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Terenina NB, Kreshchenko ND, Movsesyan SO. Serotonergic elements in the nervous system of parasite of acipenserid fishes, Acrolichanus auriculatus (Digenea: Allocreadiidae). Micron 2024; 185:103690. [PMID: 38991625 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2024.103690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
The trematode Acrolichanus auriculatus is a widely distributed intestine parasite of acipenserid fishes. For the first time the localization and distribution of the serotonergic nerve elements in A. auriculatus was studied using immunocytochemical method and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The study revealed the presence of biogenic amine, serotonin, in the central and peripheral nervous systems of A. auriculatus, that is in the neurons and neurites of the brain ganglia, brain commissure, the longitudinal nerve cords, and the connective nerve commissures. The innervation of the attachment organs, pharynx, oesophagus and distal regions of the reproductive system by the serotonergic nerve elements is observed. The distribution of serotonergic neurons in A. auriculatus is schematically marked. The comparative analysis of findings obtained in A. auriculatus with those recorded for other digeneans reveals the presence of both conservative and distinctive features in the organization of the serotonergic nervous system in various representatives of trematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezhda B Terenina
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prosp., 33, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Natalia D Kreshchenko
- Institute of Cell Biophysics of Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskya str., 3, Pushchino, Moscow Region 142290, Russia.
| | - Sergey O Movsesyan
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky Prosp., 33, Moscow, Russia
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2
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Caña-Bozada VH, García-Gasca A, Martínez-Brown JM, Morales-Serna FN. Evaluation of bromocriptine and plumbagin against the monogenean Rhabdosynochus viridisi: Computational drug repositioning and in vitro approaches. Exp Parasitol 2024; 261:108748. [PMID: 38593863 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2024.108748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Monogeneans are parasitic platyhelminths that can harm the health of farmed fish. Few treatments are available against monogeneans, and the incentive to develop new antiparasitic agents is similar or even lower than the incentive for neglected parasitic diseases in humans. Considering that searching for and developing new antimonogenean compounds may require enormous investments of time, money, and animal sacrifice, the use of a computer-guided drug repositioning approach is a reasonable alternative. Under this context, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of plumbagin and bromocriptine against adults and eggs of the monogenean Rhabdosynochus viridisi (Diplectanidae). Plumbagin is a phytochemical compound that has recently emerged as a potent antimonogenean; however, further investigation is required to determine its effects on different monogenean species. Bromocriptine was selected through a computational approach that included molecular docking analyses of 77 receptors of monogeneans (putative drug targets) and 77 ligands (putative inhibitors). In vitro experiments showed that bromocriptine does not exhibit mortality at concentrations of 0.1, 1, and 10 mg/L whereas plumbagin at 2 and 10 mg/L caused 100% monogenean mortality after 3 h and 30 min, respectively. The most effective concentration of plumbagin (10 mg/L) did not completely inhibit egg hatching. These findings underscore plumbagin as a highly effective agent against adult monogeneans and highlight the need for research to evaluate its effect(s) on fish. Although computational drug repositioning is useful for selecting candidates for experimental testing, it does not guarantee success due to the complexity of biological interactions, as observed here with bromocriptine. Therefore, it is crucial to examine the various compounds proposed by this method.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Juan M Martínez-Brown
- Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, Mazatlán, Sinaloa, 82112, Mexico
| | - F Neptalí Morales-Serna
- Instituto de Ciencias Del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mazatlán, 82040, Sinaloa, Mexico
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3
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Diaz Soria CL, Attenborough T, Lu Z, Fontenla S, Graham J, Hall C, Thompson S, Andrews TGR, Rawlinson KA, Berriman M, Rinaldi G. Single-cell transcriptomics of the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni first intra-molluscan stage reveals tentative tegumental and stem-cell regulators. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5974. [PMID: 38472267 PMCID: PMC10933418 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-55790-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a major Neglected Tropical Disease, caused by the infection with blood flukes in the genus Schistosoma. To complete the life cycle, the parasite undergoes asexual and sexual reproduction within an intermediate snail host and a definitive mammalian host, respectively. The intra-molluscan phase provides a critical amplification step that ensures a successful transmission. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the development of the intra-molluscan stages remain poorly understood. Here, single cell suspensions from S. mansoni mother sporocysts were produced and sequenced using the droplet-based 10X Genomics Chromium platform. Six cell clusters comprising two tegument, muscle, neuron, parenchyma and stem/germinal cell clusters were identified and validated by in situ hybridisation. Gene Ontology term analysis predicted key biological processes for each of the clusters, including three stem/germinal sub-clusters. Furthermore, putative transcription factors predicted for stem/germinal and tegument clusters may play key roles during parasite development and interaction with the intermediate host.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Teresa Attenborough
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
- School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
| | - Zhigang Lu
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Santiago Fontenla
- Departamento de Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de la República (UDELAR), Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Jennie Graham
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Christopher Hall
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Sam Thompson
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
| | | | - Kate A Rawlinson
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK
- Josephine Bay Paul Center, Marine Biological Laboratory, Woods Hole, MA, USA
| | - Matthew Berriman
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK.
- School of Infection and Immunity, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK.
| | - Gabriel Rinaldi
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA, UK.
- Department of Life Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Edward Llwyd Building, Penglais Campus, Aberystwyth, SY23 3DA, UK.
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4
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Yeh YT, Del Álamo JC, Caffrey CR. Biomechanics of parasite migration within hosts. Trends Parasitol 2024; 40:164-175. [PMID: 38172015 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The dissemination of protozoan and metazoan parasites through host tissues is hindered by cellular barriers, dense extracellular matrices, and fluid forces in the bloodstream. To overcome these diverse biophysical impediments, parasites implement versatile migratory strategies. Parasite-exerted mechanical forces and upregulation of the host's cellular contractile machinery are the motors for these strategies, and these are comparably better characterized for protozoa than for helminths. Using the examples of the protozoans, Toxoplasma gondii and Plasmodium, and the metazoan, Schistosoma mansoni, we highlight how quantitative tools such as traction force and reflection interference contrast microscopies have improved our understanding of how parasites alter host mechanobiology to promote their migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ting Yeh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA.
| | - Juan C Del Álamo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Center for Cardiovascular Biology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Division of Cardiology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 93093, USA
| | - Conor R Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 9500 Gilman Drive, MC0657, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, USA
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5
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Li X, Weth O, Haimann M, Möscheid MF, Huber TS, Grevelding CG. Rhodopsin orphan GPCR20 interacts with neuropeptides and directs growth, sexual differentiation, and egg production in female Schistosoma mansoni. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0219323. [PMID: 38047698 PMCID: PMC10783048 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02193-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Schistosomes cause schistosomiasis, one of the neglected tropical diseases as defined by the WHO. For decades, the treatment of schistosomiasis relies on a single drug, praziquantel. Due to its wide use, there is justified fear of resistance against this drug, and a vaccine is not available. Besides its biological relevance in signal transduction processes, the class of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) is also well suited for drug design. Against this background, we characterized one GPCR of Schistosoma mansoni, SmGPCR20, at the molecular and functional level. We identified two potential neuropeptides (NPPs) as ligands, SmNPP26 and SmNPP40, and unraveled their roles, in combination with SmGPCR20, in neuronal processes controlling egg production, oogenesis, and growth of S. mansoni females. Since eggs are closely associated with the pathogenesis of schistosomiasis, our results contribute to the understanding of processes leading to egg production in schistosomes, which is under the control of pairing in this exceptional parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuesong Li
- Institute for Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Oliver Weth
- Institute for Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Martin Haimann
- Institute for Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Max F. Möscheid
- Institute for Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Theresa S. Huber
- Institute for Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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6
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Rinaldi G, Paz Meseguer C, Cantacessi C, Cortés A. Form and Function in the Digenea, with an Emphasis on Host-Parasite and Parasite-Bacteria Interactions. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1454:3-45. [PMID: 39008262 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-60121-7_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
This review covers the general aspects of the anatomy and physiology of the major body systems in digenetic trematodes, with an emphasis on new knowledge of the area acquired since the publication of the second edition of this book in 2019. In addition to reporting on key recent advances in the morphology and physiology of tegumentary, sensory, neuromuscular, digestive, excretory, and reproductive systems, and their roles in host-parasite interactions, this edition includes a section discussing the known and putative roles of bacteria in digenean biology and physiology. Furthermore, a brief discussion of current trends in the development of novel treatment and control strategies based on a better understanding of the trematode body systems and associated bacteria is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Rinaldi
- Department of Life Sciences, Edward Llwyd Building, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, UK
| | - Carla Paz Meseguer
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Cinzia Cantacessi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Alba Cortés
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology and Parasitology, School of Pharmacy and Food Sciences, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain.
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Mercurio S, Bozzo M, Pennati A, Candiani S, Pennati R. Serotonin Receptors and Their Involvement in Melanization of Sensory Cells in Ciona intestinalis. Cells 2023; 12:cells12081150. [PMID: 37190059 DOI: 10.3390/cells12081150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)) is a biogenic monoamine with pleiotropic functions. It exerts its roles by binding to specific 5-HT receptors (5HTRs) classified into different families and subtypes. Homologs of 5HTRs are widely present in invertebrates, but their expression and pharmacological characterization have been scarcely investigated. In particular, 5-HT has been localized in many tunicate species but only a few studies have investigated its physiological functions. Tunicates, including ascidians, are the sister group of vertebrates, and data about the role of 5-HTRs in these organisms are thus important for understanding 5-HT evolution among animals. In the present study, we identified and described 5HTRs in the ascidian Ciona intestinalis. During development, they showed broad expression patterns that appeared consistent with those reported in other species. Then, we investigated 5-HT roles in ascidian embryogenesis exposing C. intestinalis embryos to WAY-100635, an antagonist of the 5HT1A receptor, and explored the affected pathways in neural development and melanogenesis. Our results contribute to unraveling the multifaceted functions of 5-HT, revealing its involvement in sensory cell differentiation in ascidians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Mercurio
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Bozzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, dell'Ambiente e della Vita, Università degli Studi di Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Simona Candiani
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, dell'Ambiente e della Vita, Università degli Studi di Genova, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Roberta Pennati
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
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8
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Kamara IK, Thao JT, Kaur K, Wheeler NJ, Chan JD. Annotation of G-Protein Coupled Receptors in the Genomes of Parasitic Blood Flukes. MICROPUBLICATION BIOLOGY 2023; 2023. [PMID: 36713056 PMCID: PMC9874797 DOI: 10.17912/micropub.biology.000704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Infection with Schistosoma parasitic flatworms ( Schistosoma haematobium, Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum ) causes the neglected tropical disease schistosomiasis. There is a need to identify new chemotherapies to treat these parasites, and G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) are a logical druggable targets to explore given they control key aspects of schistosome biology such as neuromuscular function and reproduction. Updated chromosome level genome assemblies for each of the three major species have recently been released. However, studies on these GPCRs require accurate, updated genome annotations. Here, we have re-annotated the GPCRs present in each of the three major schistosome species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Javit T Thao
- University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI, USA
| | | | | | - John D Chan
- University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI, USA
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9
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Caña-Bozada V, Morales-Serna FN, Fajer-Ávila EJ, Llera-Herrera R. De novo transcriptome assembly and identification of G-Protein-Coupled-Receptors (GPCRs) in two species of monogenean parasites of fish. Parasite 2022; 29:51. [PMID: 36350193 PMCID: PMC9645230 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2022052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Genomic resources for Platyhelminthes of the class Monogenea are scarce, despite the diversity of these parasites, some species of which are highly pathogenic to their fish hosts. This work aimed to generate de novo-assembled transcriptomes of two monogenean species, Scutogyrus longicornis (Dactylogyridae) and Rhabdosynochus viridisi (Diplectanidae), providing a protocol for cDNA library preparation with low input samples used in single cell transcriptomics. This allowed us to work with sub-microgram amounts of total RNA with success. These transcriptomes consist of 25,696 and 47,187 putative proteins, respectively, which were further annotated according to the Swiss-Prot, Pfam, GO, KEGG, and COG databases. The completeness values of these transcriptomes evaluated with BUSCO against Metazoa databases were 54.1% and 73%, respectively, which is in the range of other monogenean species. Among the annotations, a large number of terms related to G-protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) were found. We identified 109 GPCR-like sequences in R. viridisi, and 102 in S. longicornis, including family members specific for Platyhelminthes. Rhodopsin was the largest family according to GRAFS classification. Two putative melatonin receptors found in S. longicornis represent the first record of this group of proteins in parasitic Platyhelminthes. Forty GPCRs of R. viridisi and 32 of S. longicornis that were absent in Vertebrata might be potential drug targets. The present study provides the first publicly available transcriptomes for monogeneans of the subclass Monopisthocotylea, which can serve as useful genomic datasets for functional genomic research of this important group of parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor Caña-Bozada
- Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, A.C. Unidad Mazatlán en Acuicultura y Manejo Ambiental Mazatlán Sinaloa 82112 Mexico
| | - F. Neptalí Morales-Serna
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mazatlán Sinaloa 82040 Mexico
| | - Emma J. Fajer-Ávila
- Centro de Investigación en Alimentación y Desarrollo, A.C. Unidad Mazatlán en Acuicultura y Manejo Ambiental Mazatlán Sinaloa 82112 Mexico
| | - Raúl Llera-Herrera
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México Mazatlán Sinaloa 82040 Mexico
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Uthailak N, Adisakwattana P, Thiangtrongjit T, Limpanont Y, Chusongsang P, Chusongsang Y, Tanasarnprasert K, Reamtong O. Discovery of Schistosoma mekongi circulating proteins and antigens in infected mouse sera. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275992. [PMID: 36227939 PMCID: PMC9562170 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by an infection of the parasitic flatworms schistosomes. Schistosoma mekongi is a restricted Schistosoma species found near the Mekong River, mainly in southern Laos and northern Cambodia. Because there is no vaccine or effective early diagnosis available for S. mekongi, additional biomarkers are required. In this study, serum biomarkers associated with S. mekongi-infected mice were identified at 14-, 28-, 42-, and 56-days post-infection. Circulating proteins and antigens of S. mekongi in mouse sera were analyzed using mass spectrometry-based proteomics. Serine protease inhibitors and macrophage erythroblast attacher were down-regulated in mouse sera at all infection timepoints. In addition, 54 circulating proteins and 55 antigens of S. mekongi were identified. Notable circulating proteins included kyphoscoliosis peptidase and putative tuberin, and antigens were detected at all four infection timepoints, particularly in the early stages (12 days). The putative tuberin sequence of S. mekongi was highly similar to homologs found in other members of the genus Schistosoma and less similar to human and murine sequences. Our study provided the identity of promising diagnostic biomarkers that could be applicable in early schistosomiasis diagnosis and vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naphatsamon Uthailak
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Poom Adisakwattana
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tipparat Thiangtrongjit
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yanin Limpanont
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Phiraphol Chusongsang
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yupa Chusongsang
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kanthi Tanasarnprasert
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Onrapak Reamtong
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- * E-mail:
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11
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Terenina NB, Kreshchenko ND, Mochalova NV, Nikoghosyan MA, Petrosyan RA, Movsesyan SO. Neuromuscular system of the causative agent of dicrocoeliosis, Dicrocoelium lanceatum. I. 5-Hydroxytryptamine in the nervous system. Vet Parasitol 2022; 309:109768. [PMID: 35914354 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2022.109768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The trematode Dicrocoelium lanceatum known as lancet fluke, is a causative agent of dicrocoeliosis, a widespread parasitic disease of the grazing ruminants. The investigation of the major neurotransmitters and their functions are an important step in the development of a new pharmacological strategy of the struggle against the dicrocoeliosis affecting the neuronal signal substances and the functions of its nervous system. The aim of this work was to study the presence and localization of the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT, 5-Hydroxytryptamine) in the nervous system of D. lanceatum using immunocytochemical technique and confocal laser scanning microscopy. For the first time the data on the presence and distribution of serotonin-immunopositive components in the central and peripheral compartments of the nervous system of D. lanceatum has been obtained. Serotonin-immunopositive neurons and neurites were identified in paired brain ganglia, in the brain commissure, longitudinal nerve cords and connective nerve commissures. The innervation of the oral and ventral suckers by serotonergic nerve structures was revealed. The distal part of the reproductive system and the region of the reproductive pore were intensively innervated by serotonergic neurites. Serotonin-immunopositive neurons and neurites were also revealed in the proximal region of the reproductive system. The data obtained suggest that the serotonergic nervous system is involved in the regulation of the attachment organs and the reproductive system functions in D. lanceatum. The new results on the morphological and functional organization of the D. lanceatum nervous system increase our knowledge of the structure and function of nervous system of trematodes of various taxonomic groups and support the possibility of the exploitation of the serotonergic system of the parasite as a target for anthelmintic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- N B Terenina
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 33, 119071, Moscow, Russia.
| | - N D Kreshchenko
- Institute of Cell Biophysics of Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia.
| | - N V Mochalova
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 33, 119071, Moscow, Russia
| | - M A Nikoghosyan
- Institute of Zoology, Scientific Center for Zoology and Hydroecology, National Academy of Sciences of Republic of Armenia, P. Sevaka str., 7, Erevan 0014, Armenia
| | - R A Petrosyan
- Institute of Zoology, Scientific Center for Zoology and Hydroecology, National Academy of Sciences of Republic of Armenia, P. Sevaka str., 7, Erevan 0014, Armenia
| | - S O Movsesyan
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 33, 119071, Moscow, Russia
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12
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Bais S, Norwillo A, Ruthel G, Herbert DR, Freedman BD, Greenberg RM. Schistosome TRPML channels play a role in neuromuscular activity and tegumental integrity. Biochimie 2022; 194:108-117. [PMID: 34990770 PMCID: PMC8950431 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2021.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic flatworms of the genus Schistosoma. Mono-therapeutic treatment of this disease with the drug praziquantel, presents challenges such as inactivity against immature worms and inability to prevent reinfection. Importantly, ion channels are important targets for many current anthelmintics. Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels are important mediators of sensory signals with marked effects on cellular functions and signaling pathways. TRPML channels are a class of Ca2+-permeable TRP channels expressed on endolysosomal membranes. They regulate lysosomal function and trafficking, among other functions. Schistosoma mansoni is predicted to have a single TRPML gene (SmTRPML) with two splice variants differing by 12 amino acids. This study focuses on exploring the physiological properties of SmTRPML channels to better understand their role in schistosomes. In mammalian cells expressing SmTRPML, TRPML activators elicit a rise in intracellular Ca2+. In these cells, SmTRPML localizes both to lysosomes and the plasma membrane. These same TRPML activators elicit an increase in adult worm motility that is dependent on SmTRPML expression, indicating a role for these channels in parasite neuromuscular activity. Suppression of SmTRPML in adult worms, or exposure of adult worms to TRPML inhibitors, results in tegumental vacuolations, balloon-like surface exudates, and membrane blebbing, similar to that found following TRPML loss in other organisms. Together, these findings indicate that SmTRPML may regulate the function of the schistosome endolysosomal system. Further, the role of SmTRPML in neuromuscular activity and in parasite tegumental integrity establishes this channel as a candidate anti-schistosome drug target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swarna Bais
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA.
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13
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The interplay of helminthic neuropeptides and proteases in parasite survival and host immunomodulation. Biochem Soc Trans 2022; 50:107-118. [PMID: 35076687 PMCID: PMC9042389 DOI: 10.1042/bst20210405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Neuropeptides comprise a diverse and broad group of neurotransmitters in vertebrates and invertebrates, with critical roles in neuronal signal transduction. While their role in controlling learning and memory in the brains of mammals is known, their extra-synaptic function in infection and inflammation with effects on distinct tissues and immune cells is increasingly recognized. Helminth infections especially of the central nervous system (CNS), such as neurocysticercosis, induce neuropeptide production by both host and helminth, but their role in host–parasite interplay or host inflammatory response is unclear. Here, we review the neurobiology of helminths, and discuss recent studies on neuropeptide synthesis and function in the helminth as well as the host CNS and immune system. Neuropeptides are summarized according to structure and function, and we discuss the complex enzyme processing for mature neuropeptides, focusing on helminth enzymes as potential targets for novel anthelminthics. We next describe known immunomodulatory effects of mammalian neuropeptides discovered from mouse infection models and draw functional parallels with helminth neuropeptides. Last, we discuss the anti-microbial properties of neuropeptides, and how they may be involved in host–microbiota changes in helminth infection. Overall, a better understanding of the biology of helminth neuropeptides, and whether they affect infection outcomes could provide diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities for helminth infections.
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14
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Montazeri M, Fakhar M, Keighobadi M. The Potential Role of the Serotonin Transporter as a Drug Target against Parasitic Infections: A Scoping Review of the Literature. RECENT ADVANCES IN ANTI-INFECTIVE DRUG DISCOVERY 2022; 17:23-33. [PMID: 35249526 DOI: 10.2174/1574891x16666220304232301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several in vitro and in vivo biological activities of serotonin, 5- hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), as a bioactive molecule, and its transporter (5-HT-Tr) were evaluated in parasitic infections. OBJECTIVE Herein, the roles of 5-HT and 5-HTR in helminths and protozoan infections with medical and veterinary importance are reviewed. METHODS We searched information in 4 main databases and reviewed published literature about the serotonin transporter's role as a promising therapeutic target against pathogenic parasitic infections between 2000 and 2021. RESULTS Based on recent investigations, 5-HT and 5-HT-Tr play various roles in parasite infections, including biological function, metabolic activity, organism motility, parasite survival, and immune response modulation. Moreover, some of the 5-HT-TR in Schistosoma mansoni showed an excess of favorite substrates for biogenic amine 5-HT compared to their mammalian hosts. Furthermore, the main neuronal protein related to the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) was identified in S. mansoni and Echinococcus granulosus, playing main roles in these parasites. In addition, 5-HT increased in toxoplasmosis, giardiasis, and Chagas disease. On the other hand, in Plasmodium spp., different forms of targeted 5-HTR stimulate Ca2+ release, intracellular inositol triphosphate (ITP), cAMP, and protein kinase A (PKA) activity. CONCLUSION This review summarized the several functional roles of the 5-HT and the importance of the 5-HT-TR as a drug target with minimal harm to the host to fight against helminths and protozoan infections. Hopefully, this review will shed light on research regarding serotonin transporter-based therapies as a potential drug target soon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahbobeh Montazeri
- The Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- The Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mahdi Fakhar
- The Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- The Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Masoud Keighobadi
- The Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- The Iranian National Registry Center for Lophomoniasis and Toxoplasmosis, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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15
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Cheng S, Zhu B, Luo F, Lin X, Sun C, You Y, Yi C, Xu B, Wang J, Lu Y, Hu W. Comparative transcriptome profiles of Schistosoma japonicum larval stages: Implications for parasite biology and host invasion. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0009889. [PMID: 35025881 PMCID: PMC8791509 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosoma japonicum is prevalent in Asia with a wide mammalian host range, which leads to highly harmful zoonotic parasitic diseases. Most previous transcriptomic studies have been performed on this parasite, but mainly focus on stages inside the mammalian host. Moreover, few larval transcriptomic data are available in public databases. Here we mapped the detailed transcriptome profiles of four S. japonicum larval stages including eggs, miracidia, sporocysts and cercariae, providing a comprehensive development picture outside of the mammalian host. By analyzing the stage-specific/enriched genes, we identified functional genes associated with the biological characteristic at each stage: e.g. we observed enrichment of genes necessary for DNA replication only in sporocysts, while those involved in proteolysis were upregulated in sporocysts and/or cercariae. This data indicated that miracidia might use leishmanolysin and neprilysin to penetrate the snail, while elastase (SjCE2b) and leishmanolysin might contribute to the cercariae invasion. The expression profile of stem cell markers revealed potential germinal cell conversion during larval development. Additionally, our analysis indicated that tandem duplications had driven the expansion of the papain family in S. japonicum. Notably, all the duplicated cathepsin B-like proteases were highly expressed in cercariae. Utilizing our 3rd version of S. japonicum genome, we further characterized the alternative splicing profiles throughout these four stages. Taken together, the present study provides compressive gene expression profiles of S. japonicum larval stages and identifies a set of genes that might be involved in intermediate and definitive host invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaoyun Cheng
- Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bingkuan Zhu
- Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Luo
- Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiying Lin
- Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengsong Sun
- Anhui Provincial Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Hefei, China
| | - Yanmin You
- Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Cun Yi
- Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bin Xu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of China Ministry of Health, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Joint Research Laboratory of Genetics and Ecology on Parasite-host Interaction, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention & Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jipeng Wang
- Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Lu
- Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of infectious diseases, Huashan Hospital, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Biodiversity Science and Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology of China Ministry of Health, WHO Collaborating Centre for Tropical Diseases, Joint Research Laboratory of Genetics and Ecology on Parasite-host Interaction, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention & Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail:
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16
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Terenina N, Kreshchenko N, Movsesyan S. Musculature and neurotransmitters of internal organs of trematodes (the digestive, reproductive and excretory systems). ZOOLOGY 2021; 150:125986. [PMID: 34929537 DOI: 10.1016/j.zool.2021.125986] [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: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 12/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The article analyzes the results on the presence and organization of the muscle elements in the visceral organs of parasitic flatworms, trematodes, as well as their innervations. The different regions of the digestive, reproductive and excretory systems of trematodes contain circular, longitudinal and diagonal muscle fibers. The results of immunocytochemical investigations and confocal scanning laser microscopy show the presence of serotonin and FMRFamide-like immunoreactivity in the nervous system elements in various parts of the digestive, reproductive and excretory systems of trematodes. The data suggest that serotonergic and FMRFamide-immunopositive components of parasite's nervous system are involved in the regulation of the muscle activity of the digestive, reproductive and excretory systems. Comparative analysis of the results presented for trematodes from different taxonomic groups indicates that the organization of muscle elements in the visceral organs in trematodes and their innervation by serotonergic and peptidergic components are highly conserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadezhda Terenina
- A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr. 33, Moscow, 119071, Russia.
| | - Natalia Kreshchenko
- Institute of Cell Biophysics of Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya str., 3, Pushchino, Moscow Region, 142290, Russia.
| | - Sergey Movsesyan
- A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr. 33, Moscow, 119071, Russia
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17
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Characterization of a new type of neuronal 5-HT G- protein coupled receptor in the cestode nervous system. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0259104. [PMID: 34762657 PMCID: PMC8584985 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Cestodes are platyhelminth parasites with a wide range of hosts that cause neglected diseases. Neurotransmitter signaling is of critical importance for these parasites which lack circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems. For example, serotonin (5-HT) and serotonergic G-protein coupled receptors (5-HT GPCRs) play major roles in cestode motility, development and reproduction. In previous work, we deorphanized a group of 5-HT7 type GPCRs from cestodes. However, little is known about another type of 5-HT GPCR, the 5-HT1 clade, which has been studied in several invertebrate phyla but not in platyhelminthes. Three putative 5-HT GPCRs from Echinococcus canadensis, Mesocestoides vogae (syn. M. corti) and Hymenolepis microstoma were cloned, sequenced and bioinformatically analyzed. Evidence grouped these new sequences within the 5-HT1 clade of GPCRs but differences in highly conserved GPCR motifs were observed. Transcriptomic analysis, heterologous expression and immunolocalization studies were performed to characterize the E. canadensis receptor, called Eca-5-HT1a. Functional heterologous expression studies showed that Eca-5-HT1a is highly specific for serotonin. 5-Methoxytryptamine and α-methylserotonin, both known 5-HT GPCR agonists, give stimulatory responses whereas methysergide, a known 5-HT GPCR ligand, give an antagonist response in Eca-5-HT1a. Mutants obtained by the substitution of key predicted residues resulted in severe impairment of receptor activity, confirming that indeed, these residues have important roles in receptor function. Immunolocalization studies on the protoscolex stage from E. canadensis, showed that Eca-5-HT1a is localized in branched fibers which correspond to the nervous system of the parasite. The patterns of immunoreactive fibers for Eca-5-HT1a and for serotonin were intimately intertwined but not identical, suggesting that they are two separate groups of fibers. These data provide the first functional, pharmacological and localization report of a serotonergic receptor that putatively belongs to the 5-HT1 type of GPCRs in cestodes. The serotonergic GPCR characterized here may represent a new target for antiparasitic intervention.
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18
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Kreshchenko N, Terenina N, Ermakov A. Serotonin Signalling in Flatworms: An Immunocytochemical Localisation of 5-HT 7 Type of Serotonin Receptors in Opisthorchis felineus and Hymenolepis diminuta. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1212. [PMID: 34439878 PMCID: PMC8394519 DOI: 10.3390/biom11081212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The study is dedicated to the investigation of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) and 5-HT7 type serotonin receptor of localisation in larvae of two parasitic flatworms Opisthorchis felineus (Rivolta, 1884) Blanchard, 1895 and Hymenolepis diminuta Rudolphi, 1819, performed using the immunocytochemical method and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Using whole mount preparations and specific antibodies, a microscopic analysis of the spatial distribution of 5-HT7-immunoreactivity(-IR) was revealed in worm tissue. In metacercariae of O. felineus 5-HT7-IR was observed in the main nerve cords and in the head commissure connecting the head ganglia. The presence of 5-HT7-IR was also found in several structures located on the oral sucker. 5-HT7-IR was evident in the round glandular cells scattered throughout the larva body. In cysticercoids of H. diminuta immunostaining to 5-HT7 was found in flame cells of the excretory system. Weak staining to 5-HT7 was observed along the longitudinal and transverse muscle fibres comprising the body wall and musculature of suckers, in thin longitudinal nerve cords and a connective commissure of the central nervous system. Available publications on serotonin action in flatworms and serotonin receptors identification were reviewed. Own results and the published data indicate that the muscular structures of flatworms are deeply supplied by 5-HT7-IR elements. It suggests that the 5-HT7 type receptor can mediate the serotonin action in the investigated species and is an important component of the flatworm motor control system. The study of the neurochemical basis of parasitic flatworms can play an important role in the solution of fundamental problems in early development of the nervous system and the evolution of neuronal signalling components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Kreshchenko
- Institute of Cell Biophysics of Russian Academy of Sciences, 142290 Pushchino, Russia
| | - Nadezhda Terenina
- Center of Parasitology A.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, 119071 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Artem Ermakov
- Institute of Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics Russian Academy of Sciences, 142290 Pushchino, Russia;
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19
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Nefedova D, Terenina N, Mochalova N, Poddubnaya L, Movsesyan S, Gordeev I, Kuchin A, Kreshchenko N. The neuromuscular system in flatworms: serotonin and FMRFamide immunoreactivities and musculature in Prodistomum alaskense (Digenea: Lepocreadiidae), an endemic fish parasite of the northwestern Pacific. CAN J ZOOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1139/cjz-2020-0245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Using the immunocytochemical method and confocal scanning laser microscopy, we obtained pioneering data on the muscle system organization and presence and localization of biogenic amine serotonin and FMRFamide-related peptides in the nervous system of the trematode Prodistomum alaskense (Ward and Fillingham, 1934) Bray and Merrett 1998 (family Lepocreadiidae). This flatworm is an intestinal parasite of endemic representatives of the marine fauna of the northwestern Pacific Ocean — the prowfish (Zaprora silenus Jordan, 1896) and the lumpfish (Aptocyclus ventricosus (Pallas, 1769)). We provide data of scanning electron microscopy on the tegumental topography of P. alaskense. The body wall musculature of P. alaskense has three layers of muscle fibres — the outer circular, intermediate longitudinal, and inner diagonal. The muscle system elements are well developed in the attachment organs, digestive and reproductive systems, and in the excretory sphincter. Serotonin– and FMRFamide–immunopositive neurons and neurites are found in the head ganglia, circular commissure, longitudinal nerve cords, and in the transversal connective commissures. The innervation of the oral and ventral suckers, pharynx, and the reproductive system compartments by the serotonergic and FMRFamide–immunopositive neurites is revealed. The results discus connection with the published data on the presence and functional roles of the serotonin and FMRFamide-related peptides in Platyhelminthes.
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Affiliation(s)
- D.A. Nefedova
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 33, Moscow, Russia, 119071
| | - N.B. Terenina
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 33, Moscow, Russia, 119071
| | - N.V. Mochalova
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 33, Moscow, Russia, 119071
| | - L.G. Poddubnaya
- I.D. Papanin Institute for Biology of Inland Waters of Russian Academy of Sciences, Borok 119, Yaroslavl Province, Russia, 152742
| | - S.O. Movsesyan
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution of Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 33, Moscow, Russia, 119071
| | - I.I. Gordeev
- Russian Federal Research Institute of Fisheries and Oceanography, Verkhn. Krasnoselskaya Str. 17, Moscow, Russia, 107140
- Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskiye Gory 1, Moscow, Russia, 119234
| | - A.V. Kuchin
- Institute of Cell Biophysics of Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya Str. 3, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia, 142290
| | - N.D. Kreshchenko
- Institute of Cell Biophysics of Russian Academy of Sciences, Institutskaya Str. 3, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia, 142290
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20
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Moreira-Filho JT, Silva AC, Dantas RF, Gomes BF, Souza Neto LR, Brandao-Neto J, Owens RJ, Furnham N, Neves BJ, Silva-Junior FP, Andrade CH. Schistosomiasis Drug Discovery in the Era of Automation and Artificial Intelligence. Front Immunol 2021; 12:642383. [PMID: 34135888 PMCID: PMC8203334 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.642383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by trematode worms of the genus Schistosoma and affects over 200 million people worldwide. The control and treatment of this neglected tropical disease is based on a single drug, praziquantel, which raises concerns about the development of drug resistance. This, and the lack of efficacy of praziquantel against juvenile worms, highlights the urgency for new antischistosomal therapies. In this review we focus on innovative approaches to the identification of antischistosomal drug candidates, including the use of automated assays, fragment-based screening, computer-aided and artificial intelligence-based computational methods. We highlight the current developments that may contribute to optimizing research outputs and lead to more effective drugs for this highly prevalent disease, in a more cost-effective drug discovery endeavor.
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Affiliation(s)
- José T. Moreira-Filho
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Arthur C. Silva
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Rafael F. Dantas
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Barbara F. Gomes
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lauro R. Souza Neto
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jose Brandao-Neto
- Diamond Light Source Ltd., Didcot, United Kingdom
- Research Complex at Harwell, Didcot, United Kingdom
| | - Raymond J. Owens
- The Rosalind Franklin Institute, Harwell, United Kingdom
- Division of Structural Biology, The Wellcome Centre for Human Genetic, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Furnham
- Department of Infection Biology, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bruno J. Neves
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
| | - Floriano P. Silva-Junior
- LaBECFar – Laboratório de Bioquímica Experimental e Computacional de Fármacos, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Carolina H. Andrade
- LabMol – Laboratory for Molecular Modeling and Drug Design, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Goiás – UFG, Goiânia, Brazil
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21
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Maharjan S, Kirk RS, Lawton SP, Walker AJ. Further evaluation and validation of HybridoMed Diff 1000 and its comparison to Basch medium for the cell-free culture of Schistosoma mansoni juvenile worm stages. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:613-619. [PMID: 33771520 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Schistosomules of the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni are vital for research focusing on the fundamental functional/developmental biology of schistosomes and many anti-schistosomal drug discovery programmes. Through the further evaluation and validation of a recently tested media, HybridoMed Diff 1000 (HM), for the cell-free culture of juvenile schistosomules, we show that while Basch medium was superior to HM for the survival/development of schistosomules, HM represents a viable and attractive alternative for somule culture, particularly to the early liver stage. Adoption of HM for schistosomule culture could facilitate more standardised approaches, which for drug screening should enable improved multi-centre target-hit evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shradha Maharjan
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE, UK
| | - Ruth S Kirk
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE, UK
| | - Scott P Lawton
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE, UK; Epidemiology Research Unit, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), An Lòchran, 10 Inverness Campus, Inverness IV2 5NA, UK
| | - Anthony J Walker
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Penrhyn Road, Kingston upon Thames KT1 2EE, UK.
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22
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Musah-Eroje M, Hoyle RC, Japa O, Hodgkinson JE, Haig DM, Flynn RJ. A host-independent role for Fasciola hepatica transforming growth factor-like molecule in parasite development. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:481-492. [PMID: 33581140 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The trematode parasite Fasciola hepatica causes chronic infection in hosts, enabled by an immunosuppressed environment. Both host and parasite factors are known to contribute to this suggesting that avoidance of immunopathology is beneficial to both parties. We have previously characterised a parasite transforming growth factor (TGF)-like molecule, FhTLM, that interacts with host macrophages to prevent antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity (ADCC). FhTLM is one of many described helminth TGF homologues and multiple helminths are now known to utilise host immune responses as developmental cues. To test whether, or how, F. hepatica uses FhTLM to manipulate host immunity, we initially examined its effects on the CD4 T-cell phenotype. Despite inducing IL-10, there was no induction of FoxP3 within the CD4 T-cell compartment. In addition to inducing IL-10, a wide range of chemokines were elicited from both CD4 T-cells and macrophages. However, no growth or survival advantage was conferred on F. hepatica in our co-culture system when CD4 T-cells, macrophages, or eosinophils were tested. Finally, using RNA interference we were able to verify a host-independent role for FhTLM in parasite growth. Despite the similarities of FhTLM with other described helminth TGF homologues, here we demonstrate species-specific divergence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayowa Musah-Eroje
- School of Veterinary Medicine & Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Boningto, LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Rebecca C Hoyle
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection & Global Health, University of Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK
| | - Ornampai Japa
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection & Global Health, University of Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK; Division of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao, Thailand
| | - Jane E Hodgkinson
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection & Global Health, University of Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK
| | - David M Haig
- School of Veterinary Medicine & Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Boningto, LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Robin J Flynn
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection & Global Health, University of Liverpool, L3 5RF, UK.
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Chutshela A, Masamba P, Oyinloye BE, Kappo AP. Molecular Context of ADP-ribosylation in Schistosomes for Drug Discovery and Vaccine Development. Curr Drug Discov Technol 2020; 18:473-484. [PMID: 32767945 DOI: 10.2174/1570163817666200806170654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Schistosome infection is regarded as one of the most important and neglected tropical diseases associated with poor sanitation. Like other living organisms, schistosomes employ multiple biological processes, of which some are regulated by a post-translational modification called Adenosine Diphosphate-ribosylation (ADP-ribosylation), catalyzed by ADP-ribosyltransferases. ADP-ribosylation is the addition of ADP-ribose moieties from Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) to various targets, which include proteins and nucleotides. It is crucial in biological processes such as DNA repair, apoptosis, carbohydrate metabolism and catabolism. In the absence of a vaccine against schistosomiasis, this becomes a promising pathway in the identification of drug targets against various forms of this infection. The tegument of the worm is an encouraging immunogenic target for anti-schistosomal vaccine development. Vaccinology, molecular modeling and target-based drug discovery strategies have been used for years in drug discovery and for vaccine development. In this paper, we outline ADP-ribosylation and other different approaches to drug discovery and vaccine development against schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amandla Chutshela
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Zululand, KwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa
| | - Priscilla Masamba
- Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology Group, Department of Biochemistry, University of Johannesburg, Kingsway Campus, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa
| | | | - Abidemi Paul Kappo
- Molecular Biophysics and Structural Biology Group, Department of Biochemistry, University of Johannesburg, Kingsway Campus, Auckland Park 2006, South Africa
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24
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Munday JC, Kunz S, Kalejaiye TD, Siderius M, Schroeder S, Paape D, Alghamdi AH, Abbasi Z, Huang SX, Donachie AM, William S, Sabra AN, Sterk GJ, Botros SS, Brown DG, Hoffman CS, Leurs R, de Koning HP. Cloning and functional complementation of ten Schistosoma mansoni phosphodiesterases expressed in the mammalian host stages. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008447. [PMID: 32730343 PMCID: PMC7430754 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Only a single drug against schistosomiasis is currently available and new drug development is urgently required but very few drug targets have been validated and characterised. However, regulatory systems including cyclic nucleotide metabolism are emerging as primary candidates for drug discovery. Here, we report the cloning of ten cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (PDE) genes of S. mansoni, out of a total of 11 identified in its genome. We classify these PDEs by homology to human PDEs. Male worms displayed higher expression levels for all PDEs, in mature and juvenile worms, and schistosomula. Several functional complementation approaches were used to characterise these genes. We constructed a Trypanosoma brucei cell line in which expression of a cAMP-degrading PDE complements the deletion of TbrPDEB1/B2. Inhibitor screens of these cells expressing only either SmPDE4A, TbrPDEB1 or TbrPDEB2, identified highly potent inhibitors of the S. mansoni enzyme that elevated the cellular cAMP concentration. We further expressed most of the cloned SmPDEs in two pde1Δ/pde2Δ strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and some also in a specialised strain of Schizosacharomyces pombe. Five PDEs, SmPDE1, SmPDE4A, SmPDE8, SmPDE9A and SmPDE11 successfully complemented the S. cerevisiae strains, and SmPDE7var also complemented to a lesser degree, in liquid culture. SmPDE4A, SmPDE8 and SmPDE11 were further assessed in S. pombe for hydrolysis of cAMP and cGMP; SmPDE11 displayed considerable preferrence for cGMP over cAMP. These results and tools enable the pursuit of a rigorous drug discovery program based on inhibitors of S. mansoni PDEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane C. Munday
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Stefan Kunz
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Titilola D. Kalejaiye
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Marco Siderius
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Daniel Paape
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ali H. Alghamdi
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Zainab Abbasi
- Biology Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Sheng Xiang Huang
- Biology Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Anne-Marie Donachie
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Samia William
- Department of Pharmacology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, Egypt
| | - Abdel Nasser Sabra
- Department of Pharmacology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, Egypt
| | - Geert Jan Sterk
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sanaa S. Botros
- Department of Pharmacology, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, Egypt
| | - David G. Brown
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Charles S. Hoffman
- Biology Department, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Rob Leurs
- Division of Medicinal Chemistry, Amsterdam Institute for Molecules, Medicines and Systems, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Harry P. de Koning
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, United Kingdom
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25
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Kreshchenko N, Terenina N, Nefedova D, Mochalova N, Voropaeva E, Movsesyan S. The neuroactive substances and associated muscle system in Rhipidocotyle campanula (Digenea, Bucephalidae) from the intestine of the pike Esox lucius. J Morphol 2020; 281:1047-1058. [PMID: 32574422 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We report about the muscular system and the serotonergic and FMRFamidergic components of the nervous system of the Bucephalidae trematode, Rhipidocotyle campanula, an intestinal parasite of the pike. We use immunocytochemical methods and confocal scanning laser microscopy (CLSM). The musculature is identified by histochemical staining with fluorescently labeled phalloidin. The body wall musculature of R. campanula contains three layers of muscle fibres - the outer thin circular, intermediate longitudinal and inner diagonal muscle fibres running in two opposite directions. The digestive system of R. campanula possess of a well-developed musculature: radial, longitudinal and circular muscle elements are detected in the pharynx, circular and longitudinal muscle filaments seen in the oesophagus, and longitudinal and the circular muscle fibres were found in the intestinal wall. Specific staining indicating the presence of actin muscle filaments occurs in the cirrus sac localized in the posterior body region. The frontal region of anterior attachment organ, the rhynchus, in R. campanula is represented by radial muscle fibres. The posterior part of the rhynchus comprise of radial muscles forming the organ's wall, and several strong longitudinal muscle bundles. Serotonergic and FMRFamidergic structures are detected in the central and peripheral compartments of the nervous system of R. campanula, that is, in the paired brain ganglia, the brain commissure, the longitudinal nerve cords, and connective nerve commissures. The innervations of the rhynchus, pharynx, oesophagus and distal regions of the reproductive system by the serotonergic and FMRFamidergic nervous elements are revealed. We compare our findings obtained on R. campanula with related data for other trematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Kreshchenko
- Institute of Cell Biophysics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Pushchino, Moscow Region, Russia
| | - Nadezhda Terenina
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Darya Nefedova
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Natalia Mochalova
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
| | - Ekaterina Voropaeva
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia.,Tobolsk complex scientific station, Ural Department of Russian Academy of Sciences (Ural Department of RAS), Tobolsk, Russia
| | - Sergey Movsesyan
- Center of Parasitology, А.N. Severtsov Institute of Ecology and Evolution, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russia
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26
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Duguet TB, Glebov A, Hussain A, Kulkarni S, Mochalkin I, Geary TG, Rashid M, Spangenberg T, Ribeiro P. Identification of annotated bioactive molecules that impair motility of the blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2020; 13:73-88. [PMID: 32531750 PMCID: PMC7284125 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2020.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2020] [Revised: 05/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases are of growing worldwide concern and schistosomiasis, caused by parasitic flatworms, continues to be a major threat with more than 200 million people requiring preventive treatment. As praziquantel (PZQ) remains the treatment of choice, an urgent need for alternative treatments motivates research to identify new lead compounds that would complement PZQ by filling the therapeutic gaps associated with this treatment. Because impairing parasite neurotransmission remains a core strategy for control of parasitic helminths, we screened a library of 708 compounds with validated biological activity in humans on the blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni, measuring their effect on the motility on schistosomulae and adult worms. The primary phenotypic screen performed on schistosomulae identified 70 compounds that induced changes in viability and/or motility. Screening different concentrations and incubation times identified molecules with fast onset of activity on both life stages at low concentration (1 μM). To complement this study, similar assays were performed with chemical analogs of the cholinomimetic drug arecoline and the calcilytic molecule NPS-2143, two compounds that rapidly inhibited schistosome motility; 17 arecoline and 302 NPS-2143 analogs were tested to enlarge the pool of schistosomicidal molecules. Finally, validated hit compounds were tested on three functionally-validated neuroregulatory S. mansoni G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs): Sm5HTR (serotonin-sensitive), SmGPR2 (histamine) and SmD2 (dopamine), revealing NPS-2143 and analogs as potent inhibitors of dopamine/epinine responses on both human and S. mansoni GPCRs. This study highlights the potential for repurposing known human therapeutic agents for potential schistosomicidal effects and expands the list of hits for further progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas B Duguet
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada.
| | - Anastasia Glebov
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Asimah Hussain
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Igor Mochalkin
- EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Billerica, MA, USA
| | - Timothy G Geary
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mohammed Rashid
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Thomas Spangenberg
- Global Health Institute of Merck, Ares Trading S.A., a subsidiary of Merck KGaA (Darmstadt, Germany), Eysins, Switzerland.
| | - Paula Ribeiro
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
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27
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Bacqué-Cazenave J, Bharatiya R, Barrière G, Delbecque JP, Bouguiyoud N, Di Giovanni G, Cattaert D, De Deurwaerdère P. Serotonin in Animal Cognition and Behavior. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051649. [PMID: 32121267 PMCID: PMC7084567 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) is acknowledged as a major neuromodulator of nervous systems in both invertebrates and vertebrates. It has been proposed for several decades that it impacts animal cognition and behavior. In spite of a completely distinct organization of the 5-HT systems across the animal kingdom, several lines of evidence suggest that the influences of 5-HT on behavior and cognition are evolutionary conserved. In this review, we have selected some behaviors classically evoked when addressing the roles of 5-HT on nervous system functions. In particular, we focus on the motor activity, arousal, sleep and circadian rhythm, feeding, social interactions and aggressiveness, anxiety, mood, learning and memory, or impulsive/compulsive dimension and behavioral flexibility. The roles of 5-HT, illustrated in both invertebrates and vertebrates, show that it is more able to potentiate or mitigate the neuronal responses necessary for the fine-tuning of most behaviors, rather than to trigger or halt a specific behavior. 5-HT is, therefore, the prototypical neuromodulator fundamentally involved in the adaptation of all organisms across the animal kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julien Bacqué-Cazenave
- INCIA, UMR5287, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 33076 Bordeaux, France; (J.B.-C.); (R.B.); (G.B.); (J.-P.D.); (N.B.)
| | - Rahul Bharatiya
- INCIA, UMR5287, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 33076 Bordeaux, France; (J.B.-C.); (R.B.); (G.B.); (J.-P.D.); (N.B.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Section of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, 09100 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Grégory Barrière
- INCIA, UMR5287, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 33076 Bordeaux, France; (J.B.-C.); (R.B.); (G.B.); (J.-P.D.); (N.B.)
| | - Jean-Paul Delbecque
- INCIA, UMR5287, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 33076 Bordeaux, France; (J.B.-C.); (R.B.); (G.B.); (J.-P.D.); (N.B.)
| | - Nouhaila Bouguiyoud
- INCIA, UMR5287, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 33076 Bordeaux, France; (J.B.-C.); (R.B.); (G.B.); (J.-P.D.); (N.B.)
| | - Giuseppe Di Giovanni
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Department of Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, MSD 2080 Msida, Malta;
- School of Biosciences, Neuroscience Division, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK
| | - Daniel Cattaert
- INCIA, UMR5287, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 33076 Bordeaux, France; (J.B.-C.); (R.B.); (G.B.); (J.-P.D.); (N.B.)
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (P.D.D.)
| | - Philippe De Deurwaerdère
- INCIA, UMR5287, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 33076 Bordeaux, France; (J.B.-C.); (R.B.); (G.B.); (J.-P.D.); (N.B.)
- Correspondence: (D.C.); (P.D.D.)
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28
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Vale N, Gouveia MJ, Gärtner F. Current and Novel Therapies Against Helminthic Infections: The Potential of Antioxidants Combined with Drugs. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E350. [PMID: 32106428 PMCID: PMC7175190 DOI: 10.3390/biom10030350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections caused by Schistosoma haematobium and Opisthorchisviverrini are classified as Group 1 biological carcinogen and it has been postulated that parasites produce oxysterol and estrogen-like metabolites that might be considered as initiators of infection-associated carcinogenesis. Chemotherapy for these helminthic infections relies on a single drug, praziquantel, (PZQ) that mainly targets the parasite. Additionally, PZQ has some major drawbacks as inefficacy against juvenile form and alone it is not capable to counteract pathologies associated to infections or prevent carcinogenesis. There is an urgent need to develop novel therapeutic approaches that not only target the parasite but also improve the pathologies associated to infection, and ultimately, counteract or/and prevent the carcinogenesis processes. Repurposing the drug in combination of compounds with different modes of action is a promising strategy to find novel therapeutics approaches against these helminthic infections and its pathologies. Here, we emphasized that using antioxidants either alone or combined with anthelmintic drugs could ameliorate tissue damage, infection-associated complications, moreover, could prevent the development of cancer associated to infections. Hence, antioxidants represent a potential adjuvant approach during treatment to reduce morbidity and mortality. Despite the success of some strategies, there is a long way to go to implement novel therapies for schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuno Vale
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- i3S, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal;
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
| | - Maria João Gouveia
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
- Center for the Study in Animal Science (CECA/ICETA), University of Porto, Rua de D. Manuel II, Apt 55142, 4051-401 Porto, Portugal
| | - Fátima Gärtner
- i3S, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, University of Porto, Rua Alfredo Allen 208, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal;
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal;
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29
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Park SK, Marchant JS. The Journey to Discovering a Flatworm Target of Praziquantel: A Long TRP. Trends Parasitol 2020; 36:182-194. [PMID: 31787521 PMCID: PMC6937385 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2019.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Revised: 11/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Infections caused by parasitic flatworms impose a considerable worldwide health burden. One of the most impactful is schistosomiasis, a disease caused by parasitic blood flukes. Treatment of schistosomiasis has relied on a single drug - praziquantel (PZQ) - for decades. The utility of PZQ as an essential medication is, however, intertwined with a stark gap in our knowledge as to how this drug works. No flatworm target has been identified that readily explains how PZQ paralyzes and damages schistosomes. Recently, a schistosome ion channel was discovered that is activated by PZQ and displays characteristics which mirror key features of PZQ action on schistosomes. Here, the journey to discovery of this target, properties of this ion channel, and remaining questions are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang-Kyu Park
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Jonathan S Marchant
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
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30
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Mauler M, Herr N, Schoenichen C, Witsch T, Marchini T, Härdtner C, Koentges C, Kienle K, Ollivier V, Schell M, Dorner L, Wippel C, Stallmann D, Normann C, Bugger H, Walther P, Wolf D, Ahrens I, Lämmermann T, Ho-Tin-Noé B, Ley K, Bode C, Hilgendorf I, Duerschmied D. Platelet Serotonin Aggravates Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury via Neutrophil Degranulation. Circulation 2019; 139:918-931. [PMID: 30586717 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.118.033942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Platelets store large amounts of serotonin that they release during thrombus formation or acute inflammation. This facilitates hemostasis and modulates the inflammatory response. METHODS Infarct size, heart function, and inflammatory cell composition were analyzed in mouse models of myocardial reperfusion injury with genetic and pharmacological depletion of platelet serotonin. These studies were complemented by in vitro serotonin stimulation assays of platelets and leukocytes in mice and men, and by measuring plasma serotonin levels and leukocyte activation in patients with acute coronary syndrome. RESULTS Platelet-derived serotonin induced neutrophil degranulation with release of myeloperoxidase and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and increased expression of membrane-bound leukocyte adhesion molecule CD11b, leading to enhanced inflammation in the infarct area and reduced myocardial salvage. In patients hospitalized with acute coronary syndrome, plasmatic serotonin levels correlated with CD11b expression on neutrophils and myeloperoxidase plasma levels. Long-term serotonin reuptake inhibition-reported to protect patients with depression from cardiovascular events-resulted in the depletion of platelet serotonin stores in mice. These mice displayed a reduction in neutrophil degranulation and preserved cardiac function. In line, patients with depression using serotonin reuptake inhibition, presented with suppressed levels of CD11b surface expression on neutrophils and lower myeloperoxidase levels in blood. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, we identify serotonin as a potent therapeutic target in neutrophil-dependent thromboinflammation during myocardial reperfusion injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Mauler
- Faculty of Biology (M.M., K.K.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Nadine Herr
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Schoenichen
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Thilo Witsch
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Timoteo Marchini
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Carmen Härdtner
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Koentges
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Korbinian Kienle
- Faculty of Biology (M.M., K.K.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Group Immune Cell Dynamics (K.K., T.L.), Germany
| | - Véronique Ollivier
- INSERM Unit 1148, University Paris Diderot (V.O., B.H-T-N.), France.,Laboratory for Vascular Translational Science, Sorbonne Paris Cité (V.O., B.H-T-N.), France
| | - Maximilian Schell
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ludwig Dorner
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Christopher Wippel
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Stallmann
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Claus Normann
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry, University Medical Center Freiburg (C.N.), Germany
| | - Heiko Bugger
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Paul Walther
- Central Facility for Electron Microscopy, Ulm University; Ulm, Germany (P.W.)
| | - Dennis Wolf
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, CA (D.W., K.L.)
| | - Ingo Ahrens
- Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tim Lämmermann
- Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics, Group Immune Cell Dynamics (K.K., T.L.), Germany
| | - Benoît Ho-Tin-Noé
- INSERM Unit 1148, University Paris Diderot (V.O., B.H-T-N.), France.,Laboratory for Vascular Translational Science, Sorbonne Paris Cité (V.O., B.H-T-N.), France
| | - Klaus Ley
- La Jolla Institute for Allergy and Immunology, La Jolla, CA (D.W., K.L.)
| | - Christoph Bode
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Ingo Hilgendorf
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Duerschmied
- Faculty of Medicine (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.W., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., C.N., H.B., D.W., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany.,Department of Cardiology and Angiology I, Heart Center (M.M., N.H., C.S., T.M., C.H., C.K., M.S., L.D., C.W., D.S., H.B., D.W., I.A., C.B., I.H., D.D.), University of Freiburg, Germany
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31
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Comparative serum metabolomics between SCID mice and BALB/c mice with or without Schistosoma japonicum infection: Clues to the abnormal growth and development of schistosome in SCID mice. Acta Trop 2019; 200:105186. [PMID: 31542371 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2019] [Revised: 09/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The small blood flukes of genus Schistosoma, which cause one of the most prevalent and serious parasitic zoonosis schistosomiasis, are dependent on immune-related factors of their mammalian host to facilitate their growth and development, and the formation of granulomatous pathology caused by eggs deposited in host's liver and intestinal wall. Schistosome development is hampered in the mice lacking just T cells, and is even more heavily retarded in the severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice lacking both T and B lymphocytes. Nevertheless, it's still not clear about the underlying regulatory molecular mechanisms of schistosome growth and development by host's immune system. This study, therefore, detected and compared the serum metabolic profiles between the immunodeficient mice and immunocompetent mice (SCID mice vs. BALB/c mice) before and after S. japonicum infection (on the thirty-fifth day post infection using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Totally, 705 ion features in electrospray ionization in positive-ion mode (ESI+) and 242 ion features in ESI- mode were identified, respectively. First, distinct serum metabolic profiles were identified between SCID mice and BALB/c mice without S. japonicum worms infection. Second, uniquely perturbed serum metabolites and their enriched pathways were also obtained between SCID mice and BALB/c mice after S. japonicum infection, which included differential metabolites due to both species differences and differential responses to S. japonicum infection. The metabolic pathways analysis revealed that arachidonic acid metabolism, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid metabolism, glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchor biosynthesis, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, sphingolipid metabolism and purine metabolism were enriched based on the differential serum metabolites between SCID mice and BALB/c mice after S. japonicum infection, which was addressed to be related to the retarded growth and development of S. japonicum in SCID mice. These findings provide new clues to the underlying molecular events of host's systemic metabolic changes on the growth and development of S. japonicum worms, and also provide quite promising candidates for exploitation of drugs or vaccines against schistosome and schistosomiasis.
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Gao J, Yang N, Lewis FA, Yau P, Collins JJ, Sweedler JV, Newmark PA. A rotifer-derived paralytic compound prevents transmission of schistosomiasis to a mammalian host. PLoS Biol 2019; 17:e3000485. [PMID: 31622335 PMCID: PMC6797223 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pbio.3000485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomes are parasitic flatworms that infect over 200 million people, causing the neglected tropical disease, schistosomiasis. A single drug, praziquantel, is used to treat schistosome infection. Limitations in mass drug administration programs and the emergence of schistosomiasis in nontropical areas indicate the need for new strategies to prevent infection. It has been known for several decades that rotifers colonizing the schistosome's snail intermediate host produce a water-soluble factor that paralyzes cercariae, the life cycle stage infecting humans. In spite of its potential for preventing infection, the nature of this factor has remained obscure. Here, we report the purification and chemical characterization of Schistosome Paralysis Factor (SPF), a novel tetracyclic alkaloid produced by the rotifer Rotaria rotatoria. We show that this compound paralyzes schistosome cercariae and prevents infection and does so more effectively than analogous compounds. This molecule provides new directions for understanding cercariae motility and new strategies for preventing schistosome infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiarong Gao
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Ning Yang
- Department of Chemistry and the Beckman Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Fred A. Lewis
- Biomedical Research Institute, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Peter Yau
- Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - James J. Collins
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Jonathan V. Sweedler
- Department of Chemistry and the Beckman Institute, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Phillip A. Newmark
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, United States of America
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland, United States of America
- Morgridge Institute for Research, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin, United States of America
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33
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Buddenborg SK, Kamel B, Hanelt B, Bu L, Zhang SM, Mkoji GM, Loker ES. The in vivo transcriptome of Schistosoma mansoni in the prominent vector species Biomphalaria pfeifferi with supporting observations from Biomphalaria glabrata. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007013. [PMID: 31568484 PMCID: PMC6797213 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The full scope of the genes expressed by schistosomes during intramolluscan development has yet to be characterized. Understanding the gene products deployed by larval schistosomes in their snail hosts will provide insights into their establishment, maintenance, asexual reproduction, ability to castrate their hosts, and their prolific production of human-infective cercariae. Using the Illumina platform, the intramolluscan transcriptome of Schistosoma mansoni was investigated in field-derived specimens of the prominent vector species Biomphalaria pfeifferi at 1 and 3 days post infection (d) and from snails shedding cercariae. These S. mansoni samples were derived from the same snails used in our complementary B. pfeifferi transcriptomic study. We supplemented this view with microarray analyses of S. mansoni from B. glabrata at 2d, 4d, 8d, 16d, and 32d to highlight robust features of S. mansoni transcription, even when a different technique and vector species was used. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Transcripts representing at least 7,740 (66%) of known S. mansoni genes were expressed during intramolluscan development, with the greatest number expressed in snails shedding cercariae. Many transcripts were constitutively expressed throughout development featuring membrane transporters, and metabolic enzymes involved in protein and nucleic acid synthesis and cell division. Several proteases and protease inhibitors were expressed at all stages, including some proteases usually associated with cercariae. Transcripts associated with G-protein coupled receptors, germ cell perpetuation, and stress responses and defense were well represented. We noted transcripts homologous to planarian anti-bacterial factors, several neural development or neuropeptide transcripts including neuropeptide Y, and receptors that may be associated with schistosome germinal cell maintenance that could also impact host reproduction. In at least one snail the presence of larvae of another digenean species (an amphistome) was associated with repressed S. mansoni transcriptional activity. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE This in vivo study, emphasizing field-derived snails and schistosomes, but supplemented with observations from a lab model, provides a distinct view from previous studies of development of cultured intramolluscan stages from lab-maintained organisms. We found many highly represented transcripts with suspected or unknown functions, with connection to intramolluscan development yet to be elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah K. Buddenborg
- Department of Biology, Center for Evolutionary and Theoretical Immunology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States of America
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Bishoy Kamel
- Department of Biology, Center for Evolutionary and Theoretical Immunology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States of America
| | - Ben Hanelt
- Department of Biology, Center for Evolutionary and Theoretical Immunology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States of America
| | - Lijing Bu
- Department of Biology, Center for Evolutionary and Theoretical Immunology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States of America
| | - Si-Ming Zhang
- Department of Biology, Center for Evolutionary and Theoretical Immunology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States of America
| | - Gerald M. Mkoji
- Center for Biotechnology Research and Development, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairob,i Kenya
| | - Eric S. Loker
- Department of Biology, Center for Evolutionary and Theoretical Immunology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States of America
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Li S, Song JH, Kim TI, Yoo WG, Won MH, Dai F, Hong SJ. Chemotactic migration of newly excysted juvenile Clonorchis sinensis is suppressed by neuro-antagonists. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007573. [PMID: 31408466 PMCID: PMC6691982 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 06/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The metacercariae of the Clonorchis sinensis liver fluke excyst in the duodenum of mammalian hosts, and the newly excysted juveniles (CsNEJs) migrate along the bile duct via bile chemotaxis. Cholic acid is a major component of bile that induces this migration. We investigated the neuronal control of chemotactic behavior of CsNEJs toward cholic acid. The migration of CsNEJs was strongly inhibited at sub-micromolar concentration by dopamine D1 (LE-300 and SKF-83566), D2 (spiramide, nemonapride, and sulpiride), and D3 (GR-103691 and NGB-2904) receptor antagonists, as well as a dopamine reuptake inhibitor (BTCP). Neuropeptides, FMRFamide, peptide YY, and neuropeptide Y were also potent inhibitors of chemotaxis. Meanwhile, serotonergic, glutamatergic, and cholinergic inhibitors did not affect chemotaxis, with the exception of fluoxetine and CNQX. Confocal immunofluorescence analysis indicated that dopaminergic and cholinergic neurons were colocalized in the somatic muscle tissues of adult C. sinensis. Our findings suggest that dopaminergic neurons and neuropeptides play a major role in the chemotactic migration of CsNEJs to bile, and their inhibitors or modulators could be utilized to prevent their migration from the bile duct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunyu Li
- Department of Medical Environmental Biology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Ho Song
- Department of Pharmacology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Im Kim
- Department of Medical Environmental Biology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Division of Planning and Management, Nakdong-gang National Institute of Biological Resources, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Gi Yoo
- Department of Medical Environmental Biology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Moo-Ho Won
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Fuhong Dai
- Department of Medical Environmental Biology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Parasitology, Medical College of Soochow University, Suzhou Industrial Park, Suzhou, Jiangsu, P.R. China
| | - Sung-Jong Hong
- Department of Medical Environmental Biology, Chung-Ang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
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Caffrey CR, El‐Sakkary N, Mäder P, Krieg R, Becker K, Schlitzer M, Drewry DH, Vennerstrom JL, Grevelding CG. Drug Discovery and Development for Schistosomiasis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/9783527808656.ch8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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36
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Botros SS, William S, Sabra ANA, El-Lakkany NM, Seif El-Din SH, García-Rubia A, Sebastián-Pérez V, Blaazer AR, de Heuvel E, Sijm M, Zheng Y, Salado IG, Munday JC, Maes L, de Esch IJP, Sterk GJ, Augustyns K, Leurs R, Gil C, De Koning HP. Screening of a PDE-focused library identifies imidazoles with in vitro and in vivo antischistosomal activity. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2019; 9:35-43. [PMID: 30669086 PMCID: PMC6350229 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2019.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2018] [Revised: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
We report the evaluation of 265 compounds from a PDE-focused library for their antischistosomal activity, assessed in vitro using Schistosoma mansoni. Of the tested compounds, 171 (64%) displayed selective in vitro activity, with 16 causing worm hypermotility/spastic contractions and 41 inducing various degrees of worm killing at 100 μM, with the surviving worms displaying sluggish movement, worm unpairing and complete absence of eggs. The compounds that did not affect worm viability (n = 72) induced a complete cessation of ovipositing. 82% of the compounds had an impact on male worms whereas female worms were barely affected. In vivo evaluation in S. mansoni-infected mice with the in vitro 'hit' NPD-0274 at 20 mg/kg/day orally for 5 days resulted in worm burden reductions of 29% and intestinal tissue egg load reduction of 35% at 10 days post-treatment. Combination of praziquantel (PZQ) at 10 mg/kg/day for 5 days with NPD-0274 or NPD-0298 resulted in significantly higher worm killing than PZQ alone, as well as a reduction in intestinal tissue egg load, disappearance of immature eggs and an increase in the number of dead eggs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaa S Botros
- Pharmacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. Box 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | - Samia William
- Parasitology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. Box 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | - Abdel-Nasser A Sabra
- Pharmacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. Box 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | - Naglaa M El-Lakkany
- Pharmacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. Box 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | - Sayed H Seif El-Din
- Pharmacology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Warrak El-Hadar, Imbaba, P.O. Box 30, Giza, 12411, Egypt
| | | | | | - Antoni R Blaazer
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | - Erik de Heuvel
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | - Maarten Sijm
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | - Yang Zheng
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | | | - Jane C Munday
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK
| | | | - Iwan J P de Esch
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | - Geert J Sterk
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | | | - Rob Leurs
- Medicinal Chemistry Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VUA), the Netherlands
| | - Carmen Gil
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas (CIB-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Harry P De Koning
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK.
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Mousavi SM, Afgar A, Mohammadi MA, Mortezaei S, Sadeghi B, Harandi MF. Calmodulin-specific small interfering RNA induces consistent expression suppression and morphological changes in Echinococcus granulosus. Sci Rep 2019; 9:3894. [PMID: 30846822 PMCID: PMC6406006 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40656-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Among parasitic helminths, biological features of Echinococcus granulosus have been a focus of particular interest in biology and medicine. The determinants and underlying molecular mechanisms of Echinococcus development in different host settings is largely unknown. The phenomenal bi-directional development of E. granulosus protoscoleces into multi-proglottid and/or microcysts, is a fascinating feature of the parasite cultivation. Calmodulin (CaM) is the major intracellular Ca2+ binding protein in plant and animal organisms. Many Ca2+-related processes in the physiology of eukaryotic organisms are CaM-dependent, however little is known on the role of CaM in platyhelminths growth and development. Small interfering (si) RNA-induced manipulations of the genes involving in the parasite development is an opportunity to explore novel approaches for cystic echinococcosis (CE) prevention and management. Regarding the fundamental role of CaM in cellular function of the parasites, in this study, we investigated the molecular and morphological changes induced by siRNA on CaM in different in vitro stages of E. granulosus. Three developmental stages of the tapeworm, protoscoleces, microcysts and strobilated worms, were cultivated in vitro in mono- and di-phasic media and three delivery methods, i.e. electroporation, soaking and electro-soaking, were used for RNA interference. The level of mRNA suppression as well as the phenotypic changes of the parasites were measured. Following RNA interference, EgCaM mRNA suppressions of 65-99% were recorded in different stages of the tapeworm as compared to untreated/unrelated siRNA controls. Lower viability, growth retardation, morphological abnormalities as well as EgCaM expression suppression were documented in the parasite implying potential of siRNA technology for the prevention and management of CE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Mohammad Mousavi
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran
| | - Ali Afgar
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Mohammadi
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran
| | - Seifollah Mortezaei
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran
| | - Balal Sadeghi
- Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Food Hygiene and Public Health, Kerman, Iran
| | - Majid Fasihi Harandi
- Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, 7616914115, Iran.
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38
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Form and Function in the Digenea. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1154:3-20. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-18616-6_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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39
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Preza M, Montagne J, Costábile A, Iriarte A, Castillo E, Koziol U. Analysis of classical neurotransmitter markers in tapeworms: Evidence for extensive loss of neurotransmitter pathways. Int J Parasitol 2018; 48:979-992. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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40
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Tierney AJ. Invertebrate serotonin receptors: a molecular perspective on classification and pharmacology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 221:221/19/jeb184838. [PMID: 30287590 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.184838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Invertebrate receptors for the neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) have been identified in numerous species from diverse phyla, including Arthropoda, Mollusca, Nematoda and Platyhelminthes. For many receptors, cloning and characterization in heterologous systems have contributed data on molecular structure and function across both closely and distantly related species. This article provides an overview of heterologously expressed receptors, and considers evolutionary relationships among them, classification based on these relationships and nomenclature that reflects classification. In addition, transduction pathways and pharmacological profiles are compared across receptor subtypes and species. Previous work has shown that transduction mechanisms are well conserved within receptor subtypes, but responses to drugs are complex. A few ligands display specificity for different receptors within a single species; however, none acts with high specificity in receptors across different species. Two non-selective vertebrate ligands, the agonist 5-methoxytryptamine and antagonist methiothepin, are active in most receptor subtypes in multiple species and hence bind very generally to invertebrate 5-HT receptors. Future challenges for the field include determining how pharmacological profiles are affected by differences in species and receptor subtype, and how function in heterologous receptors can be used to better understand 5-HT activity in intact organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Jane Tierney
- Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, Colgate University, Hamilton, NY 13346, USA
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Marchant JS, Harding WW, Chan JD. Structure-activity profiling of alkaloid natural product pharmacophores against a Schistosoma serotonin receptor. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2018; 8:550-558. [PMID: 30297303 PMCID: PMC6287472 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2018.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 09/11/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Serotonin (5-HT) is an important regulator of numerous aspects of flatworm biology, ranging from neuromuscular function to sexual maturation and egg laying. In the parasitic blood fluke Schistosoma mansoni, 5-HT targets several G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), one of which has been demonstrated to couple to cAMP and regulate parasite movement. This receptor, Sm.5HTRL, has been successfully co-expressed in mammalian cells alongside a luminescent cAMP-biosensor, enabling pharmacological profiling for candidate anti-schistosomal drugs. Here, we have utilized this assay to perform structure-activity investigations of 143 compounds containing previously identified alkaloid natural product pharmacophores (tryptamines, aporphines and protoberberines) shown to regulate Sm.5HTRL. These experiments mapped regions of the tryptamine pharmacophore amenable and intolerant to substitution, highlighting differences relative to orthologous mammalian 5-HT receptors. Potent Sm.5HTRL antagonists were identified, and the efficacy of these compounds were evaluated against live adult parasites cultured ex vivo. Such structure-activity profiling, characterizing the effect of various modifications to these core ring systems on Sm.5HTRL responses, provides greater understanding of pharmacophores selective for this target to aid future drug development efforts. Various alkaloids were screened against a schistosome serotonin receptor, Sm.5HTRL. Compounds with a tryptamine core displayed agonist activity at Sm.5HTRL. Aporphine and protoberberine compounds displayed antagonist activity at Sm.5HTRL. Compound activity at Sm.5HTRL is broadly mirrored by motility effects on adult worms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan S Marchant
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 533226, USA
| | - Wayne W Harding
- Chemistry Department, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, NY, 10065, USA; Ph.D. Program in Chemistry, CUNY Graduate Center, 365 5th Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA; Ph.D. Program in Biochemistry, CUNY Graduate Center, 365 5th Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - John D Chan
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 533226, USA.
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Chan JD, Day TA, Marchant JS. Coalescing beneficial host and deleterious antiparasitic actions as an antischistosomal strategy. eLife 2018; 7:35755. [PMID: 30059006 PMCID: PMC6095690 DOI: 10.7554/elife.35755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional approaches for antiparasitic drug discovery center upon discovering selective agents that adversely impact parasites with minimal host side effects. Here, we show that agents with a broad polypharmacology, often considered ‘dirtier’ drugs, can have unique efficacy if they combine deleterious effects on the parasite with beneficial actions in the host. This principle is evidenced through a screen for drugs to treat schistosomiasis, a parasitic flatworm disease that impacts over 230 million people. A target-based screen of a Schistosoma serotoninergic G protein coupled receptor yielded the potent agonist, ergotamine, which disrupted worm movement. In vivo, ergotamine decreased mortality, parasite load and intestinal egg counts but also uniquely reduced organ pathology through engagement of host GPCRs that repressed hepatic stellate cell activation, inflammatory damage and fibrosis. The unique ability of ergotamine to engage both host and parasite GPCRs evidences a future strategy for anthelmintic drug design that coalesces deleterious antiparasitic activity with beneficial host effects. More than 200 million people worldwide are infected with parasitic worms that cause the disease schistosomiasis. Most cases occur in sub-Saharan Africa. Long-term infections can damage organs, and children who are affected may suffer delayed growth and learning difficulties. Despite its significant health and economic impact, schistosomiasis is still considered a ‘neglected’ tropical disease. This means there has not been adequate investment into developing new treatments or cures. A drug called praziquantel is currently the only treatment for schistosomiasis. However, the drug has unpleasant side effects, cannot cure all infected individuals, and there is a concern that worms may develop resistance to its effects. This means there is an urgent need to develop new therapies. One possible approach would be to develop drugs that interfere with the worm’s ability to move. Chan et al. screened thousands of existing chemicals for interactions with a protein that is known to control how the worms move. A drug called ergotamine, which is currently used to treat migraines, strongly interacted with the protein. Treating infected mice with ergotamine eliminated the parasites and reduced the organ damage caused by the infection. Praziquantel also reduced the number of parasites in the mice but it did not prevent organ damage. The results presented by Chan et al. show that a single drug can interact with targets in both the worm and the animals it infects. Searching for drugs that have this dual effect may help to develop more effective treatments for schistosomiasis and other diseases caused by parasites. Ergotamine itself is unlikely to be used to treat people for schistosomiasis because of the side effects produced when using it repeatedly. However, these findings will help researchers identify and develop safer drugs with similar benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Chan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, United States
| | - Timothy A Day
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, United States
| | - Jonathan S Marchant
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, United States
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El-Sakkary N, Chen S, Arkin MR, Caffrey CR, Ribeiro P. Octopamine signaling in the metazoan pathogen Schistosoma mansoni: localization, small-molecule screening and opportunities for drug development. Dis Model Mech 2018; 11:dmm033563. [PMID: 29925529 PMCID: PMC6078403 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.033563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a tropical disease caused by a flatworm trematode parasite that infects over 200 million people worldwide. Treatment and control of the disease rely on just one drug, praziquantel. The possibility of drug resistance coupled with praziquantel's variable efficacy encourages the identification of new drugs and drug targets. Disruption of neuromuscular homeostasis in parasitic worms is a validated strategy for drug development. In schistosomes, however, much remains to be understood about the organization of the nervous system, its component neurotransmitters and potential for drug discovery. Using synapsin as a neuronal marker, we map the central and peripheral nervous systems in the Schistosoma mansoni adult and schistosomulum (post-infective larva). We discover the widespread presence of octopamine (OA), a tyrosine-derived and invertebrate-specific neurotransmitter involved in neuromuscular coordination. OA labeling facilitated the discovery of two pairs of ganglia in the brain of the adult schistosome, rather than the one pair thus far reported for this and other trematodes. In quantitative phenotypic assays, OA and the structurally related tyrosine-derived phenolamine and catecholamine neurotransmitters differentially modulated schistosomulum motility and length. Similarly, from a screen of 28 drug agonists and antagonists of tyrosine-derivative signaling, certain drugs that act on OA and dopamine receptors induced robust and sometimes complex concentration-dependent effects on schistosome motility and length; in some cases, these effects occurred at concentrations achievable in vivo The present data advance our knowledge of the organization of the nervous system in this globally important pathogen and identify a number of drugs that interfere with tyrosine-derivative signaling, one or more of which might provide the basis for a new chemotherapeutic approach to treat schistosomiasis.This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelly El-Sakkary
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, 21, 111 Lakeshore Road, Ste Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada H9X-3V9
| | - Steven Chen
- Small Molecule Discovery Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Michelle R Arkin
- Small Molecule Discovery Center, Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Conor R Caffrey
- Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases, Department of Pathology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Paula Ribeiro
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, 21, 111 Lakeshore Road, Ste Anne de Bellevue, Quebec, Canada H9X-3V9
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Serotonin and Neuropeptide FMRFamide in the Attachment Organs of Trematodes. Helminthologia 2018; 55:185-194. [PMID: 31662646 PMCID: PMC6662011 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2018-0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 06/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The serotoninergic and FMRFamidergic nervous system of the attachment organs of trematodes were examined using immunocytochemical techniques and confocal scanning laser microscopy. Adult trematodes from eight families as well as cercariae and metacercariae from ten families were studied. TRITC-conjugated phalloidin was used to stain the muscle fibres. The serotonin- and FMRFamide-immunoreactive (IR) nerve cells and fibres were revealed to be near the muscle fibres of the oral and ventral suckers of the trematodes and their larvae. The results indicate the important role of neurotransmitters, serotonin and neuropeptide FMRFamide in the regulation of muscle activity in the attachment organs of trematodes and can be considered in perspective for the development of new anthelmintic drugs, which can interrupt the function of the attachment organs of the parasites.
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Zhao L, Lu Z, He X, Mughal MN, Fang R, Zhou Y, Zhao J, Gasser RB, Grevelding CG, Ye Q, Hu M. Serine/threonine protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) controls growth and reproduction in Schistosoma japonicum. FASEB J 2018; 32:fj201800725R. [PMID: 29879373 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201800725r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a human parasitic disease caused by flatworms of the genus Schistosoma. Adult female schistosomes produce numerous eggs that are responsible for the pathogenesis and transmission of the disease, and the maturation of female gonads depends on the permanent pairing of females and males. Signaling protein kinases have been proven to control female gonad differentiation after pairing; however, little is known about the roles of protein phosphatases in the developmental and reproductive biology of schistosomes. Here we explored 3 genes encoding catalytic subunits of serine/threonine protein phosphatase 1 (PP1c) that were structurally and evolutionarily conserved in Schistosoma japonicum. In situ hybridization showed transcripts of 3 Sj-pp1c genes mainly localized in the reproductive organs and tissues. Triple knockdown of Sj-pp1c genes by RNA interference caused stunted growth and decreased pairing stability of worm pairs, as well as a remarkable reduction in cell proliferation activity and defects in reproductive maturation and fecundity. Transcriptomic analysis post-RNA interference suggested that Sj-pp1c genes are involved in controlling worm development and maturation mainly by regulating cell proliferation, eggshell synthesis, nutritional metabolism, cytoskeleton organization, and neural process. Our study provides the first insight into the fundamental contribution of Sj-PP1c to molecular mechanisms underlying the reproductive biology of schistosomes.-Zhao, L., Lu, Z., He, X., Mughal, M. N., Fang, R., Zhou, Y., Zhao, J., Gasser, R. B., Grevelding, C. G., Ye, Q., Hu, M. Serine/threonine protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) controls growth and reproduction in Schistosoma japonicum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhigang Lu
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Xin He
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Mudassar N Mughal
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Rui Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanqin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Junlong Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Robin B Gasser
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Christoph G Grevelding
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Qing Ye
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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McVeigh P, McCammick E, McCusker P, Wells D, Hodgkinson J, Paterson S, Mousley A, Marks NJ, Maule AG. Profiling G protein-coupled receptors of Fasciola hepatica identifies orphan rhodopsins unique to phylum Platyhelminthes. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2018; 8:87-103. [PMID: 29474932 PMCID: PMC6114109 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are established drug targets. Despite their considerable appeal as targets for next-generation anthelmintics, poor understanding of their diversity and function in parasitic helminths has thwarted progress towards GPCR-targeted anti-parasite drugs. This study facilitates GPCR research in the liver fluke, Fasciola hepatica, by generating the first profile of GPCRs from the F. hepatica genome. Our dataset describes 147 high confidence GPCRs, representing the largest cohort of GPCRs, and the largest set of in silico ligand-receptor predictions, yet reported in any parasitic helminth. All GPCRs fall within the established GRAFS nomenclature; comprising three glutamate, 135 rhodopsin, two adhesion, five frizzled, one smoothened, and one secretin GPCR. Stringent annotation pipelines identified 18 highly diverged rhodopsins in F. hepatica that maintained core rhodopsin signatures, but lacked significant similarity with non-flatworm sequences, providing a new sub-group of potential flukicide targets. These facilitated identification of a larger cohort of 76 related sequences from available flatworm genomes, representing new members of existing groups (PROF1/Srfb, Rho-L, Rho-R, Srfa, Srfc) of flatworm-specific rhodopsins. These receptors imply flatworm specific GPCR functions, and/or co-evolution with unique flatworm ligands, and could facilitate the development of exquisitely selective anthelmintics. Ligand binding domain sequence conservation relative to deorphanised rhodopsins enabled high confidence ligand-receptor matching of seventeen receptors activated by acetylcholine, neuropeptide F/Y, octopamine or serotonin. RNA-Seq analyses showed expression of 101 GPCRs across various developmental stages, with the majority expressed most highly in the pathogenic intra-mammalian juvenile parasites. These data identify a broad complement of GPCRs in F. hepatica, including rhodopsins likely to have key functions in neuromuscular control and sensory perception, as well as frizzled and adhesion/secretin families implicated, in other species, in growth, development and reproduction. This catalogue of liver fluke GPCRs provides a platform for new avenues into our understanding of flatworm biology and anthelmintic discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul McVeigh
- Parasitology & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK.
| | - Erin McCammick
- Parasitology & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Paul McCusker
- Parasitology & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Duncan Wells
- Parasitology & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Jane Hodgkinson
- Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Steve Paterson
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Angela Mousley
- Parasitology & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Nikki J Marks
- Parasitology & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Aaron G Maule
- Parasitology & Pathogen Biology, The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Medical Biology Centre, 97 Lisburn Road, Belfast, BT9 7BL, UK
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Camicia F, Celentano AM, Johns ME, Chan JD, Maldonado L, Vaca H, Di Siervi N, Kamentezky L, Gamo AM, Ortega-Gutierrez S, Martin-Fontecha M, Davio C, Marchant JS, Rosenzvit MC. Unique pharmacological properties of serotoninergic G-protein coupled receptors from cestodes. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006267. [PMID: 29425245 PMCID: PMC5823469 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2017] [Revised: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cestodes are a diverse group of parasites, some of them being agents of neglected diseases. In cestodes, little is known about the functional properties of G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) which have proved to be highly druggable targets in other organisms. Notably, serotoninergic G-protein coupled receptors (5-HT GPCRs) play major roles in key functions like movement, development and reproduction in parasites. Methodology/Principal findings Three 5-HT GPCRs from Echinococcus granulosus and Mesocestoides corti were cloned, sequenced, bioinformatically analyzed and functionally characterized. Multiple sequence alignment with other GPCRs showed the presence of seven transmembrane segments and conserved motifs but interesting differences were also observed. Phylogenetic analysis grouped these new sequences within the 5-HT7 clade of GPCRs. Molecular modeling showed a striking resemblance in the spatial localization of key residues with their mammalian counterparts. Expression analysis using available RNAseq data showed that both E. granulosus sequences are expressed in larval and adult stages. Localization studies performed in E. granulosus larvae with a fluorescent probe produced a punctiform pattern concentrated in suckers. E. granulosus and M. corti larvae showed an increase in motility in response to serotonin. Heterologous expression revealed elevated levels of cAMP production in response to 5-HT and two of the GPCRs showed extremely high sensitivity to 5-HT (picomolar range). While each of these GPCRs was activated by 5-HT, they exhibit distinct pharmacological properties (5-HT sensitivity, differential responsiveness to ligands). Conclusions/Significance These data provide the first functional report of GPCRs in parasitic cestodes. The serotoninergic GPCRs characterized here may represent novel druggable targets for antiparasitic intervention. Cestode parasites are flatworms with the ability to parasitize almost every vertebrate species. Several of these parasites are etiological agents of neglected diseases prioritized by WHO, such as hydatid disease, or hydatidosis, a zoonosis caused by species of the genus Echinococcus that affects millions of people worldwide. Due to the scarcity of anthelmintic drugs available and the emergence of resistant parasites, the discovery of new anthelmintic drugs is mandatory. Neuromuscular function has been the target of commonly used drugs against parasitic diseases to impact movement, parasite development and reproduction. Here we describe three new proteins, some of them highly expressed in cestodes which could be relevant for motility. Using different approaches, the three proteins were identified as G protein coupled receptors for serotonin, an important neurotransmitter and a known modulator of cestode motility. These new receptors exhibit unique characteristics including a particular sensitivity to serotonin as well as a distinctive pharmacology, which will assist their targeting for chemotherapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Camicia
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana M. Celentano
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Microbiología, Parasitología e Inmunología, Paraguay, CABA, Argentina
| | - Malcolm E. Johns
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States of America
| | - John D. Chan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Lucas Maldonado
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Hugo Vaca
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nicolás Di Siervi
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Kamentezky
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana M. Gamo
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Silvia Ortega-Gutierrez
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mar Martin-Fontecha
- Departamento de Química Orgánica I, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carlos Davio
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jonathan S. Marchant
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology & Anatomy; Medical College of Wisconsin; Watertown Plank Road; Milwaukee; WI; United States of America
- * E-mail: (MCR); (JSM)
| | - Mara C. Rosenzvit
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPAM-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Medicina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- * E-mail: (MCR); (JSM)
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Gouveia MJ, Brindley PJ, Gärtner F, Costa JMCD, Vale N. Drug Repurposing for Schistosomiasis: Combinations of Drugs or Biomolecules. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2018; 11:E15. [PMID: 29401734 PMCID: PMC5874711 DOI: 10.3390/ph11010015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a major neglected tropical disease. Control of schistosomiasis currently relies on a single drug, praziquantel, and despite its efficacy against the all schistosome species that parasitize humans, it displays some problematic drawbacks and alone is ineffective in counteracting adverse pathologies associated with infection. Moreover, due to the development of the potential emergence of PZQ-resistant strains, the search for additional or alternative antischistosomal drugs have become a public health priority. The current drug discovery for schistosomiasis has been slow and uninspiring. By contrast, repurposing of existing approved drugs may offer a safe, rapid and cost-effective alternative. Combined treatment with PZQ and other drugs with different mode of action, i.e., antimalarials, shows promise results. In addition, a combination of anthelminthic drugs with antioxidant might be advantageous for modulating oxidative processes associated with schistosomiasis. Herein, we review studies dealing with combination therapies that involve PZQ and other anthelminthic drugs and/or antioxidant agents in treatment of schistosomiasis. Whereas PZQ combined with antioxidant agents might or might not interfere with anthelminthic efficacy, combinations may nonetheless ameliorate tissue damage and infection-associated complications. In fact, alone or combine with other drugs, antioxidants might be a valuable adjuvant to reduce morbidity and mortality of schistosomiasis. Therefore, attempting new combinations of anthelmintic drugs with other biomolecules such as antioxidants provides new avenues for discovery of alternatives to PZQ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria João Gouveia
- UCBIO/REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4031-401 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Paul J Brindley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Tropical Medicine, and Research Center for Neglected Diseases of Poverty, School of Medicine & Health Sciences, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20037, USA.
| | - Fátima Gärtner
- Department of Molecular Pathology and Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
- Institute of Molecular Pathology and Immunology of the University of Porto (IPATIMUP), Rua Júlio Amaral de Carvalho, 45, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
- Institute of Investigation and Innovation in Health (i3s), Rua Alfredo Allen, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal.
| | - José M Correia da Costa
- Center for the Study of Animal Science, ICETA, University of Porto, Praça Gomes Teixeira, Apartado 55142, 4031-401 Porto, Portugal.
- Department of Infectious Diseases, INSA-National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge, Rua Alexandre Herculano 321, 4000-055 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Nuno Vale
- UCBIO/REQUIMTE, Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Drug Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo, 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal.
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Hahnel S, Wheeler N, Lu Z, Wangwiwatsin A, McVeigh P, Maule A, Berriman M, Day T, Ribeiro P, Grevelding CG. Tissue-specific transcriptome analyses provide new insights into GPCR signalling in adult Schistosoma mansoni. PLoS Pathog 2018; 14:e1006718. [PMID: 29346437 PMCID: PMC5773224 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1006718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Schistosomes are blood-dwelling trematodes with global impact on human and animal health. Because medical treatment is currently based on a single drug, praziquantel, there is urgent need for the development of alternative control strategies. The Schistosoma mansoni genome project provides a platform to study and connect the genetic repertoire of schistosomes to specific biological functions essential for successful parasitism. G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) form the largest superfamily of transmembrane receptors throughout the Eumetazoan phyla, including platyhelminths. Due to their involvement in diverse biological processes, their pharmacological importance, and proven druggability, GPCRs are promising targets for new anthelmintics. However, to identify candidate receptors, a more detailed understanding of the roles of GPCR signalling in schistosome biology is essential. An updated phylogenetic analysis of the S. mansoni GPCR genome (GPCRome) is presented, facilitated by updated genome data that allowed a more precise annotation of GPCRs. Additionally, we review the current knowledge on GPCR signalling in this parasite and provide new insights into the potential roles of GPCRs in schistosome reproduction based on the findings of a recent tissue-specific transcriptomic study in paired and unpaired S. mansoni. According to the current analysis, GPCRs contribute to gonad-specific functions but also to nongonad, pairing-dependent processes. The latter may regulate gonad-unrelated functions during the multifaceted male-female interaction. Finally, we compare the schistosome GPCRome to that of another parasitic trematode, Fasciola, and discuss the importance of GPCRs to basic and applied research. Phylogenetic analyses display GPCR diversity in free-living and parasitic platyhelminths and suggest diverse functions in schistosomes. Although their roles need to be substantiated by functional studies in the future, the data support the selection of GPCR candidates for basic and applied studies, invigorating the exploitation of this important receptor class for drug discovery against schistosomes but also other trematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffen Hahnel
- Institute of Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Nic Wheeler
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Zhigang Lu
- Institute of Parasitology, BFS, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, United Kingdom
| | - Arporn Wangwiwatsin
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, United Kingdom
| | - Paul McVeigh
- The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron Maule
- The Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen’s University, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Berriman
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy Day
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, United States of America
| | - Paula Ribeiro
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
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Reasons to Be Nervous about Flukicide Discovery. Trends Parasitol 2017; 34:184-196. [PMID: 29269027 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2017.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Revised: 11/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The majority of anthelmintics dysregulate neuromuscular function, a fact most prominent for drugs against nematode parasites. In contrast to the strong knowledge base for nematode neurobiology, resource and tool deficits have prevented similar advances in flatworm parasites since those driven by bioimaging, immunocytochemistry, and neuropeptide biochemistry 20-30 years ago. However, recent developments are encouraging a renaissance in liver fluke neurobiology that can now support flukicide discovery. Emerging data promote neuromuscular signalling components, and especially G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), as next-generation targets. Here, we summarise these data and expose some of the new opportunities to accelerate progress towards GPCR-targeted flukicides for Fasciola hepatica.
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