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Rooholamini Z, Dianat-Moghadam H, Esmaeilifallah M, Khanahmad H. From classical approaches to new developments in genetic engineering of live attenuated vaccine against cutaneous leishmaniasis: potential and immunization. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1382996. [PMID: 39035184 PMCID: PMC11257927 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1382996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Despite the development of a vaccine against cutaneous leishmaniasis in preclinical and clinical studies, we still do not have a safe and effective vaccine for human use. Given this situation, the search for a new prophylactic alternative to control leishmaniasis should be a global priority. A first-generation vaccine strategy-leishmanization, in which live Leishmania major parasites are inoculated into the skin to protect against reinfection, is taking advantage of this situation. Live attenuated Leishmania vaccine candidates are promising alternatives due to their robust protective immune responses. Importantly, they do not cause disease and could provide long-term protection following challenges with a virulent strain. In addition to physical and chemical methods, genetic tools, including the Cre-loxP system, have enabled the selection of safer null mutant live attenuated Leishmania parasites obtained by gene disruption. This was followed by the discovery and introduction of CRISPR/Cas-based gene editing tools, which can be easily and precisely used to modify genes. Here, we briefly review the immunopathology of L. major parasites and then present the classical methods and their limitations for the production of live attenuated vaccines. We then discuss the potential of current genetic engineering tools to generate live attenuated vaccine strains by targeting key genes involved in L. major pathogenesis and then discuss their discovery and implications for immune responses to control leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Rooholamini
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hassan Dianat-Moghadam
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Pediatric Inherited Diseases Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mahsa Esmaeilifallah
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Hossein Khanahmad
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Moreira POL, Nogueira PM, Monte-Neto RL. Next-Generation Leishmanization: Revisiting Molecular Targets for Selecting Genetically Engineered Live-Attenuated Leishmania. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11041043. [PMID: 37110466 PMCID: PMC10145799 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11041043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite decades of research devoted to finding a vaccine against leishmaniasis, we are still lacking a safe and effective vaccine for humans. Given this scenario, the search for a new prophylaxis alternative for controlling leishmaniasis should be a global priority. Inspired by leishmanization-a first generation vaccine strategy where live L. major parasites are inoculated in the skin to protect against reinfection-live-attenuated Leishmania vaccine candidates are promising alternatives due to their robust elicited protective immune response. In addition, they do not cause disease and could provide long-term protection upon challenge with a virulent strain. The discovery of a precise and easy way to perform CRISPR/Cas-based gene editing allowed the selection of safer null mutant live-attenuated Leishmania parasites obtained by gene disruption. Here, we revisited molecular targets associated with the selection of live-attenuated vaccinal strains, discussing their function, their limiting factors and the ideal candidate for the next generation of genetically engineered live-attenuated Leishmania vaccines to control leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo O L Moreira
- Biotechnology Applied to Pathogens (BAP), Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz Minas, Belo Horizonte 30190-009, Brazil
| | - Paula M Nogueira
- Biotechnology Applied to Pathogens (BAP), Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz Minas, Belo Horizonte 30190-009, Brazil
| | - Rubens L Monte-Neto
- Biotechnology Applied to Pathogens (BAP), Instituto René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz Minas, Belo Horizonte 30190-009, Brazil
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3
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The History of Live Attenuated Centrin Gene-Deleted Leishmania Vaccine Candidates. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11040431. [PMID: 35456106 PMCID: PMC9025045 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11040431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis, caused by an infection of the Leishmania protozoa, is a neglected tropical disease and a major health problem in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, with approximately 350 million people worldwide at risk and 2 million new cases occurring annually. Current treatments for leishmaniasis are not highly efficacious and are associated with high costs, especially in low- and middle-income endemic countries, and high toxicity. Due to a surge in the incidence of leishmaniases worldwide, the development of new strategies such as a prophylactic vaccine has become a high priority. However, the ability of Leishmania to undermine immune recognition has limited our efforts to design safe and efficacious vaccines against leishmaniasis. Numerous antileishmanial vaccine preparations based on DNA, subunit, and heat-killed parasites with or without adjuvants have been tried in several animal models but very few have progressed beyond the experimental stage. However, it is known that people who recover from Leishmania infection can be protected lifelong against future infection, suggesting that a successful vaccine requires a controlled infection to develop immunologic memory and subsequent long-term immunity. Live attenuated Leishmania parasites that are non-pathogenic and provide a complete range of antigens similarly to their wild-type counterparts could evoke such memory and, thus, would be effective vaccine candidates. Our laboratory has developed several live attenuated Leishmania vaccines by targeted centrin gene disruptions either by homologous recombination or, more recently, by using genome editing technologies involving CRISPR-Cas9. In this review, we focused on the sequential history of centrin gene-deleted Leishmania vaccine development, along with the characterization of its safety and efficacy. Further, we discussed other major considerations regarding the transition of dermotropic live attenuated centrin gene-deleted parasites from the laboratory to human clinical trials.
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Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic and vector-borne infectious disease that is caused by the genus Leishmania belonging to the trypanosomatid family. The protozoan parasite has a digenetic life cycle involving a mammalian host and an insect vector. Leishmaniasisis is a worldwide public health problem falling under the neglected tropical disease category, with over 90 endemic countries, and approximately 1 million new cases and 20,000 deaths annually. Leishmania infection can progress toward the development of species–specific pathologic disorders, ranging in severity from self-healing cutaneous lesions to disseminating muco-cutaneous and fatal visceral manifestations. The severity and the outcome of leishmaniasis is determined by the parasite’s antigenic epitope characteristics, the vector physiology, and most importantly, the immune response and immune status of the host. This review examines the nature of host–pathogen interaction in leishmaniasis, innate and adaptive immune responses, and various strategies that have been employed for vaccine development.
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Abstract
Leishmaniasis is caused by protozoan Leishmania parasites that are transmitted through female sandfly bites. The disease is predominantly endemic to the tropics and semi-tropics and has been reported in more than 98 countries. Due to the side effects of anti-Leishmania drugs and the emergence of drug-resistant isolates, there is currently no encouraging prospect of introducing an effective therapy for the disease. Hence, it seems that the key to disease control management is the introduction of an effective vaccine, particularly against its cutaneous form. Advances in understanding underlying immune mechanisms are feasibale using a variety of candidate antigens, including attenuated live parasites, crude antigens, pure or recombinant Leishmania proteins, Leishmania genes encoding protective proteins, as well as immune system activators from the saliva of parasite vectors. However, there is still no vaccine against different types of human leishmaniasis. In this study, we review the works conducted or being performed in this field.
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Kumar S, Zutshi S, Jha MK, Chauhan P, Saha B. Development of the Antileishmanial Vaccine. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2410:433-461. [PMID: 34914062 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1884-4_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Search for an efficacious antileishmanial vaccine has led to clinical trials of numerous vaccine candidates in the past few decades. As no promising candidate has emerged from these studies, novel vaccine modalities and vaccine assessment techniques are still emerging for antileishmanial vaccine development. Briefly, this chapter discusses: (a) history and timeline of antileishmanial vaccine development; (b) techniques utilized for developing whole-parasite and subunit-based antileishmanial vaccine formulations, and (c) immunogenicity and post-challenge protective efficacy assessment of vaccine candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Kumar
- National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | | | - Mukesh Kumar Jha
- National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Prashant Chauhan
- National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Bhaskar Saha
- National Centre for Cell Science, Ganeshkhind, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
- Trident Academy of Creative Technology, Bhubaneshwar, Odisha, India.
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Feiz Haddad MH, Lomei J, Shokri A, Habibpour H, Rezvan H, Nourian A, Mahmoudi MR. Review of Development of Live Vaccines against Leishmaniasis. JOURNAL OF CHILD SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0041-1731336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AbstractLeishmaniasis is a serious public health problem in both tropical and temperate regions, caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania. Cutaneous leishmaniasis is the most common form of leishmaniasis worldwide. After recovery from the initial infection in most of the patients, a long-lasting natural immunity will be established. In individuals with HIV infection or in immune deficient patients, the more dangerous forms can occur. Despite many attempts, there is no efficient vaccine for leishmaniasis. The main concern for live-attenuated vaccines is the possibility of returning to the virulent form. Therefore, the safety is an important point in designing a successful vaccine. Nonvirulent parasites as vaccine candidates are achievable through gamma-irradiation, long-term culture, random mutations induced by chemical agents, and temperature-sensitive mutations. The type of change(s) in such parasites is not known well and drawbacks such as reversion to virulent forms was soon realized. Leishmania tarentolae with capacity of adaptation to mammalian system has a potential to be used as nonpathogenic vector in vaccine programs. Due to its nonpathogenic intrinsic property, it does not have the ability to replace with the pathogen form. Moreover, the main problems are associated with the production of live vaccines, including lyophilization, storage, standards, and quality control that must be considered. In this review, we focused on the importance of different approaches concerning the development of a live vaccine against leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hossein Feiz Haddad
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Jalal Lomei
- Division of Integrative Physiology, Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Azar Shokri
- Vector-borne Disease Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Habib Habibpour
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Hossein Rezvan
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Alireza Nourian
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Mahmoudi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
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Barbosa-Méndez S, Matus-Ortega M, Hernández-Miramontes R, Salazar-Juárez A. The morphine/heroin vaccine decreased the heroin-induced antinociceptive and reinforcing effects in three inbred strains mouse. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 98:107887. [PMID: 34186279 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Clinical trials have indicated that a vaccine must be immunogenic in genetically diverse human populations and that immunogenicity and protective efficacy in animal models are two key indices required for the approval of a new vaccine. Additionally, the immune response (immunogenicity) and immunoprotection are dependent on the mouse strain. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the immune response (immunogenicity) and the protective efficacy (behavioral response) in three inbred mouse strains immunized with the M6TT vaccine. Female BALB/c, C57Bl/6, and DBA/2 inbred mice were immunized with the M6-TT vaccine. A solid-phase antibody-capture ELISA was used to monitor antibody titer responses after each booster dose in vaccinated animals. The study used tail-flick testing to evaluate the antinociceptive effects induced by heroin. Additionally, heroin-induced locomotor activity and place preference were evaluated. The M6-TT vaccine was able to generate a specific antibody titer in the three inbred mouse strains evaluated. The antibodies reduced the antinociceptive effect of different doses of heroin. In addition, they decreased the heroin-induced locomotor activity and place preference. These findings suggest that the M6-TT vaccine generates a powerful immunogenic response capable of reducing the antinociceptive and reinforcing effects of heroin in different inbred mouse strains, which supports its possible future use in clinical trials in genetically diverse human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana Barbosa-Méndez
- Subdirección de Investigaciones Clínicas, Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología Conductual, Microcirugía y Terapéutica Experimental, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría, México DF 14370, Mexico
| | - Maura Matus-Ortega
- Subdirección de Investigaciones Clínicas, Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología Conductual, Microcirugía y Terapéutica Experimental, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría, México DF 14370, Mexico
| | - Ricardo Hernández-Miramontes
- Subdirección de Investigaciones Clínicas, Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología Conductual, Microcirugía y Terapéutica Experimental, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría, México DF 14370, Mexico
| | - Alberto Salazar-Juárez
- Subdirección de Investigaciones Clínicas, Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología Conductual, Microcirugía y Terapéutica Experimental, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría, México DF 14370, Mexico.
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Kumar A, Pandey SC, Samant M. DNA-based microarray studies in visceral leishmaniasis: identification of biomarkers for diagnostic, prognostic and drug target for treatment. Acta Trop 2020; 208:105512. [PMID: 32389452 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is one of the major infectious diseases affecting the poorest regions of the world. Current therapy is not very much satisfactory. The alarming rise of drug resistance and the unavailability of an effective vaccine against VL urges research towards identifying new targets or biomarkers for its effective treatment. New technology developments offer some fresh hope in its diagnosis, treatment, and control. DNA microarray approach is now broadly used in parasitology research to facilitate the thoughtful of mechanisms of disease and identification of drug targets and biomarkers for diagnostic and therapeutic development. An electronic search on "VL" and "Microarray" was conducted in Medline and Scopus and papers published in the English mentioning use of DNA microarray on VL were selected and read to write this paper review. Functional analysis and interpretation of microarray results remain very challenging due to the inherent nature of experimental workflows, access, cost, and complexity of data obtained. We have explained and emphasized the use of curate knowledge of microarray in the case of VL for the identification of therapeutic target and biomarker and their selection/implementation in clinical use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Awanish Kumar
- Department of Biotechnology, National Institute of Technology, Raipur (Chhattisgarh), INDIA
| | - Satish Chandra Pandey
- Cell and Molecular biology laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kumaun University, SSJ Campus, Almora (Uttarakhand), INDIA; Department of Biotechnology, Kumaun University Nainital, Bhimtal Campus, Bhimtal, Nainital (Uttarakhand), INDIA
| | - Mukesh Samant
- Cell and Molecular biology laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kumaun University, SSJ Campus, Almora (Uttarakhand), INDIA.
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Zabala-Peñafiel A, Todd D, Daneshvar H, Burchmore R. The potential of live attenuated vaccines against Cutaneous Leishmaniasis. Exp Parasitol 2020; 210:107849. [PMID: 32027892 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2020.107849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis is a serious public health problem, typically affecting poor populations with limited access to health care. Control is largely dependent on chemotherapies that are inefficient, costly and challenging to deliver. Vaccination is an attractive and feasible alternative because long-term protection is typical in patients who recover from the disease. No human vaccine is yet approved for use, but several candidates are at various stages of testing. Live attenuated parasites, which stimulate long-term immune protection, have potential as effective vaccines, and their challenges relating to safety, formulation and delivery can be overcome. Here we review current data on the potential of live attenuated Leishmania vaccines and discuss possible routes to regulatory approval.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zabala-Peñafiel
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - D Todd
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - H Daneshvar
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - R Burchmore
- Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom.
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Coutinho De Oliveira B, Duthie MS, Alves Pereira VR. Vaccines for leishmaniasis and the implications of their development for American tegumentary leishmaniasis. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2019; 16:919-930. [PMID: 31634036 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2019.1678998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The leishmaniases are a collection of vector-borne parasitic diseases caused by a number of different Leishmania species that are distributed worldwide. Clinical and laboratory research have together revealed several important immune components that control Leishmania infection and indicate the potential of immunization to prevent leishmaniasis. In this review we introduce previous and ongoing experimental research efforts to develop vaccines against Leishmania species. First, second and third generation vaccine strategies that have been proposed to counter cutaneous and visceral leishmaniasis (CL and VL, respectively) are summarized. One of the major bottlenecks in development is the transition from results in animal model studies to humans, and we highlight that although American tegumentary leishmaniasis (ATL; New World CL) can progress to destructive and disfiguring mucosal lesions, most research has been conducted using mouse models and Old World Leishmania species. We conclude that assessment of vaccine candidates in ATL settings therefore appears merited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Coutinho De Oliveira
- Pós-Graduação em Inovação Terapêutica, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco (UFPE), Recife, Brazil.,Departamento de Imunologia, Instituto Aggeu Magalhães, Recife, Brazil
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12
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Santos RL, de Oliveira AR. Leishmaniasis in non-human primates: Clinical and pathological manifestations and potential as reservoirs. J Med Primatol 2019; 49:34-39. [PMID: 31595524 DOI: 10.1111/jmp.12441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Revised: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Although the domestic dog is the most important reservoir of visceral leishmaniasis in urban areas, there have been an increasing number of reports of naturally occurring leishmaniasis in non-human primates. Reported cases affecting neotropical and Old World non-human primates as well as their potential role as reservoirs were reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Lima Santos
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ayisa Rodrigues de Oliveira
- Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinárias, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Current Visceral Leishmaniasis Research: A Research Review to Inspire Future Study. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:9872095. [PMID: 30105272 PMCID: PMC6076917 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9872095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Revised: 05/25/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL), one of the deadliest parasitic diseases in the world, causes more than 50,000 human deaths each year and afflicts millions of people throughout South America, East Africa, South Asia, and Mediterranean Region. In 2015 the World Health Organization classified VL as a neglected tropical disease (NTD), prompting concentrated study of the VL epidemic using mathematical and simulation models. This paper reviews literature related to prevalence and prevention control strategies. More than thirty current research works were reviewed and classified based on VL epidemic study methods, including modeling approaches, control strategies, and simulation techniques since 2013. A summarization of these technical methods, major findings, and contributions from existing works revealed that VL epidemic research efforts must improve in the areas of validating and verifying VL mathematical models with real-world epidemic data. In addition, more dynamic disease control strategies must be explored and advanced simulation techniques must be used to predict VL pandemics.
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Pereira Silva Bezerra I, Amaral Abib M, Rossi-Bergmann B. Intranasal but not subcutaneous vaccination with LaAg allows rapid expansion of protective immunity against cutaneous leishmaniasis. Vaccine 2018; 36:2480-2486. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2018.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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15
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Dikhit MR, Kumar A, Das S, Dehury B, Rout AK, Jamal F, Sahoo GC, Topno RK, Pandey K, Das VNR, Bimal S, Das P. Identification of Potential MHC Class-II-Restricted Epitopes Derived from Leishmania donovani Antigens by Reverse Vaccinology and Evaluation of Their CD4+ T-Cell Responsiveness against Visceral Leishmaniasis. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1763. [PMID: 29312304 PMCID: PMC5735068 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2017] [Accepted: 11/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is one of the most neglected tropical diseases for which no vaccine exists. In spite of extensive efforts, no successful vaccine is available against this dreadful infectious disease. To support vaccine development, an immunoinformatics approach was applied to screen potential MHC class-II-restricted epitopes that can activate the immune cells. Initially, 37 epitopes derived from six stage-dependent, overexpressed antigens were predicted, which were presented by at least 26 diverse MHC class-II allele. Based on a population coverage analysis and human leukocyte antigen cross-presentation ability, six of the 37 epitopes were selected for further analysis. Stimulation with synthetic peptide alone or as a cocktail triggered intracellular IFN-γ production. Moreover, specific IgG antibodies were detected in the serum of active VL cases against P1, P4, P5, and P6 in order to evaluate the peptide effect on the humoral immune response. Additionally, most of the peptides, except P2, were found to be non-inducers of CD4+ IL-10 against both active VL as well as treated VL subjects. This finding suggests there is no role of these peptides in the pathogenesis of Leishmania. Peptide immunogenicity was validated in BALB/c mice immunized with a cocktail of synthetic peptide emulsified in complete Freund’s adjuvant/incomplete Freund’s adjuvant. The immunized splenocytes induced strong spleen cell proliferation upon parasite re-stimulation. Furthermore, increased IFN-γ, interleukin-12, IL-17, and IL-22 production augmented with elevated nitric oxide (NO) synthesis is thought to play a crucial role in macrophage activation. In this investigation, we identified six MHC class-II-restricted epitope hotspots of Leishmania antigens that induce CD4+ Th1 and Th17 responses, which could be used to potentiate a human universal T-epitope vaccine against VL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manas Ranjan Dikhit
- BioMedical Informatics Division, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India.,Department of Immunology, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Akhilesh Kumar
- Department of Immunology, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Sushmita Das
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Budheswar Dehury
- Biomedical Informatics Centre, ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Odisha, India
| | - Ajaya Kumar Rout
- Biotechnology Laboratory, ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Kolkata, India
| | - Fauzia Jamal
- Department of Microbiology, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Ganesh Chandra Sahoo
- BioMedical Informatics Division, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Roshan Kamal Topno
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Krishna Pandey
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - V N R Das
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Sanjiva Bimal
- Department of Immunology, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Pradeep Das
- Department of Molecular Parasitology, Rajendra Memorial Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
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Solana JC, Ramírez L, Corvo L, de Oliveira CI, Barral-Netto M, Requena JM, Iborra S, Soto M. Vaccination with a Leishmania infantum HSP70-II null mutant confers long-term protective immunity against Leishmania major infection in two mice models. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005644. [PMID: 28558043 PMCID: PMC5466331 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The immunization with genetically attenuated Leishmania cell lines has been associated to the induction of memory and effector T cell responses against Leishmania able to control subsequent challenges. A Leishmania infantum null mutant for the HSP70-II genes has been described, possessing a non-virulent phenotype. Methodology/Principal findings The L. infantum attenuated parasites (LiΔHSP70-II) were inoculated in BALB/c (intravenously and subcutaneously) and C57BL/6 (subcutaneously) mice. An asymptomatic infection was generated and parasites diminished progressively to become undetectable in most of the analyzed organs. However, inoculation resulted in the long-term induction of parasite specific IFN-γ responses able to control the disease caused by a challenge of L. major infective promastigotes. BALB/c susceptible mice showed very low lesion development and a drastic decrease in parasite burdens in the lymph nodes draining the site of infection and internal organs. C57BL/6 mice did not show clinical manifestation of disease, correlated to the rapid migration of Leishmania specific IFN-γ producing T cells to the site of infection. Conclusion/Significance Inoculation of the LiΔHSP70-II attenuated line activates mammalian immune system for inducing moderate pro-inflammatory responses. These responses are able to confer long-term protection in mice against the infection of L. major virulent parasites. Despite numerous efforts made, a vaccine against leishmaniasis for humans is not available. Attempts based on parasite fractions or selected antigens failed to confer long lasting protection. On the other side, leishmanization, which consists in the inoculation of live virulent parasites in hidden parts of the body, is effective against cutaneous leishmaniasis in humans but objectionable in terms of biosafety. Some efforts have been made to design live vaccines to make leishmanization safer. A promising strategy is the development of genetically attenuated parasites, able to confer immunity without undesirable side effects. Here, we have employed an attenuated L. infantum line (LiΔHSP70-II) as a vaccine against heterologous challenge with L. major in two experimental models. Infection with LiΔHSP70-II parasites does not cause pathology and induces long-term protection based on the induction of IFN-γ producing T cells that are recruited rapidly and specifically to the site of challenge with the virulent parasites. These results support the idea of using attenuated parasites for vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Carlos Solana
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular. Nicolás Cabrera 1, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Ramírez
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular. Nicolás Cabrera 1, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Laura Corvo
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular. Nicolás Cabrera 1, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Manoel Barral-Netto
- Centro de Pesquisas Gonçalo Moniz (Fundação Oswaldo Cruz-FIOCRUZ). Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - José María Requena
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular. Nicolás Cabrera 1, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Salvador Iborra
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular. Nicolás Cabrera 1, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail: (SI); (MS)
| | - Manuel Soto
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CSIC-UAM), Departamento de Biología Molecular. Nicolás Cabrera 1, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail: (SI); (MS)
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Live Attenuated Leishmania donovani Centrin Knock Out Parasites Generate Non-inferior Protective Immune Response in Aged Mice against Visceral Leishmaniasis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004963. [PMID: 27580076 PMCID: PMC5007048 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani causes severe disease. Age appears to be critical in determining the clinical outcome of VL and at present there is no effective vaccine available against VL for any age group. Previously, we showed that genetically modified live attenuated L. donovani parasites (LdCen-/-) induced a strong protective innate and adaptive immune response in young mice. In this study we analyzed LdCen-/- parasite mediated modulation of innate and adaptive immune response in aged mice (18 months) and compared to young (2 months) mice. Methodology Analysis of innate immune response in bone marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDCs) from both young and aged mice upon infection with LdCen-/- parasites, showed significant enhancement of innate effector responses, which consequently augmented CD4+ Th1 cell effector function compared to LdWT infected BMDCs in vitro. Similarly, parasitized splenic dendritic cells from LdCen-/- infected young and aged mice also revealed induction of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-12, IL-6, IFN-γ and TNF) and subsequent down regulation of anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) genes compared to LdWT infected mice. We also evaluated in vivo protection of the LdCen-/- immunized young and aged mice against virulent L. donovani challenge. Immunization with LdCen-/- induced higher IgG2a antibodies, lymphoproliferative response, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine responses and stimulated splenocytes for heightened leishmanicidal activity associated with nitric oxide production in young and aged mice. Furthermore, upon virulent L. donovani challenge, LdCen-/- immunized mice from both age groups displayed multifunctional Th1-type CD4 and cytotoxic CD8 T cells correlating to a significantly reduced parasite burden in the spleen and liver compared to naïve mice. It is interesting to note that even though there was no difference in the LdCen-/- induced innate response in dendritic cells between aged and young mice; the adaptive response specifically in terms of T cell and B cell activation in aged animals was reduced compared to young mice which correlated with less protection in old mice compared to young mice. Conclusions Taken together, LdCen-/- immunization induced a significant but diminished host protective response in aged mice after challenge with virulent L. donovani parasites compared to young mice. Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani. There is no effective vaccine available against VL for any age group and importantly, there are no previous studies regarding immune responses against experimental Leishmania vaccines tested in aged animals. We have reported earlier that immunization with a live attenuated L. donovani parasites (LdCen-/-) induced protective immune response in young animals viz, mice, hamsters and dogs. In this study we analyzed LdCen-/- mediated modulation of innate and adaptive responses in aged mice and compared to young mice. We observed that LdCen-/- infected dendritic cells from young and aged mice resulted in enhanced innate effector functions compared to LdWT parasites both in vitro and in vivo. Further, upon virulent challenge, LdCen-/- immunized young and aged mice displayed protective Th1 immune response which correlated with a significantly reduced parasite burden in the visceral organs compared with naïve challenged mice. Although there was no difference in the LdCen-/- induced dendritic cell response between aged and young mice; adaptive response in aged was reduced, compared to young which correlated with less protection in aged compared to young mice. This study supports the potential use of LdCen-/- as vaccine candidate across all age groups against VL.
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Mears ER, Modabber F, Don R, Johnson GE. A Review: The Current In Vivo Models for the Discovery and Utility of New Anti-leishmanial Drugs Targeting Cutaneous Leishmaniasis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0003889. [PMID: 26334763 PMCID: PMC4559374 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The current in vivo models for the utility and discovery of new potential anti-leishmanial drugs targeting Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) differ vastly in their immunological responses to the disease and clinical presentation of symptoms. Animal models that show similarities to the human form of CL after infection with Leishmania should be more representative as to the effect of the parasite within a human. Thus, these models are used to evaluate the efficacy of new anti-leishmanial compounds before human clinical trials. Current animal models aim to investigate (i) host–parasite interactions, (ii) pathogenesis, (iii) biochemical changes/pathways, (iv) in vivo maintenance of parasites, and (v) clinical evaluation of drug candidates. This review focuses on the trends of infection observed between Leishmania parasites, the predictability of different strains, and the determination of parasite load. These factors were used to investigate the overall effectiveness of the current animal models. The main aim was to assess the efficacy and limitations of the various CL models and their potential for drug discovery and evaluation. In conclusion, we found that the following models are the most suitable for the assessment of anti-leishmanial drugs: L. major–C57BL/6 mice (or–vervet monkey, or–rhesus monkeys), L. tropica–CsS-16 mice, L. amazonensis–CBA mice, L. braziliensis–golden hamster (or–rhesus monkey). We also provide in-depth guidance for which models are not suitable for these investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Rose Mears
- College of Medicine, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- * E-mail:
| | - Farrokh Modabber
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
- Center for Research and Training on Skin Diseases and Leprosy (CRTSDL), Tehran University Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Robert Don
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
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Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease spread by an arthropod vector. It remains a significant health problem with an incidence of 0.2–0.4 million visceral leishmaniasis and 0.7–1.2 million cutaneous leishmaniasis cases each year. There are limitations associated with the current therapeutic regimens for leishmaniasis and the fact that after recovery from infection the host becomes immune to subsequent infection therefore, these factors force the feasibility of a vaccine for leishmaniasis. Publication of the genome sequence of Leishmania has paved a new way to understand the pathogenesis and host immunological status therefore providing a deep insight in the field of vaccine research. This review is an effort to study the antigenic targets in Leishmania to develop an anti-leishmanial vaccine.
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20
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Duthie MS, Reed SG. The Emergence of Defined Subunit Vaccines for the Prevention of Leishmaniasis. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/s40475-014-0024-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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21
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Selvapandiyan A, Dey R, Gannavaram S, Solanki S, Salotra P, Nakhasi HL. Generation of growth arrested Leishmania amastigotes: a tool to develop live attenuated vaccine candidates against visceral leishmaniasis. Vaccine 2014; 32:3895-901. [PMID: 24837513 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2014.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2014] [Revised: 04/19/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is fatal if not treated and is prevalent widely in the tropical and sub-tropical regions of world. VL is caused by the protozoan parasite Leishmania donovani or Leishmania infantum. Although several second generation vaccines have been licensed to protect dogs against VL, there are no effective vaccines against human VL [1]. Since people cured of leishmaniasis develop lifelong protection, development of live attenuated Leishmania parasites as vaccines, which can have controlled infection, may be a close surrogate to leishmanization. This can be achieved by deletion of genes involved in the regulation of growth and/or virulence of the parasite. Such mutant parasites generally do not revert to virulence in animal models even under conditions of induced immune suppression due to complete deletion of the essential gene(s). In the Leishmania life cycle, the intracellular amastigote form is the virulent form and causes disease in the mammalian hosts. We developed centrin gene deleted L. donovani parasites that displayed attenuated growth only in the amastigote stage and were found safe and efficacious against virulent challenge in the experimental animal models. Thus, targeting genes differentially expressed in the amastigote stage would potentially attenuate only the amastigote stage and hence controlled infectivity may be effective in developing immunity. This review lays out the strategies for attenuation of the growth of the amastigote form of Leishmania for use as live vaccine against leishmaniasis, with a focus on visceral leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ranadhir Dey
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sreenivas Gannavaram
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Sumit Solanki
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, New Delhi, India; C.G. Bhakta Institute of Biotechnology, Tarsadi, Gujarat, India
| | - Poonam Salotra
- National Institute of Pathology (ICMR), New Delhi, India
| | - Hira L Nakhasi
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, CBER, FDA, Bethesda, MD, USA
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22
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Saljoughian N, Taheri T, Rafati S. Live vaccination tactics: possible approaches for controlling visceral leishmaniasis. Front Immunol 2014; 5:134. [PMID: 24744757 PMCID: PMC3978289 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2014] [Accepted: 03/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination with durable immunity is the main goal and fundamental to control leishmaniasis. To stimulate the immune response, small numbers of parasites are necessary to be presented in the mammalian host. Similar to natural course of infection, strategy using live vaccine is more attractive when compared to other approaches. Live vaccines present the whole spectrum of antigens to the host immune system in the absence of any adjuvant. Leishmanization was the first effort for live vaccination and currently used in a few countries against cutaneous leishmaniasis, in spite of their obstacle and safety. Then, live attenuated vaccines developed with similar promotion of creating long-term immunity in the host with lower side effect. Different examples of attenuated strains are generated through long-term in vitro culturing, culturing under drug pressure, temperature sensitivity, and chemical mutagenesis, but none is safe enough and their revision to virulent form is possible. Attenuation through genetic manipulation and disruption of virulence factors or essential enzymes for intracellular survival are among other approaches that are intensively under study. Other designs to develop live vaccines for visceral form of leishmaniasis are utilization of live avirulent microorganisms such as Lactococcus lactis, Salmonella enterica, and Leishmania tarentolae called as vectored vaccine. Apparently, these vaccines are intrinsically safer and can harbor the candidate antigens in their genome through different genetic manipulation and create more potential to control Leishmania parasite as an intracellular pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noushin Saljoughian
- Molecular Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahareh Taheri
- Molecular Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sima Rafati
- Molecular Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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23
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Mutiso JM, Macharia JC, Kiio MN, Ichagichu JM, Rikoi H, Gicheru MM. Development of Leishmania vaccines: predicting the future from past and present experience. J Biomed Res 2013; 27:85-102. [PMID: 23554800 PMCID: PMC3602867 DOI: 10.7555/jbr.27.20120064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2012] [Revised: 07/14/2012] [Accepted: 08/12/2012] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a disease that ranges in severity from skin lesions to serious disfigurement and fatal systemic infection. Resistance to infection is associated with a T-helper-1 immune response that activates macrophages to kill the intracellular parasite in a nitric oxide-dependent manner. Conversely, disease progression is generally associated with a T-helper-2 response that activates humoral immunity. Current control is based on chemotherapeutic treatments which are expensive, toxic and associated with high relapse and resistance rates. Vaccination remains the best hope for control of all forms of the disease, and the development of a safe, effective and affordable antileishmanial vaccine is a critical global public-health priority. Extensive evidence from studies in animal models indicates that solid protection can be achieved by immunization with defined subunit vaccines or live-attenuated strains of Leishmania. However, to date, no vaccine is available despite substantial efforts by many laboratories. Major impediments in Leishmania vaccine development include: lack of adequate funding from national and international agencies, problems related to the translation of data from animal models to human disease, and the transition from the laboratory to the field. Furthermore, a thorough understanding of protective immune responses and generation and maintenance of the immunological memory, an important but least-studied aspect of antiparasitic vaccine development, during Leishmania infection is needed. This review focuses on the progress of the search for an effective vaccine against human and canine leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Muli Mutiso
- Department of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Institute of Primate Research, Karen, Nairobi 24481-00502, Kenya;
- Department of Zoological Sciences, Kenyatta University, Nairobi 43844-00100, Kenya.
| | - John Chege Macharia
- Department of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Institute of Primate Research, Karen, Nairobi 24481-00502, Kenya;
| | - Maria Ndunge Kiio
- Department of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Institute of Primate Research, Karen, Nairobi 24481-00502, Kenya;
| | - James Maina Ichagichu
- Department of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Institute of Primate Research, Karen, Nairobi 24481-00502, Kenya;
| | - Hitler Rikoi
- Department of Tropical and Infectious Diseases, Institute of Primate Research, Karen, Nairobi 24481-00502, Kenya;
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Nahrevanian H, Jafary SP, Nemati S, Farahmand M, Omidinia E. Evaluation of anti-leishmanial effects of killed Leishmania vaccine with BCG adjuvant in BALB/c mice infected with Leishmania major MRHO/IR/75/ER. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2013; 60:1-6. [DOI: 10.14411/fp.2013.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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25
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Okwor I, Mou Z, Liu D, Uzonna J. Protective immunity and vaccination against cutaneous leishmaniasis. Front Immunol 2012; 3:128. [PMID: 22661975 PMCID: PMC3361738 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2012.00128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2012] [Accepted: 05/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Although a great deal of knowledge has been gained from studies on the immunobiology of leishmaniasis, there is still no universally acceptable, safe, and effective vaccine against the disease. This strongly suggests that we still do not completely understand the factors that control and/or regulate the development and sustenance of anti-Leishmania immunity, particularly those associated with secondary (memory) immunity. Such an understanding is critically important for designing safe, effective, and universally acceptable vaccine against the disease. Here we review the literature on the correlate of protective anti-Leishmania immunity and vaccination strategies against leishmaniasis with a bias emphasis on experimental cutaneous leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifeoma Okwor
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba Winnipeg, MB, Canada
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26
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Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a disease that ranges in severity from skin lesions to serious disfigurement and fatal systemic infection. WHO has classified the disease as emerging and uncontrolled and estimates that the infection results in two million new cases a year. There are 12 million people currently infected worldwide, and leishmaniasis threatens 350 million people in 88 countries. Vaccination remains the best hope for control of all forms of the disease, and the development of a safe, effective and affordable antileishmanial vaccine is a critical global public-health priority. However, to date, no such vaccine is available despite substantial efforts by many laboratories. Main obstacle in vaccine design is the transition from the laboratory to the field and extrapolation of data from animal models to humans. This review discusses recent findings in the antileishmania vaccine field and current difficulties hampering vaccine implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz Kedzierski
- Inflammation Division, Walter+Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia.
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27
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Vaccine candidates for leishmaniasis: A review. Int Immunopharmacol 2011; 11:1464-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2011.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2010] [Revised: 04/13/2011] [Accepted: 05/09/2011] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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28
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Immunity to visceral leishmaniasis using genetically defined live-attenuated parasites. J Trop Med 2011; 2012:631460. [PMID: 21912560 PMCID: PMC3168768 DOI: 10.1155/2012/631460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2011] [Accepted: 07/01/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a protozoan parasitic disease endemic to the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, with three major clinical forms, self-healing cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), mucocutaneous leishmaniasis (MCL), and visceral leishmaniasis (VL). Drug treatments are expensive and often result in the development of drug resistance. No vaccine is available against leishmaniasis. Subunit Leishmania vaccine immunization in animal models has shown some efficacy but little or none in humans. However, individuals who recover from natural infection are protected from reinfection and develop life-long protection, suggesting that infection may be a prerequisite for immunological memory. Thus, genetically altered live-attenuated parasites with controlled infectivity could achieve such memory. In this paper, we discuss development and characteristics of genetically altered, live-attenuated Leishmania donovani parasites and their possible use as vaccine candidates against VL. In addition, we discuss the challenges and other considerations in the use of live-attenuated parasites.
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29
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Evans KJ, Kedzierski L. Development of Vaccines against Visceral Leishmaniasis. J Trop Med 2011; 2012:892817. [PMID: 21912561 PMCID: PMC3170777 DOI: 10.1155/2012/892817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2011] [Accepted: 05/31/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a neglected disease resulting in a global morbidity of 2,090 thousand Disability-Adjusted Life Years and a mortality rate of approximately 60,000 per year. Among the three clinical forms of leishmaniasis (cutaneous, mucosal, and visceral), visceral leishmaniasis (VL) accounts for the majority of mortality, as if left untreated VL is almost always fatal. Caused by infection with Leishmania donovani or L. infantum, VL represents a serious public health problem in endemic regions and is rapidly emerging as an opportunistic infection in HIV patients. To date, no vaccine exists for VL or any other form of leishmaniasis. In endemic areas, the majority of those infected do not develop clinical symptoms and past infection leads to robust immunity against reinfection. Thus the development of vaccine for Leishmania is a realistic public health goal, and this paper summarizes advances in vaccination strategies against VL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystal J. Evans
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, The University of Melbourne, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Lukasz Kedzierski
- The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, The University of Melbourne, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
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30
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Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a disease that ranges in severity from skin lesions to serious disfigurement and fatal systemic infection. WHO has classified the disease as emerging and uncontrolled and estimates that the infection results in two million new cases a year. There are 12 million people currently infected worldwide, and leishmaniasis threatens 350 million people in 88 countries. Current treatment is based on chemotherapy, which relies on a handful of drugs with serious limitations such as high cost, toxicity, difficult route of administration and lack of efficacy in endemic areas. Vaccination remains the best hope for control of all forms of the disease, and the development of a safe, effective and affordable antileishmanial vaccine is a critical global public-health priority. Extensive evidence from studies in animal models indicates that solid protection can be achieved by immunization with defined subunit vaccines or live-attenuated strains of Leishmania. However, to date, no such vaccine is available despite substantial efforts by many laboratories. The major impediment in vaccine design is the translation of data from animal models to human disease, and the transition from the laboratory to the field. Furthermore, a thorough understanding of protective immune responses and generation and maintenance of the immunological memory, the most important and least-studied aspect of antiparasitic vaccine development, during Leishmania infection is needed. This review focuses on recent findings in antileishmania vaccine field and highlights current difficulties facing vaccine development and implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukasz Kedzierski
- Infection and Immunity Division, Walter+Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Australia
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31
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Mayrink W, Tavares CAP, Deus RBD, Pinheiro MB, Guimarães TMPD, Andrade HMD, Costa CAD, Toledo VDPCPD. Comparative evaluation of phenol and thimerosal as preservatives for a candidate vaccine against American cutaneous leishmaniasis. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2010; 105:86-91. [DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762010000100013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2009] [Accepted: 12/01/2009] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Shanks EJ, Ong HB, Robinson DA, Thompson S, Sienkiewicz N, Fairlamb AH, Frearson JA. Development and validation of a cytochrome c-coupled assay for pteridine reductase 1 and dihydrofolate reductase. Anal Biochem 2010; 396:194-203. [PMID: 19748480 PMCID: PMC2789237 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2009.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2009] [Revised: 09/04/2009] [Accepted: 09/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Activity of the pterin- and folate-salvaging enzymes pteridine reductase 1 (PTR1) and dihydrofolate reductase-thymidylate synthetase (DHFR-TS) is commonly measured as a decrease in absorbance at 340 nm, corresponding to oxidation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH). Although this assay has been adequate to study the biology of these enzymes, it is not amenable to support any degree of routine inhibitor assessment because its restricted linearity is incompatible with enhanced throughput microtiter plate screening. In this article, we report the development and validation of a nonenzymatically coupled screening assay in which the product of the enzymatic reaction reduces cytochrome c, causing an increase in absorbance at 550 nm. We demonstrate this assay to be robust and accurate, and we describe its utility in supporting a structure-based design, small-molecule inhibitor campaign against Trypanosoma brucei PTR1 and DHFR-TS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Julie A. Frearson
- Division of Biological Chemistry and Drug Discovery, College of Life Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 5EH, UK
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Induction of cellular and humoral responses by autoclaved and heat-killed antigen of Leishmania donovani in experimental visceral leishmaniasis. Parasitol Int 2009; 58:359-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2009.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2009] [Revised: 07/14/2009] [Accepted: 07/16/2009] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Mizbani A, Taheri T, Zahedifard F, Taslimi Y, Azizi H, Azadmanesh K, Papadopoulou B, Rafati S. Recombinant Leishmania tarentolae expressing the A2 virulence gene as a novel candidate vaccine against visceral leishmaniasis. Vaccine 2009; 28:53-62. [PMID: 19818721 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2009.09.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2009] [Revised: 09/21/2009] [Accepted: 09/25/2009] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Visceral leishmaniasis is the most severe form of leishmaniasis. To date, there is no effective vaccine against this disease. Many antigens have been examined so far as protein- or DNA-based vaccines, but none of them conferred complete long-term protection. The use of live attenuated vaccines has recently emerged as a promising vaccination strategy. In this study, we stably expressed the Leishmania donovani A2 antigen in Leishmania tarentolae, a non-pathogenic member of the genus Leishmania, and evaluated its protective efficacy as a live vaccine against L. infantum challenge. Our results show that a single intraperitoneal administration of the A2-recombinant L. tarentolae strain protects BALB/c mice against L. infantum challenge and that protective immunity is associated with high levels of IFN-gamma production prior and after challenge. This is accompanied by reduced levels of IL-5 production after challenge, leading to a potent Th1 immune response. In contrast, intravenous injection elicited a Th2 type response, characterized by higher levels of IL-5 and high humoral immune response, resulting in a less efficient protection. All together, these results indicate the promise of A2-expressing L. tarentolae as a safe live vaccine against visceral leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Mizbani
- Molecular Immunology and Vaccine Research Laboratory, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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35
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Selvapandiyan A, Dey R, Nylen S, Duncan R, Sacks D, Nakhasi HL. Intracellular replication-deficient Leishmania donovani induces long lasting protective immunity against visceral leishmaniasis. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2009; 183:1813-20. [PMID: 19592661 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.0900276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
No vaccine is currently available for visceral leishmaniasis (VL) caused by Leishmania donovani. This study addresses whether a live attenuated centrin gene-deleted L. donovani (LdCen1(-/-)) parasite can persist and be both safe and protective in animals. LdCen1(-/-) has a defect in amastigote replication both in vitro and ex vivo in human macrophages. Safety was shown by the lack of parasites in spleen and liver in susceptible BALB/c mice, immune compromised SCID mice, and human VL model hamsters 10 wk after infection. Mice immunized with LdCen1(-/-) showed early clearance of virulent parasite challenge not seen in mice immunized with heat killed parasites. Upon virulent challenge, the immunized mice displayed in the CD4(+) T cell population a significant increase of single and multiple cytokine (IFN-gamma, IL-2, and TNF) producing cells and IFN-gamma/IL10 ratio. Immunized mice also showed increased IgG2a immunoglobulins and NO production in macrophages. These features indicated a protective Th1-type immune response. The Th1 response correlated with a significantly reduced parasite burden in the spleen and no parasites in the liver compared with naive mice 10 wk post challenge. Protection was observed, when challenged even after 16 wk post immunization, signifying a sustained immunity. Protection by immunization with attenuated parasites was also seen in hamsters. Immunization with LdCen1(-/-) also cross-protected mice against infection with L. braziliensis that causes mucocutaneous leishmaniasis. Results indicate that LdCen1(-/-) can be a safe and effective vaccine candidate against VL as well as mucocutaneous leishmaniasis causing parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angamuthu Selvapandiyan
- Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, Food and Drug Administration, Bethesda, Maryland 20892, USA
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Grimaldi G. The utility of rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) and other non-human primate models for preclinical testing of Leishmania candidate vaccines. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2009; 103:629-44. [PMID: 19057811 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02762008000700002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2008] [Accepted: 10/22/2008] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis causes significant morbidity and mortality, constituting an important global health problem for which there are few effective drugs. Given the urgent need to identify a safe and effective Leishmania vaccine to help prevent the two million new cases of human leishmaniasis worldwide each year, all reasonable efforts to achieve this goal should be made. This includes the use of animal models that are as close to leishmanial infection in humans as is practical and feasible. Old world monkey species (macaques, baboons, mandrills etc.) have the closest evolutionary relatedness to humans among the approachable animal models. The Asian rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) are quite susceptible to leishmanial infection, develop a human-like disease, exhibit antibodies to Leishmania and parasite-specific T-cell mediated immune responses both in vivo and in vitro, and can be protected effectively by vaccination. Results from macaque vaccine studies could also prove useful in guiding the design of human vaccine trials. This review summarizes our current knowledge on this topic and proposes potential approaches that may result in the more effective use of the macaque model to maximize its potential to help the development of an effective vaccine for human leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Grimaldi
- Laboratório de Pesquisas em Leishmaniose, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brasil.
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Conner K, Wuu A, Maldonado V, Bartlett BL, Tyring SK. Vaccines under study: non-HIV vaccines. Dermatol Ther 2009; 22:168-85. [PMID: 19335728 DOI: 10.1111/j.1529-8019.2009.01229.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The development of effective vaccines has been an amazing public health achievement and has resulted in countless lives being saved. Dermatologic therapy has recently been greatly advanced by the licensure of an effective human papillomavirus vaccine and herpes zoster vaccine. Despite these successes, many infectious diseases do not currently have a preventive vaccine. We review potential vaccines against selected infectious agents, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa that have cutaneous and mucocutaneous manifestations. The road to licensure of a new vaccine begins with exhaustive preclinical and clinical studies, and many of these will fail before a successful vaccine candidate is approved. This article focuses on vaccines that have yet to be approved for licensure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Conner
- The University of Texas Medical School, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Launois P, Tacchini-Cottier F, Kieny MP. Cutaneous leishmaniasis: progress towards a vaccine. Expert Rev Vaccines 2008; 7:1277-87. [PMID: 18844599 DOI: 10.1586/14760584.7.8.1277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Leishmaniases are vector-borne diseases due to the protozoan parasite Leishmania . Since no prevention method is available and as current therapy is costly, often poorly tolerated and not always efficacious, the development of alternative therapies, including vaccines, constitutes the priority in the fight of Leishmania infection. This review focuses on recent advances in the development of vaccines against leishmaniasis, with emphasis on the cutaneous form. Indeed, the fact that recovery from leishmaniasis is associated with immunity against new infection provides a rational basis for the development of vaccination strategy against infection with Leishmania . Evidence from animal studies demonstrate that protection can be achieved following infection with live-attenuated Leishmania as well as through immunization with purified proteins or DNA vaccines. In addition, recent results have shown that immunization against the saliva of the insect vector could have synergistic effects with conventional vaccination. Finally, vaccination using dendritic cells was recently demonstrated as a possible tool for Leishmania vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Launois
- WHO-Immunology Research and Training Center, Department of Biochemistry, University of Lausanne, Chemin des Boveresses, 155, CH-1066 Epalinges, Switzerland.
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Visceral leishmaniasis: what are the needs for diagnosis, treatment and control? Nat Rev Microbiol 2007; 5:873-82. [PMID: 17938629 DOI: 10.1038/nrmicro1748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 999] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Abstract
Leishmaniaare protozoan parasites spread by a sandfly insect vector and causing a spectrum of diseases collectively known as leishmaniasis. The disease is a significant health problem in many parts of the world resulting in an estimated 12 million new cases each year. Current treatment is based on chemotherapy, which is difficult to administer, expensive and becoming ineffective due to the emergence of drug resistance. Leishmaniasis is considered one of a few parasitic diseases likely to be controllable by vaccination. The relatively uncomplicated leishmanial life cycle and the fact that recovery from infection renders the host resistant to subsequent infection indicate that a successful vaccine is feasible. Extensive evidence from studies in animal models indicates that solid protection can be achieved by immunisation with protein or DNA vaccines. However, to date no such vaccine is available despite substantial efforts by many laboratories. Advances in our understanding ofLeishmaniapathogenesis and generation of host protective immunity, together with the completedLeishmaniagenome sequence open new avenues for vaccine research. The major remaining challenges are the translation of data from animal models to human disease and the transition from the laboratory to the field. This review focuses on advances in anti-leishmania vaccine development over the recent years and examines current problems hampering vaccine development and implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Kedzierski
- Infection and Immunity Division, The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville 3050, Melbourne, Australia.
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Uzonna JE, Späth GF, Beverley SM, Scott P. Vaccination with phosphoglycan-deficient Leishmania major protects highly susceptible mice from virulent challenge without inducing a strong Th1 response. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2004; 172:3793-7. [PMID: 15004184 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.172.6.3793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Long-term immunity to Leishmania may require the continued presence of parasites, but previous attempts to create attenuated parasites that persist without causing disease have had limited success. Since Leishmania major mutants that lack lipophosphoglycan and other secreted phosphoglycans, termed lpg2-, persist indefinitely in infected mice without inducing any disease, we tested their ability to provide protection to virulent L. major challenge. In response to leishmanial Ag stimulation, cells from lpg2--infected mice produced minimal levels of IL-4 and IL-10, as well as very low levels of IFN-gamma. Nevertheless, when BALB/c mice infected with lpg2- parasites were challenged with virulent L. major they were protected from disease. Thus, these findings report on attenuated parasites that may be used to induce long-term protection against leishmaniasis and indicate that the immunity induced can be maintained in the absence of a strong Th1 response.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Female
- Genetic Predisposition to Disease
- Glycosphingolipids/deficiency
- Glycosphingolipids/genetics
- Immunity, Innate/genetics
- Interleukin-10/antagonists & inhibitors
- Interleukin-10/biosynthesis
- Interleukin-4/antagonists & inhibitors
- Interleukin-4/biosynthesis
- Leishmania major/genetics
- Leishmania major/immunology
- Leishmania major/pathogenicity
- Leishmaniasis, Cutaneous/genetics
- Leishmaniasis, Cutaneous/immunology
- Leishmaniasis, Cutaneous/prevention & control
- Membrane Proteins/deficiency
- Membrane Proteins/genetics
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Knockout
- Mice, SCID
- Protozoan Proteins/genetics
- Protozoan Vaccines/administration & dosage
- Protozoan Vaccines/genetics
- Protozoan Vaccines/immunology
- Th1 Cells/immunology
- Th1 Cells/metabolism
- Th1 Cells/parasitology
- Vaccines, Attenuated/administration & dosage
- Vaccines, Attenuated/genetics
- Vaccines, Attenuated/immunology
- Virulence/genetics
- Virulence/immunology
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude E Uzonna
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Sreenivas G, Singh R, Selvapandiyan A, Negi NS, Nakhasi HL, Salotra P. Arbitrary-primed PCR for genomic fingerprinting and identification of differentially regulated genes in Indian isolates of Leishmania donovani. Exp Parasitol 2004; 106:110-8. [PMID: 15172218 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2004.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2003] [Revised: 01/30/2004] [Accepted: 03/30/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The arbitrary-primed PCR (AP-PCR) technique was employed with the twin goals of identifying genetic polymorphisms within the Indian isolates and to identify differentially expressed gene sequences. The parasite isolates from Indian Kala-azar patients could be differentiated from Leishmania donovani isolates from distinct geographic regions. Moreover, differences within the Indian isolates could also be identified. A majority (17/19) of the Indian isolates gave identical AP-PCR pattern, while two isolates gave consistently divergent pattern. The distinctive AP-PCR fragments obtained with Indian isolates were used as probes in Northern blot analysis. Three such fragments were found to represent transcribed sequences that were differentially expressed in the two stages of the parasite. These sequences led to cloning and characterization of Leishmania Centrin gene and a novel gene termed A-1 that is over-expressed in amastigote stage of the parasite. The study demonstrates the utility of random genome sampling methods in genomic fingerprinting and in identifying differentially transcribed sequences that could potentially contribute to parasite virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Sreenivas
- Institute of Pathology, Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi 110029, India
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