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Thiangtrongjit T, Adisakwattana P, Limpanont Y, Nguitragool W, Chusongsang P, Chusongsang Y, Kiangkoo N, Reamtong O. Exploring urinary proteomics and peptidomics biomarkers for the diagnosis of mekong schistosomiasis. Heliyon 2024; 10:e35439. [PMID: 39170131 PMCID: PMC11336616 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e35439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 07/26/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma mekongi is one of the causative agents of human blood fluke infection in the lower Mekong River. Traditionally, the detection of egg morphology in stool samples has served as the prevailing method for diagnosing Schistosoma infection. Nonetheless, this approach exhibits low sensitivity, particularly in early infection detection. Urine has been extensively studied as a noninvasive clinical sample for diagnosing infectious diseases. Despite this, urine proteomic analysis of S. mekongi infection has been less investigated. This study aimed to characterize proteins and peptides present in mouse urine infected with S. mekongi both before infection and at intervals of 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks post-infection using mass spectrometry-based proteomics. Proteomics analysis revealed 13 up- and only one down-regulated mouse protein consistently found across all time points. Additionally, two S. mekongi uncharacterized proteins were detected throughout the infection period. Using a peptidomics approach, we consistently identified two peptide sequences corresponding to S. mekongi collagen alpha-1(V) in mouse urine across all time points. These findings highlight the potential of these unique proteins, particularly the S. mekongi uncharacterized proteins and collagen alpha-1(V), as potential biomarkers for early detection of S. mekongi infection. Such insights could significantly advance diagnostic strategies for human Mekong schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tipparat Thiangtrongjit
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Poom Adisakwattana
- Department of Helminthology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yanin Limpanont
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wang Nguitragool
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Phiraphol Chusongsang
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Yupa Chusongsang
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nuttapohn Kiangkoo
- Department of Social and Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Onrapak Reamtong
- Department of Molecular Tropical Medicine and Genetics, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Jiang H, Zhou J, Cai X, Hu B, Wang H, Fu C, Xu N, Gong Y, Tong Y, Yin J, Huang J, Wang J, Jiang Q, Liang S, Zhou Y. Impact of historical disease conditions on mortality and life expectancy in patients with advanced schistosomiasis in Hunan Province, China. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2024:trae052. [PMID: 39143751 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trae052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/12/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the prognosis of advanced schistosomiasis patients has significantly improved, the impact of historical disease conditions on life expectancy remains unclear. METHODS Utilizing data from an advanced schistosomiasis cohort (n=10 362) from 2008 to 2019 in Hunan, China, we examined five historical disease conditions: times of praziquantel treatment, the history of ascites, splenectomy, upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) and hepatic coma. Using latent class analysis, participants were categorized into three groups: Group 1 (characterized by no risk conditions), Group 2 (had ≤3 times of praziquantel treatment without UGIB history) and Group 3 (had UGIB history). Life expectancies were calculated using the life table method. RESULTS At the age of 45 y, patients with ≤3 times of praziquantel treatment, a history of ascites, UGIB, hepatic coma and those without splenectomy exhibited lower life expectancies. Groups 1, 2 and 3 had estimated life expectancies of 32.32, 26.76 and 25.38 y, respectively. Compared with Group 1, women in Group 3 experienced greater life expectancy loss than those in Group 2, with the difference narrowing with age. CONCLUSIONS Based on the consideration of overall physical conditions, tailored treatment and healthcare, along with public health interventions targeting diverse populations, could mitigate the prevalence of poor disease conditions and premature deaths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Honglin Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology, Fudan University School of Public Health, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Fudan University Center for Tropical Disease Research, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Prevention and Control, Hunan Institute for Schistosomiasis Control, Jin'e Middle Road, Yueyang, Hunan 414021, China
| | - Xinting Cai
- Department of Prevention and Control, Hunan Institute for Schistosomiasis Control, Jin'e Middle Road, Yueyang, Hunan 414021, China
| | - Benjiao Hu
- Department of Prevention and Control, Hunan Institute for Schistosomiasis Control, Jin'e Middle Road, Yueyang, Hunan 414021, China
| | - Huilan Wang
- Department of Prevention and Control, Hunan Institute for Schistosomiasis Control, Jin'e Middle Road, Yueyang, Hunan 414021, China
| | - Chen Fu
- Department of Prevention and Control, Hunan Institute for Schistosomiasis Control, Jin'e Middle Road, Yueyang, Hunan 414021, China
| | - Ning Xu
- Department of Epidemiology, Fudan University School of Public Health, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Fudan University Center for Tropical Disease Research, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yanfeng Gong
- Department of Epidemiology, Fudan University School of Public Health, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Fudan University Center for Tropical Disease Research, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yixin Tong
- Department of Epidemiology, Fudan University School of Public Health, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Fudan University Center for Tropical Disease Research, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jiangfan Yin
- Department of Epidemiology, Fudan University School of Public Health, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Fudan University Center for Tropical Disease Research, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Junhui Huang
- Department of Epidemiology, Fudan University School of Public Health, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Fudan University Center for Tropical Disease Research, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Jiamin Wang
- Department of Epidemiology, Fudan University School of Public Health, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Fudan University Center for Tropical Disease Research, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Qingwu Jiang
- Department of Epidemiology, Fudan University School of Public Health, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Fudan University Center for Tropical Disease Research, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Songyue Liang
- Department of Prevention and Control, Hunan Institute for Schistosomiasis Control, Jin'e Middle Road, Yueyang, Hunan 414021, China
| | - Yibiao Zhou
- Department of Epidemiology, Fudan University School of Public Health, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety, Fudan University, Ministry of Education, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
- Fudan University Center for Tropical Disease Research, Building 8, 130 Dong'an Road, Shanghai 200032, China
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Roure S, Vallès X, Pérez-Quílez O, López-Muñoz I, Valerio L, Soldevila L, Chamorro A, Abad E, Hegazy AHA, Fernández-Rivas G, Gorriz E, Herena D, Fernández-Pedregal E, José AS, España-Cueto S, Paredes R, Miranda-Sánchez J, Miralles MC, Conde C, Montero JJ, Núñez-Andrés MA, Llibre JM, Isnard M, Bonet JM, Estrada O, Prat N, Clotet B. Morbidity burden of imported chronic schistosomiasis among West African migrants. J Infect 2024; 89:106234. [PMID: 39098555 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2024.106234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Past exposure to schistosomiasis is frequent among migrants from endemic countries, and chronic untreated infection may lead to long-term morbidities. METHODS We carried out a prospective population-based cross-sectional study among migrants from endemic Sub-Saharan countries living in Barcelona, Spain. Participants had not been previously diagnosed or treated for schistosomiasis. Clinical signs and symptoms were scrutinised through a systematic revision of electronic medical records and an on-site standardised questionnaire, and blood and urine samples were screened for Schistosoma. FINDINGS We recruited 522 eligible participants, 74.3% males, mean age 42.7 years (SD=11.5, range 18-76), Overall, 46.4% were from Senegal and 23.6% from Gambia. They had lived in the European Union for a median of 16 years (IQR 10-21). The prevalence of a Schistosoma-positive serology was 35.8%. S. haematobium eggs were observed in urine samples in 6 (1.2%) participants. The most prevalent symptoms among Schistosoma-positive participants were chronic abdominal pain (68.8%, OR=1.79; 95%CI 1.2-2.6), eosinophilia (44.9%, OR=2.69; 95%CI 1.8-4.0) and specific symptoms associated with urinary schistosomiasis, like self-reported episodes of haematuria (37.2%; OR=2.47; 95%CI 1.6-3.8), dysuria (47.9%, OR=1.84; 95%CI=1.3-2.7) and current renal insufficiency (13.4%; OR=2.35; 95%CI=1.3-4.3). We found a significant prevalence of gender-specific genital signs and symptoms among females (mainly menstrual disorders) and males (erectile dysfunction and pelvic pain). Individuals typically presented with a multitude of interconnected symptoms, most commonly chronic abdominal pain, which are often disregarded. CONCLUSIONS Despite the lack of urine parasite identification, the high incidence of clinical signs and symptoms strongly correlated with a positive schistosomiasis serology suggests the existence of a heavy clinical burden among long-term West African migrants living for years/decades in the study region. More research is urgently required to determine whether these symptoms are the result of long-term sequelae or a persistent active Schistosoma infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia Roure
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Direcció Territorial de Malalties Infeccioses Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona 08914, Spain; Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain; Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain.
| | - Xavier Vallès
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Direcció Territorial de Malalties Infeccioses Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona 08914, Spain; Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain; Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute, Badalona, Spain
| | - Olga Pérez-Quílez
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Direcció Territorial de Malalties Infeccioses Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona 08914, Spain
| | - Israel López-Muñoz
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Direcció Territorial de Malalties Infeccioses Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona 08914, Spain
| | - Lluís Valerio
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Direcció Territorial de Malalties Infeccioses Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona 08914, Spain
| | - Laura Soldevila
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Direcció Territorial de Malalties Infeccioses Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona 08914, Spain; Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain; Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Anna Chamorro
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain
| | - Elena Abad
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain
| | - Alaa H A Hegazy
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute, Badalona, Spain; Microbiology Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, University of Asyut, El Fateh, Egypt
| | - Gema Fernández-Rivas
- Microbiology Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Badalona, Spain
| | - Ester Gorriz
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Direcció Territorial de Malalties Infeccioses Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona 08914, Spain
| | - Dolores Herena
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Direcció Territorial de Malalties Infeccioses Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona 08914, Spain
| | - Elia Fernández-Pedregal
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Direcció Territorial de Malalties Infeccioses Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona 08914, Spain; Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain; Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Alba San José
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain
| | - Sergio España-Cueto
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Direcció Territorial de Malalties Infeccioses Metropolitana Nord, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona 08914, Spain; Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain; Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Roger Paredes
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain; Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Jose Miranda-Sánchez
- North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Institut Català de la Salut, Sabadell, Spain
| | - Maria Carme Miralles
- Primary Health Care Unit Canovelles, North Metropolitan Health Region from Barcelona, Institut Català de la Salut, Granollers, Spain
| | - Carmen Conde
- Primary Health Care Unit Canovelles, North Metropolitan Health Region from Barcelona, Institut Català de la Salut, Granollers, Spain
| | - Juan José Montero
- Primary Health Care Unit Mataró-3 (Rocafonda-Palau), North Metropolitan Health Region from Barcelona, Institut Català de la Salut, Mataró, Spain
| | - Maria Amparo Núñez-Andrés
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya-BarcelonaTech, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep M Llibre
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain; Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - Mar Isnard
- North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Institut Català de la Salut, Sabadell, Spain
| | - Josep Maria Bonet
- North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Institut Català de la Salut, Sabadell, Spain
| | - Oriol Estrada
- Directorate for Innovation and Interdisciplinary Cooperation, North Metropolitan Territorial Health Region, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona, Spain
| | - Núria Prat
- North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Institut Català de la Salut, Sabadell, Spain
| | - Bonaventura Clotet
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, Badalona, Spain; IrsiCaixa-Institut de Recerca de La SIDA, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain; Direcció Territorial Malalties Infeccioses, North Metropolitan Territorial Health Region, Institut Català de la Salut, Badalona, Spain
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Lima RRM, Pontes MSS, Silva MG, Ribeiro JFF, Nascimento GAF, Grenfell RFQ, Melo-Jr MR, de Paula AM, Pereira G, Cabral Filho PE, Carvalho LB, Fontes A. Fluorescent quantum dot-based nanotool for targeted identification and evaluation of the schistosomiasis circulating cathodic antigen in tissue samples. Micron 2024; 183:103658. [PMID: 38788484 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2024.103658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Schistosomiasis represents a serious public health problem, a disease for which the circulating cathodic antigen (CCA) is a relevant biomarker. Quantum dots (QDs) are advantageous fluorescent nanoparticles that can be used as specific nanoprobes. In this study, a nanotool based on QDs and anti-CCA antibodies was developed, which, in association with fluorescence microscopy, was applied to trace and evaluate the CCA profile in schistosomiasis-infected tissue samples. Kidney and liver tissues from mice at different disease phases were used as models. QDs and the conjugates were characterized by absorption and emission spectroscopies. Microscopy analyses were used to map and assess CCA accumulation in infected tissue slices in respect to non-infected control samples. The fluorescent microplate assay (FMA) and Zeta potential (ζ) analyses indicated an effective conjugation, which was corroborated by the absence of labeling in non-infected tissue slices (which lack CCA) after incubation with the nanoprobe. Infected liver and kidney tissues exhibited notable staining by the QDs-anti-CCA conjugate. The CCA accumulation increased as follows: 30 < 60 = 120 days post-infection, with 30, 60, and 120 days corresponding to the pre-patent, acute, and beginning of chronic disease phases, respectively. Therefore, this innovative approach, combining imaging acquisition with the sensitivity and specificity of the QDs-anti-CCA conjugate, demonstrated efficiency in locating and comparatively evaluating CCA deposition in biological samples, thereby opening new possibilities for schistosomiasis research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rennan R M Lima
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Centro de Biociências, Recife, PE 50670-901, Brazil
| | - Maria S S Pontes
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Keizo Asami, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE 50670-901, Brazil
| | - Mychel G Silva
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Jéssika F F Ribeiro
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Centro de Biociências, Recife, PE 50670-901, Brazil
| | - Gabriela A F Nascimento
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Keizo Asami, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE 50670-901, Brazil
| | | | - Mário R Melo-Jr
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Keizo Asami, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE 50670-901, Brazil
| | - Ana M de Paula
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil
| | - Goreti Pereira
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE 50740-560, Brazil; Departamento de Química & CESAM, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro 3810-193, Portugal
| | - Paulo E Cabral Filho
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Centro de Biociências, Recife, PE 50670-901, Brazil.
| | - Luiz B Carvalho
- Laboratório de Imunopatologia Keizo Asami, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Recife, PE 50670-901, Brazil
| | - Adriana Fontes
- Departamento de Biofísica e Radiobiologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Centro de Biociências, Recife, PE 50670-901, Brazil.
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Ellakany AR, El Baz H, Shoheib ZS, Elzallat M, Ashour DS, Yassen NA. Stem cell-derived exosomes as a potential therapy for schistosomal hepatic fibrosis in experimental animals. Pathog Glob Health 2024; 118:429-449. [PMID: 37519008 PMCID: PMC11338202 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2023.2240085] [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] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease. Egg-induced granuloma formation and tissue fibrosis are the main causes of the high morbidity and mortality of schistosomiasis. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)-derived exosomes play an important role with a superior safety profile than MSCs in the treatment of liver fibrosis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the potential therapeutic effect of MSCs-derived exosomes on schistosomal hepatic fibrosis. Exosomes were isolated from bone marrow MSCs and characterized. A total of 85 mice were divided into four groups: group I (control group), group II (PZQ group) infected and treated with PZQ, group III (EXO group) infected and treated with MSCs-derived exosomes and group IV (PZQ+EXO group) infected and treated with both PZQ and MSCs-derived exosomes. Assessment of treatment efficacy was evaluated by histopathological and immunohistochemical examination of liver sections by proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). The results showed significant reduction of the number and diameter of hepatic granulomas, hepatic fibrosis, upregulation of PCNA expression and reduction of NF-κB expression in EXO and PZQ+EXO groups as compared to other groups at all durations post infection. Additionally, more improvement was observed in PZQ+EXO group. In conclusion, MSCs-derived exosomes are a promising agent for the treatment of schistosomal hepatic fibrosis, and their combination with PZQ shows a synergistic action including antifibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects. However, further studies are required to establish their functional components and their mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa R. Ellakany
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Hanan El Baz
- Immunology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Zeinab S. Shoheib
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Elzallat
- Immunology Department, Theodor Bilharz Research Institute, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Dalia S. Ashour
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Nabila A. Yassen
- Medical Parasitology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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6
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Ekloh W, Asafu-Adjaye A, Tawiah-Mensah CNL, Ayivi-Tosuh SM, Quartey NKA, Aiduenu AF, Gayi BK, Koudonu JAM, Basing LA, Yamoah JAA, Dofuor AK, Osei JHN. A comprehensive exploration of schistosomiasis: Global impact, molecular characterization, drug discovery, artificial intelligence and future prospects. Heliyon 2024; 10:e33070. [PMID: 38988508 PMCID: PMC11234110 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e33070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis, one of the neglected tropical diseases which affects both humans and animals, is caused by trematode worms of the genus Schistosoma. The disease is caused by several species of Schistosoma which affect several organs such as urethra, liver, bladder, intestines, skin and bile ducts. The life cycle of the disease involves an intermediate host (snail) and a mammalian host. It affects people who are in close proximity to water bodies where the intermediate host is abundant. Common clinical manifestations of the disease at various stages include fever, chills, headache, cough, dysuria, hyperplasia and hydronephrosis. To date, most of the control strategies are dependent on effective diagnosis, chemotherapy and public health education on the biology of the vectors and parasites. Microscopy (Kato-Katz) is considered the golden standard for the detection of the parasite, while praziquantel is the drug of choice for the mass treatment of the disease since no vaccines have yet been developed. Most of the previous reviews on schistosomiasis have concentrated on epidemiology, life cycle, diagnosis, control and treatment. Thus, a comprehensive review that is in tune with modern developments is needed. Here, we extend this domain to cover historical perspectives, global impact, symptoms and detection, biochemical and molecular characterization, gene therapy, current drugs and vaccine status. We also discuss the prospects of using plants as potential and alternative sources of novel anti-schistosomal agents. Furthermore, we highlight advanced molecular techniques, imaging and artificial intelligence that may be useful in the future detection and treatment of the disease. Overall, the proper detection of schistosomiasis using state-of-the-art tools and techniques, as well as development of vaccines or new anti-schistosomal drugs may aid in the elimination of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Ekloh
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, College of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - Andy Asafu-Adjaye
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Christopher Nii Laryea Tawiah-Mensah
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Naa Kwarley-Aba Quartey
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Biosciences, College of Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Albert Fynn Aiduenu
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Blessing Kwabena Gayi
- West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | | | - Laud Anthony Basing
- Department of Medical Diagnostics, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Jennifer Afua Afrifa Yamoah
- Animal Health Division, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research-Animal Research Institute, Adenta-Frafraha, Accra, Ghana
| | - Aboagye Kwarteng Dofuor
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Environment and Sustainable Development, Somanya, Ghana
| | - Joseph Harold Nyarko Osei
- Department of Parasitology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Ishida K, Osakunor DNM, Rossi M, Lamanna OK, Mbanefo EC, Cody JJ, Le L, Hsieh MH. RNA-seq gene expression profiling of the bladder in a mouse model of urogenital schistosomiasis. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.29.601185. [PMID: 38979184 PMCID: PMC11230422 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.29.601185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Background Parasitic flatworms of the Schistosoma genus cause schistosomiasis, which affects over 230 million people. Schistosoma haematobium causes the urogenital form of schistosomiasis (UGS), which can lead to hematuria, fibrosis, and increased risk of secondary infections by bacteria or viruses. UGS is also linked to bladder cancer. To understand the bladder pathology during S. haematobium infection, our group previously developed a mouse model that involves the injection of S. haematobium eggs into the bladder wall. Using this model, we studied changes in epigenetics profile, as well as changes in gene and protein expression in the host bladder tissues. In the current study, we expand upon this work by examining the expression level of both host and parasite genes using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) in the mouse bladder wall injection model of S. haematobium infection. Methods We used a mouse model of S. haematobium infection in which parasite eggs or vehicle control were injected into the bladder walls of female BALB/c mice. RNA-seq was performed on the RNA isolated from the bladders four days after bladder wall injection. Results/Conclusions RNA-seq analysis of egg- and vehicle control-injected bladders revealed the differential expression of 1025 mouse genes in the egg-injected bladders, including genes associated with cellular infiltration, immune cell chemotaxis, cytokine signaling, and inflammation We also observed the upregulation of immune checkpoint-related genes, which suggests that while the infection causes an inflammatory response, it also dampens the response to avoid excessive inflammation-related damage to the host. Identifying these changes in host signaling and immune responses improves our understanding of the infection and how it may contribute to the development of bladder cancer. Analysis of the differential gene expression of the parasite eggs between bladder-injected versus uninjected eggs revealed 119 S. haematobium genes associated with transcription, intracellular signaling, and metabolism. The analysis of the parasite genes also revealed fewer transcript reads compared to that found in the analysis of mouse genes, highlighting the challenges of studying parasite egg biology in the mouse model of S. haematobium infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenji Ishida
- Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Derick N M Osakunor
- Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Mario Rossi
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Olivia K Lamanna
- Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
| | - Evaristus C Mbanefo
- National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - James J Cody
- Charles River Laboratories, Rockville, Maryland, United States
| | - Loc Le
- National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States
| | - Michael H Hsieh
- Sheikh Zayed Institute for Pediatric Surgical Innovation, Children's National Research Institute, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
- Department of Urology, The George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
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8
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Ja’afaru SC, Uzairu A, Bayil I, Sallau MS, Ndukwe GI, Ibrahim MT, Moin AT, Mollah AKMM, Absar N. Unveiling potent inhibitors for schistosomiasis through ligand-based drug design, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations and pharmacokinetics predictions. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302390. [PMID: 38923997 PMCID: PMC11207139 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease which imposes a considerable and enduring impact on affected regions, leading to persistent morbidity, hindering child development, diminishing productivity, and imposing economic burdens. Due to the emergence of drug resistance and limited management options, there is need to develop additional effective inhibitors for schistosomiasis. In view of this, quantitative structure-activity relationship studies, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, drug-likeness and pharmacokinetics predictions were applied to 39 Schistosoma mansoni Thioredoxin Glutathione Reductase (SmTGR) inhibitors. The chosen QSAR model demonstrated robust statistical parameters, including an R2 of 0.798, R2adj of 0.767, Q2cv of 0.681, LOF of 0.930, R2test of 0.776, and cR2p of 0.746, confirming its reliability. The most active derivative (compound 40) was identified as a lead candidate for the development of new potential non-covalent inhibitors through ligand-based design. Subsequently, 12 novel compounds (40a-40l) were designed with enhanced anti-schistosomiasis activity and binding affinity. Molecular docking studies revealed strong and stable interactions, including hydrogen bonding, between the designed compounds and the target receptor. Molecular dynamics simulations over 100 nanoseconds and MM-PBSA free binding energy (ΔGbind) calculations validated the stability of the two best-designed molecules. Furthermore, drug-likeness and pharmacokinetics prediction analyses affirmed the potential of these designed compounds, suggesting their promise as innovative agents for the treatment of schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saudatu Chinade Ja’afaru
- Department of Chemistry Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Zaria, Nigeria
- Department of Chemistry, Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil, Kano, Nigeria
| | - Adamu Uzairu
- Department of Chemistry Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Zaria, Nigeria
| | - Imren Bayil
- Department of Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | | | | | | | - Abu Tayab Moin
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | | | - Nurul Absar
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Basic Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Science & Technology Chittagong, Khulshi, Chittagong, Bangladesh
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9
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Ponzo E, Midiri A, Manno A, Pastorello M, Biondo C, Mancuso G. Insights into the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and differential diagnosis of schistosomiasis. Eur J Microbiol Immunol (Bp) 2024; 14:86-96. [PMID: 38498078 PMCID: PMC11097794 DOI: 10.1556/1886.2024.00013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease that is prevalent in low- and middle-income countries. There are five human pathogenic species, of which Schistosoma haematobium, Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum are the most prevalent worldwide and cause the greatest burden of disease in terms of mortality and morbidity. In addition, hybrid schistosomes have been identified through molecular analysis. Human infection occurs when cercariae, the larval form of the parasite, penetrate the skin of people while bathing in contaminated waters such as lakes and rivers. Schistosomiasis can cause both urogenital and intestinal symptoms. Urogenital symptoms include haematuria, bladder fibrosis, kidney damage, and an increased risk of bladder cancer. Intestinal symptoms may include abdominal pain, sometimes accompanied by diarrhoea and blood in the stool. Schistosomiasis affects more than 250 million people and causes approximately 70 million Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs), mainly in Africa, South America, and Asia. To control infection, it is essential to establish sensitive and specific diagnostic tests for epidemiological surveillance and morbidity reduction. This review provides an overview of schistosomiasis, with a focus on available diagnostic tools for Schistosoma spp. Current molecular detection methods and progress in the development of new diagnostics for schistosomiasis infection are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Ponzo
- Department of Human Pathology, Laboratory of Parasitology, University of Messina, 98125Messina, Italy
| | - Angelina Midiri
- Department of Human Pathology, Laboratory of Parasitology, University of Messina, 98125Messina, Italy
| | - Andrea Manno
- Department of Human Pathology, Laboratory of Parasitology, University of Messina, 98125Messina, Italy
| | - Martina Pastorello
- Department of Human Pathology, Laboratory of Parasitology, University of Messina, 98125Messina, Italy
| | - Carmelo Biondo
- Department of Human Pathology, Laboratory of Parasitology, University of Messina, 98125Messina, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Mancuso
- Department of Human Pathology, Laboratory of Parasitology, University of Messina, 98125Messina, Italy
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Demolder F, De Bontridder S, Hanon S. Katayama syndrome disguised as eosinophilic asthma with acute systemic symptoms and pulmonary nodules. Respir Med Case Rep 2024; 50:102032. [PMID: 38737518 PMCID: PMC11087229 DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2024.102032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Katayama syndrome is an acute manifestation of schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that manifests itself through a hypersensitivity reaction to migrating larvae and early egg deposition. Left undiagnosed and untreated, acute schistosomiasis can develop into chronic schistosomiasis which can lead to debilitating morbidity such as pulmonary hypertension. This case highlights that Katayama syndrome can also been seen in regions where the parasite is not endemic, as it occurs in travelers returning from endemic regions or in immigrants. Case presentation We describe the case of a 26-year-old asthmatic male, who presented with systemic symptoms including fever, myalgia, night sweats as well as gastro-intestinal and pulmonary complaints since five days. At presentation, there was a raised blood eosinophil count and nodular lesions were seen on computed tomography. After considering diagnoses such as tuberculosis, vasculitis and hypereosinophilic syndrome, it was repeated history taking that revealed that the patient had suffered from swimmer's itch during a stay in Guinea. A stool sample showed microscopic presence of Schistosoma mansoni eggs, confirming the diagnosis of Katayama syndrome. The patient was treated with tapered corticosteroids to suppress the hypersensitivity reaction and praziquantel was added to cure the parasitic infection. This led to a complete resolution of the patients' symptoms and radiological abnormalities. Negative stool samples confirmed the eradication of the schistosomes. Conclusions Swimmer's itch and Katayama syndrome are manifestations of acute schistosomiasis. It is important to recognize the syndrome, because early diagnosis and adequate treatment can prevent chronic disease and significant morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Femke Demolder
- Respiratory Division, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090, Jette, Belgium
| | - Samuel De Bontridder
- Respiratory Division, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090, Jette, Belgium
- Department of Pulmonology, Regional Hospital Heilig Hart Leuven, Naamsestraat 105, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, CUB Hôpital Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles, 808 Route de Lennik, 1070, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Shane Hanon
- Respiratory Division, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090, Jette, Belgium
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11
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Aribodor OB, Azugo NO, Jacob EC, Ngenegbo UC, Onwusulu ND, Obika I, Obikwelu EM, Nebe OJ. Assessing urogenital schistosomiasis and female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) among adolescents in Anaocha, Anambra State, Nigeria: implications for ongoing control efforts. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:952. [PMID: 38566137 PMCID: PMC10988871 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18378-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Urogenital schistosomiasis (UgS) remains a persistent health challenge among adolescents in Anambra State, Nigeria, despite ongoing control efforts. Mass praziquantel treatment programs, initiated in 2013, primarily target primary school-aged children (5-14 years old), leaving adolescents (10-19 years old) enrolled in secondary schools vulnerable to urogenital schistosomiaisis. Additionally, the extent of female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), a neglected gynaecological manifestation of UgS remains unclear. METHODOLOGY To address these gaps, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Anaocha Local Government Area from February to May 2023. Four hundred and seventy consenting adolescents aged 10-19 years were enrolled. Urinalysis including urine filtration was employed to confirm haematuria and detect urogenital schistosomiasis (UGS) among the participants. For females with heavy infections (≥ 50 eggs/10 ml urine), a gynaecologist performed colposcopy examinations, complemented by acetic acid and Lugol's iodine staining to assess for female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) lesions or other related reproductive health conditions. Socio-demographic data, including information on potential risk factors, were systematically collected using the Kobo ToolBox software, following gender-sensitive data collection guidelines. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25, incorporating descriptive statistics, multinomial logistic regression, odds ratios, and significance testing. RESULTS Among the 470 adolescents (52.8% females, 47.2% males) examined, an overall UgS prevalence of 14.5% was observed, with an average of 5.25 eggs per 10 ml of urine. Females had a slightly higher prevalence (16.1%), and 7.5% had heavy infections. Although gender differences in infection rates were not statistically significant, males had slightly higher odds of infection (OR: 1.332; 95% CI: 0.791-2.244; p-value: 0.280). Adolescents aged 10-14 had the highest prevalence, with significantly increased odds of infection (OR: 1.720; 95% CI: 1.012-2.923; p-value: 0.045). Colposcopy examinations of females with heavy infections revealed FGS lesions and co-infections with Trichomonas vaginalis. Haematuria, though prevalent (24.6%), was not the sole indicator, as those without it faced significantly higher odds of infection (OR: 2.924; 95% CI: 1.731-4.941; p-value: 0.000). Dysuria and genital itching/burning sensation were other UgS and FGS associated symptoms. Direct water contact was associated with higher infection odds (OR: 2.601; 95% CI: 1.007-6.716; p-value: 0.048). Various risk factors were associated with UgS. CONCLUSION The study highlights the need for a comprehensive Urogenital Schistosomiasis (UGS) control strategy that includes secondary school adolescents, emphasizes risk factor management, promotes safe water practices, and raises awareness about UGS and Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS) among adolescents, thus improving control efforts and mitigating this health challenge in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ogechukwu B Aribodor
- Department of Zoology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
- Social Innovation in Health Initiative (SIHI) Hub, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria.
| | - Nwadiuto O Azugo
- Department of Zoology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
- Social Innovation in Health Initiative (SIHI) Hub, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Eunice C Jacob
- Department of Zoology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
- Social Innovation in Health Initiative (SIHI) Hub, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Uche C Ngenegbo
- Department of Parasitology and Entomology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Nnaemeka D Onwusulu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Ifeanyi Obika
- Department of Zoology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Emmanuel M Obikwelu
- Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit, Anambra State Ministry of Health, Awka, Nigeria
| | - Obiageli J Nebe
- Neglected Tropical Diseases Division, Federal Ministry of Health, Abuja, Nigeria
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12
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Alexandrova R, Tsachev I, Kirov P, Abudalleh A, Hristov H, Zhivkova T, Dyakova L, Baymakova M. Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) Infection Among Immunocompromised Individuals: A Brief Narrative Review. Infect Drug Resist 2024; 17:1021-1040. [PMID: 38505248 PMCID: PMC10948336 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s449221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a single-stranded positive-sense RNA virus that belongs to Hepeviridae family. HEV is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are estimated 20 million HEV infections worldwide every year, leading to estimated 3.3 million symptomatic cases of HEV infection. The WHO estimates that HEV infection caused approximately 44,000 deaths in 2015, which represents 3.3% of mortality rates due to viral hepatitis. In low-income (LI) countries and lower-middle-income (LMI) countries, HEV is a waterborne infection induced by HEV genotype (gt) 1 and HEV gt 2 that cause large outbreaks and affect young individuals with a high mortality rate in pregnant women from South Asian countries and patients with liver diseases. HEV gt 3, HEV gt 4, and HEV gt 7 are responsible for sporadic infections with zoonotic transmission mainly through the consumption of raw or undercooked meat from different animals. Acute HEV infection is relatively asymptomatic or mild clinical form, in rare cases the disease can be moderate/severe clinical forms and result in fulminant hepatitis or acute liver failure (ALF). Furthermore, HEV infection is associated with extrahepatic manifestations, including renal and neurological clinical signs and symptoms. Pregnant women, infants, older people, immunocompromised individuals, patients with comorbidities, and workers who come into close contact with HEV-infected animals are recognized as major risk groups for severe clinical form of HEV infection and fatal outcome. Chronic HEV infection can occur in immunocompromised individuals with the possibility of progression to cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radostina Alexandrova
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Experimental Morphology, Pathology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ilia Tsachev
- Department of Microbiology, Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Plamen Kirov
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Experimental Morphology, Pathology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Abedulkadir Abudalleh
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Experimental Morphology, Pathology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Hristo Hristov
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Experimental Morphology, Pathology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Tanya Zhivkova
- Department of Pathology, Institute of Experimental Morphology, Pathology and Anthropology with Museum, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Lora Dyakova
- Department of Synaptic Signaling and Communication, Institute of Neurobiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Magdalena Baymakova
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Military Medical Academy, Sofia, Bulgaria
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13
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Roure S, Vallès X, Pérez-Quílez O, López-Muñoz I, Chamorro A, Abad E, Valerio L, Soldevila L, España S, Hegazy AHA, Fernández-Rivas G, Gorriz E, Herena D, Oliveira M, Miralles MC, Conde C, Montero-Alia JJ, Fernández-Pedregal E, Miranda-Sánchez J, Llibre JM, Isnard M, Bonet JM, Estrada O, Prat N, Clotet B. Male genitourinary schistosomiasis-related symptoms among long-term Western African migrants in Spain: a prospective population-based screening study. Infect Dis Poverty 2024; 13:23. [PMID: 38449032 PMCID: PMC10919049 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-024-01190-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Schistosomiasis is highly endemic in sub-Saharan Africa and frequently imported to Europe. Male urogenital manifestations are often neglected. We aimed to ascertain the prevalence of genitourinary clinical signs and symptoms among long-term African migrants in a non-endemic European country using a serology test. METHODS We carried out a prospective, community-based cross-sectional study of adult male migrants from sub-Saharan Africa living in Spain. Schistosoma serology tests and microscopic urine examinations were carried out, and clinical data were obtained from an electronic medical record search and a structured questionnaire. RESULTS We included 388 adult males, mean age 43.5 years [Standard Deviation (SD) = 12.0, range: 18-76]. The median time since migration to the European Union was 17 [Interquartile range (IQR): 11-21] years. The most frequent country of origin was Senegal (N = 179, 46.1%). Of the 338, 147 (37.6%) tested positive for Schistosoma. Parasite eggs were present in the urine of only 1.3%. Nine genitourinary clinical items were significantly associated with positive Schistosoma serology results: pelvic pain (45.2%; OR = 1.57, 95% CI: 1.0-2.4), pain on ejaculation (14.5%; OR = 1.85, 95% CI: 1.0-3.5), dyspareunia (12.4%; OR = 2.45, 95% CI: 1.2-5.2), erectile dysfunction (9.5%; OR = 3.10, 95% CI: 1.3-7.6), self-reported episodes of infertility (32.1%; OR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.0-2.8), haematuria (55.2%; OR = 2.37, 95% CI: 1.5-3.6), dysuria (52.1%; OR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.3-3.1), undiagnosed syndromic STIs (5.4%), and orchitis (20.7%; OR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.0-3.1). Clinical signs tended to cluster. CONCLUSIONS Urogenital clinical signs and symptoms are prevalent among male African long-term migrants with a positive Schistosoma serology results. Genital involvement can be frequent even among those with long periods of non-residence in their sub-Saharan African countries of origin. Further research is needed to develop diagnostic tools and validate therapeutic approaches to chronic schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia Roure
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain.
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain.
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain.
| | - Xavier Vallès
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Germans Trias i Pujol Research Institute, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Olga Pérez-Quílez
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Israel López-Muñoz
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Anna Chamorro
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Elena Abad
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Lluís Valerio
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Laura Soldevila
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Sergio España
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Alaa H A Hegazy
- Microbiology Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Asyut, El Fateh, Assiut Governorate, 71515, Egypt
| | - Gema Fernández-Rivas
- Microbiology Department, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Ester Gorriz
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Dolores Herena
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Mário Oliveira
- Department of Urology, Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Maria Carme Miralles
- Canovelles Primary Health Care Unit, Barcelona North Metropolitan Health Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, C/ Indústria 23, 08420, Canovelles, Spain
| | - Carmen Conde
- Canovelles Primary Health Care Unit, Barcelona North Metropolitan Health Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, C/ Indústria 23, 08420, Canovelles, Spain
| | - Juan José Montero-Alia
- Primary Health Care Unit Mataró-3 (Rocafonda-Palau), Barcelona North Metropolitan Health Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, Camí Ral el Ravalet 208, Mataró, 08302, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elia Fernández-Pedregal
- International Health Program (PROSICS), Barcelona North Metropolitan Territorial Directorate for Infectious Diseases, Catalan Institute for Health, CAP La Salut, Passatge dels Encants S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Jose Miranda-Sánchez
- Barcelona North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, Ctra. de Barcelona 473, Sabadell, 08204, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep M Llibre
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Mar Isnard
- Barcelona North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, Ctra. de Barcelona 473, Sabadell, 08204, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep Maria Bonet
- Barcelona North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, Ctra. de Barcelona 473, Sabadell, 08204, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Oriol Estrada
- Directorate for Innovation and Interdisciplinary Cooperation, Barcelona North Metropolitan Health Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, C/ Can Ruti S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
| | - Núria Prat
- Barcelona North Metropolitan Primary Care Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, Ctra. de Barcelona 473, Sabadell, 08204, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bonaventura Clotet
- Fundació Lluita contra les Infeccions, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- IrsiCaixa-AIDS Research Institute, Hospital Universitari Germans Trias i Pujol University Hospital, c/ Can Ruti s/n, 08916, Badalona, Spain
- Infectious Diseases Directorate, Barcelona North Metropolitan Health Directorate, Catalan Institute for Health, C/ Can Ruti S/N, 08916, Badalona, Spain
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14
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Alsharedeh RH, Rezigue M, Bashatwah RM, Amawi H, Aljabali AAA, Obeid MA, Tambuwala MM. Nanomaterials as a Potential Target for Infectious Parasitic Agents. Curr Drug Deliv 2024; 21:828-851. [PMID: 36815647 DOI: 10.2174/1567201820666230223085403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Despite the technological advancement in the era of personalized medicine and therapeutics development, infectious parasitic causative agents remain one of the most challenging areas of research and development. The disadvantages of conventional parasitic prevention and control are the emergence of multiple drug resistance as well as the non-specific targeting of intracellular parasites, which results in high dose concentration needs and subsequently intolerable cytotoxicity. Nanotechnology has attracted extensive interest to reduce medication therapy adverse effects including poor bioavailability and drug selectivity. Numerous nanomaterials-based delivery systems have previously been shown in animal models to be effective in the treatment of various parasitic infections. This review discusses a variety of nanomaterials-based antiparasitic procedures and techniques as well as the processes that allow them to be targeted to different parasitic infections. This review focuses on the key prerequisites for creating novel nanotechnology-based carriers as a potential option in parasite management, specifically in the context of human-related pathogenic parasitic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawan H Alsharedeh
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, 21163, Jordan
| | - Meriem Rezigue
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, 21163, Jordan
| | - Rasha M Bashatwah
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, 21163, Jordan
| | - Haneen Amawi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Alaa A A Aljabali
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, 21163, Jordan
| | - Mohammad A Obeid
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Technology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, 21163, Jordan
| | - Murtaza M Tambuwala
- Lincoln Medical School, Brayford Pool Campus, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7TS, United Kingdom
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15
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Marascio N, Loria MT, Pavia G, Peronace C, Adams NJ, Campolo M, Divenuto F, Lamberti AG, Giancotti A, Barreca GS, Mazzitelli M, Trecarichi EM, Torti C, Perandin F, Bisoffi Z, Quirino A, Matera G. Evaluation of IL-35, as a Possible Biomarker for Follow-Up after Therapy, in Chronic Human Schistosoma Infection. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11050995. [PMID: 37243099 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11050995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The host response to helminth infections is characterized by systemic and tissue-related immune responses that play a crucial role in pathological diseases. Recently, experimental studies have highlighted the role of regulatory T (Tregs) and B (Bregs) cells with secreted cytokines as important markers in anti-schistosomiasis immunity. We investigated the serical levels of five cytokines (TNFα, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-10 and IL-35) in pre- and post-treatment samples from chronic Schistosoma infected patients to identify potential serological markers during follow-up therapy. Interestingly, we highlighted an increased serum level of IL-35 in the pre-therapy samples (median 439 pg/mL for Schistosoma haematobium and 100.5 pg/mL for Schistsoma mansoni infected patients) compared to a control group (median 62 pg/mL and 58 pg/mL, respectively, p ≤ 0.05), and a significantly lower concentration in post-therapy samples (181 pg/mL for S. haematobium and 49.5 pg/mL for S. mansoni infected patients, p ≤ 0.05). The present study suggests the possible role of IL-35 as a novel serological biomarker in the evaluation of Schistosoma therapy follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Marascio
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Loria
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Grazia Pavia
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Cinzia Peronace
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Neill James Adams
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Morena Campolo
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Francesca Divenuto
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Angelo Giuseppe Lamberti
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Aida Giancotti
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giorgio Settimo Barreca
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Mazzitelli
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Padua University Hospital, 35128 Padua, Italy
| | - Enrico Maria Trecarichi
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Carlo Torti
- Infectious and Tropical Diseases Unit, Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, "Magna Graecia" University-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Francesca Perandin
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, 37024 Verona, Italy
| | - Zeno Bisoffi
- Department of Infectious, Tropical Diseases and Microbiology, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, 37024 Verona, Italy
| | - Angela Quirino
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giovanni Matera
- Clinical Microbiology Unit, Department of Health Sciences, "Magna Græcia" University of Catanzaro-"Mater Domini" Teaching Hospital, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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16
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Stark KA, Rinaldi G, Cortés A, Costain A, MacDonald AS, Cantacessi C. The role of the host gut microbiome in the pathophysiology of schistosomiasis. Parasite Immunol 2023; 45:e12970. [PMID: 36655799 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The pathophysiology of schistosomiasis is linked to the formation of fibrous granulomas around eggs that become trapped in host tissues, particularly the intestines and liver, during their migration to reach the lumen of the vertebrate gut. While the development of Schistosoma egg-induced granulomas is the result of finely regulated crosstalk between egg-secreted antigens and host immunity, evidence has started to emerge of the likely contribution of an additional player-the host gut microbiota-to pathological processes that culminate with the formation of these tissue lesions. Uncovering the role(s) of schistosome-mediated changes in gut microbiome composition and function in granuloma formation and, more broadly, in the pathophysiology of schistosomiasis, will shed light on the mechanisms underlying this three-way parasite-host-microbiome interplay. Such knowledge may, in turn, pave the way towards the discovery of novel therapeutic targets and control strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara A Stark
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Gabriel Rinaldi
- Department of Life Sciences, Edward Llwyd Building, Aberystwyth University, Aberystwyth, UK
| | - Alba Cortés
- Departament de Farmàcia i Tecnologia Farmacèutica i Parasitologia, Universitat de València, València, Spain
| | - Alice Costain
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Andrew S MacDonald
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Cinzia Cantacessi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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17
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Gao Y, Zhang X, Jiang T, Zhou H, Liu H, Hu Y, Cao J. Inhibition of hepatic natural killer cell function via the TIGIT receptor in schistosomiasis-induced liver fibrosis. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011242. [PMID: 36930687 PMCID: PMC10022799 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease. Schistosoma japonicum eggs deposited in the liver tissue induce egg granuloma formation and liver fibrosis, seriously threatening human health. Natural killer (NK) cells kill activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) or induce HSC apoptosis and inhibit the progression of liver fibrosis. However, the function of NK cells in liver fibrosis caused by S. japonicum infection is significantly inhibited. The mechanism of this inhibition remains unclear. Twenty mice were percutaneously infected with S. japonicum cercariae. Before infection and 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks after infection, five mice were euthanized and dissected at each time point. Hepatic NK cells were isolated and transcriptome sequenced. The sequencing results showed that Tigit expression was high at 4-6 weeks post infection. This phenomenon was verified by reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and flow cytometry. NK cells derived from Tigit-/- and wild-type (WT) mice were co-cultured with HSCs. It was found that Tigit-/- NK cells induced apoptosis in a higher proportion of HSCs than WT NK cells. Schistosomiasis infection models of Tigit-/- and WT mice were established. The proportion and killing activity of hepatic NK cells were significantly higher in Tigit-/- mice than in WT mice. The degree of liver fibrosis in Tigit-/- mice was significantly lower than that in WT mice. NK cells were isolated from Tigit-/- and WT mice and injected via the tail vein into WT mice infected with S. japonicum. The degree of liver fibrosis in mice that received NK cell infusion reduced significantly, but there was no significant difference between mice that received NK cells from Tigit-/- and WT mice, respectively. Our findings indicate that Tigit knockout enhanced the function of NK cells and reduced the degree of liver fibrosis in schistosomiasis, thus providing a novel strategy for treating hepatic fibrosis induced by schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Gao
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research); Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China; World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaocheng Zhang
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research); Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China; World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingting Jiang
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research); Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China; World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Hao Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research); Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China; World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Hua Liu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research); Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China; World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuan Hu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research); Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China; World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (YH); (JC)
| | - Jianping Cao
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research); Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China; World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai, China
- The School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (YH); (JC)
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18
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Jiang T, Wu X, Zhou H, Hu Y, Cao J. Pathological Changes in Hepatic Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells in Schistosoma japonicum-Infected Mice. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:tropicalmed8020124. [PMID: 36828540 PMCID: PMC9959305 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8020124] [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: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Schistosomiasis japonica is a zoonotic parasitic disease causing liver fibrosis. Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) exhibit fenestrations, which promote hepatocyte regeneration and reverses the process of liver fibrosis. To investigate the pathological changes of LSECs in schistosomiasis, we established a Schistosomiasis model. The population, phenotype, and secretory function of LSECs were detected by flow cytometry at 20, 28, and 42 days post infection. The changes in LSEC fenestration and basement membrane were observed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting were used to detect the expression of molecules associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and fibrosis of LSECs and the liver. The flow cytometry results showed that the total LSEC proportions, differentiated LSEC proportions, and nitric oxide (NO) secretion of LSECs were decreased, and the proportion of dedifferentiated LSECs increased significantly post infection. The electron microscopy results showed that the number of fenestrate was decreased and there was complete basement membrane formation in LSECs following infection. The qPCR and Western blot results showed that EMT, and fibrosis-related indicators of LSECs and the liver changed significantly during the early stages of infection and were aggravated in the middle and late stages. The pathological changes in LSECs may promote EMT and liver fibrosis induced by Schistosoma japonicum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Jiang
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Xiaoying Wu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hao Zhou
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Yuan Hu
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
- Correspondence: (Y.H.); (J.C.)
| | - Jianping Cao
- National Institute of Parasitic Diseases, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, (Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research), Key Laboratory of Parasite and Vector Biology, National Health Commission of People’s Republic of China, World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Tropical Diseases, Shanghai 200025, China
- The School of Global Health, Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Correspondence: (Y.H.); (J.C.)
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19
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A review on innovative optical devices for the diagnosis of human soil-transmitted helminthiasis and schistosomiasis: from research and development to commercialization. Parasitology 2023; 150:137-149. [PMID: 36683384 PMCID: PMC10090604 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182022001664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Diagnosis of soil-transmitted helminth (STH) and schistosome infections relies largely on conventional microscopy which has limited sensitivity, requires highly trained personnel and is error-prone. Rapid advances in miniaturization of optical systems, sensors and processors have enhanced research and development of digital and automated microscopes suitable for the detection of these diseases in resource-limited settings. While some studies have reported proof-of-principle results, others have evaluated the performance of working prototypes in field settings. The extensive commercialization of these innovative devices has, however, not yet been achieved. This review provides an overview of recent publications (2010–2022) on innovative field applicable optical devices which can be used for the diagnosis of STH and schistosome infections. Using an adapted technology readiness level (TRL) scale taking into account the WHO target product profile (TPP) for these diseases, the developmental stages of the devices were ranked to determine the readiness for practical applications in field settings. From the reviewed 18 articles, 19 innovative optical devices were identified and ranked. Almost all of the devices (85%) were ranked with a TRL score below 8 indicating that, most of the devices are not ready for commercialization and field use. The potential limitations of these innovative devices were discussed. We believe that the outcome of this review can guide the end-to-end development of automated digital microscopes aligned with the WHO TPP for the diagnosis of STH and schistosome infections in resource-limited settings.
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20
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Baluku JB, Olum R, Sanya RE, Ocama P. Respiratory morbidity in Schistosoma mansoni infection: a rapid review of literature. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2023; 10:20499361231220152. [PMID: 38152611 PMCID: PMC10752101 DOI: 10.1177/20499361231220152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Schistosomiasis contributes to 2.5 million disability-adjusted life years globally. Acute and chronic respiratory morbidity of Schistosoma mansoni (S. mansoni) is poorly documented in the literature. We conducted a rapid literature review of the burden of respiratory symptoms and lung function abnormalities among patients with S. mansoni. We also report the immunologic and lung imaging findings from the studies reviewed. Methods We carried out a comprehensive literature search in Embase and MEDLINE from the inception of the databases to 13th March 2023. Results A total of 2243 patients with S. mansoni were reported from 24 case reports, 11 cross-sectional studies, 7 case series, 2 cohort studies and 2 randomized controlled trials. The prevalence of any respiratory symptom was 13.3-63.3% (total number of patients studied, n = 149). The prevalence of the individual symptoms among patients with S. mansoni in whom respiratory symptoms were sought for was as follows: cough (8.3-80.6%, n = 338), dyspnea (1.7-100.0%, n = 200), chest pain (9.0-57.1%, n = 86), sputum production (20.0-23.3%, n = 30) and wheezing (0.0 - 20.0%, n = 1396). The frequency of the symptoms tended to be higher in acute schistosomiasis. Restrictive lung disease was prevalent in 29.0% (9/31). The commonest chest imaging findings reported were nodules (20-90%, n = 103) and interstitial infiltrates (12.5-23.0%, n = 89). Peripheral blood eosinophilia was prevalent in 72.0-100.0% of patients (n = 130) with acute schistosomiasis and correlated with symptoms and imaging abnormalities. Three case reports in chronic S. mansoni reported elevated C-reactive protein, leucocyte, neutrophil and absolute eosinophil counts, eosinophil percentage, IgE and IgG4. Conclusion There is a high prevalence of respiratory morbidity among patients with S. mansoni, particularly in the acute stage of the infection, although the studies are relatively small. Larger studies are needed to characterize respiratory morbidity in chronic schistosomiasis and determine the underlying clinical and immunological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Baruch Baluku
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, PO Box 26343, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ronald Olum
- St. Francis Hospital, Nsambya, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Richard E. Sanya
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Chronic Diseases Management Unit, African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Uganda
| | - Ponsiano Ocama
- Immunomodulation and Vaccines Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- Department of Internal Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
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21
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Huang P, Ma H, Cao Y, Zhan T, Zhang T, Wang X, Zhang Y, Xu J, Xia C. Activation of primary hepatic stellate cells and liver fibrosis induced by targeting TGF-β1/Smad signaling in schistosomiasis in mice. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:456. [PMID: 36474240 PMCID: PMC9727849 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05584-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In mice, liver fibrosis is the most serious pathologic change during Schistosoma japonicum (S. japonicum) infection. Schistosomiasis is mainly characterized by schistosome egg-induced granulomatous fibrosis. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) are mainly responsible for the net accumulation of collagens and fibrosis formation in the liver. Activated HSCs regulated by transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smad signaling have emerged as the critical regulatory pathway in hepatitis virus or carbon tetrachloride-induced liver fibrosis. However, the detailed mechanism of HSC activation in schistosome-induced liver fibrosis is poorly understood. METHODS Schistosoma japonicum-induced murine models and a control group were generated by abdominal infection with 15 (± 1) cercariae. The purity of cultured primary HSCs was evaluated by immunocytochemistry. The histopathological changes in the livers of infected mice were estimated by hematoxylin-eosin and Masson staining. Dynamic expression of pro-fibrotic molecules and microRNAs was detected by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). Mainly members involved in the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway were examined via RT-qPCR and Western blot. RESULTS The egg-induced granulomatous inflammation formed at 4 weeks post-infection (wpi) and developed progressively. Alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), collagen I, collagen III, TGF-β1, Smad2, Smad3, and Smad4 showed a significant increase in mitochondrial RNA (mRNA) and protein expression compared with the control group at 7 and 9 weeks post-infection (wpi), while an opposite effect on Smad7 was observed. In addition, the mRNA expression of microRNA-21 (miRNA-21) was significantly increased at 7 wpi, and the mRNA expression of miRNA-454 was decreased starting from 4 wpi. CONCLUSION Our present findings revealed that HSCs regulated by the TGF-β1/Smad signaling pathway play an important role in liver fibrosis in S. japonicum-infected mice, which may provide proof of concept for liver fibrosis in schistosomiasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Huang
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Huihui Ma
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Yun Cao
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China ,grid.252957.e0000 0001 1484 5512Department of Laboratory Medicine, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Road, Bengbu, 23303 Anhui China
| | - Tingzheng Zhan
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China ,grid.256607.00000 0004 1798 2653Department of Pathogen Biology, Guangxi Medical University, 22 Shuangyong Road, Nanning, 530021 Guangxi China
| | - Tingting Zhang
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Xinyi Wang
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Jing Xu
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
| | - Chaoming Xia
- grid.263761.70000 0001 0198 0694Department of Pathogen Biology, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Renai Road, Suzhou, 215123 Jiangsu China
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22
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David N, Duguru M, Akpa P, Davwar P, Okwute A, Makpu J, Dallang B, Omaiye P, Okeke E. Intestinal schistosomiasis with colonic polyps. NIGERIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2022. [DOI: 10.4103/njm.njm_92_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
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