1
|
Karnchaisri K, Day NPJ, Dondorp AM, Malaivijitnond S, Imwong M. Prevalence and genetic diversity of simian malaria in wild macaque populations across Thailand: Implications for human health. Acta Trop 2024; 254:107187. [PMID: 38518834 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Over the past year, P. falciparum infections have declined in Thailand, yet nonhuman primate malaria infections have correspondingly increased, including Plasmodium knowlesi and P. cynomolgi. Nevertheless, little is known about simian malaria in its natural macaque hosts, Macaca mulatta and Macaca fascicularis. This study aims to address several research questions, including the prevalence and distribution of simian malaria in these two Thai wild macaque species, variations in infection between different macaque species and between M. fascicularis subspecies, and the genetic composition of these pathogens. Blood samples were collected from 82 M. mulatta and 690 M. fascicularis across 15 locations in Thailand, as well as two locations in Vietnam and Myanmar. We employed quantitative real-time PCR targeting the Plasmodium genus-specific 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene to detect malaria infection, with a limit of detection set at 1,215.98 parasites per mL. We genotyped eight microsatellite markers, and the P. cynomolgi dihydrofolate reductase gene (DHFR) was sequenced (N = 29). In total, 100 of 772 samples (13 %) tested positive for malaria, including 45 (13 %) for P. cynomolgi, 37 (13 %) for P. inui, 16 (5 %) for P. coatneyi, and 2 (0.25 %) for Hepatocystis sp. in Saraburi, central and Ranong, southern Thailand. Notably, simian malaria infection was observed exclusively in M. fascicularis and not in M. mulatta (P = 0.0002). Particularly, P. cynomolgi was detected in 21.7 % (45/207) of M. f. fascicularis living in Wat Tham Phrapothisat, Saraburi Province. The infection with simian malaria was statistically different between M. fascicularis and M. mulatta (P = 0.0002) but not within M. fascicularis subspecies (P = 0.78). A haplotype network analysis revealed that P. cynomolgi shares a lineage with reference strains obtained from macaques. No mutation in the predicted binding pocket of PcyDHFR to pyrimethamine was observed. This study reveals a significant prevalence of simian malaria infection in M. fascicularis. The clonal genotypes of P. cynomolgi suggest in-reservoir breeding. These findings raise concerns about the potential spread of nonhuman primate malaria to humans and underscore the need for preventive measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kriangkrai Karnchaisri
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Nicholas P J Day
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Arjen M Dondorp
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Suchinda Malaivijitnond
- National Primate Research Center of Thailand, Chulalongkorn University, Saraburi 18110, Thailand; Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | - Mallika Imwong
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand; Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Latif ENM, Noordin NR, Shahari S, Amir A, Lau YL, Cheong FW, Abdullah ML, Fong MY. Genetic polymorphism and clustering of the Plasmodium cynomolgi Duffy binding protein 1 region II of recent macaque isolates from Peninsular Malaysia. Parasitol Res 2024; 123:105. [PMID: 38240877 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08125-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Plasmodium cynomolgi is a simian malaria parasite that has been increasingly infecting humans. It is naturally present in the long-tailed and pig-tailed macaques in Southeast Asia. The P. cynomolgi Duffy binding protein 1 region II [PcDBP1(II)] plays an essential role in the invasion of the parasite into host erythrocytes. This study investigated the genetic polymorphism, natural selection and haplotype clustering of PcDBP1(II) from wild macaque isolates in Peninsular Malaysia. The genomic DNA of 50 P. cynomolgi isolates was extracted from the macaque blood samples. Their PcDBP1(II) gene was amplified using a semi-nested PCR, cloned into a plasmid vector and subsequently sequenced. The polymorphism, natural selection and haplotypes of PcDBP1(II) were analysed using MEGA X and DnaSP ver.6.12.03 programmes. The analyses revealed high genetic polymorphism of PcDBP1(II) (π = 0.026 ± 0.004; Hd = 0.996 ± 0.001), and it was under purifying (negative) selection. A total of 106 haplotypes of PcDBP1(II) were identified. Phylogenetic and haplotype analyses revealed two groups of PcDBP1(II). Amino acid length polymorphism was observed between the groups, which may lead to possible phenotypic difference between them.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Naqib Rafieqin Noordin
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Shahhaziq Shahari
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Amirah Amir
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yee-Ling Lau
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Fei-Wen Cheong
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Lutfi Abdullah
- National Wildlife Forensic Laboratory, Ex-Situ Conservation Division Department of Wildlife and National Parks Peninsular Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mun Yik Fong
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Joste V, Colard-Itté E, Guillochon É, Ariey F, Coppée R, Clain J, Houzé S. Genetic Profiling of Plasmodium ovale wallikeri Relapses With Microsatellite Markers and Whole-Genome Sequencing. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:1089-1098. [PMID: 37329228 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Like Plasmodium vivax, both Plasmodium ovale curtisi and Plasmodium ovale wallikeri have the ability to cause relapse in humans, defined as recurring asexual parasitemia originating from liver-dormant forms subsequent to a primary infection. Here, we investigated relapse patterns in P ovale wallikeri infections from a cohort of travelers who were exposed to the parasite in sub-Saharan Africa and then experienced relapses after their return to France. Using a novel set of 8 highly polymorphic microsatellite markers, we genotyped 15 P ovale wallikeri relapses. For most relapses, the paired primary and relapse infections were highly genetically related (with 12 being homologous), an observation that was confirmed by whole-genome sequencing for the 4 relapses we further studied. This is, to our knowledge, the first genetic evidence of relapses in P ovale spp.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentin Joste
- Mère et enfant en milieu tropical, Institut Recherche pour le Développement, Université Paris Cité
- Centre National de Référence du Paludisme, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bichat-Claude-Bernard
| | - Emma Colard-Itté
- Centre National de Référence du Paludisme, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bichat-Claude-Bernard
| | - Émilie Guillochon
- Mère et enfant en milieu tropical, Institut Recherche pour le Développement, Université Paris Cité
| | - Frédéric Ariey
- Inserm U1016, Institut Cochin, Laboratoire de parasitologie-mycologie, Hôpital Cochin, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université de Paris Cité
| | - Romain Coppée
- Université Paris Cité and Sorbonne Paris Nord, Inserm, IAME, Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Clain
- Mère et enfant en milieu tropical, Institut Recherche pour le Développement, Université Paris Cité
- Centre National de Référence du Paludisme, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bichat-Claude-Bernard
| | - Sandrine Houzé
- Mère et enfant en milieu tropical, Institut Recherche pour le Développement, Université Paris Cité
- Centre National de Référence du Paludisme, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Bichat-Claude-Bernard
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Voorberg-van der Wel A, Zeeman AM, Kocken CHM. Transfection Models to Investigate Plasmodium vivax-Type Dormant Liver Stage Parasites. Pathogens 2023; 12:1070. [PMID: 37764878 PMCID: PMC10534883 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12091070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax causes the second highest number of malaria morbidity and mortality cases in humans. Several biological traits of this parasite species, including the formation of dormant stages (hypnozoites) that persist inside the liver for prolonged periods of time, present an obstacle for intervention measures and create a barrier for the elimination of malaria. Research into the biology of hypnozoites requires efficient systems for parasite transmission, liver stage cultivation and genetic modification. However, P. vivax research is hampered by the lack of an in vitro blood stage culture system, rendering it reliant on in vivo-derived, mainly patient, material for transmission and liver stage culture. This has also resulted in limited capability for genetic modification, creating a bottleneck in investigations into the mechanisms underlying the persistence of the parasite inside the liver. This bottleneck can be overcome through optimal use of the closely related and experimentally more amenable nonhuman primate (NHP) parasite, Plasmodium cynomolgi, as a model system. In this review, we discuss the genetic modification tools and liver stage cultivation platforms available for studying P. vivax persistent stages and highlight how their combined use may advance our understanding of hypnozoite biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annemarie Voorberg-van der Wel
- Department of Parasitology, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, 2288 GJ Rijswijk, The Netherlands; (A.-M.Z.); (C.H.M.K.)
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Das R, Vashisht K, Pandey KC. A novel multiplex qPCR assay for clinical diagnosis of non-human malaria parasites- Plasmodium knowlesi and Plasmodium cynomolgi. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1127273. [PMID: 36777671 PMCID: PMC9909747 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1127273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The imminent risk of zoonoses of non-human malaria parasites is not far from reality in India, as has been observed in the case of Plasmodium knowlesi (Pk), and so is possible with P. cynomolgi (Pc), already reported from South East Asian countries. Therefore, a novel multiplex qPCR assay was developed and evaluated for detection of non-human malaria parasites- Pk and Pc in populations at risk. Methods The qPCR primers were designed in-house with fluorescence labeled probes (HEX for Pk and FAM for Pc). DNA samples of Pk and Pc were used as templates and further the qPCR assay was evaluated in 250 symptomatic and asymptomatic suspected human blood samples from malaria endemic areas of North Eastern states of India. Results The qPCR assay successfully amplified the target 18S rRNA gene segment from Pk and Pc and was highly specific for Pk and Pc parasites only, as no cross reactivity was observed with P. falciparum (Pf), P. vivax (Pv), P. malariae (Pm), and P. ovale (Po). Standard curves were generated to estimate the limit of detection (LOD) of Pk and Pc parasites DNA (0.00275 & 0.075 ng/μl, respectively). Due to COVID-19 pandemic situation during 2020-21, the sample accessibility was difficult, however, we managed to collect 250 samples. The samples were tested for Pf and Pv using conventional PCR- 14 Pf and 11 Pv infections were observed, but no Pk and Pc infections were detected. For Pk infections, previously reported conventional PCR was also performed, but no Pk infection was detected. Discussion The multiplex qPCR assay was observed to be robust, quick, cost-effective and highly sensitive as compared to the currently available conventional PCR methods. Further validation of the multiplex qPCR assay in field setting is desirable, especially from the high-risk populations. We anticipate that the multiplex qPCR assay would prove to be a useful tool in mass screening and surveillance programs for detection of non-human malaria parasites toward the control and elimination of malaria from India by 2030.
Collapse
|
6
|
Molina-Franky J, Reyes C, Picón Jaimes YA, Kalkum M, Patarroyo MA. The Black Box of Cellular and Molecular Events of Plasmodium vivax Merozoite Invasion into Reticulocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232314528. [PMID: 36498854 PMCID: PMC9739029 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232314528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax is the most widely distributed malaria parasite affecting humans worldwide, causing ~5 million cases yearly. Despite the disease's extensive burden, there are gaps in the knowledge of the pathophysiological mechanisms by which P. vivax invades reticulocytes. In contrast, this crucial step is better understood for P. falciparum, the less widely distributed but more often fatal malaria parasite. This discrepancy is due to the difficulty of studying P. vivax's exclusive invasion of reticulocytes, which represent 1-2% of circulating cells. Its accurate targeting mechanism has not yet been clarified, hindering the establishment of long-term continuous in vitro culture systems. So far, only three reticulocyte invasion pathways have been characterised based on parasite interactions with DARC, TfR1 and CD98 host proteins. However, exposing the parasite's alternative invasion mechanisms is currently being considered, opening up a large field for exploring the entry receptors used by P. vivax for invading host cells. New methods must be developed to ensure better understanding of the parasite to control malarial transmission and to eradicate the disease. Here, we review the current state of knowledge on cellular and molecular mechanisms of P. vivax's merozoite invasion to contribute to a better understanding of the parasite's biology, pathogenesis and epidemiology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Molina-Franky
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá 112111, Colombia
- Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
| | - César Reyes
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá 112111, Colombia
- Biotechnology, Faculty of Sciences, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
- Animal Sciences Faculty, Universidad de Ciencias Aplicadas y Ambientales (U.D.C.A), Bogotá 111166, Colombia
| | | | - Markus Kalkum
- Department of Immunology and Theranostics, Arthur Riggs Diabetes and Metabolism Research Institute, Beckman Research Institute of the City of Hope, Duarte, CA 91010, USA
- Correspondence: (M.K.); (M.A.P.)
| | - Manuel Alfonso Patarroyo
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Fundación Instituto de Inmunología de Colombia (FIDIC), Bogotá 112111, Colombia
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Bogotá 111321, Colombia
- Correspondence: (M.K.); (M.A.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Non-Human Primate Malaria Infections: A Review on the Epidemiology in Malaysia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19137888. [PMID: 35805545 PMCID: PMC9265734 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19137888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Malaria remains a public health problem in many parts of the world, including Malaysia. Although Malaysia has been recognized as one of the countries free from indigenous human malaria since 2018, the rising trend of zoonotic malaria, particularly Plasmodium knowlesi cases, poses a threat to public health and is of great concern to the country’s healthcare system. We reviewed previously scattered information on zoonotic malaria infections in both Peninsular Malaysia and Malaysian Borneo to determine the epidemiology and distribution of emerging zoonotic malaria infections. Given the high prevalence of zoonotic malaria in Malaysia, efforts should be made to detect zoonotic malaria in humans, mosquito vectors, and natural hosts to ensure the success of the National Malaria Elimination Strategic Plan.
Collapse
|
8
|
Putaporntip C, Kuamsab N, Pattanawong U, Yanmanee S, Seethamchai S, Jongwutiwes S. Plasmodium cynomolgi Co-infections among Symptomatic Malaria Patients, Thailand. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:590-593. [PMID: 33496236 PMCID: PMC7853550 DOI: 10.3201/eid2702.191660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Among 1,180 symptomatic malaria patients, 9 (0.76%) infected with Plasmodium cynomolgi were co-infected with P. vivax (n = 7), P. falciparum (n = 1), or P. vivax and P. knowlesi (n = 1). Patients were from Tak, Chanthaburi, Ubon Ratchathani, Yala, and Narathiwat Provinces, suggesting P. cynomolgi is widespread in this country.
Collapse
|
9
|
The New Zoonotic Malaria: Plasmodium cynomolgi. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6020046. [PMID: 33916448 PMCID: PMC8167800 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6020046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium cynomolgi is a simian malaria parasite that has been a central model parasite since it was first described in 1907. Recently it has made the zoonotic jump and started naturally infecting humans. In this paper, the interactions between Plasmodium cynomolgi and humans, the environment and the non-human animal intermediates or definitive host will be discussed, with a particular focus on the clinical implications of infection and approaches to management of this novel zoonotic parasite.
Collapse
|
10
|
Kepple D, Pestana K, Tomida J, Abebe A, Golassa L, Lo E. Alternative Invasion Mechanisms and Host Immune Response to Plasmodium vivax Malaria: Trends and Future Directions. Microorganisms 2020; 9:E15. [PMID: 33374596 PMCID: PMC7822457 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9010015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium vivax malaria is a neglected tropical disease, despite being more geographically widespread than any other form of malaria. The documentation of P. vivax infections in different parts of Africa where Duffy-negative individuals are predominant suggested that there are alternative pathways for P. vivax to invade human erythrocytes. Duffy-negative individuals may be just as fit as Duffy-positive individuals and are no longer resistant to P.vivax malaria. In this review, we describe the complexity of P. vivax malaria, characterize pathogenesis and candidate invasion genes of P. vivax, and host immune responses to P. vivax infections. We provide a comprehensive review on parasite ligands in several Plasmodium species that further justify candidate genes in P. vivax. We also summarize previous genomic and transcriptomic studies related to the identification of ligand and receptor proteins in P. vivax erythrocyte invasion. Finally, we identify topics that remain unclear and propose future studies that will greatly contribute to our knowledge of P. vivax.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Kepple
- Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; (K.P.); (J.T.)
| | - Kareen Pestana
- Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; (K.P.); (J.T.)
| | - Junya Tomida
- Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; (K.P.); (J.T.)
| | - Abnet Abebe
- Ethiopian Public Health Institute, Addis Ababa 1000, Ethiopia;
| | - Lemu Golassa
- Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa 1000, Ethiopia;
| | - Eugenia Lo
- Biological Sciences, University of North Carolina, Charlotte, NC 28223, USA; (K.P.); (J.T.)
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Galinski MR. Functional genomics of simian malaria parasites and host-parasite interactions. Brief Funct Genomics 2020; 18:270-280. [PMID: 31241151 PMCID: PMC6859816 DOI: 10.1093/bfgp/elz013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 04/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Two simian malaria parasite species, Plasmodium knowlesi and Plasmodium cynomolgi, cause zoonotic infections in Southeast Asia, and they have therefore gained recognition among scientists and public health officials. Notwithstanding, these species and others including Plasmodium coatneyi have served for decades as sources of knowledge on the biology, genetics and evolution of Plasmodium, and the diverse ramifications and outcomes of malaria in their monkey hosts. Experimental analysis of these species can help to fill gaps in knowledge beyond what may be possible studying the human malaria parasites or rodent parasite species. The genome sequences for these simian malaria parasite species were reported during the last decade, and functional genomics research has since been pursued. Here research on the functional genomics analysis involving these species is summarized and their importance is stressed, particularly for understanding host–parasite interactions, and potentially testing novel interventions. Importantly, while Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax can be studied in small New World monkeys, the simian malaria parasites can be studied more effectively in the larger Old World monkey macaque hosts, which are more closely related to humans. In addition to ex vivo analyses, experimental scenarios can include passage through Anopheline mosquito hosts and longitudinal infections in monkeys to study acute and chronic infections, as well as relapses, all in the context of the in vivo host environment. Such experiments provide opportunities for understanding functional genomic elements that govern host–parasite interactions, immunity and pathogenesis in-depth, addressing hypotheses not possible from in vitro cultures or cross-sectional clinical studies with humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary R Galinski
- Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Mathema VB, Nakeesathit S, Pagornrat W, Smithuis F, White NJ, Dondorp AM, Imwong M. Polymorphic markers for identification of parasite population in Plasmodium malariae. Malar J 2020; 19:48. [PMID: 31992308 PMCID: PMC6988369 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-3122-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Molecular genotyping in Plasmodium serves many aims including providing tools for studying parasite population genetics and distinguishing recrudescence from reinfection. Microsatellite typing, insertion-deletion (INDEL) and single nucleotide polymorphisms is used for genotyping, but only limited information is available for Plasmodium malariae, an important human malaria species. This study aimed to provide a set of genetic markers to facilitate the study of P. malariae population genetics. Methods Markers for microsatellite genotyping and pmmsp1 gene polymorphisms were developed and validated in symptomatic P. malariae field isolates from Myanmar (N = 37). Fragment analysis was used to determine allele sizes at each locus to calculate multiplicity of infections (MOI), linkage disequilibrium, heterozygosity and construct dendrograms. Nucleotide diversity (π), number of haplotypes, and genetic diversity (Hd) were assessed and a phylogenetic tree was constructed. Genome-wide microsatellite maps with annotated regions of newly identified markers were constructed. Results Six microsatellite markers were developed and tested in 37 P. malariae isolates which showed sufficient heterozygosity (0.530–0.922), and absence of linkage disequilibrium (IAS=0.03, p value > 0.05) (N = 37). In addition, a tandem repeat (VNTR)-based pmmsp1 INDEL polymorphisms marker was developed and assessed in 27 P. malariae isolates showing a nucleotide diversity of 0.0976, haplotype gene diversity of 0.698 and identified 14 unique variants. The size of VNTR consensus repeat unit adopted as allele was 27 base pairs. The markers Pm12_426 and pmmsp1 showed greatest diversity with heterozygosity scores of 0.920 and 0.835, respectively. Using six microsatellites markers, the likelihood that any two parasite strains would have the same microsatellite genotypes was 8.46 × 10−4 and was further reduced to 1.66 × 10−4 when pmmsp1 polymorphisms were included. Conclusions Six novel microsatellites genotyping markers and a set of pmmsp1 VNTR-based INDEL polymorphisms markers for P. malariae were developed and validated. Each marker could be independently or in combination employed to access genotyping of the parasite. The newly developed markers may serve as a useful tool for investigating parasite diversity, population genetics, molecular epidemiology and for distinguishing recrudescence from reinfection in drug efficacy studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vivek Bhakta Mathema
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Supatchara Nakeesathit
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Watcharee Pagornrat
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Frank Smithuis
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Medical Action Myanmar, Yangon, Myanmar.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nicholas J White
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Arjen M Dondorp
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Mallika Imwong
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Imwong M, Madmanee W, Suwannasin K, Kunasol C, Peto TJ, Tripura R, von Seidlein L, Nguon C, Davoeung C, Day NPJ, Dondorp AM, White NJ. Asymptomatic Natural Human Infections With the Simian Malaria Parasites Plasmodium cynomolgi and Plasmodium knowlesi. J Infect Dis 2019; 219:695-702. [PMID: 30295822 PMCID: PMC6376906 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiy519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Southeast Asia, Plasmodium knowlesi, a parasite of long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), is an important cause of human malaria. Plasmodium cynomolgi also commonly infects these monkeys, but only one naturally acquired symptomatic human case has been reported previously. METHODS Malariometric studies involving 5422 subjects (aged 6 months to 65 years) were conducted in 23 villages in Pailin and Battambang, western Cambodia. Parasite detection and genotyping was conducted on blood samples, using high-volume quantitative PCR (uPCR). RESULTS Asymptomatic malaria parasite infections were detected in 1361 of 14732 samples (9.2%). Asymptomatic infections with nonhuman primate malaria parasites were found in 21 individuals living close to forested areas; P. cynomolgi was found in 11, P. knowlesi was found in 8, and P. vivax and P. cynomolgi were both found in 2. Only 2 subjects were female, and 14 were men aged 20-40 years. Geometric mean parasite densities were 3604 parasites/mL in P. cynomolgi infections and 52488 parasites/mL in P. knowlesi infections. All P. cynomolgi isolates had wild-type dihydrofolate reductase genes, in contrast to the very high prevalence of mutations in the human malaria parasites. Asymptomatic reappearance of P. cynomolgi occurred in 2 subjects 3 months after the first infection. CONCLUSIONS Asymptomatic naturally acquired P. cynomolgi and P. knowlesi infections can both occur in humans. CLINICAL TRIALS REGISTRATION NCT01872702.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mallika Imwong
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wanassanan Madmanee
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Kanokon Suwannasin
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chanon Kunasol
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Thomas J Peto
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Rupam Tripura
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Lorenz von Seidlein
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Chea Nguon
- National Center for Parasitology, Entomology, and Malaria Control, Phnom Penh
| | | | - Nicholas P J Day
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Arjen M Dondorp
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas J White
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chua ACY, Ong JJY, Malleret B, Suwanarusk R, Kosaisavee V, Zeeman AM, Cooper CA, Tan KSW, Zhang R, Tan BH, Abas SN, Yip A, Elliot A, Joyner CJ, Cho JS, Breyer K, Baran S, Lange A, Maher SP, Nosten F, Bodenreider C, Yeung BKS, Mazier D, Galinski MR, Dereuddre-Bosquet N, Le Grand R, Kocken CHM, Rénia L, Kyle DE, Diagana TT, Snounou G, Russell B, Bifani P. Robust continuous in vitro culture of the Plasmodium cynomolgi erythrocytic stages. Nat Commun 2019; 10:3635. [PMID: 31406175 PMCID: PMC6690977 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-11332-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The ability to culture pathogenic organisms substantially enhances the quest for fundamental knowledge and the development of vaccines and drugs. Thus, the elaboration of a protocol for the in vitro cultivation of the erythrocytic stages of Plasmodium falciparum revolutionized research on this important parasite. However, for P. vivax, the most widely distributed and difficult to treat malaria parasite, a strict preference for reticulocytes thwarts efforts to maintain it in vitro. Cultivation of P. cynomolgi, a macaque-infecting species phylogenetically close to P. vivax, was briefly reported in the early 1980s, but not pursued further. Here, we define the conditions under which P. cynomolgi can be adapted to long term in vitro culture to yield parasites that share many of the morphological and phenotypic features of P. vivax. We further validate the potential of this culture system for high-throughput screening to prime and accelerate anti-P. vivax drug discovery efforts. Present understanding of Plasmodium vivax biology is hampered by its inability to grow in vitro. Here, the authors developed an in vitro culture of its simian counterpart, P. cynomolgi, which shares morphological and phenotypic similarities with P. vivax, initiating a new phase in vivax research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adeline C Y Chua
- Singapore Immunology Network, A*STAR, Singapore, 138648, Singapore.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.,Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | - Jessica Jie Ying Ong
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.,Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | - Benoit Malleret
- Singapore Immunology Network, A*STAR, Singapore, 138648, Singapore.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119077, Singapore
| | - Rossarin Suwanarusk
- Singapore Immunology Network, A*STAR, Singapore, 138648, Singapore.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Varakorn Kosaisavee
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119077, Singapore.,Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, 10400, Thailand
| | - Anne-Marie Zeeman
- Department of Parasitology, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, 2288, The Netherlands
| | - Caitlin A Cooper
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, USA
| | - Kevin S W Tan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119077, Singapore
| | - Rou Zhang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119077, Singapore
| | - Bee Huat Tan
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | | | - Andy Yip
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | - Anne Elliot
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, USA
| | - Chester J Joyner
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, 30322, USA.,Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University, Atlanta, 30317, USA
| | - Jee Sun Cho
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119077, Singapore
| | - Kate Breyer
- Laboratory Animal Services, Scientific Operations, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, East Hanover, 07936-1080, USA
| | - Szczepan Baran
- Laboratory Animal Services, Scientific Operations, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, East Hanover, 07936-1080, USA
| | - Amber Lange
- Laboratory Animal Services, Scientific Operations, Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research, East Hanover, 07936-1080, USA
| | - Steven P Maher
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, USA
| | - François Nosten
- Shoklo Malaria Research Unit, Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Mae Sot, 63110, Thailand.,Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine Research Building, University of Oxford Old Road Campus, Oxford, OX3 7FZ, UK
| | | | - Bryan K S Yeung
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | - Dominique Mazier
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, CR7, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, F-75013, France.,CIMI-Paris, INSERM, U1135, CNRS, Paris, F-75013, France
| | - Mary R Galinski
- Emory Vaccine Center, Emory University, Atlanta, 30317, USA.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, 30322, USA
| | - Nathalie Dereuddre-Bosquet
- CEA-Université Paris Sud 11-INSERM U1184, Immunology of Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases (IMVA), IDMIT Department, IBJF, DRF, Fontenay-aux-Roses, 92265, France
| | - Roger Le Grand
- CEA-Université Paris Sud 11-INSERM U1184, Immunology of Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases (IMVA), IDMIT Department, IBJF, DRF, Fontenay-aux-Roses, 92265, France
| | - Clemens H M Kocken
- Department of Parasitology, Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, 2288, The Netherlands
| | - Laurent Rénia
- Singapore Immunology Network, A*STAR, Singapore, 138648, Singapore.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119077, Singapore
| | - Dennis E Kyle
- Center for Tropical and Emerging Global Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, 30602, USA
| | - Thierry T Diagana
- Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore, 138670, Singapore
| | - Georges Snounou
- Sorbonne Universités, UPMC Univ Paris 06, CR7, Centre d'Immunologie et des Maladies Infectieuses (CIMI-Paris), Paris, F-75013, France.,CIMI-Paris, INSERM, U1135, CNRS, Paris, F-75013, France.,CEA-Université Paris Sud 11-INSERM U1184, Immunology of Viral Infections and Autoimmune Diseases (IMVA), IDMIT Department, IBJF, DRF, Fontenay-aux-Roses, 92265, France
| | - Bruce Russell
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
| | - Pablo Bifani
- Singapore Immunology Network, A*STAR, Singapore, 138648, Singapore. .,Novartis Institute for Tropical Diseases, Singapore, 138670, Singapore. .,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 119077, Singapore. .,Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, WC1E 7HT, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Davidson G, Chua TH, Cook A, Speldewinde P, Weinstein P. Defining the ecological and evolutionary drivers of Plasmodium knowlesi transmission within a multi-scale framework. Malar J 2019; 18:66. [PMID: 30849978 PMCID: PMC6408765 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-019-2693-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Plasmodium knowlesi is a zoonotic malaria parasite normally residing in long-tailed and pig-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis and Macaca nemestrina, respectively) found throughout Southeast Asia. Recently, knowlesi malaria has become the predominant malaria affecting humans in Malaysian Borneo, being responsible for approximately 70% of reported cases. Largely as a result of anthropogenic land use changes in Borneo, vectors which transmit the parasite, along with macaque hosts, are both now frequently found in disturbed forest habitats, or at the forest fringes, thus having more frequent contact with humans. Having access to human hosts provides the parasite with the opportunity to further its adaption to the human immune system. The ecological drivers of the transmission and spread of P. knowlesi are operating over many different spatial (and, therefore, temporal) scales, from the molecular to the continental. Strategies to prevent and manage zoonoses, such as P. knowlesi malaria require interdisciplinary research exploring the impact of land use change and biodiversity loss on the evolving relationship between parasite, reservoir hosts, vectors, and humans over multiple spatial scales.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gael Davidson
- School of Agriculture and Environment, University of Western Australia, Stirling Terrace, Albany, WA, 6330, Australia. .,School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
| | - Tock H Chua
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Angus Cook
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Peter Speldewinde
- School of Agriculture and Environment, University of Western Australia, Stirling Terrace, Albany, WA, 6330, Australia
| | - Philip Weinstein
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Fonseca LL, Joyner CJ, Saney CL, Moreno A, Barnwell JW, Galinski MR, Voit EO. Analysis of erythrocyte dynamics in Rhesus macaque monkeys during infection with Plasmodium cynomolgi. Malar J 2018; 17:410. [PMID: 30400896 PMCID: PMC6219197 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-018-2560-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria is a major mosquito transmitted, blood-borne parasitic disease that afflicts humans. The disease causes anaemia and other clinical complications, which can lead to death. Plasmodium vivax is known for its reticulocyte host cell specificity, but many gaps in disease details remain. Much less is known about the closely related species, Plasmodium cynomolgi, although it is naturally acquired and causes zoonotic malaria. Here, a computational model is developed based on longitudinal analyses of P. cynomolgi infections in nonhuman primates to investigate the erythrocyte dynamics that is pertinent to understanding both P. cynomolgi and P. vivax malaria in humans. METHODS A cohort of five P. cynomolgi infected Rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) is studied, with individuals exhibiting a plethora of clinical outcomes, including varying levels of anaemia. A discrete recursive model with age structure is developed to replicate the dynamics of P. cynomolgi blood-stage infections. The model allows for parasitic reticulocyte preference and assumes an age preference among the mature RBCs. RBC senescence is modelled using a hazard function, according to which RBCs have a mean lifespan of 98 ± 21 days. RESULTS Based on in vivo data from three cohorts of macaques, the computational model is used to characterize the reticulocyte lifespan in circulation as 24 ± 5 h (n = 15) and the rate of RBC production as 2727 ± 209 cells/h/µL (n = 15). Analysis of the host responses reveals a pre-patency increase in the number of reticulocytes. It also allows the quantification of RBC removal through the bystander effect. CONCLUSIONS The evident pre-patency increase in reticulocytes is due to a shift towards the release of younger reticulocytes, which could result from a parasite-induced factor meant to increase reticulocyte availability and satisfy the parasite's tropism, which has an average value of 32:1 in this cohort. The number of RBCs lost due to the bystander effect relative to infection-induced RBC losses is 62% for P. cynomolgi infections, which is substantially lower than the value of 95% previously determined for another simian species, Plasmodium coatneyi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis L Fonseca
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30332-2000, USA.
- Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center, Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA.
| | - Chester J Joyner
- Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center, Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Celia L Saney
- Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center, Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Alberto Moreno
- Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center, Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - John W Barnwell
- Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center, Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Malaria Branch, Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Mary R Galinski
- Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center, Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Eberhard O Voit
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30332-2000, USA
- Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center, Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
J Joyner C, Consortium TM, Wood JS, Moreno A, Garcia A, Galinski MR. Case Report: Severe and Complicated Cynomolgi Malaria in a Rhesus Macaque Resulted in Similar Histopathological Changes as Those Seen in Human Malaria. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2017; 97:548-555. [PMID: 28829738 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.16-0742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Histopathological data collected from patients with severe malaria have been instrumental for studying malaria pathogenesis. Animal models of malaria are critical to complement such studies. Here, the histopathological changes observed in a rhesus macaque with severe and complicated Plasmodium cynomolgi malaria are reported. The animal presented with thrombocytopenia, severe anemia, and hyperparasitemia during the acute infection. The macaque was given subcurative antimalarial treatment, fluid support, and a blood transfusion to treat the clinical complications, but at the time of transfusion, kidney function was compromised. These interventions did not restore kidney function, and the animal was euthanized due to irreversible renal failure. Gross pathological and histological examinations revealed that the lungs, kidneys, liver, spleen, and bone marrow exhibited abnormalities similar to those described in patients with malaria. Overall, this case report illustrates the similarities in the pathophysiological complications that can occur in human malaria and cynomolgi malaria in rhesus macaques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chester J Joyner
- Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center, Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - The MaHPIC Consortium
- Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center, Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jennifer S Wood
- Division of Animal Resources, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Alberto Moreno
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center, Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Anapatricia Garcia
- Division of Pathology, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Mary R Galinski
- Malaria Host-Pathogen Interaction Center, Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Emory Vaccine Center, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Pasini EM, Böhme U, Rutledge GG, Voorberg-Van der Wel A, Sanders M, Berriman M, Kocken CH, Otto TD. An improved Plasmodium cynomolgi genome assembly reveals an unexpected methyltransferase gene expansion. Wellcome Open Res 2017; 2:42. [PMID: 28748222 PMCID: PMC5500898 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.11864.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background:
Plasmodium cynomolgi, a non-human primate malaria parasite species, has been an important model parasite since its discovery in 1907. Similarities in the biology of
P. cynomolgi to the closely related, but less tractable, human malaria parasite
P. vivax make it the model parasite of choice for liver biology and vaccine studies pertinent to
P. vivax malaria. Molecular and genome-scale studies of
P. cynomolgi have relied on the current reference genome sequence, which remains highly fragmented with 1,649 unassigned scaffolds and little representation of the subtelomeres. Methods: Using long-read sequence data (Pacific Biosciences SMRT technology), we assembled and annotated a new reference genome sequence, PcyM, sourced from an Indian rhesus monkey. We compare the newly assembled genome sequence with those of several other
Plasmodium species, including a re-annotated
P. coatneyi assembly. Results: The new PcyM genome assembly is of significantly higher quality than the existing reference, comprising only 56 pieces, no gaps and an improved average gene length. Detailed manual curation has ensured a comprehensive annotation of the genome with 6,632 genes, nearly 1,000 more than previously attributed to
P. cynomolgi. The new assembly also has an improved representation of the subtelomeric regions, which account for nearly 40% of the sequence. Within the subtelomeres, we identified more than 1300
Plasmodium interspersed repeat (
pir) genes, as well as a striking expansion of 36 methyltransferase pseudogenes that originated from a single copy on chromosome 9. Conclusions: The manually curated PcyM reference genome sequence is an important new resource for the malaria research community. The high quality and contiguity of the data have enabled the discovery of a novel expansion of methyltransferase in the subtelomeres, and illustrates the new comparative genomics capabilities that are being unlocked by complete reference genomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica M Pasini
- Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, Lange Kleiweg 161, 2288GJ Rijswijk, Netherlands
| | - Ulrike Böhme
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Gavin G Rutledge
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
| | | | - Mandy Sanders
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Matt Berriman
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Clemens Hm Kocken
- Biomedical Primate Research Centre, Rijswijk, Lange Kleiweg 161, 2288GJ Rijswijk, Netherlands
| | - Thomas Dan Otto
- The Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge, CB10 1SA, UK
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
SUMMARYThe study of malaria in the laboratory relies on either thein vitroculture of human parasites, or the use of non-human malaria parasites in laboratory animals. In this review, we address the use of non-human primate malaria parasite species (NHPMPs) in laboratory research. We describe the features of the most commonly used NHPMPs, review their contribution to our understanding of malaria to date, and discuss their potential contribution to future studies.
Collapse
|
20
|
Putaporntip C, Kuamsab N, Jongwutiwes S. Sequence diversity and positive selection at the Duffy-binding protein genes of Plasmodium knowlesi and P. cynomolgi: Analysis of the complete coding sequences of Thai isolates. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2016; 44:367-375. [PMID: 27480919 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2016.07.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Plasmodium knowlesi and P. cynomolgi are simian malaria parasites capable of causing symptomatic human infections. The interaction between the Duffy binding protein alpha on P. knowlesi merozoite and the Duffy-antigen receptor for chemokine (DARC) on human and macaque erythrocyte membrane is prerequisite for establishment of blood stage infection whereas DARC is not required for erythrocyte invasion by P. cynomolgi. To gain insights into the evolution of the PkDBP gene family comprising PkDBPα, PkDBPβ and PkDBPγ, and a member of the DBP gene family of P. cynomolgi (PcyDBP1), the complete coding sequences of these genes were analyzed from Thai field isolates and compared with the publicly available DBP sequences of P. vivax (PvDBP). The complete coding sequences of PkDBPα (n=11), PkDBPβ (n=11), PkDBPγ (n=10) and PcyDBP1 (n=11) were obtained from direct sequencing of the PCR products. Nucleotide diversity of DBP is highly variable across malaria species. PcyDBP1 displayed the greatest level of nucleotide diversity while all PkDBP gene members exhibited comparable levels of diversity. Positive selection occurred in domains I, II and IV of PvDBP and in domain V of PcyDBP1. Although deviation from neutrality was not detected in domain II of PkDBPα, a signature of positive selection was identified in the putative DARC binding site in this domain. The DBP gene families seem to have arisen following the model of concerted evolution because paralogs rather than orthologs are clustered in the phylogenetic tree. The presence of identical or closely related repeats exclusive for the PkDBP gene family suggests that duplication of gene members postdated their divergence from the ancestral PcyDBP and PvDBP lineages. Intragenic recombination was detected in all DBP genes of these malaria species. Despite the limited number of isolates, P. knowlesi from Thailand shared phylogenetically related domain II sequences of both PkDBPα and PkDBPγ with those from Peninsular Malaysia, consistent with their geographic proximity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chaturong Putaporntip
- Molecular Biology of Malaria and Opportunistic Parasites Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Napaporn Kuamsab
- Molecular Biology of Malaria and Opportunistic Parasites Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Somchai Jongwutiwes
- Molecular Biology of Malaria and Opportunistic Parasites Research Unit, Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|