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Ngenya A, Klarmann-Schulz U, John W, Korir PJ, Kamugisha M, Nadal J, Moshi D, Ricchiuto A, Oriyo N, Sullivan SM, Laizer R, Horton J, Demitrius M, Feichtner A, Marandu TF, Mgaya Y, Kellings A, Kroidl I, Ogondiek J, Kuehlwein JM, Masagati L, Mackenzie C, Mosoba M, Horn S, Kagya K, Wanji S, Mandara W, Debrah LB, Ottesen EA, Debrah AY, Mwingira U, Hoerauf A, Kalinga A. Efficacy of Intensified Hygiene Measures with or without the Addition of Doxycycline in the Management of Filarial Lymphedema: A Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial in Tanzania. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2024; 111:33-51. [PMID: 39191236 PMCID: PMC11448492 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.24-0049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphedema, hydrocele, and acute adenolymphangitis (ADL) are chronically disabling consequences in patients with lymphatic filariasis (LF). Provision of morbidity management and disability prevention and concurrent mass drug administration of anthelmintics are two pillars for elimination of LF. This study assessed the impact of strict hygiene protocols with or without doxycycline on the progression of filarial lymphedema. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial was conducted in two regions in Tanzania. We enrolled 362 participants with lymphedema stages 1-3 assigned into three treatment groups of doxycycline 200 mg once daily, doxycycline 100 mg once daily, or matching placebo for 42 days in addition to hygiene measures. The participants were followed every 2 months for 2 years. Twenty-four months after treatment onset, 17.7% of participants displayed improved limb conditions, including 15/104 (14.4%) in the doxycycline 200 mg group, 16/105 (15.2%) in the doxycycline 100 mg group, and 25/107 (23.4%) in the placebo group. During the first 6 months after treatment, the number of participants experiencing an ADL attack was significantly lower in the doxycycline groups than in the placebo group. The study also found that hygiene was one of the factors associated with preventing the occurrence of acute attacks over the whole study period. Doxycycline 100 mg was a significant factor for the halt of progression (odds ratio: 0.53, P = 0.0239) when both legs if affected at baseline were considered. These findings emphasize the importance of practicing hygiene in reducing the occurrence of ADL attacks and the benefits of doxycycline with regards to acute attacks and halt of progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdallah Ngenya
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Ute Klarmann-Schulz
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, partner site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Winfrida John
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Patricia Jebett Korir
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, partner site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Jennifer Nadal
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dennis Moshi
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Arcangelo Ricchiuto
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Ndekya Oriyo
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Sarah Mary Sullivan
- Neglected Tropical Diseases Support Center, Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, Georgia
| | - Ruth Laizer
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute, Moshi, Tanzania
| | | | - Max Demitrius
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Anja Feichtner
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, partner site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Thomas F Marandu
- University of Dar es Salaam-Mbeya College of Health and Allied Sciences, Mbeya, Tanzania
| | - Yusuph Mgaya
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Angelika Kellings
- Clinical Study Core Unit Bonn, Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Inge Kroidl
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, partner site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - John Ogondiek
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Janina M Kuehlwein
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, partner site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
| | - Leonard Masagati
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Charles Mackenzie
- Neglected Tropical Diseases Support Center, Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, Georgia
| | - Maureen Mosoba
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Center for International Health, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Sacha Horn
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Medical Center of the Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany
| | - Kheri Kagya
- Regional Medical Office, Lindi Municipal Council, Lindi Region, Tanzania
| | - Samuel Wanji
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Wilfred Mandara
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Linda Batsa Debrah
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- German-West African Center for Global Health and Pandemic Prevention, partner site Kumasi, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Eric A Ottesen
- Neglected Tropical Diseases Support Center, Task Force for Global Health, Decatur, Georgia
| | - Alexander Yaw Debrah
- Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
- German-West African Center for Global Health and Pandemic Prevention, partner site Kumasi, Kumasi, Ghana
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Upendo Mwingira
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- RTI International, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Achim Hoerauf
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research, partner site Bonn-Cologne, Bonn, Germany
- German-West African Center for Global Health and Pandemic Prevention, partner site Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Akili Kalinga
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
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Parvin R, Habib Ullah Masum M, Ferdous J, Mahdeen AA, Shafiqul Islam Khan M. Designing of a chimeric multiepitope vaccine against bancroftian lymphatic filariasis through immunoinformatics approaches. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0310398. [PMID: 39298468 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0310398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2024] [Accepted: 09/01/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The filarial worms of Wuchereria bancrofti are the primary cause of lymphatic filariasis (LF), a mosquito-borne disease among the neglected tropical parasitic diseases. Considering the global endemic consequences of the disease, there is a need to develop a successful vaccine candidate against LF. Using advanced immunoinformatics approaches, we designed two multiepitope vaccines targeting W. bancrofti's glutathione S-transferase and thioredoxin. Therefore, we predicted several MHC-1, MHC-2, and B-cell epitopes from these proteins and mapped two vaccine candidates (V1 and V2). The vaccines were subsequently employed for physicochemical analysis, structural prediction and validation, docking and normal mode analysis, codon optimization, and immune simulation. The selected MHC-1, MHC-2, and B-cell epitopes were antigenic without allergenicity or toxicity. The designed vaccines were expected to be soluble, stable proteins under physiological conditions. Compared to V2, V1's secondary and tertiary structures were simultaneously favorable, with Ramachandran plot analysis revealing 95.6% residues in favored areas. Subsequently, the molecular docking analysis indicated that the V1 had a high binding affinity for the TLR-2, TLR-4 and TLR-5, as suggested by the docking scores of -1248.7, -1038.5 and -1562.8, respectively. The NMA of these complexes further indicated their structural flexibility. Molecular dynamics simulations of V1-TLR complexes revealed V1-TLR-4 as the most stable, with the lowest free energy and minimal fluctuations, indicating the strongest binding affinity. The results of the codon optimization showed high levels of expression, with a favorable CAI score (<1.0). A three-dose vaccination analysis showed significant and persistent immunological responses, including adaptive and innate immune responses. The findings emphasize the potential of the V1 against W. bancrofti, but further validation is required through in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rehana Parvin
- Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (CVASU), Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Md Habib Ullah Masum
- Department of Genomics and Bioinformatics, Faculty of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (CVASU), Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Jannatul Ferdous
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Ahmad Abdullah Mahdeen
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Md Shafiqul Islam Khan
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (CVASU), Chattogram, Bangladesh
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Yang K, Ruan M, Li X, Han Y, Li Q, Chen J, Liang Q, Xu H, Li N. Andrographolide promotes lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic vessel remodeling to alleviate secondary lymphedema. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 723:150179. [PMID: 38820623 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150179] [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: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Lymphedema, a prevalent, multifaceted, and chronic ailment, is mainly managed through physical manipulation and suffers from a lack of specific pharmacological treatments. Secondary lymphedema is mainly caused by impaired lymphatic drainage. Therapeutic lymphangiogenesis is a promising strategy in the treatment of lymphedema. Andrographolide, a natural product from Andrographis paniculata, is unknown whether andrographolide promotes lymphangiogenesis to improve secondary lymphedema. By using the murine tail lymphedema model, we demonstrated that andrographolide can reduce the thickness of subcutaneous tissue in the mice's tail and enhance lymphatic drainage. Moreover, immunofluorescence staining showed that the number of capillary lymphatic vessels in the ANDRO25 group was significantly more than that in the ANDRO50 and Model groups. Near-infrared lymphography images showed that highlighted sciatic lymph nodes could be seen in the ANDRO25 and ANDRO50 groups. In vitro, andrographolide could promote the proliferation and migration of LEC. In conclusion, andrographolide enhanced the recovery of lymphatic vessels, and promoted lymphatic drainage in the murine tail lymphedema model by promoting the proliferation of lymphatic endothelial cells, thereby reducing the symptoms of lymphedema. This suggested andrographolide may be used as a potential therapeutic drug or medical food ingredient to help patients with secondary lymphedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kunru Yang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China; Spine Institute, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Ming Ruan
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China; Spine Institute, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xuanru Li
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China; Spine Institute, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yunxi Han
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China; Spine Institute, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qiang Li
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China; Spine Institute, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jinman Chen
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China; Spine Institute, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Qianqian Liang
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China; Spine Institute, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Hao Xu
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China; Spine Institute, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Ning Li
- Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China; Spine Institute, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, 725 Wan-Ping South Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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Cantin LJ, Gregory V, Blum LN, Foster JM. Dual RNA-seq in filarial nematodes and Wolbachia endosymbionts using RNase H based ribosomal RNA depletion. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1418032. [PMID: 38832111 PMCID: PMC11144916 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1418032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis is caused by parasitic nematodes and is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Many filarial worms contain the bacterium Wolbachia as an obligate endosymbiont. RNA sequencing is a common technique used to study their molecular relationships and to identify potential drug targets against the nematode and bacteria. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is the most abundant RNA species, accounting for 80-90% of the RNA in a sample. To reduce sequencing costs, it is necessary to remove ribosomal reads through poly-A enrichment or ribosomal depletion. Bacterial RNA does not contain a poly-A tail, making it difficult to sequence both the nematode and Wolbachia from the same library preparation using standard poly-A selection. Ribosomal depletion can utilize species-specific oligonucleotide probes to remove rRNA through pull-down or degradation methods. While species-specific probes are commercially available for many commonly studied model organisms, there are currently limited depletion options for filarial parasites. Here, we performed total RNA sequencing from Brugia malayi containing the Wolbachia symbiont (wBm) and designed ssDNA depletion probes against their rRNA sequences. We compared the total RNA library to poly-A enriched, Terminator 5'-Phosphate-Dependent Exonuclease treated, NEBNext Human/Bacteria rRNA depleted and our custom nematode probe depleted libraries. The custom nematode depletion library had the lowest percentage of ribosomal reads across all methods, with a 300-fold decrease in rRNA when compared to the total RNA library. The nematode depletion libraries also contained the highest percentage of Wolbachia mRNA reads, resulting in a 16-1,000-fold increase in bacterial reads compared to the other enrichment and depletion methods. Finally, we found that the Brugia malayi depletion probes can remove rRNA from the filarial worm Dirofilaria immitis and the majority of rRNA from the more distantly related free living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. These custom filarial probes will allow for future dual RNA-seq experiments between nematodes and their bacterial symbionts from a single sequencing library.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey J. Cantin
- Biochemistry and Microbiology Division, New England BioLabs, Ipswich, MA, United States
| | - Vanessa Gregory
- Biochemistry and Microbiology Division, New England BioLabs, Ipswich, MA, United States
| | - Laura N. Blum
- Applications and Product Development, New England BioLabs, Ipswich, MA, United States
| | - Jeremy M. Foster
- Biochemistry and Microbiology Division, New England BioLabs, Ipswich, MA, United States
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Handa A, Gaidhane A, Choudhari S. Unraveling Lymphatic Filariasis in an Old Man: A Case Report. Cureus 2024; 16:e58167. [PMID: 38741824 PMCID: PMC11089499 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis, caused by filarial worms such as Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori, represents a significant public health burden in endemic regions. The disease primarily affects the lymphatic system, leading to lymphatic dysfunction and chronic morbidity. This abstract provides a comprehensive overview of lymphatic filariasis, including its transmission dynamics, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options. Special attention is given to the socioeconomic impact of the disease and the challenges associated with its control and elimination. The patient in this particular case is a 58-year-old man who had lower limb swelling and pain, characteristic of chronic lymphatic obstruction. Additionally, the swelling tends to worsen during the evening hours often resulting in difficulty in walking and discomfort. Lymphatic filariasis was diagnosed based on clinical presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alisha Handa
- Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Abhay Gaidhane
- Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
| | - Sonali Choudhari
- Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Wardha, IND
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Cantin LJ, Dunning Hotopp JC, Foster JM. Improved metagenome assemblies through selective enrichment of bacterial genomic DNA from eukaryotic host genomic DNA using ATAC-seq. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1352378. [PMID: 38426058 PMCID: PMC10902005 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1352378] [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: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Genomics can be used to study the complex relationships between hosts and their microbiota. Many bacteria cannot be cultured in the laboratory, making it difficult to obtain adequate amounts of bacterial DNA and to limit host DNA contamination for the construction of metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs). For example, Wolbachia is a genus of exclusively obligate intracellular bacteria that live in a wide range of arthropods and some nematodes. While Wolbachia endosymbionts are frequently described as facultative reproductive parasites in arthropods, the bacteria are obligate mutualistic endosymbionts of filarial worms. Here, we achieve 50-fold enrichment of bacterial sequences using ATAC-seq (Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin using sequencing) with Brugia malayi nematodes, containing Wolbachia (wBm). ATAC-seq uses the Tn5 transposase to cut and attach Illumina sequencing adapters to accessible DNA lacking histones, typically thought to be open chromatin. Bacterial and mitochondrial DNA in the lysates are also cut preferentially since they lack histones, leading to the enrichment of these sequences. The benefits of this include minimal tissue input (<1 mg of tissue), a quick protocol (<4 h), low sequencing costs, less bias, correct assembly of lateral gene transfers and no prior sequence knowledge required. We assembled the wBm genome with as few as 1 million Illumina short paired-end reads with >97% coverage of the published genome, compared to only 12% coverage with the standard gDNA libraries. We found significant bacterial sequence enrichment that facilitated genome assembly in previously published ATAC-seq data sets from human cells infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis and C. elegans contaminated with their food source, the OP50 strain of E. coli. These results demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of using ATAC-seq to easily obtain bacterial genomes to aid in symbiosis, infectious disease, and microbiome research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey J. Cantin
- Biochemistry and Microbiology Division, New England BioLabs, Ipswich, MA, United States
| | - Julie C. Dunning Hotopp
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jeremy M. Foster
- Biochemistry and Microbiology Division, New England BioLabs, Ipswich, MA, United States
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Izquierdo-Condoy JS, Naranjo-Lara P, Vásconez-Gonzalez J, Fernandez-Naranjo R, Placencia-André R, Davila MG, Carrington SJ, Ortiz-Prado E. A nationwide epidemiological and geodemographic analysis of lymphatic filariasis in Ecuador: a neglected and often forgotten disease in Ecuador. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1270015. [PMID: 38035299 PMCID: PMC10682787 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1270015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a neglected parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes and affecting the lymphatic system. The aim of this study was to analyze the epidemiological and sociodemographic characteristics of patients with LF during the last 11 years of available data in Ecuador. Methods A 11-year nationwide analysis of hospital admission and in-hospital mortality based on the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC) data was conducted in Ecuador from 2011 to 2021. The International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10) code for filariasis (ICD: B74) was used to retrieve information on severe LF as a proxy for incidence among 221 Ecuadorian cities. Results A total of 26 hospital admissions and 3 deaths due to LF were registered. The highest mortality rate was found in populations over 80 years. Men accounted for 62.5% (n = 17) of total number of cases with an average incidence rate of 1.7 cases per/1,000,000, while females accounted for 34.6% (n = 9), representing 1 case per/1,000,000 woman. Cities located at lower altitude (459/1,000,000) reported higher incidence rates than those located at higher altitudes (7.4/1,000,000). Conclusion This is the first study on LF in Ecuador. Although, Ecuador is not considered endemic for LF, we found evidence of the presence of this disease in recent years. The implementation and improvement of an adequate integrated epidemiological surveillance system will allow early identification of cases and therefore their respective treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jorge Vásconez-Gonzalez
- One Health Global Research Group, Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
- Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Tecnologías PUCE TEC, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | | | - María G. Davila
- One Health Global Research Group, Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
| | | | - Esteban Ortiz-Prado
- One Health Global Research Group, Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
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Stephano MA, Mayengo MM, Irunde JI, Kuznetsov D. Sensitivity analysis and parameters estimation for the transmission of lymphatic filariasis. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20066. [PMID: 37810166 PMCID: PMC10559806 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20066] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Lymphatic filariasis is a neglected tropical disease which poses public health concern and socio-economic challenges in developing and low-income countries. In this paper, we formulate a deterministic mathematical model for transmission dynamics of lymphatic filariasis to generate data by white noise and use least square method to estimate parameter values. The validity of estimated parameter values is tested by Gaussian distribution method. The residuals of model outputs are normally distributed and hence can be used to study the dynamics of Lymphatic filariasis. After deriving the basic reproduction number, R 0 by the next generation matrix approach, the Partial Rank Correlation Coefficient is employed to explore which parameters significantly affect and most influential to the model outputs. The analysis for equilibrium states shows that the Lymphatic free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable when the basic reproduction number is less a unity and endemic equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable when R 0 ≥ 1 . The findings reveal that rate of human infection, recruitment rate of mosquitoes increase the average new infections for Lymphatic filariasis. Moreover, asymptomatic individuals contribute significantly in the transmission of Lymphatic filariasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mussa A. Stephano
- School of Computation and Communication Science and Engineering, The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), P.O.BOX 447 Arusha, Tanzania
- Mkwawa University College of Education, Department of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics, P.O.Box 2513, Iringa, Tanzania
| | - Maranya M. Mayengo
- School of Computation and Communication Science and Engineering, The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), P.O.BOX 447 Arusha, Tanzania
| | - Jacob I. Irunde
- Mkwawa University College of Education, Department of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics, P.O.Box 2513, Iringa, Tanzania
| | - Dmitry Kuznetsov
- School of Computation and Communication Science and Engineering, The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology (NM-AIST), P.O.BOX 447 Arusha, Tanzania
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Pinheiro KMP, Guinati BGS, Moreira NS, Coltro WKT. Low-Cost Microfluidic Systems for Detection of Neglected Tropical Diseases. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (PALO ALTO, CALIF.) 2023; 16:117-138. [PMID: 37068747 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-091522-024759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect tropical and subtropical countries and are caused by viruses, bacteria, protozoa, and helminths. These kinds of diseases spread quickly due to the tropical climate and limited access to clean water, sanitation, and health care, which make exposed people more vulnerable. NTDs are reported to be difficult and inefficient to diagnose. As mentioned, most NTDs occur in countries that are socially vulnerable, and the lack of resources and access to modern laboratories and equipment intensify the difficulty of diagnosis and treatment, leading to an increase in the mortality rate. Portable and low-cost microfluidic systems have been widely applied for clinical diagnosis, offering a promising alternative that can meet the needs for fast, affordable, and reliable diagnostic tests in developing countries. This review provides a critical overview of microfluidic devices that have been reported in the literature for the detection of the most common NTDs over the past 5 years.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Nikaele S Moreira
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil;
| | - Wendell K T Coltro
- Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Brazil;
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia de Bioanalítica, Campinas, Brazil
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de Aquino LT, Aguiar-Santos AM, Rocha A, Coutinho AVDA, do Nascimento MSB, Moretti EC, da Silva FL, Lima FM, Bonfim C, Medeiros Z. The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on People With Lymphedema in an Endemic Area for Lymphatic Filariasis in Brazil. Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1605317. [PMID: 36712817 PMCID: PMC9876971 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1605317] [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: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To investigate the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on lymphedema patients from an endemic area of lymphatic filariasis. Methods: The study descriptive compared sociodemographic and clinical aspects, risk of falling and quality of life, prior and during the COVID-19 pandemic in 28 lymphedema patients, older than 18 years old and under investigation of filarial infection. For the evaluation of functional mobility, the Time Up and Go test and The Medical Outcome Study Short Form-36 Health for quality of life, was used. Results: An increase in interdigital and dermal lesions, a higher frequency of acute dermatolymphangioadenitis crises and risk of falling, worsening of quality of life in the domains of physical functioning, general health, vitality, and mental health during the pandemic was observed. Conclusion: Our findings of clinical worsening and quality of life of patients during the COVID-19 pandemic indicate the need to reinforce the goal of the Lymphatic Filariasis Program regarding the follow-up of these patients in the actions of the Global Program for the Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis, due to the discontinuity in the care during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ana Maria Aguiar-Santos
- National Filarial Reference Service, Department of Parasitology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife, Brazil,*Correspondence: Ana Maria Aguiar-Santos,
| | - Abraham Rocha
- National Filarial Reference Service, Department of Parasitology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Cristine Bonfim
- Postgraduate Program in Public Health, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil,Social Research Department, Joaquim Nabuco Foundation, Recife, Brazil
| | - Zulma Medeiros
- Postgraduate Health Sciences, University of Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil,National Filarial Reference Service, Department of Parasitology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation, Recife, Brazil
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11
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microRNAs: Critical Players during Helminth Infections. Microorganisms 2022; 11:microorganisms11010061. [PMID: 36677353 PMCID: PMC9861972 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11010061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
microRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally through their interaction with the 3' untranslated regions (3' UTR) of target mRNAs, affecting their stability and/or translation. Therefore, miRNAs regulate biological processes such as signal transduction, cell death, autophagy, metabolism, development, cellular proliferation, and differentiation. Dysregulated expression of microRNAs is associated with infectious diseases, where miRNAs modulate important aspects of the parasite-host interaction. Helminths are parasitic worms that cause various neglected tropical diseases affecting millions worldwide. These parasites have sophisticated mechanisms that give them a surprising immunomodulatory capacity favoring parasite persistence and establishment of infection. In this review, we analyze miRNAs in infections caused by helminths, emphasizing their role in immune regulation and its implication in diagnosis, prognosis, and the development of therapeutic strategies.
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12
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Vignes S. Genital Lymphedema after Cancer Treatment: A Narrative Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:5809. [PMID: 36497291 PMCID: PMC9739141 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14235809] [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: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Genital lymphedema may affect males and females after cancer treatment (gynecological, such as cervical, uterine or ovarian, melanoma, prostate, anus…). It is frequently associated with lower limb lymphedema, and is responsible for discomfort, cosmetic disfigurement and functional disturbances. Impacts on body image, sexual function and quality of life are major, and difficult to explore because cancer treatment itself and lymphedema are so closely interwoven. Local complications, e.g., papillomatosis, warty growth, lymph vesicles with embarrassing lymph oozing and cellulitis, may occur. Usual lymphedema therapies, like bandaging and elastic compression, are poorly adapted to these sites. Surgery, essentially based on cutaneous resection techniques, is the primary symptomatic treatment; it achieves good efficacy, in adults and children, with possible recurrence requiring reintervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Vignes
- Department of Lymphology, Centre National de Référence des Maladies Vasculaires Rares (Lymphoedèmes Primaires), Hôpital Cognacq-Jay, 15, rue Eugène-Millon, 75015 Paris, France
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13
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Mandal AK, Jana JK, Gayen S, Pal AC. Filariasis presenting as pancytopenia in a child. BMJ Case Rep 2022; 15:e248930. [PMID: 35606041 PMCID: PMC9174759 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2022-248930] [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] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A female child hailing from South Asia, India presented with pallor, multiple petechiae and ecchymosis. Based on the clinical picture and demography, the differentials considered were pancytopenia of nutritional origin, acute leukaemia, autoimmune and infective aetiologies. After ruling these out by respective tests, a literature review was done which revealed the possibility of filariasis especially in a patient with eosinophilia which was present in our case. A repeat peripheral blood smear study with a nocturnally drawn sample revealed multiple microfilariae and a diagnosis of filariasis was made. The patient was treated with triple drug therapy of diethylcarbamazine (6 mg/kg), ivermectin (6 µg/kg) and albendazole (400 mg) administered as a single dose. Subsequent haemograms showed improved cell counts. This along with a previous handful of case reports emphasises filariasis as one of the differentials of pancytopenia and should be kept in mind while evaluating for the same, especially in the endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jadab Kumar Jana
- Pediatrics, Bankura Sammilani Medical College Bankura, Bankura, West Bengal, India
| | - Soumya Gayen
- Pediatrics, Bankura Sammilani Medical College Bankura, Bankura, West Bengal, India
| | - Abhay Charan Pal
- Pediatrics, Bankura Sammilani Medical College Bankura, Bankura, West Bengal, India
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14
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Blei F. Update February 2022. Lymphat Res Biol 2022; 20:89-114. [PMID: 35167345 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2021.29118.fb] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Francine Blei
- NYU Langone Health, Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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