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Lizarazo-Zuluaga AP, Carvajal-Gamez BI, Wilkowsky S, Cravero S, Trangoni M, Mosqueda J. Development and standardization of a Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) test for the detection of Babesia bigemina. Front Vet Sci 2022; 9:1056355. [DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2022.1056355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine babesiosis is a tick-borne disease caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Babesia. Babesia bigemina is one of the most prevalent and economically important parasite species that infects cattle because of its impact on the meat and milk production industry. Effective disease control strategies should include detection of reservoir animals and early and specific pathogen detection using rapid, economical, sensitive, and specific detection techniques. The loop-mediated isothermal amplification technique (LAMP) is a one-step molecular reaction that amplifies DNA sequences with high sensitivity and specificity under isothermal conditions and requires no special equipment. The results can be observed by the naked eye as color changes. The aim of this work was to develop and standardize the LAMP technique for B. bigemina detection and its visualization using hydroxynaphtol blue. For this situation, primers were designed from the conserved sequences of the B. bigemina ama-1 gene. The results showed that at 63 °C in 1 h and under standardized conditions, this technique could amplify B. bigemina DNA as indicated by the characteristic colorimetric change. Sensitivity evaluation indicated that DNA was amplified at a 0.00000001% parasitemia, and it was demonstrated that this technique specifically amplified the DNA of B. bigemina. Additionally, this technique could amplify DNA from 10 strains of B. bigemina from three different countries. It is concluded that the LAMP technique as modified in our case could specifically amplify B. bigemina DNA and shows high sensitivity, does not cross-react with related organisms, and the product is observed by 60 min of reaction time based on color changes. This report is the first LAMP report that uses sequences that are conserved between strains of the ama-1 gene, demonstrates the results by color changes using hydroxynaphtol blue. We propose LAMP as a rapid and economical alternative method for the molecular detection of B. bigemina.
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Nuñez PA, Moretta R, Ruybal P, Wilkowsky S, Farber MD. Immunogenicity of Hypothetical Highly Conserved Proteins as Novel Antigens in Anaplasma marginale. Curr Microbiol 2013; 68:269-77. [DOI: 10.1007/s00284-013-0475-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Rodriguez AE, Zamorano P, Wilkowsky S, Torrá F, Ferreri L, Dominguez M, Florin-Christensen M. Delivery of recombinant vaccines against bovine herpesvirus type 1 gD and Babesia bovis MSA-2c to mice using liposomes derived from egg yolk lipids. Vet J 2012. [PMID: 23183017 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2012.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Liposomes prepared from total egg yolk lipid extracts were used to deliver experimental DNA vaccines to mice consisting of pCI-neo plasmids encoding bovine herpesvirus type 1 (BoHV-1) gD or Babesia bovis MSA-2c. A significantly higher proportion of mice in the B. bovis MSA-2c group, but not those in the BoHV-1 gD group, developed detectable immunoglobulin G responses when vaccinated with liposome encapsulated DNA in comparison with mice vaccinated with naked DNA. In both groups, antibody titres were similar between mice vaccinated with liposome encapsulated DNA and naked DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anabel E Rodriguez
- Institute of Pathobiology, Center of Veterinary and Agronomic Research (CICVyA), INTA, Los Reseros y Nicolas Repetto, s/n, 1686 Hurlingham, Argentina
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Asenzo G, Wilkowsky S, Barrandeguy M, Mesplet M, Benitez D, Florin-Christensen M. Development of an indirect ELISA for the diagnosis of equine piroplasmosis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2009; 1149:235-8. [PMID: 19120219 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1428.029] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
An indirect ELISA (iELISA) for the detection of specific anti-Theileria equi antibodies in horse serum was developed. Its performance showed good concordance (K= 0.79) when compared with a competitive ELISA recommended by the World Organisation for Animal Health. Horse serum samples from two provinces located in the north and east of Argentina (Formosa and Entre Rios, respectively) were analyzed by this iELISA. A high percentage of positive horses were found in Formosa, consistent with the climatic conditions of the region that are apt for the development of tick vectors. Surprisingly, seropositive animals were also detected, although in a lower proportion, in Entre Rios, which has a temperate weather and is presumably tick free. Breeding of thoroughbred racing horses is an important economic asset of Argentina. Since equine piroplasmosis is a constraint for horse export, the epidemiological situation in different regions of the country needs to be assessed for the implementation of control measures. The iELISA developed in this work provides a convenient tool for this type of study.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Asenzo
- Institute of Virology, Center for Veterinary and Agronomic Research, National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA), Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Petrigh R, Ruybal P, Thompson C, Neumann R, Moretta R, Wilkowsky S, Draghi G, Echaide I, de Echaide ST, Farber M. Improved molecular tools for detection of Babesia bigemina. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2009; 1149:155-7. [PMID: 19120197 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1428.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Molecular detection of Babesia bigemina involves a nested PCR protocol and reverse line blot hybridization (RLBH) assay based on the 18S gene. In this study, we report the development of molecular tools for improving B. bigemina detection in bovine blood-a one-step PCR assay based on the amplification of rap-1a paralogous and a new RLBH Babesia spp. 18S probe. The one-step PCR assay is highly specific, with an estimated analytical sensitivity corresponding to 0.00002% parasitemia. The RLBH assay, with a new B. bigemina probe, allows the detection of all tested B. bigemina isolates showing no cross-hybridization with B. bovis 18S gene. By developing this highly specific and sensitive one-step PCR and upgrading the RLBH assay for B. bigemina, we have improved molecular assays which, together with serologic methods, provide valuable tools for epidemiologic studies of bovine babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina Petrigh
- INTA-Castelar, CC25, CP 1712 Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Wilkowsky S, Farber M, Gil G, Echaide I, Mosqueda J, Alcaraz E, Suarez CE, Florin-Christensen M. Molecular characterization of babesia bovis strains using PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of the msa2-a/b genes. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2009; 1149:141-4. [PMID: 19120193 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1428.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The merozoite surface antigen-2 (msa-2) family of Babesia bovis is a group of variable genes that share conserved 5' and 3' ends and encode for membrane-anchored glycoproteins that have been postulated as vaccine candidates. In this work, we analyzed the sequences of three of these genes (msa-2a1, a2, and 2b) from two geographically distant strains and detected a certain degree of genotypic diversity that could be exploited to work out new molecular tools for the discrimination of B. bovis field samples. Here we describe a PCR restriction assay that was developed based on this observation and tested on several B. bovis strains and isolates. The results show a strain-specific band pattern in geographically distant isolates, indicating the presence of differentially located BspMI restriction sites. This approach provides a simple method for the differentiation of American B. bovis strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvina Wilkowsky
- Centro de Investigaciones en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas, Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Moretta R, Ruybal P, Mesplet M, Petrigh R, Nuñez P, Gil G, Wilkowsky S, Garbossa G, Farber M. Flow cytometry to evaluate Anaplasma marginale parasitemia using a fluorescent nucleic acid stain. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2009; 1149:111-3. [PMID: 19120186 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1428.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
In this work we describe a flow cytometry-based method using SYTO16 (a DNA intercalating agent) to quantify Anaplasma marginale-infected erythrocytes in blood from bovine animals. The linearity and reproducibility of the results obtained with SYTO16 labeling followed by flow cytometry analysis make it a suitable approach for measurement of parasitemia in A. marginale infections.
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Florin-Christensen M, Schnittger L, Dominguez M, Mesplet M, Rodríguez A, Ferreri L, Asenzo G, Wilkowsky S, Farber M, Echaide I, Suarez C. Search for Babesia bovis vaccine candidates. Parassitologia 2007; 49 Suppl 1:9-12. [PMID: 17691600] [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] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Babesia bovis is a tick-borne apicomplexan pathogen that remains an important constrain for the development of cattle industries worldwide. Effective control can be achieved by vaccination with live attenuated forms of the parasite, but they have several drawbacks and thus the development of alternative subunit vaccines, either based in recombinant versions of full size proteins or in recombinant or synthetic peptides containing combinations of protective B-cell and T-cell epitopes is needed. Our current strategies for the identification of vaccine candidate antigens include the identification of functionally relevant antigens, bioinformatics, and comparative genomics using the recently sequenced B. bovis genome. These led us to the functional and immunological characterization of members of the VMSA gene family, a group of well conserved putative cysteine and serine proteases, and to the definition of a surface exposed B-cell epitope present in the Merozoite Surface Antigen-2c. Work in progress is focused in defining additional epitopes, and to determine whether they are neutralization-sensitive. These approaches might unravel useful vaccine candidates for B. bovis, and will increase our understanding of the pathogenicity mechanisms of these and related hemoparasites.
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Wilkowsky S, Farber M, Echaide I, Mosqueda J, Alcaraz E, Suarez C, Florin-Christensen M. Taking advantage of the polymorphism of the MSA-2 family for Babesia bovis strain characterization. Parassitologia 2007; 49 Suppl 1:63-6. [PMID: 17691609] [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: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The Merozoite Surface Antigen-2 (MSA-2) family of Babesia bovis is a group of variable genes which share conserved 5' and 3' conserved ends. These genes encode membrane anchored glycoproteins, named MSA-2a1, a2, b and c, which are immunodominant antigens located on the surface of sporozoites and merozoites. In this work, we have analyzed the sequences of the msa-2a1, a2 and 2b genes in two geographically distant strains from Mexico and Argentina and detected a certain degree of genotypic diversity that can be exploited for the development of a new molecular tool for the discrimination of B. bovis field samples. Here, we describe a PCR restriction assay based on the msa2-a1, -a2 and -2b genes of B. bovis. When field strains from Argentina, Mexico and USA were analyzed, the results showed a strain-specific band pattern indicating the presence of differentially located BspMI restriction sites. This approach provides a simple method for the genotyping/strain differentiation of B. bovis field samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Wilkowsky
- CICVyA, Castelar, INTA, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Abstract
An optical immunosensor based in major surface protein 5 (MSP5) of Anaplasma marginale was developed towards detection of anti-Anaplasma sp. antibodies in acute infection as well as in vaccinated cattle. This study was performed using recombinant MSP5 covalently immobilised in controlled pore glass (CPG) beads to detect anti-MSP5 antibodies in serum samples. The quantification is based on the measurement of the Cy5 fluorescence of the detection antibody, anti bovine IgG, after reaction with serum. Sera were collected in enzootic and tick-free regions of Argentina. The immunosensor showed a detection range of 1.2 g/ml to 48 g/ml of antibody in sera, with a sensitivity of 93% and a specificity of 70%. The optical immunosensor developed is suitable for quantification of antibodies in sera of naturally or experimentally infected animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Silva
- Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica/Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica, Apartado 12, P-2781-901 Oeiras, Portugal
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Dominguez M, Zabal O, Wilkowsky S, Echaide I, Torioni de Echaide S, Asenzo G, Rodríguez A, Zamorano P, Farber M, Suarez C, Florin-Christensen M. Use of a Monoclonal Antibody againstBabesia bovisMerozoite Surface Antigen-2c for the Development of a Competitive ELISA Test. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2004; 1026:165-70. [PMID: 15604488 DOI: 10.1196/annals.1307.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Bovine babesiosis caused by Babesia bovis is a disease that hampers the production of beef and dairy cattle in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. New diagnostic methods based on recombinant antigens constitute valuable biotechnological tools for the strategic control of this disease. We have developed a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay that includes a recombinant form of the merozoite surface antigen-2c and a novel monoclonal antibody against it. Preliminary results showed that this test is able to identify specific antibodies against B. bovis from experimentally and naturally infected cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Dominguez
- Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria, Centro de Investigación en Ciencias Veterinarias y Agronómicas, Castelar, Argentina
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Wainszelbaum M, Isola E, Wilkowsky S, Cannata JJ, Florin-Christensen J, Florin-Christensen M. Lysosomal phospholipase A1 in Trypanosoma cruzi: an enzyme with a possible role in the pathogenesis of Chagas' disease. Biochem J 2001; 355:765-70. [PMID: 11311140 PMCID: PMC1221793 DOI: 10.1042/bj3550765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [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: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
We found that, as in African trypanosomes, endogenous phospholipase A(1) (Plase A(1)) activity can catalyse extensive deacylation of phospholipids upon cell death in all life stages of Trypanosoma cruzi. A major lysosomal Plase A(1) was purified and characterized. The enzyme products can explain the lesions surrounding degenerating T. cruzi cells in host tissues. Thus Plase A(1) emerges as a target to block pathogenesis in trypanosomal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Wainszelbaum
- Department of Microbiology, University of Buenos Aires (UBA) School of Medicine, Paraguay 2155, piso 13, (RA-2111) Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Ochatt CM, Mayorga LS, Isola EL, Wilkowsky S, Torres HN, Téllez-Iñón MT. Inhibition of early endosome fusion by Trypanosoma cruzi-infected macrophage cytosol. J Eukaryot Microbiol 1997; 44:497-502. [PMID: 9304819 DOI: 10.1111/j.1550-7408.1997.tb05730.x] [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: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes survive inside macrophages by promoting fusion between the parasitophorous vacuole and mature host lysosomes upon internalization. Since trypomastigotes can evade the lytic pathway, the earliest steps of endocytosis, such as early endosome fusion, may be affected. To test this hypothesis, we used an in vitro early endosome fusion assay. Our results show that trypomastigote-infected macrophage cytosols cannot promote fusion between early endosomes, compared to mock-infected cytosols (heat-killed trypomastigotes were used in the parasite-macrophage interaction assay). GTP gamma S addition potentiates the fusogenic activity driven by trypomastigote-infected macrophage cytosol-mediated assays, unlike the biphasic fusogenic effect obtained with GTP gamma S treatment of macrophage cytosol controls. Calcium-stimulated early endosome fusogenic processes are not affected in the assays mediated by infected macrophage cytosol. We conclude that GTP-regulated factors, and not calcium-regulated elements, are involved in the inhibition of the early endosome fusogenic process by the trypomastigote-infected macrophage cytosol. This primary impediment to the progress of a normal endocytosis may be a relevant step required for the lysosomal recruitment-fusion of the host lysosomes upon trypomastigote infection and further survival of the parasite within its host.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Ochatt
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingeniería Genética y Biología Molecular (INGEBI), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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