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Yang J, Germano PM, Oh S, Wang S, Wang J, Lee R, Paige H, Yang S, Henning SM, Zhong J, Jacobs JP, Li Z. Pomegranate Extract Improves Colitis in IL-10 Knockout Mice Fed a High Fat High Sucrose Diet. Mol Nutr Food Res 2022; 66:e2100730. [PMID: 34932869 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.202100730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
SCOPE The study tests the hypothesis that dietary pomegranate extract (PomX) supplementation attenuates colitis in a Western diet feed IL-10 deficient (IL-10-/-) murine model. METHODS AND RESULTS Four-week-old male IL-10-/- mice are randomly assigned to a high fat high sucrose (HFHS) diet or a HFHS diet supplement with 0.25% PomX for 8 weeks. PomX supplementation lead to significantly lower histological score for colitis (2.6 ± 0.5 vs 3.9 ± 1.0), lower spleen weight (0.11 ± 0.01 vs 0.15 ± 0.02), and lower circulating Interleukin 6(IL-6) levels (15.8±2.2 vs 29.5±5.5) compared with HFHS fed controls. RNAseq analysis of colonic tissues showed 483 downregulated and 263 upregulated genes with PomX supplementation, which are mainly associated with inflammatory responses, defenses, and neutrophil degranulation. In addition, PomX treatment affects the cecal microbiome with increased alpha diversity, altered microbial composition, and increased levels of the tryptophan-related microbial metabolite indole propionate. CONCLUSION The data demonstrate that dietary PomX supplementation ameliorated colitis and lowered inflammatory markers in HFHS fed IL-10-/- mice. These data support the anti-inflammatory effects of dietary PomX supplementation for IBD and a potential mediating role of gut microbiome, suggesting the need for future clinical studies to explore the use of PomX dietary supplementation in IBD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieping Yang
- Center for Human Nutrition, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Patrizia Maria Germano
- Department of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Research Service Department, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Suwan Oh
- Research Service Department, Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Sijia Wang
- Center for Human Nutrition, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jing Wang
- Center for Human Nutrition, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Rupo Lee
- Center for Human Nutrition, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Hayden Paige
- Center for Human Nutrition, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Scarlet Yang
- Center for Human Nutrition, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Susanne M Henning
- Center for Human Nutrition, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jin Zhong
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Jonathan P Jacobs
- Department of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Medicine, VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Zhaoping Li
- Center for Human Nutrition, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
- Department of Medicine, VA Greater Los Angeles Health Care System, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
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Lelievre V, Favrais G, Abad C, Adle-Biassette H, Lu Y, Germano PM, Cheung-Lau G, Pisegna JR, Gressens P, Lawson G, Waschek JA. Gastrointestinal dysfunction in mice with a targeted mutation in the gene encoding vasoactive intestinal polypeptide: a model for the study of intestinal ileus and Hirschsprung's disease. Peptides 2007; 28:1688-99. [PMID: 17606312 PMCID: PMC2042583 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2007.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2007] [Revised: 05/08/2007] [Accepted: 05/11/2007] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
In 1970, Drs. Said and Mutt isolated a novel peptide from porcine intestinal extracts with powerful vasoactive properties, and named it vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP). Since then, the biological actions of VIP in the gut as well as its signal transduction pathways have been extensively studied. A variety of in vitro and in vivo studies have indicated that VIP, expressed in intrinsic non-adrenergic non-cholinergic (NANC) neurons, is a potent regulator of gastrointestinal (GI) motility, water absorption and ion flux, mucus secretion and immune homeostasis. These VIP actions are believed to be mediated mainly by interactions with highly expressed VPAC(1) receptors and the production of nitric oxide (NO). Furthermore, VIP has been implicated in numerous physiopathological conditions affecting the human gut, including pancreatic endocrine tumors secreting VIP (VIPomas), insulin-dependent diabetes, Hirschsprung's disease, and inflammatory bowel syndromes such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. To further understand the physiological roles of VIP on the GI tract, we have begun to analyze the anatomical and physiological phenotype of C57BL/6 mice lacking the VIP gene. Herein, we demonstrate that the overall intestinal morphology and light microscopic structure is significantly altered in VIP(-/-) mice. Macroscopically there is an overall increase in weight, and decrease in length of the bowel compared to wild type (WT) controls. Microscopically, the phenotype was characterized by thickening of smooth muscle layers, increased villi length, and higher abundance of goblet cells. Alcian blue staining indicated that the latter cells were deficient in mucus secretion in VIP(-/-) mice. The differences became more pronounced from the duodenum to the distal jejunum or ileum of the small bowel but, became much less apparent or absent in the colon with the exception of mucus secretion defects. Further examination of the small intestine revealed larger axonal trunks and unusual unstained patches in myenteric plexus. Physiologically, the VIP(-/-) mice showed an impairment in intestinal transit. Moreover, unlike WT C57BL/6 mice, a significant percentage of VIP(-/-) mice died in the first postnatal year with overt stenosis of the gut.
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Passos EC, Germano PM, Guimarães MA, Fedullo JD, Corrêa SH, Consales CA, Carrieri ML, Gonçalves MA. Inactivated suckling mouse brain rabies vaccine provides short-term immunity in capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella). J Zoo Wildl Med 2001; 32:55-7. [PMID: 12790394 DOI: 10.1638/1042-7260(2001)032[0055:ismbrv]2.0.co;2] [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: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Eight capuchin monkeys (Cebus apella) were vaccinated against rabies with an inactivated suckling mouse brain vaccine (SMBV). Three 1-ml doses of 2% brain tissue suspension were given by i.m. injection at 0, 30, and 60 days. Blood samples were collected at 0, 30, 60, 90, 150, 210, 240, 300, and 365 days and were tested by simplified fluorescence inhibition to titer-neutralizing antibodies. All of the animals developed neutralizing antibodies with titers >0.5 IU/ml after vaccination, but the immune response persisted for only 122.3 +/- 32.6 days. The SMBV was able to induce immune response in the capuchin monkeys, but protection was short-lived.
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Affiliation(s)
- E C Passos
- Instituto Pasteur, Av. Paulista, 393, São Paulo, SP, Brazil 01311-000
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4
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Abstract
The objectives of the study reported here were to identify amino acid residues of the C-terminus that are critical for intracellular signaling. A total of nine amino acid substitution and truncation mutants were constructed by PCR and confirmed by sequencing. Mutant and wildtype receptors were stably transfected into NIH/3T3 fibroblasts and studied for their ability to bind PACAP-27 and activate phospholipase C (PLC) and adenylyl cyclase (AC). Receptor affinity of 125I-PACAP-27 for the wildtype and mutants were similar (Kd = 0.6-1.5 nM). However, truncation of the entire 63 amino acids of the hPAC1 resulted in no signaling to either AC or IP. Addition of the proximal 10 amino acids of the C-terminus failed to restore AC or IP signaling, whereas addition of the proximal 27 amino acids of the C-terminus resulted in reconstitution of complete AC and IP responses, identical to the WT. Point mutations within this 17 amino acid region identified specific amino acids involved in PAC1 signaling. These results indicate that a structural motif within the proximal region of the carboxyl terminus is critical for G protein coupling.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Pisegna
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System.
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5
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Pinto PS, Vaz AJ, Nakamura PM, Germano PM. Immunoblot analysis using antigen from Taenia crassiceps cysticerci in the diagnosis of swine cysticercosis. Bol Chil Parasitol 2001; 56:36-42. [PMID: 12058673 DOI: 10.4067/s0365-94022001000100010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P S Pinto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Viçosa, 36571-000, Viçosa, MG, Brazil.
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Pinto PS, Vaz AJ, Germano PM, Nakamura PM. ELISA test for the diagnosis of cysticercosis in pigs using antigens of Taenia solium and Taenia crassiceps cysticerci. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2000; 42:71-9. [PMID: 10810321 DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652000000200003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study ELISA was standardized for the diagnosis of swine cysticercosis based on necropsy parameters and confirmed positive and negative control sera. Serum samples from pigs with other infections were also assayed to determine possible cross-reactions. Four antigens were assayed: from Taenia crassiceps vesicular fluid (VF-Tcra) and crude larvae extract (T-Tcra), and from Taenia solium extracts of scolex (S-Ts) and of larvae (T-Ts). A checkerboard evaluation of antigen, serum and conjugate dilutions, as well as the use of Tween-20 and skim cow milk in wash and blocking solution had a marked effect on improving ELISA performance. All the antigens showed a good performance, but VF-Tcra was the best, with 96.0% and 80.0% sensitivities for cut-offs respectively at 2sd and 3sd, and corresponding specificities of 97.5% and 100.0%. Cross-reactivity was observed only with hydatidosis and ascaridiosis. In view of the high performance observed, the ELISA test should be recommended for the diagnosis of cysticercosis in suspected swine in slaughterhouses and for the screening of cysticercosis in swine production. These results will support integrated measures of cysticercosis control throughout the chain of swine production, effectively contributing to public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- P S Pinto
- Department of Veterinary, Viçosa Federal University, Viçosa, MG, 36571-000, Brazil.
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7
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Pinto PS, Vaz AJ, Germano PM, Nakamura PM. Performance of the ELISA test for swine cysticercosis using antigens of Taenia solium and Taenia crassiceps cysticerci. Vet Parasitol 2000; 88:127-30. [PMID: 10681029 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-4017(99)00201-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [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] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Studies were conducted to evaluate antigens of Taenia solium (Tso) and Taenia crassiceps (Tcra) cysticerci in the ELISA test for the diagnosis of swine cysticercosis. The samples analyzed were cysticercosis positive and negative control sera and heterologous sera. Four antigens were assayed: vesicular fluid (VF) and crude (T) Tcra and scolex (S) and crude (T) Tso. All antigens showed good performance, but VF-Tcra was the best followed by T-Tcra. Sensitivity rates of ELISA were respectively, in 2nd and 3rd standard deviation cut-offs, 96.0 and 80.0% for the VF antigen and specificity of 97.5 and 100.0%. Cross-reactivity was verified only for hidatidosis and ascaridiosis. Due to the high performance observed, the ELISA test using Tcra antigens should be recommended for the diagnosis of swine cysticercosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- P S Pinto
- Department of Veterinary, Viçosa Federal University, MG, Brazil.
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8
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de Oliveira CA, Germano PM. [Aflatoxins: current concepts on mechanisms of toxicity and their involvement in the etiology of hepatocellular carcinoma]. Rev Saude Publica 1997; 31:417-24. [PMID: 9595771 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89101997000400011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Current concepts derived from intensive research over the last decade, on biotransformation, mechanisms of toxicity and evidences for the involvement of aflatoxins in the etiology of human liver cancer are summarily presented. Aflatoxin B1(AFB1), the main metabolite produced by moulds of genus Aspergillus, exerts its effects after conversion to the reactive compound AFB1-epoxide, by the action of cytochrome P450-dependent enzymes. This epoxide can form derivatives with cellular macromolecules, including proteins, RNA and DNA. The reaction with DNA occurs with guanines in the códon 249 of tumor suppressor gene p53. Primary biotransformation of AFB1 also produces hydroxylated and less toxic derivatives, such as aflatoxins Q1 and P1. Differences intra and interspecies in the pathways of activation/detoxification are directly related to the susceptibility of animals to aflatoxin effects. In humans, studies of individual biomonitoring of AFB1 metabolites such as AFB1-N7-guanine have demonstrated that aflatoxins constitute an important risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in exposed populations. Some of these studies also show a synergistic action between aflatoxins and the hepatitis B virus in the development of human HCC. In view of these concepts, and taking into account the frequent detection of aflatoxins in Brazilian foodstuffs, the need for investigation into the level of exposure to these toxins and its impact on human health is stressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A de Oliveira
- Departamento de Produção Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Brasil
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9
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Oliveira CA, Germano PM, Bird C, Pinto CA. Immunochemical assessment of aflatoxin M1 in milk powder consumed by infants in São Paulo, Brazil. Food Addit Contam 1997; 14:7-10. [PMID: 9059577 DOI: 10.1080/02652039709374491] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Aflatoxin M1 was surveyed in 300 samples of whole milk powder consumed by infants at municipal schools and nurseries in São Paulo, Brazil. The analyses were performed by using commercially available test systems of a direct competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Samples were reconstituted in water (1:8), centrifuged at 1630 x gav for 15 min, and submitted directly to the assay without clean-up procedures. Results showed 33 (11%) positive samples for aflatoxin M1 at levels of 0.10-1.00 ng/ml (mean: 0.27 +/- 0.20 ng/ml). By using data on milk consumption patterns for 4-month-old children (highest intake), a mean daily intake of 3.7 ng/kg body weight/day was estimated. The implications of these data on human health are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Oliveira
- Departamento de Produção Animal (VPA), Faculdade de Medicina Veterináría e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil
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10
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de Oliveira CA, Germano PM. [Evaluation of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in milk powder contaminated with known concentrations of aflatoxin M1]. Rev Saude Publica 1996; 30:542-8. [PMID: 9302824 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89101996000600008] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The evaluation of commercially available test systems of competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), for Aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) was performed in experimental conditions, through repeated analysis, in samples of milk powder contaminated with known concentrations of the toxin. Recoveries of AFM1 added to milk at levels of 0.10, 0.20, 0.50 and 1.00 ng/ml were 83.0%, 87.5%, 103.0% and 111.8% respectively. Relative standard deviations for the above mentioned concentrations were 65.5%, 31.8%, 10.9% and 13.6%, respectively (n = 10, per spiking level). According to these results the ELISA is appropriate for AFM1 research and/or surveying, mainly for concentrations between 0.20-1.00 ng/ml.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A de Oliveira
- Departamento de Produção Animal da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia da Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil
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11
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Abstract
Sixty raw milk samples commercialized without due authorization in the counties of Botucatu and S. Manuel, State of S. Paulo (Brazil), were submitted to mesophilic microorganism and coagulase-positive Staphylococcus and most probable number of total coliform and fecal coliform counts. Forty-one (68.3%) and 50 (83.3%) of the samples were found, respectively to contain mesophilic microorganisms and total coliforms above the maximum limits established by the Health Ministry for type C pasteurized milk. Thirty (50.0%) and 11 (18.3%) of the samples were found, respectively, to the contaminated by coagulase-positive Staphylococcus and fecal coliforms. Only 5 (8.3%) samples were found to comply with the required legal standards. The results showed the unsatisfactory hygienic and sanitary conditions of the raw milk and suggest the existence of great risk to the health of the consumers, especially when the product is taken without being boiled.
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Affiliation(s)
- K B Badini
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária da Universidade de Marília, SP-Brasil
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12
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de Almeida LP, Martins LF, Brod CS, Germano PM. [Seroepidemiologic survey of leptospirosis among environmental sanitation workers in an urban locality in the southern region of Brazil]. Rev Saude Publica 1994; 28:76-81. [PMID: 7997826 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89101994000100009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Sera from 386 environmental sanitation workers, concerned with water supply, drains and drainage galleries, sewers, garbage collection and road sweepers, were examined for leptospiral agglutinins by the microscopic agglutination test. Altogether 40 of the 386 workers (10.4%) were positive to one or more serovars; however, the difference in seropositivity between the professional categories was not significant (p < 0.05). Twelve serovars were recorded among the seropositive workers with predominance of L. castelonis and L. australis; but the difference between the serovars was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Of the seropositive workers, 86.9% had agglutination titres > or = 100 and < or = 400; the rates for titres 100 and 400 were higher than 800, 1,600 and 3,200 (p < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- L P de Almeida
- Faculdade de Saúde Pública da Univesidade de São Paulo, Brasil
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Abstract
Recent advances in research into rabies, based on the technological process of the biological sciences mainly molecular biology and genetic engineering, are mentioned. The current knowledge of the characteristics, properties pathogeny and immunology of the rabies views is presented, as well as the development of new diagnostic and vaccine evaluation techniques. The epidemiological importance of the identification of different immunogenic rabies virus strains and the role in immunoprophylaxis of the production of highly immunogenic vaccines, are set out.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Germano
- Departamento de Prática de Saúde Pública da Faculdade de Saúde Pública da Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil
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14
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Allende R, Germano PM. Comparison of virus neutralisation and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the identification of antibodies against vesicular stomatitis (Indiana 3) virus. REV SCI TECH OIE 1993; 12:849-55. [PMID: 8219334 DOI: 10.20506/rst.12.3.717] [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: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Bovine, equine and swine sera from areas free from vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) Indiana 3 (IND3)--namely Argentina, Chile, Italy and Uruguay--and endemic areas (in Brazil) were examined for anti-VSV IND3 virus antibodies in order to compare results obtained using the virus neutralisation (VN) test and liquid-phase blocking enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Statistical analysis of the data showed close agreement between the two techniques (K = 0.92). The ELISA gave a higher specificity, positive predictive value and efficiency than the VN test. The ELISA offers the additional advantage of using a non-infectious antigen and can therefore be used for antibody quantification in diagnostic laboratories in VSV-free areas to support epidemiological surveillance programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Allende
- Pan American Foot-and-Mouth Disease Center (PANAFTOSA/HPV/PAHO), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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15
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de Oliveira CA, Germano PM. [Presence of intestinal parasites in vegetables sold in the metropolitan area of São Paulo-SP, Brazil. II--Research on intestinal protozoans]. Rev Saude Publica 1992; 26:332-5. [PMID: 1342522 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89101992000500006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Vegetables in nature, commercially traded in the metropolitan area of S. Paulo, Brazil, were analyzed by means of the appropriate methodology with a view to discovering and identifying protozoan cysts of medical interest. The vegetables under study consisted of 50 samples of each of the varieties listed below: lettuce (Lactuca sativa)-oily leaves and crisp-head varieties, endive (Chicorium sp) and watercress (Nasturtium officinale). Results showed high rates of contamination in all the varieties of vegetable analysed. However, the watercress was the one which presented the highest frequencies of enteroparasites. Both the oily leaves and crisp-head varieties of lettuce presented the lowest rates of contamination, whereas endive presented values ranking, in general, between those of the lettuce and those of the watercress. A great variety of those protozoans which occur frequently in the population resident in the metropolitan area of S. Paulo were observed in the samples, the most frequent being Entamoeba sp (with 4 and 8 nuclei) and Giardia sp. Cysts of Iodamoeba sp, Endolimax sp and Chilomastix sp were also recovered from the samples, thus corroborating the occurrence of high rates of fecal contamination. The significance of these kinds of food in the transmission of protozoans is discussed in the light of the results obtained.
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16
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de Oliveira CA, Germano PM. [Presence of intestinal parasites in vegetables sold in the metropolitan region of São Paulo, SP, Brazil. I--Search of helminths]. Rev Saude Publica 1992; 26:283-9. [PMID: 1342513 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89101992000400011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Vegetables in natura, commercially traded in the metropolitan area of S. Paulo, were analysed by the appropriate methodology with a view to discovering an identifying the paths of transmission of enteroparasites of medical interest. The vegetables under study consisted of 50 samples of each variety listed below: lettuce (Lactuca sativa)-oily leaves and crisphead varieties, endive (Chicorium sp) and water-cress (Nasturtium Officinale). Results showed high rates of contamination in all the vegetable varieties analysed. However, the water-cress was that which presented the highest frequencies of enteroparasites. The endive presented middle values ranking, in general, between the lettuces and the water-cress. Though high, the average number of helminth eggs and larvae obtained per 100 gr. of sample did not present statistically significant differences as between the four vegetable varieties studied. A great variety of helminths and protozoans such as occur frequently in the resident population of the metropolitan area of S. Paulo, were observed in the samples. However, the most frequent were: hookworms and Ascaris sp. Eggs of Toxocara sp, Fasciola sp and Trichostrongylidae were also recovered from the samples thus corroborating the occurrence of vegetables contamination with faeces of domestic animals. In view of the results obtained, the importance of these kinds of food in the transmission of enteroparasites is stressed, as well as the need for actions which improve the sanitary conditions of these products.
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Abstract
A retrospective study of Cysticercus bovis in cattle raised and slaughtered in the State of S. Paulo, Brazil, during the year of 1986, was undertaken on the basis of official records of the Brazilian Meat Inspection Service. The analysis of its special distribution was carried out in accordance with the political-administrative division adopted by the State Government, composed of 11 Administrative Regions (ARs) and one Metropolitan Region (MR), subdivided into 42 Governmental Regions (GRs), totaling 572 municipalities. The prevalence rates of each political-administrative unit were statistically compared using the "Z" test of two proportions. From records relating to 896,654 head, 48,957 cases of cysticercosis were detected, equivalent to a prevalence of 5.5% in the State. The prevalence results were obtained for 385 municipalities, in 42 GRs, 11 ARs and in the MR. Statistically significant prevalence values were observed in 97 municipalities, in 14 GRs and 4 ARs.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Ungar
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia da Universidade de São Paulo, Brasil
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18
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Cordeiro CC, Silva EV, Miguel O, Germano PM. [Evaluation of the ERA antirabies vaccine against antigenic variants of rabies virus in various post-immunization periods]. Rev Saude Publica 1990; 24:512-7. [PMID: 2103072 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89101990000600010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Protection levels of an attenuated antirabies vaccine, of ERA origin, prepared in Kidney tissue culture, were evaluated in mice. Two schemes of vaccination were utilized: a single dose and 6 doses on alternate days. Animals of different experimental groups were challenged at 15, 30, 60 and 120 days postimmunization with six antigenic variants of rabies virus: strains of dog origin (S. Paulo, Brazil and Nigeria), vampire origin (DR-19 and Pernambuco, Brazil), fox origin (Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil), and CVS (Challenge Virus Standard). The results showed the effectiveness of the ERA vaccine against all antigenic variants of street and sylvatic rabies virus, independently of the vaccination scheme. Against the laboratory strains (DR-19 and CVS) the ERA vaccine was less effective, mainly in the groups vaccinated with a single dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- C C Cordeiro
- Laboratório Regional de Apoio Animal (LARA), do Ministério da Agricultura, Campinas, SP, Brasil
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Germano PM, Silva EV, Silva EV, Miguel O, Sureau P. [Antigenic variants of rabies virus isolated in the northeast and southeast of Brazil. Preliminary study]. Bol Oficina Sanit Panam 1990; 108:39-45. [PMID: 2139567] [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: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
To help identify the different strains of rabies virus existing in Brazil, the antigenic profile of 13 virus isolates from humans and animals was determined. The indirect immunofluorescence technique was used, with monoclonal antibodies targeted at the viral nucleocapsid. In the northeast of the country five different viral strains were identified, and in the southeast, two. A rhabdovirus isolated from a fox could not be characterized as a rabies virus. Previously, only two antigenic variants had been identified in Brazil. It would appear that distribution of the strains is not related to the species from which they are isolated or to their geographical origin, a finding that differs from previous observations. These preliminary results underscore the need for further research in order to identify the existence and distribution of different strains of rabies virus in Brazil, which would help to prevent rabies vaccination failures.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Germano
- Universidad de São Paulo, Facultad de Salud Pública, Brasil
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Erbolato EB, da Silva EV, Miguel O, Sureau P, Germano PM. [The efficacy of the ERA rabies vaccine, in mice against 4 antigenic variants of rabies virus]. Rev Saude Publica 1989; 23:447-54. [PMID: 2641836 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89101989000600002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
ERA anti-rabies vaccine prepared in kidney tissue culture was evaluated against four different antigenic strains of rabies virus in mice: two of them dog strains, C/SP and C/NG, another a bat vampire strain, DR-19, and the CVS strain. The CVS antigenic characteristics were determined by means the antinucleocapsid monoclonal antibodies technique. Twenty one days old mice were vaccinated, intramuscularly, in the inner side of the thigh, with 0.05 ml of vaccine and challenged at 42 days old, together with those of the control group, intramuscularly, in the inner side of the thigh, with 0.05 ml of the corresponding viral strain dilution. The ERA anti-rabies vaccine protected 100% of all the mice challenged with C/SP, C/NG and DR-19 strains and 83% of those challenged with CVS. The control groups mortality rate varied between 70 and 90%.
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Germano PM, Miguel O, Ishizuka MM, da Silva EV. [Evaluation of 3 antigenically different strains of rabies virus, in mice. II. Study of viral dissemination, in various organs]. Rev Saude Publica 1988; 22:473-8. [PMID: 3075342 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89101988000600001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Estudou-se, comparativamente, o grau de disseminação de três cepas de vírus rábico, duas de origem de cão, Jales e Nigéria, e uma de origem de morcego, DR 19, com perfis antigênicos do nucleocapside distintos. Estas cepas foram inoculadas por via intramuscular, na face interna da coxa, em dois grupos de camundongos, com 21 e 28 dias de idade. Os animais foram mantidos em observação por um período total de 30 dias, e dos animais vitimados pela infecção, foram coletados diferentes órgãos, músculo lingual, coração, pulmão, rim e fígado, além do cérebro e da medula espinal, para avaliar-se o grau de disseminação de cada cepa viral, através da prova de imunofluorescência direta (IFD). Os resultados obtidos evidenciaram que os decalques de cérebro e de medula espinal apresentaram total concordância na prova de IFD, constatando-se as maiores diferenças com as cepas Jales e Nigéria, situando-se a cepa DR 19, intermediariamente, a estas duas. O músculo lingual foi o órgão que apresentou maior freqüência de positividade para ambos os grupos etários e para as três cepas virais.
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Germano PM, Miguel O, Ishizuka MM, da Silva EV. [Evaluation of 3 antigenically different strains of rabies virus, in mice. I. Study of the clinical observation periods]. Rev Saude Publica 1988; 22:375-83. [PMID: 2471254 DOI: 10.1590/s0034-89101988000500002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Estudou-se, comparativamente, o comportamento de três cepas de vírus rábico, duas de origem de cão, Jales e Nigéria, e uma de origem de morcego, DR 19, com perfis antigênicos do nucleocapside distintos. Estas cepas foram inoculadas por via intramuscular, na face interna da coxa, em dois grupos de camundongos, com 21 e 28 dias de idade. Os animais foram observados durante 30 dias, levando-se em consideração os períodos de observação clínica (incubação e duração da doença), determinando-se os coeficientes de mortalidade para cada grupo etário e para cada uma das cepas virais, bem como o título infectante de pool de cérebros de cada sub-grupo experimental. Os resultados obtidos permitiram constatar comportamento semelhante entre as cepas Jales e Nigéria, notadamente em relação aos períodos de observação clínica e mortalidade, para ambos os grupos etários, diferindo, todavia, quando comparados aos da cepa DR 19.
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Marcovistz R, Germano PM, Rivière Y, Tsiang H, Hovanessian AG. The effect of interferon treatment in rabies prophylaxis in immunocompetent, immunosuppressed, and immunodeficient mice. J Interferon Res 1987; 7:17-27. [PMID: 3495612 DOI: 10.1089/jir.1987.7.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The development of rabies is modulated by many interacting factors, most of which are dependent on the host immune response. For this reason, we studied the action of interferon (IFN) treatment on street rabies virus infection in mice, immunocompetent or immunosuppressed with cyclophosphamide. In immunocompetent mice, paralysis of hind limbs is the first symptom characteristic of rabies disease before weight loss and general prostration leading to death. Paralysis does not occur in immunosuppressed mice, which develop a shaggy hair and eventually lose weight and die. Administration of interferon (10(5) units, intraperitoneally) 1 h after virus inoculation and every 24 h led to a delay in the onset of first disease signs, but in general did not rescue immunocompetent or immunosuppressed mice from death. In both types of mice, rabies virus production in the brain was reduced by 1 log in response to IFN treatment. In immunocompetent mice treated with IFN, there was a significant increase of antibody synthesis against rabies virus. As expected, antibody synthesis in immunosuppressed mice was almost negligible. However, in mice treated with IFN and cyclophosphamide there was still significant antibody synthesis specific for rabies virus. IFN administered intravenously, subcutaneously, or intraperitoneally crosses the blood-brain barrier to cause enhanced levels of the two double-stranded RNA-dependent enzymes, the protein kinase and 2',5'-oligoadenylate (2-5A) synthetase in the brain. However in spite of this effect, IFN treatment seems to be unable to prevent the evolution of rabies disease in immunocompetent and immunosuppressed mice. Since the suppressing effect of cyclophosphamide is nonselective on both the cellular and humoral immune responses of mice, we investigated the action of IFN in rabies virus-infected athymic nude mice, which lack T cells. Athymic nude mice infected with street rabies virus become cachectic and die without any apparent symptom of paralysis of hind limbs. IFN treatment (administered as above) protected nude mice against rabies infection. Three months after virus inoculation and 2 months after the end of IFN treatment, 7 of 8 IFN-treated mice remained in perfect health. These results illustrate that the efficacy of IFN treatment against the evolution of rabies disease in mice is dependent on the suppression of the T-cell-mediated immune response of the host.
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