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Liu Q, Meng YJ, Mu BJ, Li J, Yu LM, Wang ZR, Fan QX, Zhu XQ, Gao WW. Research Note: Preliminary functional analysis of EGF-like domains of Eimeria tenella microneme protein 7 identified in sporozoites and merozoites. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103430. [PMID: 38219535 PMCID: PMC10823131 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2024.103430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Eimeria tenella, an obligate intracellular apicomplexan parasite, is the major causative agent of chicken coccidiosis. Some epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domain-containing proteins of other members of apicomplexan parasites have been reported to contribute to parasite survival. To date, however, EGF-like domain-containing proteins of E. tenella are not well studied. In this study, a gene fragment that encodes 4 EGF-like domains of E. tenella microneme protein 7 (EGF-EtMIC7) was amplified and expressed using an Escherichia coli expression system. Following generation of polyclonal antibodies that recognize recombinant EGF-EtMIC7 (rEGF-EtMIC7), the expression of EtMIC7 in sporozoites and merozoites was examined. Moreover, its roles in cellular regulation were investigated. The native EtMIC7 in E. tenella sporozoites and merozoites was detected by using Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence assays. rEGF-EtMIC7 could activate Akt, whereas blockade of EGF receptor (EGFR) failed to induce Akt phosphorylation. Compared with the control group, LMH cells treated with rEGF-EtMIC7 showed increased cell proliferation and expressed higher levels of B cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (BCL-2). These findings contribute to the better understanding of parasite-host interactions at the molecular level during E. tenella infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Liu
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China
| | - Yi-Jing Meng
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China
| | - Bing-Jin Mu
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China
| | - Jin Li
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China
| | - Lin-Mei Yu
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China
| | - Zi-Rui Wang
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China
| | - Qing-Xin Fan
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China; Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Higher Education of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, Yunnan Province 650201, PR China
| | - Wen-Wei Gao
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taigu, Shanxi Province 030801, PR China.
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Zhang L, Song Z, Li P, Song X, Tang X, Hu D. Molecular characterization and immune protective efficacy of 3 Eimeria tenella antigens. Poult Sci 2024; 103:103234. [PMID: 37980744 PMCID: PMC10685023 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2023.103234] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Avian coccidiosis caused by Eimeria is a serious parasitic disease that poses a threat to the poultry industry. Currently, prevention and treatment mainly rely on the administration of anticoccidials and live oocyst vaccines. However, the prevalence of drug resistance and the inherent limitations of live vaccines have driven the development of novel vaccines. In this study, the surface protein (Et-SAG14), a previously annotated rhoptry protein (Eten5-B), and a gametocyte phosphoglucomutase (Et-PGM1) were characterized and the vaccine potential of the recombinant proteins were evaluated. Et-SAG14 was dispersed in the form of particles in the sporozoite and merozoite stages, whereas Et-PGM1 was distributed in the apical part of the sporozoite and merozoite stages. The previously annotated rhoptry Eten5-B was found not to be located in the rhoptry but distributed in the cytoplasm of sporozoites and merozoites. Immunization with rEten5-B significantly elevated host interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and interleukin 10 (IL-10) transcript levels and exhibited moderate anticoccidial effects with an anticoccidial index (ACI) of 161. Unexpectedly, both recombinant Et-SAG14 and Et-PGM1 immunization significantly reduced host IFN-γ and IL-10 transcription levels, and did not show protection against E. tenella challenge (ACI < 80). These results suggest that the rEten5-B protein can trigger immune protection against E. tenella and may be a potential and effective subunit vaccine for the control of coccidiosis in poultry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Zhixuan Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Peiyao Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Xingju Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Xinming Tang
- Institute of Animal Science (IAS), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Dandan Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning 530004, China.
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Shi TY, Zhou SH, Kong YR, Fu Y, Liu Y, Yan WC, Zhou YX, Zhang L, Hao LL, Sun HC. A rhoptry protein, localizing in the bulb region of rhoptries, could induce protective immunity against Eimeria tenella infection. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1277955. [PMID: 38111572 PMCID: PMC10725939 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1277955] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Rhoptry organelle proteins (ROPs) secreted by apicomplexan parasites play important roles during parasites invasion and survival in host cells, and are potential vaccine candidates against apicomplexan diseases. Eimeria tenella (E. tenella) is one of the most noteworthy apicomplexan species, which causes hemorrhagic pathologies. Although dozens of putative E. tenella ROP sequences are annotated, most ROP proteins are not well studied. Methods In this study, an E. tenella ROP21 gene was identified and the recombinant EtROP21 protein (rEtROP21) was expressed in Escherichia coli. The developmental expression levels, localization, and protective efficacy against E. tenella infection in chickens were studied. Results An EtROP21 gene fragment with an open reading frame (ORF) of 981 bp was obtained from the Beijing strain of E. tenella. The rEtROP21 has a molecular weight of approximately 50 kDa and was recognized by rEtROP21-immunized mouse serum. Two specific protein bands, about 43 KDa and 95 KDa in size, were detected in the whole sporozoite proteins using the rEtROP21-immunized chicken serum. RT-qPCR analysis of the E. tenella ROP21 gene (EtROP21) revealed that its mRNA levels were higher in merozoites and sporozoites than in sporulated and unsporulated oocysts. Immunofluorescence and immunoelectron analyses showed that the EtROP21 protein predominantly localizes in the bulb region of rhoptries distributed at anterior, posterior, and perinuclear regions of E. tenella sporozoites. Immunization and challenge experiments revealed that immunizing chickens with rEtROP21 significantly increased their average body weight gain while decreasing mean lesion score and oocyst output (P <0.05). When compared with the challenged control group, the rEtROP21-immunized group was associated with a significantly higher relative weight gain (90.2%) and a greater reduction in oocyst output (67%) (P <0.05). The anticoccidial index of the rEtROP21-immunized group was 163.2. Chicken serum ELISA revealed that the levels of the specific anti- rEtROP21 antibody, IFN-γ, and IL-4 were significantly higher in the rEtROP21-immunized group than in the challenged control group (P <0.05). Conclusion These results indicate that rEtROP21 can induce a high level of specific immune response and it is a potential candidate for the development of vaccines against E. tenella infection in chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuan-yuan Shi
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Si-han Zhou
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Ya-ru Kong
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Epidemic Surveillance, Lingcheng Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Dezhou, Shandong, China
| | - Yuan Fu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wen-chao Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Yong-xue Zhou
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li-li Hao
- Department of Animal Parasitology, College of Animal and Veterinaty Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hong-chao Sun
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Li M, Lv X, Zheng M, Wei Y. The Immunoprotective Effect of ROP27 Protein of Eimeria tenella. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3500. [PMID: 38003119 PMCID: PMC10668730 DOI: 10.3390/ani13223500] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Eimeria tenella rhoptry protein has the properties of a protective antigen. EtROP27 is a pathogenic gene that is detected via a transcriptome, but its expression pattern, immunogenicity, and potency are unknown. Therefore, a gene segment of EtROP27 was amplified and transplanted into the pET28a prokaryotic vector for the expression of the recombinant protein, and it subsequently purified for the generation of a polyclonal antibody. Then, RT-PCR and Western blotting were performed to understand the expression pattern of EtROP27. Subsequently, animal experiments were conducted to evaluate the immunoprotective effect of the recombinant protein with different immunizing doses (50, 100, and 150 μg). The results showed that the expression of EtROP27 gradually increased with the prolongation of infection time, reaching the highest level at 96 h and then decreasing. Additionally, EtROP27 is a natural antigen of coccidia that can stimulate the body to produce high levels of IgY. As with recombinant protein vaccines, the results of immune protection evaluation tests showed that the average weight gain rates of the immune challenge groups were significantly higher than that of the challenged control group, and their average lesion scores were significantly lower than that of the challenged control group. Furthermore, the oocyst excretion decreased by 81.25%, 86.21%, and 80.01%, and the anticoccidial index was 159.45, 171.47, and 166.75, respectively, for these groups. EtROP27 is a promising antigen gene candidate for the development of a coccidiosis vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menggang Li
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanning 530004, China;
| | - Xiaoling Lv
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong 030801, China; (X.L.); (M.Z.)
| | - Mingxue Zheng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong 030801, China; (X.L.); (M.Z.)
| | - Yingyi Wei
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanning 530004, China;
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning 530004, China
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Ribeiro E. Silva A, Diallo MA, Sausset A, Robert T, Bach S, Bussière FI, Laurent F, Lacroix-Lamandé S, Silvestre A. Overexpression of Eimeria tenella Rhoptry Kinase 2 Induces Early Production of Schizonts. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0013723. [PMID: 37260371 PMCID: PMC10434272 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00137-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Eimeria tenella is an obligate intracellular parasite responsible for avian coccidiosis. Like other apicomplexan parasites, such as Toxoplasma gondii, cell invasion and intracellular development rely on apical organelle content discharge, named micronemes and rhoptries. Some rhoptry (ROP) kinases (ROPK) are key virulence factors in T. gondii. To date, among the 28 ropk genes carried by E. tenella, only two to four were confirmed by proteomic analysis or immunostaining to be expressed at the sporozoite stage. We have previously shown that EtROP1 is implicated in the inhibition of host cell apoptosis by interacting with the cellular p53. This work functionally described the second ROP kinase expressed at the sporozoite stage in E. tenella. EtROP2 is an active kinase that phosphorylates cell substrates of approximately 50 kDa. Its overexpression leads to the shortening of the prepatent period and to the early development of first-generation schizonts. Conduction of RNA sequencing analysis and reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) on the host cell allowed us to identify the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway and the transcription factor cFos to be upregulated by EtROP2. We also showed by immunofluorescence assay that the active kinase EtROP2 is implicated in the p38 MAPK pathway activation. We established here that EtROP2 activates the p38 MAPK pathway through a direct or indirect phosphorylation, leading to the overexpression of the master transcription factor cFos known to be implicated in E. tenella development. IMPORTANCE Rhoptries are specialized secretory organelles found in zoite stages of apicomplexan parasites. In addition to well-conserved rhoptry neck proteins, their protein consists mostly of kinase proteins, highly divergent from eukaryotic kinases. Some of those kinases are described as major virulence factors in Toxoplasma gondii, secreted into the host cell to hijack signaling pathways. Most of those kinases remain to be characterized in Eimeria tenella. Deciphering their cellular function is a prerequisite to supporting their relevance as a druggable target in development of new means of Eimeria tenella control. Secreted divergent kinases that interact with host cell partners to modulate pathways are good candidates, as they coevolve with their host targets to ensure their function within the host and are less prone to mutations that would lead to drug resistance. The absence of any orthologous kinase in host cells makes these parasite kinases a promising drug target candidate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Alix Sausset
- ISP, INRAE, Université de Tours, Nouzilly, France
| | - Thomas Robert
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR 8227, Integrative Biology of Marine Models Laboratory (LBI2M), Station Biologique de Roscoff, Roscoff, France
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, FR 2424, Plateforme de Criblage KISSf (Kinase Inhibitor Specialized Screening Facility), Station Biologique de Roscoff, Roscoff, France
| | - Stéphane Bach
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, UMR 8227, Integrative Biology of Marine Models Laboratory (LBI2M), Station Biologique de Roscoff, Roscoff, France
- Sorbonne Université, CNRS, FR 2424, Plateforme de Criblage KISSf (Kinase Inhibitor Specialized Screening Facility), Station Biologique de Roscoff, Roscoff, France
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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Shi TY, Li TE, Hao Y, Sun HC, Fu Y, Yan WC, Hao LL. Molecular characterization and protective efficacy of vacuolar protein sorting 29 from Eimeria tenella. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1205782. [PMID: 37469602 PMCID: PMC10352494 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1205782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Vacuolar protein sorting 29 (VPS29) is a core component of the retromer-retriever complex and is essential for recycling numerous cell-surface cargoes from endosomes. However, there are no reports yet on VPS29 of Eimeria spp. Methods Here, we cloned and prokaryotically expressed a partial sequence of Eimeria tenella VPS29 (EtVPS29) with RT-PCR and engineered strain of Escherichia coli respectively. The localization of the VPS29 protein in E. tenella sporozoites was investigated with immunofluorescence (IFA) and overexpression assays. And its protective efficacy against E. tenella infection was investigated in chickens with the animal protection test. Results An EtVPS29 gene fragment with an ORF reading frame of 549 bp was cloned. The band size of the expressed recombinant protein, rEtVPS29, was approximately 39 kDa and was recognized by the chicken anti-E. tenella positive serum. EtVPS29 protein was observed widely distributing in the cytoplasm of E. tenella sporozoites in the IFA and overexpression assays. rEtVPS29 significantly increased average body weight gain and decreased mean lesion score and oocyst output in chickens. The relative weight gain rate in the rEtVPS29-immunized group was 62.9%, which was significantly higher than that in the unimmunized and challenged group (P < 0.05). The percentage of reduced oocyst output in the rEtVPS29 immunized group was 32.2%. The anticoccidial index of the rEtVPS29-immunized group was 144.2. Serum ELISA also showed that rEtVPS29 immunization induced high levels of specific antibodies in chickens. Discussion These results suggest that rEtVPS29 can induce a specific immune response and is a potential candidate for the development of novel vaccines against E. tenella infections in chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuan-yuan Shi
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Tian-en Li
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Yun Hao
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- College of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hong-chao Sun
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yuan Fu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wen-chao Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Li-li Hao
- College of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Xiao J, Chen H, Zheng R, Pu J, Gu X, Xie Y, He R, Xu J, Jing B, Peng X, Yang G. Recombinant GMA56 and ROP17 of Eimeria magna conferred protection against infection by homologous species. Front Immunol 2023; 13:1037949. [PMID: 36713437 PMCID: PMC9879601 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1037949] [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: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most common rabbits coccidia species, Eimeria magna is mainly parasitic in the ileal and jejunal epithelial cells. E. magna infection can affect the growth performance of rabbits or cause other secondary diseases. Traditional methods of anticoccidial treatment typically result in drug resistance and drug residue. Therefore, vaccination is a promising alternative. Gametocyte antigen 56 (GAM56) and rhoptry kinase family proteins (ROPs) are involved in oocyst wall formation and parasite invasion, respectively. A virulence factor, ROP17 contains a serine/threonine kinase catalytic domain. In this study, recombinant E. magna GAM56 (rEmGAM56) and ROP17 (rEmROP17) proteins were obtained from a prokaryotic expression system and their reactogenicity was investigated with immunoblotting. To assess the potential of rEmGAM56 and rEmROP17 as coccidiosis vaccines, New Zealand White rabbits were subcutaneously immunized with 100 μg rEmGAM56 (rGC group) or rEmROP17 (rRC group) twice at 2-week intervals followed by homologous oocyst challenge. The rabbit serum was collected weekly to detect the specific antibody levels. The cytokine levels of pre-challenge serum were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the rabbits were observed and recorded post-challenge for the onset of clinical symptoms. The weight gain, oocyst output, and feed conversion ratio were calculated at the end of the experiment. The results showed that both rEmGAM56 and rEmROP17 had good reactogenicity. The rEmGAM56- or rEmROP17-immunized rabbits had milder clinical symptoms and feed conversion ratios of 3.27:1 and 3.37:1, respectively. The rEmGAM56-immunized rabbits had 81.35% body weight gain and 63.85% oocyst output reduction; the rEmROP17-immunized rabbits had 79.03% body weight gain and 80.10% oocyst output reduction. The ACI of rGC and rRC groups were 162.35 and 171.03, respectively. The specific antibody levels increased rapidly after immunization. Significantly increased interleukin (IL)-2, interferon (IFN)-γ, and IL-17 levels were evident in the rGC and rRC groups (p < 0.05). The rEmGAM56 and rEmROP17 elicited humoral and cellular responses, which protected against E. magna infection in rabbits. Thus, rEmGAM56 and rEmROP17 are potential vaccine candidates against E. magna, and rEmROP17 performed better than rEmGAM56.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Xiao
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao Chen
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ruoyu Zheng
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiayan Pu
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaobin Gu
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yue Xie
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ran He
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jing Xu
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Bo Jing
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuerong Peng
- Department of Chemistry, College of Life and Basic Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China
| | - Guangyou Yang
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, China,*Correspondence: Guangyou Yang,
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Identification and Characterization of Eimeria tenella Rhoptry Protein 35 (EtROP35). Vet Sci 2022; 9:vetsci9090465. [PMID: 36136681 PMCID: PMC9505231 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci9090465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Rhoptry proteins (ROPs) of phylum Apicomplexa parasites are important secretory virulence factors as well as candidate vaccines. However, studies on ROPs of Eimeria tenella are limited. In this study, the coding sequence of E. tenella rhoptry protein 35 (EtROP35) was cloned, and then its localization, expression in parasite, potential role within invasion, and protective efficacy were investigated. Sequence analysis and subcellular localization revealed that EtROP35 is a rhoptry protein of E. tenella. Sporozoite invasion-blocking assay and protective efficacy indicated that EtROP35 might be involved in the parasite invasion process and may be a potential vaccine candidate against E. tenella. Abstract Rhoptry proteins (ROPs) of Apicomplexa are crucial secreted virulence factors and sources of vaccine candidates. To date, Eimeria tenella ROPs are not well studied. This study identified and characterized a novel E. tenella ROP (EtROP35), which showed the highest levels among 28 putative ROPs in previous sporozoite and merozoite transcriptomes. Sequence analysis showed that EtROP35 contains an N-terminal secretory signal and a protein kinase domain including eight conserved ROP35-subfamily motifs. Subsequent experiments confirmed that it is a secretory protein. Subcellular localization revealed it localized at the apical end of the sporozoites and merozoites, which was consistent with the ROPs of other Apicomplexan parasites. To further understand the biological meaning of EtROP35, expression levels in different developmental stages and sporozoite invasion-blocking assay were investigated. EtROP35 showed significantly higher levels in sporozoites (6.23-fold) and merozoites (7.00-fold) than sporulated oocysts. Sporozoite invasion-blocking assay revealed that anti-EtROP35 polyclonal antibody significantly reduced the sporozoite invasion rate, suggesting it might participate in host cell invasion and be a viable choice as a vaccine candidate. The immunological protective assays showed that EtROP35 could induce a high level of serum IgY and higher mean body weight gain, and lower cecum lesion score and oocysts excretion than the challenged control group. These data indicated that EtROP35 had good immunogenicity and may be a promising vaccine candidate against E. tenella.
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Meng YJ, Mu BJ, Liu XX, Yu LM, Zheng WB, Xie SC, Gao WW, Zhu XQ, Liu Q. Transcriptional changes in LMH cells induced by Eimeria tenella rhoptry kinase family protein 17. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:956040. [PMID: 36016802 PMCID: PMC9395702 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.956040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Though a number of Eimeria tenella rhoptry kinase family proteins have been identified, little is known about their molecular functions. In the present study, the gene fragment encoding the matured peptide of E. tenella rhoptry kinase family protein 17 (EtROP17) was used to construct a recombinant vector, followed by transfection into leghorn male hepatoma (LMH) cells. Then, the transcriptional changes in the transfected cells were determined by RNA-seq. The expression of EtROP17 in LMH cells was validated by both Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence analysis. Our analysis showed that EtROP17 altered the expression of 309 genes (114 downregulated genes and 195 upregulated genes) in LMH cells. The quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) results of the selected differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were consistent with the RNA-seq data. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that DEGs were significantly enriched in nine pathways, such as toll-like receptor signaling pathway, ECM-receptor interaction, intestinal immune network for IgA production and focal adhesion. These findings reveal several potential roles of EtROP17, which contribute to understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the host-parasite interplay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Jing Meng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Bing-Jin Mu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Xiao-Xin Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Lin-Mei Yu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Wen-Bin Zheng
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Shi-Chen Xie
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Wen-Wei Gao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
- Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health of Higher Education of Yunnan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, China
| | - Qing Liu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Shanxi Agricultural University, Jinzhong, China
- *Correspondence: Qing Liu
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Research Note: Transcriptomic analysis of LMH cells in response to the overexpression of a hypothetical protein identified in Eimeria tenella SD-01 strain. Poult Sci 2022; 101:102109. [PMID: 36067577 PMCID: PMC9468589 DOI: 10.1016/j.psj.2022.102109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Though genome sequencing of Eimeria tenella predicts more than 8,000 genes, the molecular functions of many proteins remain unknown. In this study, the coding region corresponding to the mature peptide of a hypothetical protein of E. tenella (ETH_00023950) was amplified and expressed in a bacterial system. Following preparation of polyclonal antibody that recognizes ETH_00023950, the expression of ETH_00023950 in merozoites was examined. Meanwhile, we determined the transcriptomic responses of the leghorn male hepatoma (LMH) cells to its expression. Sequencing analysis showed that one single nucleotide polymorphism and one indel of ETH_00023950 of E. tenella SD-01 strain were found compared with that of the UK reference Houghton strain, leading to a frame shift and a premature stop codon. The expression of ETH_00023950 in E. tenella merozoites was confirmed by indirect immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis. Transcriptomic analysis showed that ETH_00023950 altered the expression of 2,680 genes (321 downregulated genes and 2,359 upregulated genes) in LMH cells. The RNA-sequencing data were consistent with the results of the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis revealed that differentially expressed transcripts were significantly related to 8 pathways, including oxidative phosphorylation and TGF-beta signaling pathway. These findings contribute to understanding host-pathogen interaction and secondary bacterial infections related to E. tenella.
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