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Idris MA, Ruppel A, Gehrig-Feistel H, Alansari AS, Al-Rejaibi AK, Tageldin MH, El-Sinary K. The seroprevalence of cystic hydatidosis in Oman. Annals of Tropical Medicine & Parasitology 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/00034983.1999.11813421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Li YL, Herter U, Ruppel A. Acute, chronic and late-stage infections withSchistosoma japonicum: reactivity of patient sera in indirect immunofluorescence tests. Annals of Tropical Medicine & Parasitology 2013; 98:49-57. [PMID: 15000731 DOI: 10.1179/000349804225003000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Sera from 74 patients with acute, chronic or late-stage schistosomiasis japonica were tested in indirect immunofluorescence tests, with sera of healthy Chinese individuals serving as controls. Cryostat sections of adult Schistosoma japonicum and S. mansoni were used to determine the reactivity of sera with the parenchyma, tegument or gut of the worms. There was inconsistent reactivity between total immunoglobulin and the parenchyma during the acute and chronic stages and hardly any such reactivity in the late stage. Reactivity with the tegument was consistently positive in the acute stage (25 sera) but some chronic-stage sera (four of 32) and most late-stage sera (11 of 17) did not react. In contrast, reactivity with the gut was uniformly strong during the acute and chronic disease, whereas late-stage patients had generally lower titres and one did not react. Similar results were obtained with tests for IgA antibodies, although the titres were generally lower. The homologous reactions with S. japonicum frequently yielded higher titres than the heterologous reactions with S. mansoni, particularly with sera of generally low reactivity. Although the immunofluorescence tests showed limited value in identifying the stage of the disease in individual patients, within the study population, acute, chronic and late-stage schistosomiasis japonica could be distinguished in terms of mean titres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y-L Li
- Department of Tropical Hygiene and Public Health, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, D-69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Bahgat M, Saad A, El Shahawi G, Gad A, Ramzy K, Ruppel A, Abdel Latif M. Cross-reaction of antigen preparations from adult and larval stages of the parasite Setaria equina with sera from infected humans with Wuchereria bancrofti. East Mediterr Health J 2011. [DOI: 10.26719/2011.17.8.679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Bahgat MM, Saad AH, El-Shahawi GA, Gad AM, Ramzy RM, Ruppel A, Abdel-Latif M. Cross-reaction of antigen preparations from adult and larval stages of the parasite Setaria equina with sera from infected humans with Wuchereria bancrofti. East Mediterr Health J 2011; 17:679-686. [PMID: 21977571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Crude antigenic preparations from Setaria equina were used in ELISA and Western blotting to examine cross-reaction with human sera from areas endemic for bancroftian filariasis. Sera from normal subjects from non-endemic areas were included as negative controls. Cross-reaction was found between S. equina antigens and antibodies in the sera of Wuchereria bancrofti-infected patients, with the highest levels observed between sera of chronic infected patients and Setaria spp. crude female worm surface antigen (CFSWA). In the absence of active transmission of Setaria spp. infection, CFWSA is useful to detect chronic W. bancrofti infection before patients become symptomatic, particularly when chronic patients are known to be amicrofilaraemic. In the presence of active S. equina infection, antigens from the adult and microfilaraemic stages showed the highest degree of cross-reaction with human sera.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Bahgat
- Department of Therapeutic Chemistry and Infectious Diseases and Immunology Laboratory, Centre of Excellence for Advanced Sciences, National Research Centre, Dokki, Cairo, Egypt.
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Pica-Mattoccia L, Ruppel A, Xia CM, Cioli D. Praziquantel and the benzodiazepine Ro 11-3128 do not compete for the same binding sites in schistosomes. Parasitology 2007; 135:47-54. [PMID: 17767796 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182007003514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARYThe benzodiazepine Ro 11-3128 (methyl-clonazepam) presents several similarities with praziquantel with regard to its anti-schistosomal mode of action, since both drugs cause spastic paralysis, calcium influx and tegumental disruption in the parasites. In order to know whether the two compounds share the same binding sites in the schistosomes, we performed in vivo and in vitro competition experiments. We took advantage of the fact that Ro 11-3128 is active against immature Schistosoma mansoni (whereas praziquantel is inactive), and praziquantel is active against S. japonicum (which is insensitive to Ro 11-3128). An excess of praziquantel did not inhibit the activity of Ro 11-3128 against immature S. mansoni and an excess of Ro 11-3128 did not inhibit the activity of praziquantel against S. japonicum, suggesting that the schistosome binding sites of the two drugs are different. On the other hand, cytochalasin D, an agent known to perturb – among other things – calcium channel function, was capable of inhibiting the schistosomicidal activity of both praziquantel and Ro 11-3128, thus adding another element of similarity between the two anti-schistosomal agents. A similar, albeit partial, inhibition of the schistosomicidal activity of the two drugs was exerted by some of the classical calcium channel blockers. Taken together, these results suggest that praziquantel and Ro 11-3128, although binding to different schistosome receptor sites, may use the same basic anti-schistosomal effector mechanisms.
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Bahgat M, Sorgho H, Ouédraogo JB, Poda JN, Sawadogo L, Ruppel A. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with worm vomit and cercarial secretions of Schistosoma mansoni to detect infections in an endemic focus of Burkina Faso. J Helminthol 2007; 80:19-23. [PMID: 16469168 DOI: 10.1079/joh2005312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
AbstractCercariae and adult Schistosoma mansoni were used to prepare, respectively, cercarial secretions (CS) and worm vomit (WoV). These were used as antigens in an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to test the IgG-reactivity of sera obtained in an S. mansoni-endemic area of Burkina Faso. Among the egg-excreting individuals (n=240), 94.6% reacted positively with WoV, but only 62.9% with CS, thus suggesting a high diagnostic sensitivity of WoV, but not of CS. Among those individuals without detectable eggs in two Kato-Katz thick smears from different stool specimens (n=215), the respective percentages of positive IgG reactivity were 78.1% and 63.3%. These positive reactions in the absence of detectable eggs are interpreted in terms of limited sensitivity of parasitological stool examinations. Optical density values in ELISA with CS, but not with WoV, correlated negatively with age, which may reflect decreasing exposure to cercariae in older individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bahgat
- Department of Tropical Hygiene and Public Health, Univeristy of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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Chlichlia K, Schauwienold B, Kirsten C, Doenhoff MJ, Fishelson Z, Ruppel A. Schistosoma japonicum reveals distinct reactivity with antisera directed to proteases mediating host infection and invasion by cercariae of S. mansoni or S. haematobium. Parasite Immunol 2005; 27:97-102. [PMID: 15882236 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2005.00751.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Serine proteases released from the acetabular glands of cercariae, also known as cercarial elastases, are key enzymes in the penetration process of schistosomes through the skin of the final host. Antisera against these enzymes secreted from Schistosoma mansoni or S. haematobium reveal differences in the patterns of elastase expression among schistosome species and among different developmental stages of the larvae. Immunolocalization studies showed that antisera raised against the enzyme s28 protease react with S. mansoni, S. haematobium and also S. japonicum, in developing as well as mature cercariae and in both pre- and post-acetabular glands. Antisera against the enzyme SmCE detect the respective antigen solely in the pre-acetabular glands. Remarkably, the SmCE-1a isoform is detectable with DNA-vaccinated mouse sera in S. mansoni and S. haematobium only, but is apparently absent from the acetabular glands of S. japonicum. These differences in immunoreactivity of cercarial enzymes may be related to the distinct infection process of S. japonicum.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Chlichlia
- Department of Tropical Hygiene and Public Health, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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Abstract
Schistosoma japonicum and S. mansoni were tested for reactivity with an anti-inducible nitric oxide (iNOS) antibody and the distribution of iNOS was studied by immunofluorescent tests in different stages of the parasites. Reactivity was associated with the tegument in both larval schistosomes (sporocysts and cercariae) and eggs. With adult worms, the majority of the immunofluorescence was predominantly subtegumental in S. japonicum and parenchymal in S. mansoni. Fluorescence was also observed in host tissues (snails and mouse liver). In Western blots, the enzyme of S. japonicum had an apparent molecular weight of about 210 kDa. The possible role of worm and host iNOS in the parasite-host interrelation remains to be clarified.
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Affiliation(s)
- X-C Long
- Department of Parasitology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Hangkong Lu 13, Wuhan 430030, P. R. China
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Liu WQ, Li YL, Ruppel A. [Studies on the activity and immunohistochemistry of heme oxygenase in Schistosoma japonicum]. Zhongguo Ji Sheng Chong Xue Yu Ji Sheng Chong Bing Za Zhi 2003; 19:84-6. [PMID: 12571991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the activity of heme oxygenase and immunolocate the enzyme in the adult worms of Schistosoma japonicum. METHODS Microsomal protein was isolated from the homogenate of adult S. japonicum, heme degradation and effect of different pH conditions and buffers on degrading reaction were investigated by incubating microsomal protein with hemin. The slices of whole worm and cells of S. japonicum were prepared, distribution of HO in schistosome was studied by immunofluorescent and alkaline phosphatase(AP)-immunocytochemical assays. RESULTS Microsomal protein of adult worms can degrade the heme in vitro, the activity being 56.7 nmol bilirubin/(mg.min). The optimal pH was 8.7. Immunofluorescent and AP-immunocytochemical assays revealed that the HO distributed dispersively in the worm, and located in cytoplasm. CONCLUSION The presence of HO was firstly proved in S. japonicum.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Q Liu
- Department of Parasitology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030
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Boissier J, Chlichlia K, Digon Y, Ruppel A, Moné H. Preliminary study on sex-related inflammatory reactions in mice infected with Schistosoma mansoni. Parasitol Res 2003; 91:144-50. [PMID: 12910415 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-003-0943-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2003] [Accepted: 06/11/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the contribution of the sex of both the parasite and the host to the inflammatory response induced in unisexual infections of Schistosoma mansoni in mice. Organ weight, cell count and the delayed type hypersensitivity reaction were used as tools in this comparative study. The inflammatory reactions differed as a function of the sex of both the host and the parasite. Female mice showed a stronger inflammatory reaction to schistosome infection than males, while male schistosomes induced a stronger inflammatory response compared to females. The host-related differences in the inflammatory reaction may reflect differences in the factors affecting the immune defence of male and female mice. The differences in the inflammatory response induced by the parasite are discussed in terms of the quantity and quality of antigens among male and female worms.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Boissier
- UMR 5555 CNRS-UP Parasitologie Fonctionnelle et Evolutive, CBETM, Université de Perpignan, 52 Avenue Paul Alduy, 66860 Perpignan, Cedex, France.
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Ahmed AH, Ruppel A, Ramzy RMR. A longitudinal study of schistosome intermediate host snail populations and their trematode infection in certain areas of Egypt. J Egypt Soc Parasitol 2003; 33:201-17. [PMID: 12739812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Seasonal variation of Biomphalaria alexandrina and Bulinus truncatus populations and their infection rates with schistosome and other trematode cercariae were studied longitudinally in four water courses located in Giza and Faiyoum Governorates. Abundance of both species varied from year to year and according to the type of habitat. The mean prevalence of Schistosoma mansoni in Biomphalaria was 0.29%, that of S. haematobium in Bulinus was 1.36%. Seasonal variations of age structure of the 2 vector snails were monitored throughout the survey period. Infection rates with schistosome and other trematodes among Bulinus and Biomphalaria increased with the increase in snail size. Data suggest the occurrence of an antagonistic interaction between schistosome and non-human cercariae, especially echinostome, in infected snails.
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Affiliation(s)
- A H Ahmed
- Institute of Research for Tropical Medicine, General Organization of Teaching Hospitals and Institutes, Cairo, Egypt
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Li Y, Fen Y, Caffrey C, Ruppel A. [Studies on cathepsins in Schistosoma japonicum]. Zhongguo Ji Sheng Chong Xue Yu Ji Sheng Chong Bing Za Zhi 2002; 16:101-4. [PMID: 12078215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
AIM To identify the cathepsins in adult worms of Schistosoma japonicum and their proteolytic activities. METHODS The vomitus from adult worms of S. japonicum was collected. The proteolytic activity of cathepsins in the vomitus was identified and measured using synthetic substrates with arginyl bonds. RESULTS Specific synthetic subtracts Z-Arg-Arg-AMC (for cathepsin B) and Z-Phe-Arg-AMC (for cathepsin B and L) were degraded by the vomitus. An inhibitor, Z-Phe-PheCHN2 for cathepsin L, inhibited partially the activity of the vomitus to degrade Z-Phe-Arg-AMC. The optimal pH for cathepsin B/L is 5.0-5.5. CONCLUSION The vomitus of S. japonicum has cathepsin B- and L-like activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Li
- Department of Parasitology, Tongji Medical University, Wuhan 430030
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Bahgat M, Doenhoff M, Kirschfink M, Ruppel A. Serine protease and phenoloxidase activities in hemocytes of Biomphalaria glabrata snails with varying susceptibility to infection with the parasite Schistosoma mansoni. Parasitol Res 2002; 88:489-94. [PMID: 12107469 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-002-0595-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2001] [Accepted: 12/20/2001] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The snail Biomphalaria glabrata possesses hemocytes, which are supposed to interact with the larval stages of the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni. We describe trypsin-like serine protease(s) and phenoloxidase activities in lysates from these hemocytes. Both enzymes have activity optima around pH 9.5. The serine protease was inhibited by EDTA, PMSF, antipain and aprotinin, and the phenoloxidase activity by diethydithiocarbamate. By comparison, the serine protease activity in secretions of S. mansoni cercariae also had an alkaline pH optimum around 10.5 and was sensitive to the same inhibitors. In addition, serine protease activities from snails and cercariae had the same molecular mass of 28 kDa. However, the K(m) value of the serine protease(s) and the K(i) values of different inhibitors were generally lower for the snail enzyme than for the cercarial enzyme. The serine protease activity varied among individual snails but activity in hemocyte lysates and hemolymph correlated strongly. There was no detectable difference in the levels of activity between snails which are susceptible or resistant to schistosome infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bahgat
- Universität Heidelberg, Abteilung Tropenhygiene, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, Germany
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Bahgat M, Ruppel A. Biochemical comparison of the serine protease (elastase) activities in cercarial secretions from Trichobilharzia ocellata and Schistosoma mansoni. Parasitol Res 2002; 88:495-500. [PMID: 12107470 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-002-0597-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2001] [Accepted: 01/03/2002] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
We report on serine protease activity in cercarial secretions (CSs) from the bird parasite Trichobilharzia ocellata. Using a colorigenic substrate, the biochemical properties of this enzyme were studied and its activity was compared to the homologous one in CSs from the human parasite Schistosoma mansoni. The specific serine protease activity was always 2- to 3-fold higher in CSs from T. ocellatacompared to S. mansoni. The enzyme has its optimal activity at pH 10.5, is Ca2+-dependent (inhibition with EDTA) and has a trypsin-like (inhibition with anti-pain) serine proteinase activity (inhibition with PMSF and aprotinin). The K(m) value of the serine protease from T. ocellatawas higher than that of S. mansoni, and the K(i) values for several inhibitors were generally lower for the enzyme of T. ocellatathan that of S. mansoni except for EDTA. The enzyme activities from both parasites had a molecular weight of 30 kDa in gelatin-SDS-polyacrylamide gels. The intensity of the gelatin digestion bands was stronger with the T. ocellata than with the S. mansoni enzyme.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bahgat
- Abteilung Tropenhygiene, Universität Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, Germany
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Chlichlia K, Bahgat M, Schirrmacher V, Ruppel A. Species-restricted antibody response against a DNA-construct coding for aspartic proteinase from Schistosoma japonicum. Parasitol Res 2002; 88:368-75. [PMID: 11999027 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-001-0547-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
DNA-based vaccine technology was used to immunize against the schistosome digestive enzyme, cathepsin D aspartic proteinase. The cDNA coding for Schistosomajaponicum aspartic proteinase was cloned in a mammalian expression vector under control of the CMV promoter/enhancer and expressed for the first time in transfected mammalian cells as well as in mice immunized--by means of intra-ear pinna injection--with the aspartic proteinase-encoding DNA construct. Mice developed antibodies which recognized the native protein in homogenates of S. japonicum worms and reacted with the gut and, to a much lesser degree, with the parenchyma of the parasites in cryostat sections. It was noteworthy that the vaccinated mouse sera did not detectably cross-react with S. mansoni antigens either in homogenates or on cryostat sections. By contrast, infection sera of mice or humans strongly cross-reacted with both schistosome species. We conclude that DNA vaccination can induce species-restricted antibody responses against schistosome proteins. The implications of this previously unrecognized specificity are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Chlichlia
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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Bahgat M, Chlichlia K, Schirrmacher V, Ruppel A. Antibodies induced in mice by a DNA-construct coding for the elastase of Schistosoma mansoni recognize the enzyme in secretions and preacetabular glands of cercariae. Parasitology 2002; 124:301-6. [PMID: 11922431 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182001001226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
A DNA-construct coding for the elastase of the parasite Schistosoma mansoni was prepared from adult S. mansoni worm RNA which was reverse transcribed into cDNA. The gene coding for the elastase was amplified using primers specific for the sequence of cercarial elastase and was cloned into a mammalian expression vector. Expression of the elastase gene at the transcriptional level was achieved for the first time in transfected mammalian cells (COS-7) and was also successful in muscle tissue of mice injected with the DNA-construct. These mice developed antibodies recognizing in Western blots the elastase from cercarial secretions. Also, these antibodies reacted in immunofluorescence tests with the preacetabular glands of cercariae, i.e. the site of origin for elastase. Thus, the DNA-construct induced the expression of elastase in mice and formation of antibodies that recognized the native antigen.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bahgat
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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Hamburger J, Abbasi I, Ramzy RM, Jourdane J, Ruppel A. Polymerase chain reaction assay based on a highly repeated sequence of Schistosoma haematobium: a potential tool for monitoring schistosome-infested water. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2001; 65:907-11. [PMID: 11791997 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.2001.65.907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
We have cloned from Schistosoma haematobium genome a repeated sequence, the DraI repeated sequence, which consists of tandemly arranged 121-bp-long units and which is highly abundant (approximately 15% of the S. haematobium genome). By these features, the DraI repeat is similar to the Sm1-7 sequence of Schistosoma mansoni previously described by us. However, their nucleotide sequences are profoundly different. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) primers were designed on the basis of the DraI sequence information and were used in a PCR assay by which as little as 10 fg of schistosomal DNA as well as individual cercariae were detected. The DraI repeat cross-hybridized with DNA from Schistosoma bovis, Schistosoma magrebowiei, Schistosoma mattheei, Schistosoma curassoni, and Schistosoma intercalatum, but not with DNA from S. mansoni nor from Trichobilharzia ocellata and Echinostoma sp. A potential value of this PCR assay is suggested for monitoring free-living cercariae and infected snails only in bodies free of cross-hybridizing species.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Hamburger
- Kuvin Centre, Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel.
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Chlichlia K, Bahgat M, Ruppel A, Schirrmacher V. DNA vaccination with asparaginyl endopeptidase (Sm32) from the parasite Schistosoma mansoni: anti-fecundity effect induced in mice. Vaccine 2001; 20:439-47. [PMID: 11672907 DOI: 10.1016/s0264-410x(01)00345-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
DNA-based vaccine technology was used to induce an immune response in mice against a schistosome cysteine proteinase, asparaginyl endopeptidase (Sm32). The cDNA coding for Sm32 was cloned in a mammalian expression vector under control of the CMV promoter/enhancer and expressed for the first time in transfected mammalian cells as well as in mice immunized with the Sm32-encoding DNA construct. These mice developed antibodies which recognized the native protein not only in homogenates of Schistosoma mansoni worms but also in the gut on cryostat sections of the parasites. This DNA vaccine led to an anti-fecundity effect: female worms of a challenge infection produced 37% less eggs than those growing in naïve mice. The results suggest that Sm32 may be a candidate antigen for the generation of an anti-pathology vaccine against schistosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Chlichlia
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany.
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Bahgat M, Francklow K, Doenhoff MJ, Li YL, Ramzy RM, Kirsten C, Ruppel A. Infection induces antibodies against the cercarial secretions, but not against the cercarial elastases of Schistosoma mansoni, Schistosoma haematobium, Schistosoma japonicum and Trichobilharzia ocellata. Parasite Immunol 2001; 23:557-65. [PMID: 11696167 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-3024.2001.00417.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Cercarial secretions from different species of the parasite Schistosoma and from Trichobilharzia ocellata contain a proteolytic activity, cercarial elastase, which was demonstrated by a 30 kDa band in gelatin gels. Sera of patients infected with Schistosoma mansoni, Schistosoma haematobium or Schistosoma japonicum contain immunoglobulin G which react in ELISA with cercarial secretions from all schistosomes and cross-react among the different parasite species. In Western blots, however, infection sera from patients, as well as heavily infected mice or rabbits, did not react with a 30-kDa protein. Moreover, when sections from infected snails (Biomphalaria, Bulinus and Lymnaea) were analysed by immunofluorescence using the same infection sera, only the tegument of the developing cercariae was recognized, but not the acetabular glands. In contrast, when antisera against purified cercarial elastase from either S. mansoni or S. haematobium were tested with sections of infected Biomphalaria or Bulinus, fluorescence was strong in the preacetabular glands of the cercariae of either species, but undetectable with the tegument. Cross-reactivity of both antisera extended to T. ocellata-infected Lymnaea, but not to S. japonicum-infected Oncomelania. In conclusion, although immunization with purified cercarial elastase results in antibody production, the enzyme does not induce an apparent antibody response following natural infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bahgat
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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20
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Li
- Dept. of Parasitology, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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21
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Abstract
The aim of studies on plant molluscicides is to complement methods for controlling snails acting as intermediate hosts of schistosomes. We report on the toxic activity of extracts from Jatropha curcas L. (Euphorbiaceae) against snails transmitting Schistosoma mansoni and S. haematobium. We studied different extracts' effects on infectious larvae, cercariae and miracidia of S. mansoni. Compared to aqueous extract, methanol extract showed the highest toxicity against all tested organisms with LC100-values of 25 p.p.m. for cercariae and the snail Biomphalaria glabrata and 1 p.p.m. for the snails Bulinus truncatus and B. natalensis. Attenuation of cercariae leading to reduced infectivity in mice could be achieved in concentrations below those exerting acute toxicity. In view of our results and the ongoing exploitation of J. curcas for other purposes, this plant could become an affordable and effective component of an integrated approach to schistosomiasis control.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Rug
- Department of Tropical Hygiene and Public Health, University of Heidelberg, Germany.
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22
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Idris MA, Ruppel A, Petney T. Antibodies against rickettsia in humans and potential vector ticks from Dhofar, Oman. J Sci Res Med Sci 2000; 2:7-10. [PMID: 24019699 PMCID: PMC3174693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the extent of rickettsial infections prevalence of potential vector ticks in the rural population of Dhofar, Oman. METHOD Human sera (n = 347) were obtained from six rural localities (school children, farmers, outpatients) in Dhofar, Sultanate of Oman. Sera were tested by immunofluorescence for the presence of antibodies reacting with Rickettsia conorii antigen. RESULTS More than half the samples (59%) gave positive reactions (titres of at least 1:64). Ticks (n=707) were collected from cattle, camels and goats (n=102) and included Amblyomma variegatum, Hyalomma a. anatolicum, H. dromedarii, H. rufipes and Rhipicephalus spp., all of which can potentially transmit rickettsiae to humans. CONCLUSION The results suggest that rickettsial infections are common among the rural population of Dhofar.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Idris
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Sultan Qaboos University, P.O.Box: 35, Postal Code: 123, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman; ; Department of Tropical Hygiene and Public Health and
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23
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Caffrey CR, Gsell C, Ruppel A. Schistosoma japonicum is less sensitive to cyclosporin A in vivo than Schistosoma mansoni. J Parasitol 1999; 85:736-9. [PMID: 10461959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023] Open
Abstract
We compared the toxic effects of cyclosporin A (CsA) on postmigratory immature Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum in mice. For each species, CsA was administered either relatively early or late during development. Exposure of 20-day-old S. mansoni to 1 subcutaneous dose of CsA (50 mg/kg) reduced the worm burden by 45% and induced herniae and/or boli of the gut in 32% of perfusable worms. These results agree with previous reports. In addition, CsA induced a marked liver shift (37% of total worm number). For S. japonicum, CsA was administered at 11 days postinfection (PI) because this species migrates more quickly. Killing of worms and damage to the gut were not observed, and only a slight liver shift occurred. Similarly, these effects were not recorded when CsA was administered at the later times of 34 days PI for S. mansoni and 17 days PI for S. japonicum. For both species, CsA stunted worms, affecting both sexes early PI but only females late PI. In conclusion, immature worms of S. japonicum are less sensitive than S. mansoni to CsA. Also, S. mansoni displays marked age-dependent differences in its sensitivity to CsA.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Caffrey
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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24
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Idris MA, Ruppel A, Gehrig-Feistel H, Alansari AS, al-Rejaibi AK, Tageldin MH, el-Sinary K. The seroprevalence of cystic hydatidosis in Oman. Ann Trop Med Parasitol 1999; 93:259-63. [PMID: 10562827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
Abstract
The presence of antibodies against Echinococcus granulosus in sera from 306 humans and 390 camels in Oman was investigated by indirect haemagglutination assays. Only one of the human and five of the camel sera gave positive reactions. The reactivities of the human sera were confirmed by ELISA. These results, together with isolated reports of hydatid cysts, indicate that E. granulosus is endemic in Oman, although with a low prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Idris
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman.
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25
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Scory S, Caffrey CR, Stierhof YD, Ruppel A, Steverding D. Trypanosoma brucei: killing of bloodstream forms in vitro and in vivo by the cysteine proteinase inhibitor Z-phe-ala-CHN2. Exp Parasitol 1999; 91:327-33. [PMID: 10092476 DOI: 10.1006/expr.1998.4381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Cysteine proteinases were tested for their suitability as targets for chemotherapy of sleeping sickness using the peptidyl inhibitor Z-Phe-Ala-diazomethyl ketone (Z-Phe-Ala-CHN2). In vitro, the inhibitory concentration of Z-Phe-Ala-CHN;2 required to reduce the growth rate by 50% was 400 times lower for culture-adapted bloodstream forms of Trypanosoma brucei than for a mouse myeloma cell line. At an inhibitor concentration of 10;M the parasites were lysed within 48 h of incubation. Parasitemia of mice infected with T. brucei decreased to undetectable levels for 3 days following treatment with 250 mg/kg Z-Phe-Ala-CHN2 on days 3 to 6 after infection. Although parasitemia returned thereafter to control levels, infected mice treated with the inhibitor survived approximately twice as long as those treated with placebo. Z-Phe-Ala-CHN2 inhibited proteinolysis in lysosomes in vitro and almost completely blocked cysteine proteinase activity in vivo. The results demonstrate the importance of cysteine proteinase activity for survival of T. brucei and suggest that such activity is an appropriate target for antitrypanosomal chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Scory
- Abteilung Parasitologie, Hygiene-Institut der Ruprecht-Karls- Universität, Heidelberg, Germany
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26
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Hamburger J, Xin XY, Ramzy RM, Jourdane J, Ruppel A. A polymerase chain reaction assay for detecting snails infected with bilharzia parasites (Schistosoma mansoni) from very early prepatency. Am J Trop Med Hyg 1998; 59:872-6. [PMID: 9886192 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.1998.59.872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, we adapted a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, previously shown by us to be very sensitive for detecting cercariae in water, for the sensitive detection of Schistosoma mansoni DNA in infected snails from early prepatency. Polymerase chain reaction primers were designed based on the 121-basepair highly repeated sequence we previously identified in the genome of S. mansoni. The DNA was prepared from the snails by a simple alkaline extraction procedure, and the PCR assay enabled a clear differentiation between infected and normal snails. Infected snails were detected as early as one day after penetration of a single miracidium. The high sensitivity of the test enabled identification of a single infected snail even when its DNA was pooled with material from up to 99 uninfected snails, thus demonstrating the possibility of mass diagnosis in pools of snails. The assay has the potential for large-scale determination of prepatent infection prevalence in snails, thus offering new possibilities for the evaluation of schistosomiasis transmission and for schistosomiasis control, as discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Hamburger
- Kuvin Centre, Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
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27
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Hamburger J, Xu YX, Ramzy RM, Jourdane J, Ruppel A. Development and laboratory evaluation of a polymerase chain reaction for monitoring Schistosoma mansoni infestation of water. Am J Trop Med Hyg 1998; 59:468-73. [PMID: 9749646 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.1998.59.468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
A sensitive and specific detection of cercariae of human schistosomes is required for better definition of risk of infection. In the present study, we have developed a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay for the detection of cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni in water. A simple DNA preparation was adapted for this purpose, and PCR primers were designed based on the 121-basepair highly repeated sequence we previously identified in the genome of S. mansoni. The PCR assay detected as little as 10(-6) ng of S. mansoni DNA, and the high sensitivity enabled the detection of a single cercaria. For trapping of cercariae we adapted a filtration apparatus previously used for separating schistosome eggs from turbid enzymatic digests of tissues. A single cercaria could be detected in repeated tests of water filtrates. Since the target DNA is tandemly arranged, a ladder pattern of the PCR products was demonstrated. A direct relationship was demonstrated between the number of ladder bands of the amplification products, and DNA concentration or number of cercariae. The feasibility of semiquantitation of schistosome larvae in natural water was thus suggested. The potential of the procedures described here for epidemiologic studies is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Hamburger
- Hebrew University, Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem Israel
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28
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ruppel
- Department of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 324, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
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29
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Rheinberg CE, Moné H, Caffrey CR, Imbert-Establet D, Jourdane J, Ruppel A. Schistosoma haematobium, S. intercalatum, S. japonicum, S. mansoni, and S. rodhaini in mice: relationship between patterns of lung migration by schistosomula and perfusion recovery of adult worms. Parasitol Res 1998; 84:338-42. [PMID: 9569102 DOI: 10.1007/s004360050407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The development of five schistosome species was compared in mice by the recovery of schistosomula from chopped lung tissue and of adult worms by portal perfusion. Three developmental patterns appeared. (1) Schistosoma japonicum was unique in showing an early establishment of schistosomula in and a rapid departure from the lungs together with the highest worm recovery; (2) S. haematobium contrasted by establishing later and persisting in the lungs for at least 2 weeks while yielding the lowest adult worm recovery; and (3) S. intercalatum, S. mansoni, and S. rodhaini had an intermediate pattern--they resided in the lungs for several days, then disappeared and produced intermediate numbers of adults. Lung petechiae, known to accompany the migration of S. japonicum, were never detected after infection with the other species. We speculate that the three migration patterns of schistosomes are related to the size of the relative spectra of naturally infected definitive hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Rheinberg
- Institut für Tropenhygiene, Universität Heidelberg, Germany
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30
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Caffrey CR, Ruppel A. Affinity isolation and characterization of the cathepsin B-like proteinase Sj31 from Schistosoma japonicum. J Parasitol 1997; 83:1112-8. [PMID: 9406788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The major cathepsin B-like proteinase of adult Schistosoma japonicum has been isolated for the first time. Affinity chromatography with the mammalian cathepsin B inhibitor glycyl-phenylalanyl-glycine-semicarbazone purified a protein that was identified by N-terminal sequencing as Sj31. Sensitivity of Sj31 to PNGase F demonstrated the presence of asparagine-linked N-glycan. Marked resistance to the action of Endo-beta-glycosidase H indicated that most of the N-glycan chains are of the complex type. Binding of horseradish peroxidase-conjugated lectins demonstrated the presence of N-mannose, N-acetylglucosamine, and N-acetyllactosamine type 2 in the N-glycan. Fucose was not detected, and the presence of sialic acid remained questionable. Sj31 degraded the fluorogenic substrates Z-Phe-Arg-NMec and Z-Arg-Arg-NMec with an optimum between pH 5.0 and 6.0. The specific activity was 18-21-fold higher with the Phe-Arg substrate compared with the Arg-Arg substrate, whereas this value was 4-6-fold for bovine spleen cathepsin B, thus suggesting differences in the S2 subsite between parasite and host proteinases. Quantitative purification of Sj31 led to the conclusion that cathepsin B-like activity predominates over cathepsin L-like activity in S. japonicum. Because Sj31 degraded hemoglobin in vitro and was localized in the parasite gut, the proteinase may degrade ingested proteins in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Caffrey
- Institute of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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31
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Liu SY, Sporer F, Wink M, Jourdane J, Henning R, Li YL, Ruppel A. Anthraquinones in Rheum palmatum and Rumex dentatus (Polygonaceae), and phorbol esters in Jatropha curcas (Euphorbiaceae) with molluscicidal activity against the schistosome vector snails Oncomelania, Biomphalaria and Bulinus. Trop Med Int Health 1997; 2:179-88. [PMID: 9472303 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-3156.1997.d01-242.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hot water extracts of Rheum plamatum and Rheum dentatus (from China) showed molluscicidal activity against the snails Oncomelania hupensis, Biomphalaria glabrata and Bulinus globosus, which are vectors of Schistosoma japonicum, S. mansoni and S. haematobium, respectively. Activity was correlated with antraquinones which were identified by HPLC: rhein and chrysophanol-anthron were most active (> 50% dead snails after 2 days in a 0.03% solution). Molluscicidal activity was intermediate with Rheum-emodin and physcion and was not detectable with cinnamic acid or Aloe-emodin. The snail O. hupensis tended to be more sensitive for several compounds than B. glabrata. Extracts of Jatropha curcas seeds (from Mali) showed molluscicidal activity against both B. glabrata and O. hupensis, the latter being the more sensitive snail. The activity was associated with phorbol esters extracted from Jatropha oil. Of the pure phorbol esters tested, 4 beta-phorbol-13-decanoate killed both snail species at a concentration of 0.001% (10 p.p.m). As Jatropha is locally grown in Mali for other purposes, it might potentially be exploited for schistosomiasis control.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Y Liu
- Institute of Tropical Hygiene and Public Health, University, Heidelburg, Germany
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32
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Abstract
Both cathepsin B-like and cathepsin L-like endopeptidase activities have been described in schistosomes, but their relative contribution to proteinolysis remains controversial. In an attempt to clarify which type of activity predominates, the selective mammalian cathepsin B inhibitor CA-074 was tested under standardized assay conditions with different preparations from Schistosoma mansoni and S. japonicum. CA-074 (0.94 microM) inhibited at least 92% and 80% of proteinolytic activity, respectively, for these species: completely inhibited bovine-spleen cathepsin B activity; but showed only marginal inhibition (4%) of rat-liver cathepsin L activity. We discuss the results with respect to previous studies and conclude that schistosome cathepsin B-like, not L-like, activity predominates.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Caffrey
- Institut für Tropenhygiene, Heidelberg, Germany
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33
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Li YL, Liu SY, Han JJ, Ning CX, Ruppel A. Evaluation of a monoclonal antibody-based sandwich-ELISA for detection of circulating Schistosoma japonicum antigen (Sj31/32) in an endemic area of China. Trop Med Int Health 1996; 1:847-50. [PMID: 8980599 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3156.1996.tb00120.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
A sandwich-ELISA specific for 31/32 kDa schistosome proteins was used to trace infections in a Chinese population living in a low endemicity area for schistosomiasis japonica. The study population included 304 persons for whom records were available from 1992 onwards. In 1994, 2 individuals were positive in the miracidial hatching assay performed with 30 g of stools. The ELISA gave positive results for 8 individuals, including these 2 with active infections. Of the remaining 6 ELISA-positive, 5 had excreted eggs and received praziquantel in 1993 and may have harboured residual worms in 1994. It is concluded that this ELISA is able, in a low prevalence situation, to identify the few infected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y L Li
- Department of Parasitology, Tongji Medical University, Wuhan, PR China
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34
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Caffrey CR, Rheinberg CE, Moné H, Jourdane J, Li YL, Ruppel A. Schistosoma japonicum, S. mansoni, S. haematobium, S. intercalatum, and S. rodhaini: cysteine-class cathepsin activities in the vomitus of adult worms. Parasitol Res 1996; 83:37-41. [PMID: 9000231 DOI: 10.1007/s004360050204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Vomitus from adults of five Schistosoma species was screened for biochemical homologues of the mammalian cysteine proteinases cathepsins B, H, and L. Bovine cathepsin B and rat cathepsin L served as references. Using the substrate Arg-NMec, a schistosome cathepsin H-like activity was never detected. All species degraded the cathepsin B substrate Z-Arg-Arg-NMec, but distinct species differences were observed with respect to pH optima and buffer preferences. The cathepsin B and L substrate Z-Phe-Arg-NMec was similarly degraded by all species, and activity was abolished by the cysteine proteinase inhibitor E-64. Preferences by vomitus proteinase activities for Z-Phe-Arg-NMec over Z-Arg-Arg-NMec were similar to or higher than those found for bovine cathepsin B but well below those observed for rat cathepsin L; also, the preferential cathepsin L inhibitor Z-Phe-PheCHN2 only partially inhibited proteinolytic activity. The results suggest the possible presence in vomitus of a minor cathepsin L-like activity and demonstrate a major cathepsin B-like activity that is biochemically variable between schistosome species.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Caffrey
- Institut für Tropenhygiene, Universität Heidelberg, Germany
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35
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Li YL, Idris MA, Corachan M, Han JJ, Kirschfink M, Ruppel A. Circulating antigens in schistosomiasis: detection of 31/32-kDa proteins in sera from patients infected with Schistosoma japonicum, S. mansoni, S. haematobium, or S. intercalatum. Parasitol Res 1996; 82:14-8. [PMID: 8825438 DOI: 10.1007/s004360050060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
A sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed to detect 31/32-kDa schistosome proteins as circulating antigens in sera from schistosomiasis patients. A monoclonal antibody was used as a capture antibody and rabbit antiserum raised against purified 31/32-kDa proteins was the detecting antibody. Positive results were obtained with patients infected with Schistosoma japonicum (88%; n = 69), S. mansoni (80%; n = 56), S. haematobium (100%; n = 40), or S. intercalatum (94%; n = 65). Sera from uninfected Chinese and African individuals and from Chinese patients with trichinosis, cysticercosis, or paragonimiasis did not react in the assay. This ELISA appears to be valuable in diagnosing infections by all major human schistosome species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y L Li
- Institute of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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36
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Lü FL, Gui M, Filsinger S, Hänsch GM, Ruppel A. Comparative phenotypic analysis of lymph node cells in mice after infection or vaccination with normal or ultraviolet-attenuated cercariae of Schistosoma japonicum or S. mansoni. Parasite Immunol 1995; 17:435-40. [PMID: 7501424 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.1995.tb00911.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Mice were infected with 200 untreated or vaccinated with 500 ultraviolet-attenuated cercariae of either Schistosoma japonicum or S. mansoni. For three weeks, cell numbers in axillary and mediastinal lymphnodes were counted and cell populations typed by cytofluorometry. In the axillary lymphnodes, numbers of B-cells and CD3+CD4+ T-cells but not CD3+CD8+ T-cells increased. Following vaccination with either species, parasite migration was apparently delayed in the skin and interrupted at the lungs, the lymphnodes gained weight, and cell numbers of axillary lymph nodes increased more than after infection. In mediastinal lymphnodes, only immunization with S. japonicum but not S. mansoni cercariae led to an increase of CD3+CD4+ T-cells. Following infection, both schistosome species induced higher CD3+CD4+, but not CD3+CD8+ T-cells in mediastinal nodes, and the peak was earlier with S. japonicum (about seven days after infection) than with S. mansoni (about 10 days). In analogy to T-cell observations by others using a gamma-attenuated cercarial vaccine in S. mansoni, the present results suggest that CD3+CD4+ cells also play a role in the ultraviolet-attenuated vaccine against S. japonicum.
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Affiliation(s)
- F L Lü
- Institute of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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37
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Abstract
Mice were infected percutaneously with cercariae of Schistosoma japonicum or S. mansoni and parasites recovered by tissue-mincing from the skin or lungs or by perfusion of the mesenteric veins. S. japonicum had a narrow peak of recovery (up to 30%) from the lungs 3 days after infection, whereas lung recovery of S. mansoni peaked only on day 6 and levelled off during the following week. Infection with S. japonicum induced lung petechiae, but only after most of the parasites had left the lungs. The axillary lymph nodes draining the infection site increased in weight after infection and this effect was much greater and longer with S. mansoni than with S. japonicum. S. japonicum was perfusable from the mesenteric veins earlier (from day 3 onwards) and in higher number (40-60% from days 6 to 10) than S. mansoni (20% on day 20). The percentage of cercariae developing to adult worms was 57% for S. japonicum and 33% for S. mansoni. The data demonstrate that S. japonicum might escape from local tissue reactions in the skin and lungs and, due to its rapid migration, might induce only poor lymphocyte proliferation. As a possible consequence, S. japonicum may establish more efficiently in mice than S. mansoni.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gui
- Institute of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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38
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Merckelbach A, Hasse S, Dell R, Eschlbeck A, Ruppel A. cDNA sequences of Schistosoma japonicum coding for two cathepsin B-like proteins and Sj32. Trop Med Parasitol 1994; 45:193-8. [PMID: 7899786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Sequences of three cDNAs of Schistosoma japonicum are presented. Two of them code for the antigens Sj32 (hemoglobinase) and cathepsin B. The third clone represents a mutant derivative of the cathepsin B gene. The DNA and amino acid sequences are compared to their homologues from S. mansoni. The mutant cathepsin B, in which the Cys29 in the active center is replaced by Ser, is discussed with respect to a possible function.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Merckelbach
- Institute for Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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39
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Idris MA, Ruppel A, Numrich P, Eschlbeck A, Shaban MA, Diesfeld HJ. Schistosomiasis in the southern region of Oman: vector snails and serological identification of patients in several locations. J Trop Med Hyg 1994; 97:205-10. [PMID: 8064941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The snail Biomphalaria arabica is apparently ubiquitous in the south of Oman (Dhofar province). Snails bred in the laboratory were susceptible to infection with miracidia of Schistosoma mansoni (Puerto Rican strain). The snail Bulinus wrighti, a potential intermediate host of S. haematobium, was found for the first time in Dhofar. Human sera from five localities had antibodies against adult worm antigens and in particular against Sm31/32. The prevalence of seropositive patients was 28% of 47 farm workers, 12% of 99 out-patients from a clinic and 1% of 389 children from four localities. Autochthonous transmission of schistosomiasis in Dhofar is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Idris
- Department of Biology, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
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40
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Li YL, Song WJ, Han JJ, Ruppel A. Detection of Schistosoma japonicum antigen (Sj31/32) in sera of Chinese patients using a sandwich ELISA based on monoclonal antibody. Trop Med Parasitol 1994; 45:115-118. [PMID: 7939160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
A sandwich-ELISA was developed using IgG from rabbits infected with Schistosoma japonicum as capture antibody and a monoclonal antibody as detecting reagent for circulating Sj 31/32 in patient sera. The assay detected circulating antigen in 36 of 53 sera from Chinese schistosomiasis japonica patients, but not in sera from healthy persons or patients with paragonimiasis, trichinosis or cysticercosis. This is the first demonstration that Sj 31/32 proteins may be used for circulating antigen-based serodiagnosis of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y L Li
- Department of Parasitology, Tongji Medical University, Wuhan, P.R. China
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41
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Baumheuer ME, Zerfass M, Ruppel A, Leichsenring M. The fatty acid composition of plasma and erythrocytes in Schistosoma mansoni-infected mice. Trop Med Parasitol 1994; 45:5-8. [PMID: 8066384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The fatty acid status of mice six weeks after infection with Schistosoma mansoni was investigated and compared with the status of uninfected mice. Fatty acids of several plasma and erythrocyte lipid fractions were determined by capillary gas-chromatography. Major fatty acids including linoleic acid, arachidonic acid and dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid, were significantly reduced in the plasma phospholipids of infected mice. Arachidonic acid was also reduced in plasma cholesterolesters. The degree of the plasma arachidonic acid reduction in infected animals correlated neither with the worm load nor with the liver weight. The plasma fatty acid changes were not reflected in the lipids of the red blood cells. Since the observed changes in the plasma fatty acid composition occurred early after infection, they are unlikely to be a consequence of portal hypertension. It is speculated that an activation of the eicosanoid metabolism may contribute to these changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Baumheuer
- Division of Tropical Pediatrics, University Children's Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
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42
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Idris
- Department of Biology, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
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43
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Idris MA, Ruppel A, De Carneri I, Shaban MA, al-Awfy SA, Jayawardene CR, Savioli L. High prevalence and intensity of hookworm infection in the Dhofar Governorate, Oman. Ann Trop Med Parasitol 1993; 87:421-4. [PMID: 8250636 DOI: 10.1080/00034983.1993.11812789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- M A Idris
- Department of Biology, Sultan Qaboos University, Al-Khod, Muscat, Oman
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44
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Shi YE, Jiang CF, Han JJ, Li YL, Ruppel A. Immunization of pigs against infection with Schistosoma japonicum using ultraviolet-attenuated cercariae. Parasitology 1993; 106 ( Pt 5):459-62. [PMID: 8341581 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182000076745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Since pigs are important in the zoonotic transmission of schistosomiasis japonica in China, a veterinary vaccine might contribute to the control of the disease in humans. Pigs were immunized with three doses each of 10,000 cercariae of Schistosoma japonicum attenuated with ultraviolet light (400 microWatt.min/cm2). The experiment was performed with portable irradiation equipment in a rural area of the Hubei Province (P.R. China). A challenge infection of 1,000 untreated cercariae was given 2.5 or 6 months after the last immunization, and age-matched naive pigs were challenged as a control. Immunized pigs developed about 90% resistance against the challenge. The liver egg load of these animals was reduced by over 90%. Less than 0.01% of the immunizing cercariae developed to adult parasites and the vaccination had no apparent adverse influence on the pigs' health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y E Shi
- Department of Parasitology, Tongji Medical University, Wuhan, People's Republic of China
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45
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Idris MA, Maiwald M, el-Mauly KN, Ruppel A. Human brucellosis in Dhofar, Sultanate of Oman. J Trop Med Hyg 1993; 96:46-50. [PMID: 8429574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Sera were collected, mostly from school children, in six localities of the southern region of the Sultanate of Oman. Macro and micro-agglutination tests were used to indicate positive Brucella serology. Four of the 525 sera tested had titres of at least 1:200, which were considered positive, and two had borderline values. The frequency of serologically positive sera in the six localities ranged between zero and 2%. No relevant difference was observed between titres using antigen of B. abortus or B. melitensis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Idris
- Department of Biology, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
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46
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Breternitz R, Kusel JR, Lutz F, Buehrle C, Ruppel A. Schistosoma mansoni: stage-dependent formation and repair of membrane pores induced by a cytotoxin from Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Exp Parasitol 1992; 74:340-7. [PMID: 1582487 DOI: 10.1016/0014-4894(92)90158-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Various stages of Schistosoma mansoni were treated with a cytotoxin from Pseudomonas aeruginosa and their response to the damaging effect was studied in detail. Marker release and membrane potential measurements showed that the cytotoxin formed stable pores in all developmental stages. However, in juvenile 27-day-old worms, which are refractory to the killing effect of the cytotoxin, the pores had a smaller functional diameter as compared to other stages including 31-day-old worms. Furthermore, these resistant 27-day-old worms, but not susceptible older juvenile worms were able to repair the membrane lesions as shown by restoration of the resting membrane potential. In contrast, older juvenile and adult parasites were unable to cope with the breakdown of the resting potential induced by the cytotoxin. The results demonstrate the existence in 27-day-old schistosomes of effective repair mechanisms dealing with damage to the surface membrane.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Breternitz
- Institut für Tropenhygiene, Universität Heidelberg, Germany
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47
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Gui M, Idris MA, Shi YE, Mühling A, Ruppel A. Reactivity of Schistosoma japonicum and S. mansoni antigen preparations in indirect haemagglutination (IHA) with sera of patients with homologous and heterologous schistosomiasis. Ann Trop Med Parasitol 1991; 85:599-604. [PMID: 1811437 DOI: 10.1080/00034983.1991.11812615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Sera of patients infected with Schistosoma japonicum, S. mansoni or S. haematobium were tested in an indirect haemagglutination assay (IHA) using soluble S. japonicum egg antigen (SjSEA) and soluble S. mansoni adult antigen prepared either from a Puerto Rican strain (SmAWA) or an Egyptian strain (SmBW; Cellognost-Schistosomiasis Kit). Reactions were best, in terms of titres and sensitivity, in homologous systems. Heterologous systems were less reliable, particularly those using sera from urinary schistosomiasis patients. It is suggested that IHA is a suitable test to detect Schistosoma infections, especially when homologous systems are used.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Gui
- Institute of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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48
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Ruppel A, Xing Y, Dell R, Numrich P, Shi YE. Schistosoma mansoni and S. japonicum: decline of antibodies against diagnostic adult worm antigens (Sm31/32) following praziquantel treatment of mice. Trop Med Parasitol 1991; 42:325-31. [PMID: 1796226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Mice were infected with 10, 100 or 200 cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni or S. japonicum and treated between one and two months later with two doses of praziquantel. At this time, the animals had high levels of antibodies against the adult worm proteins Sm31/32 (schistosome cathepsin B and haemoglobinase). Antibody levels were followed up for about one more year by Western blots and ELISA using purified Sm31/32. Among the 34 surviving mice perfused at the end of the experiments, 14 had between 1 and 4 and one mouse had 8 residual stunted worms. In most mice without detectable worms, anti-Sm31/32 antibodies started to drop within a few months after therapy. In other animals of this group and in those harbouring residual worms, the decrease in titers was not observed or less pronounced. Thus, the presence of even one stunted worm was sufficient to induce continued high titres of antibodies. Decreasing levels of antibody against Sm31/32, however, reflected complete elimination of schistosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ruppel
- Institute of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Germany
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49
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Idris MA, Ruppel A. Diagnostic Mr 31/32000 proteins of Schistosoma mansoni (Sm31/32) and S. haematobium (Sh31/32): stability and reaction conditions for prospective field tests. J Helminthol 1991; 65:89-94. [PMID: 1908874 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x0001052x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The existence of adult Schistosoma haematobium worm proteins (Sh31/32) homologous to the diagnostic Sm31/32 of S. mansoni is shown. Sm31/32 and Sh31/32, adsorbed on nitrocellulose and kept dry on the bench before immunoblot analysis, were antigenically stable for at least 4 years including storage for 17 months in tropical climates. The antigens react with patient sera in the absence of defined buffers under rather simple conditions ("humid chamber blot"). The results add to the use of these antigens for serodiagnosis of schistosomiasis in endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Idris
- Institute for Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Federal Republic of Germany
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Ruppel A, Shi YE, Moloney NA. Schistosoma mansoni and S. japonicum: comparison of levels of ultraviolet irradiation for vaccination of mice with cercariae. Parasitology 1990; 101 Pt 1:23-6. [PMID: 2122396 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182000079701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
When cercariae of Schistosoma mansoni and of S. japonicum were irradiated with various levels of u.v. light at 254 nm, their development to perfusable worms was reduced to below 1% at about 200 microW min cm-2. Cercariae attenuated with about 300 microW min cm-2 induced partial resistance against an homologous challenge infection in mice. No differences were observed between the two schistosome species when the same treatment was given to the cercariae. Thus the same u.v. dose can confer immunizing ability to cercariae of both S. mansoni and S. japonicum.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ruppel
- Institute of Tropical Hygiene, University of Heidelberg, Federal Republic of Germany
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