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De los Santos MB, Ramírez IM, Rodríguez JE, Beerli P, Valdivia HO. Genetic diversity and population structure of Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis in the Peruvian jungle. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010374. [PMID: 35605021 PMCID: PMC9126394 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis is highly prevalent in the Peruvian jungle, where it affects military forces deployed to fight against drug trafficking and civilian people that migrate from the highland to the lowland jungle for economic activities such as mining, agriculture, construction, and chestnut harvest. We explored the genetic diversity and population structure of 124 L. (V.) braziliensis isolates collected from the highland (Junín, Cusco, and Ayacucho) and lowland Peruvian jungle (Loreto, Ucayali, and Madre de Dios). All samples were genotyped using Multilocus Microsatellite Typing (MLMT) of ten highly polymorphic markers. Principal findings High polymorphism and genetic diversity were found in Peruvian isolates of L. (V.) braziliensis. Most markers are not in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium; this deviation is most likely caused by local inbreeding, as shown by the positive FIS values. Linkage Disequilibrium in subpopulations was not strong, suggesting the reproduction was not strictly clonal. Likewise, for the first time, two genetic clusters of this parasite were determined, distributed in both areas of the Peruvian jungle, which suggested a possible recent colonization event of the highland jungle from the lowland jungle. Conclusions L. (V.) braziliensis exhibits considerable genetic diversity with two different clusters in the Peruvian jungle. Migration analysis suggested a colonization event between geographical areas of distribution. Although no human migration was observed at the time of sampling, earlier displacement of humans, reservoirs, or vectors could have been responsible for the parasite spread in both regions. L. (V.) braziliensis is widespread in the Peruvian jungle region. In this region, the departments of Cusco and Madre de Dios account for a large number of patients that get infected while working in the virgin forest. For the first time, we described ample genetic diversity among Peruvian L. (V.) braziliensis isolates with new alleles that were not previously reported in South America. In addition, two different genetic clusters or subpopulations of L. (V.) braziliensis in the Amazon Rainforest of Peru were described. This finding reveals the important distribution of parasite populations and suggests a possible colonization event between ecoregions of the highland and lowland Peruvian jungle independently of recent human migration.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jorge E. Rodríguez
- Unidad de Biotecnología Molecular, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Peter Beerli
- Department of Scientific Computing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America
| | - Hugo O. Valdivia
- Department of Parasitology, U.S. Naval Medical Research Unit 6, Lima, Peru
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Marzochi MCDA, Marzochi KBF, Fagundes A, Schubach ADO, Miranda LDFC, Pacheco RDS. Anthropogenic Dispersal of Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis in the Americas: A Plausible Hypothesis. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2021. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2021.723017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There are several gaps in our knowledge on the origin and spread of Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis, an etiological agent of cutaneous and mucocutaneous or American tegumentary leishmaniasis, to different biomes, hosts, and vectors, with important epidemiological implications, including the possible existence of an anthroponotic component. Historical, biological, and epidemiological evidence suggests that Leishmania (V.) braziliensis and its variants were preexistent in Amazonia with great genetic variability, where they dispersed with less variability to other regions (clonal expansion). During pre-Columbian times the parasite may have been transported by migrating humans and probably also their dogs, from western Amazonia to the high inter-Andean valleys and from there to other regions of South America. The same thing could have happened later, in the same way, when it spread to non-Amazonian regions of Brazil and other countries of South and Central America, between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, during the so-called Rubber Boom and construction of the Madeira-Mamoré Railway in the Brazilian Amazon, by migrant workers who later returned to their places of origin, transporting the agent. The parasite’s dispersal in genetic correlated clusters, involving unexpectedly distinct ecosystems in Brazil (Amazonian, Cerrado, Caatinga and Atlantic Forest biomes), has continued until the present through human displacement. The infection of certain species of domestic, synanthropic and even wild animals, could be secondary to anthropogenic introduction of L. (V.) braziliensis in new environments. We admit the same phenomena happening in the probable transference of Leishmania infantum (visceral leishmaniasis), and of Yersinia pestis (plague) from the Old world to the New world, generating domestic and wild enzotic cycles from these agents. These assumptions associated with human infections, chronicity and parasite persistence with possibility of recovery of Leishmania in peripheral blood, skin and scars of cured or asymptomatic patients, (that may provide an alternative blood meal), along with the sand flies’ adaptation to the peri-domicile and the high susceptibility of domestic dogs, horses, mules and cats to the parasite, can reinforce the evidence of anthropogenic spread of L. (V.) braziliensis.
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Gedda MR, Madhukar P, Shukla A, Mudavath SL, Srivastava ON, Singh OP, Sundar S. Nanodiagnostics in leishmaniasis: A new frontiers for early elimination. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-NANOMEDICINE AND NANOBIOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 13:e1675. [PMID: 33142369 DOI: 10.1002/wnan.1675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is still a major public health concern in developing countries having the highest outbreak and mortality potential. While the treatment of VL has greatly improved in recent times, the current diagnostic tools are limited for use in the post-elimination setting. Although conventional serological methods of detection are rapid, they can only differentiate between active disease in strict combination with clinical criteria, and thus are not sufficient enough to diagnose relapse patients. Therefore, there is a dire need for a portable, authentic, and reliable assay that does not require large space, specialized instrument facilities, or highly trained laboratory personnel and can be carried out in primary health care settings. Advances in the nanodiagnostic approaches have led to the expansion of new frontiers in the concerned area. The nanosized particles are blessed with an ability to interact one-on-one with the biomolecules because of their unique optical and physicochemical properties and high surface area to volume ratio. Biomolecular detection systems based on nanoparticles (NPs) are cost-effective, rapid, nongel, non-PCR, and nonculture based that provide fast, one-step, and reliable results with acceptable sensitivity and specificity. In this review, we discuss different NPs that are being used for the identification of molecular markers and other biomarkers, such as toxins and antigens associated with leishmaniasis. The most promising diagnostic approaches have been included in the article, and the ability of biomolecular recognition, advantages, and disadvantages have been discussed in detail to showcase the enormous potential of nanodiagnostics in human and veterinary medicine. This article is categorized under: Diagnostic Tools > Diagnostic Nanodevices Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Infectious Disease Diagnostic Tools > Biosensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mallikarjuna Rao Gedda
- Infectious Disease Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India.,Center for Cellular Engineering, NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Prasoon Madhukar
- Infectious Disease Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Ashish Shukla
- Infectious Disease Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Shyam Lal Mudavath
- Infectious Disease Biology Laboratory, Chemical Biology Unit, Institute of Nano Science & Technology, Habitat Centre, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Onkar Nath Srivastava
- Department of Physics, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Om Prakash Singh
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Shyam Sundar
- Infectious Disease Research Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
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Salloum T, Moussa R, Rahy R, Al Deek J, Khalifeh I, El Hajj R, Hall N, Hirt RP, Tokajian S. Expanded genome-wide comparisons give novel insights into population structure and genetic heterogeneity of Leishmania tropica complex. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008684. [PMID: 32946436 PMCID: PMC7526921 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania tropica is one of the main causative agents of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). Population structures of L. tropica appear to be genetically highly diverse. However, the relationship between L. tropica strains genomic diversity, protein coding gene evolution and biogeography are still poorly understood. In this study, we sequenced the genomes of three new clinical L. tropica isolates, two derived from a recent outbreak of CL in camps hosting Syrian refugees in Lebanon and one historical isolate from Azerbaijan to further refine comparative genome analyses. In silico multilocus microsatellite typing (MLMT) was performed to integrate the current diversity of genome sequence data in the wider available MLMT genetic population framework. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs), gene copy number variations (CNVs) and chromosome ploidy were investigated across the available 18 L. tropica genomes with a main focus on protein coding genes. MLMT divided the strains in three populations that broadly correlated with their geographical distribution but not populations defined by SNPs. Unique SNPs profiles divided the 18 strains into five populations based on principal component analysis. Gene ontology enrichment analysis of the protein coding genes with population specific SNPs profiles revealed various biological processes, including iron acquisition, sterols synthesis and drug resistance. This study further highlights the complex links between L. tropica important genomic heterogeneity and the parasite broad geographic distribution. Unique sequence features in protein coding genes identified in distinct populations reveal potential novel markers that could be exploited for the development of more accurate typing schemes to further improve our knowledge of the evolution and epidemiology of the parasite as well as highlighting protein variants of potential functional importance underlying L. tropica specific biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Salloum
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Rim Moussa
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Ryan Rahy
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Jospin Al Deek
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Ibrahim Khalifeh
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Rana El Hajj
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Neil Hall
- Earlham Institute, Norwich research Park, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Robert P. Hirt
- Biosciences Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (RPH); (ST)
| | - Sima Tokajian
- Department of Natural Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
- * E-mail: (RPH); (ST)
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Lauthier JJ, Ruybal P, Barroso PA, Hashiguchi Y, Marco JD, Korenaga M. Development of a Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) scheme for Pan-Leishmania. Acta Trop 2020; 201:105189. [PMID: 31580847 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 09/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Since the description of the Leishmania genus, its identification and organization have been a challenge. A high number of molecular markers have been developed to resolve phylogenetic differences at the species level and for addressing key epidemiological and population genetics questions. Based on Multilocus enzyme electrophoresis (MLEE), Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) schemes have been developed using different gene candidates. From 38 original gene targets proposed by other authors, 27 of them were chosen. In silico selection was made by analyzing free access genomic sequence data of 33 Leishmania species, one Paraleishmania representative, and one outgroup, in order to select the best 15 loci. De novo amplifications and primers redesign of these 15 genes were analyzed over a panel of 20 reference strains and isolates. Phylogenetic analysis was made at every step. Two MLST schemes were selected. The first one was based on the analysis of three-gene fragments, and it is suitable for species assignment as well as basic phylogenetic studies. By the addition of seven-genes, an approach based on the analysis of ten-gene fragments was also proposed. This is the first work that two optimized MLST schemes have been suggested, validated against a phylogenetically diverse panel of Leishmania isolates. MLST is potentially a powerful phylogenetic approach, and most probably the new gold standard for Leishmania spp. characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Jose Lauthier
- Parasitology Department, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Okocho Kohasu, Nankoku, Kochi Prefecture 783-8505, Japan.
| | - Paula Ruybal
- Universidad de Buenos Aires. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET). Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM). Facultad de Medicina. Paraguay 2155 Piso: 12, CABA (1121). Argentina
| | - Paola Andrea Barroso
- Instituto de Patología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de Salta / CONICET, Salta, Argentina
| | - Yoshihisa Hashiguchi
- Parasitology Department, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Okocho Kohasu, Nankoku, Kochi Prefecture 783-8505, Japan; Departamento de Parasitología y Medicina Tropical, Carrera de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Católica de Santiago de Guayaquil, Guayaquil, Ecuador
| | - Jorge Diego Marco
- Instituto de Patología Experimental, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Nacional de Salta / CONICET, Salta, Argentina
| | - Masataka Korenaga
- Parasitology Department, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Okocho Kohasu, Nankoku, Kochi Prefecture 783-8505, Japan.
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Klatt S, Simpson L, Maslov DA, Konthur Z. Leishmania tarentolae: Taxonomic classification and its application as a promising biotechnological expression host. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007424. [PMID: 31344033 PMCID: PMC6657821 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In this review, we summarize the current knowledge concerning the eukaryotic protozoan parasite Leishmania tarentolae, with a main focus on its potential for biotechnological applications. We will also discuss the genus, subgenus, and species-level classification of this parasite, its life cycle and geographical distribution, and similarities and differences to human-pathogenic species, as these aspects are relevant for the evaluation of biosafety aspects of L. tarentolae as host for recombinant DNA/protein applications. Studies indicate that strain LEM-125 but not strain TARII/UC of L. tarentolae might also be capable of infecting mammals, at least transiently. This could raise the question of whether the current biosafety level of this strain should be reevaluated. In addition, we will summarize the current state of biotechnological research involving L. tarentolae and explain why this eukaryotic parasite is an advantageous and promising human recombinant protein expression host. This summary includes overall biotechnological applications, insights into its protein expression machinery (especially on glycoprotein and antibody fragment expression), available expression vectors, cell culture conditions, and its potential as an immunotherapy agent for human leishmaniasis treatment. Furthermore, we will highlight useful online tools and, finally, discuss possible future applications such as the humanization of the glycosylation profile of L. tarentolae or the expression of mammalian recombinant proteins in amastigote-like cells of this species or in amastigotes of avirulent human-pathogenic Leishmania species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephan Klatt
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
- * E-mail: (SK); (ZK)
| | - Larry Simpson
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
| | - Dmitri A. Maslov
- Department of Molecular, Cell, and Systems Biology, University of California, Riverside, California, United States of America
| | - Zoltán Konthur
- Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces, Potsdam, Germany
- * E-mail: (SK); (ZK)
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Kaufer A, Barratt J, Stark D, Ellis J. The complete coding region of the maxicircle as a superior phylogenetic marker for exploring evolutionary relationships between members of the Leishmaniinae. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2019; 70:90-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Is the activity of CGRP and Adrenomedullin regulated by RAMP (−2) and (−3) in Trypanosomatidae? An in-silico approach. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2018; 61:197-206. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2018.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Revised: 03/31/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Abstract
In this review article the history of leishmaniasis is discussed regarding the origin of the genus Leishmania in the Mesozoic era and its subsequent geographical distribution, initial evidence of the disease in ancient times, first accounts of the infection in the Middle Ages, and the discovery of Leishmania parasites as causative agents of leishmaniasis in modern times. With respect to the origin and dispersal of Leishmania parasites, the three currently debated hypotheses (Palaearctic, Neotropical and supercontinental origin, respectively) are presented. Ancient documents and paleoparasitological data indicate that leishmaniasis was already widespread in antiquity. Identification of Leishmania parasites as etiological agents and sand flies as the transmission vectors of leishmaniasis started at the beginning of the 20th century and the discovery of new Leishmania and sand fly species continued well into the 21st century. Lately, the Syrian civil war and refugee crises have shown that leishmaniasis epidemics can happen any time in conflict areas and neighbouring regions where the disease was previously endemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dietmar Steverding
- Bob Champion Research & Education Building, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park, James Watson Road, Norwich, NR4 7UQ, UK.
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Akhoundi M, Downing T, Votýpka J, Kuhls K, Lukeš J, Cannet A, Ravel C, Marty P, Delaunay P, Kasbari M, Granouillac B, Gradoni L, Sereno D. Leishmania infections: Molecular targets and diagnosis. Mol Aspects Med 2017; 57:1-29. [PMID: 28159546 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2016.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/28/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Progress in the diagnosis of leishmaniases depends on the development of effective methods and the discovery of suitable biomarkers. We propose firstly an update classification of Leishmania species and their synonymies. We demonstrate a global map highlighting the geography of known endemic Leishmania species pathogenic to humans. We summarize a complete list of techniques currently in use and discuss their advantages and limitations. The available data highlights the benefits of molecular markers in terms of their sensitivity and specificity to quantify variation from the subgeneric level to species complexes, (sub) species within complexes, and individual populations and infection foci. Each DNA-based detection method is supplied with a comprehensive description of markers and primers and proposal for a classification based on the role of each target and primer in the detection, identification and quantification of leishmaniasis infection. We outline a genome-wide map of genes informative for diagnosis that have been used for Leishmania genotyping. Furthermore, we propose a classification method based on the suitability of well-studied molecular markers for typing the 21 known Leishmania species pathogenic to humans. This can be applied to newly discovered species and to hybrid strains originating from inter-species crosses. Developing more effective and sensitive diagnostic methods and biomarkers is vital for enhancing Leishmania infection control programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Akhoundi
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Hôpital de l'Archet, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; MIVEGEC, UMR CNRS5290-IRD224-Université de Montpellier Centre IRD, Montpellier, France.
| | - Tim Downing
- School of Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jan Votýpka
- Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Katrin Kuhls
- Division of Molecular Biotechnology and Functional Genomics, Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau, Wildau, Germany
| | - Julius Lukeš
- Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Faculty of Sciences, University of South Bohemia, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Canadian Institute for Advanced Research, Toronto, Canada
| | - Arnaud Cannet
- Inserm U1065, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
| | - Christophe Ravel
- French National Reference Centre on Leishmaniasis, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Pierre Marty
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Hôpital de l'Archet, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; Inserm U1065, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
| | - Pascal Delaunay
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Hôpital de l'Archet, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France; Inserm U1065, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France; MIVEGEC, UMR CNRS5290-IRD224-Université de Montpellier Centre IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Mohamed Kasbari
- Agence Nationale de Sécurité Sanitaire de l'Alimentation, de l'Environnement et du Travail, ANSES, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Maisons-Alfort, Cedex, France
| | - Bruno Granouillac
- IRD/UMI 233, INSERM U1175, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France; MIVEGEC, UMR CNRS5290-IRD224-Université de Montpellier Centre IRD, Montpellier, France
| | - Luigi Gradoni
- Unit of Vector-borne Diseases and International Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - Denis Sereno
- MIVEGEC, UMR CNRS5290-IRD224-Université de Montpellier Centre IRD, Montpellier, France; Intertryp UMR IRD177, Centre IRD de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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11
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Barratt J, Kaufer A, Peters B, Craig D, Lawrence A, Roberts T, Lee R, McAuliffe G, Stark D, Ellis J. Isolation of Novel Trypanosomatid, Zelonia australiensis sp. nov. (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae) Provides Support for a Gondwanan Origin of Dixenous Parasitism in the Leishmaniinae. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005215. [PMID: 28081121 PMCID: PMC5230760 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The genus Leishmania includes approximately 53 species, 20 of which cause human leishmaniais; a significant albeit neglected tropical disease. Leishmaniasis has afflicted humans for millennia, but how ancient is Leishmania and where did it arise? These questions have been hotly debated for decades and several theories have been proposed. One theory suggests Leishmania originated in the Palearctic, and dispersed to the New World via the Bering land bridge. Others propose that Leishmania evolved in the Neotropics. The Multiple Origins theory suggests that separation of certain Old World and New World species occurred due to the opening of the Atlantic Ocean. Some suggest that the ancestor of the dixenous genera Leishmania, Endotrypanum and Porcisia evolved on Gondwana between 90 and 140 million years ago. In the present study a detailed molecular and morphological characterisation was performed on a novel Australian trypanosomatid following its isolation in Australia’s tropics from the native black fly, Simulium (Morops) dycei Colbo, 1976. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted and confirmed this parasite as a sibling to Zelonia costaricensis, a close relative of Leishmania previously isolated from a reduviid bug in Costa Rica. Consequently, this parasite was assigned the name Zelonia australiensis sp. nov. Assuming Z. costaricensis and Z. australiensis diverged when Australia and South America became completely separated, their divergence occurred between 36 and 41 million years ago at least. Using this vicariance event as a calibration point for a phylogenetic time tree, the common ancestor of the dixenous genera Leishmania, Endotrypanum and Porcisia appeared in Gondwana approximately 91 million years ago. Ultimately, this study contributes to our understanding of trypanosomatid diversity, and of Leishmania origins by providing support for a Gondwanan origin of dixenous parasitism in the Leishmaniinae. The genus Leishmania includes approximately 53 species, 20 of which cause human leishmaniais, a significant disease that has afflicted humans for millennia. But how ancient is Leishmania and where did it arise? Some suggest Leishmania originated in the Palearctic. Others suggest it appeared in the Neotropics. The Multiple Origins theory proposes that separation of certain Old World and Neotropical species occurred following the opening of the Atlantic. Others suggest that an ancestor to the Euleishmania and Paraleishmania appeared on Gondwana 90 to 140 million years ago (MYA). We performed a detailed molecular and morphological characterisation of a novel Australian trypanosomatid. This parasite is a sibling to the Neotropical Zelonia costaricensis, a close relative of Leishmania, and designated as Zelonia australiensis sp. nov. Assuming Z. costaricensis and Z. australiensis split when Australia and South America separated, their divergence occurred between 36 and 41 MYA. Using this event as a calibration point for a phylogenetic time tree, an ancestor of the dixenous Leishmaniinae appeared in Gondwana ~ 91 MYA. This study contributes to our understanding of trypanosomatid diversity by describing a unique Australian trypanosomatid and to our understanding of Leishmania evolution by inferring a Gondwanan origin for dixenous parasitism in the Leishmaniinae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Barratt
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Alexa Kaufer
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Bryce Peters
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Insect Research Facility, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Douglas Craig
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Andrea Lawrence
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Medical Entomology, University of Sydney & Pathology West - ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tamalee Roberts
- St. Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Division of Microbiology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rogan Lee
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, ICPMR, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gary McAuliffe
- Microbiology Department, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia
| | - Damien Stark
- St. Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Division of Microbiology, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - John Ellis
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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NOVO SPC, LELES D, BIANUCCI R, ARAUJO A. THE PROCESS OF Leishmania INFECTION - DISEASE AND NEW PERSPECTIVES OF PALEOPARASITOLOGY. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2016; 58:45. [PMID: 27253747 PMCID: PMC4880002 DOI: 10.1590/s1678-9946201658045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Species of the genus Leishmania (Kinetoplastida, Trypanosomatidae) are causative agents of leishmaniasis, a complex disease with variable clinical spectrum and epidemiological diversity, constituting, in some countries, a serious public health problem. The origin and evolution of leishmaniasis has been under discussion regarding some clinical and parasitological aspects. After the introduction of paleoparasitology, molecular methods and immunodiagnostic techniques have been applied allowing the recovery of parasite remains, as well as the diagnosis of past infections in humans and other hosts. The dating of archaeological samples has allowed the parasitological analysis in time and space. This manuscript presents the state of the art of leishmaniasis and prospects related to paleoparasitology studies and their contribution to the evolutionary and phylogenetic clarification of parasites belonging to the genus Leishmania, and the leishmaniasis caused by them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shênia Patrícia Corrêa NOVO
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sérgio
Arouca, ENSP, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, DCB, Laboratório de
Paleoparasitologia. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil. E-mail:
| | - Daniela LELES
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, UFF, Departamento de Microbiologia e
Parasitologia, Instituto Biomédico, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Parasito. Rio
de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil. E-mail:
| | - Raffaella BIANUCCI
- Department of Public Health and Paediatric Sciences, Laboratory of
Physical Anthropology, University of Turin. Italy
- Center for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of
Biosciences, University of Oslo. Oslo, Norway
- Anthropologie bioculturelle, Droit, Ethique et Santé, Aix-Marseille
Université, 15, boulevard Pierre Dramard, Faculté de Médecine-Nord, Marseille, France.
E-mail:
| | - Adauto ARAUJO
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Escola Nacional de Saúde Pública Sérgio
Arouca, ENSP, Departamento de Endemias Samuel Pessoa, DENSP, Laboratório de
Paleoparasitologia. Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil. E-mail:
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Akhoundi M, Kuhls K, Cannet A, Votýpka J, Marty P, Delaunay P, Sereno D. A Historical Overview of the Classification, Evolution, and Dispersion of Leishmania Parasites and Sandflies. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004349. [PMID: 26937644 PMCID: PMC4777430 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 510] [Impact Index Per Article: 63.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study is to describe the major evolutionary historical events among Leishmania, sandflies, and the associated animal reservoirs in detail, in accordance with the geographical evolution of the Earth, which has not been previously discussed on a large scale. METHODOLOGY AND PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Leishmania and sandfly classification has always been a controversial matter, and the increasing number of species currently described further complicates this issue. Despite several hypotheses on the origin, evolution, and distribution of Leishmania and sandflies in the Old and New World, no consistent agreement exists regarding dissemination of the actors that play roles in leishmaniasis. For this purpose, we present here three centuries of research on sandflies and Leishmania descriptions, as well as a complete description of Leishmania and sandfly fossils and the emergence date of each Leishmania and sandfly group during different geographical periods, from 550 million years ago until now. We discuss critically the different approaches that were used for Leishmana and sandfly classification and their synonymies, proposing an updated classification for each species of Leishmania and sandfly. We update information on the current distribution and dispersion of different species of Leishmania (53), sandflies (more than 800 at genus or subgenus level), and animal reservoirs in each of the following geographical ecozones: Palearctic, Nearctic, Neotropic, Afrotropical, Oriental, Malagasy, and Australian. We propose an updated list of the potential and proven sandfly vectors for each Leishmania species in the Old and New World. Finally, we address a classical question about digenetic Leishmania evolution: which was the first host, a vertebrate or an invertebrate? CONCLUSIONS AND SIGNIFICANCE We propose an updated view of events that have played important roles in the geographical dispersion of sandflies, in relation to both the Leishmania species they transmit and the animal reservoirs of the parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Akhoundi
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Hôpital de l’Archet, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Katrin Kuhls
- Division of Molecular Biotechnology and Functional Genetics, Technical University of Applied Sciences Wildau, Wildau, Germany
| | - Arnaud Cannet
- Inserm U1065, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
| | - Jan Votýpka
- Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Pierre Marty
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Hôpital de l’Archet, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
- Inserm U1065, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
| | - Pascal Delaunay
- Service de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Hôpital de l’Archet, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Nice, France
- Inserm U1065, Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire, Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Nice, France
| | - Denis Sereno
- MIVEGEC, UMR CNRS-IRD-Université de Montpellier Centre IRD, Montpellier, France
- UMR177, Centre IRD de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
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Bravo-Barriga D, Parreira R, Maia C, Blanco-Ciudad J, Afonso MO, Frontera E, Campino L, Pérez-Martín JE, Serrano Aguilera FJ, Reina D. First molecular detection of Leishmania tarentolae-like DNA in Sergentomyia minuta in Spain. Parasitol Res 2015; 115:1339-44. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4887-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Phylogenomic reconstruction supports supercontinent origins for Leishmania. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2015; 38:101-109. [PMID: 26708057 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2015.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Revised: 11/25/2015] [Accepted: 11/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Leishmania, a genus of parasites transmitted to human hosts and mammalian/reptilian reservoirs by an insect vector, is the causative agent of the human disease complex leishmaniasis. The evolutionary relationships within the genus Leishmania and its origins are the source of ongoing debate, reflected in conflicting phylogenetic and biogeographic reconstructions. This study employs a recently described bioinformatics method, SISRS, to identify over 200,000 informative sites across the genome from newly sequenced and publicly available Leishmania data. This dataset is used to reconstruct the evolutionary relationships of this genus. Additionally, we constructed a large multi-gene dataset, using it to reconstruct the phylogeny and estimate divergence dates for species. We conclude that the genus Leishmania evolved at least 90-100 million years ago, supporting a modified version of the Multiple Origins hypothesis that we call the Supercontinent hypothesis. According to this scenario, separate Leishmania clades emerged prior to, and during, the breakup of Gondwana. Additionally, we confirm that reptile-infecting Leishmania are derived from mammalian forms and that the species that infect porcupines and sloths form a clade long separated from other species. Finally, we firmly place the guinea-pig infecting species, Leishmaniaenriettii, the globally dispersed Leishmaniasiamensis, and the newly identified Australian species from a kangaroo, as sibling species whose distribution arises from the ancient connection between Australia, Antarctica, and South America.
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Shaw J, Pratlong F, Floeter-Winter L, Ishikawa E, El Baidouri F, Ravel C, Dedet JP. Characterization of Leishmania (Leishmania) waltoni n.sp. (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae), the Parasite Responsible for Diffuse Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in the Dominican Republic. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2015; 93:552-8. [PMID: 26149864 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.14-0774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmania parasites isolated, between 1979 and 1988 by the late Bryce Walton, from Dominican Republic (DR) patients with diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis, were characterized using a panel of 12 isoenzymes, 23 monoclonal antibodies, small subunit ribosomal DNA (SSu rDNA), and multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA). The isoenzyme and monoclonal antibody profiles and the MLSA results showed that the Dominican Republic parasites were distinct from other described Leishmania species. This new species belongs to the mexicana complex, which is distributed in central and parts of northern South America. It is suggested that the parasites uniqueness from other members of the mexicana complex is related to it being isolated on an island for millions of years. If Leishmania (Leishmania) waltoni fails to adapt to some imported mammal, such as the house rat, it will be the only Leishmania to be classified as an endangered species. The excessive destruction of habitats on Hispaniola threatens the survival of its vectors and presumed natural reservoirs, such as the rodent hutias and the small insectivorous mammal solenodon. The concept of Leishmania species is discussed in the light of recent evaluations on criteria for defining bacterial species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Shaw
- Parasitology Department, Biomedical Sciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; French National Reference Centre on Leishmaniasis, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France; Biology Department, BioSciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; Tropical Medicine Nucleus, Pará Federal University, Brazil; School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, England
| | - Francine Pratlong
- Parasitology Department, Biomedical Sciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; French National Reference Centre on Leishmaniasis, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France; Biology Department, BioSciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; Tropical Medicine Nucleus, Pará Federal University, Brazil; School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, England
| | - Lucile Floeter-Winter
- Parasitology Department, Biomedical Sciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; French National Reference Centre on Leishmaniasis, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France; Biology Department, BioSciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; Tropical Medicine Nucleus, Pará Federal University, Brazil; School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, England
| | - Edna Ishikawa
- Parasitology Department, Biomedical Sciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; French National Reference Centre on Leishmaniasis, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France; Biology Department, BioSciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; Tropical Medicine Nucleus, Pará Federal University, Brazil; School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, England
| | - Fouad El Baidouri
- Parasitology Department, Biomedical Sciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; French National Reference Centre on Leishmaniasis, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France; Biology Department, BioSciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; Tropical Medicine Nucleus, Pará Federal University, Brazil; School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, England
| | - Christophe Ravel
- Parasitology Department, Biomedical Sciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; French National Reference Centre on Leishmaniasis, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France; Biology Department, BioSciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; Tropical Medicine Nucleus, Pará Federal University, Brazil; School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, England
| | - Jean-Pierre Dedet
- Parasitology Department, Biomedical Sciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; French National Reference Centre on Leishmaniasis, Montpellier University, Montpellier, France; Biology Department, BioSciences Institute, São Paulo University, São Paulo, Brazil; Tropical Medicine Nucleus, Pará Federal University, Brazil; School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, England
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Llanes A, Restrepo CM, Del Vecchio G, Anguizola FJ, Lleonart R. The genome of Leishmania panamensis: insights into genomics of the L. (Viannia) subgenus. Sci Rep 2015; 5:8550. [PMID: 25707621 PMCID: PMC4338418 DOI: 10.1038/srep08550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 01/26/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Kinetoplastid parasites of the Leishmania genus cause several forms of leishmaniasis. Leishmania species pathogenic to human are separated into two subgenera, Leishmania (Leishmania) and L. (Viannia). Species from the Viannia subgenus cause predominantly cutaneous leishmaniasis in Central and South America, occasionally leading to more severe clinical presentations. Although the genomes of several species of Leishmania have been sequenced to date, only one belongs to this rather different subgenus. Here we explore the unique features of the Viannia subgenus by sequencing and analyzing the genome of L. (Viannia) panamensis. Against a background of conservation in gene content and synteny, we found key differences at the genomic level that may explain the occurrence of molecular processes involving nucleic acid manipulation and differential modification of surface glycoconjugates. These differences may in part explain some phenotypic characteristics of the Viannia parasites, including their increased adaptive capacity and enhanced metastatic ability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alejandro Llanes
- 1] Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Ciudad del Saber, Panamá, Panamá [2] Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Dr. William C. Gorgas, Universidad Latina de Panamá, Panamá, Panamá [3] Department of Biotechnology, Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur, India
| | - Carlos Mario Restrepo
- 1] Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Ciudad del Saber, Panamá, Panamá [2] Department of Biotechnology, Acharya Nagarjuna University, Guntur, India
| | - Gina Del Vecchio
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Dr. William C. Gorgas, Universidad Latina de Panamá, Panamá, Panamá
| | - Franklin José Anguizola
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud Dr. William C. Gorgas, Universidad Latina de Panamá, Panamá, Panamá
| | - Ricardo Lleonart
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Ciudad del Saber, Panamá, Panamá
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18
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Phylogenetic relationships of Leishmania species based on trypanosomatid barcode (SSU rDNA) and gGAPDH genes: Taxonomic revision of Leishmania (L.) infantum chagasi in South America. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2014; 25:44-51. [PMID: 24747606 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2014.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2013] [Revised: 03/27/2014] [Accepted: 04/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Phylogenetic studies on trypanosomatid barcode using V7V8 SSU rRNA and gGAPDH gene sequences have provided support for redefining some trypanosomatid species and positioning new isolates. The genus Leishmania is a slow evolving monophyletic group and including important human pathogens. The phylogenetic relationships of this genus have been determined by the natural history of its vertebrate hosts, vector specificity, clinical manifestations, geographical distribution and molecular approaches using different markers. Thus, in an attempt to better understand the phylogenetic relationships of Leishmania species, we performed phylogenetic analysis on trypanosomatid barcode using V7V8 SSU rRNA and gGAPDH gene sequences among a large number of Leishmania species and also several Brazilian visceral Leishmania infantum chagasi isolates obtained from dogs and humans. Our phylogenetic analysis strongly suggested that Leishmania hertigi and Leishmania equatoriensis should be taxonomically revised so as to include them in the genus Endotrypanum; and supported ancient divergence of Leishmania enriettii. This, together with recent data in the literature, throws light on the discussion about the evolutionary southern supercontinent hypothesis for the origin of Leishmania ssp. and validates L. infantum chagasi from Brazil, thus clearly differentiating it from L. infantum, for the first time.
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Graça GCD, Volpini AC, Romero GAS, Oliveira Neto MPD, Hueb M, Porrozzi R, Boité MC, Cupolillo E. Development and validation of PCR-based assays for diagnosis of American cutaneous leishmaniasis and identification of the parasite species. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2013; 107:664-74. [PMID: 22850958 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762012000500014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2011] [Accepted: 04/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, PCR assays targeting different Leishmania heat-shock protein 70 gene (hsp70) regions, producing fragments ranging in size from 230-390 bp were developed and evaluated to determine their potential as a tool for the specific molecular diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). A total of 70 Leishmania strains were analysed, including seven reference strains (RS) and 63 previously typed strains. Analysis of the RS indicated a specific region of 234 bp in the hsp70 gene as a valid target that was highly sensitive for detection of Leishmania species DNA with capacity of distinguishing all analyzed species, after polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). This PCR assay was compared with other PCR targets used for the molecular diagnosis of leishmaniasis: hsp70 (1400-bp region), internal transcribed spacer (ITS)1 and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6pd). A good agreement among the methods was observed concerning the Leishmania species identification. Moreover, to evaluate the potential for molecular diagnosis, we compared the PCR targets hsp70-234 bp, ITS1, G6pd and mkDNA using a panel of 99 DNA samples from tissue fragments collected from patients with confirmed CL. Both PCR-hsp70-234 bp and PCR-ITS1 detected Leishmania DNA in more than 70% of the samples. However, using hsp70-234 bp PCR-RFLP, identification of all of the Leishmania species associated with CL in Brazil can be achieved employing a simpler and cheaper electrophoresis protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazielle Cardoso da Graça
- Laboratório de Pesquisa em Leishmaniose, Coleção de Leishmania, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil
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Coelho AC, Leprohon P, Ouellette M. Generation of Leishmania hybrids by whole genomic DNA transformation. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1817. [PMID: 23029579 PMCID: PMC3447969 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [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: 06/19/2012] [Accepted: 08/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic exchange is a powerful tool to study gene function in microorganisms. Here, we tested the feasibility of generating Leishmania hybrids by electroporating genomic DNA of donor cells into recipient Leishmania parasites. The donor DNA was marked with a drug resistance marker facilitating the selection of DNA transfer into the recipient cells. The transferred DNA was integrated exclusively at homologous locus and was as large as 45 kb. The independent generation of L. infantum hybrids with L. major sequences was possible for several chromosomal regions. Interfering with the mismatch repair machinery by inactivating the MSH2 gene enabled an increased efficiency of recombination between divergent sequences, hence favouring the selection of hybrids between species. Hybrids were shown to acquire the phenotype derived from the donor cells, as demonstrated for the transfer of drug resistance genes from L. major into L. infantum. The described method is a first step allowing the generation of in vitro hybrids for testing gene functions in a natural genomic context in the parasite Leishmania.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marc Ouellette
- Centre de Recherche en Infectiologie, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Ramírez CA, Requena JM, Puerta CJ. Identification of the HSP70-II gene in Leishmania braziliensis HSP70 locus: genomic organization and UTRs characterization. Parasit Vectors 2011; 4:166. [PMID: 21871099 PMCID: PMC3185273 DOI: 10.1186/1756-3305-4-166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2011] [Accepted: 08/26/2011] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The heat stress suffered by Leishmania sp during its digenetic life-cycle is a key trigger for its stage differentiation. In Leishmania subgenera two classes of HSP70 genes differing in their 3' UTR were described. Although the presence of HSP70-I genes was previously suggested in Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis, HSP70-II genes had been reluctant to be uncovered. Results Here, we report the existence of two types of HSP70 genes in L. braziliensis and the genomic organization of the HSP70 locus. RT-PCR experiments were used to map the untranslated regions (UTR) of both types of genes. The 3' UTR-II has a low sequence identity (55-57%) when compared with this region in other Leishmania species. In contrast, the 5' UTR, common to both types of genes, and the 3' UTR-I were found to be highly conserved among all Leishmania species (77-81%). Southern blot assays suggested that L. braziliensis HSP70 gene cluster may contain around 6 tandemly-repeated HSP70-I genes followed by one HSP70-II gene, located at chromosome 28. Northern blot analysis indicated that levels of both types of mRNAs are not affected by heat shock. Conclusions This study has led to establishing the composition and structure of the HSP70 locus of L. braziliensis, complementing the information available in the GeneDB genome database for this species. L. braziliensis HSP70 gene regulation does not seem to operate by mRNA stabilization as occurs in other Leishmania species.
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Affiliation(s)
- César A Ramírez
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Departamento de Microbiología, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Carrera 7 No, 43-82, Edificio 52, Oficina 608, Bogotá, Colombia
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Characterization of monomeric DNA-binding protein Histone H1 in Leishmania braziliensis. Parasitology 2011; 138:1093-101. [PMID: 21767437 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182011000898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Histone H1 in Leishmania presents relevant differences compared to higher eukaryote counterparts, such as the lack of a DNA-binding central globular domain. Despite that, it is apparently fully functional since its differential expression levels have been related to changes in chromatin condensation and infectivity, among other features. The localization and the aggregation state of L. braziliensis H1 has been determined by immunolocalization, mass spectrometry, cross-linking and electrophoretic mobility shift assays. Analysis of H1 sequences from the Leishmania Genome Database revealed that our protein is included in a very divergent group of histones H1 that is present only in L. braziliensis. An antibody raised against recombinant L. braziliensis H1 recognized specifically that protein by immunoblot in L. braziliensis extracts, but not in other Leishmania species, a consequence of the sequence divergences observed among Leishmania species. Mass spectrometry analysis and in vitro DNA-binding experiments have also proven that L. braziliensis H1 is monomeric in solution, but oligomerizes upon binding to DNA. Finally, despite the lack of a globular domain, L. braziliensis H1 is able to form complexes with DNA in vitro, with higher affinity for supercoiled compared to linear DNA.
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Leblois R, Kuhls K, François O, Schönian G, Wirth T. Guns, germs and dogs: On the origin of Leishmania chagasi. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2011; 11:1091-5. [PMID: 21511057 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2011.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2011] [Revised: 03/31/2011] [Accepted: 04/04/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The evolutionary history of Leishmania chagasi, the aetiological agent of visceral leishmaniasis in South America has been widely debated. This study addresses the problem of the origin of L. chagasi, its timing and demography with fast evolving genetic markers, a suite of Bayesian clustering algorithms and coalescent modelling. Here, using 14 microsatellite markers, 450 strains from the Leishmania donovani complex, we show that the vast majority of the Central and South American L. chagasi were nested within the Portuguese Leishmania infantum clade. Moreover, L. chagasi allelic richness was half that of their Old World counterparts. The bottleneck signature was estimated to be about 500 years old and the settlement of L. chagasi in the New World, probably via infected dogs, was accompanied by a thousand-fold population decrease. Visceral leishmaniasis, lethal if untreated, is therefore one more disease that the Conquistadores brought to the New World.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raphaël Leblois
- Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, UMR-CNRS 7205, Laboratoire Origine Structure Evolution de la Biodiversité, 16 rue Buffon, F-75005 Paris, France
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Morrone A, Pitidis A, Pajno MC, Dassoni F, Latini O, Barnabas GA, Padovese V. Epidemiological and geographical aspects of leishmaniasis in Tigray, northern Ethiopia: a retrospective analysis of medical records, 2005-2008. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2011; 105:273-80. [PMID: 21439603 DOI: 10.1016/j.trstmh.2011.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2010] [Revised: 02/16/2011] [Accepted: 02/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is one of the most neglected tropical diseases and epidemic outbreaks often occur worldwide. This paper reports some epidemiological features of the disease in Tigray, northern Ethiopia, with the aim of studying the disease distribution and the environmental factors that may have influenced it. Medical records from patients with Leishmania attending the Italian Dermatological Centre of Mekele in the period 2005-2008 were retrospectively reviewed. Age and gender distribution, clinical types, occupation, co-morbidity, urban/rural origin, altitude and rainfall were investigated. The result was 471 patients affected and the prevalent clinical form was cutaneous leishmaniasis (86%). Five main risk areas were identified in the Tigray highlands and only isolated cases were reported at altitudes below 1700m. The variables related to a higher risk of catching leishmaniasis were male gender, age over-14, poor education, outdoor activities and living at high altitudes. Climatic and environmental changes occurring in this region and land degradation are discussed as factors influencing leishmaniasis distribution. Further research including field missions and geomapping is needed to quantify the actual disease burden in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aldo Morrone
- National Institute for Health, Migration and Poverty, via di San Gallicano 25/A, 00153 Rome, Italy
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Fraga J, Montalvo AM, De Doncker S, Dujardin JC, Van der Auwera G. Phylogeny of Leishmania species based on the heat-shock protein 70 gene. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2009; 10:238-45. [PMID: 19913110 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2009.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2009] [Revised: 11/04/2009] [Accepted: 11/06/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The 70kDa heat-shock protein (HSP70) is conserved across prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and the protein as well as its encoding gene have been applied in phylogenetic studies of different parasites. In spite of the frequent use of New World Leishmania species identification on the basis of restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) in the hsp70 gene, it was never sequenced extensively for studying evolutionary relationships. To fill this void we determined the nucleotide sequence of an 1380bp fragment of the coding region commonly used in RFLP analysis, from 43 isolates and strains of different geographic origins. Combination with previously determined sequences amounted to a phylogenetic analysis including 52 hsp70 sequences representing 17 species commonly causing leishmaniasis both in the New and Old World. The genus Leishmania formed a monophyletic group with three distinct subgenera L. (Leishmania), L. (Viannia), and L. (Sauroleishmania). The obtained phylogeny supports the following eight species: L. (L.) donovani, L. (L.) major, L. (L.) tropica, L. (L.) mexicana, L. (V.) lainsoni, L. (V.) naiffi, L. (V.) guyanensis and L. (V.) braziliensis, in some of which subspecies can be recognized: L. (L.) donovani infantum, L. (V.) guyanensis panamensis, and L. (V.) braziliensis peruviana. The currently recognized L. (L.) aethiopica, L. (L.) garnhami, and L. (L.) amazonensis did not form monophyletic clusters. These findings are discussed in relation to results from other genes and proteins, which have to be integrated in order to build a genetically supported taxonomy for the entire genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Fraga
- Parasitology Department, Institute of Tropical Medicine Pedro Kouri, La Havana, Cuba
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Tuon FF, Neto VA, Amato VS. Leishmania: origin, evolution and future since the Precambrian. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008; 54:158-66. [PMID: 18631183 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-695x.2008.00455.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
This brief review discusses the history of leishmaniasis, considering its origin from the Paleoartic, Neoartic or Neotropic. We reassess some of the theories of the likely origin of this protozoan since the beginning of life on Earth, passing through the Mesozoic and continuing to the appearance of humans. The relationship between this parasite or its ancestors, possible vectors and hosts with regard to ecological modifications is discussed. Recent molecular techniques have helped to elucidate some of the evolutionary questions regarding Leishmania, but have also brought doubts about the origin and evolution of this human parasite. PCR has been used for studies in the new discipline of paleoparasitology, helping to elucidate some of the remaining evolutionary questions. Understanding of this global condition is fundamental in determining the best approach to use against the parasite, specifically for the development of an efficient vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felipe Francisco Tuon
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of São Paulo, Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil
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Cloning and expression of trypanothione reductase from a New World Leishmania species. Arch Microbiol 2007; 189:375-84. [DOI: 10.1007/s00203-007-0328-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2007] [Revised: 09/27/2007] [Accepted: 11/09/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Peacock CS, Seeger K, Harris D, Murphy L, Ruiz JC, Quail MA, Peters N, Adlem E, Tivey A, Aslett M, Kerhornou A, Ivens A, Fraser A, Rajandream MA, Carver T, Norbertczak H, Chillingworth T, Hance Z, Jagels K, Moule S, Ormond D, Rutter S, Squares R, Whitehead S, Rabbinowitsch E, Arrowsmith C, White B, Thurston S, Bringaud F, Baldauf SL, Faulconbridge A, Jeffares D, Depledge DP, Oyola SO, Hilley JD, Brito LO, Tosi LRO, Barrell B, Cruz AK, Mottram JC, Smith DF, Berriman M. Comparative genomic analysis of three Leishmania species that cause diverse human disease. Nat Genet 2007; 39:839-47. [PMID: 17572675 PMCID: PMC2592530 DOI: 10.1038/ng2053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 567] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2006] [Accepted: 05/04/2007] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Leishmania parasites cause a broad spectrum of clinical disease. Here we report the sequencing of the genomes of two species of Leishmania: Leishmania infantum and Leishmania braziliensis. The comparison of these sequences with the published genome of Leishmania major reveals marked conservation of synteny and identifies only approximately 200 genes with a differential distribution between the three species. L. braziliensis, contrary to Leishmania species examined so far, possesses components of a putative RNA-mediated interference pathway, telomere-associated transposable elements and spliced leader-associated SLACS retrotransposons. We show that pseudogene formation and gene loss are the principal forces shaping the different genomes. Genes that are differentially distributed between the species encode proteins implicated in host-pathogen interactions and parasite survival in the macrophage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher S Peacock
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, UK.
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Lukeš J, Mauricio IL, Schönian G, Dujardin JC, Soteriadou K, Dedet JP, Kuhls K, Tintaya KWQ, Jirků M, Chocholová E, Haralambous C, Pratlong F, Oborník M, Horák A, Ayala FJ, Miles MA. Evolutionary and geographical history of the Leishmania donovani complex with a revision of current taxonomy. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2007; 104:9375-80. [PMID: 17517634 PMCID: PMC1890502 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0703678104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 291] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a geographically widespread severe disease, with an increasing incidence of two million cases per year and 350 million people from 88 countries at risk. The causative agents are species of Leishmania, a protozoan flagellate. Visceral leishmaniasis, the most severe form of the disease, lethal if untreated, is caused by species of the Leishmania donovani complex. These species are morphologically indistinguishable but have been identified by molecular methods, predominantly multilocus enzyme electrophoresis. We have conducted a multifactorial genetic analysis that includes DNA sequences of protein-coding genes as well as noncoding segments, microsatellites, restriction-fragment length polymorphisms, and randomly amplified polymorphic DNAs, for a total of approximately 18,000 characters for each of 25 geographically representative strains. Genotype is strongly correlated with geographical (continental) origin, but not with current taxonomy or clinical outcome. We propose a new taxonomy, in which Leishmania infantum and L. donovani are the only recognized species of the L. donovani complex, and we present an evolutionary hypothesis for the origin and dispersal of the species. The genus Leishmania may have originated in South America, but diversified after migration into Asia. L. donovani and L. infantum diverged approximately 1 Mya, with further divergence of infraspecific genetic groups between 0.4 and 0.8 Mya. The prevailing mode of reproduction is clonal, but there is evidence of genetic exchange between strains, particularly in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julius Lukeš
- *Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, and
- Faculty of Biology, University of South Bohemia, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Isabel L. Mauricio
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
| | - Gabriele Schönian
- Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charité University Medicine, D-10117 Berlin, Germany
| | - Jean-Claude Dujardin
- Department of Molecular Parasitology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, B-2000 Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Ketty Soteriadou
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Jean-Pierre Dedet
- **Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Université Montpellier 1, 34090 Montpellier, France; and
| | - Katrin Kuhls
- Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charité University Medicine, D-10117 Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Milan Jirků
- *Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, and
| | - Eva Chocholová
- *Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, and
| | - Christos Haralambous
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Francine Pratlong
- **Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Université Montpellier 1, 34090 Montpellier, France; and
| | - Miroslav Oborník
- *Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, and
- Faculty of Biology, University of South Bohemia, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Aleš Horák
- *Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, and
| | - Francisco J. Ayala
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697
| | - Michael A. Miles
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, United Kingdom
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Puechberty J, Blaineau C, Meghamla S, Crobu L, Pagès M, Bastien P. Compared genomics of the strand switch region of Leishmania chromosome 1 reveal a novel genus-specific gene and conserved structural features and sequence motifs. BMC Genomics 2007; 8:57. [PMID: 17319967 PMCID: PMC1805754 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-8-57] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2006] [Accepted: 02/24/2007] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trypanosomatids exhibit a unique gene organization into large directional gene clusters (DGCs) in opposite directions. The transcription "strand switch region" (SSR) separating the two large DGCs that constitute chromosome 1 of Leishmania major has been the subject of several studies and speculations. Thus, it has been suspected of being the single replication origin of the chromosome, the transcription initiation site for both DGCs or even a centromere. Here, we have used an inter-species compared genomics approach on this locus in order to try to identify conserved features or motifs indicative of a putative function. RESULTS We isolated, and compared the structure and nucleotide sequence of, this SSR in 15 widely divergent species of Leishmania and Sauroleishmania. As regards its intrachromosomal position, size and AT content, the general structure of this SSR appears extremely stable among species, which is another demonstration of the remarkable structural stability of these genomes at the evolutionary level. Sequence alignments showed several interesting features. Overall, only 30% of nucleotide positions were conserved in the SSR among the 15 species, versus 74% and 62% in the 5' parts of the adjacent XPP and PAXP genes, respectively. However, nucleotide divergences were not distributed homogeneously along this sequence. Thus, a central fragment of approximately 440 bp exhibited 54% of identity among the 15 species. This fragment actually represents a new Leishmania-specific CDS of unknown function which had been overlooked since the annotation of this chromosome. The encoded protein comprises two trans-membrane domains and is classified in the "structural protein" GO category. We cloned this novel gene and expressed it as a recombinant green fluorescent protein-fused version, which showed its localisation to the endoplasmic reticulum. The whole of these data shorten the actual SSR to an 887-bp segment as compared with the original 1.6 kb. In the rest of the SSR, the percentage of identity was much lower, around 22%. Interestingly, the 72-bp fragment where the putatively single transcription initiation site of chromosome 1 was identified is located in a low-conservation portion of the SSR and is itself highly polymorphic amongst species. Nevertheless, it is highly C-rich and presents a unique poly(C) tract in the same position in all species. CONCLUSION This inter-specific comparative study, the first of its kind, (a) allowed to reveal a novel genus-specific gene and (b) identified a conserved poly(C) tract in the otherwise highly polymorphic region containing the putative transcription initiation site. This allows hypothesising an intervention of poly(C)-binding proteins known elsewhere to be involved in transcriptional control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Puechberty
- CNRS/Université Montpellier I FRE 3013 "Biologie Moléculaire, Biologie Cellulaire et Biodiversité des Protozoaires Parasites", Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, UFR Médecine, 163 Rue Auguste Broussonet, 34090 Montpellier, France
- Service de Génétique Médicale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Montpellier, France
| | - Christine Blaineau
- CNRS/Université Montpellier I FRE 3013 "Biologie Moléculaire, Biologie Cellulaire et Biodiversité des Protozoaires Parasites", Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, UFR Médecine, 163 Rue Auguste Broussonet, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Sabrina Meghamla
- CNRS/Université Montpellier I FRE 3013 "Biologie Moléculaire, Biologie Cellulaire et Biodiversité des Protozoaires Parasites", Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, UFR Médecine, 163 Rue Auguste Broussonet, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Lucien Crobu
- CNRS/Université Montpellier I FRE 3013 "Biologie Moléculaire, Biologie Cellulaire et Biodiversité des Protozoaires Parasites", Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, UFR Médecine, 163 Rue Auguste Broussonet, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Michel Pagès
- CNRS/Université Montpellier I FRE 3013 "Biologie Moléculaire, Biologie Cellulaire et Biodiversité des Protozoaires Parasites", Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, UFR Médecine, 163 Rue Auguste Broussonet, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - Patrick Bastien
- CNRS/Université Montpellier I FRE 3013 "Biologie Moléculaire, Biologie Cellulaire et Biodiversité des Protozoaires Parasites", Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, UFR Médecine, 163 Rue Auguste Broussonet, 34090 Montpellier, France
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Folgueira C, Cañavate C, Chicharro C, Requena JM. Genomic organization and expression of the HSP70 locus in New and Old World Leishmania species. Parasitology 2006; 134:369-77. [PMID: 17054823 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182006001570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2006] [Revised: 08/31/2006] [Accepted: 08/31/2006] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Heat shock is believed to be a developmental inductor of differentiation in Leishmania. Furthermore, heat shock genes are extensively studied as gene models to decipher mechanisms of gene regulation in kinetoplastids. Here, we describe the organization and expression of the HSP70 loci in representative Leishmania species (L. infantum, L. major, L. tropica, L. mexicana, L. amazonensis and L. braziliensis). With the exception of L. braziliensis, the organization of the HSP70 loci was found to be well conserved among the other Leishmania species. Two types of genes, HSP70-I and HSP70-II, were found to be present in these Leishmania species except for L. braziliensis that lacks HSP70-II gene. Polymorphisms in the HSP70 locus allow the differentiation of the Old and New World species within the subgenus Leishmania. A notable discrepancy between our data and those of the L. major genome database in relation to the gene copy number composing the L. major HSP70 locus was revealed. The temperature-dependent accumulation of the HSP70-I mRNAs is also conserved among the different Leishmania species with the exception of L. braziliensis. In spite of these differences, analysis of the HSP70 synthesis indicated that the HSP70 mRNAs are also preferentially translated during heat shock in L. braziliensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Folgueira
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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33
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Flegontov PN, Guo Q, Ren L, Strelkova MV, Kolesnikov AA. Conserved repeats in the kinetoplast maxicircle divergent region of Leishmania sp. and Leptomonas seymouri. Mol Genet Genomics 2006; 276:322-33. [PMID: 16909285 DOI: 10.1007/s00438-006-0145-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2006] [Accepted: 06/22/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The maxicircle control region [also termed divergent region (DR)] composed of various repeat elements remains the most poorly studied part of the kinetoplast genome. Only three extensive DR sequences demonstrating no significant similarity were available for trypanosomatids (Leishmania tarentolae, Crithidia oncopelti, Trypanosoma brucei). Recently, extensive DR sequences have been obtained for Leishmania major and Trypanosoma cruzi. In this work we have sequenced DR fragments of Leishmania turanica, Leishmania mexicana, Leishmania chagasi and two monogenetic trypanosomatids Leptomonas seymouri and Leptomonas collosoma. With the emergence of the additional extensive sequences some conserved features of DR structure become evident. A conserved palindromic sequence has been revealed in the DRs of the studied Leishmania species, L. seymouri, and T. cruzi. The overall DR structure appears to be similar in all the Leishmania species, their relative L. seymouri, and T. brucei: long relatively GC-rich repeats are interspersed with clusters of short AT-rich repeats. C. oncopelti, L. collosoma, and T. cruzi have a completely different DR structure. Identification of conserved sequences and invariable structural features of the DR may further our understanding of the functioning of this important genome fragment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel N Flegontov
- Department of Molecular Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Vorobjevy Gory 1, build. 12, 119992, Moscow, Russia
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Yurchenko VY, Lukes J, Jirku M, Zeledón R, Maslov DA. Leptomonas costaricensis sp. n. (Kinetoplastea: Trypanosomatidae), a member of the novel phylogenetic group of insect trypanosomatids closely related to the genus Leishmania. Parasitology 2006; 133:537-46. [PMID: 16834819 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182006000746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2006] [Revised: 03/21/2006] [Accepted: 05/17/2006] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
A flagellate isolated from the intestinal tract of a reduviid bug Ricolla simillima (Heteroptera) in Costa Rica was found to represent a new trypanosomatid species by the phylogenetic analysis of small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA), glyceraldehyde phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and large subunit of RNA polymerase II (RPOIILS) genes. The phylogenetic position of this trypanosomatid, together with its typical promastigote morphology and the host identity, allowed its classification as a species that belongs to the polyphyletic genus Leptomonas. Interestingly, the new species was revealed as a member of the novel phylogenetic clade representing the closest known relative of Leishmania. With the new species used as an outgroup to root the Leishmania RPOIILS phylogenetic tree, the lineage of the Neotropical species L. enriettii was found to branch off early, and was followed by a deep split between the Old World and the remaining New World species. This tree topology supports the hypothesis that the initial transition to dixenous parasitism in this group pre-dated the continental split and that afterwards the Neotropical and the Old World groups evolved largely independently.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Y Yurchenko
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, Bronx, New York 10461, USA
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Rotureau B. Are New World leishmaniases becoming anthroponoses? Med Hypotheses 2006; 67:1235-41. [PMID: 16797861 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2006.02.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2006] [Accepted: 02/24/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In the New World, leishmaniases are originally wild exoanthropic zoonoses developing in sylvatic ecotopes. For a long time, Leishmania parasites have shown a remarkable plasticity to face modifications in their environment. Now, both geographical extension and numerical increase of leishmaniasis cases in the New World are giving cause for concern. These circumstances might have been provoked by the simple invasion of zoonotic foci by humans. However, dramatic evolutionary mechanisms are also at work in the New World: (i) the reduction of biodiversity associated with anthropogenic environmental changes (deforestation and urbanization); and (ii) the subsequent adaptations and interactions of new vectors and reservoir hosts at the interface with humans. This paper considers that these processes could result in new pathogenic complexes tending to synanthropic zoonoses, if not anthroponoses. Increasing man-made risk factors could thus possibly make leishmaniases a growing public health concern in the New World.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brice Rotureau
- Laboratoire Hospitalo-universitaire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicale, Equipe EA 3593, Unité de Formation et de Recherche en Médecine de l'Université des Antilles et de la Guyane, Campus Saint-Denis, BP 718, 97336 Cayenne, French Guiana
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Abstract
Molecular trees of trypanosomes have confirmed conventionally accepted genera, but often produce topologies that are incongruent with knowledge of the evolution, systematics, and biogeography of hosts and vectors. These distorted topologies result largely from incorrect assumptions about molecular clocks. A host-based phylogenetic tree could serve as a broad outline against which the reasonability of molecular phylogenies could be evaluated. The host-based tree of trypanosomes presented here supports the " invertebrate first " hypothesis of trypanosome evolution, supports the monophyly of Trypanosomatidae, and indicates the digenetic lifestyle arose three times. An area cladogram of Leishmania supports origination in the Palaearctic during the Palaeocene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara F Kerr
- Department of Biology, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, Texas 78209, USA.
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Yu MC, Orlando TC, Sturm NR, Zhou L, Saito RM, Floeter-Winter LM, Campbell DA. Two distinct functional spliced leader RNA gene arrays in Leishmania tarentolae are found in several lizard Leishmania species. Int J Parasitol 2002; 32:1411-22. [PMID: 12350376 DOI: 10.1016/s0020-7519(02)00131-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
A second distinct array of spliced leader RNA genes has been found in several Leishmania species particular to lizards. This is the first report of two non-allelic arrays of spliced leader RNA genes within a species cell line. The arrays are identical to each other in their transcribed spliced leader RNA gene sequences, but variable in their non-transcribed spacer sequences. In the two arrays from Leishmania tarentolae UC strain the promoter regions are similar, but not identical, at positions shown previously to be critical for spliced leader RNA transcription. These arrays contain similar numbers of genes and are both transcribed in L. tarentolae in vitro transcription extract as well as in vivo. The -66/-58 regions of both genes, which contain an element of the spliced leader RNA gene promoter, bind proteins likely to be transcription factors in a specific manner. A survey of lizard Leishmania spp. revealed a second spliced leader RNA gene array in three of four species. Phylogenetic analyses of these sequences with each other and with the spliced leader RNA gene sequences of non-lizard Leishmania spp. and their near-relatives showed that the lizard groups are more closely related to each other than to arrays from other Leishmania spp. As the transcripts of the two arrays are identical, they may co-exist to fulfil the substantial requirement for spliced leader RNA production; however, they have the potential for differential usage modulated by their distinct promoter elements. The presence of two distinct spliced leader RNA gene arrays within a single cell type may represent dissociated evolution of two redundant loci, or a previously unsuspected level of control in the post-transcriptional gene expression within some kinetoplastids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael C Yu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1747, USA
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