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Obonyo CO, Rawago FO, Makworo NK, Muok EMO. Efficacy and safety of single-dose artesunate plus sulfalene/pyrimethamine combined with praziquantel for the treatment of children with Schistosoma mansoni or Schistosoma haematobium in western Kenya: a randomised, open-label controlled trial. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:279. [PMID: 38943214 PMCID: PMC11212220 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06359-6] [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: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reliance on praziquantel for the treatment and control of schistosomiasis is likely to facilitate the emergence of drug resistance. Combination therapy targeting adult and juvenile schistosome worms is urgently needed to improve praziquantel efficacy and delay the potential development of drug resistance. We assessed the efficacy and safety of single-dose praziquantel combined with single-dose artesunate plus sulfalene-pyrimethamine in the treatment of Kenyan children with schistosomiasis. METHODS This was an open-label, randomised clinical trial involving 426 school-aged children (7-15 years old) diagnosed with Schistosoma mansoni (by Kato-Katz) or S. haematobium (by urine filtration). They were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to receive a single dose of praziquantel (40 mg/kg), a single dose of artesunate plus sulfalene-pyrimethamine (12 mg/kg artesunate) or combination therapy using a single dose of praziquantel (40 mg/kg) combined with a single dose of artesunate plus sulfalene-pyrimethamine (12 mg/kg artesunate). The primary outcome was cure and egg reduction rates at 6 weeks post-treatment in the available case population. Adverse events were assessed within 3 h after treatment. RESULTS Of the 426 children enrolled, 135 received praziquantel, 150 received artesunate plus sulfalene-pyrimethamine, and 141 received combination therapy. Outcome data were available for 348 (81.7%) children. For S. mansoni-infected children (n = 335), the cure rates were 75.6%, 60.7%, and 77.8%, and the egg reduction rates were 80.1%, 85.0%, and 88.4% for praziquantel, artesunate plus sulfalene-pyrimethamine, and combination therapy, respectively. For S. haematobium-infected children (n = 145), the corresponding cure rates were 81.4%, 71.1%, and 82.2%, and the egg reduction rates were 95.6%, 97.1%, and 97.7%, respectively. Seventy-one (16.7%) children reported mild-intensity adverse events. The drugs were well tolerated and no serious adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS A single oral dose of praziquantel combined with artesunate plus sulfalene-pyrimethamine cured a high proportion of children with S. haematobium but did not significantly improve the treatment efficacy for either urinary or intestinal schistosomiasis. Sequential administration of praziquantel and artesunate plus sulfalene-pyrimethamine may enhance the efficacy and safety outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles O Obonyo
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya.
| | - Fredrick O Rawago
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Nicholas K Makworo
- Division of Vector-Borne and Neglected Tropical Diseases, County Department of Health, Migori, Kenya
| | - Erick M O Muok
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Kisumu, Kenya
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2
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Jutzeler KS, Le Clec'h W, Chevalier FD, Anderson TJC. Contribution of parasite and host genotype to immunopathology of schistosome infections. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:203. [PMID: 38711063 PMCID: PMC11073996 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06286-6] [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: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of pathogen genotype in determining disease severity and immunopathology has been studied intensively in microbial pathogens including bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses but is poorly understood in parasitic helminths. The medically important blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni is an excellent model system to study the impact of helminth genetic variation on immunopathology. Our laboratory has demonstrated that laboratory schistosome populations differ in sporocyst growth and cercarial production in the intermediate snail host and worm establishment and fecundity in the vertebrate host. Here, we (i) investigate the hypothesis that schistosome genotype plays a significant role in immunopathology and related parasite life history traits in the vertebrate mouse host and (ii) quantify the relative impact of parasite and host genetics on infection outcomes. METHODS We infected BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice with four different laboratory schistosome populations from Africa and the Americas. We quantified disease progression in the vertebrate host by measuring body weight and complete blood count (CBC) with differential over a 12-week infection period. On sacrifice, we assessed parasitological (egg and worm counts, fecundity), immunopathological (organ measurements and histopathology) and immunological (CBC with differential and cytokine profiles) characteristics to determine the impact of parasite and host genetics. RESULTS We found significant variation between parasite populations in worm numbers, fecundity, liver and intestine egg counts, liver and spleen weight, and fibrotic area but not in granuloma size. Variation in organ weight was explained by egg burden and intrinsic parasite factors independent of egg burden. We found significant variation between infected mouse lines in cytokine levels (IFN-γ, TNF-α), eosinophils, lymphocytes and monocyte counts. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that both parasite and host genotype impact the outcome of infection. While host genotype explains most of the variation in immunological traits, parasite genotype explains most of the variation in parasitological traits, and both host and parasite genotypes impact immunopathology outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin S Jutzeler
- Host Parasite Interaction Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, P.O. Box 760549, San Antonio, TX, 78245, USA.
- UT Health, Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, San Antonio, TX, 78229, USA.
| | - Winka Le Clec'h
- Host Parasite Interaction Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, P.O. Box 760549, San Antonio, TX, 78245, USA
| | - Frédéric D Chevalier
- Host Parasite Interaction Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, P.O. Box 760549, San Antonio, TX, 78245, USA
| | - Timothy J C Anderson
- Disease Intervention and Prevention Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, P.O. Box 760549, San Antonio, TX, 78245, USA.
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Vieira TM, Barco JG, Paula LAL, Felix PCA, Bastos JK, Magalhães LG, Crotti AEM. In vitro Evaluation of the Antileishmanial and Antischistosomal Activities of p-Coumaric Acid Prenylated Derivatives. Chem Biodivers 2024; 21:e202400491. [PMID: 38470945 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202400491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
We have evaluated eight p-coumaric acid prenylated derivatives in vitro for their antileishmanial activity against Leishmania amazonensis promastigotes and their antischistosomal activity against Schistosoma mansoni adult worms. Compound 7 ((E)-3,4-diprenyl-4-isoprenyloxycinnamic alcohol) was the most active against L. amazonensis (IC50=45.92 μM) and S. mansoni (IC50=64.25 μM). Data indicated that the number of prenyl groups, the presence of hydroxyl at C9, and a single bond between C7 and C8 are important structural features for the antileishmanial activity of p-coumaric acid prenylated derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana M Vieira
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Philosophy, Science and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, 14040-901, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Júlia G Barco
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Philosophy, Science and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, 14040-901, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Lucas A L Paula
- Research Center in Exact and Technological Sciences, University of Franca, 14404-600, Franca, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo C A Felix
- Research Center in Exact and Technological Sciences, University of Franca, 14404-600, Franca, SP, Brazil
| | - Jairo K Bastos
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Lizandra G Magalhães
- Research Center in Exact and Technological Sciences, University of Franca, 14404-600, Franca, SP, Brazil
| | - Antônio E M Crotti
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Philosophy, Science and Letters at Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, 14040-901, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
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Chen H, Huang S, Zhao Y, Sun R, Wang J, Yao S, Huang J, Yu Z. Metagenomic analysis of the intestinal microbiome reveals the potential mechanism involved in Bacillus amyloliquefaciens in treating schistosomiasis japonica in mice. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0373523. [PMID: 38441977 PMCID: PMC10986500 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03735-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis japonica is one of the neglected tropical diseases characterized by chronic hepatic, intestinal granulomatous inflammation and fibrosis, as well as dysbiosis of intestinal microbiome. Previously, the probiotic Bacillus amyloliquefaciens has been shown to alleviate the pathological injuries in mice infected with Schistosoma japonicum by improving the disturbance of the intestinal microbiota. However, the underlying mechanisms involved in this process remain unclear. In this study, metagenomics sequencing and functional analysis were employed to investigate the differential changes in taxonomic composition and functional genes of the intestinal microbiome in S. japonicum-infected mice treated with B. amyloliquefaciens. The results revealed that intervention with B. amyloliquefaciens altered the taxonomic composition of the intestinal microbiota at the species level in infected mice and significantly increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria. Moreover, the abundance of predicted genes in the intestinal microbiome was also significantly changed, and the abundance of xfp/xpk and genes translated to urease was significantly restored. Further analysis showed that Limosilactobacillus reuteri was positively correlated with several KEGG Orthology (KO) genes and metabolic reactions, which might play important roles in alleviating the pathological symptoms caused by S. japonicum infection, indicating that it has the potential to function as another effective therapeutic agent for schistosomiasis. These data suggested that treatment of murine schistosomiasis japonica by B. amyloliquefaciens might be induced by alterations in the taxonomic composition and functional gene of the intestinal microbiome in mice. We hope this study will provide adjuvant strategies and methods for the early prevention and treatment of schistosomiasis japonica. IMPORTANCE Targeted interventions of probiotics on gut microbiome were used to explore the mechanism of alleviating schistosomiasis japonica. Through metagenomic analysis, there were significant changes in the composition of gut microbiota in mice infected with Schistosoma japonicum and significant increase in the abundance of beneficial bacteria after the intervention of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens. At the same time, the abundance of functional genes was found to change significantly. The abundance of genes related to urease metabolism and xfp/xpk related to D-erythrose 4-phosphate production was significantly restored, highlighting the importance of Limosilactobacillus reuteri in the recovery and abundance of predicted genes of the gut microbiome. These results indicated potential regulatory mechanism between the gene function of gut microbiome and host immune response. Our research lays the foundation for elucidating the regulatory mechanism of probiotic intervention in alleviating schistosomiasis japonica, and provides potential adjuvant treatment strategies for early prevention and treatment of schistosomiasis japonica.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Chen
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Human Microbiome and Health Group, Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Shuaiqin Huang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yiming Zhao
- Human Microbiome and Health Group, Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ruizheng Sun
- Department of General Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jingyan Wang
- Human Microbiome and Health Group, Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Siqi Yao
- Human Microbiome and Health Group, Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
- Human Microbiome and Health Group, Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Zheng Yu
- Human Microbiome and Health Group, Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Pirovich DB, Da'dara AA, Skelly PJ. GLYCOLYTIC ENZYMES AS VACCINES AGAINST SCHISTOSOMIASIS: TESTING SCHISTOSOMA MANSONI PHOSPHOGLYCERATE MUTASE IN MICE. J Parasitol 2024; 110:96-105. [PMID: 38466806 DOI: 10.1645/23-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a globally burdensome parasitic disease caused by flatworms (blood flukes) in the genus Schistosoma. The current standard treatment for schistosomiasis is the drug praziquantel, but there is an urgent need to advance novel interventions such as vaccines. Several glycolytic enzymes have been evaluated as vaccine targets for schistosomiasis, and data from these studies are reviewed here. Although these parasites are canonically considered to be intracellular, proteomic analysis has revealed that many schistosome glycolytic enzymes are additionally found at the host-interactive surface. We have recently found that the intravascular stage of Schistosoma mansoni (Sm) expresses the glycolytic enzyme phosphoglycerate mutase (PGM) on the tegumental surface. Live parasites display PGM activity, and suppression of PGM gene expression by RNA interference diminishes surface enzyme activity. Recombinant SmPGM (rSmPGM) can cleave its glycolytic substrate, 3-phosphoglycerate and can both bind to plasminogen and promote its conversion to an active form (plasmin) in vitro, suggesting a moonlighting role for this enzyme in regulating thrombosis in vivo. We found that antibodies in sera from chronically infected mice recognize rSmPGM. We also tested the protective efficacy of rSmPGM as a vaccine in the murine model. Although immunization generates high titers of anti-SmPGM antibodies (against both recombinant and native SmPGM), no significant differences in worm numbers were found between vaccinated and control animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Pirovich
- Molecular Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts 01536
| | - Akram A Da'dara
- Molecular Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts 01536
| | - Patrick J Skelly
- Molecular Helminthology Laboratory, Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, Tufts University, North Grafton, Massachusetts 01536
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Jiang Z, Silva EB, Liu C, Fajtová P, Liu LJ, El-Sakkary N, Skinner DE, Syed A, Wang SC, Caffrey CR, O’Donoghue AJ. Development of subunit selective proteasome substrates for Schistosoma species. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.13.580161. [PMID: 38405969 PMCID: PMC10888821 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.13.580161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, or bilharzia, is a neglected tropical disease caused by Schistosoma spp. blood flukes that infects over 200 million people worldwide. Just one partially effective drug is available, and new drugs and drug targets would be welcome. The 20S proteasome is a validated drug target for many parasitic infections, including those caused by Plasmodium and Leishmania. We previously showed that anticancer proteasome inhibitors that act through the Schistosoma mansoni 20S proteasome (Sm20S) kill the parasite in vitro. To advance these initial findings, we employed Multiplex Substrate Profiling by Mass Spectrometry (MSP-MS) to define the substrate cleavage specificities of the three catalytic β subunits of purified Sm20S. The profiles in turn were used to design and synthesize subunit-specific optimized substrates that performed two to eight fold better than the equivalent substrates used to measure the activity of the constitutive human proteasome (c20S). These specific substrates also eliminated the need to purify Sm20S from parasite extracts - a single step enrichment was sufficient to accurately measure substrate hydrolysis and its inhibition with proteasome inhibitors. Finally, we show that the substrate and inhibition profiles for the 20S proteasome from the three medically important schistosome species are similar, suggesting that data arising from an inhibitor development campaign that focuses on Sm20S can be extrapolated to the other two targets with consequent time and cost savings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenze Jiang
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Disease, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | | | - Chenxi Liu
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Disease, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Pavla Fajtová
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Disease, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Lawrence J. Liu
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Disease, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Nelly El-Sakkary
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Disease, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Danielle E. Skinner
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Disease, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Ali Syed
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Disease, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Steven C Wang
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Disease, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Conor R. Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Disease, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093
| | - Anthony J. O’Donoghue
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Disease, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093
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7
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Mian MY, Sharmin D, Mondal P, Belayet JB, Hossain MM, McCusker P, Ryan KT, Fedorov AY, Green HA, Ericksen SS, Zamanian M, Tiruveedhula VVNPB, Cook JM, Chan JD. Development of non-sedating antischistosomal benzodiazepines. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.26.577323. [PMID: 38352313 PMCID: PMC10862742 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.26.577323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
The neglected tropical disease schistosomiasis infects over 200 million people worldwide and is treated with just one broad spectrum antiparasitic drug (praziquantel). Alternative drugs are needed in the event of emerging praziquantel resistance or treatment failure. One promising lead that has shown efficacy in animal models and a human clinical trial is the benzodiazepine meclonazepam, discovered by Roche in the 1970's. Meclonazepam was not brought to market because of dose-limiting sedative side effects. However, the human target of meclonazepam that causes sedation (GABAARs) are not orthologous to the parasite targets that cause worm death. Therefore, we were interested in whether the structure of meclonazepam could be modified to produce antiparasitic benzodiazepines that do not cause host sedation. We synthesized 18 meclonazepam derivatives with modifications at different positions on the benzodiazepine ring system and tested them for in vitro antiparasitic activity. This identified five compounds that progressed to in vivo screening in a murine model, two of which cured parasite infections with comparable potency to meclonazepam. When these two compounds were administered to mice that were run on the rotarod test, both were less sedating than meclonazepam. These findings demonstrate the proof of concept that meclonazepam analogs can be designed with an improved therapeutic index, and point to the C3 position of the benzodiazepine ring system as a logical site for further structure-activity exploration to further optimize this chemical series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Yeunus Mian
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Milwaukee Institute of Drug Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Dishary Sharmin
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Milwaukee Institute of Drug Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Prithu Mondal
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Milwaukee Institute of Drug Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Jawad Bin Belayet
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Milwaukee Institute of Drug Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - M Mahmun Hossain
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Milwaukee Institute of Drug Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Paul McCusker
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
| | - Kaetlyn T. Ryan
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Alexander Y Fedorov
- UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Heather A Green
- UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Spencer S. Ericksen
- UW Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Mostafa Zamanian
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - V. V. N. Phani Babu Tiruveedhula
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Milwaukee Institute of Drug Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - James M. Cook
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Milwaukee Institute of Drug Discovery, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - John D. Chan
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States of America
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin - Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI, USA
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8
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de Souza Neto LR, Montoya BO, Brandão-Neto J, Verma A, Bowyer S, Moreira-Filho JT, Dantas RF, Neves BJ, Andrade CH, von Delft F, Owens RJ, Furnham N, Silva-Jr FP. Fragment library screening by X-ray crystallography and binding site analysis on thioredoxin glutathione reductase of Schistosoma mansoni. Sci Rep 2024; 14:1582. [PMID: 38238498 PMCID: PMC10796382 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52018-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is caused by parasites of the genus Schistosoma, which infect more than 200 million people. Praziquantel (PZQ) has been the main drug for controlling schistosomiasis for over four decades, but despite that it is ineffective against juvenile worms and size and taste issues with its pharmaceutical forms impose challenges for treating school-aged children. It is also important to note that PZQ resistant strains can be generated in laboratory conditions and observed in the field, hence its extensive use in mass drug administration programs raises concerns about resistance, highlighting the need to search for new schistosomicidal drugs. Schistosomes survival relies on the redox enzyme thioredoxin glutathione reductase (TGR), a validated target for the development of new anti-schistosomal drugs. Here we report a high-throughput fragment screening campaign of 768 compounds against S. mansoni TGR (SmTGR) using X-ray crystallography. We observed 49 binding events involving 35 distinct molecular fragments which were found to be distributed across 16 binding sites. Most sites are described for the first time within SmTGR, a noteworthy exception being the "doorstop pocket" near the NADPH binding site. We have compared results from hotspots and pocket druggability analysis of SmTGR with the experimental binding sites found in this work, with our results indicating only limited coincidence between experimental and computational results. Finally, we discuss that binding sites at the doorstop/NADPH binding site and in the SmTGR dimer interface, should be prioritized for developing SmTGR inhibitors as new antischistosomal drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauro Ribeiro de Souza Neto
- LaBECFar - Laboratory of Experimental and Computational Biochemistry of Drugs, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bogar Omar Montoya
- LaBECFar - Laboratory of Experimental and Computational Biochemistry of Drugs, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - José Brandão-Neto
- Diamond Light Source Ltd, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Harwell, UK
- Research Complex at Harwell, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Harwell, UK
| | - Anil Verma
- Division of Structural Biology, The Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sebastian Bowyer
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - José Teófilo Moreira-Filho
- LabMol - Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Design, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Rafael Ferreira Dantas
- LaBECFar - Laboratory of Experimental and Computational Biochemistry of Drugs, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Bruno Junior Neves
- Laboratory of Cheminformatics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Carolina Horta Andrade
- LabMol - Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Design, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil
- CRAFT - Center for Research and Advancement of Fragments and Molecular Targets, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Frank von Delft
- Diamond Light Source Ltd, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Harwell, UK
- Research Complex at Harwell, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Harwell, UK
- Centre for Medicines Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Raymond J Owens
- Division of Structural Biology, The Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Structural Biology, Rosalind Franklin Institute, Harwell, UK.
| | - Nicholas Furnham
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Floriano Paes Silva-Jr
- LaBECFar - Laboratory of Experimental and Computational Biochemistry of Drugs, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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9
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Jutzeler KS, LeClec'h W, Chevalier FD, Anderson TJC. Contribution of parasite and host genotype to immunopathology of schistosome infections. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-3858151. [PMID: 38313261 PMCID: PMC10836121 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3858151/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Background The role of pathogen genotype in determining disease severity and immunopathology has been studied intensively in microbial pathogens including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses, but is poorly understood in parasitic helminths. The medically important blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni is an excellent model system to study the impact of helminth genetic variation on immunopathology. Our laboratory has demonstrated that laboratory schistosome populations differ in sporocyst growth and cercarial production in the intermediate snail host and worm establishment and fecundity in the vertebrate host. Here, we (i) investigate the hypothesis that schistosome genotype plays a significant role in immunopathology and related parasite life history traits in the vertebrate mouse host and (ii) quantify the relative impact of parasite and host genetics on infection outcomes. Methods We infected BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice with four different laboratory schistosome populations from Africa and the Americas. We quantified disease progression in the vertebrate host by measuring body weight and complete blood count (CBC) with differential over an infection period of 12 weeks. On sacrifice, we assessed parasitological (egg and worm counts, fecundity), immunopathological (organ measurements and histopathology), and immunological (CBC with differential and cytokine profiles) characteristics to determine the impact of parasite and host genetics. Results We found significant variation between parasite populations in worm numbers, fecundity, liver and intestine egg counts, liver and spleen weight, and fibrotic area, but not in granuloma size. Variation in organ weight was explained by egg burden and by intrinsic parasite factors independent of egg burden. We found significant variation between infected mouse lines in cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α), eosinophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte counts. Conclusions This study showed that both parasite and host genotype impact the outcome of infection. While host genotype explains most of the variation in immunological traits, parasite genotype explains most of the variation in parasitological traits, and both host and parasite genotype impact immunopathology outcomes.
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JUTZELER KS, CLEC’H WLE, CHEVALIER FD, ANDERSON TJ. Contribution of parasite and host genotype to immunopathology of schistosome infections. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.12.574230. [PMID: 38260613 PMCID: PMC10802613 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.12.574230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Background The role of pathogen genotype in determining disease severity and immunopathology has been studied intensively in microbial pathogens including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and viruses, but is poorly understood in parasitic helminths. The medically important blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni is an excellent model system to study the impact of helminth genetic variation on immunopathology. Our laboratory has demonstrated that laboratory schistosome populations differ in sporocyst growth and cercarial production in the intermediate snail host and worm establishment and fecundity in the vertebrate host. Here, we (i) investigate the hypothesis that schistosome genotype plays a significant role in immunopathology and related parasite life history traits in the vertebrate mouse host and (ii) quantify the relative impact of parasite and host genetics on infection outcomes. Methods We infected BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice with four different laboratory schistosome populations from Africa and the Americas. We quantified disease progression in the vertebrate host by measuring body weight and complete blood count (CBC) with differential over an infection period of 12 weeks. On sacrifice, we assessed parasitological (egg and worm counts, fecundity), immunopathological (organ measurements and histopathology), and immunological (CBC with differential and cytokine profiles) characteristics to determine the impact of parasite and host genetics. Results We found significant variation between parasite populations in worm numbers, fecundity, liver and intestine egg counts, liver and spleen weight, and fibrotic area, but not in granuloma size. Variation in organ weight was explained by egg burden and by intrinsic parasite factors independent of egg burden. We found significant variation between infected mouse lines in cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α), eosinophil, lymphocyte, and monocyte counts. Conclusions This study showed that both parasite and host genotype impact the outcome of infection. While host genotype explains most of the variation in immunological traits, parasite genotype explains most of the variation in parasitological traits, and both host and parasite genotype impact immunopathology outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathrin S. JUTZELER
- Host Parasite Interaction program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, P.O. Box 760549, 78245 San Antonio, Texas, USA
- UT Health, Microbiology, Immunology & Molecular Genetics, San Antonio, TX 78229
| | - Winka LE CLEC’H
- Host Parasite Interaction program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, P.O. Box 760549, 78245 San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Frédéric D. CHEVALIER
- Host Parasite Interaction program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, P.O. Box 760549, 78245 San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Timothy J.C. ANDERSON
- Disease Intervention and Prevention program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, P.O. Box 760549, 78245 San Antonio, Texas, USA
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de Luna Rocha TC, Dos Santos Lima MJ, Nunes do Nascimento JL, Ferreira de Oliveira J, de Oliveira Silva E, Barbosa Dos Santos VH, de Lima Aires A, de Albuquerque Wanderley Sales V, Atanazio Rosa T, Rolim Neto PJ, Camelo Pessôa de Azevedo Albuquerque M, Alves de Lima MDC, Ferreira da Silva RM. Development and evaluation of the in vitro schistosomicidal activity of solid dispersions based on 2-(-5-bromo-1-H-indole-3-yl-methylene)-N-(naphthalene-1-ylhydrazine-carbothiamide. Exp Parasitol 2024; 256:108626. [PMID: 37972848 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2023.108626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Among all the neglected diseases, schistosomiasis is considered the second most important parasitic infection after malaria. Praziquantel is the most widely used drug for this disease, but its exclusive use may result in the development of drug-resistant schistosomiasis. To increase the control of the disease, new drugs have been developed as alternative treatments, among them 2-(-5-bromo-1-h-indole-3-yl-methylene)-N-(naphthalene-1-ylhydrazine-carbothiamide (LQIT/LT-50), which showed promising schistosomicidal activity in nonclinical studies. However, LQIT/LT-50 presents low solubility in water, resulting in reduced bioavailability. To overcome this solubility problem, the present study aimed to develop LQIT/LT-50 solid dispersions for the treatment of schistosomiasis. Solid dispersions were prepared through the solvent method using Soluplus©, polyethylene glycol (PEG) or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP K-30) as hydrophilic carriers. The formulations with the best results in the compatibility tests, aqueous solubility and preliminary stability studies have undergone solubility tests and physicochemical characterizations by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), x-ray diffractometry (XRD), exploratory differential calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TG) and Raman spectroscopy. Finally, the schistosomicidal activity was evaluated in vitro. The phycochemical analyzes showed that when using PVP K-30, there was an interaction between the PVP K-30 and LQIT/LT-50, proving the successful development of the solid dispersion. Furthermore, an increase in the solubility of the new system was observed (LQIT/LT-50:PVP K-30) in addition to the improvement in the in vitro shistosomidal activity at 1:4 (w/w) molar ratio (i.e., 20% drug loading) when compared to LQIT/LT-50 alone. The development of the LQIT/LT-50:PVP K-30 1:4 solid dispersion is encouraging for the future development of new pharmaceutical solid formulations, aiming the schistosomicidal treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jamerson Ferreira de Oliveira
- Institute of Health Sciences, University of International Integration of Afro-Brazilian Lusophony, Redenção, Ceará, Brazil
| | | | | | - André de Lima Aires
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | | | - Talita Atanazio Rosa
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Pedro José Rolim Neto
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
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Obonyo CO, Were VO, Wamae P, Muok EMO. SCHISTOACT: a protocol for an open-label, five-arm, non-inferiority, individually randomized controlled trial of the efficacy and safety of praziquantel plus artemisinin-based combinations in the treatment of Schistosoma mansoni infection. Trials 2023; 24:763. [PMID: 38012787 PMCID: PMC10683197 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07790-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis control relies on praziquantel for preventive chemotherapy. Alternative drugs are needed for the treatment and control of schistosomiasis. Praziquantel is effective against adult schistosome worms but ineffective against larval stages of the parasite and cannot prevent re-infection or interrupt the transmission of infection. Continued reliance on praziquantel for wide-scale schistosomiasis control will likely accelerate the emergence of drug resistance. Artemisinin derivatives are effective against the juvenile stages but ineffective against adult worms. The SCHISTOACT study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of praziquantel plus one of four artemisinin-based combinations in treating Schistosoma mansoni infection in Kenya. METHODS The SCHISTOACT study is an open-label, head-to-head, five-arm, proof-of-concept, non-inferiority, individually randomized controlled trial with a follow-up of 12 weeks. A total of 540 primary school-aged children from the Mwea area, Kirinyaga County in central Kenya, diagnosed with S. mansoni infection (by Kato-Katz method) are randomly allocated (1:1:1:1:1) to a single dose of praziquantel plus a 3-day course of artesunate-sulfalene/pyrimethamine, or artesunate-amodiaquine, or artesunate plus mefloquine, or dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine, or praziquantel control arm. The primary endpoints are efficacy (cure rate, assessed by microscopy) and safety (adverse events) of each study arm 6 weeks after treatment. Secondary endpoints include cumulative cure rate, egg reduction rate, and re-infection 12 weeks after treatment. The non-inferiority margin is set at - 10 for the risk difference in cure rates between praziquantel and the combined treatment. DISCUSSION This study assesses a strategy for repurposing artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs) for treating schistosomiasis. It adopts a head-to-head comparison of four different ACTs to test a non-inferiority hypothesis and to strengthen local capacity to conduct clinical trials for interventions against neglected tropical diseases. TRIAL REGISTRATION Pan-African Clinical Trials Registry PACTR202001919442161 . Retrospectively registered on 6 January 2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles O Obonyo
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O. Box 1578-40100, Kisumu, Kenya.
| | - Vincent O Were
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O. Box 1578-40100, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Peter Wamae
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O. Box 1578-40100, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Erick M O Muok
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, P.O. Box 1578-40100, Kisumu, Kenya
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Macháček T, Fuchs CD, Winkelmann F, Frank M, Scharnagl H, Stojakovic T, Sombetzki M, Trauner M. Bsep/Abcb11 knockout ameliorates Schistosoma mansoni liver pathology by reducing parasite fecundity. Liver Int 2023; 43:2469-2478. [PMID: 37641872 PMCID: PMC10947390 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Schistosoma mansoni infection is one of the worldwide leading causes of liver fibrosis and portal hypertension. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether polyhydroxylated bile acids (BAs), known to protect mice from the development of acquired cholestatic liver injury, counteract S. mansoni-induced inflammation and fibrosis. METHODS Adult FVB/N wild type (WT) and Abcb11/Bsep-/- mice were infected with either 25 or 50 S. mansoni cercariae. Eight weeks post infection, effects on liver histology, serum biochemistry, gene expression profile of proinflammatory cytokines and fibrotic markers, hepatic hydroxyproline content and FACS analysis were performed. RESULTS Bsep-/- mice infected with S. mansoni showed significantly less hepatic inflammation and tendentially less fibrosis compared to infected WT mice. Despite elevated alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase levels in infected Bsep-/- mice, inflammatory cells such as M2 macrophages and Mac-2/galectin-3+ cells were reduced in these animals. Accordingly, mRNA-expression levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4 and IL-13) were increased in Bsep-/- mice upon infection. Furthermore, infected Bsep-/- mice exhibited decreased hepatic egg load and parasite fecundity, consequently affecting the worm reproduction rate. This outcome could arise from elevated serum BA levels and lower blood pH in Bsep-/- mice. CONCLUSIONS The loss of Bsep and the resulting changes in bile acid composition and blood pH are associated with the reduction of parasite fecundity, thus attenuating the development of S. mansoni-induced hepatic inflammation and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomáš Macháček
- Division of Tropical Medicine and Infectious DiseasesCenter of Internal Medicine IIRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
- Department of ParasitologyFaculty of ScienceCharles UniversityPragueCzechia
| | - Claudia D. Fuchs
- Hans Popper Laboratory of Molecular HepatologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
| | - Franziska Winkelmann
- Division of Tropical Medicine and Infectious DiseasesCenter of Internal Medicine IIRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
| | - Marcus Frank
- Medical Biology and Electron Microscopy CenterUniversity Medical Center RostockRostockGermany
- Department LifeLight and MatterUniversity of RostockRostockGermany
| | - Hubert Scharnagl
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory DiagnosticsMedical University of GrazGrazAustria
| | - Tatjana Stojakovic
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory DiagnosticsUniversity Hospital GrazGrazAustria
| | - Martina Sombetzki
- Division of Tropical Medicine and Infectious DiseasesCenter of Internal Medicine IIRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
| | - Michael Trauner
- Hans Popper Laboratory of Molecular HepatologyDivision of Gastroenterology and HepatologyDepartment of Internal Medicine IIIMedical University of ViennaViennaAustria
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Osei-Mensah B, Boakye YD, Anyan WK, Agana TA, Aboagye EA, Bentil I, Lomotey ES, Adu F, Agyare C. In Vitro Cercaricidal Activity, Acute Toxicity, and GC/MS Analysis of Some Selected Ghanaian Medicinal Plants. J Parasitol Res 2023; 2023:4589424. [PMID: 37745984 PMCID: PMC10516696 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4589424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a human parasitic disease caused by the Schistosoma species and is recognised in public health as second to malaria in terms of its socioeconomic impact on humans. Four local plants native to many tribes in Ghana and known for their medicinal properties against some diseases were assessed for their cercaricidal activity against Schistosoma mansoni cercariae. The plants, namely, Newbouldia laevis stem bark (NLSB), Spathodea campanulata stem bark (SCSB), Momordica charantia leaves (MCL), and Ocimum viride leaves (OVL), were extracted for their active metabolites using methanol. Preliminary phytochemical screening was carried out on all plant extracts and powdered samples. The crude extracts were tested against S. mansoni cercariae in vitro using Balanites aegyptiaca as the positive control. The percentage of mortalities for each extract was recorded. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis was conducted on all the plant extracts. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of saponins, glycosides, triterpenoids, sterols, alkaloids, flavonoids, and tannins in almost all the extracts. GC/MS analysis showed the presence of medicinally important active volatile compounds in each extract such as thymol, n-hexadecanoic acid, phytol, and maltol. All four plants showed relatively different levels of activity against S. mansoni cercariae at different times and concentrations. The LC50 values of the plant extracts were determined at the end of the assay. At 240 min, NLSB, SCSB, MCL, and OVL extracts had LC50 values of 487.564, 429.898, 197.696, and 0.129 μg/mL, respectively. Hence, this study revealed the potency of Ocimum viride leaves, Momordica charantia leaves, Spathodea campanulata stem bark, and Newbouldia laevis stem bark against S. mansoni. These plants could therefore be exploited as possible candidates for curbing schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bright Osei-Mensah
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Yaw Duah Boakye
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - William Kofi Anyan
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Theresa Appiah Agana
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Ivy Bentil
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Elvis Suatey Lomotey
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - Francis Adu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Christian Agyare
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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Xu J, Dong LL, Sun H, Huang P, Zhang RZ, Wang XY, Sun DQ, Xia CM. Small change, big difference: A promising praziquantel derivative designated P96 with broad-spectrum antischistosomal activity for chemotherapy of schistosomiasis japonica. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0011215. [PMID: 37410790 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Praziquantel (PZQ) has been the first line antischistosomal drug for all species of Schistosoma, and the only available drug for schistosomiasis japonica, without any alternative drugs since the 1980s. However, PZQ cannot prevent reinfection, and cannot cure schistosomiasis thoroughly because of its poor activity against juvenile schistosomes. In addition, reliance on a single drug is extremely dangerous, the development and spread of resistance to PZQ is becoming a great concern. Therefore, development of novel drug candidates for treatment and control of schistosomiasis is urgently needed. METHODOLOGYS/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS One of the PZQ derivative christened P96 with the substitution of cyclohexyl by cyclopentyl was synthesized by School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Shandong University. We investigated the in vitro and in vivo activities of P96 against different developmental stages of S. japonicum. Parasitological studies and scanning electron microscopy were used to study the primary action characteristics of P96 in vitro. Both mouse and rabbit models were employed to evaluate schistosomicidal efficacy of P96 in vivo. Besides calculation of worm reduction rate and egg reduction rate, quantitative real-time PCR was used to evaluate the in vivo antischistosomal activity of P96 at molecular level. In vitro, after 24h exposure, P96 demonstrated the highest activities against both juvenile and adult worm of S. japonicum in comparison to PZQ. The antischistosomal efficacy was concentration-dependent, with P96 at 50μM demonstrating the most evident schistosomicidal effect. Scanning electron microscopy demonstrated that P96 caused more severe damages to schistosomula and adult worm tegument compared to PZQ. In vivo, our results showed that P96 was effective against S. japonicum at all developmental stages. Notably, its efficacy against young stage worms was significantly improved compared to PZQ. Moreover, P96 retained the high activity comparable to PZQ against the adult worm of S. japonicum. CONCLUSIONS P96 is a promising drug candidate for chemotherapy of schistosomiasis japonica, which has broad spectrum of action against various developmental stage, potentially addressing the deficiency of PZQ. It might be promoted as a drug candidate for use either alone or in combination with PZQ for the treatment of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xu
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, P. R. China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Pathogen Bioscience and Anti-infective Medicine, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| | - Lan-Lan Dong
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, P. R. China
| | - Huan Sun
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, P. R. China
| | - Ping Huang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, P. R. China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Pathogen Bioscience and Anti-infective Medicine, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
| | - Run-Ze Zhang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, P. R. China
| | - Xin-Yi Wang
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, P. R. China
| | - De-Qun Sun
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Qingyi Town, Mianyang City, Sichuan Province, P. R. China
| | - Chao-Ming Xia
- Department of Parasitology, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province, P. R. China
- MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Key Laboratory of Pathogen Bioscience and Anti-infective Medicine, School of Biology & Basic Medical Sciences, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Jiangsu Province, P.R. China
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Silveira GO, Coelho HS, Pereira ASA, Miyasato PA, Santos DW, Maciel LF, Olberg GGG, Tahira AC, Nakano E, Oliveira MLS, Amaral MS, Verjovski-Almeida S. Long non-coding RNAs are essential for Schistosoma mansoni pairing-dependent adult worm homeostasis and fertility. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011369. [PMID: 37146077 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The trematode parasite Schistosoma mansoni causes schistosomiasis, which affects over 200 million people worldwide. Schistosomes are dioecious, with egg laying depending on the females' obligatory pairing with males. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides with low or no protein-coding potential that have been involved in other species with reproduction, stem cell maintenance, and drug resistance. In S. mansoni, we recently showed that the knockdown of one lncRNA affects the pairing status of these parasites. Here, we re-analyzed public RNA-Seq data from paired and unpaired adult male and female worms and their gonads, obtained from mixed-sex or single-sex cercariae infections, and found thousands of differentially expressed pairing-dependent lncRNAs among the 23 biological samples that were compared. The expression levels of selected lncRNAs were validated by RT-qPCR using an in vitro unpairing model. In addition, the in vitro silencing of three selected lncRNAs showed that knockdown of these pairing-dependent lncRNAs reduced cell proliferation in adult worms and their gonads, and are essential for female vitellaria maintenance, reproduction, and/or egg development. Remarkably, in vivo silencing of each of the three selected lncRNAs significantly reduced worm burden in infected mice by 26 to 35%. Whole mount in situ hybridization experiments showed that these pairing-dependent lncRNAs are expressed in reproductive tissues. These results show that lncRNAs are key components intervening in S. mansoni adult worm homeostasis, which affects pairing status and survival in the mammalian host, thus presenting great potential as new therapeutic target candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilbert O Silveira
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Helena S Coelho
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Adriana S A Pereira
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patrícia A Miyasato
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daisy W Santos
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lucas F Maciel
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giovanna G G Olberg
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ana C Tahira
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Eliana Nakano
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Murilo S Amaral
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sergio Verjovski-Almeida
- Laboratório de Ciclo Celular, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
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de Souza RL, Mengarda AC, Roquini DB, Melo CO, de Morais MC, C Espírito-Santo MC, de Sousa DP, Moraes JD, Oliveira EE. Enhancing the antischistosomal activity of carvacryl acetate using nanoemulsion. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2023; 18:331-342. [PMID: 37140262 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2022-0228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: To formulate a carvacryl acetate nanoemulsion (CANE) and test its antischistosomal activity. Materials & methods: CANE was prepared and tested in vitro on Schistosoma mansoni adult worms and both human and animal cell lines. Next, CANE was administered orally to mice infected with either a prepatent infection or a patent infection of S. mansoni. Results: CANE was stable during 90 days of analysis. CANE showed in vitro anthelmintic activity, and no cytotoxic effects were observed. In vivo, CANE was more effective than the free compounds in reducing worm burden and egg production. Treatment with CANE was more effective for prepatent infections than praziquantel. Conclusion: CANE improves antiparasitic properties and may be a promising delivery system for schistosomiasis treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael L de Souza
- Laboratory of Synthesis & Drug Delivery, State University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, 58071-160, Brazil
| | - Ana C Mengarda
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Daniel B Roquini
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Camila O Melo
- Laboratory of Synthesis & Drug Delivery, State University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, 58071-160, Brazil
| | - Mayara C de Morais
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Maria Cristina C Espírito-Santo
- Laboratory of Immunopathology of Schistosomiasis (LIM-06), Department of Infectious & Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 01246903, Brazil
- Laboratory of Helminthology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05403-000, Brazil
| | - Damião P de Sousa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Josué de Moraes
- Research Center for Neglected Diseases, Guarulhos University, Guarulhos, 07023-070, Brazil
| | - Elquio E Oliveira
- Laboratory of Synthesis & Drug Delivery, State University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, 58071-160, Brazil
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18
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Status Quo and Future Perspectives of Molecular and Genomic Studies on the Genus Biomphalaria-The Intermediate Snail Host of Schistosoma mansoni. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054895. [PMID: 36902324 PMCID: PMC10003693 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, or also generally known as bilharzia or snail fever, is a parasitic disease that is caused by trematode flatworms of the genus Schistosoma. It is considered by the World Health Organisation as the second most prevalent parasitic disease after malaria and affects more than 230 million people in over 70 countries. People are infected via a variety of activities ranging from agricultural, domestic, occupational to recreational activities, where the freshwater snails Biomphalaria release Schistosoma cercariae larvae that penetrate the skin of humans when exposed in water. Understanding the biology of the intermediate host snail Biomphalaria is thus important to reveal the potential spread of schistosomiasis. In this article, we present an overview of the latest molecular studies focused on the snail Biomphalaria, including its ecology, evolution, and immune response; and propose using genomics as a foundation to further understand and control this disease vector and thus the transmission of schistosomiasis.
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19
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Pandya N, Kumar A. Immunoinformatics analysis for design of multi-epitope subunit vaccine by using heat shock proteins against Schistosoma mansoni. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2023; 41:1859-1878. [PMID: 35040367 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2021.2025430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
The development of T cell and B cell that able provide long-term immune response against the schistosomiasisis to the people belongs to the epidemic area. Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) are up-regulated in schistosomes as their environment changes owing to the developmental cycle, assisting the parasite in living with the adverse circumstances related with its life cycle. Schistosomiasis is still a severe health problem in the people of many countries in worldwide. In this work, to develop a chimeric antigen, we used an advanced and powerful immunoinformatics technique that targeted Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) Heat shock protein (HSPs). Antigenicity, immunogenicity, allergenicity, and physicochemical characteristics were all assessed in silico for the developed subunit vaccine. The 3D structure of the vaccine was constructed and the stability of the vaccine construct was increased by using disulphide engineering. The protein-protein docking and simulation were performed between the vaccine construct and Toll-like receptor-4. The antigenicity probability value obtained for the vaccine construct was 0.93, which indicates that vaccine is non-allergenic and safe for human consumption. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirali Pandya
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
| | - Amit Kumar
- Department of Biosciences and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Indore, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India
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20
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Johnson H, VanHooreweghe M, Satori JA, Chan JD. Schistosomes contain divergent ligand-gated ion channels with an atypical Cys-loop motif. MICROPUBLICATION BIOLOGY 2023; 2023:10.17912/micropub.biology.000694. [PMID: 36713055 PMCID: PMC9874803 DOI: 10.17912/micropub.biology.000694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 01/01/1970] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Ligand-gated ion channels (LGICs) are important regulators of neuromuscular function, making them attractive antiparasitic drug targets. While roundworm LGICs are targeted by several anthelmintic classes, flatworm LGICs are less studied. Chromosome-level genome assemblies have recently been released for Schistosoma flatworm species that cause the disease schistosomiasis. These have allowed us to comprehensively predict schistosome LGICs, adding to prior annotations. Analysis of LGIC sequences revealed a clade of receptors lacking cysteines at the eponymous Cys-loop region of the channel. Since these atypical channels are divergent from mammalian LGICs, they may be promising targets to treat diseases caused by parasitic flatworms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - John D Chan
- University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI, USA
,
Correspondence to: John D Chan (
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21
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Nogueira RA, Lira MGS, Licá ICL, Frazão GCCG, Dos Santos VAF, Filho ACCM, Rodrigues JGM, Miranda GS, Carvalho RC, Nascimento FRF. Praziquantel: An update on the mechanism of its action against schistosomiasis and new therapeutic perspectives. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2022; 252:111531. [PMID: 36375598 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2022.111531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug of choice for the treatment of all forms of schistosomiasis, although its mechanisms of action are not completely understood. PZQ acts largely on adult worms. This narrative literature review describes what is known about the mechanisms of action of PZQ against schistosomes from in vitro and in vivo studies and highlights the molecular targets in parasites and immune responses induced in definitive hosts by this drug. Moreover, new therapeutic uses of PZQ are discussed. Studies have demonstrated that in addition to impacting voltage-operated Ca2 + channels, PZQ may interact with other schistosome molecules, such as myosin regulatory light chain, glutathione S-transferase, and transient receptor potential channels. Following PZQ administration, increased T regulatory type 1 (Tr1) cell differentiation and decreased inflammation were observed, indicating that PZQ promotes immunoregulatory pathways. Although PZQ is widely used in mass drug administration schemes, the existence of resistant parasites has not been proven; however, it is a concern that should be constantly investigated in human populations. In addition, we discuss studies that evaluate health applications of PZQ (other than helminth infection), such as its effect in cancer therapy and its adjuvant action in vaccines against viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ranielly Araujo Nogueira
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brazil
| | - Maria Gabriela Sampaio Lira
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brazil; Department of Education, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Maranhão, Zé Doca, MA, Brazil
| | - Irlla Correia Lima Licá
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brazil
| | | | - Vitor Augusto Ferreira Dos Santos
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brazil
| | | | - João Gustavo Mendes Rodrigues
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Silva Miranda
- Department of Education, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Maranhão, São Raimundo das Mangabeiras, MA, Brazil
| | - Rafael Cardoso Carvalho
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brazil
| | - Flávia Raquel Fernandes Nascimento
- Graduate Program in Health Sciences, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brazil; Department of Pathology, Center for Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Maranhão, São Luís, MA, Brazil.
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22
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Girod V, Houssier R, Sahmer K, Ghoris MJ, Caby S, Melnyk O, Dissous C, Senez V, Vicogne J. A self-purifying microfluidic system for identifying drugs acting against adult schistosomes. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2022; 9:220648. [PMID: 36465675 PMCID: PMC9709518 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.220648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of novel antihelmintic molecules to combat the development and spread of schistosomiasis, a disease caused by several Schistosoma flatworm species, mobilizes significant research efforts worldwide. With a limited number of biochemical assays for measuring the viability of adult worms, the antischistosomicidal activity of molecules is usually evaluated by a microscopic observation of worm mobility and/or integrity upon drug exposure. Even if these phenotypical assays enable multiple parameters analysis, they are often conducted during several days and need to be associated with image-based analysis to minimized subjectivity. We describe here a self-purifying microfluidic system enabling the selection of healthy adult worms and the identification of molecules acting instantly on the parasite. The worms are assayed in a dynamic environment that eliminates unhealthy worms that cannot attach firmly to the chip walls prior to being exposed to the drug. The detachment of the worms is also used as second step readout for identifying active compounds. We have validated this new fluidic screening approach using the two major antihelmintic drugs, praziquantel and artemisinin. The reported dynamic system is simple to produce and to parallelize. Importantly, it enables a quick and sensitive detection of antischistosomal compounds in no more than one hour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Girod
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 – CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille F-59000, France
- CNRS, University of Tokyo, IRL2820 – LIMMS, Lille F-59000, France
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017 – Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
- University of Lille, CNRS, UPHF, JUNIA, CLI, UMR 8520 – IEMN – Institut d'Electronique, de Microélectronique et de Nanotechnologie, Villeneuve d'Ascq F-59650, France
| | - Robin Houssier
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 – CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille F-59000, France
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017 – Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Karin Sahmer
- University of Lille, IMT Lille Douai, University of Artois, JUNIA, ULR 4515 – LGCgE, Laboratoire de Génie Civil et géo-Environnement, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Marie-José Ghoris
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017 – Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Stéphanie Caby
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017 – Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Oleg Melnyk
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017 – Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Colette Dissous
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017 – Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
| | - Vincent Senez
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, UMR9020-U1277 – CANTHER – Cancer Heterogeneity Plasticity and Resistance to Therapies, Lille F-59000, France
- CNRS, University of Tokyo, IRL2820 – LIMMS, Lille F-59000, France
| | - Jérôme Vicogne
- University of Lille, CNRS, Inserm, CHU Lille, Institut Pasteur de Lille, U1019-UMR9017 – Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille, F-59000 Lille, France
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23
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Nikolakis ZL, Adams RH, Wade KJ, Lund AJ, Carlton EJ, Castoe TA, Pollock DD. Prospects for genomic surveillance for selection in schistosome parasites. FRONTIERS IN EPIDEMIOLOGY 2022; 2:932021. [PMID: 38455290 PMCID: PMC10910990 DOI: 10.3389/fepid.2022.932021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by multiple parasitic Schistosoma species, and which impacts over 200 million people globally, mainly in low- and middle-income countries. Genomic surveillance to detect evidence for natural selection in schistosome populations represents an emerging and promising approach to identify and interpret schistosome responses to ongoing control efforts or other environmental factors. Here we review how genomic variation is used to detect selection, how these approaches have been applied to schistosomes, and how future studies to detect selection may be improved. We discuss the theory of genomic analyses to detect selection, identify experimental designs for such analyses, and review studies that have applied these approaches to schistosomes. We then consider the biological characteristics of schistosomes that are expected to respond to selection, particularly those that may be impacted by control programs. Examples include drug resistance, host specificity, and life history traits, and we review our current understanding of specific genes that underlie them in schistosomes. We also discuss how inherent features of schistosome reproduction and demography pose substantial challenges for effective identification of these traits and their genomic bases. We conclude by discussing how genomic surveillance for selection should be designed to improve understanding of schistosome biology, and how the parasite changes in response to selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary L. Nikolakis
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, United States
| | - Richard H. Adams
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville, GA, United States
| | - Kristen J. Wade
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Andrea J. Lund
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Elizabeth J. Carlton
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Todd A. Castoe
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, United States
| | - David D. Pollock
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
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24
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In Vitro Cercaricidal and Schistosomicidal Activities of the Raffia Wine and Hydroethanolic Extracts of Pedilanthus tithymaloides Linn (Poit). Stem Barks. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:2672150. [PMID: 36159554 PMCID: PMC9507742 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2672150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis control remains a public health concern, and there is a need to evaluate new strategies for targeting larval and adult stages of the parasite. As Pedilanthus tithymaloides is empirically used to treat schistosomiasis, it becomes essential to know its effective action scientifically. This study assessed the cercaricidal and schistosomicidal activity of P. tithymaloides stem barks raffia wine extract (RwPt) and hydroethanolic extract (HePt). Different concentrations of these extracts were tested against cercariae (31.25–1000 μg/mL) and adult worms (62.5–2000 μg/mL) of Schistosoma mansoni. Niclosamide-olamine 5% (1 μg/mL) and praziquantel (10 μg/mL) were used as pharmacological controls. Cercariae viability was determined every 30 min for 180 min, and adult worms’ motor activity and viability after 24 and 48 h incubation. In addition, cytotoxicity and phytochemical analysis were performed. HePt was lethal to cercariae and adult worms with LC50 of 73.91 μg/mL after 60 min of incubation and 731.17 μg/mL after 48 h of incubation, respectively. Furthermore, a significant reduction of 94.44% in motor activity was observed in surviving worms at the concentration of 2000 μg/mL. RwPt was less effective on S. mansoni cercariae with an LC50 of 617.86 μg/mL after 180 min and on adult worms with a mortality rate of 9.83% at 2000 μg/mL for 48 h incubation. Both extracts showed a weak cytotoxicity profile with an IC50 of 983.50 μg/mL for HePt and more than 1000 μg/mL for RwPt. The LC-MS analysis of HePt allowed the detection of two annotated diterpenoids. Based on the selectivity index, the hydroethanolic extract of P. tithymaloides stem barks disclosed an intense cercaricidal activity and a moderate schistosomicidal effect with low cytotoxicity. These findings may support the potential use of Pedilanthus tithymaloides as a natural product or a source of natural-derived compounds for interrupting schistosomiasis transmission.
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Summers S, Bhattacharyya T, Allan F, Stothard JR, Edielu A, Webster BL, Miles MA, Bustinduy AL. A review of the genetic determinants of praziquantel resistance in Schistosoma mansoni: Is praziquantel and intestinal schistosomiasis a perfect match? FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2022.933097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by parasitic trematodes belonging to the Schistosoma genus. The mainstay of schistosomiasis control is the delivery of a single dose of praziquantel (PZQ) through mass drug administration (MDA) programs. These programs have been successful in reducing the prevalence and intensity of infections. Due to the success of MDA programs, the disease has recently been targeted for elimination as a public health problem in some endemic settings. The new World Health Organization (WHO) treatment guidelines aim to provide equitable access to PZQ for individuals above two years old in targeted areas. The scale up of MDA programs may heighten the drug selection pressures on Schistosoma parasites, which could lead to the emergence of PZQ resistant schistosomes. The reliance on a single drug to treat a disease of this magnitude is worrying should drug resistance develop. Therefore, there is a need to detect and track resistant schistosomes to counteract the threat of drug resistance to the WHO 2030 NTD roadmap targets. Until recently, drug resistance studies have been hindered by the lack of molecular markers associated with PZQ resistance. This review discusses recent significant advances in understanding the molecular basis of PZQ action in S. mansoni and proposes additional genetic determinants associated with PZQ resistance. PZQ resistance will also be analyzed in the context of alternative factors that may decrease efficacy within endemic field settings, and the most recent treatment guidelines recommended by the WHO.
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Tian J, Dai B, Gong L, Wang P, Ding H, Xia S, Sun W, Ren C, Shen J, Liu M. JQ-1 ameliorates schistosomiasis liver granuloma in mice by suppressing male and female reproductive systems and egg development of Schistosoma japonicum. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010661. [PMID: 35943970 PMCID: PMC9362908 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a serious and widespread parasitic disease caused by infection with Schistosoma. Because the parasite’s eggs are primarily responsible for schistosomiasis dissemination and pathogenesis, inhibiting egg production is a potential approach to control the spread and severity of the disease. The bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) proteins represent promising targets for the development of epigenetic drugs against Schistosoma. JQ-1 is a selective inhibitor of the BET protein family. In the present study, JQ-1 was applied to S. japonicum in vitro. By using laser confocal scanning microscopy and EdU incorporation assays, we showed that application of JQ-1 to worms in vitro affected egg laying and the development of both the male and female reproductive systems. JQ-1 also inhibited the expression of the reproductive-related genes SjPlk1 and SjNanos1 in S. japonicum. Mice infected with S. japonicum were treated with JQ-1 during egg granuloma formation. JQ-1 treatment significantly reduced the size of the liver granulomas and levels of serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase in mice and suppressed both egg laying and the development of male and female S. japonicum reproductive systems in vivo. Moreover, the mRNA expression levels of some proinflammatory cytokines were decreased in the parasites. Our findings suggest that JQ-1 treatment attenuates S. japonicum egg–induced hepatic granuloma due at least in part to suppressing the development of the reproductive system and egg production of S. japonicum. These findings further suggest that JQ-1 or other BET inhibitors warrant additional study as a new approach for the treatment or prevention of schistosomiasis. Among neglected tropical diseases, schistosomiasis is a serious disease caused by infection with the parasite Schistosoma japonicum. Treatment of schistosomiasis is currently almost exclusively with praziquantel, which kills mainly adult parasites, with minimal effectiveness against immature schistosomes and eggs. However, the parasite’s eggs are primarily responsible for schistosomiasis dissemination and pathology. In addition, overuse of praziquantel in epidemic areas has led to drug resistance and a reduced cure rate. Thus, new parasite targets for the development of novel therapeutics are crucial. Here, we evaluated the potential of JQ-1, a bromodomain and extra-terminal protein inhibitor, to suppress the production of S. japonicum eggs. Application of JQ-1 to S. japonicum in vitro decreased the number of mature germ cells, the rates of oviposition, and the number of eggs produced in each male-female pairing. JQ-1 treatment of mice infected with S. japonicum ameliorated hepatic granuloma and decreased serum liver enzymes, suggesting improved liver function. These results indicate that JQ-1 inhibits reproductive development and egg production in S. japonicum, providing supporting evidence that JQ-1 warrants additional study for use as a novel approach in the prevention or treatment of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaming Tian
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
- Microbiological Laboratory, Anhui Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bingxin Dai
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Gong
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pingping Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Han Ding
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Siwei Xia
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Weice Sun
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Cuiping Ren
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jijia Shen
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (JS); (ML)
| | - Miao Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Key Laboratory of Zoonoses, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University Hefei, Anhui, People’s Republic of China
- * E-mail: (JS); (ML)
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Alzain AA, Elbadwi FA. De Novo Design of Cathepsin B1 Inhibitors as Potential Anti-Schistosomal Agents Using Computational Studies. ADVANCES AND APPLICATIONS IN BIOINFORMATICS AND CHEMISTRY 2022; 15:29-41. [PMID: 35935393 PMCID: PMC9355347 DOI: 10.2147/aabc.s361626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis is the world’s second most devastating disease after malaria and the leading cause of disease and mortality for more than 200 million people in developing countries. Cysteine proteases, in particular SmCB1, are the most well-researched biological targets for this disorder. Objective To apply computational techniques to design new antischistosomal agents against SmCB1 protein with favorable pharmacokinetic properties. Methods The smCB1 receptor-based pharmacophore model was created and used to screen 567,000 fragments from the Enamine library. The best scoring fragments have been linked to build novel compounds that were subjected to molecular docking, MM-GBSA free energy estimation, ADME prediction, and molecular dynamics. Results A seven-point pharmacophore hypothesis ADDDRRR was created. The developed hypothesis was used to screen 1.3 M fragment conformations. Among them, 23,732 fragments matched the hypothesis and screened against the protein. The top 50 fragments were used to design new 7745 compounds using the Breed ligand panel which were subjected to docking and MMGBSA binding energy. This led to the identification of 10 compounds with better docking scores (−8.033– −7.483 kcal/mol) and lower-bound free energies (−58.49 – −40.02 kcal/mol) compared to the reference bound ligand. Most of the designed compounds demonstrated good drug-like properties. Concerning Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation results, a low root mean square deviation (RMSD) range (0.25–1.2 Å) was found for the top 3 complexes which indicated their stability. Conclusion We identified compounds that could be potential candidates in the search for novel Schistosoma mansoni inhibitors by targeting SmCB1 utilizing various computational tools. Three newly designed compounds namely breed 1, 2, and 3 showed promising affinity to the target as well as favorable drug-like properties which might be considered potential anti-schistosomal agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulrahim A Alzain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Gezira, Sudan
- Correspondence: Abdulrahim A Alzain, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Gezira, Sudan, Tel +249-511854501, Fax +249-511861180, Email
| | - Fatima A Elbadwi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Gezira, Gezira, Sudan
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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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Gomes DS, Negrão-Corrêa DA, Miranda GS, Rodrigues JGM, Guedes TJFL, de Lucca Junior W, Sá Filho JCFD, Nizio DADC, Blank AF, Feitosa VLC, Dolabella SS. Lippia alba and Lippia gracilis essential oils affect the viability and oviposition of Schistosoma mansoni. Acta Trop 2022; 231:106434. [PMID: 35364048 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that affects millions of people around the world. Currently, the only drug available for the treatment of this disease is praziquantel, which has low efficacy against immature helminth stages and there are reports of drug resistance. In this study, the chemical composition and the in vitro effect of essential oils (EOs) and major compounds from Lippia gracilis and Lippia alba against schistosomula and adult Schistosoma mansoni worms were evaluated. Adult S. mansoni worms cultured for 8h in the presence of L. gracilis EO (50 and 100 µg/mL) or for 2h with its major compound, carvacrol (100 µg/mL), had a 100% reduction in viability. After interaction with L. alba EO (100µg/mL), there was a reduction of approximately 60% in the viability of adult worms after 24 hours of exposure; citral (50 and 100 µg/mL), its major compound, reduced the viability after 24 hours by more than 75%. Treatment of schistosomula with 100 µg/mL of L. gracilis or L. alba EOs for 6h led to a reduction in parasite viability of 80% and 16% respectively. Both EOs and their major compounds significantly reduced the oviposition of adult worms exposed to a non-lethal concentration (5 µg/mL). In addition, morphological changes such as the destruction of the tegument and disorganization of the reproductive system of male and female worms were visualized. Both EOs showed low cytotoxicity at a concentration of 50 µg/mL. The results encourage further investigation of these plants as a potential source of bioactive compounds against S. mansoni.
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Perera DJ, Hassan AS, Liu SS, Elahi SM, Gadoury C, Weeratna RD, Gilbert R, Ndao M. A low dose adenovirus vectored vaccine expressing Schistosoma mansoni Cathepsin B protects from intestinal schistosomiasis in mice. EBioMedicine 2022; 80:104036. [PMID: 35500538 PMCID: PMC9065910 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis is an underestimated neglected tropical disease which affects over 236.6 million people worldwide. According to the CDC, the impact of this disease is second to only malaria as the most devastating parasitic infection. Affected individuals manifest chronic pathology due to egg granuloma formation, destroying the liver over time. The only FDA approved drug, praziquantel, does not protect individuals from reinfection, highlighting the need for a prophylactic vaccine. Schistosoma mansoni Cathepsin B (SmCB) is a parasitic gut peptidase necessary for helminth growth and maturation and confers protection as a vaccine target for intestinal schistosomiasis. METHODS An SmCB expressing human adenovirus serotype 5 (AdSmCB) was constructed and delivered intramuscularly to female C57BL/6 mice in a heterologous prime and boost vaccine with recombinant protein. Vaccine induced immunity was described and subsequent protection from parasite infection was assessed by analysing parasite burden and liver pathology. FINDINGS Substantially higher humoral and cell-mediated immune responses, consisting of IgG2c, Th1 effectors, and polyfunctional CD4+ T cells, were induced by the heterologous administration of AdSmCB when compared to the other regimens. Though immune responses favoured Th1 immunity, Th2 responses provided by SmCB protein boosts were maintained. This mixed Th1/Th2 immune response resulted in significant protection from S. mansoni infection comparable to other vaccine formulations which are in clinical trials. Schistosomiasis associated liver pathology was also prevented in a murine model. INTERPRETATION Our study provides missing preclinical data supporting the use of adenoviral vectoring in vaccines for S. mansoni infection. Our vaccination method significantly reduces parasite burden and its associated liver pathology - both of which are critical considerations for this helminth vaccine. FUNDING This work was supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, R. Howard Webster Foundation, and the Foundation of the McGill University Health Centre.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilhan J Perera
- Department of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Room: EM3.3244, 1001 Decarie Blvd, Montréal, Québec H4A 3J1, Canada
| | - Adam S Hassan
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Room: EM3.3244, 1001 Decarie Blvd, Montréal, Québec H4A 3J1, Canada; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sunny S Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Rénald Gilbert
- National Research Council Canada, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Momar Ndao
- Department of Medicine, Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Room: EM3.3244, 1001 Decarie Blvd, Montréal, Québec H4A 3J1, Canada; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada; National Reference Centre for Parasitology, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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Angeli A, Ferraroni M, Carta F, Häberli C, Keiser J, Costantino G, Supuran CT. Development of Praziquantel sulphonamide derivatives as antischistosomal drugs. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2022; 37:1479-1494. [PMID: 35635137 PMCID: PMC9154761 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2022.2078970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The almost empty armamentarium to treat schistosomiasis, a neglected parasitic disorder caused by trematode flatworms of the genus Schistosoma, except Praziquantel (PZQ), urged to find new alternatives to fight this infection. Carbonic Anhydrase from Schistosoma mansoni (SmCA) is a possible new target against this nematode. Here, we propose new PZQ derivatives bearing a primary sulphonamide group in order to obtain hybrid drugs. All compounds were evaluated for their inhibition profiles on both humans and Schistosoma CAs, X-ray crystal data of SmCA and hCA II in adduct with some inhibitors were obtained allowing the understanding of the main structural factors responsible of activity. The compounds showed in vitro inhibition of immature and adult S. mansoni, but further optimisation is required for improved activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Angeli
- NEUROFARBA Department, Sezione di Scienze Farmaceutiche, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Dipartimento di Chimica “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Marta Ferraroni
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze, Parma, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Carta
- NEUROFARBA Department, Sezione di Scienze Farmaceutiche, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Cécile Häberli
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Allschwil, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gabriele Costantino
- Dipartimento di Chimica “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Claudiu T. Supuran
- NEUROFARBA Department, Sezione di Scienze Farmaceutiche, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Antischistosomal effects of Ficus carica leaves extract and/or PZQ on Schistosoma mansoni infected mice. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:87-102. [PMID: 35299912 PMCID: PMC8901854 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01417-7] [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: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently, praziquantel (PZQ) is the only drug of choice used for treatment of human schistosomes because of its safety and broad-spectrum activity. It is reported that the repeated chemotherapy is complicated by the occurrence of drug resistance to schistosomiasis. So there is an urgent need to develop new drug combinations therapy. The current study aimed to evaluate antischistosomal activity of F. carica leaves extract alone or in combination with PZQ on Schistosoma mansoni infected mice. Mice were experimentally infected with Schistosoma mansoni and orally administrated 6 weeks' post-infection with Fig leaves extract and/or PZQ. Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni)-infected mice were separated into four groups: untreated (I), treated with PZQ in dose of 200 mg/kg bw (II), treated with Fig leaves extract dose of 400 mg/kg bw (III). Group IV was treated with dose of Fig leaves extract-PZQ as in groups II and III, respectively. The effect was detected parasitologically using ova count technique and oogram pattern in intestine and liver. The greatest antischistosomal effect was achieved using orally administered Fig leaves extract-PZQ as indicated by total worm burden, tissue egg count and oogram pattern. Fig leaves extract + PZQ induced the therapeutic efficacy over the PZQ dose alone in intestine and liver as shown by a complete absence of immature worms, a very high reduction in the total numbers of tissue egg load (59.81% vs. 61.43% & 67.96% vs. 73.46%), mature eggs (37.86 ± 1.4 vs. 34.14 ± 1.9) and increasing in the total number of dead eggs (62.14 ± 1.4vs.67.29 ± 1.76). The results suggested the curcumin in combination with PZQ as a strong schistosomicidal regimen against S. mansoni. In addition, F. carica leaves extract is a promising for PZQ potentiating its antischistosomal action in animal model infected with S. mansoni. Therefore, the present work conclude that combined treatment has a synergetic effect and could be more promising in the management of schistosomiasis.
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Prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni and Associated Risk Factors in Human and Biomphalaria Snails in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:31-48. [PMID: 34259986 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00449-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Schistosomiasis is one of the leading chronic parasitic diseases in Ethiopia. We aimed to summarize the prevalence of S. mansoni in human and Biomphalaria snails as well as risk factors in Ethiopia. METHODS Literature search was carried out from Scopus, Google Scholar, Science Direct and PubMed which reported Schistosoma mansoni infection in human and Biomphalaria snails in Ethiopia. The overall prevalence was estimated by a random-effect model and heterogeneities among studies were assessed by I2 test. RESULTS A total of 178,251 participants and 1,097 snails were tested for the presence of S. mansoni in the eligible studies. The pooled prevalence of S. mansoni was 32.5% (95% CI 28.0-37.0) and 15.9% (95% CI - 5.6-37.5) in human and Biomphalaria snails in Ethiopia, respectively. The highest pooled prevalence was 43.2% (95% CI 27.3-59.1) in South Nations and National Peoples region while the lowest pooled prevalence was 25% (95% CI 19.3-30.7) observed in the Afar region. Interestingly, the pooled prevalence of S. mansoni declined from 40.7% (95% CI 33-48.4) to 22.4% (95% CI 18.5-26.3) after the launching of mass drug administration (MDA). The analysis of risk factors showed that swimming habit (OR, 2.78; 95% CI 2.35-3.21) and participation in irrigation (OR, 2.69; 95% CI 1.45-3.73) were independent predictors for S. mansoni infection. CONCLUSION This study revealed that about one-third of human and nearly 16% of Biomphalaria snails were infected with S. mansoni in Ethiopia. This review indicated that the prevalence of S. mansoni declined after the implementation of MDA. This study highlights the importance of further integrated approaches for better control of schistosomiasis in Ethiopia.
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Ren R, Wang X, Leas DA, Häberli C, Cal M, Dong Y, Kaiser M, Keiser J, Vennerstrom JL. Antischistosomal tetrahydro-γ-carboline sulfonamides. Bioorg Med Chem Lett 2022; 59:128546. [PMID: 35031451 PMCID: PMC8826590 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmcl.2022.128546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
We discovered tetrahydro-γ-carboline sulfonamides as a new antischistosomal chemotype. The aryl sulfonamide and tetrahydro-γ-carboline substructures were required for high antischistosomal activity. Increasing polarity improved solubility and metabolic stability but decreased antischistosomal activity. We identified two compounds with IC50 values <5 µM against ex vivo Schistosoma mansoni.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rongguo Ren
- College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 986125 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Xiaofang Wang
- College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 986125 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Derek A. Leas
- College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 986125 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Cécile Häberli
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical Institute, Socinstrasse 57, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland,University of Basel, CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Monica Cal
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical Institute, Socinstrasse 57, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland,University of Basel, CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yuxiang Dong
- College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 986125 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
| | - Marcel Kaiser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical Institute, Socinstrasse 57, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland,University of Basel, CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical Institute, Socinstrasse 57, CH-4002 Basel, Switzerland,University of Basel, CH-4003 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jonathan L. Vennerstrom
- College of Pharmacy, University of Nebraska Medical Center, 986125 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States
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Praziquantel-encapsulated niosomes against Schistosoma mansoni with reduced sensitivity to praziquantel. BIOMÉDICA 2022; 42:67-84. [PMID: 35471171 PMCID: PMC9059922 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.5913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Praziquantel (PZQ) is the only commercially available drug for schistosomiasis. The current shortage of alternative effective drugs and the lack of successful preventive measures enhance its value. The increase in the prevalence of PZQ resistance under sustained drug pressure is, therefore, an upcoming issue. Objective: To overcome the tolerance to PZQ using nanotechnology after laboratory induction of a Schistosoma mansoni isolate with reduced sensitivity to the drug during the intramolluscan phase. Materials and methods: Shedding snails were treated with PZQ doses of 200 mg/kg twice/ week followed by an interval of one week and then repeated twice in the same manner. The success of inducing reduced sensitivity was confirmed in vitro via the reduction of cercarial response to PZQ regarding their swimming activity and death percentage at different examination times. Results: Oral treatment with a single PZQ dose of 500 mg/kg in mice infected with cercariae with reduced sensitivity to PZQ revealed a non-significant reduction (35.1%) of total worm burden compared to non-treated control mice. Orally inoculated PZQ- encapsulated niosomes against S. mansoni with reduced sensitivity to PZQ successfully regained the pathogen’s sensitivity to PZQ as evidenced by measuring different parameters in comparison to the non-treated infected animals with parasites with reduced sensitivity to PZQ. The mean total worm load was 1.33 ± 0.52 with a statistically significant reduction of 94.09% and complete eradication of male worms. We obtained a remarkable increase in the percentage reduction of tissue egg counts in the liver and intestine (97.68% and 98.56%, respectively) associated with a massive increase in dead eggs and the complete absence of immature stages. Conclusion: PZQ-encapsulated niosomes restored the drug sensitivity against laboratory- induced S. mansoni adult worms with reduced sensitivity to PZQ.
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Stroehlein AJ, Korhonen PK, Lee VV, Ralph SA, Mentink-Kane M, You H, McManus DP, Tchuenté LAT, Stothard JR, Kaur P, Dudchenko O, Aiden EL, Yang B, Yang H, Emery AM, Webster BL, Brindley PJ, Rollinson D, Chang BCH, Gasser RB, Young ND. Chromosome-level genome of Schistosoma haematobium underpins genome-wide explorations of molecular variation. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010288. [PMID: 35167626 PMCID: PMC8846543 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Urogenital schistosomiasis is caused by the blood fluke Schistosoma haematobium and is one of the most neglected tropical diseases worldwide, afflicting > 100 million people. It is characterised by granulomata, fibrosis and calcification in urogenital tissues, and can lead to increased susceptibility to HIV/AIDS and squamous cell carcinoma of the bladder. To complement available treatment programs and break the transmission of disease, sound knowledge and understanding of the biology and ecology of S. haematobium is required. Hybridisation/introgression events and molecular variation among members of the S. haematobium-group might effect important biological and/or disease traits as well as the morbidity of disease and the effectiveness of control programs including mass drug administration. Here we report the first chromosome-contiguous genome for a well-defined laboratory line of this blood fluke. An exploration of this genome using transcriptomic data for all key developmental stages allowed us to refine gene models (including non-coding elements) and annotations, discover ‘new’ genes and transcription profiles for these stages, likely linked to development and/or pathogenesis. Molecular variation within S. haematobium among some geographical locations in Africa revealed unique genomic ‘signatures’ that matched species other than S. haematobium, indicating the occurrence of introgression events. The present reference genome (designated Shae.V3) and the findings from this study solidly underpin future functional genomic and molecular investigations of S. haematobium and accelerate systematic, large-scale population genomics investigations, with a focus on improved and sustained control of urogenital schistosomiasis. More than 100 million people are infected with the carcinogenic blood fluke Schistosoma haematobium, the aetiological agent of urogenital schistosomiasis—a neglected tropical disease (NTD). In spite of its major significance, little is known about this fluke, its interactions with the human and snail intermediate hosts and the pathogenesis of the urogenital form of schistosomiasis at the molecular and biochemical levels. To enable research in these areas, we report the first chromosome-level genome and markedly enhanced gene models for S. haematobium. Comparative genomic analyses also reveal evidence of past introgression events between or among closely related schistosome species. This present reference genome for S. haematobium and the findings from this study should underpin future functional genomic and molecular investigations of S. haematobium and accelerate systematic, large-scale population genomics investigations, with a focus on improved control of urogenital schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas J. Stroehlein
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Pasi K. Korhonen
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - V. Vern Lee
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Stuart A. Ralph
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Margaret Mentink-Kane
- NIH-NIAID Schistosomiasis Resource Center, Biomedical Research Institute, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Hong You
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Donald P. McManus
- Immunology Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Louis-Albert Tchuem Tchuenté
- Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - J. Russell Stothard
- Department of Parasitology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Parwinder Kaur
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Olga Dudchenko
- The Center for Genome Architecture, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Erez Lieberman Aiden
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
- The Center for Genome Architecture, Department of Molecular and Human Genetics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Center for Theoretical Biological Physics, Rice University, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- Shanghai Institute for Advanced Immunochemical Studies, ShanghaiTech, Pudong, China
- Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Bicheng Yang
- BGI Australia, Oceania, BGI Group, CBCRB Building, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Huanming Yang
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Unknown Pathogen Identification, BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Aidan M. Emery
- Parasites and Vectors Division, The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNTDR), London, United Kingdom
| | - Bonnie L. Webster
- Parasites and Vectors Division, The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNTDR), London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul J. Brindley
- School of Medicine & Health Sciences, Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, George Washington University, Washington DC, United States of America
| | - David Rollinson
- Parasites and Vectors Division, The Natural History Museum, London, United Kingdom
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNTDR), London, United Kingdom
| | - Bill C. H. Chang
- 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
- * E-mail: (RBG); (NDY)
| | - Neil D. Young
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail: (RBG); (NDY)
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First In Silico Screening of Insect Molecules for Identification of Novel Anti-Parasitic Compounds. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15020119. [PMID: 35215232 PMCID: PMC8877563 DOI: 10.3390/ph15020119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by blood flukes of the genus Schistosoma. In silico screenings of compounds for the identification of novel anti-parasitic drug candidates have received considerable attention in recent years, including the screening of natural compounds. For the first time, we investigated molecules from insects, a rather neglected source in drug discovery, in an in silico screening approach to find novel antischistosomal compounds. Based on the Dictionary of Natural Products (DNP), we created a library of 1327 insect compounds suitable for molecular docking. A structure-based virtual screening against the crystal structure of a known druggable target in Schistosoma mansoni, the thioredoxin glutathione reductase (SmTGR), was performed. The top ten compounds predominantly originated from beetles and were predicted to interact particularly with amino acids in the doorstop pocket of SmTGR. For one compound from a jewel beetle, buprestin H, we tested and confirmed antischistosomal activity against adult and juvenile parasites in vitro. At concentrations with anti-parasitic activity, we could also exclude any unspecific cytotoxic activity against human HepG2 cells. This study highlights the potential of insect molecules for the identification of novel antischistosomal compounds. Our library of insect-derived molecules could serve not only as basis for future in silico screenings against additional target proteins of schistosomes, but also of other parasites.
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Bunte MJM, Schots A, Kammenga JE, Wilbers RHP. Helminth Glycans at the Host-Parasite Interface and Their Potential for Developing Novel Therapeutics. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 8:807821. [PMID: 35083280 PMCID: PMC8784694 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2021.807821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Helminths are parasitic worms that have successfully co-evolved with their host immune system to sustain long-term infections. Their successful parasitism is mainly facilitated by modulation of the host immune system via the release of excretory-secretory (ES) products covered with glycan motifs such as Lewis X, fucosylated LDN, phosphorylcholine and tyvelose. Evidence is accumulating that these glycans play key roles in different aspects of helminth infection including interactions with immune cells for recognition and evasion of host defences. Moreover, antigenic properties of glycans can be exploited for improving the efficacy of anti-helminthic vaccines. Here, we illustrate that glycans have the potential to open new avenues for the development of novel biopharmaceuticals and effective vaccines based on helminth glycoproteins.
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Walker M, Freitas LT, Halder JB, Brack M, Keiser J, King CH, Levecke B, Ai-Lian Lim Y, Pieri O, Sow D, Stothard JR, Webster JP, Zhou XN, Terry RF, Guérin PJ, Basáñez MG. Improving anthelmintic treatment for schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiases through sharing and reuse of individual participant data. Wellcome Open Res 2022; 7:5. [PMID: 35493199 PMCID: PMC9020536 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17468.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The Infectious Diseases Data Observatory (IDDO, https://www.iddo.org) has launched a clinical data platform for the collation, curation, standardisation and reuse of individual participant data (IPD) on treatments for two of the most globally important neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), schistosomiasis (SCH) and soil-transmitted helminthiases (STHs). This initiative aims to harness the power of data-sharing by facilitating collaborative joint analyses of pooled datasets to generate robust evidence on the efficacy and safety of anthelminthic treatment regimens. A crucial component of this endeavour has been the development of a Research Agenda to promote engagement with the SCH and STH research and disease control communities by highlighting key questions that could be tackled using data shared through the IDDO platform. Here, we give a contextual overview of the priority research themes articulated in the Research Agenda-a 'living' document hosted on the IDDO website-and describe the three-stage consultation process behind its development. We also discuss the sustainability and future directions of the platform, emphasising throughout the power and promise of ethical and equitable sharing and reuse of clinical data to support the elimination of NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Walker
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, Hatfield, UK
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Infectious Diseases Data Observatory, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Luzia T. Freitas
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, Hatfield, UK
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Infectious Diseases Data Observatory, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Julia B. Halder
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, Hatfield, UK
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Infectious Diseases Data Observatory, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Matthew Brack
- Infectious Diseases Data Observatory, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Charles H. King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Bruno Levecke
- Department of Translational Physiology, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Yvonne Ai-Lian Lim
- Department of Parasitology, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Otavio Pieri
- Laboratory of Health and Environment Education, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janiero, Brazil
| | - Doudou Sow
- Service de Parasitologie, Université Gaston Berger de Saint Louis, Saint Louis, Senegal
| | - J. Russell Stothard
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Joanne P. Webster
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, Hatfield, UK
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Xiao-Nong Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, China Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shanghai, China
| | - Robert F. Terry
- Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR), World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Maria-Gloria Basáñez
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis and London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Infectious Diseases Data Observatory, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Efficacy of Praziquantel for the Treatment of Human Schistosomiasis in Ethiopia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Trop Med 2021; 2021:2625255. [PMID: 34966433 PMCID: PMC8712180 DOI: 10.1155/2021/2625255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis is one of the neglected tropical diseases causing a serious human health problem in Ethiopia. Praziquantel is the only drug that has been used for the treatment of human schistosomiasis in the country. In line with this, the efficacy of praziquantel has been evaluated in a few interventional studies in the country, but there is a lack in systematically gathered and analyzed information for policymakers. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to provide a summary of the efficacy of praziquantel for the treatment of human schistosomiasis in Ethiopia. Methods We conducted a literature search from ScienceDirect, PubMed/Medlin, and Google Scholar databases. A total of 140 articles published in English from 1980 to June 2021 were accessed and 15 of them were eligible for this meta-analysis. The meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 14 software, "metan command." The heterogeneities among studies were evaluated using I 2 test. Results A total of 140 articles were reviewed, but only 15 of them fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The polled cure rate of 40 mg/kg praziquantel was 89.2% (95% CI: 85.4-93.1) and 93.6% (95% CI: 80.6-106) among Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium, respectively. Similarly, the mean egg reduction rates of 40 mg/kg praziquantel were 90.2% and 85% among S. mansoni and S. haematobium infected subjects, respectively. The common adverse events observed after receiving praziquantel include abdominal pain, vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and bloody stool. Conclusion This systematic review and meta-analysis has indicated that praziquantel is still an appropriate drug for the treatment of human schistosomiasis in Ethiopia.
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Olkeba BK, Boets P, Mereta ST, Mandefro B, Debesa G, Ahmednur M, Ambelu A, Korma W, Goethals PLM. Malacological and Parasitological Surveys on Ethiopian Rift Valley Lakes: Implications for Control and Elimination of Snail-Borne Diseases. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 19:ijerph19010142. [PMID: 35010399 PMCID: PMC8750326 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is one of the snail-borne diseases responsible for the second-highest burden of diseases among neglected tropical diseases. The use of mass drug administration to the populations most at risk is a backbone of the strategy to prevent and control schistosomiasis transmission. However, it offers no protection against re-infection, and humans are often re-exposed when they return to water bodies where snails release cercariae. Surveys on cercarial infection in snails could provide better insights on human disease risk. Hence, in this study, we investigated cercarial infection in snails and also determined the epidemiology of Schistosoma mansoni among fishermen at Ethiopian Rift Valley lakes. Freshwater snails were collected from the shorelines of Ethiopian Rift Valley lakes for examination of cercarial infection during 2020. Environmental data on water quality variables and physical characteristics of snail habitats were collected. Stool samples were collected from fishermen and the Kato-Katz technique was applied for the quantification of Schistosoma mansoni eggs. A malacological survey indicated that six morphologically distinguishable types of cercariae were found in snails. Infected snails with cercaria were more likely present in habitats with high five-day biological oxygen demand and low dissolved oxygen. The overall prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni infection among the fishermen at Ethiopian Rift Valley lakes was found to be 21.5%. This indicates that fishermen at Ethiopian Rift Valley lakes are one of the groups of people harboring schistosome cercariae which are potentially responsible for the transmission of schistosomiasis to lakeshore communities who have contact with lake water. Therefore, complementary medical treatment, public health interventions, environmental management and snail reduction are needed to control the transmission of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beekam Kebede Olkeba
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, Building F, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (P.B.); (P.L.M.G.)
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia; (S.T.M.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (W.K.)
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Hawassa University, Hawassa 1560, Ethiopia
| | - Pieter Boets
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, Building F, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (P.B.); (P.L.M.G.)
- Provincial Centre of Environmental Research, Godshuizenlaan 95, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Seid Tiku Mereta
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia; (S.T.M.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (W.K.)
| | - Belayhun Mandefro
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Dilla University, Dilla 419, Ethiopia;
| | - Gemechu Debesa
- Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia;
| | - Mahmud Ahmednur
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia; (S.T.M.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (W.K.)
| | - Argaw Ambelu
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia; (S.T.M.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (W.K.)
| | - Wolyu Korma
- Department of Environmental Health Science and Technology, Jimma University, Jimma 378, Ethiopia; (S.T.M.); (M.A.); (A.A.); (W.K.)
| | - Peter L. M. Goethals
- Department of Animal Sciences and Aquatic Ecology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, Building F, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; (P.B.); (P.L.M.G.)
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Le Clec'h W, Chevalier FD, Mattos ACA, Strickland A, Diaz R, McDew-White M, Rohr CM, Kinung'hi S, Allan F, Webster BL, Webster JP, Emery AM, Rollinson D, Djirmay AG, Al Mashikhi KM, Al Yafae S, Idris MA, Moné H, Mouahid G, LoVerde P, Marchant JS, Anderson TJC. Genetic analysis of praziquantel response in schistosome parasites implicates a transient receptor potential channel. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:eabj9114. [PMID: 34936381 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abj9114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Winka Le Clec'h
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | | | - Ana Carolina A Mattos
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | | | - Robbie Diaz
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | | | - Claudia M Rohr
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Safari Kinung'hi
- National Institute for Medical Research, Mwanza, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Fiona Allan
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNDTR), Imperial College, London, UK.,Wolfson Wellcome Biomedical Laboratories, Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Bonnie L Webster
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNDTR), Imperial College, London, UK.,Wolfson Wellcome Biomedical Laboratories, Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Joanne P Webster
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNDTR), Imperial College, London, UK.,Centre for Emerging, Endemic and Exotic Diseases (CEEED), Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, UK
| | - Aidan M Emery
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNDTR), Imperial College, London, UK.,Wolfson Wellcome Biomedical Laboratories, Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - David Rollinson
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research (LCNDTR), Imperial College, London, UK.,Wolfson Wellcome Biomedical Laboratories, Natural History Museum, London, UK
| | - Amadou Garba Djirmay
- Réseau International Schistosomiases Environnemental Aménagement et Lutte (RISEAL), Niamey, Niger.,World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Khalid M Al Mashikhi
- Directorate General of Health Services, Dhofar Governorate, Salalah, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Salem Al Yafae
- Directorate General of Health Services, Dhofar Governorate, Salalah, Sultanate of Oman
| | | | - Hélène Moné
- Host-Pathogen-Environment Interactions Laboratory, University of Perpignan, Perpignan, France
| | - Gabriel Mouahid
- Host-Pathogen-Environment Interactions Laboratory, University of Perpignan, Perpignan, France
| | - Philip LoVerde
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - Jonathan S Marchant
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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Santos AGD, Carvalho FA, da Silva BC, Oda FB, Junior JCP, Crevelin EJ, Crotti AEM, Caldas LGM, Dos Santos AG. In vitro schistosomicidal activities of the leaf extracts from Casearia sylvestris varieties. Chem Biodivers 2021; 19:e202100948. [PMID: 34882967 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202100948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, a tropical disease caused by flatworms, may affect the liver, spleen, bladder, and intestine. Casearia sylvestris Swartz, a medicinal plant, displays antiprotozoal, antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiulcer activities. We have evaluated the in vitro schistosomicidal activity of two C. sylvestris varieties against Schistosoma mansoni adult worms at concentrations between 12.5 and 200 μg/mL of and var. lingua . At 100 and 200 μg/mL, the ethanolic C. sylvestris var. sylvestris leaf extract enriched in casearin-like diterpenes eliminated 100% of the parasites after incubation for 72 h and 48 h, respectively, whilst the same extract at 200 μg/mL eliminated 96%, 100%, and 100% of the parasites after incubation for 24, 48, and 72 h, respectively. On the other hand, the hydroalcoholic C. sylvestris var. lingua leaf extract at 200 μg/mL eliminated 60.4 and 66.7% of the parasites after incubation for 48 and 72 h, respectively. The presence of casearin-like diterpenes and glycosylated flavonoids was confirmed based on chromatographic techniques and mass spectrometry data.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Gonzaga Dos Santos
- Sao Paulo University Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences: Universidade de Sao Paulo Faculdade de Ciencias Farmaceuticas, Drugs and Medicines, , Araraquara-Jaú Road, Km 01, s/n, Araraquara, BRAZIL
| | - Flávio A Carvalho
- Sao Paulo State University Julio de Mesquita Filho: Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio de Mesquita Filho, Drugs and Medicines, Araraquara-Jaú Road, Km 01, s/n, Araraquara, BRAZIL
| | - Breno C da Silva
- University of Franca: Universidade de Franca, Center of Research in Sciences and Technology, Franca, Franca, BRAZIL
| | - Fernando B Oda
- Sao Paulo State University Julio de Mesquita Filho: Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio de Mesquita Filho, Drugs and Medicines, Araraquara-Jaú Road, Km 01, s/n, Araraquara, BRAZIL
| | - Júlio C P Junior
- Sao Paulo State University Julio de Mesquita Filho: Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio de Mesquita Filho, Drugs and Medicines, Araraquara-Jaú Road, Km 01, s/n, Araraquara, BRAZIL
| | - Eduardo J Crevelin
- University of Sao Paulo: Universidade de Sao Paulo, Department of Chemistry, Av. do Café, s/n, Ribeirão Preto, BRAZIL
| | - Antônio E M Crotti
- University of Sao Paulo: Universidade de Sao Paulo, Department of Chemistry, Av. do Café, s/n, Ribeirão Preto, BRAZIL
| | - Lizandra G M Caldas
- University of Franca: Universidade de Franca, Center for Research in Sciences and Technology, Franca, Franca, BRAZIL
| | - André G Dos Santos
- Sao Paulo State University Julio de Mesquita Filho: Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio de Mesquita Filho, Drugs and Medicines, Araraquara-Jaú Road, Km 01, s/n, Araraquara, BRAZIL
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Silveira GO, Coelho HS, Amaral MS, Verjovski-Almeida S. Long non-coding RNAs as possible therapeutic targets in protozoa, and in Schistosoma and other helminths. Parasitol Res 2021; 121:1091-1115. [PMID: 34859292 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07384-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) emerged in the past 20 years due to massive amounts of scientific data regarding transcriptomic analyses. They have been implicated in a plethora of cellular processes in higher eukaryotes. However, little is known about lncRNA possible involvement in parasitic diseases, with most studies only detecting their presence in parasites of human medical importance. Here, we review the progress on lncRNA studies and their functions in protozoans and helminths. In addition, we show an example of knockdown of one lncRNA in Schistosoma mansoni, SmLINC156349, which led to in vitro parasite adhesion, motility, and pairing impairment, with a 20% decrease in parasite viability and 33% reduction in female oviposition. Other observed phenotypes were a decrease in the proliferation rate of both male and female worms and their gonads, and reduced female lipid and vitelline droplets that are markers for well-developed vitellaria. Impairment of female worms' vitellaria in SmLINC156349-silenced worms led to egg development deficiency. All those results demonstrate the great potential of the tools and methods to characterize lncRNAs as potential new therapeutic targets. Further, we discuss the challenges and limitations of current methods for studying lncRNAs in parasites and possible solutions to overcome them, and we highlight the future directions of this exciting field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gilbert O Silveira
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, 05503-900, Brazil.,Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil
| | - Helena S Coelho
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, 05503-900, Brazil
| | - Murilo S Amaral
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, 05503-900, Brazil.
| | - Sergio Verjovski-Almeida
- Laboratório de Parasitologia, Instituto Butantan, São Paulo, SP, 05503-900, Brazil. .,Departamento de Bioquímica, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, 05508-900, Brazil.
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Le Clec’h W, Chevalier FD, McDew-White M, Menon V, Arya GA, Anderson TJ. Genetic architecture of transmission stage production and virulence in schistosome parasites. Virulence 2021; 12:1508-1526. [PMID: 34167443 PMCID: PMC8237990 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2021.1932183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Both theory and experimental data from pathogens suggest that the production of transmission stages should be strongly associated with virulence, but the genetic bases of parasite transmission/virulence traits are poorly understood. The blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni shows extensive variation in numbers of cercariae larvae shed and in their virulence to infected snail hosts, consistent with expected trade-offs between parasite transmission and virulence. We crossed schistosomes from two populations that differ 8-fold in cercarial shedding and in their virulence to Biomphalaria glabrata snail hosts, and determined four-week cercarial shedding profiles in F0 parents, F1 parents and 376 F2 progeny from two independent crosses in inbred snails. Sequencing and linkage analysis revealed that cercarial production is polygenic and controlled by five QTLs (i.e. Quantitative Trait Loci). These QTLs act additively, explaining 28.56% of the phenotypic variation. These results demonstrate that the genetic architecture of key traits relevant to schistosome ecology can be dissected using classical linkage mapping approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winka Le Clec’h
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | | | | | - Vinay Menon
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Grace-Ann Arya
- Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, USA
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Biendl S, Häberli C, Keiser J. Discovery of novel antischistosomal scaffolds from the open access Pandemic Response Box. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2021; 20:621-629. [PMID: 34612126 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2022.1990042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment and control of schistosomiasis rely on a single drug, praziquantel. New orally active antischistosomals featuring novel molecular scaffolds are urgently needed to prevent the emergence of resistance. METHODS We screened 400 drug-like compounds contained in the open-access Pandemic Response Box (PRB) against newly transformed schistosomula (NTS) at a concentration of 10 µM scoring death, changes in motility, and morphological alterations. Compounds displaying an activity ≥66% at 72 h underwent testing against adult Schistosoma mansoni in vitro. Fast-acting (≥66% at 24 h), nontoxic drugs focusing on late-stage and approved drugs were investigated in the patent S. mansoni mouse model. RESULTS We identified 26 hits active against NTS, of which 17 elicited ≥66% activity against adult S. mansoni following 24 h of drug exposure. The highest activity against adult S. mansoni was observed with MMV1581558 (EC50 value of 0.18 ± 0.01 µM) and nitazoxanide (0.47 ± 0.07 µM). Of the five compounds tested in vivo, MMV1581558 and the approved drug ozanimod reduced average worm burden versus controls by 42 % and 36 %, respectively, after a single oral dose of 200 mg/kg bodyweight in mice harboring a chronic S. mansoni infection. CONCLUSION MMV1581558 discovered from screening the PRB represents a novel antischistosomal scaffold with high in vitro antischistosomal activity amenable to chemical modification for drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Biendl
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Cécile Häberli
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland.,University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Metabolomics reveal alterations in arachidonic acid metabolism in Schistosoma mekongi after exposure to praziquantel. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009706. [PMID: 34473691 PMCID: PMC8412319 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mekong schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the blood-dwelling fluke Schistosoma mekongi. This disease contributes to human morbidity and mortality in the Mekong region, posing a public health threat to people in the area. Currently, praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug of choice for the treatment of Mekong schistosomiasis. However, the molecular mechanisms of PZQ action remain unclear, and Schistosoma PZQ resistance has been reported occasionally. Through this research, we aimed to use a metabolomic approach to identify the potentially altered metabolic pathways in S. mekongi associated with PZQ treatment. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Adult stage S. mekongi were treated with 0, 20, 40, or 100 μg/mL PZQ in vitro. After an hour of exposure to PZQ, schistosome metabolites were extracted and studied with mass spectrometry. The metabolomic data for the treatment groups were analyzed with the XCMS online platform and compared with data for the no treatment group. After low, medium (IC50), and high doses of PZQ, we found changes in 1,007 metabolites, of which phosphatidylserine and anandamide were the major differential metabolites by multivariate and pairwise analysis. In the pathway analysis, arachidonic acid metabolism was found to be altered following PZQ treatment, indicating that this pathway may be affected by the drug and potentially considered as a novel target for anti-schistosomiasis drug development. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Our findings suggest that arachidonic acid metabolism is a possible target in the parasiticidal effects of PZQ against S. mekongi. Identifying potential targets of the effective drug PZQ provides an interesting viewpoint for the discovery and development of new agents that could enhance the prevention and treatment of schistosomiasis.
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Berger DJ, Crellen T, Lamberton PHL, Allan F, Tracey A, Noonan JD, Kabatereine NB, Tukahebwa EM, Adriko M, Holroyd N, Webster JP, Berriman M, Cotton JA. Whole-genome sequencing of Schistosoma mansoni reveals extensive diversity with limited selection despite mass drug administration. Nat Commun 2021; 12:4776. [PMID: 34362894 PMCID: PMC8346512 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-24958-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Control and elimination of the parasitic disease schistosomiasis relies on mass administration of praziquantel. Whilst these programmes reduce infection prevalence and intensity, their impact on parasite transmission and evolution is poorly understood. Here we examine the genomic impact of repeated mass drug administration on Schistosoma mansoni populations with documented reduced praziquantel efficacy. We sequenced whole-genomes of 198 S. mansoni larvae from 34 Ugandan children from regions with contrasting praziquantel exposure. Parasites infecting children from Lake Victoria, a transmission hotspot, form a diverse panmictic population. A single round of treatment did not reduce this diversity with no apparent population contraction caused by long-term praziquantel use. We find evidence of positive selection acting on members of gene families previously implicated in praziquantel action, but detect no high frequency functionally impactful variants. As efforts to eliminate schistosomiasis intensify, our study provides a foundation for genomic surveillance of this major human parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan J Berger
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, UK.
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Centre for Emerging, Endemic and Exotic Diseases, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Herts, UK.
| | - Thomas Crellen
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, UK
- Imperial College London, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London, UK
- Big Data Institute, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Poppy H L Lamberton
- Imperial College London, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London, UK
- Institute for Biodiversity, Animal Health, and Comparative Medicine, and Wellcome Centre for Integrative Parasitology, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Fiona Allan
- The Natural History Museum, Department of Life Sciences, London, UK
| | - Alan Tracey
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Jennifer D Noonan
- Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Narcis B Kabatereine
- Vector Borne & Neglected Tropical Disease Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Edridah M Tukahebwa
- Vector Borne & Neglected Tropical Disease Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Moses Adriko
- Vector Borne & Neglected Tropical Disease Control Division, Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Nancy Holroyd
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, UK
| | - Joanne P Webster
- Department of Pathology and Pathogen Biology, Centre for Emerging, Endemic and Exotic Diseases, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Herts, UK.
- Imperial College London, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London, UK.
| | - Matthew Berriman
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, UK.
| | - James A Cotton
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, UK.
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Mitochondria as a potential target for the development of prophylactic and therapeutic drugs against Schistosoma mansoni infection. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2021; 65:e0041821. [PMID: 34339272 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00418-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Emergence of parasites resistant to praziquantel, the only therapeutic agent, and its ineffectiveness as a prophylactic agent (inactive against the migratory/juvenile Schistosoma mansoni), makes the development of new antischistosomal drugs urgent. The parasite's mitochondrion is an attractive target for drug development because this organelle is essential for survival throughout the parasite's life cycle. We investigated the effects of 116 compounds against Schistosoma mansoni cercariae motility that have been reported to affect mitochondria-related processes in other organisms. Next, eight compounds plus two controls (mefloquine and praziquantel) were selected and assayed against motility of schistosomula (in vitro) and adults (ex vivo). Prophylactic and therapeutic assays were performed using infected mouse models. Inhibition of oxygen consumption rate (OCR) was assayed using Seahorse XFe24 Analyzer. All selected compounds showed excellent prophylactic activity, reducing the worm burden in the lungs to less than 15% that obtained in the vehicle control. Notably, ascofuranone showed the highest activity with a 98% reduction of the worm burden, suggesting the potential for development of ascofuranone as a prophylactic agent. The worm burden of infected mice with S. mansoni at the adult stage was reduced by more than 50% in mice treated with mefloquine, nitazoxanide, amiodarone, ascofuranone, pyrvinium pamoate, or plumbagin. Moreover, adult mitochondrial OCR was severely inhibited by ascofuranone, atovaquone, and nitazoxanide, while pyrvinium pamoate inhibited both mitochondrial and non-mitochondrial OCRs. These results demonstrate that the mitochondria of S. mansoni are feasible target for drug development.
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Zaparina O, Rakhmetova AS, Kolosova NG, Cheng G, Mordvinov VA, Pakharukova MY. Antioxidants resveratrol and SkQ1 attenuate praziquantel adverse effects on the liver in Opisthorchis felineus infected hamsters. Acta Trop 2021; 220:105954. [PMID: 33979641 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.105954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Anthelmintic praziquantel (PZQ) is the drug of the choice for opisthorchiasis, schistosomiasis and other trematodiases therapy for several decades. Despite its good therapeutic performance and effective control of trematode infections, PZQ has some shortcomings; its inability to counteract disease sequelae necessitates novel therapeutic strategies. Testing of antioxidants that have proven themselves in clinical practice, in combination with this anthelmintic drug, offers new opportunities for developing alternatives to PZQ monotherapy. The effects of two antioxidants combined with PZQ on histological parameters of liver tissue were evaluated in a hamster model of opisthorchiasis felinea. Liver pathology including the parenchyma state, accumulation of neutral lipids and 4-Hydroxy-2-nonenal as a lipid peroxidation product, biochemical characteristics of hamster blood serum, and mRNA expression of inflammation- and fibrogenesis-associated genes were determined. PZQ and opisthorchiasis caused liver accumulation of lipids and glycogen. The combination of PZQ with resveratrol (RSV) or 10-(6'-plastoquinonyl)decyltriphenylphosphonium (SkQ1) significantly reduced hepatocyte changes (P = 0.009 and P = 0.009, respectively, Mann-Whitney U test) as compared with infected hamsters treated only with PZQ. RSV and SkQ1 significantly reduced cholangiocyte hyperplasia, bile duct proliferation, fibrosis, and lipid droplet and glycogen granule accumulation. The downregulation of 4-hydroxynonenal was also observed. The combinations of the anthelmintic drug with antioxidants RSV and SkQ1 ameliorate host oxidative stress and mitigate adverse effects of PZQ on hepatic parenchyma. The use of drug combinations may improve the action of standard anthelmintic agents, such as PZQ, which still remains the most effective agent against adult trematodes.
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