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Carvalho BM, Maia C, Courtenay O, Llabrés-Brustenga A, Lotto Batista M, Moirano G, van Daalen KR, Semenza JC, Lowe R. A climatic suitability indicator to support Leishmania infantum surveillance in Europe: a modelling study. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. EUROPE 2024; 43:100971. [PMID: 39040529 PMCID: PMC11261136 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2024.100971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Background Leishmaniases are neglected diseases transmitted by sand flies. They disproportionately affect vulnerable groups globally. Understanding the relationship between climate and disease transmission allows the development of relevant decision-support tools for public health policy and surveillance. The aim of this modelling study was to develop an indicator that tracks climatic suitability for Leishmania infantum transmission in Europe at the subnational level. Methods Historical records of sand fly vectors, human leishmaniasis, bioclimatic indicators, and environmental variables were integrated in a machine learning framework (XGBoost) to predict suitability in two past periods (2001-2010 and 2011-2020). We further assessed if predictions were associated with human and animal disease data from selected countries (France, Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain). Findings An increase in the number of climatically suitable regions for leishmaniasis was detected, especially in southern and eastern countries, coupled with a northward expansion towards central Europe. The final model had excellent predictive ability (AUC = 0.970 [0.947-0.993]), and the suitability predictions were positively associated with human leishmaniasis incidence and canine seroprevalence for Leishmania. Interpretation This study demonstrates how key epidemiological data can be combined with open-source climatic and environmental information to develop an indicator that effectively tracks spatiotemporal changes in climatic suitability and disease risk. The positive association between the model predictions and human disease incidence demonstrates that this indicator could help target leishmaniasis surveillance to transmission hotspots. Funding European Union Horizon Europe Research and Innovation Programme (European Climate-Health Cluster), United Kingdom Research and Innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Carla Maia
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Orin Courtenay
- The Zeeman Institute and School of Life Sciences, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | - Kim R. van Daalen
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Barcelona, Spain
- British Heart Foundation Cardiovascular Epidemiology Unit, Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Heart and Lung Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Jan C. Semenza
- Department of Public Health and Clinical Medicine, Section of Sustainable Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rachel Lowe
- Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Barcelona, Spain
- Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
- Centre on Climate Change & Planetary Health and Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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2
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Gutiérrez-Bautista JF, Sampedro A, Ballesta-Alcaraz L, Aguilera-Franco M, Olivares-Durán MJ, Cobo F, Reguera JA, Rodríguez-Granger J, Torres-Llamas A, Martín-Sánchez J, Aznar-Peralta I, Vilchez JR, López-Nevot MÁ, Sampedro-Martínez A. Analysis of HLA Alleles in Different Cohorts of Patients Infected by L. infantum from Southern Spain. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:8205. [PMID: 39125781 PMCID: PMC11311343 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25158205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease caused by protozoa of the genus Leishmania, which is endemic in certain areas of Europe, such as southern Spain. The disease manifests in various clinical phenotypes, including visceral, cutaneous, mucosal, or asymptomatic leishmaniasis. This diversity in clinical outcomes may be influenced by the host immune response, with human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules playing a crucial role in determining susceptibility and progression of the infection. This study explores the association between specific HLA variants and Leishmania infantum infection. We recruited four cohorts: a control group, asymptomatic individuals, patients with symptomatic disease, and cohabitants of infected individuals. HLA typing was performed for all participants, followed by an association analysis with infection status and disease progression. Our findings indicate that the HLA-B*38 and HLA-C*03 alleles are associated with protection against L. infantum infection. These results contribute to a better understanding of the disease's progression, offer potential for new therapeutic approaches such as vaccines, and expand the existing knowledge in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Francisco Gutiérrez-Bautista
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Biología Molecular e Inmunología III, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Servicio de Análisis Clínicos e Inmunología, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 18014 Granada, Spain; (L.B.-A.); (M.J.O.-D.); (J.R.V.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (ibs.GRANADA), 18012 Granada, Spain;
| | - Antonio Sampedro
- Centro de Salud Zaidín Sur, Distrito Granada Metropolitano, Servicio Andaluz de Salud, 18007 Granada, Spain;
| | - Lucia Ballesta-Alcaraz
- Servicio de Análisis Clínicos e Inmunología, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 18014 Granada, Spain; (L.B.-A.); (M.J.O.-D.); (J.R.V.)
| | - María Aguilera-Franco
- Servicio de Microbiología, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 18014 Granada, Spain; (M.A.-F.); (F.C.); (J.A.R.); (J.R.-G.)
| | - María José Olivares-Durán
- Servicio de Análisis Clínicos e Inmunología, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 18014 Granada, Spain; (L.B.-A.); (M.J.O.-D.); (J.R.V.)
| | - Fernando Cobo
- Servicio de Microbiología, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 18014 Granada, Spain; (M.A.-F.); (F.C.); (J.A.R.); (J.R.-G.)
| | - Juan Antonio Reguera
- Servicio de Microbiología, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 18014 Granada, Spain; (M.A.-F.); (F.C.); (J.A.R.); (J.R.-G.)
| | - Javier Rodríguez-Granger
- Servicio de Microbiología, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 18014 Granada, Spain; (M.A.-F.); (F.C.); (J.A.R.); (J.R.-G.)
| | - Andrés Torres-Llamas
- Departamento de Parasitología, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (A.T.-L.); (J.M.-S.)
| | - Joaquina Martín-Sánchez
- Departamento de Parasitología, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain; (A.T.-L.); (J.M.-S.)
| | - Inés Aznar-Peralta
- GENYO Centre for Genomics and Oncological Research, Pfizer, University of Granada, Andalusian, 18016 Granada, Spain
| | - Jose Ramon Vilchez
- Servicio de Análisis Clínicos e Inmunología, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 18014 Granada, Spain; (L.B.-A.); (M.J.O.-D.); (J.R.V.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (ibs.GRANADA), 18012 Granada, Spain;
| | - Miguel Ángel López-Nevot
- Departamento de Bioquímica, Biología Molecular e Inmunología III, University of Granada, 18016 Granada, Spain
- Servicio de Análisis Clínicos e Inmunología, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 18014 Granada, Spain; (L.B.-A.); (M.J.O.-D.); (J.R.V.)
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (ibs.GRANADA), 18012 Granada, Spain;
| | - Antonio Sampedro-Martínez
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria de Granada (ibs.GRANADA), 18012 Granada, Spain;
- Servicio de Microbiología, University Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 18014 Granada, Spain; (M.A.-F.); (F.C.); (J.A.R.); (J.R.-G.)
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3
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Maestrini S, Diotallevi A, Santilli L, Canovari B, Orlandi C, Buffi G, Ceccarelli M, Galluzzi L. The use of conjunctival swabs in the diagnosis of human visceral leishmaniasis. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 110:116450. [PMID: 39029389 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2024.116450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Human visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a severe disease whose diagnosis comprises immunological tests, microscopic biopsy examination, and biomolecular assays. In veterinary medicine, conjunctival swabs are widely used for detection of parasite DNA. Here, we describe the case of human VL in which conjunctival swabs were successfully used for Leishmania detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Maestrini
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Aurora Diotallevi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy.
| | - Luca Santilli
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, San Salvatore Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Territoriale Pesaro-Urbino, Pesaro, Italy
| | - Benedetta Canovari
- Unit of Infectious Diseases, San Salvatore Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Territoriale Pesaro-Urbino, Pesaro, Italy
| | - Chiara Orlandi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Gloria Buffi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Marcello Ceccarelli
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
| | - Luca Galluzzi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, Urbino, Italy
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4
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Jooste J, Legoabe LJ, Ilbeigi K, Caljon G, Beteck RM. Hydrazinated geraniol derivatives as potential broad-spectrum antiprotozoal agents. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2024:e2400430. [PMID: 38982314 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202400430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Geraniol, a primary component of several essential oils, has been associated with broad-spectrum antiprotozoal activities, although moderate to weak. This study primarily concentrated on the synthesis of hydrazinated geraniol derivatives as potential antiprotozoal agents. The synthesised compounds were tested in vitro against different parasitic protozoans of clinical relevance, including Trypanosoma brucei brucei, Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania infantum. Compounds 6, 8, 13, 14 and 15 demonstrated low micromolar activity against the different parasites. Compounds 8, 13, 14 and 15 had the highest efficacy against Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense, as indicated by their respective IC50 values of 0.74, 0.56, 1.26 and 1.00 µM. Compounds 6, 14 and 15 displayed the best activity against Trypanosoma brucei brucei, with IC50 values of 1.49, 1.48 and 1.85 µM, respectively. The activity of compounds 6, 14 and 15 also extended to intracellular Trypanosoma cruzi, with IC50 values of 5.14, 6.30 and 4.90 µM, respectively. Compound 6, with an IC50 value of 11.73 µM, and compound 14, with an IC50 value of 8.14 µM, demonstrated some modest antileishmanial activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joelien Jooste
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Lesetja J Legoabe
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
| | - Kayhan Ilbeigi
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Guy Caljon
- Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Richard M Beteck
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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5
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Barbero-Moyano J, Castro-Scholten S, Gonzálvez M, Moreno I, Domínguez M, Cano-Terriza D, Jiménez-Martín D, Camacho-Sillero L, Martínez R, García-Bocanegra I. Epidemiological surveillance of Leishmania infantum in wild lagomorphs in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems. Prev Vet Med 2024; 228:106231. [PMID: 38788301 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106231] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Wild lagomorphs play a key epidemiological role as reservoirs of Leishmania infantum, causative agent of the largest outbreak of human leishmaniosis in Europe to date. A large-scale survey study was conducted on wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and Iberian hare (Lepus granatensis) populations in Spanish Mediterranean ecosystems to evaluate the exposure of L. infantum and investigate potential risk factors associated with exposure to this zoonotic parasite. Between 2018 and 2021, a total of 631 wild lagomorphs (471 wild rabbits and 160 Iberian hares) were collected in Andalusia (southern Spain) and tested for antibodies against L. infantum using the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Spleen samples from 563 of the wild lagomorphs sampled (441 wild rabbits and 122 Iberian hares) were also evaluated by real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) for detection of Leishmania kDNA. Exposure to L. infantum (positive by IFAT and/or qPCR) was detected in 56.4 % (356/631; 95 %CI: 52.3-60.3) of the lagomorphs analyzed. Anti-Leishmania antibodies were found in 12.8 % (81/631; 95 %CI: 10.2-15.5) of the animals, and L. infantum kDNA was detected in 59.0 % (332/563; 95 %CI: 54.9-63.0) of the spleen samples tested. Phylogenetic analysis revealed high homology (99.9-100 %) between L. infantum sequences obtained and strains previously isolated from humans in Spain. While apparent seroprevalence was significantly higher in Iberian hares (19.4 %; 95 %CI: 13.3-25.5) compared to wild rabbits (10.6 %; 95 %CI: 7.9-13.4), no significant differences in prevalence were found between wild rabbits (61.0 %; 95 %CI: 56.5-65.6) and Iberian hares (51.6 %; 95 %CI: 42.8-60.5). At least one positive animal was found on 64.8 % (70/108) of the hunting grounds sampled, and a high-risk spatial cluster (P < 0.001) was also identified in central Andalusia. The multivariable analysis identified bioclimatic level (meso-Mediterranean climate) and the presence of goats on hunting grounds as risk factors potentially associated with L. infantum exposure in wild lagomorphs. This study shows high, widespread exposure, but heterogeneous distribution of L. infantum in wild lagomorph populations in Mediterranean ecosystems in southern Spain. The results point to the need to promote integrated surveillance programs for the detection of Leishmania spp. in wild lagomorphs in order to establish effective control measures against human leishmaniosis under a One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Barbero-Moyano
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Zoonosis (GISAZ), UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba 14014, Spain
| | - Sabrina Castro-Scholten
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Zoonosis (GISAZ), UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba 14014, Spain
| | - Moisés Gonzálvez
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Zoonosis (GISAZ), UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba 14014, Spain; Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Internacional Regional "Campus Mare Nostrum", Universidad de Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Inmaculada Moreno
- Unidad de Inmunología Microbiana, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - Mercedes Domínguez
- Unidad de Inmunología Microbiana, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid 28220, Spain
| | - David Cano-Terriza
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Zoonosis (GISAZ), UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba 14014, Spain; CIBERINFEC, ISCIII CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
| | - Débora Jiménez-Martín
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Zoonosis (GISAZ), UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba 14014, Spain
| | - Leonor Camacho-Sillero
- Programa de Vigilancia Epidemiológica de la Fauna Silvestre (PVE), Consejería de Sostenibilidad, Medio Ambiente y Economía Azul, Junta de Andalucía, Málaga 29002, Spain
| | - Remigio Martínez
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Zoonosis (GISAZ), UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba 14014, Spain; Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Extremadura, Cáceres 10003, Spain.
| | - Ignacio García-Bocanegra
- Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Grupo de Investigación en Sanidad Animal y Zoonosis (GISAZ), UIC Zoonosis y Enfermedades Emergentes ENZOEM, Universidad de Córdoba, Córdoba 14014, Spain; CIBERINFEC, ISCIII CIBER de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid 28029, Spain
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6
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de Freitas Milagres T, Maia C. Phlebotomus perniciosus. Trends Parasitol 2024; 40:649-650. [PMID: 38704297 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2024.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Tarcísio de Freitas Milagres
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal.
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Giannelli A, Schnyder M, Wright I, Charlier J. Control of companion animal parasites and impact on One Health. One Health 2024; 18:100679. [PMID: 39010968 PMCID: PMC11247265 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
The last decades have witnessed an increase in the global population and movements of companion animals, contributing to changes in density and distribution of pet parasites. Control of companion animal parasites (CAPs) becomes increasingly relevant because of the intensifying human-animal bond. Parasites impact on the health of humans and their pets, but also of wildlife and the environment. We conducted a qualitative review on the current advancements, gaps and priorities for the monitoring and treatment of CAPs with a focus on securing public health. There is a need to raise awareness, coordinate global surveillance schemes and better quantify the impact of companion animal parasites on One Health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manuela Schnyder
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
| | - Ian Wright
- ESCCAP UK & Ireland, PO Box 358, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 9HQ, United Kingdom
- Mount Veterinary Practice, 1 Harris Street, Fleetwood FY7 6QX, United Kingdom
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Rocha R, Conceição C, Gonçalves L, Maia C. Epidemiological and clinical trends of visceral leishmaniasis in Portugal: retrospective analysis of cases diagnosed in public hospitals between 2010 and 2020. Infect Dis Poverty 2024; 13:41. [PMID: 38822396 PMCID: PMC11143621 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-024-01204-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leishmania infantum is endemic in the Mediterranean region, presenting mostly as visceral leishmaniasis (VL). In Portugal, reporting of VL cases to public health authorities is mandatory, but significant underreporting is likely. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological and clinical aspects of the VL cases diagnosed in hospitals of the Portuguese National Health Service (NHS), between 2010 and 2020. METHODS Collaboration was requested to every hospital of the Portuguese NHS in Mainland Portugal. Cases were screened through a search of diagnostic discharge codes or, if not available, by a search of positive laboratory results for Leishmania infection. Sociodemographic and clinical data was retrieved from medical records. Simultaneously, the National Health authority was contacted to request access to data of notified cases of VL between 2010 and 2020. Descriptive, hypothesis testing and multiple binary logistic regression models were performed. RESULTS A total of 221 VL cases were identified. A significant increase in estimated national incidence was seen in the years after 2016 (P = 0.030). VL was predominantly diagnosed in people living with HIV (PLWH) and in children (representing around 60% of the new cases), but the outcome was generally poorer in non-HIV patients with associated immunosuppression, with significantly lower rates of clinical improvement at 7 (P = 0.003) and 30 days (P = 0.008) after treatment. Atypical presentations, with gastrointestinal and/or respiratory involvement, were seen in 8.5% of VL cases. Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis was diagnosed in 40.0% of children under 5 years of age. Only 49.7% of incident VL cases were reported. Simultaneous involvement of the skin was confirmed in 5.9% of patients. CONCLUSIONS VL presents a continuing threat in Portugal, especially to PLWH and children, and an increasing threat to other immunosuppressed groups. Recent increases in incidence should be closely monitored to allow prompt interventions. Programs to control the disease should focus on providing tools for earlier diagnosis and on reducing underreporting and promoting an integrated surveillance of human and animal disease. These data should be combined with asymptomatic infection and vector information, following a One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Rocha
- Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (IHMT), University Novaof Lisbon (UNL), Rua da Junqueira Nº100, Lisboa, 1349-008, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA- REAL, IHMT, UNL, Rua da Junqueira Nº100, Lisboa, 1349-008, Portugal
- University Hospital Center of São João, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, Porto, 4200-319, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Conceição
- Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (IHMT), University Novaof Lisbon (UNL), Rua da Junqueira Nº100, Lisboa, 1349-008, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA- REAL, IHMT, UNL, Rua da Junqueira Nº100, Lisboa, 1349-008, Portugal
| | - Luzia Gonçalves
- Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (IHMT), University Novaof Lisbon (UNL), Rua da Junqueira Nº100, Lisboa, 1349-008, Portugal
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA- REAL, IHMT, UNL, Rua da Junqueira Nº100, Lisboa, 1349-008, Portugal
- Faculty of Sciences, Centre of Statistics and its Application of the University of Lisbon, University of Lisbon, Campo Grande, Lisboa, 1749-016, Portugal
- , Z-Stat4life, Cowork Space Baldaya, Baldaya Palace, Estrada de Benfica Nº 701ª, Lisboa, 1549-011, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (IHMT), University Novaof Lisbon (UNL), Rua da Junqueira Nº100, Lisboa, 1349-008, Portugal.
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, LA- REAL, IHMT, UNL, Rua da Junqueira Nº100, Lisboa, 1349-008, Portugal.
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9
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Rocha R, Conceição C, Gonçalves L, Carvalho AC, Maia A, Martins A, Carujo A, Maio A, Forra C, Melita C, Couto D, Fernandes D, Pereira D, Leal E, Sarmento H, Sousa I, Gonçalves JP, Marinho J, Vasconcelos J, Cunha J, Rodrigues J, Silva JM, Caley L, Malheiro L, Santos L, Garcia M, Cunha M, Lima M, Andrade MM, Marques M, Alpalhão M, Silva M, Ferraz R, Soares R, Fernandes S, Llobet S, Cruz S, Guimarães T, Branco T, Robalo-Nunes T, Almeida V, Maia C. Epidemiological and Clinical Aspects of Cutaneous and Mucosal Leishmaniases in Portugal: Retrospective Analysis of Cases Diagnosed in Public Hospitals and Reported in the Literature between 2010 and 2020. Microorganisms 2024; 12:819. [PMID: 38674763 PMCID: PMC11052487 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12040819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2024] [Revised: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Leishmania infantum, a zoonotic vector-born parasite, is endemic in the Mediterranean region, presenting mostly as visceral (VL), but also as cutaneous (CL) and mucosal leishmaniasis (ML). This study aimed to describe the epidemiological and clinical aspects of the CL and ML cases diagnosed in mainland Portugal between 2010 and 2020. Collaboration was requested from every hospital of the Portuguese National Health System. Cases were screened through a search of diagnostic discharge codes or positive laboratory results for Leishmania infection. Simultaneously, a comprehensive literature search was performed. Descriptive statistics and hypothesis testing were performed using IBM® SPSS® Statistics. A total of 43 CL and 7 ML cases were identified, with a predominance of autochthonous cases (86%). In CL, immunosuppressed individuals constituted a significant proportion of patients (48%), and in this group, disseminated CL (22%) and simultaneous VL (54%) were common. In autochthonous cases, lesions, mostly papules/nodules (62%), were frequently observed on the head (48%). The approach to treatment was very heterogeneous. ML cases were all autochthonous, were diagnosed primarily in older immunosuppressed individuals, and were generally treated with liposomal amphotericin B. The findings suggest a need for enhanced surveillance and reporting, clinical awareness, and diagnostic capacity of these forms of leishmaniasis to mitigate underdiagnosis and improve patient outcomes. A holistic One Health approach is advocated to address the multifaceted challenges posed by leishmaniases in Portugal and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Rocha
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira N°100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.R.); (C.C.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira N°100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Conceição
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira N°100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.R.); (C.C.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira N°100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luzia Gonçalves
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira N°100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.R.); (C.C.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira N°100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro de Estatística e Aplicações da Universidade de Lisboa, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, Campo Grande, 1749-016 Lisboa, Portugal
- Z-Stat4life, Espaço Cowork Baldaya, Palácio Baldaya, Estrada de Benfica N° 701ª, 1549-011 Lisboa, Portugal
| | | | - André Maia
- Centro Hospitalar de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, Avenida da Noruega, 5000-508 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - André Martins
- Hospital da Senhora da Oliveira Guimarães, Rua dos Cutileiros, Creixomil, 4835-044 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - António Carujo
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António, Rua Prof. Vicente José de Carvalho N° 37, 4050-366 Porto, Portugal
| | - António Maio
- Centro Hospitalar do Baixo Vouga, Av. Artur Ravara, 3810-501 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Catarina Forra
- Unidade Local de Saúde de Castelo Branco, Avenida Pedro Álvares Cabral, 6000-085 Castelo Branco, Portugal
| | - Catarina Melita
- Hospital Professor Doutor Fernando Fonseca, IC 19, 2720-276 Amadora, Portugal
| | - Daniela Couto
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário Cova da Beira, Alameda Pêro da Covilhã, 6200-251 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Diana Fernandes
- Centro Hospitalar de Leiria, Rua das Olhalvas, 2410-197 Leiria, Portugal
| | - Dulce Pereira
- Centro Hospitalar Tondela-Viseu, Avenida Rei D. Duarte, 3504-509 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Ema Leal
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Rua José António Serrano, 1150-199 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Helena Sarmento
- Hospital da Senhora da Oliveira Guimarães, Rua dos Cutileiros, Creixomil, 4835-044 Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Inês Sousa
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-035 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Jean-Pierre Gonçalves
- Instituto Português de Oncologia de Lisboa Francisco Gentil, Rua Professor Lima Basto, 1099-023 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Joana Marinho
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Coimbra, Praceta Professor Mota Pinto, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Vasconcelos
- Centro Hospitalar de Lisboa Ocidental, Rua da Junqueira N° 126, 1349-019 Lisboa, Portugal;
| | - João Cunha
- Hospital Distrital de Santarém, Avenida Bernardo Santareno, 2005-177 Santarém, Portugal
| | - João Rodrigues
- Unidade Local de Saúde da Guarda, Avenida Rainha Dona Amélia, 6300-858 Guarda, Portugal
| | - José Miguel Silva
- Unidade Local de Saúde do Norte Alentejano, Avenida de Santo António, Apartado 234, 7301-853 Portalegre, Portugal
| | - Lídia Caley
- Centro Hospitalar do Médio Tejo, Avenida Maria de Lourdes de Mello Castro, Ap. 118, 2304-909 Tomar, Portugal
| | - Luís Malheiro
- Centro Hospitalar de Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Rua Conceição Fernandes, 4434-502 Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Luís Santos
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Rua José António Serrano, 1150-199 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Margarida Garcia
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Rua José António Serrano, 1150-199 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Cunha
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-035 Lisboa, Portugal
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Lima
- Centro Hospitalar de Setúbal, Rua Camilo Castelo Branco, Apartado 140, 2910-446 Setúbal, Portugal
| | - Maria Margarida Andrade
- Hospital de Cascais Dr. José de Almeida, Avenida Brigadeiro Victor Novais Gonçalves, 2755-009 Alcabideche, Portugal
| | - Marta Marques
- Centro Hospitalar Tondela-Viseu, Avenida Rei D. Duarte, 3504-509 Viseu, Portugal
| | - Miguel Alpalhão
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-035 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Mónica Silva
- Centro Hospitalar Barreiro Montijo, Avenida Movimento das Forças Armadas, 2834-003 Barreiro, Portugal
| | - Rita Ferraz
- Centro Hospitalar do Tâmega e Sousa, Avenida do Hospital Padre Américo, N° 210, Guilhufe, 4560-136 Penafiel, Portugal;
| | - Rui Soares
- Instituto Português de Oncologia de Coimbra Francisco Gentil, Avenida Bissaya Barreto N° 98, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Salomão Fernandes
- Hospital Beatriz Ângelo, Avenida Carlos Teixeira, N° 3, 2674-514 Loures, Portugal
| | - Samuel Llobet
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, 1649-035 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Sofia Cruz
- Hospital de Vila Franca de Xira, Estrada Carlos Lima Costa N°2, 2600-009 Vila Franca de Xira, Portugal
| | - Teresa Guimarães
- Unidade Local de Saúde do Nordeste, Avenida Abade de Baçal, 5301-852 Bragança, Portugal
| | - Tiago Branco
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Algarve, Rua Leão Penedo, 8000-386 Faro, Portugal
| | - Tomás Robalo-Nunes
- Hospital Garcia de Orta, Avenida Torrado da Silva, 2805-267 Almada, Portugal
| | - Vasco Almeida
- Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Lisboa Central, Rua José António Serrano, 1150-199 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Carla Maia
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira N°100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal; (R.R.); (C.C.)
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health (LA-REAL), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Rua da Junqueira N°100, 1349-008 Lisboa, Portugal
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10
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Winge T, Perry B, Matheeussen A, Caljon G, Wünsch B. Late-Stage Diversification of Pyrazoles as Antileishmanial Agents. ChemMedChem 2024; 19:e202400028. [PMID: 38289147 DOI: 10.1002/cmdc.202400028] [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: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
N-Pyrazolylcarboxamides and N-pyrazolylureas represent promising lead compounds for the development of novel antileishmanial drugs. Herein, we report the late-stage diversification of 3-bromopyrazoles 10 A/B and 14 A by Pd-catalyzed Sonogashira and Suzuki-Miyaura cross coupling reactions. The electron-withdrawing properties of the cyano moiety in 4-position of the pyrazole ring limited the acylation of the primary amino moiety in 5-position. A large set of pyrazoles bearing diverse aryl and alkynyl substituents in 3-position was prepared and the antileishmanial and antitrypanosomal activity was recorded. The urea 38 lacking the electron withdrawing cyano moiety in 4-position and containing the large 4-benzylpiperidinoo moiety exhibited a modest antileishmanial (IC50=19 μM) and antitrypanosomal activity (IC50=7.9 μM)). However, its considerable toxicity against the PMM and MRC-5 cells indicates low selectivity, i. e. a small gap between the desired antiparasitic activity and undesired cytotoxicity of <2- to 4-fold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Winge
- Universität Münster, Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Corrensstraße 48, D-48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Ben Perry
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, 15 chemin Camille-Vidart, 1202, Geneva, Switzerland
- current Address: Medicxi Ventures, 10 Cours de Rive, 1204, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - An Matheeussen
- University of Antwerpen, Laboratory of Microbiology, Parasitology and Hygiene (LMPH), Infla-Med Centre of Excellence, Campus CDE, S7.24, Universiteitsplein 1 B, 2610 Wilrijk-, Antwerpen
| | - Guy Caljon
- Universität Münster, Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Corrensstraße 48, D-48149, Münster, Germany
| | - Bernhard Wünsch
- Universität Münster, Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Corrensstraße 48, D-48149, Münster, Germany
- GRK 2515, Chemical biology of ion channels (Chembion), Universität Münster, Corrensstr. 48, D-48149, Münster, Germany
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11
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Maia C. Sand fly-borne diseases in Europe: epidemiological overview and potential triggers for their emergence and re-emergence. J Comp Pathol 2024; 209:6-12. [PMID: 38320331 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2024.01.001] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Phlebotomine sand flies (Diptera: Phlebotominae) are vectors of human and animal pathogens, including Leishmania species protozoan parasites and viruses of the genus Phlebovirus. In Europe, visceral zoonotic leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum, a deadly disease when left untreated, is endemic in southern countries, and dogs are the main reservoir hosts for human infection. Most phleboviruses cause asymptomatic infections or flu-like syndromes in humans, but Toscana phlebovirus can cause meningitis and encephalitis. These diseases are likely to re-emerge, posing a growing threat to public and animal health. Potential triggers include the movement of humans and dogs, increasing numbers of immunosuppressive conditions, climate change and other human-mediated environmental changes. An overview of the main epidemiological characteristics of the pathogens transmitted by sand flies in Europe and the potential triggers involved in their emergence and re-emergence are reviewed here. There is a need to implement mandatory notification of human and canine leishmaniases and human phleboviruses and coordinated epidemiological surveillance programmes at a European level, and to raise awareness among healthcare professionals and citizens about sand fly-borne diseases, following a One Health approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Maia
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Associate Laboratory in Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, Rua da Junqueira, 100, 1348-009, Lisboa, Portugal.
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12
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dos Santos JV, Medina JM, Dias Teixeira KL, Agostinho DMJ, Chorev M, Diotallevi A, Galluzzi L, Aktas BH, Gazos Lopes U. Activity of the Di-Substituted Urea-Derived Compound I-17 in Leishmania In Vitro Infections. Pathogens 2024; 13:104. [PMID: 38392842 PMCID: PMC10893125 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13020104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Protein synthesis has been a very rich target for developing drugs to control prokaryotic and eukaryotic pathogens. Despite the development of new drug formulations, treating human cutaneous and visceral Leishmaniasis still needs significant improvements due to the considerable side effects and low adherence associated with the current treatment regimen. In this work, we show that the di-substituted urea-derived compounds I-17 and 3m are effective in inhibiting the promastigote growth of different Leishmania species and reducing the macrophage intracellular load of amastigotes of the Leishmania (L.) amazonensis and L. major species, in addition to exhibiting low macrophage cytotoxicity. We also show a potential immunomodulatory effect of I-17 and 3m in infected macrophages, which exhibited increased expression of inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (NOS2) and production of Nitric Oxide (NO). Our data indicate that I-17, 3m, and their analogs may be helpful in developing new drugs for treating leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Vitorino dos Santos
- Laboratory of Molecular Parasitology, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (J.V.d.S.); (J.M.M.); (D.M.J.A.)
| | - Jorge Mansur Medina
- Laboratory of Molecular Parasitology, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (J.V.d.S.); (J.M.M.); (D.M.J.A.)
| | | | - Daniel Marcos Julio Agostinho
- Laboratory of Molecular Parasitology, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (J.V.d.S.); (J.M.M.); (D.M.J.A.)
| | - Michael Chorev
- Division of Hematology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Aurora Diotallevi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy; (A.D.)
| | - Luca Galluzzi
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy; (A.D.)
| | - Bertal Huseyin Aktas
- Division of Hematology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
| | - Ulisses Gazos Lopes
- Laboratory of Molecular Parasitology, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, Brazil; (J.V.d.S.); (J.M.M.); (D.M.J.A.)
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13
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Ghaderian E, Esboei BR, Mousavi P, Pourhajibagher M, Homayouni MM, Zeinali M. Anti-leishmanial effects of Eryngium planum and Ecbilliun elaterum methanolic extract against Leishmania major. AMB Express 2024; 14:3. [PMID: 38170375 PMCID: PMC10764691 DOI: 10.1186/s13568-023-01656-2] [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: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease, one of the most important neglected tropical diseases. Existing anti-leishmanial treatments are not effective for a long time and associated with toxic side effects so searching for a new, effective and safe alternative treatments against infectious diseases is greatly needed. This study is aimed to assess the leishmaniacidal effects of methanolic extracts of Eryngium planum (E. planum) and Ecbilliun elaterum (E. elaterum) on Leishmania major (L. major), In vitro. The selected plants were collected from northern areas of Iran. The methanolic extract from the aerial parts of plants were prepared using maceration methods. GC- Mass analysis was used to determine the compounds of the plants. Promastigotes of L. major was cultured in RPMI-1640 medium and the anti-leishmanial and cytotoxicity effects of extracts at concentrations of 100, 200, 400 and 800 µg/ml were assessed using MTT assay. The data obtained from gas chromatography revealed that α-Pinene, Caryophyllene oxide, β-Caryophyllene, Bicyclogermacrene and α-Bisabolol are the main compounds extracted from E. planum and α-Pinene, Germacrene D, Caryophyllene oxide, γ-Eudesmol and α-Bisabolol are the main components of E. elaterum. The results of MTT Assay revealed that E. planum at concentrations of 800 µg/ml after 24 h at 400 µg/ml after 48 h and the E. elaterium at concentrations of 800 µg/ml after 48 h at 400 µg/ml after 72 h had similar anti-leishmanial effects to the positive control. These results indicated that E. planum and E. elaterum are the potential sources for the discovery of novel anti-leishmanial treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erfan Ghaderian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bahman Rahimi Esboei
- Department of Parasitology, Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran Registry Center for Hydatid Cyst, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Parisa Mousavi
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniasis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Maryam Pourhajibagher
- Dental Research Center, Dentistry Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mohsen Homayouni
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Medical Parasitology, Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Zeinali
- Center for Communicable Diseases Management, Ministry of Health Treatment and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
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14
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Riebenbauer K, Czerny S, Egg M, Urban N, Kinaciyan T, Hampel A, Fidelsberger L, Karlhofer F, Porkert S, Walochnik J, Handisurya A. The changing epidemiology of human leishmaniasis in the non-endemic country of Austria between 2000 to 2021, including a congenital case. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0011875. [PMID: 38198499 PMCID: PMC10805284 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leishmaniasis is caused by infection with intracellular protozoans of the genus Leishmania. Transmission occurs predominantly by the bite of phlebotomine sandflies, other routes, including congenital transmission, are rare. The disease manifests as either cutaneous, visceral or mucosal/mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. In recent years, changes in the epidemiological pattern have been reported from Europe. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A total of 311 new and 29 published leishmaniasis cases occurring between 01/01/2000 and 12/31/2021 in Austria were collected and analyzed. These encompassed 146 cutaneous (CL), 14 visceral (VL), 4 mucosal, and 3 cases with concurrent VL and CL. In addition, asymptomatic infections, comprising 11 unspecified cases with Leishmania DNA detectable only in the blood and 162 cases with anti-Leishmania antibodies were reported. Particularly since 2016, the incidence of leishmaniasis has steadily risen, mainly attributable to increasing numbers of CL and cases with positive serology against Leishmania species, whereas the incidence of VL has slowly decreased. Analysis revealed that a shift in the causative species spectrum had occurred and that a substantial number of CL cases were caused by members of the Leishmania donovani/infantum complex. Simultaneous occurrence of VL and CL was identified in immunocompromised individuals, but also in a not yet reported case of an immunocompetent child after vertical transmission. CONCLUSIONS The incidence of leishmaniasis has risen in the recent years. The numbers are anticipated to keep rising due to increasing human mobility, including travel and forced migration, growing reservoir host populations as well as expansion and dispersal of vector species caused by climate and habitat changes, urbanization and globalization. Hence, elevated awareness for the disease, including possible transmission in previously non-endemic regions and non-vector transmission modes, support of sandfly surveillance efforts and implementation and establishment of public health interventions in a One Health approach are pivotal in the global efforts to control and reduce leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stefan Czerny
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maximilian Egg
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nikolaus Urban
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tamar Kinaciyan
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Amélie Hampel
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Luise Fidelsberger
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Franz Karlhofer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefanie Porkert
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Julia Walochnik
- Institute of Specific Prophylaxis and Tropical Medicine, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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15
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Spada E, Castelli G, Bruno F, Vitale F, La Russa F, Biondi V, Accettulli S, Migliazzo A, Rossi A, Perego R, Baggiani L, Proverbio D. FeliLeish: An Update on Feline Leishmaniosis and Factors Associated with Infection in Different Feline Populations from Italy. Pathogens 2023; 12:1351. [PMID: 38003815 PMCID: PMC10674793 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12111351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Feline leishmaniosis is a worldwide infection caused by the parasite of the genus Leishmania transmitted by sandflies. Based on the complexity of epidemiology and diagnosis of this infection, the role of cats in the epidemiology and clinical impact of disease is still under debate. By using serological and molecular methods, this study aimed to update the epidemiology of the infection in different feline populations from various areas of Italy and to study factors associated with the infection. Of 1490 cats tested, 124 (8.3%, 95% CI 6.9-9.9) were infected, 96 had only specific L. infantum IgG, 18 were only positive for parasite DNA and 10 were both IFAT and qPCR positive. Risk factors for infection were sampling in the winter season (OR = 3.2, 95% CI 2.2-4.8), originating from the Sicily region (OR = 2.0, 95% CI 1.3-3.0), male gender (OR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.1-3.2), outdoor lifestyle (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 0.9-5.6) and seropositivity for FIV antibodies (OR = 2.2, 95% CI 1.2-4.2), while sampling in the spring (OR = 0.5, 95% CI 0.3-0.7) and summer (OR = 0.3, 95% CI 0.1-0.7), and originating from the Lazio region (OR = 0.1, 95% CI 0.05-0.4) were protective factors for infection. In endemic areas, Leishmania infection should be investigated by using both serological and molecular methods and cats should be protected from sandfly bites, particularly if they are FIV infected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Spada
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy (L.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Germano Castelli
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale (IZS) della Sicilia A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (F.B.); (F.V.); (F.L.R.); (S.A.)
| | - Federica Bruno
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale (IZS) della Sicilia A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (F.B.); (F.V.); (F.L.R.); (S.A.)
| | - Fabrizio Vitale
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale (IZS) della Sicilia A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (F.B.); (F.V.); (F.L.R.); (S.A.)
| | - Francesco La Russa
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale (IZS) della Sicilia A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (F.B.); (F.V.); (F.L.R.); (S.A.)
| | - Vito Biondi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, Polo SS. Annunziata, 98122 Messina, Italy;
| | - Sara Accettulli
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Leishmaniosi (C.Re.Na.L), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale (IZS) della Sicilia A. Mirri, Via G. Marinuzzi 3, 90129 Palermo, Italy; (G.C.); (F.B.); (F.V.); (F.L.R.); (S.A.)
| | - Antonella Migliazzo
- Dipartimento di Prevenzione UOC Sanità Animale, Igiene degli Allevamenti e delle Produzioni Zootecniche, ASL Latina, 04100 Latina, Italy;
| | - Aurora Rossi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy (L.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Roberta Perego
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy (L.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Luciana Baggiani
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy (L.B.); (D.P.)
| | - Daniela Proverbio
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, Via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy (L.B.); (D.P.)
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Tunalı V, Özbilgin A. Knock, knock, knocking on Europe 's door: Threat of leishmaniasis in Europe with a focus on Turkey. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2023; 4:100150. [PMID: 37941928 PMCID: PMC10628545 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2023.100150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis epidemiology is currently undergoing substantial transformations in both Turkey and Europe, signifying potential implications for public health. This review analyzes the evolving patterns within Turkey and their potential ramifications for Europe. Within Turkey, the dynamics of leishmaniasis are undergoing noteworthy alterations, manifesting in a rise in cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) cases and the emergence of Leishmania major and Leishmania donovani. These transformations are predominantly driven by factors such as the distribution of vectors, human activities, climate fluctuations, and migration. Across Europe, particularly in countries within the Mediterranean basin, leishmaniasis is endemic, primarily attributed to Leishmania infantum. Recent evidence suggests a resurgence of the disease even in previously non-endemic areas, propelled by climate change, urbanization, and migration. The changing landscape of leishmaniasis in Turkey carries direct implications for Europe. The presence and distribution of Leishmania tropica, L. major, and L. donovani raise concerns regarding cross-border transmission. Turkey's strategic position along migration routes further compounds the risk, alongside the facilitative effects of climate change and host mobility. Embracing a One Health approach with public awareness campaigns should be a priority. To ensure the protection of public health in Europe, it is imperative to adopt a proactive approach by establishing robust surveillance mechanisms, implementing preventive measures, and cultivating collaboration with Turkey. The invaluable experience, strategic geographical location, and well-established infrastructure of Turkey make this collaboration crucial in effectively addressing the evolving dynamics of leishmaniasis and its potential impacts on Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varol Tunalı
- Celal Bayar University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Manisa, Turkey
- Eşrefpaşa Municipality Hospital, Department of Emergency Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Özbilgin
- Celal Bayar University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Parasitology, Manisa, Turkey
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