoni RN, dos Santos JRS, Feitosa TF, Vilela VLR, de Lima Brasil AW. Geoepidemiology, seroprevalence and factors associated with Toxoplasma gondii infection in domicilied cats from Paraíba (Brazil). Parasite 2024; 31:25. [PMID: 38759155 PMCID: PMC11101201 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2024017] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite responsible for toxoplasmosis, an emerging and often neglected zoonosis in South America, particularly Brazil. Felines, the only definitive hosts, excrete oocysts in their feces, potentially infecting all homeotherms. Domestic cats are primarily responsible for contaminating human environments with these oocysts. Monitoring their populations is therefore essential to ensure proper toxoplasmosis prophylaxis. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of T. gondii and exposure factors in a population of owner cats in the city of João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil. A total of 267 blood samples were collected from domestic cats aged between 1 and 15 years and tested with an immunofluorescence antibody test. The seroprevalence of antibodies against T. gondii was only 17.22% (46/267 individuals). This result therefore suggests a low contribution of domestic cats to T. gondii contamination of the urban environment. The cats' age and living environment were identified as risk factors for cat exposure to T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mariana de Melo Alves
- Departament of Federal Institute of Paraíba – IFPB Rua Presidente Tancredo Neves, s/no, Jardim Sorrilândia 58.800-970 Sousa Paraíba Brazil
| | - Jordania Oliveira Silva
- Departament of Federal Institute of Paraíba – IFPB Rua Presidente Tancredo Neves, s/no, Jardim Sorrilândia 58.800-970 Sousa Paraíba Brazil
| | - Ividy Bison
- Animal Science Program at Federal University of Paraiba – UFPB 12 Rodovia, PB-079 58397-000 Areia Paraíba Brazil
| | | | - Roberta Nunes Parentoni
- Instituto de Pesquisa em Fármacos e Medicamentos of Federal University of Paraíba – UFPB, Campus I Lot, Cidade Universitária, PB 58051-900 João Pessoa Paraíba Brazil
| | | | - Thais Ferreira Feitosa
- Departament of Federal Institute of Paraíba – IFPB Rua Presidente Tancredo Neves, s/no, Jardim Sorrilândia 58.800-970 Sousa Paraíba Brazil
| | - Vinícius Longo Ribeiro Vilela
- Departament of Federal Institute of Paraíba – IFPB Rua Presidente Tancredo Neves, s/no, Jardim Sorrilândia 58.800-970 Sousa Paraíba Brazil
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15
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Bashour N, Aminpour A, Vazifehkhah S, Jafari R. Seromolecular study on the prevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnant women referred to a gynecology hospital in Urmia, northwest part of Iran in 2022. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:410. [PMID: 38632544 PMCID: PMC11022385 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09265-5] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a frequent infection among the human population. The infection can cause devastating complications for the fetus during pregnancy. The present study aimed to determine the serological and molecular prevalence of the infection and molecular characterization of Toxoplasma gondii isolates among pregnant women referred to Kowsar Hospital, Urmia, Iran. In a cross-sectional study, 340 blood samples were collected from pregnant women referred to Kowsar Hospital, Urmia, Iran from May to July 2022. Anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM seropositivity were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. PCR was carried out by targeting the GRA6 gene of the parasite on all patients' buffy coats. Anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies were positive in two (0.6%) women, and 101 (29.7%) women had anti-T. gondii IgG and 70.3% were seronegative. PCR was positive in two IgM-positive women, and both isolates belonged to T. gondii carrying the GRA6 allele of lineage I. The risk of infection was significantly higher in women who had constant contact with cats and soil, and who were residents of rural areas. The two IgM-positive women were asymptomatic regarding acute toxoplasmosis. According to the results of the present study, the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Urmia is similar to its prevalence in other areas in northwestern Iran, and despite the low prevalence of acute infection, it should not be ignored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Bashour
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Arash Aminpour
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Shabnam Vazifehkhah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Rasool Jafari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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16
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Jiang X, Li F, Mei J, Wu T, Zhu J, Li Z, Wu Z, Jiang H, Li N, Lei L. Brain Immune Cell Infiltration and Serum Metabolomic Characteristics Reveal that Lauric Acid Promotes Immune Cell Infiltration in Brain and Streptococcus suis Meningitis in Mice. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04144-1. [PMID: 38625620 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04144-1] [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: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Although naturally Streptococcus suis serotype 2 (SS2) causes meningitis resulting in death or sequela of neurological symptoms in pigs and humans, severely threatening public health in the world, it has been difficult to build up and confirm experimental meningitis mouse models with obvious neurological syndrome for about two decades, which strongly hampers the in-depth study on the control measures and mechanisms of SS2-induced meningitis. In this study, a typical meningitis mouse model of SS2 was successfully established, as confirmed by the behavioral indicators of balance beam test, suspension test, and gait analysis. With bacteria gathering in the brain, distinguishable unique features including meningeal thickening, vacuolization of the Nissl body, brain barrier damage, glial cell activation, and more infiltration of T cells, macrophages, and DCs are observed in SS2 meningitis mice with typical neurological signs. Some meningitis mice were also accompanied by identical nephritis, ophthalmia, and cochlearitis. Investigation of the metabolic features demonstrated the downregulated cholic acid and upregulated 2-hydroxyvaleric acid, tetrahydrocortisone, nicotinic acid, and lauric acid in blood serum of mice and piglets with meningitis. And feeding trials show that lauric acid can promote meningitis by promoting the infiltration of immune cells into brain. These findings demonstrated that infection of ICR (improved castle road) mice with SS2 was able to induce typical meningitis accompanied by immune cell infiltration and lauric acid upregulation. These data provide a basis for the deep study of SS2 meningitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Fengyang Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Jikun Mei
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Tong Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Junhui Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Ziheng Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Zengshuai Wu
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Hexiang Jiang
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China
| | - Na Li
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
| | - Liancheng Lei
- State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Severe Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Key Laboratory for Zoonosis Research of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Zoonosis, and College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
- College of Animal Science, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei, 434023, People's Republic of China.
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17
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Li X, Wang Q, Li X, Wang C, Lu J, Zhang E, Liang C, Wang W, Fu Y, Li C, Zhang L, Li T. Carbon nanospheres dual spectral-overlapped fluorescence quenching lateral flow immunoassay for rapid diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in humans. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2024; 241:115986. [PMID: 38310830 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2024.115986] [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] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a common zoonotic disease caused by a protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii (Tox), approximately infecting one-third of human populations worldwide. This study developed the carbon nanospheres (CNPs) based dual spectral-overlapped fluorescence quenching lateral flow immunoassay (CNPs-FQLFIA) for detection of Tox antibodies (ToxAbs). The CNPs have been effectively coupled with Tox antigen (ToxAg), which can completely overlap the excitation and emission spectra of europium nanospheres (EuNPs) and CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) in testing strips of CNPs-QDs-FQLFIA or CNPs-EuNPs-FQLFIA. The sensitivity of CNPs-EuNPs-FQLFIA or CNPs-QDs-FQLFIA was 4 or 8 IU/mL under natural light readout, or both 4 IU/mL ToxAbs under ultraviolet (UV) light readout by the naked eyes, respectively. The limit of detection (LOD) of two types of CNPs-FQLFIA was both 1 IU/mL ToxAbs under UV light by a dry fluorescence analyzer, but no cross-reaction was found with other antibodies. The intra-assay coefficient variation (CV) of both CNPs-EuNPs-FQLFIA and CNPs-QDs-FQLFIA was less than 8%, while the inter-assay CV was less than 14%, respectively. The correlation coefficient (R2) of CNPs-EuNPs-FQLFIA or CNPs-QDs-FQLFIA to measure the different concentrations of ToxAbs spiked serum samples was 0.99712 and 0.99896, respectively. The CNPs-FQLFIA presented a characteristics of 94.3% sensitivity, 100% specificity and 98% accuracy for detection of ToxAbs in clinical serum samples. In conclusion, CNPs-FQLFIA with EuNPs or QDs fluorescence reporter was an easy, rapid, sensitive, precise and quantitative assay for detecting Tox antibodies in human blood samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaozhou Li
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510630, China
| | - Xintong Li
- Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Cong Wang
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangzhou Bai Rui Kang (BRK) Biological Science and Technology Limited Company, Guangzhou 510000, China
| | - Jinhui Lu
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Enhui Zhang
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chaolan Liang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Shenzhen Third People's Hospital, Shenzhen 518112, China
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Yongshui Fu
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China; Guangzhou Blood Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chengyao Li
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
| | - Tingting Li
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, School of Laboratory Medicine and Biotechnology, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China.
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18
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Ribeiro Franco PI, do Carmo Neto JR, Guerra RO, Ferreira da Silva PE, Braga YLL, Nunes Celes MR, de Menezes LB, Miguel MP, Machado JR. Melatonin: A look at protozoal and helminths. Biochimie 2024; 219:96-109. [PMID: 37541568 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2023.07.021] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin is a pleiotropic neurohormone found in different animal, plant, and microorganism species. It is a product resulting from tryptophan metabolism in the pineal gland and is widely known for its ability to synchronize the circadian rhythm to antitumor functions in different types of cancers. The molecular mechanisms responsible for its immunomodulatory, antioxidant and cytoprotective effects involve binding to high-affinity G protein-coupled receptors and interactions with intracellular targets that modulate signal transduction pathways. In vitro and in vivo studies have reported the therapeutic potential of melatonin in different infectious and parasitic diseases. In this review, the protective and pathophysiological roles of melatonin in fighting protozoan and helminth infections and the possible mechanisms involved against these stressors will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Igor Ribeiro Franco
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
| | - José Rodrigues do Carmo Neto
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Rhanoica Oliveira Guerra
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Escola de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Priscilla Elias Ferreira da Silva
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e Naturais, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brazil
| | - Yarlla Loyane Lira Braga
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Mara Rúbia Nunes Celes
- Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Medicina Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Liliana Borges de Menezes
- Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil; Setor de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Marina Pacheco Miguel
- Escola de Veterinária e Zootecnia, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil; Setor de Patologia Geral, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e Saúde Pública, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil
| | - Juliana Reis Machado
- Departamento de Patologia, Genética e Evolução, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e Naturais, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, MG, Brazil
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Milburn J, Suresh R, Doyle R, Jarvis JN. The diagnosis of central nervous system infections in resource-limited settings and the use of novel and molecular diagnostic platforms to improve diagnosis. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2024; 24:219-230. [PMID: 38369939 DOI: 10.1080/14737159.2024.2317414] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Central nervous system infections (CNSI) disproportionately affect individuals in low-resource settings where diagnosis is challenging; large proportions of patients never receive a confirmed microbiological diagnosis resulting in inadequate management and high mortality. The epidemiology of CNSI varies globally and conventional diagnostics deployed in resource-limited settings have significant limitations, with an urgent need for improved diagnostic strategies. AREAS COVERED This review describes molecular platforms and other novel diagnostics used in the diagnosis of CNSI that are applicable to resource-limited settings. An extensive literature search of Medline and PubMed was performed. The emphasis is on investigations targeting infections of relevance to resource-limited settings either due to variation in regional CNSI epidemiology or due to increased prevalence in patients with immunosuppression. This includes commercially available multiplex PCR platforms, mycobacterial PCR platforms, and rapid diagnostics tests. To offer a framework for the optimal implementation in clinical settings, existing evidence highlighting the advantages and limitations of available platforms is reviewed. EXPERT OPINION The implementation of molecular platforms and other novel diagnostics has the potential to transform CNSI diagnosis in resource-limited settings, with several examples of successful rollout of novel diagnostics such as Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra and cryptococcal antigen testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Milburn
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Clinical Research, Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rachita Suresh
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Ronan Doyle
- Department of Clinical Research, Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Joseph N Jarvis
- Botswana Harvard AIDS Institute Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Department of Clinical Research, Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Yarahmadi S, Saki J, Arjmand R, Shahbazian H. Toxoplasma gondii molecular detection and phylogenetic analysis in hemodialysis patients from Khuzestan, Southwest Iran. Trop Med Health 2024; 52:19. [PMID: 38350969 PMCID: PMC10863173 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-024-00585-5] [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: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The diagnosis and genetic characterization of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection can make a significant influence to the prevention of the dangerous consequences of toxoplasmosis, particularly in immunocompromised people. OBJECTIVE The aim of this investigation was to assess the frequency and genotyping of T. gondii in blood samples of patients with hemodialysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS In the current investigation, a total of 379 blood samples were taken from subjects with hemodialysis who were referred to teaching hospital of Ahvaz in the southwest of Iran. The samples were evaluated using the Nested PCR by targeting the B1 gene, and then, sequencing and phylogenetic tree were constructed. RESULTS T. gondii DNA was found in 112 (29.55%) of the blood samples by Nested PCR. Amplicons from T. gondii revealed high identity with GenBank sequences. The phylogenetic analysis revealed that all sequences were closely related to Type I of T. gondii. CONCLUSION Because of the high incidence of toxoplasmosis with type I prevalent in hemodialysis patients, we recommend a systematic screening for toxoplasmosis to carry out for monitoring the possible dissemination of toxoplasmosis during hemodialysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saba Yarahmadi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box 6135743337, Ahvaz, 393-61155, Iran
| | - Jasem Saki
- Health Research Institute, Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 6135743337, Ahvaz, 393-61155, Iran.
| | - Reza Arjmand
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, P. O. Box 6135743337, Ahvaz, 393-61155, Iran
| | - Heshmatolah Shahbazian
- Department of Nephrology, Golestan General Hospital, Diabetes and CKD Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 6135743337, Ahvaz, 393-61155, Iran
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Roy M, Mishra V, Mitra P, Umbardand Y, Sapate V, Khan W, Deshmukh AS. Serological and Molecular Detection of Toxoplasma gondii in Domestic Pigs Intended for Human Consumption and Potential Occupational Hazard to Pig Farmers in India. Foodborne Pathog Dis 2024; 21:99-108. [PMID: 37943604 DOI: 10.1089/fpd.2023.0073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, an important food-borne zoonotic parasite, poses a worldwide public health hazard. Domestic pigs are considered one of the main intermediate hosts in the zoonotic transmission of T. gondii. To date, seroepidemiological information on T. gondii in domestic pigs in India is very scarce, and there are no reports of occupational hazards to pig farmers in this country. Here, we aimed at estimating the occurrence of T. gondii (antibodies and parasite DNA) in slaughtered pigs and pig farmers in Central India. Seroprevalence was determined in 410 serum samples from slaughtered pigs and 103 sera from pig farmers using an in-house prepared antigen-based modified agglutination test (MAT), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and indirect-fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies were detected in 200 pigs (up to 48.8%, confidence interval [95% CI]: 40.4-52.2) and 44 pig farmers (up to 42.7%, 95% CI: 35.6-47.3) using MAT, ELISA, and IFAT. Inter-rater agreement showed an excellent agreement (kappa κ = 0.9) among the different serological tests suggesting similar detection potential of these tests. Recently acquired infections in all seropositive subjects were determined using IgG avidity testing and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). IgG avidity showed that 20 (10.3%) of slaughtered pigs and 8 (19.5%) pig farmers had a recently acquired infection. PCR for B1 and 529 repeats was performed in the heart tissues of slaughtered pigs and the blood cells of pig farmers. T. gondii DNA was detected in 14 (7.2%) slaughtered pigs and 5 (12.2%) pig farmers. Univariate analysis revealed that adult animals (>1 year), cats and rodents on the farm, and outdoor access are common factors (p ≤ 0.05) associated with T. gondii infection in pigs. Our results indicate that T. gondii is widely distributed in slaughtered pigs and pig farmers at risk of infection, highlighting a potential zoonotic transmission and health risk to consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megha Roy
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, DBT-National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Veena Mishra
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, DBT-National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
| | - Pallabi Mitra
- Department of Animal Biology, School of Life Sciences, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India
| | - Yeshwant Umbardand
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University, Nagpur, India
| | - Vaishnavi Sapate
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University, Nagpur, India
| | - Waqar Khan
- Department of Veterinary Public Health & Epidemiology, Nagpur Veterinary College, Maharashtra Animal & Fishery Sciences University, Nagpur, India
| | - Abhijit S Deshmukh
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, DBT-National Institute of Animal Biotechnology, Hyderabad, India
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Adriaanse K, Lynch M, Sutherland D, Traub R, Lowe J, Hufschmid J. Toxoplasma gondii Does Not Inhibit the Assisted Colonization of Eastern Barred Bandicoots (Perameles gunnii) to Phillip Island, Victoria, Australia. J Wildl Dis 2024; 60:116-125. [PMID: 37889935 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-23-00069] [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: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Eastern barred bandicoots (Perameles gunnii) are thought to be highly susceptible to disease caused by infection with the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. This study followed a population of 67 P. gunnii introduced onto the Summerland Peninsula, Phillip Island, Australia, where the prevalence of T. gondii infection in the feral cat population was known to be very high. Prior to release, bandicoots were tested for serologic exposure to T. gondii using the modified agglutination test. A subset of bandicoots was tested on four occasions after release onto the peninsula. No seroconversion was detected at any time point. A subset of bandicoots was radiotracked after release and at two additional trapping sessions to help monitor survival. Toxoplasma gondii DNA was not detected by PCR in eight carcasses recovered for necropsy. Fourteen founder bandicoots (21% of founders) were known to be alive at 500 d post-release. A total of 29 unmarked bandicoots were trapped over the study period, confirming that the bandicoots were successfully reproducing on the island. Body weight, packed cell volume, and total plasma protein were used as measures of individual animal health; population health was inferred from these data. Body weight was significantly associated with trip number, with a general trend of increasing weight after release onto the island. This study showed that eastern barred bandicoots were able to establish a new population despite a probably high environmental load of T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Adriaanse
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Building 400, Corner Flemington Road and Park Drive, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Zoos Victoria, Elliot Avenue, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Michael Lynch
- Zoos Victoria, Elliot Avenue, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Duncan Sutherland
- Phillip Island Nature Parks, PO Box 97, Cowes, Victoria 3922, Australia
| | - Rebecca Traub
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Building 400, Corner Flemington Road and Park Drive, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Jasmine Lowe
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Building 400, Corner Flemington Road and Park Drive, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Jasmin Hufschmid
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, University of Melbourne, Building 400, Corner Flemington Road and Park Drive, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
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Datta P, Garg P, Rattan D, Bagga R, Rohilla M, Khurana S, Sehgal R. Comparison of B1 and RE 529 gene targets by real time PCR and LAMP assay for diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in pregnant females. Indian J Med Microbiol 2024; 47:100481. [PMID: 37924678 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmmb.2023.100481] [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: 02/26/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to accurately diagnose the presence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women. In this study we evaluated two gene targets B1 and RE-529 using two different molecular methods i.e., real-time PCR and LAMP. PROCEDURE A total of 150 blood samples were collected from pregnant women attending the PGIMER outpatient clinic. The serum and Buffy layer were extracted and various serological (ELISA) and molecular tests (qPCR and LAMP) targeting B1 and RE-529 were carried out. FINDING Out of 150 patients, 32 were seropositive. Amongst which for the RE-529 gene, 18 were LAMP positive and 16 were qPCR positive, while for the B1 gene, 14 were LAMP positive and 13 were qPCR positive. CONCLUSIONS Molecular methods were more sensitive than serological tests to diagnose congenital toxoplasmosis in antenatal females. Few seronegative patients were reported positive using molecular methods. In addition, LAMP targeting the RE-529 gene is more sensitive than qPCR, and LAMP targets the B1 gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priya Datta
- Department of Medical Parasitology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
| | - Puja Garg
- Department of Medical Parasitology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
| | - Divya Rattan
- Department of Medical Parasitology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
| | - Rashmi Bagga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
| | - Minakshi Rohilla
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
| | - Sumeeta Khurana
- Department of Medical Parasitology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
| | - Rakesh Sehgal
- Department of Medical Parasitology, PGIMER, Chandigarh, 160012, India.
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Yang J, Liu S, Zhao Q, Li X, Jiang K. Gut microbiota-related metabolite alpha-linolenic acid mitigates intestinal inflammation induced by oral infection with Toxoplasma gondii. MICROBIOME 2023; 11:273. [PMID: 38087373 PMCID: PMC10714487 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-023-01681-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oral infection with cysts is the main transmission route of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), which leads to lethal intestinal inflammation. It has been widely recognized that T. gondii infection alters the composition and metabolism of the gut microbiota, thereby affecting the progression of toxoplasmosis. However, the potential mechanisms remain unclear. In our previous study, there was a decrease in the severity of toxoplasmosis after T. gondii α-amylase (α-AMY) was knocked out. Here, we established mouse models of ME49 and Δα-amy cyst infection and then took advantage of 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metabolomics analysis to identify specific gut microbiota-related metabolites that mitigate T. gondii-induced intestinal inflammation and analyzed the underlying mechanism. RESULTS There were significant differences in the intestinal inflammation between ME49 cyst- and Δα-amy cyst-infected mice, and transferring feces from mice infected with Δα-amy cysts into antibiotic-treated mice mitigated colitis caused by T. gondii infection. 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed that the relative abundances of gut bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, [Prevotella], Paraprevotella and Macellibacteroides, were enriched in mice challenged with Δα-amy cysts. Spearman correlation analysis between gut microbiota and metabolites indicated that some fatty acids, including azelaic acid, suberic acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), and citramalic acid, were highly positively correlated with the identified bacterial genera. Both oral administration of ALA and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) decreased the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and restrained the MyD88/NF-κB pathway, which mitigated colitis and ultimately improved host survival. Furthermore, transferring feces from mice treated with ALA reshaped the colonization of beneficial bacteria, such as Enterobacteriaceae, Proteobacteria, Shigella, Lactobacillus, and Enterococcus. CONCLUSIONS The present findings demonstrate that the host gut microbiota is closely associated with the severity of T. gondii infection. We provide the first evidence that ALA can alleviate T. gondii-induced colitis by improving the dysregulation of the host gut microbiota and suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines via the MyD88/NF-κB pathway. Our study provides new insight into the medical application of ALA for the treatment of lethal intestinal inflammation caused by Toxoplasma infection. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, Yunnan, China
| | - Songhao Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, Yunnan, China
| | - Qian Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, Yunnan, China
| | - Xiaobing Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, Yunnan, China.
| | - Kangfeng Jiang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, Yunnan, China.
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Rahman SU, Akbar H, Shabbir MZ, Ullah U, Rashid MI. Newly optimized ELISA kit and LAT reveal significantly higher seroprevalence in sheep raised in agro-ecological zone as against range-ecological zone, with a significant association of meteorological parameters. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290374. [PMID: 38051753 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic and foodborne intracellular parasite capable of inducing congenital infections, stillbirths and abortions in humans and animals, globally. The consumption of undercooked or raw mutton is "one of the vital risks" for acquiring toxoplasmosis: an asymptomatic condition in healthy persons, while life-threatening in immunodeficient individuals like "HIV/AIDS" patients. OBJECTIVES The current study has multiple objectives: to optimize a newly ELISA kit for Sheep, to find out the seroprevalence of ovine toxoplasmosis of two ecological zones of the Punjab, Pakistan through LAT and newly Optimized Sheep ELISA kit, to do the comparison of efficacies of various tests (LAT with newly Optimized ELISA kit and newly Optimized ELISA kit with commercial ELISA kit) and to determine the different meteorological parameters as the risk factors for T. gondii infection in sheep. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 sheep sera, 200 were collected from sheep raised on open grazing system by local farmers in the adjoining areas of Civil Veterinary Dispensaries (CVDs) of range-ecological zone i.e. tehsil Kot Chutta (Dera Ghazi khan). Similarly, the remaining 200 were collected from agro-ecological zone i.e. tehsil Sharaqpur (Sheikhupura), to evaluate the comparative efficacy of LAT with optimized ELISA kit and newly optimized ELISA kit with commercial ELISA kit. FINDINGS The newly ELISA kit optimized against a commercial ELISA kit was found to have 100% sensitivity, 97.6% specificity with 98% Positive Predictive Value, 100% Negative Predictive Value, Cut off value = 0.505, 28.28 LR+, 0.0104 LR-, and 2719.23 DOR. Seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis was detected significantly (P < 0.01; χ2) higher in Sharaqpur (44.5% by LAT; 35.5% by ELISA) as compared to that in Kot Chutta (39.5% by LAT; 31% by ELISA). The highest seroprevalence was seen in the sheep of the 1-2 years age group (P < 0.01; χ2), whereas the lowest in the oldest animals (≥ 4 years). Investigation of meteorological data of both the regions reveals that the zone with higher seroprevalence has relatively higher rainfall, higher humidity, lower environmental temperatures, and higher altitude as the critical factors, potentially behind the significant difference seen in seroprevalence level. The partial correlation of both tests (newly optimized ELISA kit and LAT) was 0.991 at maximum temperature in Sharaqpur while it was 0.981 in Kot Chutta. INTERPRETATION A novel significant correlation was found between the meteorological parameters (relative humidity, minimum, maximum, and average temperatures) divided into yearly units of both the ecological zones, and year-wise seroprevalence (birth years of age-wise groups) of the corresponding regions. We hypothesize that such environmental conditions increase the risk of toxoplasmosis in grazing sheep, owing to a more favorable environment for coccidian oocyst survival. The ELISA kit optimized in this study will be helpful for the detection of seroprevalence of ovine toxoplasmosis in other ecological zones of Pakistan as well as of any other country in the world. More studies are recommended involving regions from other ecological zones of Pakistan to further explore the seroprevalence of ovine toxoplasmosis and to ratify the novel correlation of meteorological parameters with seroprevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarfraz Ur Rahman
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Department of Parasitology, Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Haroon Akbar
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Department of Parasitology, Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Ubaid Ullah
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Department of Parasitology, Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Imran Rashid
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, Department of Parasitology, Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
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Abd El-Latif NF, Salem AI, Sadek NA, Salah SAM, Shalaby DG, Elhadad H. Serological and molecular detection of Toxoplasma gondii in ß. thalassemia patients. J Parasit Dis 2023; 47:778-786. [PMID: 38009154 PMCID: PMC10667183 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-023-01624-4] [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: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a worldwide opportunistic protozoan causing life-threatening infection in immunocompromised patients, while frequently asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals. The current study aimed to detect T. gondii; serologically and molecularly in ß. thalassemia patients and evaluate the association of infection with some hematological parameters in these patients. Blood samples were collected from 100 ß. thalassemia patients. Serological diagnosis of T. gondii using ELISA for IgG and IgM antibodies was performed. Molecular diagnosis by Real-Time (RE) PCR was performed using specifically designed primers amplifying 389 bp fragments of Toxoplasma genome. 45 patients (45%) had anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibodies with no detectable IgM antibodies while both anti-Toxoplasma IgM and IgG antibodies were noticed in 10 patients (10%). IgM only antibodies were discovered in two cases (2%). The total seropositivity rate among patients was 57%. RE PCR analysis revealed Toxoplasma DNA in 20% out of 100 patients. PCR and serological examination showed slight agreement. A statistically significant relation was observed between the results of IgG and IgM ELISA and PCR for the detection of T. gondii infection among patients with ß. thalassemia. None of the studied risk factors (age, gender, contact with cats, consumption of undercooked meat) or hematological parameters (ESR, anemia degree, ferritin level, type of blood transfusion, spleen status) showed statistically significant association with Toxoplasma infection. It can be concluded that patients with thalassemia have a high risk of infection with T. gondii. RE PCR should be used as a diagnostic method in association with serology especially in immunocompromised patients to increase sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aziza Ibrahim Salem
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Nadia Aly Sadek
- Department of Haematology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Sally A. M. Salah
- Department of Haematology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | | | - Heba Elhadad
- Department of Parasitology, Medical Research Institute, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Mazwi KD, Kolo FB, Jaja IF, Bokaba RP, Ngoshe YB, Hassim A, Neves L, van Heerden H. Serological Evidence and Coexposure of Selected Infections among Livestock Slaughtered at Eastern Cape Abattoirs in South Africa. Int J Microbiol 2023; 2023:8906971. [PMID: 38077996 PMCID: PMC10708957 DOI: 10.1155/2023/8906971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic infections were investigated in a cross-sectional study on asymptomatic livestock slaughtered in abattoirs in the Eastern Cape. Antibodies against Brucella spp., Coxiella burnetii, Toxoplasma gondii, and the coexposure were investigated in sera using serological tests. A total of 565 animals comprising of 280 cattle, 200 sheep, and 85 pigs were screened using RBT, iELISA, CFT, and AMOS-PCR. The Mast® Toxoreagent test and iELISA were used for the detection of T. gondii and C. burnetii, respectively. The Brucella positivity based on at least two tests was 4.3% (12/280), 1.0% (2/200), and 0.0% (0/85) in cattle, sheep, and pigs, respectively. Toxoplasma gondii seropositivity of 37.90% (106/280), 1.50% (3/200), and 7.10% (6/85) was observed in cattle, sheep, and pigs, respectively. Coxiella burnetii seropositivity of 26.40% (74/280), 15.00% (30/200), and 2.40% (2/85) was observed in cattle, sheep, and pigs, respectively. Coexposure was detected in cattle for positivity against C. burnetii and T. gondii 40.54%, Brucella spp. and T. gondii 1.35%, and Brucella spp. and C. burnetii 4.05%. Coexposure for Brucella spp., C. burnetii, and T. gondii 4.05% was detected in cattle. Coexposure of Brucella spp. and C. burnetii 6.67% was detected in sheep. The AMOS-PCR identified B. abortus in cattle and a mixed infection of B. abortus and B. melitensis in sheep in 64.71% seropositive samples. To our knowledge, the coexposure of Brucella spp., T. gondii, and C. burnetii in cattle has not been reported. Coexposure of Brucella spp. and C. burnetii in cattle and sheep is significant as it results in reproductive losses and constitutes an infectious risk to humans. The detection of antibodies against multiple zoonotic infections in livestock from abattoirs has implications for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. D. Mazwi
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - F. B. Kolo
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - I. F. Jaja
- Department of Livestock and Pasture Science, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Fort Hare, Alice, South Africa
- Department of Agriculture and Animal Health, University of South Africa, Roodepoort, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - R. P. Bokaba
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Y. B. Ngoshe
- Epidemiology Section, Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - A. Hassim
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - L. Neves
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - H. van Heerden
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, South Africa
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Alharazi T, Alcantara JC, Dando LL, Pangket P. Seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis at referral hospitals in the northwestern region, Saudi Arabia. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2023; 12:391. [PMID: 38333142 PMCID: PMC10852156 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_490_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasmosis is induced by Toxoplasma gondii, which affects 30 percent of the global population and is responsible for deaths related to foodborne pathogens. This study aimed to describe the seroprevalence of T. gondii infections in patients attending referral hospitals in the northwestern region of Saudi Arabia. MATERIALS AND METHODS The serology test results for T. gondii antibodies of 797 patients were retrospectively analyzed using the hospitals' database. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect anti-T. gondii antibodies (IgG and/or IgM). RESULTS Overall, the prevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies was 8.3%. Higher (9.9%) prevalence of positive results among patients aged 30 years and above was observed. Statistically, the various age groups (P = 0.031) were found to be significant. Female was noted to have increased (8.1%) seroprevalence, and the incidence of infection occurred largely among participants living in rural areas (8.2%). CONCLUSIONS Toxoplasmosis remains a public health concern. The seroprevalence of T. gondii antibodies was relatively low in the study area. IgG antibodies to T. gondii were mainly detected. Increasing awareness on the mode of transmission, source of infection, and disease prevention through health education and dissemination is vital to reduce or eliminate toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talal Alharazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Science, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Taiz University, Taiz, Yemen
| | - Jerold C. Alcantara
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Applied Medical Science, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
- College of Medical Laboratory Science, Lorma Colleges, San Fernando City, La Union, Philippines
| | - Lea L. Dando
- Department of Medical-Surgical, College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Petelyne Pangket
- Department of Medical-Surgical, College of Nursing, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
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Mendoza-Larios LA, García-Dolores F, Sánchez-Anguiano LF, Antuna-Salcido EI, Hernández-Tinoco J, Rocha-Salais A, Segoviano-Mendoza MA, Sifuentes-Álvarez A, Alvarado-Esquivel C. Toxoplasma gondii infection of the central nervous system and suicide: A case-control study of decedents. Eur J Microbiol Immunol (Bp) 2023; 13:77-82. [PMID: 37982867 PMCID: PMC10668923 DOI: 10.1556/1886.2023.00033] [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: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
We sought to determine the association between Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection of the central nervous system and suicide in a sample of decedents in Mexico City. One hundred and forty-seven decedents (87 who committed suicide and 60 who did not commit suicide) were studied. Brain tissues (amygdala and prefrontal cortex) of decedents were examined for the detection of T. gondii using immunohistochemistry. Detection of T. gondii was positive in 7 (8.0%) of the 87 cases (6 found in prefrontal cortex and one in amygdala), and in one (1.7%) of the 60 controls (found in prefrontal cortex) (OR: 5.16; 95% CI: 0.61-43.10; P = 0.14). Results suggest that T. gondii infection in brain is not associated with suicide. Further studies to confirm this finding are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Alejandra Mendoza-Larios
- Instituto de Ciencias Forenses de la Ciudad de México, Avenida Niños Héroes 130, Colonia Doctores, Delegación Cuauhtémoc, 06720 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Fernando García-Dolores
- Instituto de Ciencias Forenses de la Ciudad de México, Avenida Niños Héroes 130, Colonia Doctores, Delegación Cuauhtémoc, 06720 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Luis Francisco Sánchez-Anguiano
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N. 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Elizabeth Irasema Antuna-Salcido
- Institute for Scientific Research “Dr. Roberto Rivera Damm”, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N, 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Jesús Hernández-Tinoco
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N. 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Adriana Rocha-Salais
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N. 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Marcela Araceli Segoviano-Mendoza
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N. 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Antonio Sifuentes-Álvarez
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N. 34000 Durango, Mexico
| | - Cosme Alvarado-Esquivel
- Biomedical Research Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Juárez University of Durango State, Avenida Universidad S/N. 34000 Durango, Mexico
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Onyinye NP, Ikechukwu M, Chinedu N, Chukwuanugo N O, Nnamdi C OI, Nne AC. Recent and past toxoplasmosis infections, associated factors, and awareness among pregnant women in Nigeria. SAGE Open Med 2023; 11:20503121231202230. [PMID: 37915843 PMCID: PMC10617264 DOI: 10.1177/20503121231202230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives The study determined the rate of recent and past Toxoplasma gondii infections, associated factors, and awareness among expectant mothers assessing antenatal care in a tertiary hospital in Nigeria. Methods This prospective cohort study was conducted among pregnant women. A questionnaire was used to gather information on socio-demographics, infection risk factors, and awareness of the infection. Using an ELISA kit, the IgG and IgM antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii were assessed in blood samples from these women. For samples that tested positive for IgM, a real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to amplify the DNA. SPSS version 23 was used for data entry and analysis. The p-value < 0.05 was adjudged to be significant. Results A total of 250 pregnant women participated in the study. The rate of recent infection (IgM antibody positivity) was 3.6% (9/250), while past infection (IgG antibody positivity) was 68.4% (171/250). Polymerase chain reaction confirmed 5/9 recent infections as positive. Factors significantly associated with toxoplasmosis were gardening (p = 0.037) and undercooked meat (p = 0.023). Only 27 out of 250 pregnant women in this research had heard of toxoplasmosis, which translates to a low awareness rate of 10.8%. Conclusions The recent infection among pregnant women in this study indicates the possibility of mother-to-child transmission with attendant sequelae. There was a significant association between past Toxoplasmosis gondii infections and stillbirth. Routine screening for toxoplasmosis should be incorporated into the antenatal program since none of the symptoms could significantly predict illness. In addition, regular antennal care instruction should cover toxoplasmosis education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nnemelu Perpetua Onyinye
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Nigeria
| | - Mbachu Ikechukwu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Nnewi, Nigeria
| | - Ndukwe Chinedu
- Department of Anatomic Pathology and Forensic Medicine, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Nnewi, Nigeria
| | - Ogbuagu Chukwuanugo N
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Nigeria
| | - Onyenyili Ikemefuna Nnamdi C
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University Teaching Hospital, Nnewi, Nigeria
| | - Akujobi Comfort Nne
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Nnewi Campus, Nnewi, Nigeria
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Zeinali S, Khademvatan S, Jafari R, Vazifekhah S, Yousefi E, Behroozi-Lak T. Prevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection among women with miscarriage and their aborted fetuses in the northwest of Iran. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283493. [PMID: 37883415 PMCID: PMC10602335 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283493] [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: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide disease of various animals and human and results from infection with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. Abortion and congenital defects are important consequences of the T. gondii infection. The aim of this study was to determine the Toxoplasma-induced abortions among women with miscarriage and the presence of T. gondii in their aborted fetuses in Urmia, the northwest of Iran. This cross-sectional study was conducted with 215 women with abortion and their aborted fetuses, from 2020 to 2021. Seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM were determined using the sera of the aforesaid women. Nested PCR was carried out using RE-529 gene sequences, and sequencing was performed using the T. gondii GRA6 gene on the remnant of pregnancy after abortion. The tissue positive samples were then subjected to another PCR on GRA6 gene and sequenced for genotyping. Among 215 serum samples of women with abortion, 70 (32.6%) were positive for anti-Toxoplasma IgG, and three (1.4%) were positive for IgM. The RE-529 sequence of T. gondii was positive in three (1.4%) of the aborted fetuses. The analysis of GRA6 gene indicated that all three positive samples carried a GRA6 allele (GRA6I) of T. gondii type I genotype. Our findings suggest that T. gondii is one of the causative agents of spontaneous abortion in West Azerbijan Province, the northwest of Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Zeinali
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology& Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Shahram Khademvatan
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology& Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Rasool Jafari
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology& Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Shabnam Vazifekhah
- Maternal and Childhood Obesity Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Elham Yousefi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology& Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Tahereh Behroozi-Lak
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Infertility, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
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Tunali V, Korkmaz M. Emerging and Re-Emerging Parasitic Infections of the Central Nervous System (CNS) in Europe. Infect Dis Rep 2023; 15:679-699. [PMID: 37987400 PMCID: PMC10660548 DOI: 10.3390/idr15060062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
In a rapidly evolving global landscape characterized by increased international travel, migration, and ecological shifts, this study sheds light on the emergence of protozoal and helminthic infections targeting the central nervous system (CNS) within Europe. Despite being traditionally associated with tropical regions, these infections are progressively becoming more prevalent in non-endemic areas. By scrutinizing the inherent risks, potential outcomes, and attendant challenges, this study underscores the intricate interplay between diagnostic limitations, susceptibility of specific population subsets, and the profound influence of climate fluctuations. The contemporary interconnectedness of societies serves as a conduit for introducing and establishing these infections, warranting comprehensive assessment. This study emphasizes the pivotal role of heightened clinician vigilance, judicious public health interventions, and synergistic research collaborations to mitigate the potential consequences of these infections. Though rare, their profound impact on morbidity and mortality underscores the collective urgency required to safeguard the neurological well-being of the European populace. Through this multifaceted approach, Europe can effectively navigate the complex terrain posed with these emergent infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varol Tunali
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Manisa Celal Bayar University, 45030 Manisa, Turkey
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Izmir Metropolitan Municipality Eşrefpaşa Hospital, 35170 Izmir, Turkey
| | - Metin Korkmaz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, 35100 Izmir, Turkey;
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Mangena ML, Gcebe N, Thompson PN, Adesiyun AA. Q fever and toxoplasmosis in South African livestock and wildlife: a retrospective study on seropositivity, sporadic abortion, and stillbirth cases in livestock caused by Coxiella burnetii. BMC Vet Res 2023; 19:168. [PMID: 37735412 PMCID: PMC10512517 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-023-03645-w] [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: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Q fever and toxoplasmosis are economically important zoonoses as they cause considerable losses in livestock (cattle, sheep and goats) and wildlife (antelopes, giraffes, lions, and cheetahs) through reproductive disorders such as abortions and stillbirths. Q fever and toxoplasmosis testing in South Africa is conducted by the Agricultural Research Council-Onderstepoort Veterinary Research (ARC-OVR). However, both zoonoses are understudied and not monitored in South Africa as they are not considered controlled or notifiable diseases in the Animal Disease Act 35 of 1984. A retrospective study was conducted on Q fever (2007-2009) and toxoplasmosis (2007-2017) using diagnostic laboratory data at the ARC-OVR. Also, we report on sporadic abortion and stillbirth cases in livestock from diagnostic tissue samples submitted for Coxiella burnetii polymerase chain reaction (PCR) detection at the ARC-OVR. RESULTS During 2007 to 2009, 766 animal samples were tested for C. burnetii antibodies and seropositivity was 0.9% (95%CI: 0.3-1.7) with sheep (1.9%; 95%CI: 0.6-4.4) having the highest seropositivity followed by cattle (0.7%; 95%CI: 0.09-2.6), while all goats (0.0%; 95%CI: 0.0-4.2) and wildlife (0.0%; 95%CI: 0.0-2.5) tested were negative. From 2007 to 2017, 567 sera were tested for T. gondii antibodies; overall seropositivity was 12.2% (95%CI: 9.6-15). Wildlife had highest seropositivity to T. gondii antibodies (13.9%; 95%CI: 9.0-19.7) followed by goats (12.9%; 95%CI: 9.2-17.4) and sheep (12.3%; 95%CI: 5.1-23.8) while seropositivity in cattle was 2.4% (95%CI: 0.06-12.9). Of 11 animals tested by C. burnetii PCR detection (2021-2022), 10 (91.0%) were positive. The amplicon sequences showed similarity to Coxiella burnetii strain 54T1 transposase gene partial coding sequence. CONCLUSIONS We have confirmed the occurrence of the causative agents of Q fever and toxoplasmosis in livestock and wildlife in South Africa, with data limitations. These zoonoses remain of importance with limited information about them in South Africa. This study provides baseline information for future studies on Q fever and toxoplasmosis in South African livestock and wildlife, as well other African countries. Due to limited data collection experienced in this study, it is recommended that improvements in data collection samples tested should include associated factors such as sex, age, and breed of the animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maruping L Mangena
- Agricultural Research Council -Vaccines and Diagnostics Development Programme, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Private Bag X 05, Tshwane, 0110, Onderstepoort, South Africa.
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Tshwane, 0110, Onderstepoort, South Africa.
| | - Nomakorinte Gcebe
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Tshwane, 0110, Onderstepoort, South Africa
- Agricultural Research Council - Bacteriology and Zoonotic Diseases Diagnostic Laboratory, Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Private Bag X 05, Tshwane, 0110, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Peter N Thompson
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Tshwane, 0110, Onderstepoort, South Africa
- Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Tshwane, 0110, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Abiodun A Adesiyun
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Tshwane, 0110, Onderstepoort, South Africa
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, St Augustine, Trinidad and Tobago
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Jin QW, Yu T, Pan M, Fan YM, Huang SY. ROP16 of Toxoplasma gondii Inhibits Innate Immunity by Triggering cGAS-STING Pathway Inactivity through the Polyubiquitination of STING. Cells 2023; 12:1862. [PMID: 37508526 PMCID: PMC10378213 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141862] [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: 06/01/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
cGAS-STING signaling is a major pathway in inducing type Ⅰ IFN, which plays a crucial role in the defense against T. gondii infection. In contrast, T. gondii develops multiple strategies to counteract the host defense, causing serious diseases in a wide range of hosts. Here, we demonstrate that T. gondii rhoptry protein 16 (ROP16) dampens type I interferon signaling via the inhibition of the cGAS (cyclic GMP-AMP synthase) pathway through the polyubiquitination of STING. Mechanistically, ROP16 interacts with STING through the SignalP domain and inhibits the K63-linked ubiquitination of STING in an NLS (nuclear localization signal)-domain-dependent manner. Consequently, knocking out the ROP16 in PRU tachyzoites promotes the STING-mediated production of type I IFNs and limits the replication of T. gondii. Together, these findings describe a distinct pathway where T. gondii exploits the ubiquitination of STING to evade host anti-parasite immunity, revealing new insights into the interaction between the host and parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Wang Jin
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonosis, Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Ting Yu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonosis, Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Ming Pan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonosis, Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Yi-Min Fan
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonosis, Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
| | - Si-Yang Huang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonosis, Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, The Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China
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El-kady AM, S. Hassan A, Mohamed K, Alfaifi MS, Elshazly H, Alamri ZZ, Wakid MH, Gattan HS, Altwaim SA, Al-Megrin WAI, Younis S. Zinc oxide nanoparticles produced by Zingiber officinale ameliorates acute toxoplasmosis-induced pathological and biochemical alterations and reduced parasite burden in mice model. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011447. [PMID: 37410712 PMCID: PMC10325114 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although, approximately 30% of the world's population is estimated to be infected with Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) with serious manifestations in immunocompromised patients and pregnant females, the available treatment options for toxoplasmosis are limited with serious side effects. Therefore, it is of great importance to identify novel potent, well tolerated candidates for treatment of toxoplasmosis. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) synthesized using Zingiber officinale against acute toxoplasmosis in experimentally infected mice. METHODS The ethanolic extract of ginger was used to prepare ZnO NPs. The produced ZnO NPs were characterized in terms of structure and morphology using Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), UV- spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The prepared formula was used in treatment of T. gondii RH virulent strain. Forty animals were divided into four groups, with ten mice per group. The first group was the uninfected, control group. The second group was infected but untreated. The third and the fourth groups received ZnO NPs and Spiramycin orally in a dose of 10 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg/day respectively. The effect of the used formulas on the animals survival rate, parasite burden, liver enzymes -including Alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST)-, nitric oxide (NO) and Catalase antioxidant enzyme (CAT) activity was measured. Moreover, the effect of treatment on histopathological alterations associated with toxoplasmosis was examined. RESULTS Mice treated with ZnO NPs showed the longest survival time with significant reduction in the parasite load in the livers and peritoneal fluids of the same group. Moreover, ZnO NPs treatment was associated with a significant reduction in the level of liver enzymes (ALT, AST) and NO and a significant increase in the antioxidant activity of CAT enzyme. SEM examination of tachyzoites from the peritoneal fluid showed marked distortion of T. gondii tachyzoites isolated from mice treated with ZnO NPs in comparison to untreated group. T. gondii induced histopathological alterations in the liver and brain were reversed by ZnO NPs treatment with restoration of normal tissue morphology. CONCLUSION The produced formula showed a good therapeutic potential in treatment of murine toxoplasmosis as demonstrated by prolonged survival rate, reduced parasite burden, improved T. gondii associated liver injury and histopathological alterations. Thus, we assume that the protective effect observed in the current research is attributed to the antioxidant capability of NPs. Based on the results obtained from the current work, we suggest greenly produced ZnO NPs as a chemotherapeutic agent with good therapeutic potential and high levels of safety in the treatment of toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa M. El-kady
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Abeer S. Hassan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of pharmacy, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Khalil Mohamed
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mashael S. Alfaifi
- Department of Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Health and Health Informatics, Umm Al-Qura University, Mecca, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hayam Elshazly
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences-Scientific Departments, Qassim University, Buraidah, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni Suef, Egypt
| | - Zaenah Zuhair Alamri
- Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majed H. Wakid
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hattan S. Gattan
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah A. Altwaim
- Special Infectious Agents Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wafa Abdullah I. Al-Megrin
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salwa Younis
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
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Chen H, Luo B, Wu S, Shi S, Dai Q, Peng Z, Zhao M. Microfluidic Biosensor Based on Molybdenum Disulfide (MoS 2) Modified Thin-Core Microfiber for Immune Detection of Toxoplasma gondii. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:s23115218. [PMID: 37299945 DOI: 10.3390/s23115218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a zoonotic parasite that is widely distributed and seriously endangers public health and human health. Therefore, accurate and effective detection of T. gondii is crucial. This study proposes a microfluidic biosensor using a thin-core microfiber (TCMF) coated with molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) for immune detection of T. gondii. The single-mode fiber was fused with the thin-core fiber, and the TCMF was obtained by arc discharging and flame heating. In order to avoid interference and protect the sensing structure, the TCMF was encapsulated in the microfluidic chip. MoS2 and T. gondii antigen were modified on the surface of TCMF for the immune detection of T. gondii. Experimental results showed that the detection range of the proposed biosensor for T. gondii monoclonal antibody solutions was 1 pg/mL to 10 ng/mL with sensitivity of 3.358 nm/log(mg/mL); the detection of limit was calculated to be 87 fg/mL through the Langmuir model; the dissociation constant and the affinity constant were calculated to be about 5.79 × 10-13 M and 1.727 × 1014 M-1, respectively. The specificity and clinical characteristics of the biosensor was explored. The rabies virus, pseudorabies virus, and T. gondii serum were used to confirm the excellent specificity and clinical characteristics of the biosensor, indicating that the proposed biosensor has great application potential in the biomedical field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiji Chen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Optical Fiber Sensor and Photoelectric Detection, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Binbin Luo
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Optical Fiber Sensor and Photoelectric Detection, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Shengxi Wu
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Shenghui Shi
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Optical Fiber Sensor and Photoelectric Detection, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Qin Dai
- School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Zehua Peng
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Optical Fiber Sensor and Photoelectric Detection, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
| | - Mingfu Zhao
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Optical Fiber Sensor and Photoelectric Detection, Chongqing University of Technology, Chongqing 400054, China
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Hegazy MK, Saleh NE, Aboukamar WA. Detection of chronic toxoplasmosis in the brain of mice using loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and conventional PCR. Exp Parasitol 2023:108556. [PMID: 37247801 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2023.108556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii is a common protozoan parasite that infects approximately one-third of the world's population. It is a disease with multiple manifestations. In immunocompetent individuals, symptoms are mild and flu-like, whereas, in immunocompromised patients, it often results in severe morbidity and mortality. Thus, studies for developing a simple, rapid diagnostic tool for early detection of Toxoplasma are emerging. Molecular diagnosis is highly accurate and helpful in congenitally infected and immunocompromised patients. The loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technique was invented to improve nucleic acid amplification efficacy in terms of sensitivity and specificity. AIM OF THE STUDY The study aimed to validate a LAMP protocol for detecting Toxoplasma DNA in the brain homogenates from mice experimentally infected with Toxoplasma's ME-49 (cyst-forming type II) strain in comparison to PCR. METHODS In this study, the target DNA fragment was the Toxoplasma 529-bp, repeated 200-300 copies/genome. The sensitivity of both LAMP and conventional PCR techniques was estimated in brain homogenates in experimental mice at eight weeks post-infection and compared to the histopathology data. RESULTS The LAMP reaction showed positive results in 18 of the 26 examined samples of brain homogenates. PCR showed the characteristic 529-bp band in 15 of the 26 examined samples. CONCLUSION The LAMP showed a higher sensitivity over PCR in detecting Toxoplasma infection in brain homogenates of infected mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona K Hegazy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.
| | - Nora E Saleh
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Wafaa A Aboukamar
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
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AlGabbani Q. Nanotechnology: A promising strategy for the control of parasitic infections. Exp Parasitol 2023:108548. [PMID: 37196702 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2023.108548] [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: 02/04/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Annually 3.5 billion people are affected by the parasitic infections that results around 200,000 deaths per annum. Major diseases occur due to the neglected tropical parasites. Variety of methods have been used to treat the parasitic infections but now these methods have become ineffective due to the development of resistance in the parasites and some other side effects of traditional treatment methods. Previous methods include use of chemotherapeutic agents and ethnobotanicals for the treatment of parasites. Parasites have developed resistance against the chemotherapeutic agents. A major problem related to Ethnobotanicals is the unequal availability of drug at the target site which is responsible for the low efficacy of drug. Nanotechnology technology involves the manipulation of matter on a nanoscale level and has the potential to enhance the efficacy and safety of existing drugs, develop new treatments, and improve diagnostic methods for parasitic infections. Nanoparticles can be designed to selectively target parasites while minimizing toxicity to the host, and they can also be used to improve drug delivery and increase drug stability. Some important nanotechnology-based tools for parasitic control include nanoparticle-based drug delivery, nanoparticle diagnostics, nanoparticle vaccines, nanoparticle insecticides. Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize the field of parasitic control by providing new methods for detection, prevention and treatment of parasitic infections. This review discusses the current state of nanotechnology-based approaches for controlling parasitic infections and highlights their potential to revolutionize the field of parasitology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qwait AlGabbani
- Department of Biology, College of Sciences and Humanities, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia.
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Gharibi Z, Shahbazi B, Gouklani H, Nassira H, Rezaei Z, Ahmadi K. Computational screening of FDA-approved drugs to identify potential TgDHFR, TgPRS, and TgCDPK1 proteins inhibitors against Toxoplasma gondii. Sci Rep 2023; 13:5396. [PMID: 37012275 PMCID: PMC10070243 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-32388-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is one of the most successful parasites in the world, because about a third of the world's population is seropositive for toxoplasmosis. Treatment regimens for toxoplasmosis have remained unchanged for the past 20 years, and no new drugs have been introduced to the market recently. This study, performed molecular docking to identify interactions of FDA-approved drugs with essential residues in the active site of proteins of T. gondii Dihydrofolate Reductase (TgDHFR), Prolyl-tRNA Synthetase (TgPRS), and Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinase 1 (TgCDPK1). Each protein was docked with 2100 FDA-approved drugs using AutoDock Vina. Also, the Pharmit software was used to generate pharmacophore models based on the TgDHFR complexed with TRC-2533, TgPRS in complex with halofuginone, and TgCDPK1 in complex with a bumped kinase inhibitor, RM-1-132. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was also performed for 100 ns to verify the stability of interaction in drug-protein complexes. Molecular Mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann Surface Area (MMPBSA) analysis evaluated the binding energy of selected complexes. Ezetimibe, Raloxifene, Sulfasalazine, Triamterene, and Zafirlukast drugs against the TgDHFR protein, Cromolyn, Cefexim, and Lactulose drugs against the TgPRS protein, and Pentaprazole, Betamethasone, and Bromocriptine drugs against TgCDPK1 protein showed the best results. These drugs had the lowest energy-based docking scores and also stable interactions based on MD analyses with TgDHFR, TgPRS, and TgCDPK1 drug targets that can be introduced as possible drugs for laboratory investigations to treat T. gondii parasite infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Gharibi
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Behzad Shahbazi
- Molecular Medicine Department, Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Gouklani
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Hoda Nassira
- Polymer Division, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Zahra Rezaei
- Professor Alborzi Clinical Microbiology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Khadijeh Ahmadi
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Hormozgan Health Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran.
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Altharawi A. Targeting Toxoplasma gondii ME49 TgAPN2: A Bioinformatics Approach for Antiparasitic Drug Discovery. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28073186. [PMID: 37049948 PMCID: PMC10096047 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28073186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
As fewer therapeutic options are available for treating toxoplasmosis, newer antiparasitic drugs that can block TgAPN2 M1 aminopeptidase are of significant value. Herein, we employed several computer-aided drug-design approaches with the objective of identifying drug molecules from the Asinex library with stable conformation and binding energy scores. By a structure-based virtual screening process, three molecules—LAS_52160953, LAS_51177972, and LAS_52506311—were identified as promising candidates, with binding affinity scores of −8.6 kcal/mol, −8.5 kcal/mol, and −8.3 kcal/mol, respectively. The compounds produced balanced interacting networks of hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions, vital for holding the compounds at the docked cavity and stable binding conformation. The docked compound complexes with TgAPN2 were further subjected to molecular dynamic simulations that revealed mean RMSD for the LAS_52160953 complex of 1.45 Å), LAS_51177972 complex 1.02 Å, and LAS_52506311 complex 1.087 Å. Another round of binding free energy validation by MM-GBSA/MM-PBSA was done to confirm docking and simulation findings. The analysis predicted average MM-GBSA value of <−36 kcal/mol and <−35 kcal/mol by MM-PBSA. The compounds were further classified as appropriate candidates to be used as drug-like molecules and showed favorable pharmacokinetics. The shortlisted compounds showed promising biological potency against the TgAPN2 enzyme and may be used in experimental validation. They may also serve as parent structures to design novel derivatives with enhanced biological potency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Altharawi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia
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41
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Ohta E. Pathologic characteristics of infectious diseases in macaque monkeys used in biomedical and toxicologic studies. J Toxicol Pathol 2023; 36:95-122. [PMID: 37101957 PMCID: PMC10123295 DOI: 10.1293/tox.2022-0089] [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: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonhuman primates (NHPs), which have many advantages in scientific research and are often the only relevant animals to use in assessing the safety profiles and biological or pharmacological effects of drug candidates, including biologics. In scientific or developmental experiments, the immune systems of animals can be spontaneously compromised possibly due to background infection, experimental procedure-associated stress, poor physical condition, or intended or unintended mechanisms of action of test articles. Under these circumstances, background, incidental, or opportunistic infections can seriously can significantly complicate the interpretation of research results and findings and consequently affect experimental conclusions. Pathologists and toxicologists must understand the clinical manifestations and pathologic features of infectious diseases and the effects of these diseases on animal physiology and experimental results in addition to the spectrum of infectious diseases in healthy NHP colonies. This review provides an overview of the clinical and pathologic characteristics of common viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infectious diseases in NHPs, especially macaque monkeys, as well as methods for definitive diagnosis of these diseases. Opportunistic infections that can occur in the laboratory setting have also been addressed in this review with examples of cases of infection disease manifestation that was observed or influenced during safety assessment studies or under experimental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Etsuko Ohta
- Global Drug Safety, Eisai Co., Ltd., 5-1-3 Tokodai,
Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki 300-2635, Japan
- *Corresponding author: E Ohta (e-mail: )
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Coixol ameliorates Toxoplasma gondii infection-induced lung injury by interfering with T. gondii HSP70/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 118:110031. [PMID: 36933491 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite that causes pulmonary toxoplasmosis, although its pathogenesis is incompletely understood. There is no cure for toxoplasmosis. Coixol, a plant polyphenol extracted from coix seeds, has a variety of biological activities. However, the effects of coixol on T. gondii infection have not been clarified. In this study, we infected a mouse macrophage cell line (RAW 264.7) and BALB/c mice with the T. gondii RH strain to establish infection models in vitro and in vivo, respectively, to explore protective effects and potential mechanisms of coixol on lung injury caused by T. gondii infection. Anti-T. gondii effects and underlying anti-inflammatory mechanisms of coixol were investigated by real-time quantitative PCR, molecular docking, localized surface plasmon resonance, co-immunoprecipitation, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, western blotting, and immunofluorescence microscopy. The results show that coixol inhibits T. gondii loads and T. gondii-derived heat shock protein 70 (T.g.HSP70) expression. Moreover, coixol reduced inflammatory cell recruitment and infiltration, and ameliorated pathological lung injury induced by T. gondii infection. Coixol can directly bind T.g.HSP70 or Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) to disrupt their interaction. Coixol prevented overexpression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, tumor necrosis factor-α, and high mobility group box 1 by inhibiting activation of the TLR4/nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling pathway, consistent with effects of the TLR4 inhibitor CLI-095. These results indicate that coixol improves T. gondii infection-induced lung injury by interfering with T.g.HSP70-mediated TLR4/NF-κB signaling. Altogether, these findings suggest that coixol is a promising effective lead compound for the treatment of toxoplasmosis.
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Vaphiades MS, Grondines B, Kline LB, Riser E, Spencer D. Skin in the game. Surv Ophthalmol 2023; 68:308-311. [PMID: 34813855 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2021.11.004] [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: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A 23-year-old man with a history of migraine and focal seizures, developed painless visual loss in the left eye associated with optic disk edema. There was no recent history of cat exposure except for a cat that lives outside. Initial laboratory studies were negative. magnetic resonance imaging brain and orbits without and with fat suppression and intravenous contrast was normal. The patient admitted to routinely skinning, processing and consuming deer while not wearing gloves, and he also frequently had cuts on his hands while doing so. The serum Toxoplasma gondii IgG antibody returned at >400 (0-7.1 IU/mL) with the IgM at 10.4 (0-7.9 AU/mL).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Vaphiades
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA.
| | - Brendan Grondines
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Lanning B Kline
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Emily Riser
- Departments of Ophthalmology and Neurology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Doran Spencer
- Shiley Eye Institute, University of California, San Diego, California, USA
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Genetic diversity of Toxoplasma gondii isolates from birds in the world: A systematic review. Exp Parasitol 2023; 248:108480. [PMID: 36863682 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2023.108480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is one of the most important foodborne pathogens that infects a large number of vertebrate species and has a cosmopolitan distribution. Birds as intermediate hosts are very important in the life cycle of T. gondii and they can be a main source of infection for humans and felids, as well as other animals. Most species of birds feed from the ground and are the best indicator for soil contamination with T. gondii oocysts. Hence, T. gondii strains isolated from birds can represent different genotypes circulating in the environment and their main predators and consumers. The recent systematic review tries to represent the population structure of T. gondii in birds around the world. Six English language databases were searched from 1990 to 2020 to find the related studies and overall, 1275 isolates of T. gondii were separated from the analyzed samples in birds. The results of our study revealed that atypical genotypes were predominant (58.8%, 750 out of 1275). Types II, III, and I had less frequency with prevalence rates of 23.4%, 13.8%, and 2%, respectively. No isolates of Type I were reported from Africa. Summarizing ToxoDB genotypes circulating in birds around the world manifested that ToxoDB #2 was the most common (101/875), followed by ToxoDB #1 (80/875), and #3 (63/875). Totally, the results of our review represented the high genetic diversity of T. gondii with circulating non-clonal strains in birds from South and North America, while clonal parasites with low genetic diversity were predominant in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
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Huertas-López A, Álvarez-García G, Sánchez-Sánchez R, Cantos-Barreda A, Ibáñez-López FJ, Martínez-Subiela S, Cerón JJ, Martínez-Carrasco C. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the serological diagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii infection highlight the lack of a One Health integrative research. Res Vet Sci 2023; 155:137-149. [PMID: 36682338 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a globally distributed food-borne zoonotic parasite with numerous infection sources. The control of this zoonosis requires a One Health response that partially depends on serological monitoring in humans and animals. Herein, a systematic review and a meta-analysis were performed to analyse and compare the transdisciplinary and integrative research under the One Health approach. We searched for articles published between January 1st 2014 and September 5th 2022, focused on the development and evaluation of serological techniques for the diagnosis of T. gondii infection in humans and animals. After an exhaustive search on three scientific databases, a quality assessment was performed on 291 articles by QUADAS-2 tool, and 113 articles were finally selected. A total of 18 variables were extracted and analysed, including bibliometric characteristics, study aims and methodology. Remarkably, none of the studies included in the meta-analysis explicitly quoted the words "One Health", and only 23.9% of them alluded to the principles underlying the One Health approach; in particular, none were conducted by physician-only teams, with the majority of these studies involving interdisciplinary research teams, followed by veterinarians and by non-physician or non-veterinarian researchers. The One Health approach followed in the serodiagnosis of T. gondii still needs further integration among scientific disciplines, which is essential to design effective control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Huertas-López
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, Interlab-UMU, University of Murcia - Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - Gema Álvarez-García
- Animal Health Department, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Roberto Sánchez-Sánchez
- Animal Health Department, Complutense University of Madrid, Ciudad Universitaria s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Ana Cantos-Barreda
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology-A, University of Murcia - Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain; Animal Health Department, University of Murcia - Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisco Javier Ibáñez-López
- Statistical Support Section (SAE), Scientific and Research Area (ACTI), University of Murcia - Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - Silvia Martínez-Subiela
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, Interlab-UMU, University of Murcia - Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - José Joaquín Cerón
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory of Clinical Analysis, Interlab-UMU, University of Murcia - Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
| | - Carlos Martínez-Carrasco
- Animal Health Department, University of Murcia - Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", 30100 Espinardo, Murcia, Spain
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Advances and Challenges in Diagnostics of Toxoplasmosis in HIV-Infected Patients. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12010110. [PMID: 36678458 PMCID: PMC9862295 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12010110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a worldwide distributed protozoan parasite. This apicomplexan parasite infects one-third of the population worldwide, causing toxoplasmosis, considered one of the neglected parasitic infections. In healthy humans, most infections are asymptomatic. However, in immunocompromised patients, the course of the disease can be life-threatening. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients have a very high burden of Toxoplasma gondii co-infection. Thus, it is essential to use modern, sensitive, and specific methods to properly monitor the course of toxoplasmosis in immunodeficient patients.
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Brosseau NE, Vallée I, Mayer-Scholl A, Ndao M, Karadjian G. Aptamer-Based Technologies for Parasite Detection. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:s23020562. [PMID: 36679358 PMCID: PMC9867382 DOI: 10.3390/s23020562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Centuries of scientific breakthroughs have brought us closer to understanding and managing the spread of parasitic diseases. Despite ongoing technological advancements in the detection, treatment, and control of parasitic illnesses, their effects on animal and human health remain a major concern worldwide. Aptamers are single-stranded oligonucleotides whose unique three-dimensional structures enable them to interact with high specificity and affinity to a wide range of targets. In recent decades, aptamers have emerged as attractive alternatives to antibodies as therapeutic and diagnostic agents. Due to their superior stability, reusability, and modifiability, aptamers have proven to be effective bioreceptors for the detection of toxins, contaminants, biomarkers, whole cells, pathogens, and others. As such, they have been integrated into a variety of electrochemical, fluorescence, and optical biosensors to effectively detect whole parasites and their proteins. This review offers a summary of the various types of parasite-specific aptamer-based biosensors, their general mechanisms and their performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noah Emerson Brosseau
- UMR BIPAR, Anses, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health (IDIGH) Program, Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Isabelle Vallée
- UMR BIPAR, Anses, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Anne Mayer-Scholl
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, 10589 Berlin, Germany
| | - Momar Ndao
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health (IDIGH) Program, Research Institute of McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Grégory Karadjian
- UMR BIPAR, Anses, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
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Khan W, Rahman HU, Fadladdin YAJ, Rafiq N, Naz R, De los Rios-Escalante PR, Ahmad S, Alrobaish SA, Al-Sowayan NS. Toxoplasmosis-Awareness and Knowledge of Pregnant Women in Rural Areas of Malakand Region, Pakistan. J Parasitol Res 2023; 2023:4603066. [PMID: 37213244 PMCID: PMC10199801 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4603066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The current study was carried out between October 2017 and October 2018 to explore knowledge, attitudes, practices, and information sources regarding toxoplasmosis among pregnant women in Malakand region, the northwestern part of Pakistan. The current study was carried out between October 2017 and October 2018. Methods A structured questionnaire was used to interview the women after taking verbal informed consent. Graphpad version 5 was used to indicate the differences. Significant was considered as a P-value of less than 0.05. This study revealed poor knowledge regarding toxoplasmosis. Results Overall, 31.2% of the respondents showed good knowledge, and 39.2% showed moderate knowledge. On the other hand, 29.5% of the participants showed poor knowledge about toxoplasmosis. The average knowledge score of pregnant women was 79 ± 12.2, which is considered to be within the scale of good knowledge. Number of children within the pregnant multipara women was significantly associated with knowledge about toxoplasmosis. Pregnant women who measured in number of childbirths within a women showed the highest mean score of 42.3 ± 13.3 with 57 (44.8%) displaying a good knowledge level. Pregnant women with more than one child had significantly higher (<0.0001) knowledge scores compared to women with one child or none child. The majority of pregnant women with one child used the social media, followed by mass media as sources of information about toxoplasmosis. Scientific sources of information were used more commonly by pregnant women with none of the child birth. Conclusion Pregnant women knowledge regarding toxoplasmosis was poor as compared to attitudes and practices. Health workers and newspapers/magazines were the main sources of information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wali Khan
- Department of Zoology, University of Malakand, Lower Dir, Pakistan
| | - Hafeez ur Rahman
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | | | - Naseem Rafiq
- Department of Zoology, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, Pakistan
| | - Robi Naz
- Department of Zoology, University of Malakand, Lower Dir, Pakistan
| | - Patricio R. De los Rios-Escalante
- Universidad Catolica de Temuco, Facultad de Recursos Naturales, Departmento de Ciancias Biologicas Quimicas Casella 15-D, Temuco, Chile
- Núcleo de Estudios Ambientales UC Temuco, Casilla, Temuco, Chile
| | - Shabir Ahmad
- Department of Zoology, Hazara University, Mansehra, Pakistan
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Toxoplasmosis diagnostic techniques: Current developed methods and biosensors. Talanta 2023; 252:123828. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2022.123828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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50
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Ifijen IH, Atoe B, Ekun RO, Ighodaro A, Odiachi IJ. Treatments of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Toxoplasma gondii with Selenium Nanoparticles. BIONANOSCIENCE 2023; 13:249-277. [PMID: 36687337 PMCID: PMC9838309 DOI: 10.1007/s12668-023-01059-4] [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] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii and Mycobacterium tuberculosis are pathogens that are harmful to humans. When these diseases interact in humans, the result is typically fatal to the public health. Several investigations on the relationship between M. tuberculosis and T. gondii infections have found that there is a strong correlation between them with each infection having a reciprocal effect on the other. TB may contribute to the reactivation of innate toxoplasmosis or enhance susceptibility to a new infection, and toxoplasma co-infection may worsen the severity of pulmonary tuberculosis. As a consequence, there is an earnest and urgent necessity to generate novel therapeutics that can subdue these challenges. Selenium nanostructures' compelling properties have been shown to be a successful treatment for Mycobacterium TB and Toxoplasma gondii. Despite the fact that selenium (Se) offers many health advantages for people, it also has a narrow therapeutic window; therefore, consuming too much of either inorganic or organic compounds based on selenium can be hazardous. Compared to both inorganic and organic Se, Se nanoparticles (SeNPs) are less hazardous. They are biocompatible and excellent in selectively targeting specific cells. As a consequence, this review conducted a summary of the efficacy of biogenic Se NPs in the treatment of tuberculosis (TB) and toxoplasmosis. Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Toxoplasma gondii, and their co-infection were all briefly described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ikhazuagbe H. Ifijen
- Department of Research Outreach, Rubber Research Institute of Nigeria, Iyanomo, P.M.B, 1049, Benin City, Nigeria
| | - Best Atoe
- Department of Daily Need, Worldwide Healthcare, 100, Textile Mill Road, Benin City, Edo State Nigeria
| | - Raphael O. Ekun
- grid.440833.80000 0004 0642 9705Department of Electrical Electronics, Cyprus International University, Haspolat, Lefkosa, North Cyprus Mersin 10 Turkey
| | - Augustine Ighodaro
- Depatment of Aseptic Quality, Quantum Pharmaceuticals, Quantum House, Durham, UK
| | - Ifeanyi J. Odiachi
- grid.461933.a0000 0004 0446 5040Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Delta State Polytechnic Ogwashi-Uku, Ogwashi-Uku, Nigeria
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