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Bergersen KV, Kavvathas B, Ford BD, Wilson EH. Toxoplasma infection induces an aged neutrophil population in the CNS that is associated with neuronal protection. J Neuroinflammation 2024; 21:189. [PMID: 39095837 PMCID: PMC11297776 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-024-03176-7] [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: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infection with the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii leads to the formation of lifelong cysts in neurons that can have devastating consequences in the immunocompromised. In the immunocompetent individual, anti-parasitic effector mechanisms and a balanced immune response characterized by pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine production establishes an asymptomatic infection that rarely leads to neurological symptoms. Several mechanisms are known to play a role in this successful immune response in the brain including T cell production of IFNγ and IL-10 and the involvement of CNS resident cells. This limitation of clinical neuropathology during chronic infection suggests a balance between immune response and neuroprotective mechanisms that collectively prevent clinical manifestations of disease. However, how these two vital mechanisms of protection interact during chronic Toxoplasma infection remains poorly understood. MAIN TEXT This study demonstrates a previously undescribed connection between innate neutrophils found chronically in the brain, termed "chronic brain neutrophils" (CBNeuts), and neuroprotective mechanisms during Toxoplasma infection. Lack of CBNeuts during chronic infection, accomplished via systemic neutrophil depletion, led to enhanced infection and deleterious effects on neuronal regeneration and repair mechanisms in the brain. Phenotypic and transcriptomic analysis of CBNeuts identified them as distinct from peripheral neutrophils and revealed two main subsets of CBNeuts that display heterogeneity towards both classical effector and neuroprotective functions in an age-dependent manner. Further phenotypic profiling defined expression of the neuroprotective molecules NRG-1 andErbB4 by these cells, and the importance of this signaling pathway during chronic infection was demonstrated via NRG-1 treatment studies. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, this work identifies CBNeuts as a heterogenous population geared towards both classical immune responses and neuroprotection during chronic Toxoplasma infection and provides the foundation for future mechanistic studies of these cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina V Bergersen
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Bill Kavvathas
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Byron D Ford
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA
- College of Medicine, Howard University, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Emma H Wilson
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, USA.
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2
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Barros Oliveira CV, Paulino da Silva ME, de Lima JR, Tavares Moreira AM, Mendes Brito MJ, Coelho Gonçalves CA, Lemos de Barros JE, de Oliveira RM, Kamdem JP, Barros LM, Duarte AE. Correlations between the degree of infection by wild strain of Toxoplasma gondii in vitro and porcine hematological parameters. Exp Parasitol 2024; 261:108754. [PMID: 38636935 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2024.108754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
The apicomplexa Toxoplasma gondii is capable of actively proliferating in numerous types of nucleated cells, and therefore has a high potential for dissemination and resistance. Thus, the present work aimed to correlate the inoculum concentrations and amount of post-infection parasites with porcine hematological parameters (including biochemistry) through in vitro culture. Porcine blood was incubated with different concentrations of parasites (1.2 × 107, 6/3/1.5 × 106 cells/mL), then the concentrations of red blood cells (RBC) and their morphology, total and differential leukocytes, and free peptides were evaluated. In addition, eight different blood samples analyzed before inoculation, where subsequent multivariate analysis was applied to correlate different variables with trophozoite concentration. The results showed no significant variation (p < 0.05) in the relative levels of free peptides, or the relative percentage of RBC at all the parasite concentrations tested. However, the normalized percentages of leukocytes and neutrophils showed a significant reduction, while those of lymphocytes, eosinophils and monocytes showed the opposite behavior. Semi-automatic processing of images exhibited significant microcytosis and hypochromia. The multivariate analysis revealed a positive correlation between the amount number of protozoa (AP) and the variables: "Red cells" and "Neutrophils", an indifference between the AP and the content of free peptides, and the concentration of monocytes in the samples; and a negative correlation for AP and the percentages of lymphocytes and eosinophils. Our results suggest that specific changes in hematological parameters may be associated with different degrees of parasitemia, demanding a thorough diagnostic process and adequate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Elenilda Paulino da Silva
- Laboratory for Research and Diagnosis of Tropical Diseases - LPDDT, Federal University of Pernambuco - UFPE, Recife, 50670-901, Brazil
| | - Jailson Renato de Lima
- Laboratory of Agricultural Entomology - LEA, Federal University of Cariri, Crato, 63113-140, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Amanda Maria Tavares Moreira
- Laboratory of Biology and Toxicology - BIOTOX, Regional University of Cariri - URCA, Crato, 63105-000, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Maria Jéssica Mendes Brito
- Center for Biological and Health Sciences - CCBS, Department of Biological Sciences, Regional University of Cariri - URCA, 63105-000, Crato, Ceara, Brazil
| | - Cicera Alane Coelho Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Semi-Arid Bioprospecting and Alternative Methods- LABSEMA, Regional University of Cariri - URCA, Crato, 63105-000, Ceará, Brazil
| | - João Eudes Lemos de Barros
- Laboratory of Pharmacology and Molecular Chemistry, Regional University of Cariri - URCA, Crato, 63105-000, Ceará, Brazil
| | | | - Jean Paul Kamdem
- Laboratory of Biology and Toxicology - BIOTOX, Regional University of Cariri - URCA, Crato, 63105-000, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Luiz Marivando Barros
- Laboratory of Plant Ecophysiology - LECOV, Regional University of Cariri - URCA, Crato, 63105-000, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Antonia Eliene Duarte
- Laboratory of Biology and Toxicology - BIOTOX, Regional University of Cariri - URCA, Crato, 63105-000, Ceará, Brazil
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3
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Yao Y, Yuan Y, Sheng S, Li Y, Tang X, Gu H. Observing astrocyte polarization in brains from mouse chronically infected with Toxoplasma gondii. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10433. [PMID: 38714696 PMCID: PMC11076485 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60304-2] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a protozoan parasite that infects approximately one-third of the global human population, often leading to chronic infection. While acute T. gondii infection can cause neural damage in the central nervous system and result in toxoplasmic encephalitis, the consequences of T. gondii chronic infection (TCI) are generally asymptomatic. However, emerging evidence suggests that TCI may be linked to behavioral changes or mental disorders in hosts. Astrocyte polarization, particularly the A1 subtype associated with neuronal apoptosis, has been identified in various neurodegenerative diseases. Nevertheless, the role of astrocyte polarization in TCI still needs to be better understood. This study aimed to establish a mouse model of chronic TCI and examine the transcription and expression levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), C3, C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α in the brain tissues of the mice. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blotting were employed to assess these levels. Additionally, the expression level of the A1 astrocyte-specific marker C3 was evaluated using indirect fluorescent assay (IFA). In mice with TCI, the transcriptional and expression levels of the inflammatory factors C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α followed an up-down-up pattern, although they remained elevated compared to the control group. These findings suggest a potential association between astrocyte polarization towards the A1 subtype and synchronized changes in these three inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, immunofluorescence assay (IFA) revealed a significant increase in the A1 astrocytes (GFAP+C3+) proportion in TCI mice. This study provides evidence that TCI can induce astrocyte polarization, a biological process that may be influenced by changes in the levels of three inflammatory factors: C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α. Additionally, the release of neurotoxic substances by A1 astrocytes may be associated with the development of TCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yao
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
| | - Yaping Yuan
- Department of Medicine, Anhui College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhu, 241002, Anhui, China
| | - Shuyan Sheng
- First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yifan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Xiaoniu Tang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241002, Anhui, China
| | - Hao Gu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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4
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Yao Y, Shi T, Shu P, Zhang Y, Gu H. Toxoplasma gondii infection and brain inflammation: A two-sample mendelian randomization analysis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24228. [PMID: 38234880 PMCID: PMC10792577 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii is an opportunistic parasitic protozoan that can cause highly fatal toxoplasmic encephalitis when the host immune system is compromised. However, the transition from chronic to acute infection remains poorly understood. In this study, we conducted a 180-day observation of tissue damage and inflammation in the brains of mice infected with T. gondii. Subsequently, we investigated the inflammatory factors that T. gondii infection may alter using two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. Methods We first established a mouse model of T. gondii infection. Subsequently, the mice were euthanized, the brain tissue collected, and immunohistochemistry and hematoxylin and eosin staining performed to observe tissue damage and inflammatory conditions at various time points. Our study also included a published large-scale genome-wide association study meta-analysis that encompassed the circulating concentrations of 41 cytokines. This dataset included 8293 individuals from three independent population cohorts in Finland. Genetic association data for T. gondii were sourced from the Integrative Epidemiology Unit and European Bioinformatics Institute datasets, which included 5010 and 559 individuals of European ancestry, respectively. To assess the causal relationship between T. gondii infection and inflammatory biomarkers, we applied a two-sample MR. Results Inflammation and damage resulting from T. gondii infection varied among the distinct regions of the mouse brain. Based on the MR analysis results, three inflammatory biomarkers were chemically assigned to Chemokines and Others, including IP10 (interferon gamma inducible protein-10), MCP1 (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1), and TRAIL (TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand). Conclusion Our study commenced with the assessment of tissue damage and progression of inflammation in distinct regions of the mouse brain after T. gondii infection. Subsequently, using MR analysis, we detected potential alterations in inflammatory factors associated with this infection. These findings offer valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying toxoplasmic encephalitis and suggest directions for the prevention and treatment of T. gondii infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yao
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Taiyu Shi
- First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Panyin Shu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, China
| | - Yixin Zhang
- First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hao Gu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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5
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Macedo IS, Lara FA, Barbosa HS, Saraiva EM, Menna-Barreto RFS, Mariante RM. Human neutrophil extracellular traps do not impair in vitro Toxoplasma gondii infection. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1282278. [PMID: 38115994 PMCID: PMC10728484 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1282278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Toxoplasma gondii, responsible for causing toxoplasmosis, is a prevalent food and waterborne pathogen worldwide. It commonly infects warm-blooded animals and affects more than a third of the global human population. Once ingested, the parasite enters the host's small intestine and rapidly disseminates throughout the body via the bloodstream, infiltrating various tissues. Leukocyte-driven responses are vital against T. gondii, with neutrophils playing a dual role: swiftly recruited to infection sites, releasing inflammatory mediators, and serving as a replication hub and Trojan horses, aiding parasite spread. Neutrophils from various hosts release extracellular traps (NETs) against the protozoan. However, gaps persist regarding the mechanisms of NETs production to parasite and their significance in infection control. This study investigates the interplay between human neutrophils and T. gondii, exploring dynamics, key molecules, and signaling pathways involved in NETs production upon protozoan challenge. Methods and Results Using confocal and electron microscopy, live cell imaging, pharmacological inhibitors, and DNA quantification assays, we find that human neutrophils promptly release both classical and rapid NETs upon pathogen stimulation. The NETs structure exhibits diverse phenotypes over time and is consistently associated with microorganisms. Mechanisms involve neutrophil elastase and peptidylarginine deiminase, along with intracellular calcium signaling and the PI3K pathway. Unexpectedly, human traps do not diminish viability or infectivity, but potentially aid in capturing parasites for subsequent neutrophil phagocytosis and elimination. Discussion By revealing NETs formation mechanisms and their nuanced impact on T. gondii infection dynamics, our findings contribute to broader insights into host-pathogen relationships.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabela S. Macedo
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Flávio A. Lara
- Laboratório de Microbiologia Celular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Helene S. Barbosa
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Elvira M. Saraiva
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia das Leishmanioses, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Rafael M. Mariante
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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6
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Bergersen KV, Ramirez AD, Kavvathas B, Mercer F, Wilson EH. Human neutrophil-like cells demonstrate antimicrobial responses to the chronic cyst form of Toxoplasma gondii. Parasite Immunol 2023; 45:e13011. [PMID: 37776091 PMCID: PMC11246559 DOI: 10.1111/pim.13011] [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: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii infects approximately 2.5 billion people worldwide. Infection induces a rapid dissemination of parasites throughout the body followed by the formation of lifelong cysts within neurons of the host brain. Both stages require a dynamic immune response comprised of both innate and adaptive cells. Neutrophils are a primary responding cell to acute infection and have been observed in the brain during murine chronic infection. Previous studies investigating human neutrophils found that invasion by Toxoplasma tachyzoites inhibits apoptosis of neutrophils, prolonging their survival under inflammatory conditions. Here, we demonstrate the differentiation of two distinct subsets following exposure of human neutrophil-like-cells (HNLC) to Toxoplasma cysts. In vitro stimulation and imaging studies show cyst-specific induction of cytokines and cyst clearance by HNLCs. Further testing demonstrates that aged HNLCs perform less phagocytosis of cysts compared to non-aged HNLCs. In conclusion, this study identifies a novel response of HNLCs to Toxoplasma cysts and may indicate a role for neutrophils in the clearance of cysts during human infection with Toxoplasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina V. Bergersen
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States of America
| | - Ashley D. Ramirez
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
| | - Bill Kavvathas
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States of America
| | - Frances Mercer
- Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
| | - Emma H. Wilson
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, United States of America
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7
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Murillo-León M, Bastidas-Quintero AM, Endres NS, Schnepf D, Delgado-Betancourt E, Ohnemus A, Taylor GA, Schwemmle M, Staeheli P, Steinfeldt T. IFN-λ is protective against lethal oral Toxoplasma gondii infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.24.529861. [PMID: 36865100 PMCID: PMC9980175 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.24.529861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/27/2023]
Abstract
Interferons are essential for innate and adaptive immune responses against a wide variety of pathogens. Interferon lambda (IFN-λ) protects mucosal barriers during pathogen exposure. The intestinal epithelium is the first contact site for Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) with its hosts and the first defense line that limits parasite infection. Knowledge of very early T. gondii infection events in the gut tissue is limited and a possible contribution of IFN-λ has not been investigated so far. Here, we demonstrate with systemic interferon lambda receptor (IFNLR1) and conditional (Villin-Cre) knockout mouse models and bone marrow chimeras of oral T. gondii infection and mouse intestinal organoids a significant impact of IFN-λ signaling in intestinal epithelial cells and neutrophils to T. gondii control in the gastrointestinal tract. Our results expand the repertoire of interferons that contribute to the control of T. gondii and may lead to novel therapeutic approaches against this world-wide zoonotic pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mateo Murillo-León
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Aura M. Bastidas-Quintero
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Niklas S. Endres
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Current address:Institute of Virology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Daniel Schnepf
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Current address: Immunoregulation Laboratory, The Francis Crick Institute, London, UK
| | | | - Annette Ohnemus
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Gregory A. Taylor
- Departments of Medicine; Molecular Genetics and Microbiology; and Immunology; and Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development, Duke University Medical Center, NC 27710 Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Durham VA Health Care System, NC 27705 Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Martin Schwemmle
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Peter Staeheli
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Steinfeldt
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
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8
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Velásquez ZD, Peixoto R, Gärtner U, Hermosilla C, Taubert A, Conejeros I. Dynamics of cell cycle proteins involved in Toxoplasma gondii-induced bovine NET formation. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1125667. [PMID: 36875070 PMCID: PMC9981159 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1125667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NET) formation is one important host innate defense mechanism elicited by polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN). NETs are composed by chromatin and proteins with microbicidal and signaling activity. So far, there is one report on Toxoplasma gondii-triggered NETs in cattle, however, exact mechanisms, including signalling pathways and dynamics governing this reaction remain largely unknown. Recently, involvement of cell cycle proteins was demonstrated for phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)-triggered human PMN-derived NETs. Here, we studied the involvement of cell cycle proteins in T. gondii-induced NETs in exposed bovine PMN. Through confocal and transmission electron microscopy we discovered that Ki-67 and lamin B1 signals are upregulated and relocated during T. gondii-induced NETosis. Nuclear membrane disruption was also observed as a hallmark of NET formation in bovine PMN confronted with viable T. gondii tachyzoites, mimicking some steps of mitosis. However, we did not observe centrosome duplication as previously described for human PMN-derived NET formation stimulated with PMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahady D Velásquez
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Raquel Peixoto
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Gärtner
- Institute of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Carlos Hermosilla
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Anja Taubert
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Iván Conejeros
- Institute of Parasitology, Biomedical Research Center Seltersberg (BFS), Justus Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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9
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Figueiredo CA, Düsedau HP, Steffen J, Ehrentraut S, Dunay MP, Toth G, Reglödi D, Heimesaat MM, Dunay IR. The neuropeptide PACAP alleviates T. gondii infection-induced neuroinflammation and neuronal impairment. J Neuroinflammation 2022; 19:274. [PMCID: PMC9675261 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-022-02639-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cerebral infection with the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is responsible for inflammation of the central nervous system (CNS) contributing to subtle neuronal alterations. Albeit essential for brain parasite control, continuous microglia activation and recruitment of peripheral immune cells entail distinct neuronal impairment upon infection-induced neuroinflammation. PACAP is an endogenous neuropeptide known to inhibit inflammation and promote neuronal survival. Since PACAP is actively transported into the CNS, we aimed to assess the impact of PACAP on the T. gondii-induced neuroinflammation and subsequent effects on neuronal homeostasis. Methods Exogenous PACAP was administered intraperitoneally in the chronic stage of T. gondii infection, and brains were isolated for histopathological analysis and determination of pathogen levels. Immune cells from the brain, blood, and spleen were analyzed by flow cytometry, and the further production of inflammatory mediators was investigated by intracellular protein staining as well as expression levels by RT-qPCR. Neuronal and synaptic alterations were assessed on the transcriptional and protein level, focusing on neurotrophins, neurotrophin-receptors and signature synaptic markers. Results Here, we reveal that PACAP administration reduced the inflammatory foci and the number of apoptotic cells in the brain parenchyma and restrained the activation of microglia and recruitment of monocytes. The neuropeptide reduced the expression of inflammatory mediators such as IFN-γ, IL-6, iNOS, and IL-1β. Moreover, PACAP diminished IFN-γ production by recruited CD4+ T cells in the CNS. Importantly, PACAP promoted neuronal health via increased expression of the neurotrophin BDNF and reduction of p75NTR, a receptor related to neuronal cell death. In addition, PACAP administration was associated with increased expression of transporters involved in glutamatergic and GABAergic signaling that are particularly affected during cerebral toxoplasmosis. Conclusions Together, our findings unravel the beneficial effects of exogenous PACAP treatment upon infection-induced neuroinflammation, highlighting the potential implication of neuropeptides to promote neuronal survival and minimize synaptic prejudice. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12974-022-02639-z.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Andreeta Figueiredo
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-Von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Henning Peter Düsedau
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-Von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Steffen
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-Von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Ehrentraut
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-Von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Miklos P. Dunay
- grid.483037.b0000 0001 2226 5083Department and Clinic of Surgery and Ophthalmology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabor Toth
- grid.9008.10000 0001 1016 9625Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglödi
- grid.9679.10000 0001 0663 9479Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team and Szentagothai Research Center, University of Pecs Medical School, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Markus M. Heimesaat
- grid.6363.00000 0001 2218 4662Institute of Microbiology, Infectious Diseases and Immunology, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ildiko Rita Dunay
- grid.5807.a0000 0001 1018 4307Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Health Campus Immunology, Infectiology and Inflammation (GC-I3), Otto-Von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany ,grid.418723.b0000 0001 2109 6265Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences – CBBS, Magdeburg, Germany
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10
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Pan M, Ge CC, Fan YM, Jin QW, Shen B, Huang SY. The determinants regulating Toxoplasma gondii bradyzoite development. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1027073. [PMID: 36439853 PMCID: PMC9691885 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1027073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular zoonotic pathogen capable of infecting almost all cells of warm-blooded vertebrates. In intermediate hosts, this parasite reproduces asexually in two forms, the tachyzoite form during acute infection that proliferates rapidly and the bradyzoite form during chronic infection that grows slowly. Depending on the growth condition, the two forms can interconvert. The conversion of tachyzoites to bradyzoites is critical for T. gondii transmission, and the reactivation of persistent bradyzoites in intermediate hosts may lead to symptomatic toxoplasmosis. However, the mechanisms that control bradyzoite differentiation have not been well studied. Here, we review recent advances in the study of bradyzoite biology and stage conversion, aiming to highlight the determinants associated with bradyzoite development and provide insights to design better strategies for controlling toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Pan
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ceng-Ceng Ge
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China
| | - Yi-Min Fan
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China
| | - Qi-Wang Jin
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China
| | - Bang Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Si-Yang Huang
- Institute of Comparative Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Zoonosis, Jiangsu Co-innovation Center for Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou, China
- Joint International Research Laboratory of Agriculture and Agri-Product Safety, The Ministry of Education of China, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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11
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Coulibaly AP. Neutrophil modulation of behavior and cognition in health and disease: The unexplored role of an innate immune cell. Immunol Rev 2022; 311:177-186. [PMID: 35924463 PMCID: PMC9804154 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Behavior and cognition are multifaceted processes influenced by genetics, synaptic plasticity, and neuronal connectivity. Recent reports have demonstrated that peripheral inflammation and peripheral immune cells play important roles in the preservation and deterioration of behavior/cognition under various conditions. Indeed, several studies show that the activity of peripheral immune cells can be critical for normal cognitive function. Neutrophils are the most abundant immune cells in the mammalian system. Their activation is critical to the initiation of the inflammatory process and critical for wound healing. Neutrophils are the first cells to be activated and recruited to the central nervous system in both injury and disease. However, our understanding of the role these cells play in behavior and cognition is limited. The present review will summarize what is currently known about the effect the activation of these cells has on various behaviors and cognitive processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aminata P. Coulibaly
- Department of NeuroscienceRockefeller Neuroscience InstituteWest Virginia UniversityMorgantownWest VirginiaUSA
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12
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DeSouza-Vieira T. The metamorphosis of neutrophil transcriptional program during Leishmania infection. Parasite Immunol 2022; 44:e12922. [PMID: 35437801 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The role of neutrophils in the course of Leishmania infection remains controversial, displaying tremendous variability depending on the species of parasite, stage of infection, host genetic background, and methodological discrepancies among studies. Although neutrophils have long been categorized as short-lived cells with limited capacity to express proteins de novo, recent advances have revealed significant plasticity in neutrophil transcriptional programs and intrapopulation heterogeneity, which can be regulated by both intrinsic and extrinsic factors that together determine the profile of neutrophil effector response. In this review, we focus on the current understanding of neutrophil transcriptional plasticity, neutrotime, evidence of Leishmania-mediated alterations in neutrophil transcriptome leading to the rise of subpopulations, and finally, functional implications of those findings to the course of Leishmania infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago DeSouza-Vieira
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular de Proteases, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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13
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Nayeri T, Sarvi S, Daryani A. Toxoplasmosis: Targeting neurotransmitter systems in psychiatric disorders. Metab Brain Dis 2022; 37:123-146. [PMID: 34476718 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00824-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The most common form of the disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is latent toxoplasmosis due to the formation of tissue cysts in various organs, such as the brain. Latent toxoplasmosis is probably a risk factor in the development of some neuropsychiatric disorders. Behavioral changes after infection are caused by the host immune response, manipulation by the parasite, central nervous system (CNS) inflammation, as well as changes in hormonal and neuromodulator relationships. The present review focused on the exact mechanisms of T. gondii effect on the alteration of behavior and neurotransmitter levels, their catabolites and metabolites, as well as the interaction between immune responses and this parasite in the etiopathogenesis of psychiatric disorders. The dysfunction of neurotransmitters in the neural transmission is associated with several neuropsychiatric disorders. However, further intensive studies are required to determine the effect of this parasite on altering the level of neurotransmitters and the role of neurotransmitters in the etiology of host behavioral changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tooran Nayeri
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shahabeddin Sarvi
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
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14
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Analogs of marinopyrrole A show enhancement to observed in vitro potency against acute Toxoplasma gondii infection. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2021; 66:e0079421. [PMID: 34662196 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00794-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii is the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, a globally distributed infection with severe clinical consequences for immunocompromised individuals and developing fetuses. There are few available treatments, and these are associated with potentially severe adverse effects. Marinopyrrole A, a compound discovered in a marine Streptomyces species, has previously been found to exhibit potent antimicrobial activity, prompting our interest in exploring efficacy against Toxoplasma gondii. We found that marinopyrrole A was a highly potent anti-Toxoplasma molecule, with an in vitro 50% maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 0.31 μM corresponding to a higher potency than that of the current standard of care (pyrimethamine); however, addition of 20% serum led to abrogation of potency, and toxicity to human cell lines was observed. Yet, application of marinopyrrole A to an in vivo lethal acute infection model facilitated significantly enhanced survival at doses of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg. We then tested a series of marinopyrrole A analogs-RL002, RL003, and RL125-demonstrating significantly increased potency in vitro, with IC50 values ranging from 0.09-0.17 μM (3.6-6.8X increase relative to pyrimethamine). No detectable cytotoxicity was observed up to 50 μM in human foreskin fibroblasts, with cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells ranging from ∼28-50 μM, corresponding to >200X selectivity for parasites over host cells. All analogs additionally showed reduced sensitivity to serum. Further, RL003 potently inhibited in vitro-generated bradyzoites at 0.245 μM. Taken together, these data support further development of marinopyrrole A analogs as promising anti-Toxoplasma molecules to further combat this prevalent infection.
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15
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Matta SK, Rinkenberger N, Dunay IR, Sibley LD. Toxoplasma gondii infection and its implications within the central nervous system. Nat Rev Microbiol 2021; 19:467-480. [PMID: 33627834 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-021-00518-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite that infects a wide range of animals and causes zoonotic infections in humans. Although it normally only results in mild illness in healthy individuals, toxoplasmosis is a common opportunistic infection with high mortality in individuals who are immunocompromised, most commonly due to reactivation of infection in the central nervous system. In the acute phase of infection, interferon-dependent immune responses control rapid parasite expansion and mitigate acute disease symptoms. However, after dissemination the parasite differentiates into semi-dormant cysts that form within muscle cells and neurons, where they persist for life in the infected host. Control of infection in the central nervous system, a compartment of immune privilege, relies on modified immune responses that aim to balance infection control while limiting potential damage due to inflammation. In response to the activation of interferon-mediated pathways, the parasite deploys an array of effector proteins to escape immune clearance and ensure latent survival. Although these pathways are best studied in the laboratory mouse, emerging evidence points to unique mechanisms of control in human toxoplasmosis. In this Review, we explore some of these recent findings that extend our understanding for proliferation, establishment and control of toxoplasmosis in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit K Matta
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Nicholas Rinkenberger
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ildiko R Dunay
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - L David Sibley
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, School of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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16
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Tabrizi ZA, Khosrojerdi A, Aslani S, Hemmatzadeh M, Babaie F, Bairami A, Shomali N, Hosseinzadeh R, Safari R, Mohammadi H. Multi-facets of neutrophil extracellular trap in infectious diseases: Moving beyond immunity. Microb Pathog 2021; 158:105066. [PMID: 34174356 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2021.105066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 06/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are networks of extracellular chromosomal DNA fibers, histones, and cytoplasmic granule proteins. The release of NET components from neutrophils is involved in the suppression of pathogen diffusion. Development of NETs around target microbes leads to disruption of the cell membrane, eventuating in kind of cell death that is called as NETosis. The very first step in the process of NETosis is activation of Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase upon signaling by innate immune receptors. Afterwards, produced Reactive oxygen species (ROS) trigger protein-arginine deiminase type 4, neutrophil elastase, and myeloperoxidase to generate decondensed chromatin and disrupted integrity of nuclear membrane. Subsequently, decondensed chromatin is mixed with several enzymes in the cytoplasm released from granules, leading to release of DNA and histones, and finally formation of NET. Several reports have indicated that NETosis might contribute to the immune responses through limiting the dissemination of microbial organisms. In this review, we discuss recent advances on the role of neutrophils, NETs, and their implications in the pathogenesis of microbial infections. Additionally, the prospective of the NET modulation as a therapeutic strategy to treat infectious diseases are clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Azimzadeh Tabrizi
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Arezou Khosrojerdi
- Department of Immunology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Aslani
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Hemmatzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Farhad Babaie
- Department of Immunology and Genetic, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Amir Bairami
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Navid Shomali
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ramin Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roghaiyeh Safari
- Molecular and Cellular Epigenetics, GIGA, University of Liege, Sart-Tilman Liège, Belgium; Molecular and Cellular Biology, TERRA, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liege, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Hamed Mohammadi
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran; Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran.
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17
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In Vitro Selection Implicates ROP1 as a Resistance Gene for an Experimental Therapeutic Benzoquinone Acyl Hydrazone in Toxoplasma gondii. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2021; 65:AAC.01040-20. [PMID: 33361291 DOI: 10.1128/aac.01040-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a globally distributed apicomplexan parasite and the causative agent of toxoplasmosis in humans. While pharmaceuticals exist to combat acute infection, they can produce serious adverse reactions, demonstrating a need for enhanced therapies. KG8 is a benzoquinone acyl hydrazone chemotype identified from a previous chemical screen for which we previously showed in vitro and in vivo efficacy against T. gondii However, the genetic target and mechanism of action of KG8 remain unknown. To investigate potential targets, we generated resistant T. gondii lines by chemical mutagenesis followed by in vitro selection. Whole-genome sequencing of resistant clones revealed a P207S mutation in the gene encoding rhoptry organelle protein 1 (ROP1) in addition to two lesser resistance-conferring mutations in the genes for rhoptry organelle protein 8 (ROP8) and a putative ADP/ATP carrier protein (TGGT1_237700). Expressing ROP1P207S in parental parasites was sufficient to confer significant (10.3-fold increased half-maximal effective concentration [EC50]) KG8 resistance. After generating a library of mutants carrying hypermutated rop1 alleles followed by KG8 pressure, we sequenced the most resistant clonal isolate (>16.9-fold increased EC50) and found independent recapitulation of the P207S mutation, along with three additional mutations in the same region. We also demonstrate that a rop1 knockout strain is insensitive to KG8. These data implicate ROP1 as a putative resistance gene of KG8. This work further identifies a compound that can be used in future studies to better understand ROP1 function and highlights this novel chemotype as a potential scaffold for the development of improved T. gondii therapeutics.
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18
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Club Cell Protein 16 Attenuates CD16 brightCD62 dim Immunosuppressive Neutrophils in Damaged Tissue upon Posttraumatic Sepsis-Induced Lung Injury. J Immunol Res 2021; 2021:6647753. [PMID: 33575362 PMCID: PMC7861919 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6647753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Recently, identification of immunosuppressive polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNL) that were traditionally described as proinflammatory cells emerged in the field of posttraumatic immunity. To understand their local and remote distribution after trauma, PMNL-subsets and the impact of immunomodulatory Club Cell protein (CC)16 that correlates with pulmonary complications were assessed. Methods C57BL/6N mice were divided into three groups, receiving isolated blunt chest trauma (TxT), undergoing TxT followed by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP, TxT + CLP) after 24 h, or sham undergoing analgosedation (n = 18/group). Further, each group was subdivided into three groups receiving either no treatment (ctrl) or intratracheal neutralization of CC16 by application of anti-CC16-antibody or application of an unspecific IgG control antibody (n = 6/group). Treatment was set at the time point after TxT. Analyses followed 6 h post-CLP. PMNL were characterized via expression of CD11b, CD16, CD45, CD62L, and Ly6G by flow cytometry in bone marrow (BM), blood, spleen, lung, liver, and bronchoalveolar and peritoneal lavage fluid (BALF and PL). Apoptosis was assessed by activated (cleaved) caspase-3. Results from untreated ctrl and IgG-treated mice were statistically comparable between all corresponding sham, TxT, and TxT + CLP groups. Results Immature (CD16dimCD62Lbright) PMNL increased significantly in BM, circulation, and spleen after TxT vs. sham and were significantly attenuated in the lungs, BALF, PL, and liver. Classical-shaped (CD16brightCD62Lbright) PMNL increased after TxT vs. sham in peripheral tissue and were significantly attenuated in circulation, proposing a trauma-induced migration of mature or peripheral differentiation of circulating immature PMNL. Immunosuppressive (CD16brightCD62Ldim) PMNL decreased significantly in the lungs and spleen, while they systemically increased after TxT vs. sham. CLP in the TxT + CLP group reduced immunosuppressive PMNL in PL and increased their circulatory rate vs. isolated TxT, showing local reduction in affected tissue and their increase in nonaffected tissue. CC16 neutralization enhanced the fraction of immunosuppressive PMNL following TxT vs. sham and decreased caspase-3 in the lungs post-CLP in the TxT + CLP group, while apoptotic cells in the liver diminished post-TxT. Posttraumatic CC16 neutralization promotes the subset of immunosuppressive PMNL and antagonizes their posttraumatic distribution. Conclusion Since CC16 affects both the distribution of PMNL subsets and apoptosis in tissues after trauma, it may constitute as a novel target to beneficially shape the posttraumatic tissue microenvironment and homeostasis to improving outcomes.
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19
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Lima TS, Mallya S, Jankeel A, Messaoudi I, Lodoen MB. Toxoplasma gondii Extends the Life Span of Infected Human Neutrophils by Inducing Cytosolic PCNA and Blocking Activation of Apoptotic Caspases. mBio 2021; 12:e02031-20. [PMID: 33500339 PMCID: PMC7858050 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02031-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan parasite that has the remarkable ability to infect and replicate in neutrophils, immune cells with an arsenal of antimicrobial effector mechanisms. We report that T. gondii infection extends the life span of primary human peripheral blood neutrophils by delaying spontaneous apoptosis, serum starvation-induced apoptosis, and tumor necrosis alpha (TNF-α)-mediated apoptosis. T. gondii blockade of apoptosis was associated with an inhibition of processing and activation of the apoptotic caspases caspase-8 and -3, decreased phosphatidylserine exposure on the plasma membrane, and reduced cell death. We performed a global transcriptome analysis of T. gondii-infected peripheral blood neutrophils using RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) and identified gene expression changes associated with DNA replication and DNA repair pathways, which in mature neutrophils are indicative of changes in regulators of cell survival. Consistent with the RNA-Seq data, T. gondii infection upregulated transcript and protein expression of PCNA, which is found in the cytosol of human neutrophils, where it functions as a key inhibitor of apoptotic pro-caspases. Infection of neutrophils resulted in increased interaction of PCNA with pro-caspase-3. Inhibition of this interaction with an AlkB homologue 2 PCNA-interacting motif (APIM) peptide reversed the infection-induced delay in cell death. Taken together, these findings indicate a novel strategy by which T. gondii manipulates cell life span in primary human neutrophils, which may allow the parasite to maintain an intracellular replicative niche and avoid immune clearance.IMPORTANCEToxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that can cause life-threatening disease in immunocompromised individuals and in the developing fetus. Interestingly, T. gondii has evolved strategies to successfully manipulate the host immune system to establish a productive infection and evade host defense mechanisms. Although it is well documented that neutrophils are mobilized during acute T. gondii infection and infiltrate the site of infection, these cells can also be actively infected by T. gondii and serve as a replicative niche for the parasite. However, there is a limited understanding of the molecular processes occurring within T. gondii-infected neutrophils. This study reveals that T. gondii extends the life span of human neutrophils by inducing the expression of PCNA, which prevents activation of apoptotic caspases, thus delaying apoptosis. This strategy may allow the parasite to preserve its replicative intracellular niche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiane S Lima
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
- Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Sharmila Mallya
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
- Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Allen Jankeel
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
- Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Ilhem Messaoudi
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
- Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Melissa B Lodoen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
- Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
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20
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Macedo IS, Lima MVA, Souza JS, Rochael NC, Caldas PN, Barbosa HS, Lara FA, Saraiva EM, Mariante RM. Extracellular Traps Released by Neutrophils from Cats are Detrimental to Toxoplasma gondii Infectivity. Microorganisms 2020; 8:microorganisms8111628. [PMID: 33105542 PMCID: PMC7716220 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms8111628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, an infectious disease that affects over 30% of the human world population, causing fatal infections in immunocompromised individuals and neonates. The life cycle of T. gondii is complex, and involves intermediate hosts (birds and mammals) and definitive hosts (felines, including domestic cats). The innate immune repertoire against the parasite involves the production of neutrophil extracellular traps (NET), and neutrophils from several intermediate hosts produce NET induced by T. gondii. However, the mechanisms underlying NET release in response to the parasite have been poorly explored. Therefore, the aims of this study were to investigate whether neutrophils from cats produce NET triggered by T. gondii and to understand the mechanisms thereby involved. Neutrophils from cats were stimulated with T. gondii tachyzoites and NET-derived DNA in the supernatant was quantified during the time. The presence of histone H1 and myeloperoxidase was detected by immunofluorescence. We observed that cat neutrophils produce both classical and rapid/early NET stimulated by T. gondii. Inhibition of elastase, intracellular calcium, and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-δ partially blocked classical NET release in response to the parasite. Electron microscopy revealed strands and networks of DNA in close contact or completely entrapping parasites. Live imaging showed that tachyzoites are killed by NET. We conclude that the production of NET is a conserved strategy to control infection by T. gondii amongst intermediate and definitive hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabela S. Macedo
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil; (I.S.M.); (M.V.A.L.); (J.S.S.); (H.S.B.)
| | - Marcos V. A. Lima
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil; (I.S.M.); (M.V.A.L.); (J.S.S.); (H.S.B.)
| | - Jéssica S. Souza
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil; (I.S.M.); (M.V.A.L.); (J.S.S.); (H.S.B.)
| | - Natalia C. Rochael
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia das Leishmanioses, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil; (N.C.R.); (E.M.S.)
| | - Pedro N. Caldas
- HVN Hospital Veterinário Niterói, Niterói 24360-440, RJ, Brazil;
| | - Helene S. Barbosa
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil; (I.S.M.); (M.V.A.L.); (J.S.S.); (H.S.B.)
| | - Flávio A. Lara
- Laboratório de Microbiologia Celular, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil;
| | - Elvira M. Saraiva
- Laboratório de Imunobiologia das Leishmanioses, Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil; (N.C.R.); (E.M.S.)
| | - Rafael M. Mariante
- Laboratório de Biologia Estrutural, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil; (I.S.M.); (M.V.A.L.); (J.S.S.); (H.S.B.)
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +55-21-2562-1018
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21
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Debierre-Grockiego F, Moiré N, Torres Arias M, Dimier-Poisson I. Recent Advances in the Roles of Neutrophils in Toxoplasmosis. Trends Parasitol 2020; 36:956-958. [PMID: 32952059 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Neutrophils are now recognized as major components of the response to Toxoplasma gondii by their contribution to parasite elimination by a number of mechanisms. This article focuses on recent advances in the understanding of the mechanisms of migration, cytokine release, and formation of extracellular traps by neutrophils during toxoplasmosis.
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22
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Oschwald A, Petry P, Kierdorf K, Erny D. CNS Macrophages and Infant Infections. Front Immunol 2020; 11:2123. [PMID: 33072074 PMCID: PMC7531029 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.02123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The central nervous system (CNS) harbors its own immune system composed of microglia in the parenchyma and CNS-associated macrophages (CAMs) in the perivascular space, leptomeninges, dura mater, and choroid plexus. Recent advances in understanding the CNS resident immune cells gave new insights into development, maturation and function of its immune guard. Microglia and CAMs undergo essential steps of differentiation and maturation triggered by environmental factors as well as intrinsic transcriptional programs throughout embryonic and postnatal development. These shaping steps allow the macrophages to adapt to their specific physiological function as first line of defense of the CNS and its interfaces. During infancy, the CNS might be targeted by a plethora of different pathogens which can cause severe tissue damage with potentially long reaching defects. Therefore, an efficient immune response of infant CNS macrophages is required even at these early stages to clear the infections but may also lead to detrimental consequences for the developing CNS. Here, we highlight the recent knowledge of the infant CNS immune system during embryonic and postnatal infections and the consequences for the developing CNS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Oschwald
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Neuropathology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Philippe Petry
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Neuropathology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Faculty of Biology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Katrin Kierdorf
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Neuropathology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,CIBBS Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany.,Center for Basics in NeuroModulation (NeuroModulBasics), Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
| | - Daniel Erny
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Neuropathology, University of Freiburg, Freiburg, Germany
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23
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Stoyanov S, Sun W, Düsedau HP, Cangalaya C, Choi I, Mirzapourdelavar H, Baidoe-Ansah D, Kaushik R, Neumann J, Dunay IR, Dityatev A. Attenuation of the extracellular matrix restores microglial activity during the early stage of amyloidosis. Glia 2020; 69:182-200. [PMID: 32865286 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
In the advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease (AD), microglia are transformed to an activated phenotype with thickened and retracted processes, migrate to the site of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques, and proliferate. In the early stages of AD, it is still poorly understood whether the microglial function is altered and which factors may regulate these changes. Here, we focused on studying microglia in the retrosplenial cortex (RSC) in 3- to 4-month-old 5xFAD mice as a transgenic mouse model of AD. At this age, there are neither Aβ plaques, nor activation of microglia, nor dysregulation in the expression of genes encoding major extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules or extracellular proteases in the RSC. Still, histochemical evaluation of the fine structure of neural ECM revealed increased levels of Wisteria floribunda agglutinin labeling in holes of perineuronal nets and changes in the perimeter of ECM barriers around the holes in 5xFAD mice. Two-photon vital microscopy demonstrated normal morphology and resting motility of microglia but strongly diminished number of microglial cells that migrated to the photolesion site in 5xFAD mice. Enzymatic digestion of ECM by chondroitinase ABC (ChABC) ameliorated this defect. Accordingly, the characterization of cell surface markers by flow cytometry demonstrated altered expression of microglial CD45. Moreover, ChABC treatment reduced the invasion of myeloid-derived mononuclear cells into the RSC of 5xFAD mice. Hence, the migration of both microglia and myeloid cells is altered during the early stages of amyloidosis and can be restored at least partially by the attenuation of the ECM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stoyan Stoyanov
- Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Weilun Sun
- Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Henning Peter Düsedau
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Carla Cangalaya
- Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
- Institute of Biochemistry, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ilseob Choi
- Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Hadi Mirzapourdelavar
- Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - David Baidoe-Ansah
- Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Rahul Kaushik
- Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jens Neumann
- Department of Neurology, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ildiko Rita Dunay
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Alexander Dityatev
- Molecular Neuroplasticity, German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Magdeburg, Germany
- Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences (CBBS), Magdeburg, Germany
- Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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24
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Salvioni A, Belloy M, Lebourg A, Bassot E, Cantaloube-Ferrieu V, Vasseur V, Blanié S, Liblau RS, Suberbielle E, Robey EA, Blanchard N. Robust Control of a Brain-Persisting Parasite through MHC I Presentation by Infected Neurons. Cell Rep 2020; 27:3254-3268.e8. [PMID: 31189109 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.05.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Revised: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Control of CNS pathogens by CD8 T cells is key to avoid fatal neuroinflammation. Yet, the modalities of MHC I presentation in the brain are poorly understood. Here, we analyze the antigen presentation mechanisms underlying CD8 T cell-mediated control of the Toxoplasma gondii parasite in the CNS. We show that MHC I presentation of an efficiently processed model antigen (GRA6-OVA), even when not expressed in the bradyzoite stage, reduces cyst burden and dampens encephalitis in C57BL/6 mice. Antigen presentation assays with infected primary neurons reveal a correlation between lower MHC I presentation of tachyzoite antigens by neurons and poor parasite control in vivo. Using conditional MHC I-deficient mice, we find that neuronal MHC I presentation is required for robust restriction of T. gondii in the CNS during chronic phase, showing the importance of MHC I presentation by CNS neurons in the control of a prevalent brain pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Salvioni
- Center for Pathophysiology Toulouse-Purpan (CPTP), INSERM, CNRS, University of Toulouse, 31024 Toulouse, France
| | - Marcy Belloy
- Center for Pathophysiology Toulouse-Purpan (CPTP), INSERM, CNRS, University of Toulouse, 31024 Toulouse, France
| | - Aurore Lebourg
- Center for Pathophysiology Toulouse-Purpan (CPTP), INSERM, CNRS, University of Toulouse, 31024 Toulouse, France
| | - Emilie Bassot
- Center for Pathophysiology Toulouse-Purpan (CPTP), INSERM, CNRS, University of Toulouse, 31024 Toulouse, France
| | - Vincent Cantaloube-Ferrieu
- Center for Pathophysiology Toulouse-Purpan (CPTP), INSERM, CNRS, University of Toulouse, 31024 Toulouse, France
| | - Virginie Vasseur
- Center for Pathophysiology Toulouse-Purpan (CPTP), INSERM, CNRS, University of Toulouse, 31024 Toulouse, France
| | - Sophie Blanié
- Center for Pathophysiology Toulouse-Purpan (CPTP), INSERM, CNRS, University of Toulouse, 31024 Toulouse, France
| | - Roland S Liblau
- Center for Pathophysiology Toulouse-Purpan (CPTP), INSERM, CNRS, University of Toulouse, 31024 Toulouse, France
| | - Elsa Suberbielle
- Center for Pathophysiology Toulouse-Purpan (CPTP), INSERM, CNRS, University of Toulouse, 31024 Toulouse, France
| | - Ellen A Robey
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Nicolas Blanchard
- Center for Pathophysiology Toulouse-Purpan (CPTP), INSERM, CNRS, University of Toulouse, 31024 Toulouse, France.
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25
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Agordzo SK, Badu K, Addo MG, Owusu CK, Mutala AH, Tweneboah A, Abbas DA, Ayisi-Boateng NK. Seroprevalence, risk factors and impact of Toxoplasma gondii infection on haematological parameters in the Ashanti region of Ghana: a cross-sectional study. AAS Open Res 2020; 2:166. [PMID: 32734139 PMCID: PMC7369427 DOI: 10.12688/aasopenres.13022.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate, intracellular, apicomplexan parasite that causes toxoplasmosis. Although the global prevalence of toxoplasmosis has been estimated to be approximately 30%, there is limited seroprevalence data in Ghana, with a dearth of information on the impact of T. gondii on haematological parameters in exposed persons. Methods: Questionnaires were administered to 300 consenting individuals to obtain demographic information and assessment of their risk of exposure to T. gondii. Using anti- T. gondii IgG/IgM combo test kits, seropositivity to parasite-specific IgG and/or IgM was determined. A haematological analyser was used to measure haematological parameters. Results: There was an overall seroprevalence of 50.3% (n=151), with 49.7% (n=149) of the study participants seropositive for IgG and 1% (n=3) testing positive for IgM. Furthermore, the observed seroprevalence among pregnant women was 56.4% (n=62). With regard to settlement type, a seroprevalence of 55.6% was observed in the rural community, 50.6% in the peri-urban community and 47.1% in the urban community. The study identified cat ownership, contact with cat litter, contact with raw meat [RR (95% CI: 1.76 (1.23-2.53), 1.66 (1.03-2.67), 1.25(1.00-1.57)] and age (p<0.001) as risk factors for infection. Analyses of haematological data revealed significant reduction in the white blood cell, lymphocytes and mean corpuscular volume levels in seropositive males (p=0.0223, 0.0275, and 0.0271) respectively. Only the mean corpuscular volume of seropositive females reduced significantly as compared to the seronegative counterparts (p=0.0035). Conclusions: About half of the study population, including women of reproductive age carried antibodies against T. gondii, raising concerns about the risk of congenital toxoplasmosis and anaemia. We, therefore, recommend that screening for Toxoplasma gondii be included in the routine screening of pregnant women seeking antenatal care and further investigation should be conducted on the haematological implications of infection in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Kekeli Agordzo
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
| | - Kingsley Badu
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research for Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Mathew Glover Addo
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
| | - Christian Kwasi Owusu
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research for Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Abdul-Hakim Mutala
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
| | - Austine Tweneboah
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
| | - Dawood Ackom Abbas
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
| | - Nana Kwame Ayisi-Boateng
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- The University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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26
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Postolache TT, Akram F, Lee EE, Lowry CA, Stiller JW, Brenner LA, Streeten EA, Turecki G, Dwivedi Y. Increased brain vitamin D receptor expression and decreased expression of cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide in individuals who died by suicide. J Psychiatr Res 2020; 125:75-84. [PMID: 32213352 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2019] [Revised: 01/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with immune dysregulation, increased vulnerability to infections, depression, and suicidal behavior. One mediator of vitamin D-dependent immune regulation and antimicrobial defense is the cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide (LL-37), encoded by the cathelicidin-related antimicrobial peptide (CRAMP) gene. We compared the mRNA expression of the CRAMP gene, the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene, as well as the CYP27B1 and CYP24A1 genes (involved in vitamin D metabolism) in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) between depressed individuals who died by suicide (n = 15) and matched (age, gender, and post-mortem interval) non-psychiatric controls (n = 15). Gene expression was measured through qRT-PCR with TaqMan® primers and probes, with GAPDH and β-actin genes as endogenous controls. Statistical analyses included t-tests and Pearson correlations. CRAMP mRNA expression was downregulated and VDR mRNA expression was upregulated in both dlPFC and ACC in suicides relative to controls, with no significant differences in expression of CYP24A1 and CYP27B1. To our knowledge, this is the first study on brain cathelicidin expression in the human brain in relationship to suicide. Increased VDR and decreased CRAMP expression are consistent with previously reported associations between vitamin D deficiency, immune dysregulation, and suicidal behavior, and should lead to future studies uncovering novel interactive targets for suicide prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodor T Postolache
- Mood and Anxiety Program, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Veterans Health Administration, Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Rocky Mountain Regional Veterans Affairs Medical Center (RMRVAMC), Aurora, CO, USA; Military and Veteran Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Aurora, CO, USA; Veterans Health Administration, Capitol MIRECC, Baltimore VA Medical Center, Baltimore MD, USA.
| | - Faisal Akram
- Mood and Anxiety Program, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Saint Elizabeths Hospital, DC Department of Behavioral Health, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Ellen E Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Sam and Rose Stein Institute for Research on Aging, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA; Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Christopher A Lowry
- Veterans Health Administration, Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Rocky Mountain Regional Veterans Affairs Medical Center (RMRVAMC), Aurora, CO, USA; Military and Veteran Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Aurora, CO, USA; Department of Integrative Physiology, Center for Neuroscience, And Center for Microbial Exploration, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO, USA; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - John W Stiller
- Mood and Anxiety Program, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA; Saint Elizabeths Hospital, DC Department of Behavioral Health, Washington, DC, USA; Maryland State Athletic Commission, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Lisa A Brenner
- Veterans Health Administration, Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Rocky Mountain Regional Veterans Affairs Medical Center (RMRVAMC), Aurora, CO, USA; Military and Veteran Microbiome: Consortium for Research and Education (MVM-CoRE), Aurora, CO, USA; Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Elizabeth A Streeten
- Program for Personalized and Genomic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Gustavo Turecki
- McGill Group for Suicide Studies, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Yogesh Dwivedi
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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27
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Kanashiro A, Hiroki CH, da Fonseca DM, Birbrair A, Ferreira RG, Bassi GS, Fonseca MD, Kusuda R, Cebinelli GCM, da Silva KP, Wanderley CW, Menezes GB, Alves-Fiho JC, Oliveira AG, Cunha TM, Pupo AS, Ulloa L, Cunha FQ. The role of neutrophils in neuro-immune modulation. Pharmacol Res 2019; 151:104580. [PMID: 31786317 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2019.104580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Neutrophils are peripheral immune cells that represent the first recruited innate immune defense against infections and tissue injury. However, these cells can also induce overzealous responses and cause tissue damage. Although the role of neutrophils activating the immune system is well established, only recently their critical implications in neuro-immune interactions are becoming more relevant. Here, we review several aspects of neutrophils in the bidirectional regulation between the nervous and immune systems. First, the role of neutrophils as a diffuse source of acetylcholine and catecholamines is controversial as well as the effects of these neurotransmitters in neutrophil's functions. Second, neutrophils contribute for the activation and sensitization of sensory neurons, and thereby, in events of nociception and pain. In addition, nociceptor activation promotes an axon reflex triggering a local release of neural mediators and provoking neutrophil activation. Third, the recruitment of neutrophils in inflammatory responses in the nervous system suggests these immune cells as innovative targets in the treatment of central infectious, neurological and neurodegenerative disorders. Multidisciplinary studies involving immunologists and neuroscientists are required to define the role of the neurons-neutrophils communication in the pathophysiology of infectious, inflammatory, and neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Kanashiro
- Department of Neurosciences and Behavior, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Carlos Hiroji Hiroki
- Department of Immunology and Biochemistry, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Denise Morais da Fonseca
- Department of Immunology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Alexander Birbrair
- Department of Pathology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Raphael Gomes Ferreira
- Araguaína Medical School, Federal University of Tocantins, Avenida Paraguai s/n, 77824-838, Araguaína, TO, Brazil
| | - Gabriel Shimizu Bassi
- Center for Perioperative Organ Protection, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
| | - Mirian D Fonseca
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Kusuda
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Katiussia Pinho da Silva
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos Wagner Wanderley
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | | | - José Carlos Alves-Fiho
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - André Gustavo Oliveira
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Thiago M Cunha
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - André Sampaio Pupo
- Department of Pharmacology, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Luis Ulloa
- Center for Perioperative Organ Protection, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
| | - Fernando Queiroz Cunha
- Department of Pharmacology, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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28
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Agordzo SK, Badu K, Addo MG, Owusu CK, Mutala AH, Tweneboah A, Abbas DA, Ayisi-Boateng NK. Seroprevalence, risk factors and impact of Toxoplasma gondii infection on haematological parameters in the Ashanti region of Ghana: a cross-sectional study. AAS Open Res 2019; 2:166. [PMID: 32734139 PMCID: PMC7369427 DOI: 10.12688/aasopenres.13022.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 03/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate, intracellular, apicomplexan parasite that causes toxoplasmosis. Although the global prevalence of toxoplasmosis has been estimated to be approximately 30%, there is limited seroprevalence data in Ghana, with a dearth of information on the impact of T. gondii on haematological parameters in exposed persons. Methods: Questionnaires were administered to 300 consenting individuals to obtain demographic information and assessment of their risk of exposure to T. gondii. Using anti- T. gondii IgG/IgM combo test kits, seropositivity to parasite-specific IgG and/or IgM was determined. A haematological analyser was used to measure haematological parameters. Results: The participants included 58 males and 242 females, and ranged in age from 6 months to 84 years, with a median age of 27 years. There was an overall seroprevalence of 50.3% (n=151), with 49.7% (n=149) of the study participants seropositive for IgG and 1% (n=3) testing positive for IgM. Furthermore, the observed seroprevalence among pregnant women was 56.4% (n=62). With regards to the different communities in which the hospitals were located, a seroprevalence of 55.6% was observed in the rural community, 50.6% in the peri-urban community and 47.1% in the urban community. The study identified cat ownership, contact with cat litter [RR (95% CI: 1.76 (1.23-2.53), 1.66 (1.03-2.67), 1.25(1.00-1.57)] and age (p<0.001) as risk factors for infection. Analyses of haematological data also revealed significant differences between the red blood cell counts (p=0.038) and mean corpuscular volumes (p=0.0007) of seropositive and seronegative study participants. Conclusions: About half of the study population, including a significant number of women of reproductive age carried antibodies against T. gondii, raising questions about the risk of congenital toxoplasmosis, as well as possible links to anaemia. We, therefore, recommend that screening for Toxoplasma gondii be included in the routine screening of pregnant women seeking antenatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Kekeli Agordzo
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
| | - Kingsley Badu
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research for Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Mathew Glover Addo
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
| | - Christian Kwasi Owusu
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research for Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Abdul-Hakim Mutala
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
| | - Austine Tweneboah
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
| | - Dawood Ackom Abbas
- Theoretical and Applied Biology, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, AK 192, Ghana
| | - Nana Kwame Ayisi-Boateng
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- The University Hospital, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
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29
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Jin Y, Yao Y, El-Ashram S, Tian J, Shen J, Ji Y. The Neurotropic Parasite Toxoplasma gondii Induces Astrocyte Polarization Through NFκB Pathway. Front Med (Lausanne) 2019; 6:267. [PMID: 31803748 PMCID: PMC6877604 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2019.00267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that chronically infects nearly one-third of the world's human population. In immunosuppressed individuals and fetus, infection with T. gondii contributes to a series of devastating conditions, including toxoplasmic encephalitis (TE), which is characterized by neuron damage in the central nervous system (CNS). Astrocyte polarization is currently found in some neurodegenerative diseases, and A1 subtype of astrocyte leads to neuron apoptosis. However, little information has been available on the role of astrocyte polarization in TE. Methods: In the present study, we established a mouse model to study TE and detected A1 astrocyte in the brains of mice with TE. Expression level of A1 astrocyte-specific marker C3 was evaluated using indirect fluorescent assay (IFA) and Western blotting. Primary mouse astrocytes were incubated with different concentrations of T. gondii excreted-secreted antigens (TgESAs) in vitro. Expression level of C3 and A1 astrocyte-specific transcription levels were assessed using Western blotting and qRT-PCR, respectively. Bay11-7082 was used to study nuclear factor (NF) κB pathway in TgESA-induced astrocyte polarization. Results: In mice with TE, the proportion of A1 astrocyte (GFAP+C3+) increased significantly. The results of in vitro study showed that TgESAs induced astrocyte polarization to A1 subtype. Blocking of NFκB pathway by Bay11-7082 inhibited TgESA-induced astrocyte polarization. Conclusions: Our preliminary study showed the involvement of A1 astrocyte in the process of TE in mice, and TgESAs could trigger astrocyte to polarize to A1 subtype. These findings suggest a new mechanism underlying the neuropathogenesis induced by T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jin
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Laboratory of Tropical and Parasitic Diseases Control, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yong Yao
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Laboratory of Tropical and Parasitic Diseases Control, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Saeed El-Ashram
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, China.,Faculty of Science, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr El-Shaikh, Egypt
| | - Jiaming Tian
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Laboratory of Tropical and Parasitic Diseases Control, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jilong Shen
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Laboratory of Tropical and Parasitic Diseases Control, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yongsheng Ji
- Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Laboratory of Tropical and Parasitic Diseases Control, Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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30
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French T, Düsedau HP, Steffen J, Biswas A, Ahmed N, Hartmann S, Schüler T, Schott BH, Dunay IR. Neuronal impairment following chronic Toxoplasma gondii infection is aggravated by intestinal nematode challenge in an IFN-γ-dependent manner. J Neuroinflammation 2019; 16:159. [PMID: 31352901 PMCID: PMC6661741 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-019-1539-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background It has become increasingly evident that the immune and nervous systems are closely intertwined, relying on one another during regular homeostatic conditions. Prolonged states of imbalance between neural and immune homeostasis, such as chronic neuroinflammation, are associated with a higher risk for neural damage. Toxoplasma gondii is a highly successful neurotropic parasite causing persistent subclinical neuroinflammation, which is associated with psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Little is known, however, by what means neuroinflammation and the associated neural impairment can be modulated by peripheral inflammatory processes. Methods Expression of immune and synapse-associated genes was assessed via quantitative real-time PCR to investigate how T. gondii infection-induced chronic neuroinflammation and associated neuronal alterations can be reshaped by a subsequent acute intestinal nematode co-infection. Immune cell subsets were characterized via flow cytometry in the brain of infected mice. Sulfadiazine and interferon-γ-neutralizing antibody were applied to subdue neuroinflammation. Results Neuroinflammation induced by T. gondii infection of mice was associated with increased microglia activation, recruitment of immune cells into the brain exhibiting Th1 effector functions, and enhanced production of Th1 and pro-inflammatory molecules (IFN-γ, iNOS, IL-12, TNF, IL-6, and IL-1β) following co-infection with Heligmosomoides polygyrus. The accelerated cerebral Th1 immune response resulted in enhanced T. gondii removal but exacerbated the inflammation-related decrease of synapse-associated gene expression. Synaptic proteins EAAT2 and GABAAα1, which are involved in the excitation/inhibition balance in the CNS, were affected in particular. These synaptic alterations were partially recovered by reducing neuroinflammation indirectly via antiparasitic treatment and especially by application of IFN-γ-neutralizing antibody. Impaired iNOS expression following IFN-γ neutralization directly affected EAAT2 and GABAAα1 signaling, thus contributing to the microglial regulation of neurons. Besides, reduced CD36, TREM2, and C1qa gene expression points toward inflammation induced synaptic pruning as a fundamental mechanism. Conclusion Our results suggest that neuroimmune responses following chronic T. gondii infection can be modulated by acute enteric nematode co-infection. While consecutive co-infection promotes parasite elimination in the CNS, it also adversely affects gene expression of synaptic proteins, via an IFN-γ-dependent manner. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12974-019-1539-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy French
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medizinische Fakultät, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Leipziger Straße 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Henning Peter Düsedau
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medizinische Fakultät, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Leipziger Straße 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Steffen
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medizinische Fakultät, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Leipziger Straße 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Aindrila Biswas
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medizinische Fakultät, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Leipziger Straße 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Norus Ahmed
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Free University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Hartmann
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Immunology, Free University Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Thomas Schüler
- Institute of Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Björn H Schott
- Leibniz Institute of Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany.,Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medicine Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ildiko Rita Dunay
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medizinische Fakultät, Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Leipziger Straße 44, 39120, Magdeburg, Germany. .,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany.
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Figueiredo CA, Düsedau HP, Steffen J, Gupta N, Dunay MP, Toth GK, Reglodi D, Heimesaat MM, Dunay IR. Immunomodulatory Effects of the Neuropeptide Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide in Acute Toxoplasmosis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2019; 9:154. [PMID: 31192159 PMCID: PMC6546896 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2019.00154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) is an endogenous neuropeptide with distinct functions including the regulation of inflammatory processes. PACAP is able to modify the immune response by directly regulating macrophages and monocytes inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines, chemokines and free radicals. Here, we analyzed the effect of exogenous PACAP on peripheral immune cell subsets upon acute infection with the parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). PACAP administration was followed by diminished innate immune cell recruitment to the peritoneal cavity of T. gondii-infected mice. PACAP did not directly interfere with parasite replication, instead, indirectly reduced parasite burden in mononuclear cell populations by enhancing their phagocytic capacity. Although proinflammatory cytokine levels were attenuated in the periphery upon PACAP treatment, interleukin (IL)-10 and Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) remained stable. While PACAP modulated VPAC1 and VPAC2 receptors in immune cells upon binding, it also increased their expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In addition, the expression of p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) on Ly6Chi inflammatory monocytes was diminished upon PACAP administration. Our findings highlight the immunomodulatory effect of PACAP on peripheral immune cell subsets during acute Toxoplasmosis, providing new insights about host-pathogen interaction and the effects of neuropeptides during inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caio Andreeta Figueiredo
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Henning Peter Düsedau
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Steffen
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Nishith Gupta
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biology, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Miklos Pal Dunay
- Department and Clinic of Surgery and Ophthalmology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gabor K Toth
- Department of Medical Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Dora Reglodi
- Department of Anatomy, MTA-PTE PACAP Research Team, University of Pecs Medical School, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Markus M Heimesaat
- Department of Microbiology and Hygiene, Charité - University Medicine Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ildiko Rita Dunay
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences - CBBS, Magdeburg, Germany
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32
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Düsedau HP, Kleveman J, Figueiredo CA, Biswas A, Steffen J, Kliche S, Haak S, Zagrebelsky M, Korte M, Dunay IR. p75 NTR regulates brain mononuclear cell function and neuronal structure in Toxoplasma infection-induced neuroinflammation. Glia 2019; 67:193-211. [PMID: 30597659 PMCID: PMC6590406 DOI: 10.1002/glia.23553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neurotrophins mediate neuronal growth, differentiation, and survival via tropomyosin receptor kinase (Trk) or p75 neurotrophin receptor (p75NTR) signaling. The p75NTR is not exclusively expressed by neurons but also by certain immune cells, implying a role for neurotrophin signaling in the immune system. In this study, we investigated the effect of p75NTR on innate immune cell behavior and on neuronal morphology upon chronic Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection‐induced neuroinflammation. Characterization of the immune cells in the periphery and central nervous system (CNS) revealed that innate immune cell subsets in the brain upregulated p75NTR upon infection in wild‐type mice. Although cell recruitment and phagocytic capacity of p75NTRexonIV knockout (p75−/−) mice were not impaired, the activation status of resident microglia and recruited myeloid cell subsets was altered. Importantly, recruited mononuclear cells in brains of infected p75−/− mice upregulated the production of the cytokines interleukin (IL)‐10, IL‐6 as well as IL‐1α. Protein levels of proBDNF, known to negatively influence neuronal morphology by binding p75NTR, were highly increased upon chronic infection in the brain of wild‐type and p75−/− mice. Moreover, upon infection the activated immune cells contributed to the proBDNF release. Notably, the neuroinflammation‐induced changes in spine density were rescued in the p75−/− mice. In conclusion, these findings indicate that neurotrophin signaling via the p75NTR affects innate immune cell behavior, thus, influencing the structural plasticity of neurons under inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henning Peter Düsedau
- Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jan Kleveman
- Division of Cellular Neurobiology, Zoological Institute, TU Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Caio Andreeta Figueiredo
- Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Aindrila Biswas
- Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Steffen
- Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Stefanie Kliche
- Otto-von-Guericke University, Institute for Molecular and Clinical Immunology, Medical Faculty, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Haak
- Division of Cellular Neurobiology, Zoological Institute, TU Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Marta Zagrebelsky
- Division of Cellular Neurobiology, Zoological Institute, TU Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Martin Korte
- Division of Cellular Neurobiology, Zoological Institute, TU Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Ildiko Rita Dunay
- Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Medical Faculty, Magdeburg, Germany
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Díaz-Godínez C, Carrero JC. The state of art of neutrophil extracellular traps in protozoan and helminthic infections. Biosci Rep 2019; 39:BSR20180916. [PMID: 30498092 PMCID: PMC6328873 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20180916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are DNA fibers associated with histones, enzymes from neutrophil granules and anti-microbial peptides. NETs are released in a process denominated NETosis, which involves sequential steps that culminate with the DNA extrusion. NETosis has been described as a new mechanism of innate immunity related to defense against different pathogens. The initial studies of NETs were carried out with bacteria and fungi, but currently a large variety of microorganisms capable of inducing NETs have been described including protozoan and helminth parasites. Nevertheless, we have little knowledge about how NETosis process is carried out in response to the parasites, and about its implication in the resolution of this kind of disease. In the best case, the NETs entrap and kill parasites in vitro, but in others, immobilize the parasites without affecting their viability. Moreover, insufficient studies on the NETs in animal models of infections that would help to define their role, and the association of NETs with chronic inflammatory pathologies such as those occurring in several parasitic infections have left open the possibility of NETs contributing to pathology instead of protection. In this review, we focus on the reported mechanisms that lead to NET release by protozoan and helminth parasites and the evidence that support the role of NETosis in the resolution or pathogenesis of parasitic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- César Díaz-Godínez
- Department of Immunology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, México D.F., México
| | - Julio C Carrero
- Department of Immunology, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510, México D.F., México
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34
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Lang D, Schott BH, van Ham M, Morton L, Kulikovskaja L, Herrera-Molina R, Pielot R, Klawonn F, Montag D, Jänsch L, Gundelfinger ED, Smalla KH, Dunay IR. Chronic Toxoplasma infection is associated with distinct alterations in the synaptic protein composition. J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:216. [PMID: 30068357 PMCID: PMC6090988 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-018-1242-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chronic infection with the neurotropic parasite Toxoplasma gondii has been implicated in the risk for several neuropsychiatric disorders. The mechanisms, by which the parasite may alter neural function and behavior of the host, are not yet understood completely. Methods Here, a novel proteomic approach using mass spectrometry was employed to investigate the alterations in synaptic protein composition in a murine model of chronic toxoplasmosis. In a candidate-based strategy, immunoblot analysis and immunohistochemistry were applied to investigate the expression levels of key synaptic proteins in glutamatergic signaling. Results A comparison of the synaptosomal protein composition revealed distinct changes upon infection, with multiple proteins such as EAAT2, Shank3, AMPA receptor, and NMDA receptor subunits being downregulated, whereas inflammation-related proteins showed an upregulation. Treatment with the antiparasitic agent sulfadiazine strongly reduced tachyzoite levels and diminished neuroinflammatory mediators. However, in both conditions, a significant number of latent cysts persisted in the brain. Conversely, infection-related alterations of key synaptic protein levels could be partly reversed by the treatment. Conclusion These results provide evidence for profound changes especially in synaptic protein composition in T. gondii-infected mice with a downregulation of pivotal components of glutamatergic neurotransmission. Our results suggest that the detected synaptic alterations are a consequence of the distinct neuroinflammatory milieu caused by the neurotropic parasite. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12974-018-1242-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Lang
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.,Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Björn H Schott
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.,Medical Faculty, Department of Neurology, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Marco van Ham
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Cellular Proteomics Group, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Lorena Morton
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Leonora Kulikovskaja
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany.,Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Rodrigo Herrera-Molina
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.,Centro Integrativo de Biología y Química Aplicada, Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rainer Pielot
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Frank Klawonn
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Cellular Proteomics Group, Braunschweig, Germany.,Department of Computer Science, Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences, Wolfenbuettel, Germany
| | - Dirk Montag
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Lothar Jänsch
- Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Cellular Proteomics Group, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Eckart D Gundelfinger
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany.,Molecular Neurobiology, Medical Faculty, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Karl Heinz Smalla
- Leibniz Institute for Neurobiology, Magdeburg, Germany.,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ildiko Rita Dunay
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany. .,Center for Behavioral Brain Sciences, Magdeburg, Germany.
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35
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Dunay IR, Diefenbach A. Group 1 innate lymphoid cells in Toxoplasma gondii infection. Parasite Immunol 2018; 40. [PMID: 29315653 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are a group of lymphocytes that carry out important functions in immunity to infections and in organ homeostasis at epithelial barrier surfaces. ILCs are innate immune cells that provide an early source of cytokines to initiate immune responses against pathogens. Cytotoxic ILCs (i.e. conventional (c)NK cells) and several subsets of helper-like ILCs are the major branches of the ILC family. Conventional NK cells and group 1 ILCs share several characteristics such as surface receptors and the ability to produce IFN-γ upon activation, but they differ in their developmental paths and in their dependence on specific transcription factors. Infection of mice with the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii is followed by a strong Th1-mediated immune response. Previous studies indicate that NK1.1+ cells contribute to the production of IFN-γ and TNF and cytotoxicity during acute T. gondii infection. Upon oral infection, the parasite infects intestinal enterocytes, and within the lamina propria, innate immune responses lead to initial parasite control although the infection disseminates widely and persists long-term in immune privileged sites despite adaptive immunity. Upon parasite entry into the small intestine, during the acute stage, ILC1 produce high levels of IFN-γ and TNF protecting barrier surfaces, thus essentially contributing to early parasite control. We will discuss here the role of innate lymphocytes during T. gondii infection in the context of the only recently appreciated diversity of ILC subsets.
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Affiliation(s)
- I R Dunay
- Institute of Inflammation and Neurodegeneration, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - A Diefenbach
- Department of Microbiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Berlin, Germany
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