Global Survey of the Bovine Salivary Proteome: Integrating Multidimensional Prefractionation, Targeted, and Glycocapture Strategies

Evaluation of Serum Supplementation on the Development of Haemonchus contortus Larvae In Vitro and on Compound Screening Results

A high-throughput platform for assessing the activity of synthetic or natural compounds on the motility and development of Haemonchus contortus larvae has been established for identifying new anthelmintic compounds active against strongylid nematodes. This study evaluated the impact of serum supplementation on larval development, motility and survival in vitro and its implications for phenotypic compound screening. Of five blood components assessed, 7.5% sheep serum significantly enhanced larval development, motility and survival compared to the original medium (LB*), leading to the formulation of an improved medium (LBS*). Proteomic analysis revealed marked differences in protein expression in larvae cultured in LBS* versus LB*, including molecules associated with structural integrity and metabolic processes. The phenotypic screening of 240 compounds ("Global Priority Box" from Medicines Malaria Venture) using LBS* yielded results distinct from those in LB*, highlighting the effect of culture conditions on screening assessments. These findings indicate/emphasise the critical need to evaluate and optimise culture media for physiologically relevant conditions in screening platforms, improving the reliability of anthelmintic discovery.

Comparative structure activity and target exploration of 1,2-diphenylethynes in Haemonchus contortus and Caenorhabditis elegans

Infections and diseases caused by parasitic nematodes have a major adverse impact on the health and productivity of animals and humans worldwide. The control of these parasites often relies heavily on the treatment with commercially available chemical compounds (anthelmintics). However, the excessive or uncontrolled use of these compounds in livestock animals has led to major challenges linked to drug resistance in nematodes. Therefore, there is a need to develop new anthelmintics with novel mechanism(s) of action. Recently, we identified a small molecule, designated UMW-9729, with nematocidal activity against the free-living model organism Caenorhabditis elegans. Here, we evaluated UMW-9729's potential as an anthelmintic in a structure-activity relationship (SAR) study in C. elegans and the highly pathogenic, blood-feeding Haemonchus contortus (barber's pole worm), and explored the compound-target relationship using thermal proteome profiling (TPP). First, we synthesised and tested 25 analogues of UMW-9729 for their nematocidal activity in both H. contortus (larvae and adults) and C. elegans (young adults), establishing a preliminary nematocidal pharmacophore for both species. We identified several compounds with marked activity against either H. contortus or C. elegans which had greater efficacy than UMW-9729, and found a significant divergence in compound bioactivity between these two nematode species. We also identified a UMW-9729 analogue, designated 25, that moderately inhibited the motility of adult female H. contortus in vitro. Subsequently, we inferred three H. contortus proteins (HCON_00134350, HCON_00021470 and HCON_00099760) and five C. elegans proteins (F30A10.9, F15B9.8, B0361.6, DNC-4 and UNC-11) that interacted directly with UMW-9729; however, no conserved protein target was shared between the two nematode species. Future work aims to extend the SAR investigation in these and other parasitic nematode species, and validate individual proteins identified here as possible targets of UMW-9729. Overall, the present study evaluates this anthelmintic candidate and highlights some challenges associated with early anthelmintic investigation.

Structure-activity relationship and target investigation of 2-aryl quinolines with nematocidal activity

Within the context of our anthelmintic discovery program, we recently identified and evaluated a quinoline derivative, called ABX464 or obefazimod, as a nematocidal candidate; synthesised a series of analogues which were assessed for activity against the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans; and predicted compound-target relationships by thermal proteome profiling (TPP) and in silico docking. Here, we logically extended this work and critically evaluated the anthelmintic activity of ABX464 analogues on Haemonchus contortus (barber's pole worm) - a highly pathogenic nematode of ruminant livestock. First, we tested a series of 44 analogues on H. contortus (larvae and adults) to investigate the nematocidal pharmacophore of ABX464, and identified one compound with greater potency than the parent compound and showed moderate activity against a select number of other parasitic nematodes (including Ancylostoma, Heligmosomoides and Strongyloides species). Using TPP and in silico modelling studies, we predicted protein HCON_00074590 (a predicted aldo-keto reductase) as a target candidate for ABX464 in H. contortus. Future work aims to optimise this compound as a nematocidal candidate and investigate its pharmacokinetic properties. Overall, this study presents a first step toward the development of a new nematocide.

Structure activity relationship and target prediction for ABX464 analogues in Caenorhabditis elegans

Global challenges with treatment failures and/or widespread resistance in parasitic worms against commercially available anthelmintics lend impetus to the development of new anthelmintics with novel mechanism(s) of action. The free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans is an important model organism used for drug discovery, including the screening and structure-activity investigation of new compounds, and target deconvolution. Previously, we conducted a whole-organism phenotypic screen of the 'Pandemic Response Box' (from Medicines for Malaria Venture, MMV) and identified a hit compound, called ABX464, with activity against C. elegans and a related, parasitic nematode, Haemonchus contortus. Here, we tested a series of 44 synthesized analogues to explore the pharmacophore of activity on C. elegans and revealed five compounds whose potency was similar or greater than that of ABX464, but which were not toxic to human hepatoma (HepG2) cells. Subsequently, we employed thermal proteome profiling (TPP), protein structure prediction and an in silico-docking algorithm to predict ABX464-target candidates. Taken together, the findings from this study contribute significantly to the early-stage drug discovery of a new nematocide based on ABX464. Future work is aimed at validating the ABX464-protein interactions identified here, and at assessing ABX464 and associated analogues against a panel of parasitic nematodes, towards developing a new anthelmintic with a mechanism of action that is distinct from any of the compounds currently-available commercially.

Multi-omics in vitro study of the salivary modulation of the goat rumen microbiome

Ruminants are able to produce large quantities of saliva which enter into the rumen and salivary components exert different physiological functions. Although previous research has indicated that salivary immunoglobulins can partially modulate the rumen microbial activity, the role of the salivary components other than ions on the rumen microbial ecosystem has not been thoroughly investigated in ruminants. To investigate this modulatory activity, a total of 16 semi-continuous in vitro cultures with oats hay and concentrate were used to incubate rumen fluid from four donor goats with autoclaved saliva (AUT) as negative control, saliva from the same rumen fluid donor (OWN) as positive control, and either goat (GOAT) or sheep (SHEEP) saliva as experimental interventions. Fermentation was monitored throughout 7 days of incubation and the microbiome and metabolome were analysed at the end of this incubation by Next-Generation sequencing and liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, respectively. Characterisation of the proteome and metabolome of the different salivas used for the incubation showed a high inter-animal variability in terms of metabolites and proteins, including immunoglobulins. Incubation with AUT saliva promoted lower fermentative activity in terms of gas production (-9.4%) and highly divergent prokaryotic community in comparison with other treatments (OWN, GOAT and SHEEP) suggesting a modulatory effect derived from the presence of bioactive salivary components. Microbial alpha-diversity at amplicon sequence variant (ASV) level was unaffected by treatment. However, some differences were found in the microbial communities across treatments, which were mostly caused by a greater abundance of Proteobacteria and Rikenellacea in the AUT treatment and lower of Prevotellaceae. These bacteria, which are key in the rumen metabolism, had greater abundances in GOAT and SHEEP treatments. Incubation with GOAT saliva led to a lower protozoal concentration and propionate molar proportion indicating a capacity to modulate the rumen microbial ecosystem. The metabolomics analysis showed that the AUT samples were clustered apart from the rest indicating different metabolic pathways were promoted in this treatment. These results suggest that specific salivary components contribute to host-associated role in selecting the rumen commensal microbiota and its activity. These findings could open the possibility of developing new strategies to modulate the saliva composition as a way to manipulate the rumen function and activity.

The Proteome and Lipidome of Extracellular Vesicles from Haemonchus contortus to Underpin Explorations of Host-Parasite Cross-Talk

Many parasitic worms have a major adverse impact on human and animal populations worldwide due to the chronicity of their infections. There is a growing body of evidence indicating that extracellular vesicles (EVs) are intimately involved in modulating (suppressing) inflammatory/immune host responses and parasitism. As one of the most pathogenic nematodes of livestock animals, Haemonchus contortus is an ideal model system for EV exploration. Here, employing a multi-step enrichment process (in vitro culture, followed by ultracentrifugation, size exclusion and filtration), we enriched EVs from H. contortus and undertook the first comprehensive (qualitative and quantitative) multi-omic investigation of EV proteins and lipids using advanced liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and informatics methods. We identified and quantified 561 proteins and 446 lipids in EVs and compared these molecules with those of adult worms. We identified unique molecules in EVs, such as proteins linked to lipid transportation and lipid species (i.e., sphingolipids) associated with signalling, indicating the involvement of these molecules in parasite-host cross-talk. This work provides a solid starting point to explore the functional roles of EV-specific proteins and lipids in modulating parasite-host cross-talk, and the prospect of finding ways of disrupting or interrupting this relationship to suppress or eliminate parasite infection.

Comparative proteomics analysis of adult Haemonchus contortus isolates from Ovis ammon

Haemonchus contortus is an important parasite that causes disease that seriously endangers ruminant animals cattle, sheep, goat, and camel. Here, we compared the proeomics analysis of three adult Haemonchus contortus isolates from mouflons (Ovis ammon). A total of 1,299 adult worm proteins were identified, and 461 proteins were quantified, of which 82 (108), 83 (97), and 97 (86) significantly upregulated (downregulated) differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were detected among pairwise comparisons (1-vs.-3, 2-vs.-3, and 2-vs.-1). Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC−MS/MS) and bioinformatic analysis indicated that these DEPs are mainly concentrated in cellular composition, molecular function, biological function, and catabolism pathways. In addition, Gene Ontology (GO) classification and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were carried out to screen the DEPs. The main biological processes involved were nucleotide, nucleotide phosphate, ribonucleotide, purine-containing compound, purine ribonucleotide, single-organism, oxoacid, organic, carboxylic, oxoacid metabolic processes and single-organism catabolic processes. The majority of KEGG pathways were found to be related to metabolic pathways, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, biosynthesis of antibiotics, carbon metabolism, and microbial metabolism in diverse environments. Moreover, we also found differences in the expression of some important or novel regulatory proteases, such as serine hydroxymethyl transferase (SHMT), dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase (DLD), and transket pyr domain-containing protein (TKPD). In summary, label-free proteomic analysis of adult H. contortus worms displayed significant differences in three different individual isolates, which helps to improve our understanding of the growth and metabolic mechanisms of H. contortus in different individuals and relative natural environments and provides novel drug targets for the treatment of parasitic diseases.

Diet and phytogenic supplementation substantially modulate the salivary proteome in dairy cows

Phytogenic compounds may influence salivation or salivary properties. However, their effects on the bovine salivary proteome have not been evaluated. We investigated changes in the bovine salivary proteome due to transition from forage to high-concentrate diet, with and without supplementation with a phytogenic feed additive. Eight non-lactating cows were fed forage, then transitioned to a 65% concentrate diet (DM basis) over a week. Cows were control (n = 4, CON) or supplemented with a phytogenic feed additive (n = 4, PHY). Proteomic analysis was conducted using liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. We identified 1233 proteins; 878 were bovine proteins, 189 corresponded to bacteria, and 166 were plant proteins. Between forage and high-concentrate, 139 proteins were differentially abundant (P < 0.05), with 48 proteins having a log2FC difference > |2|. The salivary proteome reflected shifts in processes involving nutrient utilization, body tissue accretion, and immune response. Between PHY and CON, 195 proteins were differently abundant (P < 0.05), with 37 having a log2FC difference > |2|; 86 proteins were increased by PHY, including proteins involved in smell recognition. Many differentially abundant proteins correlated (r > |0.70|) with salivary bicarbonate, total mucins or pH. Results provide novel insights into the bovine salivary proteome using a non-invasive approach, and the association of specific proteins with major salivary properties influencing rumen homeostasis. SIGNIFICANCE: Phytogenic compounds may stimulate salivation due to their olfactory properties, but their effects on the salivary proteome have not been investigated. We investigated the effect of high-concentrate diets and supplementation with a phytogenic additive on the salivary proteome of cows. We show that analysis of cows' saliva can be a non-invasive approach to detect effects occurring not only in the gut, but also systemically including indications for gut health and immune response. Thus, results provide unique insights into the bovine salivary proteome, and will have a crucial contribution to further understand animal response in terms of nutrient utilization and immune activity due to the change from forage to a high-energy diet. Additionally, our findings reveal changes due to supplementation with a phytogenic feed additive with regard to health and olfactory stimulation. Furthermore, findings suggest an association between salivary proteins and other components like bicarbonate content.

Proteomic analysis of Sarcoptes scabiei reveals that proteins differentially expressed between eggs and female adult stages are involved predominantly in genetic information processing, metabolism and/or host-parasite interactions

Presently, there is a dearth of proteomic data for parasitic mites and their relationship with the host animals. Here, using a high throughput LC-MS/MS-based approach, we undertook the first comprehensive, large-scale proteomic investigation of egg and adult female stages of the scabies mite, Sarcoptes scabiei-one of the most important parasitic mites of humans and other animals worldwide. In total, 1,761 S. scabiei proteins were identified and quantified with high confidence. Bioinformatic analyses revealed differentially expressed proteins to be involved predominantly in biological pathways or processes including genetic information processing, energy (oxidative phosphorylation), nucleotide, amino acid, carbohydrate and/or lipid metabolism, and some adaptive processes. Selected, constitutively and highly expressed proteins, such as peptidases, scabies mite inactivated protease paralogues (SMIPPs) and muscle proteins (myosin and troponin), are proposed to be involved in key biological processes within S. scabiei, host-parasite interactions and/or the pathogenesis of scabies. These proteomic data will enable future molecular, biochemical and physiological investigations of early developmental stages of S. scabiei and the discovery of novel interventions, targeting the egg stage, given its non-susceptibility to acaricides currently approved for the treatment of scabies in humans.

Comparative Analysis of Saliva and Plasma Proteins Patterns in Pregnant Cows—Preliminary Studies

Simple Summary

One of the most crucial topics about cattle breeding is pregnancy. During this state, there are many changes in protein expression and abundance. These changes find reflection not only in plasma protein patterns but also in saliva, which is easier to obtain than blood. The aim of this study was the analysis of plasma and salivary protein profiles in pregnant cows in order to search for valuable markers of pregnancy status. In this study, the presence of apolipoproteins possibly related to bovine pregnancy was confirmed both in plasma and saliva. This means that saliva can be considered a good source of information about the condition of the organism, including during pregnancy. It is possible that the comparison of salivary and plasma proteomes can be a helpful tool to assess the pregnancy status of cattle, and can be useful for developing rapid tests from saliva.

Abstract

Pregnancy is a physiological state that can be described, from a biochemical point of view, using protein patterns. The present study focused on the comparison of protein patterns between the saliva and plasma of pregnant cows to search for possible markers which are present both in plasma and saliva. Saliva and plasma were collected from healthy, pregnant (3–4 months) and non-pregnant (C; n = 4) cows aged between 4 and 8 years (P; n = 8) from the same farm. Biological material was analyzed using 2D electrophoresis and MS identification. Among identified spots, there were those which could be related to pregnancy (e.g., apolipoproteins I and II in all examined matrices or transforming growth factor-beta-induced protein ig-h3 in albumin-free plasma) as well as those which are responsible for regulating of cellular processes (e.g., pyruvate kinase and aspartate aminotransferase in all examined matrices, or lactate dehydrogenase, phosphoglycerate kinase, and NADH dehydrogenase in plasma). Further identification of common spots and those only specific to saliva as well as the comparison between other periods of pregnancy are necessary; it is already clear that saliva can be considered a valuable diagnostic matrix containing potential markers of physiological and pathological status.

Thermal proteome profiling reveals Haemonchus orphan protein HCO_011565 as a target of the nematocidal small molecule UMW-868

Parasitic roundworms (nematodes) cause destructive diseases, and immense suffering in humans and other animals around the world. The control of these parasites relies heavily on anthelmintic therapy, but treatment failures and resistance to these drugs are widespread. As efforts to develop vaccines against parasitic nematodes have been largely unsuccessful, there is an increased focus on discovering new anthelmintic entities to combat drug resistant worms. Here, we employed thermal proteome profiling (TPP) to explore hit pharmacology and to support optimisation of a hit compound (UMW-868), identified in a high-throughput whole-worm, phenotypic screen. Using advanced structural prediction and docking tools, we inferred an entirely novel, parasite-specific target (HCO_011565) of this anthelmintic small molecule in the highly pathogenic, blood-feeding barber’s pole worm, and in other socioeconomically important parasitic nematodes. The “hit-to-target” workflow constructed here provides a unique prospect of accelerating the simultaneous discovery of novel anthelmintics and associated parasite-specific targets.

Comparative Proteome Profiling of Saliva Between Estrus and Non-Estrus Stages by Employing Label-Free Quantitation (LFQ) and Tandem Mass Tag (TMT)-LC-MS/MS Analysis: An Approach for Estrus Biomarker Identification in Bubalus bubalis

Accurate determination of estrus is essentially required for efficient reproduction management of farm animals. Buffalo is a shy breeder and does not manifest overt signs of estrus that make estrus detection difficult resulting in a poor conception rate. Therefore, identifying estrus biomarkers in easily accessible biofluid such as saliva is of utmost interest. In the current study, we generated saliva proteome profiles during proestrus (PE), estrus (E), metestrus (ME), and diestrus (DE) stages of the buffalo estrous cycle using both label-free quantitation (LFQ) and labeled (TMT) quantitation and mass spectrometry analysis. A total of 520 proteins were identified as DEPs in LFQ; among these, 59 and four proteins were upregulated (FC ≥ 1.5) and downregulated (FC ≤ 0.5) during E vs. PE, ME, and DE comparisons, respectively. Similarly, TMT-LC-MS/MS analysis identified 369 DEPs; among these, 74 and 73 proteins were upregulated and downregulated during E vs. PE, ME, and DE stages, respectively. Functional annotations of GO terms showed enrichment of glycolysis, pyruvate metabolism, endopeptidase inhibitor activity, salivary secretion, innate immune response, calcium ion binding, oocyte meiosis, and estrogen signaling. Over-expression of SERPINB1, HSPA1A, VMO1, SDF4, LCN1, OBP, and ENO3 proteins during estrus was further confirmed by Western blotting. This is the first comprehensive report on differential proteome analysis of buffalo saliva between estrus and non-estrus stages. This study generated an important panel of candidate proteins that may be considered buffalo estrus biomarkers which can be applied in the development of a diagnostic kit for estrus detection in buffalo.

Salivary TIMP1 and predicted mir-141, possible transcript biomarkers for estrus in the buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

Successful reproductive management of buffaloes depends primarily upon timely estrus identification. However, 50% of the estrus events are undetected in buffaloes with the available estrus identification methods, leading to huge financial loss to buffalo farmers. Hence, there is an urgent need to develop an alternative and accurate estrus identification method, particularly on the basis of biomarkers in non-invasive fluids. Thus, the present study aimed to identify RNA based estrus biomarkers in cell free saliva in Bubalus bubalis, so that they can be used for future field applicable RT-LAMP colour reactions. RNA-Seq analysis of cell free salivary RNA showed 49 differentially abundant mRNAs between the estrus and diestrus stages. Among five mature miRNAs predicted from the RNA-Seq data, four were found differentially altered at the estrus stage than the diestrus stage. Validation study by direct salivary transcript analysis (DSTA) on 6 selected mRNAs (PPARGC1a, TIMP1, PEBP4, CSPG5, PRHR and ATOH7) and 5 miRNAs (bta-miR-92b, bta-miR-302d, bta-miR-141, bta-miR-27a and bta-let-7a-5p) showed significantly higher levels of TIMP1 (3.46 fold; P < 0.5) and bta-mir-141 (1.33 fold; P < 0.5) in cell-free saliva at the estrus stage compared to the diestrus stage. Hence, TIMP1 and miR-141 appear to be the possible transcript biomarkers for estrus in the cell free saliva of the buffalo. However, further validation studies are required in a large population of buffaloes to determine their estrus biomarker potential before considering them for RT-LAMP colour reaction.

Changes in saliva proteins in cows with mastitis: A proteomic approach

This study aimed to evaluate the possible saliva proteome changes in cows with mastitis using a Tandem Mass Tags (TMT) proteomics approach. For this purpose, the salivary proteomes from healthy cows and cows with mastitis were analysed, and their serum proteomes were also studied for comparative purposes. A total of eight saliva and serum paired samples for each group were used for the proteomic study, and eight additional samples for each group were analysed in the analytical and overlap performance studies. In saliva samples, 2192 proteins were identified, being sixty-three differentially modulated in mastitis. In serum, 1299 proteins were identified, being twenty-nine differentially modulated in mastitis. Gamma glutamyl transferase (γGT) in saliva and serum amyloid A (SAA) were validated by commercially available automated assays. In conclusion, there are changes in protein expression and metabolic pathways in saliva and serum proteomes of cows with mastitis, showing different response patterns but complementary information.

Changes in salivary proteins can reflect beneficial physiological effects of ejaculation in the dog

The objective of this study was to study the changes in salivary proteins that occur in the dog after the ejaculation process. Saliva samples from eight dogs before and after induced ejaculation were analyzed by proteomic using Tandem Mass Tag (TMT) labeling and LC-MS/MS analysis. A total of 33 salivary proteins showed significant changes after the ejaculation process. The up-regulated proteins that showed changes of higher magnitude were mucin-7 (MUC-7), peroxiredoxin-4 (PRDX4) and galectin-3 (LEGALS3) whereas proteins such as alpha-1-acid glycoprotein (A1G1) and alpha-1B-glycoprotein (A1BG) were the most down-regulated. MUC-7 and PRDX4 expression in saliva after ejaculation could be associated with the protective "environment" created by the organism to exert pr 3o-fertility activities and antioxidants benefits in spermatozoa. Also LEGALS3 increment could be associated with an improvement of wellbeing and could contribute to a positive global effect in the body. Down-regulations of A1G1 and A1GB proteins found in saliva after ejaculation could be associated with a reduction in systemic inflammation. Overall it can be concluded that, changes in proteins in saliva that are produced after ejaculation can reflect a state of increase immune defenses, improvement of antioxidant status and low inflammation.

High-quality nuclear genome for Sarcoptes scabiei-A critical resource for a neglected parasite

The parasitic mite Sarcoptes scabiei is an economically highly significant parasite of the skin of humans and animals worldwide. In humans, this mite causes a neglected tropical disease (NTD), called scabies. This disease results in major morbidity, disability, stigma and poverty globally and is often associated with secondary bacterial infections. Currently, anti-scabies treatments are not sufficiently effective, resistance to them is emerging and no vaccine is available. Here, we report the first high-quality genome and transcriptomic data for S. scabiei. The genome is 56.6 Mb in size, has a a repeat content of 10.6% and codes for 9,174 proteins. We explored key molecules involved in development, reproduction, host-parasite interactions, immunity and disease. The enhanced 'omic data sets for S. scabiei represent comprehensive and critical resources for genetic, functional genomic, metabolomic, phylogenetic, ecological and/or epidemiological investigations, and will underpin the design and development of new treatments, vaccines and/or diagnostic tests.

Complementary transcriptome and proteome profiling in the mature seeds of Camellia oleifera from Hainan Island

Camellia oleifera Abel. (C. oleifera), as an important woody tree species producing edible oils in China, has attracted enormous attention due to its abundant unsaturated fatty acids and their associated benefits to human health. To reveal novel insights into the characters during the maturation period of this plant as well as the molecular basis of fatty acid biosynthesis and degradation, we conducted a conjoint analysis of the transcriptome and proteome of C. oleifera seeds from Hainan Island. Using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) technology and shotgun proteomic method, 59,391 transcripts and 40,500 unigenes were obtained by TIGR Gene Indices Clustering Tools (TGICL), while 1691 protein species were identified from Mass Spectrometry (MS). Subsequently, all genes and proteins were employed in euKaryotic Orthologous Groups (KOG) classification, Gene Ontology (GO) annotation, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis to investigate their essential functions. The results indicated that the most abundant pathways were biological metabolic processes. There were 946 unigenes associated with lipid metabolism at the transcriptome level, with 116 proteins at the proteome level; among these, 38 specific proteins were involved in protein-protein interactions, with the majority being related to fatty acid catabolic process. The expression levels of 21 candidate unigenes encoding target proteins were further detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Finally, Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) was carried out to determine the fatty acid composition of C. oleifera oil. These findings not only deepened our understanding about the molecular mechanisms of fatty acid metabolism but also offered new evidence concerning the roles of relevant proteins in oil-bearing crops. Furthermore, the lipid-associated proteins recognized in this research might be helpful in providing a reference for the synthetic regulation of C. oleifera oil quality by genetic engineering techniques, thus resulting in potential application in agriculture.

Characterization of the bovine salivary gland transcriptome associated with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis experimental challenge

BACKGROUND

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), the etiologic agent of Johne's disease is spread between cattle via the fecal-oral route, yet the functional changes in the salivary gland associated with infection remain uncharacterized. In this study, we hypothesized that experimental challenge with MAP would induce stable changes in gene expression patterns in the salivary gland that may shed light on the mucosal immune response as well as the regional variation in immune capacity of this extensive gland. Holstein-Friesian cattle were euthanized 33 months' post oral challenge with MAP strain CIT003 and both the parotid and mandibular salivary glands were collected from healthy control (n = 5) and MAP exposed cattle (n = 5) for histopathological and transcriptomic analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 205, 21, 61, and 135 genes were significantly differentially expressed between control and MAP exposed cattle in dorsal mandibular (M1), ventral mandibular (M2), dorsal parotid (P1) and ventral parotid salivary glands (P2), respectively. Expression profiles varied between the structurally divergent parotid and mandibular gland sections which was also reflected in the enriched biological pathways identified. Changes in gene expression associated with MAP exposure were detected with significantly elevated expression of BoLA DR-ALPHA, BOLA-DRB3 and complement factors in MAP exposed cattle. In contrast, reduced expression of genes such as polymeric immunoglobin receptor (PIGR), TNFSF13, and the antimicrobial genes lactoferrin (LF) and lactoperoxidase (LPO) was detected in MAP exposed animals.

CONCLUSIONS

This first analysis of the transcriptomic profile of salivary glands in cattle adds an important layer to our understanding of salivary gland immune function. Transcriptomic changes associated with MAP exposure have been identified including reduced LF and LPO. These critical antimicrobial and immunoregulatory proteins are known to be secreted into saliva and their downregulation may contribute to disease susceptibility. Future work will focus on the validation of their expression levels in saliva from additional cattle of known infection status as a potential strategy to augment disease diagnosis.

High throughput LC-MS/MS-based proteomic analysis of excretory-secretory products from short-term in vitro culture of Haemonchus contortus

Parasitic nematodes of humans, animals and plants have a major, adverse impact on global health and agricultural production worldwide. To cope with their surrounding environment in and the immune attack from the host, excretory-secretory (ES) proteins are released by nematodes to orchestrate or regulate parasite-host interactions. In the present study, we characterised the ES products from short-term (12 h) in vitro culture of different developmental stages/sexes of Haemonchus contortus (one of the most important parasitic nematodes of livestock animals worldwide) using a high throughput tandem mass-spectrometry, underpinned by the most recent genomic dataset. In total, 878 unique proteins from key developmental stages/sexes (third-stage and fourth-stage larvae, and female and male adults) were identified and quantified with high confidence. Bioinformatic analyses showed noteworthy ES protein alterations during the transition from the free-living to the parasitic phase, especially for proteins which are likely involved in nutrient digestion and acquisition as well as parasite-host interactions, such as proteolytic cascade-related peptidases, glycoside hydrolases, C-type lectins and sperm-coating protein/Tpx/antigen 5/pathogenesis related-1/Sc7 (= SCP/TAPS) proteins. Our findings provide an avenue to better explore interactive processes between the host and this highly significant parasitic nematode, to underpin the search for novel drug and vaccine targets. SIGNIFICANCE: The present study represents a comprehensive proteomic analysis of the secretome of key developmental stages/sexes of H. contortus maintained in short-term in vitro culture. High throughput LC-MS/MS analysis of ES products allowed the identification of a large repertoire of proteins (secretome) and the establishment of a new proteomic database for H. contortus. The secretome of H. contortus undergoes substantial changes during the nematode's transition from free-living to parasitic stages, suggesting a constant adaptation to different environments outside of and within the host animal. Understanding the host-parasite relationship at the molecular level could assist significantly in the development of intervention strategies (i.e. novel drugs and vaccines) against H. contortus and related nematodes.

Somatic proteome of Haemonchus contortus

Currently, there is a dearth of proteomic data to underpin fundamental investigations of parasites and parasitism at the molecular level. Here, using a high throughput LC-MS/MS-based approach, we undertook the first reported comprehensive, large-scale proteomic investigation of the barber's pole worm (Haemonchus contortus) - one of the most important parasitic nematodes of livestock animals worldwide. In total, 2487 unique H. contortus proteins representing different developmental stages/sexes (i.e. eggs, L3s and L4s, female (Af) and male (Am) adults) were identified and quantified with high confidence. Bioinformatic analyses of this proteome revealed substantial alterations in protein profiles during the life cycle, particularly in the transition from the free-living to the parasitic phase, and key groups of proteins involved specifically in feeding, digestion, metabolism, development, parasite-host interactions (including immunomodulation), structural remodelling of the body wall and adaptive processes during parasitism. This proteomic data set will facilitate future molecular, biochemical and physiological investigations of H. contortus and related nematodes, and the discovery of novel intervention targets against haemonchosis.

β-Defensins: Farming the Microbiome for Homeostasis and Health

Diverse commensal populations are now regarded as key to physiological homeostasis and protection against disease. Although bacteria are the most abundant component of microbiomes, and the most intensively studied, the microbiome also consists of viral, fungal, archael, and protozoan communities, about which comparatively little is known. Host-defense peptides (HDPs), originally described as antimicrobial, now have renewed significance as curators of the pervasive microbial loads required to maintain homeostasis and manage microbiome diversity. Harnessing HDP biology to transition away from non-selective, antibiotic-mediated treatments for clearance of microbes is a new paradigm, particularly in veterinary medicine. One family of evolutionarily conserved HDPs, β-defensins which are produced in diverse combinations by epithelial and immune cell populations, are multifunctional cationic peptides which manage the cross-talk between host and microbes and maintain a healthy yet dynamic equilibrium across mucosal systems. They are therefore key gatekeepers to the oral, respiratory, reproductive and enteric tissues, preventing pathogen-associated inflammation and disease and maintaining physiological normality. Expansions in the number of genes encoding these natural antibiotics have been described in the genomes of some species, the functional significance of which has only recently being appreciated. β-defensin expression has been documented pre-birth and disruptions in their regulation may play a role in maladaptive neonatal immune programming, thereby contributing to subsequent disease susceptibility. Here we review recent evidence supporting a critical role for β-defensins as farmers of the pervasive and complex prokaryotic ecosystems that occupy all body surfaces and cavities. We also share some new perspectives on the role of β-defensins as sensors of homeostasis and the immune vanguard particularly at sites of immunological privilege where inflammation is attenuated.

Comparative proteomic analysis of Pogostemon cablin leaves after continuous cropping

A proteomic approach was used to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying obstacles to the continuous cropping of Pogostemon cablin. We examined differences in protein abundance between control (CK) and continuously cropped (TR) P. cablin leaves at different time points (90, 150, and 210 days after culture). Comparative analysis by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and mass spectrometry (MS) revealed 183 differentially expressed protein spots, of which 87 proteins or isoforms were identified using mass spectrometry. Among these differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), 50 proteins or isoforms showed increased abundance and 37 proteins or isoforms showed decreased abundance in the TR sample compared with the abundance in the CK sample. Bioinformatic tools were used to analyze the DEPs. These proteins were classified into 12 categories according to clusters of orthologous groups (COG) analysis, with the majority being involved in post-translational modification, protein turnover, and chaperones, followed by carbohydrate transport and metabolism, and finally, energy production and conversion. Protein-protein interactions revealed that 18 DEPs were involved in energy metabolism, 6 DEPs were involved in stress response, and 4 DEPs were involved in amino acid biosynthesis. Continuous cropping altered the expression of proteins related to energy metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and amino acid metabolism in P. cablin leaves. Among these processes, the most affected was energy metabolism, which may be pivotal for resistance to continuous cropping.

Cultivation and sequencing of rumen microbiome members from the Hungate1000 Collection

Rumen microbiome biology gets a boost with the release of 410 high-quality reference genomes from the Hungate1000 project.

Productivity of ruminant livestock depends on the rumen microbiota, which ferment indigestible plant polysaccharides into nutrients used for growth. Understanding the functions carried out by the rumen microbiota is important for reducing greenhouse gas production by ruminants and for developing biofuels from lignocellulose. We present 410 cultured bacteria and archaea, together with their reference genomes, representing every cultivated rumen-associated archaeal and bacterial family. We evaluate polysaccharide degradation, short-chain fatty acid production and methanogenesis pathways, and assign specific taxa to functions. A total of 336 organisms were present in available rumen metagenomic data sets, and 134 were present in human gut microbiome data sets. Comparison with the human microbiome revealed rumen-specific enrichment for genes encoding de novo synthesis of vitamin B₁₂, ongoing evolution by gene loss and potential vertical inheritance of the rumen microbiome based on underrepresentation of markers of environmental stress. We estimate that our Hungate genome resource represents ∼75% of the genus-level bacterial and archaeal taxa present in the rumen.

Salivary proteomics of healthy dogs: An in depth catalog

Objective

To provide an in-depth catalog of the salivary proteome and endogenous peptidome of healthy dogs, evaluate proteins and peptides with antimicrobial properties, and compare the most common salivary proteins and peptides between different breed phylogeny groups.

Methods

36 healthy dogs without evidence of periodontal disease representing four breed phylogeny groups, based upon single nucleotide polymorphism haplotypes (ancient, herding/sighthound, and two miscellaneous groups). Saliva collected from dogs was pooled by phylogeny group and analyzed using nanoscale liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Resulting tandem mass spectra were compared to databases for identification of endogenous peptides and inferred proteins.

Results

2,491 proteins and endogenous peptides were found in the saliva of healthy dogs with no periodontal disease. All dog phylogeny groups’ saliva was rich in proteins and peptides with antimicrobial functions. The ancient breeds group was distinct in that it contained unique proteins and was missing many proteins and peptides present in the other groups.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Using a sophisticated nanoscale liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, we were able to identify 10-fold more salivary proteins than previously reported in dogs. Seven of the top 10 most abundant proteins or peptides serve immune functions and many more with various antimicrobial mechanisms were found. This is the most comprehensive analysis of healthy canine saliva to date, and will provide the groundwork for future studies analyzing salivary proteins and endogenous peptides in disease states.

Does diet influence salivary enzyme activities in elephant species?

Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) and African elephants (Loxodonta africana) are herbivore generalists; however, Asian elephants might ingest a higher proportion of grasses than Africans. Although some studies have investigated nutrition-specific morphological adaptations of the two species, broader studies on salivary enzymes in both elephant species are lacking. This study focuses on the comparison of salivary enzymes activity profiles in the two elephant species; these enzymes are relevant for protective and digestive functions in humans. We aimed to determine whether salivary amylase (sAA), lysozyme (sLYS), and peroxidase (sPOD) activities have changed in a species-specific pattern during evolutionary separation of the elephant genera. Saliva samples of 14 Asian and eight African elephants were collected in three German zoos. Results show that sAA and sLYS are salivary components of both elephant species in an active conformation. In contrast, little to no sPOD activity was determined in any elephant sample. Furthermore, sAA activity was significantly higher in Asian compared with African elephants. sLYS and sPOD showed no species-specific differences. The time of food provision until sample collection affected only sAA activity. In summary, the results suggest several possible factors modulating the activity of the mammal-typical enzymes, such as sAA, sLYS, and sPOD, e.g., nutrition and sampling procedure, which have to be considered when analyzing differences in saliva composition of animal species.

Genomic analysis of three Bifidobacterium species isolated from the calf gastrointestinal tract

Ruminant animals contribute significantly to the global value of agriculture and rely on a complex microbial community for efficient digestion. However, little is known of how this microbial-host relationship develops and is maintained. To begin to address this, we have determined the ability of three Bifidobacterium species isolated from the faeces of newborn calves to grow on carbohydrates typical of a newborn ruminant diet. Genome sequences have been determined for these bacteria with analysis of the genomes providing insights into the host association and identification of several genes that may mediate interactions with the ruminant gastrointestinal tract. The present study provides a starting point from which we can define the role of potential beneficial microbes in the nutrition of young ruminants and begin to influence the interactions between the microbiota and the host. The differences observed in genomic content hint at niche partitioning among the bifidobacterial species analysed and the different strategies they employ to successfully adapt to this habitat.

Reducing the carbon footprint of Australian milk production by mitigation of enteric methane emissions

This review examines research aimed at reducing enteric methane emissions from the Australian dairy industry. Calorimeter measurements of 220 forage-fed cows indicate an average methane yield of 21.1 g methane (CH4)/kg dry matter intake. Adoption of this empirical methane yield, rather than the equation currently used in the Australian greenhouse gas inventory, would reduce the methane emissions attributed to the Australian dairy industry by ~10%. Research also indicates that dietary lipid supplements and feeding high amounts of wheat substantially reduce methane emissions. It is estimated that, in 1980, the Australian dairy industry produced ~185 000 t of enteric methane and total enteric methane intensity was ~33.6 g CH4/kg milk. In 2010, the estimated production of enteric methane was 182 000 t, but total enteric methane intensity had declined ~40% to 19.9 g CH4/kg milk. This remarkable decline in methane intensity and the resultant improvement in the carbon footprint of Australian milk production was mainly achieved by increased per-cow milk yield, brought about by the on-farm adoption of research findings related to the feeding and breeding of dairy cows. Options currently available to further reduce the carbon footprint of Australian milk production include the feeding of lipid-rich supplements such as cottonseed, brewers grains, cold-pressed canola, hominy meal and grape marc, as well as feeding of higher rates of wheat. Future technologies for further reducing methane emissions include genetic selection of cows for improved feed conversion to milk or low methane intensity, vaccines to reduce ruminal methanogens and chemical inhibitors of methanogenesis.

Salivary amylase - The enzyme of unspecialized euryphagous animals

INTRODUCTION

Alpha-amylase (EC 3.2.1.1) is the most abundant enzyme in the saliva of man and of several vertebrates. In humans, salivary amylase is mainly formed in the parotid gland; its activity is of high inter-individual and intra-individual variability. The physiological functions of α-amylase have not yet been explored completely. It is well known that the enzyme cleaves the α-(1,4)-glycosidic bonds of polysaccharides. Furthermore it plays an important role in initial bioadhesion in man, facilitating carbohydrate metabolism and bacterial adherence at the tooth surface and therewith caries initiation. Nevertheless, it is still a matter of interest why humans have such high amounts of salivary amylase.

OBJECTIVE

The review presents an evolutionary approach by considering salivary amylase in the animal kingdom with special focus on mammalians divided into the three main nutritional types carnivores, herbivores, and omnivores; it was postulated that for most mammalian animals salivary α-amylase is essential.

RESULTS

The enzyme has been detected in saliva of some herbivores and many omnivorous animals, but not in pure carnivores. Focusing on ruminants, negligible levels or an absence of α-amylase was determined. Presence and activity probably differ depending on the species-specific diet. Animals feeding on unripe fruits, seeds, roots and bulbs exhibit higher activity of salivary α-amylase than species consuming ripe fruits, insects, and vertebrates.

CONCLUSION

In contrast to carnivores and most herbivores, omnivores have considerable amounts of amylase in their saliva. Though, the starch-digesting enzyme has been investigated well, the physiological function of amylase in saliva has not yet been explored completely. It can be hypothesized that nutritional habits affect expression of enzymes in the saliva of animals. It has to be verified, whether α-amylase is genetically or epigenetically determined. As a consequence of the development of agriculture, and following dietary changes, amylase can be recognized as a nutritional and evolutionary marker. Interdisciplinary evolutionary research might offer new perspectives for preventive dentistry.

Comparative proteomics of Bt-transgenic and non-transgenic cotton leaves

Background

As the rapid growth of the commercialized acreage in genetically modified (GM) crops, the unintended effects of GM crops’ biosafety assessment have been given much attention. To investigate whether transgenic events cause unintended effects, comparative proteomics of cotton leaves between the commercial transgenic Bt + CpTI cotton SGK321 (BT) clone and its non-transgenic parental counterpart SY321 wild type (WT) was performed.

Results

Using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), Cry1Ac toxin protein was detected in the BT leaves, while its content was only 0.31 pg/g. By 2-DE, 58 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were detected. Among them 35 were identified by MS. These identified DEPs were mainly involved in carbohydrate transport and metabolism, chaperones related to post-translational modification and energy production. Pathway analysis revealed that most of the DEPs were implicated in carbon fixation and photosynthesis, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, and oxidative pentose phosphate pathway. Thirteen identified proteins were involved in protein-protein interaction. The protein interactions were mainly involved in photosynthesis and energy metabolite pathway.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that exogenous DNA in a host cotton genome can affect the plant growth and photosynthesis. Although some unintended variations of proteins were found between BT and WT cotton, no toxic proteins or allergens were detected. This study verified genetically modified operation did not sharply alter cotton leaf proteome, and the target proteins were hardly checked by traditional proteomic analysis.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12953-015-0071-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Towards further defining the proteome of mouse saliva

Background

Knowledge of the mouse salivary proteome is not well documented and as a result, very limited. Currently, several salivary proteins remain unidentified and for some others, their function yet to be determined. The goal of the present study is to utilize mass spectrometry analysis to widen our knowledge of mouse salivary proteins, and through extensive database searches, provide further insight into the array of proteins that can be found in saliva. A comprehensive mouse salivary proteome will also facilitate the development of mouse models to study specific biomarkers of many human diseases.

Results

Individual saliva samples were collected from male and female mice, and later pooled according to sex. Two pools of saliva from female mice (2 samples/pool) and 2 pools of saliva from male mice were used for analysis utilizing high performance liquid chromatograph mass spectrometry (nano-RPLC-MS/MS). The resulting datasets identified 345 proteins: 174 proteins were represented in saliva obtained from both sexes, as well as 82 others that were more female specific and 89 that were more male specific. Of these sex linked proteins, twelve were identified as exclusively sex-limited; 10 unique to males and 2 unique to females. Functional analysis of the 345 proteins identified 128 proteins with catalytic activity characteristics; indicative of proteins involved in digestion, and 35 proteins associated with stress response, host defense, and wound healing functions. Submission of the list of 345 proteins to the BioMart data mining tool in the Ensembl database further allowed us to identify a total of 283 orthologous human genes, of which, 131 proteins were recently reported to be present in the human salivary proteome.

Conclusions

The present study is the most comprehensive list to date of the proteins that constitute the mouse salivary proteome. The data presented can serve as a useful resource for identifying potentially useful biomarkers of human health and disease.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12953-015-0068-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The use of liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to detect proteins in saliva from horses with and without systemic inflammation

The objective of the study was to assess global expression of proteins in equine saliva using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Saliva was obtained from seven horses with and six horses without evidence of systemic inflammatory disease. Tryptic peptides from saliva were analysed by LC-MS/MS. Of 195 unique proteins identified, 57 were detected only in saliva samples from horses with systemic inflammation (in two to six of the seven horses). Among the differentially expressed proteins were several acute phase proteins (APPs) such as serum amyloid A, fibrinogen, haptoglobin, and alpha1-acid glycoprotein. The study is the first to describe detection of inflammatory proteins in horse saliva. The proteins detected were similar to those described in saliva from cattle, small ruminants and pigs. Detection of APPs in horses with systemic inflammation suggests that saliva may be used for non-invasive disease monitoring in horses as in humans, pigs and dogs.

A review on preparative and semi-preparative offgel electrophoresis for multidimensional protein/peptide assessment

Mass spectrometry (MS) techniques are commonly used for protein identification and further analysis of selected protein spots after high resolution 2-D electrophoresis. Complementary gel-free approaches have been developed during the last few years and have shown to be useful tools in modern proteomics. The development and application of various gel-free electrophoresis devices for performing protein fractionation according to the pI differences is therefore a topic of interest. This review describes the current state of isoelectric focusing (IEF) gel-free electrophoresis based on the Agilent offgel 3100 fractionator. The review includes, therefore, (i) an overview on IEF as well as other previous IEF gel-free electrophoresis developments; (ii) offgel fundamentals and future trends; (iii) advantages and disadvantages of current offgel procedures; (iv) requirements of isolated protein pellets for further offgel fractionation; (v) offgel fraction requirements to perform the second dimensional analysis by advance electrophoresis and chromatographic techniques; and (vi) effect of the offgel operating conditions on the stability of metal-protein complexes.

Remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) modifies plasma proteome in humans

Remote Ischemic Preconditioning (RIPC) induced by brief episodes of ischemia of the limb protects against multi-organ damage by ischemia-reperfusion (IR). Although it has been demonstrated that RIPC affects gene expression, the proteomic response to RIPC has not been determined. This study aimed to examine RIPC induced changes in the plasma proteome. Five healthy adult volunteers had 4 cycles of 5 min ischemia alternating with 5 min reperfusion of the forearm. Blood samples were taken from the ipsilateral arm prior to first ischaemia, immediately after each episode of ischemia as well as, at 15 min and 24 h after the last episode of ischemia. Plasma samples from five individuals were analysed using two complementary techniques. Individual samples were analysed using 2Dimensional Difference in gel electrophoresis (2D DIGE) and mass spectrometry (MS). Pooled samples for each of the time-points underwent trypsin digestion and peptides generated were analysed in triplicate using Liquid Chromatography and MS (LC-MS). Six proteins changed in response to RIPC using 2D DIGE analysis, while 48 proteins were found to be differentially regulated using LC-MS. The proteins of interest were involved in acute phase response signalling, and physiological molecular and cellular functions. The RIPC stimulus modifies the plasma protein content in blood taken from the ischemic arm in a cumulative fashion and evokes a proteomic response in peripheral blood.

The scientific exploration of saliva in the post-proteomic era: from database back to basic function

The proteome of human saliva can be considered as being essentially completed. Diagnostic markers for a number of diseases have been identified among salivary proteins and peptides, taking advantage of saliva as an easy-to-obtain biological fluid. Yet, the majority of disease markers identified so far are serum components and not intrinsic proteins produced by the salivary glands. Furthermore, despite the fact that saliva is essential for protecting the oral integuments and dentition, little progress has been made in finding risk predictors in the salivary proteome for dental caries or periodontal disease. Since salivary proteins, and in particular the attached glycans, play an important role in interactions with the microbial world, the salivary glycoproteome and other post-translational modifications of salivary proteins need to be studied. Risk markers for microbial diseases, including dental caries, are likely to be discovered among the highly glycosylated major protein species in saliva. This review will attempt to raise new ideas and also point to under-researched areas that may hold promise for future applicability in oral diagnostics and prediction of oral disease.

Saliva proteomics as an emerging, non-invasive tool to study livestock physiology, nutrition and diseases

Saliva is an extraordinary fluid in terms of research and diagnostic possibilities. Its composition in electrolytes, hormones and especially its proteome contains information about feeding status, nutritional requirements and adaptations to diet and environment, and also about health status of animals. It is easy to collect on a non-invasive and routine basis without any need for special training. Therefore, the analysis of salivary proteomes is going to emerge into a field of high interest with the future goal to maintain and improve livestock productivity and welfare. Moreover, the comprehensive analysis and identification of salivary proteins and peptides in whole and glandular saliva is a necessary pre-requisite to identify animal disease biomarkers and a powerful tool to better understand animal physiology. This review focuses on the different approaches used to study the salivary proteomes of farm animals, in respect to the physiology of nutrition and food perception in relation to food choices. The potential of animal saliva as a source of disease biomarkers will also be pointed out. Special emphasis is laid on the 'ruminating triad' - cattle, goat and sheep - as well as swine as major species of animal production in Western and Southern Europe.