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Yan A, Tian J, Ye J, Gao C, Ye L, Zhang D, Song Q. Construction of Toxoplasma gondii SRS29C nucleic acid vaccine and comparative immunoprotective study of an SRS29C and SAG1 combination. Mol Biochem Parasitol 2024; 259:111630. [PMID: 38795969 DOI: 10.1016/j.molbiopara.2024.111630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan parasite that infects all nucleated cells except the red blood cells. Currently, nucleic acid vaccines are being widely investigated in Toxoplasma gondii control, and several nucleic acid vaccine candidate antigens have shown good protection in various studies. The aim of this study was to construct a nucleic acid vaccine with Toxoplasma gondii SRS29C as the target gene. We explored the nucleic acid vaccine with Toxoplasma surface protein SRS29C and the combined gene of SRS29C and SAG1 and evaluated its immunoprotective effect against Toxoplasma gondii. To amplify the gene fragment and clone it to the expression vector, the recombinant plasmid pEGFP-SRS29C was constructed by PCR. Eukaryotic cells were transfected with the plasmid, and the expression of the target protein was assessed using the Western blot method. The level of serum IgG was determined via ELISA, and the splenic lymphocyte proliferation ability was detected using the CCK-8 method. The percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells were measured by flow cytometry. Mice were immunised three times with single-gene nucleic acid vaccine and combination vaccine. Splenic lymphocytokine expression was determined using ELISA kits. The mice's survival time was monitored and recorded during an in vivo insect assault experiment, and the vaccine's protective power was assessed. The outcomes showed that PCR-amplification of an SRS29C gene fragment was successful. The 4,733-bp vector fragment and the 1,119-bp target segment were both recognised by double digestion. Additionally, after transfection of the recombinant plasmid pEGFP-SRS29C, Western blot examination of the extracted protein revealed the presence of a target protein strip at 66 kDa. The test results demonstrated that the IgG content in the serum of the pEGFP-SRS29C group and the co-immunization group was significantly higher than that of the PBS group and the empty vector group. The IgG potency induced by the co-immunization group was higher than that of the pEGFP-SRS29C group and the pEGFP-SAG1 group, the number of splenic lymphocyte proliferation number was higher than that of the PBS group and the empty vector group. The CD4+/CD8+ T ratio was higher than that of the PBS group and the empty vector group. The expression of IFN-γ and TNF-α in the splenocytes of the pEGFP-SRS29C group and the combined immunisation group was significantly higher following antigen stimulation. In the worm attack experiments, mice in the PBS and empty vector groups perished within 9 days of the worm attack, whereas mice in the pEGFP-SRS29C group survived for 18 days, mice in the pEGFP-SAG1 group survived for 21 days, and mice in the co-immunization group survived for 24 days. This demonstrates that the constructed Toxoplasma gondii nucleic acid vaccine pEGFP-SRS29C and the combined gene vaccine can induce mice to develop certain humoral and cellular immune responses, and enhance their ability to resist Toxoplasma gondii infection.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Toxoplasma/immunology
- Toxoplasma/genetics
- Vaccines, DNA/immunology
- Vaccines, DNA/genetics
- Vaccines, DNA/administration & dosage
- Protozoan Proteins/immunology
- Protozoan Proteins/genetics
- Protozoan Vaccines/immunology
- Protozoan Vaccines/genetics
- Mice
- Antibodies, Protozoan/blood
- Antibodies, Protozoan/immunology
- Antigens, Protozoan/immunology
- Antigens, Protozoan/genetics
- Immunoglobulin G/blood
- Immunoglobulin G/immunology
- Female
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/prevention & control
- Toxoplasmosis, Animal/immunology
- Mice, Inbred BALB C
- CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- Spleen/immunology
- Spleen/parasitology
- Cell Proliferation
- Plasmids/genetics
- Plasmids/immunology
- Cytokines/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- An Yan
- Agricultural Animal Breeding and Healthy Breeding Main Laboratory in Tianjin, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Tianjin Agricultural University, China
| | - Jing Tian
- Agricultural Animal Breeding and Healthy Breeding Main Laboratory in Tianjin, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Tianjin Agricultural University, China
| | - Jianjun Ye
- Agricultural Animal Breeding and Healthy Breeding Main Laboratory in Tianjin, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Tianjin Agricultural University, China
| | - Chuanliang Gao
- Agricultural Animal Breeding and Healthy Breeding Main Laboratory in Tianjin, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Tianjin Agricultural University, China
| | - Liying Ye
- Agricultural Animal Breeding and Healthy Breeding Main Laboratory in Tianjin, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Tianjin Agricultural University, China
| | - Dongchao Zhang
- Agricultural Animal Breeding and Healthy Breeding Main Laboratory in Tianjin, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Tianjin Agricultural University, China
| | - Qiqi Song
- Agricultural Animal Breeding and Healthy Breeding Main Laboratory in Tianjin, College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Tianjin Agricultural University, China.
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Sołowińska K, Holec-Gąsior L. Single Cell Expression Systems for the Production of Recombinant Proteins for Immunodiagnosis and Immunoprophylaxis of Toxoplasmosis. Microorganisms 2024; 12:1731. [PMID: 39203573 PMCID: PMC11357668 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12081731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 07/31/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis represents a significant public health and veterinary concern due to its widespread distribution, zoonotic transmission, and potential for severe health impacts in susceptible individuals and animal populations. The ability to design and produce recombinant proteins with precise antigenic properties is fundamental, as they serve as tools for accurate disease detection and effective immunization strategies, contributing to improved healthcare outcomes and disease control. Most commonly, a prokaryotic expression system is employed for the production of both single antigens and multi-epitope chimeric proteins; however, the cloning strategies, bacterial strain, vector, and expression conditions vary. Moreover, literature reports show the use of alternative microbial systems such as yeast or Leishmania tarentolae. This review provides an overview of the methods and strategies employed for the production of recombinant Toxoplasma gondii antigenic proteins for the serological detection of T. gondii infection and vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucyna Holec-Gąsior
- Department of Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, 11/12 Narutowicza Str., 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland;
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Wang X, Qu L, Chen J, Jin Y, Hu K, Zhou Z, Zhang J, An Y, Zheng J. Toxoplasma rhoptry proteins that affect encephalitis outcome. Cell Death Discov 2023; 9:439. [PMID: 38049394 PMCID: PMC10696021 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-023-01742-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, a widespread obligate intracellular parasite, can infect almost all warm-blooded animals, including humans. The cellular barrier of the central nervous system (CNS) is generally able to protect the brain parenchyma from infectious damage. However, T. gondii typically causes latent brain infections in humans and other vertebrates. Here, we discuss how T. gondii rhoptry proteins (ROPs) affect signaling pathways in host cells and speculate how this might affect the outcome of Toxoplasma encephalitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinlei Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Lai Qu
- Department of Intensive Care Unit, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jie Chen
- Institute of Theoretical Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Yufen Jin
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Kaisong Hu
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Zhengjie Zhou
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jiaqi Zhang
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Yiming An
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China
| | - Jingtong Zheng
- Department of Pathogenobiology, College of Basic Medical Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, 130021, China.
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Shi TY, Zhou SH, Kong YR, Fu Y, Liu Y, Yan WC, Zhou YX, Zhang L, Hao LL, Sun HC. A rhoptry protein, localizing in the bulb region of rhoptries, could induce protective immunity against Eimeria tenella infection. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1277955. [PMID: 38111572 PMCID: PMC10725939 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1277955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Rhoptry organelle proteins (ROPs) secreted by apicomplexan parasites play important roles during parasites invasion and survival in host cells, and are potential vaccine candidates against apicomplexan diseases. Eimeria tenella (E. tenella) is one of the most noteworthy apicomplexan species, which causes hemorrhagic pathologies. Although dozens of putative E. tenella ROP sequences are annotated, most ROP proteins are not well studied. Methods In this study, an E. tenella ROP21 gene was identified and the recombinant EtROP21 protein (rEtROP21) was expressed in Escherichia coli. The developmental expression levels, localization, and protective efficacy against E. tenella infection in chickens were studied. Results An EtROP21 gene fragment with an open reading frame (ORF) of 981 bp was obtained from the Beijing strain of E. tenella. The rEtROP21 has a molecular weight of approximately 50 kDa and was recognized by rEtROP21-immunized mouse serum. Two specific protein bands, about 43 KDa and 95 KDa in size, were detected in the whole sporozoite proteins using the rEtROP21-immunized chicken serum. RT-qPCR analysis of the E. tenella ROP21 gene (EtROP21) revealed that its mRNA levels were higher in merozoites and sporozoites than in sporulated and unsporulated oocysts. Immunofluorescence and immunoelectron analyses showed that the EtROP21 protein predominantly localizes in the bulb region of rhoptries distributed at anterior, posterior, and perinuclear regions of E. tenella sporozoites. Immunization and challenge experiments revealed that immunizing chickens with rEtROP21 significantly increased their average body weight gain while decreasing mean lesion score and oocyst output (P <0.05). When compared with the challenged control group, the rEtROP21-immunized group was associated with a significantly higher relative weight gain (90.2%) and a greater reduction in oocyst output (67%) (P <0.05). The anticoccidial index of the rEtROP21-immunized group was 163.2. Chicken serum ELISA revealed that the levels of the specific anti- rEtROP21 antibody, IFN-γ, and IL-4 were significantly higher in the rEtROP21-immunized group than in the challenged control group (P <0.05). Conclusion These results indicate that rEtROP21 can induce a high level of specific immune response and it is a potential candidate for the development of vaccines against E. tenella infection in chickens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuan-yuan Shi
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Si-han Zhou
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Ya-ru Kong
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Department of Epidemic Surveillance, Lingcheng Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Dezhou, Shandong, China
| | - Yuan Fu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wen-chao Yan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, Henan, China
| | - Yong-xue Zhou
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Li-li Hao
- Department of Animal Parasitology, College of Animal and Veterinaty Sciences, Southwest Minzu University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hong-chao Sun
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Zhang J, Yang Z, Ma H, Tian X, Li J, Zhang Z, Yang L, Feng M, Mei X, Zhang Z, Li X, Wang S. Recombinant Toxoplasma gondii Calreticulin protein provides partial protection against acute and chronic toxoplasmosis. Acta Trop 2023; 241:106883. [PMID: 36870430 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, a highly prevalent apicomplexan pathogen, can cause serious or even fatal toxoplasmosis in both animals and humans. Immunoprophylaxis is considered a promising strategy for controlling this disease. Calreticulin (CRT) is known as a pleiotropic protein, which is critical for calcium storage and phagocytosis of apoptotic cells. Our study examined the protective effects of recombinant T. gondii Calreticulin (rTgCRT) as a recombinant subunit vaccine against the T. gondii challenge in mice. Here, rTgCRT was successfully expressed in vitro using prokaryptic expression system. Polyclonal antibody (pAb) has been prepared by immunizing Sprague Dawley rats with rTgCRT. Western blotting showed that rTgCRT and natural TgCRT protein were recognized by serum of T. gondii infected mice and rTgCRT pAb, respectively. T lymphocyte subsets and antibody response were monitored using flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that ISA 201 rTgCRT could stimulate lymphocyte proliferation and induce high levels of total and subclasses of IgG. After the RH strain challenge, a longer survival period was given by the ISA 201 rTgCRT vaccine compared to the control groups; after infection with the PRU strain, we observed a 100% survival rate and a significant reduction in cysts load and size. In the neutralization test, high concentrations of rat-rTgCRT pAb provided 100% protection, while in the passive immunization trial, only weak protection was observed after RH challenge, indicating that rTgCRT pAb needs further modification to improve its activity in vivo. Taken together, these data confirmed that rTgCRT can trigger strong cellular and humoral immune responses against acute and chronic toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Zhenke Yang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Hangbin Ma
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Xiaowei Tian
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Jiani Li
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Zihang Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Longxin Yang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Mengchuang Feng
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Xuefang Mei
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Zhenchao Zhang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
| | - Xingrui Li
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China; MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China.
| | - Shuai Wang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Biology, Department of Pathogenic Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China.
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6
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Zhang X, Yuan H, Mahmmod YS, Yang Z, Zhao M, Song Y, Luo S, Zhang XX, Yuan ZG. Insight into the current Toxoplasma gondii DNA vaccine: a review article. Expert Rev Vaccines 2023; 22:66-89. [PMID: 36508550 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2023.2157818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Toxoplasma gondii (T.gondii) is a widespread protozoan with significant economic losses and public health importance. But so far, the protective effect of reported DNA-based vaccines fluctuates widely, and no study has demonstrated complete protection. AREAS COVERED This review provides an inclusive summary of T. gondii DNA vaccine antigens, adjuvants, and some other parameters. A total of 140 articles from 2000 to 2021 were collected from five databases. By contrasting the outcomes of acute and chronic challenges, we aimed to investigate and identify viable immunological strategies for optimum protection. Furthermore, we evaluated and discussed the impact of several parameters on challenge outcomes in the hopes of developing some recommendations to assist better future horizontal comparisons among research. EXPERT OPINION In the coming five years of research, the exploration of vaccine cocktails combining invasion antigens and metabolic antigens with genetic adjuvants or novel DNA delivery methods may offer us desirable protection against this multiple stage of life parasite. In addition to finding a better immune strategy, developing better in silico prediction methods, solving problems posed by variables in practical applications, and gaining a more profound knowledge of T.gondii-host molecular interaction is also crucial towards a successful vaccine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xirui Zhang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Hao Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yasser S Mahmmod
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Faculty of Health Sciences, Higher Colleges of Technology, 17155, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Zipeng Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Mengpo Zhao
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yining Song
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Shengjun Luo
- Institute of Animal Health, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Xiu-Xiang Zhang
- College of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Zi-Guo Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, 510642, Guangzhou, PR China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, PR China
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Pregestational Exposure to T. gondii Produces Maternal Antibodies That Recognize Fetal Brain Mimotopes and Induces Neurochemical and Behavioral Dysfunction in the Offspring. Cells 2022; 11:cells11233819. [PMID: 36497079 PMCID: PMC9741080 DOI: 10.3390/cells11233819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The activation of the maternal immune system by a prenatal infection is considered a risk factor for developing psychiatric disorders in the offspring. Toxoplasma gondii is one of the pathogenic infections associated with schizophrenia. Recent studies have shown an association between high levels of IgG anti-T. gondii from mothers and their neonates, with a higher risk of developing schizophrenia. The absence of the parasite and the levels of IgGs found in the early stages of life suggest a transplacental transfer of the anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies, which could bind fetal brain structures by molecular mimicry and induce alterations in neurodevelopment. This study aimed to determine the maternal pathogenic antibodies formation that led to behavioral impairment on the progeny of rats immunized with T. gondii. Female rats were immunized prior to gestation with T. gondii lysate (3 times/once per week). The anti-T. gondii IgG levels were determined in the serum of pregestational exposed females' previous mating. After this, locomotor activity, cognitive and social tests were performed. Cortical neurotransmitter levels for dopamine and glutamate were evaluated at 60 PND in the progeny of rats immunized before gestation (Pregestational group). The maternal pathogenic antibodies were evidenced by their binding to fetal brain mimotopes in the Pregestational group and the reactivity of the serum containing anti-T. gondii IgG was tested in control fetal brains (non-immunized). These results showed that the Pregestational group presented impairment in short and long-term memory, hypoactivity and alteration in social behavior, which was also associated with a decrease in cortical glutamate and dopamine levels. We also found the IgG antibodies bound to brain mimotopes in fetuses from females immunized with T. gondii, as well as observing a strong reactivity of the serum females immunized for fetal brain structures of fetuses from unimmunized mothers. Our results suggest that the exposure to T. gondii before gestation produced maternal pathogenic antibodies that can recognize fetal brain mimotopes and lead to neurochemical and behavioral alterations in the offspring.
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Nayeri T, Sarvi S, Fasihi-Ramandi M, Valadan R, Asgarian-Omran H, Ajami A, Khalilian A, Hosseininejad Z, Dodangeh S, Javidnia J, Daryani A. Enhancement of immune responses by vaccine potential of three antigens, including ROP18, MIC4, and SAG1 against acute toxoplasmosis in mice. Exp Parasitol 2022; 244:108427. [PMID: 36379272 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2022.108427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) causes considerable financial losses in the livestock industry and can present serious threats to pregnant women, as well as immunocompromised patients. Therefore, it is required to design and produce an efficient vaccine for controlling toxoplasmosis. The present study aimed to evaluate the protective immunity induced by RMS protein (ROP18, MIC4, and SAG1) with Freund adjuvant, calcium phosphate nanoparticles (CaPNs), and chitosan nanoparticles (CNs) in BALB/c mice. The RMS protein was expressed in Escherichia coli (E. coli) and purified using a HisTrap HP column. Thereafter, cellular and humoral immunity was assessed by injecting RMS protein on days 0, 21, and 35 into four groups [RMS, RMS-chitosan nanoparticles (RMS-CNs), RMS-calcium phosphate nanoparticles (RMS-CaPNs), and RMS-Freund]. Phosphate buffered saline (PBS), CNs, CaPNs, and Freund served as the four control groups. The results displayed that vaccination with RMS protein and adjuvants significantly elicited the levels of specific IgG antibodies and cytokines against toxoplasmosis. There were high levels of total IgG, IgG2a, and IFN-γ in vaccinated mice, compared to those in the control groups, especially in the RMS-Freund, indicating a Th-1 type response. The vaccinated and control mice were challenged intraperitoneally with 1 × 103 tachyzoites of the T. gondii RH strain four weeks after the last injection, and in RMS-Freund and RMS-CaPNs groups, the highest increase in survival time was observed (15 days). The RMS can significantly increase Th1 and Th2 responses; moreover, multi-epitope vaccines with adjuvants can be a promising strategy for the production of a vaccine against toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tooran Nayeri
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Shahabeddin Sarvi
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mahdi Fasihi-Ramandi
- Molecular Biology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Valadan
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hossein Asgarian-Omran
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Abolghasem Ajami
- Immunology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Molecular and Cell Biology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Alireza Khalilian
- Department of Biostatistics and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Zahra Hosseininejad
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Samira Dodangeh
- Medical Microbiology Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Javad Javidnia
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Department of Medical Mycology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Communicable Diseases Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
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9
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Goodswen SJ, Kennedy PJ, Ellis JT. Compilation of parasitic immunogenic proteins from 30 years of published research using machine learning and natural language processing. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10349. [PMID: 35725870 PMCID: PMC9208253 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-13790-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organisation reported in 2020 that six of the top 10 sources of death in low-income countries are parasites. Parasites are microorganisms in a relationship with a larger organism, the host. They acquire all benefits at the host’s expense. A disease develops if the parasitic infection disrupts normal functioning of the host. This disruption can range from mild to severe, including death. Humans and livestock continue to be challenged by established and emerging infectious disease threats. Vaccination is the most efficient tool for preventing current and future threats. Immunogenic proteins sourced from the disease-causing parasite are worthwhile vaccine components (subunits) due to reliable safety and manufacturing capacity. Publications with ‘subunit vaccine’ in their title have accumulated to thousands over the last three decades. However, there are possibly thousands more reporting immunogenicity results without mentioning ‘subunit’ and/or ‘vaccine’. The exact number is unclear given the non-standardised keywords in publications. The study aim is to identify parasite proteins that induce a protective response in an animal model as reported in the scientific literature within the last 30 years using machine learning and natural language processing. Source code to fulfil this aim and the vaccine candidate list obtained is made available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Goodswen
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, 15 Broadway, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Paul J Kennedy
- School of Computer Science, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology and the Australian Artificial Intelligence Institute, University of Technology Sydney, 15 Broadway, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - John T Ellis
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, 15 Broadway, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia.
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Khorshidvand Z, Khosravi A, Mahboobian MM, Larki-Harchegani A, Fallah M, Maghsood AH. Novel naltrexone hydrochloride nanovaccine based on chitosan nanoparticles promotes induction of Th1 and Th17 immune responses resulting in protection against Toxoplasma gondii tachyzoites in a mouse model. Int J Biol Macromol 2022; 208:962-972. [PMID: 35346684 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2022.03.146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
This study was aimed to encapsulate and construct the Toxoplasma gondii surface antigen (SAG1) and naltrexone hydrochloride (NLT-HCL) as an adjuvant within chitosan nanoparticles (CS-NPs) to develop efficacious vaccine against T. gondii. Seven groups of BALB/c mice were immunized with SAG1, chitosan (CS), NLT-SAG1, CS-SAG1, CS-SAG1-NLT, CS-NLT and PBS. The efficiency of each approach was detected in vivo mouse immunization. Moreover, the immuno-induction effect of SAG1 recombinant protein and CS-NPs-based NLT-HCL as an adjuvant in a vaccine delivery was evaluated. Experimentally, Th1/Th17 biased cellular and humoral immune responses were activated in the mice immunized with CS-SAG1-NLT nanoparticles that were accompanied by considerable increased production of IFN-γ, IL-17, IL-12, IL-4, IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio, IgG, IgG2a. This group of mice also showed significantly increased survival time post-challenging. The successful encapsulated SAG1 recombinant protein and NLT-HCL, as an adjuvant, within CS-NPs can induce immune responses against toxoplasmosis. We could incorporate NLT-HCL adjuvant into the CS-NPs based delivery systems, which makes CS-NPs attractive as a colloidal carrier system for NLT-HCL as secondary adjuvant. This new approach or the simultaneous use of CS and NLT demonstrated that the co-administration of CS-NPs and NLT-HCL induce production of IL-17 cytokine. This approach can be used for vaccination purposes, in which Th17 and Th1 cellular immune are considered the key of the successful immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Khorshidvand
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Afra Khosravi
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Ilam University of Medical Sciences, Ilam, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Mahboobian
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
| | - Amir Larki-Harchegani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Fallah
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
| | - Amir Hossein Maghsood
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
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11
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Yu Z, He K, Cao W, Aleem MT, Yan R, Xu L, Song X, Li X. Nano vaccines for T. gondii Ribosomal P2 Protein With Nanomaterials as a Promising DNA Vaccine Against Toxoplasmosis. Front Immunol 2022; 13:839489. [PMID: 35265084 PMCID: PMC8899214 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.839489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Caused by Toxoplasma gondii, toxoplasmosis has aroused great threats to public health around the world. So far, no effective vaccine or drug is commercially available, and the demands for a safe and effective therapeutic strategy have become more and more urgent. In the current study, we constructed a DNA vaccine encoding T. gondii ribosomal P2 protein (TgP2) and denoted as TgP2-pVAX1 plasmid. To improve the immunoprotection, nanomaterial poly-lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) and chitosan were used as the delivery vehicle to construct TgP2-pVAX1/PLGA and TgP2-pVAX1/CS nanospheres. Before vaccinations in BALB/c mice, TgP2-pVAX1 plasmids were transiently transfected into Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK) 293-T cells, and the expression of the eukaryotic plasmids was detected by laser confocal microscopy and Western blotting. Then the immunoprotection of naked DNA plasmids and their two nano-encapsulations were evaluated in the laboratory animal model. According to the investigations of antibody, cytokine, dendritic cell (DC) maturation, molecule expression, splenocyte proliferation, and T lymphocyte proportion, TgP2-pVAX1 plasmid delivered by two types of nanospheres could elicit a mixed Th1/Th2 immune response and Th1 immunity as the dominant. In addition, TgP2-pVAX1/PLGA and TgP2-pVAX1/CS nanospheres have great advantages in enhancing immunity against a lethal dose of T. gondii RH strain challenge. All these results suggested that TgP2-pVAX1 plasmids delivered by PLGA or chitosan nanomaterial could be promising vaccines in resisting toxoplasmosis and deserve further investigations and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- ZhengQing Yu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ke He
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - WanDi Cao
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Muhammad Tahir Aleem
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - RuoFeng Yan
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - LiXin Xu
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - XiaoKai Song
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - XiangRui Li
- MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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12
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Mining the Proteome of Toxoplasma Parasites Seeking Vaccine and Diagnostic Candidates. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12091098. [PMID: 35565525 PMCID: PMC9099775 DOI: 10.3390/ani12091098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The One Health concept to toxoplasmosis highlights that the health of humans is closely related to the health of animals and our common environment. Toxoplasmosis outcomes might be severe and fatal in patients with immunodeficiency, diabetes, and pregnant women and infants. Consequently, the development of effective vaccine and diagnostic strategies is urgent for the elimination of this disease. Proteomics analysis has allowed the identification of key proteins that can be utilized in the development of novel disease diagnostics and vaccines. This work presents relevant proteins found in the proteome of the life cycle-specific stages of Toxoplasma parasites. In fact, it brings together the main functionality key proteins from Toxoplasma parasites coming from proteomic approaches that are most likely to be useful in improving the disease management, and critically proposes innovative directions to finally develop promising vaccines and diagnostics tools. Abstract Toxoplasma gondii is a pathogenic protozoan parasite that infects the nucleated cells of warm-blooded hosts leading to an infectious zoonotic disease known as toxoplasmosis. The infection outcomes might be severe and fatal in patients with immunodeficiency, diabetes, and pregnant women and infants. The One Health approach to toxoplasmosis highlights that the health of humans is closely related to the health of animals and our common environment. The presence of drug resistance and side effects, the further improvement of sensitivity and specificity of serodiagnostic tools and the potentiality of vaccine candidates to induce the host immune response are considered as justifiable reasons for the identification of novel targets for the better management of toxoplasmosis. Thus, the identification of new critical proteins in the proteome of Toxoplasma parasites can also be helpful in designing and test more effective drugs, vaccines, and diagnostic tools. Accordingly, in this study we present important proteins found in the proteome of the life cycle-specific stages of Toxoplasma parasites that are potential diagnostic or vaccine candidates. The current study might help to understand the complexity of these parasites and provide a possible source of strategies and biomolecules that can be further evaluated in the pathobiology of Toxoplasma parasites and for diagnostics and vaccine trials against this disease.
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Liu F, Wu M, Wang J, Wen H, An R, Cai H, Yu L, Shen J, Chen L, Du J. Protective Effect Against Toxoplasmosis in BALB/c Mice Vaccinated With Recombinant Toxoplasma gondii MIF, CDPK3, and 14-3-3 Protein Cocktail Vaccine. Front Immunol 2021; 12:755792. [PMID: 35003067 PMCID: PMC8727341 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.755792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii can infect almost all endotherm organisms including humans and cause life-threatening toxoplasmosis in immunocompromised individuals, which leads to serious public health problems. Developing an excellent vaccine against this disease is impending. In present study, we formulated a cocktail protein vaccine including the TgMIF, TgCDPK3, and Tg14-3-3 proteins, which play critical roles in T. gondii infection. The recombinant protein vaccines were constructed and assessed by vaccination in BALB/c mice. We organized the mice in various protein combination groups of vaccines, and all mice were immunized with corresponding proteins at 0, 2, and 4 weeks. The specific protective effects of the vaccines on mice against T. gondii were analyzed by the mensuration of cytokines, serum antibodies, splenocyte proliferation assay, survival time, and parasite cyst burden of mice after the challenge. The study indicated that mice immunized with all three multicomponent proteins vaccine triggered a strong immune response with highest levels of IFN-γ production and IgG antibody compared with the other two protein combinations and controls. Moreover, there was an increase in IL-4 production and antigen-specific lymphocyte proliferation. The parasite cysts were significantly reduced (resulting in an 82.7% reduction), and survival time was longer in immunized mice with three multicomponent proteins compared with the other groups of mice. The enhanced humoral and cell-mediated immunity indicated that the protein cocktail vaccine containing three antigens provided effective protection for mice. These results indicated that recombinant TgMIF, TgCDPK3, and Tg14-3-3 multicomponent proteins were potential candidates for vaccine against toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Minmin Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hongyang Wen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ran An
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Haijian Cai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Li Yu
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jilong Shen
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Lijian Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Lijian Chen, ; Jian Du, ;
| | - Jian Du
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Research Center for Infectious Diseases, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Provincial Key Laboratory of Zoonoses of High Institutions of Anhui, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- The Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology of Anhui Province, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
- *Correspondence: Lijian Chen, ; Jian Du, ;
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14
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Wu L, Yang H, Wang J, Yu X, He Y, Chen S. A Novel Combined DNA Vaccine Encoding Toxoplasma gondii SAG1 and ROP18 Provokes Protective Immunity Against a Lethal Challenge in Mice. Acta Parasitol 2021; 66:1387-1395. [PMID: 34019277 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00415-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Antigens expressed by Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) during its life cycle trigger various immune responses in the host. Recently, toxoplasma vaccine research focused on T. gondii surface antigen 1 (SAG1) and Rhoptry Protein 18 (ROP18) to establish a safe and efficacious DNA vaccine. METHOD We constructed two eukaryotic expression plasmids: p3 × FLAG-Myc-CMV™-24-SAG1 and p3 × FLAG-Myc-CMV™-24-ROP18. BALB/c mice were randomly divided into six groups and immunized with these DNA vaccines either separately or in combination. The combination vaccine was administered at either the full dose or at half-strength dose. Control mice were immunized with empty vector or with phosphate-buffered saline. RESULTS The frequency of CD4+ cells in the spleen was consistent among all groups, whereas that of CD8+ T cells was the highest in the group immunized with the combination vaccine at half-strength dose (p < 0.05). Importantly, the mRNA expression levels of interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interferon-gamma (INF-γ) were closely correlated (r = 0.6, p < 0.0001) and both were upregulated in the group that was immunized with the combination vaccine at half-strength dose (p < 0.0001). The survival time of the mice subjected to a lethal dose of toxoplasma was significantly extended by prior immunization with DNA vaccines expressing either SAG1 or ROP18 or a combination of both (p < 0.05). The group that was immunized with the combination vaccine at half-strength dose demonstrated the best efficacy (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION These results showed that the combination DNA vaccine provided better immune protection than the single gene vaccines, and that optimizing the dosing of the vaccine can improve the immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lamei Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Anting Hospital, Jiading District, Shanghai, 201800, China
| | - Huijian Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai East Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200120, China
| | - Jianglin Wang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Jiading District, Shanghai, 201800, China
| | - Xiuwen Yu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Jiading District, Shanghai, 201800, China
| | - Yanhong He
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Anting Hospital, Jiading District, Shanghai, 201800, China.
| | - Shenxia Chen
- Department of Microbiology, Medical College of Jiangsu University, ZhenJiang, 212013, China.
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15
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Warner RC, Chapman RC, Davis BN, Davis PH. REVIEW OF DNA VACCINE APPROACHES AGAINST THE PARASITE TOXOPLASMA GONDII. J Parasitol 2021; 107:882-903. [PMID: 34852176 DOI: 10.1645/20-157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an apicomplexan parasite that affects both humans and livestock. Transmitted to humans through ingestion, it is the second-leading cause of foodborne illness-related death. Currently, there exists no approved vaccine for humans or most livestock against the parasite. DNA vaccines, a type of subunit vaccine which uses segments of the pathogen's DNA to generate immunity, have shown varying degrees of experimental efficacy against infection caused by the parasite. This review compiles DNA vaccine efforts against Toxoplasma gondii, segmenting the analysis by parasite antigen, as well as a review of concomitant adjuvant usage. No single antigenic group was consistently more effective within in vivo trials relative to others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalie C Warner
- Department of Biology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska, 68182
| | - Ryan C Chapman
- Department of Biology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska, 68182
| | - Brianna N Davis
- Department of Biology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska, 68182
| | - Paul H Davis
- Department of Biology, University of Nebraska at Omaha, Omaha, Nebraska, 68182
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16
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Nano DNA Vaccine Encoding Toxoplasma gondii Histone Deacetylase SIR2 Enhanced Protective Immunity in Mice. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13101582. [PMID: 34683874 PMCID: PMC8538992 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13101582] [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: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The pathogen of toxoplasmosis, Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), is a zoonotic protozoon that can affect the health of warm-blooded animals including humans. Up to now, an effective vaccine with completely protection is still inaccessible. In this study, the DNA vaccine encoding T. gondii histone deacetylase SIR2 (pVAX1-SIR2) was constructed. To enhance the efficacy, chitosan and poly (d, l-lactic-co-glycolic)-acid (PLGA) were employed to design nanospheres loaded with the DNA vaccine, denoted as pVAX1-SIR2/CS and pVAX1-SIR2/PLGA nanospheres. The pVAX1-SIR2 plasmids were transfected into HEK 293-T cells, and the expression was evaluated by a laser scanning confocal microscopy. Then, the immune protections of pVAX1-SIR2 plasmid, pVAX1-SIR2/CS nanospheres, and pVAX1-SIR2/PLGA nanospheres were evaluated in a laboratory animal model. The in vivo findings indicated that pVAX1-SIR2/CS and pVAX1-SIR2/PLGA nanospheres could generate a mixed Th1/Th2 immune response, as indicated by the regulated production of antibodies and cytokines, the enhanced maturation and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) expression of dendritic cells (DCs), the induced splenocyte proliferation, and the increased percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes. Furthermore, this enhanced immunity could obviously reduce the parasite burden in immunized animals through a lethal dose of T. gondii RH strain challenge. All these results propose that pVAX1-SIR2 plasmids entrapped in chitosan or PLGA nanospheres could be the promising vaccines against acute T. gondii infections and deserve further investigations.
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Borkens Y. [Toxoplasma gondii-Current drugs and future vaccines against an underestimated protozoan infection]. Internist (Berl) 2021; 62:1123-1132. [PMID: 34467425 DOI: 10.1007/s00108-021-01155-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a unicellular organism of the Apicomplexa that occurs worldwide and is therefore a close relative of the malaria pathogen Plasmodium. As T. gondii infests every warm-blooded vertebrate species as an intermediate host and has a very high prevalence worldwide, toxoplasmosis is one of the most important international foodborne diseases. Potential vaccines (human as well as veterinary) play a crucial role in controlling this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Borkens
- College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Science, James Cook University, 1 James Cook Drive, 4811, Townsville, Queensland, Australien.
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18
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Yu Z, Cao W, Gao X, Aleem MT, Liu J, Luo J, Yan R, Xu L, Song X, Li X. With Chitosan and PLGA as the Delivery Vehicle, Toxoplasma gondii Oxidoreductase-Based DNA Vaccines Decrease Parasite Burdens in Mice. Front Immunol 2021; 12:726615. [PMID: 34512659 PMCID: PMC8430031 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.726615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an intracellular parasitic protozoan that can cause serious public health problems. However, there is no effectively preventive or therapeutic strategy available for human and animals. In the present study, we developed a DNA vaccine encoding T. gondii oxidoreductase from short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase family (TgSDRO-pVAX1) and then entrapped in chitosan and poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) to improve the efficacy. When encapsulated in chitosan (TgSDRO-pVAX1/CS nanospheres) and PLGA (TgSDRO-pVAX1/PLGA nanospheres), adequate plasmids were loaded and released stably. Before animal immunizations, the DNA vaccine was transfected into HEK 293-T cells and examined by western blotting and laser confocal microscopy. Th1/Th2 cellular and humoral immunity was induced in immunized mice, accompanied by modulated secretion of antibodies and cytokines, promoted the maturation and MHC expression of dendritic cells, and enhanced the percentages of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes. Immunization with TgSDRO-pVAX1/CS and TgSDRO-pVAX1/PLGA nanospheres conferred significant immunity with lower parasite burden in the mice model of acute toxoplasmosis. Furthermore, our results also lent credit to the idea that TgSDRO-pVAX1/CS and TgSDRO-pVAX1/PLGA nanospheres are substitutes for each other. In general, the current study proposed that TgSDRO-pVAX1 with chitosan or PLGA as the delivery vehicle is a promising vaccine candidate against acute toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengqing Yu
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wandi Cao
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xuchen Gao
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Muhammad Tahir Aleem
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Junlong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Jianxun Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ruofeng Yan
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lixin Xu
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaokai Song
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiangrui Li
- Ministry of Education (MOE) Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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Zhu Y, Xu Y, Hong L, Zhou C, Chen J. Immunization With a DNA Vaccine Encoding the Toxoplasma gondii' s GRA39 Prolongs Survival and Reduce Brain Cyst Formation in a Murine Model. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:630682. [PMID: 33995293 PMCID: PMC8113873 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.630682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite, can cause infect almost all warm-blooded animals and humans. To evaluate the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of T. gondii GRA39 (TgGRA39) in mice by using DNA immunization, we constructed a recombinant eukaryotic plasmid pVAX-TgGRA39. The specific immune responses in immunized mice were analyzed by serum antibody and cytokine measurements, lymphocyte proliferation assays and flow cytometry of T lymphocyte subclasses. Also, protective efficacy against acute and chronic T. gondii infection was assessed by observing the survival time after challenge with the highly virulent T. gondii RH strain (Genotype I) and counting the number of cyst-forming in brain at 4 weeks post-infection with the cyst-forming PRU strain of T. gondii (Genotype II), respectively. Our results showed that DNA immunization with pVAX-GRA39 via intramuscular injection three times, at 2-week intervals could elicit humoral and cellular immune response, indicated by enhanced levels of IgG and IgG2a antibodies (a slightly elevated IgG2a to IgG1 ratio), and increased levels of cytokines IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-12, IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-22 and IL-23 and percentages of CD3+ CD4+ CD8- and CD3+ CD8+ CD4– T cells, in contrast to non-immunized mice. The significant increase in the expression levels of IL-6, TGF-β1, IL-1β, and the transcription factor factors RORγt, RORα, and STAT3 involved in the activation and pathway of Th17 and Tc17 cells, were also observed. However, no significant difference was detected in level of IL-4 and IL-10 (p > 0.05). These effective immune responses had mounted protective immunity against T. gondii infection, with a prolonged survival time (16.80 ± 3.50 days) and reduced cyst numbers (44.5%) in comparison to the control mice. Our data indicated that pVAX-TgGRA39 could induce effective humoral, and Th1-type, Th17, and Tc17 cellular immune responses, and may represent a promising vaccine candidate against both acute and chronic T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchao Zhu
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Yanan Xu
- The Ningbo Women and Children's Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Lu Hong
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China
| | - Chunxue Zhou
- Department of Pathogen Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jia Chen
- Department of Radiology, The Affiliated Hospital of Medical School of Ningbo University, Ningbo, China.,The Ningbo Women and Children's Hospital, Ningbo, China
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20
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Chu KB, Quan FS. Advances in Toxoplasma gondii Vaccines: Current Strategies and Challenges for Vaccine Development. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9050413. [PMID: 33919060 PMCID: PMC8143161 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9050413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis, caused by the apicomplexan parasite Toxoplasma gondii, is one of the most damaging parasite-borne zoonotic diseases of global importance. While approximately one-third of the entire world’s population is estimated to be infected with T. gondii, an effective vaccine for human use remains unavailable. Global efforts in pursuit of developing a T. gondii vaccine have been ongoing for decades, and novel innovative approaches have been introduced to aid this process. A wide array of vaccination strategies have been conducted to date including, but not limited to, nucleic acids, protein subunits, attenuated vaccines, and nanoparticles, which have been assessed in rodents with promising results. Yet, translation of these in vivo results into clinical studies remains a major obstacle that needs to be overcome. In this review, we will aim to summarize the current advances in T. gondii vaccine strategies and address the challenges hindering vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki-Back Chu
- Department of Biomedical Science, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea;
| | - Fu-Shi Quan
- Medical Research Center for Bioreaction to Reactive Oxygen Species and Biomedical Science Institute, School of Medicine, Graduate School, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
- Department of Medical Zoology, School of Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
- Correspondence:
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21
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Recombinant Toxoplasma gondii Ribosomal Protein P2 Modulates the Functions of Murine Macrophages In Vitro and Provides Immunity against Acute Toxoplasmosis In Vivo. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9040357. [PMID: 33917244 PMCID: PMC8068005 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9040357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Almost every warm-blooded animal can be an intermediate host for Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii); there is still no efficient vaccine and medicine available for T. gondii infections. Detected on the surface of free tachyzoites of T. gondii, T. gondii ribosomal protein P2 (TgRPP2) has been identified as a target for protection against toxoplasmosis. In the present study, TgRPP2 was firstly expressed in a prokaryotic expression system, and the purified recombinant TgRPP2 (rTgRPP2) was characterized by its modulation effects on murine macrophages. Then, the purified rTgRPP2 was injected into mice to evaluate the immune protection of rTgRPP2. The results indicated that rTgRPP2 could bind to murine Ana-1 cells and showed good reactogenicity. After incubation with purified rTgRPP2, the proliferation, apoptosis, phagocytosis, nitric oxide (NO) production, and cytokines secreted by murine macrophages were modulated. Furthermore, the in vivo experiments indicated that animals immunized with rTgRPP2 could generate a significantly high level of antibodies, cytokines, and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules, leading to a prolonged survival time. All of the results indicated that murine macrophages could be regulated by rTgRPP2 and are essential for the maintenance of tissue homeostasis. Immunization with rTgRPP2 triggered significant protection, with prolonged survival time in a mice model of acute toxoplasmosis. Our results lend credibility to the idea that rTgRPP2 could be a potential target for drug design and vaccine development.
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22
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Song PX, Yao SH, Yao Y, Zhou J, Li QF, Cao YH, He SY. Epitope Analysis and Efficacy Evaluation of Phosphatase 2C (PP2C) DNA Vaccine Against Toxoplasma gondii Infection. J Parasitol 2021; 106:513-521. [PMID: 32791522 DOI: 10.1645/18-210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infects almost all warm-blooded animals and negatively affects the health of a wide range of these animals, including humans. Protein phosphatase 2C (PP2C) is a T. gondii protein secreted by rhoptry organelles during host cell invasion. However, very little is known about whether this protein can induce protective immunity against T. gondii. In this study, bioinformatics analysis of PP2C revealed some useful information in the context of anti-toxoplasmosis treatments and vaccine research. In addition, the PP2C gene was amplified, and a eukaryotic expression vector (pEGFP-PP2C) was successfully constructed to express PP2C. Finally, the constructed pEGFP-PP2C was injected into mice to evaluate whether it could induce immunoprotection. Compared with the control groups, we found that immunizations with the pEGFP-PP2C plasmid could elicit specific IgG antibodies and cytokines against T. gondii infection. The survival of mice immunized with the pEGFP-PP2C plasmid was significantly prolonged compared with that of the control group mice. Based on the ability of pEGFP-PP2C to induce specific immune responses against T. gondii, we propose that PP2C merits consideration as a potential vaccine candidate against toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- P X Song
- Department of Medicine, Quzhou College of Technology, Quzhou, Zhejiang 324000, People's Republic of China.,Department of Parasitology, Shandong University School of Basic Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, People's Republic of China
| | - S H Yao
- Department of Medicine, Quzhou College of Technology, Quzhou, Zhejiang 324000, People's Republic of China
| | - Y Yao
- Department of Medical Test, Shandong Medical College, Linyi, Shandong 276000, People's Republic of China
| | - J Zhou
- Department of Orthopedics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, People's Republic of China
| | - Q F Li
- Department of Medicine, Quzhou College of Technology, Quzhou, Zhejiang 324000, People's Republic of China
| | - Y H Cao
- Department of Medicine, Quzhou College of Technology, Quzhou, Zhejiang 324000, People's Republic of China
| | - S Y He
- Department of Parasitology, Shandong University School of Basic Medicine, Jinan, Shandong 250012, People's Republic of China
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23
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Nasiru Wana M, Mohd Moklas MA, Watanabe M, Nordin N, Zasmy Unyah N, Alhassan Abdullahi S, Ahmad Issa Alapid A, Mustapha T, Basir R, Abd. Majid R. A Review on the Prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Humans and Animals Reported in Malaysia from 2008-2018. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E4809. [PMID: 32635389 PMCID: PMC7369958 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17134809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a disease caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii). Human toxoplasmosis seroprevalence in Malaysia has increased since it was first reported in 1973 as shown in previous reviews of 1991 and 2007. However, over a decade since the last review, comprehensive data on toxoplasmosis in Malaysia is lacking. This work aimed at reviewing articles on toxoplasmosis research in Malaysia in order to identify the research gaps, create public awareness, and efforts made so far and proffer management options on the disease. The present review examines the available published research articles from 2008 to 2018 related to toxoplasmosis research conducted in Malaysia. The articles reviewed were retrieved from nine credible databases such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Scopus, Springer, Wiley online library, Ovid, and Cochrane using the keywords; Malaysia, toxoplasmosis, Toxoplasma gondii, toxoplasma encephalitis, seroprevalence, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients, pregnant women, genotype strain, anti-toxoplasma antibodies, felines, and vaccine. The data highlighted seropositive cases from healthy community members in Pangkor Island (59.7%) and among migrant workers (57.4%) at alarming rates, as well as 42.5% in pregnant women. Data on animal seroprevalence were limited and there was no information on cats as the definitive host. Genetic characterization of Toxoplasma gondii from HIV patients; pregnant women, and domestic cats is lacking. This present review on toxoplasmosis is beneficial to researchers, health workers, animal health professionals, and policymakers. Therefore, attention is required to educate and enlighten health workers and the general public about the risk factors associated with T. gondii infection in Malaysia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Nasiru Wana
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.N.W.); (N.Z.U.); (S.A.A.); (A.A.I.A.); (T.M.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, 740272 Bauchi, Nigeria
| | - Mohamad Aris Mohd Moklas
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Malaika Watanabe
- Department of Companion Animal Medicine & Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Norshariza Nordin
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Ngah Zasmy Unyah
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.N.W.); (N.Z.U.); (S.A.A.); (A.A.I.A.); (T.M.)
| | - Sharif Alhassan Abdullahi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.N.W.); (N.Z.U.); (S.A.A.); (A.A.I.A.); (T.M.)
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Clinical Sciences, Bayero University Kano, 700241 Kano, Nigeria
| | - Ashraf Ahmad Issa Alapid
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.N.W.); (N.Z.U.); (S.A.A.); (A.A.I.A.); (T.M.)
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science-Alasaba, University of Gharyan, 010101 Gharyan, Libya
| | - Tijjani Mustapha
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia; (M.N.W.); (N.Z.U.); (S.A.A.); (A.A.I.A.); (T.M.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Yobe State University Damaturu, 620101 Damaturu, Nigeria
| | - Rusliza Basir
- Department of Human Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang 43400, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Roslaini Abd. Majid
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, National Defence University of Malaysia, Kem Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur 57000, Selangor, Malaysia
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24
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Wu M, An R, Chen Y, Chen T, Wen H, Yan Q, Shen J, Chen L, Du J. Vaccination with recombinant Toxoplasma gondii CDPK3 induces protective immunity against experimental toxoplasmosis. Acta Trop 2019; 199:105148. [PMID: 31425673 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, a ubiquitous and obligate intracellular pathogen, belonging to the phylum Apicomplexa, is capable of infecting a broad range of warm-blooded hosts including birds and mammals that is nearly worldwide. Preventive measures for toxoplasmosis are currently lacking and as such, development of novel vaccines is of urgent need. The plant-like calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) expressed by T. gondii, play important roles in cell invasion, gliding motility, egress and some other developmental processes, in which T. gondii CDPK3 (TgCDPK3) has been implicated as an important virulence factor. In this study, the immune protective function of recombinant TgCDPK3 (rTgCDPK3) against experimental toxoplasmosis in BALB/c were evaluated. We divided the mice into different dose groups of vaccines and all immunizations with purified rTgCDPK3 protein were injected by intramuscular at weeks 0, 2, and 4 in BALB/c mice. The rTgCDPK3 vaccine provided protection was correlated with the development of humoral and cellular immune responses demonstrated through the antigen-specific spleen cell proliferation, release of Th1 cytokines IFN-γ, and the production of the high titers of IgG antibody with a predominance of IgG2a over IgG1. Vaccination with rTgCDPK3 conferred partial protection against acute toxoplasmosis, as demonstrated by prolonged survival rate after lethal challenge. Additionally, the amount of brain tissues cysts in vaccinated mice led to 46.5% reduction compared with non-vaccinated ones. These data demonstrated that rTgCDPK3 inoculation prevents or attenuates the harmful influence of T. gondii infection, and it is a potential vaccine candidate against toxoplasmosis.
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25
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Gatkowska J, Dzitko K, Ferra BT, Holec-Gąsior L, Kawka M, Dziadek B. The Impact of the Antigenic Composition of Chimeric Proteins on Their Immunoprotective Activity against Chronic Toxoplasmosis in Mice. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:vaccines7040154. [PMID: 31635267 PMCID: PMC6963210 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7040154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis may pose a serious threat for individuals with weakened or undeveloped immune systems. However, to date, there is no specific immunoprophylaxis for humans. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the immunogenicity of three trivalent—SAG2-GRA1-ROP1L (SGR), SAG1L-MIC1-MAG1 (SMM), and GRA1-GRA2-GRA6 (GGG)—and two tetravalent—SAG2-GRA1-ROP1-GRA2 (SGRG) and SAG1-MIC1-MAG1-GRA2 (SMMG)—chimeric T. gondii proteins, as well as their protective potential against chronic toxoplasmosis in laboratory mice. All three trivalent recombinant proteins possessed immunogenic properties, as defined by specific humoral and cellular responses in vaccinated mice characterized by the synthesis of specific IgG (IgG1/IgG2a) antibodies in vivo and the release of Th1/Th2 cytokines by stimulated splenocytes in vitro. Immunization with all three recombinant proteins provided partial protection against toxoplasmosis, although the protective capacity strongly depended on the individual antigenic composition of each preparation. The antigens providing the highest (86%) and lowest (45%) protection, SGR and SMM, respectively, were supplemented with GRA2 antigen fragment, to form the tetravalent chimeric proteins SGRG and SMMG. Further study revealed that the tetravalent preparations exhibited high immunogenic potential; however, the addition of another antigen to the recombinant protein structure had distinct effects on the protection generated, compared to that of the trivalent counterparts, depending on the antigen tested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Gatkowska
- Department of Immunoparasitology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 90-237 Łódź, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Dzitko
- Department of Immunoparasitology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 90-237 Łódź, Poland.
| | - Bartłomiej Tomasz Ferra
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Lucyna Holec-Gąsior
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Microbiology, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland.
| | - Malwina Kawka
- Department of Immunoparasitology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 90-237 Łódź, Poland.
| | - Bożena Dziadek
- Department of Immunoparasitology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 90-237 Łódź, Poland.
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26
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Establishment of BV2 microglia polarization model and its effect on Toxoplasma gondii proliferation. Res Vet Sci 2019; 125:382-389. [PMID: 31404885 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2019.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2019] [Revised: 06/08/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular opportunistic, parasitic protozoan. Microglia have been classified into two main types: M1 (classically activated macrophages) and M2 (alternatively activated macrophages). BV2 cells were used in this study, together with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon (IFN)-γ or interleukin (IL)-4, which were used to induce resting microglia. Expression levels of M1/M2 markers were determined at both mRNA and protein levels, using PCR, western blot, and flow cytometry. Furthermore, cells were infected with T. gondii PLK strain, and the dynamic changes in M1/M2 marker expression levels were determined. An in vitro polarization model was successfully established. Expression of Nos2 and M1-associated markers was significantly upregulated at 12 h post-infection in BV2 cells. Further, the JAK/STAT1 and NF-κB signaling pathways were also activated following T. gondii infection. This demonstrated that T. gondii infection induces M1-type microglial polarization in vitro. The present study demonstrated that T. gondii infection affects microglial activation in vitro and elucidated the effects of activated microglia on T. gondii proliferation. This data may serve as a useful reference for more detailed elucidation of interactions between T. gondii and the innate immune system.
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27
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Alizadeh P, Ahmadpour E, Daryani A, Kazemi T, Spotin A, Mahami-Oskouei M, Flynn RJ, Azadi Y, Rajabi S, Sandoghchian S. IL-17 and IL-22 elicited by a DNA vaccine encoding ROP13 associated with protection against Toxoplasma gondii in BALB/c mice. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:10782-10788. [PMID: 30565688 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.27747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii, an intracellular parasitic protozoan, is capable of infecting man and all warm-blooded animals. Cell-mediated immunity is vital in mounting protective responses against T. gondii infection. Recent studies have shown that T-helper (Th) 17 responses may play a key role in parasite control. In this current study, we constructed a DNA vaccine encoding T. gondii ROP13 in a pcDNA vector. Groups of BALB/c mice were immunized intramuscularly with pcROP13 or controls and challenged with the RH strain of T. gondii. The results showed that immunization with pcROP13 could elicit an antibody response against T. gondii. The expression of the canonical Th17 cytokines, interleukin (IL)-17 and IL-22, were significantly increased after immunization with pcROP13 compared with control groups ( p < 0.05). Furthermore, vaccination resulted in a significant decrease in parasite load ( p < 0.05). The induction of Th17 related cytokines, using a ROP13 DNA vaccine, against T. gondii should be considered as a potential vaccine approach for the control of toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paria Alizadeh
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ehsan Ahmadpour
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Tohid Kazemi
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Adel Spotin
- Infectious and Tropical Disease Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Mahami-Oskouei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Robin J Flynn
- Department of Infection Biology, Institute of Infection and Global Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Yaghob Azadi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saba Rajabi
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Siamak Sandoghchian
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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28
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Liu K, Wen H, Cai H, Wu M, An R, Chu D, Yu L, Shen J, Chen L, Du J. Protective Effect Against Toxoplasmosis in BALB/c Mice Vaccinated With Toxoplasma gondii Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:813. [PMID: 31105655 PMCID: PMC6491892 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.00813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite responsible for toxoplasmosis, which can cause severe disease in the fetus and immunocompromised individuals. Developing an effective vaccine is crucial to control this disease. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has gained substantial attention as a pivotal upstream cytokine to mediate innate and adaptive immune responses. Homologs of MIF have been discovered in many parasitic species, and one homolog of MIF has been isolated from the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. In this study, the recombinant Toxoplasma gondii MIF (rTgMIF) as a protein vaccine was expressed and evaluated by intramuscular injection in BALB/c mice. We divided the mice into different dose groups of vaccines, and all immunizations with purified rTgMIF protein were performed at 0, 2, and 4 weeks. The protective efficacy of vaccination was analyzed by antibody assays, cytokine measurements and lymphoproliferative assays, respectively. The results obtained indicated that the rTgMIF vaccine elicited strong humoral and cellular immune responses with high levels of IgG antibody and IFN-γ production compared to those of the controls, in addition to slight higher levels of IL-4 production. After vaccination, a stronger lymphoproliferative response was also noted. Additionally, the survival time of mice immunized with rTgMIF was longer than that of the mice in control groups after challenge infection with virulent T. gondii RH tachyzoites. Moreover, the number of brain tissue cysts in vaccinated mice was reduced by 62.26% compared with the control group. These findings demonstrated that recombinant TgMIF protein is a potential candidate for vaccine development against toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kang Liu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hongyang Wen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Haijian Cai
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Minmin Wu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ran An
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Deyong Chu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Li Yu
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jilong Shen
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Lijian Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Jian Du
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Microbiology and Parasitology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
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29
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Zheng B, Ding J, Lou D, Tong Q, Zhuo X, Ding H, Kong Q, Lu S. The Virulence-Related MYR1 Protein of Toxoplasma gondii as a Novel DNA Vaccine Against Toxoplasmosis in Mice. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:734. [PMID: 31024505 PMCID: PMC6465564 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.00734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii causes serious public health problems, but there is no effective treatment strategy against it currently. DNA vaccines have shown promising findings in this regard. MYR1 is a new virulence factor identified in T. gondii that may have potential as a DNA vaccine candidate. We constructed a recombinant eukaryotic plasmid, pVAX1-MYR1, as a DNA vaccine, injected it intramuscularly into BALB/c mice, and evaluated its immunoprotective effects. pVAX1-MYR1 immunization induced a sequential Th1 and Th2 T-cell response, as indicated by high levels of Th1 and mixed Th1/Th2 cytokines at 2 and 6 weeks after immunization, respectively. These findings were corroborated by the antibody assays too. In addition, increased levels of antigen-specific lymphocyte proliferation, CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, cytotoxic T lymphocyte activity and cytokine (IFN-γ, IL-12, and IL-10) production were also observed in the immunized mice. These findings showed that pVAX1-MYR1 stimulated humoral and cellular immune responses in the immunized mice. The increased production of IFN-γ and IL-12 was correlated with increased expression of the T-bet and p65 genes of the NF-κB pathway. However, no significant increase was observed in the level of IL-4. The survival of mice immunized with pVAX1-MYR1 was also significantly prolonged compared with the control group mice. Based on all the above findings, the current study proposes that pVAX1-MYR1 can induce a T. gondii-specific immune response and should therefore be considered as a promising vaccine candidate against toxoplasmosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to evaluate the immunoprotective value of an MYR1-based DNA vaccine against T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Zheng
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jianzu Ding
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Di Lou
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qunbo Tong
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xunhui Zhuo
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Haojie Ding
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Qingming Kong
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Shaohong Lu
- Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Zhejiang Provincial Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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Guo J, Zhou A, Sun X, Sha W, Ai K, Pan G, Zhou C, Zhou H, Cong H, He S. Immunogenicity of a Virus-Like-Particle Vaccine Containing Multiple Antigenic Epitopes of Toxoplasma gondii Against Acute and Chronic Toxoplasmosis in Mice. Front Immunol 2019; 10:592. [PMID: 30984177 PMCID: PMC6449433 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
There is no effective protective vaccine against human toxoplasmosis, which is a potential threat to nearly a third of the world population. Vaccines based on virus-like particles (VLPs) have been highly successful in humans for many years, but have rarely been applied against Toxoplasma gondii infection. In this study, we inserted a B cell epitope (SAG182−102 or SAG1301−320), a CD8+ cell epitope (HF10 or ROP7), and a CD4+ cell epitope (AS15) of T. gondii into a truncated HBcΔ(amino acids1–149) particle to construct four chimeric VLP vaccine formulations, i.e., HBcΔH82, HBcΔH301, HBcΔ R82, and HBcΔ R301. When these chimeric HBc particles were expressed in Escherichia coli, they showed icosahedral morphology similar to that of the original VLPs and were evaluated as vaccine formulations against acute and chronic toxoplasmosis in a mouse model (BALB/c mice (H-2d). All these chimeric HBc VLPs induced strong humoral and cellular immune responses with high IgG antibody titers and interferon(IFN)-γ production. Only the mice immunized with HBcΔH82 showed prolonged survival time (15.6 ± 3.8 vs. 5.6 ± 0.8 days) against acute infection with RH tachyzoites and decrease in brain parasite load (1,454 ± 239 vs. 2,091 ± 263) against chronic infection with Prugniuad cysts, as compared to the findings for the control group. These findings suggest that HBc VLPs would act as an effective carrier for delivering effective multiple antigenic epitopes and would be beneficial for developing a safe and long-acting vaccine against toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Guo
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Aihua Zhou
- Department of Pediatrics, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, School of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Xiahui Sun
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wenchao Sha
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Kang Ai
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Ge Pan
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Chunxue Zhou
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Huaiyu Zhou
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Hua Cong
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shenyi He
- Department of Parasitology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong University, Jinan, China
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Faridnia R, Daryani A, Sarvi S, Sharif M, Kalani H. Vaccination against Toxoplasma gondii using rhoptry antigens: a systematic review. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2018; 59:32-40. [PMID: 30290885 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2018.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasitic protozoan that infects a wide variety of vertebrates as intermediate hosts. The aim of the current systematic review study is to clarify the latest status of studies in the literature regarding rhoptry-associated recombinant proteins or rhoptry-associated recombinant DNAs as potential vaccines against toxoplasmosis. The search was performed systematically in 8 databases, four in English and four in Persian, up to February 2017. Overall, ROP2 was the most commonly used ROPs in DNA vaccines (27.27%) and protein vaccines (6.81%). Furthermore, regarding the type of adjuvants, route and dose of vaccination, animal models, challenge methods, and measurement of immune responses has been discussed in the text. It is hoped that this article help researchers to conduct more effective studies in the field of immunization against T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roghiyeh Faridnia
- Student Research Committee, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Ahmad Daryani
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
| | - Shahabeddin Sarvi
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Mehdi Sharif
- Toxoplasmosis Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hamed Kalani
- Infectious Diseases Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
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Döşkaya M, Liang L, Jain A, Can H, Gülçe İz S, Felgner PL, Değirmenci Döşkaya A, Davies DH, Gürüz AY. Discovery of new Toxoplasma gondii antigenic proteins using a high throughput protein microarray approach screening sera of murine model infected orally with oocysts and tissue cysts. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:393. [PMID: 29973272 PMCID: PMC6033234 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2934-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite that causes congenital toxoplasmosis, as well as other serious clinical presentations in immune compromised humans. The parasite has also been recently linked to behavioral diseases in humans and other mammalian hosts. New antigens are being evaluated to develop a diagnostic kit for the diagnosis of acute infection or a protective vaccine. METHODS In this study, we have focused on the discovery of new antigenic proteins from T. gondii genomic data using a high throughput protein microarray screening. To date, microarrays containing > 2870 candidate exon products of T. gondii have been probed with sera collected from patients with toxoplasmosis. Here, the protein microarrays are probed with well-characterized serum samples from animal models administered orally with oocysts or tissue cysts. The aim was to discover the antigens that overlap in the mouse profile with human antibody profiles published previously. For this, a reactive antigen list of 240 antigens recognized by murine IgG and IgM was identified using pooled sera from orally infected mice. RESULTS Analyses of screening data have identified plenty of antigens and showed strong immunogenicity in both mouse and human antibody profiles. Among them, ROP1, GRA2, GRA3, GRA4, GRA5, GRA6, GRA7, GRA8, GRA14, MIC1, MIC2 and MAG1 have shown strong immunogenicity and used as antigen in development of vaccines or serological diagnostic assays in previous studies. CONCLUSION In addition to the above findings, ROP6, MIC12, SRS29A and SRS13 have shown strong immunogenicity but have not been tested in development of a diagnostic assay or a vaccine model yet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mert Döşkaya
- Department of Parasitology, Vaccine Research and Development Laboratory, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Bornova/İzmir, Turkey
| | - Li Liang
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California USA
| | - Aarti Jain
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California USA
| | - Hüseyin Can
- Department of Molecular Biology, Ege University Faculty of Sciences, Bornova/İzmir, Turkey
| | - Sultan Gülçe İz
- Department of Bioengineering, Ege University Faculty of Engineering, Bornova/İzmir, Turkey
| | - Philip Louis Felgner
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California USA
| | - Aysu Değirmenci Döşkaya
- Department of Parasitology, Vaccine Research and Development Laboratory, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Bornova/İzmir, Turkey
| | - David Huw Davies
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California USA
| | - Adnan Yüksel Gürüz
- Department of Parasitology, Vaccine Research and Development Laboratory, Ege University Faculty of Medicine, Bornova/İzmir, Turkey
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Zhang NZ, Gao Q, Wang M, Elsheikha HM, Wang B, Wang JL, Zhang FK, Hu LY, Zhu XQ. Immunization With a DNA Vaccine Cocktail Encoding TgPF, TgROP16, TgROP18, TgMIC6, and TgCDPK3 Genes Protects Mice Against Chronic Toxoplasmosis. Front Immunol 2018; 9:1505. [PMID: 30008721 PMCID: PMC6033959 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.01505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease caused by the intracellular protozoan Toxoplasma gondii; and a major source of infection in humans is via ingestion of T. gondii tissue cysts. Ultimately, the goal of anti-toxoplasmosis vaccines is to elicit a sustainable immune response, capable of preventing formation of the parasite tissue cysts-or, at least, to restrain its growth. In this study, we formulated a cocktail DNA vaccine and investigated its immunologic efficacy as a protection against the establishment of T. gondii cysts in the mouse brain. This multicomponent DNA vaccine, encoded the TgPF, TgROP16, TgROP18, TgMIC6, and TgCDPK3 genes, which play key roles in the pathogenesis of T. gondii infection. Results showed that mice immunized via intramuscular injection three times, at 2-week intervals with this multicomponent DNA vaccine, mounted a strong humoral and cellular immune response, indicated by significantly high levels of total IgG, CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, and antigen-specific lymphocyte proliferation when compared with non-immunized mice. Immunization also induced a mixed Th1/Th2 response, with a slightly elevated IgG2a to IgG1 ratio. The increased production of proinflammatory cytokines gamma-interferon, interleukin-2, and interleukin-12 (p < 0.0001) correlated with increased expression of p65/RelA and T-bet genes of the NF-κB pathway. However, no significant difference was detected in level of interleukin-4 (p > 0.05). The number of brain cysts in immunized mice was significantly less than those in non-immunized mice (643.33 ± 89.63 versus 3,244.33 ± 96.42, p < 0.0001), resulting in an 80.22% reduction in the parasite cyst burden. These findings indicate that a multicomponent DNA vaccine, encoding TgPF, TgROP16, TgROP18, TgMIC6, and TgCDPK3 genes, shows promise as an immunization strategy against chronic toxoplasmosis in mice, and calls for a further evaluation in food-producing animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nian-Zhang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Qi Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Hunan Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau, Changsha, China
| | - Meng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hany M Elsheikha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, United Kingdom
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Mathematics, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Jin-Lei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Fu-Kai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Ling-Ying Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, China.,Jiangsu Co-Innovation Center for the Prevention and Control of Important Animal Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Yangzhou University College of Veterinary Medicine, Yangzhou, China
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34
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Guo J, Sun X, Yin H, Wang T, Li Y, Zhou C, Zhou H, He S, Cong H. Chitosan Microsphere Used as an Effective System to Deliver a Linked Antigenic Peptides Vaccine Protect Mice Against Acute and Chronic Toxoplasmosis. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2018; 8:163. [PMID: 29876322 PMCID: PMC5974094 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2018.00163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple antigenic peptide (MAP) vaccines have advantages over traditional Toxoplasma gondii vaccines, but are more susceptible to enzymatic degradation. As an effective delivery system, chitosan microspheres (CS) can overcome this obstacle and act as a natural adjuvant to promote T helper 1 (Th1) cellular immune responses. In this study, we use chitosan microparticles to deliver multiple antigenic epitopes from GRA10 (G10E), containing three dominant epitopes. When G10E was entrapped within chitosan microparticles (G10E-CS), adequate peptides for eliciting immune response were loaded in the microsphere core and this complex released G10E peptides stably. The efficiency of G10E-CS was detected both in vitro, via cell culture, and through in vivo mouse immunization. In vitro, G10E-CS activated Dendritic Cells (DC) and T lymphocytes by upregulating the secretion of costimulatory molecules (CD40 and CD86). In vivo, Th1 biased cellular and humoral immune responses were activated in mice vaccinated with G10E-CS, accompanied by significantly increased production of IFN-γ, IL-2, and IgG, and decreases in IL-4, IL-10, and IgG1. Immunization with G10E-CS conferred significant protection with prolonged survival in mice model of acute toxoplasmosis and statistically significant decreases in cyst burden in murine chronic toxoplasmosis. The results from this study indicate that chitosan microspheres used as an effective system to deliver a linked antigenic peptides is a promising strategy for the development of efficient vaccine against T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Guo
- Department of Human Parasitology, Shandong University, School of Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Xiahui Sun
- Department of Human Parasitology, Shandong University, School of Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Huiquan Yin
- Department of Human Parasitology, Shandong University, School of Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Ting Wang
- Department of Human Parasitology, Shandong University, School of Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Human Parasitology, Shandong University, School of Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Chunxue Zhou
- Department of Human Parasitology, Shandong University, School of Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Huaiyu Zhou
- Department of Human Parasitology, Shandong University, School of Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Shenyi He
- Department of Human Parasitology, Shandong University, School of Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Hua Cong
- Department of Human Parasitology, Shandong University, School of Medicine, Jinan, China
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35
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Silva-Gutierrez N, Bahsas Zaky R, Bouchard M, Teran Angel G, Amoroso A, Peterson DL, Salmen S. T-cell profiles elicited by Toxoplasma gondii in acutely/chronically infected humans. Parasite Immunol 2018; 40:e12532. [PMID: 29633283 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite that can infect almost all warm-blooded species and induce a chronic infection in human hosts. The aim of this work was to investigate Th1, Th2, Th17 and Treg polarization, induced by four important T. gondii antigens (SAG1, ROP1, GRA8 and MAG1) in acutely and chronically infected patients. For this purpose, SAG1, ROP1, GRA8 and MAG1 were expressed as recombinant proteins, purified, and used to evaluate the proinflammatory and regulatory immune response profiles in seropositive and seronegative individuals. Our results show that SAG1 and ROP1 elicited a proinflammatory profile (INF-γ, IL-12 and IL-17) in individuals in the acute phase, whereas MAG1 and GRA8 induced a regulatory pattern (Treg and TGF-β) in chronically infected patients. These results reveal fundamental differences in T-cell polarization induced by T. gondii antigens, which could have important implications in the immunopathogenesis of the disease and in future proposals of therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Silva-Gutierrez
- Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Inmunologia Clinica, Universidad de Los Andes, Mérida, Venezuela
| | - R Bahsas Zaky
- Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Inmunologia Clinica, Universidad de Los Andes, Mérida, Venezuela
| | - M Bouchard
- Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Inmunologia Clinica, Universidad de Los Andes, Mérida, Venezuela
| | - G Teran Angel
- Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Inmunologia Clinica, Universidad de Los Andes, Mérida, Venezuela
| | - A Amoroso
- Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Inmunologia Clinica, Universidad de Los Andes, Mérida, Venezuela
| | - D L Peterson
- Department of Biochemistry, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - S Salmen
- Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Inmunologia Clinica, Universidad de Los Andes, Mérida, Venezuela
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36
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Ching XT, Fong MY, Lau YL. Evaluation of the Protective Effect of Deoxyribonucleic Acid Vaccines Encoding Granule Antigen 2 and 5 Against Acute Toxoplasmosis in BALB/c Mice. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2017; 96:1441-1447. [PMID: 28719288 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.16-0548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
AbstractToxoplasma gondii infects a broad range of warm-blooded hosts, including humans. Important clinical manifestations include encephalitis in immunocompromised patients as well as miscarriage and fetal damage during early pregnancy. Toxoplasma gondii dense granule antigen 2 and 5 (GRA2 and GRA5) are essential for parasitophorous vacuole development of the parasite. To evaluate the potential of GRA2 and GRA5 as recombinant DNA vaccine candidates, these antigens were cloned into eukaryotic expression vector (pcDNA 3.1C) and evaluated in vaccination experiments. Recombinant DNA vaccines constructed with genes encoding GRAs were validated in Chinese hamster ovary cells before evaluation using lethal challenge of the virulent T. gondii RH strain in BALB/c mice. The DNA vaccines of pcGRA2 and pcGRA5 elicited cellular-mediated immune response with significantly higher levels of interferon-gamma, interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4, and IL-10 (P < 0.05) compared with controls. A mixed T-helper cell 1 (Th1)/Th2 response was associated with slightly prolonged survival. These findings provide evidence that DNA vaccination with GRA2 and GRA5 is associated with Th1-like cell-mediated immune responses. It will be worthwhile to construct recombinant multiantigen combining full-length GRA2 or/and GRA5 with various antigenic proteins such as the surface antigens and rhoptry antigens to improve vaccination efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Teng Ching
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mun Yik Fong
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Yee Ling Lau
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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37
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Enhancing immune responses to a DNA vaccine encoding Toxoplasma gondii GRA14 by calcium phosphate nanoparticles as an adjuvant. Immunol Lett 2017; 185:40-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2017.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Revised: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 03/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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38
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Czarnewski P, Araújo ECB, Oliveira MC, Mineo TWP, Silva NM. Recombinant TgHSP70 Immunization Protects against Toxoplasma gondii Brain Cyst Formation by Enhancing Inducible Nitric Oxide Expression. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:142. [PMID: 28487847 PMCID: PMC5403831 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is known to cause congenital infection in humans and animals and severe disease in immunocompromised individuals; consequently development of vaccines against the parasite is highly necessary. Under stress conditions, T. gondii expresses the highly immunogenic heat shock protein 70 (TgHSP70). Here, we assessed the protective efficacy of rTgHSP70 immunization combined with Alum in oral ME-49 T. gondii infection and the mechanisms involved on it. It was observed that immunized mice with rTgHSP70 or rTgHSP70 adsorbed in Alum presented a significantly reduced number of cysts in the brain that was associated with increased iNOS+ cell numbers in the organ, irrespective the use of the adjuvant. Indeed, ex vivo experiments showed that peritoneal macrophages pre-stimulated with rTgHSP70 presented increased NO production and enhanced parasite killing, and the protein was able to directly stimulate B cells toward antibody producing profile. In addition, rTgHSP70 immunization leads to high specific antibody titters systemically and a mixed IgG1/IgG2a response, with predominance of IgG1 production. Nonetheless, it was observed that the pretreatment of the parasite with rTgHSP70 immune sera was not able to control T. gondii internalization and replication by NIH fibroblast neither peritoneal murine macrophages, nor anti-rTgHSP70 antibodies were able to kill T. gondii by complement-mediated lysis, suggesting that these mechanisms are not crucial to resistance. Interestingly, when in combination with Alum, rTgHSP70 immunization was able to reduce inflammation in the brain of infected mice and in parallel anti-rTgHSP70 immune complexes in the serum. In conclusion, immunization with rTgHSP70 induces massive amounts of iNOS expression and reduced brain parasitism, suggesting that iNOS expression and consequently NO production in the brain is a protective mechanism induced by TgHSP70 immunization, therefore rTgHSP70 can be a good candidate for vaccine development against toxoplasmosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Czarnewski
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Ester C B Araújo
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Mário C Oliveira
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Tiago W P Mineo
- Laboratory of Immunoparasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
| | - Neide M Silva
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of UberlândiaUberlândia, Brazil
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39
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Jones EJ, Korcsmaros T, Carding SR. Mechanisms and pathways of Toxoplasma gondii transepithelial migration. Tissue Barriers 2016; 5:e1273865. [PMID: 28452683 PMCID: PMC5362999 DOI: 10.1080/21688370.2016.1273865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous parasite and a prevalent food-borne parasitic pathogen. Infection of the host occurs principally through oral consumption of contaminated food and water with the gastrointestinal tract being the primary route for entry into the host. To promote infection, T. gondii has evolved highly specialized strategies for rapid traversal of the single cell thick intestinal epithelial barrier. Parasite transmigration via the paracellular pathway between adjacent cells enables parasite dissemination to secondary sites of infection where chronic infection of muscle and brain tissue is established. It has recently been proposed that parasite interactions with the integral tight junction (TJ) protein occludin influences parasite transmigration of the intestinal epithelium. We review here the emerging mechanisms of T. gondii transmigration of the small intestinal epithelium alongside the developing role played in modulating the wider TJ-associated proteome to rewire host cell regulatory systems for the benefit of the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Jones
- a Gut Health and Food Safety Institute Strategic Programme , Institute of Food Research, Norwich Research Park , Norwich , UK.,b Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park , Norwich , UK
| | - Tamas Korcsmaros
- a Gut Health and Food Safety Institute Strategic Programme , Institute of Food Research, Norwich Research Park , Norwich , UK.,b Earlham Institute, Norwich Research Park , Norwich , UK
| | - Simon R Carding
- a Gut Health and Food Safety Institute Strategic Programme , Institute of Food Research, Norwich Research Park , Norwich , UK.,c Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich Research Park , Norwich , UK
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