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Akhtardanesh B, Sadr S, Khedri J, Bamorovat M, Salarkia E, Sharifi I. Canine leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania Tropica in southeastern Iran: a case series study. Sci Rep 2024; 14:25599. [PMID: 39465272 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-76301-4] [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: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 10/14/2024] [Indexed: 10/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Dogs are the primary reservoirs of Leishmania infantum (L. infantum), but Leishmania tropica (L. tropica) infection is also possible in dogs and can transmitted to humans. The southeast of Iran experiences a high prevalence of canine leishmaniasis (CanL), and veterinarians frequently encounter symptomatic cases. Therefore, from December 2017 to November 2022, the present case series was designed to assess the prevalence of CanL in owned dogs with cutaneous manifestations resembling CanL. A total of 500 owned dogs with dermal lesions from two endemic cities, Zabol and Kerman, were enrolled. Impression smears from skin lesions and popliteal lymph nodes were prepared from all cases, whereas blood samples were gathered from amastigote-positive dogs for serological and molecular surveys. Commercial ELISA was done on sera samples, and two-step nested PCR was used on extracted DNA to amplify variable fragments of the Leishmania species' kinetoplast DNA (kDNA). Leishman bodies were microscopically detected in 7.2% (36/500) of dermal smears. Of the 360 owned dogs from Zabol, 2 have been diagnosed with L. tropica, and 10 have been diagnosed with L. infantum. Out of 140 owned dogs from Kerman, 8 were identified with L. tropica infection, and 16 were infected with L. infantum. Molecular results revealed the presence of 750 full dual-band bases related to the L. tropica species in 10/36 (27.7%) cases, which showed a considerable increase in canine cutaneous leishmaniosis compared with previous studies in southeastern Iran. The noticeable prevalence of L. tropica in owned dogs indicated that the dog's role in cutaneous leishmaniosis should be re-evaluated as a possible animal reservoir in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baharak Akhtardanesh
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Soheil Sadr
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Javad Khedri
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehdi Bamorovat
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ehsan Salarkia
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Iraj Sharifi
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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2
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Khamesipour F, Khamesipour A, Hejazi SH, Ghanadian M. In vitro assessment of Dracocephalum lindbergii for growth inhibition, apoptosis induction, and cytokine modulation against Leishmania major. Heliyon 2024; 10:e38331. [PMID: 39397902 PMCID: PMC11470414 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e38331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 09/20/2024] [Accepted: 09/23/2024] [Indexed: 10/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease caused by several species of flagellate protozoan parasites belonging to the genus Leishmania, which are part of the Trypanosomatidae family. This study aims to evaluate the in vitro anti-Leishmania activity of Dracocephalum lindbergii Rech.f (D. lindbergii) on the growth, apoptosis induction, and proliferation of Leishmania major. To conduct this study, the aerial parts of D. lindbergii were collected during the flowering stage in May 2022 from North Khorasan province, Iran. The plant material was extracted using various solvents, starting with those of lower polarity and progressing to those of higher polarity. To assess the impact of the D. lindbergii fraction on L. major promastigotes, amastigotes, and macrophages (THP-1), cell viability was determined using the MTT assay. Additionally, flow cytometry with the Annexin V-PE apoptosis detection kit was employed to distinguish between viable, necrotic, and apoptotic promastigotes in response to treatment with the 100 % methanolic fraction of D. lindbergii (D). The expression levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-10, TGF-β, IL4, iNOS, and GAPDH were quantified using real-time PCR (qPCR) on the macrophage cell line. Each treatment approach exhibited marked anti-leishmanial effects across different concentrations over 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation, showing statistically significant differences compared to the untreated control group (P < 0.001). Different concentrations of D, MAT, and AmpB, both individually and in combination, significantly reduced the total number of intramacrophage amastigotes compared to the untreated control groups at 24, 48, and 72 h. The results also showed time-dependent variations in the anti-Leishmania activity of the fraction. In terms of cellular morphology, treated cells exhibited changes such as shrinkage, cytoplasmic condensation, and reduced mobility, particularly noticeable after 24 h of treatment. Additionally, fraction D demonstrated significant antioxidant properties. This study highlights the potential of D. lindbergii as an anti-Leishmania agent, with the 100 % methanolic fraction emerging as a promising candidate for the development of novel treatments for leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faham Khamesipour
- Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Khamesipour
- Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Hossein Hejazi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mustafa Ghanadian
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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3
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Ayala A, Llanes A, Lleonart R, Restrepo CM. Advances in Leishmania Vaccines: Current Development and Future Prospects. Pathogens 2024; 13:812. [PMID: 39339003 PMCID: PMC11435054 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13090812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2024] [Revised: 09/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by parasites of the genus Leishmania. As approved human vaccines are not available, treatment and prevention rely heavily on toxic chemotherapeutic agents, which face increasing resistance problems. The development of effective vaccines against human leishmaniasis is of utmost importance for the control of the disease. Strategies that have been considered for this purpose range from whole-killed and attenuated parasites to recombinant proteins and DNA vaccines. The ideal vaccine must be safe and effective, ensuring lasting immunity through a robust IL-12-driven Th1 adaptive immune response. Despite some success and years of effort, human vaccine trials have encountered difficulties in conferring durable protection against Leishmania, a problem that may be attributed to the parasite's antigenic diversity and the intricate nature of the host's immune response. The aim of this review is to provide a thorough overview of recent advances in Leishmania vaccine development, ranging from initial trials to recent achievements, such as the ChAd63-KH DNA vaccine, which underscores the potential for effective control of leishmaniasis through continued research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreina Ayala
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panama City 0843-01103, Panama
| | - Alejandro Llanes
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panama City 0843-01103, Panama
- Sistema Nacional de Investigación (SNI), Panama City 0801, Panama
| | - Ricardo Lleonart
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panama City 0843-01103, Panama
- Sistema Nacional de Investigación (SNI), Panama City 0801, Panama
| | - Carlos M Restrepo
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades, Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT-AIP), Panama City 0843-01103, Panama
- Sistema Nacional de Investigación (SNI), Panama City 0801, Panama
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4
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Naz S, Nalcaci M, Hayat O, Toz S, Minhas A, Waseem S, Ozbel Y. Genetic diversity and epidemiological insights into cutaneous leishmaniasis in Pakistan: a comprehensive study on clinical manifestations and molecular characterization of Leishmania species. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:320. [PMID: 39254766 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08344-5] [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: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/11/2024]
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) stands out as a significant vector-borne endemic in Pakistan. Despite the rising incidence of CL, the genetic diversity of Leishmania species in the country's endemic regions remains insufficiently explored. This study aims to uncover the genetic diversity and molecular characteristics of Leishmania species in CL-endemic areas of Baluchistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), and Punjab in Pakistan. Clinical samples from 300 CL patients were put to microscopic examination, real-time ITS-1 PCR, and sequencing. Predominantly affecting males between 16 to 30 years of age, with lesions primarily on hands and faces, the majority presented with nodular and plaque types. Microscopic analysis revealed a positivity rate of 67.8%, while real-time PCR identified 60.98% positive cases, mainly L. tropica, followed by L. infantum and L. major. Leishmania major (p = 0.009) showed substantially greater variation in nucleotide sequences than L. tropica (p = 0.07) and L. infantum (p = 0.03). Nucleotide diversity analysis indicated higher diversity in L. major and L. infantum compared to L. tropica. This study enhances our understanding of CL epidemiology in Pakistan, stressing the crucial role of molecular techniques in accurate species identification. The foundational data provided here emphasizes the necessity for future research to investigate deeper into genetic diversity and its implications for CL control at both individual and community levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shumaila Naz
- Department of Biological Sciences, National University of Medical Sciences, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammed Nalcaci
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Obaid Hayat
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Chemical and Life Sciences, Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan, 23200, Pakistan
| | - Seray Toz
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Azhar Minhas
- Department of Dermatology, Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Quetta, 87300, Pakistan
| | | | - Yusuf Ozbel
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ege University, Bornova, Izmir, Turkey
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5
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Alharbi B, Ahmed M. Epidemiological Mapping of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Saudi Arabia: An Observational Descriptive Study. J Epidemiol Glob Health 2024; 14:1281-1288. [PMID: 39186211 PMCID: PMC11442819 DOI: 10.1007/s44197-024-00285-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 08/06/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a parasitic disease that affects individuals worldwide. An epidemiological observational population-cohort study was conducted on the basis of comprehensive research on CL incidence in Saudi and non-Saudi residents. The Ministry of Health recorded the incidence of CL between January 2020 and December 2022. The chi-square test was used to analyze the data and determine CL incidence rates in age-specific incidence rates (ASIRs) and gender between Saudi and non-Saudi residents in Saudi Arabia. The study found that between 2020 and 2022, there were 2280 cases of CL in Saudi Arabia, with 1367 and 913 cases in men and women, respectively. Of Saudi nationals, 64.26% and 12.91% were male and female, respectively. The frequency of CL was higher (87.09%) among non-Saudi residents than among Saudi nationals, with a statistically significant difference (P = 0.001) between the two groups. The ASIRs for CL were higher in patients aged 15-45 years. This study revealed variations in CL incidence rates among the 13 administrative regions; Qassim, followed by Aseer, Ha'il, and Madinah, had higher rates than the other regions. These findings indicate the need for targeted interventions and public health strategies to reduce the burden on CL, particularly among non-Saudi residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Basmah Alharbi
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, 51452, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mawahib Ahmed
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraidah, 51452, Saudi Arabia.
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6
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Karaja S, Halloum M, Karaja S, daher alhussen AH, Qatza A, Mansour S, Almasri AA. Cutaneous leishmaniasis mimicking psoriasis: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2024; 12:e9299. [PMID: 39119034 PMCID: PMC11305983 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.9299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 07/04/2024] [Accepted: 07/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Scalp lesions associated with psoriasis and cutaneous leishmaniasis can be clinically indistinguishable, leading to misdiagnosis. Herein, we highlight a 70-year-old male initially misdiagnosed with psoriasis but subsequently confirmed to have cutaneous leishmaniasis. This emphasizes the importance of considering alternative diagnoses, especially in atypical presentations, to ensure accurate treatment.
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7
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Elso O, Bivona AE, Aguilera E, Alvarez G, Sülsen VP, García Liñares GE. Enzymatic Synthesis of Austroeupatol Esters with Enhanced Antiprotozoal Activity. ACS Med Chem Lett 2024; 15:873-878. [PMID: 38894931 PMCID: PMC11181509 DOI: 10.1021/acsmedchemlett.4c00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Austroeupatol, the principal diterpene isolated from the invasive shrub Austroeupatorium inulifolium, holds promise for structural diversification and biological assessment of its derivatives due to its abundant availability and high yield isolation. We propose an efficient enzymatic synthesis of a series of austroeupatol esters derived from aliphatic and heterocyclic carboxylic acids. Systematic optimization of reaction parameters, including enzyme type and quantity, acylating agent amount, solvent, and temperature, was conducted. Thermomyces lanuginosus lipase in cyclohexane at 55 °C, yielded esters with favorable conversion rates. Through enzymatic catalysis, mono- and diacylated derivatives were obtained, with a diacylation-monoacylation ratio influenced by temperature and acylating agent amount. The antiprotozoal activity of austroeupatol and all synthesized derivatives was evaluated, observing that acylation improved it. The 19-valeroyl, 19-indolylpropyl, and 19-octyl derivatives were the most potent compounds against Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania infantum, highlighting this approach as a valuable method for synthesizing austroeupatol derivatives as potential antiparasitic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Orlando
G. Elso
- Laboratorio
de Biocatálisis, Departamento de Química Orgánica
y UMYMFOR, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pabellón 2, piso 3, C1428EGA Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Facultad
de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Cátedra de Farmacognosia, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Junín 954, piso 2, C1113AAD Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Augusto E. Bivona
- Instituto
de Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM), Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Paraguay 2155, piso 13, C1121ABG Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto
de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral (IDEHU), Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Junín 1113, piso 4, C1121A6B Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Elena Aguilera
- Grupo
de Química Orgánica Medicinal, Instituto de Química
Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de la República, 11400 Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Guzman Alvarez
- Laboratorio
de Moléculas Bioactivas, Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas,
CENUR Litoral Norte, Universidad de la República, 60000 Paysandu, Uruguay
| | - Valeria P. Sülsen
- Facultad
de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Cátedra de Farmacognosia, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Junín 954, piso 2, C1113AAD Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto
de Química y Metabolismo del Fármaco (IQUIMEFA), CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Junín 956, piso 2, C1113AAD Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Guadalupe E. García Liñares
- Laboratorio
de Biocatálisis, Departamento de Química Orgánica
y UMYMFOR, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires-CONICET, Ciudad Universitaria, Pabellón 2, piso 3, C1428EGA Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Prajapat VM, Aalhate M, Sriram A, Mahajan S, Maji I, Gupta U, Kumari D, Singh K, Kalia NP, Dua K, Singh SK, Singh PK. Amphotericin B loaded nanoemulsion: Optimization, characterization and in-vitro activity against L. donovani promastigotes. Parasitol Int 2024; 100:102848. [PMID: 38159836 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2023.102848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The present work aimed to develop and evaluate AmB-loaded nano-emulsion (AmB-NE) which will augment the solubility of AmB and lead to enhanced anti-leishmanial activity. The composition of AmB-NE was optimized by systematic screening followed by DoE-extreme vertices mixture design. The optimized NE revealed mean droplet size and PDI of 44.19 ± 5.5 nm, 0.265 ± 0.0723, respectively. The NE could efficiently encapsulate AmB with drug content and efficiency 83.509 ± 0.369% and 81.659 ± 0.013%, respectively. The presence of cholesterol and stearyl amine retarded the release (P < 0.0001) of AmB significantly compared to AmB suspension. The AmB-NE and pure AmB suspension demonstrated the IC50 of 0.06309 μg/mL and 0.3309 μg/mL against L.donovani promastigotes after 48 h incubation. The formulation was robust at all exaggerated stability conditions such as freeze-thaw and centrifugation. These findings indicate that AmB-NE is an attractive approach to treat visceral leishmaniasis with improved activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vikram Mohanlal Prajapat
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500037, India
| | - Mayur Aalhate
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500037, India
| | - Anitha Sriram
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500037, India
| | - Srushti Mahajan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500037, India
| | - Indrani Maji
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500037, India
| | - Ujala Gupta
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500037, India
| | - Diksha Kumari
- Infectious Diseases Division, CSIR- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu 180001, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Kuljit Singh
- Infectious Diseases Division, CSIR- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu 180001, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad 201002, India
| | - Nitin Pal Kalia
- Department of Biological Science, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500037, India
| | - Kamal Dua
- Discipline of Pharmacy, Graduate School of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Australia; Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Sachin Kumar Singh
- Faculty of Health, Australian Research Centre in Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Pankaj Kumar Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutics, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500037, India.
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Morales-Primo AU, Becker I, Pedraza-Zamora CP, Zamora-Chimal J. Th17 Cell and Inflammatory Infiltrate Interactions in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: Unraveling Immunopathogenic Mechanisms. Immune Netw 2024; 24:e14. [PMID: 38725676 PMCID: PMC11076297 DOI: 10.4110/in.2024.24.e14] [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: 01/14/2024] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The inflammatory response during cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) involves immune and non-immune cell cooperation to contain and eliminate Leishmania parasites. The orchestration of these responses is coordinated primarily by CD4+ T cells; however, the disease outcome depends on the Th cell predominant phenotype. Although Th1 and Th2 phenotypes are the most addressed as steers for the resolution or perpetuation of the disease, Th17 cell activities, especially IL-17 release, are recognized to be vital during CL development. Th17 cells perform vital functions during both acute and chronic phases of CL. Overall, Th17 cells induce the migration of phagocytes (neutrophils, macrophages) to the infection site and CD8+ T cells and NK cell activation. They also provoke granzyme and perforin secretion from CD8+ T cells, macrophage differentiation towards an M2 phenotype, and expansion of B and Treg cells. Likewise, immune cells from the inflammatory infiltrate have modulatory activities over Th17 cells involving their differentiation from naive CD4+ T cells and further expansion by generating a microenvironment rich in optimal cytokines such as IL-1β, TGF-β, IL-6, and IL-21. Th17 cell activities and synergies are crucial for the resistance of the infection during the early and acute stages; however, if unchecked, Th17 cells might lead to a chronic stage. This review discusses the synergies between Th17 cells and the inflammatory infiltrate and how these interactions might destine the course of CL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham U. Morales-Primo
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Hospital General de México, Mexico City 06720, México
| | - Ingeborg Becker
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Hospital General de México, Mexico City 06720, México
| | - Claudia Patricia Pedraza-Zamora
- Laboratorio de Biología Periodontal y Tejidos Mineralizados, División de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Facultad de Odontología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City 04510, México
| | - Jaime Zamora-Chimal
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología, Unidad de Investigación en Medicina Experimental, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Hospital General de México, Mexico City 06720, México
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10
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Shahabi S, Azizi K, Asgari Q, Sarkari B. Leishmania major Infection in Synanthropic Rodents: Evidence for the Urbanization of Zoonotic Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (ZCL) in Southern Iran. THE CANADIAN JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES & MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DES MALADIES INFECTIEUSES ET DE LA MICROBIOLOGIE MEDICALE 2024; 2024:4896873. [PMID: 38487175 PMCID: PMC10940013 DOI: 10.1155/2024/4896873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis is of particular importance in southern Iran. This study aimed to investigate the infection of rodents with Leishmania major in an urban area of Fars Province, located in southern Iran. Rodents were trapped and samples from the liver, spleen, and skin were collected. Impression smears were prepared from these tissues and any skin lesions and were examined microscopically. In addition, a portion of the samples were preserved for subsequent DNA extraction. A total of 41 rodents belonging to three species were caught from 10 trapping stations in gardens or houses within the area. The caught rodent species were Rattus rattus (n = 25, 60.97%), Mus musculus (n = 15, 36.58%), and Meriones persicus (n = 1, 2.5%). Leishmania amastigotes were seen in the spleen tissue smear of 6 (2.43%) of the rodents, including 4 of R. rattus and 2 of M. musculus. Skin lesions were observed on the muzzles of two R. rattus and one M. musculus. Samples taken from these lesions tested positive for Leishmania infection. Leishmania DNA was detected in 18 (43.9%) rodents, including 11 R. rattus, 6 M. musculus, and one M. persicus, based on DNA sequencing of the ITS2 gene and PCR of the kDNA. Phylogenetic reconstruction revealed that the parasite infecting the rodents was L. major. The detection of Leishmania infection in these rodents in urban areas raises concerns about the urbanization of cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by L. major. This urbanization poses unique challenges for control and prevention efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Shahabi
- Department of Biology and Control of Disease Vectors, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Kourosh Azizi
- Department of Biology and Control of Disease Vectors, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Research Center for Health Sciences, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Qasem Asgari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Bahador Sarkari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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11
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Sifontes-Rodríguez S, Mollineda-Diogo N, Monzote-Fidalgo L, Escalona-Montaño AR, Escario García-Trevijano JA, Aguirre-García MM, Meneses-Marcel A. In Vitro and In Vivo Antileishmanial Activity of Thioridazine. Acta Parasitol 2024; 69:324-331. [PMID: 38070122 PMCID: PMC11001698 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-023-00746-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Leishmaniasis is a neglected disease with high prevalence and incidence in tropical and subtropical areas. Existing drugs are limited due to cost, toxicity, declining efficacy and unavailability in endemic places. Drug repurposing has established as an efficient way for the discovery of drugs for a variety of diseases. PURPOSE The objective of the present work was testing the antileishmanial activity of thioridazine, an antipsychotic agent with demonstrated effect against other intracellular pathogens. METHODS The cytotoxicity for mouse peritoneal macrophages as well as the activity against Leishmania amazonensis, Leishmania mexicana and Leishmania major promastigotes and intracellular amastigotes, as well as in a mouse model of cutaneous leishmaniasis, were assessed. RESULTS Thioridazine inhibited the in vitro proliferation of promastigotes (50% inhibitory concentration-IC50-values in the range of 0.73 µM to 3.8 µM against L. amazonensis, L. mexicana and L. major) and intracellular amastigotes (IC50 values of 1.27 µM to 4.4 µM for the same species). In contrast, in mouse peritoneal macrophages, the 50% cytotoxic concentration was 24.0 ± 1.89 µM. Thioridazine inhibited the growth of cutaneous lesions and reduced the number of parasites in the infected tissue of mice. The dose of thioridazine that inhibited lesion development by 50% compared to controls was 23.3 ± 3.1 mg/kg and in terms of parasite load, it was 11.1 ± 0.97 mg/kg. CONCLUSIONS Thioridazine was effective against the promastigote and intracellular amastigote stages of three Leishmania species and in a mouse model of cutaneous leishmaniasis, supporting the potential repurposing of this drug as an antileishmanial agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Sifontes-Rodríguez
- División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación UNAM-INC, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Niurka Mollineda-Diogo
- Centro de Bioactivos Químicos, Universidad Central "Martha Abreu" de Las Villas, Santa Clara, Villa Clara, Cuba
| | | | - Alma Reyna Escalona-Montaño
- División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación UNAM-INC, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - María Magdalena Aguirre-García
- División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación UNAM-INC, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - Alfredo Meneses-Marcel
- Centro de Bioactivos Químicos, Universidad Central "Martha Abreu" de Las Villas, Santa Clara, Villa Clara, Cuba
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Sifontes-Rodríguez S, Escalona-Montaño AR, Sánchez-Almaraz DA, Pérez-Olvera O, Aguirre-García MM. Detergent-free parasite transformation and replication assay for drug screening against intracellular Leishmania amastigotes. J Microbiol Methods 2023; 215:106847. [PMID: 37871728 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2023.106847] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease caused by protozoan species in the genera Leishmania and Endotrypanum. Current antileishmanial drugs are limited due to adverse effects, variable efficacy, the development of resistant parasites, high cost, parenteral administration and lack of availability in endemic areas. Therefore, active searching for new antileishmanial drugs has been done for years, mainly by academia. Drug screening techniques have been a challenge since the intracellular localization of Leishmania amastigotes implies that the host cell may interfere with the quantification of the parasites and the final estimation of the effect. One of the procedures to avoid host cell interference is based on its detergent-mediated lysis and subsequent transformation of viable amastigotes into promastigotes, their proliferation and eventual quantification as an axenic culture of promastigotes. However, the use of detergent involves additional handling of cultures and variability. In the present work, cultures of intracellular amastigotes were incubated for 72 h at 26 °C after exposure to the test compounds and the transformation and proliferation of parasites took place without need of adding any detergent. The assay demonstrated clear differentiation of negative and positive controls (average Z´ = 0.75) and 50% inhibitory concentrations of compounds tested by this method and by the gold standard enumeration of Giemsa-stained cultures were similar (p = 0.5002) and highly correlated (r = 0.9707). This simplified procedure is less labor intensive, the probability of contamination and the experimental error are reduced, and it is appropriate for the automated high throughput screening of compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio Sifontes-Rodríguez
- División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación UNAM-INC, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Juan Badiano No. 1, Col. Sección XVI, Ciudad de México, C.P. 14080 Tlalpan, Mexico
| | - Alma Reyna Escalona-Montaño
- División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación UNAM-INC, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Juan Badiano No. 1, Col. Sección XVI, Ciudad de México, C.P. 14080 Tlalpan, Mexico
| | - Daniel Andrés Sánchez-Almaraz
- División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación UNAM-INC, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Juan Badiano No. 1, Col. Sección XVI, Ciudad de México, C.P. 14080 Tlalpan, Mexico
| | - Ofelia Pérez-Olvera
- División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación UNAM-INC, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Juan Badiano No. 1, Col. Sección XVI, Ciudad de México, C.P. 14080 Tlalpan, Mexico
| | - María Magdalena Aguirre-García
- División de Investigación, Facultad de Medicina, Unidad de Investigación UNAM-INC, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, Juan Badiano No. 1, Col. Sección XVI, Ciudad de México, C.P. 14080 Tlalpan, Mexico.
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Montaner-Angoiti E, Llobat L. Is leishmaniasis the new emerging zoonosis in the world? Vet Res Commun 2023; 47:1777-1799. [PMID: 37438495 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10171-5] [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: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Leishmania is a genus of parasitic protozoa that causes a disease called leishmaniasis. Leishmaniasis is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female sandflies. There are several different species of Leishmania that can cause various forms of the disease, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on species of Leishmania involved and the immune response of the host. Leishmania parasites have a variety of reservoirs, including humans, domestic animals, horses, rodents, wild animals, birds, and reptiles. Leishmaniasis is endemic of 90 countries, mainly in South American, East and West Africa, Mediterranean region, Indian subcontinent, and Central Asia. In recent years, cases have been detected in other countries, and it is already an infection present throughout the world. The increase in temperatures due to climate change makes it possible for sandflies to appear in countries with traditionally colder regions, and the easy movement of people and animals today, facilitate the appearance of Leishmania species in new countries. These data mean that leishmaniasis will probably become an emerging zoonosis and a public health problem in the coming years, which we must consider controlling it from a One Health point of view. This review summarizes the prevalence of Leishmania spp. around the world and the current knowledge regarding the animals that could be reservoirs of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esperanza Montaner-Angoiti
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Disease (MMOPS) Group, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Lola Llobat
- Molecular Mechanisms of Zoonotic Disease (MMOPS) Group, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
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Al-Dhafiri M, Alhajri A, Alwayel ZA, Alturaiki JA, Bu Izran SA, Alhammad FA, Aljumaiah RM. Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Prevalence and Clinical Overview: A Single Center Study from Saudi Arabia, Eastern Region, Al-Ahsa. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:507. [PMID: 38133439 PMCID: PMC10748161 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8120507] [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: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a vector-borne parasitic disease that is transmitted via the bites of infected female sandflies. CL has been endemic in several countries worldwide for many decades, and numerous cases have been reported in Saudi Arabia, particularly across six regions; one of which is AL-Ahsa. Our research aimed to evaluate the epidemiological situation of CL among the patients in Al-Ahsa, Eastern region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, during the period from 2017 to 2023. The data were collected from the patients' registries and included 245 patients who were diagnosed with CL in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia. Fewer than half of the cases (47.8%) were Saudi patients, with a significant number of them being males (84.5%). Over half of the cases (52.7%) were aged between 21 and 40 years, and about three-quarters (74.7%) of the cases resided in rural areas. Regarding the nature of the lesions, 38.4% of the cases had one lesion, which was mainly distributed on a lower extremity (62.0%) or an upper extremity (52.2%). A high percentage of the lesions (75.2%) were wet lesions and caused by L. major. Concerning risk factors, a greater number of patients (71.4%) had been in rural areas within the last three months. Additionally, more than half of the cases (54.3%) had close contact with rodents, followed by birds (28.2%), sheep (22.0%), dogs (16.3%), and other animals (1.2%). The results showed a low number of reported CL cases in 2020 and 2021, followed by a surge in 2022 and 2023. The study shows that cutaneous leishmaniasis is still a public health problem in Al-Ahsa and is primarily associated with rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahdi Al-Dhafiri
- Department of Dermatology, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulmohsen Alhajri
- Department of Dermatology, King Fahad Hospital, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Zahraa Ali Alwayel
- General Practitioner, The Ministry of Health, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Shaima Ali Bu Izran
- Internal Medicine Resident, King Fahad Hospital, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia (R.M.A.)
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15
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Meira C, Silva J, Quadros H, Silva L, Barreto B, Rocha V, Bomfim L, Santos E, Soares M. Galectins in Protozoan Parasitic Diseases: Potential Applications in Diagnostics and Therapeutics. Cells 2023; 12:2671. [PMID: 38067100 PMCID: PMC10705098 DOI: 10.3390/cells12232671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) constitute a group of diseases that generally develop in tropical or subtropical climatic conditions and are related to poverty. Within the spectrum of NTDs, diseases caused by protozoa such as malaria, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis exhibit elevated mortality rates, thereby constituting a substantial public health concern. Beyond their protozoan etiology, these NTDs share other similarities, such as the challenge of control and the lack of affordable, safe, and effective drugs. In view of the above, the need to explore novel diagnostic predictors and therapeutic targets for the treatment of these parasitic diseases is evident. In this context, galectins are attractive because they are a set of lectins bound to β-galactosides that play key roles in a variety of cellular processes, including host-parasite interaction such as adhesion and entry of parasites into the host cells, and participate in antiparasitic immunity in either a stimulatory or inhibitory manner, especially the galectins-1, -2, -3, and -9. These functions bestow upon galectins significant therapeutic prospects in the context of managing and diagnosing NTDs. Thus, the present review aims to elucidate the potential role of galectins in the diagnosis and treatment of malaria, leishmaniasis, and Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cássio Meira
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
- SENAI Institute of Innovation in Health Advanced Systems (ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil;
| | - Jaqueline Silva
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
| | - Helenita Quadros
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
| | - Laís Silva
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
| | - Breno Barreto
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
- SENAI Institute of Innovation in Health Advanced Systems (ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil;
- Institute of Health Sciences, Federal University of Bahia (UFBA), Salvador 40170-110, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Vinícius Rocha
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
- SENAI Institute of Innovation in Health Advanced Systems (ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil;
| | - Larissa Bomfim
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
| | - Emanuelle Santos
- SENAI Institute of Innovation in Health Advanced Systems (ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil;
| | - Milena Soares
- Gonçalo Moniz Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Salvador 21040-900, Bahia, Brazil; (J.S.); (H.Q.); (L.S.); (B.B.); (V.R.); (L.B.)
- SENAI Institute of Innovation in Health Advanced Systems (ISI SAS), University Center SENAI/CIMATEC, Salvador 41650-010, Bahia, Brazil;
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16
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Basmenj ER, Arastonejad M, Mamizadeh M, Alem M, KhalatbariLimaki M, Ghiabi S, Khamesipour A, Majidiani H, Shams M, Irannejad H. Engineering and design of promising T-cell-based multi-epitope vaccine candidates against leishmaniasis. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19421. [PMID: 37940672 PMCID: PMC10632461 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46408-1] [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: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a very common parasitic infection in subtropical areas worldwide. Throughout decades, there have been challenges in vaccine design and vaccination against CL. The present study introduced novel T-cell-based vaccine candidates containing IFN-γ Inducing epitopic fragments from Leishmania major (L. major) glycoprotein 46 (gp46), cathepsin L-like and B-like proteases, histone H2A, glucose-regulated protein 78 (grp78) and stress-inducible protein 1 (STI-1). For this aim, top-ranked human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-specific, IFN-γ Inducing, antigenic, CD4+ and CD8+ binders were highlighted. Four vaccine candidates were generated using different spacers (AAY, GPGPG, GDGDG) and adjuvants (RS-09 peptide, human IFN-γ, a combination of both, Mycobacterium tuberculosis Resuscitation promoting factor E (RpfE)). Based on the immune simulation profile, those with RS-09 peptide (Leish-App) and RpfE (Leish-Rpf) elicited robust immune responses and their tertiary structure were further refined. Also, molecular docking of the selected vaccine models with the human toll-like receptor 4 showed proper interactions, particularly for Leish-App, for which molecular dynamics simulations showed a stable connection with TLR-4. Upon codon optimization, both models were finally ligated into the pET28a( +) vector. In conclusion, two potent multi-epitope vaccine candidates were designed against CL and evaluated using comprehensive in silico methods, while further wet experiments are, also, recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahshid Arastonejad
- Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Mina Mamizadeh
- Department of Dermatology, School of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
- Zoonotic Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Mahsa Alem
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mahdi KhalatbariLimaki
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Shadan Ghiabi
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Khamesipour
- Center for Research and Training in Skin Diseases and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, 14155-6383, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Majidiani
- Healthy Aging Research Centre, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.
| | - Morteza Shams
- Zoonotic Diseases Research Center, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran.
| | - Hamid Irannejad
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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Aghakhani N, Azami M, Mohaghegh MA. Cutaneous leishmaniasis lowers the quality of life: a neglected truth. GMS HYGIENE AND INFECTION CONTROL 2023; 18:Doc21. [PMID: 37829252 PMCID: PMC10566011 DOI: 10.3205/dgkh000447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nader Aghakhani
- Food and Beverages Safety Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Mehdi Azami
- Skin Diseases and Leishmaniosis Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Microbiology, Hojjatieh Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, Hojjatieh Hospital, Isfahan, Iran
- Basir Laboratory Research and Development Center, Basir Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Mohaghegh
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
- Health Sciences Research Center, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran
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18
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Salarkia E, Sharifi I, Keyhani A, Tavakoli Oliaee R, Khosravi A, Sharifi F, Bamorovat M, Babaei Z. In silico and in vitro potentials of crocin and amphotericin B on Leishmania major: Multiple synergistic mechanisms of actions. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291322. [PMID: 37682934 PMCID: PMC10490900 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
A significant barrier to optimal antileishmanial treatment is low efficacy and the emergence of drug resistance. Multiple approaches were used to monitor and assess crocin (a central component of saffron) mixed with amphotericin B (AmpB) potential in silico and in vitro consequences. The binding behavior of crocin and iNOS was the purpose of molecular docking. The results showed that crocin coupled with AmpB demonstrated a safe combination, extremely antileishmanial, suppressed Leishmania arginase absorption, and increased parasite death. This natural flower component is a robust antioxidant, significantly promoting the expression of the Th1-connected cytokines (IL12p40, IFN-γ, and TNF- α), iNOS, and transcription factors (Elk-1, c-Fos, and STAT-1). In comparison, the expression of the Th2-associated phenotypes (IL-10, IL-4, and TGF-β) was significantly reduced. The leishmanicidal effect of this combination was also mediated through programmed cell death (PCD), as confirmed by the manifestation of phosphatidylserine and cell cycle detention at the sub-GO/G1 phase. In conclusion, crocin with AmpB synergistically exerted in vitro antileishmanial action, generated nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species, modulated Th1, and Th2 phenotypes and transfer factors, enhanced PCD profile and arrested the cell cycle of Leishmania major promastigotes. The main action of crocin and AmpB involved wide-ranging mechanistic insights for conducting other clinical settings as promising drug candidates for cutaneous leishmaniasis. Therefore, this combination could be esteemed as a basis for a potential bioactive component and a logical source for leishmanicidal drug development against CL in future advanced clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Salarkia
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Iraj Sharifi
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Alireza Keyhani
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Razieh Tavakoli Oliaee
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ahmad Khosravi
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sharifi
- Research Center of Tropical and Infectious Diseases Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mehdi Bamorovat
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Zahra Babaei
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Almugadam SH, Trentini A, Maritati M, Contini C, Manfrinato MC, Cervellati C, Bellini T, Hanau S. A Calcium- and GTP-Dependent Transglutaminase in Leishmania infantum. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10030234. [PMID: 36977273 PMCID: PMC10053793 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10030234] [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: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
While human and animal leishmaniasis affect several millions of people worldwide, L. infantum is the species responsible for visceral leishmaniasis in Europe, Middle East, and America. Antileishmanial drugs present issues associated with drug toxicity and increasing parasite resistance. Therefore, the study of this parasite with a focus on new potential drug targets is extremely useful. Accordingly, we purified and characterized a transglutaminase (TGase) from L. infantum promastigotes. While Tgases are known to be involved in cell death and autophagy, it appears that these functions are very important for parasites' virulence. For the first time, we showed a Ca2+- and GTP-dependent TGase in Leishmania corresponding to a 54 kDa protein, which was purified by two chromatographic steps: DEAE-Sepharose and Heparin-Sepharose. Using polyclonal antibodies against a 50-amino-acid conserved region of the catalytic core of human TGase 2, we revealed two other bands of 66 and 75 kDa. The 54 kDa band appears to be different from the previously reported TGase, which was shown to be Ca2+- independent. Future research should address the identification of the purified enzyme sequence and, subsequently, its cloning to more comprehensively investigate its pathophysiological function and possible differences from mammal enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawgi Hago Almugadam
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
- Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Nile Avenue, P.O. Box 321, Khartoum 51111, Sudan
| | - Alessandro Trentini
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Martina Maritati
- Infectious Diseases and Dermatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Contini
- Infectious Diseases and Dermatology, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Aldo Moro 8, 44124 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Manfrinato
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carlo Cervellati
- Department of Translational Medicine and for Romagna, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Tiziana Bellini
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Stefania Hanau
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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