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Renaud EA, Maupin AJM, Bordat Y, Graindorge A, Berry L, Besteiro S. Iron depletion has different consequences on the growth and survival of Toxoplasma gondii strains. Virulence 2024; 15:2329566. [PMID: 38509723 PMCID: PMC10962585 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2329566] [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: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite responsible for a pathology called toxoplasmosis, which primarily affects immunocompromised individuals and developing foetuses. The parasite can scavenge essential nutrients from its host to support its growth and survival. Among them, iron is one of the most important elements needed to sustain basic cellular functions as it is involved in a number of key metabolic processes, including oxygen transport, redox balance, and electron transport. We evaluated the effects of an iron chelator on the development of several parasite strains and found that they differed in their ability to tolerate iron depletion. The growth of parasites usually associated with a model of acute toxoplasmosis was strongly affected by iron depletion, whereas cystogenic strains were less sensitive as they were able to convert into persisting developmental forms that are associated with the chronic form of the disease. Ultrastructural and biochemical characterization of the impact of iron depletion on parasites also highlighted striking changes in both their metabolism and that of the host, with a marked accumulation of lipid droplets and perturbation of lipid homoeostasis. Overall, our study demonstrates that although acute iron depletion has an important effect on the growth of T. gondii, it has a more profound impact on actively dividing parasites, whereas less metabolically active parasite forms may be able to avoid some of the most detrimental consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eléa A. Renaud
- LPHI, University Montpellier, Inserm, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Yann Bordat
- LPHI, University Montpellier, Inserm, CNRS, Montpellier, France
| | | | - Laurence Berry
- LPHI, University Montpellier, Inserm, CNRS, Montpellier, France
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González-Barrio D, Carpio AJ, Preite L, Miguel-Vicedo M, Estévez-Reboredo RM, González-Viadero M, Barba-Sánchez R, Calero-Bernal R, Carmena D, Fuentes I. Toxoplasma gondii exposure in wildlife in Spain: Is there any predictable threat for humans and domestic animals? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 935:173290. [PMID: 38782291 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic zoonosis of key importance in veterinary and public health. This article summarizes the available data (from 2000 to 2023) of exposition to Toxoplasma gondii in wildlife species in Spain based on a systematic bibliographic search, as well as further analysis of its potential relationship with environmental variables, biodiversity, anthropogenic impact on the habitat, and the reported human cases of toxoplasmosis. The overall seroprevalence of T. gondii in carnivorous mammals, birds, ungulate and lagomorph species in Spain was estimated at 69.3 %, 36.4 %, 18.4 %, and 16.2 %, respectively. Among the studies considered, great heterogeneity was observed both between and within taxonomic groups [Cohen's d > 0.8; X2 = 1039.10, df = 4 (p < 0.01) I2 = 97 %, r2 = 1.88, (p < 0.001)] and between and within bioregions [Cohen's d > 0.5; X2 = 368.59, df = 4 (p < 0.01)]. The results of a generalized linear model explaining T. gondii seroprevalence in wild animals suggest the influence of abiotic variables [wetland (p < 0.001), unvegetated (p < 0.001), isothermality (p < 0.001), and mean temperature during wettest quarter (p < 0.05)] and number of intermediate host species as positively associated with increased exposure of wildlife to T. gondii (p < 0.01). Toxoplasma gondii DNA was detected in both wild birds and wild mammals (range: 0.0-51.2 %) mainly from north-centre, northeast, and central-west of Spain. Regarding hospitalisation rates due to toxoplasmosis in humans, some abiotic variables [permanent crops (p < 0.05) and mean temperature during wettest quarter (p < 0.05)] showed a positive association. Despite certain limitations, this research evidences a substantial gap of knowledge on the implication of wildlife in the life cycle of T. gondii in Spain. This lack of knowledge is particularly evident in areas where the human-livestock-wildlife interface overlaps, preventing us from accurately determining its true distribution in different habitats, as well as its potential direct or indirect implications on public and veterinary health.
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Affiliation(s)
- David González-Barrio
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health In-stitute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain.
| | - Antonio J Carpio
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (UCLM-CSIC-JCCM), Ciudad Real, Spain; Department of Botany, Ecology and Plant Physiology, University of Cordoba, Campus de Rabanales, Cordoba, Spain.
| | - Ludovica Preite
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (UCLM-CSIC-JCCM), Ciudad Real, Spain.
| | - Mariola Miguel-Vicedo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health In-stitute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain; PhD Programme in Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, IMIENS, National University of Distance Education (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa M Estévez-Reboredo
- Epidemiological Surveillance Analysis Area, Spanish National Centre for Epidemiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - María González-Viadero
- Epidemiological Surveillance Analysis Area, Spanish National Centre for Epidemiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel Barba-Sánchez
- Epidemiological Surveillance Analysis Area, Spanish National Centre for Epidemiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; The National School of Public Health, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Rafael Calero-Bernal
- SALUVET, Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health In-stitute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain; CIBER Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Health Institute Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Isabel Fuentes
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health In-stitute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain.
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Maisarah A, Mohamad S, Husain M, Abdullah S, Noordin R. Seroprevalence and sociodemographic characteristics of Toxoplasma gondii infection in patients with psychiatric disorders in Malaysia. Acta Trop 2024; 255:107241. [PMID: 38710263 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107241] [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: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a neurotropic protozoan parasite that affects neuronal processing in the brain. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of T. gondii infection in psychiatric disorder patients. We also investigated the potential association between sociodemographic, clinical manifestation, and behavior of Toxoplasma-seropositive patients with psychiatric disorders. Commercial ELISAs (IgG, IgM, and IgG avidity) using serum and PCR using buffy coat were performed on samples from 54 individuals in each of the following groups: patients diagnosed with depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, as well as psychiatrically healthy subjects (control group). They were recruited from the Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia in Kelantan, Malaysia. Of 54 patients with depressive disorder, 24/54 (44.4 %) were seropositive for IgG, and four (16.7 %) were IgG+/IgM+. Among the latter, a high avidity index indicating a past infection was observed in half of the samples (50.0 %), and the other half (50.0 %) showed a low avidity index, indicating a possible recent infection. Meanwhile, 30/54 (55.6 %) patients with bipolar disorder were seropositive for IgG+, five (16.7 %) were IgG+/IgM+, and four of them had a high avidity index, and one had a low avidity index. Patients with schizophrenia showed 29/54 (53.7 %) seropositive for IgG, two of them (6.9 %) were IgG+/IgM+; one of latter had a high avidity index, and one had a low avidity index. Of 54 people in the control group, 37.0 % (20/54) were seropositive for T. gondii IgG antibodies. However, no significant difference was observed in seroprevalence between the control group and each patient group. No PCR-positive results were documented. A Chi-Square and multiple logistic regression showed that age (p = 0.031), close contact with cats/pets (p = 0.033) and contact with soil (p = 0.012) were significantly associated with Toxoplasma seropositivity in patients with psychiatric disorders. Additional research is needed to elucidate the causal relationships and underlying mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alia Maisarah
- School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Suharni Mohamad
- School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia.
| | - Maruzairi Husain
- Department of Psychiatry, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Sarimah Abdullah
- Biostatistics & Research Methodology Unit, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia Health Campus, 16150, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
| | - Rahmah Noordin
- Institute for Research in Molecular Medicine (INFORMM), Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 Penang, Malaysia; Department of Parasitology and Medical Entomology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Qassim HA, Mohammed ST, Muhamed HJ. The impact of miRNA-155 in acute and chronic toxoplasmosis in Iraqi women. Acta Trop 2024; 255:107211. [PMID: 38678844 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107211] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a prevalent parasitic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii known to induce complex immune responses, to control the infection. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a cluster of small noncoding RNAs that are reported to have regulatory functions in the immune response. The objective of this study is to assess the expression of miR-155 and its targets, Src homology-2 domain-containing inositol 5- phosphatase 1 (SHIP-1) and suppressor of cytokine signaling-1 (SOCS1), in non-pregnant Iraqi women seropositive for toxoplasmosis. The study included 55 non-pregnant women positive for toxoplasmosis (20 in the acute phase and 35 in the chronic phase) and 35 non-pregnant women negative for toxoplasmosis (control group). Serum samples were collected from all participants to investigate the expression of miR-155 by RT‒PCR, in addition to the levels of SOCS1 and SHIP-1 measured by ELISA. The results showed a significant increase in the expression of miR-155 in both groups of acute and chronic toxoplasmosis compared to the control group. Lower levels of SOCS1 and SHIP-1 were found in acutely infected women compared to those with chronic infection and non-infected women. These findings showed the possible critical impact of miR-155 on host immune response during T.gondii infection, proposing that miR-155 can be explored as a prospective target to support host immune response against infectious diseases, with special help in early detection and management of toxoplasmosis in high-risk immunocompromised patients. Further studies are needed to evaluate the molecular pathways by which miRNAs improve immunity against toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiba A Qassim
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Al-Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq.
| | - Sabaa T Mohammed
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Al-Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Haider J Muhamed
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Al-Mustansiriyah University, Baghdad, Iraq
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De Santis M, Tartaglia S, Apicella M, Visconti D, Noia G, Valentini P, Lanzone A, Santangelo R, Masini L. The prevention of congenital toxoplasmosis using a combination of Spiramycin and Cotrimoxazole: The long-time experience of a tertiary referral centre. Trop Med Int Health 2024. [PMID: 38842439 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.14021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii and is responsible for gestational and congenital infections worldwide. The current standard therapy is based on the administration of Spiramycin to prevent trans-placental transmission. Other therapies are being studied to reduce the rates of foetal transmission and symptomatic congenital infection. OBJECTIVES We report our long-standing experience in maternal toxoplasmosis infection treatment using a combination of Spiramycin-Cotrimoxazole, assessing its effectiveness in preventing vertical transmission compared to the expected incidence of congenital infection. METHODS We retrospectively collected cases of pregnant women referred to our centre for suspected toxoplasmosis infection according to Lebech criteria, treated with Spiramycin-Cotrimoxazole. RESULTS Of 1364 women referred to our centre, postnatal follow-up of primary toxoplasmosis was available in 562 cases (73.9%). The overall vertical transmission rate was 3.4% in women treated immediately with Spiramycin-Cotrimoxazole after the diagnosis of infection. In comparison, it was 7.7% in women undergoing the same therapy but late or with poor compliance. The foetal transmission rate was 71.4% in untreated cases. All the infected newborns of mother treated adequately with Spiramycin-Cotrimoxazole were asymptomatic afterbirth, while 6/21 infected infants of the inadequate Spiramycin-Cotrimoxazole therapy group had postnatal sequelae (28.5%). The incidence of transmission after appropriate Spiramycin-Cotrimoxazole therapy was significantly lower than the expected rate reported in literature. CONCLUSIONS A combination of Spiramycin and Cotrimoxazole is safe and effective in preventing foetal congenital toxoplasmosis and reducing sequelae in case of in-utero infection. The timing and adherence to the therapy are crucial to lowering the risk of congenital infection and neonatal morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco De Santis
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Rome, Italy
- Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvio Tartaglia
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Daniela Visconti
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Noia
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Rome, Italy
- Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Piero Valentini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Pediatria, Rome, Italy
- Istituto di Clinica Pediatrica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Lanzone
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Rome, Italy
- Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosaria Santangelo
- Dipartimento di Scienze di Laboratorio e Infettivologiche, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, UOC di Microbiologia, Rome, Italy
- Istituto di Microbiologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucia Masini
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Ostetricia e Patologia Ostetrica, Rome, Italy
- Istituto di Clinica Ostetrica e Ginecologica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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Yang D, Wu M, Zou N, Tang Y, Tao Q, Liu L, Jin M, Yu L, Du J, Luo Q, Shen J, Chu D, Qin K. Knockdown of DJ-1 Exacerbates Neuron Apoptosis Induced by TgCtwh3 through the NF-κB Pathway. Mol Neurobiol 2024:10.1007/s12035-024-04265-7. [PMID: 38831169 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-024-04265-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Mutations or loss of function of DJ-1 and Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases, which are often caused by oxidative stress. However, the relationship between DJ-1 and T. gondii infection is not yet fully understood. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the expression of DJ-1 in the hippocampus tissue of mice or in HT22 infected with T. gondii Chinese 1 genotype Wh3 strain (TgCtwh3) and the effect of DJ-1 knockdown on neuronal apoptosis induced by TgCtwh3 tachyzoite, as well as the underlying mechanism at the cellular and molecular level. Firstly, we detected DJ-1 protein expression and cell apoptosis in the hippocampal tissue of mice infected by TgCtwh3. Then, we examined DJ-1 expression and apoptosis in HT22 challenged with TgCtwh3. Finally, we evaluated the apoptosis in HT22 with DJ-1 knockdown which was infected with TgCtwh3 and assayed the expression of NF-κBp65 and p-NF-κBp65. Our results showed that DJ-1 expression was reduced and neurons underwent apoptosis in the hippocampus of mice infected with TgCtwh3 tachyzoites. Additionally, the knockdown of DJ-1 followed by infection with TgCtwh3 tachyzoites led to increased apoptosis in HT22 cells through the NF-κB signaling pathway. Therefore, this study suggests that DJ-1 is an important target for preventing apoptosis caused by T. gondii TgCtwh3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology & Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Minmin Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Nian Zou
- Second School of Clinical Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yiru Tang
- School of Public Health, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Qing Tao
- Center for Translational Medicine, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lei Liu
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Mengmeng Jin
- Maternity and Child Health Hospital of Anhui Province, the Affiliated Maternity and Child Health Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Li Yu
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jian Du
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Qingli Luo
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology & Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jilong Shen
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology & Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Deyong Chu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Microbiology & Parasitology, Anhui Provincial Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions, School of Basic Medicine, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Kunpeng Qin
- Department of Orthopaedics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
- Department of Orthopaedics, Anhui Public Health Clinical Center, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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Khan U, Ali F, Alqasem OA, Elwahab MEA, Khan I, Rahimzai AA. Optimal control strategies for toxoplasmosis disease transmission dynamics via harmonic mean-type incident rate. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12616. [PMID: 38824180 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-63263-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma infection in humans is considered due to direct contact with infected cats. Toxoplasma infection (an endemic disease) has the potential to affect various organs and systems (brain, eyes, heart, lungs, liver, and lymph nodes). Bilinear incidence rate and constant population (birth rate is equal to death rate) are used in the literature to explain the dynamics of Toxoplasmosis disease transmission in humans and cats. The goal of this study is to consider the mathematical model of Toxoplasma disease with harmonic mean type incident rate and also consider that the population of humans and cats is not equal (birth rate and the death rate are not equal). In examining Toxoplasma transmission dynamics in humans and cats, harmonic mean incidence rates are better than bilinear incidence rates. The disease dynamics are first schematically illustrated, and then the law of mass action is applied to obtain nonlinear ordinary differential equations (ODEs). Analysis of the boundedness, positivity, and equilibrium points of the system has been analyzed. The reproduction number is calculated using the next-generation matrix technique. The stability of disease-free and endemic equilibrium are analyzed. Sensitivity analysis is also done for reproduction number. Numerical simulation shows that the infection is spread in the population when the contact rate β h and β c increases while the infection is reduced when the recovery rate δ h increases. This study investigates the impact of various optimal control strategies, such as vaccinations for the control of disease and the awareness of disease awareness, on the management of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usman Khan
- Department of Mathematics, City University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar, 25000, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Farhad Ali
- Department of Mathematics, City University of Science and Information Technology, Peshawar, 25000, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
| | - Ohud A Alqasem
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, College of Science, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, 11671, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Maysaa E A Elwahab
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, College of Science, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, 11671, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ilyas Khan
- Department of Mathematics, College of Science Al-Zulfi, Majmaah University, 11952, Al-Majmaah, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Mathematics, Saveetha School of Engineering, SIMATS, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - Ariana Abdul Rahimzai
- Department of Mathematics, Education Faculty, Laghman University, Mehtarlam City, 2701, Laghman, Afghanistan.
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Nayeri T, Sarvi S, Daryani A. Effective factors in the pathogenesis of Toxoplasmagondii. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31558. [PMID: 38818168 PMCID: PMC11137575 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31558] [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: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a cosmopolitan protozoan parasite in humans and animals. It infects about 30 % of the human population worldwide and causes potentially fatal diseases in immunocompromised hosts and neonates. For this study, five English-language databases (ScienceDirect, ProQuest, Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus) and the internet search engine Google Scholar were searched. This review was accomplished to draw a global perspective of what is known about the pathogenesis of T. gondii and various factors affecting it. Virulence and immune responses can influence the mechanisms of parasite pathogenesis and these factors are in turn influenced by other factors. In addition to the host's genetic background, the type of Toxoplasma strain, the routes of transmission of infection, the number of passages, and different phases of parasite life affect virulence. The identification of virulence factors of the parasite could provide promising insights into the pathogenesis of this parasite. The results of this study can be an incentive to conduct more intensive research to design and develop new anti-Toxoplasma agents (drugs and vaccines) to treat or prevent this infection. In addition, further studies are needed to better understand the key agents in the pathogenesis of T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tooran Nayeri
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Research Center, Dezful University of Medical Sciences, Dezful, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shahabeddin Sarvi
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
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9
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Yao Z, Liang M, Zhu S. Infectious factors in myocarditis: a comprehensive review of common and rare pathogens. Egypt Heart J 2024; 76:64. [PMID: 38789885 PMCID: PMC11126555 DOI: 10.1186/s43044-024-00493-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Myocarditis is a significant health threat today, with infectious agents being the most common cause. Accurate diagnosis of the etiology of infectious myocarditis is crucial for effective treatment. MAIN BODY Infectious myocarditis can be caused by viruses, prokaryotes, parasites, and fungi. Viral infections are typically the primary cause. However, some rare opportunistic pathogens can also damage heart muscle cells in patients with immunodeficiencies, neoplasms and those who have undergone heart surgery. CONCLUSIONS This article reviews research on common and rare pathogens of infectious myocarditis, emphasizing the complexity of its etiology, with the aim of helping clinicians make an accurate diagnosis of infectious myocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongjie Yao
- School of Health and Life Sciences, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qindao, China.
| | - Mingjun Liang
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Shanghai Six People's Hospital Affilicated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Simin Zhu
- Wuhan Third Hospital-Tongren Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Wang F, Holmes MJ, Hong HJ, Thaprawat P, Kannan G, Huynh MH, Schultz TL, Licon MH, Lourido S, Dong W, Brito Querido J, Sullivan WJ, O'Leary SE, Carruthers VB. Translation initiation factor eIF1.2 promotes Toxoplasma stage conversion by regulating levels of key differentiation factors. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4385. [PMID: 38782906 PMCID: PMC11116398 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48685-4] [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: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The parasite Toxoplasma gondii persists in its hosts by converting from replicating tachyzoites to latent bradyzoites housed in tissue cysts. The molecular mechanisms that mediate T. gondii differentiation remain poorly understood. Through a mutagenesis screen, we identified translation initiation factor eIF1.2 as a critical factor for T. gondii differentiation. A F97L mutation in eIF1.2 or the genetic ablation of eIF1.2 (∆eif1.2) markedly impeded bradyzoite cyst formation in vitro and in vivo. We demonstrated, at single-molecule level, that the eIF1.2 F97L mutation impacts the scanning process of the ribosome preinitiation complex on a model mRNA. RNA sequencing and ribosome profiling experiments unveiled that ∆eif1.2 parasites are defective in upregulating bradyzoite induction factors BFD1 and BFD2 during stress-induced differentiation. Forced expression of BFD1 or BFD2 significantly restored differentiation in ∆eif1.2 parasites. Together, our findings suggest that eIF1.2 functions by regulating the translation of key differentiation factors necessary to establish chronic toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengrong Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Michael J Holmes
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Hea Jin Hong
- Department of Biochemistry, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Pariyamon Thaprawat
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Geetha Kannan
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - My-Hang Huynh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Tracey L Schultz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | | | - Sebastian Lourido
- Whitehead Institute, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
- Biology Department, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02142, USA
| | - Wenzhao Dong
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Jailson Brito Querido
- Department of Biological Chemistry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Life Sciences Institute, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
- Center for RNA Biomedicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - William J Sullivan
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| | - Seán E O'Leary
- Department of Biochemistry, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
- Center for RNA Biology and Medicine, University of California Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Vern B Carruthers
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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11
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Jiang Y, Shi Y, Xue Y, Hu D, Song X. AP2XII-1 and AP2XI-2 Suppress Schizogony Gene Expression in Toxoplasma gondii. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5527. [PMID: 38791568 PMCID: PMC11122372 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105527] [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: 03/24/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular parasite that is important in medicine and veterinary science and undergoes distinct developmental transitions in its intermediate and definitive hosts. The switch between stages of T. gondii is meticulously regulated by a variety of factors. Previous studies have explored the role of the microrchidia (MORC) protein complex as a transcriptional suppressor of sexual commitment. By utilizing immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry, constituents of this protein complex have been identified, including MORC, Histone Deacetylase 3 (HDAC3), and several ApiAP2 transcription factors. Conditional knockout of MORC or inhibition of HDAC3 results in upregulation of a set of genes associated with schizogony and sexual stages in T. gondii tachyzoites. Here, our focus extends to two primary ApiAP2s (AP2XII-1 and AP2XI-2), demonstrating their significant impact on the fitness of asexual tachyzoites and their target genes. Notably, the targeted disruption of AP2XII-1 and AP2XI-2 resulted in a profound alteration in merozoite-specific genes targeted by the MORC-HDAC3 complex. Additionally, considerable overlap was observed in downstream gene profiles between AP2XII-1 and AP2XI-2, with AP2XII-1 specifically binding to a subset of ApiAP2 transcription factors, including AP2XI-2. These findings reveal an intricate cascade of ApiAP2 regulatory networks involved in T. gondii schizogony development, orchestrated by AP2XII-1 and AP2XI-2. This study provides valuable insights into the transcriptional regulation of T. gondii growth and development, shedding light on the intricate life cycle of this parasitic pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yucong Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; (Y.J.); (Y.X.); (D.H.)
| | - Yuehong Shi
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning 530004, China;
| | - Yingying Xue
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; (Y.J.); (Y.X.); (D.H.)
| | - Dandan Hu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; (Y.J.); (Y.X.); (D.H.)
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning 530004, China;
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Xingju Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; (Y.J.); (Y.X.); (D.H.)
- Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region Engineering Research Center of Veterinary Biologics, Nanning 530004, China;
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Animal Breeding, Disease Control and Prevention, Nanning 530004, China
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12
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Costagliola G, De Marco E, Massei F, Roberti G, Catena F, Casazza G, Consolini R. The Etiologic Landscape of Lymphoproliferation in Childhood: Proposal for a Diagnostic Approach Exploring from Infections to Inborn Errors of Immunity and Metabolic Diseases. Ther Clin Risk Manag 2024; 20:261-274. [PMID: 38770035 PMCID: PMC11104440 DOI: 10.2147/tcrm.s462996] [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: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Lymphoproliferation is defined by lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, or lymphocytic organ and tissue infiltration. The most common etiologies of lymphoproliferation are represented by infectious diseases and lymphoid malignancies. However, it is increasingly recognized that lymphoproliferative features can be the presenting sign of rare conditions, including inborn errors of immunity (IEI) and inborn errors of metabolism (IEM). Among IEI, lymphoproliferation is frequently observed in autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS) and related disorders, common variable immunodeficiency (CVID), activated phosphoinositide 3-kinase δ syndrome, and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-related disorders. Gaucher disease and Niemann-Pick disease are the most common IEMs that can present with isolated lymphoproliferative features. Notably, other rare conditions, such as sarcoidosis, Castleman disease, systemic autoimmune diseases, and autoinflammatory disorders, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients with persistent lymphoproliferation when infectious and malignant diseases have been reasonably ruled out. The clinical features of lymphoproliferative diseases, as well as the associated clinical findings and data deriving from imaging and first-level laboratory investigations, could significantly help in providing the correct diagnostic suspicion for the underlying etiology. This paper reviews the most relevant diseases associated with lymphoproliferation, including infectious diseases, hematological malignancies, IEI, and IEM. Moreover, some practical indications to orient the initial diagnostic process are provided, and two diagnostic algorithms are proposed for the first-level assessment and the approach to persistent lymphoproliferation, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Costagliola
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Emanuela De Marco
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Francesco Massei
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Giulia Roberti
- Pediatrics Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Catena
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Gabriella Casazza
- Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Pisana, Pisa, 56126, Italy
| | - Rita Consolini
- Section of Clinical and Laboratory Immunology, Pediatric Unit, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, 56126, Italy
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Wang F, Holmes MJ, Hong HJ, Thaprawat P, Kannan G, Huynh MH, Schultz TL, Licon MH, Lourido S, Dong W, Querido JB, Sullivan WJ, O'Leary SE, Carruthers VB. Translation initiation factor eIF1.2 promotes Toxoplasma stage conversion by regulating levels of key differentiation factors. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.11.03.565545. [PMID: 37961607 PMCID: PMC10635126 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.03.565545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
The parasite Toxoplasma gondii persists in its hosts by converting from replicating tachyzoites to latent bradyzoites housed in tissue cysts. The molecular mechanisms that mediate T. gondii differentiation remain poorly understood. Through a mutagenesis screen, we identified translation initiation factor eIF1.2 as a critical factor for T. gondii differentiation. A F97L mutation in eIF1.2 or the genetic ablation of eIF1.2 (Δ eif1.2 ) markedly impeded bradyzoite cyst formation in vitro and in vivo . We demonstrated, at single-molecule level, that the eIF1.2 F97L mutation impacts the scanning process of the ribosome preinitiation complex on a model mRNA. RNA sequencing and ribosome profiling experiments unveiled that Δ eif1.2 parasites are defective in upregulating bradyzoite induction factors BFD1 and BFD2 during stress-induced differentiation. Forced expression of BFD1 or BFD2 significantly restored differentiation in Δ eif1.2 parasites. Together, our findings suggest that eIF1.2 functions by regulating the translation of key differentiation factors necessary to establish chronic toxoplasmosis.
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14
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Mady RF, El-Temsahy MM, Issa YA, Zaghloul AS, Khedr SI. MicroRNA mmu-miR-511-5p: A promising Diagnostic Biomarker in Experimental Toxoplasmosis Using Different Strains and Infective Doses in Mice with Different Immune States Before and After Treatment. Acta Parasitol 2024:10.1007/s11686-024-00851-w. [PMID: 38743178 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00851-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Searching for a novel early diagnostic biomarker for toxoplasmosis, real-time-PCR was currently used to measure the serum mmu-miR-511-5p level in male Swiss-albino mice infected with either; ME49 or RH Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) strains. METHODS Three mice groups were used; (GI) constituted the non-infected control group, while (GII) and (GIII) were experimentally infected with ME49 or RH strains, respectively. GII mice were orally infected using 10 or 20 ME49 cysts (ME-10 and ME-20), both were subdivided into; non-treated (ME-10-NT and ME-20-NT) and were further subdivided into; immunocompetent (ME-10-IC and ME-20-IC) [euthanized 3-days, 1, 2, 6 or 8-weeks post-infection (PI)], and immunosuppressed using two Endoxan® injections (ME-10-IS and ME-20-IS) [euthanized 6- or 8-weeks PI], and spiramycin-treated (ME-10-SP and ME-20-SP) that received daily spiramycin, for one-week before euthanasia. GIII mice individually received 2500 intraperitoneal RH strain tachyzoites, then, were subdivided into; non-treated (RH-NT) [euthanized 3 or 5-days PI], and spiramycin-treated (RH-SP) that were euthanized 5 or 10-days PI (refer to the graphical abstract). RESULTS Revealed significant upregulation of mmu-miR-511-5p in GII, one-week PI, with gradually increased expression, reaching its maximum 8-weeks PI, especially in ME-20-NT group that received the higher infective dose. Immunosuppression increased the upregulation. Contrarily, treatment caused significant downregulation. GIII recorded significant upregulation 3-days PI, yet, treatment significantly decreased this expression. CONCLUSION Serum mmu-miR-511-5p is a sensitive biomarker for early diagnosis of ME49 and RH infection (as early as one-week and 3-days, respectively), and its expression varies according to T. gondii infective dose, duration of infection, spiramycin-treatment and host immune status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasha Fadly Mady
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, 2nd Floor, El Mowasah Medical and Educational Complex, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Mona Mohamed El-Temsahy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, 2nd Floor, El Mowasah Medical and Educational Complex, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Yasmine Amr Issa
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
- Medical Biochemistry, College of Medicine, Arab Academy of Science, Technology and Maritime transport, New Alamein campus, Egypt
| | - Aya Saied Zaghloul
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, 2nd Floor, El Mowasah Medical and Educational Complex, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Safaa Ibrahim Khedr
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, 2nd Floor, El Mowasah Medical and Educational Complex, Alexandria, Egypt.
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15
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Yang L, Wang B, Wu S, Yang Z, Xin Z, Zheng S, Zou W, Zhang C, Chen J, Peng H. Population-based cohort study of Toxoplasma gondii P22 antibody positivity correlation with anxiety. J Affect Disord 2024; 359:41-48. [PMID: 38729222 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2024.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accumulating evidence suggests that latent infection with Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is associated with a variety of neuropsychiatric and behavioral conditions. This research aims to explore the potential correlation between T. gondii antibody positivity and neuropsychiatric disorders through a comprehensive prospective cohort study. METHODS The cohort study utilized the UK Biobank database to recruit 8814 individuals with no prior diagnosis of neuropsychiatric disorders. Cox proportional hazards models were employed to investigate the associations between T. gondii P22 antibody seropositivity (P22+) and the development of various types of neuropsychiatric disorders. RESULTS Of the population, 14.65 % tested positive for T. gondii P22 antibody. The presence of T. gondii P22 antibody showed a slight inverse association with epilepsy (HR: 0.28; 95 % CI: 0.10-0.77), while it was positively associated with an increased risk of developing anxiety disorders (HR: 1.38; 95 % CI: 1.04-1.83). LIMITATIONS The study sample consisted mostly of white British individuals aged 40 to 69 years old. Although we adjusted for potential confounders, there may be other unmeasured and residual confounding factors that could have influenced our reported associations. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggested an increased risk of anxiety and potential evidence of epilepsy associated with T. gondii P22+. However, our analysis did not reveal an increased risk of several other neuropsychiatric conditions including Alzheimer's disease, dementia, substance abuse disorders, depression, and neurodegenerative disorders, associated with P22 antibody seropositivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lili Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Biyun Wang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Shuizhen Wu
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Zihan Yang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Zixuan Xin
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Shuyu Zheng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Weihao Zou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Chi Zhang
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Jiating Chen
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China
| | - Hongjuan Peng
- Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Tropical Diseases Research, School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Infectious Diseases Research in South China, Ministry of Education, Southern Medical University, 1023-1063 South Shatai Rd, Guangzhou city, Guangdong Province 510515, PR China.
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16
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Yao Y, Yuan Y, Sheng S, Li Y, Tang X, Gu H. Observing astrocyte polarization in brains from mouse chronically infected with Toxoplasma gondii. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10433. [PMID: 38714696 PMCID: PMC11076485 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60304-2] [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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a protozoan parasite that infects approximately one-third of the global human population, often leading to chronic infection. While acute T. gondii infection can cause neural damage in the central nervous system and result in toxoplasmic encephalitis, the consequences of T. gondii chronic infection (TCI) are generally asymptomatic. However, emerging evidence suggests that TCI may be linked to behavioral changes or mental disorders in hosts. Astrocyte polarization, particularly the A1 subtype associated with neuronal apoptosis, has been identified in various neurodegenerative diseases. Nevertheless, the role of astrocyte polarization in TCI still needs to be better understood. This study aimed to establish a mouse model of chronic TCI and examine the transcription and expression levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), C3, C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α in the brain tissues of the mice. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and Western blotting were employed to assess these levels. Additionally, the expression level of the A1 astrocyte-specific marker C3 was evaluated using indirect fluorescent assay (IFA). In mice with TCI, the transcriptional and expression levels of the inflammatory factors C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α followed an up-down-up pattern, although they remained elevated compared to the control group. These findings suggest a potential association between astrocyte polarization towards the A1 subtype and synchronized changes in these three inflammatory mediators. Furthermore, immunofluorescence assay (IFA) revealed a significant increase in the A1 astrocytes (GFAP+C3+) proportion in TCI mice. This study provides evidence that TCI can induce astrocyte polarization, a biological process that may be influenced by changes in the levels of three inflammatory factors: C1q, IL-1α, and TNF-α. Additionally, the release of neurotoxic substances by A1 astrocytes may be associated with the development of TCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Yao
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China.
| | - Yaping Yuan
- Department of Medicine, Anhui College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Wuhu, 241002, Anhui, China
| | - Shuyan Sheng
- First Clinical Medical College of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yifan Li
- College of Life Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, 230032, China
| | - Xiaoniu Tang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, 241002, Anhui, China
| | - Hao Gu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
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17
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Teixeira SC, de Souza G, Junior JPDL, Rosini AM, Martínez AFF, Fernandes TADM, Ambrósio SR, Veneziani RCS, Bastos JK, Martins CHG, Barbosa BF, Ferro EAV. Copaifera spp. oleoresins and two isolated compounds (ent-kaurenoic and ent-polyalthic acid) inhibit Toxoplasma gondii growth in vitro. Exp Parasitol 2024; 262:108771. [PMID: 38723847 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2024.108771] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis affects about one-third of the world's population. The disease treatment methods pose several side effects and do not efficiently eliminate the parasite, making the search for new therapeutic approaches necessary. We aimed to assess the anti-Toxoplasma gondii activity of four Copaifera oleoresins (ORs) and two isolated diterpene acids, named ent-kaurenoic and ent-polyalthic acid. We used HeLa cells as an experimental model of toxoplasmosis. Uninfected and infected HeLa cells were submitted to the treatments, and the parasite intracellular proliferation, cytokine levels and ROS production were measured. Also, tachyzoites were pre-treated and the parasite invasion was determined. Finally, an in silico analysis was performed to identify potential parasite targets. Our data show that the non-cytotoxic concentrations of ORs and diterpene acids controlled the invasion and proliferation of T. gondii in HeLa cells, thus highlighting the possible direct action on parasites. In addition, some compounds tested controlled parasite proliferation in an irreversible manner. An additional and non-exclusive mechanism of action involves the modulation of host cell components, by affecting the upregulation of the IL-6. Additionally, molecular docking suggested that ent-polyalthic acid has a high affinity for the active site of the TgCDPK1 protein. Copaifera ORs have great antiparasitic activity against T. gondii, and this effect can be partially explained by the presence of the isolated compounds ent-kaurenoic and ent-polyalthic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Cota Teixeira
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Guilherme de Souza
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Joed Pires de Lima Junior
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Alessandra Monteiro Rosini
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Aryani Felixa Fajardo Martínez
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Sergio Ricardo Ambrósio
- Nucleus of Research in Technological and Exact Sciences, Universidade de Franca, Franca, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Jairo Kenupp Bastos
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences of Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Carlos Henrique Gomes Martins
- Department of Microbiology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Bellisa Freitas Barbosa
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Eloisa Amália Vieira Ferro
- Laboratory of Immunophysiology of Reproduction, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
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18
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Kumar P, Tomita T, Gerken TA, Ballard CJ, Lee YS, Weiss LM, Samara NL. A Toxoplasma gondii O-glycosyltransferase that modulates bradyzoite cyst wall rigidity is distinct from host homologues. Nat Commun 2024; 15:3792. [PMID: 38710711 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48253-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Infection with the apicomplexan protozoan Toxoplasma gondii can be life-threatening in immunocompromised hosts. Transmission frequently occurs through the oral ingestion of T. gondii bradyzoite cysts, which transition to tachyzoites, disseminate, and then form cysts containing bradyzoites in the central nervous system, resulting in latent infection. Encapsulation of bradyzoites by a cyst wall is critical for immune evasion, survival, and transmission. O-glycosylation of the protein CST1 by the mucin-type O-glycosyltransferase T. gondii (Txg) GalNAc-T3 influences cyst wall rigidity and stability. Here, we report X-ray crystal structures of TxgGalNAc-T3, revealing multiple features that are strictly conserved among its apicomplexan homologues. This includes a unique 2nd metal that is coupled to substrate binding and enzymatic activity in vitro and cyst wall O-glycosylation in T. gondii. The study illustrates the divergence of pathogenic protozoan GalNAc-Ts from their host homologues and lays the groundwork for studying apicomplexan GalNAc-Ts as therapeutic targets in disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranav Kumar
- Structural Biochemistry Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Tadakimi Tomita
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, New York, 10461, USA
| | - Thomas A Gerken
- Departments of Biochemistry and Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Collin J Ballard
- Departments of Biochemistry and Chemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, 44106, USA
| | - Yong Sok Lee
- Bioinformatics and Computational Biosciences Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Louis M Weiss
- Department of Pathology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, New York, 10461, USA
- Department of Medicine (Infectious Disease), Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx 1300 Morris Park Avenue, New York, 10461, USA
| | - Nadine L Samara
- Structural Biochemistry Unit, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, NIH, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
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Rutenberg D, Zhang Y, Montoya JG, Sinnott J, Contopoulos-Ioannidis DG. The Meat of the Matter. N Engl J Med 2024; 390:1612-1618. [PMID: 38692295 DOI: 10.1056/nejmcps2311297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- David Rutenberg
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida (D.R., Y.Z., J.S.), and the Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute (Y.Z.) - both in Tampa; and the Dr. Jack S. Remington Laboratory for Specialty Diagnostics, Palo Alto Medical Foundation, Palo Alto (J.G.M., D.G.C.-I.), and the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford (D.G.C.-I.) - both in California
| | - Yumeng Zhang
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida (D.R., Y.Z., J.S.), and the Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute (Y.Z.) - both in Tampa; and the Dr. Jack S. Remington Laboratory for Specialty Diagnostics, Palo Alto Medical Foundation, Palo Alto (J.G.M., D.G.C.-I.), and the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford (D.G.C.-I.) - both in California
| | - Jose G Montoya
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida (D.R., Y.Z., J.S.), and the Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute (Y.Z.) - both in Tampa; and the Dr. Jack S. Remington Laboratory for Specialty Diagnostics, Palo Alto Medical Foundation, Palo Alto (J.G.M., D.G.C.-I.), and the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford (D.G.C.-I.) - both in California
| | - John Sinnott
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida (D.R., Y.Z., J.S.), and the Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute (Y.Z.) - both in Tampa; and the Dr. Jack S. Remington Laboratory for Specialty Diagnostics, Palo Alto Medical Foundation, Palo Alto (J.G.M., D.G.C.-I.), and the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford (D.G.C.-I.) - both in California
| | - Despina G Contopoulos-Ioannidis
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease and International Medicine, Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida (D.R., Y.Z., J.S.), and the Department of Malignant Hematology, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute (Y.Z.) - both in Tampa; and the Dr. Jack S. Remington Laboratory for Specialty Diagnostics, Palo Alto Medical Foundation, Palo Alto (J.G.M., D.G.C.-I.), and the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford (D.G.C.-I.) - both in California
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20
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Fernandes KA, Lim AI. Maternal-driven immune education in offspring. Immunol Rev 2024; 323:288-302. [PMID: 38445769 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13315] [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] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Maternal environmental exposures, particularly during gestation and lactation, significantly influence the immunological development and long-term immunity of offspring. Mammalian immune systems develop through crucial inputs from the environment, beginning in utero and continuing after birth. These critical developmental windows are essential for proper immune system development and, once closed, may not be reopened. This review focuses on the mechanisms by which maternal exposures, particularly to pathogens, diet, and microbiota, impact offspring immunity. Mechanisms driving maternal-offspring immune crosstalk include transfer of maternal antibodies, changes in the maternal microbiome and microbiota-derived metabolites, and transfer of immune cells and cytokines via the placenta and breastfeeding. We further discuss the role of transient maternal infections, which are common during pregnancy, in providing tissue-specific immune education to offspring. We propose a "maternal-driven immune education" hypothesis, which suggests that offspring can use maternal encounters that occur during a critical developmental window to develop optimal immune fitness against infection and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ai Ing Lim
- Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
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21
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Aerts R, Mehra V, Groll AH, Martino R, Lagrou K, Robin C, Perruccio K, Blijlevens N, Nucci M, Slavin M, Bretagne S, Cordonnier C. Guidelines for the management of Toxoplasma gondii infection and disease in patients with haematological malignancies and after haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation: guidelines from the 9th European Conference on Infections in Leukaemia, 2022. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 24:e291-e306. [PMID: 38134949 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(23)00495-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Patients with haematological malignancies might develop life-threatening toxoplasmosis, especially after allogeneic haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (HSCT). Reactivation of latent cysts is the primary mechanism of toxoplasmosis following HSCT; hence, patients at high risk are those who were seropositive before transplantation. The lack of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis and various immune status parameters of the patient are other associated risk factors. The mortality of toxoplasma disease-eg, with organ involvement-can be particularly high in this setting. We have developed guidelines for managing toxoplasmosis in haematology patients, through a literature review and consultation with experts. In allogeneic HSCT recipients seropositive for Toxoplasma gondii before transplant, because T gondii infection mostly precedes toxoplasma disease, we propose weekly blood screening by use of quantitative PCR (qPCR) to identify infection early as a pre-emptive strategy. As trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole prophylaxis might fail, prophylaxis and qPCR screening should be combined. However, PCR in blood can be negative even in toxoplasma disease. The duration of prophylaxis should be a least 6 months and extended during treatment-induced immunosuppression or severe CD4 lymphopenia. If a positive qPCR test occurs, treatment with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, pyrimethamine-sulfadiazine, or pyrimethamine-clindamycin should be started, and a new sample taken. If the second qPCR test is negative, clinical judgement is recommended to either continue or stop therapy and restart prophylaxis. Therapy must be continued until a minimum of two negative PCRs for infection, or for at least 6 weeks for disease. The pre-emptive approach is not indicated in seronegative HSCT recipients, after autologous transplantation, or in non-transplant haematology patients, but PCR should be performed with a high level of clinical suspicion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robina Aerts
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Transplantation, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Varun Mehra
- Department of Haematological Medicine, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Andreas H Groll
- Infectious Disease Research Program, Center for Bone Marrow Transplantation and Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Rodrigo Martino
- Servei d'Hematologia, Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Katrien Lagrou
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Christine Robin
- Department of Haematology, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Henri Mondor Hospital, Créteil, France
| | - Katia Perruccio
- Pediatric Oncology Hematology, Mother and Child Health Department, Santa Maria della Misericordia Hospital, Perugia, Italy
| | - Nicole Blijlevens
- Department of Haematology, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Marcio Nucci
- Department of Internal Medicine, University Hospital, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Monica Slavin
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Stéphane Bretagne
- Université Paris Cité, and Parasitology and Mycology laboratory, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Saint Louis Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Catherine Cordonnier
- Department of Haematology, Assistance Publique des Hôpitaux de Paris, Henri Mondor Hospital, Créteil, France; University Paris-Est-Créteil, Créteil, France.
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22
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Elblihy AA, El-Ghannam S, Mohamed SZ, Hamouda MM, El-Ashry AH, Habib S. Helicobacter pylori-Toxoplasma gondii interplay with a possible role of IL-10. Acta Trop 2024; 253:107161. [PMID: 38417648 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2024.107161] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
Parasites are known for their modulatory effects on the immune response. The impact of toxoplasmosis on the immune response towards H. pylori is being studied in terms of IL-10 levels. This study included 110 patients suffering from persistent dyspepsia and 50 apparently healthy controls. Stool samples were collected and tested for H. pylori using colloidal gold one step test. Sera were examined for anti-Toxoplasma IgM and IgG using ELISA. IL-10 was also tested in the sera using ELISA. We found that Toxoplasma IgM and IgG tested positive in 1.8 % and 40 % of H. pylori positive patients, respectively. H. pylori-infected patients displayed higher IL-10 levels than the healthy controls (84 versus 0.59 pg/ml, respectively, P < 0.001). Classification of H. pylori positive patients according to Toxoplasma IgG titers yielded three groups: negative (58, 52.7 %), equivocal (8, 7.3 %), and positive (44, 40 %) groups, with the highest IL-10 levels detected in the double positive than the negative and the equivocal group (215 pg/ml versus 43 and 112.5 pg/ml, respectively, P < 0.001). There was strong positive correlation between Toxoplasma IgG titers and IL-10 levels (rs = 0.82, P < 0.001). Toxoplasma enhances IL-10 production in response to H. pylori infection. This could ameliorate the inflammatory response in the gastric mucosa, and subsequently more colonization with the H. pylori is achieved, resulting in persistent infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayat A Elblihy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt; Program of Medicine and surgery, Mansoura National University, Gamasa City, Egypt.
| | - Shreief El-Ghannam
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, New Damietta, Egypt
| | - Sherin Z Mohamed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Horus University, New Damietta, Egypt
| | - Marwa M Hamouda
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Amira H El-Ashry
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine. Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Samar Habib
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt; Department of Oral Biology and Diagnostic Sciences, The Dental College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA; DCG Center for Excellence in Research, Scholarship, and Innovation (CERSI), Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
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23
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Malek AE, Al-Juhaishi T, Milton DR, Ramdial JL, Daher M, Olson AL, Srour SA, Alatrash G, Oran B, Mehta RS, Khouri IF, Bashir Q, Shah N, Ciurea SO, Rondon G, Maadani F, Hosing C, Marin D, Kebriaei P, Rezvani K, Nieto Y, Anderlini P, Alousi AM, Faisal MS, Qazilbash MH, Popat UR, Champlin RE, Shpall EJ, Mulanovich VE, Ahmed S. Outcomes of toxoplasmosis after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and the role of antimicrobial prophylaxis. Bone Marrow Transplant 2024; 59:699-704. [PMID: 38355908 DOI: 10.1038/s41409-024-02238-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre E Malek
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control, and Employee Health, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- Department of Medicine- Division of Infectious Diseases, Louisiana State University Health Shreveport, Shreveport, LA, USA
| | - Taha Al-Juhaishi
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
- OU Stephenson Cancer Center, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Department of Medicine-Section of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
| | - Denái R Milton
- Department of Biostatistics, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jeremy L Ramdial
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - May Daher
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Amanda L Olson
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Samer A Srour
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Gheath Alatrash
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Betul Oran
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Rohtesh S Mehta
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Issa F Khouri
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Qaiser Bashir
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nina Shah
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Stefan O Ciurea
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Gabriela Rondon
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Farzaneh Maadani
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Chitra Hosing
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - David Marin
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Partow Kebriaei
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Katayoun Rezvani
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yago Nieto
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Paolo Anderlini
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Amin M Alousi
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Muhammad Salman Faisal
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Muzaffar H Qazilbash
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Uday R Popat
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Richard E Champlin
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Elizabeth J Shpall
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Victor E Mulanovich
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Infection Control, and Employee Health, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Sairah Ahmed
- Department of Stem Cell Transplantation and Cellular Therapy, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA.
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24
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Greig J, Bamford A, Chadwick D, Darley A, Gamoudi D, Palit J. British HIV Association guidelines on the management of opportunistic infection in people living with HIV: Considerations in pregnancy 2024. HIV Med 2024; 25 Suppl 3:3-19. [PMID: 38811357 DOI: 10.1111/hiv.13645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- J Greig
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - A Bamford
- Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - D Chadwick
- Centre for Clinical Infection, James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, UK
| | - A Darley
- Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, UK
| | | | - J Palit
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, UK
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25
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Grada S, Mihu AG, Oatis DA, Marc CC, Chicea LM, Petrescu C, Lupu AM, Olariu TR. Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Toxoplasma gondii in Patients Diagnosed with Schizophrenia: A Case-Control Cross Sectional Study. Biomedicines 2024; 12:998. [PMID: 38790960 PMCID: PMC11117935 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12050998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
The protozoan parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, has been linked to several psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of T. gondii IgG antibodies and risk factors associated with seroprevalence in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia. This seroepidemiological study assessed 196 participants, divided into two groups. The study group consisted of 98 schizophrenic patients and was matched with 98 healthy blood donors. A questionnaire was used to gather information regarding potential risk factors associated with T. gondii seroprevalence. Results revealed a higher seroprevalence of T. gondii IgG antibodies in schizophrenic patients (69.39%, 68/98) when compared to healthy controls (51.02%, 50/98) (OR: 2.18; 95% CI: 1.21-3.9; p = 0.01). Patients with schizophrenia who consumed raw or undercooked meat (80.65%, 25/31) (OR: 3.75; 95% CI: 1.25-11.21, p = 0.02) and those with a lower educational level (77.59%, 45/58) (OR: 3.5; 95% CI: 1.59-7.54, p = 0.002) presented increased T. gondii seropositivity rates versus their control counterparts. Our findings indicate a high T. gondii IgG seroprevalence in patients diagnosed with schizophrenia compared to healthy blood donors. Factors associated with T. gondii seroprevalence were consumption of raw or uncooked meat and a lower educational attainment. This study provided the first data regarding the potential risk factors for toxoplasmosis in Romanian patients diagnosed with schizophrenia and may serve as a foundation for future research and the development of preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Grada
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Disease, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.G.); (T.R.O.)
- Center for Diagnosis and Study of Parasitic Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Alin Gabriel Mihu
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 86 Rebreanu, 310414 Arad, Romania;
- Department of Biology and Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University, 310300 Arad, Romania
- Patogen Preventia, 300124 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Daniela Adriana Oatis
- “Aurel Ardelean” Institute of Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 86 Rebreanu, 310414 Arad, Romania;
- Department of Infectious Disease, Faculty of Medicine, Vasile Goldis Western University, 310300 Arad, Romania
| | - Constantin Catalin Marc
- Center for Diagnosis and Study of Parasitic Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Department of Biology and Life Sciences, Vasile Goldis Western University, 310300 Arad, Romania
| | - Liana Maria Chicea
- Department II Medical Clinic, “Victor Papilian” Faculty of Medicine, Lucian Blaga University of Sibiu, 550024 Sibiu, Romania;
- Internal Medicine Department, Academic Emergency Hospital, 550245 Sibiu, Romania
| | - Cristina Petrescu
- Discipline of Hygiene, Department of Microbiology, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Alina Maria Lupu
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Disease, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.G.); (T.R.O.)
- Center for Diagnosis and Study of Parasitic Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Patogen Preventia, 300124 Timisoara, Romania
- Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases, 300310 Timisoara, Romania
| | - Tudor Rares Olariu
- Discipline of Parasitology, Department of Infectious Disease, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (S.G.); (T.R.O.)
- Center for Diagnosis and Study of Parasitic Diseases, “Victor Babes” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania;
- Patogen Preventia, 300124 Timisoara, Romania
- Clinical Laboratory, Municipal Clinical Emergency Teaching Hospital, 300254 Timisoara, Romania
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26
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Ngathaweesuk Y, Hendrikse J, Groot-Mijnes JDFD, de Boer JH, Hettinga YM. Causes of infectious pediatric uveitis: A review. Surv Ophthalmol 2024; 69:483-494. [PMID: 38182040 DOI: 10.1016/j.survophthal.2023.12.003] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Infectious pediatric uveitis is a rare disease that can cause severe ocular damage if not detected rapidly and treated properly. Additionally, early identification of an infection can protect the child from life-threatening systemic infection. Infectious uveitis can be congenital or acquired and may manifest as a primary ocular infection or as a reactivation. Nevertheless, publications on infectious paediatric uveitis are usually limited to a small number of patients or a case report. So far, most studies on uveitis in children have focused primarily on noninfectious uveitis, and a systematic study on infectious uveitis is lacking. In this review, we summarize the literature on infectious uveitis in pediatric populations and report on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical signs, diagnostic tests, and treatment. We will describe the different possible pathogens causing uveitis in childhood by microbiological group (i.e. parasites, viruses, bacteria, and fungi). We aim to contribute to early diagnosis and management of infectious pediatric uveitis, which in turn might improve not only visual outcome, but also the general health outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaninsiri Ngathaweesuk
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Ophthalmology, Phramongkutklao Hospital, Phramongkutklao College of Medicine, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Jytte Hendrikse
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - Jolanda Dorothea Francisca de Groot-Mijnes
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Joke Helena de Boer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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27
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Ye H, Zhou X, Zhu B, Xiong T, Huang W, He F, Li H, Chen L, Tang L, Ren Z. Toxoplasma gondii suppresses proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells by regulating their transcriptome. Cancer Cell Int 2024; 24:144. [PMID: 38654350 DOI: 10.1186/s12935-024-03333-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) has shown anticancer activity in breast cancer mouse models, and exerted beneficial effect on the survival of breast cancer patients, but the mechanism was unclear. METHODS The effect of tachyzoites of T. gondii (RH and ME49 strains) on human breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells) proliferation and migration was assessed using cell growth curve and wound healing assays. Dual RNA-seq was performed for T. gondii-infected and non-infected cells to determine the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and Protein-Protein Interaction Networks analysis (PPI) were performed to explore the related signaling pathway and hub genes. Hub genes were validated using the Kaplan-Meier plotter database, and Pathogen Host Interaction (PHI-base) database. The results were verified by qRT-PCR. RESULTS The tachyzoites of T. gondii decreased the expression of Ki67 and increased the expression of E-cadherin, resulting in suppressing the proliferation and migration of infected human breast cancer cells. The inhibitory effect of T. gondii on breast cancer cells showed a significant dose-response relationship. Compared with the control group, 2321 genes were transcriptionally regulated in MCF-7 cells infected with T. gondii, while 169 genes were transcriptionally regulated in infected MDA-MB-231 cells. Among these genes, 698 genes in infected MCF-7 cells and 67 genes in infected MDA-MB-231 cells were validated by the publicly available database. GO and KEGG analyses suggested that several pathways were involved in anticancer function of T. gondii, such as ribosome, interleukin-17 signaling, coronavirus disease pathway, and breast cancer pathway. BRCA1, MYC and IL-6 were identified as the top three hub genes in infected-breast cancer cells based on the connectivity of PPI analysis. In addition, after interacting with breast cancer cells, the expression of ROP16 and ROP18 in T. gondii increased, while the expression of crt, TgIST, GRA15, GRA24 and MIC13 decreased. CONCLUSIONS T. gondii transcriptionally regulates several signaling pathways by altering the hub genes such as BRCA1, MYC and IL-6, which can inhibit the breast tumor growth and migration, hinting at a potential therapeutic strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengming Ye
- The School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangzhou, China
- Public Health Service Center of Bao'an District, Shenzhen, 518102, China
| | - Xiaotao Zhou
- Public Health Service Center of Bao'an District, Shenzhen, 518102, China
| | - Bike Zhu
- Public Health Service Center of Bao'an District, Shenzhen, 518102, China
| | - Tiantian Xiong
- Public Health Service Center of Bao'an District, Shenzhen, 518102, China
| | - Weile Huang
- Public Health Service Center of Bao'an District, Shenzhen, 518102, China
| | - Feng He
- Public Health Service Center of Bao'an District, Shenzhen, 518102, China
| | - Hui Li
- Public Health Service Center of Bao'an District, Shenzhen, 518102, China
| | - Lihua Chen
- Shenzhen Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine (Futian), Shenzhen, 518034, China
| | - Luying Tang
- The Third Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510630, China
| | - Zefang Ren
- The School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, 74 Zhongshan 2nd Rd, Guangzhou, 510080, Guangzhou, China.
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Bashour N, Aminpour A, Vazifehkhah S, Jafari R. Seromolecular study on the prevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection in pregnant women referred to a gynecology hospital in Urmia, northwest part of Iran in 2022. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:410. [PMID: 38632544 PMCID: PMC11022385 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09265-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a frequent infection among the human population. The infection can cause devastating complications for the fetus during pregnancy. The present study aimed to determine the serological and molecular prevalence of the infection and molecular characterization of Toxoplasma gondii isolates among pregnant women referred to Kowsar Hospital, Urmia, Iran. In a cross-sectional study, 340 blood samples were collected from pregnant women referred to Kowsar Hospital, Urmia, Iran from May to July 2022. Anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM seropositivity were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. PCR was carried out by targeting the GRA6 gene of the parasite on all patients' buffy coats. Anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies were positive in two (0.6%) women, and 101 (29.7%) women had anti-T. gondii IgG and 70.3% were seronegative. PCR was positive in two IgM-positive women, and both isolates belonged to T. gondii carrying the GRA6 allele of lineage I. The risk of infection was significantly higher in women who had constant contact with cats and soil, and who were residents of rural areas. The two IgM-positive women were asymptomatic regarding acute toxoplasmosis. According to the results of the present study, the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women in Urmia is similar to its prevalence in other areas in northwestern Iran, and despite the low prevalence of acute infection, it should not be ignored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Bashour
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Arash Aminpour
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Shabnam Vazifehkhah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Rasool Jafari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran.
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Carranza-Rodríguez C, Bolaños-Rivero M, Pérez-Arellano JL. Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Humans: A Comprehensive Approach Involving the General Population, HIV-Infected Patients and Intermediate-Duration Fever in the Canary Islands, Spain. Diagnostics (Basel) 2024; 14:809. [PMID: 38667455 PMCID: PMC11049236 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics14080809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
A prior investigation in 1993 identified a high seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis (63%) in the Canary Islands. This study aims to assess the current prevalence of the disease in diverse population groups. The study was based on a population-scale screening involving 273 residents utilizing T. gondii IgG ELISA and a 20 year retrospective study (1998-2018). This included AIDS/HIV outpatients (1357, of which 324 were residents), AIDS/HIV hospitalized patients (741) and patients with fever of intermediate duration (158). The seroprevalence in the resident population was 37%, with significant differences between islands. Among resident outpatients with AIDS/HIV, 14.2% had specific anti-T. gondii IgG, and three had anti-T. gondii IgM; however, IgG avidity testing indicated non-active infection. In patients hospitalized for AIDS/HIV, T. gondii causing encephalitis was detected in 2%. Among patients with fever of intermediate duration, 28.5% were positive for T. gondii IgG, and four also showed IgM positivity, although the infection was non-active. The study reveals a decrease in human toxoplasmosis over the past 30 years. However, the current seroprevalence, which stands at 37%, together with the substantial risk that T. gondii represents for immunocompromised individuals, highlights the need to implement preventive and control strategies to control the threat that this infection can pose to public health in the Canary Islands population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Carranza-Rodríguez
- University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain and Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, 35016 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain;
| | - Margarita Bolaños-Rivero
- Microbiology Division, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario Insular Materno Infantil, 35016 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain;
| | - José-Luis Pérez-Arellano
- University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain and Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, 35016 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain;
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Carruthers VB, Dou Z. Deciphering protein prenylation in endocytic trafficking in Toxoplasma gondii. mBio 2024; 15:e0028324. [PMID: 38407123 PMCID: PMC11005354 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00283-24] [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] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread intracellular protozoan pathogen infecting virtually all warm-blooded animals. This parasite acquires host-derived resources to support its replication inside a membrane-bound parasitophorous vacuole within infected host cells. Previous research has discovered that Toxoplasma actively endocytoses host proteins and transports them to a lysosome-equivalent structure for digestion. However, few molecular determinants required for trafficking of host-derived material within the parasite were known. A recent study (Q.-Q. Wang, M. Sun, T. Tang, D.-H. Lai, et al., mBio 14:e01309-23, 2023, https://doi.org/10.1128/mbio.01309-23) identified a critical role for membrane anchoring of proteins via prenylation in the trafficking of endocytosed host proteins by Toxoplasma, including an essential Toxoplasma ortholog of Rab1B. The authors also found that TgRab1 is crucial for protein trafficking of the rhoptry secretory organelles, indicating a dual role in endocytic and exocytic protein trafficking. This study sets the stage for further dissecting endomembrane trafficking in Toxoplasma, along with potentially exploiting protein prenylation as a target for therapeutic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vern B. Carruthers
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Zhicheng Dou
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA
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Guitard J, Brenier-Pinchart MP, Varlet-Marie E, Dalle F, Rouges C, Argy N, Bonhomme J, Capitaine A, Guégan H, Lavergne RA, Dardé ML, Pelloux H, Robert-Gangneux F, Yera H, Sterkers Y. Multicenter evaluation of the Toxoplasma gondii Real-TM (Sacace) kit performance for the molecular diagnosis of toxoplasmosis. J Clin Microbiol 2024; 62:e0142823. [PMID: 38470023 PMCID: PMC11005372 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.01428-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
The molecular detection of Toxoplasma gondii DNA is a key tool for the diagnosis of disseminated and congenital toxoplasmosis. This multicentric study from the Molecular Biology Pole of the French National Reference Center for toxoplasmosis aimed to evaluate Toxoplasma gondii Real-TM PCR kit (Sacace). The study compared the analytical and clinical performances of this PCR assay with the reference PCRs used in proficient laboratories. PCR efficiencies varied from 90% to 112%; linearity zone extended over four log units (R2 > 0.99) and limit of detection varied from 0.01 to ≤1 Tg/mL depending on the center. Determined on 173 cryopreserved DNAs from a large range of clinical specimens, clinical sensitivity was 100% [106/106; 95 confidence interval (CI): 96.5%-100%] and specificity was 100% (67/67; 95 CI: 94.6%-100%). The study revealed two potential limitations of the Sacace PCR assay: the first was the inconsistency of the internal control (IC) when added to the PCR mixture. This point was not found under routine conditions when the IC was added during the extraction step. The second is a lack of practicality, as the mixture is distributed over several vials, requiring numerous pipetting operations. Overall, this study provides useful information for the molecular diagnosis of toxoplasmosis; the analytical and clinical performances of the Sacace PCR kit were satisfactory, the kit having sensitivity and specificity similar to those of expert center methods and being able to detect low parasite loads, at levels where multiplicative analysis gives inconsistently positive results. Finally, the study recommends multiplicative analysis in particular for amniotic fluids, aqueous humor, and other single specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette Guitard
- Sorbonne University, INSERM, Centre de Recherche Saint-Antoine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Saint-Antoine Hospital Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, Paris, France
- Molecular Biology group of the French National Reference Center for Toxoplasmosis, Montpellier, France
| | - Marie-Pierre Brenier-Pinchart
- Molecular Biology group of the French National Reference Center for Toxoplasmosis, Montpellier, France
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
| | - Emmanuelle Varlet-Marie
- Molecular Biology group of the French National Reference Center for Toxoplasmosis, Montpellier, France
- Department of Parasitology-Mycology, University of Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, University Hospital Center (CHU) of Montpellier, MiVEGEC, Montpellier, France
| | - Frédéric Dalle
- Molecular Biology group of the French National Reference Center for Toxoplasmosis, Montpellier, France
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, CHU Dijon, Dijon, France
| | - Celia Rouges
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Argy
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, Bichat Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Julie Bonhomme
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, CHU Caen Normandie, Caen, France
| | - Agathe Capitaine
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, CHU Caen Normandie, Caen, France
| | - Hélène Guégan
- Molecular Biology group of the French National Reference Center for Toxoplasmosis, Montpellier, France
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Rose-Anne Lavergne
- Nantes Université, CHU Nantes, Cibles et Médicaments des Infections et de l’Immunité, IICiMed, UR, Nantes, France
| | | | - Hervé Pelloux
- Molecular Biology group of the French National Reference Center for Toxoplasmosis, Montpellier, France
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, CHU Grenoble Alpes, Grenoble Alpes University, Grenoble, France
| | - Florence Robert-Gangneux
- Molecular Biology group of the French National Reference Center for Toxoplasmosis, Montpellier, France
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, CHU Rennes, Rennes, France
| | - Hélène Yera
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, CHU Limoges, Limoges, France
| | - Yvon Sterkers
- Molecular Biology group of the French National Reference Center for Toxoplasmosis, Montpellier, France
- Parasitology-Mycology Laboratory, Cochin Hospital, Paris, France
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Abdoli A, Ghaffarifar F, Sharifi Z, Taghipour A. Toxoplasma gondii infection and testosterone alteration: A systematic review and meta-analyses. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297362. [PMID: 38568993 PMCID: PMC10990213 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a worldwide distributed protozoan parasite which has infected a wide range of warm-blooded animals and humans. The most common form of T. gondii infection is asymptomatic (latent); nevertheless, latent toxoplasmosis can induce various alterations of sex hormones, especially testosterone, in infected humans and animals. On the other hand, testosterone is involved in behavioral traits and reproductive functions in both sexes. Hence, the purpose of this systematic review is to summarize the available evidence regarding the association between T. gondii infection and testosterone alteration. METHODS In the setting of a systematic review, an electronic search (any date to 10 January 2023) without language restrictions was performed using Science Direct, Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The PRISMA guidelines were followed. Following the initial search, a total of 12,306 titles and abstracts were screened initially; 12,281 were excluded due to the lack of eligibility criteria or duplication. Finally, 24 articles met the included criteria. A mean±standard deviation (SD) was calculated to assess the difference of testosterone between T. gondii positive and T. gondii negative humans. The possibility of publication bias was assessed using Egger's regression. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS This systematic review identified 24 articles (18 studies in humans and six studies in animals). Most human studies (13 out of 19) reported an increased level of testosterone following latent toxoplasmosis in males, while three studies reported decreased levels and two studies reported an insignificant change. Eleven articles (seven datasets in males and seven datasets in females) were eligible to be included in the data synthesis. Based on the random-effects model, the pooled mean± SD of testosterone in T. gondii positive than T. gondii negative was increased by 0.73 and 0.55 units in males and females, respectively. The Egger's regression did not detect a statistically significant publication bias in males and females (p = value = 0.95 and 0.71), respectively. Three studies in male animals (rats, mice, and spotted hyenas) and two studies in female animals (mice and spotted hyenas) reported a decline in testosterone in infected compared with non-infected animals. While, one study in female rats reported no significant changes of testosterone in infected than non-infected animals. Moreover, two studies in male rats reported an increased level of testosterone in infected than non-infected animals. CONCLUSIONS This study provides new insights about the association between T. gondii infection and testosterone alteration and identifies relevant data gaps that can inform and encourage further studies. The consequence of increased testosterone levels following T. gondii infection could partly be associated with increased sexual behavior and sexual transmission of the parasite. On the other hand, declining testosterone levels following T. gondii infection may be associated with male reproductive impairments, which were observed in T. gondii-infected humans and animals. Furthermore, these findings suggest the great need for more epidemiological and experimental investigations in depth to understand the relationship between T. gondii infection and testosterone alteration alongside with future consequences of testosterone alteration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Abdoli
- Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Ghaffarifar
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zohreh Sharifi
- Blood Transfusion Research Center, High Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Taghipour
- Zoonoses Research Center, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Jahrom University of Medical Sciences, Jahrom, Iran
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Rahman SU, Weng TN, Qadeer A, Nawaz S, Ullah H, Chen CC. Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and their potential therapeutic role in protozoan infections. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1339470. [PMID: 38633251 PMCID: PMC11022163 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1339470] [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: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Protozoa exert a serious global threat of growing concern to human, and animal, and there is a need for the advancement of novel therapeutic strategies to effectively treat or mitigate the impact of associated diseases. Omega polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-PUFAs), including Omega-3 (ω-3) and omega-6 (ω-6), are constituents derived from various natural sources, have gained significant attention for their therapeutic role in parasitic infections and a variety of essential structural and regulatory functions in animals and humans. Both ω-3 and ω-6 decrease the growth and survival rate of parasites through metabolized anti-inflammatory mediators, such as lipoxins, resolvins, and protectins, and have both in vivo and in vitro protective effects against various protozoan infections. The ω-PUFAs have been shown to modulate the host immune response by a commonly known mechanism such as (inhibition of arachidonic acid (AA) metabolic process, production of anti-inflammatory mediators, modification of intracellular lipids, and activation of the nuclear receptor), and promotion of a shift towards a more effective immune defense against parasitic invaders by regulation the inflammation like prostaglandins, leukotrienes, thromboxane, are involved in controlling the inflammatory reaction. The immune modulation may involve reducing inflammation, enhancing phagocytosis, and suppressing parasitic virulence factors. The unique properties of ω-PUFAs could prevent protozoan infections, representing an important area of study. This review explores the clinical impact of ω-PUFAs against some protozoan infections, elucidating possible mechanisms of action and supportive therapy for preventing various parasitic infections in humans and animals, such as toxoplasmosis, malaria, coccidiosis, and chagas disease. ω-PUFAs show promise as a therapeutic approach for parasitic infections due to their direct anti-parasitic effects and their ability to modulate the host immune response. Additionally, we discuss current treatment options and suggest perspectives for future studies. This could potentially provide an alternative or supplementary treatment option for these complex global health problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajid Ur Rahman
- School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Anhui Agricultural University, Hefei, China
| | - Tzu-Nin Weng
- Department of Stomatology, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
| | - Abdul Qadeer
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Department of Cell Biology, School of Life Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Saqib Nawaz
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hanif Ullah
- Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai, China
- West China Hospital, School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Chien-Chin Chen
- Department of Pathology, Ditmanson Medical Foundation Chia-Yi Christian Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan
- Department of Cosmetic Science, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioindustry Sciences, College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Doctoral Program in Translational Medicine, Rong Hsing Research Center for Translational Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan
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Yang Z, Yuan H, Nie L, Wen Q, Li H, Yang L, Song Y, Luo X, Zhang XX, Yuan ZG. Deciphering the epidemiological dynamics: Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence in mainland China's food animals, 2010-2023. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1381537. [PMID: 38633748 PMCID: PMC11021580 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1381537] [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: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a significant protozoan pathogen among food animals. Despite the threat to public health by T. gondii infections, there's limited understanding of its seroprevalence and trends in food animals across mainland China. This study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of T. gondii infections among swine, sheep, goats, chickens, and cattle in mainland China from 2010 to 2023. Methods We searched cross-sectional studies published between 2010 and 2023 that reported the prevalence of T. gondii in food animals from databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China Biology Medicine Disc (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang data, and the China Science and Technology Journal Database (CQVIP). We performed subgroup analyses to explore the impact of different factors on the seroprevalence of T. gondii. Pooled estimates of T. gondii seroprevalence were calculated with a random-effects model. Results An analysis of 184 studies involving 211985 animals revealed a T. gondii overall seroprevalence of 15.3% (95% CI: 13.1-17.8). Although the seroprevalence of food animals across mainland China was relatively stable from 2010 to 2023, notable variations were observed across different animal types and regions (P < 0.01), along with changes in geographical distribution. Sample type, detection method, animal age, and history of abortion were identified as key risk factors for T. gondii seroprevalence. Conclusion The study conducted a meta-analysis on the seroprevalence of T. gondii in mainland China's Food Animals from 2010 to 2023, and identified key risk factors. These findings advance our understanding of T. gondii infection dynamics, offering critical insights for developing control strategies and guiding public health policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zipeng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Hao Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Linchong Nie
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Qingyuan Wen
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Haoxin Li
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Liulu Yang
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yining Song
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xun Luo
- Kerry Rehabilitation Medicine Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xiu-Xiang Zhang
- College of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zi-Guo Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- College of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Hasan T, Shimoda N, Nakamura S, Fox BA, Bzik DJ, Ushio-Watanabe N, Nishikawa Y. Protective efficacy of recombinant Toxoplasma gondii dense granule protein 15 against toxoplasmosis in C57BL/6 mice. Vaccine 2024; 42:2299-2309. [PMID: 38429153 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2024.02.062] [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: 12/25/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a pervasive protozoan parasite that is responsible for significant zoonoses. A wide array of vaccines using different effector molecules of T. gondii have been studied worldwide to control toxoplasmosis. None of the existing vaccines are sufficiently effective to confer protective immunity. Among the different Toxoplasma-derived effector molecules, T. gondii dense granule protein 15 from the type II strain (GRA15 (II)) was recently characterized as an immunomodulatory molecule that induced host immunity via NF-κB. Therefore, we assessed the immunostimulatory and protective efficacy of recombinant GRA15 (II) (rGRA15) against T. gondii infection in a C57BL/6 mouse model. We observed that rGRA15 treatment increased the production of IL-12p40 from mouse peritoneal macrophages in vitro. Immunization of mice with rGRA15 induced the production of anti-TgGRA15-specific IgG, IgG1 and IgG2c antibodies. The rGRA15-sensitized spleen cells from mice inoculated with the same antigen strongly promoted spleen cell proliferation and IFN-γ production. Immunization with rGRA15 significantly enhanced the survival rate of mice and dramatically decreased parasite burden in mice challenged with the Pru (type II) strain. These results suggested that rGRA15 triggered humoral and cellular immune responses to control infection. However, all of the immunized mice died when challenged with the GRA15-deficient Pru strain or the RH (type I) strain. These results suggest that GRA15 (II)-dependent immunity plays a crucial role in protection against challenge infection with the type II strain of T. gondii. This study is the first report to show GRA15 (II) as a recombinant vaccine antigen against Toxoplasma infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanjila Hasan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan; Department of Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Khulshi 4225, Chattogram, Bangladesh.
| | - Naomi Shimoda
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan.
| | - Shu Nakamura
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Barbara A Fox
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
| | - David J Bzik
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, 1 Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
| | - Nanako Ushio-Watanabe
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Yoshifumi Nishikawa
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan.
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Pandori WJ, Matsuno SY, Shin JH, Kim SC, Kao TH, Mallya S, Batarseh SN, Lodoen MB. Role for Caspase-8 in the Release of IL-1β and Active Caspase-1 from Viable Human Monocytes during Toxoplasma gondii Infection. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2024; 212:1161-1171. [PMID: 38372637 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Monocytes are actively recruited to sites of infection and produce the potent proinflammatory cytokine IL-1β. We previously showed that IL-1β release during Toxoplasma gondii infection of primary human monocytes requires the NLRP3 inflammasome and caspase-1 but is independent of gasdermin D and pyroptosis. To investigate mechanisms of IL-1β release, we generated caspase-1, -4, -5, or -8 knockout (KO) THP-1 monocytic cells. Genetic ablation of caspase-1 or -8, but not caspase-4 or -5, decreased IL-1β release during T. gondii infection without affecting cell death. In contrast, TNF-α and IL-6 secretion were unperturbed in caspase-8 KO cells during T. gondii infection. Dual pharmacological inhibition of caspase-8 and RIPK1 in primary monocytes also decreased IL-1β release without affecting cell viability or parasite infection. Caspase-8 was also required for the release of active caspase-1 from T. gondii-infected cells and for IL-1β release during infection with the related apicomplexan parasite Neospora caninum. Surprisingly, caspase-8 deficiency did not impair synthesis or cleavage of pro-IL-1β, but resulted in the retention of mature IL-1β within cells. Generation of gasdermin E KO and ATG7 KO THP-1 cells revealed that the release of IL-1β was not dependent on gasdermin E or ATG7. Collectively, our data indicate that during T. gondii Infection of human monocytes, caspase-8 functions in a novel gasdermin-independent mechanism controlling IL-1β release from viable cells. This study expands on the molecular pathways that promote IL-1β in human immune cells and provides evidence of a role for caspase-8 in the mechanism of IL-1β release during infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- William J Pandori
- Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and the Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Stephanie Y Matsuno
- Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and the Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Ji-Hun Shin
- Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and the Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Samuel C Kim
- Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and the Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Tiffany H Kao
- Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and the Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Sharmila Mallya
- Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and the Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Sarah N Batarseh
- Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and the Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, CA
| | - Melissa B Lodoen
- Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry and the Institute for Immunology, University of California, Irvine, CA
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37
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Wu PQ, Liu ZD, Ren YH, Zhou JS, Liu QF, Wu Y, Zhang JL, Zhou B, Yue JM. Monoterpenoid indole alkaloids from Alstonia scholaris and their Toxoplasma gondii inhibitory activity. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2024; 220:113993. [PMID: 38266954 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2024.113993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Nine previously unreported various types of monoterpenoid indole alkaloids, together with seven known analogues were isolated from the stem barks of Alstonia scholaris through a silica gel free methodology. The structures of 1-9 were elucidated by spectroscopic data analysis, electronic circular dichroism calculations, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Compound 1 is a modified echitamine-type alkaloid with a novel 6/5/5/7/6/6 hetero hexacyclic bridged ring system, and 8 and 9 exist as a zwitterion and trifluoroacetate salt, respectively. The anti-Toxoplasma activity of all isolates on infected Vero cells were evaluated, which revealed that compound 14 at 0.24 μM displayed potent activity. This study expanded the structural diversity of alkaloids of A. scholaris, and presented their potential application in anti-Toxoplasma drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei-Qian Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen-Di Liu
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu-Hao Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun-Su Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Qun-Fang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China
| | - Ji-Li Zhang
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315211, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China; Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong, 264117, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jian-Min Yue
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 555 Zuchongzhi Road, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China; Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, Shandong, 264117, People's Republic of China.
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38
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Ghaffari AD, Rahimi F. Immunoinformatics studies and design of a novel multi-epitope peptide vaccine against Toxoplasma gondii based on calcium-dependent protein kinases antigens through an in-silico analysis. Clin Exp Vaccine Res 2024; 13:146-154. [PMID: 38752002 PMCID: PMC11091428 DOI: 10.7774/cevr.2024.13.2.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Infection by the intracellular apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii has serious clinical consequences in humans and veterinarians around the world. Although about a third of the world's population is infected with T. gondii, there is still no effective vaccine against this disease. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a multimeric vaccine against T. gondii using the proteins calcium-dependent protein kinase (CDPK)1, CDPK2, CDPK3, and CDPK5. Materials and Methods Top-ranked major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-I and MHC-II binding as well as shared, immunodominant linear B-cell epitopes were predicted and linked using appropriate linkers. Moreover, the 50S ribosomal protein L7/L12 (adjuvant) was mixed with the construct's N-terminal to increase the immunogenicity. Then, the vaccine's physicochemical characteristics, antigenicity, allergenicity, secondary and tertiary structure were predicted. Results The finally-engineered chimeric vaccine had a length of 680 amino acids with a molecular weight of 74.66 kDa. Analyses of immunogenicity, allergenicity, and multiple physiochemical parameters indicated that the constructed vaccine candidate was soluble, non-allergenic, and immunogenic, making it compatible with humans and hence, a potentially viable and safe vaccine candidate against T. gondii parasite. Conclusion In silico, the vaccine construct was able to trigger primary immune responses. However, further laboratory studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Dalir Ghaffari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Rahimi
- Department of Medical biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
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Cai W, Chen X, Ding X. Bilateral Blurry Vision After a Liver Transplant. JAMA Ophthalmol 2024; 142:378-379. [PMID: 38358772 DOI: 10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2023.6710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
A 31-year-old woman presented for evaluation of bilateral blurry vision over the past month. She experienced fulminant hepatic failure 3 months ago and underwent a liver transplant 2 weeks later. Postoperative pathological results showed hepatolenticular degeneration. What would you do next?
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjia Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohu Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Guangdong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Ocular Diseases, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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40
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Wu M, Wu H, Chen X, Wu F, Ma G, Du A, Yang Y. RPA-CRISPR/Cas9-based method for the detection of Toxoplasma gondii: A proof of concept. Vet Parasitol 2024; 327:110115. [PMID: 38232511 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2024.110115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread and specialized intracellular protozoan pathogen that affects one third of the world' s population, posing a great threat to public health. As the definitive host, cats excrete oocysts and play a crucial role in the transmission of toxoplasmosis. The current diagnostic tools usually require bulky equipment and expertize, which hinders the efficient diagnosis and intervention of Toxoplasma infection in cats. In this study, we combined (RPA) with clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 technique to establish an easier method for the detection of T. gondii oocysts in cat fecal samples. The sensitivity, specificity, and practicability of the established RPA-CRISPR/Cas9 method were evaluated using a lateral flow strip, with the limitation of detection determined at 10 plasmid copies/μL (corresponding to about one oocyst), cross reactivity to none of Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium sp., Microsporidium biberi and Blastocystis hominis that also commonly found in cats, and comparable performance in detecting T. gondii in clinical samples to conventional PCR amplification. This RPA-CRISPR/Cas9 method provides an alternative to conventional molecular tools used in the clinical diagnosis of Toxoplasma infection in cats and other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengchen Wu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haiyan Wu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xueqiu Chen
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Fei Wu
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guangxu Ma
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Aifang Du
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Yang
- College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; South Taihu Modern Agricultural Technology Promotion Center of Huzhou & Zhejiang University, Huzhou, China.
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41
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Ortiz OR, Norris T. A Blast From the Past: Toxoplasmic Encephalitis As the Initial Presentation of HIV/AIDS. Cureus 2024; 16:e58693. [PMID: 38651086 PMCID: PMC11034395 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.58693] [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] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Many opportunistic infections (OIs) seen early in the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic receded in prevalence with the advent of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Despite the availability of early detection and treatment of HIV as well as guidelines for near-universal screening, there remains a sizable population of individuals living with HIV who are not yet aware of their HIV status. These individuals are at risk for OIs such as toxoplasmosis, which would otherwise be preventable with ART and appropriate prophylaxis. Toxoplasmic encephalitis (TE) usually occurs in the late stages of HIV with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), but we present a case of a 38-year-old female with TE as the initial presentation of HIV/AIDS. Testing for the presence of an immunocompromising condition such as HIV is important in patients presenting with focal brain lesions as the differential diagnosis will change, and proper workup may spare invasive procedures such as a brain biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tara Norris
- Internal Medicine, Methodist Health System, Dallas, USA
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42
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De Keersmaecker S, Van Cauter S, Bekelaar K. Multiple Ring-Enhancing Brain Lesions: Fulminant Diffuse Cerebral Toxoplasmosis or Cerebral Metastases? Top Magn Reson Imaging 2024; 33:e0311. [PMID: 38598426 DOI: 10.1097/rmr.0000000000000311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT In this case report, we describe a 76-year-old woman, presenting with dizziness for the past 2 months, without other focal neurological signs. A magnetic resonance imaging of the brain was ordered by her GP. The MRI demonstrated multiple ring-enhancing lesions, both supratentorial and infratentorial. Lumbar puncture showed normal findings, in particular a normal cell count and culture. Because of the radiologic appearance, initially thought to be suggestive of cerebral abscesses, antibiotics were started. However, further workup revealed a new diagnosis of a stage IV (metastatic) small cell lung carcinoma, making diffuse brain metastases more likely. The patient was transferred to oncology/pneumology, where she was started on whole-brain radiotherapy, after which systemic therapy would start. However, because of further clinical deterioration, she was admitted at the palliative ward, where she died only 3 months after the initial presentation. In this case report, we emphasize the importance of keeping a broad differential diagnosis and briefly review the various possible pathologies causing ring-enhancing lesions.
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Klinbumrung K, Prakhammin K, Japa O. Molecular prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii and Trypanosoma evansi in recently calved female cattle from Phayao, Thailand. Vet World 2024; 17:756-762. [PMID: 38798300 PMCID: PMC11111709 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.756-762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Toxoplasma gondii and Trypanosoma evansi, the zoonotic protozoa responsible for toxoplasmosis and trypanosomiasis, are significant threats to the productivity and financial stability of livestock farming. T. gondii can be transmitted horizontally through ingestion of fecal oocysts and T. evansi through arthropod vectors. In addition, both species can be transmitted from mother to fetus through the placenta. This study aimed to assess the molecular prevalence of T. gondii and T. evansi transplacental-transmitted protozoans and to identify the epidemiological risk factors in recently calved female cattle across Phayao, Thailand. Materials and Methods We collected 106 bovine placentas from beef and dairy cow full-term pregnancies in Phayao, Thailand. T. gondii and T. evansi DNA were detected using targeted B1 gene and expression site-associated gene (ESAG) species-specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR), respectively. Results Forty-three placentas were positive for T. gondii B1 PCR, whereas only one was positive for T. evansi ESAG PCR, resulting in an overall prevalence of transplacental-transmitted protozoan infection of 41.5% (44/106). The prevalence of T. gondii and T. evansi was 40.6% (43/106) and 0.9% (1/106), respectively. No significant correlation was found between T. gondii infection and various risk factors, including locality, age, and cattle type. Conclusion The prevalence of transplacental-transmitted protozoan T. gondii infection was high among female cattle in Phayao, Thailand, whereas the prevalence of T. evansi infection was notably lower. Although the conventional modes of transmission differ between these two parasites, the transplacental transmission of T. evansi and especially T. gondii may play a crucial role in the persistence of these protozoan species in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khuruwan Klinbumrung
- Scientific Instrument and Product Standard Quality Inspection Center, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
| | - Khanuengnij Prakhammin
- Department of Applied Statistics, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Khon Kaen Campus, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Ornampai Japa
- Scientific Instrument and Product Standard Quality Inspection Center, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
- Division of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
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Chen Y, Wang J, Zhou N, Fang Q, Cai H, Du Z, An R, Liu D, Chen X, Wang X, Li F, Yan Q, Chen L, Du J. Protozoan-Derived Cytokine-Transgenic Macrophages Reverse Hepatic Fibrosis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2308750. [PMID: 38247166 PMCID: PMC10987136 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202308750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Macrophage therapy for liver fibrosis is on the cusp of meaningful clinical utility. Due to the heterogeneities of macrophages, it is urgent to develop safer macrophages with a more stable and defined phenotype for the treatment of liver fibrosis. Herein, a new macrophage-based immunotherapy using macrophages stably expressing a pivotal cytokine from Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that infects ≈ 2 billion people is developed. It is found that Toxoplasma gondii macrophage migration inhibitory factor-transgenic macrophage (Mφtgmif) shows stable fibrinolysis and strong chemotactic capacity. Mφtgmif effectively ameliorates liver fibrosis and deactivates aHSCs by recruiting Ly6Chi macrophages via paracrine CCL2 and polarizing them into the restorative Ly6Clo macrophage through the secretion of CX3CL1. Remarkably, Mφtgmif exhibits even higher chemotactic potential, lower grade of inflammation, and better therapeutic effects than LPS/IFN-γ-treated macrophages, making macrophage-based immune therapy more efficient and safer. Mechanistically, TgMIF promotes CCL2 expression by activating the ERK/HMGB1/NF-κB pathway, and this event is associated with recruiting endogenous macrophages into the fibrosis liver. The findings do not merely identify viable immunotherapy for liver fibrosis but also suggest a therapeutic strategy based on the evolutionarily designed immunomodulator to treat human diseases by modifying the immune microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyResearch Center for Infectious DiseasesSchool of Basic Medical SciencesAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in AnhuiAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
- School of NursingAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyResearch Center for Infectious DiseasesSchool of Basic Medical SciencesAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in AnhuiAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
| | - Nan Zhou
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyResearch Center for Infectious DiseasesSchool of Basic Medical SciencesAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in AnhuiAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
| | - Qi Fang
- Department of AnesthesiologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
| | - Haijian Cai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyResearch Center for Infectious DiseasesSchool of Basic Medical SciencesAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in AnhuiAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
| | - Zhuoran Du
- Department of Clinical MedicineWannan Medical CollegeWuhu241002China
| | - Ran An
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyResearch Center for Infectious DiseasesSchool of Basic Medical SciencesAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in AnhuiAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
| | - Deng Liu
- Department of AnesthesiologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
| | - Xuepeng Chen
- GMU‐GIBH Joint School of Life SciencesThe Guangdong‐Hong Kong‐Macau Joint Laboratory for Cell Fate Regulation and DiseasesGuangzhou National LaboratoryGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhou510005China
| | - Xinxin Wang
- GMU‐GIBH Joint School of Life SciencesThe Guangdong‐Hong Kong‐Macau Joint Laboratory for Cell Fate Regulation and DiseasesGuangzhou National LaboratoryGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhou510005China
| | - Fangmin Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyResearch Center for Infectious DiseasesSchool of Basic Medical SciencesAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in AnhuiAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
| | - Qi Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyResearch Center for Infectious DiseasesSchool of Basic Medical SciencesAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in AnhuiAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
| | - Lijian Chen
- Department of AnesthesiologyThe First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
| | - Jian Du
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular BiologyResearch Center for Infectious DiseasesSchool of Basic Medical SciencesAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions in AnhuiAnhui Medical UniversityHefei230032China
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Dini FM, Stancampiano L, Poglayen G, Galuppi R. Risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii infection in dogs: a serological survey. Acta Vet Scand 2024; 66:14. [PMID: 38528602 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-024-00734-0] [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: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dogs, as well as a wide variety of other warm-blooded animals, act as intermediate host of Toxoplasma gondii. In dogs, most cases of toxoplasmosis are subclinical, although clinical disease has been sporadically reported. Beyond its role in diagnostic pathways, seropositivity also functions as a reflection of the parasite's spread within the dog's living environment. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible risk factor associated with seropositivity to T. gondii in dogs in Central-Northern Italy, analysing 120 dogs sera for the presence of IgG antibodies by indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT). RESULTS The population examined was composed of 54.2% hunting dogs, 24.2% companion dogs, 14.2% truffle dogs and 7.5% watchdogs. Thirty-four (29.2%) dogs tested positive for T. gondii IgG, with titres ranging from 1:40 to 1:1280. Seroprevalence and antibodies titres were not related to dog gender, age or function. The logistic regression and ordered logistic regression results indicated that seroprevalence, and antibody titres were significantly higher in dogs cohabiting with cats, exhibiting coprophagy habits, and living constantly outdoors. Notably, the lifestyle factor showed the highest odds-ratios in the study: dogs living constantly outdoors were found to be at approximately 5 times greater risk of testing positive and having higher antibody titres compared to dogs living both indoors and outdoors. CONCLUSION Both logistic and ordered logistic regression results support the key role of living with cats, engaging in coprophagy behaviours, and maintaining an outdoor lifestyle in increasing the risk of T. gondii infection in dogs. These identified risk factors collectively suggest that both ingesting oocysts, as observed through cat cohabitation and coprophagy, and engaging in predatory behaviours, as possible for outdoor living dogs, are indicating likely sources of T. gondii infection in this host species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filippo Maria Dini
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
| | - Laura Stancampiano
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giovanni Poglayen
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Roberta Galuppi
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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Wu XT, Gao XW, Wang QQ, He K, Bilal MS, Dong H, Tang YD, Ding HY, Li YB, Tang XY, Long S. The plant-like protein phosphatase PPKL regulates parasite replication and morphology in Toxoplasma gondii. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:142. [PMID: 38500196 PMCID: PMC10949797 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06135-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii encodes dozens of phosphatases, among which a plant-like phosphatase absent from mammalian genomes named PPKL, which is involved in regulating brassinosteroid signaling in Arabidopsis, was identified in the genome. Among the Apicomplexa parasites, T. gondii is an important and representative pathogen in humans and animals. PPKL was previously identified to modulate the apical integrity and morphology of the ookinetes and parasite motility and transmission in another important parasite, Plasmodium falciparum. However, the exact function of PPKL in the asexual stages of T. gondii remains unknown. METHODS The plant auxin-inducible degron (AID) system was applied to dissect the phenotypes of PPKL in T. gondii. We first analyzed the phenotypes of the AID parasites at an induction time of 24 h, by staining of different organelles using their corresponding markers. These analyses were further conducted for the parasites grown in auxin for 6 and 12 h using a quantitative approach and for the type II strain ME49 of AID parasites. To further understand the phenotypes, the potential protein interactions were analyzed using a proximity biotin labeling approach. The essential role of PPKL in parasite replication was revealed. RESULTS PPKL is localized in the apical region and nucleus and partially distributed in the cytoplasm of the parasite. The phenotyping of PPKL showed its essentiality for parasite replication and morphology. Further dissections demonstrate that PPKL is required for the maturation of daughter parasites in the mother cells, resulting in multiple nuclei in a single parasite. The phenotype of the daughter parasites and parasite morphology were observed in another type of T. gondii strain ME49. The substantial defect in parasite replication and morphology could be rescued by genetic complementation, thus supporting its essential function for PPKL in the formation of parasites. The protein interaction analysis showed the potential interaction of PPKL with diverse proteins, thus explaining the importance of PPKL in the parasite. CONCLUSIONS PPKL plays an important role in the formation of daughter parasites, revealing its subtle involvement in the proper maturation of the daughter parasites during division. Our detailed analysis also demonstrated that depletion of PPKL resulted in elongated tubulin fibers in the parasites. The important roles in the parasites are potentially attributed to the protein interaction mediated by kelch domains on the protein. Taken together, these findings contribute to our understanding of a key phosphatase involved in parasite replication, suggesting the potential of this phosphatase as a pharmaceutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi-Ting Wu
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, and School of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xu-Wen Gao
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, and School of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Qiang-Qiang Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, and School of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Kai He
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, and School of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Muhammad Saqib Bilal
- The Key Laboratory of Plant Immunity, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, 210095, China
| | - Hui Dong
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, and School of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yi-Dan Tang
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, and School of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Hui-Yong Ding
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, and School of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Yue-Bao Li
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, and School of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Tang
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, and School of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Shaojun Long
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, and School of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100193, China.
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Perera DJ, Koger-Pease C, Paulini K, Daoudi M, Ndao M. Beyond schistosomiasis: unraveling co-infections and altered immunity. Clin Microbiol Rev 2024; 37:e0009823. [PMID: 38319102 PMCID: PMC10938899 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00098-23] [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] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by the helminth Schistosoma spp. and has the second highest global impact of all parasites. Schistosoma are transmitted through contact with contaminated fresh water predominantly in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and South America. Due to the widespread prevalence of Schistosoma, co-infection with other infectious agents is common but often poorly described. Herein, we review recent literature describing the impact of Schistosoma co-infection between species and Schistosoma co-infection with blood-borne protozoa, soil-transmitted helminths, various intestinal protozoa, Mycobacterium, Salmonella, various urinary tract infection-causing agents, and viral pathogens. In each case, disease severity and, of particular interest, the immune landscape, are altered as a consequence of co-infection. Understanding the impact of schistosomiasis co-infections will be important when considering treatment strategies and vaccine development moving forward.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dilhan J. Perera
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Cal Koger-Pease
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - Kayla Paulini
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Mohamed Daoudi
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Momar Ndao
- Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
- National Reference Centre for Parasitology, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
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Li X, Dang Z, Tang W, Zhang H, Shao J, Jiang R, Zhang X, Huang F. Detection of Parasites in the Field: The Ever-Innovating CRISPR/Cas12a. BIOSENSORS 2024; 14:145. [PMID: 38534252 DOI: 10.3390/bios14030145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
The rapid and accurate identification of parasites is crucial for prompt therapeutic intervention in parasitosis and effective epidemiological surveillance. For accurate and effective clinical diagnosis, it is imperative to develop a nucleic-acid-based diagnostic tool that combines the sensitivity and specificity of nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) with the speed, cost-effectiveness, and convenience of isothermal amplification methods. A new nucleic acid detection method, utilizing the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-associated (Cas) nuclease, holds promise in point-of-care testing (POCT). CRISPR/Cas12a is presently employed for the detection of Plasmodium falciparum, Toxoplasma gondii, Schistosoma haematobium, and other parasites in blood, urine, or feces. Compared to traditional assays, the CRISPR assay has demonstrated notable advantages, including comparable sensitivity and specificity, simple observation of reaction results, easy and stable transportation conditions, and low equipment dependence. However, a common issue arises as both amplification and cis-cleavage compete in one-pot assays, leading to an extended reaction time. The use of suboptimal crRNA, light-activated crRNA, and spatial separation can potentially weaken or entirely eliminate the competition between amplification and cis-cleavage. This could lead to enhanced sensitivity and reduced reaction times in one-pot assays. Nevertheless, higher costs and complex pre-test genome extraction have hindered the popularization of CRISPR/Cas12a in POCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Li
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, China
| | - Zhisheng Dang
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Diseases Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China (NHC), World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, National Center for International Research on Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Wenqiang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Hulless Barley and Yak Germplasm Resources and Genetic Improvement, Lhasa 850002, China
- Tibet Academy of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Sciences, Lhasa 850002, China
| | - Haoji Zhang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, China
| | - Jianwei Shao
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, China
| | - Rui Jiang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Xu Zhang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, China
| | - Fuqiang Huang
- School of Life Science and Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan 528225, China
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He TY, Li YT, Liu ZD, Cheng H, Bao YF, Zhang JL. Lipid metabolism: the potential targets for toxoplasmosis treatment. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:111. [PMID: 38448975 PMCID: PMC10916224 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06213-9] [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: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis caused by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). The current treatment for toxoplasmosis remains constrained due to the absence of pharmaceutical interventions. Thus, the pursuit of more efficient targets is of great importance. Lipid metabolism in T. gondii, including fatty acid metabolism, phospholipid metabolism, and neutral lipid metabolism, assumes a crucial function in T. gondii because those pathways are largely involved in the formation of the membranous structure and cellular processes such as division, invasion, egress, replication, and apoptosis. The inhibitors of T. gondii's lipid metabolism can directly lead to the disturbance of various lipid component levels and serious destruction of membrane structure, ultimately leading to the death of the parasites. In this review, the specific lipid metabolism pathways, correlative enzymes, and inhibitors of lipid metabolism of T. gondii are elaborated in detail to generate novel ideas for the development of anti-T. gondii drugs that target the parasites' lipid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Yi He
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Ye-Tian Li
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Zhen-Di Liu
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Hao Cheng
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yi-Feng Bao
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Ji-Li Zhang
- Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.
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Li C, Jiang N, Liu Y, Zhang Y, Chen R, Feng Y, Sang X, Chen Q. Toxoplasma sortilin interacts with secretory proteins and it is critical for parasite proliferation. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:105. [PMID: 38439083 PMCID: PMC10910794 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06207-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human sortilin protein is an important drug target and detection marker for cancer research. The sortilin from Toxoplasma gondii transports proteins associated with the apical organelles of the parasite. In this study, we aimed to determine the intracellular localization and structural domains of T. gondii sortilin, which may mediate protein transportation. Approaches to the functional inhibition of sortilin to establish novel treatments for T. gondii infections were explored. METHODS A gene encoding the sortilin protein was identified in the T. gondii genome. Immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry were performed to identify the protein species transported by T. gondii sortilin. The interaction of each structural domain of sortilin with the transported proteins was investigated using bio-layer interferometry. The binding regions of the transported proteins in sortilin were identified. The effect of the sortilin inhibitor AF38469 on the infectivity of T. gondii was investigated. The binding site of AF38469 on sortilin was determined. RESULTS The subdomains Vps10, sortilin-C, and sortilin-M of the sortilin were identified as the binding regions for intracellular transportation of the target proteins. The sortilin inhibitor AF38469 bound to the Vps10 structural domain of T. gondii sortilin, which inhibited parasite invasion, replication, and intracellular growth in vitro and was therapeutic in mice infected with T. gondii. CONCLUSION The Vps10, sortilin-C, and sortilin-M subdomains of T. gondii sortilin were identified as functional regions for intracellular protein transport. The binding region for the sortilin inhibitor AF38469 was also identified as the Vps10 subdomain. This study establishes sortilin as a promising drug target against T. gondii and provides a valuable reference for the development of anti-T. gondii drug-target studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenghuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, and Key Laboratory of Ruminant Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (East), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
- Research Unit for Pathogenic Mechanisms of Zoonotic Parasites, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Ning Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, and Key Laboratory of Ruminant Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (East), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
- Research Unit for Pathogenic Mechanisms of Zoonotic Parasites, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Yize Liu
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, and Key Laboratory of Ruminant Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (East), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
- Research Unit for Pathogenic Mechanisms of Zoonotic Parasites, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Yiwei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, and Key Laboratory of Ruminant Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (East), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
- Research Unit for Pathogenic Mechanisms of Zoonotic Parasites, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Ran Chen
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, and Key Laboratory of Ruminant Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (East), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
- Research Unit for Pathogenic Mechanisms of Zoonotic Parasites, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Ying Feng
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, and Key Laboratory of Ruminant Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (East), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
- Research Unit for Pathogenic Mechanisms of Zoonotic Parasites, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Xiaoyu Sang
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, and Key Laboratory of Ruminant Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (East), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
- Research Unit for Pathogenic Mechanisms of Zoonotic Parasites, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China
| | - Qijun Chen
- Key Laboratory of Livestock Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, and Key Laboratory of Ruminant Infectious Disease Prevention and Control (East), Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shenyang Agricultural University, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China.
- Research Unit for Pathogenic Mechanisms of Zoonotic Parasites, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 120 Dongling Road, Shenyang, 110866, China.
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