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Laboratory diagnostics for human Leishmania infections: a polymerase chain reaction-focussed review of detection and identification methods. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:412. [PMID: 36335408 PMCID: PMC9636697 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05524-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania infections span a range of clinical syndromes and impact humans from many geographic foci, but primarily the world's poorest regions. Transmitted by the bite of a female sand fly, Leishmania infections are increasing with human movement (due to international travel and war) as well as with shifts in vector habitat (due to climate change). Accurate diagnosis of the 20 or so species of Leishmania that infect humans can lead to the successful treatment of infections and, importantly, their prevention through modelling and intervention programs. A multitude of laboratory techniques for the detection of Leishmania have been developed over the past few decades, and although many have drawbacks, several of them show promise, particularly molecular methods like polymerase chain reaction. This review provides an overview of the methods available to diagnostic laboratories, from traditional techniques to the now-preferred molecular techniques, with an emphasis on polymerase chain reaction-based detection and typing methods.
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Dipeptidylcarboxypeptidase of Leishmania donovani: A potential vaccine molecule against experimental visceral leishmaniasis. Cell Immunol 2022; 375:104529. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2022.104529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic and vector-borne infectious disease that is caused by the genus Leishmania belonging to the trypanosomatid family. The protozoan parasite has a digenetic life cycle involving a mammalian host and an insect vector. Leishmaniasisis is a worldwide public health problem falling under the neglected tropical disease category, with over 90 endemic countries, and approximately 1 million new cases and 20,000 deaths annually. Leishmania infection can progress toward the development of species–specific pathologic disorders, ranging in severity from self-healing cutaneous lesions to disseminating muco-cutaneous and fatal visceral manifestations. The severity and the outcome of leishmaniasis is determined by the parasite’s antigenic epitope characteristics, the vector physiology, and most importantly, the immune response and immune status of the host. This review examines the nature of host–pathogen interaction in leishmaniasis, innate and adaptive immune responses, and various strategies that have been employed for vaccine development.
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Immunological characterization of rLdTCP1γ for its prophylactic potential against visceral leishmaniasis in hamster model. Mol Immunol 2021; 141:33-42. [PMID: 34798496 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2021.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a chronic tropical disease responsible for devastating epidemics worldwide. Though current treatment relies on drugs, the emergence of resistance, toxic side-effects, and strenuous administration has led to an ineffective remedy. Hence, vaccination remains an alternative and desirable approach for VL control. Though extensive research on anti-leishmanial vaccine candidates has been carried out in past decades, presence of an effective molecule is still missing. In the present study, we have evaluated the immunogenicity and prophylactic potential of a recombinant T-complex protein-1 gamma subunit of L. donovani (rLdTCP1γ), against VL in hamster model. The antigen exhibited in vitro stimulation of lymphoproliferative and NO response in miltefosine and amphotericin B treated hamsters depicting its immunotherapeutic/immunogenic nature. Immunization with rLdTCP1γ revealed a strong protective response against experimental VL as indicated by reduced parasite load in the spleen of immunized group compared to infected control. The immunized animals gained body weight and exhibited significant reduction in the spleen and liver weight as compared to infected controls on days 60, 90, 120 post-challenge. A substantial augmentation of cell-mediated immune response as depicted by an increased lymphocyte proliferation, nitric oxide production, DTH responses and increased levels of IgG2 was observed in rLdTCP1γ immunized hamsters. The Th1 stimulatory potential, imparted by the antigen, was found to be intensified in the presence of adjuvant Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). The efficacy was further assisted by an upregulated mRNA transcript of Th1 induced cytokines (IL-12, IFN-γ and TNFα) and downregulation of IL-4 and IL-10. The results are thus suggestive of rLdTCP1γ having the potential of a strong vaccine candidate against VL.
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Baharia RK, Tandon R, Sahasrabuddhe AA, Sundar S, Dube A. Correction: Nucleosomal Histone Proteins of L. donovani: A Combination of Recombinant H2A, H2B, H3 and H4 Proteins Were Highly Immunogenic and Offered Optimum Prophylactic Efficacy against Leishmania Challenge in Hamsters. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252177. [PMID: 34015053 PMCID: PMC8136653 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Cacheiro-Llaguno C, Parody N, Escutia MR, Carnés J. Role of Circulating Immune Complexes in the Pathogenesis of Canine Leishmaniasis: New Players in Vaccine Development. Microorganisms 2021; 9:712. [PMID: 33808383 PMCID: PMC8066116 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9040712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
During canine visceral leishmaniasis (CanL), due to Leishmania infantum (L. infantum), uncontrolled infection leads to a strong humoral immune response. As a consequence of the production of high antibody levels and the prolonged presence of parasite antigens, circulating immune complexes (CIC) are formed, which can be deposited in certain organs and tissues, inducing vasculitis, uveitis, dermatitis and especially glomerulonephritis and renal failure. A method to detect CIC and quantify their levels in serum samples from dogs infected with L. infantum has been recently described. It allowed demonstration of a correlation between CIC levels and disease severity. Thus, CIC measurement may be useful for diagnosis, assessment of disease progression and monitoring response to treatment. This is an interesting finding, considering that there remains an urgent need for identification of novel biomarkers to achieve a correct diagnosis and for optimal disease staging of dogs suffering from Leishmania infection. The objective of the present review is to shed light on the role of CIC in CanL, as well as to highlight their potential use not only as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers but also as a valuable tool in vaccine development and new immunotherapy strategies to prevent or control disease outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Jerónimo Carnés
- R&D Unit Allergy & Immunology, LETI Pharma, S.L.U., Tres Cantos, 28760 Madrid, Spain; (C.C.-L.); (N.P.); (M.R.E.)
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Guedes DC, Santiani MH, Carvalho J, Soccol CR, Minozzo JC, Machado de Ávila RA, de Moura JF, Ramos ELP, Castro GR, Chávez-Olórtegi C, Thomaz-Soccol V. In silico and in vitro Evaluation of Mimetic Peptides as Potential Antigen Candidates for Prophylaxis of Leishmaniosis. Front Chem 2021; 8:601409. [PMID: 33520931 PMCID: PMC7843434 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.601409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Antigen formulation is the main feature for the success of leishmaniosis diagnosis and vaccination, since the disease is caused by different parasite species that display particularities which determine their pathogenicity and virulence. It is desirable that the antigens are recognized by different antibodies and are immunogenic for almost all Leishmania species. To overcome this problem, we selected six potentially immunogenic peptides derived from Leishmania histones and parasite membrane molecules obtained by phage display or spot synthesis and entrapped in liposome structures. We used these peptides to immunize New Zealand rabbits and determine the immunogenic capacity of the chimeric antigen. The peptides induced the production of antibodies as a humoral immune response against L. braziliensis or L. infantum. Next, to evaluate the innate response to induce cellular activation, macrophages from the peptide mix-immunized rabbits were infected in vitro with L. braziliensis or L. infantum. The peptide mix generated the IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-4 and TGF-β that led to Th1 and Th2 cellular immune responses. Interestingly, this mix of peptides also induced high expression of iNOS. These results suggest that the mix of peptides derived from histone and parasites membrane molecules was able to mimic parasites proteins and induce cytokines important to CD4+ T cell Th1 and Th2 differentiation and effector molecule to control the parasite infection. Finally, this peptide induced an immune balance that is important to prevent immunopathological disorders, inflammatory reactions, and control the parasite infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Carbonera Guedes
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Strictu Sensu em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Manuel Hospinal Santiani
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Strictu Sensu em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Joyce Carvalho
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Strictu Sensu em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Carlos Ricardo Soccol
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Strictu Sensu em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - João Carlos Minozzo
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Strictu Sensu em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil.,Centro de Produção e Pesquisa de Imunobilógicos, Secretaria De Saúde do Estado do Paraná, Piraquara, Brazil
| | | | - Juliana Ferreira de Moura
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Strictu Sensu em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Eliezer Lucas Pires Ramos
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Strictu Sensu em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
| | - Guillermo Raul Castro
- Laboratorio de Nanobiomateriales, CINDEFI, Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP)-CONICET (CCT La Plata), La Plata, Argentina.,Max Planck Laboratory for Structural Biology, Chemistry and Molecular Biophysics of Rosario (MPLbioR, UNR-MPIbpC), Partner Laboratory of the Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry (MPIbpC, MPG), Centro de Estudios Interdisciplinarios (CEI), Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Carlos Chávez-Olórtegi
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Imunologia, Instituto de Ciência Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Vanete Thomaz-Soccol
- Programa de Pós-Graduação Strictu Sensu em Engenharia de Bioprocessos e Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Brazil
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Misra P, Tandon R, Basak T, Sengupta S, Dube A. Purified Splenic amastigotes of Leishmania donovani-Immunoproteomic approach for exploring Th1 stimulatory polyproteins. Parasite Immunol 2020; 42:e12729. [PMID: 32415855 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12729] [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: 06/10/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) represents one of the most challenging infectious diseases worldwide. The reason that once infected, patient develops immunity against Leishmania parasite has paved way to develop prophylactic vaccines against disease, but only some of these have moved ahead for clinical trials. Herein, the study to explore novel and potential vaccine candidates was extended to pathogenic form of parasite, that is, amastigote form which is less explored due to complexity of its purification process. Methods and results. Classical protocol of purification of splenic amastigotes was modified to obtain highly pure amastigotes which was confirmed by Western blotting in support with proteomics studies. Fractionation and sub-fractionation of purified splenic amastigotes revealed four sub-fractions, belonging to 97 to 68 kDa and 68 to 43 kDa ranges, which showed long-lasting protection with remarkable Th1-type cellular responses in hamsters vaccinated with these sub-fractions (LTT, NO, QRT-PCR). Further proteomics analysis, to identify and understand the precise nature and function of these protective protein sub-fractions, identified a total of 47 proteins including twenty-five hypothetical proteins/unknowns. Amastigote stage has potential Th1-stimulatory vaccine candidates, notably, among identified proteins, major were uncharacterized proteins/hypothetical proteins, which once characterized may serve as novel and potential vaccine candidates/drug targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pragya Misra
- Parasitology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Rati Tandon
- Parasitology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Trayambak Basak
- School of Basic Sciences, BioX- Center, Indian Institute of Technology-Mandi, Mandi, India
| | - Shantanu Sengupta
- CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi, India
| | - Anuradha Dube
- Parasitology Division, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
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Chimeric Vaccines Designed by Immunoinformatics-Activated Polyfunctional and Memory T Cells That Trigger Protection against Experimental Visceral Leishmaniasis. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8020252. [PMID: 32471081 PMCID: PMC7349981 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8020252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Many vaccine candidates against visceral leishmaniasis (VL) have been proposed; however, to date, none of them have been efficacious for the human or canine disease. On this basis, the design of leishmaniasis vaccines has been constantly changing, and the use of approaches to select specific epitopes seems to be crucial in this scenario. The ability to predict T cell-specific epitopes makes immunoinformatics an even more necessary approach, as in VL an efficient immune response against the parasite is triggered by T lymphocytes in response to Leishmania spp. immunogenic antigens. Moreover, the success of vaccines depends on the capacity to generate long-lasting memory and polyfunctional cells that are able to eliminate the parasite. In this sense, our study used a combination of different approaches to develop potential chimera candidate vaccines against VL. The first point was to identify the most immunogenic epitopes of Leishmania infantum proteins and construct chimeras composed of Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II epitopes. For this, we used immunoinformatics features. Following this, we validated these chimeras in a murine model in a thorough memory study and multifunctionality of T cells that contribute to a better elucidation of the immunological protective mechanisms of polyepitope vaccines (chimera A and B) using multicolor flow cytometry. Our results showed that in silico-designed chimeras can elicit polyfunctional T cells producing T helper (Th)1 cytokines, a strong immune response against Leishmania antigen, and the generation of central and effector memory T cells in the spleen cells of vaccinated animals that was able to reduce the parasite burden in this organ. These findings contribute two potential candidate vaccines against VL that can be used in further studies, and help in this complex field of vaccine development against this challenging parasite.
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Frezza V, Pinto-Díez C, Fernández G, Soto M, Martín ME, García-Sacristán A, González VM. DNA aptamers targeting Leishmania infantum H3 protein as potential diagnostic tools. Anal Chim Acta 2020; 1107:155-163. [PMID: 32200890 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2020.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a disease caused by a parasite of the genus Leishmania that affects millions of people worldwide. These parasites are characterized by the presence of a DNA-containing granule, the kinetoplastid, located in the single mitochondrion at the base of the cell's flagellum. Interestingly, these flagellates do not condense chromatin during mitosis, possibly due to the specific molecular features of their histones. Although histones are extremely conserved proteins, kinetoplastid core histone sequences diverge significantly from those of higher eukaryotes. This divergence makes kinetoplastid core histones potential diagnostic and/or therapeutic targets. Aptamers are short single-stranded nucleic acids that are able to recognize target molecules with high affinity and specificity. Their binding capacity is a consequence of the particular three-dimensional structure acquired depending on their sequence. These molecules are currently used for detection, diagnosis and therapeutic purpose. Starting from a previously obtained ssDNA aptamer population against rLiH3 protein we have isolated two individual aptamers, AptLiH3#4 and AptLiH3#10. Next, we have performed ELONA, Western blot and slot blot assays to establish aptamer specificity and affinity for LiH3 histone. In addition, ELONA assays using peptides corresponding to overlapped sequences of LiH3 were made to map the aptamers:LiH3 interaction. Finally, different assays using aptamers were performed in order to evaluate the possibility of using these aptamers as sensing molecule to recognize the endogenous protein LiH3. Our results indicate that both aptamers have high affinity and specificity for the target and are able to detect the endogenous LiH3 histone protein in promastigotes lysates. In silico analysis reveals that these two aptamers have different potential secondary structure among them, however, both of them are able to recognize the same peptide sequences present in the protein. In conclusion, our findings indicate that these aptamers could be used for LiH3 histone detection and, in consequence, as potential biosensing molecules in a diagnostic tool for leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Frezza
- Grupo de Aptámeros. Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS), Carretera de Colmenar Viejo Km.9.100, CP-28034, Madrid, Spain
| | - Celia Pinto-Díez
- Grupo de Aptámeros. Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS), Carretera de Colmenar Viejo Km.9.100, CP-28034, Madrid, Spain; Aptus Biotech SL, Av. Cardenal Herrera Oria 298, CP-28035, Madrid, Spain
| | - Gerónimo Fernández
- Aptus Biotech SL, Av. Cardenal Herrera Oria 298, CP-28035, Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Soto
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), C/ Nicolás Cabrera 1, Campus de Cantoblanco, CP-28049, Madrid, Spain
| | - M Elena Martín
- Grupo de Aptámeros. Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS), Carretera de Colmenar Viejo Km.9.100, CP-28034, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Víctor M González
- Grupo de Aptámeros. Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Hospital Universitario Ramón y Cajal (IRYCIS), Carretera de Colmenar Viejo Km.9.100, CP-28034, Madrid, Spain; Aptus Biotech SL, Av. Cardenal Herrera Oria 298, CP-28035, Madrid, Spain.
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Afrin F, Khan I, Hemeg HA. Leishmania-Host Interactions-An Epigenetic Paradigm. Front Immunol 2019; 10:492. [PMID: 30967861 PMCID: PMC6438953 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is one of the major neglected tropical diseases, for which no vaccines exist. Chemotherapy is hampered by limited efficacy coupled with development of resistance and other side effects. Leishmania parasites elude the host defensive mechanisms by modulating their surface proteins as well as dampening the host's immune responses. The parasites use the conventional RNA polymerases peculiarly under different environmental cues or pressures such as the host's milieu or the drugs. The mechanisms that restructure post-translational modifications are poorly understood but altered epigenetic histone modifications are believed to be instrumental in influencing the chromatin remodeling in the parasite. Interestingly, the parasite also modulates gene expression of the hosts, thereby hijacking or dampening the host immune response. Epigenetic factor such as DNA methylation of cytosine residues has been incriminated in silencing of macrophage-specific genes responsible for defense against these parasites. Although there is dearth of information regarding the epigenetic alterations-mediated pathogenesis in these parasites and the host, the unique epigenetic marks may represent targets for potential anti-leishmanial drug candidates. This review circumscribes the epigenetic changes during Leishmania infection, and the epigenetic modifications they enforce upon the host cells to ensure a safe haven. The non-coding micro RNAs as post-transcriptional regulators and correlates of wound healing and toll-like receptor signaling, as well as prognostic biomarkers of therapeutic failure and healing time are also explored. Finally, we highlight the recent advances on how the epigenetic perturbations may impact leishmaniasis vaccine development as biomarkers of safety and immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhat Afrin
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madina, Saudi Arabia
| | - Inbesat Khan
- Rajiv Gandhi Technical University, Bhopal, India
| | - Hassan A Hemeg
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Taibah University, Madina, Saudi Arabia
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Samarasinghe SR, Samaranayake N, Kariyawasam UL, Siriwardana YD, Imamura H, Karunaweera ND. Genomic insights into virulence mechanisms of Leishmania donovani: evidence from an atypical strain. BMC Genomics 2018; 19:843. [PMID: 30486770 PMCID: PMC6262978 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-018-5271-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease with diverse clinical phenotypes, determined by parasite, host and vector interactions. Despite the advances in molecular biology and the availability of more Leishmania genome references in recent years, the association between parasite species and distinct clinical phenotypes remains poorly understood. We present a genomic comparison of an atypical variant of Leishmania donovani from a South Asian focus, where it mostly causes cutaneous form of leishmaniasis. Results Clinical isolates from six cutaneous leishmaniasis patients (CL-SL); 2 of whom were poor responders to antimony (CL-PR), and two visceral leishmaniasis patients (VL-SL) were sequenced on an Illumina MiSeq platform. Chromosome aneuploidy was observed in both groups but was more frequent in CL-SL. 248 genes differed by 2 fold or more in copy number among the two groups. Genes involved in amino acid use (LdBPK_271940) and energy metabolism (LdBPK_271950), predominated the VL-SL group with the same distribution pattern reflected in gene tandem arrays. Genes encoding amastins were present in higher copy numbers in VL-SL and CL-PR as well as being among predicted pseudogenes in CL-SL. Both chromosome and SNP profiles showed CL-SL and VL-SL to form two distinct groups. While expected heterozygosity was much higher in VL-SL, SNP allele frequency patterns did not suggest potential recent recombination breakpoints. The SNP/indel profile obtained using the more recently generated PacBio sequence did not vary markedly from that based on the standard LdBPK282A1 reference. Several genes previously associated with resistance to antimonials were observed in higher copy numbers in the analysis of CL-PR. H-locus amplification was seen in one cutaneous isolate which however did not belong to the CL-PR group. Conclusions The data presented suggests that intra species variations at chromosome and gene level are more likely to influence differences in tropism as well as response to treatment, and contributes to greater understanding of parasite molecular mechanisms underpinning these differences. These findings should be substantiated with a larger sample number and expression/functional studies. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-5271-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumudu R Samarasinghe
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Nilakshi Samaranayake
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Udeshika L Kariyawasam
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Yamuna D Siriwardana
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Hideo Imamura
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Nadira D Karunaweera
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka.
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Iborra S, Solana JC, Requena JM, Soto M. Vaccine candidates against leishmania under current research. Expert Rev Vaccines 2018; 17:323-334. [PMID: 29589966 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2018.1459191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The search for vaccines to prevent human leishmaniasis is an active field of investigation aimed to prevent the devastating effects of this family of diseases on human health. The design and commercialization of several vaccines against canine leishmaniasis is a hopeful advance toward the achievement of a human vaccine. AREAS COVERED This review includes a summary of the most relevant immunological aspects accompanying leishmaniasis in natural hosts as well as a description of the latest advances in the multiple strategies that are being followed to develop leishmanial prophylactic vaccines. We have combined citations of the latest specialized reviews with research articles presenting the most recent results. EXPERT COMMENTARY Achieving safe, effective, durable and low-cost prophylactic vaccines against leishmaniasis is still a major challenge. These vaccines should control not only parasite progression, but also the accompanying pathology, which results from an imbalanced interaction between the infectious agent and the human host immune system. Different strategies for development of vaccines are currently under investigation. They range from the use of live non-pathogenic vectors to the employment of subunit vaccines combined with adjuvants and/or delivery systems inducing cell-mediated immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvador Iborra
- a Department of Vascular Biology and Inflammation Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC) , Immunobiology of Inflammation Laboratory , Madrid , Spain.,b School of Medicine , Universidad Complutense de Madrid , Madrid , Spain
| | - José Carlos Solana
- c Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular, Nicolás Cabrera 1 , Universidad Autónoma de Madrid , Madrid , Spain
| | - José María Requena
- c Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular, Nicolás Cabrera 1 , Universidad Autónoma de Madrid , Madrid , Spain
| | - Manuel Soto
- c Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular, Nicolás Cabrera 1 , Universidad Autónoma de Madrid , Madrid , Spain
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Garde E, Ramírez L, Corvo L, Solana JC, Martín ME, González VM, Gómez-Nieto C, Barral A, Barral-Netto M, Requena JM, Iborra S, Soto M. Analysis of the Antigenic and Prophylactic Properties of the Leishmania Translation Initiation Factors eIF2 and eIF2B in Natural and Experimental Leishmaniasis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2018; 8:112. [PMID: 29675401 PMCID: PMC5895769 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2018.00112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Different members of intracellular protein families are recognized by the immune system of the vertebrate host infected by parasites of the genus Leishmania. Here, we have analyzed the antigenic and immunogenic properties of the Leishmania eIF2 and eIF2B translation initiation factors. An in silico search in Leishmania infantum sequence databases allowed the identification of the genes encoding the α, β, and γ subunits and the α, β, and δ subunits of the putative Leishmania orthologs of the eukaryotic initiation factors F2 (LieIF2) or F2B (LieIF2B), respectively. The antigenicity of these factors was analyzed by ELISA using recombinant versions of the different subunits. Antibodies against the different LieIF2 and LieIF2B subunits were found in the sera from human and canine visceral leishmaniasis patients, and also in the sera from hamsters experimentally infected with L. infantum. In L. infantum (BALB/c) and Leishmania major (BALB/c or C57BL/6) challenged mice, a moderate humoral response against these protein factors was detected. Remarkably, these proteins elicited an IL-10 production by splenocytes derived from infected mice independently of the Leishmania species employed for experimental challenge. When DNA vaccines based on the expression of the LieIF2 or LieIF2B subunit encoding genes were administered in mice, an antigen-specific secretion of IFN-γ and IL-10 cytokines was observed. Furthermore, a partial protection against murine CL development due to L. major infection was generated in the vaccinated mice. Also, in this work we show that the LieIF2α subunit and the LieIF2Bβ and δ subunits have the capacity to stimulate IL-10 secretion by spleen cells from naïve mice. B-lymphocytes were identified as the major producers of this anti-inflammatory cytokine. Taking into account the data found in this study, it may be hypothesized that these proteins act as virulence factors implicated in the induction of humoral responses as well as in the production of the down-regulatory IL-10 cytokine, favoring a pathological outcome. Therefore, these proteins might be considered markers of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Garde
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Ramírez
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Corvo
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - José C. Solana
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - M. Elena Martín
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Víctor M. González
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Gómez-Nieto
- Parasitology Unit, LeishmanCeres Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Aldina Barral
- Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-FIOCRUZ, Salvador, Brazil
| | - Manoel Barral-Netto
- Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-FIOCRUZ, Salvador, Brazil
| | - José M. Requena
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
| | - Salvador Iborra
- Immunobiology of Inflammation Laboratory, Department of Vascular Biology and Inflammation, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute (imas12), Ciudad Universitaria, Madrid, Spain
- *Correspondence: Salvador Iborra
| | - Manuel Soto
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias, Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), Madrid, Spain
- Manuel Soto
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15
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Skin vaccination using microneedles coated with a plasmid DNA cocktail encoding nucleosomal histones of Leishmania spp. Int J Pharm 2017; 533:236-244. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2017.09.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2017] [Revised: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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16
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Molecular, biochemical characterization and assessment of immunogenic potential of cofactor-independent phosphoglycerate mutase against Leishmania donovani: a step towards exploring novel vaccine candidate. Parasitology 2017; 145:508-526. [PMID: 28691653 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182017001160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Despite immense efforts, vaccine against visceral leishmaniasis has yet not been developed. Earlier our proteomic study revealed a novel protein, cofactor-independent phoshoglycerate mutase (LdiPGAM), an important enzyme in glucose metabolism, in T helper cells type 1 (Th1) stimulatory region of soluble Leishmania donovani antigen. In this study, LdiPGAM was biochemically and molecularly characterized and evaluated for its immunogenicity and prophylactic efficacy against L. donovani. Immunogenicity of recombinant LdiPGAM (rLdiPGAM) was initially assessed in naïve hamsters immunized with it by analysing mRNA expression of inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase (iNOS) and other Th1/T helper cells type 2 cytokines, which revealed an upregulation of Th1 cytokines along with iNOS. Immunogenicity of rLdiPGAM was further evaluated in lymphocytes of treated Leishmania-infected hamsters and peripheral blood mononuclear cells of Leishmania patients in clinical remission by various parameters, viz. lymphoproliferation assay and NO production (hamsters and patients) and levels of various cytokines (patients). rLdiPGAM induced remarkable Lymphoproliferative response and NO production in treated Leishmania-infected hamsters as well as in patients and increase in interferon gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin-12 (IL-12p40) responses in Leishmania patients in clinical remission. Vaccination with rLdiPGAM exerted considerable prophylactic efficacy (73%) supported by increase in mRNA expression of iNOS, IFN-γ and IL-12p40 with decrease in transforming growth factor beta and interleukin-10. Above results indicate the importance of rLdiPGAM protein as a potential vaccine candidate against visceral leishmaniasis.
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Jordania da Silva V, Dias SRC, Maioli TU, Serafim LR, Furtado LFV, Quintão Silva MDG, Faria AMCD, Rabelo ÉML. Obesity induction in hamster that mimics the human clinical condition. Exp Anim 2017; 66:235-244. [PMID: 28367889 PMCID: PMC5543244 DOI: 10.1538/expanim.17-0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Although obesity is well established in hamsters, studies using diets with high levels of
simple carbohydrate associated with lipids are necessary to assess the impact of this type
of food in the body. In this study a high sugar and butter diet (HSB) and high temperature
were employed towards this end. Obesity was successfully induced at a temperature of
30.3°C to 30.9°C after 38 days feeding the animals an HSB diet. It was shown that although
diet is important for the induction of obesity, temperature is also essential because at a
temperature slightly below the one required, obesity was not induced, even when the
animals were fed for a longer period (150 days).The obese clinical condition was
accompanied by biochemical and hematological changes, as increased cholesterol and
triglyceride levels and increased leukocyte numbers, similar to alterations observed in
obese humans. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that increasing the intake of simple
carbohydrates associated with lipids provided evidence of inflammation in obese
animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivian Jordania da Silva
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Parasitology Department, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais. Antônio Carlos Ave, 6627, Pampulha. CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.,Center University UNA, Guajajaras St, 175, Center. CEP 30180-100, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Sílvia Regina Costa Dias
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Parasitology Department, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais. Antônio Carlos Ave, 6627, Pampulha. CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.,Center University Estácio Juiz de Fora, Av. Presidente João Goulart, 600, Cruzeiro do Sul. CEP 36030-900. Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Tatiani Uceli Maioli
- Nutrition Department, Nursering School, Federal University of Minas Gerais. Alfredo Balena Ave, 190, Santa Efigênia, CEP 30130-100
| | - Luciana Ribeiro Serafim
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Parasitology Department, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais. Antônio Carlos Ave, 6627, Pampulha. CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Luis Fernando Viana Furtado
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Parasitology Department, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais. Antônio Carlos Ave, 6627, Pampulha. CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Maria Caetano de Faria
- Biochemistry and Immunology Department, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Antônio Carlos Ave, 6627, Pampulha. CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Élida Mara Leite Rabelo
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Parasitology Department, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Minas Gerais. Antônio Carlos Ave, 6627, Pampulha. CEP 31270-901, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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18
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Soto M, Corvo L, Garde E, Ramírez L, Iniesta V, Bonay P, Gómez-Nieto C, González VM, Martín ME, Alonso C, Coelho EAF, Barral A, Barral-Netto M, Iborra S. Coadministration of the Three Antigenic Leishmania infantum Poly (A) Binding Proteins as a DNA Vaccine Induces Protection against Leishmania major Infection in BALB/c Mice. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0003751. [PMID: 25955652 PMCID: PMC4425485 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/11/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Highly conserved intracellular proteins from Leishmania have been described as antigens in natural and experimental infected mammals. The present study aimed to evaluate the antigenicity and prophylactic properties of the Leishmania infantum Poly (A) binding proteins (LiPABPs). METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Three different members of the LiPABP family have been described. Recombinant tools based on these proteins were constructed: recombinant proteins and DNA vaccines. The three recombinant proteins were employed for coating ELISA plates. Sera from human and canine patients of visceral leishmaniasis and human patients of mucosal leishmaniasis recognized the three LiPABPs. In addition, the protective efficacy of a DNA vaccine based on the combination of the three Leishmania PABPs has been tested in a model of progressive murine leishmaniasis: BALB/c mice infected with Leishmania major. The induction of a Th1-like response against the LiPABP family by genetic vaccination was able to down-regulate the IL-10 predominant responses elicited by parasite LiPABPs after infection in this murine model. This modulation resulted in a partial protection against L. major infection. LiPABP vaccinated mice showed a reduction on the pathology that was accompanied by a decrease in parasite burdens, in antibody titers against Leishmania antigens and in the IL-4 and IL-10 parasite-specific mediated responses in comparison to control mice groups immunized with saline or with the non-recombinant plasmid. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE The results presented here demonstrate for the first time the prophylactic properties of a new family of Leishmania antigenic intracellular proteins, the LiPABPs. The redirection of the immune response elicited against the LiPABP family (from IL-10 towards IFN-γ mediated responses) by genetic vaccination was able to induce a partial protection against the development of the disease in a highly susceptible murine model of leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Soto
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail: (MS); (SI)
| | - Laura Corvo
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Esther Garde
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Ramírez
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Virginia Iniesta
- LeishmanCeres Laboratory (GLP Compliance Certified), Parasitology Unit. Veterinary Faculty, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Pedro Bonay
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Gómez-Nieto
- LeishmanCeres Laboratory (GLP Compliance Certified), Parasitology Unit. Veterinary Faculty, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
| | - Víctor M. González
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | - M. Elena Martín
- Departamento de Bioquímica-Investigación, Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS), Hospital Ramón y Cajal, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Alonso
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo A. F. Coelho
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências da Saúde: Infectologia e Medicina Tropical, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Departamento de Patologia Clínica, COLTEC, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Aldina Barral
- Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz (Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-FIOCRUZ), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Manoel Barral-Netto
- Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz (Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-FIOCRUZ), Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Salvador Iborra
- Immunobiology of Inflammation Laboratory, Department of Vascular Biology and Inflammation, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Cardiovasculares (CNIC), Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail: (MS); (SI)
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19
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Pereira L, Abbehusen M, Teixeira C, Cunha J, Nascimento IP, Fukutani K, dos-Santos W, Barral A, de Oliveira CI, Barral-Netto M, Soto M, Brodskyn CI. Vaccination with Leishmania infantum acidic ribosomal P0 but not with nucleosomal histones proteins controls Leishmania infantum infection in hamsters. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0003490. [PMID: 25642946 PMCID: PMC4313940 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/18/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Several intracellular Leishmania antigens have been identified in order to find a potential vaccine capable of conferring long lasting protection against Leishmania infection. Histones and Acid Ribosomal proteins are already known to induce an effective immune response and have successfully been tested in the cutaneous leishmaniasis mouse model. Here, we investigate the protective ability of L. infantum nucleosomal histones (HIS) and ribosomal acidic protein P0 (LiP0) against L. infantum infection in the hamster model of visceral leishmaniasis using two different strategies: homologous (plasmid DNA only) or heterologous immunization (plasmid DNA plus recombinant protein and adjuvant). Methodology/Principal Findings Immunization with both antigens using the heterologous strategy presented a high antibody production level while the homologous strategy immunized group showed predominantly a cellular immune response with parasite load reduction. The pcDNA-LiP0 immunized group showed increased expression ratio of IFN-γ/IL-10 and IFN-γ/TGF-β in the lymph nodes before challenge. Two months after infection hamsters immunized with the empty plasmid presented a pro-inflammatory immune response in the early stages of infection with increased expression ratio of IFN-γ/IL-10 and IFN-γ/TGF-β, whereas hamsters immunized with pcDNA-HIS presented an increase only in the ratio IFN-γ/ TGF-β. On the other hand, hamsters immunized with LiP0 did not present any increase in the IFN-γ/TGF-β and IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio independently of the immunization strategy used. Conversely, five months after infection, hamsters immunized with HIS maintained a pro-inflammatory immune response (ratio IFN-γ/ IL-10) while pcDNA-LiP0 immunized hamsters continued showing a balanced cytokine profile of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover we observed a significant reduction in parasite load in the spleen, liver and lymph node in this group compared with controls. Conclusions/Significance Our results suggest that vaccination with L. infantum LiP0 antigen administered in a DNA formulation could be considered a potential component in a vaccine formulation against visceral leishmaniasis. Visceral leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum is the most severe form of leishmaniasis. The disease is fatal if not treated and there is no vaccine available for human use. In the search for potential antigens, the protective ability of conserved parasite protein families such as L. infantum histones (HIS) and acidic ribosomal (LiP0) antigens were successfully tested in the mouse model of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Here, we evaluate HIS and LiP0 antigens using two different immunization strategies in the hamster model of visceral leishmaniasis. Hamsters are highly susceptible to L. infantum infection and we demonstrate that immunization with LiP0, but not HIS, protects against the fatal outcome of visceral leishmaniasis. Immunization with LiP0 was able to induce an increased expression of IFN-γ in detriment of IL-10 and TGF-β in the draining lymph node before infection creating an inhospitable environment for parasite growth. Following challenge, a reduced parasite load in the lymph node, spleen and liver of LiP0 immunized hamsters was detected five months after challenge. These findings suggest that LiP0 used in a DNA formulation could be considered a potential component in a vaccine formulation against visceral leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lais Pereira
- Centro de Pesquisa Gonçalo Moniz, FIOCRUZ-BA, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | | | - Jurema Cunha
- Centro de Pesquisa Gonçalo Moniz, FIOCRUZ-BA, Bahia, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Aldina Barral
- Centro de Pesquisa Gonçalo Moniz, FIOCRUZ-BA, Bahia, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Bahia, Brazil
- Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Camila Indiani de Oliveira
- Centro de Pesquisa Gonçalo Moniz, FIOCRUZ-BA, Bahia, Brazil
- Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Manoel Barral-Netto
- Centro de Pesquisa Gonçalo Moniz, FIOCRUZ-BA, Bahia, Brazil
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Bahia, Brazil
- Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Manoel Soto
- Centro de Biología Molecular "Severo Ochoa," Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cláudia Ida Brodskyn
- Centro de Pesquisa Gonçalo Moniz, FIOCRUZ-BA, Bahia, Brazil
- Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Bahia, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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