MCP-1, KC-like and IL-8 as critical mediators of pathogenesis caused by Babesia canis

KC-like chemokine as a biomarker of sepsis in dogs with pyometra

BACKGROUND

Sepsis, defined as a dysregulated inflammatory response to infection inducing organ dysfunction, is a common cause of mortality in both humans and animals. Early detection and treatment is essential for survival, but accurate diagnosis is challenging due to the lack of specific biomarkers for sepsis. This study explored the potential of the keratinocyte-derived chemokine (KC)-like protein in dogs as a biomarker of sepsis in dogs with bacterial uterine infection (pyometra). The aim was to compare KC-like concentrations in dogs with pyometra with or without sepsis and to assess associations between KC-like and clinical variables, including days of hospitalization as an outcome.

RESULTS

A mouse KC ELISA was validated and used to determine the concentrations of KC-like in serum from 34 dogs with pyometra and 18 healthy controls. Dogs with pyometra were classified as having sepsis based on two different criteria for systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), resulting in 74% and 30% sepsis-positive, respectively. The concentration of KC-like protein was higher in pyometra dogs with sepsis than in pyometra dogs without sepsis (p < 0.05) and in healthy controls (p < 0.0001) when using either of the two SIRS criteria. Moreover, KC-like was slightly increased in dogs with pyometra without sepsis compared with healthy controls when using the more stringent SIRS criteria (p < 0.05). Analyses of all dogs showed that KC-like concentrations correlated positively with hospitalization days, C-reactive protein (CRP) concentrations, white blood cells, and percentage of band neutrophils; however, KC-like correlated negatively with hemoglobin and did not correlate with circulating creatinine.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that circulating KC-like protein increases in dogs with sepsis in pyometra and that KC-like is associated with more severe clinical illness. These findings support a potential role of KC-like as a biomarker of sepsis; however, the true identity of KC-like in dogs has yet to be uncovered.

Serum and urinary monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 as markers of inflammation and renal damage in dogs with naturally occurring leishmaniosis

BACKGROUND

Renal disease in canine leishmaniosis is of great importance owing to increased risk of mortality. In human visceral leishmaniosis, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) has been used as a marker of renal damage and inflammation. The purpose of this study was first to determine the serum MCP-1 and urinary MCP-1-to-creatinine ratio (uMCP-1/Cr) in healthy dogs and dogs with leishmaniosis at diagnosis, and second to determine whether these markers can differentiate disease severity at diagnosis.

METHODS

In total, 19 healthy seronegative dogs and 38 dogs with leishmaniosis were included in the study. Dogs with leishmaniosis were classified as LeishVet clinical staging and as International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) staging. Serum and urinary MCP-1 concentrations were measured with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve determined disease severity at diagnosis between two LeishVet groups (Stage II versus stage III and IV).

RESULTS

Dogs in Leishvet stages IIb, III, and IV had a median serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr concentration higher than healthy dogs (P < 0.0001). No statistical differences were found in serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr between dogs in LeishVet stage IIa and healthy dogs. The dogs in LeishVet stage IV had significantly higher serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr compared with the dogs in LeishVet stage IIa (P < 0.0001). Serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1 were significantly higher in dogs in IRIS stage I and II + III + IV compared with healthy dogs. Dogs stage II + III + IV of IRIS had a significantly higher serum MCP-1 compared with dogs in IRIS stage I (P < 0.0001). The area under the ROC curve for serum MCP-1 was 0.78 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.64-0.93] and for uMCP-1/Cr it was 0.86 (95% CI, 0.74-0.99). The optimal cutoff value for serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr was 336.85 pg/ml (sensitivity of 79% and specificity of 68%) and 6.89 × 10-7 (sensitivity of 84% and specificity of 79%), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr are increased in dogs with leishmaniosis compared with healthy dogs, suggesting the presence of inflammation and renal injury. Serum MCP-1 and uMCP-1/Cr were more elevated in the advanced stages of the disease compared with the moderate stages and, therefore, can be markers of the severity of the disease process.

Diagnostic efficacy of urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and kidney injury molecule-1 for early detection of acute kidney injury in dogs with leptospirosis or babesiosis

This study evaluates the diagnostic efficacy of urinary biomarkers, Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin (uNGAL), and Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (uKIM-1), in identifying Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in dogs affected with leptospirosis or babesiosis. Acute kidney injury was diagnosed based on the increase in serum creatinine levels above 0.3 mg/dL within 48 h and dogs were categorized according to AKI grades based on International Renal Interest Society guidelines. Traditional biomarkers (serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen) and novel biomarkers like urinary NGAL and urinary KIM-1 levels were measured and compared to concentrations obtained in control dogs. Statistical analysis assessed significant differences (P < 0.01) across AKI grades, specifically noting elevated urinary NGAL and KIM-1 in IRIS grade I AKI (P < 0.001). The study highlights the diagnostic significance of urinary NGAL and KIM-1 as early indicators of renal damage, particularly valuable in non-azotemic AKI cases, offering promising markers for early AKI diagnosis in veterinary clinical settings. These biomarkers demonstrate clinical utility and underscore their potential for improving AKI management in veterinary medicine. Further validation studies involving larger cohorts and diverse etiologies of AKI are needed to confirm the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of urinary NGAL and KIM-1 in veterinary practice.

Successful Transmammary Treatment of Babesia gibsoni Infection in Newborn Puppies after the Administration of Malarone®, Azithromycin, and Artesunate to a Lactating Dam

Babesia gibsoni is a parasitic protozoan transmitted through tick bites and can cause severe disease in dogs. It can also be transmitted through direct contact with infected blood during dog fights, blood transfusions, and from dam to offspring during the perinatal period, resulting in stillborn or dead newborn puppies. This study aimed to determine the incidence of infection, the viability of newborn puppies, and the degree of B. gibsoni transmission from infected dam to offspring during pregnancy and lactation. Using PCR-based molecular methods, B. gibsoni infection in a pregnant American Pit Bull Terrier and her newborn puppies was confirmed. The incidence of B. gibsoni infection in the litter reached 75%. Out of eight puppies, six were infected with B. gibsoni, and one died. A therapeutic protocol comprising Malarone®, azithromycin, and artesunate was administered to a lactating B. gibsoni-positive bitch. By day 77 after birth, three out of five positive puppies showed negative PCR tests for B. gibsoni, indicating successful treatment through breast milk during nursing. In the two remaining positive puppies, therapy was started and parasitemia was successfully eliminated.

The Diverse Pathogenicity of Various Babesia Parasite Species That Infect Dogs

Babesia species infect a very wide range of mammal hosts across the globe, and zoonotic infections are of growing concern. Several species of the Babesia genus infect dogs, and some of these cause significant morbidity and mortality. The Apicomplexan parasite resides within the red cell and infections result in direct damage to the host through intra- and extravascular hemolysis. An exuberant inflammatory response by the host to some species of Babesia parasites also results in significant collateral damage to the host. Canine infections have been the subject of many studies as the well-being of these companion animals is increasingly threatened by the spread of tick vectors and an increasingly mobile dog population. There are currently no widely available and effective vaccines, and effective treatment can be challenging. Understanding disease pathogenesis underlies the development of new treatments. The varying pathogenicity of the various Babesia parasite species that infect dogs offers an opportunity to explore the molecular basis for the wide range of diseases caused by infection with this parasite genus. In this review, we focus on what has been reported about the clinical presentation of Babesia-infected dogs in an attempt to compare the severity of disease caused by different Babesia species.

Investigation of comorbidities in dogs with leishmaniosis due to Leishmania infantum

In endemic areas, dogs with leishmaniosis due to Leishmania infantum frequently have comorbidities, including mostly neoplastic, infectious, and parasitic diseases. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of comorbidities among dogs that are not infected by L. infantum, dogs that are infected but do not present leishmaniosis, and dogs with leishmaniosis, and to examine if certain comorbidities are independent risk factors for the infection by L. infantum and/or for the development of canine leishmaniosis (CanL). A total of 111 dogs, older than 1-year and non-vaccinated against CanL, were allocated into three groups: group A (n = 18) included dogs that were not infected by L. infantum, group B (n = 52) included dogs that were infected by L. infantum but did not present CanL, and group C (n = 41) included dogs with CanL. Signalment and historical data were obtained using a structured questionnaire. Laboratory examinations included complete blood count, serum biochemistry, urinalysis, fecal parasitology, modified Knott's test, microscopic examination of capillary blood, buffy coat, lymph node, bone marrow and conjunctival smears, qualitative serology for Dirofilaria immitis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum/A. platys, Borrelia burgdorferi and E. canis, IFAT for L. infantum, ELISA for Babesia spp. and Neospora caninum, and real-time PCR for L. infantum in bone marrow, skin biopsies and conjunctival swabs. A variety of comorbidities were found in all three groups. No independent risk factors for infection by L. infantum were found. On the contrary, among dogs infected by L. infantum, being a mongrel [odds ratio (OR): 11.2], not receiving prevention for dirofilariosis (OR: 26.5) and being seropositive to N. caninum (OR: 17.1) or to Babesia spp. (OR: 37.6), were independent risk factors for presenting CanL. Although no comorbidities influence the probability of canine infection by L. infantum, certain comorbidities may be precipitating factors for the transition from the subclinical infection by L. infantum to the overt CanL.

Evaluation of Host Constitutive and Ex Vivo Coccidioidal Antigen-Stimulated Immune Response in Dogs with Naturally Acquired Coccidioidomycosis

The early innate immune response to coccidioidomycosis has proven to be pivotal in directing the adaptive immune response and disease outcome in mice and humans but is unexplored in dogs. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the innate immune profile of dogs with coccidioidomycosis and determine if differences exist based on the extent of infection (i.e., pulmonary or disseminated). A total of 28 dogs with coccidioidomycosis (pulmonary, n = 16; disseminated, n = 12) and 10 seronegative healthy controls were enrolled. Immunologic testing was performed immediately, without ex vivo incubation (i.e., constitutive), and after coccidioidal antigen stimulation of whole blood cultures. Whole blood cultures were incubated with a phosphate-buffered solution (PBS) (negative control) or a coccidioidal antigen (rCTS1 (105-310); 10 µg/mL) for 24 h. A validated canine-specific multiplex bead-based assay was used to measure 12 cytokines in plasma and cell culture supernatant. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) was measured with an ELISA assay. Leukocyte expression of toll-like receptors (TLRs)2 and TLR4 was measured using flow cytometry. Dogs with coccidioidomycosis had higher constitutive plasma keratinocyte chemotactic (KC)-like concentrations (p = 0.02) and serum CRP concentrations compared to controls (p < 0.001). Moreover, dogs with pulmonary coccidioidomycosis had higher serum CRP concentrations than those with dissemination (p = 0.001). Peripheral blood leukocytes from dogs with coccidioidomycosis produced higher concentrations of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α (p = 0.0003), interleukin (IL)-6 (p = 0.04), interferon (IFN)-γ (p = 0.03), monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 (p = 0.02), IL-10 (p = 0.02), and lower IL-8 (p = 0.003) in supernatants following coccidioidal antigen stimulation when compared to those from control dogs. There was no detectable difference between dogs with pulmonary and disseminated disease. No differences in constitutive or stimulated leukocyte TLR2 and TLR4 expression were found. These results provide information about the constitutive and coccidioidal antigen-specific stimulated immune profile in dogs with naturally acquired coccidioidomycosis.

Pathogenesis of Anemia in Canine Babesiosis: Possible Contribution of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines and Chemokines-A Review

Canine babesiosis is a tick-borne protozoan disease caused by intraerythrocytic parasites of the genus Babesia. The infection may lead to anemia in infected dogs. However, anemia is not directly caused by the pathogen. The parasite's developmental stages only have a marginal role in contributing to a decreased red blood cell (RBC) count. The main cause of anemia in affected dogs is the immune response to the infection. This response includes antibody production, erythrophagocytosis, oxidative damage of RBCs, complement activation, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Moreover, both infected and uninfected erythrocytes are retained in the spleen and sequestered in micro-vessels. All these actions are driven by pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, especially IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8. Additionally, imbalance between the actions of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines plays a role in patho-mechanisms leading to anemia in canine babesiosis. This article is a review of the studies on the pathogenesis of anemia in canine babesiosis and related diseases, such as bovine or murine babesiosis and human or murine malaria, and the role of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the mechanisms leading to anemia in infected dogs.

The dataset for the inflammatory response during experimental infection and treatment of dogs with Babesia rossi

Babesia rossi causes severe morbidity and mortality in dogs in sub-Saharan Africa. This was an experimental study designed to observe systemic changes caused by Babesia rossi infection within a canine disease model as well as investigate the influence of inoculum dose and treatment on the progression of inflammation and clinical disease. Six healthy male beagle dogs formed the study population, one dog was splenectomised and used to raise the infectious inoculum, three were administered a high B. rossi infectious dose and two a low infectious dose. Clinical examination, complete blood count (CBC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were determined daily. Cytokines were quantified on stored plasma collected during the study, using a canine specific cytokine magnetic bead panel (Milliplex©). The experiment was terminated, and treatment administered once predetermined experimental or humane endpoints were reached. The data and information provided in the following article is the summary of all data points collected over the course of the eight-day experimental infection.

Serum inflammatory cytokines as disease biomarkers in the DE50-MD dog model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal muscle-wasting disease, caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene, characterised by cycles of muscle degeneration, inflammation and regeneration. Recently, there has been renewed interest specifically in drugs that ameliorate muscle inflammation in DMD patients. The DE50-MD dog is a model of DMD that closely mimics the human DMD phenotype. We quantified inflammatory proteins in serum from wild-type (WT) and DE50-MD dogs aged 3-18 months to identify biomarkers for future pre-clinical trials. Significantly higher concentrations of C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF or CSF2), keratinocyte chemotactic-like (KC-like, homologous to mouse CXCL1), TNFα (or TNF), and interleukins IL2, IL6, IL7, IL8 (CXCL8), IL10, IL15 and IL18 were detected in DE50-MD serum compared to WT serum. Of these, CCL2 best differentiated the two genotypes. The relative level of CCL2 mRNA was greater in the vastus lateralis muscle of DE50-MD dogs than in that of WT dogs, and CCL2 was expressed both within and at the periphery of damaged myofibres. Serum CCL2 concentration was significantly associated with acid phosphatase staining in vastus lateralis biopsy samples in DE50-MD dogs. In conclusion, the serum cytokine profile suggests that inflammation is a feature of the DE50-MD phenotype. Quantification of serum CCL2 in particular is a useful non-invasive biomarker of the DE50-MD phenotype.

Immune and Genomic Analysis of Boxer Dog Breed and Its Relationship with Leishmania infantum Infection

Simple Summary

Leishmaniosis is a zoonotic disease, endemic in 88 countries, including those from the Mediterranean region. Several authors indicate differences in susceptibility and resistance to leishmaniosis in different canine breeds, with boxer being one of the breeds with a higher prevalence of the disease. This study analyzes the serum profiles of cytokines related to the immune response, together with the screening of genomic variants fixed in boxer breed samples, to understand their differential susceptibility to L. infantum infection. The results of this study indicate new pathways related to L. infantum infection and immune response in boxers, involving genes related to interleukin and toll-like receptors, as well as to the immune system and the regulation of expression. Future studies are required to elucidate the role of specific genes in the L. infantum infection mechanism in this canine breed.

Abstract

Leishmaniosis, one of the most important zoonoses in Europe, is caused by Leishmania infantum, an intracellular protozoan parasite. This disease is endemic in the Mediterranean area, where the main reservoir is the dog. Several studies indicate a possible susceptibility to L. infantum infection with clinical signs in some canine breeds. One of them is the boxer breed, which shows a high prevalence of disease. In this study, immunological and genomic characterization of serum samples from boxer dogs living in the Mediterranean area were evaluated to analyze the immune response and the possible genetic explanation for this susceptibility. Serum levels of cytokines IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-18 were determined by ELISA commercial tests, while the genotyping study was performed using the CanineHD DNA Analysis BeadChip. The results show relevant differences in the serum levels of cytokines compared to published data on other canine breeds, as well as sequence changes that could explain the high susceptibility of the boxer breed to the disease. Concretely, polymorphic variants in the CIITA, HSF2BP, LTBP1, MITF, NOXA1, PKIB, RAB38, RASEF, TLE1, and TLR4 genes were found, which could explain the susceptibility of this breed to L. infantum infection.

Allergy, inflammation, hepatopathy and coagulation biomarkers in dogs with suspected anaphylaxis due to insect envenomation

Objectives

To compare concentrations of biomarkers of; allergy [mast cell tryptase (MCT) and histamine], inflammation [interleukin (IL)-6,-10, and-18, CXCL8, CCL2, keratinocyte chemoattractant (KC), C-reactive protein (CRP)], endothelial glycocalyx shedding (hyaluronan), coagulation [prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen concentration, and von Willebrand Factor antigen, protein C (PC) and antithrombin (AT) activity], and hepatopathy [alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin] between dogs with anaphylaxis after suspected insect exposure, dogs with critical illness, and healthy dogs.

Design

This was a single center prospective clinical observational comparative biomarker study that included 25 dogs with anaphylaxis (evidence of insect exposure, acute dermatological signs, and other organ involvement), 30 dogs with other critical illness, and 20 healthy dogs. Differences across groups in biomarker concentrations were tested using one-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test, with significant P values (<0.05) reported for pairwise differences detected by post-hoc tests. Logistic regression models were used to calculate the area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) for discrimination between anaphylaxis and non-anaphylactic illness.

Results

Histamine concentration was significantly higher in the anaphylaxis group than the healthy (P < 0.001) and critically ill groups (P < 0.001), whereas no differences in MCT were detected amongst groups. Biomarker concentrations that were increased relative to healthy dogs in both the anaphylaxis and critically ill groups included IL-10 (P < 0.001 and P = 0.007, respectively), CCL2 (P = 0.007 and P < 0.001, respectively) and AST (both P < 0.001), whereas only the critically ill group had significantly increased CRP (P < 0.001), IL-6 (P < 0.001), KC (P < 0.001), ALP (P < 0.001), and fibrinogen (P = 0.016) concentrations, compared to the healthy group. Only dogs with anaphylaxis had significantly higher hyaluronan (P = 0.021) and ALT (P = 0.021) concentrations, and lower PC (P = 0.030) and AT (P = 0.032) activities, compared to healthy dogs. Both CRP and histamine concentration showed good discrimination between anaphylaxis and other critical illness, with an AUROC of 0.96 (95% CI 0.91-1) and 0.81 (95% CI 0.69-0.93), respectively.

Conclusions

This preliminary study in dogs with anaphylaxis after suspected insect exposure, found evidence of an early innate immune response, glycocalyx shedding and anticoagulant consumption. Both CRP and histamine showed potential clinical utility for differentiation between anaphylaxis and other critical illness.

Clinical and Microbiological Performances and Effects on Lipid and Cytokine Production of a Ceruminolytic Ear Cleaner in Canine Erythemato-Ceruminous Otitis Externa

Erythemato-ceruminous otitis externa (ECOE) is the most common type of otitis in dogs and is generally associated with bacterial and/or yeast infections. The performance of an ear cleaner was assessed over two weeks in canine ECOE, associated with a mild or moderate secondary infection, in a prospective open-label study. Forty ear canals with ECOE that did not receive any type of aural treatment and were not cleaned for 7 days were included. Pruritus (PS), 0−3 Otitis Index Score (OTIS-3) and 0−4 scale cytology (CYTO) scores were assessed on Day (D) 0, D7 and D14. Concentrations of a panel of 13 cytokines on the ear canal surface and the lipid profile of the exudate were measured on D0 and D14. From D0 to D12 or D13, the dogs’ ears were cleaned daily if the secretion score (SEC) was 3/3, every second day if the score was 2/3 and every third day if the score was 1/3. PS, OTIS-3, SEC and CYTO were significantly lower on D7 compared to baseline (−40%, −31%, −36%, −34%, respectively; p < 0.0001). The same parameters decreased further on D14 (−60%, −53%, −61%, −73%, respectively; p < 0.0001) and amounts of interleukin 8 and chemokine KC-like were also reduced compared to baseline (−45%, p < 0.01; −36%, p = 0.3, respectively). The lipid profile was also modified, with a decrease in free lipids and an increase in bound lipids.

Serial analysis of blood biomarker concentrations in dogs with pneumonia, septic peritonitis, and pyometra

BACKGROUND

Prolonged antimicrobial drug (AMD) treatment is associated with antimicrobial resistance development. Biomarker measurement may aid treatment decision-making.

OBJECTIVES

Investigate temporal changes in blood biomarker concentrations in dogs undergoing treatment for pulmonary and intra-abdominal infections; compare time to biomarker concentration normalization with duration of clinician-directed AMD treatment.

ANIMALS

Forty-two client-owned dogs with pneumonia (n = 22), septic peritonitis (n = 10), or pyometra (n = 10).

METHODS

Plasma concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin, procalcitonin, nucleosomes, cell-free DNA (cfDNA), high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1), CC-motif chemokine ligand-2 (CCL2), CXC-motif chemokine ligand-8 (CXCL8), and keratinocyte chemoattractant-like (KC-Like) were quantitated in samples collected on days 1, 3, 7, 14, 28, and 60. Treatment was directed by clinicians blinded to biomarker concentrations.

RESULTS

Concentrations of CCL2, CRP, and KC-Like were maximal on D1, concentrations of SAA, cfDNA, HMGB1, and nucleosomes were maximal on D3 and haptoglobin concentrations were maximal on D7. These maximal concentrations were significantly different from those on D60. Concentrations of CRP and SAA decreased by 80% from peak and into respective reference intervals before AMDs were discontinued. For CRP, the median (interquartile range [IQR]) times to 20% peak and normal were 7 (6-9) and 7 (6-12) days, respectively, and for SAA they were 4 (4, 5) and 6 (5-8) days, respectively, compared to a median (IQR) duration of AMD prescribing of 16 (12-23) days (all P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

Biomarker concentrations normalized within 7 to 14 days. Serial measurements of CRP and SAA might aid identification of disease resolution and could help guide AMD prescription decision-making.

Pioglitazone improves skeletal muscle functions in reserpine-induced fibromyalgia rat model

BACKGROUND

Fibromyalgia (FM) is characterized by musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep and memory disturbance. There is no definitive cure yet for FM-related health problems. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor's (PPAR's) activation is associated with insulin sensitisation and improved glucose metabolism. PPAR-γ was reported to alleviate FM allodynia. Limited data are discussing its effect on motor disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential effect of PPAR-γ agonists (pioglitazone, as one member of thiazolidinediones (TZD)) on motor dysfunction in reserpine-induced FM in a rat model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-six male Wistar rats were divided into negative control (n = 9) and reserpine-induced FM (n = 27) groups. The latter was subdivided into three equal subgroups (n = 9), positive control (untreated FM model), pioglitazone-treated and GW9662-treated. We evaluated muscle functions and activity of chloramphenicol acetyltransferase, superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, and serum levels of interleukin-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1.

RESULTS

Pioglitazone significantly relieved fatigue, improved muscle performance, reduced inflammatory cytokines and enhanced antioxidant's activity, while GW9662, a known PPAR-γ antagonist, aggravated the FM manifestations in the rat model.

CONCLUSION

PPAR-γ agonists show a promising role against FM-associated motor dysfunctions.

Occurrence of Babesia Species and Co-Infection with Hepatozoon canis in Symptomatic Dogs and in Their Ticks in Eastern Romania

Although the distribution of Babesia spp. and Hepatozoon canis is well known in Romania, there is still a marked lack of information in many places of the country. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of these haemoparasites in symptomatic dogs and in their ticks in Iasi, eastern Romania. Ninety owned dogs were subjected to clinical examination at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Iasi and all detectable ticks (58 ticks from 15 dogs) were collected. Additionally, 124 ticks collected from the coat of other dogs (no. = 23) were included. Three Babesia species were found in dogs: Babesia canis (94.4%), Babesia vogeli (3.3%), and Babesia rossi (2.2%). All the dogs resulted negative for H. canis. The ticks were identified as follows: Ixodes ricinus (64%), Dermacentor reticulatus (33%), and Rhipicephalus sanguineus group (3%). B. canis (Minimum Infection Rate; MIR = 81%), B. vogeli (MIR = 3%), and Babesia microti-like piroplasm (MIR = 1%) were found in ticks. Moreover, 15 ticks were positive for H. canis, 6 were co-infected with B. canis, and 1 with B. microti-like piroplasm. This is the first molecular identification of B. rossi in two symptomatic dogs from Romania, although further studies are needed to investigate the vector competence of other ticks from Europe.

Combined Untargeted and Targeted Metabolomics Approaches Reveal Urinary Changes of Amino Acids and Energy Metabolism in Canine Babesiosis With Different Levels of Kidney Function

Canine babesiosis is a tick-borne disease with a worldwide distribution, caused by the haemoprotozoan parasites of the genus Babesia. One of the most prevalent complication is acute kidney injury, and an early diagnosis of altered kidney function remains a challenge for veterinary practice. The aim of this study was to assess the urine metabolic profile from dogs with babesiosis and different degree of kidney function using untargeted and targeted MS-based metabolomics approaches. In this study, 22 dogs naturally infected with Babesia canis and 12 healthy dogs were included. Untargeted metabolomics approach identified 601 features with a differential abundance between the healthy group and groups of dogs with babesiosis and different level of kidney function, with 27 of them identified as a match to known standards; while targeted approach identified 17 metabolites with significantly different concentrations between the groups. A pattern of significantly altered metabolites referring to the inflammatory host response, oxidative stress, and energy metabolism modulation in babesiosis was presented. Our findings have demonstrated that kidney dysfunction accompanying canine babesiosis was associated with changes in amino acid metabolism, energy metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, and biochemical pathways such as urea cycle and ammonia detoxication. These findings will enable the inclusion of urinary markers for the detection and monitoring of renal damage in babesiosis, as well as in other similar diseases.

Serial serum creatinine, SDMA and urinary acute kidney injury biomarker measurements in dogs envenomated by the European adder (Vipera berus)

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with high morbidity and mortality in dogs, but diagnosis may be impaired due the insensitivity of routine renal function biomarkers to detect earlier or milder forms of injury. Snake envenomation is one of several causes of AKI in dogs and humans. Dogs are commonly envenomated by the European adder (Vipera berus) between April and October each year, but few studies exist examining serial serum creatinine (sCr) and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) measurements and AKI biomarkers in these dogs. Novel urinary biomarkers could improve clinical outcome by allowing earlier diagnosis of and intervention in AKI. The aim of this study was to assess the presence of AKI in dogs envenomated by V. berus at 12, 24 and 36 h after bite, as well as 14 days later, using sCr, SDMA and a panel of urinary AKI biomarkers normalised to urine creatinine (uCr), compared to a group of healthy control dogs.

Results

Thirty-five envenomated dogs and 35 control dogs were included. Serum creatinine did not exceed the upper reference limit at any time point in any dog after envenomation. Serum SDMA did not exceed 0.89 μmol/L in any dog. Compared to controls, urinary albumin/uCr, neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin/uCr and monocyte chemotactic protein-1/uCr were significantly elevated 12 h (P <  0.0001, P <  0.0001, P = 0.01), 24 h (P <  0.001, P <  0.001, P = 0.002) and 36 h (P <  0.001, P <  0.001, P = 0.0008) after bite. Osteopontin/uCr was higher 24 and 36 h after bite (P < 0.0001), kidney injury molecule-1/uCr, interleukin-8/uCr and γ- glutamyl transferase/uCr were significantly higher 36 h after bite (P = 0.003, P = 0.0005, P = 0.001). Urinary cystatin C/uCr was not significantly different to controls at any timepoint. Biomarker/uCr ratios were not significantly different 14 days after envenomation compared to controls.

Conclusion

Urinary biomarker/Cr ratios are indicative of mild transient, non-azotaemic AKI in dogs envenomated by V. berus.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12917-021-02851-8.

Santalum album extract exhibits neuroprotective effect against the TLR3-mediated neuroinflammatory response in human SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells

Neuroinflammation is an inflammatory response in the nervous system that is associated with various neurological diseases including Alzheimer's diseases and others. Many studies evaluated the anti-inflammatory potential of Santalum album (S. album) extract, but none of them analyzed its effects against neuroinflammatory response in vitro. In addition, the precise mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory effect of the extract has not yet been elucidated. Therefore, in this study, we investigated the effect of S. album extract on modulation of toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) agonist polyinosnic-polycytidylic acid (PolyI:C)-induced neuroinflammatory response in human neuroblastoma cells. The TLR3-mediated immune response was differentially modulated by S. album extract in SH-SY5Y cells. In addition, treatment of cells with the conditioned medium (CM) of S. album extract significantly increased the mRNA levels of IFN-β, IFN-α, MxA and OAS-1 and decreased IL-6, CXCL8, CCL2 and IP-10. S. album extract has indirectly affected the expression of IFNs and inflammatory cytokines in SH-SY5Y cells. Furthermore, the extract was able to modulate PolyI:C-induced inflammatory response in Caco2 cells. Overall, S. album was capable to attenuate PolyI:C-induced neuroinflammatory effect through the induction of TLR2, TLR4 and the modulation of TLR negative regulators of the TRAF3, IRF3 and NF-κB pathways.

Canine babesiosis - a disease rarely considered in the context of male infertility

Background

Little is known about the impact of babesiosis on semen quality and fertility in dogs.

Case presentation

Four cases of infertility in male dogs after infection with Babesia canis are described. In all dogs sperm quality was low. Two dogs were castrated pharmacologically or surgically. In two dogs fertility was restored after supplementation with selenium and Vitamin E. As possible causes of spermatogenesis disorders due to the treatment of infection with Babesia canis with imidocarb, fever and disturbed testicular microcirculation are discussed.

Conclusions

These cases indicate that if males have fertility problems, question about babesiosis infection in the past should be a permanent point in the clinical interview.

Caryocar brasiliense Cambess. Pulp Oil Supplementation Reduces Total Cholesterol, LDL-c, and Non-HDL-c in Animals

The fruit of Caryocar brasiliense Cambess. is a source of oil with active compounds that are protective to the organism. In our work, we analyzed the physicochemical characteristics and evaluated the effects of supplementation with C. brasiliense oil in an animal model. We characterized the oil by indices of quality and identity, optical techniques of absorption spectroscopy in the UV–Vis region and fluorescence, and thermogravimetry/derived thermogravimetry (TG/DTG). For the animal experiment, we utilized mice (Mus musculus) supplemented with lipidic source in different dosages. The results demonstrated that C. brasiliense oil is an alternative source for human consumption and presents excellent oxidative stability. Primarily, it exhibited oleic MFA (53.56%) and palmitic SFA (37.78%). The oil level of tocopherols and tocotrienols was superior to the carotenoids. The supplementation with C. brasiliense oil reduced the levels of total cholesterol, LDL-c, and non-HDL-c. Regarding visceral fats and adiposity index, the treatment synergically supplemented with olive oil and C. brasiliense oil (OO + CO) obtained the best result. Therefore, C. brasiliense oil is a high quality product for consumption. Its supplementation promotes beneficial effects mainly on the lipidic profile.

Cytokine and Chemokine Profiling in Cats With Sepsis and Septic Shock

Background: Sepsis is a life-threatening condition associated with an exacerbated production of both pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines that can promote a hyperactive response to infection or induce immunoparalysis. Data regarding the immune response to sepsis in cats are scarce. Establishing the profiles of cytokines and chemokines in feline sepsis to characterize the nature of the immune responses to sepsis might enable individualized treatments to be developed and targeted.

Objective: To evaluate the cytokine and chemokine network in cats with sepsis and septic shock, and to investigate the associations of these analytes with disease severity and outcome.

Methods: Blood samples prospectively collected at presentation of cats with sepsis and septic shock to two veterinary teaching hospitals were analyzed. Forty healthy cats were included as controls. A 19-plex feline cytokine/chemokine magnetic bead assay system was used to measure analytes in citrated plasma samples. Cytokine concentrations were compared between groups using the Kruskal-Wallis test with Dunn's post-hoc correction for multiple comparisons. Cytokine concentrations were compared between survivors and non-survivors with the Mann-Whitney U test. Odds ratios were calculated using logistic regression. A multivariable logistic regression model for prediction of septic shock was constructed.

Results: The study enrolled 35 septic cats. Many cytokines were undetectable in both sick and healthy control cats and were excluded from subsequent analyses. Comparisons of cytokine concentrations among healthy controls, cats with sepsis (n = 12) and cats with septic shock (n = 23) revealed that sick cats (sepsis or septic shock) had significantly higher plasma concentrations of IL-6, IL-8, KC-like, and RANTES compared to healthy controls. The combination of MCP-1, Flt-3L, and IL-12 was predictive of septic shock. None of the cytokines analyzed was predictive of outcome in this study population.

Conclusion: Plasma concentrations of IL-6, IL-8, KC-like, and RANTES are increased in cats with sepsis and may play important roles in pathogenesis. Multivariable modeling suggested that analysis of cytokines might aid differentiation of septic shock from sepsis. None of the cytokines analyzed was predictive of outcome. Measurement of these cytokines might enable future studies to better diagnose and characterize feline sepsis and septic shock.

Plants derived therapeutic strategies targeting chronic respiratory diseases: Chemical and immunological perspective

The apparent predicament of the representative chemotherapy for managing respiratory distress calls for an obligatory deliberation for identifying the pharmaceuticals that effectively counter the contemporary intricacies associated with target disease. Multiple, complex regulatory pathways manifest chronic pulmonary disorders, which require chemotherapeutics that produce composite inhibitory effect. The cost effective natural product based molecules hold a high fervor to meet the prospects posed by current respiratory-distress therapy by sparing the tedious drug design and development archetypes, present a robust standing for the possible replacement of the fading practice of poly-pharmacology, and ensure the subversion of a potential disease relapse. This study summarizes the experimental evidences on natural products moieties and their components that illustrates therapeutic efficacy on respiratory disorders.

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Plant derived therapeutics for managing chronic respiratory disorders.

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Activity of natural product based molecules on key regulatory pathways of COPD.

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Preclinical evidence for the efficacy of natural product moieties.

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Clinical significance of plant derived molecules in pulmonary distress.

Safety, Tumor Reduction, and Clinical Impact of Zika Virus Injection in Dogs with Advanced-Stage Brain Tumors

Malignant brain tumors are among the most aggressive cancers with poor prognosis and no effective treatment. Recently, we reported the oncolytic potential of Zika virus infecting and destroying the human central nervous system (CNS) tumors in vitro and in immunodeficient mice model. However, translating this approach to humans requires pre-clinical trials in another immunocompetent animal model. Here, we analyzed the safety of Brazilian Zika virus (ZIKV^BR) intrathecal injections in three dogs bearing spontaneous CNS tumors aiming an anti-tumoral therapy. We further assessed some aspects of the innate immune and inflammatory response that triggers the anti-tumoral response observed during the ZIKV^BR administration in vivo and in vitro. For the first time, we showed that there were no negative clinical side effects following ZIKV^BR CNS injections in dogs, confirming the safety of the procedure. Furthermore, the intrathecal ZIKV^BR injections reduced tumor size in immunocompetent dogs bearing spontaneous intracranial tumors, improved their neurological clinical symptoms significantly, and extended their survival by inducing the destruction specifically of tumor cells, sparing normal neurons, and activating an immune response. These results open new perspectives for upcoming virotherapy using ZIKV to destroy and induce an anti-tumoral immune response in CNS tumors for which there are currently no effective treatments.

Effects of Ovariohysterectomy and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy on Systemic Inflammation and Oxidation in Dogs

Introduction: Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) involves breathing 100% oxygen in a specialized compression chamber leading to hyperoxia. This treatment modality is associated with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and healing properties in people and laboratory animals. However, there are relatively few reports that evaluate the effects of HBOT in companion animals. The goal of this study was to investigate the physiological effects of HBOT on surgically induced systemic inflammation and oxidation in dogs.

Material and Methods: Twelve healthy female beagle dogs were spayed and randomized into control and HBOT groups (n = 6). Both groups received conventional post-ovariohysterectomy therapy, and the HBOT group received two hyperbaric treatments at 2.0 atmosphere of absolute pressure and 100% oxygen for 35 min, 6 and 18 h after surgery. Blood samples were collected 3 h prior to ovariohysterectomy, 6, 18, and 30 h after surgery, prior to HBOT when applicable. Inflammatory biomarkers, including C-reactive protein, circulating cytokines, and changes in iron homeostasis were evaluated at each time point to determine the effects of surgery and HBOT on inflammation. Similarly, serum total oxidant status and total antioxidant status were measured to assess the oxidative stress. Pain and incision scores were recorded and compared between groups.

Results: Following ovariohysterectomy, all dogs had significantly increased serum concentrations of C-reactive protein, KC-like, IL-6, and increased unsaturated iron-binding capacity compared to their pre-surgical values (p < 0.02), while serum iron, total iron-binding capacity and transferrin saturation were significantly decreased after surgery (p < 0.02). There was no significant difference between the control group and the HBOT group for any of the variables. There were no overt adverse effects in the HBOT group.

Conclusion: This is the first prospective randomized controlled study to investigate the effects of HBOT on surgically induced systemic inflammation in dogs. While elective ovariohysterectomy resulted in mild inflammation, the described HBOT protocol portrayed no outward adverse effect and did not induce any detectable pro-inflammatory, anti-inflammatory, or antioxidant effects. Additional investigation is required to identify objective markers to quantify the response to HBOT and determine its role as an adjunctive therapy in dogs with more severe, complicated or chronic diseases.

Use of an Extract of Annona muricata Linn to Prevent High-Fat Diet Induced Metabolic Disorders in C57BL/6 Mice

Annona muricata Linn, commonly known as graviola, is one of the most popular plants used in Brazil for weight loss. The aim of this study is to evaluate the therapeutic effects of three different doses (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 150 mg/kg) of aqueous graviola leaf extract (AGE) supplemented by oral gavage, on obese C57BL/6 mice. Food intake, body weight, an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), an insulin sensitivity test, quantification of adipose tissue cytokines, weight of fat pads, and serum biochemical and histological analyses of the liver, pancreas, and epididymal adipose tissue were measured. AGE had an anti-inflammatory effect by increasing IL-10 at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg. Regarding the cholesterol profile, there was a significant decrease in LDL-cholesterol levels in the AGE 150 group, and VLDL-cholesterol and triglycerides in the AGE 100 and 150 groups. There was an increase in HDL cholesterol in the AGE 150 group. The extract was able to reduce the adipocyte area of the epididymal adipose tissue in the AGE 100 and 150 groups. According to the histological analysis of the liver and pancreas, no significant difference was found among the groups. There were no significant effects of AGE on OGTT and serum fasting glucose concentration. However, the extract was effective in improving glucose tolerance in the AGE 150 group.

Disease severity and blood cytokine concentrations in dogs with natural Babesia rossi infection

AIMS

Babesia rossi causes severe disease in dogs. Here, we describe the association between serum cytokine concentrations and disease severity.

METHODS

Seventeen controls and 55 PCR confirmed B rossi-infected dogs were included. Diseased dogs were subdivided into 23 critically ill and 32 relatively well cases. Serum concentrations of 11 cytokines and biochemical markers of disease severity were determined.

RESULTS

Significant differences were detected for IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, MCP-1 and TNF-α between the groups. Generally, the more complicated the disease, the more pro-inflammatory the cytokine milieu. IL-8 showed a reverse trend and was negatively correlated with disease severity. IL-6, MCP-1 and TNF-α were also significantly higher in the dogs that died (n = 9) compared to the dogs that survived (n = 46). IL-8 showed the opposite. MCP-1 and TNF-α were negatively correlated with biochemical markers of severity. Glucose was negatively correlated with IL-6. Cortisol, peripheral parasite density and band neutrophil count were positively correlated, whilst thyroid hormone was negatively correlated with IL-6, MCP-1 and TNF-α.

CONCLUSIONS

As in malaria and sepsis, B rossi infection induces a pro-inflammatory cytokine storm that correlates with disease severity and adverse outcome. The multiplicity of cytokines involved argues for redundancy in the system once the disease is established.

LC-MS/MS analysis of the dog serum phosphoproteome reveals novel and conserved phosphorylation sites: Phosphoprotein patterns in babesiosis caused by Babesia canis, a case study

Phosphorylation is the most commonly studied protein post-translational modification (PTM) in biological systems due to its importance in controlling cell division, survival, growth, etc. Despite the thorough research in phosphoproteomics of cells and tissues there is little information on circulating phosphoproteins. We compared serum from 10 healthy dogs and 10 dogs affected by B. canis-caused babesiosis with no organ dysfunctions by employing gel-free LC-MS/MS analysis of individual samples and tandem mass tag (TMT) label-based quantitative analyses of pools, both supported by phosphopeptide enrichment. Results showed a moderate number of phosphorylated proteins (50-55), with 89 phosphorylation sites not previously published for dogs although a number of them matched phosphorylation sites found in mammalian orthologs. Three phosphopeptides showed significant variation in babesiosis-affected dog sera compared to controls: Serum amyloid A (SAA) phosphorylated at serine 101 (up-regulation), kininogen 1 phosphorylated at threonine 326, and fibrinogen α phosphorylated at both threonine 20 and serine 22 (down-regulation). 71.9% of the detected phosphorylated sites were phosphoserine, 16.8% phosphothreonine and only 11.2% phosphotyrosine residues. TMT label-based quantitative analysis showed α-2-HS-glycoprotein / Fetuin A to be the most abundant phosphoprotein (50-70% of all phosphoproteins) followed by kininogen-1 (10-20%). The alterations of phosphorylated proteins observed in canine babesiosis caused by Babesia canis suggest new insights into the largely neglected role of extracellular protein phosphorylation in health and disease, encouraging urgent further research on this area. To the best of our knowledge the present study represents the first attempt to characterize canine serum phosphoproteome.

Canine Babesiosis: Where Do We Stand?

Canine babesiosis is a tick-borne disease caused by protozoal haemoparasites of different Babesia species. Babesiosis is one of the most important globally extended and quickly spreading tick-borne infections of dogs. This comprehensive review gives an in-depth overview of Babesia species currently identified in dogs together with relevant vector tick species and their geographical distribution, life cycle and transmission of parasite. The main mechanisms in the pathogenesis of babesiosis are described and elucidated by recent literature overview. As Babesia infection causes a disease with very variable clinical manifestations, special attention is given to clinical signs, laboratory features and clinicopathological findings. The diagnosis of canine babesiosis by microscopy, serological and molecular methods is reviewed, together with recent advances in mass spectrometry based assays. Accurate detection and species recognition are important for the selection of the appropriate therapy, monitoring and prediction of the outcome of the disease. Finally, guidelines for the treatment and prevention of canine babesiosis are given.