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Platt RN, Enabulele EE, Adeyemi E, Agbugui MO, Ajakaye OG, Amaechi EC, Ejikeugwu CE, Igbeneghu C, Njom VS, Dlamini P, Arya GA, Diaz R, Rabone M, Allan F, Webster B, Emery A, Rollinson D, Anderson TJC. Genomic data reveal a north-south split and introgression history of blood fluke ( Schistosoma haematobium ) populations from across Africa. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.06.606828. [PMID: 39149400 PMCID: PMC11326172 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.06.606828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
The human parasitic fluke, Schistosoma haematobium hybridizes with the livestock parasite S. bovis in the laboratory, but the extent of hybridization in nature is unclear. We analyzed 34.6 million single nucleotide variants in 162 samples from 18 African countries, revealing a sharp genetic discontinuity between northern and southern S. haematobium . We found no evidence for recent hybridization. Instead the data reveal admixture events that occurred 257-879 generations ago in northern S. haematobium populations. Fifteen introgressed S. bovis genes are approaching fixation in northern S. haematobium with four genes potentially driving adaptation. We identified 19 regions that were resistant to introgression; these were enriched on the sex chromosomes. These results (i) demonstrate strong barriers to gene flow between these species, (ii) indicate that hybridization may be less common than currently envisaged, but (iii) reveal profound genomic consequences of interspecific hybridization between schistosomes of medical and veterinary importance.
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Mathieu-Bégné E, Kincaid-Smith J, Chaparro C, Allienne JF, Rey O, Boissier J, Toulza E. Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma bovis first generation hybrids undergo gene expressions changes consistent with species compatibility and heterosis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012267. [PMID: 38954732 PMCID: PMC11249247 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
When two species hybridize, the two parental genomes are brought together and some alleles might interact for the first time. To date, the extent of the transcriptomic changes in first hybrid generations, along with their functional outcome constitute an important knowledge gap, especially in parasite species. Here we explored the molecular and functional outcomes of hybridization in first-generation hybrids between the blood fluke parasites Schistosoma haematobium and S. bovis. Through a transcriptomic approach, we measured gene expression in both parental species and hybrids. We described and quantified expression profiles encountered in hybrids along with the main biological processes impacted. Up to 7,100 genes fell into a particular hybrid expression profile (intermediate between the parental expression levels, over-expressed, under-expressed, or expressed like one of the parental lines). Most of these genes were different depending on the direction of the parental cross (S. bovis mother and S. haematobium father or the reverse) and depending on the sex. For a given sex and cross direction, the vast majority of genes were hence unassigned to a hybrid expression profile: either they were differentially expressed genes but not typical of any hybrid expression profiles or they were not differentially expressed neither between hybrids and parental lines nor between parental lines. The most prevalent profile of gene expression in hybrids was the intermediate one (24% of investigated genes). These results suggest that transcriptomic compatibility between S. haematobium and S. bovis remains quite high. We also found support for an over-dominance model (over- and under-expressed genes in hybrids compared to parental lines) potentially associated with heterosis. In females in particular, processes such as reproductive processes, metabolism and cell interactions as well as signaling pathways were indeed affected. Our study hence provides new insight on the biology of Schistosoma hybrids with evidences supporting compatibility and heterosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julien Kincaid-Smith
- IHPE, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, Université Perpignan Via Domitia, Perpignan, France
- CBGP, IRD, CIRAD, INRAE, Institut Agro, Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Cristian Chaparro
- IHPE, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, Université Perpignan Via Domitia, Perpignan, France
| | - Jean-François Allienne
- IHPE, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, Université Perpignan Via Domitia, Perpignan, France
| | - Olivier Rey
- IHPE, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, Université Perpignan Via Domitia, Perpignan, France
| | - Jérôme Boissier
- IHPE, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, Université Perpignan Via Domitia, Perpignan, France
| | - Eve Toulza
- IHPE, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, Ifremer, Université Perpignan Via Domitia, Perpignan, France
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Ally O, Kanoi BN, Ochola L, Nyanjom SG, Shiluli C, Misinzo G, Gitaka J. Schistosomiasis diagnosis: Challenges and opportunities for elimination. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0012282. [PMID: 38990839 PMCID: PMC11239039 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0012282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
OVERVIEW The roadmap adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating neglected tropical diseases aims to eliminate schistosomiasis, as a public health concern, by 2030. While progress has been made towards reducing schistosomiasis morbidity control in several sub-Saharan African countries, there is still more that needs to be done. Proper surveillance using accurate diagnostics with acceptable sensitivity and specificity is essential for evaluating the success of all efforts against schistosomiasis. Microscopy, despite its low sensitivity, remains the gold standard approach for diagnosing the disease. Although many efforts have been made to develop new diagnostics based on circulating parasite proteins, genetic markers, schistosome egg morphology, and their paramagnetic properties, none has been robust enough to replace microscopy. This review highlights common diagnostic approaches for detecting schistosomiasis in field and clinical settings, major challenges, and provides new and novel opportunities and diagnosis pathways that will be critical in supporting elimination of schistosomiasis. METHODS We searched for relevant and reliable published literature from PubMed, Scopus, google scholar, and Web of science. The search strategies were primarily determined by subtopic, and hence the following words were used (schistosom*, diagnosis, Kato-Katz, antibody test, circulating antigen, POC-CCA, UCP-LF-CAA, molecular diagnostics, nucleic acid amplification test, microfluidics, lab-on a disk, lab-on chip, recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), LAMP, portable sequencer, nanobody test, identical multi-repeat sequences, diagnostic TPPs, REASSURED, extraction free), and Boolean operators AND and/OR were used to refine the searching capacity. Due to the global public health nature of schistosomiasis, we also searched for reliable documents, reports, and research papers published by international health organizations, World Health Organization (WHO), and Center for Disease control and Elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ombeni Ally
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation (PAUSTI), Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Bernard N Kanoi
- Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, College of Graduate Studies and Research, Mount Kenya University, General Kago Rd, Thika, Kenya
| | - Lucy Ochola
- Department of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Institute of Primate Research, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Steven Ger Nyanjom
- Department of Biochemistry, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Clement Shiluli
- Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, College of Graduate Studies and Research, Mount Kenya University, General Kago Rd, Thika, Kenya
| | - Gerald Misinzo
- SACIDS Africa Center of Excellence for Infectious Diseases, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania
| | - Jesse Gitaka
- Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, College of Graduate Studies and Research, Mount Kenya University, General Kago Rd, Thika, Kenya
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Zhou A, Zhang W, Ge X, Liu Q, Luo F, Xu S, Hu W, Lu Y. Characterizing genetic variation on the Z chromosome in Schistosoma japonicum reveals host-parasite co-evolution. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:207. [PMID: 38720339 PMCID: PMC11080191 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06250-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that afflicts millions of people worldwide; it is caused by Schistosoma, the only dioecious flukes with ZW systems. Schistosoma japonicum is endemic to Asia; the Z chromosome of S. japonicum comprises one-quarter of the entire genome. Detection of positive selection using resequencing data to understand adaptive evolution has been applied to a variety of pathogens, including S. japonicum. However, the contribution of the Z chromosome to evolution and adaptation is often neglected. METHODS We obtained 1,077,526 high-quality SNPs on the Z chromosome in 72 S. japonicum using re-sequencing data publicly. To examine the faster Z effect, we compared the sequence divergence of S. japonicum with two closely related species, Schistosoma haematobium and S. mansoni. Genetic diversity was compared between the Z chromosome and autosomes in S. japonicum by calculating the nucleotide diversity (π) and Dxy values. Population structure was also assessed based on PCA and structure analysis. Besides, we employed multiple methods including Tajima's D, FST, iHS, XP-EHH, and CMS to detect positive selection signals on the Z chromosome. Further RNAi knockdown experiments were performed to investigate the potential biological functions of the candidate genes. RESULTS Our study found that the Z chromosome of S. japonicum showed faster evolution and more pronounced genetic divergence than autosomes, although the effect may be smaller than the variation among genes. Compared with autosomes, the Z chromosome in S. japonicum had a more pronounced genetic divergence of sub-populations. Notably, we identified a set of candidate genes associated with host-parasite co-evolution. In particular, LCAT exhibited significant selection signals within the Taiwan population. Further RNA interference experiments suggested that LCAT is necessary for S. japonicum survival and propagation in the definitive host. In addition, we identified several genes related to the specificity of the intermediate host in the C-M population, including Rab6 and VCP, which are involved in adaptive immune evasion to the host. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides valuable insights into the adaptive evolution of the Z chromosome in S. japonicum and further advances our understanding of the co-evolution of this medically important parasite and its hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- An Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Center for Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Center for Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Xueling Ge
- Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
| | - Qi Liu
- Human Phenome Institute, Zhangjiang Fudan International Innovation Center, and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Fang Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Center for Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Shuhua Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Center for Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Computational Biology, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 200031, China
- Human Phenome Institute, Zhangjiang Fudan International Innovation Center, and Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Life Science and Technology, Shanghai Tech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Wei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Center for Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
- College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, 010070, China
| | - Yan Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Center for Evolutionary Biology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China.
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology, Collaborative Innovation Center for Genetics and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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Chevalier FD, Le Clec’h W, Berriman M, Anderson TJ. A single locus determines praziquantel response in Schistosoma mansoni. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2024; 68:e0143223. [PMID: 38289079 PMCID: PMC10916369 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01432-23] [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: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/13/2024] Open
Abstract
We previously performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify the genetic basis of praziquantel (PZQ) response in schistosomes, identifying two quantitative trait loci situated on chromosomes 2 and 3. We reanalyzed this GWAS using the latest (version 10) genome assembly showing that a single locus on chromosome 3, rather than two independent loci, determines drug response. These results reveal that PZQ response is monogenic and demonstrates the importance of high-quality genomic information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric D. Chevalier
- Host-Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Winka Le Clec’h
- Host-Pathogen Interactions Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Matthew Berriman
- School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Timothy J.C. Anderson
- Disease Intervention and Prevention Program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, Texas, USA
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6
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Rinaldi G, Loukas A, Sotillo J. Trematode Genomics and Proteomics. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2024; 1454:507-539. [PMID: 39008274 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-60121-7_13] [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
Trematode infections stand out as one of the frequently overlooked tropical diseases, despite their wide global prevalence and remarkable capacity to parasitize diverse host species and tissues. Furthermore, these parasites hold significant socio-economic, medical, veterinary and agricultural implications. Over the past decades, substantial strides have been taken to bridge the information gap concerning various "omic" tools, such as proteomics and genomics, in this field. In this edition of the book, we highlight recent progress in genomics and proteomics concerning trematodes with a particular focus on the advances made in the past 5 years. Additionally, we present insights into cutting-edge technologies employed in studying trematode biology and shed light on the available resources for exploring the molecular facets of this particular group of parasitic helminths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Rinaldi
- Department of Life Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, UK
| | - Alex Loukas
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Javier Sotillo
- Laboratorio de Referencia e Investigación en Parasitología, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain.
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7
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Zhou M, Xu L, Xu D, Chen W, Khan J, Hu Y, Huang H, Wei H, Zhang Y, Chusongsang P, Tanasarnprasert K, Hu X, Limpanont Y, Lv Z. Chromosome-scale genome of the human blood fluke Schistosoma mekongi and its implications for public health. Infect Dis Poverty 2023; 12:104. [PMID: 38017557 PMCID: PMC10683246 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-023-01160-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosoma mekongi is a human blood fluke causing schistosomiasis that threatens approximately 1.5 million humans in the world. Nonetheless, the limited available S. mekongi genomic resources have hindered understanding of its biology and parasite-host interactions for disease management and pathogen control. The aim of our study was to integrate multiple technologies to construct a high-quality chromosome-level assembly of the S. mekongi genome. METHODS The reference genome for S. mekongi was generated through integrating Illumina, PacBio sequencing, 10 × Genomics linked-read sequencing, and high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) methods. In this study, we conducted de novo assembly, alignment, and gene prediction to assemble and annotate the genome. Comparative genomics allowed us to compare genomes across different species, shedding light on conserved regions and evolutionary relationships. Additionally, our transcriptomic analysis focused on genes associated with parasite-snail interactions in S. mekongi infection. We employed gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis for functional annotation of these genes. RESULTS In the present study, the S. mekongi genome was both assembled into 8 pseudochromosomes with a length of 404 Mb, with contig N50 and scaffold N50 lengths of 1168 kb and 46,759 kb, respectively. We detected that 43% of the genome consists of repeat sequences and predicted 9103 protein-coding genes. We also focused on proteases, particularly leishmanolysin-like metalloproteases (M8), which are crucial in the invasion of hosts by 12 flatworm species. Through phylogenetic analysis, it was discovered that the M8 gene exhibits lineage-specific amplification among the genus Schistosoma. Lineage-specific expansion of M8 was observed in blood flukes. Additionally, the results of the RNA-seq revealed that a mass of genes related to metabolic and biosynthetic processes were up-regulated, which might be beneficial for cercaria production. CONCLUSIONS This study delivers a high-quality, chromosome-scale reference genome of S. mekongi, enhancing our understanding of the divergence and evolution of Schistosoma. The molecular research conducted here also plays a pivotal role in drug discovery and vaccine development. Furthermore, our work greatly advances the understanding of host-parasite interactions, providing crucial insights for schistosomiasis intervention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minyu Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lian Xu
- Key Laboratory of Neuroregeneration, Ministry of Education and Jiangsu Province, Co-Innovation Center of Neuroregeneration, NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Tissue Engineering Technology Products, Nantong University, Nantong, China
| | - Dahua Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Translational Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Biomedical Information and Engineering, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Wen Chen
- Key Laboratory of Vascular Biology and Translational Medicine, Medical School, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Jehangir Khan
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Hainan General Hospital, Hainan Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Yue Hu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hui Huang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hang Wei
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yiqing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Phiraphol 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
| | - Xiang Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Developmental Biology of Freshwater Fish, College of Life Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China.
| | - Yanin Limpanont
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Zhiyue Lv
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
- Department of Pathogen Biology and Biosafety, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China.
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8
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Rogers TF, Simakov O. Emerging questions on the mechanisms and dynamics of 3D genome evolution in spiralians. Brief Funct Genomics 2023; 22:533-542. [PMID: 37815133 PMCID: PMC10658181 DOI: 10.1093/bfgp/elad043] [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: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Information on how 3D genome topology emerged in animal evolution, how stable it is during development, its role in the evolution of phenotypic novelties and how exactly it affects gene expression is highly debated. So far, data to address these questions are lacking with the exception of a few key model species. Several gene regulatory mechanisms have been proposed, including scenarios where genome topology has little to no impact on gene expression, and vice versa. The ancient and diverse clade of spiralians may provide a crucial testing ground for such mechanisms. Sprialians have followed distinct evolutionary trajectories, with some clades experiencing genome expansions and/or large-scale genome rearrangements, and others undergoing genome contraction, substantially impacting their size and organisation. These changes have been associated with many phenotypic innovations in this clade. In this review, we describe how emerging genome topology data, along with functional tools, allow for testing these scenarios and discuss their predicted outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thea F Rogers
- Department of Neuroscience and Developmental Biology, Division of Molecular Evolution and Development, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Oleg Simakov
- Department of Neuroscience and Developmental Biology, Division of Molecular Evolution and Development, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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9
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Chevalier FD, Clec’h WL, Berriman M, Anderson TJ. A single locus determines praziquantel response in Schistosoma mansoni. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.01.565202. [PMID: 37961217 PMCID: PMC10635054 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.01.565202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
We previously performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify the genetic basis of praziquantel (PZQ) response in schistosomes, identifying two quantitative trait loci (QTL) situated on chromosome 2 and chromosome 3. We reanalyzed this GWAS using the latest (v10) genome assembly showing that a single locus on chromosome 3, rather than two independent loci, determines drug response. These results reveal that praziquantel response is monogenic and demonstrates the importance of high-quality genomic information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric D. Chevalier
- Host-Pathogen Interactions program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute; San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Winka Le Clec’h
- Host-Pathogen Interactions program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute; San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
| | - Matthew Berriman
- School of Infection and Immunity, University of Glasgow; Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Timothy J.C. Anderson
- Disease Intervention and Prevention program, Texas Biomedical Research Institute; San Antonio, TX 78227, USA
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10
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Oettle RC, Dickinson HA, Fitzsimmons CM, Sacko M, Tukahebwa EM, Chalmers IW, Wilson S. Protective human IgE responses are promoted by comparable life-cycle dependent Tegument Allergen-Like expression in Schistosoma haematobium and Schistosoma mansoni infection. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011037. [PMID: 37228019 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosoma haematobium is the most prevalent of the human-infecting schistosome species, causing significant morbidity in endemically exposed populations. Despite this, it has been relatively understudied compared to its fellow species, S. mansoni. Here we provide the first comprehensive characterization of the S. haematobium Tegument Allergen-Like protein family, a key protein family directly linked to protective immunity in S. mansoni infection. Comparable with observations for S. mansoni, parasite phylogenetic analysis and relative gene expression combined with host serological analysis support a cross-reactive relationship between S. haematobium TAL proteins, exposed to the host immune system as adult worms die, and closely related proteins, exposed during penetration by the infecting cercarial and early schistosomulae stages. Specifically, our results strengthen the evidence for host immunity driven by cross-reactivity between family members TAL3 and TAL5, establishing it for the first time for S. haematobium infection. Furthermore, we build upon this relationship to include the involvement of an additional member of the TAL protein family, TAL11 for both schistosome species. Finally, we show a close association between experience of infection and intensity of transmission and the development of protective IgE responses to these antigens, thus improving our knowledge of the mechanisms by which protective host immune responses develop. This knowledge will be critical in understanding how control efforts such as mass drug administration campaigns influence the development of host immunity and subsequent patterns of infection and disease within endemic populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca C Oettle
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Moussa Sacko
- Department of Diagnostic and Biomedical Research, Institut National de Recherche en Santé Publique, Bamako, Mali
| | | | - Iain W Chalmers
- Department of Life Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, United Kingdom
| | - Shona Wilson
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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11
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Thorn CS, Maness RW, Hulke JM, Delmore KE, Criscione CD. Population genomics of helminth parasites. J Helminthol 2023; 97:e29. [PMID: 36927601 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x23000123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Next generation sequencing technologies have facilitated a shift from a few targeted loci in population genetic studies to whole genome approaches. Here, we review the types of questions and inferences regarding the population biology and evolution of parasitic helminths being addressed within the field of population genomics. Topics include parabiome, hybridization, population structure, loci under selection and linkage mapping. We highlight various advances, and note the current trends in the field, particularly a focus on human-related parasites despite the inherent biodiversity of helminth species. We conclude by advocating for a broader application of population genomics to reflect the taxonomic and life history breadth displayed by helminth parasites. As such, our basic knowledge about helminth population biology and evolution would be enhanced while the diversity of helminths in itself would facilitate population genomic comparative studies to address broader ecological and evolutionary concepts.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Thorn
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, 3258 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - R W Maness
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, 3258 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - J M Hulke
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, 3258 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - K E Delmore
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, 3258 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - C D Criscione
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, 3258 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
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12
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Johnson H, VanHooreweghe M, Satori JA, Chan JD. Schistosomes contain divergent ligand-gated ion channels with an atypical Cys-loop motif. MICROPUBLICATION BIOLOGY 2023; 2023:10.17912/micropub.biology.000694. [PMID: 36713055 PMCID: PMC9874803 DOI: 10.17912/micropub.biology.000694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Revised: 01/01/1970] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Ligand-gated ion channels (LGICs) are important regulators of neuromuscular function, making them attractive antiparasitic drug targets. While roundworm LGICs are targeted by several anthelmintic classes, flatworm LGICs are less studied. Chromosome-level genome assemblies have recently been released for Schistosoma flatworm species that cause the disease schistosomiasis. These have allowed us to comprehensively predict schistosome LGICs, adding to prior annotations. Analysis of LGIC sequences revealed a clade of receptors lacking cysteines at the eponymous Cys-loop region of the channel. Since these atypical channels are divergent from mammalian LGICs, they may be promising targets to treat diseases caused by parasitic flatworms.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - John D Chan
- University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh, Oshkosh, WI, USA
,
Correspondence to: John D Chan (
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13
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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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14
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Doyle SR. Improving helminth genome resources in the post-genomic era. Trends Parasitol 2022; 38:831-840. [PMID: 35810065 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2022.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Rapid advancement in high-throughput sequencing and analytical approaches has seen a steady increase in the generation of genomic resources for helminth parasites. Now, helminth genomes and their annotations are a cornerstone of numerous efforts to compare genetic and transcriptomic variation, from single cells to populations of globally distributed parasites, to genome modifications to understand gene function. Our understanding of helminths is increasingly reliant on these genomic resources, which are primarily static once published and vary widely in quality and completeness between species. This article seeks to highlight the cause and effect of this variation and argues for the continued improvement of these genomic resources - even after their publication - which is necessary to provide a more accurate and complete understanding of the biology of these important pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen R Doyle
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, CB10 1SA, UK.
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15
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Nikolakis ZL, Adams RH, Wade KJ, Lund AJ, Carlton EJ, Castoe TA, Pollock DD. Prospects for genomic surveillance for selection in schistosome parasites. FRONTIERS IN EPIDEMIOLOGY 2022; 2:932021. [PMID: 38455290 PMCID: PMC10910990 DOI: 10.3389/fepid.2022.932021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by multiple parasitic Schistosoma species, and which impacts over 200 million people globally, mainly in low- and middle-income countries. Genomic surveillance to detect evidence for natural selection in schistosome populations represents an emerging and promising approach to identify and interpret schistosome responses to ongoing control efforts or other environmental factors. Here we review how genomic variation is used to detect selection, how these approaches have been applied to schistosomes, and how future studies to detect selection may be improved. We discuss the theory of genomic analyses to detect selection, identify experimental designs for such analyses, and review studies that have applied these approaches to schistosomes. We then consider the biological characteristics of schistosomes that are expected to respond to selection, particularly those that may be impacted by control programs. Examples include drug resistance, host specificity, and life history traits, and we review our current understanding of specific genes that underlie them in schistosomes. We also discuss how inherent features of schistosome reproduction and demography pose substantial challenges for effective identification of these traits and their genomic bases. We conclude by discussing how genomic surveillance for selection should be designed to improve understanding of schistosome biology, and how the parasite changes in response to selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary L. Nikolakis
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, United States
| | - Richard H. Adams
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Georgia College and State University, Milledgeville, GA, United States
| | - Kristen J. Wade
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Andrea J. Lund
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Elizabeth J. Carlton
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Colorado School of Public Health, University of Colorado, Anschutz, Aurora, CO, United States
| | - Todd A. Castoe
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, TX, United States
| | - David D. Pollock
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, United States
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16
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Berger DJ, Léger E, Sankaranarayanan G, Sène M, Diouf ND, Rabone M, Emery A, Allan F, Cotton JA, Berriman M, Webster JP. Genomic evidence of contemporary hybridization between Schistosoma species. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010706. [PMID: 35939508 PMCID: PMC9387932 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hybridization between different species of parasites is increasingly being recognised as a major public and veterinary health concern at the interface of infectious diseases biology, evolution, epidemiology and ultimately control. Recent research has revealed that viable hybrids and introgressed lineages between Schistosoma spp. are prevalent across Africa and beyond, including those with zoonotic potential. However, it remains unclear whether these hybrid lineages represent recent hybridization events, suggesting hybridization is ongoing, and/or whether they represent introgressed lineages derived from ancient hybridization events. In human schistosomiasis, investigation is hampered by the inaccessibility of adult-stage worms due to their intravascular location, an issue which can be circumvented by post-mortem of livestock at abattoirs for Schistosoma spp. of known zoonotic potential. To characterise the composition of naturally-occurring schistosome hybrids, we performed whole-genome sequencing of 21 natural livestock infective schistosome isolates. To facilitate this, we also assembled a de novo chromosomal-scale draft assembly of Schistosoma curassoni. Genomic analyses identified isolates of S. bovis, S. curassoni and hybrids between the two species, all of which were early generation hybrids with multiple generations found within the same host. These results show that hybridization is an ongoing process within natural populations with the potential to further challenge elimination efforts against schistosomiasis. Schistosomiasis is a chronic and debilitating major neglected tropical disease affecting both humans and livestock. Increasingly, zoonotic spillover of livestock infections, facilitated by hybridization between different Schistosoma species, is increasingly being recognised as a risk to human health. Multiple surveys conducted within endemic regions have found a high prevalence of these hybrid lineages. However, it is often unclear whether these lineages are derived from recent hybridization events, suggesting hybridization is ongoing and may be linked to anthropogenic environmental change, or simply indicators of introgression from ancient hybridization events. To understand the origin and evolution of these hybrid lineages, we produced a chromosomal-scale assembly of Schistosoma curassoni and performed whole-genome sequencing of 21 natural livestock-infective S. curassoni, S. bovis and hybridized schistosome isolates, including multi-stage sampling from the same hosts. Our analyses exclusively identified early generation hybrid lineages, including multiple unrelated generations within the same hosts, suggesting that these hybrids are viable and derived from multiple independent hybridization events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan J. Berger
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, United Kingdom
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (DB); (EL); (MB); (JPW)
| | - Elsa Léger
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Diseases Research, Imperial College Faculty of Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (DB); (EL); (MB); (JPW)
| | | | - Mariama Sène
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences Agronomiques, d’Aquaculture et de Technologies Alimentaires, Université Gaston Berger, Saint-Louis, Senegal
| | - Nicolas D. Diouf
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences Agronomiques, d’Aquaculture et de Technologies Alimentaires, Université Gaston Berger, Saint-Louis, Senegal
| | - Muriel Rabone
- The Natural History Museum, Department of Life Sciences, Cromwell Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aidan Emery
- The Natural History Museum, Department of Life Sciences, Cromwell Road, London, United Kingdom
| | - Fiona Allan
- The Natural History Museum, Department of Life Sciences, Cromwell Road, London, United Kingdom
- Pelagic Ecology Research Group, Scottish Oceans Institute, Gatty Marine Laboratory, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - James A. Cotton
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, United Kingdom
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Diseases Research, Imperial College Faculty of Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Berriman
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, United Kingdom
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Diseases Research, Imperial College Faculty of Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (DB); (EL); (MB); (JPW)
| | - Joanne P. Webster
- Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, United Kingdom
- London Centre for Neglected Tropical Diseases Research, Imperial College Faculty of Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (DB); (EL); (MB); (JPW)
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Probst A, Biendl S, Keiser J. Improving translational power in antischistosomal drug discovery. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2022; 117:47-73. [PMID: 35878949 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2022.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a poverty-associated tropical disease caused by blood dwelling trematodes that threaten approximately 10% of the world population. Praziquantel, the sole drug currently available for treatment, is insufficient to eliminate the disease and the clinical drug development pipeline is empty. Here, we review the characteristics of the patent Schistosoma mansoni mouse model used for in vivo antischistosomal drug discovery, highlighting differences in the experimental set-up across research groups and their potential influence on experimental results. We explore the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic relationship of selected drug candidates, showcasing opportunities to improve the drug profile to accelerate the transition from the early drug discovery phase to new clinical candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Probst
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Stefan Biendl
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jennifer Keiser
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Department of Medical Parasitology and Infection Biology, Basel, Switzerland; University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland.
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