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De Arrigunaga S, Wall S, Theotoka D, Friehmann A, Camacho M, Dubovy S, Galor A, Karp CL. Chronic inflammation as a proposed risk factor for ocular surface squamous neoplasia. Ocul Surf 2024; 33:1-10. [PMID: 38432640 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2024.02.006] [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: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Chronic inflammation is a predisposing factor for metaplastic changes and ultimately dysplasia. We describe cases of OSSN occurring in the setting of chronic ocular surface inflammation. METHODS Sixteen eyes from 14 individuals were included from one ocular oncology clinic between 2010 and 2023. Patients presented with ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) in the setting of chronic inflammation. The diagnosis of OSSN was made using anterior segment high-resolution optical coherence tomography (HR-OCT) and confirmed by histopathological analysis in all cases. RESULTS Median age on presentation was 61 [IQR 47.5-69.2] years. Eleven (86%) individuals were male and five (36%) identified as White Hispanic. Ten eyes were referred with ocular surface diagnoses including pannus (n = 4), scarring (n = 3), pterygium (n = 2), and herpetic keratitis (n = 1). Only six eyes were referred as possible neoplasia. All individuals had a history of ocular surface inflammation. The most common inflammatory conditions were ocular rosacea (seven individuals) and atopic keratoconjunctivitis (AKC) (five individuals). Two individuals were found to have bilateral OSSN, one in the setting of ocular rosacea and the other in the setting of AKC. All 16 eyes from 14 individuals were suspected to have OSSN based on HR-OCT findings which guided the location of the incisional biopsies that subsequently confirmed histopathological diagnosis in all cases. CONCLUSION OSSN may arise in the setting of chronic inflammation on the ocular surface. Identification of the tumor can be challenging in these cases, and HR-OCT can be a key diagnostic tool in detecting OSSN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia De Arrigunaga
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA
| | - Sarah Wall
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, 40 Temple Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Despoina Theotoka
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Yale School of Medicine, 40 Temple Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Asaf Friehmann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel; Sackler faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Matthew Camacho
- Florida Lions Ocular Pathology Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sander Dubovy
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Florida Lions Ocular Pathology Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Anat Galor
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Miami Veterans Administration Medical Center, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Carol L Karp
- Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 900 NW 17th St, Miami, FL, 33136, USA.
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Omatsu Y, Shimizu Y, Haruki T, Inoue Y, Miyazaki D. Effect of atopic conditions on development and recurrences of infectious keratitis. Allergol Int 2024; 73:445-452. [PMID: 38310042 DOI: 10.1016/j.alit.2024.01.008] [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: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atopic conditions are known to be associated with viral and bacterial infections. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between the effects of atopic conditions on the severity and recurrence of ocular infections including herpes simplex virus (HSV). METHODS This study was performed on 474 consecutive patients with infectious keratitis caused by bacteria, fungus, acanthamoeba, HSV, or varicella-zoster virus. The relationships between the atopic condition and specific infectious pathogens and HSV were determined using real-time PCR. RESULTS Our findings showed that atopic dermatitis (AD) was significantly associated with the incidence of HSV keratitis (odds ratio (OR), 10.2; P = 0.000). Other associations with AD were observed only with bacteria in an adverse manner. HSV proliferation in the lesions of patients with HSV keratitis whose AD was associated with non-infectious atopic blepharitis were significantly greater by 145-folds (P = 0.000). The presence of asthma or allergic rhinitis also increased the HSV DNA copy numbers. A recurrence of HSV keratitis was observed in 70 patients (43.2 %), and mean time to recurrence was 1647 days. Cox proportional hazard model indicated that the epithelial type of HSV recurrence but not the stromal type was associated with atopic conditions especially with AD. The factors significantly associated with a recurrence was AD associated with non-infectious atopic blepharitis (HR: 6.11, P = 0.000) and asthma (HR: 3.03, P = 0.025). CONCLUSIONS Atopic conditions, especially AD with atopic blepharitis, are significantly associated with the development, increased proliferation, and shorter time to a recurrence on HSV keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Omatsu
- Division of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Yumiko Shimizu
- Division of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Tomoko Haruki
- Division of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Yoshitsugu Inoue
- Division of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Dai Miyazaki
- Division of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Faculty of Medicine, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan.
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Santos Porto D, da Costa Bernardo Port B, Conte J, Fretes Argenta D, Pereira Balleste M, Amadeu Micke G, Machado Campos Â, Silva Caumo K, Caon T. Development of ophthalmic nanoemulsions of β-caryophyllene for the treatment of Acanthamoeba keratitis. Int J Pharm 2024; 659:124252. [PMID: 38782149 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124252] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Although rare, amoebic keratitis (AK) is a disease caused by Acanthamoeba spp. that can lead to blindness. The drugs currently available for its treatment are very toxic, which has motivated the investigation for more effective and safe therapeutic options. In this study, the in vitro activity of ß-caryophyllene (BCP) was exploited taking into account its action against other protozoans as well as its well-known healing and anti-inflammatory properties (aspects relevant for the AK pathogenesis). On the other hand, high volatilization and oxidation phenomena are found for this compound, which led to its incorporation into nanoemulsions (NEs). Two emulsifying agents were tested, resulting in monodisperse systems with reduced droplet size (<265 nm) and high surface charge (positive and negative for NEs prepared with cetrimonium bromide -CTAB and Phosal® 50+, respectively). NEs prepared with CTAB were shown to be more stable after long-term storage at 4 and 25 °C than those prepared with Phosal®. Pure BCP, at the highest concentration (500 µM), resulted in a level of inhibition of Acanthamoeba trophozoites equivalent to that of reference drug (chlorhexidine). This activity was even greater after oil nanoencapsulation. The reduced droplet size could improve the interaction of the oil with the microorganism, justifying this finding. Changes in surface charge did not impact the activity. Positively charged NEs improved the interaction and retention of BCP in the cornea and thus should be prioritized for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Santos Porto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | | | - Júlia Conte
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Debora Fretes Argenta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Maira Pereira Balleste
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Amadeu Micke
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Ângela Machado Campos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Karin Silva Caumo
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Thiago Caon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil.
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Sifaoui I, Rodríguez-Expósito RL, Reyes-Batlle M, Sutak R, Piñero JE, Lorenzo-Morales J. Amoebicidal Effect of COVID Box Molecules against Acanthamoeba: A Study of Cell Death. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:808. [PMID: 38931475 PMCID: PMC11206913 DOI: 10.3390/ph17060808] [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: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 06/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. can cause a sight threatening disease. At present, the current treatments used to treat Acanthamoeba spp. Infections, such as biguanide-based antimicrobials, remain inefficacious, with the appearance of resistant forms and high cytotoxicity to host cells. In this study, an initial screening was conducted against Acanthamoeba castellanii Neff and murine macrophages J774A.1 using alamarBlue™. Among the 160 compounds included in the cited box, 90% exhibited an inhibition of the parasite above 80%, while only 18.75% of the compounds inhibited the parasite with a lethality towards murine macrophage lower than 20%. Based on the amoebicidal activity, the cytotoxicity assay, and availability, Terconazole was chosen for the elucidation of the action mode in two clinical strains, Acanthamoeba culbertsoni and Acanthamoeba castellanii L10. A fluorescence image-based system and proteomic techniques were used to investigate the effect of the present azole on the cytoskeleton network and various programmed cell death features, including chromatin condensation and mitochondria dysfunction. Taking all the results together, we can suggest that Terconazole can induce programmed cell death (PCD) via the inhibition of sterol biosynthesis inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Sifaoui
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (I.S.); (R.L.R.-E.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación on Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Área de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rubén L. Rodríguez-Expósito
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (I.S.); (R.L.R.-E.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación on Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Área de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Reyes-Batlle
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (I.S.); (R.L.R.-E.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación on Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Área de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Robert Sutak
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic;
| | - José E. Piñero
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (I.S.); (R.L.R.-E.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación on Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Área de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Jacob Lorenzo-Morales
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (I.S.); (R.L.R.-E.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38200 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Consorcio Centro de Investigación on Biomédica En Red (CIBER), Área de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
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Blaser F, Bajka A, Grimm F, Metzler S, Herrmann D, Barthelmes D, Zweifel SA, Said S. Assessing PCR-Positive Acanthamoeba Keratitis-A Retrospective Chart Review. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1214. [PMID: 38930596 PMCID: PMC11205950 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12061214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Ophthalmologists' diagnostic and treatment competence in Acanthamoeba keratitis varies widely. This investigator-initiated, retrospective, single-center chart review examined the electronic patient files regarding PCR-positive Acanthamoeba keratitis. We included corneal and contact lens assessments. We further reviewed the patient's medical history, corneal scraping results regarding viral or fungal co-infections, and the duration from symptom onset to final diagnosis. We identified 59 eyes of 52 patients from February 2010 to February 2023, with 31 of 52 (59.6%) being female patients. The median (IQR, range) patient age was 33 (25.3 to 45.5 [13 to 90]) years, and the mean (SD, range) time to diagnosis after symptom onset was 18 (10.5 to 35 [3 to 70]) days. Overall, 7 of 52 (7.7%) patients displayed a bilateral Acanthamoeba infection, and 48 (92.3%) used contact lenses at symptom onset. Regarding other microbiological co-infections, we found virologic PCR testing in 45 of 52 (86.5%) patients, with 3 (6.7%) positive corneal scrapings. Fungal cultures were performed in 49 of 52 (94.2%) patients, with 5 (10.2%) positive corneal scrapings. The medical treatment success rate was 45/46 (97.8%). This study raises awareness of patient education in contact lens handling and screens for further microbial co-infections in suspected Acanthamoeba cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank Blaser
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland (S.S.)
| | - Anahita Bajka
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland (S.S.)
| | - Felix Grimm
- Institute of Parasitology, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Simone Metzler
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland (S.S.)
| | - Didier Herrmann
- Institute of Optometry, University of Applied Science, 4600 Olten, Switzerland
| | - Daniel Barthelmes
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland (S.S.)
| | - Sandrine Anne Zweifel
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland (S.S.)
| | - Sadiq Said
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland (S.S.)
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Posarelli M, Passaro ML, Avolio FC, Costagliola C, Semeraro F, Romano V. The incidence of severe complications in acanthamoeba keratitis: Qualitative and quantitative systematic assessment. Surv Ophthalmol 2024:S0039-6257(24)00069-9. [PMID: 38885760 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2024.06.001] [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: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a rare, sight-threating corneal infection. The disease is challenging to diagnose and treat, and the amoeba can rapidly encyst, persisting in the tissue and causing recurrences. Medical therapy is conventionally considered the first line treatment, but advanced cases could require more invasive treatments like a "chaud" corneal transplant. We review the incidence of severe complications in patients affected by AK. Of 439 reports screened, 158 met our inclusion criteria. Incidence of severe complications was low, with 2.21 % patients developing perforation, 1 % requiring evisceration/enucleation and less than 1 % developing endophthalmitis. Corneal transplantation was required in 16.68 % of the cases. According to our results, and considering the reported incidences of these complications in other infectious keratitis, AK patients have an overall low risk of developing perforation, endophthalmitis, and enucleation/evisceration. Nevertheless, data available in the literature remain poor, and further randomized control trials are needed to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Posarelli
- St. Paul's Eye Unit, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, UK; Ophthalmology Unit of the Department of Medicine, Surgery and Neuroscience, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Passaro
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy; Department of Medicine and Health Sciences "V. Tiberio", University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | - Fabio Claudio Avolio
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Ciro Costagliola
- Department of Neurosciences, Reproductive Sciences and Dentistry, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Francesco Semeraro
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, Ophthalmology Clinic, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Eye Unit, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili, 1, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Vito Romano
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences, and Public Health, Ophthalmology Clinic, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Eye Unit, ASST Spedali Civili di Brescia, Piazzale Spedali Civili, 1, 25123 Brescia, Italy; Department of Eye and Vision Science, Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
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Pezeshki A, Tajic S, Farahmandian P, Haniloo A, Mahmmodzadeh A, Niyyati M, Behniafar H. Phylogenetic analysis of Acanthamoeba isolated from soil samples and nasal cavities of patients with malignancy: a public health concern in the northwest of Iran. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2024; 118:367-375. [PMID: 38240056 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trad100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The genus Acanthamoeba is reported from various environmental sources and can cause multiple complications, including chronic amoebic aeratitis and amoebic granulomatous encephalitis. This study investigated the presence and genotyping of Acanthamoeba in the soil of parks and patients with malignancies referred to health centers in Zanjan city, Iran. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, 200 soil samples were collected from amusement parks in Zanjan city from September 2017 to May 2018. Samples were cultured on 1.5% non-nutrient agar, and the Acanthamoeba genus was identified using the morphological method. PCR was performed on all positive environmental samples, and six microscopically positive clinical samples belonged to our previous study. DNA sequencing of 18S rRNA was performed to analyze the genetic pattern of some PCR-positive isolates. RESULTS Microscopic results showed that 96 (48%) soil samples were positive. PCR confirmed all positive cases of clinical samples and 84 soil samples. Out of the PCR-positive samples, 20 soil samples and five clinical samples were sequenced successfully. All soil isolates belonged to the T4 genotype, and three and two clinical samples belonged to T4 and T5 genotypes, respectively. CONCLUSION : The presence of Acanthamoeba in both the environment and clinical samples of Zanjan city suggests paying greater attention to the infections caused by it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Pezeshki
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, 45331 Zanjan, Iran
| | - Shadi Tajic
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, 45331 Zanjan, Iran
| | - Parvin Farahmandian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, 45331 Zanjan, Iran
| | - Ali Haniloo
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, 45331 Zanjan, Iran
| | - Abbas Mahmmodzadeh
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, 45331 Zanjan, Iran
| | - Maryam Niyyati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, 1701706 Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Behniafar
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Sarab Faculty of Medical Sciences, 54731 Sarab, East Azerbaijan, Iran
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Chen L, Han W, Jing W, Feng M, Zhou Q, Cheng X. Novel anti- Acanthamoeba effects elicited by a repurposed poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor AZ9482. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1414135. [PMID: 38863831 PMCID: PMC11165085 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1414135] [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: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Acanthamoeba infection is a serious public health concern, necessitating the development of effective and safe anti-Acanthamoeba chemotherapies. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs) govern a colossal amount of biological processes, such as DNA damage repair, protein degradation and apoptosis. Multiple PARP-targeted compounds have been approved for cancer treatment. However, repurposing of PARP inhibitors to treat Acanthamoeba is poorly understood. Methods In the present study, we attempted to fill these knowledge gaps by performing anti-Acanthamoeba efficacy assays, cell biology experiments, bioinformatics, and transcriptomic analyses. Results Using a homology model of Acanthamoeba poly (ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs), molecular docking of approved drugs revealed three potential inhibitory compounds: olaparib, venadaparib and AZ9482. In particular, venadaparib exhibited superior docking scores (-13.71) and favorable predicted binding free energy (-89.28 kcal/mol), followed by AZ9482, which showed a docking score of -13.20 and a binding free energy of -92.13 kcal/mol. Notably, the positively charged cyclopropylamine in venadaparib established a salt bridge (through E535) and a hydrogen bond (via N531) within the binding pocket. For comparison, AZ9482 was well stacked by the surrounding aromatic residues including H625, Y652, Y659 and Y670. In an assessment of trophozoites viability, AZ9482 exhibited a dose-and time-dependent anti-trophozoite effect by suppressing Acanthamoeba PARP activity, unlike olaparib and venadaparib. An Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide apoptosis assay revealed AZ9482 induced trophozoite necrotic cell death rather than apoptosis. Transcriptomics analyses conducted on Acanthamoeba trophozoites treated with AZ9482 demonstrated an atlas of differentially regulated proteins and genes, and found that AZ9482 rapidly upregulates a multitude of DNA damage repair pathways in trophozoites, and intriguingly downregulates several virulent genes. Analyzing gene expression related to DNA damage repair pathway and the rate of apurinic/apyrimidinic (AP) sites indicated DNA damage efficacy and repair modulation in Acanthamoeba trophozoites following AZ9482 treatment. Discussion Collectively, these findings highlight AZ9482, as a structurally unique PARP inhibitor, provides a promising prototype for advancing anti-Acanthamoeba drug research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Chen
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Han
- Research Center for Intelligent Computing Platforms, Zhejiang Lab, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenwen Jing
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Meng Feng
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qingtong Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xunjia Cheng
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Qubais Saeed B, Hamdy R, Akbar N, Sajeevan SE, Khan NA, Soliman SSM. Azole-based compounds as potential anti- Acanthamoeba agents. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:1578-1588. [PMID: 38784450 PMCID: PMC11110792 DOI: 10.1039/d4md00029c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba castellanii is an opportunistic pathogen with public health implications, largely due to its invasive nature and non-specific symptoms. Our study focuses on the potential of azole compounds, particularly those with triazole scaffolds, as anti-amoebic agents. Out of 10 compounds, compounds T1 and T8 exhibited effective anti-Acanthamoeba activity with MIC50 values of 125.37 and 143.92 μg mL-1, respectively. Interestingly, compounds T1, T4, T5 and T8 revealed profound anti-excystation activity with MIC50 at 32.01, 85.53, 19.54 and 80.57 μg mL-1, respectively, alongside limited cytotoxicity to human cells. The study underscores the potential of T1, T4, T5, and T8, thiazole-based compounds, as anti-Acanthamoeba agents by both eliminating amoeba viability and preventing excystation, via preserving the amoeba in its latent cyst form, exposing them to elimination by the immune system. Notably, compounds T1, T4, T5, and T8 showed optimal molecular properties, moderate oral bioavailability, and stable complex formation with Acanthamoeba CYP51. They also display superior binding interactions. Further research is needed to understand their mechanisms and optimize their efficacy against Acanthamoeba infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balsam Qubais Saeed
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah Sharjah 27272 United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah Sharjah 27272 United Arab Emirates
| | - Rania Hamdy
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah Sharjah 27272 United Arab Emirates
- Research Institute for Science and Engineering (RISE), University of Sharjah Sharjah 27272 United Arab Emirates
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Zagazig University Zagazig 44519 Egypt
| | - Noor Akbar
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah Sharjah 27272 United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah Sharjah 27272 United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Microbiota Research Centre, Istinye University Istanbul 34010 Turkey
| | - Sameh S M Soliman
- Research Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah Sharjah 27272 United Arab Emirates
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah Sharjah P.O. Box 27272 United Arab Emirates +97165057472
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10
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Kong CF, Go C, Goolam S, Yeung S. Diagnostic utility of in vivo confocal microscopy in Acanthamoeba keratitis following corneal crosslinking. BMJ Case Rep 2024; 17:e257279. [PMID: 38772872 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2023-257279] [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] [Indexed: 05/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a rare but potentially sight-threatening complication of corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) for keratoconus. In this report, we describe an early adolescent male who underwent routine CXL for progressive keratoconus in his left eye. Preprocedural left visual acuity (VA) was 6/9. At day 5 postprocedure, multifocal corneal infiltrates were identified. Corneal scrape, bandage contact lens cultures and herpetic and Acanthamoeba PCR were negative. In vivo, confocal microscopy (IVCM) identified Acanthamoeba cysts within the corneal stroma. Intensive amoebicidal therapy was initiated, but recovery was complicated by significant inflammation, resulting in widespread aggressive corneal vascularisation necessitating topical steroids and steroid-sparing agents. At 10 months, his left VA was 6/24. This report emphasises the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for AK in cases of post-CXL microbial keratitis and highlights the diagnostic value of IVCM, particularly in culture-negative and PCR-negative cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Fei Kong
- The University of Sydney Save Sight Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christopher Go
- The University of Sydney Save Sight Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Saadiah Goolam
- The University of Sydney Save Sight Institute, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Season Yeung
- Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
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11
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Mooney R, Giammarini E, Corbett E, Thomson S, McKinley K, Sinisterra Sebastian P, Rodgers K, O’Donnell J, McGinness C, Roberts CW, Ramaesh K, Henriquez FL. Sodium Metabisulfite Inhibits Acanthamoeba Trophozoite Growth through Thiamine Depletion. Pathogens 2024; 13:431. [PMID: 38921729 PMCID: PMC11206890 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13060431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a severe infection of the cornea. Prevention and treatment are difficult due to the inefficacy of currently available compounds. The impact of many commonly used compounds for routine examinations of Acanthamoeba is unexplored but might offer insight useful in combatting AK. In this study, we demonstrate that sodium metabisulfite, a common preservation constituent of eye care solutions, was found to be active against Acanthamoeba trophozoites at concentrations lower than that commonly found in eye drops (IC50 0.03 mg/mL). We demonstrate that sodium metabisulfite depletes thiamine from growth medium and that Acanthamoeba is a thiamine auxotroph, requiring thiamine salvage for growth. The inhibitory effects of sodium metabisulfite can be overcome by thiamine supplementation. These results are consistent with the lack of key enzymes for thiamine biosynthesis in the genome of Acanthamoeba, an area which might prove exploitable using new or existing compounds. Indeed, this study highlights sodium metabisulfite as a useful inhibitor of Acanthamoeba castellanii trophozoites in vitro and that it acts, at least in part, by limiting available thiamine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronnie Mooney
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland Lanarkshire, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK; (R.M.)
| | - Elisa Giammarini
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland Lanarkshire, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK; (R.M.)
| | - Erin Corbett
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland Lanarkshire, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK; (R.M.)
| | - Scott Thomson
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland Lanarkshire, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK; (R.M.)
| | - Kevin McKinley
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland Lanarkshire, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK; (R.M.)
| | - Paula Sinisterra Sebastian
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland Lanarkshire, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK; (R.M.)
| | - Kiri Rodgers
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland Lanarkshire, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK; (R.M.)
| | - Jana O’Donnell
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland Lanarkshire, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK; (R.M.)
| | - Charles McGinness
- School of Computing, Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of the West of Scotland Paisley, Glasgow PA1 2BE, UK
| | - Craig W. Roberts
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
| | - Kanna Ramaesh
- NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Gartnavel Hospital, Department of Ophthalmology, Glasgow G12 0YN, UK
| | - Fiona L. Henriquez
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland Lanarkshire, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK; (R.M.)
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12
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Petrillo F, Tortori A, Vallino V, Galdiero M, Fea AM, De Sanctis U, Reibaldi M. Understanding Acanthamoeba Keratitis: An In-Depth Review of a Sight-Threatening Eye Infection. Microorganisms 2024; 12:758. [PMID: 38674702 PMCID: PMC11052265 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12040758] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a rare but potentially sight-threatening corneal infection caused by the Acanthamoeba parasite. This microorganism is found ubiquitously in the environment, often in freshwater, soil, and other sources of moisture. Despite its low incidence, AK presents significant challenges due to delayed diagnosis and the complex nature of therapeutic management. Early recognition is crucial to prevent severe ocular complications, including corneal ulceration and vision loss. Diagnostic modalities and treatment strategies may vary greatly depending on the clinical manifestation and the available tools. With the growing reported cases of Acanthamoeba keratitis, it is essential for the ophthalmic community to thoroughly understand this condition for its effective management and improved outcomes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of AK, encompassing its epidemiology, risk factors, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Petrillo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.V.); (A.M.F.); (U.D.S.); (M.R.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, “City of Health and Science” Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Antonia Tortori
- Ophthalmology Unit, Surgery Department, Piacenza Hospital, 29121 Piacenza, Italy;
| | - Veronica Vallino
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.V.); (A.M.F.); (U.D.S.); (M.R.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, “City of Health and Science” Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Marilena Galdiero
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, 81100 Naples, Italy;
| | - Antonio M. Fea
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.V.); (A.M.F.); (U.D.S.); (M.R.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, “City of Health and Science” Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Ugo De Sanctis
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.V.); (A.M.F.); (U.D.S.); (M.R.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, “City of Health and Science” Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Michele Reibaldi
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy; (V.V.); (A.M.F.); (U.D.S.); (M.R.)
- Department of Ophthalmology, “City of Health and Science” Hospital, 10126 Turin, Italy
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13
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Kwankaew P, Sangkanu S, Mitsuwan W, Boonhok R, Lao-On U, Tabo HL, Mahboob T, de Lourdes Pereira M, Tangpong J, Sundar SS, Wiart C, Nissapatorn V. Inhibitory and anti-adherent effects of Piper betle L. leaf extract against Acanthamoeba triangularis in co-infection with Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa: A sustainable one-health approach. Vet World 2024; 17:848-862. [PMID: 38798284 PMCID: PMC11111711 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.848-862] [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: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Keratitis is a serious ocular infection often caused by pathogenic microorganisms such as Acanthamoeba spp. Among other harmful microbes, Acanthamoeba keratitis presents a particular challenge due to its resistance to conventional antimicrobial agents. Piper betle Linn., commonly known as betel leaf, has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. This study aimed to assess the potential of the leaf ethanol extract of P. betle Linn. in the treatment of Acanthamoeba triangularis in monoculture and co-culture with two prevalent pathogenic bacteria, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, associated with keratitis. Materials and Methods Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of A. triangularis, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa extracts in monoculture and coinfected conditions were examined. In addition, this study explored the potential of the extract in preventing Acanthamoeba adherence in both monoculture and co-culture environments. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis confirmed the impact of the extract on Acanthamoeba cell membranes, including acanthopodia. Furthermore, a time-kill kinetic assay was used to validate the amoebicidal activity of the extract against A. triangularis and the tested bacteria. Results MICs for trophozoites, cysts, P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus in the monoculture were 0.25, 0.25, 0.51, and 0.128 mg/mL, respectively, whereas the MICs for Acanthamoeba coinfected with bacteria were higher than those in the monoculture. This extract inhibited the growth of A. triangularis trophozoites and cysts for up to 72 h. Moreover, P. betle extract effectively prevented the adherence of Acanthamoeba to contact lenses under monoculture conditions. SEM analysis confirmed that P. betle extract affects the cell membrane of Acanthamoeba, including Acanthopodia. In addition, the time-kill kinetic assay confirmed that the extract contained amoebicidal activity against A. triangularis, including the tested bacteria. Notably, S. aureus was more susceptible than A. triangularis and P. aeruginosa to P. betle extract treatment. Unexpectedly, our study revealed that S. aureus negatively affected A. triangularis in the co-culture after 3 days of incubation, whereas P. aeruginosa facilitated the growth of A. triangularis in the presence of the extract. Conclusion This study provides compelling evidence of the anti-adhesive and anti-Acanthamoeba properties of P. betle leaf extract against A. triangularis under monoculture and co-culture conditions. The observed impact on Acanthamoeba cell membranes, coupled with the time-kill kinetic assay results, underscores the potential of P. betle leaf extract as a promising agent for combating Acanthamoeba-related infections in humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pattamaporn Kwankaew
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Suthinee Sangkanu
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team), World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Watcharapong Mitsuwan
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College and Research Center of Excellence in Innovation of Essential Oil, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Rachasak Boonhok
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Udom Lao-On
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Hazel L. Tabo
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science and Computer Studies, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, Cavite, Philippines
| | - Tooba Mahboob
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials and Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Jitbanjong Tangpong
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Shanmuga S. Sundar
- Department of Biotechnology, Aarupadai Veedu Institute of Technology, Vinayaka Mission’s Research Foundation Chennai Campus, Paiyanoor, Chennai, India
| | - Christophe Wiart
- Institute of Tropical Biology and Conservation, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Veeranoot Nissapatorn
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team), World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery, and Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
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14
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Alreshidi SO, Vargas JM, Ahmad K, Alothman AY, Albalawi ED, Almulhim A, Alenezi SH, ALBalawi HB, Alali NM, Hashem F, Aljindan M. Differentiation of acanthamoeba keratitis from other non-acanthamoeba keratitis: Risk factors and clinical features. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0299492. [PMID: 38470877 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0299492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Infectious Keratitis is one of the most common ocular emergencies seen by ophthalmologists. Our aim is to identify the risk factors and clinical features of Acanthamoeba Keratitis (AK). METHODS This retrospective chart review study was conducted at King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and included all the microbial keratitis cases, male and female patients of all ages. The main outcome is the differentiation between various microbial keratitis types. RESULTS We included 134 consecutive eyes of 126 persons. We had 24 cases of acanthamoeba keratitis, 22 bacterial keratitis, 24 fungal keratitis, 32 herpetic keratitis, and 32 bacterial co-infection. Contact lens wear was found in 33 eyes (24.6%). Among acanthamoeba keratitis patients, 73% were ≤ 39 years of age, and 73% were females (P <0.001). Also, in AK cases, epithelial defect was found in all cases (100%), endothelial plaques were found in 18 eyes (69.2%), 12 cases had radial keratoneuritis (46.2%), and ring infiltrate was found in 53.8% of AK cases. CONCLUSIONS We determined the factors that increase the risk of acanthamoeba infection and the clinical characteristics that help distinguish it from other types of microbial keratitis. Our findings suggest that younger females and patients who wear contact lenses are more likely to develop acanthamoeba keratitis. The occurrence of epitheliopathy, ring infiltrate, radial keratoneuritis, and endothelial plaques indicate the possibility of acanthamoeba infection. Promoting education on wearing contact lenses is essential to reduce the risk of acanthamoeba infection, as it is the most significant risk factor for this infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Manuel Vargas
- Cornea, External Diseases Section, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, United States of America
- Ophthalmology Division, King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khabir Ahmad
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Yousef Alothman
- Ophthalmology Department, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eman D Albalawi
- Clinical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, Princess Noura Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulmohsen Almulhim
- Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Jouf University, Sakakah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saad Hamdan Alenezi
- Ophthalmology Department, College of Medicine, Majmaah University, Majmaah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hani Basher ALBalawi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Naif Mamdouh Alali
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faris Hashem
- Department of Surgery, Division of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohanna Aljindan
- Ophthalmology Department, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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15
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Arberas-Jiménez I, Rodríguez-Expósito RL, Sifaoui I, Chao-Pellicer J, Sancho L, Urruticoechea A, Piñero JE, Lorenzo-Morales J. Influence of salt and temperature in the growth of pathogenic free-living amoebae. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1356452. [PMID: 38426057 PMCID: PMC10902715 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1356452] [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: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Free-living amoebae are an extensive group of protistans that can be found in a wide variety of environments. Among them, the Acanthamoeba genus and Naegleria fowleri stand out as two of the most pathogenic amoebae and with a higher number of reported cases. N. fowleri is mainly found in warm freshwater water bodies whereas amoebae of the Acanthamoeba genus are broadly distributed through natural and anthropogenic environments. In this regard, the management and the control of the amoebic populations in swimming pools has become a major public health challenge for institutions. Methods The aim of this work was to evaluate the growth pattern of trophozoites of A. griffini and N. fowleri at different temperatures and salt concentrations. Results and discussion Our results showed that A. griffini resisted a higher concentration of salt than N. fowleri. Moreover, no trophozoites could withstand the salt levels of the sea in in vitro conditions. This work supports the contention that salinity could represent an important and useful tool for the control of the most pathogenic amoebic populations in recreational water bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iñigo Arberas-Jiménez
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Rubén L. Rodríguez-Expósito
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Ines Sifaoui
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Javier Chao-Pellicer
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Luis Sancho
- CEIT-Basque Research and Technology Alliance (BRTA), Manuel Lardizabal, Donostia-San Sebastían, Spain
- Universidad de Navarra, Tecnun, Manuel Lardizabal, Donostia-San Sebastían, Spain
| | | | - José E. Piñero
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jacob Lorenzo-Morales
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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16
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Ilyas M, Stapleton F, Willcox MDP, Henriquez F, Peguda HK, Rayamajhee B, Zahid T, Petsoglou C, Carnt NA. Epidemiology of and Genetic Factors Associated with Acanthamoeba Keratitis. Pathogens 2024; 13:142. [PMID: 38392880 PMCID: PMC10892102 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13020142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a severe, rare protozoal infection of the cornea. Acanthamoeba can survive in diverse habitats and at extreme temperatures. AK is mostly seen in contact lens wearers whose lenses have become contaminated or who have a history of water exposure, and in those without contact lens wear who have experienced recent eye trauma involving contaminated soil or water. Infection usually results in severe eye pain, photophobia, inflammation, and corneal epithelial defects. The pathophysiology of this infection is multifactorial, including the production of cytotoxic proteases by Acanthamoeba that degrades the corneal epithelial basement membrane and induces the death of ocular surface cells, resulting in degradation of the collagen-rich corneal stroma. AK can be prevented by avoiding risk factors, which includes avoiding water contact, such as swimming or showering in contact lenses, and wearing protective goggles when working on the land. AK is mostly treated with an antimicrobial therapy of biguanides alone or in combination with diaminidines, although the commercial availability of these medicines is variable. Other than anti-amoeba therapies, targeting host immune pathways in Acanthamoeba disease may lead to the development of vaccines or antibody therapeutics which could transform the management of AK.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Ilyas
- Primary & Secondary Healthcare Department, Punjab 54000, Pakistan; (M.I.)
| | - Fiona Stapleton
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia (H.K.P.)
| | - Mark D. P. Willcox
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia (H.K.P.)
| | - Fiona Henriquez
- School of Health and Life Sciences, The University of the West of Scotland, Glasgow G72 0LH, UK
| | - Hari Kumar Peguda
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia (H.K.P.)
| | - Binod Rayamajhee
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia (H.K.P.)
| | - Tasbiha Zahid
- Primary & Secondary Healthcare Department, Punjab 54000, Pakistan; (M.I.)
| | | | - Nicole A. Carnt
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of NSW, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia (H.K.P.)
- Centre for Vision Research, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia
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17
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Lee S, Alkathiri B, Jung JS, Kang N, Hwang J, Park SE, Hong Y, Park KM, Lee SH. Molecular detection and characterization of Acanthamoeba infection in dogs and its association with keratitis in Korea. PARASITES, HOSTS AND DISEASES 2024; 62:139-144. [PMID: 38443777 PMCID: PMC10915269 DOI: 10.3347/phd.23112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba infection is associated with keratitis in humans; however, its association with keratitis in dogs remains unclear. To investigate this possibility, we collected 171 conjunctival swab samples from dogs with eye-related diseases (65 with keratitis and 106 without keratitis) at Chungbuk National University Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Korea, from August 2021 to September 2022. Polymerase chain reaction identified 9 samples (5.3%) as Acanthamoeba positive; of these, 3 were from dogs with keratitis (4.6%) and 6 were from dogs without keratitis (5.7%). Our results indicated no significant association between Acanthamoeba infection and keratitis, season, sex, or age. All Acanthamoeba organisms found in this study had the genotype T4, according to 18S ribosomal RNA analysis. Acanthamoeba infection in dogs might have only a limited association with keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subin Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644,
Korea
| | - Badriah Alkathiri
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644,
Korea
| | - Ji Seung Jung
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644,
Korea
| | - Nanyoung Kang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644,
Korea
| | - Jiyi Hwang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644,
Korea
| | - Sang-Eun Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644,
Korea
| | - Yeonchul Hong
- Department of Parasitology and Tropical Medicine, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944,
Korea
| | - Kyung-Mee Park
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644,
Korea
| | - Seung-Hun Lee
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28644,
Korea
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18
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Agarwal S, Srinivasan B, Iyer G, Pandey S, Agarwal M, Dhiman R, Surya J, Anand AR. Depth, size of infiltrate, and the microbe - The trio that prognosticates the outcome of infective keratitis. Indian J Ophthalmol 2024; 72:44-50. [PMID: 38131568 PMCID: PMC10841783 DOI: 10.4103/ijo.ijo_1022_23] [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: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze the influence of infiltrate size, depth, and organism on the outcome of microbial keratitis. DESIGN Retrospective comparative study. METHODS Medical records of patients with infective keratitis, who reported from January 2015 to December 2019 to a tertiary eye care center, were analyzed. Size and depth of ulcer at presentation were the factors used to group patients, and the influence on the outcome of the organism causing it was analyzed. Grouping was as follows: group A: ulcer size <6 mm/anterior to midstromal infiltrate, group B: ulcer < 6 mm/full-thickness infiltrate, group C: ulcer >6 mm/anterior to midstromal infiltrate, group D: ulcer > 6 mm/full-thickness infiltrate. Patients with viral keratitis or unidentified organism were excluded. Response to treatment and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at the final follow-up were the outcome measures. RESULTS In the study, 1117/6276 patients were included, with 60.8% patients in group A. A significant improvement in visual acuity was noted in groups A/B compared to groups C/D. Group A had the best response to medical management, irrespective of the organism. Higher risk for surgery was noted in group C compared to group B, with group A as the reference. Overall resolution with medical treatment was noted in 70% miscellaneous keratitis, 64.8% bacterial keratitis, 64.3% mixed keratitis, 62.5% acanthamoeba keratitis, 52.6% fungal keratitis, and 12.1% Pythium keratitis. Bacteria and acanthamoeba responded better to medical management than fungal keratitis, whereas Pythium had the highest risk for surgery. CONCLUSION An interplay between virulence of the organism along with depth and size of the infiltrate determines the outcome of microbial keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shweta Agarwal
- CJ Shah Cornea Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, 18, College Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Bhaskar Srinivasan
- CJ Shah Cornea Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, 18, College Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Geetha Iyer
- CJ Shah Cornea Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, 18, College Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sunita Pandey
- CJ Shah Cornea Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, 18, College Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Manokamna Agarwal
- CJ Shah Cornea Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, 18, College Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Richa Dhiman
- CJ Shah Cornea Services, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, 18, College Road, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Janani Surya
- Vision Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Appakkudal R Anand
- L and T Microbiology Research Centre, Medical Research Foundation, Sankara Nethralaya, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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19
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Rayamajhee B, Willcox M, Henriquez FL, Vijay AK, Petsoglou C, Shrestha GS, Peguda HK, Carnt N. The role of naturally acquired intracellular Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the development of Acanthamoeba keratitis in an animal model. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2024; 18:e0011878. [PMID: 38166139 PMCID: PMC10795995 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0011878] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acanthamoeba is an environmental host for various microorganisms. Acanthamoeba is also becoming an increasingly important pathogen as a cause of keratitis. In Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), coinfections involving pathogenic bacteria have been reported, potentially attributed to the carriage of microbes by Acanthamoeba. This study assessed the presence of intracellular bacteria in Acanthamoeba species recovered from domestic tap water and corneas of two different AK patients and examined the impact of naturally occurring intracellular bacteria within Acanthamoeba on the severity of corneal infections in rats. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Household water and corneal swabs were collected from AK patients. Acanthamoeba strains and genotypes were confirmed by sequencing. Acanthamoeba isolates were assessed for the presence of intracellular bacteria using sequencing, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and electron microscopy. The viability of the bacteria in Acanthamoeba was assessed by labelling with alkyne-functionalized D-alanine (alkDala). Primary human macrophages were used to compare the intracellular survival and replication of the endosymbiotic Pseudomonas aeruginosa and a wild type strain. Eyes of rats were challenged intrastromally with Acanthamoeba containing or devoid of P. aeruginosa and evaluated for the clinical response. Domestic water and corneal swabs were positive for Acanthamoeba. Both strains belonged to genotype T4F. One of the Acanthamoeba isolates harboured P. aeruginosa which was seen throughout the Acanthamoeba's cytoplasm. It was metabolically active and could be seen undergoing binary fission. This motile strain was able to replicate in macrophage to a greater degree than strain PAO1 (p<0.05). Inoculation of Acanthamoeba containing the intracellular P. aeruginosa in rats eyes resulted in a severe keratitis with increased neutrophil response. Acanthamoeba alone induced milder keratitis. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Our findings indicate the presence of live intracellular bacteria in Acanthamoeba can increase the severity of acute keratitis in vivo. As P. aeruginosa is a common cause of keratitis, this may indicate the potential for these intracellular bacteria in Acanthamoeba to lead to severe polymicrobial keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binod Rayamajhee
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mark Willcox
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Fiona L. Henriquez
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of Scotland, Blantyre, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Ajay Kumar Vijay
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Constantinos Petsoglou
- Sydney and Sydney Eye Hospital, Southeastern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
- Save Sight Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Gauri Shankar Shrestha
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hari Kumar Peguda
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
| | - Nicole Carnt
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia
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20
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Rodríguez-Expósito RL, Sifaoui I, Reyes-Batlle M, Fuchs F, Scheid PL, Piñero JE, Sutak R, Lorenzo-Morales J. Induction of Programmed Cell Death in Acanthamoeba culbertsoni by the Repurposed Compound Nitroxoline. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:2081. [PMID: 38136200 PMCID: PMC10740438 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12122081] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba is a ubiquitous genus of amoebae that can act as opportunistic parasites in both humans and animals, causing a variety of ocular, nervous and dermal pathologies. Despite advances in Acanthamoeba therapy, the management of patients with Acanthamoeba infections remains a challenge for health services. Therefore, there is a need to search for new active substances against Acanthamoebae. In the present study, we evaluated the amoebicidal activity of nitroxoline against the trophozoite and cyst stages of six different strains of Acanthamoeba. The strain A. griffini showed the lowest IC50 value in the trophozoite stage (0.69 ± 0.01 µM), while the strain A. castellanii L-10 showed the lowest IC50 value in the cyst stage (0.11 ± 0.03 µM). In addition, nitroxoline induced in treated trophozoites of A. culbertsoni features compatibles with apoptosis and autophagy pathways, including chromatin condensation, mitochondrial malfunction, oxidative stress, changes in cell permeability and the formation of autophagic vacuoles. Furthermore, proteomic analysis of the effect of nitroxoline on trophozoites revealed that this antibiotic induced the overexpression and the downregulation of proteins involved in the apoptotic process and in metabolic and biosynthesis pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubén L. Rodríguez-Expósito
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (R.L.R.-E.); (I.S.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Ines Sifaoui
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (R.L.R.-E.); (I.S.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - María Reyes-Batlle
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (R.L.R.-E.); (I.S.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Frieder Fuchs
- Institute for Medical Microbiology, Immunology and Hygiene, University Hospital Cologne, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cologne, 50935 Cologne, Germany;
- Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, Bundeswehr Central Hospital Koblenz, 56072 Koblenz, Germany
| | - Patrick L. Scheid
- Parasitology Lab., Central Military Hospital Koblenz, 56072 Koblenz, Germany
- Department of Biology, Working Group Parasitology and Infection Biology, University Koblenz, 56070 Koblenz, Germany
| | - José E. Piñero
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (R.L.R.-E.); (I.S.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
| | - Robert Sutak
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, Charles University, BIOCEV, 252 50 Vestec, Czech Republic
| | - Jacob Lorenzo-Morales
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Salud Pública de Canarias (IUETSPC), Universidad de La Laguna (ULL), Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain; (R.L.R.-E.); (I.S.); (M.R.-B.)
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología, Pediatría, Medicina Preventiva y Salud Pública, Toxicología, Medicina Legal y Forense y Parasitología, Universidad de La Laguna, 38203 San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Infecciosas (CIBERINFEC), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28220 Madrid, Spain
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21
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Matsuo T, Nose M. A simple method for culturing Acanthamoeba from soft contact lens at a clinical laboratory of a hospital: Case report of Acanthamoeba keratitis. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11:e8248. [PMID: 38028087 PMCID: PMC10661332 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.8248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Key Clinical Message A simple culturing method for Acanthamoeba available at a clinical laboratory is a key for making timely diagnosis and starting treatment with topical 0.02% chlorhexidine gluconate eye drops, together with 0.1% miconazole or fluconazole eye drops. Abstract A 19-year-old woman with pain and injection in the right eye showed spotty corneal infiltration and radiating linear opacity. Suspicious of Acanthamoeba keratitis, corneal scraping, and the soft contact lens were sent to in-house clinical laboratory to culture successfully Acanthamoeba on Sabouraud dextrose agar plate painted with heat-treated dead bacilli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshihiko Matsuo
- Graduate School of Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering in Health SystemsOkayama UniversityOkayama CityJapan
- Department of OphthalmologyOkayama University HospitalOkayama CityJapan
| | - Motoko Nose
- Department of Clinical LaboratoryOkayama University HospitalOkayama CityJapan
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22
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Chantra S, Chotcomwongse P, Jittreprasert S, Senarak W, Amornpetchsathaporn A, Kemchoknatee P, Ruamviboonsuk P. Assessment of Direct Costs of Admission Due to Presumed Microbial Keratitis in a Tertiary Referral Hospital in Thailand: A 7-Year Retrospective Study. Clin Ophthalmol 2023; 17:2845-2860. [PMID: 37794953 PMCID: PMC10547063 DOI: 10.2147/opth.s425058] [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: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the direct healthcare cost of admission and examine the effects of cost drivers of treating presumed microbial keratitis (MK) at a tertiary referral hospital. Design Retrospective study. Methods A total of 741 patients who presented with MK were included. All information regarding costs was collected, and demographic data were employed for risk factor analysis. Results The total cost of treating MK over a 7-year period at Rajavithi Hospital was US$14,514,625.04, while the median cost was US$10,840.17 per patient (Q1-3, US$5866.56-24,172.28). The medical professional services were the highest cost category in terms of both total cost of treatment over 7 years and median cost per patient, accounting for US$6,474,718.43 and US$5235.20 (Q1-3, US$2582.79-10,474.24) respectively. In 2020, the total cost of treatment declined, corresponding with fewer hospitalized patients; however, the median cost per patient was the highest of all years, amounting to US$15,089.90 (Q1-3, US$8064.17-29102.50), while the median cost per patient from 2014 to 2019 was US$9969.96 (Q1-3, US$5177.98-21,942.68). Statistical significance was found in the median cost per patient in 2020 compared to the median cost per patient in 2014-2019 (p-value 0.019). Risk factors associated with the more expensive cost of treatment were longer length of stay (LOS); age more than 60 years old; readmission; diabetes mellitus (DM); hypertension; and heart disease. Conclusion There were several key factors impacting the direct healthcare costs of severe MK treatment. Medical professional services emerged as the most substantial cost category, while longer hospital stays, older age groups, readmission cases, and comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and heart disease were all linked to elevated treatment expenses. There were no statistically significant differences in the direct medical expenses during hospitalization associated with treating severe MK, whether the culture results were positive or negative, or regardless of the type of cultured organism utilized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somporn Chantra
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rajavithi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
- College of Medicine, Rangsit University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | - Wirapha Senarak
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rajavithi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Parinee Kemchoknatee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rajavithi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
- College of Medicine, Rangsit University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Paisan Ruamviboonsuk
- Department of Ophthalmology, Rajavithi Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
- College of Medicine, Rangsit University, Bangkok, Thailand
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23
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Abdul Halim R, Mohd Hussain RH, Aazmi S, Halim H, Ahmed Khan N, Siddiqui R, Shahrul Anuar T. Molecular characterisation and potential pathogenicity analysis of Acanthamoeba isolated from recreational lakes in Peninsular Malaysia. JOURNAL OF WATER AND HEALTH 2023; 21:1342-1356. [PMID: 37756200 PMCID: wh_2023_186 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2023.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
The present study aims to identify the Acanthamoeba genotypes and their pathogenic potential in three recreational lakes in Malaysia. Thirty water samples were collected by purposive sampling between June and July 2022. Physical parameters of water quality were measured in situ while chemical and microbiological analyses were performed in the laboratory. The samples were vacuum filtered through nitrate filter, cultured onto non-nutrient agar and observed microscopically for amoebic growth. DNAs from positive samples were extracted and made to react with polymerase chain reaction using specific primers. Physiological tolerance tests were performed for all Acanthamoeba-positive samples. The presence of Acanthamoeba was found in 26 of 30 water samples by PCR. The highest rate in lake waters contaminated with amoeba was in Biru Lake (100%), followed by Titiwangsa Lake (80%) and Shah Alam Lake (80%). ORP, water temperature, pH and DO were found to be significantly correlated with the presence of Acanthamoeba. The most common genotype was T4. Temperature- and osmo-tolerance tests showed that 8 (30.8%) of the genotypes T4, T9 and T11 were highly pathogenic. The presence of genotype T4 in habitats related to human activities supports the relevance of this amoeba as a potential public health concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohaya Abdul Halim
- Centre for Medical Laboratory Technology Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia E-mail:
| | - Rosnani Hanim Mohd Hussain
- Centre for Medical Laboratory Technology Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Shafiq Aazmi
- School of Biology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; Microbiome Health and Environment (MiHeaRT), Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hasseri Halim
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; Integrative Pharmacogenomics Institute, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey; College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tengku Shahrul Anuar
- Centre for Medical Laboratory Technology Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Puncak Alam Campus, Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia; Microbiome Health and Environment (MiHeaRT), Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
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24
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Elhardt C, Schweikert R, Hartmann LM, Vounotrypidis E, Kilani A, Wolf A, Wertheimer CM. The role of the calcofluor white staining in the diagnosis of Acanthamoeba keratitis. J Ophthalmic Inflamm Infect 2023; 13:23. [PMID: 37129778 PMCID: PMC10154449 DOI: 10.1186/s12348-023-00345-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Acanthamoeba keratitis is often misdiagnosed at disease onset. This study presents data to confirm the diagnosis using calcofluor white (CFW) staining. METHODS Forty three patients were retrospectively included who presented to the Department of Ophthalmology at the University Hospital Ulm with keratitis between 2000 and 2022. Condition positive cases were diagnosed based on the typical clinical presentation of Acanthamoeba keratitis with a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Condition negative were patients with ulcers due to other causing pathogens with a negative Acanthamoeba PCR result. The condition was compared with the CFW test results. RESULTS After symptom onset, time until presentation was 17 ± 12 days and until diagnosis 27 ± 13 days in the 15 condition positive patients. Among the 35 patients with additional CFW test, 7 patients were condition positive and 28 negative. 5 of the 7 patients were true positive, 2 were false negative. In the 28 condition negative patients, 1 was false positive. Sensitivity of CFW was 71% and specificity 96%. The positive PCR results were available 3.4 ± 2.3 days after corneal scraping, the positive CFW test results on the same day in each case. CONCLUSION Our data demonstrate that diagnosis of Acanthamoeba keratitis remains difficult and therapy is initiated late. A positive CFW test confirms the diagnosis as there are almost no false positive results and it was available faster than PCR. In case of a negative CFW test, Acanthamoeba keratitis cannot be ruled out because of a high false negative rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolin Elhardt
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Ulm, Prittwitzstrasse 43, Ulm, 89075, Germany.
| | - Romina Schweikert
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Ulm, Prittwitzstrasse 43, Ulm, 89075, Germany
| | | | | | - Adnan Kilani
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Ulm, Prittwitzstrasse 43, Ulm, 89075, Germany
| | - Armin Wolf
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Ulm, Prittwitzstrasse 43, Ulm, 89075, Germany
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25
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Siddiqui R, Makhlouf Z, Akbar N, Khamis M, Ibrahim T, Khan AS, Khan NA. Antiamoebic properties of Methyltrioctylammonium chloride based deep eutectic solvents. Cont Lens Anterior Eye 2023; 46:101758. [PMID: 36243521 DOI: 10.1016/j.clae.2022.101758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This aim of this study was to assess anti-parasitic properties of deep eutectic solvents against eye pathogen, Acanthamoeba, often associated with the use of contact lens. METHODS Assays were performed to investigate the effects of various Methyltrioctylammonium chloride-based deep eutectic solvents on Acanthamoeba castellanii, comprising amoebicidal assays, encystment assays, excystment assays, cytotoxicity assays by measuring lactate dehydrogenase release from human cells, and cytopathogenicity assays to determine parasite-mediated host cell death. RESULTS In a 2 h incubation period, DES-B, DES-C, DES-D, and DES-E exhibited up to 85 % amoebicidal activity at micromolar doses, which was enhanced further following 24 h incubation. When tested in encystment assays, selected deep eutectic solvents abolished cyst formation and were able to block excystment of A. castellanii. All solvents exhibited minimal human cell cytotoxicity except DES-D. Finally, all tested deep eutectic solvents inhibited amoeba-mediated cytopathogenicity, except DES-B. CONCLUSIONS Deep eutectic solvents show potent antiamoebic effects. These findings are promising and could lead to the development of novel contact lens disinfectants, as well as opening several avenues to explore the molecular mechanisms, various doses and incubation periods, and use of different bases against Acanthamoeba castellanii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruqaiyyah Siddiqui
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates; Istinye Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Zinb Makhlouf
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Noor Akbar
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mustafa Khamis
- College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, University City, Sharjah 26666, United Arab Emirates
| | - Taleb Ibrahim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, American University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amir Sada Khan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Engineering, American University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Department of Chemistry, University of Science & Technology, Banuu 28100, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, C
| | - Naveed Ahmed Khan
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, University, City, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates; Istinye Faculty of Medicine, Istinye University, Istanbul, Turkey..
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Kim MJ, Jo HJ, Sohn HJ, Shin HJ, Quan FS, Kong HH, Moon EK. Evaluating the Diagnostic Potential of Chorismate Mutase Poly-Clonal Peptide Antibody for the Acanthamoeba Keratitis in an Animal Model. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12040526. [PMID: 37111412 PMCID: PMC10145577 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12040526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba spp. is the causative agent of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a vision-threatening parasitic disease whose primary risk factor has been attributed to poor contact lens hygiene. Unfortunately, differential diagnosis of AK is challenging as the clinical manifestations for AK are similar to those of bacterial, fungal, or even viral keratitis. Since delayed AK diagnosis can incur permanent vision impairment, a rapid and sensitive diagnostic method is urgently needed. Here, the diagnostic potential of polyclonal antibodies targeting the chorismate mutase (CM) of Acanthamoeba spp. was evaluated in AK animal models. CM antibody specificity against Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts was confirmed by immunocytochemistry after co-culturing Acanthamoeba with Fusarium solani, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, and human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed using CM-specific immune sera raised in rabbits, which demonstrated that the antibodies specifically interacted with the Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts in a dose-dependent manner. To evaluate the diagnostic potential of the CM antibody, AK animal models were established by incubating contact lenses with an inoculum containing A. castellanii trophozoites and subsequently overlaying these lenses onto the corneas of BALB/c mice for 7 and 21 days. The CM antibody specifically detected Acanthamoeba antigens in the murine lacrimal and eyeball tissue lysates at both time points. Our findings underscore the importance of antibody-based AK diagnosis, which could enable early and differential AK diagnosis in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jeong Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye-Jeong Jo
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Jin Sohn
- Department of Microbiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Joon Shin
- Department of Microbiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Department of Medical Zoology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, Core Research Institute (CRI), Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Hee Kong
- Department of Parasitology, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan 49201, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Kyung Moon
- Department of Medical Zoology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence:
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Zhang Y, Xu X, Wei Z, Cao K, Zhang Z, Liang Q. The global epidemiology and clinical diagnosis of Acanthamoeba keratitis. J Infect Public Health 2023; 16:841-852. [PMID: 37030037 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis is a rare parasitic infection of the cornea that can lead to permanent blindness if not diagnosed and treated promptly. We collected data on the incidences of Acanthamoeba keratitis from 20 countries and calculated an annual incidence of 23,561 cases, with the lowest rates in Tunisia and Belgium, and the highest in India. We analyzed 3755 Acanthamoeba sequences from the GenBank database across Asia, Europe, North America, South America, and Oceania and genotyped them into T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T10, T11, T12, and T15. Many genotypes possess different characteristics, yet T4 is the most prevalent genotype. As efficient treatment against Acanthamoeba remains lacking, prevention from early diagnosis via staining, PCR, or in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) becomes significant for the condition's prognosis. IVCM is the most recommended approach for the early detection of Acanthamoeba. If IVCM is unavailable, PCR should be used as an alternative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuheng Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Xizhan Xu
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Zhenyu Wei
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Kai Cao
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Zijun Zhang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Qingfeng Liang
- Beijing Institute of Ophthalmology, Beijing Tongren Eye Center, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Beijing 100005, China.
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Kato N, Shimizu T, Shimizu E, Mizuki N, Negishi K. Rapid detection of fungi and Acanthamoeba from corneal ulcers using a novel mobile laboratory microscope and a smartphone. Eye (Lond) 2023; 37:785-786. [PMID: 36038719 PMCID: PMC9998847 DOI: 10.1038/s41433-022-02213-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Kato
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yokohama City University Hospital, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan.
| | - Toshiki Shimizu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yokohama City University Hospital, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Eisuke Shimizu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuhisa Mizuki
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yokohama City University Hospital, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Kazuno Negishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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Chuprom J, Sangkanu S, Mitsuwan W, Boonhok R, Mahabusarakam W, Singh LR, Dumkliang E, Jitrangsri K, Paul AK, Surinkaew S, Wilairatana P, Pereira MDL, Rahmatullah M, Wiart C, Oliveira SMR, Nissapatorn V. Anti- Acanthamoeba activity of a semi-synthetic mangostin derivative and its ability in removal of Acanthamoeba triangularis WU19001 on contact lens. PeerJ 2022; 10:e14468. [PMID: 36523474 PMCID: PMC9745913 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Garcinia mangostana L., also known as the mangosteen tree, is a native medicinal plant in Southeast Asia having a wide variety of pharmacologically active compounds, including xanthonoid mangostin. In this study, we examined the pharmacological activities of the selected semi-synthetic mangostin derivative, namely, amoebicidal activity, encystation inhibition, excystation activity, and removal capacity of adhesive Acanthamoeba from the surface of contact lens (CL). Among the three derivatives, C1 exhibited promising anti-Acanthamoeba activity against Acanthamoeba triangularis WU19001 trophozoites and cysts. SEM images displayed morphological changes in Acanthamoeba trophozoites, including the loss of acanthopodia, pore formation in the cell membrane, and membrane damage. In addition, the treated cyst was shrunken and adopted an irregular flat cyst shape. Under a fluorescence microscope, acridine orange and propidium iodide (AO/PI) staining revealed C1 induced condensation of cytoplasm and chromatin with the loss of cell volume in the treated trophozoites, while calcofluor white staining demonstrated the leakage of cell wall in treated cysts, leading to cell death. Interestingly, at the concentration ranges in which C1 showed the anti-Acanthamoeba effects (IC50 values ranging from 0.035-0.056 mg/mL), they were not toxic to Vero cells. C1 displayed the highest inhibitory effect on A. triangularis encystation at 1/16×MIC value (0.004 mg/mL). While C1 demonstrated the excystation activity at 1/128×MIC value with a high rate of 89.47%. Furthermore, C1 exhibited the removal capacity of adhesive Acanthamoeba from the surface of CL comparable with commercial multipurpose solutions (MPSs). Based on the results obtained, C1 may be a promising lead agent to develop a therapeutic for the treatment of Acanthamoeba infections and disinfectant solutions for CL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julalak Chuprom
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team) and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand,School of Languages and General Education (SOLGEN), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Suthinee Sangkanu
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team) and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Watcharapong Mitsuwan
- Akkhraratchakumari Veterinary College, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Rachasak Boonhok
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Research Excellence Center for Innovation and Health Products (RECIHP), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Wilawan Mahabusarakam
- Division of Physical Science, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - L. Ravithej Singh
- Fluoro-Agrochemicals Division, CSIR–Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Tarnaka, Hyderabad, India,Chemical Sciences Division, Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research, Ghaziabad, India
| | - Ekachai Dumkliang
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Silpakorn University, Pharmaceutical Development of Green Innovations Group (PDGIG), Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Kritamorn Jitrangsri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Silpakorn University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Alok K. Paul
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Sirirat Surinkaew
- Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
| | - Polrat Wilairatana
- Department of Clinical Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Maria de Lourdes Pereira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials & Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal,Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mohammed Rahmatullah
- Department of Biotechnology & Genetic Engineering, University of Development Alternative, Lalmatia, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Christophe Wiart
- The Institute for Tropical Biology and Conservation, University Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kin-abalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Sonia Marlene Rodrigues Oliveira
- CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials & Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia
| | - Veeranoot Nissapatorn
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Southeast Asia Water Team (SEA Water Team) and World Union for Herbal Drug Discovery (WUHeDD), Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand
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Chen L, Kuang L, Ross AE, Farhat W, Boychev N, Sharfi S, Kanu LN, Liu L, Kohane DS, Ciolino JB. Topical Sustained Delivery of Miltefosine Via Drug-Eluting Contact Lenses to Treat Acanthamoeba Keratitis. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14122750. [PMID: 36559244 PMCID: PMC9781349 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14122750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to develop a miltefosine-eluting contact lens (MLF-CL) device that would allow sustained and localized miltefosine release for the treatment of Acanthamoeba keratitis. MLF-CLs were produced in three different miltefosine doses by solvent-casting a thin miltefosine-polymer film around the periphery of a methafilcon hydrogel, which was then lathed into a contact lens. During seven days of in vitro testing, all three formulations demonstrated sustained release from the lens at theoretically therapeutic levels. Based on the physicochemical characterization of MLF-CLs, MLF-CL's physical properties are not significantly different from commercial contact lenses in terms of light transmittance, water content and wettability. MLF-CLs possessed a slight reduction in compression modulus that was attributed to the inclusion of polymer-drug films but still remain within the optimal range of soft contact lenses. In cytotoxicity studies, MLF-CL indicated up to 91% viability, which decreased proportionally as miltefosine loading increased. A three-day biocompatibility test on New Zealand White rabbits revealed no impact of MLF-CLs on the corneal tissue. The MLF-CLs provided sustained in vitro release of miltefosine for a week while maintaining comparable physical features to a commercial contact lens. MLF-CL has a promising potential to be used as a successful treatment method for Acanthamoeba keratitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Chen
- Department of Optometry and Visual Science, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Liangju Kuang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Correspondence: (L.K.); (J.B.C.)
| | - Amy E. Ross
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Wissam Farhat
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Nikolay Boychev
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Sina Sharfi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Levi N. Kanu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Longqian Liu
- Department of Optometry and Visual Science, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Daniel S. Kohane
- Department of Anesthesia, Boston Children’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Joseph B. Ciolino
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
- Correspondence: (L.K.); (J.B.C.)
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31
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The Anti-Amoebic Activity of a Peptidomimetic against Acanthamoeba castellanii. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122377. [PMID: 36557630 PMCID: PMC9782699 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122377] [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: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Acanthamoeba is a free-living protozoan known to cause keratitis most commonly, especially among contact lens wearers. Treatment of Acanthamoeba keratitis is challenging as Acanthamoeba can encyst from the active form, a trophozoite, into a hibernating cyst that is refractory to antibiotics and difficult to kill; therefore, there is a need for more effective anti-amoebic strategies. In this study, we have evaluated the anti-amoebic activity of the antimicrobial peptide mimic RK-758 against Acanthamoeba castellanii. RK-758 peptidomimetic was subjected to biological assays to investigate its amoebicidal, amoebistatic, anti-encystation, and anti-excystation effects on A. castellanii. The anti-amoebic activity of the peptide mimic RK-758 was compared with chlorhexidine against the Acanthamoeba castellanii ATCC30868 and Acanthamoeba castellanii 044 (a clinical strain) with the concentrations of both ranging from 125 µM down to 7.81 µM. All experiments were performed in duplicate with three independent replicates. The data were represented as mean ± SE and analysed using a two-sample t-test and two-tailed distributions. A p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The peptidomimetic RK-758 had anti-Acanthamoeba activity against both trophozoites and cysts in a dose-dependent manner. The RK-758 had amoebicidal and growth inhibitory activities of ≥50% at a concentration between 125 µM and 15.6 µM against the trophozoites of both Acanthamoeba strains. Inhibitory effects on the cyst formation and trophozoite re-emergence from cysts were noted at similar concentrations. Chlorhexidine had 50% activity at 7.81 µM and above against the trophozoites and cysts of both strains. In the haemolysis assay, the RK-758 lysed horse RBCs at concentrations greater than 50 µM whereas lysis occurred at concentrations greater than 125 µM for the chlorhexidine. The peptidomimetic RK-758, therefore, has activity against both the trophozoite and cyst forms of Acanthamoeba and has the potential to be further developed as an anti-microbial agent against Acanthamoeba. RK-758 may also have use as an anti-amoebic disinfectant in contact lens solutions.
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López-Barona P, Verdú-Expósito C, Martín-Pérez T, Gómez-Casanova N, Lozano-Cruz T, Ortega P, Gómez R, Pérez-Serrano J, Heredero-Bermejo I. Amoebicidal activity of cationic carbosilane dendrons derived with 4-phenylbutyric acid against Acanthamoeba griffini and Acanthamoeba polyphaga trophozoites and cysts. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14926. [PMID: 36056060 PMCID: PMC9440212 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-19200-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Amoebae from the genus Acanthamoeba are important pathogens responsible for severe illnesses in humans such as Acanthamoeba keratitis and granulomatous amoebic encephalitis. In the last few decades, AK diagnoses have steadily increased. Most patients suffering from AK were contact lens users and the infection was related to poor hygiene. However, therapy is not yet well established, and treatments may last for several months due to resistance. Moreover, these treatments have been described to generate cytotoxicity. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new therapeutic strategies against AK. In this study, the amoebicidal activity of different generation cationic carbosilane dendrons derived with 4-phenylbutyric acid was demonstrated against Acanthamoeba polyphaga and Acanthamoeba griffini trophozoites and cysts. In addition, the combination of chlorhexidine digluconate and the most effective dendron (ArCO2G2(SNMe3I)4) showed an in vitro effect against Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts, reducing the minimal trophozoite amoebicidal concentration as well as concentrations with cysticidal activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- P López-Barona
- Department of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - C Verdú-Expósito
- Department of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - T Martín-Pérez
- Department of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - N Gómez-Casanova
- Department of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - T Lozano-Cruz
- Department of Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, Andrés M. del Río Chemistry Research Institute (IQAR), Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine Networking Research Center (CIBER-BBN), University of Alcalá, 28871, Madrid, Spain
| | - P Ortega
- Department of Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, Andrés M. del Río Chemistry Research Institute (IQAR), Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine Networking Research Center (CIBER-BBN), University of Alcalá, 28871, Madrid, Spain
| | - R Gómez
- Department of Organic and Inorganic Chemistry, Andrés M. del Río Chemistry Research Institute (IQAR), Ramón y Cajal Health Research Institute (IRYCIS), Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine Networking Research Center (CIBER-BBN), University of Alcalá, 28871, Madrid, Spain
| | - J Pérez-Serrano
- Department of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - I Heredero-Bermejo
- Department of Biomedicine and Biotechnology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Alcalá, 28871, Alcalá de Henares, Spain.
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Reyes-López M, Ramírez-Rico G, Serrano-Luna J, de la Garza M. Activity of Apo-Lactoferrin on Pathogenic Protozoa. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14081702. [PMID: 36015327 PMCID: PMC9414845 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14081702] [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: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasites and other eventually pathogenic organisms require the ability to adapt to different environmental conditions inside the host to assure survival. Some host proteins have evolved as defense constituents, such as lactoferrin (Lf), which is part of the innate immune system. Lf in its iron-free form (apo-Lf) and its peptides obtained by cleavage with pepsin are microbicides. Parasites confront Lf in mucosae and blood. In this work, the activity of Lf against pathogenic and opportunistic parasites such as Cryptosporidium spp., Eimeria spp., Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia duodenalis, Leishmania spp., Trypanosoma spp., Plasmodium spp., Babesia spp., Toxoplasma gondii, Trichomonas spp., and the free-living but opportunistic pathogens Naegleria fowleri and Acanthamoeba castellani were reviewed. The major effects of Lf could be the inhibition produced by sequestering the iron needed for their survival and the production of oxygen-free radicals to more complicated mechanisms, such as the activation of macrophages to phagocytes with the posterior death of those parasites. Due to the great interest in Lf in the fight against pathogens, it is necessary to understand the exact mechanisms used by this protein to affect their virulence factors and to kill them.
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Sepulveda-Beltran PA, Levine H, Altamirano DS, Martinez JD, Durkee H, Mintz K, Leblanc R, Tóthová JD, Miller D, Parel JM, Amescua G. Rose Bengal Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy: A review of the intermediate term clinical and surgical outcomes. Am J Ophthalmol 2022; 243:125-134. [PMID: 35952754 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2022.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the intermediate term clinical outcomes of Rose Bengal Photodynamic Antimicrobial Therapy (RB-PDAT) for infectious keratitis. Secondarily, to evaluate the surgical outcomes of individuals that underwent optical keratoplasty after RB-PDAT. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. METHODS Retrospective chart review of 31 eyes from 30 consecutive individuals with infectious keratitis refractory to standard medical therapy who underwent RB-PDAT at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute between January 2016 and July 2020. Data collected included demographics, risk factors for infectious keratitis, microbiological diagnosis, Best Spectacle-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA), clinical outcomes after RB-PDAT and complication rates post-keratoplasty. RB-PDAT was performed as described in previous studies. Graft survival was evaluated using Kaplan Meier curves with log-ranks in individuals that underwent keratoplasty after RB-PDAT. RESULTS Mean age of the study population was 53±18.0 years. 70% were female; 53.3% self-identified as non-Hispanic White; 43.3% as Hispanic. Mean follow-up time was 28.0±14.4 months. Risk factors included contact lens use (80.6%), history of infectious keratitis (19.3%), and ocular surface disease (16.1%). Cultures were positive for Acanthamoeba (51.6%), Fusarium (12.9%), and Pseudomonas (6.5%). 22.5% of individuals with Acanthamoeba infection were treated with concomitant Miltefosine. Clinical resolution was achieved in 77.4% of individuals on average 2.72±1.85 months after RB-PDAT with 22.5% requiring therapeutic penetrating keratoplasties and 54.8% subsequently requiring optical penetrating keratoplasties. At 2 years, the overall probability of graft survival was 78.7% and the graft failure rate was 21.3%. CONCLUSION RB-PDAT is a potential adjunct therapy for infectious keratitis that may reduce the need for a therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty. Cases that undergo keratoplasty after RB-PDAT may have a higher probability of graft survival at one year postoperatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula A Sepulveda-Beltran
- Anne Bates Leach Eye Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Harry Levine
- Anne Bates Leach Eye Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Diego S Altamirano
- Anne Bates Leach Eye Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jaime D Martinez
- Anne Bates Leach Eye Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Heather Durkee
- Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Keenan Mintz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Roger Leblanc
- Department of Chemistry, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Jana D'Amato Tóthová
- Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Darlene Miller
- Ocular Microbiology Laboratory, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jean-Marie Parel
- Anne Bates Leach Eye Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Guillermo Amescua
- Anne Bates Leach Eye Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA; Ophthalmic Biophysics Center, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
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Jeang L, Tuli SS. Therapy for contact lens-related ulcers. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2022; 33:282-289. [PMID: 35779052 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000000861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The current review covers the current literature and practice patterns of antimicrobial therapy for contact lens-related microbial keratitis (CLMK). Although the majority of corneal ulcers are bacterial, fungus and acanthamoeba are substantial contributors in CLMK and are harder to treat due to the lack of commercially available topical medications and low efficacy of available topical therapy. RECENT FINDINGS Topical antimicrobials remain the mainstay of therapy for corneal ulcers. Fluoroquinolones may be used as monotherapy for small, peripheral bacterial ulcers. Antibiotic resistance is a persistent problem. Fungal ulcers are less responsive to topical medications and adjunct oral or intrastromal antifungal medications may be helpful. Acanthamoeba keratitis continues to remain a therapeutic challenge but newer antifungal and antiparasitic agents may be helpful adjuncts. Other novel and innovative therapies are being studied currently and show promise. SUMMARY Contact lens-associated microbial keratitis is a significant health issue that can cause vision loss. Treatment remains a challenge but many promising diagnostics and procedures are in the pipeline and offer hope.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Jeang
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Kim MJ, Quan FS, Kong HH, Kim JH, Moon EK. Specific Detection of Acanthamoeba species using Polyclonal Peptide Antibody Targeting the Periplasmic Binding Protein of A. castellanii. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2022; 60:143-147. [PMID: 35500897 PMCID: PMC9058276 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2022.60.2.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a rare ocular disease, but it is a painful and sight-threatening infectious disease. Early diagnosis and adequate treatment are necessary to prevent serious complications. While AK is frequently diagnosis via several PCR assays or Acanthamoeba-specific antibodies, a more specific and effective diagnostic method is required. This study described the production of a polyclonal peptide antibody against the periplasmic binding protein (PBP) of A. castellanii and investigated its diagnostic potential. Western blot analysis showed that the PBP antibody specifically reacted with the cell lysates of A. castellanii. However, the PBP antibody did not interact with human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells and the other 3 major causative agents of keratitis. Immunocytochemistry (ICC) results revealed the specific detection of A. castellanii trophozoites and cysts by PBP antibodies when A. castellanii were co-cultured with HCE cells. PBP antibody specificity was further confirmed by co-culture of A. castellanii trophozoites with F. solani, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa via ICC. The PBP antibody specifically reacted with the trophozoites and cysts of A. polyphaga, A. hatchetti, A. culbertsoni, A. royreba, and A. healyi, thus demonstrated its genus-specific nature. These results showed that the PBP polyclonal peptide antibody of A. castellanii could specifically detect several species of Acanthamoeba, contributing to the development of an effective antibody-based AK diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jeong Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul 02447, Korea.,Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Hyun-Hee Kong
- Department of Parasitology, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan 49201, Korea
| | - Jong-Hyun Kim
- Institute of Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea
| | - Eun-Kyung Moon
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul 02447, Korea
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Kim MJ, Chu KB, Lee HA, Quan FS, Kong HH, Moon EK. Detection of Acanthamoeba spp. using carboxylesterase antibody and its usage for diagnosing Acanthamoeba-keratitis. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262223. [PMID: 34986189 PMCID: PMC8730387 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Contact lens usage has contributed to increased incidence rates of Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a serious corneal infection that can lead to blindness. Since symptoms associated with AK closely resemble those incurred by bacterial or fungal keratitis, developing a diagnostic method enabling rapid detection with a high degree of Acanthamoeba-specificity would be beneficial. Here, we produced a polyclonal antibody targeting the carboxylesterase (CE) superfamily protein secreted by the pathogenic Acanthamoeba and evaluated its diagnostic potential. Western blot analysis revealed that the CE antibody specifically interacts with the cell lysates and conditioned media of pathogenic Acanthamoeba, which were not observed from the cell lysates and conditioned media of human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells, Fusarium solani, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. High titers of A. castellanii-specific antibody production were confirmed sera of immunized mice via ELISA, and these antibodies were capable of detecting A. castellanii from the cell lysates and their conditioned media. The specificity of the CE antibody was further confirmed on A. castellanii trophozoites and cysts co-cultured with HCE cells, F. solani, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa using immunocytochemistry. Additionally, the CE antibody produced in this study successfully interacted with 7 different Acanthamoeba species. Our findings demonstrate that the polyclonal CE antibody specifically detects multiple species belong to the genus Acanthamoeba, thus highlighting its potential as AK diagnostic tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jeong Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Back Chu
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Ahm Lee
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate school, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate school, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Hee Kong
- Department of Parasitology, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun-Kyung Moon
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- * E-mail:
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Chu KB, Lee HA, Pflieger M, Fischer F, Asfaha Y, Alves Avelar LA, Skerhut A, Kassack MU, Hansen FK, Schöler A, Kurz T, Kim MJ, Moon EK, Quan FS. Antiproliferation and Antiencystation Effect of Class II Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors on Acanthamoeba castellanii. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:271-279. [PMID: 34994538 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.1c00390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba is a ubiquitous and free-living protozoan pathogen responsible for causing Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a severe corneal infection inflicting immense pain that can result in permanent blindness. A drug-based treatment of AK has remained arduous because Acanthamoeba trophozoites undergo encystment to become highly drug-resistant cysts upon exposure to harsh environmental conditions such as amoebicidal agents (e.g., polyhexanide, chloroquine, and chlorohexidine). As such, drugs that block the Acanthamoeba encystation process could result in a successful AK treatment. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) have recently emerged as novel therapeutic options for treating various protozoan and parasitic diseases. Here, we investigated whether novel HDACi suppress the proliferation and encystation of Acanthamoeba. Synthetic class II HDACi FFK29 (IIa selective) and MPK576 (IIb selective) dose-dependently decreased the viability of Acanthamoeba trophozoites. While these HDACi demonstrated a negligible effect on the viability of mature cysts, Acanthamoeba encystation was significantly inhibited by these HDACi. Apoptosis was slightly increased in trophozoites after a treatment with these HDACi, whereas cysts were unaffected by the HDACi exposure. The viability of human corneal cells was not affected by HDACi concentrations up to 10 μmol/L. In conclusion, these synthetic HDACi demonstrated potent amoebicidal effects and inhibited the growth and encystation of Acanthamoeba, thus highlighting their enormous potential for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Back Chu
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, 02447 Seoul, South Korea
| | - Hae-Ahm Lee
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 02447 Seoul, South Korea
| | - Marc Pflieger
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Fabian Fischer
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Yodita Asfaha
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Leandro A. Alves Avelar
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Alexander Skerhut
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Matthias U. Kassack
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Finn K Hansen
- Pharmaceutical and Cell Biological Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Institute, University of Bonn, An der Immenburg 4, 53121 Bonn, Germany
| | - Andrea Schöler
- Institute for Drug Discovery, Medical Faculty, Leipzig University, Brüderstraße 34, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thomas Kurz
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Medicinal Chemistry, Heinrich Heine University, 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany
| | - Min-Jeong Kim
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 02447 Seoul, South Korea
| | - Eun-Kyung Moon
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University, School of Medicine, 02447 Seoul, South Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, 02447 Seoul, South Korea
- Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University, School of Medicine, 02447 Seoul, South Korea
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Diagnostic Considerations for Non-Acanthamoeba Amoebic Keratitis and Clinical Outcomes. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11020219. [PMID: 35215164 PMCID: PMC8874664 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11020219] [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: 01/20/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Cases of amoebic keratitis involving species other than Acanthamoeba are hypothesised to be underdiagnosed and poorly understood. Amoebic keratitis is debilitating and associated with chronic visual impairment. Understanding associated symptoms of non-Acanthamoeba amoebic keratitis could facilitate new diagnostic procedures and enable prompt treatment, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes. Thus, a review of the literature was undertaken surrounding non-Acanthamoeba amoebic keratitis. Cases were geographically widespread and mostly confined to contact lens wearers ≤ 30 years old exposed to contaminated water sources and/or demonstrating poor lens hygiene. Vermamoeba vermiformis (previously Hartmanella vermiformis) was the most common causative agent, and a moderate number of mixed keratitis cases were also reported. A crucial disease indicator was early onset stromal deterioration/ulcerations, reported in 10 of the studies, usually only occurring in advanced Acanthamoeba keratitis. Mixed infections were the most difficult to treat, often requiring keratoplasty after unsuccessful combination treatment regimens. New diagnostic measures for non-Acanthamoeba amoebic keratitis should consider early onset stromal disease as a key disease indicator. Deep corneal scrapes are also necessary for accurate amoebic identification. Moreover, a combination approach to diagnosis is advised and should involve culture, microscopy and PCR techniques. In vitro drug sensitivity tests should also be conducted to help develop patient-specific treatment regimes.
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Kim MJ, Lee HA, Quan FS, Kong HH, Moon EK. Characterization of a Peptide Antibody Specific to the Adenylyl Cyclase-Associated Protein of Acanthamoeba castellanii. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2022; 60:7-14. [PMID: 35247949 PMCID: PMC8898646 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2022.60.1.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a rare infectious disease and accurate diagnosis has remained arduous as clinical manifestations of AK were similar to keratitis of viral, bacterial, or fungal origins. In this study, we described the production of a polyclonal peptide antibody against the adenylyl cyclase-associated protein (ACAP) of A. castellanii, and evaluated its differential diagnostic potential. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay revealed high titers of A. castellanii-specific IgG and IgA antibodies being present in low dilutions of immunized rabbit serum. Western blot analysis revealed that the ACAP antibody specifically interacted with A. castellanii, while not interacting with human corneal epithelial (HCE) cells and other causes of keratitis such as Fusarium solani, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. Immunocytochemistry (ICC) results confirmed the specific detection of trophozoites and cysts of A. castellanii co-cultured with HCE cells. The ACAP antibody also specifically interacted with the trophozoites and cysts of 5 other Acanthamoeba species. These results indicate that the ACAP antibody of A. castellanii can specifically detect multiple AK-causing members belonging to the genus Acanthamoeba and may be useful for differentially diagnosing Acanthamoeba infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min-Jeong Kim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Hae-Ahm Lee
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate school, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate school, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea.,Department of Medical Zoology, Kyung Hee University School of Medicine, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Hyun-Hee Kong
- Department of Parasitology, Dong-A University College of Medicine, Busan 49201, Korea
| | - Eun-Kyung Moon
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
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Sangkanu S, Mitsuwan W, Mahboob T, Mahabusarakam W, Chewchanwuttiwong S, Siphakdi P, Jimoh TO, Wilairatana P, Dolma KG, Pereira MDL, Rahmatullah M, Wiart C, Norouzi R, Siyadatpanah A, Mutombo PN, Nissapatorn V. Phytochemical, anti-Acanthamoeba, and anti-adhesion properties of Garcinia mangostana flower as preventive contact lens solution. Acta Trop 2022; 226:106266. [PMID: 34890540 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba keratitis infection extends due to the growing number of contact lens users. Indigenous plants including Garcinia mangostana play a vital role in human health and well being. Many species of this plant have been reported with myriads of potent medicinal properties. However, the aims of this study were, for the first time, to isolate compounds from the flower of G. mangostana and to test their anti-Acanthamoeba and anti-adhesion activity against Acanthamoeba triangularis. Powdered flowers of G. mangostana were extracted and chromatographed on a silica gel column. The structures of the compounds were established with the aid of 1H NMR. More so, the anti-Acanthamoeba and anti-adhesion properties were tested on a 96-well polystyrene microtiter plate and soft contact lenses. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to determine the features of A. triangularis on contact lenses. Eight pure compounds were obtained, namely 9-hydroxycalabaxanthone, tovophillin A, garcinone E, garcinone B, α-mangostin, gartinin, 8-deoxygartinin and γ-mangostin. The extract and pure compounds exhibited anti-Acanthamoeba activity with MIC values in the range of 0.25-1 mg/mL. In addition, the extract and α-mangostin displayed significant activity against the adhesion of A. triangularis trophozoites both in polystyrene plate and in contact lenses at 0.5 × MIC (0.25 mg/mL). Furthermore, α-mangostin has the potential to remove A. triangularis adhesion in contact lenses similar to a commercial multipurpose solution (MPS). SEM study confirmed that crude extract and α-mangostin are effective as solutions for contact lenses, which removed A. triangularis trophozoites within 24 h. Alpha-mangostin was non-toxic to Vero cells at a concentration below 39 μM in 24 h. Crude extract of G. mangostana flower and its α-mangostin serve as candidate compounds in the treatment of Acanthamoeba infection or as lens care solution, since they can be used as a source of natural products against Acanthamoeba and virulence factor associated with the adhesion of A. triangularis.
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Smith C, Ashraf N, Haghnegahdar M, Goins K, Newman JR. Acanthamoeba Keratitis: A Single-Institution Series of Four Cases With Literature Review. Cureus 2022; 14:e21112. [PMID: 35165570 PMCID: PMC8830394 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.21112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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