1
|
Xia J, Fu Y, Huang W, Sibley LD. Constitutive upregulation of transcription factors underlies permissive bradyzoite differentiation in a natural isolate of Toxoplasma gondii. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.28.582596. [PMID: 38464000 PMCID: PMC10925318 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.28.582596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii bradyzoites play a critical role in pathology due to their long-term persistence in intermediate hosts and their potential to reactivate, resulting in severe diseases in immunocompromised individuals. Currently there is no effective treatment for eliminating bradyzoites. Hence, better in vitro models of T. gondii cyst development would facilitate identification of therapeutic targets for bradyzoites. Herein we characterized a natural isolate of T. gondii, called Tg68, which showed slower in vitro replication of tachyzoites, and permissive bradyzoite development under stress conditions in vitro. Transcriptional analysis revealed constitutive expression in Tg68 tachyzoites of the key regulators of bradyzoite development including BFD1, BFD2, and several AP2 factors. Consistent with this finding, Tg68 tachyzoites expressed high levels of bradyzoite-specific genes including BAG1, ENO1, and LDH2. Moreover, after stress induced differentiation, Tg68 bradyzoites exhibited gene expression profiles of mature bradyzoites, even at early time points. These data suggest that Tg68 tachyzoites exist in a pre-bradyzoite stage primed to readily develop into mature bradyzoites under stress conditions in vitro. Tg68 presents a novel model for differentiation in vitro that will serve as a useful tool for investigation of bradyzoite biology and development of therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Xia
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Yong Fu
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - Wanyi Huang
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| | - L David Sibley
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zeinali S, Khademvatan S, Jafari R, Vazifekhah S, Yousefi E, Behroozi-Lak T. Prevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection among women with miscarriage and their aborted fetuses in the northwest of Iran. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0283493. [PMID: 37883415 PMCID: PMC10602335 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0283493] [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: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a worldwide disease of various animals and human and results from infection with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite. Abortion and congenital defects are important consequences of the T. gondii infection. The aim of this study was to determine the Toxoplasma-induced abortions among women with miscarriage and the presence of T. gondii in their aborted fetuses in Urmia, the northwest of Iran. This cross-sectional study was conducted with 215 women with abortion and their aborted fetuses, from 2020 to 2021. Seroprevalence of anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM were determined using the sera of the aforesaid women. Nested PCR was carried out using RE-529 gene sequences, and sequencing was performed using the T. gondii GRA6 gene on the remnant of pregnancy after abortion. The tissue positive samples were then subjected to another PCR on GRA6 gene and sequenced for genotyping. Among 215 serum samples of women with abortion, 70 (32.6%) were positive for anti-Toxoplasma IgG, and three (1.4%) were positive for IgM. The RE-529 sequence of T. gondii was positive in three (1.4%) of the aborted fetuses. The analysis of GRA6 gene indicated that all three positive samples carried a GRA6 allele (GRA6I) of T. gondii type I genotype. Our findings suggest that T. gondii is one of the causative agents of spontaneous abortion in West Azerbijan Province, the northwest of Iran.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiva Zeinali
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology& Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Shahram Khademvatan
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology& Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Rasool Jafari
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology& Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Shabnam Vazifekhah
- Maternal and Childhood Obesity Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Elham Yousefi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology& Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Cellular and Molecular Medicine Research Institute, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Tahereh Behroozi-Lak
- Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Infertility, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lee JJ, Forristal MT, Harney F, Flaherty GT. Eye disease and international travel: a critical literature review and practical recommendations. J Travel Med 2023; 30:taad068. [PMID: 37191043 PMCID: PMC10289526 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taad068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE FOR REVIEW Eye diseases pose a significant public health and economic burden, particularly for travellers exposed to ocular hazards who may lack access to specialist eye care. This article offers an evidence-based review for travel-health practitioners, with a particular emphasis on ocular infections and trauma that are more prevalent among travellers. Providing an overview of these issues will allow travel health practitioners to comprehensively address ophthalmic considerations of travel. METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted on PubMed and Embase electronic databases, using keywords related to travel medicine and ophthalmology. Inclusion was based on the relevant contribution to epidemiology, aetiology, diagnostics, management and long-term consequences of travel-related eye conditions. The data were analysed using narrative synthesis. KEY FINDINGS This literature review highlighted that various travel-related eye conditions may occur. Travellers should be aware of the risk of travel-related ocular complications, which can arise from ocular infections, high-risk activities, high altitude and space travel. The economic and logistical challenges associated with medical tourism for ophthalmic procedures are discussed. For travellers with pre-existing eye conditions or visual impairment, careful planning may be needed to promote eye health and ensure safety of travel. CONCLUSIONS Travel medicine practitioners should have a comprehensive understanding of the major ocular risks associated with overseas travel, including eye infections, eye injuries and solar eye damage. Further research in this area can enhance overall wellness and alleviate the burden of ocular diseases on travellers. Evidence-based guidelines based on research can also improve the quality of care and prevent long-term vision problems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jay Jun Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
- Department of Ophthalmology, Temple Street Children’s University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark T Forristal
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Fiona Harney
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Gerard T Flaherty
- School of Medicine, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
- School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Bollani L, Auriti C, Achille C, Garofoli F, De Rose DU, Meroni V, Salvatori G, Tzialla C. Congenital Toxoplasmosis: The State of the Art. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:894573. [PMID: 35874584 PMCID: PMC9301253 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.894573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection with the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii occurs worldwide and usually causes no symptoms. However, a primary infection of pregnant women, may infect the fetus by transplacental transmission. The risk of mother-to-child transmission depends on week of pregnancy at the time of maternal infection: it is low in the first trimester, may reach 90% in the last days of pregnancy. Inversely, however, fetal disease is more severe when infection occurs early in pregnancy than later. Systematic serologic testing in pregnant women who have no antibodies at the beginning of pregnancy, can accurately reveal active maternal infection. Therefore, the risk of fetal infection should be assessed and preventive treatment with spiramycin must be introduced as soon as possible to reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission, and the severity of fetal infection. When maternal infection is confirmed, prenatal diagnosis with Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) on amniotic fluid is recommended. If fetal infection is certain, the maternal treatment is changed to a combination of pyrimethamine-sulfonamide and folinic acid. Congenitally infected newborns are usually asymptomatic at birth, but at risk for tardive sequelae, such as blindness. When congenital infection is evident, disease include retinochoroiditis, cerebral calcifications, hydrocephalus, neurocognitive impairment. The diagnosis of congenital infection must be confirmed at birth and management, specific therapy, and follow-up with multidisciplinary counseling, must be guaranteed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lina Bollani
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Cinzia Auriti
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Medical and Surgical Department of Fetus - Newborn - Infant, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristian Achille
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Francesca Garofoli
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| | - Domenico Umberto De Rose
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Medical and Surgical Department of Fetus - Newborn - Infant, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Meroni
- Department of Molecular Medicine, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Guglielmo Salvatori
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Medical and Surgical Department of Fetus - Newborn - Infant, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Chryssoula Tzialla
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, Pavia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Hajj RE, Tawk L, Itani S, Hamie M, Ezzeddine J, El Sabban M, El Hajj H. Toxoplasmosis: Current and Emerging Parasite Druggable Targets. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9122531. [PMID: 34946133 PMCID: PMC8707595 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9122531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a prevalent disease affecting a wide range of hosts including approximately one-third of the human population. It is caused by the sporozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), which instigates a range of symptoms, manifesting as acute and chronic forms and varying from ocular to deleterious congenital or neuro-toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis may cause serious health problems in fetuses, newborns, and immunocompromised patients. Recently, associations between toxoplasmosis and various neuropathies and different types of cancer were documented. In the veterinary sector, toxoplasmosis results in recurring abortions, leading to significant economic losses. Treatment of toxoplasmosis remains intricate and encompasses general antiparasitic and antibacterial drugs. The efficacy of these drugs is hindered by intolerance, side effects, and emergence of parasite resistance. Furthermore, all currently used drugs in the clinic target acute toxoplasmosis, with no or little effect on the chronic form. In this review, we will provide a comprehensive overview on the currently used and emergent drugs and their respective parasitic targets to combat toxoplasmosis. We will also abridge the repurposing of certain drugs, their targets, and highlight future druggable targets to enhance the therapeutic efficacy against toxoplasmosis, hence lessening its burden and potentially alleviating the complications of its associated diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rana El Hajj
- Department of Biological Sciences, Beirut Arab University, P.O. Box 11-5020, Riad El Solh, Beirut 1107 2809, Lebanon;
| | - Lina Tawk
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, Beirut 1100 2807, Lebanon; (L.T.); (J.E.)
| | - Shaymaa Itani
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (S.I.); (M.H.)
| | - Maguy Hamie
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (S.I.); (M.H.)
| | - Jana Ezzeddine
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, Beirut 1100 2807, Lebanon; (L.T.); (J.E.)
| | - Marwan El Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon;
| | - Hiba El Hajj
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, P.O. Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (S.I.); (M.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +961–1-350000 (ext. 4897)
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Daher D, Shaghlil A, Sobh E, Hamie M, Hassan ME, Moumneh MB, Itani S, El Hajj R, Tawk L, El Sabban M, El Hajj H. Comprehensive Overview of Toxoplasma gondii-Induced and Associated Diseases. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10111351. [PMID: 34832507 PMCID: PMC8625914 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10111351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a prevalent protozoan parasite of medical and veterinary significance. It is the etiologic agent of toxoplasmosis, a neglected disease in which incidence and symptoms differ between patients and regions. In immunocompetent patients, toxoplasmosis manifests as acute and chronic forms. Acute toxoplasmosis presents as mild or asymptomatic disease that evolves, under the host immune response, into a persistent chronic disease in healthy individuals. Chronic toxoplasmosis establishes as latent tissue cysts in the brain and skeletal muscles. In immunocompromised patients, chronic toxoplasmosis may reactivate, leading to a potentially life-threatening condition. Recently, the association between toxoplasmosis and various diseases has been shown. These span primary neuropathies, behavioral and psychiatric disorders, and different types of cancer. Currently, a direct pre-clinical or clinical molecular connotation between toxoplasmosis and most of its associated diseases remains poorly understood. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview on Toxoplasma-induced and associated diseases with a focus on available knowledge of the molecular players dictating these associations. We will also abridge the existing therapeutic options of toxoplasmosis and highlight the current gaps to explore the implications of toxoplasmosis on its associated diseases to advance treatment modalities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Darine Daher
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Ahmad Shaghlil
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, R. Hariri Campus, Lebanese University, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (A.S.); (E.S.)
| | - Eyad Sobh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, R. Hariri Campus, Lebanese University, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (A.S.); (E.S.)
| | - Maguy Hamie
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Malika Elhage Hassan
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Mohamad Bahij Moumneh
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Shaymaa Itani
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
| | - Rana El Hajj
- Department of Biological Sciences, Beirut Arab University, Beirut 1107 2809, Lebanon;
| | - Lina Tawk
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Balamand, Beirut 1100 2807, Lebanon;
| | - Marwan El Sabban
- Department of Anatomy, Cell Biology and Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon;
| | - Hiba El Hajj
- Department of Experimental Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut 1107 2020, Lebanon; (D.D.); (M.H.); (M.E.H.); (M.B.M.); (S.I.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +961–1-350000 (ext. 4897)
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Toxoplasma gondii in South America: a differentiated pattern of spread, population structure and clinical manifestations. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:3065-3076. [PMID: 34390383 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07282-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa. It has a worldwide distribution and can infect a wide variety of intermediate hosts, including humans. In South America, toxoplasmosis shows high health impacts, and the incidence of the disease is frequently reported and more severe than in other regions, such as Europe. Although most T. gondii infections are asymptomatic, severe manifestations can occur in cases of congenital toxoplasmosis and immunocompromised individuals. In South America, the ocular disease in immunocompetent individuals is also frequently reported. Treatment for any clinical manifestation of toxoplasmosis consists of the combination of sulfadiazine (SDZ) and pyrimethamine (PYR). However, failures in the treatment of toxoplasmosis have been reported, especially in South America, suggesting the acquisition of resistance against SDZ and PYR. Another paradigm present in the literature is that once infected with T. gondii, the host is immunologically protected from further reinfections. However, some studies indicate cases of congenital transmission of T. gondii from immunocompetent pregnant women with chronic infection, suggesting the possibility of reinfection in humans. Thus, in this review, we will cover several aspects of South American T. gondii isolates, such as genetic characterization, disease manifestation, host reinfection and drug resistance.
Collapse
|
8
|
Gaji RY, Sharp AK, Brown AM. Protein kinases in Toxoplasma gondii. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:415-429. [PMID: 33581139 PMCID: PMC11065138 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligatory intracellular pathogen that causes life threatening illness in immunodeficient individuals, miscarriage in pregnant woman, and blindness in newborn children. Similar to any other eukaryotic cell, protein kinases play critical and essential roles in the Toxoplasma life cycle. Accordingly, many studies have focused on identifying and defining the mechanism of function of these signalling proteins with a long-term goal to develop anti-Toxoplasma therapeutics. In this review, we briefly discuss classification and key components of the catalytic domain which are critical for functioning of kinases, with a focus on domains, families, and groups of kinases within Toxoplasma. More importantly, this article provides a comprehensive, current overview of research on kinase groups in Toxoplasma including the established eukaryotic AGC, CAMK, CK1, CMGC, STE, TKL families and the apicomplexan-specific FIKK, ROPK and WNG family of kinases. This work provides an overview and discusses current knowledge on Toxoplasma kinases including their localization, function, signalling network and role in acute and chronic pathogenesis, with a view towards the future in probing kinases as viable drug targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rajshekhar Y Gaji
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech University, Blacksburg, VA, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Amanda K Sharp
- Interdisciplinary Program in Genetics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Anne M Brown
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA; University Libraries, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Milne G, Webster JP, Walker M. Toward Improving Interventions Against Toxoplasmosis by Identifying Routes of Transmission Using Sporozoite-specific Serological Tools. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 71:e686-e693. [PMID: 32280956 PMCID: PMC7744992 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Horizontal transmission of Toxoplasma gondii occurs primarily via ingestion of environmental oocysts or consumption of undercooked/raw meat containing cyst-stage bradyzoites. The relative importance of these 2 transmission routes remains unclear. Oocyst infection can be distinguished from bradyzoite infection by identification of immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against T. gondii embryogenesis-related protein (TgERP). These antibodies are, however, thought to persist for only 6-8 months in human sera, limiting the use of TgERP serology to only those patients recently exposed to T. gondii. Yet recent serological survey data indicate a more sustained persistence of anti-TgERP antibodies. Elucidating the duration of anti-TgERP IgG will help to determine whether TgERP serology has epidemiological utility for quantifying the relative importance of different routes of T. gondii transmission. METHODS We developed a serocatalytic mathematical model to capture the change in seroprevalence of non-stage-specific IgG and anti-TgERP IgG antibodies with human age. The model was fitted to published datasets collected in an endemic region of Brazil to estimate the duration of anti-TgERP IgG antibodies, accounting for variable age-force of infection profiles and uncertainty in the diagnostic performance of TgERP serology. RESULTS We found that anti-TgERP IgG persists for substantially longer than previously recognized, with estimates ranging from 8.3 to 41.1 years. The Brazilian datasets were consistent with oocysts being the predominant transmission route in these settings. CONCLUSIONS The longer than previously recognized duration of anti-TgERP antibodies indicates that anti-TgERP serology could be a useful tool for delineating T. gondii transmission routes in human populations. TgERP serology may therefore be an important epidemiological tool for informing the design of tailored, setting-specific public health information campaigns and interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Milne
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom.,London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Imperial College London Faculty of Medicine, St Mary's Hospital Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne P Webster
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom.,London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Imperial College London Faculty of Medicine, St Mary's Hospital Campus, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Walker
- Department of Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom.,London Centre for Neglected Tropical Disease Research, Imperial College London Faculty of Medicine, St Mary's Hospital Campus, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Manabella Salcedo I, Fraschina J, Busch M, Guidobono JS, Unzaga JM, Dellarupe A, Farace MI, Pini N, León VA. Role of Mus musculus in the transmission of several pathogens in poultry farms. Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 14:130-136. [PMID: 33659179 PMCID: PMC7890300 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to analyze the role of Mus musculus as a host of Leptospira spp., lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) and Toxoplasma gondii, in poultry farms of Buenos Aires province, Argentina, and to assess the potential risk of transmission to humans and domestic or breeding animals. Samplings were performed between 2009 and 2011 (S1) and during 2016 (S2). In S1, we studied the prevalence of infection for Leptospira spp. and LCMV, whereas, in S2, we studied the prevalence of infection for Leptospira spp. and T. gondii. In S1, we found an overall Leptospira spp. prevalence in M. musculus of 18% (14/79) and no positive serum samples for LCMV (0/166). In S2, we detected no positive individuals for Leptospira spp. (0/56) and an overall T. gondii seroprevalence of 3.6% (2/56). The probability of Leptospira spp. infection in M. musculus was higher in reproductively active individuals and in samplings subsequent to months with high accumulated precipitation. Our results suggest that, in the poultry farms studied, the presence of M. musculus may be a risk factor in the transmission of Leptospira spp. and T. gondii to humans and domestic animals. The management of farms should include biosecurity measures for farm workers and more effective rodent control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iris Manabella Salcedo
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Poblaciones, Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución, Instituto IEGEBA (CONICET-UBA), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jimena Fraschina
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Poblaciones, Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución, Instituto IEGEBA (CONICET-UBA), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Busch
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Poblaciones, Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución, Instituto IEGEBA (CONICET-UBA), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Santiago Guidobono
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Poblaciones, Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución, Instituto IEGEBA (CONICET-UBA), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Manuel Unzaga
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología LAINPA, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Argentina
| | - Andrea Dellarupe
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología LAINPA, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - María Isabel Farace
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Infecciosas ANLIS Dr. Calos G Malbrán- Departamento Bacteriología. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Noemi Pini
- Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Virales Humanas (INEVH-ANLIS), Pergamino, Argentina
| | - Vanina Andrea León
- Laboratorio de Ecología de Poblaciones, Departamento de Ecología, Genética y Evolución, Instituto IEGEBA (CONICET-UBA), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Casartelli-Alves L, Pereira SA, Ferreira LC, de Macedo Couto R, Schubach TMP, Amendoeira MRR, da Silva RC, Langoni H, Millar PR, Menezes RC. Genetic and histopathological characterization of Toxoplasma gondii genotypes isolated from free-range chickens reared in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:665-677. [PMID: 33415402 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-07011-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to genetically characterize Toxoplasma gondii isolates obtained from free-range chickens reared in the metropolitan region of the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and to evaluate the morbidity and histological changes associated with these isolates in mice. A mouse bioassay was used to isolate T. gondii from a pool of tissue samples (brain, heart, and thigh muscles) collected from 163 chickens. The 36 isolates obtained were genetically characterized by restriction fragment polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis of the SAG1, 5'-3'SAG2, aSAG2, SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1, Apico, and CS3 genomic regions. Seventeen atypical genotypes were identified and nine of them were reported for the first time. All identified genotypes caused clinical signs and histological changes in mice, with the majority being associated with high cumulative morbidity (65%) and severe or very severe histological changes (76%). The exclusive identification of atypical genotypes, with a predominance of new genotypes, indicates great genetic diversity of T. gondii in the region studied. In addition, the finding that all identified genotypes caused clinical signs and often severe histological changes in mice suggests potentially relevant virulence of these strains.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Casartelli-Alves
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sandro Antonio Pereira
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Luiz Cláudio Ferreira
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo de Macedo Couto
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Tânia Maria Pacheco Schubach
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | | | - Rodrigo Costa da Silva
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade do Oeste Paulista, Presidente Prudente, SP, Brazil
| | - Hélio Langoni
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista Júlio de Mesquita Filho, Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Patrícia Riddell Millar
- Instituto Biomédico, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Rua Prof. Hernani Pires de Melo, 101, Niterói, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Rodrigo Caldas Menezes
- Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Avenida Brasil, 4365, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
The Immunogenic and Immunoprotective Activities of Recombinant Chimeric T. gondii Proteins Containing AMA1 Antigen Fragments. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8040724. [PMID: 33276579 PMCID: PMC7761622 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8040724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis, one of the most common parasitoses worldwide, is potentially dangerous for individuals with a weakened immune system, but specific immunoprophylaxis intended for humans is still lacking. Thus, efforts have been made to create an efficient universal vaccine for both animals and humans to overcome the shortcomings of currently used treatment methods and protect all hosts against toxoplasmosis. The current work represents a relatively new approach to vaccine development based on recombinant chimeric Toxoplasma gondii antigens. In the present research, three tetravalent chimeric proteins containing different portions of the parasite’s AMA1 antigen—AMA1domainI-SAG2-GRA1-ROP1L (ANSGR), AMA1domainsII,III-SAG2-GRA1-ROP1L (ACSGR) and AMA1fullprotein-SAG2-GRA1-ROP1L (AFSGR)—were tested for their immunogenic and immunoprotective capacities. All tested proteins were immunogenic, as evidenced by the triggering of specific humoral and cellular immune responses in vaccinated C3H/HeOuJ mice, defined by the production of specific IgG (IgG1/IgG2a) antibodies in vivo and synthesis of key Th1/Th2 cytokines by Toxoplasma lysate antigen-stimulated splenocytes in vitro. Although all tested preparations provided partial protection against chronic toxoplasmosis in immunized and T. gondii-challenged mice, the intensity of the generated immunoprotection depended on the fragment of the AMA1 antigen incorporated into the chimeric antigen’s structure.
Collapse
|
13
|
Manuel L, Santos-Gomes G, Noormahomed EV. Human toxoplasmosis in Mozambique: gaps in knowledge and research opportunities. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:571. [PMID: 33176884 PMCID: PMC7659051 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04441-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic zoonotic disease caused by Toxoplasma gondii that afflicts humans worldwide and wild and domestic warm-blooded animals. In immunocompetent individuals, the acute phase of infection presents transient low or mild symptoms that remain unnoticed. In immunocompromised patients, T. gondii is a life-threatening opportunistic infection, which can result from the reactivation of latent infection or primary infection. Moreover, congenital toxoplasmosis, which results from the transplacental passage of tachyzoites into the fetus during a pregnant primary infection, can lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or ocular and neurologic disease, and neurocognitive deficits in the newborns. Thus, the present review aims to address the current knowledge of T. gondii infection and toxoplasmosis in Africa and especially in Mozambique, stressing the importance of identifying risk factors and promote awareness among the health care providers and population, assessing the gaps in knowledge and define research priorities. In Mozambique, and in general in southern African countries, clinical disease and epidemiological data have not yet been entirely addressed in addition to the implications of T. gondii infection in immunocompetent individuals, in pregnant women, and its relation with neuropsychiatric disorders. The main gaps in knowledge in Mozambique include lack of awareness of the disease, lack of diagnostic methods in health facilities, lack of genetic data, and lack of control strategies.![]()
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leonardo Manuel
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidade Lurio, Nampula, Mozambique
| | - Gabriela Santos-Gomes
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade Nova de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Emilia V Noormahomed
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (UEM), Maputo, Mozambique. .,Department of Medicine, Infectious Disease Division, University of California, San Diego, USA. .,Mozambique Institute for Health Education and Research (MIHER), Maputo, Mozambique.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Toxoplasma gondii: AnUnderestimated Threat? Trends Parasitol 2020; 36:959-969. [PMID: 33012669 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Traditionally, the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii has been thought of as relevant to public health primarily within the context of congenital toxoplasmosis or postnatally acquired disease in immunocompromised patients. However, latent T.gondii infection has been increasingly associated with a wide variety of neuropsychiatric disorders and, more recently, causal frameworks for these epidemiological associations have been proposed. We present assimilated evidence on the associations between T.gondii and various human neuropsychiatric disorders and outline how these may be explained within a unifying causal framework. We argue that the occult effects of latent T.gondii infection likely outweigh the recognised overt morbidity caused by toxoplasmosis, substantially raising the public health importance of this parasite.
Collapse
|
15
|
Lee SH, Jung BK, Song H, Seo HG, Chai JY, Oh BM. Neuroprotective Effect of Chronic Intracranial Toxoplasma gondii Infection in a Mouse Cerebral Ischemia Model. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PARASITOLOGY 2020; 58:461-466. [PMID: 32871641 PMCID: PMC7462801 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2020.58.4.461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite that can invade various organs in the host body, including the central nervous system. Chronic intracranial T. gondii is known to be associated with neuroprotection against neurodegenerative diseases through interaction with host brain cells in various ways. The present study investigated the neuroprotective effects of chronic T. gondii infection in mice with cerebral ischemia experimentally produced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) surgery. The neurobehavioral effects of cerebral ischemia were assessed by measurement of Garcia score and Rotarod behavior tests. The volume of brain ischemia was measured by triphenyltetrazolium chloride staining. The expression levels of related genes and proteins were determined. After cerebral ischemia, corrected infarction volume was significantly reduced in T. gondii infected mice, and their neurobehavioral function was significantly better than that of the uninfection control group. Chronic T. gondii infection induced the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α) in the brain before MCAO. T. gondii infection also increased the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor after the cerebral ischemia. It is suggested that chronic intracerebral infection of T. gondii may be a potential preconditioning strategy to reduce neural deficits associated with cerebral ischemia and induce brain ischemic tolerance through the regulation of HIF-1α expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seung Hak Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Asan Medical Center, College of Medicine, University of Ulsan, Seoul 05505, Korea
| | - Bong-Kwang Jung
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07653, Korea
| | - Hyemi Song
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07653, Korea
| | - Han Gil Seo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, 03080 Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong-Yil Chai
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Korea Association of Health Promotion, Seoul 07653, Korea.,Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Korea
| | - Byung-Mo Oh
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Seoul National University Hospital, 03080 Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Role of Toxoplasma gondii IgG Avidity Testing in Discriminating between Acute and Chronic Toxoplasmosis in Pregnancy. J Clin Microbiol 2020; 58:JCM.00505-20. [PMID: 32321784 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00505-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Risk of mother-to-child transmission of Toxoplasma gondii during pregnancy is much greater in women who are exposed to primary T. gondii infection (toxoplasmosis) after conception compared to those who were exposed to the infection before conception. Therefore, laboratory tests that help classify recent primary toxoplasmosis are important tools for the management of pregnant women suspected to have T. gondii exposure. Detection of Toxoplasma IgM (Toxo IgM) is a sensitive indicator of primary toxoplasmosis, but the indicator specificity is low because sometimes natural IgM antibodies react with Toxoplasma antigens in the absence of the infection. Furthermore, Toxo IgM sometimes persists in blood serum for several months or years following the primary infection. In recent decades, Toxo IgG avidity assay has been used as a standard diagnostic technique for a better estimation of the infection acquisition time and identification of the primary T. gondii infection during pregnancy. Avidity is described as the aggregate strength; by which, a mixture of polyclonal IgG molecules reacts with multiple epitopes of the proteins. This parameter matures gradually within 6 months of the primary infection. A high Toxo IgG avidity index allows a recent infection (less than 4 months) to be excluded, whereas a low Toxo IgG avidity index indicates a probable recent infection with no exclusions of the older infections. This minireview is based on various aspects of T. gondii IgG avidity testing, including (i) description of avidity and basic methods used in primary studies on T. gondii IgG avidity and primary infections; (ii) importance of IgG avidity testing in pregnancy; (iii) result summary of the major studies on the use of T. gondii IgG avidity assay in pregnancy; (iv) brief explanation of the T. gondii IgG avidity values in newborns; (v) result summary of the major studies on T. gondii IgG avidity and PCR; (vi) discussion of commercially available T. gondii IgG avidity assays, including newer automated assays; and (vii) current issues and controversies in diagnosis of primary T. gondii infections in pregnancy.
Collapse
|
17
|
Oral sex: A new, and possibly the most dangerous, route of toxoplasmosis transmission. Med Hypotheses 2020; 141:109725. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2020.109725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
18
|
Karimi M, Seyyed Tabaei SJ, Ranjbar MM, Fathi F, Jalili A, zamini G, Javadi Mamaghani A, Nazari J, Roshani D, Bagherani N, Khademerfan MB. Construction of A Synthetic Gene Encoding the Multi-Epitope of Toxoplasma gondii and Demonstration of the Relevant Recombinant Protein Production: A Vaccine Candidate. Galen Med J 2020; 9:e1708. [PMID: 34466573 PMCID: PMC8343506 DOI: 10.31661/gmj.v9i0.1708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Revised: 10/06/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii is a widely-distributed parasite all over the world whose attributed severe afflicting complications in human necessitate the development of serodiagnostic tests and vaccines for it. Immunological responses to monovalent vaccines and the application of diagnostic reagents including single antigens are not optimally effective. Bioinformatics approaches were used to introduce these epitopes, predict their immunogenicity and preliminarily evaluate their potential as an effective DNA vaccine and for serodiagnostic goals. MATERIALS AND METHODS A 3D structure of proteins was predicted by I-TASSER server, and linear and conformational B cell and T cell epitopes were predicted using the online servers. Then, the predicted epitopes were constructed and called Toxoeb, and their expression in the prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells was demonstrated using SDS-PAGE. In the next step, Western blotting with pooled sera of mice infected with T. gondii was done. RESULTS The current in silico analysis revealed that the B cell epitopes with high immunogenicity for GRA4 protein were located in the residues 34-71, and 230-266, for GRA14 in 308-387, for SAG1 in 182-195, 261-278, and for GRA7 in residues 101-120, 160-176. The T cell epitopes were selected in overlapping regions with the B cell epitopes. The immunogenic region for GRA4 are in the residues 245-253, 50-58, and 40-54, for GRA14 in 307-315, 351-359, and 308- 322, for SAG1 261-269, and 259-267, and for GRA7 in the residues 103-112, and 167-175. The results of the western blotting showed that the expressed protein had immunogenicity. CONCLUSION Our constructed multi-epitope of T. gondii could be considered as a candidate for diagnostic and vaccination purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Karimi
- Student Research Committee, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Seyyed Javad Seyyed Tabaei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Ranjbar
- Razi Vaccine and Serum Research Institute, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Karaj, Iran
| | - Fardin Fathi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Science, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Ali Jalili
- Cancer and Immunology Research Center, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Ghasem zamini
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Science
| | - Amirreza Javadi Mamaghani
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Nazari
- Medical Department, Arak University of Medical Science, Arak, Iran
| | - Daem Roshani
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Nooshin Bagherani
- Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Bagher Khademerfan
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Kurdistan University of Medical Science
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Duarte PO, Oshiro LM, Zimmermann NP, Csordas BG, Dourado DM, Barros JC, Andreotti R. Serological and molecular detection of Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii in human umbilical cord blood and placental tissue samples. Sci Rep 2020; 10:9043. [PMID: 32493968 PMCID: PMC7271125 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-65991-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Neosporosis primarily affects cattle and dogs and is not currently considered a zoonotic disease. Toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis with a worldwide distribution that is asymptomatic in most cases, but when acquired during pregnancy, it can have serious consequences. The seropositivity rates determined by the indirect fluorescent antibody test for Neospora caninum (N. caninum) and Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) were 24.3% (49 samples) and 26.8% (54 samples), respectively. PCR positivity for N. caninum was observed in two samples of cord blood (1%) using the Nc5 and ITS1 gene, positivity for T. gondii was observed in 16 samples using the primer for the B1 gene (5.5% positivity in cord blood and 2.5% positivity in placental tissue). None of the samples showed structures characteristic of tissue cysts or inflammatory infiltrate on histopathology. Significant associations were observed only between N. caninum seropositivity and the presence of domestic animals (p = 0.039) and presence of dogs (p = 0.038) and between T. gondii seropositivity and basic sanitation (p = 0.04). This study obtained important findings regarding the seroprevalence and molecular detection of N. caninum and T. gondii in pregnant women; however, more studies are necessary to establish a correlation between risk factors and infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pâmella Oliveira Duarte
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Doenças Infecciosas e Parasitárias- Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Leandra Marla Oshiro
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular do Carrapato, Departamento de Sanidade Animal, Embrapa Gado de Corte, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Namor Pinheiro Zimmermann
- Professor do Curso de Medicina Veterinária do Centro Universitário da Grande Dourados-UNIGRAN, Dourados, Brasil
| | - Bárbara Guimarães Csordas
- Bolsista de Pós-Doutorado- FUNDAPAM, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular do Carrapato, Departamento de Sanidade Animal, Embrapa Gado de Corte, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | | | | | - Renato Andreotti
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Gado de Corte, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Jalilzadeh Afshari S, Saad Abdalla Al-Zawi A, Idaewor P, Chicken DW. Axillary lymphadenopathy in a pregnant woman: a case report. Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2020; 102:e167-e169. [PMID: 32347740 DOI: 10.1308/rcsann.2020.0078] [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: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphadenopathy is a common presentation in surgical assessment units and has numerous differential diagnoses. In one-stop breast clinics, its discovery often raises concerns of malignancy. This case report focuses on the case of a 33-year-old pregnant woman presenting to the breast clinic with a right axillary lump, which was found to be the result of toxoplasmosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Jalilzadeh Afshari
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK.,Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon, UK
| | | | - P Idaewor
- Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon, UK
| | - D W Chicken
- Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Basildon, UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Key M, Bergmann A, Micchelli C, Thornton LB, Millard S, Dou Z. Determination of Chemical Inhibitor Efficiency against Intracellular Toxoplasma Gondii Growth Using a Luciferase-Based Growth Assay. J Vis Exp 2020. [PMID: 32420988 DOI: 10.3791/60985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan pathogen that widely affects the human population. The current antibiotics used for treating clinical toxoplasmosis are limited. In addition, they exhibit adverse side effects in certain groups of people. Therefore, discovery of novel therapeutics for clinical toxoplasmosis is imperative. The first step of novel antibiotic development is to identify chemical compounds showing high efficacy in inhibition of parasite growth using a high throughput screening strategy. As an obligate intracellular pathogen, Toxoplasma can only replicate within host cells, which prohibits the use of optical absorbance measurements as a quick indicator of growth. Presented here is a detailed protocol for a luciferase-based growth assay. As an example, this method is used to calculate the doubling time of wild-type Toxoplasma parasites and measure the efficacy of morpholinurea-leucyl-homophenyl-vinyl sulfone phenyl (LHVS, a cysteine protease-targeting compound) regarding inhibition of parasite intracellular growth. Also described, is a CRISPR-Cas9-based gene deletion protocol in Toxoplasma using 50 bp homologous regions for homology-dependent recombination (HDR). By quantifying the inhibition efficacies of LHVS in wild-type and TgCPL (Toxoplasma cathepsin L-like protease)-deficient parasites, it is shown that LHVS inhibits wild-type parasite growth more efficiently than Δcpl growth, suggesting that TgCPL is a target that LHVS binds to in Toxoplasma. The high sensitivity and easy operation of this luciferase-based growth assay make it suitable for monitoring Toxoplasma proliferation and evaluating drug efficacy in a high throughput manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Key
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University; Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center, Clemson University
| | - Amy Bergmann
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University; Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center, Clemson University
| | - Chiara Micchelli
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University; Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center, Clemson University
| | - L Brock Thornton
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University; Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center, Clemson University
| | - Sophie Millard
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University; Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center, Clemson University
| | - Zhicheng Dou
- Department of Biological Sciences, Clemson University; Eukaryotic Pathogens Innovation Center, Clemson University;
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lindsay DS, Dubey JP. Neosporosis, Toxoplasmosis, and Sarcocystosis in Ruminants: An Update. Vet Clin North Am Food Anim Pract 2020; 36:205-222. [PMID: 32029185 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvfa.2019.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Neospora caninum, Toxoplasma gondii, and Sarcocystis spp. are related Apicomplexan parasites that have 2 hosts in their life cycles. The definitive hosts excrete unsporulated (Neospora caninum, T gondii) or sporulated (Sarcocystis spp.) oocysts in their feces after ingesting tissue cysts from the tissues of ruminant intermediate hosts. These coccidians can cause abortion and neonatal mortality in ruminants. T gondii and Sarcocystis hominis (from cattle) are zoonotic. This article reviews information on the etiology, life cycle, diagnosis, control and prevention of these parasites and the diseases they cause in ruminants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David S Lindsay
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Center for One Health Research, Virginia Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, 1410 Prices Fork Road, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0342, USA.
| | - J P Dubey
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Building 1001, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Costa ML, de Moraes Nobrega G, Antolini-Tavares A. Key Infections in the Placenta. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2019; 47:133-146. [PMID: 32008664 DOI: 10.1016/j.ogc.2019.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Congenital infections are an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, especially in low-income settings. This review discusses the main pathways of infections and associated adverse maternal and fetal outcomes, considering the TORCH pathogens, including Zika virus; the acronym stands for Toxoplasma gondii infection, other (Listeria monocytogenes, Treponema pallidum, and parvovirus B19, among others, including Zika virus), rubella virus, cytomegalovirus, and herpes simplex viruses type 1 and type 2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Laura Costa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Campinas, Rua Alexander Fleming 101, Campinas, São Paulo 13084-881, Brazil.
| | - Guilherme de Moraes Nobrega
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Campinas, Rua Alexander Fleming 101, Campinas, São Paulo 13084-881, Brazil
| | - Arthur Antolini-Tavares
- Department of Pathological Anatomy, School of Medicine, University of Campinas, Rua Alexander Fleming 101, Campinas, São Paulo 13084-881, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Pagheh AS, Sarvi S, Gholami S, Asgarian-Omran H, Valadan R, Hassannia H, Ahmadpour E, Fasihi-Ramandie M, Dodangeh S, Hosseni-khah Z, Daryani A. Protective efficacy induced by DNA prime and recombinant protein boost vaccination with Toxoplasma gondii GRA14 in mice. Microb Pathog 2019; 134:103601. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2019.103601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Revised: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
|
25
|
Storchilo HR, Rezende HHA, Gomes TC, de Souza JY, Gomes AR, Avelino MM, do Amaral WN, de Castro AM. Basic heel prick test: inclusion of screening, diagnosis and criteria for early confirmation of congenital infection by Toxoplasma gondii. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2019; 61:e30. [PMID: 31241659 PMCID: PMC6592012 DOI: 10.1590/s1678-9946201961030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii can cross the placental barrier, causing fetal infection with potentially severe sequelae. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the serological screening for toxoplasmosis should be included in the basic neonatal heel prick test in order to establish criteria for the confirmation and/or exclusion of the diagnosis of congenital infection in newborns treated at three public health units in the metropolitan region of Goiania, Goias State, Brazil. Blood samples were collected on filter paper from newborns and later, peripheral blood samples from the mothers and their respective children were obtained to confirm or exclude the diagnosis of suspected congenital infection, by means of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (IgM and IgG) and a polymerase chain reaction assay. From a total of 1,159 blood samples collected on filter paper, 43.92% were reactive to IgG and 0.17% to anti-T. gondii IgM and IgG. One hundred and twenty-seven paired samples (mother and child) were collected following consensual protocols for peripheral blood collection. Results obtained from the filter paper and peripheral blood of the newborns were 90.55% concordant. A comparison of the mother and child blood test results showed agreement regarding the detection of IgG in 90.48% of the samples. The parasite DNA was detected in the peripheral blood of one child. In view of the results obtained in this study, the inclusion of the serological screening for toxoplasmosis in the newborn heel prick test proved to be effective for the early detection of congenital T. gondii infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heloisa Ribeiro Storchilo
- Universidade Federal de Goiás, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e
Saúde Pública, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | | | - Taynara Cristina Gomes
- Universidade Federal de Goiás, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e
Saúde Pública, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Jéssica Yonara de Souza
- Universidade Federal de Goiás, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e
Saúde Pública, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Antonio Roberto Gomes
- Universidade Federal de Goiás, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e
Saúde Pública, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Mariza Martins Avelino
- Universidade Federal de Goiás, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das
Clínicas, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Waldemar Naves do Amaral
- Universidade Federal de Goiás, Faculdade de Medicina, Hospital das
Clínicas, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria de Castro
- Universidade Federal de Goiás, Instituto de Patologia Tropical e
Saúde Pública, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Dai F, Zhuo X, Kong Q, Du J, Yu H, Zhou S, Song X, Tong Q, Lou D, Lou Q, Lu L, Lv Y, Sa X, Lu S. Early Detection of Toxoplasma gondii Infection in Mongolian Gerbil by Quantitative Real-Time Pcr. J Parasitol 2019. [DOI: 10.1645/18-95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Fangwei Dai
- Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Xunhui Zhuo
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Zhejiang Academy of Medical
| | - Qingming Kong
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Zhejiang Academy of Medical
| | - Jiangtao Du
- Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Haijie Yu
- Jiaxing Vocational Technical College, Jiaxing, China
| | - Shasang Zhou
- Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Xiaoming Song
- Laboratory Animal Centre of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, China
| | - Qunbo Tong
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Zhejiang Academy of Medical
| | - Di Lou
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Zhejiang Academy of Medical
| | - Qi Lou
- Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Lingqun Lu
- Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Yu Lv
- Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Xiaoying Sa
- Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Shaohong Lu
- Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Zhejiang Academy of Medical
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Franco PS, Gois PSG, de Araújo TE, da Silva RJ, de Freitas Barbosa B, de Oliveira Gomes A, Ietta F, Dos Santos LA, Dos Santos MC, Mineo JR, Ferro EAV. Brazilian strains of Toxoplasma gondii are controlled by azithromycin and modulate cytokine production in human placental explants. J Biomed Sci 2019; 26:10. [PMID: 30665403 PMCID: PMC6340180 DOI: 10.1186/s12929-019-0503-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite that causes congenital toxoplasmosis by transplacental transmission. Parasite strains are genetically diverse and disease severity is related to the genotype. In Uberlândia city, Brazil, two virulent strains were isolated: TgChBrUD1 and TgChBrUD2. Congenital toxoplasmosis is more prevalent in South America compared to Europe, and more often associated with severe symptoms, usually as a result of infection with atypical strains. METHODS Considering that T. gondii has shown high genetic diversity in Brazil, the effectiveness of traditional treatment may not be the same, as more virulent strains of atypical genotypes may predominate. Thus, the aim of this study were to evaluate the Brazilian strain infection rate in human villous explants and the azithromycin efficacy with regard to the control of these strains compared to traditional therapy. Villi were infected with RH, ME49, TgChBrUD1 or TgChBrUD2 strains and treated with azithromycin, spiramycin or a combination of pyrimethamine plus sulfadiazine. The villous viability was analyzed by LDH assay and morphological analysis. Parasite proliferation, as well as production of cytokines was analyzed by qPCR and ELISA, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using the GraphPad Prism 5.0. RESULTS The treatments were not toxic and TgChBrUD1 infected villi showed a higher parasite burden compared with others strains. Treatments significantly reduced the intracellular proliferation of T. gondii, regardless of the strain. TgChBrUD1-infected villi produced a larger amount of MIF, IL-6 and TGF-β1 compared with other infected villi. Azithromycin treatment increased MIF production by RH- or TgChBrUD2-infected villi, but in ME49- or TgChBrUD1-infected villi, the MIF production was not altered by treatment. On the other hand, azithromycin treatment induced lower IL-6 production by ME49- or TgChBrUD1-infected villi. CONCLUSIONS Azithromycin treatment was effective against T. gondii Brazilian strains compared with conventional treatment. Also, the TgChBrUD1 strain replicated more in villi and modulated important cytokines involved in parasite control, showing that different strains use different strategies to evade the host immune response and ensure their survival.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Silva Franco
- Laboratório de Imunofisiologia da Reprodução, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Building: 2B, CEP, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Paula Suellen Guimarães Gois
- Laboratório de Imunofisiologia da Reprodução, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Building: 2B, CEP, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Thádia Evelyn de Araújo
- Laboratório de Imunofisiologia da Reprodução, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Building: 2B, CEP, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Rafaela José da Silva
- Laboratório de Imunofisiologia da Reprodução, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Building: 2B, CEP, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Bellisa de Freitas Barbosa
- Laboratório de Imunofisiologia da Reprodução, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Building: 2B, CEP, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Angelica de Oliveira Gomes
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas e Naturais, Universidade Federal do Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Brazil
| | - Francesca Ietta
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Lara Affonso Dos Santos
- Laboratório de Imunofisiologia da Reprodução, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Building: 2B, CEP, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - Maria Célia Dos Santos
- Laboratório de Imunofisiologia da Reprodução, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Building: 2B, CEP, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil
| | - José Roberto Mineo
- Laboratório de Imunoparasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Eloisa Amália Vieira Ferro
- Laboratório de Imunofisiologia da Reprodução, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, Building: 2B, CEP, Uberlândia, 38405-320, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
El-Beshbishi SN, El-Tantawy NL, Elzeky SM, Abdalaziz KF, Atia RA. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection in children with central nervous system disorders in Mansoura, Egypt: a case-control study. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2018; 112:555-560. [PMID: 30265366 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/try100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii is a global infection with a crucial role in the development of neurological diseases. Data concerning the association between T. gondii and neurological illnesses in Egyptian children is scarce. Methods A case-control study was conducted on 60 patients divided into children suffering from central nervous system manifestations without apparent chromosomal anomalies (n=30) and children with Down syndrome (n=30) recruited from Mansoura University Children's Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt. A total of 30 healthy children were included as controls. Demographics and clinical data were collected from all cases and Toxoplasma immunoglobulin (Ig) M and G antibodies were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Anti-T. gondii IgG was the most frequent antibody detected and the highest seropositivity rates were ranked for the neurologically disabled non-syndromic children, followed by Down syndrome, compared with controls (p≤0.001). Statistically significant (p=0.05) associations were found between Toxoplasma IgG seropositivity and hydrocephalus and between Toxoplasma IgM and a history of contact with farm animals, soil and cats in children with Down syndrome. Conclusions The association between Toxoplasma infection and neurological disorders in children should be kept in mind by paediatricians and assessment of T. gondii antibodies in early childhood is needed for timely management of afflicted patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samar N El-Beshbishi
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Nora L El-Tantawy
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Sara M Elzeky
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | | | - Raefa A Atia
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Pardini L, Bernstein M, Carral LA, Kaufer FJ, Dellarupe A, Gos ML, Campero LM, Moré G, Messina MT, Schneider MV, Freuler CB, Durlach RA, Unzaga JM, Venturini MC. Congenital human toxoplasmosis caused by non-clonal Toxoplasma gondii genotypes in Argentina. Parasitol Int 2018; 68:48-52. [PMID: 30304711 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2018.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 10/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis, a worldwide distributed zoonosis, can be transmitted congenitally affecting fetuses and developing variable clinical signs. Different Toxoplasma gondii genotypes and infective dose are related factors with different clinical manifestations. Several studies indicate that atypical strains could produce more severe clinical manifestations compared to typical strains. Umbilical cord blood (n = 37) and placenta (n = 19) were collected at birth from women with acute T. gondii infection and processed for isolation by mice bioassay. Six isolates were obtained and identified as TgHm14-4Arg, TgHm15-02Arg, TgHm16-01Arg, TgHm16-02Arg, TgHm17-01Arg and TgHm17-02Arg. Three genotypes described previously on Toxo-DB were identified: #138 identified in chickens from Brazil, #182 isolated from eared doves from Brazil, #14 from wallaby kangaroos and chickens from Argentina, chickens from Brazil, Colombia, Chile and Venezuela, cats and dogs from Brazil and Colombia and also coyotes from USA indicating worldwide distribution of these genotypes. Two new allele combinations were obtained showing high genotypes diversity in Argentina. Four of the isolates (TgHm14-4Arg, TgHm15-02Arg, TgHm16-01Arg, TgHm16-02Arg) and two of them (TgHm17-01Arg, TgHm17-02Arg) produced chronic and acute infections in mice, respectively. Until now, seven T. gondii isolates have been obtained from humans in Argentina, and all were atypical or non-clonal genotypes. The identification of atypical strains causing congenital toxoplasmosis and circulating in our region, make important to perform the serological screenings according Argentine Consensus of Toxoplasmosis and to apply and monitoring treatments earlier in pregnancy. To achieve this aim, it is necessary to inform general population about T. gondii infection, diagnostics and control measures. These results should serve to generate awareness about congenital toxoplasmosis in South America.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lais Pardini
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología, FCV-UNLP, La Plata, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina.
| | - Mariana Bernstein
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología, FCV-UNLP, La Plata, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina
| | - Liliana A Carral
- Centro de Toxoplasmosis, Hospital Alemán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Andrea Dellarupe
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología, FCV-UNLP, La Plata, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina
| | - María L Gos
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología, FCV-UNLP, La Plata, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina
| | - Lucía M Campero
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología, FCV-UNLP, La Plata, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina
| | - Gastón Moré
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología, FCV-UNLP, La Plata, Argentina; CONICET, Argentina
| | - Matías T Messina
- Centro de Toxoplasmosis, Hospital Alemán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | - Juan M Unzaga
- Laboratorio de Inmunoparasitología, FCV-UNLP, La Plata, Argentina
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Li Y, Xiu F, Mou Z, Xue Z, Du H, Zhou C, Li Y, Shi Y, He S, Zhou H. Exosomes derived from Toxoplasma gondii stimulate an inflammatory response through JNK signaling pathway. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2018. [PMID: 29542367 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2018-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Exosomes are nanoscale membranous vesicles secreted by most cell types able to transfer bioactive molecules among cells, which play crucial roles in intercellular communication. We characterized the exosomes derived from Toxoplasma gondii and detected the immune response in macrophages. METHODS We used transmission electron microscopy, nanotracking analysis and western blotting to identify T. gondii exosomes. Functional experiments were performed in RAW264.7 cells for the induction of cytokines, MAPKs (p38 MAPK, ERK 1/2 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase [JNK]), mRNAs and nuclear translocation of phosphorylated JNK protein. RESULTS JNK pathway was activated by T. gondii exosomes, and the production of IL-12, IFN-γ and TNF-α was significantly increased in macrophages. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrated that T. gondii exosomes elicit innate immune through JNK activation, which could provide new insight into the essential regulators of host-pathogen interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yawen Li
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Fangming Xiu
- Translational Medicine, SickKids Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Zezhong Mou
- Cheeloo Health Sciences Center, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Zhiwei Xue
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Huanhui Du
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Chunxue Zhou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Yongyu Shi
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Shenyi He
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Huaiyu Zhou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
The pathogenesis of microcephaly resulting from congenital infections: why is my baby’s head so small? Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2017; 37:209-226. [DOI: 10.1007/s10096-017-3111-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/17/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
32
|
Eldeek HEM, Ahmad AAR, El-Mokhtar MA, Abdel Kader ARMM, Mandour AM, Mounib MEM. Toxoplasma genotyping in congenital toxoplasmosis in Upper Egypt: evidence of type I strain. Parasitol Res 2017; 116:2393-2406. [PMID: 28668985 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-017-5541-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii has subpopulation structures in different geographical regions caused by less frequent sexual recombination, population sweeps, and biogeography. The majority of strains isolated in North America and Europe fall into one of three clonal lineages, referred to as types I, II, and III. So far, little is known about genetics of Toxoplasma strains in Africa. The present study aimed to determine the genotype of Toxoplasma strains obtained directly from trophoblastic/placental tissues of 29 complicated pregnant women using multilocus nested-PCR-RFLP technique depending on four independent genetic loci (5' SAG2 and 3' SAG2), SAG3, GRA6, and BTUB genes. All samples gave positive amplicons at 5'-3' SAG2 and SAG3 genes. Meanwhile, no amplification products were observed in 12 (41.37%) and 10 (34.48%) samples with GRA6 and BTUB genes, respectively. The restriction pattern revealed the presence of genotype I in all samples, except one sample, which revealed atypical genotype with unusual restriction pattern at 3' SAG2 gene. The negative amplifications in some samples could be due to presence of mutations or polymorphisms in the primer binding sites of these isolates, raising the possibility of mixed or recombinant genotypes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time to perform genotype analysis study based on Multiplex nPCR-RFLP technique for genetic characterization of T. gondii in Egypt. Besides, it is the first time to prove that the most prevalent strain of T. gondii, responsible for congenital toxoplasmosis in Upper Egypt, is the highly virulent type I. Atypical genotype was detected as well.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanan E M Eldeek
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
| | | | - Mohamed Ahmed El-Mokhtar
- Medical Microbiology and Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | | | - Ahmad M Mandour
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Toxoplasma gondii in the Food Supply. Pathogens 2017; 6:pathogens6020021. [PMID: 28587147 PMCID: PMC5488655 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens6020021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2017] [Revised: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is caused by infection with the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Infections are usually either asymptomatic or develop mild symptoms that are self-limited, but infections in immunosuppressed persons can be severe. Infections in pregnant women can cause serious health problems in the child such as mental retardation and blindness. Infection with T. gondii in immunocompetent adults can lead to impaired eyesight. Toxoplasmosis has ranked very highly in two studies of death and disability attributable to foodborne pathogens. The consumption of raw or undercooked meat containing T. gondii tissue cysts and the consumption of raw vegetables or water contaminated with T. gondii oocysts from cat feces is most frequently associated with human illness. The risk of acquiring a Toxoplasma infection via food varies with cultural and eating habits in different human populations.
Collapse
|
34
|
Abstract
Congenital infections with pathogens such as Zika virus, Toxoplasma gondii, Listeria monocytogenes, Treponema pallidium, parvovirus, HIV, varicella zoster virus, Rubella, Cytomegalovirus, and Herpesviruses are a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite the devastating impact of microbial infections on the developing fetus, relatively little is known about how pathogens associated with congenital disease breach the placental barrier to transit vertically during human pregnancy. In this Review, we focus on transplacental transmission of pathogens during human gestation. We introduce the structure of the human placenta and describe the innate mechanisms by which the placenta restricts microbial access to the intrauterine compartment. Based on current knowledge, we also discuss the potential pathways employed by microorganisms to overcome the placental barrier and prospects for the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nitin Arora
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Yoel Sadovsky
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA
| | - Terence S Dermody
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA
| | - Carolyn B Coyne
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15219, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Maldonado YA, Read JS. Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention of Congenital Toxoplasmosis in the United States. Pediatrics 2017; 139:peds.2016-3860. [PMID: 28138010 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2016-3860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
|
36
|
Rijks J, Cito F, Cunningham A, Rantsios A, Giovannini A. Disease Risk Assessments Involving Companion Animals: an Overview for 15 Selected Pathogens Taking a European Perspective. J Comp Pathol 2016; 155:S75-97. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcpa.2015.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
|
37
|
Toxoplasma gondii in women with recent abortion from Southern Mexico. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF TROPICAL DISEASE 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s2222-1808(15)61012-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
38
|
AlRashada N, Al-Gharrash Z, Alshehri F, Al-Khamees L, Alshqaqeeq A. Toxoplasmosis among Saudi Female Students in Al-Ahssa, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia: Awareness and Risk Factors. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.4236/ojpm.2016.68018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
39
|
Brüggmann D, Handl V, Klingelhöfer D, Jaque J, Groneberg DA. Congenital toxoplasmosis: an in-depth density-equalizing mapping analysis to explore its global research architecture. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:646. [PMID: 26691532 PMCID: PMC4687351 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-1263-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2015] [Accepted: 12/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasmosis endangers the unborn child if its infectious agent--toxoplasma gondii--is transmitted transplacentally during pregnancy. Although this condition occurs in all parts of the world and represents a major public health burden, no detailed knowledge on the global research architecture of congenital toxoplasmosis is available thus far. Hence, it was the aim of this study to assess the related global research activity over the past 110 years. METHODS We employed the NewQIS platform, which combines established scientometric and socioeconomic analysis tools with novel visualizing techniques such as density equalizing mapping projections. RESULTS In the Web of Science, 13,044 congenital toxoplasmosis-related items published between 1900 and 2012 were identified. These were issued by 26,483 authors originating from 125 countries. The US was the dominating nation (38.7 % of total scientific output), followed by France (10.9 %) and Great Britain (9.2 %). The US also led the ranking in regards to semi-qualitative parameters (total citations, country-specific h-indices and citation rates). When research activity was related to economic figures, the ratio of total toxoplasmosis publications to the total GDP listed Switzerland first with an average of 589.35 toxoplasmosis-related publications per GDP in 1000 Bio US-$, followed by France (545.16), the UK (486.13) and Brazil (431.84) and the US (311.11). The relation of toxoplasmosis-specific publications to the economic power indicator GDP per capita in 1000 US-$ revealed that the US was ranked first with 97.65 toxoplasmosis-related publications/GDP per capita in 1000 US-$, followed by Brazil (85.95). Subject area analysis indicated a relative shortage of studies that addressed pharmacological or public health aspects of congenital toxoplasmosis. CONCLUSIONS This study is the first in-depth approach to sketch a global picture of the congenital toxoplasmosis research architecture. In contrast to other fields of biomedical research, not only high-income countries play a major role regarding congenital toxoplasmosis research but also countries such as Brazil that have a high incidence of congenital toxoplasmosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dörthe Brüggmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA. .,Department of Female Health and Preventive Medicine, Institute of Occupational Medicine, Social Medicine and Environmental Medicine, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Vanessa Handl
- Department of Female Health and Preventive Medicine, Institute of Occupational Medicine, Social Medicine and Environmental Medicine, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Doris Klingelhöfer
- Department of Female Health and Preventive Medicine, Institute of Occupational Medicine, Social Medicine and Environmental Medicine, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Jenny Jaque
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine of USC, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
| | - David A Groneberg
- Department of Female Health and Preventive Medicine, Institute of Occupational Medicine, Social Medicine and Environmental Medicine, Goethe-University, Frankfurt, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Cao A, Liu Y, Wang J, Li X, Wang S, Zhao Q, Cong H, He S, Zhou H. Toxoplasma gondii: Vaccination with a DNA vaccine encoding T- and B-cell epitopes of SAG1, GRA2, GRA7 and ROP16 elicits protection against acute toxoplasmosis in mice. Vaccine 2015; 33:6757-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2015.10.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Revised: 09/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
41
|
Xiao J, Yolken RH. Strain hypothesis of Toxoplasma gondii infection on the outcome of human diseases. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2015; 213:828-45. [PMID: 25600911 DOI: 10.1111/apha.12458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2014] [Revised: 10/13/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii is an exceptionally successful food and waterborne parasite that infects approximately 1 billion people worldwide. Genotyping of T. gondii isolates from all continents revealed a complex population structure. Recent research supports the notion that T. gondii genotype may be associated with disease severity. Here, we (1) discuss molecular and serological approaches for designation of T. gondii strain type, (2) overview the literatures on the association of T. gondii strain type and the outcome of human disease and (3) explore possible mechanisms underlying these strain-specific pathology and severity of human toxoplasmosis. Although no final conclusions can be drawn, it is clear that virulent strains (e.g. strains containing type I or atypical alleles) are significantly more often associated with increased frequency and severity of human toxoplasmosis. The significance of highly virulent strains can cause severe diseases in immunocompetent patients and might implicated in brain disorders such as schizophrenia should led to reconsideration of toxoplasmosis. Further studies that combine parasite strain typing and human factor analysis (e.g. immune status and genetic background) are required for better understanding of human susceptibility or resistance to toxoplasmosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J. Xiao
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology; Department of Pediatrics; Johns Hopkins School of Medicine; Baltimore MD USA
| | - R. H. Yolken
- Stanley Division of Developmental Neurovirology; Department of Pediatrics; Johns Hopkins School of Medicine; Baltimore MD USA
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Abstract
TORCH infections classically comprise toxoplasmosis, Treponema pallidum, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpesvirus, hepatitis viruses, human immunodeficiency virus, and other infections, such as varicella, parvovirus B19, and enteroviruses. The epidemiology of these infections varies; in low-income and middle-income countries, TORCH infections are major contributors to prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal morbidity and mortality. Evidence of infection may be seen at birth, in infancy, or years later. For many of these pathogens, treatment or prevention strategies are available. Early recognition, including prenatal screening, is key. This article covers toxoplasmosis, parvovirus B19, syphilis, rubella, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, and human immunodeficiency virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Neu
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Columbia University Medical Center, 622 West 168th Street, PH-468, New York, NY 10032, USA.
| | - Jennifer Duchon
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, 622 West 168th Street, PH-471, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Philip Zachariah
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, New York-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital, 622 West 168th Street, PH-471, New York, NY 10032, USA
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Harker KS, Ueno N, Lodoen MB. Toxoplasma gondiidissemination: a parasite's journey through the infected host. Parasite Immunol 2015; 37:141-9. [DOI: 10.1111/pim.12163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. S. Harker
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and the Institute for Immunology; University of California; Irvine CA USA
| | - N. Ueno
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and the Institute for Immunology; University of California; Irvine CA USA
| | - M. B. Lodoen
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry and the Institute for Immunology; University of California; Irvine CA USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Flegr J, Klapilová K, Kaňková Š. Toxoplasmosis can be a sexually transmitted infection with serious clinical consequences. Not all routes of infection are created equal. Med Hypotheses 2014; 83:286-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2014.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
45
|
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is caused by infection with the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. It is one of the most common parasitic infections in humans and is most typically asymptomatic. However, primary infection in a pregnant woman can cause severe and disabling disease in the developing fetus. Recent developments have included increased understanding of the role of parasite genotype in determining infectivity and disease severity. Risk factors for acquisition of infection have been better defined, and the important role of foodborne transmission has been further delineated. In addition, strategies have emerged to decrease mother-to-child transmission through prompt identification of acutely infected pregnant women followed by appropriate treatment. Refined diagnostic tools, particularly the addition of immunoglobulin G avidity testing, allow for more accurate timing of maternal infection and hence better decision making during pregnancy. Congenitally infected children can be treated, beginning in utero and continuing through the first year of life, to ameliorate the severity of disease. However, despite these many advances in our understanding of congenital toxoplasmosis prevention and treatment, significant areas of study remain: we need better drugs, well defined strategies for screening of pregnant women, improved food safety, and improved diagnostic tests.
Collapse
|
46
|
Abstract
The protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii resides within a nonfusogenic vacuole during intracellular replication. Although the limiting membrane of this vacuole provides a protective barrier to acidification and degradation by lysosomal hydrolases, it also physically segregates the parasite from the host cytosol. Accordingly, it has been suggested that T. gondii acquires material from the host via membrane channels or transporters. The ability of the parasite to internalize macromolecules via endocytosis during intracellular replication has not been tested. Here, we show that Toxoplasma ingests host cytosolic proteins and digests them using cathepsin L and other proteases within its endolysosomal system. Ingestion was reduced in mutant parasites lacking an intravacuolar network of tubular membranes, implicating this apparatus as a possible conduit for trafficking to the parasite. Genetic ablation of proteins involved in the pathway is associated with diminished parasite replication and virulence attenuation. We show that both virulent type I and avirulent type II strain parasites ingest and digest host-derived protein, indicating that the pathway is not restricted to highly virulent strains. The findings provide the first definitive evidence that T. gondii internalizes proteins from the host during intracellular residence and suggest that protein digestion within the endolysosomal system of the parasite contributes to toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasma gondii causes significant disease in individuals with weak immune systems. Treatment options for this infection have drawbacks, creating a need to understand how this parasite survives within the cells it infects as a prelude to interrupting its survival strategies. This study reveals that T. gondii internalizes proteins from the cytoplasm of the cells it infects and degrades such proteins within a digestive compartment within the parasite. Disruption of proteins involved in the pathway reduced parasite replication and lessened disease severity. The identification of a novel parasite ingestion pathway opens opportunities to interfere with this process and improve the outcome of infection.
Collapse
|
47
|
Jones JL, Parise ME, Fiore AE. Neglected parasitic infections in the United States: toxoplasmosis. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2014; 90:794-799. [PMID: 24808246 PMCID: PMC4015566 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.13-0722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2013] [Accepted: 01/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a leading cause of severe foodborne illness in the United States. Population-based studies have found T. gondii infection to be more prevalent in racial/ethnic minority and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. Soil contaminated with cat feces, undercooked meat, and congenital transmission are the principal sources of infection. Toxoplasmosis-associated illnesses include congenital neurologic and ocular disease; acquired illness in immunocompetent persons, most notably ocular disease; and encephalitis or disseminated disease in immunosuppressed persons. The association of T. gondii infection with risk for mental illness is intriguing and requires further research. Reduction of T. gondii in meat, improvements in hygiene and food preparation practices, and reduction of environmental contamination can prevent toxoplasmosis, but more research is needed on how to implement these measures. In addition, screening and treatment may help prevent toxoplasmosis or reduce the severity of disease in some settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey L. Jones
- Division of Parasitic Diseases and Malaria, Center for Global Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Flegr J, Prandota J, Sovičková M, Israili ZH. Toxoplasmosis--a global threat. Correlation of latent toxoplasmosis with specific disease burden in a set of 88 countries. PLoS One 2014; 9:e90203. [PMID: 24662942 PMCID: PMC3963851 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 371] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2013] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasmosis is becoming a global health hazard as it infects 30-50% of the world human population. Clinically, the life-long presence of the parasite in tissues of a majority of infected individuals is usually considered asymptomatic. However, a number of studies show that this 'asymptomatic infection' may also lead to development of other human pathologies. AIMS OF THE STUDY The purpose of the study was to collect available geoepidemiological data on seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis and search for its relationship with mortality and disability rates in different countries. METHODS AND FINDINGS Prevalence data published between 1995-2008 for women in child-bearing age were collected for 88 countries (29 European). The association between prevalence of toxoplasmosis and specific disease burden estimated with age-standardized Disability Adjusted Life Year (DALY) or with mortality, was calculated using General Linear Method with Gross Domestic Product per capita (GDP), geolatitude and humidity as covariates, and also using nonparametric partial Kendall correlation test with GDP as a covariate. The prevalence of toxoplasmosis correlated with specific disease burden in particular countries explaining 23% of variability in disease burden in Europe. The analyses revealed that for example, DALY of 23 of 128 analyzed diseases and disease categories on the WHO list showed correlations (18 positive, 5 negative) with prevalence of toxoplasmosis and another 12 diseases showed positive trends (p<0.1). For several obtained significant correlations between the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis and specific diseases/clinical entities, possible pathophysiological, biochemical and molecular explanations are presented. CONCLUSIONS The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis correlated with various disease burden. Statistical associations does not necessarily mean causality. The precautionary principle suggests however that possible role of toxoplasmosis as a triggering factor responsible for development of several clinical entities deserves much more attention and financial support both in everyday medical practice and future clinical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaroslav Flegr
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Joseph Prandota
- Department of Social Pediatrics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Michaela Sovičková
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Charles University in Prague, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Zafar H. Israili
- Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Angeloni MB, Guirelli PM, Franco PS, Barbosa BF, Gomes AO, Castro AS, Silva NM, Martins-Filho OA, Mineo TWP, Silva DAO, Mineo JR, Ferro EAV. Differential apoptosis in BeWo cells after infection with highly (RH) or moderately (ME49) virulent strains of Toxoplasma gondii is related to the cytokine profile secreted, the death receptor Fas expression and phosphorylated ERK1/2 expression. Placenta 2013; 34:973-82. [PMID: 24074900 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2013] [Revised: 08/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alterations of apoptosis are commonly associated with pregnancy complications and abortion. Modulation of apoptosis is a relevant feature of Toxoplasma gondii infection and it is related to parasite strain types. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible factors that are involved in the differential apoptosis of BeWo cells infected with distinct T. gondii strain types. METHODS Human trophoblastic cells (BeWo cell line) were infected with RH or ME49 strains, the cytokine production was measured and the phosphorylation of anti-apoptotic ERK1/2 protein was analyzed. Also, cells were treated with different cytokines, infected with RH or ME49 strain, and analyzed for apoptosis index and Fas/CD95 death receptor expression. RESULTS ME49-infected BeWo cells exhibited a predominantly pro-inflammatory cytokine profile, whereas cells infected with RH strain had a higher production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Also, the incidence of apoptosis was higher in ME49-infected cells, which have been treated with pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to cells infected with RH and treated with anti-inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, Fas/CD95 expression was higher in cells infected with either ME49 or RH strain and treated with pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to anti-inflammatory cytokine treatment. The phosphorylation of ERK1/2 protein increased after 24 h of infection only with the RH strain. CONCLUSION These results suggest that opposing mechanisms of interference in apoptosis of BeWo cells after infection with RH or ME49 strains of T. gondii can be associated with the differential cytokine profile secreted, the Fas/CD95 expression and the phosphorylated ERK1/2 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M B Angeloni
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Av. Pará, 1720, 38405-320 Uberlândia, MG, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Vado-Solís IA, Suárez-Solís V, Jiménez-Delgadillo B, Zavala-Velázquez JE, Segura-Correa JC. Toxoplasma gondii presence in women with spontaneous abortion in Yucatan, Mexico. J Parasitol 2012; 99:383-5. [PMID: 22924922 DOI: 10.1645/ge-3189.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to estimate the seroprevalence of anti- Toxoplasma gondii antibodies and DNA of women with spontaneous abortions in 2 hospitals located in Yucatan, Mexico. Between June 2008 and May 2009, blood samples were taken from 100 women with spontaneous abortion attending the Ticul City Communitarian Hospital and the Merida Mother-Kid Hospital. The sera were tested for anti- T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies. Blood samples (5 ml with anticlotting agent) were also used for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, to detect T. gondii DNA. Forty-two of the 100 samples were negative. Of the positive samples (n = 58), 32 were positive to IgG, 2 to IgM, 5 to IgG and IgM, 6 to IgG and PCR, 1 to IgM and PCR, and 12 to IgG, IgM, and PCR. Accordingly, 55% of the women were seropositive to at least IgG, 20% to at least IgM, and 19% via PCR. Differences between hospitals were significant (P < 0.05) only for IgM. The risk of infection (IgM positive) was 2.85 (odds ratio [OR] 95%, confidence interval [CI]; 1.03-7.87) times greater in women patients at the Merida Mother-Kid Hospital, than those at the Ticul Communitarian Hospital. More studies are needed to evaluate the impact of this disease and to establish strategies to follow in order to reduce congenital toxoplasmosis in the populations at risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio A Vado-Solís
- Unidad Interinstitucional de Investigación Clínica Epidemiológica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán. Av. Itzáes entre 59 y 59-A Apdo. Postal 1225-A C.P. 97000, Mérida, Yucatán, México
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|