1
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Fernando DD, Mounsey KE, Bernigaud C, Surve N, Estrada Chávez GE, Hay RJ, Currie BJ, Chosidow O, Fischer K. Scabies. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2024; 10:74. [PMID: 39362885 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-024-00552-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
Scabies is one of the most common and highest-burden skin diseases globally. Estimates suggest that >200 million people worldwide have scabies at any one time, with an annual prevalence of 455 million people, with children in impoverished and overcrowded settings being the most affected. Scabies infection is highly contagious and leads to considerable morbidity. Secondary bacterial infections are common and can cause severe health complications, including sepsis or necrotizing soft-tissue infection, renal damage and rheumatic heart disease. There is no vaccine or preventive treatment against scabies and, for the past 30 years, only few broad-spectrum antiparasitic drugs (mainly topical permethrin and oral ivermectin) have been widely available. Treatment failure is common because drugs have short half-lives and do not kill all developmental stages of the scabies parasite. At least two consecutive treatments are needed, which is difficult to achieve in resource-poor and itinerant populations. Another key issue is the lack of a practical, rapid, cheap and accurate diagnostic tool for the timely detection of scabies, which could prevent the cycle of exacerbation and disease persistence in communities. Scabies control will require a multifaceted approach, aided by improved diagnostics and surveillance, new treatments, and increased public awareness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepani D Fernando
- Scabies Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Kate E Mounsey
- School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Charlotte Bernigaud
- Research Group Dynamic, EA7380, Faculté de Santé de Créteil, USC ANSES, Université Paris-Est Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Nuzhat Surve
- Department of Microbiology, Seth G S Medical College and KEM Hospital, Parel, Mumbai, India
| | - Guadalupe E Estrada Chávez
- State Institute of Cancer "Dr. Arturo Beltrán Ortega", Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Guerrero, Community Dermatology Mexico, Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico
| | - Roderick J Hay
- St Johns Institute of Dermatology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Bart J Currie
- Global and Tropical Health, Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University and Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Olivier Chosidow
- Hôpital Universitaire La Pitié-Salpêtrière, AP-HP, Paris, France
| | - Katja Fischer
- Scabies Laboratory, Infection and Inflammation Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
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Fernando DD, Korhonen PK, Gasser RB, Fischer K. An RNA Interference Tool to Silence Genes in Sarcoptes scabiei Eggs. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020873. [PMID: 35055058 PMCID: PMC8777771 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In a quest for new interventions against scabies-a highly significant skin disease of mammals, caused by a parasitic mite Sarcoptes scabiei-we are focusing on finding new intervention targets. RNA interference (RNAi) could be an efficient functional genomics approach to identify such targets. The RNAi pathway is present in S. scabiei and operational in the female adult mite, but other developmental stages have not been assessed. Identifying potential intervention targets in the egg stage is particularly important because current treatments do not kill this latter stage. Here, we established an RNAi tool to silence single-copy genes in S. scabiei eggs. Using sodium hypochlorite pre-treatment, we succeeded in rendering the eggshell permeable to dsRNA without affecting larval hatching. We optimised the treatment of eggs with gene-specific dsRNAs to three single-copy target genes (designated Ss-Cof, Ss-Ddp, and Ss-Nan) which significantly and repeatedly suppressed transcription by ~66.6%, 74.3%, and 84.1%, respectively. Although no phenotypic alterations were detected in dsRNA-treated eggs for Ss-Cof and Ss-Nan, the silencing of Ss-Ddp resulted in a 38% reduction of larval hatching. This RNAi method is expected to provide a useful tool for larger-scale functional genomic investigations for the identification of essential genes as potential drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepani D. Fernando
- Infectious Diseases Program, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia;
| | - Pasi K. Korhonen
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (P.K.K.); (R.B.G.)
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia; (P.K.K.); (R.B.G.)
| | - Katja Fischer
- Infectious Diseases Program, Cell and Molecular Biology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia;
- Correspondence:
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Kumar S, Gupta S, Mohmad A, Fular A, Parthasarathi BC, Chaubey AK. Molecular tools-advances, opportunities and prospects for the control of parasites of veterinary importance. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TROPICAL INSECT SCIENCE 2021; 41:33-42. [PMID: 32837530 PMCID: PMC7387080 DOI: 10.1007/s42690-020-00213-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The recent advancement in genome sequencing facilities, proteomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics of eukaryotes have opened door for employment of molecular diagnostic techniques for early detection of parasites and determining target molecules for formulating control strategies. It further leads to the introduction of several purified vaccines in the field of veterinary parasitology. Earlier, the conventional diagnostic methods was entirely based upon morphological taxonomy for diagnosis of parasites but nowadays improved molecular techniques help in phylogenetic study and open an another area of molecular taxonomy of parasites with high precision. Control measures based upon targeting endosymbionts in parasites like Dirofilaria immitis is also under exploration in veterinary parasitology. Metagenomics have added an inside story of parasites bionomics which have created havoc in human and animals population since centuries. Omics era is playing a key role in opening the new approaches on parasite biology. Various newer generations of safer vaccines like edible vaccines and subunit vaccines and diagnostic techniques based upon purified immunologically active epitopes have become commercially available against the parasites (helminths, protozoa and arthropod borne diseases). Nowadays, a transgenic and gene knock out studies using RNA interference and CRISPR are also helping in understanding the functions of genes and screening of target genes, which are not available before the advent of molecular tools. Molecular techniques had paramount impact on increasing the sensitivity of diagnostic tools, epidemiological studies and more importantly in controlling these diseases. This review is about the advancements in veterinary parasitology and their impact on the control of these pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Kumar
- Division of Parasitology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh 243122 India
- Department of Zoology, Choudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh 250001 India
| | - Snehil Gupta
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Hisar, Haryana 125001 India
| | - Aquil Mohmad
- Division of Parasitology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh 243122 India
| | - Ashutosh Fular
- Division of Parasitology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh 243122 India
| | - B. C. Parthasarathi
- Division of Parasitology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Uttar Pradesh 243122 India
| | - Ashok Kumar Chaubey
- Department of Zoology, Choudhary Charan Singh University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh 250001 India
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Korhonen PK, Gasser RB, Ma G, Wang T, Stroehlein AJ, Young ND, Ang CS, Fernando DD, Lu HC, Taylor S, Reynolds SL, Mofiz E, Najaraj SH, Gowda H, Madugundu A, Renuse S, Holt D, Pandey A, Papenfuss AT, Fischer K. High-quality nuclear genome for Sarcoptes scabiei-A critical resource for a neglected parasite. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008720. [PMID: 33001992 PMCID: PMC7591027 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The parasitic mite Sarcoptes scabiei is an economically highly significant parasite of the skin of humans and animals worldwide. In humans, this mite causes a neglected tropical disease (NTD), called scabies. This disease results in major morbidity, disability, stigma and poverty globally and is often associated with secondary bacterial infections. Currently, anti-scabies treatments are not sufficiently effective, resistance to them is emerging and no vaccine is available. Here, we report the first high-quality genome and transcriptomic data for S. scabiei. The genome is 56.6 Mb in size, has a a repeat content of 10.6% and codes for 9,174 proteins. We explored key molecules involved in development, reproduction, host-parasite interactions, immunity and disease. The enhanced 'omic data sets for S. scabiei represent comprehensive and critical resources for genetic, functional genomic, metabolomic, phylogenetic, ecological and/or epidemiological investigations, and will underpin the design and development of new treatments, vaccines and/or diagnostic tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pasi K. Korhonen
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Guangxu Ma
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tao Wang
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andreas J. Stroehlein
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Neil D. Young
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ching-Seng Ang
- Bio21 Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deepani D. Fernando
- Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Hieng C. Lu
- Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sara Taylor
- Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Simone L. Reynolds
- Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ehtesham Mofiz
- Bioinformatics Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Shivashankar H. Najaraj
- Faculty of Health, School—Biomedical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Harsha Gowda
- Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Anil Madugundu
- Institute of Bioinformatics, Bangalore, India
- Center for Individualized Medicine and Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Deborah Holt
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
- College of Health and Human Sciences, Charles Darwin University, Darwin, Australia
| | - Akhilesh Pandey
- Center for Individualized Medicine and Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States of America
| | - Anthony T. Papenfuss
- Bioinformatics Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Katja Fischer
- Cell and Molecular Biology Department, Infectious Diseases Program, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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5
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Bernigaud C, Samarawickrama GR, Jones MK, Gasser RB, Fischer K. The Challenge of Developing a Single-Dose Treatment for Scabies. Trends Parasitol 2019; 35:931-943. [PMID: 31474559 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2019.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Scabies is a common skin disease with an estimated worldwide incidence of 200 million people infected per year. Its morbidity and mortality is principally due to secondary bacterial infections, a link now well recognized and prompting the recent inclusion of this disease-complex in the WHO list of neglected tropical diseases. The few treatments available are poorly effective against Sarcoptes scabiei eggs and appear to induce resistance in the parasite. An ideal alternative would be a single-dose regimen that kills all developmental stages, including eggs. Drugs used in the veterinary field and applied to other arthropods could be tested experimentally in an established pig-scabies model. Moreover, functional genomics combined with target validation through biochemical research should assist in identifying new drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Bernigaud
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Infectious Diseases Program, 300 Herston Road, Herston, Brisbane 4006, Australia; Dermatology Department, AP-HP, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Université Paris-Est, Créteil, France; Research group Dynamyc, EA7380, Université Paris-Est, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, Université Paris-Est Créteil, Créteil, France
| | - Gangi R Samarawickrama
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Infectious Diseases Program, 300 Herston Road, Herston, Brisbane 4006, Australia
| | - Malcolm K Jones
- School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton Campus, Gatton, Australia
| | - Robin B Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Katja Fischer
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Infectious Diseases Program, 300 Herston Road, Herston, Brisbane 4006, Australia.
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Whitten MM. Novel RNAi delivery systems in the control of medical and veterinary pests. CURRENT OPINION IN INSECT SCIENCE 2019; 34:1-6. [PMID: 31247409 PMCID: PMC6990399 DOI: 10.1016/j.cois.2019.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
RNA interference (RNAi) is a transformative technology with great potential to control, study or even protect insects and acarines through the knockdown of target gene expression. RNAi offers unprecedented levels of control, but fundamental to its successful deployment is the need to deliver 'trigger' RNA in an appropriate fashion giving due consideration to potential barriers of RNAi efficiency, safety, and the intended purpose of the knockdown. This short review focusses on recent innovations in RNAi delivery that are designed for, or could be adapted for use with, insect and acarine pests of medical or veterinary importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda Ma Whitten
- Institute of Life Science, Swansea University Medical School, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, UK.
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7
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Yang R, Niu D, Zhao Y, Gong X, Hu L, Ai L. Function of heat shock protein 70 in the thermal stress response of Dermatophagoides farinae and establishment of an RNA interference method. Gene 2019; 705:82-89. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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8
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Wang T, Liu XH, Guan J, Ge S, Wu MB, Lin JP, Yang LR. Advancement of multi-target drug discoveries and promising applications in the field of Alzheimer's disease. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 169:200-223. [PMID: 30884327 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.02.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Complex diseases (e.g., Alzheimer's disease) or infectious diseases are usually caused by complicated and varied factors, including environmental and genetic factors. Multi-target (polypharmacology) drugs have been suggested and have emerged as powerful and promising alternative paradigms in modern medicinal chemistry for the development of versatile chemotherapeutic agents to solve these medical challenges. The multifunctional agents capable of modulating multiple biological targets simultaneously display great advantages of higher efficacy, improved safety profile, and simpler administration compared to single-targeted agents. Therefore, multifunctional agents would certainly open novel avenues to rationally design the next generation of more effective but less toxic therapeutic agents. Herein, the authors review the recent progress made in the discovery and design processes of selective multi-targeted agents, especially the successful application of multi-target drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wang
- School of Biological Science, Jining Medical University, Jining, China; Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China.
| | - Xiao-Huan Liu
- School of Biological Science, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Jing Guan
- School of Biological Science, Jining Medical University, Jining, China
| | - Shun Ge
- School of Biological Science, Jining Medical University, Jining, China.
| | - Mian-Bin Wu
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China; Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Antifungal Drugs, Taizhou, 318000, China
| | - Jian-Ping Lin
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Li-Rong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Biomass Chemical Engineering of Ministry of Education, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
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9
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Niu J, Shen G, Christiaens O, Smagghe G, He L, Wang J. Beyond insects: current status and achievements of RNA interference in mite pests and future perspectives. PEST MANAGEMENT SCIENCE 2018; 74:2680-2687. [PMID: 29749092 DOI: 10.1002/ps.5071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Mites comprise a group of key agricultural pests on a wide range of crops. They cause harm through feeding on the plant and transferring dangerous pathogens, and the rapid evolution of pesticide resistance in mites highlights the need for novel control methods. Currently, RNA interference (RNAi) shows great potential for insect pest control. Here, we review the literature regarding RNAi in mite pests. We discuss different target genes and RNAi efficiency in various mite species, a promising Varroa control program using RNAi, the synergy of RNAi with plant defense mechanisms and microorganisms, and current understanding of systemic movement of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). On the basis of this evidence, we can conclude that there is clear potential for application of RNAi-based mite control, but further research on several aspects of RNAi in mites is needed, including: (i) the factors influencing RNAi efficiency, (ii) the mechanism of environmental RNAi and cross-kingdom dsRNA trafficking, (iii) the mechanism of possible systemic and parental RNAi, and (iv) non-target effects, specifically in predatory mites, which should be considered during RNAi target selection. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinzhi Niu
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Guangmao Shen
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Olivier Christiaens
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guy Smagghe
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Department of Plants and Crops, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lin He
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jinjun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Entomology and Pest Control Engineering, College of Plant Protection, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
- Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
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10
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Gopinath H, Aishwarya M, Karthikeyan K. Tackling scabies: novel agents for a neglected disease. Int J Dermatol 2018; 57:1293-1298. [PMID: 29663338 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.13999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Revised: 02/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The scabies mite, Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis, is an obligate ectoparasite of humans. It has been a source of distress for humanity since antiquity. The troublesome mite is emerging triumphant over current acaricidal agents with reports of emerging resistance and treatment failures. Scabies in endemic areas and crusted scabies offer additional management challenges. Exploration of indigenous plants and better understanding of mite biology and pathogenesis provide opportunities for the development of novel agents for this common pest. We review the recent diverse approaches to scabies, including the use of novel plant products with a better safety profile, translating the use of moxidectin from veterinary practice to human scabies, vaccination, immunotherapy, and development of drugs that directly target mite molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hima Gopinath
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital, Pondicherry, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, India
| | - Manju Aishwarya
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital, Pondicherry, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, India
| | - Kaliaperumal Karthikeyan
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital, Pondicherry, Pondicherry University, Pondicherry, India
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11
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Marr EJ, Wright HW, Sargison ND, Nisbet AJ, Burgess STG. Gene silencing by RNA interference in the ectoparasitic mite, Psoroptes ovis. Vet Res 2018; 49:112. [PMID: 30382906 PMCID: PMC6211577 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-018-0608-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of components of the RNA interference (RNAi) pathway in Psoroptes ovis, an ectoparasitic mite responsible for psoroptic mange, was investigated through interrogation of the P. ovis genome. Homologues of transcripts representing critical elements for achieving effective RNAi in the mite, Tetranychus urticae and the model organisms Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila melanogaster were identified and, following the development of a non-invasive immersion method of double stranded RNA delivery, gene silencing by RNAi was successfully demonstrated in P. ovis. Significant reductions in transcript levels were achieved for three target genes which encode the Group 2 allergen (Pso o 2), mu-class glutathione S-transferase (PoGST-mu1) and beta-tubulin (Poβtub). This is the first demonstration of RNAi in P. ovis and provides a mechanism for mining transcriptomic and genomic datasets for novel control targets against this economically important ectoparasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward J Marr
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK.,Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, The King's Buildings, Ashworth Laboratories, Charlotte Auerbach Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3FL, Scotland, UK
| | - Harry W Wright
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK
| | - Neil D Sargison
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Roslin, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, Scotland, UK
| | - Alasdair J Nisbet
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK
| | - Stewart T G Burgess
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Edinburgh, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK.
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12
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Edwards CH, Baird J, Zinser E, Woods DJ, Shaw S, Campbell EM, Bowman AS. RNA interference in the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis: Approaches for sustained gene knockdown and evidence of involvement of Dicer-2 and Argonaute2. Int J Parasitol 2018; 48:993-1002. [PMID: 30261185 PMCID: PMC6237673 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2018.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Effective RNA interference (RNAi) methods have been developed in many pest species, enabling exploration of gene function. Until now RNAi had not been attempted in the cat flea, Ctenocephalides felis, although the development of RNAi approaches would open up potential avenues for control of this important pest. This study aimed to establish if an RNAi response occurs in adult C. felis upon exposure to double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), which administration methods for dsRNA delivery could bring about effective gene knockdown and to investigate dynamics of any RNAi response. Knockdown of 80% of GSTσ was achieved by intrahaemoceolic microinjection of dsGSTσ but this invasive technique was associated with relatively high mortality rates. Immersing C. felis in dsGSTσ or dsDicer-2 overnight resulted in 65% knockdown of GSTσ or 60% of Dicer-2, respectively, and the degree of knockdown was not improved by increasing the dsRNA concentration in the bathing solution. Unexpectedly, the greatest degree of knockdown was achieved with the continuous administration of dsRNA in whole blood via a membrane feeding system, resulting in 96% knockdown of GSTσ within 2 days and sustained up to, at least, 7 days. Thus, unlike in many other species, the gut nucleases do not impair the RNAi response to ingested dsRNA in C. felis. A modest, but significant, upregulation of Dicer-2 and Argonaute2 was detectable 3 h after exposure to exogenous dsRNA, implicating the short-interfering RNA pathway. To our knowledge this study represents the first demonstration of experimentally induced RNAi in the cat flea as well as giving insight into how the gene knockdown response progresses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catriona H Edwards
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, UK
| | - John Baird
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, UK
| | - Erich Zinser
- Zoetis Inc, 333 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007, USA
| | - Debra J Woods
- Zoetis Inc, 333 Portage Street, Kalamazoo, Michigan 49007, USA
| | - Sophie Shaw
- Centre for Genome Enabled Biology and Medicine, University of Aberdeen, 23 St. Machar Drive, Old Aberdeen AB24 3RY, UK
| | - Ewan M Campbell
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, UK
| | - Alan S Bowman
- Institute of Biological and Environmental Sciences, School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, UK.
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13
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Xu J, Huang X, Dong X, Ren Y, Wu M, Shen N, Xie Y, Gu X, Lai W, Jing B, Peng X, Yang G. Serodiagnostic Potential of Alpha-Enolase From Sarcoptes scabiei and Its Possible Role in Host-Mite Interactions. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:1024. [PMID: 29887838 PMCID: PMC5981165 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.01024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Infestation of the epidermis with the highly contagious ectoparasite, Sarcoptes scabiei, causes scabies, which is characterized by intense itching, pruritus, and secondary infection. This condition affects humans, livestock, and wildlife worldwide, incurring large economic losses and reducing the quality of human life. In the present study, we cloned the alpha-enolase, a key enzyme in the glycolytic and gluconeogenesis pathways, from S. scabiei var. cuniculi, characterized it and produced soluble recombinant enolase protein (rSsc-eno). We determined the localization of Ssc-eno in isolated mites and mites in lesioned skin. The results showed that native enolase was intensely localized in the tegument of the mouthparts, the entire legs, and the whole mites' body, as well as in the gut and reproduction system. Interestingly, we found that native enolase was widely distributed in mites in lesioned skin, with obvious high protein intensity compared with isolated mites. Building on good immunoreactivity, an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) based on rSsc-eno showed 92% sensitivity and 95.8% specificity, compared with other indirect ELISA in this study, rSsc-eno based ELISA is better in detecting scabies in rabbits. Besides, this method can detect S. scabiei infection as early as 1 week post infection. Compared with other detection methods, such as traditional microscopic examination and recently published universal conventional PCR, rSsc-eno ELISA was more effective to detect early infection in rabbits. Additionally, in vitro incubation experiments demonstrated the concentration-dependent acaricidal activity of rabbit anti-rSsc-eno sera against larval mites, suggested its potential as a vaccine candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xing Huang
- Chengdu Agricultural College, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaowei Dong
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yongjun Ren
- Sichuan Animal Sciences Academy, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.,Animal Breeding and Genetics Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu, China
| | - Maodi Wu
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Nengxing Shen
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yue Xie
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaobin Gu
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Weiming Lai
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo Jing
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuerong Peng
- College of Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Ya'an, China
| | - Guangyou Yang
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
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14
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Fernando DD, Reynolds SL, Zakrzewski M, Mofiz E, Papenfuss AT, Holt D, Fischer K. Phylogenetic relationships, stage-specific expression and localisation of a unique family of inactive cysteine proteases in Sarcoptes scabiei. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:301. [PMID: 29769145 PMCID: PMC5956821 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2862-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 04/23/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Scabies is worldwide one of the most common, yet neglected, parasitic skin infections, affecting a wide range of mammals including humans. Limited treatment options and evidence of emerging mite resistance against the currently used drugs drive our research to explore new therapeutic candidates. Previously, we discovered a multicopy family of genes encoding cysteine proteases with their catalytic sites inactivated by mutation (SMIPP-Cs). This protein family is unique in parasitic scabies mites and is absent in related non-burrowing mites. We postulated that the SMIPP-Cs have evolved as an adaptation to the parasitic lifestyle of the scabies mite. To formulate testable hypotheses for their functions and to propose possible strategies for translational research we investigated whether the SMIPP-Cs are common to all scabies mite varieties and where within the mite body as well as when throughout the parasitic life-cycle they are expressed. Results SMIPP-C sequences from human, pig and dog mites were analysed bioinformatically and the phylogenetic relationships between the SMIPP-C multi-copy gene families of human, pig and dog mites were established. Results suggest that amplification of the SMIPP-C genes occurred in a common ancestor and individual genes evolved independently in the different mite varieties. Recombinant human mite SMIPP-C proteins were produced and used for murine polyclonal antibody production. Immunohistology on skin sections from human patients localised the SMIPP-Cs in the mite gut and in mite faeces within in the epidermal skin burrows. SMIPP-C transcription into mRNA in different life stages was assessed in human and pig mites by reverse transcription followed by droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). High transcription levels of SMIPP-C genes were detected in the adult female life stage in comparison to all other life stages. Conclusions The fact that the SMIPP-Cs are unique to three Sarcoptes varieties, present in all burrowing life stages and highly expressed in the digestive system of the infective adult female life stage may highlight an essential role in parasitism. As they are excreted from the gut in scybala they presumably are able to interact or interfere with host proteins present in the epidermis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-2862-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepani D Fernando
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Infectious Diseases Program, 300 Herston Road, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia.,School of Veterinary Sciences, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, 4343, Australia.,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka
| | - Simone L Reynolds
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Infectious Diseases Program, 300 Herston Road, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia
| | - Martha Zakrzewski
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Infectious Diseases Program, 300 Herston Road, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia
| | - Ehtesham Mofiz
- Bioinformatics Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Anthony T Papenfuss
- Bioinformatics Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.,Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Melbourne, 3000, Australia.,Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Deborah Holt
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Katja Fischer
- QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Infectious Diseases Program, 300 Herston Road, Herston, Brisbane, QLD, 4006, Australia.
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15
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Rewired RNAi-mediated genome surveillance in house dust mites. PLoS Genet 2018; 14:e1007183. [PMID: 29377900 PMCID: PMC5805368 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1007183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
House dust mites are common pests with an unusual evolutionary history, being descendants of a parasitic ancestor. Transition to parasitism is frequently accompanied by genome rearrangements, possibly to accommodate the genetic change needed to access new ecology. Transposable element (TE) activity is a source of genomic instability that can trigger large-scale genomic alterations. Eukaryotes have multiple transposon control mechanisms, one of which is RNA interference (RNAi). Investigation of the dust mite genome failed to identify a major RNAi pathway: the Piwi-associated RNA (piRNA) pathway, which has been replaced by a novel small-interfering RNA (siRNA)-like pathway. Co-opting of piRNA function by dust mite siRNAs is extensive, including establishment of TE control master loci that produce siRNAs. Interestingly, other members of the Acari have piRNAs indicating loss of this mechanism in dust mites is a recent event. Flux of RNAi-mediated control of TEs highlights the unusual arc of dust mite evolution. Investigation of small RNA populations in dust mites revealed absence of the piwi-associated RNA (piRNA) pathway. Apart from several nematode and platyhelminths lineages, piRNAs are an essential component of animal genome surveillance, actively targeting and silencing transposable elements. In dust mites, expansion of Dicer produced small-interfering RNA (siRNA) biology compensates for loss of piRNAs. The dramatic difference we find in dust mites is likely a consequence of their evolutionary history, which is marked by descent from a parasite to the current free-living form. Our study highlights a correlation between perturbation of transposon surveillance and shifts in ecology.
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