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Shlash SA, Alzubaidi ZF, Saleh HA. Cytokine production in Ancylostoma duodenale infection. J Med Life 2022; 15:479-482. [PMID: 35646178 PMCID: PMC9126450 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2021-0383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokine response to Ancylostoma duodenale (A. duodenale) infection was measured after starting treatments with piperazine. This study aims to determine the impact of cytokine production after infection with A. duodenale before and after treatment with piperazine. Blood and stool samples of 50 patients with A. duodenale infection and 28 healthy individuals (control) were collected. In this study, IFNγ, IL-5, IL-12, and IL-13 in serum (using ELISA-based methods) were measured. Stool samples were examined using the Kato-Katz technique to detect A. duodenale parasites. Blood and stool samples were analyzed 14 days after starting piperazine treatment for A. duodenale infection. The medium concentration of IFNγ, IL-5, IL-12, and IL-13 in the serum samples with A. duodenale infection is higher than that of the control group. IFNγ, IL-5, IL-12, and IL-13 levels were significantly higher in the infected individuals (10.5±7.4 pg/ml, 14.6±5.1 pg/ml, 8.5±3.2 pg/ml and 13.6±7.5 pg/ml respectively) than the control group (4.7±2.4 pg/ml, 7.8±4.06 pg/ml, 6.3±3.4 pg/ml and 3.5±2.7 pg/ml respectively). Also, piperazine treatment can significantly reduce cytokines levels (IFN-γ: P=0.043, IL-5: P=0.02, and IL-12, p=0.001). This study shows that piperazine treatment can reduce cytokines profiles in patients with A. duodenale infection.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Zubaida Falih Alzubaidi
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq,Corresponding Author: Zubaida Falih Alzubaidi, Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq. E-mail:
| | - Huda Ali Saleh
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Kufa, Kufa, Iraq
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2
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Agyapong O, Asiedu SO, Kwofie SK, Miller WA, Parry CS, Sowah RA, Wilson MD. Molecular modelling and de novo fragment-based design of potential inhibitors of beta-tubulin gene of Necator americanus from natural products. INFORMATICS IN MEDICINE UNLOCKED 2021; 26. [PMID: 34912942 PMCID: PMC8670734 DOI: 10.1016/j.imu.2021.100734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of drug resistance against the known hookworm drugs namely albendazole and mebendazole and their reduced efficacies necessitate the need for new drugs. Chemically diverse natural products present plausible templates to augment hookworm drug discovery. The present work utilized pharmacoinformatics techniques to predict African natural compounds ZINC95486082, ZINC95486052 and euphohelionon as potential inhibitory molecules of the hookworm Necator americanus β tubulin gene. A library of 3390 compounds was screened against a homology-modelled structure of β tubulin. The docking results obtained from AutoDock Vina was validated with an acceptable area under the curve (AUC) of 0.714 computed from the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. The three selected compounds had favourable binding affinities and were predicted to form no interactions with the resistance-associated mutations Phe167, Glu198 and Phe200. The compounds were predicted as anthelmintics using a Bayesian-based technique and were pharmacologically profiled to be druglike. Further molecular dynamics simulations and MM-PBSA calculations showed the compounds as promising anthelmintic drug leads. Novel critical residues comprising Leu246, Asn247 and Asn256 were also predicted for binding. Euphohelionon was selected as a template for the de novo fragment-based design of five compounds labelled A1, A2, A3, A4 and A5; with four of them having SAscore values below 6, denoting easy synthesis. All the five de novo molecules docked firmly in the binding pocket of the β tubulin with no binding interactions with the three known resistance mutation residues. Binding energies of −8.2, −7.6, −7.3, −7.2 and −6.8 kcal/mol were obtained for A1, A2, A3, A4 and A5, respectively. The identified compounds can serve as treasure troves from which future potent anthelmintics can be designed. The current study strives to assuage the hookworm disease burden, especially making available molecules with the potential to circumvent the chemoresistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Odame Agyapong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, College of Basic & Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, PMB LG 77, Legon, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), College of Health Sciences (CHS), University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 581, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Seth O Asiedu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, College of Basic & Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, PMB LG 77, Legon, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), College of Health Sciences (CHS), University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 581, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Samuel K Kwofie
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, College of Basic & Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, PMB LG 77, Legon, Accra, Ghana.,West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Whelton A Miller
- Department of Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA.,University of Pennsylvania, School of Engineering and Applied Science, Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Christian S Parry
- Center for Sickle Cell Disease, And Department of Microbiology, Howard University, Washington, DC, 20059, USA
| | - Robert A Sowah
- Department of Computer Engineering, School of Engineering Sciences, College of Basic & Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Michael D Wilson
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), College of Health Sciences (CHS), University of Ghana, P.O. Box LG 581, Legon, Accra, Ghana.,Department of Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center, Maywood, IL, 60153, USA
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3
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Ferrer-Font L, Small SJ, Lewer B, Pilkington KR, Johnston LK, Park LM, Lannigan J, Jaimes MC, Price KM. Panel Optimization for High-Dimensional Immunophenotyping Assays Using Full-Spectrum Flow Cytometry. Curr Protoc 2021; 1:e222. [PMID: 34492732 DOI: 10.1002/cpz1.222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Technological advancements in fluorescence flow cytometry and an ever-expanding understanding of the complexity of the immune system have led to the development of large flow cytometry panels reaching up to 43 colors at the single-cell level. However, as panel size and complexity increase, so too does the detail involved in designing and optimizing successful high-quality panels fit for downstream high-dimensional data analysis. In contrast to conventional flow cytometers, full-spectrum flow cytometers measure the entire emission spectrum of each fluorophore across all lasers. This allows for fluorophores with very similar emission maxima but unique overall spectral fingerprints to be used in conjunction, enabling relatively straightforward design of larger panels. Although a protocol for best practices in full-spectrum flow cytometry panel design has been published, there is still a knowledge gap in going from the theoretically designed panel to the necessary steps required for panel optimization. Here, we aim to guide users through the theory of optimizing a high-dimensional full-spectrum flow cytometry panel for immunophenotyping using comprehensive step-by-step protocols. These protocols can also be used to troubleshoot panels when issues arise. A practical application of this approach is exemplified with a 24-color panel designed for identification of conventional T-cell subsets in human peripheral blood. © 2021 Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Cytek Biosciences. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. Basic Protocol 1: Preparation and evaluation of optimal spectral reference controls Support Protocol 1: Antibody titration Support Protocol 2: Changing instrument settings Basic Protocol 2: Unmixing evaluation of fully stained sample Basic Protocol 3: Evaluation of marker resolution Support Protocol 3: Managing heterogeneous autofluorescence Basic Protocol 4: Assessment of data quality using expert gating and dimensionality reduction algorithms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ferrer-Font
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand.,Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sam J Small
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Brittany Lewer
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Kylie M Price
- Malaghan Institute of Medical Research, Wellington, New Zealand
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Maple PAC, Gran B, Tanasescu R, Pritchard DI, Constantinescu CS. An Absence of Epstein-Barr Virus Reactivation and Associations with Disease Activity in People with Multiple Sclerosis Undergoing Therapeutic Hookworm Vaccination. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:vaccines8030487. [PMID: 32872342 PMCID: PMC7564729 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection is strongly associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Helminth infection can downregulate antiviral immune responses, potentially protecting against MS, but with a theoretical risk for reactivating latent EBV infection. Objective: To investigate parameters of EBV infection and their relationship with disease activity in people with MS (PwMS) therapeutically vaccinated with Necator americanus (hookworm). Methods: Sequential serum samples from 51 PwMS; 26 therapeutically infected (25 larvae) with N. americanus and 25 controls were tested for EBV virus capsid antigen (VCA) IgG and IgM, EBV nuclear antigen-1 (EBNA-1) IgG, and EBV early antigen (EA) IgG. Disease activity was assessed by periodic MRI. Significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: All PwMS were EBV VCA IgG and EBNA-1 IgG positive, and 35.2% were EBV EA IgG positive. EBV antibody levels were generally stable, and EBV reactivation in PwMS was not demonstrated by significant increases in IgG titre over 12 months. Disease activity was most frequent in PwMS possessing high levels of EBV VCA IgG (>600 units/mL) or EBNA-1 IgG (>150 units/mL); however, there was no association with hookworm treatment. Interpretation: Therapeutic hookworm vaccination was not associated with EBV reactivation. Multiple sclerosis disease activity was associated with high levels of EBV VCA IgG or EBNA-1 IgG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A. C. Maple
- Clinical Neurology Research Group, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham School of Medicine; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (B.G.); (R.T.); (C.S.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-115-8231443; Fax: +44-115-9709738
| | - Bruno Gran
- Clinical Neurology Research Group, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham School of Medicine; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (B.G.); (R.T.); (C.S.C.)
- Department of Neurology, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Radu Tanasescu
- Clinical Neurology Research Group, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham School of Medicine; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (B.G.); (R.T.); (C.S.C.)
- Department of Neurology, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
- Department of Neurosciences, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Carol Davila, 021172 Bucharest, Romania
- Department of Neurology, Colentina Hospital, 021172 Bucharest, Romania
| | - David I. Pritchard
- Immune Regulation Research Group (D.P.), University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK;
| | - Cris S. Constantinescu
- Clinical Neurology Research Group, Division of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Nottingham School of Medicine; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK; (B.G.); (R.T.); (C.S.C.)
- Department of Neurology, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust; Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham NG7 2UH, UK
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Anderson AS, Trumble BC, Hové C, Kraft TS, Kaplan H, Gurven M, Blackwell AD. Old friends and friendly fire: Pregnancy, hookworm infection, and anemia among tropical horticulturalists. Am J Hum Biol 2019; 32:e23337. [PMID: 31642576 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 09/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite public health concerns about hookworm infection in pregnancy, little is known about immune profiles associated with hookworm (Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale) infection during pregnancy. Fetal tolerance requirements may constrain maternal immune response to hookworm, thereby increasing susceptibility to new infections or increasing hemoglobin loss. To explore this possibility, we study systemic immune response and hemoglobin levels in a natural fertility population with endemic helminthic infection. METHODS We used Bayesian multilevel models to analyze mixed longitudinal data on hemoglobin, hookworm infection, reproductive state, eosinophils, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) to examine the effects of pregnancy and hookworm infection on nonspecific inflammation, cellular parasite response, and hemoglobin among 612 Tsimane women aged 15-45 (1016 observations). RESULTS Pregnancy is associated with lower eosinophil counts and lower eosinophil response to hookworm, particularly during the second and third trimesters. Both hookworm and pregnancy are associated with higher ESR, with evidence for an interaction between the two causing further increases in the first trimester. Pregnancy is moderately associated with higher odds of hookworm infection (OR: 1.23, 95% CI: 0.83 to 1.83). Pregnancy and hookworm both decrease hemoglobin and may interact to accentuate this effect in the first-trimester of pregnancy (Interaction: β: -0.30 g/dL; CI: -0.870 to 0.24). CONCLUSIONS Our findings are consistent with a possible trade-off between hookworm immunity and successful pregnancy, and with the suggestion that hookworm and pregnancy may have synergistic effects, particularly in the first trimester.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy S Anderson
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Santa Barbara, California, Santa Barbara
| | - Benjamin C Trumble
- School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona
| | - Carmen Hové
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Santa Barbara, California, Santa Barbara
| | - Thomas S Kraft
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Santa Barbara, California, Santa Barbara
| | - Hillard Kaplan
- Economic Science Institute, Chapman University, Orange, California
| | - Michael Gurven
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Santa Barbara, California, Santa Barbara
| | - Aaron D Blackwell
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Santa Barbara, California, Santa Barbara.,Department of Anthropology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington
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Homan EJ, Bremel RD. A Role for Epitope Networking in Immunomodulation by Helminths. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1763. [PMID: 30108588 PMCID: PMC6079203 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Helminth infections, by nematodes, trematodes, or cestodes, can lead to the modulation of host immune responses. This allows long-duration parasite infections and also impacts responses to co-infections. Surface, secreted, excreted, and shed proteins are thought to play a major role in modulation. A commonly reported feature of such immune modulation is the role of T regulatory (Treg) cells and IL-10. Efforts to identify helminth proteins, which cause immunomodulation, have identified candidates but not provided clarity as to a uniform mechanism driving modulation. In this study, we applied a bioinformatics systems approach, allowing us to analyze predicted T-cell epitopes of 17 helminth species and the responses to their surface proteins. In addition to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) binding, we analyzed amino acid motifs that would be recognized by T-cell receptors [T-cell-exposed motifs (TCEMs)]. All the helminth species examined have, within their surface proteins, peptides, which combine very common TCEMs with predicted high affinity binding to many human MHC alleles. This combination of features would result in large cognate T cell and a high probability of eliciting Treg responses. The TCEMs, which determine recognition by responding T-cell clones, are shared to a high degree between helminth species and with Plasmodium falciparum and Mycobacterium tuberculosis, both common co-infecting organisms. The implication of our observations is not only that Treg cells play a significant role in helminth-induced immune modulation but also that the epitope specificities of Treg responses are shared across species and genera of helminth. Hence, the immune response to a given helminth cannot be considered in isolation but rather forms part of an epitope ecosystem, or microenvironment, in which potentially immunosuppressive peptides in the helminth network via their common T-cell receptor recognition signals with T-cell epitopes in self proteins, microbiome, other helminths, and taxonomically unrelated pathogens. Such a systems approach provides a high-level view of the antigen-immune system signaling dynamics that may bias a host's immune response to helminth infections toward immune modulation. It may indicate how helminths have evolved to select for peptides that favor long-term parasite host coexistence.
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7
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Eichenberger RM, Ryan S, Jones L, Buitrago G, Polster R, Montes de Oca M, Zuvelek J, Giacomin PR, Dent LA, Engwerda CR, Field MA, Sotillo J, Loukas A. Hookworm Secreted Extracellular Vesicles Interact With Host Cells and Prevent Inducible Colitis in Mice. Front Immunol 2018; 9:850. [PMID: 29760697 PMCID: PMC5936971 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.00850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites, hookworms in particular, have evolved to cause minimal harm to their hosts, allowing them to establish chronic infections. This is mediated by creating an immunoregulatory environment. Indeed, hookworms are such potent suppressors of inflammation that they have been used in clinical trials to treat inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and celiac disease. Since the recent description of helminths (worms) secreting extracellular vesicles (EVs), exosome-like EVs from different helminths have been characterized and their salient roles in parasite–host interactions have been highlighted. Here, we analyze EVs from the rodent parasite Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, which has been used as a model for human hookworm infection. N. brasiliensis EVs (Nb-EVs) are actively internalized by mouse gut organoids, indicating a role in driving parasitism. We used proteomics and RNA-Seq to profile the molecular composition of Nb-EVs. We identified 81 proteins, including proteins frequently present in exosomes (like tetraspanin, enolase, 14-3-3 protein, and heat shock proteins), and 27 sperm-coating protein-like extracellular proteins. RNA-Seq analysis revealed 52 miRNA species, many of which putatively map to mouse genes involved in regulation of inflammation. To determine whether GI nematode EVs had immunomodulatory properties, we assessed their potential to suppress GI inflammation in a mouse model of inducible chemical colitis. EVs from N. brasiliensis but not those from the whipworm Trichuris muris or control vesicles from grapes protected against colitic inflammation in the gut of mice that received a single intraperitoneal injection of EVs. Key cytokines associated with colitic pathology (IL-6, IL-1β, IFNγ, and IL-17a) were significantly suppressed in colon tissues from EV-treated mice. By contrast, high levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 were detected in Nb-EV-treated mice. Proteins and miRNAs contained within helminth EVs hold great potential application in development of drugs to treat helminth infections as well as chronic non-infectious diseases resulting from a dysregulated immune system, such as IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramon M Eichenberger
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Stephanie Ryan
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Linda Jones
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Geraldine Buitrago
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Ramona Polster
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Marcela Montes de Oca
- Immunology and Infection Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Jennifer Zuvelek
- Pathology Queensland Cairns Laboratory, Queensland Health, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Paul R Giacomin
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Lindsay A Dent
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Christian R Engwerda
- Immunology and Infection Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Matthew A Field
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia.,Department of Immunology, John Curtin School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Javier Sotillo
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
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Symeonidou I, Gelasakis AI, Arsenopoulos K, Angelou A, Beugnet F, Papadopoulos E. Feline gastrointestinal parasitism in Greece: emergent zoonotic species and associated risk factors. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:227. [PMID: 29618378 PMCID: PMC5885467 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2812-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Feline gastrointestinal parasitism constitutes an issue of concern for veterinarians since parasites are widespread and affect animals' health and welfare. Furthermore, some of these pathogens have zoonotic potential. To provide detailed data on the current epizootiology of feline endoparasitism, a multicentric survey was conducted during 2016. METHODS Faeces from 1150 cats were collected from all regions of Greece and examined by sedimentation and flotation techniques. Possible risk factors including gender, age, ownership status, living conditions and co-infections with other parasites were assessed using binary regression models for each one of the most prevalent parasites. RESULTS The overall gastrointestinal parasite prevalence in cats was 50.7%. The study population consisted of cats of both sexes, different age groups, ownership status and living conditions. A total of 10 gastrointestinal parasitic species were detected and up to 5 different parasites were isolated in the same faecal sample. The most frequently identified parasites were Toxocara cati (n = 278; 24.2%), followed by Cystoisospora spp. (n = 189; 16.4%), Ancylostomatidae (n = 186; 16.2%), Aelurostrongylus abstrusus (n = 40; 3.5%), Giardia spp. (n = 26; 2.3%), Joyeuxiella pasqualei (n = 14; 1.2%), Capillaria aerophila (n = 8; 0.7%), Dipylidium caninum (n = 3; 0.2%), Toxascaris leonina (n = 2; 0.1%) and Troglostrongylus brevior (n = 2; 0.1%). The occurrence of co-infections was 11.6%. Concerning risk factors, the likelihood of T. cati infection was higher for female cats living outdoors and for cats being infected with Cystoisospora spp. In the same frame, young, stray, male and free of A. abstrusus cats were more likely to be infected with Cystoisospora spp. Correspondingly, stray, infected with Giardia spp. but free of Cystoisospora spp. cats were more likely to be infected with Ancylostomatidae. Regarding A. abstrusus infection, a higher probability was reported for cats living outdoors and for cats free of Cystoisospora spp., while Giardia spp. infections were more common in young and co-infected with Ancylostomatidae animals. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of parasitized cats in Greece was high and thus consideration should be paid to control the risk factors, to implement targeted preventive antiparasitic treatments and educate cat owners on the value of prevention for the health and welfare of their cats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaia Symeonidou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box: 393, GR 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasios I Gelasakis
- Veterinary Research Institute of Thessaloniki, ELGO-Demeter, GR 57001, Thermi, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Konstantinos Arsenopoulos
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box: 393, GR 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Athanasios Angelou
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box: 393, GR 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Frederic Beugnet
- Boehringer Ingelheim, 29 Avenue Tony Garnier, 69007, Lyon, France
| | - Elias Papadopoulos
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, PO Box: 393, GR 54124, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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Famakinde DO, Adenusi AA. Involvement of Hookworm Co-Infection in the Pathogenesis and Progression of Podoconiosis: Possible Immunological Mechanism. Trop Med Infect Dis 2018; 3:E37. [PMID: 30274434 PMCID: PMC6073219 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed3020037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Revised: 03/16/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Podoconiosis is an endemic, non-infectious, geochemical and non-filarial inflammatory cause of tropical elephantiasis. The immunology of podoconiosis is not yet expressly understood. In spite of this, co-infection and co-morbidity with the infectious, soil-transmitted hookworm disease that causes iron deficiency anemia has been found to be predominant among affected individuals living in co-endemic settings, thus creating a more complex immunological interplay that still has not been investigated. Although deworming and iron-rich nutrient supplementation have been suggested in podoconiosis patients living under resource-poor conditions, and it is thought that hookworm infection may help to suppress inflammatory responses, the undisputed link that exists between a non-infectious and an infectious disease may create a scenario whereby during a co-infection, treatment of one exacerbates the other disease condition or is dampened by the debilitation caused by the other. In this paper, we elaborate on the immunopathogenesis of podoconiosis and examine the possible immunological dynamics of hookworm co-infection in the immunopathology of podoconiosis, with a view toward improved management of the disease that will facilitate its feasible elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damilare O Famakinde
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Idi-Araba, Surulere P.M.B 12003, Lagos 100254, Nigeria.
| | - Adedotun A Adenusi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Idi-Araba, Surulere P.M.B 12003, Lagos 100254, Nigeria.
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10
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Shepherd C, Wangchuk P, Loukas A. Of dogs and hookworms: man's best friend and his parasites as a model for translational biomedical research. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:59. [PMID: 29370855 PMCID: PMC5785905 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2621-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
We present evidence that the dog hookworm (Ancylostoma caninum) is underutilised in the study of host-parasite interactions, particularly as a proxy for the human-hookworm relationship. The inability to passage hookworms through all life stages in vitro means that adult stage hookworms have to be harvested from the gut of their definitive hosts for ex vivo research. This makes study of the human-hookworm interface difficult for technical and ethical reasons. The historical association of humans, dogs and hookworms presents a unique triad of positive evolutionary pressure to drive the A. caninum-canine interaction to reflect that of the human-hookworm relationship. Here we discuss A. caninum as a proxy for human hookworm infection and situate this hookworm model within the current research agenda, including the various 'omics' applications and the search for next generation biologics to treat a plethora of human diseases. Historically, the dog hookworm has been well described on a physiological and biochemical level, with an increasing understanding of its role as a human zoonosis. With its similarity to human hookworm, the recent publications of hookworm genomes and other omics databases, as well as the ready availability of these parasites for ex vivo culture, the dog hookworm presents itself as a valuable tool for discovery and translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Shepherd
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia.
| | - Phurpa Wangchuk
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Australia.
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11
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Eichenberger RM, Talukder MH, Field MA, Wangchuk P, Giacomin P, Loukas A, Sotillo J. Characterization of Trichuris muris secreted proteins and extracellular vesicles provides new insights into host-parasite communication. J Extracell Vesicles 2018; 7:1428004. [PMID: 29410780 PMCID: PMC5795766 DOI: 10.1080/20013078.2018.1428004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Whipworms are parasitic nematodes that live in the gut of more than 500 million people worldwide. Owing to the difficulty in obtaining parasite material, the mouse whipworm Trichuris muris has been extensively used as a model to study human whipworm infections. These nematodes secrete a multitude of compounds that interact with host tissues where they orchestrate a parasitic existence. Herein we provide the first comprehensive characterization of the excretory/secretory products of T. muris. We identify 148 proteins secreted by T. muris and show for the first time that the mouse whipworm secretes exosome-like extracellular vesicles (EVs) that can interact with host cells. We use an Optiprep® gradient to purify the EVs, highlighting the suitability of this method for purifying EVs secreted by a parasitic nematode. We also characterize the proteomic and genomic content of the EVs, identifying >350 proteins, 56 miRNAs (22 novel) and 475 full-length mRNA transcripts mapping to T. muris gene models. Many of the miRNAs putatively mapped to mouse genes are involved in regulation of inflammation, implying a role in parasite-driven immunomodulation. In addition, for the first time to our knowledge, colonic organoids have been used to demonstrate the internalization of parasite EVs by host cells. Understanding how parasites interact with their host is crucial to develop new control measures. This first characterization of the proteins and EVs secreted by T. muris provides important information on whipworm-host communication and forms the basis for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramon M. Eichenberger
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | | | - Matthew A. Field
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Phurpa Wangchuk
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Paul Giacomin
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Javier Sotillo
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
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12
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Junginger J, Raue K, Wolf K, Janecek E, Stein VM, Tipold A, Günzel-Apel AR, Strube C, Hewicker-Trautwein M. Zoonotic intestinal helminths interact with the canine immune system by modulating T cell responses and preventing dendritic cell maturation. Sci Rep 2017; 7:10310. [PMID: 28871165 PMCID: PMC5583179 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-10677-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasite co-evolution alongside the mammalian immune system gave rise to several modulatory strategies by which they prevent exaggerated pathology and facilitate a longer worm survival. As little is known about the immunoregulatory potential of the zoonotic canine parasites Ancylostoma caninum and Toxocara canis in the natural host, the present study aimed to investigate whether their larval excretory-secretory (ES) products can modulate the canine immune system. We demonstrated TcES to increase the frequency of CD4+ Foxp3high T cells, while both AcES and TcES were associated with elevated Helios expression in Foxp3high lymphocytes. ES products were further capable of inducing IL-10 production by lymphocytes, which was mainly attributed to CD8+ T cells. ES treatment of PBMCs prior to mitogen stimulation inhibited polyclonal proliferation of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Moreover, monocyte-derived ES-pulsed dendritic cells reduced upregulation of MHC-II and CD80 in response to lipopolysaccharide. The data showed that regulation of the canine immune system by A. caninum and T. canis larvae comprises the modification of antigen-specific and polyclonal T cell responses and dendritic cell maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Junginger
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 17, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Katharina Raue
- Institute for Parasitology, Center for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 17, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Karola Wolf
- Unit of Reproductive Medicine of Clinics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 15, D-30559, Hannover, Germany.,Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 9, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Elisabeth Janecek
- Institute for Parasitology, Center for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 17, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Veronika M Stein
- Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 9, D-30559, Hannover, Germany.,Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Länggassstrasse 128, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Andrea Tipold
- Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 9, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Anne-Rose Günzel-Apel
- Unit of Reproductive Medicine of Clinics, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 15, D-30559, Hannover, Germany.,Small Animal Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 9, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christina Strube
- Institute for Parasitology, Center for Infection Medicine, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 17, D-30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Marion Hewicker-Trautwein
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine, Bünteweg 17, D-30559, Hannover, Germany.
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13
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Abstract
The World Health Organization lists a constellation of 17 tropical diseases that afflict approximately one in six individuals on the planet and, until recently, few resources have been devoted to the treatment and eradication of those diseases. They are often referred to as the diseases of the “bottom billion,” because they are most prevalent among the poorest individuals in impoverished tropical nations. However, the few studies that have been performed reveal an extraordinary world of molecular and cellular adaptations that facilitate the pathogens’ survival in hosts ranging from insects to humans. A compelling case can be made that even a modest investment toward understanding the basic molecular and cell biology of these neglected pathogens has a high probability of yielding exciting new cellular mechanisms and insights into novel ways of combating these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Sullivan
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
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14
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Blackwell AD, Tamayo MA, Beheim B, Trumble BC, Stieglitz J, Hooper PL, Martin M, Kaplan H, Gurven M. Helminth infection, fecundity, and age of first pregnancy in women. Science 2016; 350:970-2. [PMID: 26586763 DOI: 10.1126/science.aac7902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Infection with intestinal helminths results in immunological changes that influence co-infections, and might influence fecundity by inducing immunological states affecting conception and pregnancy. We investigated associations between intestinal helminths and fertility in women, using 9 years of longitudinal data from 986 Bolivian forager-horticulturalists, experiencing natural fertility and 70% helminth prevalence. We found that different species of helminth are associated with contrasting effects on fecundity. Infection with roundworm (Ascaris lumbricoides) is associated with earlier first births and shortened interbirth intervals, whereas infection with hookworm is associated with delayed first pregnancy and extended interbirth intervals. Thus, helminths may have important effects on human fertility that reflect physiological and immunological consequences of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron D Blackwell
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA. Tsimane Health and Life History Project, San Borja, Bolivia. Broom Center for Demography, University of California Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA.
| | - Marilyne A Tamayo
- Department of Anthropology, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Bret Beheim
- Tsimane Health and Life History Project, San Borja, Bolivia. Department of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Benjamin C Trumble
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA. Tsimane Health and Life History Project, San Borja, Bolivia. Broom Center for Demography, University of California Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA. Center for Evolutionary Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA. School of Human Evolution and Social Change, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - Jonathan Stieglitz
- Tsimane Health and Life History Project, San Borja, Bolivia. Department of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA. Institute for Advanced Study in Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Paul L Hooper
- Tsimane Health and Life History Project, San Borja, Bolivia. Department of Anthropology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA
| | - Melanie Martin
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA. Tsimane Health and Life History Project, San Borja, Bolivia. Broom Center for Demography, University of California Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
| | - Hillard Kaplan
- Tsimane Health and Life History Project, San Borja, Bolivia. Department of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Michael Gurven
- Department of Anthropology, University of California Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA. Tsimane Health and Life History Project, San Borja, Bolivia. Broom Center for Demography, University of California Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA
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15
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Ma D, Francischetti IMB, Ribeiro JMC, Andersen JF. The structure of hookworm platelet inhibitor (HPI), a CAP superfamily member from Ancylostoma caninum. Acta Crystallogr F Struct Biol Commun 2015; 71:643-9. [PMID: 26057788 PMCID: PMC4461323 DOI: 10.1107/s2053230x1500271x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Secreted protein components of hookworm species include a number of representatives of the cysteine-rich/antigen 5/pathogenesis-related 1 (CAP) protein family known as Ancylostoma-secreted proteins (ASPs). Some of these have been considered as candidate antigens for the development of vaccines against hookworms. The functions of most CAP superfamily members are poorly understood, but one form, the hookworm platelet inhibitor (HPI), has been isolated as a putative antagonist of the platelet integrins αIIbβ3 and α2β1. Here, the crystal structure of HPI is described and its structural features are examined in relation to its possible function. The HPI structure is similar to those of other ASPs and shows incomplete conservation of the sequence motifs CAP1 and CAP2 that are considered to be diagnostic of CAP superfamily members. The asymmetric unit of the HPI crystal contains a dimer with an extensive interaction interface, but chromatographic measurements indicate that it is primarily monomeric in solution. In the dimeric structure, the putative active-site cleft areas from both monomers are united into a single negatively charged depression. A potential Lys-Gly-Asp disintegrin-like motif was identified in the sequence of HPI, but is not positioned at the apex of a tight turn, making it unlikely that it interacts with the integrin. Recombinant HPI produced in Escherichia coli was found not to inhibit the adhesion of human platelets to collagen or fibrinogen, despite having a native structure as shown by X-ray diffraction. This result corroborates previous analyses of recombinant HPI and suggests that it might require post-translational modification or have a different biological function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongying Ma
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH/NIAID, 12735 Twinbrook Parkway, Rockville, MD 20852, USA
| | - Ivo M. B. Francischetti
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH/NIAID, 12735 Twinbrook Parkway, Rockville, MD 20852, USA
| | - Jose M. C. Ribeiro
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH/NIAID, 12735 Twinbrook Parkway, Rockville, MD 20852, USA
| | - John F. Andersen
- Laboratory of Malaria and Vector Research, NIH/NIAID, 12735 Twinbrook Parkway, Rockville, MD 20852, USA
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16
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Grencis RK, Humphreys NE, Bancroft AJ. Immunity to gastrointestinal nematodes: mechanisms and myths. Immunol Rev 2015; 260:183-205. [PMID: 24942690 PMCID: PMC4141702 DOI: 10.1111/imr.12188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Immune responses to gastrointestinal nematodes have been studied extensively for over 80 years and intensively investigated over the last 30–40 years. The use of laboratory models has led to the discovery of new mechanisms of protective immunity and made major contributions to our fundamental understanding of both innate and adaptive responses. In addition to host protection, it is clear that immunoregulatory processes are common in infected individuals and resistance often operates alongside modulation of immunity. This review aims to discuss the recent discoveries in both host protection and immunoregulation against gastrointestinal nematodes, placing the data in context of the specific life cycles imposed by the different parasites studied and the future challenges of considering the mucosal/immune axis to encompass host, parasite, and microbiome in its widest sense.
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17
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Sotillo J, Sanchez-Flores A, Cantacessi C, Harcus Y, Pickering D, Bouchery T, Camberis M, Tang SC, Giacomin P, Mulvenna J, Mitreva M, Berriman M, LeGros G, Maizels RM, Loukas A. Secreted proteomes of different developmental stages of the gastrointestinal nematode Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. Mol Cell Proteomics 2014; 13:2736-51. [PMID: 24994561 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m114.038950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Hookworms infect more than 700 million people worldwide and cause more morbidity than most other human parasitic infections. Nippostrongylus brasiliensis (the rat hookworm) has been used as an experimental model for human hookworm because of its similar life cycle and ease of maintenance in laboratory rodents. Adult N. brasiliensis, like the human hookworm, lives in the intestine of the host and releases excretory/secretory products (ESP), which represent the major host-parasite interface. We performed a comparative proteomic analysis of infective larval (L3) and adult worm stages of N. brasiliensis to gain insights into the molecular bases of host-parasite relationships and determine whether N. brasiliensis could indeed serve as an appropriate model for studying human hookworm infections. Proteomic data were matched to a transcriptomic database assembled from 245,874,892 Illumina reads from different developmental stages (eggs, L3, L4, and adult) of N. brasiliensis yielding∼18,426 unigenes with 39,063 possible isoform transcripts. From this analysis, 313 proteins were identified from ESPs by LC-MS/MS-52 in the L3 and 261 in the adult worm. Most of the proteins identified in the study were stage-specific (only 13 proteins were shared by both stages); in particular, two families of proteins-astacin metalloproteases and CAP-domain containing SCP/TAPS-were highly represented in both L3 and adult ESP. These protein families are present in most nematode groups, and where studied, appear to play roles in larval migration and evasion of the host's immune response. Phylogenetic analyses of defined protein families and global gene similarity analyses showed that N. brasiliensis has a greater degree of conservation with human hookworm than other model nematodes examined. These findings validate the use of N. brasiliensis as a suitable parasite for the study of human hookworm infections in a tractable animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Sotillo
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - Cinzia Cantacessi
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia; ¶Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB3 0ES, UK
| | - Yvonne Harcus
- ‖Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JT, UK
| | - Darren Pickering
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tiffany Bouchery
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mali Camberis
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Shiau-Choot Tang
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Paul Giacomin
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jason Mulvenna
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia; ‡‡Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Makedonka Mitreva
- §§The Genome Institute, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri; ¶¶Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Matthew Berriman
- §Parasite Genomics, Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridge CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Graham LeGros
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rick M Maizels
- ‖Institute of Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Ashworth Laboratories, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JT, UK
| | - Alex Loukas
- From the ‡Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Australian Institute for Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia;
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18
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Hotez PJ, Diemert D, Bacon KM, Beaumier C, Bethony JM, Bottazzi ME, Brooker S, Couto AR, Freire MDS, Homma A, Lee BY, Loukas A, Loblack M, Morel CM, Oliveira RC, Russell PK. The Human Hookworm Vaccine. Vaccine 2014; 31 Suppl 2:B227-32. [PMID: 23598487 PMCID: PMC3988917 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2012.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2012] [Revised: 10/17/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Hookworm infection is one of the world's most common neglected tropical diseases and a leading cause of iron deficiency anemia in low- and middle-income countries. A Human Hookworm Vaccine is currently being developed by the Sabin Vaccine Institute and is in phase 1 clinical testing. The candidate vaccine is comprised of two recombinant antigens known as Na-GST-1 and Na-APR-1, each of which is an important parasite enzyme required for hookworms to successfully utilize host blood as a source of energy. The recombinant proteins are formulated on Alhydrogel® and are being tested in combination with a synthetic Toll-like receptor 4 agonist. The aim of the vaccine is to induce anti-enzyme antibodies that will reduce both host blood loss and the number of hookworms attached to the gut. Transfer of the manufacturing technology to the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ)/Bio-Manguinhos (a Brazilian public sector developing country vaccine manufacturer) is planned, with a clinical development plan that could lead to registration of the vaccine in Brazil. The vaccine would also need to be introduced in the poorest regions of Africa and Asia, where hookworm infection is highly endemic. Ultimately, the vaccine could become an essential tool for achieving hookworm control and elimination, a key target in the 2012 London Declaration on Neglected Tropical Diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter J Hotez
- Sabin Vaccine Institute Product Development Partnership, Houston, TX, USA.
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19
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Tang YT, Gao X, Rosa BA, Abubucker S, Hallsworth-Pepin K, Martin J, Tyagi R, Heizer E, Zhang X, Bhonagiri-Palsikar V, Minx P, Warren WC, Wang Q, Zhan B, Hotez PJ, Sternberg PW, Dougall A, Gaze ST, Mulvenna J, Sotillo J, Ranganathan S, Rabelo EM, Wilson RW, Felgner PL, Bethony J, Hawdon JM, Gasser RB, Loukas A, Mitreva M. Genome of the human hookworm Necator americanus. Nat Genet 2014; 46:261-269. [PMID: 24441737 PMCID: PMC3978129 DOI: 10.1038/ng.2875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2013] [Accepted: 12/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The hookworm Necator americanus is the predominant soil-transmitted human parasite. Adult worms feed on blood in the small intestine, causing iron-deficiency anemia, malnutrition, growth and development stunting in children, and severe morbidity and mortality during pregnancy in women. We report sequencing and assembly of the N. americanus genome (244 Mb, 19,151 genes). Characterization of this first hookworm genome sequence identified genes orchestrating the hookworm's invasion of the human host, genes involved in blood feeding and development, and genes encoding proteins that represent new potential drug targets against hookworms. N. americanus has undergone a considerable and unique expansion of immunomodulator proteins, some of which we highlight as potential treatments against inflammatory diseases. We also used a protein microarray to demonstrate a postgenomic application of the hookworm genome sequence. This genome provides an invaluable resource to boost ongoing efforts toward fundamental and applied postgenomic research, including the development of new methods to control hookworm and human immunological diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yat T. Tang
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Xin Gao
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Bruce A. Rosa
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Sahar Abubucker
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Kymberlie Hallsworth-Pepin
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - John Martin
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Rahul Tyagi
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Esley Heizer
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Xu Zhang
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Veena Bhonagiri-Palsikar
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Patrick Minx
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Wesley C. Warren
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Qi Wang
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Bin Zhan
- Department of Pediatrics, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Sabin Vaccine Institute and Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Peter J. Hotez
- Department of Pediatrics, National School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Sabin Vaccine Institute and Texas Children's Hospital Center for Vaccine Development, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Paul W. Sternberg
- Division of Biology, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, Maryland, USA
| | - Annette Dougall
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Queensland Tropical Health Alliance, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Soraya Torres Gaze
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Queensland Tropical Health Alliance, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Jason Mulvenna
- Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Javier Sotillo
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Queensland Tropical Health Alliance, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Shoba Ranganathan
- Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Elida M. Rabelo
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Richard W. Wilson
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Philip L. Felgner
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Jeffrey Bethony
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington DC, USA
| | - John M. Hawdon
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington DC, USA
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Faculty of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Centre for Biodiscovery and Molecular Development of Therapeutics, Queensland Tropical Health Alliance, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD, Australia
| | - Makedonka Mitreva
- The Genome Institute at Washington University, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
- Department of Genetics, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
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Nieuwenhuizen NE, Meter JM, Horsnell WG, Hoving JC, Fick L, Sharp MF, Darby MG, Parihar SP, Brombacher F, Lopata AL. A cross-reactive monoclonal antibody to nematode haemoglobin enhances protective immune responses to Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2395. [PMID: 24009787 PMCID: PMC3757078 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Accepted: 07/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Nematode secreted haemoglobins have unusually high affinity for oxygen and possess nitric oxide deoxygenase, and catalase activity thought to be important in protection against host immune responses to infection. In this study, we generated a monoclonal antibody (48Eg) against haemoglobin of the nematode Anisakis pegreffii, and aimed to characterize cross-reactivity of 4E8g against haemoglobins of different nematodes and its potential to mediate protective immunity against a murine hookworm infection. Methodology/Principal Findings Immunoprecipitation was used to isolate the 4E8g-binding antigen in Anisakis and Ascaris extracts, which were identified as haemoglobins by peptide mass fingerprinting and MS/MS. Immunological cross-reactivity was also demonstrated with haemoglobin of the rodent hookworm N. brasiliensis. Immunogenicity of nematode haemoglobin in mice and humans was tested by immunoblotting. Anisakis haemoglobin was recognized by IgG and IgE antibodies of Anisakis-infected mice, while Ascaris haemoglobin was recognized by IgG but not IgE antibodies in mouse and human sera. Sequencing of Anisakis haemoglobin revealed high similarity to haemoglobin of a related marine nematode, Psuedoterranova decipiens, which lacks the four –HKEE repeats of Ascaris haemoglobin important in octamer assembly. The localization of haemoglobin in the different parasites was examined by immunohistochemistry and associated with the excretory-secretary ducts in Anisakis, Ascaris and N. brasiliensis. Anisakis haemoglobin was strongly expressed in the L3 stage, unlike Ascaris haemoglobin, which is reportedly mainly expressed in adult worms. Passive immunization of mice with 4E8g prior to infection with N. brasiliensis enhanced protective Th2 immunity and led to a significant decrease in worm burdens. Conclusion The monoclonal antibody 4E8g targets haemoglobin in broadly equivalent anatomical locations in parasitic nematodes and enhances host immunity to a hookworm infection. Nematode haemoglobins are fascinating molecules with unusually high affinity for oxygen. This is one example of many unique adaptations that nematodes have acquired to survive in their hosts, as nematode haemoglobin is thought to sequester oxygen to maintain an anaerobic environment, and can break down nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen peroxide produced by host defences. This study describes the characterization of nematode haemoglobins using a novel monoclonal antibody (anti-Hb) generated against Anisakis haemoglobin, which was found to be highly expressed in stage 3 larvae and associated with the excretory-secretary ducts. Anisakis haemoglobin is an IgE-binding molecule in infected mice, while Ascaris haemoglobin was recognized by IgG but not IgE in human sera. Finally, passive immunization of mice with anti-Hb provided protection against Nippostrongylus brasiliens (rodent hookworm), with mice showing reduced worm burden and enhanced Th2 responses, showing that haemoglobin may be a good vaccine target in some nematodes. The monoclonal antibody generated in this study will be useful in further studies to examine the biology of nematode haemoglobins.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Anisakis/genetics
- Anisakis/immunology
- Antibodies, Helminth/administration & dosage
- Antibodies, Helminth/immunology
- Antibodies, Helminth/isolation & purification
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/administration & dosage
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/immunology
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/isolation & purification
- Antigens, Helminth/chemistry
- Antigens, Helminth/genetics
- Antigens, Helminth/immunology
- Ascaris/immunology
- Cross Reactions
- Disease Models, Animal
- Hemoglobins/chemistry
- Hemoglobins/genetics
- Hemoglobins/immunology
- Humans
- Immunization, Passive
- Immunoblotting
- Immunoglobulin E/blood
- Immunoglobulin G/blood
- Immunohistochemistry
- Immunoprecipitation
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- Nematoda
- Nippostrongylus/immunology
- Sequence Analysis, DNA
- Strongylida Infections/immunology
- Tandem Mass Spectrometry
- Treatment Outcome
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie E Nieuwenhuizen
- International Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Cape Town Component, and Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine, Medical Research Council, Division of Immunology, Faculty of Health Science, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
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Prasanphanich NS, Mickum ML, Heimburg-Molinaro J, Cummings RD. Glycoconjugates in host-helminth interactions. Front Immunol 2013; 4:240. [PMID: 24009607 PMCID: PMC3755266 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2013.00240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2013] [Accepted: 08/03/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Helminths are multicellular parasitic worms that comprise a major class of human pathogens and cause an immense amount of suffering worldwide. Helminths possess an abundance of complex and unique glycoconjugates that interact with both the innate and adaptive arms of immunity in definitive and intermediate hosts. These glycoconjugates represent a major untapped reservoir of immunomodulatory compounds, which have the potential to treat autoimmune and inflammatory disorders, and antigenic glycans, which could be exploited as vaccines and diagnostics. This review will survey current knowledge of the interactions between helminth glycans and host immunity and highlight the gaps in our understanding which are relevant to advancing therapeutics, vaccine development, and diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Salinger Prasanphanich
- Department of Biochemistry, Glycomics Center of Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Megan L. Mickum
- Department of Biochemistry, Glycomics Center of Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jamie Heimburg-Molinaro
- Department of Biochemistry, Glycomics Center of Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Richard D. Cummings
- Department of Biochemistry, Glycomics Center of Emory University, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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22
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Hookworm excretory/secretory products induce interleukin-4 (IL-4)+ IL-10+ CD4+ T cell responses and suppress pathology in a mouse model of colitis. Infect Immun 2013; 81:2104-11. [PMID: 23545299 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00563-12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence from human studies and mouse models shows that infection with parasitic helminths has a suppressive effect on the pathogenesis of some inflammatory diseases. Recently, we and others have shown that some of the suppressive effects of hookworms reside in their excretory/secretory (ES) products. Here, we demonstrate that ES products of the hookworm Ancylostoma caninum (AcES) suppress intestinal pathology in a model of chemically induced colitis. This suppression was associated with potent induction of a type 2 cytokine response characterized by coexpression of interleukin-4 (IL-4) and IL-10 by CD4(+) T cells, downregulation of proinflammatory cytokine expression in the draining lymph nodes and the colon, and recruitment of alternatively activated (M2) macrophages and eosinophils to the site of ES administration. Protease digestion and heat denaturation of AcES resulted in impaired induction of CD4(+) IL-4(+) IL-10(+) cell responses and diminished ability to suppress colitis, indicating that protein component(s) are responsible for some of the immunosuppressive effects of AcES. Identification of the specific parasite-derived molecules responsible for reducing pathology during chemically induced colitis could lead to the development of novel therapeutics for the treatment of human inflammatory bowel disease.
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George PJ, Anuradha R, Kumar NP, Kumaraswami V, Nutman TB, Babu S. Evidence of microbial translocation associated with perturbations in T cell and antigen-presenting cell homeostasis in hookworm infections. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2012; 6:e1830. [PMID: 23056659 PMCID: PMC3464301 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2012] [Accepted: 08/10/2012] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Microbial translocation (MT) is the process by which microbes or microbial products translocate from the intestine to the systemic circulation. MT is a common cause of systemic immune activation in HIV infection and is associated with reduced frequencies of CD4+ T cells; no data exist, however, on the role of MT in intestinal helminth infections. Methods We measured the plasma levels of MT markers, acute-phase proteins, and pro- and anti - inflammatory cytokines in individuals with or without hookworm infections. We also estimated the absolute counts of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells as well as the frequencies of memory T cell and dendritic cell subsets. Finally, we also measured the levels of all of these parameters in a subset of individuals following treatment of hookworm infection. Results Our data suggest that hookworm infection is characterized by increased levels of markers associated with MT but not acute-phase proteins nor pro-inflammatory cytokines. Hookworm infections were also associated with increased levels of the anti – inflammatory cytokine – IL-10, which was positively correlated with levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). In addition, MT was associated with decreased numbers of CD8+ T cells and diminished frequencies of particular dendritic cell subsets. Antihelmintic treatment of hookworm infection resulted in reversal of some of the hematologic and microbiologic alterations. Conclusions Our data provide compelling evidence for MT in a human intestinal helminth infection and its association with perturbations in the T cell and antigen-presenting cell compartments of the immune system. Our data also reveal that at least one dominant counter-regulatory mechanism i.e. increased IL-10 production might potentially protect against systemic immune activation in hookworm infections. Hookworm infections affect more than half a billion people worldwide and cause morbidity in the form of intestinal injury and blood loss. Host immunologic factors that influence the pathogenesis of disease in these individuals are not completely understood. Circulating microbial products such as LPS and markers associated with microbial translocation (transfer of microbes or microbial products from the intestine to the circulation) have been shown to play an important role in disease pathogenesis of certain infections like HIV. We have attempted to elucidate the role of the above mentioned factors in disease pathogenesis by comparing the plasma levels of the various markers in a group of hookworm infected and uninfected individuals. We show that circulating levels of microbial translocation markers are elevated in hookworm infected individuals, a potential cause of morbidity in these infections. This is associated with changes in the host immune system, especially in terms of lymphocyte and dendritic cells subsets. However, microbial translocation is not accompanied by increased levels of acute phase proteins or pro-inflammatory cytokines indicating that the parasite has evolved mechanisms to dampen LPS induced inflammation. Thus, our study highlights a novel pathway of pathogenesis in an intestinal helminth infection and improves our understanding of the various factors involved in the complex host-parasite interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Palakkal Jovvian George
- National Institutes of Health, International Center for Excellence in Research, Chennai, India
| | - Rajamanickam Anuradha
- National Institutes of Health, International Center for Excellence in Research, Chennai, India
| | - Nathella Pavan Kumar
- National Institutes of Health, International Center for Excellence in Research, Chennai, India
| | | | - Thomas B. Nutman
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Subash Babu
- National Institutes of Health, International Center for Excellence in Research, Chennai, India
- SAIC-Frederick, Inc., NCI-Frederick, Frederick, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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24
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Gaze S, McSorley HJ, Daveson J, Jones D, Bethony JM, Oliveira LM, Speare R, McCarthy JS, Engwerda CR, Croese J, Loukas A. Characterising the mucosal and systemic immune responses to experimental human hookworm infection. PLoS Pathog 2012; 8:e1002520. [PMID: 22346753 PMCID: PMC3276555 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1002520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2011] [Accepted: 12/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The mucosal cytokine response of healthy humans to parasitic helminths has never been reported. We investigated the systemic and mucosal cytokine responses to hookworm infection in experimentally infected, previously hookworm naive individuals from non-endemic areas. We collected both peripheral blood and duodenal biopsies to assess the systemic immune response, as well as the response at the site of adult worm establishment. Our results show that experimental hookworm infection leads to a strong systemic and mucosal Th2 (IL-4, IL-5, IL-9 and IL-13) and regulatory (IL-10 and TGF-β) response, with some evidence of a Th1 (IFN-γ and IL-2) response. Despite upregulation after patency of both IL-15 and ALDH1A2, a known Th17-inducing combination in inflammatory diseases, we saw no evidence of a Th17 (IL-17) response. Moreover, we observed strong suppression of mucosal IL-23 and upregulation of IL-22 during established hookworm infection, suggesting a potential mechanism by which Th17 responses are suppressed, and highlighting the potential that hookworms and their secreted proteins offer as therapeutics for human inflammatory diseases. Parasitic worms reside in the gastrointestinal tracts of billions of humans in developing countries. Despite the enormous disease burdens associated with these infections, very little is known about the immune response in the gut tissue of humans to these parasites. We conducted a clinical trial where we obtained gut biopsies from people experimentally infected with hookworms and present here the first report of the immune response by healthy human gut tissue to a parasitic worm. We show that hookworms suppress the production of pro-inflammatory molecules and promote the expression of anti-inflammatory and wound healing molecules in the gut, providing a potential mechanism by which parasitic worms reside for long periods in their human hosts and suppress inflammation associated with auto-immune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soraya Gaze
- Queensland Tropical Health Alliance and School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - Henry J. McSorley
- Queensland Tropical Health Alliance and School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
| | - James Daveson
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Di Jones
- Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | | | - Richard Speare
- Anton Breinl Centre, James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - James S. McCarthy
- Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | | | - John Croese
- The Townsville Hospital and James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Alex Loukas
- Queensland Tropical Health Alliance and School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, Queensland, Australia
- * E-mail:
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25
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Ricci ND, Fiúza JA, Bueno LL, Cançado GGL, Gazzinelli-Guimarães PH, Martins VG, Matoso LF, de Miranda RRC, Geiger SM, Correa-Oliveira R, Gazzinelli A, Bartholomeu DC, Fujiwara RT. Induction of CD4(+)CD25(+)FOXP3(+) regulatory T cells during human hookworm infection modulates antigen-mediated lymphocyte proliferation. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2011; 5:e1383. [PMID: 22087344 PMCID: PMC3210756 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0001383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2011] [Accepted: 09/18/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hookworm infection is considered one of the most important poverty-promoting neglected tropical diseases, infecting 576 to 740 million people worldwide, especially in the tropics and subtropics. These blood-feeding nematodes have a remarkable ability to downmodulate the host immune response, protecting themselves from elimination and minimizing severe host pathology. While several mechanisms may be involved in the immunomodulation by parasitic infection, experimental evidences have pointed toward the possible involvement of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in downregulating effector T-cell responses upon chronic infection. However, the role of Tregs cells in human hookworm infection is still poorly understood and has not been addressed yet. In the current study we observed an augmentation of circulating CD4(+)CD25(+)FOXP3(+) regulatory T cells in hookworm-infected individuals compared with healthy non-infected donors. We have also demonstrated that infected individuals present higher levels of circulating Treg cells expressing CTLA-4, GITR, IL-10, TGF-β and IL-17. Moreover, we showed that hookworm crude antigen stimulation reduces the number of CD4(+)CD25(+)FOXP3(+) T regulatory cells co-expressing IL-17 in infected individuals. Finally, PBMCs from infected individuals pulsed with excreted/secreted products or hookworm crude antigens presented an impaired cellular proliferation, which was partially augmented by the depletion of Treg cells. Our results suggest that Treg cells may play an important role in hookworm-induced immunosuppression, contributing to the longevity of hookworm survival in infected people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Delaqua Ricci
- Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais (INCT-DT), Brazil
| | - Jacqueline Araújo Fiúza
- Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Lilian Lacerda Bueno
- Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Guilherme Grossi Lopes Cançado
- Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Clinical Hospital, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Pedro Henrique Gazzinelli-Guimarães
- Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais (INCT-DT), Brazil
| | - Virgillio Gandra Martins
- Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais (INCT-DT), Brazil
| | - Leonardo Ferreira Matoso
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Stefan Michael Geiger
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Correa-Oliveira
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais (INCT-DT), Brazil
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Andréa Gazzinelli
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais (INCT-DT), Brazil
- School of Nursing, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - Ricardo Toshio Fujiwara
- Department of Parasitology, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Doenças Tropicais (INCT-DT), Brazil
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Immunology, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Twenty-first century progress toward the global control of human hookworm infection. Curr Infect Dis Rep 2011; 13:210-7. [PMID: 21462001 DOI: 10.1007/s11908-011-0182-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Hookworms are bloodsucking nematodes that afflict up to 740 million persons in tropical and subtropical regions, with Asia and sub-Saharan Africa exhibiting particularly high infection rates. Prevalence, intensity, and pathology often vary considerably at both the regional and local level, and may be influenced by coinfection with other parasitic infections such as malaria. Immunoepidemiological studies suggest that hookworms manipulate the host immune response and may provide some protection from allergy and asthma. There has been substantial progress in elucidating the molecular pathogenesis of hookworm disease, with anticoagulants, protease inhibitors, digestive proteases, and novel excretory/secretory proteins being of particular interest. Mass chemotherapy remains a mainstay of hookworm control strategies, although continued use of drugs may lead to reduced efficacy and treatment failures have been observed. Consequently, a need exists for innovative approaches, such as vaccination; recent studies have identified and/or evaluated candidate vaccine antigens in human and animal models.
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Excretory-secretory products from hookworm l(3) and adult worms suppress proinflammatory cytokines in infected individuals. J Parasitol Res 2011; 2011:512154. [PMID: 21772981 PMCID: PMC3135091 DOI: 10.1155/2011/512154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2010] [Revised: 03/18/2011] [Accepted: 03/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We compared the effects of larval and adult worm excretory-secretory (ES) products from hookworm on the proliferative responses and cytokine secretion in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from hookwormpatients and egg-negative, nonendemic controls. When compared with negative controls, mitogen-stimulated PBMC from hookworm-infected individuals showed a significantly reduced proliferative response when adult worm ES antigen was added to the cultures. Furthermore, in hookworm-infected individuals a significant downmodulation of inflammatory interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α secretion resulted when PBMCs were stimulated with mitogen in combination with larval or adult worm ES. Both, interferon (IFN)-γ and IL-10 secretion were significantly lower in stimulated PBMC from infected individuals; however the IFN-γ/IL-10 ratio was much lower in hookworm-infected patients. Comparable effects, although at lower concentrations, were achieved when PBMCs from both groups were incubated with living hookworm third-stage larvae. We suggest that hookworm ES products downmodulate proliferative responses and inflammation during the chronic phase of the disease and facilitate early larval survival or adult worm persistence in the gut.
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Asojo OA. Structure of a two-CAP-domain protein from the human hookworm parasite Necator americanus. ACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA SECTION D: BIOLOGICAL CRYSTALLOGRAPHY 2011; 67:455-62. [PMID: 21543848 DOI: 10.1107/s0907444911008560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2011] [Accepted: 03/06/2011] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Major proteins secreted by the infective larval stage hookworms upon host entry include Ancylostoma secreted proteins (ASPs), which are characterized by one or two CAP (cysteine-rich secretory protein/antigen 5/pathogenesis related-1) domains. The CAP domain has been reported in diverse phylogenetically unrelated proteins, but has no confirmed function. The first structure of a two-CAP-domain protein, Na-ASP-1, from the major human hookworm parasite Necator americanus was refined to a resolution limit of 2.2 Å. The structure was solved by molecular replacement (MR) using Na-ASP-2, a one-CAP-domain ASP, as the search model. The correct MR solution could only be obtained by truncating the polyalanine model of Na-ASP-2 and removing several loops. The structure reveals two CAP domains linked by an extended loop. Overall, the carboxyl-terminal CAP domain is more similar to Na-ASP-2 than to the amino-terminal CAP domain. A large central cavity extends from the amino-terminal CAP domain to the carboxyl-terminal CAP domain, encompassing the putative CAP-binding cavity. The putative CAP-binding cavity is a characteristic cavity in the carboxyl-terminal CAP domain that contains a His and Glu pair. These residues are conserved in all single-CAP-domain proteins, but are absent in the amino-terminal CAP domain. The conserved His residues are oriented such that they appear to be capable of directly coordinating a zinc ion as observed for CAP proteins from reptile venoms. This first structure of a two-CAP-domain ASP can serve as a template for homology modeling of other two-CAP-domain proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwatoyin A Asojo
- Pathology and Microbiology Department, 986495 Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198-6495, USA.
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Salvador AR, Guivier E, Xuéreb A, Chaval Y, Cadet P, Poulle ML, Sironen T, Voutilainen L, Henttonen H, Cosson JF, Charbonnel N. Concomitant influence of helminth infection and landscape on the distribution of Puumala hantavirus in its reservoir, Myodes glareolus. BMC Microbiol 2011; 11:30. [PMID: 21303497 PMCID: PMC3040693 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2180-11-30] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2010] [Accepted: 02/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Puumala virus, the agent of nephropathia epidemica (NE), is the most prevalent hantavirus in Europe. The risk for human infection seems to be strongly correlated with the prevalence of Puumala virus (PUUV) in populations of its reservoir host species, the bank vole Myodes glareolus. In humans, the infection risks of major viral diseases are affected by the presence of helminth infections. We therefore proposed to analyse the influence of both helminth community and landscape on the prevalence of PUUV among bank vole populations in the Ardennes, a PUUV endemic area in France. Results Among the 313 voles analysed, 37 had anti-PUUV antibodies. Twelve gastro-intestinal helminth species were recorded among all voles sampled. We showed that PUUV seroprevalence strongly increased with age or sexual maturity, especially in the northern forests (massif des Ardennes). The helminth community structure significantly differed between this part and the woods or hedgerows of the southern cretes pre-ardennaises. Using PUUV RNA quantification, we identified significant coinfections between PUUV and gastro-intestinal helminths in the northern forests only. More specifically, PUUV infection was positively associated with the presence of Heligmosomum mixtum, and in a lesser extent, Aonchotheca muris-sylvatici. The viral load of PUUV infected individuals tended to be higher in voles coinfected with H. mixtum. It was significantly lower in voles coinfected with A. muris-sylvatici, reflecting the influence of age on these latter infections. Conclusions This is the first study to emphasize hantavirus - helminth coinfections in natural populations. It also highlights the importance to consider landscape when searching for such associations. We have shown that landscape characteristics strongly influence helminth community structure as well as PUUV distribution. False associations might therefore be evidenced if geographic patterns of helminths or PUUV repartition are not previously identified. Moreover, our work revealed that interactions between helminths and landscape enhance/deplete the occurrence of coinfections between PUUV and H. mixtum or A. muris-sylvatici. Further experimental analyses and long-term individual surveys are now required to confirm these correlative results, and to ascertain the causal links between helminth and PUUV infection risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Ribas Salvador
- Laboratori de Parasitologia, Departament de Microbiologia i Parasitologia Sanitaries, Facultat de Farmacia, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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