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Sri-in C, Thongmeesee K, Wechtaisong W, Yurayart N, Rittisornthanoo G, Akarapas C, Bunphungbaramee N, Sipraya N, Riana E, Bui TTH, Kamkong P, Maikaew U, Kongmakee P, Saedan A, Bartholomay LC, Tiawsirisup S. Tick diversity and molecular detection of Anaplasma, Babesia, and Theileria from Khao Kheow open zoo, Chonburi Province, Thailand. Front Vet Sci 2024; 11:1430892. [PMID: 39015109 PMCID: PMC11250040 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2024.1430892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Ticks are obligate blood-feeding ectoparasites notorious for their role as vectors for various pathogens, posing health risks to pets, livestock, wildlife, and humans. Wildlife also notably serves as reservoir hosts for tick-borne pathogens and plays a pivotal role in the maintenance and dissemination of these pathogenic agents within ecosystems. This study investigated the diversity of ticks and pathogens in wildlife and their habitat by examining ticks collected at Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Chonburi Province, Thailand. Tick samples were collected for 1 year from March 2021 to March 2022 by vegetation dragging and direct sampling from wildlife. A total of 10,436 ticks or 449 tick pools (1-50 ticks per pool) underwent screening for pathogen presence through conventional PCR and DNA sequencing. Out of the 298 samples (66.37%) where bacteria and protozoa were detected, encompassing 8,144 ticks at all stages, 114 positive samples from the PCR screenings were specifically chosen for detailed nucleotide sequencing and comprehensive analysis. Four species of ticks were conclusively identified through the application of PCR, namely, Rhipicephalus microplus, Dermacentor auratus, Haemaphysalis lagrangei, and Haemaphysalis wellingtoni. The highest infection rate recorded was for Anaplasma spp. at 55.23% (248/449), followed by Babesia spp. and Theileria spp. at 29.62% (133/449) and 16.26% (73/449), respectively. Among bacteria identified, three Anaplasma genotypes were closely related to an unidentified Anaplasma spp., A. phagocytophilum, and A. bovis. Among protozoa, only an unidentified Babesia spp. was found, whereas two Theileria genotypes found were closely related to unidentified Theileria spp. and T. equi. Significantly, our findings revealed coinfection with Anaplasma spp., Theileria spp., and Babesia spp. While blood samples from wildlife were not specifically collected to assess infection in this study, the data on the presence of various pathogens in ticks observed can serve as valuable indicators to assess the health status of wildlife populations and to monitor disease dynamics. The findings could be valuable in developing programs for the treatment, prevention, and control of tick-borne illnesses in this area. However, additional research is required to determine the ticks' ability to transmit these pathogens and enhance the current understanding of the relationship among pathogens, ticks, and hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chalida Sri-in
- Center of Excellence in Animal Vector-Borne Diseases, Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kritsada Thongmeesee
- Center of Excellence in Animal Vector-Borne Diseases, Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Veterinary Pathobiology Graduate Program, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wittawat Wechtaisong
- Center of Excellence in Animal Vector-Borne Diseases, Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nichapat Yurayart
- Center of Excellence in Animal Vector-Borne Diseases, Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ganyawee Rittisornthanoo
- 6 Year Veterinary Student, Academic Year 2022, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chatlada Akarapas
- 6 Year Veterinary Student, Academic Year 2022, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Natcha Bunphungbaramee
- 6 Year Veterinary Student, Academic Year 2022, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Natthanicha Sipraya
- 6 Year Veterinary Student, Academic Year 2022, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Elizabeth Riana
- Center of Excellence in Animal Vector-Borne Diseases, Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thuong Thi Huyen Bui
- Center of Excellence in Animal Vector-Borne Diseases, Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
- International Graduate Program of Veterinary Science and Technology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Patchana Kamkong
- Parasitology Unit, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Umaporn Maikaew
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo, Zoological Park Organization, Bangpra, Sriracha, Chonburi, Thailand
| | - Piyaporn Kongmakee
- Animal Conservation and Research Institute, The Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Arpussara Saedan
- Animal Conservation and Research Institute, The Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Lyric C. Bartholomay
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, United States
| | - Sonthaya Tiawsirisup
- Center of Excellence in Animal Vector-Borne Diseases, Veterinary Parasitology Unit, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Laanet PR, Bragina O, Jõul P, Vaher M. Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata Exhibit Antioxidant and Borrelia burgdorferi Inhibiting Activities. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7112. [PMID: 39000214 PMCID: PMC11240987 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25137112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2024] [Revised: 06/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato infection, is the most widespread vector-borne illness in the Northern Hemisphere. Unfortunately, using targeted antibiotic therapy is often an ineffective cure. The antibiotic resistance and recurring symptoms of Lyme disease are associated with the formation of biofilm-like aggregates of B. burgdorferi. Plant extracts could provide an effective alternative solution as many of them exhibit antibacterial or biofilm inhibiting activities. This study demonstrates the therapeutic potential of Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata as B. burgdorferi inhibitors. Hydroalcoholic extracts from three different samples of each plant were first characterised based on their total concentrations of polyphenolics, flavonoids, iridoids, and antioxidant capacity. Both plants contained substantial amounts of named phytochemicals and showed considerable antioxidant properties. The major non-volatile constituents were then quantified using HPLC-DAD-MS analyses, and volatile constituents were quantified using HS-SPME-GC-MS. The most prevalent non-volatiles were found to be plantamajoside and acteoside, and the most prevalent volatiles were β-caryophyllene, D-limonene, and α-caryophyllene. The B. burgdorferi inhibiting activity of the extracts was tested on stationary-phase B. burgdorferi culture and its biofilm fraction. All extracts showed antibacterial activity, with the most effective lowering the residual bacterial viability down to 15%. Moreover, the extracts prepared from the leaves of each plant additionally demonstrated biofilm inhibiting properties, reducing its formation by 30%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pille-Riin Laanet
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Akadeemia tee 15, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Olga Bragina
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Akadeemia tee 15, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Piia Jõul
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Akadeemia tee 15, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Merike Vaher
- Department of Chemistry and Biotechnology, Tallinn University of Technology, Akadeemia tee 15, 12618 Tallinn, Estonia
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3
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Szaroz D, Kulkarni M, Robayo González CX, Zinszer K. Study protocol for a scoping review of Lyme disease prediction methodologies. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e071402. [PMID: 38772589 PMCID: PMC11110606 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-071402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In the temperate world, Lyme disease (LD) is the most common vector-borne disease affecting humans. In North America, LD surveillance and research have revealed an increasing territorial expansion of hosts, bacteria and vectors that has accompanied an increasing incidence of the disease in humans. To better understand the factors driving disease spread, predictive models can use current and historical data to predict disease occurrence in populations across time and space. Various prediction methods have been used, including approaches to evaluate prediction accuracy and/or performance and a range of predictors in LD risk prediction research. With this scoping review, we aim to document the different modelling approaches including types of forecasting and/or prediction methods, predictors and approaches to evaluating model performance (eg, accuracy). METHODS AND ANALYSIS This scoping review will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Review guidelines. Electronic databases will be searched via keywords and subject headings (eg, Medical Subject Heading terms). The search will be performed in the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, CAB Abstracts, Global Health and SCOPUS. Studies reported in English or French investigating the risk of LD in humans through spatial prediction and temporal forecasting methodologies will be identified and screened. Eligibility criteria will be applied to the list of articles to identify which to retain. Two reviewers will screen titles and abstracts, followed by a full-text screening of the articles' content. Data will be extracted and charted into a standard form, synthesised and interpreted. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This scoping review is based on published literature and does not require ethics approval. Findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific conferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Szaroz
- École de santé publique, Département de médecine sociale et préventive, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique (CReSP), Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Manisha Kulkarni
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Claudia Ximena Robayo González
- École de santé publique, Département de médecine sociale et préventive, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique (CReSP), Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Kate Zinszer
- École de santé publique, Département de médecine sociale et préventive, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de Recherche en Santé Publique (CReSP), Montréal, Québec, Canada
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Rudolph MJ, Chen Y, Vorauer C, Vance DJ, Piazza CL, Willsey GG, McCarthy K, Muriuki B, Cavacini LA, Guttman M, Mantis NJ. Structure of a human monoclonal antibody in complex with Outer surface protein C (OspC) of the Lyme disease spirochete, Borreliella burgdorferi. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.29.591597. [PMID: 38746285 PMCID: PMC11092446 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.29.591597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Lyme disease is a tick-borne, multisystem infection caused by the spirochete, Borreliella burgdorferi . Although antibodies have been implicated in the resolution of Lyme disease, the specific B cell epitopes targeted during human infections remain largely unknown. In this study, we characterized and defined the structural epitope of a patient-derived bactericidal monoclonal IgG ("B11") against Outer surface protein C (OspC), a homodimeric lipoprotein necessary for B. burgdorferi tick-mediated transmission and early-stage colonization of vertebrate hosts. High-resolution epitope mapping was accomplished through hydrogen deuterium exchange-mass spectrometry (HDX-MS) and X-ray crystallography. Structural analysis of B11 Fab-OspC A complexes revealed the B11 Fabs associated in a 1:1 stoichiometry with the lateral faces of OspC A homodimers such that the antibodies are essentially positioned perpendicular to the spirochete's outer surface. B11's primary contacts reside within the membrane proximal regions of α-helices 1 and 6 and adjacent loops 5 and 6 in one OspC A monomer. In addition, B11 spans the OspC A dimer interface, engaging opposing α-helix 1', α-helix 2', and loop 2-3' in the second OspC A monomer. The B11-OspC A structure is reminiscent of the recently solved mouse transmission blocking monoclonal IgG B5 in complex with OspC A , indicating a mode of engagement with OspC that is conserved across species. In conclusion, we provide the first detailed insight into the interaction between a functional human antibody and an immunodominant Lyme disease antigen long considered an important vaccine target.
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Wu M, Mirkin S, McPhail MN, Wajeeh H, Nagy S, Florent-Carre M, Blavo C, Demory Beckler M, Amini K, Kesselman MM. A Comprehensive Review of Lyme Disease: A Focus on Cardiovascular Manifestations. Cureus 2024; 16:e60821. [PMID: 38910626 PMCID: PMC11190629 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.60821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness known for its ability to cause multi-systemic manifestations. It can affect several different systems, including neurological, musculoskeletal, and dermatological systems. However, one of the most concerning biological systems affected is the cardiac system. Lyme carditis typically presents with varying degrees of atrioventricular (AV) block. Additionally, current literature also endorses atypical manifestations, including but not limited to atrial fibrillation and bundle branch blocks. These atypical manifestations are important as they can be the first presenting symptoms in patients with Lyme disease. Therefore, educating clinicians on various signs, symptoms, and manifestations of Lyme carditis remains paramount in reducing morbidity and mortality. We conducted a literature review using PubMed, MEDLINE, and CINAHL, collecting a total of 13 articles to gather information on atypical manifestations of Lyme carditis. This literature review serves to summarize the current research and studies describing these cardiac manifestations and the cardiac pathophysiology associated with Lyme disease. These findings aim to contribute to the expanding understanding of Lyme carditis, subsequently preventing long-term effects through prompt diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Wu
- Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, USA
| | - Sophia Mirkin
- Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, USA
| | - Marissa N McPhail
- Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, USA
| | - Hassaan Wajeeh
- Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, USA
| | - Stephanie Nagy
- Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Plantation, USA
| | - Marie Florent-Carre
- Public Health, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, USA
| | - Cyril Blavo
- Public Health, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Clearwater, USA
| | - Michelle Demory Beckler
- Microbiology and Immunology, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Allopathic Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, USA
| | - Kayvan Amini
- Cardiology, Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Lauderdale, USA
| | - Marc M Kesselman
- Rheumatology, Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, USA
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Basharat Z, Sattar S, Bahauddin AA, Al Mouslem AK, Alotaibi G. Screening Marine Microbial Metabolites as Promising Inhibitors of Borrelia garinii: A Structural Docking Approach towards Developing Novel Lyme Disease Treatment. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 2024:9997082. [PMID: 38456098 PMCID: PMC10919988 DOI: 10.1155/2024/9997082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Lyme disease caused by the Borrelia species is a growing health concern in many parts of the world. Current treatments for the disease may have side effects, and there is also a need for new therapies that can selectively target the bacteria. Pathogens responsible for Lyme disease include B. burgdorferi, B. afzelii, and B. garinii. In this study, we employed structural docking-based screening to identify potential lead-like inhibitors against the bacterium. We first identified the core essential genome fraction of the bacterium, using 37 strains. Later, we screened a library of lead-like marine microbial metabolites (n = 4730) against the arginine deiminase (ADI) protein of Borrelia garinii. This protein plays a crucial role in the survival of the bacteria, and inhibiting it can kill the bacterium. The prioritized lead compounds demonstrating favorable binding energies and interactions with the active site of ADI were then evaluated for their drug-like and pharmacokinetic parameters to assess their suitability for development as drugs. Results from molecular dynamics simulation (100 ns) and other scoring parameters suggest that the compound CMNPD18759 (common name: aureobasidin; IUPAC name: 2-[(4R,6R)-4,6-dihydroxydecanoyl]oxypropan-2-yl (3S,5R)-3,5-dihydroxydecanoate) holds promise as a potential drug candidate for the treatment of Lyme disease, caused by B. garinii. However, further experimental studies are needed to validate the efficacy and safety of this compound in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sadia Sattar
- Molecular Virology Labs, Department of Biosciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad Campus, Islamabad 45550, Pakistan
| | | | - Abdulaziz K. Al Mouslem
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Clinical Pharmacy, King Faisal University, Al Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghallab Alotaibi
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Al-Dawadmi Campus, Shaqra University, Shaqra, Saudi Arabia
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Ameer MA, Patlolla SR, Patel N, Mehta R, Babar M. Lyme-Associated Pericarditis: A Case Report and Literature Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e54096. [PMID: 38487108 PMCID: PMC10937846 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.54096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Lyme disease is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi (B. burgdorferi), which is a spirochete transmitted by ticks of the genus Ixodes. Complications related to the cardiovascular system usually occur in the early phase of infection, and the most common cardiovascular complication of Lyme disease is atrioventricular block, especially third-degree heart block. We report a case of a young Caucasian male patient who presented to the emergency department (ED) with complaints of chest pain and shortness of breath. Initial investigations, including chest X-ray, were negative. An EKG revealed ST elevation and PR depression with troponin elevation. The echocardiogram showed a normal ejection fraction with no pericardial effusion. Skin examination was positive for erythema migrans concerning Lyme. Initial Lyme testing was negative in the patient and it should be repeated after four to six weeks, according to the guidelines. This case report highlights the importance of keeping the differentials broad in these patients even if the initial testing is negative, especially since misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis can cause cardiac complications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nimi Patel
- Internal Medicine, Suburban Community Hospital, East Norriton, USA
| | - Rahul Mehta
- Neurological Surgery, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Maham Babar
- Department of Medicine, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, PAK
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8
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Buchanan WW, Kean CA, Rainsford KD, Kean WF. Spondyloarthropathies and arthritis post-infection: a historical perspective. Inflammopharmacology 2024; 32:73-81. [PMID: 37676415 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-023-01331-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
The spondyloarthropathies are a group of conditions characterised by spinal joint pain and have related clinical, epidemiological and genetic-related features. Ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, the spinal form of psoriatic arthritis and Crohn's and colitis enteropathic arthritis are the major clinical entities of the spondyloarthropathies, and principally occur in HLA-B27 positive individuals. Ankylosing spondylitis is much more common in males than females. Patients are usually seronegative for rheumatoid factor, and extra-articular features including iridocyclitis, mucous membrane and skin lesions: aortitis, may occur in some patients. The reactive arthritis form classically occurs following an infection of the gastrointestinal or genitourinary tract. The Crohn's and colitis enteropathic arthritis forms often have an associated large joint asymmetrical arthritis. Also discussed are acute rheumatic fever and Lyme disease which are conditions where the individual develops arthritis after an infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Watson Buchanan
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8P 1H6, Canada
| | - Colin A Kean
- Haldimand War Memorial Hospital, 400 Broad Street, Dunnville, ON, N1A 2P7, Canada
| | | | - Walter F Kean
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, L8P 1H6, Canada.
- Haldimand War Memorial Hospital, 400 Broad Street, Dunnville, ON, N1A 2P7, Canada.
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9
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Levine ZC, Sene A, Mkandawire W, Deme AB, Ndiaye T, Sy M, Gaye A, Diedhiou Y, Mbaye AM, Ndiaye IM, Gomis J, Ndiop M, Sene D, Faye Paye M, MacInnis BL, Schaffner SF, Park DJ, Badiane AS, Colubri A, Ndiaye M, Sy N, Sabeti PC, Ndiaye D, Siddle KJ. Investigating the etiologies of non-malarial febrile illness in Senegal using metagenomic sequencing. Nat Commun 2024; 15:747. [PMID: 38272885 PMCID: PMC10810818 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-44800-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The worldwide decline in malaria incidence is revealing the extensive burden of non-malarial febrile illness (NMFI), which remains poorly understood and difficult to diagnose. To characterize NMFI in Senegal, we collected venous blood and clinical metadata in a cross-sectional study of febrile patients and healthy controls in a low malaria burden area. Using 16S and untargeted sequencing, we detected viral, bacterial, or eukaryotic pathogens in 23% (38/163) of NMFI cases. Bacteria were the most common, with relapsing fever Borrelia and spotted fever Rickettsia found in 15.5% and 3.8% of cases, respectively. Four viral pathogens were found in a total of 7 febrile cases (3.5%). Sequencing also detected undiagnosed Plasmodium, including one putative P. ovale infection. We developed a logistic regression model that can distinguish Borrelia from NMFIs with similar presentation based on symptoms and vital signs (F1 score: 0.823). These results highlight the challenge and importance of improved diagnostics, especially for Borrelia, to support diagnosis and surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoë C Levine
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard Graduate Program in Biological and Biomedical Science, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard/MIT MD-PhD Program, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Aita Sene
- Department of Parasitology, Cheikh Anta Diop University Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Winnie Mkandawire
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Awa B Deme
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Tolla Ndiaye
- Department of Parasitology, Cheikh Anta Diop University Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Mouhamad Sy
- Department of Parasitology, Cheikh Anta Diop University Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Amy Gaye
- Department of Parasitology, Cheikh Anta Diop University Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Younouss Diedhiou
- Department of Parasitology, Cheikh Anta Diop University Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Amadou M Mbaye
- Department of Parasitology, Cheikh Anta Diop University Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Ibrahima M Ndiaye
- Department of Parasitology, Cheikh Anta Diop University Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Jules Gomis
- Department of Parasitology, Cheikh Anta Diop University Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Médoune Ndiop
- Programme National de lutte contre le Paludisme, Ministère de la Santé, Dakar Fann, Senegal
| | - Doudou Sene
- Programme National de lutte contre le Paludisme, Ministère de la Santé, Dakar Fann, Senegal
| | | | - Bronwyn L MacInnis
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Stephen F Schaffner
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Daniel J Park
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Aida S Badiane
- Department of Parasitology, Cheikh Anta Diop University Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Andres Colubri
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Mouhamadou Ndiaye
- Department of Parasitology, Cheikh Anta Diop University Dakar, Dakar, Senegal
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Ngayo Sy
- Service de Lutte Anti Parasitaire, Thies, Senegal
| | - Pardis C Sabeti
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA.
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
| | - Daouda Ndiaye
- Department of Parasitology, Cheikh Anta Diop University Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
- Centre International de Recherche et de Formation en Génomique Appliquée et de la Surveillance Sanitaire, Dakar, Senegal.
| | - Katherine J Siddle
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
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10
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Faith DR, Kinnersley M, Brooks DM, Drecktrah D, Hall LS, Luo E, Santiago-Frangos A, Wachter J, Samuels DS, Secor PR. Characterization and genomic analysis of the Lyme disease spirochete bacteriophage ϕBB-1. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.08.574763. [PMID: 38260690 PMCID: PMC10802411 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.08.574763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Lyme disease is a tick-borne infection caused by the spirochete Borrelia (Borreliella) burgdorferi. Borrelia species have highly fragmented genomes composed of a linear chromosome and a constellation of linear and circular plasmids some of which are required throughout the enzootic cycle. Included in this plasmid repertoire by almost all Lyme disease spirochetes are the 32-kb circular plasmid cp32 prophages that are capable of lytic replication to produce infectious virions called ϕBB-1. While the B. burgdorferi genome contains evidence of horizontal transfer, the mechanisms of gene transfer between strains remain unclear. While we know that ϕBB-1 transduces cp32 and shuttle vector DNA during in vitro cultivation, the extent of ϕBB-1 DNA transfer is not clear. Herein, we use proteomics and long-read sequencing to further characterize ϕBB-1 virions. Our studies identified the cp32 pac region and revealed that ϕBB-1 packages linear cp32s via a headful mechanism with preferentially packaging of plasmids containing the cp32 pac region. Additionally, we find ϕBB-1 packages fragments of the linear chromosome and full-length plasmids including lp54, cp26, and others. Furthermore, sequencing of ϕBB-1 packaged DNA allowed us to resolve the covalently closed hairpin telomeres for the linear B. burgdorferi chromosome and most linear plasmids in strain CA-11.2A. Collectively, our results shed light on the biology of the ubiquitous ϕBB-1 phage and further implicates ϕBB-1 in the generalized transduction of diverse genes and the maintenance of genetic diversity in Lyme disease spirochetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominick R. Faith
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Margie Kinnersley
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Diane M. Brooks
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Dan Drecktrah
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Laura S. Hall
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Eric Luo
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | | | - Jenny Wachter
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - D. Scott Samuels
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
| | - Patrick R. Secor
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA
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11
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Kumaresan V, Ingle TM, Kilgore N, Zhang G, Hermann BP, Seshu J. Cellular and transcriptome signatures unveiled by single-cell RNA-Seq following ex vivo infection of murine splenocytes with Borrelia burgdorferi. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1296580. [PMID: 38149246 PMCID: PMC10749944 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1296580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Lyme disease, the most common tick-borne infectious disease in the US, is caused by a spirochetal pathogen Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb). Distinct host responses are observed in susceptible and resistant strains of inbred of mice following infection with Bb reflecting a subset of inflammatory responses observed in human Lyme disease. The advent of post-genomic methodologies and genomic data sets enables dissecting the host responses to advance therapeutic options for limiting the pathogen transmission and/or treatment of Lyme disease. Methods In this study, we used single-cell RNA-Seq analysis in conjunction with mouse genomics exploiting GFP-expressing Bb to sort GFP+ splenocytes and GFP- bystander cells to uncover novel molecular and cellular signatures that contribute to early stages of immune responses against Bb. Results These data decoded the heterogeneity of splenic neutrophils, macrophages, NK cells, B cells, and T cells in C3H/HeN mice in response to Bb infection. Increased mRNA abundance of apoptosis-related genes was observed in neutrophils and macrophages clustered from GFP+ splenocytes. Moreover, complement-mediated phagocytosis-related genes such as C1q and Ficolin were elevated in an inflammatory macrophage subset, suggesting upregulation of these genes during the interaction of macrophages with Bb-infected neutrophils. In addition, the role of DUSP1 in regulating the expression of Casp3 and pro-inflammatory cytokines Cxcl1, Cxcl2, Il1b, and Ccl5 in Bb-infected neutrophils were identified. Discussion These findings serve as a growing catalog of cell phenotypes/biomarkers among murine splenocytes that can be exploited for limiting spirochetal burden to limit the transmission of the agent of Lyme disease to humans via reservoir hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatesh Kumaresan
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Taylor MacMackin Ingle
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Nathan Kilgore
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Guoquan Zhang
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Brian P. Hermann
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
| | - Janakiram Seshu
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
- South Texas Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, United States
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12
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Alanazi F, Raghunandanan S, Priya R, Yang XF. The Rrp2-RpoN-RpoS pathway plays an important role in the blood-brain barrier transmigration of the Lyme disease pathogen. Infect Immun 2023; 91:e0022723. [PMID: 37874144 PMCID: PMC10652863 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00227-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Lyme disease, caused by Borrelia (or Borreliella) burgdorferi, is a complex multisystemic disorder that includes Lyme neuroborreliosis resulting from the invasion of both the central and peripheral nervous systems. However, factors that enable the pathogen to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and invade the central nervous system (CNS) are still not well understood. The objective of this study was to identify the B. burgdorferi factors required for BBB transmigration. We utilized a transwell BBB model based on human brain-microvascular endothelial cells and focused on investigating the Rrp2-RpoN-RpoS pathway, a central regulatory pathway that is essential for mammalian infection by B. burgdorferi. Our results demonstrated that the Rrp2-RpoN-RpoS pathway is crucial for BBB transmigration. Furthermore, we identified OspC, a major surface lipoprotein controlled by the Rrp2-RpoN-RpoS pathway, as a significant contributor to BBB transmigration. Constitutive production of OspC in a mutant defective in the Rrp2-RpoN-RpoS pathway did not rescue the impairment in BBB transmigration, indicating that this pathway controls additional factors for this process. Two other major surface lipoproteins controlled by this pathway, DbpA/B and BBK32, appeared to be dispensable for BBB transmigration. In addition, both the surface lipoprotein OspA and the Rrp1 pathway, which are required B. burgdorferi colonization in the tick vector, were found not required for BBB transmigration. Collectively, our findings using in vitro transwell assays uncover another potential role of the Rrp2-RpoN-RpoS pathway in BBB transmigration of B. burgdorferi and invasion into the CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuad Alanazi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sajith Raghunandanan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Raj Priya
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - X. Frank Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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13
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Clark IA, Vissel B. Autocrine positive feedback of tumor necrosis factor from activated microglia proposed to be of widespread relevance in chronic neurological disease. Pharmacol Res Perspect 2023; 11:e01136. [PMID: 37750203 PMCID: PMC10520644 DOI: 10.1002/prp2.1136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Over a decade's experience of post-stroke rehabilitation by administering the specific anti-TNF biological, etanercept, by the novel perispinal route, is consistent with a wide range of chronically diminished neurological function having been caused by persistent excessive cerebral levels of TNF. We propose that this TNF persistence, and cerebral disease chronicity, largely arises from a positive autocrine feedback loop of this cytokine, allowing the persistence of microglial activation caused by the excess TNF that these cells produce. It appears that many of these observations have never been exploited to construct a broad understanding and treatment of certain chronic, yet reversible, neurological illnesses. We propose that this treatment allows these chronically activated microglia to revert to their normal quiescent state, rather than simply neutralizing the direct harmful effects of this cytokine after its release from microglia. Logically, this also applies to the chronic cerebral aspects of various other neurological conditions characterized by activated microglia. These include long COVID, Lyme disease, post-stroke syndromes, traumatic brain injury, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, post-chemotherapy, post-irradiation cerebral dysfunction, cerebral palsy, fetal alcohol syndrome, hepatic encephalopathy, the antinociceptive state of morphine tolerance, and neurogenic pain. In addition, certain psychiatric states, in isolation or as sequelae of infectious diseases such as Lyme disease and long COVID, are candidates for being understood through this approach and treated accordingly. Perispinal etanercept provides the prospect of being able to treat various chronic central nervous system illnesses, whether they are of infectious or non-infectious origin, through reversing excess TNF generation by microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian A. Clark
- Research School of Biology, Australian National UniversityCanberraAustralian Capital TerritoryAustralia
| | - Bryce Vissel
- St Vincent's Hospital Centre for Applied Medical ResearchSt Vincent's HospitalDarlinghurstAustralia
- UNSW Medicine & Health, St Vincent's Healthcare Clinical Campus, Faculty of Medicine and HealthSchool of Clinical Medicine, UNSW SydneySydneyNew South WalesAustralia
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14
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Böhm S, Woudenberg T, Stark K, Böhmer MM, Katz K, Kuhnert R, Schlaud M, Wilking H, Fingerle V. Seroprevalence, seroconversion and seroreversion of Borrelia burgdorferi-specific IgG antibodies in two population-based studies in children and adolescents, Germany, 2003 to 2006 and 2014 to 2017. Euro Surveill 2023; 28:2200855. [PMID: 37616114 PMCID: PMC10451011 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2023.28.34.2200855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BackgroundLyme borreliosis (LB), caused by Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb), is the most common tick-borne infection in Germany. Antibodies against Bb are prevalent in the general population but information on temporal changes of prevalence and estimates of seroconversion (seroincidence) and seroreversion are lacking, especially for children and adolescents.AimWe aimed at assessing antibodies against Bb and factors associated with seropositivity in children and adolescents in Germany.MethodsWe estimated seroprevalence via two consecutive cross-sectional surveys (2003-2006 and 2014-2017). Based on a longitudinal survey component, we estimated annual seroconversion/seroreversion rates.ResultsSeroprevalence was 4.4% (95% confidence interval (CI): 3.9-4.9%) from 2003 to 2006 and 4.1% (95% CI: 3.2-5.1%) from 2014 to 2017. Seroprevalence increased with age, was higher in male children, the south-eastern regions of Germany and among those with a high socioeconomic status. The annual seroconversion rate was 0.3% and the annual seroreversion rate 3.9%. Males were more likely to seroconvert compared with females. Low antibody levels were the main predictor of seroreversion.ConclusionWe did not detect a change in seroprevalence in children and adolescents in Germany over a period of 11 years. Potential long-term changes, for example due to climatic changes, need to be assessed in consecutive serosurveys. Seroconversion was more likely among children and adolescents than among adults, representing a target group for preventive measures. Seroreversion rates are over twice as high in children and adolescents compared with previous studies among adults. Thus, seroprevalence estimates and seroconversion rates in children are likely underestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Böhm
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
- Postgraduate Training for Applied Epidemiology (PAE), Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- ECDC Fellowship Programme, Field Epidemiology Path (EPIET), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Tom Woudenberg
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
- ECDC Fellowship Programme, Field Epidemiology Path (EPIET), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Analytics Unit, Department of Global Health, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Klaus Stark
- Department for Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Merle M Böhmer
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
- Institute of Social Medicine and Health Systems Research, Otto-von-Guericke-University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Katz
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
| | - Ronny Kuhnert
- Department for Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin Schlaud
- Department for Epidemiology and Health Monitoring, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Hendrik Wilking
- Department for Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- These authors contributed equally to the work and share the last authorship
| | - Volker Fingerle
- Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Munich, Germany
- German National Reference Centre for Borrelia, Oberschleißheim, Germany
- These authors contributed equally to the work and share the last authorship
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15
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Marcinkiewicz AL, Brangulis K, Dupuis AP, Hart TM, Zamba‐Campero M, Nowak TA, Stout JL, Akopjana I, Kazaks A, Bogans J, Ciota AT, Kraiczy P, Kolokotronis SO, Lin YP. Structural evolution of an immune evasion determinant shapes pathogen host tropism. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2301549120. [PMID: 37364114 PMCID: PMC10319004 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2301549120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Modern infectious disease outbreaks often involve changes in host tropism, the preferential adaptation of pathogens to specific hosts. The Lyme disease-causing bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb) is an ideal model to investigate the molecular mechanisms of host tropism, because different variants of these tick-transmitted bacteria are distinctly maintained in rodents or bird reservoir hosts. To survive in hosts and escape complement-mediated immune clearance, Bb produces the outer surface protein CspZ that binds the complement inhibitor factor H (FH) to facilitate bacterial dissemination in vertebrates. Despite high sequence conservation, CspZ variants differ in human FH-binding ability. Together with the FH polymorphisms between vertebrate hosts, these findings suggest that minor sequence variation in this bacterial outer surface protein may confer dramatic differences in host-specific, FH-binding-mediated infectivity. We tested this hypothesis by determining the crystal structure of the CspZ-human FH complex, and identifying minor variation localized in the FH-binding interface yielding bird and rodent FH-specific binding activity that impacts infectivity. Swapping the divergent region in the FH-binding interface between rodent- and bird-associated CspZ variants alters the ability to promote rodent- and bird-specific early-onset dissemination. We further linked these loops and respective host-specific, complement-dependent phenotypes with distinct CspZ phylogenetic lineages, elucidating evolutionary mechanisms driving host tropism emergence. Our multidisciplinary work provides a novel molecular basis for how a single, short protein motif could greatly modulate pathogen host tropism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley L. Marcinkiewicz
- New York State Department of Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, Albany, NY12208
| | - Kalvis Brangulis
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, RigaLV-1067, Latvia
- Department of Human Physiology and Biochemistry, Riga Stradins University, RigaLV-1007, Latvia
| | - Alan P. Dupuis
- New York State Department of Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, Albany, NY12208
| | - Thomas M. Hart
- New York State Department of Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, Albany, NY12208
- Department of Biological Sciences, State University of New York Albany, Albany, NY12222
| | - Maxime Zamba‐Campero
- New York State Department of Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, Albany, NY12208
| | - Tristan A. Nowak
- New York State Department of Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, Albany, NY12208
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York Albany, Albany, NY12222
| | - Jessica L. Stout
- New York State Department of Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, Albany, NY12208
| | - Inara Akopjana
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, RigaLV-1067, Latvia
| | - Andris Kazaks
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, RigaLV-1067, Latvia
| | - Janis Bogans
- Latvian Biomedical Research and Study Centre, RigaLV-1067, Latvia
| | - Alexander T. Ciota
- New York State Department of Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, Albany, NY12208
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York Albany, Albany, NY12222
| | - Peter Kraiczy
- Institute of Medical Microbiology and Infection Control, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt60596, Germany
| | - Sergios-Orestis Kolokotronis
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Brooklyn, NY 11203-2098
- Institute for Genomics in Health, Brooklyn, NY11203-2098
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Brooklyn, NY11203-2098
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, State University of New York Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, NY11203-2098
| | - Yi-Pin Lin
- New York State Department of Health, Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, Albany, NY12208
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York Albany, Albany, NY12222
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16
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Farris LC, Torres-Odio S, Adams LG, West AP, Hyde JA. Borrelia burgdorferi Engages Mammalian Type I IFN Responses via the cGAS-STING Pathway. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2023; 210:1761-1770. [PMID: 37067290 PMCID: PMC10192154 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Borrelia burgdorferi, the etiologic agent of Lyme disease, is a spirochete that modulates numerous host pathways to cause a chronic, multisystem inflammatory disease in humans. B. burgdorferi infection can lead to Lyme carditis, neurologic complications, and arthritis because of the ability of specific borrelial strains to disseminate, invade, and drive inflammation. B. burgdorferi elicits type I IFN (IFN-I) responses in mammalian cells and tissues that are associated with the development of severe arthritis or other Lyme-related complications. However, the innate immune sensors and signaling pathways controlling IFN-I induction remain unclear. In this study, we examined whether intracellular nucleic acid sensing is required for the induction of IFN-I to B. burgdorferi. Using fluorescence microscopy, we show that B. burgdorferi associates with mouse and human cells in culture, and we document that internalized spirochetes colocalize with the pattern recognition receptor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS). Moreover, we report that IFN-I responses in mouse macrophages and murine embryonic fibroblasts are significantly attenuated in the absence of cGAS or its adaptor stimulator of IFN genes (STING), which function to sense and respond to intracellular DNA. Longitudinal in vivo tracking of bioluminescent B. burgdorferi revealed similar dissemination kinetics and borrelial load in C57BL/6J wild-type, cGAS-deficient, or STING-deficient mice. However, infection-associated tibiotarsal joint pathology and inflammation were modestly reduced in cGAS-deficient compared with wild-type mice. Collectively, these results indicate that the cGAS-STING pathway is a critical mediator of mammalian IFN-I signaling and innate immune responses to B. burgdorferi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren C. Farris
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Sylvia Torres-Odio
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - L. Garry Adams
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - A. Phillip West
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, USA
| | - Jenny A. Hyde
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, USA
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Adkison H, Embers ME. Lyme disease and the pursuit of a clinical cure. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1183344. [PMID: 37293310 PMCID: PMC10244525 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1183344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Lyme disease, caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi, is the most common vector-borne illness in the United States. Many aspects of the disease are still topics of controversy within the scientific and medical communities. One particular point of debate is the etiology behind antibiotic treatment failure of a significant portion (10-30%) of Lyme disease patients. The condition in which patients with Lyme disease continue to experience a variety of symptoms months to years after the recommended antibiotic treatment is most recently referred to in the literature as post treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS) or just simply post treatment Lyme disease (PTLD). The most commonly proposed mechanisms behind treatment failure include host autoimmune responses, long-term sequelae from the initial Borrelia infection, and persistence of the spirochete. The aims of this review will focus on the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical evidence that either validates or challenges these mechanisms, particularly with regard to the role of the immune response in disease and resolution of the infection. Next generation treatments and research into identifying biomarkers to predict treatment responses and outcomes for Lyme disease patients are also discussed. It is essential that definitions and guidelines for Lyme disease evolve with the research to translate diagnostic and therapeutic advances to patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monica E. Embers
- Division of Immunology, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Tulane University Health Sciences, Covington, LA, United States
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18
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Carnazzo MC, Scholin C, Shweta FNU, Calvin AD. Lyme disease presenting as complete heart block in a young man: Case report and review of pathogenesis. IDCases 2023; 32:e01799. [PMID: 37234726 PMCID: PMC10205533 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2023.e01799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Lyme carditis is a serious complication of Lyme disease, the most common vector-borne infection in both the United States and Northern Europe. It is a rare manifestation of Lyme disease that primarily affects young adults with a marked 3:1 male-to-female predominance. The presentation of Lyme carditis is heterogenous and often non-specific, although the most common clinical manifestation is AV block, which can be acute in onset and can rapidly progress to complete heart block. We discuss the case of a young adult male with complete heart block as a complication of Lyme infection, presenting with two episodes of syncope without prodromal symptoms months after tick bites. There are several pathogen, host and environmental factors that can play an important role in the epidemiology and pathogenesis of this serious condition that is reversible if treated in a timely manner. It is important for clinicians to be familiar with the presentation and treatment of this infection that is now being observed in a wider geographic distribution so as to avoid serious long-term complications and unnecessary permanent pacemaking implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Chiara Carnazzo
- Post-graduate School of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, MO 41125, Italy
| | - Celine Scholin
- Medical College of Wisconsin - Central Wisconsin, Wausau, WI 54401, United States
| | - FNU Shweta
- Department of Infectious Disease, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire, WI 54703, United States
| | - Andrew D. Calvin
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire, WI 54703, United States
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19
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Gaber AM, Mandric I, Nitirahardjo C, Piontkivska H, Hillhouse AE, Threadgill DW, Zelikovsky A, Rogovskyy AS. Comparative transcriptome analysis of Peromyscus leucopus and C3H mice infected with the Lyme disease pathogen. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1115350. [PMID: 37113133 PMCID: PMC10126474 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1115350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Lyme disease (LD), the most prevalent tick-borne disease of humans in the Northern Hemisphere, is caused by the spirochetal bacterium of Borreliella burgdorferi (Bb) sensu lato complex. In nature, Bb spirochetes are continuously transmitted between Ixodes ticks and mammalian or avian reservoir hosts. Peromyscus leucopus mice are considered the primary mammalian reservoir of Bb in the United States. Earlier studies demonstrated that experimentally infected P. leucopus mice do not develop disease. In contrast, C3H mice, a widely used laboratory strain of Mus musculus in the LD field, develop severe Lyme arthritis. To date, the exact tolerance mechanism of P. leucopus mice to Bb-induced infection remains unknown. To address this knowledge gap, the present study has compared spleen transcriptomes of P. leucopus and C3H/HeJ mice infected with Bb strain 297 with those of their respective uninfected controls. Overall, the data showed that the spleen transcriptome of Bb-infected P. leucopus mice was much more quiescent compared to that of the infected C3H mice. To date, the current investigation is one of the few that have examined the transcriptome response of natural reservoir hosts to Borreliella infection. Although the experimental design of this study significantly differed from those of two previous investigations, the collective results of the current and published studies have consistently demonstrated very limited transcriptomic responses of different reservoir hosts to the persistent infection of LD pathogens. Importance The bacterium Borreliella burgdorferi (Bb) causes Lyme disease, which is one of the emerging and highly debilitating human diseases in countries of the Northern Hemisphere. In nature, Bb spirochetes are maintained between hard ticks of Ixodes spp. and mammals or birds. In the United States, the white-footed mouse, Peromyscus leucopus, is one of the main Bb reservoirs. In contrast to humans and laboratory mice (e.g., C3H mice), white-footed mice rarely develop clinical signs (disease) despite being (persistently) infected with Bb. How the white-footed mouse tolerates Bb infection is the question that the present study has attempted to address. Comparisons of genetic responses between Bb-infected and uninfected mice demonstrated that, during a long-term Bb infection, C3H mice reacted much stronger, whereas P. leucopus mice were relatively unresponsive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alhussien M. Gaber
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Igor Mandric
- Department of Computer Science, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Caroline Nitirahardjo
- Department of Biological Sciences, and School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | - Helen Piontkivska
- Department of Biological Sciences, and School of Biomedical Sciences, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, OH, United States
| | - Andrew E. Hillhouse
- Texas A&M Institute for Genomics Sciences and Society, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - David W. Threadgill
- Texas A&M Institute for Genomics Sciences and Society, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Alex Zelikovsky
- Department of Computer Science, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Artem S. Rogovskyy
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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20
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Gynthersen RMM, Hansen MF, Ocias LF, Kjaer A, Petersen RF, Ostrowski SR, Harritshøj L, Jacobsen S, Overgaard U, Krogfelt KA, Lebech AM, Mens H. Neoehrlichia mikurensis in Danish immunocompromised patients: a retrospective cohort study. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2023; 22:20. [PMID: 36941613 PMCID: PMC10026440 DOI: 10.1186/s12941-023-00571-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The tick-borne bacterium, Neoehrlichia mikurensis (N. mikurensis) can cause severe febrile illness and thromboembolic complications in immunocompromised individuals. We investigated the presence of N. mikurensis DNA in retrospectively collected plasma from a well-characterized cohort of Danish immunocompromised patients. METHODS Plasma samples from 239 patients with immune dysfunction related to hematological or rheumatological disease or due to immunosuppressive therapy, were retrieved from a transdisciplinary biobank (PERSIMUNE) at Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark. Serving as immunocompetent controls, plasma samples from 192 blood donors were included. All samples were collected between 2015 and 2019. Real-time PCR targeting the groEL gene was used to detect N. mikurensis DNA. Sequencing was used for confirmation. Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato IgG antibodies were detected by ELISA as a proxy of tick exposure. Prevalence was compared using Fisher's exact test. RESULTS Neoehrlichia mikurensis DNA was detected in 3/239 (1.3%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.3 - 3.6%) patients, all of whom primarily had a hematological disease. Follow-up samples of these patients were negative. N. mikurensis DNA was not detected in any of the blood donor samples. IgG antibodies against B. burgdorferi s.l. were detected with similar prevalence in immunocompromised patients and blood donors, i.e., 18/239 (7.5%, 95% CI: 4.8-11.5%) and 11/192 (5.7%, 95%: CI 3.2-10.0%). CONCLUSION In this study, patients with N. mikurensis were not identified by clinical indication and N. mikurensis may therefore be underdiagnosed in Danish patients. Further investigations are needed to explore the clinical significance and implications of this infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Maja Møhring Gynthersen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Mette Frimodt Hansen
- Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Universitetsvej 1, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark.
| | - Lukas Frans Ocias
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Karlstad Hospital, Region Värmland, Karlstad, Sweden
| | - Andreas Kjaer
- Department of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine & Cluster for Molecular Imaging, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet & Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Randi Føns Petersen
- Department of Bacteria, Fungi and Parasites, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sisse Rye Ostrowski
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Lene Harritshøj
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Søren Jacobsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Copenhagen Research Center for Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases - COPEACT, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulrik Overgaard
- Department of Hematology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karen Angeliki Krogfelt
- Department of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, Universitetsvej 1, 4000, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Anne-Mette Lebech
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Helene Mens
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
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21
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Pfeifle A, Thulasi Raman SN, Lansdell C, Zhang W, Tamming L, Cecillon J, Laryea E, Patel D, Wu J, Gravel C, Frahm G, Gao J, Chen W, Chaconas G, Sauve S, Rosu-Myles M, Wang L, Johnston MJW, Li X. DNA lipid nanoparticle vaccine targeting outer surface protein C affords protection against homologous Borrelia burgdorferi needle challenge in mice. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1020134. [PMID: 37006299 PMCID: PMC10060826 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1020134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThe incidence of Lyme disease (LD) in Canada and the United States has risen over the last decade, nearing 480,000 cases each year. Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, the causative agent of LD, is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick, resulting in flu-like symptoms and often a characteristic bull’s-eye rash. In more severe cases, disseminated bacterial infection can cause arthritis, carditis and neurological impairments. Currently, no vaccine is available for the prevention of LD in humans.MethodsIn this study, we developed a lipid nanoparticle (LNP)-encapsulated DNA vaccine encoding outer surface protein C type A (OspC-type A) of B. burgdorferi.ResultsVaccination of C3H/HeN mice with two doses of the candidate vaccine induced significant OspC-type A-specific antibody titres and borreliacidal activity. Analysis of the bacterial burden following needle challenge with B. burgdorferi (OspC-type A) revealed that the candidate vaccine afforded effective protection against homologous infection across a range of susceptible tissues. Notably, vaccinated mice were protected against carditis and lymphadenopathy associated with Lyme borreliosis.DiscussionOverall, the results of this study provide support for the use of a DNA-LNP platform for the development of LD vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabelle Pfeifle
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sathya N. Thulasi Raman
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Casey Lansdell
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Wanyue Zhang
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Levi Tamming
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jonathon Cecillon
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Emmanuel Laryea
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Devina Patel
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jianguo Wu
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Caroline Gravel
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Grant Frahm
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Jun Gao
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Centre for Vaccines, Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Wangxue Chen
- Human Health Therapeutics Research Center, National Research Council of Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - George Chaconas
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Cumming School of Medicine, Snyder Institute for Chronic Diseases, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Simon Sauve
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Michael Rosu-Myles
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Lisheng Wang
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Michael J. W. Johnston
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Michael J. W. Johnston, ; Xuguang Li,
| | - Xuguang Li
- Centre for Oncology, Radiopharmaceuticals and Research, Biologic and Radiopharmaceutical Drugs Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch, Health Canada and World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Standardization and Evaluation of Biologicals, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Michael J. W. Johnston, ; Xuguang Li,
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22
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Grassmann AA, Tokarz R, Golino C, McLain MA, Groshong AM, Radolf JD, Caimano MJ. BosR and PlzA reciprocally regulate RpoS function to sustain Borrelia burgdorferi in ticks and mammals. J Clin Invest 2023; 133:e166710. [PMID: 36649080 PMCID: PMC9974103 DOI: 10.1172/jci166710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The RNA polymerase alternative σ factor RpoS in Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb), the Lyme disease pathogen, is responsible for programmatic-positive and -negative gene regulation essential for the spirochete's dual-host enzootic cycle. RpoS is expressed during tick-to-mammal transmission and throughout mammalian infection. Although the mammalian-phase RpoS regulon is well described, its counterpart during the transmission blood meal is unknown. Here, we used Bb-specific transcript enrichment by tick-borne disease capture sequencing (TBDCapSeq) to compare the transcriptomes of WT and ΔrpoS Bb in engorged nymphs and following mammalian host-adaptation within dialysis membrane chambers. TBDCapSeq revealed dramatic changes in the contours of the RpoS regulon within ticks and mammals and further confirmed that RpoS-mediated repression is specific to the mammalian-phase of Bb's enzootic cycle. We also provide evidence that RpoS-dependent gene regulation, including repression of tick-phase genes, is required for persistence in mice. Comparative transcriptomics of engineered Bb strains revealed that the Borrelia oxidative stress response regulator (BosR), a noncanonical Fur family member, and the cyclic diguanosine monophosphate (c-di-GMP) effector PlzA reciprocally regulate the function of RNA polymerase complexed with RpoS. BosR is required for RpoS-mediated transcription activation and repression in addition to its well-defined role promoting transcription of rpoS by the RNA polymerase alternative σ factor RpoN. During transmission, ligand-bound PlzA antagonizes RpoS-mediated repression, presumably acting through BosR.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rafal Tokarz
- Center for Infection and Immunity and
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Caroline Golino
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Ashley M. Groshong
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Pediatrics
| | - Justin D. Radolf
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Pediatrics
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, and
- Department of Immunology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Melissa J. Caimano
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Pediatrics
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics
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23
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Lemieux JE, Huang W, Hill N, Cerar T, Freimark L, Hernandez S, Luban M, Maraspin V, Bogovic P, Ogrinc K, Ruzic-Sabljic E, Lapierre P, Lasek-Nesselquist E, Singh N, Iyer R, Liveris D, Reed KD, Leong JM, Branda JA, Steere AC, Wormser GP, Strle F, Sabeti PC, Schwartz I, Strle K. Whole genome sequencing of Borrelia burgdorferi isolates reveals linked clusters of plasmid-borne accessory genome elements associated with virulence. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.26.530159. [PMID: 36909473 PMCID: PMC10002713 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.26.530159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne disease in North America and Europe. The clinical manifestations of Lyme disease vary based on the genospecies of the infecting Borrelia burgdorferi spirochete, but the microbial genetic elements underlying these associations are not known. Here, we report the whole genome sequence (WGS) and analysis of 299 patient-derived B. burgdorferi sensu stricto ( Bbss ) isolates from patients in the Eastern and Midwestern US and Central Europe. We develop a WGS-based classification of Bbss isolates, confirm and extend the findings of previous single- and multi-locus typing systems, define the plasmid profiles of human-infectious Bbss isolates, annotate the core and strain-variable surface lipoproteome, and identify loci associated with disseminated infection. A core genome consisting of ∼800 open reading frames and a core set of plasmids consisting of lp17, lp25, lp36, lp28-3, lp28-4, lp54, and cp26 are found in nearly all isolates. Strain-variable (accessory) plasmids and genes correlate strongly with phylogeny. Using genetic association study methods, we identify an accessory genome signature associated with dissemination and define the individual plasmids and genes that make up this signature. Strains within the RST1/WGS A subgroup, particularly a subset marked by the OspC type A genotype, are associated with increased rates of dissemination. OspC type A strains possess a unique constellation of strongly linked genetic changes including the presence of lp56 and lp28-1 plasmids and a cluster of genes that may contribute to their enhanced virulence compared to other genotypes. The patterns of OspC type A strains typify a broader paradigm across Bbss isolates, in which genetic structure is defined by correlated groups of strain-variable genes located predominantly on plasmids, particularly for expression of surface-exposed lipoproteins. These clusters of genes are inherited in blocks through strain-specific patterns of plasmid occupancy and are associated with the probability of invasive infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob E Lemieux
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
| | - Weihua Huang
- New York Medical College
- East Carolina University
| | - Nathan Hill
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
| | | | | | | | - Matteo Luban
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - John M Leong
- Tufts University, Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology
| | - John A Branda
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
| | | | | | | | - Pardis C Sabeti
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
- Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
- Harvard University
- Harvard T.H.Chan School of Public Health
| | | | - Klemen Strle
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School
- Wadsworth Center
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24
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Pickett LJ, Amiro M, Hawboldt C, Faraone N. Common yarrow (Achillea millefolium) essential oil and main components as potential repellents and acaricides against Ixodes scapularis and Dermacentor variabilis (Acari: Ixodidae) ticks. EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2023; 89:287-303. [PMID: 36905473 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-023-00782-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Repellent and acaricidal activities of essential oils (EO) extracted from common yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.) and main chemical components were evaluated against Ixodes scapularis and Dermacentor variabilis adult ticks and nymphs. Flowers and leaves were collected from two locations, Harvest Moon trail (HMT) and Port Williams (PW) in Nova Scotia (Canada), and EO were extracted via hydro-distillation. Samples were analyzed using GC-MS, and differences in chemical composition and quantity of compounds detected were reported in relation to the collection site and plant parts. EO were both rich in germacrene D (HMT EO 21.5 ± 1.31% wt; PW EO 25.5 ± 0.76% wt); however, HMT flower EO has a higher concentration of camphor (9.9 ± 0.08% wt) compared to PW flower EO (3.0 ± 0.01% wt). Significant acaricidal activity was reported against I. scapularis adult ticks, particularly for HMT flower EO with a LD50 of 2.4% v/v (95% confidence interval = 1.74-3.35) at 24 h post-exposure. Germacrene D had the lowest LD50 of 2.0% v/v (95% CI 1.45-2.58) among the four compounds after 7 days. No significant acaricidal effect was observed on D. variabilis adult ticks. Yarrow PW flower EO exerted repellent activity towards I. scapularis nymphs (100% repellency up to 30 min); however, repellency significantly declined over time. Yarrow EO exert promising acaricidal and repellent properties, that may be used to manage Ixodes ticks and the diseases they vector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura J Pickett
- Chemistry Department, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS, Canada
| | - Miranda Amiro
- Chemistry Department, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS, Canada
| | - Claire Hawboldt
- Chemistry Department, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS, Canada
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25
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Haque HME, Ejemel M, Vance DJ, Willsey G, Rudolph MJ, Cavacini LA, Wang Y, Mantis NJ, Weis DD. Human B Cell Epitope Map of the Lyme Disease Vaccine Antigen, OspA. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:2515-2528. [PMID: 36350351 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The Lyme disease (LD) vaccine formerly approved for use in the United States consisted of recombinant outer surface protein A (OspA) from Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto (ss), the bacterial genospecies responsible for the vast majority of LD in North America. OspA is an ∼30 kDa lipoprotein made up of 21 antiparallel β-strands and a C-terminal α-helix. In clinical trials, protection against LD following vaccination correlated with serum antibody titers against a single epitope near the C-terminus of OspA, as defined by the mouse monoclonal antibody (MAb), LA-2. However, the breadth of the human antibody response to OspA following vaccination remains undefined even as next-generation multivalent OspA-based vaccines are under development. In this report, we employed hydrogen exchange-mass spectrometry (HX-MS) to localize the epitopes recognized by a unique panel of OspA human MAbs, including four shown to passively protect mice against experimental B. burgdorferi infection and one isolated from a patient with antibiotic refractory Lyme arthritis. The epitopes grouped into three spatially distinct bins that, together, encompass more than half the surface-exposed area of OspA. The bins corresponded to OspA β-strands 8-10 (bin 1), 11-13 (bin 2), and 16-20 plus the C-terminal α-helix (bin 3). Bin 3 was further divided into sub-bins relative to LA-2's epitope. MAbs with complement-dependent borreliacidal activity, as well as B. burgdorferi transmission-blocking activity in the mouse model were found within each bin. Therefore, the resulting B cell epitope map encompasses functionally important targets on OspA that likely contribute to immunity to B. burgdorferi.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M Emranul Haque
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas66045, United States
| | - Monir Ejemel
- MassBiologics, Boston, Massachusetts02126, United States
| | - David J Vance
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York12208, United States
| | - Graham Willsey
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York12208, United States
| | - Michael J Rudolph
- New York Structural Biology Center, New York, New York10027, United States
| | | | - Yang Wang
- MassBiologics, Boston, Massachusetts02126, United States
| | - Nicholas J Mantis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York12208, United States
| | - David D Weis
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas66045, United States
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26
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Santos M, Moreira H, Cabral JA, Gabriel R, Teixeira A, Bastos R, Aires A. Contribution of Home Gardens to Sustainable Development: Perspectives from A Supported Opinion Essay. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph192013715. [PMID: 36294295 PMCID: PMC9603381 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192013715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Home gardening has a long history that started when humans became sedentary, being traditionally considered an accessible source of food and medicinal plants to treat common illnesses. With trends towards urbanization and industrialization, particularly in the post-World War II period, the importance of home gardens as important spaces for growing food and medicinal plants reduced and they began to be increasingly seen as decorative and leisure spaces. However, the growing awareness of the negative impacts of agricultural intensification and urbanization for human health, food quality, ecosystem resilience, and biodiversity conservation motivated the emergence of new approaches concerning home gardens. Societies began to question the potential of nearby green infrastructures to human wellbeing, food provisioning, and the conservation of traditional varieties, as well as providers of important services, such as ecological corridors for wild species and carbon sinks. In this context. and to foster adaptive and resilient social-ecological systems, our supported viewpoint intends to be more than an exhaustive set of perceptions, but a reflection of ideas about the important contribution of home gardens to sustainable development. We envision these humble spaces strengthening social and ecological components, by providing a set of diversified and intermingled goods and services for an increasingly urban population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mário Santos
- Laboratory of Fluvial and Terrestrial Ecology, Innovation and Development Center, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-911 Vila Real, Portugal
- Laboratory of Ecology and Conservation, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Maranhão, Rua do Comercio, 100, Buriticupu 65393-000, MA, Brazil
- CITAB—Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environment and Biological Sciences, Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro) and Department of Biology and Environment, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-259350000
| | - Helena Moreira
- CITAB—Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environment and Biological Sciences, Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro) and Department of Biology and Environment, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Sports, Exercise and Health Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-911 Vila Real, Portugal
- CIDESD—Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - João Alexandre Cabral
- Laboratory of Fluvial and Terrestrial Ecology, Innovation and Development Center, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-911 Vila Real, Portugal
- CITAB—Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environment and Biological Sciences, Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro) and Department of Biology and Environment, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ronaldo Gabriel
- CITAB—Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environment and Biological Sciences, Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro) and Department of Biology and Environment, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Sports, Exercise and Health Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-911 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Andreia Teixeira
- Department of Sports, Exercise and Health Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-911 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Rita Bastos
- Laboratory of Fluvial and Terrestrial Ecology, Innovation and Development Center, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-911 Vila Real, Portugal
- CIBIO/InBIO/BioPolis, Centro de Investigação em Biodiversidade e Recursos Genéticos, Universidade do Porto, 4485-661 Vairão, Portugal
| | - Alfredo Aires
- CITAB—Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environment and Biological Sciences, Institute for Innovation, Capacity Building and Sustainability of Agri-Food Production (Inov4Agro) and Department of Biology and Environment, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Department of Agronomy, School of Agrarian and Veterinary Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, UTAD, Quinta de Prados, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
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Ilyinskikh EN, Filatova EN, Bulankov YI, Nekrasov VN, Reshetova AV, Portnyagina EV, Aksyonov SV, Voronkova OV, Motlokhova EA, Ilyanova IN. Predictive value of complete blood count for early diagnosis of mixed infection of the non-erythema migrans form of Lyme borreliosis and tick-borne encephalitis. JOURNAL INFECTOLOGY 2022. [DOI: 10.22625/2072-6732-2022-14-4-69-76] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
Objective: is to develop a model for early diagnosis of mixed infection of the non-erythema migrans form of Lyme borreliosis and tick-borne encephalitis using the assessment of the complete blood count and the blood leukocyte indices of patients in the first week of the disease.Materials and methods. The retrospective clinical study involved Group 1 of 27 patients with the mixed infection of the non-erythema migrans form of Lyme borreliosis and the febrile form of tick-borne encephalitis and Group 2 of 29 patients with the monoinfection of the non-erythema migrans form of Lyme borreliosis, who were hospitalized no later than in the 7th day of the disease. The average age of patients in Groups 1 and 2 was 50.6±3.4 and 49.9±2.3. We analyzed 14 parameters of the complete blood count as well as calculated the leukocyte intoxication index and the body resistance index. Statistical significance assessment was carried out using the chi-square test and ROC analysis. Logistic regression model was developed using STATISTICA 12.0 modules.Results. The levels of the band and polymorphonuclear neutrophils (<0,001 и p=0,002) and the leukocyte intoxication index (p<0,001) were significantly higher and the levels of the body resistance index (p<0.001), lymphocytes (p<0.001) and platelets (p=0.004) were lower in Group 1 than in Group 2. Informative predictors of mixed infection included the body resistance index (AUC=0.77), leukocyte intoxication index (AUC=0.75), the band and polymorphonuclear neutrophils (AUC=0.74), lymphocytes (AUC=0.77), and platelets (AUC=0.70). Logistic regression model has a “very good” predictive value (AUC=0.85) and include two parameters: body resistance index and platelets (×109/L).Conclusion. The developed model has a “very good” predictive value for early diagnosis of the mixed infection of the non-erythema migrans form of Lyme borreliosis and tickborne encephalitis before laboratory diagnosis confirmation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. N. Ilyinskikh
- Siberian State Medical University; National Research Tomsk State University
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The Impact of Telemedicine in the Diagnosis of Erythema Migrans during the COVID Pandemic: A Comparison with In-Person Diagnosis in the Pre-COVID Era. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11101122. [PMID: 36297179 PMCID: PMC9607313 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11101122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Erythema migrans (EM) is the hallmark manifestation of the Lyme borreliosis (LB), and therefore its presence and recognition are sufficient to make a diagnosis and to start proper antibiotic treatment to attempt to eradicate the infection. Methods: In this study we compared the clinical data of 439 patients who presented an EM either according to the diagnostic modality through physical assessment or through telemedicine. Conclusions: Our data clearly show that telemedicine for EM diagnosis is useful as it enables prompt administration of appropriate antibiotic therapy, which is critical to avoid complications, especially for neurologic and articular entities. Therefore, telemedicine is a tool that could be adopted for the diagnosis of Lyme disease both by specialized centers but also by general practitioners.
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29
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Baron S, Nepal S, Lamichhane M, Roseman H. Unresolved Heart Block in Lyme Carditis: A Case Report. Cureus 2022; 14:e29661. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.29661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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30
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Agglutination of Borreliella burgdorferi by Transmission-Blocking OspA Monoclonal Antibodies and Monovalent Fab Fragments. Infect Immun 2022; 90:e0030622. [PMID: 36000876 PMCID: PMC9476992 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00306-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Lyme disease vaccines based on recombinant Outer surface protein A (OspA) elicit protective antibodies that interfere with tick-to-host transmission of the disease-causing spirochete Borreliella burgdorferi. Another hallmark of OspA antisera and certain OspA monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) is their capacity to induce B. burgdorferi agglutination in vitro, a phenomenon first reported more than 30 years ago but never studied in molecular detail. In this report, we demonstrate that transmission-blocking OspA MAbs, individually and in combination, promote dose-dependent and epitope-specific agglutination of B. burgdorferi. Agglutination occurred within minutes and persisted for hours. Spirochetes in the core of the aggregates exhibited evidence of outer membrane (OM) stress, revealed by propidium iodide uptake. The most potent agglutinator was the mouse MAb LA-2, which targets the OspA C terminus (β-strands 18 to 20). Human MAb 319-44, which also targets the OspA C terminus (β-strand 20), and 857-2, which targets the OspA central β-sheet (strands 8 to 10), were less potent agglutinators, while MAb 221-7, which targets β-strands 10 to 11, had little to no measurable agglutinating activity, even though its affinity for OspA exceeded that of LA-2. Remarkably, monovalent Fab fragments derived from LA-2, and to a lesser degree 319-44, retained the capacity to induce B. burgdorferi aggregation and OM stress, a particularly intriguing observation considering that "LA-2-like" Fabs have been shown to experimentally entrap B. burgdorferi within infected ticks and prevent transmission during feeding to a mammalian host. It is therefore tempting to speculate that B. burgdorferi aggregation triggered by OspA-specific antibodies in vitro may in fact reflect an important biological activity in vivo.
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31
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Delgado KN, Montezuma-Rusca JM, Orbe IC, Caimano MJ, La Vake CJ, Luthra A, Hennelly CM, Nindo FN, Meyer JW, Jones LD, Parr JB, Salazar JC, Moody MA, Radolf JD, Hawley KL. Extracellular Loops of the Treponema pallidum FadL Orthologs TP0856 and TP0858 Elicit IgG Antibodies and IgG +-Specific B-Cells in the Rabbit Model of Experimental Syphilis. mBio 2022; 13:e0163922. [PMID: 35862766 PMCID: PMC9426418 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01639-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The resurgence of syphilis in the new millennium has called attention to the importance of a vaccine for global containment strategies. Studies with immune rabbit serum (IRS) indicate that a syphilis vaccine should elicit antibodies (Abs) that promote opsonophagocytosis of treponemes by activated macrophages. The availability of three-dimensional models for Treponema pallidum's (Tp) repertoire of outer membrane proteins (OMPs) provides an architectural framework for identification of candidate vaccinogens with extracellular loops (ECLs) as the targets for protective Abs. Herein, we used Pyrococcus furiosus thioredoxin (PfTrx) as a scaffold to display Tp OMP ECLs to interrogate sera and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from immune rabbits for ECL-specific Abs and B cells. We validated this approach using a PfTrx scaffold presenting ECL4 from BamA, a known opsonic target. Using scaffolds displaying ECLs of the FadL orthologs TP0856 and TP0858, we determined that ECL2 and ECL4 of both proteins are strongly antigenic. Comparison of ELISA and immunoblot results suggested that the PfTrx scaffolds present conformational and linear epitopes. We then used the FadL ECL2 and ECL4 PfTrx constructs as "hooks" to confirm the presence of ECL-specific B cells in PBMCs from immune rabbits. Our results pinpoint immunogenic ECLs of two newly discovered OMPs, while advancing the utility of the rabbit model for circumventing bottlenecks in vaccine development associated with large-scale production of folded OMPs. They also lay the groundwork for production of rabbit monoclonal Abs (MAbs) to characterize potentially protective ECL epitopes at the atomic level. IMPORTANCE Recent identification and structural modeling of Treponema pallidum's (Tp) repertoire of outer membrane proteins (OMPs) represent a critical breakthrough in the decades long quest for a syphilis vaccine. However, little is known about the antigenic nature of these β-barrel-forming OMPs and, more specifically, their surface exposed regions, the extracellular loops (ECLs). In this study, using Pyrococcus furiosus thioredoxin (PfTrx) as a scaffold to display Tp OMP ECLs, we interrogated immune rabbit sera and peripheral blood mononuclear cells for the presence of antibodies (Abs) and circulating rare antigen-specific B cells. Our results pinpoint immunogenic ECLs of two newly discovered OMPs, while advancing the utility of the rabbit model for surveying the entire Tp OMPeome for promising OMP vaccinogens. This work represents a major advancement toward characterizing potentially protective OMP ECLs and future vaccine studies. Additionally, this strategy could be applied to OMPs of nonspirochetal bacterial pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jairo M Montezuma-Rusca
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Isabel C Orbe
- Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Melissa J Caimano
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Carson J La Vake
- Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Amit Luthra
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Christopher M Hennelly
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, and Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Fredrick N Nindo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, and Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Jacob W Meyer
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | | | - Jonathan B Parr
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, and Institute for Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Juan C Salazar
- Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Connecticut Children's, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Immunology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - M Anthony Moody
- Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
- Department of Immunology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Justin D Radolf
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Immunology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Kelly L Hawley
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Connecticut Children's, Hartford, Connecticut, USA
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32
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Combs M, Marcinkiewicz AL, Dupuis AP, Davis AD, Lederman P, Nowak TA, Stout JL, Strle K, Fingerle V, Margos G, Ciota AT, Diuk-Wasser MA, Kolokotronis SO, Lin YP. Phylogenomic Diversity Elucidates Mechanistic Insights into Lyme Borreliae-Host Association. mSystems 2022; 7:e0048822. [PMID: 35938719 PMCID: PMC9426539 DOI: 10.1128/msystems.00488-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Host association-the selective adaptation of pathogens to specific host species-evolves through constant interactions between host and pathogens, leaving a lot yet to be discovered on immunological mechanisms and genomic determinants. The causative agents of Lyme disease (LD) are spirochete bacteria composed of multiple species of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex, including B. burgdorferi (Bb), the main LD pathogen in North America-a useful model for the study of mechanisms underlying host-pathogen association. Host adaptation requires pathogens' ability to evade host immune responses, such as complement, the first-line innate immune defense mechanism. We tested the hypothesis that different host-adapted phenotypes among Bb strains are linked to polymorphic loci that confer complement evasion traits in a host-specific manner. We first examined the survivability of 20 Bb strains in sera in vitro and/or bloodstream and tissues in vivo from rodent and avian LD models. Three groups of complement-dependent host-association phenotypes emerged. We analyzed complement-evasion genes, identified a priori among all strains and sequenced and compared genomes for individual strains representing each phenotype. The evolutionary history of ospC loci is correlated with host-specific complement-evasion phenotypes, while comparative genomics suggests that several gene families and loci are potentially involved in host association. This multidisciplinary work provides novel insights into the functional evolution of host-adapted phenotypes, building a foundation for further investigation of the immunological and genomic determinants of host association. IMPORTANCE Host association is the phenotype that is commonly found in many pathogens that preferential survive in particular hosts. The Lyme disease (LD)-causing agent, B. burgdorferi (Bb), is an ideal model to study host association, as Bb is mainly maintained in nature through rodent and avian hosts. A widespread yet untested concept posits that host association in Bb strains is linked to Bb functional genetic variation conferring evasion to complement, an innate defense mechanism in vertebrate sera. Here, we tested this concept by grouping 20 Bb strains into three complement-dependent host-association phenotypes based on their survivability in sera and/or bloodstream and distal tissues in rodent and avian LD models. Phylogenomic analysis of these strains further correlated several gene families and loci, including ospC, with host-specific complement-evasion phenotypes. Such multifaceted studies thus pave the road to further identify the determinants of host association, providing mechanistic insights into host-pathogen interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Combs
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Institute for Genomics in Health, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Ashley L. Marcinkiewicz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Alan P. Dupuis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
| | - April D. Davis
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Patricia Lederman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Tristan A. Nowak
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, SUNY Albany, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Jessica L. Stout
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Klemen Strle
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, SUNY Albany, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Volker Fingerle
- German National Reference Centre for Borrelia, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Gabriele Margos
- German National Reference Centre for Borrelia, Bavarian Health and Food Safety Authority, Oberschleissheim, Germany
| | - Alexander T. Ciota
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, SUNY Albany, Albany, New York, USA
| | - Maria A. Diuk-Wasser
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Sergios-Orestis Kolokotronis
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Institute for Genomics in Health, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- Department of Cell Biology, College of Medicine, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Yi-Pin Lin
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, New York, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, SUNY Albany, Albany, New York, USA
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Borreliella burgdorferi Antimicrobial-Tolerant Persistence in Lyme Disease and Posttreatment Lyme Disease Syndromes. mBio 2022; 13:e0344021. [PMID: 35467428 PMCID: PMC9239140 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.03440-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The annual incidence of Lyme disease, caused by tick-transmitted Borreliella burgdorferi, is estimated to be at least 476,000 cases in the United States and many more worldwide. Ten to 20% of antimicrobial-treated Lyme disease patients display posttreatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS), a clinical complication whose etiology and pathogenesis remain uncertain. Autoimmunity, cross-reactivity, molecular mimicry, coinfections, and borrelial tolerance to antimicrobials/persistence have been hypothesized and studied as potential causes of PTLDS. Studies of borrelial tolerance/persistence in vitro in response to antimicrobials and experimental studies in mice and nonhuman primates, taken together with clinical reports, have revealed that B. burgdorferi becomes tolerant to antimicrobials and may sometimes persist in animals and humans after the currently recommended antimicrobial treatment. Moreover, B. burgdorferi is pleomorphic and can generate viable-but-nonculturable bacteria, states also involved in antimicrobial tolerance. The multiple regulatory pathways and structural genes involved in mediating this tolerance to antimicrobials and environmental stressors by persistence might include the stringent (rel and dksA) and host adaptation (rpoS) responses, sugar metabolism (glpD), and polypeptide transporters (opp). Application of this recently reported knowledge to clinical studies can be expected to clarify the potential role of bacterial antibacterial tolerance/persistence in Lyme disease and PTLDS.
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Kubiak K, Szymańska H, Dmitryjuk M, Dzika E. Abundance of Ixodes ricinus Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) and the Diversity of Borrelia Species in Northeastern Poland. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127378. [PMID: 35742628 PMCID: PMC9223791 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Monitoring the abundance of ticks and the prevalence of pathogens in ticks is an important activity in assessing the risk of tick-borne diseases and helps to develop preventive measures. This study aimed to estimate the density of Ixodes ricinus, the prevalence of Borrelia species, and their diversity in northeastern Poland. The overall mean I. ricinus density was 9.7 ticks/100 m2. There were no differences between years, subregions, or habitats of study. The Borrelia infection rate was higher in females (22.6%) and males (14.3%) than in nymphs 5.5% (MIR). The most infected ticks came from the eastern subregion (10.1%) where the incidence of borreliosis among the inhabitants was over 20% higher than in the other subregions. In the infected ticks, B. afzelii (38.3%) and B. garinii (34.5%) were predominant. B. bavariensis was confirmed in I. ricinus in Poland for the first time. The most polymorphic was B. garinii. B. miyamotoi (belonged to the European type) was identified as a mono-infection in 0.9% of ticks and in 1.5% as a co-infection with B. afzelii and with B. garinii. Besides the risk of borreliosis and co-infections with different Borrelia species, physicians should also be aware of B. miyamotoi infections among patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Kubiak
- Department of Medical Biology, Collegium Medicum, School of Public Health, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Zolnierska 14c, 10-561 Olsztyn, Poland; (H.S.); (E.D.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Hanna Szymańska
- Department of Medical Biology, Collegium Medicum, School of Public Health, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Zolnierska 14c, 10-561 Olsztyn, Poland; (H.S.); (E.D.)
| | - Małgorzata Dmitryjuk
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Ewa Dzika
- Department of Medical Biology, Collegium Medicum, School of Public Health, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Zolnierska 14c, 10-561 Olsztyn, Poland; (H.S.); (E.D.)
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35
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Booth CE, Powell-Pierce AD, Skare JT, Garcia BL. Borrelia miyamotoi FbpA and FbpB Are Immunomodulatory Outer Surface Lipoproteins With Distinct Structures and Functions. Front Immunol 2022; 13:886733. [PMID: 35693799 PMCID: PMC9186069 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.886733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogens that traffic in the blood of their hosts must employ mechanisms to evade the host innate immune system, including the complement cascade. The Lyme disease spirochete, Borreliella burgdorferi, has evolved numerous outer membrane lipoproteins that interact directly with host proteins. Compared to Lyme disease-associated spirochetes, relatively little is known about how an emerging tick-borne spirochetal pathogen, Borrelia miyamotoi, utilizes surface lipoproteins to interact with a human host. B. burgdorferi expresses the multifunctional lipoprotein, BBK32, that inhibits the classical pathway of complement through interaction with the initiating protease C1r, and also interacts with fibronectin using a separate intrinsically disordered domain. B. miyamotoi encodes two separate bbk32 orthologs denoted fbpA and fbpB; however, the activities of these proteins are unknown. Here, we show that B. miyamotoi FbpA binds human fibronectin in a manner similar to B. burgdorferi BBK32, whereas FbpB does not. FbpA and FbpB both bind human complement C1r and protect a serum-sensitive B. burgdorferi strain from complement-mediated killing, but surprisingly, differ in their ability to recognize activated C1r versus zymogen states of C1r. To better understand the observed differences in C1r recognition and inhibition properties, high-resolution X-ray crystallography structures were solved of the C1r-binding regions of B. miyamotoi FbpA and FbpB at 1.9Å and 2.1Å, respectively. Collectively, these data suggest that FbpA and FbpB have partially overlapping functions but are functionally and structurally distinct. The data presented herein enhances our overall understanding of how bloodborne pathogens interact with fibronectin and modulate the complement system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles E Booth
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
| | - Alexandra D Powell-Pierce
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, United States
| | - Jon T Skare
- Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, Bryan, TX, United States
| | - Brandon L Garcia
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
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36
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Lyme Carditis: From Pathophysiology to Clinical Management. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11050582. [PMID: 35631104 PMCID: PMC9145515 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11050582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiac involvement is a rare but relevant manifestation of Lyme disease that frequently presents as atrioventricular block (AVB). Immune-mediated injury has been implicated in the pathogenesis of Lyme carditis due to possible cross-reaction between Borrelia burgdorferi antigens and cardiac epitopes. The degree of the AVB can fluctuate rapidly, with two-thirds of patients progressing to complete AVB. Thus, continuous heart rhythm monitoring is essential, and a temporary pacemaker may be necessary. Routinely permanent pacemaker implantation, however, is contraindicated because of the frequent transient nature of the condition. Antibiotic therapy should be initiated as soon as the clinical suspicion of Lyme carditis arises to reduce the duration of the disease and minimize the risk of complications. Diagnosis is challenging and is based on geographical epidemiology, clinical history, signs and symptoms, serological testing, ECG and echocardiographic findings, and exclusion of other pathologies. This paper aims to explain the pathophysiological basis of Lyme carditis, describe its clinical features, and delineate the treatment principles.
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Magnavita N, Capitanelli I, Ilesanmi O, Chirico F. Occupational Lyme Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12020296. [PMID: 35204387 PMCID: PMC8870942 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12020296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Lyme disease (LD) can have significant consequences for the health of workers. The frequency of infection can be estimated by using prevalence and incidence data on antibodies against Borrelia Burgdoferi (BB). A systematic search of studies published in English between 2002 and 2021 and a meta-analysis were conducted in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Out of a total of 1125 studies retrieved, 35 articles were included in the systematic review. Overall, in these studies, outdoor workers showed a 20.5% BB seroprevalence rate. Meta-analysis, performed on 15 studies (3932 subjects), revealed a significantly increased risk in outdoor activities (OR 1.93 95%CI 1.15–3.23), with medium-level heterogeneity (I2 = 69.2%), and non-significant publication bias. The estimated OR in forestry and agricultural workers was 2.36 (CI95% 1.28; 4.34) in comparison with the controls, while a non-significant increase in risk (OR = 1.05, CI95% 0.28; 3.88) was found in the remaining categories of workers (veterinarians, animal breeders, soldiers). The estimated pooled risk was significantly higher in the studies published until 2010 (OR 3.03 95%CI 1.39–6.61), while in more recent studies the odds became non-significant (OR 1.08 95% CI 0.63–1.85). The promotion of awareness campaigns targeting outdoor workers in endemic areas, and the implementation of local programs aimed at controlling range expansion of vectors, are key strategies for protecting workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Magnavita
- Post-Graduate School of Occupational Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Department of Science of Woman, Child & Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Agostino Gemelli IRCSS, 00168 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-34-7330-0367
| | - Ilaria Capitanelli
- Prevention Service in the Workplace (SPRESAL), Local Health Unit Roma 4, 00053 Civitavecchia, Italy;
| | - Olayinka Ilesanmi
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan 200281, Nigeria;
| | - Francesco Chirico
- Post-Graduate School of Occupational Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 00168 Rome, Italy;
- Health Service Department, Italian State Police, Ministry of the Interior, 20123 Milan, Italy
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Karvonen K, Nykky J, Marjomäki V, Gilbert L. Distinctive Evasion Mechanisms to Allow Persistence of Borrelia burgdorferi in Different Human Cell Lines. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:711291. [PMID: 34712208 PMCID: PMC8546339 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.711291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lyme borreliosis is a multisystemic disease caused by the pleomorphic bacteria of the Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato complex. The exact mechanisms for the infection to progress into a prolonged sequelae of the disease are currently unknown, although immune evasion and persistence of the bacteria in the host are thought to be major contributors. The current study investigated B. burgdorferi infection processes in two human cell lines, both non-immune and non-phagocytic, to further understand the mechanisms of infection of this bacterium. By utilizing light, confocal, helium ion, and transmission electron microscopy, borrelial infection of chondrosarcoma (SW1353) and dermal fibroblast (BJ) cells were examined from an early 30-min time point to a late 9-days post-infection. Host cell invasion, viability of both the host and B. burgdorferi, as well as, co-localization with lysosomes and the presence of different borrelial pleomorphic forms were analyzed. The results demonstrated differences of infection between the cell lines starting from early entry as B. burgdorferi invaded BJ cells in coiled forms with less pronounced host cell extensions, whereas in SW1353 cells, micropodial interactions with spirochetes were always seen. Moreover, infection of BJ cells increased in a dose dependent manner throughout the examined 9 days, while the percentage of infection, although dose dependent, decreased in SW1353 cells after reaching a peak at 48 h. Furthermore, blebs, round body and damaged B. burgdorferi forms, were mostly observed from the infected SW1353 cells, while spirochetes dominated in BJ cells. Both infected host cell lines grew and remained viable after 9 day post-infection. Although damaged forms were noticed in both cell lines, co-localization with lysosomes was low in both cell lines, especially in BJ cells. The invasion of non-phagocytic cells and the lack of cytopathic effects onto the host cells by B. burgdorferi indicated one mechanism of immune evasion for the bacteria. The differences in attachment, pleomorphic form expressions, and the lack of lysosomal involvement between the infected host cells likely explain the ability of a bacterium to adapt to different environments, as well as, a strategy for persistence inside a host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kati Karvonen
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Jonna Nykky
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | - Varpu Marjomäki
- Department of Biological and Environmental Science, Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
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Lyme arthritis: linking infection, inflammation and autoimmunity. Nat Rev Rheumatol 2021; 17:449-461. [PMID: 34226730 PMCID: PMC9488587 DOI: 10.1038/s41584-021-00648-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Infectious agents can trigger autoimmune responses in a number of chronic inflammatory diseases. Lyme arthritis, which is caused by the tick-transmitted spirochaete Borrelia burgdorferi, is effectively treated in most patients with antibiotic therapy; however, in a subset of patients, arthritis can persist and worsen after the spirochaete has been killed (known as post-infectious Lyme arthritis). This Review details the current understanding of the pathogenetic events in Lyme arthritis, from initial infection in the skin, through infection of the joints, to post-infectious chronic inflammatory arthritis. The central feature of post-infectious Lyme arthritis is an excessive, dysregulated pro-inflammatory immune response during the infection phase that persists into the post-infectious period. This response is characterized by high amounts of IFNγ and inadequate amounts of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. The consequences of this dysregulated pro-inflammatory response in the synovium include impaired tissue repair, vascular damage, autoimmune and cytotoxic processes, and fibroblast proliferation and fibrosis. These synovial characteristics are similar to those in other chronic inflammatory arthritides, including rheumatoid arthritis. Thus, post-infectious Lyme arthritis provides a model for other chronic autoimmune or autoinflammatory arthritides in which complex immune responses can be triggered and shaped by an infectious agent in concert with host genetic factors.
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Groshong AM, Grassmann AA, Luthra A, McLain MA, Provatas AA, Radolf JD, Caimano MJ. PlzA is a bifunctional c-di-GMP biosensor that promotes tick and mammalian host-adaptation of Borrelia burgdorferi. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1009725. [PMID: 34265024 PMCID: PMC8323883 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we examined the relationship between c-di-GMP and its only known effector protein, PlzA, in Borrelia burgdorferi during the arthropod and mammalian phases of the enzootic cycle. Using a B. burgdorferi strain expressing a plzA point mutant (plzA-R145D) unable to bind c-di-GMP, we confirmed that the protective function of PlzA in ticks is c-di-GMP-dependent. Unlike ΔplzA spirochetes, which are severely attenuated in mice, the plzA-R145D strain was fully infectious, firmly establishing that PlzA serves a c-di-GMP-independent function in mammals. Contrary to prior reports, loss of PlzA did not affect expression of RpoS or RpoS-dependent genes, which are essential for transmission, mammalian host-adaptation and murine infection. To ascertain the nature of PlzA's c-di-GMP-independent function(s), we employed infection models using (i) host-adapted mutant spirochetes for needle inoculation of immunocompetent mice and (ii) infection of scid mice with in vitro-grown organisms. Both approaches substantially restored ΔplzA infectivity, suggesting that PlzA enables B. burgdorferi to overcome an early bottleneck to infection. Furthermore, using a Borrelia strain expressing a heterologous, constitutively active diguanylate cyclase, we demonstrate that 'ectopic' production of c-di-GMP in mammals abrogates spirochete virulence and interferes with RpoS function at the post-translational level in a PlzA-dependent manner. Structural modeling and SAXS analysis of liganded- and unliganded-PlzA revealed marked conformational changes that underlie its biphasic functionality. This structural plasticity likely enables PlzA to serve as a c-di-GMP biosensor that in its respective liganded and unliganded states promote vector- and host-adaptation by the Lyme disease spirochete.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley M. Groshong
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - André A. Grassmann
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Amit Luthra
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Melissa A. McLain
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Anthony A. Provatas
- Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Justin D. Radolf
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Genetics and Genome Science, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Immunology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
| | - Melissa J. Caimano
- Department of Medicine, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Pediatrics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut, United States of America
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Vertigo as One of the Symptoms of Lyme Disease. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10132814. [PMID: 34202339 PMCID: PMC8268226 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10132814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency of vertigo symptoms and potential labyrinth damage in patients with diagnosed Lyme disease (LD). LD can affect the vestibulocochlear nerve, leading to hearing loss and vertigo/dizziness. Material and Methods: The study included a group of 38 patients between the ages of 20 and 77, who were hospitalized due to vertigo/dizziness between 2018 and 2019. All of the patients underwent a detailed medical interview and an otolaryngological and neurological examination, including video electronystagmography (VENG), in addition to audiological and diagnostic tests. Additionally, ELISA and Western blot tests were performed to confirm the diagnosis of LD. Results: In 20 patients (53%), the Romberg trial was positive (p < 0.001). The degree of vestibular dysfunction as shown by the VENG test was associated with the rate of hearing loss as confirmed by the Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) test (p = 0.011), and it mainly concerned high-frequency sounds (p = 0.014). Conclusion: Vertigo can be a symptom of LD. It is often associated with labyrinth and hearing-organ damage, which can imply that the inner ear or nerve VIII is dysfunctional in the course of this disease. Antibiotic therapy is effective in reducing otoneurological symptoms.
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Ford L, Tufts DM. Lyme Neuroborreliosis: Mechanisms of B. burgdorferi Infection of the Nervous System. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11060789. [PMID: 34203671 PMCID: PMC8232152 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11060789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Lyme borreliosis is the most prevalent tick-borne disease in the United States, infecting ~476,000 people annually. Borrelia spp. spirochetal bacteria are the causative agents of Lyme disease in humans and are transmitted by Ixodes spp ticks. Clinical manifestations vary depending on which Borrelia genospecies infects the patient and may be a consequence of distinct organotropism between species. In the US, B. burgdorferi sensu stricto is the most commonly reported genospecies and infection can manifest as mild to severe symptoms. Different genotypes of B. burgdorferi sensu stricto may be responsible for causing varying degrees of clinical manifestations. While the majority of Lyme borreliae-infected patients fully recover with antibiotic treatment, approximately 15% of infected individuals experience long-term neurological and psychological symptoms that are unresponsive to antibiotics. Currently, long-term antibiotic treatment remains the only FDA-approved option for those suffering from these chronic effects. Here, we discuss the current knowledge pertaining to B. burgdorferi sensu stricto infection in the central nervous system (CNS), termed Lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB), within North America and specifically the United States. We explore the molecular mechanisms of spirochete entry into the brain and the role B. burgdorferi sensu stricto genotypes play in CNS infectivity. Understanding infectivity can provide therapeutic targets for LNB treatment and offer public health understanding of the B. burgdorferi sensu stricto genotypes that cause long-lasting symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenzie Ford
- Neuroscience Research Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
- Correspondence: (L.F.); (D.M.T.)
| | - Danielle M. Tufts
- Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Department, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
- Correspondence: (L.F.); (D.M.T.)
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