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Xinxin Z, Xianzhou L, Dandan P, Yan W, Zhenyu L. Immunization with the glutathione S-transferase Sj26GST with Chi-CpG NP against Schistosoma japonicum in mice. Microb Pathog 2024; 195:106847. [PMID: 39127365 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106847] [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: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 08/02/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) is a major public health problem in the Philippines, China and Indonesia. In this study, the immunopotentiator CpG-ODN was encapsulated within chitosan nanoparticles (Chi NPs) to create a combination adjuvant (Chi-CpG NP). This approach was employed to enhance the immunogenicity of 26 kDa glutathione S-transferase (Sj26GST) from S. japonicum through intranasal immunization. The results demonstrated higher levels of specific anti-Sj26GST antibodies and Sj26GST-specific splenocyte proliferation compared to mice that were immunized with Sj26GST + Chi-CpG NP. Cytokine analysis of splenocytes revealed that the Sj26GST + Chi-CpG NP induced a slight Th1-biased immune response, with increased production of IFN-γ by CD4+ T-cells in the spleen. Subsequently, mice were intradermally inoculated with 1 × 107 organisms in the Coeliac cavity. The bacterial organ burden detected in the liver of immunized mice suggested that Sj26GST + Chi-CpG NP enhances protective immunity to inhibit S. japonicum colonization. Therefore, Sj26GST + Chi-CpG NP vaccination enhances Sj26GST-specific immunogenicity and provides protection against S. japonicum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Xinxin
- The First Hospital of Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, 410000, China
| | - Lu Xianzhou
- Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang Medical School, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Pan Dandan
- Operating Room, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China
| | - Wang Yan
- Operating Room, The Second Affiliated Hospital of University of South China, Hengyang Medical School, University of South China, Hengyang, 421001, China.
| | - Li Zhenyu
- Affiliated Nanhua Hospital, University of South China, Hengyang Medical School, Hengyang, 421001, China; Hengnan People's Hospital, Hengyang, 421001, China.
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Ekloh W, Asafu-Adjaye A, Tawiah-Mensah CNL, Ayivi-Tosuh SM, Quartey NKA, Aiduenu AF, Gayi BK, Koudonu JAM, Basing LA, Yamoah JAA, Dofuor AK, Osei JHN. A comprehensive exploration of schistosomiasis: Global impact, molecular characterization, drug discovery, artificial intelligence and future prospects. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33070. [PMID: 38988508 PMCID: PMC11234110 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33070] [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: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, one of the neglected tropical diseases which affects both humans and animals, is caused by trematode worms of the genus Schistosoma. The disease is caused by several species of Schistosoma which affect several organs such as urethra, liver, bladder, intestines, skin and bile ducts. The life cycle of the disease involves an intermediate host (snail) and a mammalian host. It affects people who are in close proximity to water bodies where the intermediate host is abundant. Common clinical manifestations of the disease at various stages include fever, chills, headache, cough, dysuria, hyperplasia and hydronephrosis. To date, most of the control strategies are dependent on effective diagnosis, chemotherapy and public health education on the biology of the vectors and parasites. Microscopy (Kato-Katz) is considered the golden standard for the detection of the parasite, while praziquantel is the drug of choice for the mass treatment of the disease since no vaccines have yet been developed. Most of the previous reviews on schistosomiasis have concentrated on epidemiology, life cycle, diagnosis, control and treatment. Thus, a comprehensive review that is in tune with modern developments is needed. Here, we extend this domain to cover historical perspectives, global impact, symptoms and detection, biochemical and molecular characterization, gene therapy, current drugs and vaccine status. We also discuss the prospects of using plants as potential and alternative sources of novel anti-schistosomal agents. Furthermore, we highlight advanced molecular techniques, imaging and artificial intelligence that may be useful in the future detection and treatment of the disease. Overall, the proper detection of schistosomiasis using state-of-the-art tools and techniques, as well as development of vaccines or new anti-schistosomal drugs may aid in the elimination of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Ekloh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Andy Asafu-Adjaye
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Christopher Nii Laryea Tawiah-Mensah
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Naa Kwarley-Aba Quartey
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Albert Fynn Aiduenu
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Blessing Kwabena Gayi
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Laud Anthony Basing
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Jennifer Afua Afrifa Yamoah
- Animal Health Division, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research-Animal Research Institute, Adenta-Frafraha, Accra, Ghana
| | - Aboagye Kwarteng Dofuor
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Ghana
| | - Joseph Harold Nyarko Osei
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Tallima H, Tadros MM, El Ridi R. Differential protective impact of peptide vaccine formulae targeting the lung- and liver-stage of challenge Schistosoma mansoni infection in mice. Acta Trop 2024; 254:107208. [PMID: 38621620 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107208] [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: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The study aimed to elicit protective immune responses against murine schistosomiasis mansoni at the parasite lung- and liver stage. Two peptides showing amino acid sequence similarity to gut cysteine peptidases, which induce strong memory immune effectors in the liver, were combined with a peptide based on S. mansoni thioredoxin peroxidase (TPX), a prominent lung-stage schistosomula excretory-secretory product, and alum as adjuvant. Only one of the 2 cysteine peptidases-based peptides in a multiple antigenic peptide construct (MAP-3 and MAP-4) appeared to adjuvant protective immune responses induced by the TPX peptide in a MAP form. Production of TPX MAP-specific IgG1 serum antibodies, and increase in lung interleukin-1 (IL-1), uric acid, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) content were associated with significant (P < 0.05) 50 % reduction in recovery of lung-stage larvae. Increase in lung triglycerides and cholesterol levels appeared to provide the surviving worms with nutrients necessary for a stout double lipid bilayer barrier at the parasite-host interface. Surviving worms-released products elicited memory responses to the MAP-3 immunogen, including production of specific IgG1 antibodies and increase in liver IL-33 and ROS. Reduction in challenge worm burden recorded 45 days post infection did not exceed 48 % associated with no differences in parasite egg counts in the host liver and small intestine compared to unimmunized adjuvant control mice. Alum adjuvant assisted the second peptide, MAP-4, in production of IgG1, IgG2a, IgG2b and IgA specific antibodies and increase in liver ROS, but with no protective potential, raising doubt about the necessity of adjuvant addition. Accordingly, different vaccine formulas containing TPX MAP and 1, 2 or 3 cysteine peptidases-derived peptides with or without alum were used to immunize parallel groups of mice. Compared to unimmunized control mice, significant (P < 0.05 to < 0.005) 22 to 54 % reduction in worm burden was recorded in the different groups associated with insignificant changes in parasite egg output. The results together indicated that a schistosomiasis vaccine able to entirely prevent disease and halt its transmission still remains elusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hatem Tallima
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt; Department of Chemistry, School of Sciences and Engineering, American University in Cairo, New Cairo 11835, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Menerva M Tadros
- Department of Parasitology, Theodore Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, Giza 12411, Egypt
| | - Rashika El Ridi
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
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Elguindy DAS, Ashour DS, Elmarhoumy SM, El-Guindy DM, Ismail HIH. The efficacy of cercarial antigen loaded on nanoparticles as a potential vaccine candidate in Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice. J Parasit Dis 2024; 48:381-399. [PMID: 38840868 PMCID: PMC11147980 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-024-01677-z] [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: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality from parasitic diseases. Mass treatment has proven to be insufficient because of repeated infection after treatment and the appearance of strains resistant to drug therapy. Hence, immunization is a new approach to control the disease and limit the pathological consequences of schistosomiasis. To evaluate the prophylactic effect of Cercarial antigen (CAP) loaded on chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) as a potential vaccine against Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice. 130 mice divided into 2 groups were used: Group I: Control groups (50 mice) subdivided into subgroup Ia (10 mice): Non-infected mice (normal control), subgroup Ib (20 mice): Schistosoma infected mice (infected control) and subgroup Ic (20 mice): Non-infected mice receiving NPs only. Group II: Vaccinated group (80 mice) subdivided equally into subgroup IIa (CAP): Received cercarial antigen and subgroup IIb (CAP + CSNP): Received cercarial antigen loaded on chitosan NPs then both vaccinated groups were infected with S. mansoni 3 weeks following the initial vaccination dose. CAP + CSNP and CAP groups showed significant reduction in adult worms count, hepatic egg count, hepatic granulomas number and size in comparison to the infected control group. Elevation of serum IgG and IgM levels, CD4+ and CD8+ T cell frequencies, IL-4, IL-10 and INF-γ levels was more significant in CAP + CSNP group than CAP group. CAP + CSNP is a promising new preparation of Schistosomal antigens that gave better results than immunization with CAP alone. CSNPs enhanced the immune and protective effect of CAP as validated by parasitological, histopathological and immunohistochemical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina A. S. Elguindy
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Dalia S. Ashour
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Sirria M. Elmarhoumy
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Dina M. El-Guindy
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Howaida I. H. Ismail
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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Wu P, Salmaniw Y, Wang X. Threshold dynamics of a reaction-advection-diffusion schistosomiasis epidemic model with seasonality and spatial heterogeneity. J Math Biol 2024; 88:76. [PMID: 38691213 PMCID: PMC11062933 DOI: 10.1007/s00285-024-02097-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
Most water-borne disease models ignore the advection of water flows in order to simplify the mathematical analysis and numerical computation. However, advection can play an important role in determining the disease transmission dynamics. In this paper, we investigate the long-term dynamics of a periodic reaction-advection-diffusion schistosomiasis model and explore the joint impact of advection, seasonality and spatial heterogeneity on the transmission of the disease. We derive the basic reproduction number R 0 and show that the disease-free periodic solution is globally attractive whenR 0 < 1 whereas there is a positive endemic periodic solution and the system is uniformly persistent in a special case whenR 0 > 1 . Moreover, we find that R 0 is a decreasing function of the advection coefficients which offers insights into why schistosomiasis is more serious in regions with slow water flows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Wu
- School of Sciences, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, 310018, China
| | - Yurij Salmaniw
- Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, T6G 2G1, Canada
- Mathematical Institute, University of Oxford, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Xiunan Wang
- Department of Mathematics, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, Chattanooga, TN, 37403, USA.
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Zumuk CP, Jones MK, Navarro S, Gray DJ, You H. Transmission-Blocking Vaccines against Schistosomiasis Japonica. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1707. [PMID: 38338980 PMCID: PMC10855202 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031707] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Control of schistosomiasis japonica, endemic in Asia, including the Philippines, China, and Indonesia, is extremely challenging. Schistosoma japonicum is a highly pathogenic helminth parasite, with disease arising predominantly from an immune reaction to entrapped parasite eggs in tissues. Females of this species can generate 1000-2200 eggs per day, which is about 3- to 15-fold greater than the egg output of other schistosome species. Bovines (water buffalo and cattle) are the predominant definitive hosts and are estimated to generate up to 90% of parasite eggs released into the environment in rural endemic areas where these hosts and humans are present. Here, we highlight the necessity of developing veterinary transmission-blocking vaccines for bovines to better control the disease and review potential vaccine candidates. We also point out that the approach to producing efficacious transmission-blocking animal-based vaccines before moving on to human vaccines is crucial. This will result in effective and feasible public health outcomes in agreement with the One Health concept to achieve optimum health for people, animals, and the environment. Indeed, incorporating a veterinary-based transmission vaccine, coupled with interventions such as human mass drug administration, improved sanitation and hygiene, health education, and snail control, would be invaluable to eliminating zoonotic schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chika P. Zumuk
- Infection and Inflammation Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia; (C.P.Z.); (M.K.J.); (S.N.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
| | - Malcolm K. Jones
- Infection and Inflammation Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia; (C.P.Z.); (M.K.J.); (S.N.)
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia
| | - Severine Navarro
- Infection and Inflammation Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia; (C.P.Z.); (M.K.J.); (S.N.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
- Centre for Childhood Nutrition Research, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Darren J. Gray
- Population Health Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia;
| | - Hong You
- Infection and Inflammation Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia; (C.P.Z.); (M.K.J.); (S.N.)
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia
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7
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Jain S, Rana M, Choubey P, Kumar S. Schistosoma japonicum Associated Colorectal Cancer and Its Management. Acta Parasitol 2023; 68:723-734. [PMID: 37594685 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-023-00707-9] [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] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An association between Schistosoma japonicum and colorectal cancer in humans has been known since a long time; however, this association remains understudied and lacks comprehensive experimentation support. OBJECTIVE Various epidemiological and pathological studies have established the role of chronic inflammation as a major factor behind the induction of colorectal cancer. The aim of this review is to present the current knowledge on the association of Schistosoma japonicum with colorectal cancer. RESULT Mechanisms which lead to induction and progression of colorectal cancer are highlighted along with diagnosis and treatment for the same. Further, various methodologies, including mass drug administration, use of new drugs and vaccines, role of apoptosis, and histone-modifying enzymes, have been described which can either prevent the schistosomal infection itself or can check it from reaching an advanced stage. CONCLUSIONS Epidemiological, clinical, pathological and surgical studies suggest that Schistosoma japonicum is responsible for induction of colorectal cancer. However, thorough clinical studies are required to support and globally accept this notion. Further, methodologies highlighted in this work can be employed in order to take care of schistosomal infection or address the cancer induction and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sidhant Jain
- Institute for Globally Distributed Open Research and Education (IGDORE), Rewari, Haryana, India.
| | - Meenakshi Rana
- Dyal Singh College, University of Delhi, Lodhi Road, Pragati Vihaar, New Delhi, 110003, India
| | - Pooja Choubey
- Department of Zoology, Gate No. 3, Chaatra Marg, University of Delhi, North Campus, Delhi, 110007, India
| | - Sahil Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, ESIC Dental College and Hospital, Rohini, Sector-15, Delhi, 110089, India
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Kim A, Xie F, Abed OA, Moon JJ. Vaccines for immune tolerance against autoimmune disease. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 203:115140. [PMID: 37980949 PMCID: PMC10757742 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115140] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
The high prevalence and rising incidence of autoimmune diseases have become a prominent public health issue. Autoimmune disorders result from the immune system erroneously attacking the body's own healthy cells and tissues, causing persistent inflammation, tissue injury, and impaired organ function. Existing treatments primarily rely on broad immunosuppression, leaving patients vulnerable to infections and necessitating lifelong treatments. To address these unmet needs, an emerging frontier of vaccine development aims to restore immune equilibrium by inducing immune tolerance to autoantigens, offering a potential avenue for a cure rather than mere symptom management. We discuss this burgeoning field of vaccine development against inflammation and autoimmune diseases, with a focus on common autoimmune disorders, including multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and systemic lupus erythematosus. Vaccine-based strategies provide a new pathway for the future of autoimmune disease therapeutics, heralding a new era in the battle against inflammation and autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- April Kim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Fang Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Omar A Abed
- Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - James J Moon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Biointerfaces Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109, USA.
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Zhou M, Xu L, Xu D, Chen W, Khan J, Hu Y, Huang H, Wei H, Zhang Y, Chusongsang P, Tanasarnprasert K, Hu X, Limpanont Y, Lv Z. Chromosome-scale genome of the human blood fluke Schistosoma mekongi and its implications for public health. Infect Dis Poverty 2023; 12:104. [PMID: 38017557 PMCID: PMC10683246 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-023-01160-6] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosoma mekongi is a human blood fluke causing schistosomiasis that threatens approximately 1.5 million humans in the world. Nonetheless, the limited available S. mekongi genomic resources have hindered understanding of its biology and parasite-host interactions for disease management and pathogen control. The aim of our study was to integrate multiple technologies to construct a high-quality chromosome-level assembly of the S. mekongi genome. METHODS The reference genome for S. mekongi was generated through integrating Illumina, PacBio sequencing, 10 × Genomics linked-read sequencing, and high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) methods. In this study, we conducted de novo assembly, alignment, and gene prediction to assemble and annotate the genome. Comparative genomics allowed us to compare genomes across different species, shedding light on conserved regions and evolutionary relationships. Additionally, our transcriptomic analysis focused on genes associated with parasite-snail interactions in S. mekongi infection. We employed gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis for functional annotation of these genes. RESULTS In the present study, the S. mekongi genome was both assembled into 8 pseudochromosomes with a length of 404 Mb, with contig N50 and scaffold N50 lengths of 1168 kb and 46,759 kb, respectively. We detected that 43% of the genome consists of repeat sequences and predicted 9103 protein-coding genes. We also focused on proteases, particularly leishmanolysin-like metalloproteases (M8), which are crucial in the invasion of hosts by 12 flatworm species. Through phylogenetic analysis, it was discovered that the M8 gene exhibits lineage-specific amplification among the genus Schistosoma. Lineage-specific expansion of M8 was observed in blood flukes. Additionally, the results of the RNA-seq revealed that a mass of genes related to metabolic and biosynthetic processes were up-regulated, which might be beneficial for cercaria production. CONCLUSIONS This study delivers a high-quality, chromosome-scale reference genome of S. mekongi, enhancing our understanding of the divergence and evolution of Schistosoma. The molecular research conducted here also plays a pivotal role in drug discovery and vaccine development. Furthermore, our work greatly advances the understanding of host-parasite interactions, providing crucial insights for schistosomiasis intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minyu Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lian Xu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Ministry of Education and Jiangsu Province, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Dahua Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Wen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology and Translational Medicine, Medical School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Jehangir Khan
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Yue Hu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Huang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiqing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Phiraphol Chusongsang
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kanthi Tanasarnprasert
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Xiang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China.
| | - Yanin Limpanont
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Zhiyue Lv
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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Anwar FS, Abdel-Malek AR, Salem SH, Farouk M, Ali MF, Abdelrady YA, Sayed AM. In vitro and In silico assessment of antischistosomal activities of ethanolic extract of Cornulacamonacantha. Exp Parasitol 2023; 254:108631. [PMID: 37820894 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2023.108631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is the second most prevailing parasitic disease worldwide. Although praziquantel is considered an effective drug in the treatment against schistosomiasis to some extent, there is an emerging drug resistance that widely recorded. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop effective and safe anti-schistosomal drugs. In this study, Cornulaca monacantha (C. monacantha), a sub-saharan plant, was extracted using aqueous ethanol and characterized by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Major constituents of the extract are belonging to flavonoids, tannins and phenolic glycosides. Worms' viability and surface morphology of Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) adult worms treated with the extract were assessed using in vitro viability assay, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and histological examination. The extract (80-350 μg/ml) reduced viability percentage of worms by 40-60% and caused degeneration of both oral and ventral suckers, tegumental, sub-tegumental and muscular damage. Molecular docking approach was utilized to assess the binding affinities of the extracted compounds with S. mansoni alpha-carbonic anhydrase (SmCA), an essential tegument protein. Pharmacokinetic analysis using SwissADME showed that 7 compounds have high drug similarity. This study confirms the in vitro schistomicidal activity of C. monacantha extract against S. mansoni adult worms and suggests potential SmCA inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- FatmaA S Anwar
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, 71516, Egypt
| | | | - Shimaa H Salem
- Botany and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, 71516, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Farouk
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Gastroenterology, Faculty of Medicine, New Valley University, 72511, Egypt
| | - Marwa F Ali
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt
| | - Yousef A Abdelrady
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Assiut University, Assiut, 71526, Egypt; University of Hamburg, Institute of Pharmacy, 20146, Germany
| | - Ahmed M Sayed
- Biochemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Assiut University, 71516, Egypt.
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11
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Kong H, Song Q, Hu W, Guo S, Xiang D, Huang S, Xu X, He J, Pan L, Tao R, Yu H, Huang J. MicroRNA-29a-3p prevents Schistosoma japonicum-induced liver fibrosis by targeting Roundabout homolog 1 in hepatic stellate cells. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:184. [PMID: 37280619 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05791-4] [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: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis is a serious but neglected parasitic disease in humans that may lead to liver fibrosis and death. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are the principal effectors that promote the accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins during hepatic fibrosis. Aberrant microRNA-29 expression is involved in the development of fibrotic diseases. However, less is known about the role of miR-29 in Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum)-induced hepatic fibrosis. METHODS The levels of microRNA-29a-3p (miR-29a-3p) and Roundabout homolog 1 (Robo1) were examined in liver tissues during S. japonicum infection. The possible involvement of the miR-29a-3p-Robo1 signaling pathway was determined. We used MIR29A conditional knock-in mice and mice injected with an miR-29a-3p agomir to investigate the role of miR-29a-3p in schistosomiasis-induced hepatic fibrosis. The functional contributions of miR-29a-3p-Robo1 signaling in liver fibrosis and HSC activation were investigated using primary mouse HSCs and the human HSC cell line LX-2. RESULTS MiR-29a-3p was downregulated in humans and mice with schistosome-induced fibrosis, and Robo1 was upregulated in liver tissues. The miR-29a-3p targeted Robo1 and negatively regulated its expression. Additionally, the expression level of miR-29a-3p in schistosomiasis patients was highly correlated with the portal vein and spleen thickness diameter, which represent the severity of fibrosis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that efficient and sustained elevation of miR-29a-3p reversed schistosome-induced hepatic fibrosis. Notably, we showed that miR-29a-3p targeted Robo1 in HSCs to prevent the activation of HSCs during infection. CONCLUSIONS Our results provide experimental and clinical evidence that the miR-29a-3p-Robo1 signaling pathway in HSCs plays an important role in the development of hepatic fibrosis. Therefore, our study highlights the potential of miR-29a-3p as a therapeutic intervention for schistosomiasis and other fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Kong
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiqin Song
- Cancer Institute, Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Gastrointestinal Cancer Translational Research, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen Peking University-the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (PKU-HKUST) Medical Center, Institute of Cancer Research, Shenzhen Bay Laboratory, Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenjiang Hu
- Department of Gastroenterology, The People's Hospital of Jianshi, Enshi, China
| | - Shusen Guo
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dandan Xiang
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shuaiwen Huang
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xin Xu
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinan He
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lanyue Pan
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ran Tao
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haijing Yu
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiaquan Huang
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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12
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You H, Jones MK, Gordon CA, Arganda AE, Cai P, Al-Wassiti H, Pouton CW, McManus DP. The mRNA Vaccine Technology Era and the Future Control of Parasitic Infections. Clin Microbiol Rev 2023; 36:e0024121. [PMID: 36625671 PMCID: PMC10035331 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00241-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite intensive long-term efforts, with very few exceptions, the development of effective vaccines against parasitic infections has presented considerable challenges, given the complexity of parasite life cycles, the interplay between parasites and their hosts, and their capacity to escape the host immune system and to regulate host immune responses. For many parasitic diseases, conventional vaccine platforms have generally proven ill suited, considering the complex manufacturing processes involved and the costs they incur, the inability to posttranslationally modify cloned target antigens, and the absence of long-lasting protective immunity induced by these antigens. An effective antiparasite vaccine platform is required to assess the effectiveness of novel vaccine candidates at high throughput. By exploiting the approach that has recently been used successfully to produce highly protective COVID mRNA vaccines, we anticipate a new wave of research to advance the use of mRNA vaccines to prevent parasitic infections in the near future. This article considers the characteristics that are required to develop a potent antiparasite vaccine and provides a conceptual foundation to promote the development of parasite mRNA-based vaccines. We review the recent advances and challenges encountered in developing antiparasite vaccines and evaluate the potential of developing mRNA vaccines against parasites, including those causing diseases such as malaria and schistosomiasis, against which vaccines are currently suboptimal or not yet available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong You
- Department of Infection and Inflammation, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Malcolm K. Jones
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Catherine A. Gordon
- Department of Infection and Inflammation, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Alexa E. Arganda
- Department of Infection and Inflammation, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Pengfei Cai
- Department of Infection and Inflammation, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Harry Al-Wassiti
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Colin W. Pouton
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Donald P. McManus
- Department of Infection and Inflammation, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Australia
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13
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Evolution of tetraspanin antigens in the zoonotic Asian blood fluke Schistosoma japonicum. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:97. [PMID: 36918965 PMCID: PMC10012309 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05706-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite successful control efforts in China over the past 60 years, zoonotic schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma japonicum remains a threat with transmission ongoing and the risk of localised resurgences prompting calls for a novel integrated control strategy, with an anti-schistosome vaccine as a core element. Anti-schistosome vaccine development and immunisation attempts in non-human mammalian host species, intended to interrupt transmission, and utilising various antigen targets, have yielded mixed success, with some studies highlighting variation in schistosome antigen coding genes (ACGs) as possible confounders of vaccine efficacy. Thus, robust selection of target ACGs, including assessment of their genetic diversity and antigenic variability, is paramount. Tetraspanins (TSPs), a family of tegument-surface antigens in schistosomes, interact directly with the host's immune system and are promising vaccine candidates. Here, for the first time to our knowledge, diversity in S. japonicum TSPs (SjTSPs) and the impact of diversifying selection and sequence variation on immunogenicity in these protiens were evaluated. METHODS SjTSP sequences, representing parasite populations from seven provinces across China, were gathered by baiting published short-read NGS data and were analysed using in silico methods to measure sequence variation and selection pressures and predict the impact of selection on variation in antigen protein structure, function and antigenic propensity. RESULTS Here, 27 SjTSPs were identified across three subfamilies, highlighting the diversity of TSPs in S. japonicum. Considerable variation was demonstrated for several SjTSPs between geographical regions/provinces, revealing that episodic, diversifying positive selection pressures promote amino acid variation/variability in the large extracellular loop (LEL) domain of certain SjTSPs. Accumulating polymorphisms in the LEL domain of SjTSP-2, -8 and -23 led to altered structural, functional and antibody binding characteristics, which are predicted to impact antibody recognition and possibly blunt the host's ability to respond to infection. Such changes, therefore, appear to represent a mechanism utilised by S. japonicum to evade the host's immune system. CONCLUSION Whilst the genetic and antigenic geographic variability observed amongst certain SjTSPs could present challenges to vaccine development, here we demonstrate conservation amongst SjTSP-1, -13 and -14, revealing their likely improved utility as efficacious vaccine candidates. Importantly, our data highlight that robust evaluation of vaccine target variability in natural parasite populations should be a prerequisite for anti-schistosome vaccine development.
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14
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Morales-Vicente DA, Zhao L, Silveira GO, Tahira AC, Amaral MS, Collins JJ, Verjovski-Almeida S. Single-cell RNA-seq analyses show that long non-coding RNAs are conspicuously expressed in Schistosoma mansoni gamete and tegument progenitor cell populations. Front Genet 2022; 13:924877. [PMID: 36204320 PMCID: PMC9531161 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.924877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosoma mansoni is a flatworm that causes schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease that affects over 200 million people worldwide. New therapeutic targets are needed with only one drug available for treatment and no vaccine. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides with low or no protein-coding potential. In other organisms, they have been shown as involved with reproduction, stem cell maintenance and drug resistance, and they tend to exhibit tissue-specific expression patterns. S. mansoni expresses thousands of lncRNA genes; however, the cell type expression patterns of lncRNAs in the parasite remain uncharacterized. Here, we have re-analyzed publicly available single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) data obtained from adult S. mansoni to identify the lncRNAs signature of adult schistosome cell types. A total of 8023 lncRNAs (79% of all lncRNAs) were detected. Analyses of the lncRNAs expression profiles in the cells using statistically stringent criteria were performed to identify 74 lncRNA gene markers of cell clusters. Male gamete and tegument progenitor lineages clusters contained most of the cluster-specific lncRNA markers. We also identified lncRNA markers of specific neural clusters. Whole-mount in situ hybridization (WISH) and double fluorescence in situ hybridization were used to validate the cluster-specific expression of 13 out of 16 selected lncRNA genes (81%) in the male and female adult parasite tissues; for one of these 16 gene loci, probes for two different lncRNA isoforms were used, which showed differential isoform expression in testis and ovary. An atlas of the expression profiles across the cell clusters of all lncRNAs detected in our analysis is available as a public website resource (http://verjolab.usp.br:8081). The results presented here give strong support to a tissue-specific expression and to a regulated expression program of lncRNAs in S. mansoni. This will be the basis for further exploration of lncRNA genes as potential therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A. Morales-Vicente
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lu Zhao
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Gilbert O. Silveira
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana C. Tahira
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Murilo S. Amaral
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - James J. Collins
- Department of Pharmacology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Sergio Verjovski-Almeida
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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15
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Hassan MM, Sedighi A, Olaoye OO, Häberli C, Merz A, Ramos-Morales E, de Araujo ED, Romier C, Jung M, Keiser J, Gunning PT. Phenotypic Screening of Histone Deacetylase (HDAC) Inhibitors against Schistosoma mansoni. ChemMedChem 2022; 17:e202100622. [PMID: 35983937 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202100622] [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: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a prevalent yet neglected tropical parasitic disease caused by the Schistosoma genus of blood flukes. Praziquantel is the only currently available treatment, hence drug resistance poses a major threat. Recently, histone deacetylase 8 (HDAC8) selective inhibitors have been proposed as a viable treatment for schistosomiasis. Herein, we report the phenotypic screening of a focused library of small molecules of varying HDAC isozyme-inhibition profiles, including eight HDAC8 inhibitors with >10-fold selectivity in comparable functional inhibition assays and IC50 values against HDAC8<100 nM. HDAC8-selective inhibitors showed the lowest potency against Schistosoma mansoni newly transformed schistosomula (NTS). Pan-HDAC inhibitors MMH258, MMH259, and MMH373, as assessed by functional inhibition assays, with minimal or no-observed hHDAC8 and SmHDAC8 activities, were active against both NTS (MMH258, IC50 =1.5 μM; MMH259, IC50 =2.3 μM) and adult S. mansoni (MMH258, IC50 =2.1 μM; MMH373, IC50 =3.4 μM). Our results indicate that neither hHDAC8 nor SmHDAC8 activity were directly correlated to their NTS and adult S. mansoni activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Murtaza Hassan
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road North, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada.,Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Abootaleb Sedighi
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road North, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada.,Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Olasunkanmi O Olaoye
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road North, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada.,Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Cécile Häberli
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4123, Allschwil, Switzerland.,University of Basel, 4003, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Annika Merz
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Albertstr. 25, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Elizabeth Ramos-Morales
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, UMR 7104, U 1258, 67400, Illkirch, France.,Department of Integrated Structural Biology IGBMC, 1 rue Laurent Fries, B.P. 10142, 67404, Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Elvin D de Araujo
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road North, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Christophe Romier
- Université de Strasbourg, CNRS, INSERM, Institut de Génétique et de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire, UMR 7104, U 1258, 67400, Illkirch, France.,Department of Integrated Structural Biology IGBMC, 1 rue Laurent Fries, B.P. 10142, 67404, Illkirch Cedex, France
| | - Manfred Jung
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg, Albertstr. 25, 79104, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4123, Allschwil, Switzerland.,University of Basel, 4003, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Patrick T Gunning
- Department of Chemical and Physical Sciences, University of Toronto Mississauga, 3359 Mississauga Road North, Mississauga, ON L5L 1C6, Canada.,Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
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16
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Moreira BP, Batista ICA, Tavares NC, Armstrong T, Gava SG, Torres GP, Mourão MM, Falcone FH. Docking-Based Virtual Screening Enables Prioritizing Protein Kinase Inhibitors With In Vitro Phenotypic Activity Against Schistosoma mansoni. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:913301. [PMID: 35865824 PMCID: PMC9294739 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.913301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic neglected disease with praziquantel (PZQ) utilized as the main drug for treatment, despite its low effectiveness against early stages of the worm. To aid in the search for new drugs to tackle schistosomiasis, computer-aided drug design has been proved a helpful tool to enhance the search and initial identification of schistosomicidal compounds, allowing fast and cost-efficient progress in drug discovery. The combination of high-throughput in silico data followed by in vitro phenotypic screening assays allows the assessment of a vast library of compounds with the potential to inhibit a single or even several biological targets in a more time- and cost-saving manner. Here, we describe the molecular docking for in silico screening of predicted homology models of five protein kinases (JNK, p38, ERK1, ERK2, and FES) of Schistosoma mansoni against approximately 85,000 molecules from the Managed Chemical Compounds Collection (MCCC) of the University of Nottingham (UK). We selected 169 molecules predicted to bind to SmERK1, SmERK2, SmFES, SmJNK, and/or Smp38 for in vitro screening assays using schistosomula and adult worms. In total, 89 (52.6%) molecules were considered active in at least one of the assays. This approach shows a much higher efficiency when compared to using only traditional high-throughput in vitro screening assays, where initial positive hits are retrieved from testing thousands of molecules. Additionally, when we focused on compound promiscuity over selectivity, we were able to efficiently detect active compounds that are predicted to target all kinases at the same time. This approach reinforces the concept of polypharmacology aiming for “one drug-multiple targets”. Moreover, at least 17 active compounds presented satisfactory drug-like properties score when compared to PZQ, which allows for optimization before further in vivo screening assays. In conclusion, our data support the use of computer-aided drug design methodologies in conjunction with high-throughput screening approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo Pereira Moreira
- Institut für Parasitologie, Biomedizinisches Forschungszentrum Seltersberg (BFS), Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Naiara Clemente Tavares
- Grupo de Helmintologia e Malacologia Médica, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-FIOCRUZ, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Tom Armstrong
- School of Chemistry, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Sandra Grossi Gava
- Grupo de Helmintologia e Malacologia Médica, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-FIOCRUZ, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Gabriella Parreiras Torres
- Grupo de Helmintologia e Malacologia Médica, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-FIOCRUZ, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Marina Moraes Mourão
- Grupo de Helmintologia e Malacologia Médica, Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-FIOCRUZ, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
- *Correspondence: Franco H. Falcone, ; Marina Moraes Mourão,
| | - Franco H. Falcone
- Institut für Parasitologie, Biomedizinisches Forschungszentrum Seltersberg (BFS), Justus-Liebig-Universität Giessen, Giessen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Franco H. Falcone, ; Marina Moraes Mourão,
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17
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Phuphisut O, Kobpornchai P, Chusongsang P, Limpanont Y, Kanjanapruthipong T, Ampawong S, Reamtong O, Adisakwattana P. Molecular characterization and functional analysis of Schistosoma mekongi neuroglobin homolog. Acta Trop 2022; 231:106433. [PMID: 35364046 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106433] [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: 09/22/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomes are blood-dwelling parasites that are constantly exposed to high-level oxidative stress arising from parasite-intrinsic and host defense mechanisms. To survive in their hosts, schistosomes require an antioxidant system to minimize with oxidative stress. Several schistosome antioxidant enzymes have been identified and have been suggested to play indispensable antioxidant roles for the parasite. In addition to antioxidant enzymes, non-enzymatic antioxidants including small molecules, peptides, and proteins have been identified and characterized. Neuroglobin (Ngb), a nervous system-specific heme-binding protein, has been classified as a non-enzymatic antioxidant and is capable of scavenging a variety of free radical species. The antioxidant activity of Ngb has been well-studied in humans. Ngb is involved in cellular oxygen homeostasis and reactive oxygen/nitrogen scavenging in the central and peripheral nervous systems, but its functions in schistosome parasites have not yet been characterized. In this study, we aimed to characterize the molecular properties and functions of Schistosoma mekongi Ngb (SmeNgb) using bioinformatic, biochemical, and molecular biology approaches. The amino acid sequence of Ngb was highly conserved among schistosomes as well as closely related trematodes. SmeNgb was abundantly localized in the gastrodermis, vitelline, and ovary of adult female S. mekongi worms as well as in the tegument of adult male worms. Assessment of antioxidant activity demonstrated that recombinant SmeNgb had Fe2+ chelating and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activities. Intriguingly, siRNA silencing of SmeNgb gene expression resulted in tegument pathology. Understanding the properties and functions of SmNgb will help in future development of effective treatments and vaccines against S. mekongi, other schistosome parasites, and other platyhelminths.
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18
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Saber S, Alomar SY, Yahya G. Blocking prostanoid receptors switches on multiple immune responses and cascades of inflammatory signaling against larval stages in snail fever. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:43546-43555. [PMID: 35396684 PMCID: PMC9200668 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-20108-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, also known as snail fever or bilharziasis, is a worm infection caused by trematode called schistosomes that affects humans and animals worldwide. Schistosomiasis endemically exists in developing countries. Inflammatory responses elicited in the early phase of infection represent the rate limiting step for parasite migration and pathogenesis and could be a valuable target for therapeutic interventions. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and interleukin (IL)-10 were found to be differentially affected in case of immune-modulation studies and cytokine analysis of hosts infected with either normal or radiation-attenuated parasite (RA) which switches off the development of an effective immune response against the migrating parasite in the early phase of schistosomiasis. Normal parasites induce predominantly a T helper 2 (Th2)-type cytokine response (IL-4 and IL-5) which is essential for parasite survival; here, we discuss in detail the downstream effects and cascades of inflammatory signaling of PGE2 and IL10 induced by normal parasites and the effect of blocking PGE2 receptors. We suggest that by selectively constraining the production of PGE2 during vaccination or therapy of susceptible persons or infected patients of schistosomiasis, this would boost IL-12 and reduce IL-10 production leading to a polarization toward the anti-worm Thl cytokine synthesis (IL-2 and Interferon (IFN)-γ).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh Saber
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta University for Science and Technology, Gamasa, Egypt
| | - Suliman Y. Alomar
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451 Saudi Arabia
| | - Galal Yahya
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University, Al Sharkia, 44519 Egypt
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19
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Bais S, Norwillo A, Ruthel G, Herbert DR, Freedman BD, Greenberg RM. Schistosome TRPML channels play a role in neuromuscular activity and tegumental integrity. Biochimie 2022; 194:108-117. [PMID: 34990770 PMCID: PMC8950431 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic flatworms of the genus Schistosoma. Mono-therapeutic treatment of this disease with the drug praziquantel, presents challenges such as inactivity against immature worms and inability to prevent reinfection. Importantly, ion channels are important targets for many current anthelmintics. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are important mediators of sensory signals with marked effects on cellular functions and signaling pathways. TRPML channels are a class of Ca2+-permeable TRP channels expressed on endolysosomal membranes. They regulate lysosomal function and trafficking, among other functions. Schistosoma mansoni is predicted to have a single TRPML gene (SmTRPML) with two splice variants differing by 12 amino acids. This study focuses on exploring the physiological properties of SmTRPML channels to better understand their role in schistosomes. In mammalian cells expressing SmTRPML, TRPML activators elicit a rise in intracellular Ca2+. In these cells, SmTRPML localizes both to lysosomes and the plasma membrane. These same TRPML activators elicit an increase in adult worm motility that is dependent on SmTRPML expression, indicating a role for these channels in parasite neuromuscular activity. Suppression of SmTRPML in adult worms, or exposure of adult worms to TRPML inhibitors, results in tegumental vacuolations, balloon-like surface exudates, and membrane blebbing, similar to that found following TRPML loss in other organisms. Together, these findings indicate that SmTRPML may regulate the function of the schistosome endolysosomal system. Further, the role of SmTRPML in neuromuscular activity and in parasite tegumental integrity establishes this channel as a candidate anti-schistosome drug target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swarna Bais
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA.
| | - Abigail Norwillo
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Gordon Ruthel
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - De'Broski R Herbert
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Bruce D Freedman
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Robert M Greenberg
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
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Schistosoma japonicum translationally controlled tumor protein, which is associated with the development of female worms, as a target for control of schistosomiasis. Int J Parasitol 2022; 52:569-579. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2022.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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21
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Masamba P, Weber BW, Sewell BT, Kappo AP. Crystallization and preliminary structural determination of the universal stress G4LZI3 protein from Schistosoma mansoni. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2022.101057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
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22
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Schistosoma mansoni Adult Worm Protective and Diagnostic Proteins in n-Butanol Extracts Revealed by Proteomic Analysis. Pathogens 2021; 11:pathogens11010022. [PMID: 35055970 PMCID: PMC8777762 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11010022] [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: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The S. mansoni adult worm n-butanol extract (Sm-AWBE) has been previously shown to contain specific S. mansoni antigens that have been used for immunodiagnosis of schistosomiasis in solid phase alkaline phosphatase immunoassay (APIA) and western blot (WB) analyses. Sm-AWBE was also used in immunoprotection studies against a fatal live-cercariae challenge in experimental mouse vaccination (~43% protection). The Sm-AWBE fraction was prepared by mixing adult worm membranous suspensions with aqueous-saturated n-butanol, centrifuging and recovering n-butanol-resistant proteins in the aqueous phase. Here we report a preliminary identification of Sm-AWBE protein components as revealed from a qualitative proteomic study after processing Sm-AWBE by 1D-gel electrophoresis, in-gel and in-solution tryptic digestions, and mass spectrometry analyses. We identified 33 proteins in Sm-AWBE, all previously known S. mansoni proteins and antigens; among them, immunomodulatory proteins and proteins mostly involved in host–parasite interactions. About 81.8% of the identified Sm-AWBE proteins are antigenic. STRING analysis showed a set of Sm-AWBE proteins configuring a small network of interactive proteins and a group of proteins without interactions. Functional groups of proteins included muscle contraction, antioxidant, GPI-anchored phosphoesterases, regulatory 14-3-3, various enzymes and stress proteins. The results widen the possibilities to design novel antigen combinations for better diagnostic and immunoprotective strategies for schistosomiasis control.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION : Human infections with helminth worm parasites are extraordinarily prevalent across tropical and subtropical parts of the world, and control relies primarily on drugs that offer short-term suppression of infection. There is an urgent need for new vaccines that would confer long-lived immunity, protecting children in particular and minimizing community transmission. AREAS COVERED : This article discusses the development of helminth vaccines, from the first successful veterinary vaccines that demonstrated the feasibility of inducing protective immunity to helminths, to more recent initiatives to test human helminth antigens. The field has focussed primarily on evaluating individual antigens that could constitute targets amenable to antibody attack to inhibit parasite establishment. In a new direction, vaccines employing extracellular vesicles released by helminths have also given exciting results. EXPERT OPINION : Taking into account the complex life cycles and sophisticated immune evasion strategies of many helminths, a combination of antigens and approaches designed to target essential functional pathways of the parasite will be required to achieve a high level of protection in future anti-helminth vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rick M. Maizels
- Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology; Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK,CONTACT Rick M. Maizels Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology; Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, GlasgowG12 8TA, UK
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Barbosa MMF, Kanno AI, Barazzone GC, Rodriguez D, Pancakova V, Trentini M, Faquim-Mauro EL, Freitas AP, Khouri MI, Lobo-Silva J, Goncalves VM, Schenkman RPF, Tanizaki MM, Boraschi D, Malley R, Farias LP, Leite LCC. Robust Immune Response Induced by Schistosoma mansoni TSP-2 Antigen Coupled to Bacterial Outer Membrane Vesicles. Int J Nanomedicine 2021; 16:7153-7168. [PMID: 34712047 PMCID: PMC8548026 DOI: 10.2147/ijn.s315786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The use of adjuvants can significantly strengthen a vaccine’s efficacy. We sought to explore the immunization efficacy of bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) displaying the Schistosoma mansoni antigen, SmTSP-2, through a biotin-rhizavidin coupling approach. The rationale is to exploit the nanoparticulate structure and the adjuvant properties of OMVs to induce a robust antigen-specific immune response, in light of developing new vaccines against S. mansoni. Materials and Methods OMVs were obtained from Neisseria lactamica and conjugated with biotin. The recombinant SmTSP-2 in fusion with the biotin-binding protein rhizavidin (rRzvSmTSP-2) was produced in E. coli and coupled to biotinylated OMVs to generate an OMV complex displaying SmTSP-2 on the membrane surface (OMV:rSmTSP-2). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering analysis were used to determine particle charge and size. The immunogenicity of the vaccine complex was evaluated in C57BL/6 mice. Results The rRzvSmTSP-2 protein was successfully coupled to biotinylated OMVs and purified by size-exclusion chromatography. The OMV:rSmTSP-2 nanoparticles showed an average size of 200 nm, with zeta potential around – 28 mV. Mouse Bone Marrow Dendritic Cells were activated by the nanoparticles as determined by increased expression of the co-stimulatory molecules CD40 and CD86, and the proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-12) or IL-10. Splenocytes of mice immunized with OMV:rSmTSP-2 nanoparticles reacted to an in vitro challenge with SmTSP-2 with an increased production of IL-6, IL-10 and IL-17 and displayed a higher number of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes expressing IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-2, compared to mice immunized with the antigen alone. Immunization of mice with OMV:rSmTSP-2 induced a 100-fold increase in specific anti-SmTSP-2 IgG antibody titers, as compared to the group receiving the recombinant rSmTSP-2 protein alone or even co-administered with unconjugated OMV. Conclusion Our results demonstrate that the SmTSP-2 antigen coupled with OMVs is highly immunogenic in mice, supporting the potential effectiveness of this platform for improved antigen delivery in novel vaccine strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra M F Barbosa
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-Graduação Interunidades em Biotecnologia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Alex I Kanno
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giovana C Barazzone
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Dunia Rodriguez
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Violeta Pancakova
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil.,Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 (UCBL1), Villeurbanne, 69100, France
| | - Monalisa Trentini
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Amanda P Freitas
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana I Khouri
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores e Inflamação, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Jessica Lobo-Silva
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores e Inflamação, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Viviane M Goncalves
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Martha M Tanizaki
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Diana Boraschi
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biologia Cellulare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Napoli, Italy.,Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Napoli, Italy.,Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technologies (SIAT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen, China Division of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Richard Malley
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Leonardo P Farias
- Laboratório de Biomarcadores e Inflamação, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Luciana C C Leite
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, Brazil
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Heat-killed Propionibacterium acnes augment the protective effect of 28-kDa glutathione S-transferases antigen against Schistosoma mansoni infection. Acta Trop 2021; 222:106033. [PMID: 34224719 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Sm28GST is one of the candidate antigens for Schistosoma mansoni vaccine. Already Sm28GST vaccine formulations have shown to be protective against S. mansoni infection. Currently, efforts have been put into finding an adjuvant to enhance the immunity induced by Sm28GST. In the present work, we investigated whether heat-killed Propionibacterium acnes can be served as a potential adjuvant for recombinant Sm28GST (rSm28GST) antigen. As the results showed, P. acnes successfully modulated the Th1 humoral immune response induced by rSm28GST. Stronger Th1 cytokines responses were also observed in mice immunized with P. acnes-adjuvanted rSm28GST. Immunization of mice with P. acnes-adjuvanted rSm28GST was able to reduce worm burden and hepatic egg burden by 54.20 and 73.61%. Reduced granuloma size and count, as well as improved liver histology, were seen in P. acnes-adjuvanted rSm28GST immunized mice. These data suggest that P. acnes may evoke a stronger rSm28GST-induced immune response, higher resistance to S. mansoni infection, and more profound protection against S. mansoni-induced liver damages.
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McManus DP. The Search for a Schistosomiasis Vaccine: Australia's Contribution. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9080872. [PMID: 34451997 PMCID: PMC8402410 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9080872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic flatworms of the genus Schistosoma, results in considerable human morbidity in sub-Saharan Africa, in particular, but also parts of the Middle East, South America, and Southeast Asia. The anti-schistosome drug praziquantel is efficacious and safe against the adult parasites of all Schistosoma species infecting humans; however, it does not prevent reinfection and the development of drug resistance is a constant concern. The need to develop an effective vaccine is of great importance if the health of many in the developing world is to be improved. Indeed, vaccination, in combination with other public health measures, can provide an invaluable tool to achieve lasting control, leading to schistosomiasis elimination. Australia has played a leading role in schistosomiasis vaccine research over many years and this review presents an overview of some of the significant contributions made by Australian scientists in this important area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donald P McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Infectious Diseases Division, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane 4006, Australia
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27
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Qokoyi NK, Masamba P, Kappo AP. Proteins as Targets in Anti-Schistosomal Drug Discovery and Vaccine Development. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:762. [PMID: 34358178 PMCID: PMC8310332 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9070762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Proteins hardly function in isolation; they form complexes with other proteins or molecules to mediate cell signaling and control cellular processes in various organisms. Protein interactions control mechanisms that lead to normal and/or disease states. The use of competitive small molecule inhibitors to disrupt disease-relevant protein-protein interactions (PPIs) holds great promise for the development of new drugs. Schistosome invasion of the human host involves a variety of cross-species protein interactions. The pathogen expresses specific proteins that not only facilitate the breach of physical and biochemical barriers present in skin, but also evade the immune system and digestion of human hemoglobin, allowing for survival in the host for years. However, only a small number of specific protein interactions between the host and parasite have been functionally characterized; thus, in-depth understanding of the molecular mechanisms of these interactions is a key component in the development of new treatment methods. Efforts are now focused on developing a schistosomiasis vaccine, as a proposed better strategy used either alone or in combination with Praziquantel to control and eliminate this disease. This review will highlight protein interactions in schistosomes that can be targeted by specific PPI inhibitors for the design of an alternative treatment to Praziquantel.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Abidemi Paul Kappo
- Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology (MBSB) Group, Department of Biochemistry, Kingsway Campus, University of Johannesburg, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa; (N.K.Q.); (P.M.)
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Panzner U, Boissier J. Natural Intra- and Interclade Human Hybrid Schistosomes in Africa with Considerations on Prevention through Vaccination. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9071465. [PMID: 34361901 PMCID: PMC8305539 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9071465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Causal agents of schistosomiasis are dioecious, digenean schistosomes affecting mankind in 76 countries. Preventive measures are manifold but need to be complemented by vaccination for long-term protection; vaccine candidates in advanced pre-clinical/clinical stages include Sm14, Sm-TSP-2/Sm-TSP-2Al®, Smp80/SchistoShield®, and Sh28GST/Bilhvax®. Natural and anthropogenic changes impact on breaking species isolation barriers favoring introgressive hybridization, i.e., allelic exchange among gene pools of sympatric, interbreeding species leading to instant large genetic diversity. Phylogenetic distance matters, thus the less species differ phylogenetically the more likely they hybridize. PubMed and Embase databases were searched for publications limited to hybridale confirmation by mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase (COX) and/or nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS). Human schistosomal hybrids are predominantly reported from West Africa with clustering in the Senegal River Basin, and scattering to Europe, Central and Eastern Africa. Noteworthy is the dominance of Schistosoma haematobium interbreeding with human and veterinary species leading due to hybrid vigor to extinction and homogenization as seen for S. guineensis in Cameroon and S. haematobium in Niger, respectively. Heterosis seems to advantage S. haematobium/S. bovis interbreeds with dominant S. haematobium-ITS/S. bovis-COX1 profile to spread from West to East Africa and reoccur in France. S. haematobium/S. mansoni interactions seen among Senegalese and Côte d’Ivoirian children are unexpected due to their high phylogenetic distance. Detecting pure S. bovis and S. bovis/S. curassoni crosses capable of infecting humans observed in Corsica and Côte d’Ivoire, and Niger, respectively, is worrisome. Taken together, species hybridization urges control and preventive measures targeting human and veterinary sectors in line with the One-Health concept to be complemented by vaccination protecting against transmission, infection, and disease recurrence. Functional and structural diversity of naturally occurring human schistosomal hybrids may impact current vaccine candidates requiring further research including natural history studies in endemic areas targeted for clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ursula Panzner
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, 80539 Munich, Germany
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, University of Basel, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-176-6657-2910
| | - Jerome Boissier
- IHPE, University of Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, University of Perpignan, 66860 Perpignan, France;
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Aula OP, McManus DP, Jones MK, Gordon CA. Schistosomiasis with a Focus on Africa. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:109. [PMID: 34206495 PMCID: PMC8293433 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6030109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a common neglected tropical disease of impoverished people and livestock in many developing countries in tropical Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America. Substantial progress has been made in controlling schistosomiasis in some African countries, but the disease still prevails in most parts of sub-Saharan Africa with an estimated 800 million people at risk of infection. Current control strategies rely primarily on treatment with praziquantel, as no vaccine is available; however, treatment alone does not prevent reinfection. There has been emphasis on the use of integrated approaches in the control and elimination of the disease in recent years with the development of health infrastructure and health education. However, there is a need to evaluate the present status of African schistosomiasis, primarily caused by Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium, and the factors affecting the disease as the basis for developing more effective control and elimination strategies in the future. This review provides an historical perspective of schistosomiasis in Africa and discusses the current status of control efforts in those countries where the disease is endemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oyime Poise Aula
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, Australia;
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane 4006, Australia
| | - Donald P. McManus
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, Australia;
| | - Malcolm K. Jones
- School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Australia;
| | - Catherine A. Gordon
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Queensland, Brisbane 4006, Australia;
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Integrated Core Proteomics, Subtractive Proteomics, and Immunoinformatics Investigation to Unveil a Potential Multi-Epitope Vaccine against Schistosomiasis. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9060658. [PMID: 34208663 PMCID: PMC8235758 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9060658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic infection that causes considerable morbidity and mortality in the world. Infections of parasitic blood flukes, known as schistosomes, cause the disease. No vaccine is available yet and thus there is a need to design an effective vaccine against schistosomiasis. Schistosoma japonicum, Schistosoma mansoni, and Schistosoma haematobium are the main pathogenic species that infect humans. In this research, core proteomics was combined with a subtractive proteomics pipeline to identify suitable antigenic proteins for the construction of a multi-epitope vaccine (MEV) against human-infecting Schistosoma species. The pipeline revealed two antigenic proteins-calcium binding and mycosubtilin synthase subunit C-as promising vaccine targets. T and B cell epitopes from the targeted proteins were predicted using multiple bioinformatics and immunoinformatics databases. Seven cytotoxic T cell lymphocytes (CTL), three helper T cell lymphocytes (HTL), and four linear B cell lymphocytes (LBL) epitopes were fused with a suitable adjuvant and linkers to design a 217 amino-acid-long MEV. The vaccine was coupled with a TLR-4 agonist (RS-09; Sequence: APPHALS) adjuvant to enhance the immune responses. The designed MEV was stable, highly antigenic, and non-allergenic to human use. Molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and molecular mechanics/generalized Born surface area (MMGBSA) analysis were performed to study the binding affinity and molecular interactions of the MEV with human immune receptors (TLR2 and TLR4) and MHC molecules (MHC I and MHC II). The MEV expression capability was tested in an Escherichia coli (strain-K12) plasmid vector pET-28a(+). Findings of these computer assays proved the MEV as highly promising in establishing protective immunity against the pathogens; nevertheless, additional validation by in vivo and in vitro experiments is required to discuss its real immune-protective efficacy.
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Al-Naseri A, Al-Absi S, El Ridi R, Mahana N. A comprehensive and critical overview of schistosomiasis vaccine candidates. J Parasit Dis 2021; 45:557-580. [PMID: 33935395 PMCID: PMC8068781 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01387-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
A digenetic platyhelminth Schistosoma is the causative agent of schistosomiasis, one of the neglected tropical diseases that affect humans and animals in numerous countries in the Middle East, sub-Saharan Africa, South America and China. Several control methods were used for prevention of infection or treatment of acute and chronic disease. Mass drug administration led to reduction in heavy-intensity infections and morbidity, but failed to decrease schistosomiasis prevalence and eliminate transmission, indicating the need to develop anti-schistosome vaccine to prevent infection and parasite transmission. This review summarizes the efficacy and protective capacity of available schistosomiasis vaccine candidates with some insights and future prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aya Al-Naseri
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo Univesity, Giza, 12613 Egypt
| | - Samar Al-Absi
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo Univesity, Giza, 12613 Egypt
| | - Rashika El Ridi
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo Univesity, Giza, 12613 Egypt
| | - Noha Mahana
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo Univesity, Giza, 12613 Egypt
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Phumrattanaprapin W, Chaiyadet S, Brindley PJ, Pearson M, Smout MJ, Loukas A, Laha T. Orally Administered Bacillus Spores Expressing an Extracellular Vesicle-Derived Tetraspanin Protect Hamsters Against Challenge Infection With Carcinogenic Human Liver Fluke. J Infect Dis 2021; 223:1445-1455. [PMID: 32813017 PMCID: PMC8064041 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiaa516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human liver fluke Opisthorchis viverrini is a food-borne trematode that causes hepatobiliary disease in humans throughout Southeast Asia. People become infected by consuming raw or undercooked fish containing metacercariae. Development of a vaccine to prevent or minimize pathology would decrease the risk of severe morbidity, including the development of bile duct cancer. METHODS We produced an oral vaccine based on recombinant Bacillus subtilis spores expressing the large extracellular loop (LEL) of O. viverrini tetraspanin-2 (Ov-TSP-2), a protein that is abundant on the surface of O. viverrini secreted extracellular vesicles (EVs). Recombinant spores expressing Ov-TSP-2-LEL were orally administered to hamsters prior to challenge infection with O. viverrini metacercariae. RESULTS Vaccinated hamsters generated serum IgG as well as bile IgG and IgA responses to Ov-TSP-2-LEL, and serum IgG from vaccinated hamsters blocked the uptake of fluke EVs by a human bile duct epithelial cell line. Vaccinated hamsters had 56% reductions in both adult flukes and fecal eggs compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that oral vaccination of hamsters with recombinant B. subtilis spores expressing Ov-TSP-2-LEL is efficacious at reducing infection intensity and could form the basis of a vaccine for control of carcinogenic liver fluke infection in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sujittra Chaiyadet
- Tropical Medicine Graduate Program, Academic Affairs, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Paul J Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Mark Pearson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael J Smout
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Thewarach Laha
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
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Yadav S, Sharma P, Sharma A, Ganga L, Saxena JK, Srivastava M. Immunization with Brugia malayi Calreticulin Protein Generates Robust Antiparasitic Immunity and Offers Protection during Experimental Lymphatic Filariasis. ACS Infect Dis 2021; 7:790-799. [PMID: 33667079 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.0c00565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis causes permanent and long-term disability worldwide. Lack of potent adulticidal drugs, the emergence of drug resistance, and the nonavailability of effective vaccines are the major drawbacks toward LF elimination. However, immunomodulatory proteins present in the parasite secretome are capable of providing good protection against LF and thus offer hope in designing new vaccines against LF. Here, we evaluated the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of B. malayi calreticulin protein (BmCRT) using in vitro and in vivo approaches. Stimulation with recombinant BmCRT (rBmCRT) significantly upregulated Th1 cytokine production in mouse splenocytes, mesenteric lymph nodes (mLNs), and splenic and peritoneal macrophages (PMΦs). Heightened NO release, ROS generation, increased lymphocyte proliferation, and increased antigen uptake were also observed after rBmCRT exposure. Mice immunized with rBmCRT responded with increased Th1 and Th2 cytokine secretion and exhibited highly elevated titers of anti-BmCRT specific IgG at day 14 and day 28 postimmunization while splenocytes and mLNs from immunized mice showed a robust recall response on restimulation with rBmCRT. Infective larvae (L3) challenge and protection studies undertaken in Mastomys coucha, a permissive model for LF, showed that rBmCRT-immunized animals mounted a robust humoral immune response as evident by elevated levels of total IgG, IgG1, IgG2a, IgG2b, and IgG3 in their serum even 150 days after L3 challenge, which led to significantly reduced microfilariae and worm burden in infected animals. BmCRT is highly immunogenic and generates robust antiparasitic immunity in immunized animals and should therefore be explored further as a putative vaccine candidate against LF.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aditi Sharma
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | | | | | - Mrigank Srivastava
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
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Barbosa MMF, Kanno AI, Farias LP, Madej M, Sipos G, Sbrana S, Romani L, Boraschi D, Leite LCC, Italiani P. Primary and Memory Response of Human Monocytes to Vaccines: Role of Nanoparticulate Antigens in Inducing Innate Memory. NANOMATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 11:931. [PMID: 33917456 PMCID: PMC8067467 DOI: 10.3390/nano11040931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Innate immune cells such as monocytes and macrophages are activated in response to microbial and other challenges and mount an inflammatory defensive response. Exposed cells develop the so-called innate memory, which allows them to react differently to a subsequent challenge, aiming at better protection. In this study, using human primary monocytes in vitro, we have assessed the memory-inducing capacity of two antigenic molecules of Schistosoma mansoni in soluble form compared to the same molecules coupled to outer membrane vesicles of Neisseria lactamica. The results show that particulate challenges are much more efficient than soluble molecules in inducing innate memory, which is measured as the production of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines (TNFα, IL-6, IL-10). Controls run with LPS from Klebsiella pneumoniae compared to the whole bacteria show that while LPS alone has strong memory-inducing capacity, the entire bacteria are more efficient. These data suggest that microbial antigens that are unable to induce innate immune activation can nevertheless participate in innate activation and memory when in a particulate form, which is a notion that supports the use of nanoparticulate antigens in vaccination strategies for achieving adjuvant-like effects of innate activation as well as priming for improved reactivity to future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra M. Ferrari Barbosa
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP 05503-900, Brazil; (M.M.F.B.); (A.I.K.)
| | - Alex Issamu Kanno
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP 05503-900, Brazil; (M.M.F.B.); (A.I.K.)
| | - Leonardo Paiva Farias
- Laboratório de Inflamação e Biomarcadores, Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Salvador, BA 40296-710, Brazil;
| | - Mariusz Madej
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biologia Cellulare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Gergö Sipos
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biologia Cellulare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Silverio Sbrana
- Istituto di Fisiologia Clinica, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 54100 Massa, Italy;
| | - Luigina Romani
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, University of Perugia, 06132 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Diana Boraschi
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biologia Cellulare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (M.M.); (G.S.)
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, 80121 Napoli, Italy
| | - Luciana C. C. Leite
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento de Vacinas, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP 05503-900, Brazil; (M.M.F.B.); (A.I.K.)
| | - Paola Italiani
- Istituto di Biochimica e Biologia Cellulare, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80131 Napoli, Italy; (M.M.); (G.S.)
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, 80121 Napoli, Italy
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Mokosch AS, Gerbig S, Grevelding CG, Haeberlein S, Spengler B. High-resolution AP-SMALDI MSI as a tool for drug imaging in Schistosoma mansoni. Anal Bioanal Chem 2021; 413:2755-2766. [PMID: 33723627 PMCID: PMC8007518 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-021-03230-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Schistosoma mansoni is a parasitic flatworm causing schistosomiasis, an infectious disease affecting several hundred million people worldwide. Schistosomes live dioeciously, and upon pairing with the male, the female starts massive egg production, which causes pathology. Praziquantel (PZQ) is the only drug used, but it has an inherent risk of resistance development. Therefore, alternatives are needed. In the context of drug repurposing, the cancer drug imatinib was tested, showing high efficacy against S. mansoni in vitro. Besides the gonads, imatinib mainly affected the integrity of the intestine in males and females. In this study, we investigated the potential uptake and distribution of imatinib in adult schistosomes including its distribution kinetics. To this end, we applied for the first time atmospheric-pressure scanning microprobe matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (AP-SMALDI MSI) for drug imaging in paired S. mansoni. Our results indicate that imatinib was present in the esophagus and intestine of the male as early as 20 min after in vitro exposure, suggesting an oral uptake route. After one hour, the drug was also found inside the paired female. The detection of the main metabolite, N-desmethyl imatinib, indicated metabolization of the drug. Additionally, a marker signal for the female ovary was successfully applied to facilitate further conclusions regarding organ tropism of imatinib. Our results demonstrate that AP-SMALDI MSI is a useful method to study the uptake, tissue distribution, and metabolization of imatinib in S. mansoni. The results suggest using AP-SMALDI MSI also for investigating other antiparasitic compounds and their metabolites in schistosomes and other parasites. ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Annika S Mokosch
- Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Stefanie Gerbig
- Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Christoph G Grevelding
- Institute of Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Simone Haeberlein
- Institute of Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany
| | - Bernhard Spengler
- Institute of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35392, Giessen, Germany.
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36
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Molehin AJ, Gray SA, Turner C, Davis J, Zhang W, Khatoon S, Rattan M, Kernen R, Peterson C, Sennoune SR, Carter D, Siddiqui AA. Process Development of Sj-p80: A Low-Cost Transmission-Blocking Veterinary Vaccine for Asiatic Schistosomiasis. Front Immunol 2021; 11:578715. [PMID: 33732227 PMCID: PMC7959798 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.578715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Asiatic schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma japonicum is a neglected tropical disease resulting in significant morbidity to both humans and animals - particularly bovines - in endemic areas. Infection with this parasite leads to less healthy herds, causing problems in communities which rely on bovines for farming, milk and meat production. Additionally, excretion of parasite eggs in feces perpetuates the life cycle and can lead to human infection. We endeavored to develop a minimally purified, inexpensive, and effective vaccine based on the 80 kDa large subunit of the calcium activated neutral protease (calpain) from S. japonicum (Sj-p80). Here we describe the production of veterinary vaccine-grade Sj-p80 at four levels of purity and demonstrate in a pilot study that minimally purified antigen provides protection against infection in mice when paired with a low-cost veterinary adjuvant, Montanide™ ISA61 VG. Preliminary data demonstrate that the vaccine is immunogenic with robust antibody titers following immunization, and vaccination resulted in a reduction of parasite eggs being deposited in the liver (23.4-51.4%) and intestines (1.9-55.1%) depending on antigen purity as well as reducing the ability of these eggs to hatch into miracidia by up to 31.6%. We therefore present Sj-p80 as a candidate vaccine antigen for Asiatic schistosomiasis which is now primed for continued development and testing in bovines in endemic areas. A successful bovine vaccine could play a major role in reducing pathogen transmission to humans by interrupting the parasitic life cycle and improving quality of life for people living in endemic countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adebayo J. Molehin
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Sean A. Gray
- PAI Life Sciences Inc, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Cheri Turner
- PAI Life Sciences Inc, Seattle, WA, United States
| | | | - Weidong Zhang
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Sabiha Khatoon
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Madison Rattan
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Rebecca Kernen
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Christopher Peterson
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Souad R. Sennoune
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | | | - Afzal A. Siddiqui
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
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37
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Wu HW, Park S, Pond-Tor S, Stuart R, Zhou S, Hong Y, Ruiz AE, Acosta L, Jarilla B, Friedman JF, Jiz M, Kurtis JD. Whole-Proteome Differential Screening Identifies Novel Vaccine Candidates for Schistosomiasis japonica. J Infect Dis 2021; 223:1265-1274. [PMID: 33606021 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiab085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis remains a leading cause of chronic morbidity in endemic regions despite decades of widespread mass chemotherapy with praziquantel. Using our whole proteome differential screening approach, and plasma and epidemiologic data from a longitudinal cohort of individuals living in a Schistosoma japonicum-endemic region of the Philippines, we interrogated the parasite proteome to identify novel vaccine candidates for Schistosoma japonicum. We identified 16 parasite genes which encoded proteins that were recognized by immunoglobulin G or immunoglobulin E antibodies in the plasma of individuals who had developed resistance to reinfection, but were not recognized by antibodies in the plasma of individuals who remained susceptible to reinfection. Antibody levels to Sj6-8 and Sj4-1 measured in the entire cohort (N = 505) 1 month after praziquantel treatment were associated with significantly decreased risk of reinfection and lower intensity of reinfection over 18 months of follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah W Wu
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Sangshin Park
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Graduate School of Urban Public Health, University of Seoul, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sunthorn Pond-Tor
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Ron Stuart
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Sha Zhou
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Pathogen Biology, Key Laboratory of Pathogen Biology of Jiangsu Province, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yang Hong
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology, Ministry of Agriculture of China, Shanghai, China
| | - Amanda E Ruiz
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Luz Acosta
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Blanca Jarilla
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jennifer F Friedman
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Mario Jiz
- Department of Immunology, Research Institute of Tropical Medicine, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jonathan D Kurtis
- Center for International Health Research, Rhode Island Hospital, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Brown University Medical School, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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38
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Craven HM, Bonsignore R, Lenis V, Santi N, Berrar D, Swain M, Whiteland H, Casini A, Hoffmann KF. Identifying and validating the presence of Guanine-Quadruplexes (G4) within the blood fluke parasite Schistosoma mansoni. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0008770. [PMID: 33600427 PMCID: PMC7924807 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that currently affects over 250 million individuals worldwide. In the absence of an immunoprophylactic vaccine and the recognition that mono-chemotherapeutic control of schistosomiasis by praziquantel has limitations, new strategies for managing disease burden are urgently needed. A better understanding of schistosome biology could identify previously undocumented areas suitable for the development of novel interventions. Here, for the first time, we detail the presence of G-quadruplexes (G4) and putative quadruplex forming sequences (PQS) within the Schistosoma mansoni genome. We find that G4 are present in both intragenic and intergenic regions of the seven autosomes as well as the sex-defining allosome pair. Amongst intragenic regions, G4 are particularly enriched in 3´ UTR regions. Gene Ontology (GO) term analysis evidenced significant G4 enrichment in the wnt signalling pathway (p<0.05) and PQS oligonucleotides synthetically derived from wnt-related genes resolve into parallel and anti-parallel G4 motifs as elucidated by circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy. Finally, utilising a single chain anti-G4 antibody called BG4, we confirm the in situ presence of G4 within both adult female and male worm nuclei. These results collectively suggest that G4-targeted compounds could be tested as novel anthelmintic agents and highlights the possibility that G4-stabilizing molecules could be progressed as candidates for the treatment of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly M. Craven
- Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS), Aberystwyth University, United Kingdom
| | | | - Vasilis Lenis
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, United Kingdom
| | - Nicolo Santi
- School of Chemistry, Cardiff University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Berrar
- Data Science Laboratory, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Martin Swain
- Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS), Aberystwyth University, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Whiteland
- Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS), Aberystwyth University, United Kingdom
| | - Angela Casini
- Department of Chemistry, Technical University of Munich, Germany
| | - Karl F. Hoffmann
- Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (IBERS), Aberystwyth University, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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39
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T Cell Peptides Derived from Invasive Stages of Schistosoma mansoni as Potential Schistosomiasis Vaccine. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10030445. [PMID: 33498845 PMCID: PMC7865475 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10030445] [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: 12/29/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease that affects 143 million people in endemic countries. This work analyzed overexpressed sequences from the cercaria phase to the early schistosomulum phase using bioinformatics tools to predict host interaction and selected proteins for predicting T cell epitopes. The final peptides were chemically synthesized, and their toxicity was evaluated in vitro. Peptides were formulated in the Adjuvant Adaptation (ADAD) vaccination system and injected into BALB/c mice that were challenged with S. mansoni cercariae to assess protection and immunogenicity. A total of 39 highly expressed S.mansoni proteins were identified as being of potential interest. Three T cell peptides predicted to bind MHC mouse and human class II were synthesized and formulated for vaccination. SmGSP and SmIKE reduced the number of eggs trapped in the liver by more than 50% in challenged BALB/c mice. The liver of mice vaccinated with either SmGSP or SmTNP had a significantly reduced affected liver surface. Transcriptome-based T cell peptides elicit partial protection and could be candidates for a multiantigen vaccine.
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40
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Nikolakis ZL, Hales NR, Perry BW, Schield DR, Timm LE, Liu Y, Zhong B, Kechris KJ, Carlton EJ, Pollock DD, Castoe TA. Patterns of relatedness and genetic diversity inferred from whole genome sequencing of archival blood fluke miracidia (Schistosoma japonicum). PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009020. [PMID: 33406094 PMCID: PMC7815185 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Genomic approaches hold great promise for resolving unanswered questions about transmission patterns and responses to control efforts for schistosomiasis and other neglected tropical diseases. However, the cost of generating genomic data and the challenges associated with obtaining sufficient DNA from individual schistosome larvae (miracidia) from mammalian hosts have limited the application of genomic data for studying schistosomes and other complex macroparasites. Here, we demonstrate the feasibility of utilizing whole genome amplification and sequencing (WGS) to analyze individual archival miracidia. As an example, we sequenced whole genomes of 22 miracidia from 11 human hosts representing two villages in rural Sichuan, China, and used these data to evaluate patterns of relatedness and genetic diversity. We also down-sampled our dataset to test how lower coverage sequencing could increase the cost effectiveness of WGS while maintaining power to accurately infer relatedness. Collectively, our results illustrate that population-level WGS datasets are attainable for individual miracidia and represent a powerful tool for ultimately providing insight into overall genetic diversity, parasite relatedness, and transmission patterns for better design and evaluation of disease control efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary L. Nikolakis
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, United States of America
| | - Nicole R. Hales
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, United States of America
| | - Blair W. Perry
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, United States of America
| | - Drew R. Schield
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, United States of America
| | - Laura E. Timm
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Yang Liu
- Institute of Parasitic Disease, Sichuan Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chengdu, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Zhong
- Institute of Parasitic Disease, Sichuan Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Chengdu, The People’s Republic of China
| | - Katerina J. Kechris
- Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth J. Carlton
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - David D. Pollock
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Todd A. Castoe
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, United States of America
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41
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Luna EJDA, Campos SRDSLDC. Vaccine development against neglected tropical diseases. CAD SAUDE PUBLICA 2020; 36Suppl 2:e00215720. [PMID: 33237199 DOI: 10.1590/0102-311x00215720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases constitute a heterogeneous group of diseases that have as a common characteristic to affect poor and unassisted populations with little vocalization capacity and political power. As a result, they receive little attention from the pharmaceutical industry and academia. The present study aimed to summarize the state of the art regarding vaccine development for three relevant neglected tropical diseases in Brazil: Chagas disease, schistosomiasis (Schistosoma mansoni), and leishmaniasis. To this end, we conducted a narrative review of the scientific literature, including publications that allowed us to outline a current overview on the vaccine development for the three diseases. Vaccines against the three diseases are in different stages of development. Vaccine development projects against American trypanosomiasis have yet to reach the clinical evaluation phase. For schistosomiasis, we have candidates for the vaccine in the advanced phase of clinical evaluation. For leishmaniasis, there are already licensed veterinary vaccines, and product candidates for human vaccine in the intermediate stage of clinical evaluation. The reduced funding for these projects has contributed to slow product development.
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Kong H, He J, Guo S, Song Q, Xiang D, Tao R, Yu H, Chen G, Huang Z, Ning Q, Huang J. Endothelin receptors promote schistosomiasis-induced hepatic fibrosis via splenic B cells. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008947. [PMID: 33075079 PMCID: PMC7595619 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelin receptors (ETRs) are activated by vasoactive peptide endothelins and involved in the pathogenesis of hepatic fibrosis. However, less is known about the role of ETRs in Schistosoma (S.) japonicum-induced hepatic fibrosis. Here, we show that the expression of ETRs is markedly enhanced in the liver and spleen tissues of patients with schistosome-induced fibrosis, as well as in murine models. Additional analyses have indicated that the expression levels of ETRs in schistosomiasis patients are highly correlated with the portal vein and spleen thickness diameter, both of which represent the severity of fibrosis. Splenomegaly is a characteristic symptom of schistosome infection, and splenic abnormality may promote the progression of hepatic fibrosis. We further demonstrate that elevated levels of ETRs are predominantly expressed on splenic B cells in spleen tissues during infection. Importantly, using a well-studied model of human schistosomiasis, we demonstrate that endothelin receptor antagonists can partially reverse schistosome-induced hepatic fibrosis by suppressing the activation of splenic B cells characterized by interleukin-10 (IL-10) secretion and regulatory T (Treg) cell-inducing capacity. Our study provides insights into the mechanisms by which ETRs regulate schistosomiasis hepatic fibrosis and highlights the potential of endothelin receptor antagonist as a therapeutic intervention for fibrotic diseases. Schistosomiasis is a serious but neglected tropical infectious disease. which can lead to hepatic fibrosis and death. To date, there are still no approved antifibrotic therapies. Hepatic fibrosis results in portal hypertension and variceal bleeding, and it is the primary cause of mortality from schistosomiasis. Splenomegaly and hypersplenism can manifest following the development of portal hypertension. Accumulating evidence suggests that the spleen plays a critical role in the development of hepatic fibrosis. In this study, using Schistosoma (S.) japonicum in both humans and mice, we show that progressive hepatic schistosomiasis caused elevation of endothelin receptors (ETRs) both in liver and spleen tissues, and the endothelin receptor-producing cells are mainly located in splenic B cells. More importantly, we demonstrate that endothelin receptor antagonists can partially reverse schistosome-induced hepatic fibrosis by suppressing the activation of splenic B cells during infection. Thus, our study highlights the potential of endothelin receptor antagonist as a therapeutic intervention for schistosomiasis and other fibrotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Kong
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinan He
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Shusen Guo
- Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiqin Song
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Dandan Xiang
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ran Tao
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Haijing Yu
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Guang Chen
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhiyong Huang
- Hepatic Surgery Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qin Ning
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiaquan Huang
- Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- * E-mail:
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43
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Recent Progress in the Development of Liver Fluke and Blood Fluke Vaccines. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8030553. [PMID: 32971734 PMCID: PMC7564142 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Liver flukes (Fasciola spp., Opisthorchis spp., Clonorchis sinensis) and blood flukes (Schistosoma spp.) are parasitic helminths causing neglected tropical diseases that result in substantial morbidity afflicting millions globally. Affecting the world’s poorest people, fasciolosis, opisthorchiasis, clonorchiasis and schistosomiasis cause severe disability; hinder growth, productivity and cognitive development; and can end in death. Children are often disproportionately affected. F. hepatica and F. gigantica are also the most important trematode flukes parasitising ruminants and cause substantial economic losses annually. Mass drug administration (MDA) programs for the control of these liver and blood fluke infections are in place in a number of countries but treatment coverage is often low, re-infection rates are high and drug compliance and effectiveness can vary. Furthermore, the spectre of drug resistance is ever-present, so MDA is not effective or sustainable long term. Vaccination would provide an invaluable tool to achieve lasting control leading to elimination. This review summarises the status currently of vaccine development, identifies some of the major scientific targets for progression and briefly discusses future innovations that may provide effective protective immunity against these helminth parasites and the diseases they cause.
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Current status and future prospects of protein vaccine candidates against Schistosoma mansoni infection. Parasite Epidemiol Control 2020; 11:e00176. [PMID: 32923703 PMCID: PMC7475110 DOI: 10.1016/j.parepi.2020.e00176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is an acute and chronic tropical parasitic disease caused by blood dwelling worm of the genus Schistosoma. It is the most destructive disease globally and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality for developing countries. Three main species of schistosomes infect human beings from which S. mansoni is the most common and widespread. Over the last several decades, chemotherapy using praziquantel has been a commonly used strategy for the treatment and control of schistosomiasis. However, control programs focused exclusively on chemotherapy have been challenging because of the frequency and rapidity of reinfection and these programs were expensive. Thus, new schistosomiasis control strategies will be needed. Vaccination strategy would be an ideal tool for a significant and sustainable reduction in the transmission and disease burden of schistosomiasis. An effective anti schistosome vaccine would greatly contribute to decreasing schistosomiasis-associated morbidity via protective immune responses leading to reduced worm burdens and decreased egg production. Vaccine development is a long process that can take decades. There have been three candidate vaccines that have been produced by Good Manufacturing Procedure and entered human clinical trials for S. mansoni are Sm14, SmTSP-2, and Sm-p80. Other candidates that are in pre-clinical trials at various stages include paramyosin, Sm29, SmKI-1, and Sm23. Since the growth of several new technologies, including genomics, transcriptomics, microarrays, immunomic profiling, and proteomics, have helped in the identification of promising new target schistosome antigens. Therefore, this review considers the present status of protein vaccine candidates against Schistosoma mansoni and provides some insight on prospects vaccine design and discovery.
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Key Words
- AE, Asparaginyl Endopeptidase
- Ab, Antibody
- Ag, Antigen
- CB, Cathepsin B
- CD, Cathepsin D
- CL3, Cathepsin L3
- DNA, Deoxyribonucleic Acid
- FA, Fatty Acid
- FABP, Fatty Acid Binding Protein
- GLA-Alum, Glucopyranosyl Lipid A Formulated in Aluminum
- GLA-SE, Glucopyranosyl Lipid Adjuvant Stable Emulsion
- IFN-γ, Interferon Gamma
- IL, Interleukin
- Ig, Immunoglobulin
- KI, Kunitz Type Protease Inhibitor
- LcP, Lipid Core Peptide
- Pmy, Paramyosin
- Protein vaccine
- Schistosoma mansoni
- Schistosomiasis
- Sm, Schistosoma mansoni
- TSP, Tetraspanins
- Th, T-helper Cells
- Vaccine candidates
- WHO, World Health Organization
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Cheng WJ, Gu MJ, Ye F, Zhang YD, Zhong QP, Dong HF, Liu R, Jiang H. Prohibitin 1 (PHB1) controls growth and development and regulates proliferation and apoptosis in Schistosoma japonicum. FASEB J 2020; 34:11030-11046. [PMID: 32627884 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201902787rrr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by the trematode blood flukes of the genus Schistosoma. The prodigious egg output of females is the main cause of the disease in definitive hosts, while the female worm relies on continuous pairing with the male worm to fuel the growth and maturation of the reproductive organs and egg production. Prohibitin, which contains the functionally interdependent PHB1 and PHB2 subunits in human and some other species, has been proposed to participate in the cell proliferation and apoptosis regulation in mammals. However, little is known about the function of PHB homolog in the growth and reproductive development of schistosomes. Here, we reported the Phb1 gene that was structurally and evolutionarily conserved in Schistosoma japonicum when compared with that of other species from Caenorhabditis elegans to human. Real-time PCR detected that SjPhb1 was highly transcribed in the vitellaria of female worms. SjPhb1 knockdown achieved through the dsRNA-mediated RNAi in vivo resulted in retarded growth, decreased pairing, and fecundity in adult worms, as well as attenuated pathogenicity or virulence of worms to their hosts. Cell proliferation and apoptosis examination found decreased cell proliferation and increased cell apoptosis in SjPhb1 dsRNA-treated worms. Therefore, our study provides the first characterization of S. japonicum PHB1 and reveals its fundamental role in the regulation of growth and development of S. japonicum by specific dsRNA-mediated RNAi in vivo. Our findings prompt for a promising molecular of schistosomes that can be targeted to effectively retard the growth and development of the schistosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jun Cheng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Meng-Jie Gu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Feng Ye
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Yao-Dan Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Qin-Ping Zhong
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Hui-Fen Dong
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Rong Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
| | - Hong Jiang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, P.R. China
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Bais S, Greenberg RM. Schistosome TRP channels: An appraisal. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2020; 13:1-7. [PMID: 32250774 PMCID: PMC7138929 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Ion channels underlie electrical excitability in cells and are essential for a variety of functions, most notably neuromuscular and sensory activity. They are also validated targets for a preponderance of approved anthelmintic compounds. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels constitute an ion channel superfamily whose members play important roles in sensory signaling, regulation of ion homeostasis, organellar trafficking, and other key cellular and organismal activities. Unlike most other ion channels, TRP channels are often polymodal, gated by a variety of mechanisms. Furthermore, TRP channels fall into several classes or subtypes based on sequence and structure. Until recently, there had been very little investigation of the properties and functions of TRP channels from parasitic helminths, including schistosomes, but that situation has changed in the past few years. Indeed, it is now clear that at least some schistosome TRP channels exhibit unusual pharmacological properties, and, intriguingly, both a mammalian and a schistosome TRP channel are activated by praziquantel, the current antischistosomal drug of choice. With the latest release of the Schistosoma mansoni genome database, several changes in predicted TRP channel sequences appeared, some of which were significant. This review updates and reassesses the TRP channel repertoire in S. mansoni, examines recent findings regarding these potential therapeutic targets, and provides guideposts for some of the physiological functions that may be mediated by these channels in schistosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swarna Bais
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Robert M Greenberg
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Mekonnen GG, Tedla BA, Pickering D, Becker L, Wang L, Zhan B, Bottazzi ME, Loukas A, Sotillo J, Pearson MS. Schistosoma haematobium Extracellular Vesicle Proteins Confer Protection in a Heterologous Model of Schistosomiasis. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E416. [PMID: 32722279 PMCID: PMC7563238 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Helminth parasites release extracellular vesicles which interact with the surrounding host tissues, mediating host-parasite communication and other fundamental processes of parasitism. As such, vesicle proteins present attractive targets for the development of novel intervention strategies to control these parasites and the diseases they cause. Herein, we describe the first proteomic analysis by LC-MS/MS of two types of extracellular vesicles (exosome-like, 120 k pellet vesicles and microvesicle-like, 15 k pellet vesicles) from adult Schistosoma haematobium worms. A total of 57 and 330 proteins were identified in the 120 k pellet vesicles and larger 15 k pellet vesicles, respectively, and some of the most abundant molecules included homologues of known helminth vaccine and diagnostic candidates such as Sm-TSP2, Sm23, glutathione S-transferase, saponins and aminopeptidases. Tetraspanins were highly represented in the analysis and found in both vesicle types. Vaccination of mice with recombinant versions of three of these tetraspanins induced protection in a heterologous challenge (S. mansoni) model of infection, resulting in significant reductions (averaged across two independent trials) in liver (47%, 38% and 41%) and intestinal (47%, 45% and 41%) egg burdens. These findings offer insight into the mechanisms by which anti-tetraspanin antibodies confer protection and highlight the potential that extracellular vesicle surface proteins offer as anti-helminth vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gebeyaw G. Mekonnen
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Bemnet A. Tedla
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Darren Pickering
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Luke Becker
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Lei Wang
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatrics and National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.W.); (B.Z.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Bin Zhan
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatrics and National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.W.); (B.Z.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Maria Elena Bottazzi
- Texas Children’s Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Department of Pediatrics and National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA; (L.W.); (B.Z.); (M.E.B.)
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
| | - Javier Sotillo
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Mark S. Pearson
- Centre for Molecular Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns 4878, Queensland, Australia; (G.G.M.); (B.A.T.); (D.P.); (L.B.); (J.S.)
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Zhang W, Le L, Ahmad G, Molehin AJ, Siddiqui AJ, Torben W, Karmakar S, Rojo JU, Sennoune S, Lazarus S, Khatoon S, Freeborn J, Sudduth J, Rezk AF, Carey D, Wolf RF, Papin JF, Damian R, Gray SA, Marks F, Carter D, Siddiqui AA. Fifteen Years of Sm-p80-Based Vaccine Trials in Nonhuman Primates: Antibodies From Vaccinated Baboons Confer Protection in vivo and in vitro From Schistosoma mansoni and Identification of Putative Correlative Markers of Protection. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1246. [PMID: 32636844 PMCID: PMC7318103 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in systems biology have shifted vaccine development from a largely trial-and-error approach to an approach that promote rational design through the search for immune signatures and predictive correlates of protection. These advances will doubtlessly accelerate the development of a vaccine for schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease that currently affects over 250 million people. For over 15 years and with contributions of over 120 people, we have endeavored to test and optimize Sm-p80-based vaccines in the non-human primate model of schistosomiasis. Using RNA-sequencing on eight different Sm-p80-based vaccine strategies, we sought to elucidate immune signatures correlated with experimental protective efficacy. Furthermore, we aimed to explore the role of antibodies through in vivo passive transfer of IgG obtained from immunized baboons and in vitro killing of schistosomula using Sm-p80-specific antibodies. We report that passive transfer of IgG from Sm-p80-immunized baboons led to significant worm burden reduction, egg reduction in liver, and reduced egg hatching percentages from tissues in mice compared to controls. In addition, we observed that sera from Sm-p80-immunized baboons were able to kill a significant percent of schistosomula and that this effect was complement-dependent. While we did not find a universal signature of immunity, the large datasets generated by this study will serve as a substantial resource for further efforts to develop vaccine or therapeutics for schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weidong Zhang
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Loc Le
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Gul Ahmad
- Department of Natural Sciences, Peru State College, Peru, NE, United States
| | - Adebayo J. Molehin
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | | | - Workineh Torben
- Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University of Alexandria, Alexandria, LA, United States
| | - Souvik Karmakar
- Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Juan U. Rojo
- Department of Molecular, Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH, United States
| | - Souad Sennoune
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Samara Lazarus
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Sabiha Khatoon
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Jasmin Freeborn
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Justin Sudduth
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - Ashraf F. Rezk
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
| | - David Carey
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Roman F. Wolf
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
- Oklahoma City VA Health Care System, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - James F. Papin
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, OK, United States
| | - Ray Damian
- Department of Cellular Biology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | | | - Florian Marks
- International Vaccine Institute, SNU Research Park, Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Darrick Carter
- PAI Life Sciences, Seattle, WA, United States
- Infectious Disease Research Institute, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Afzal A. Siddiqui
- Center for Tropical Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, TX, United States
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Schultz MD, Dadali T, Jacques SA, Muller-Steffner H, Foote JB, Sorci L, Kellenberger E, Botta D, Lund FE. Inhibition of the NAD salvage pathway in schistosomes impairs metabolism, reproduction, and parasite survival. PLoS Pathog 2020; 16:e1008539. [PMID: 32459815 PMCID: PMC7252647 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1008539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
NAD, a key co-enzyme required for cell metabolism, is synthesized via two pathways in most organisms. Since schistosomes apparently lack enzymes required for de novo NAD biosynthesis, we evaluated whether these parasites, which infect >200 million people worldwide, maintain NAD homeostasis via the NAD salvage biosynthetic pathway. We found that intracellular NAD levels decline in schistosomes treated with drugs that block production of nicotinamide or nicotinamide mononucleotide–known NAD precursors in the non-deamidating salvage pathway. Moreover, in vitro inhibition of the NAD salvage pathway in schistosomes impaired egg production, disrupted the outer membranes of both immature and mature parasites and caused loss of mobility and death. Inhibiting the NAD salvage pathway in schistosome-infected mice significantly decreased NAD levels in adult parasites, which correlated with reduced egg production, fewer liver granulomas and parasite death. Thus, schistosomes, unlike their mammalian hosts, appear limited to one metabolic pathway to maintain NAD-dependent metabolic processes. Schistosomiasis (snail fever) is a deadly parasitic disease that affects more than 200 million people worldwide and, if not treated, can lead to death. This disease is caused by parasitic worms called schistosomes that feed on the host blood and lay hundreds of eggs each day that damage the liver and kidneys. Therapies to treat schistosomiasis are limited. The most widely-used anti-schistosomal drug, praziquantel, is not effective against immature parasites and adult worms can, in some cases, become resistant to this drug. It is therefore important to find new therapies to treat this deadly disease. In this study, we observed that schistosomes cannot use amino acids to make Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD)–a key cellular metabolite found in all living organisms. Instead, these parasites salvage NAD by scavenging vitamins from the host. We observed that disruption of this NAD salvage pathway negatively impacts metabolism, reproduction and survival of both adult and immature worms. As such, targeting the parasite’s NAD salvage pathway is a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of snail fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D. Schultz
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Tulin Dadali
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Sylvain A. Jacques
- Laboratoire d’Innovation Thérapeutique, LIT UMR 7200 CNRS-Université de Strasbourg, MEDALIS Drug Discovery Center, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France
| | - Hélène Muller-Steffner
- Laboratoire des Systèmes Chimiques Fonctionnels, CAMB UMR 7199 CNRS-Université de Strasbourg, MEDALIS Drug Discovery Center, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France
| | - Jeremy B. Foote
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Leonardo Sorci
- Department of Materials, Environmental Sciences and Urban Planning, Division of Bioinformatics and Biochemistry, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Esther Kellenberger
- Laboratoire d’Innovation Thérapeutique, LIT UMR 7200 CNRS-Université de Strasbourg, MEDALIS Drug Discovery Center, Faculté de Pharmacie, Illkirch, France
| | - Davide Botta
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
| | - Frances E. Lund
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Kura K, Collyer BS, Toor J, Truscott JE, Hollingsworth TD, Keeling MJ, Anderson RM. Policy implications of the potential use of a novel vaccine to prevent infection with Schistosoma mansoni with or without mass drug administration. Vaccine 2020; 38:4379-4386. [PMID: 32418795 PMCID: PMC7273196 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2020.04.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 04/29/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is one of the most important neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affecting millions of people in 79 different countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has specified two control goals to be achieved by 2020 and 2025 - morbidity control and elimination as a public health problem (EPHP). Mass drug administration (MDA) is the main method for schistosomiasis control but it has sometimes proved difficult to both secure adequate supplies of the most efficacious drug praziquantel to treat the millions infected either annually or biannually, and to achieve high treatment coverage in targeted communities in regions of endemic infection. The development of alternative control methods remains a priority. In this paper, using stochastic individual-based models, we analyze whether the addition of a novel vaccine alone or in combination with drug treatment, is a more effective control strategy, in terms of achieving the WHO goals, as well as the time and costs to achieve these goals when compared to MDA alone. The key objective of our analyses is to help facilitate decision making for moving a promising candidate vaccine through the phase I, II and III trials in humans to a final product for use in resource poor settings. We find that in low to moderate transmission settings, both vaccination and MDA are highly likely to achieve the WHO goals within 15 years and are likely to be cost-effective. In high transmission settings, MDA alone is unable to achieve the goals, whereas vaccination is able to achieve both goals in combination with MDA. In these settings Vaccination is cost-effective, even for short duration vaccines, so long as vaccination costs up to US$7.60 per full course of vaccination. The public health value of the vaccine depends on the duration of vaccine protection, the baseline prevalence prior to vaccination and the WHO goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klodeta Kura
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, United Kingdom; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, St Mary's Campus, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.; MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, United Kingdom.
| | - Benjamin S Collyer
- Mathematics Institute, University of Warwick, United Kingdom; School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, United Kingdom
| | - Jaspreet Toor
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, United Kingdom; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, St Mary's Campus, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.; MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, United Kingdom
| | - James E Truscott
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, United Kingdom; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, St Mary's Campus, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.; MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, United Kingdom; The DeWorm3 Project, The Natural History Museum of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - T Deirdre Hollingsworth
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7LF, United Kingdom
| | - Matt J Keeling
- Mathematics Institute, University of Warwick, United Kingdom; School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, United Kingdom
| | - Roy M Anderson
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, London, United Kingdom; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, St Mary's Campus, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.; MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, United Kingdom; The DeWorm3 Project, The Natural History Museum of London, London, United Kingdom
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