1
|
Boulanger L, Planchon C, Taudière A, McCoy KD, Burgess STG, Nisbet AJ, Bartley K, Galliot P, Creach P, Sleeckx N, Roy L. The Poultry Red Mite, Dermanyssus gallinae, travels far but not frequently, and takes up permanent residence on farms. Infect Genet Evol 2024; 120:105584. [PMID: 38521481 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2024.105584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
Management of Dermanyssus gallinae, a cosmopolitan hematophagous mite responsible for damage in layer poultry farming, is hampered by a lack of knowledge of its spatio-temporal population dynamics. Previous studies have shown that the circulation of this pest between farms is of strictly anthropogenic origin, that a mitochondrial haplogroup has been expanding on European farms since the beginning of the 21st century and that its local population growth may be particularly rapid. To refine our understanding of how D. gallinae spreads within and among farms, we characterized the genetic structure of mite populations at different spatial scales and sought to identify the main factors interrupting gene flow between poultry houses and between mitochondrial haplogroups. To this end, we selected and validated the first set of nuclear microsatellite markers for D. gallinae and sequenced a region of the CO1-encoding mitochondrial gene in a subsample of microsatellite-genotyped mites. We also tested certain conditions required for effective contamination of a poultry house through field experimentation, and conducted a survey of practices during poultry transfers. Our results confirm the role of poultry transport in the dissemination of mite populations, but the frequency of effective contamination after the introduction of contaminated material into poultry houses seems lower than expected. The high persistence of mites on farms, even during periods when poultry houses are empty and cleaned, and the very large number of nodes in the logistic network (large number of companies supplying pullets or transporting animals) undoubtedly explain the very high prevalence on farms. Substantial genetic diversity was measured in farm populations, probably as a result of the mite's known haplodiploid mode of sexual reproduction, coupled with the dense logistic network. The possibility of the occasional occurrence of asexual reproduction in this sexually reproducing mite was also revealed in our analyses, which could explain the extreme aggressiveness of its demographic dynamics under certain conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Boulanger
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, 1919 route de Mende, 3400 Montpellier, France
| | - C Planchon
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, 1919 route de Mende, 3400 Montpellier, France
| | - A Taudière
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, 1919 route de Mende, 3400 Montpellier, France
| | - K D McCoy
- Université de Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, MIVEGEC, Domaine La Valette - 900, rue Jean François BRETON, 34090 Montpellier, France
| | - S T G Burgess
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - A J Nisbet
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - K Bartley
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - P Galliot
- Institut Technique de l'AVIculture (ITAVI), FranceITAVI, 41 rue Beaucemaine, 22440 Ploufragan, France
| | - P Creach
- Institut Technique de l'AVIculture (ITAVI), FranceITAVI, 41 rue Beaucemaine, 22440 Ploufragan, France
| | - N Sleeckx
- Experimental Poultry Centre, 77 Poiel, Geel 2440, Belgium
| | - Lise Roy
- CEFE, Univ Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, 1919 route de Mende, 3400 Montpellier, France.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Nunn FG, Ewing DA, Bartley K, Palarea-Albaladejo J, Chen W, Price DRG, Nisbet AJ. Measuring behaviour in hens using an ethogram to assess analgesia during further refinement of a high welfare, on-hen, poultry red mite feeding device. F1000Res 2023; 12:715. [PMID: 38596003 PMCID: PMC11002522 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.133390.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: To refine an on-hen mite feeding device, an ethogram was employed to measure the reactions of hens during a routine experimental procedure (feather plucking) and to assess effects of analgesic cream on those reactions. Methods: Three experimental groups were used; one treated with EMLA 5% before plucking ("EMLA group"); one with aqueous cream ("placebo group") and a "no treatment" group. Behaviours were measured and compared on three days: 'dummy handling day' i.e. no plucking; 'plucking day', plucking the left thigh; and 'treatment day' i.e with right thighs plucked post-treatment. Poultry red mite feeding assays were performed to examine effect of creams on mite feeding rates, mortality and fecundity. All data were analysed using generalised linear (mixed) modelling approaches. Results: Use of the ethogram demonstrated no significant difference in hen behaviours in the EMLA group between dummy handling day and treatment day (p = 0.949) alongside a significant reduction in measured behaviours between plucking day and treatment day in the same group (p = 0.028). There was a statistically significant increase in measured behaviours from the dummy handling day to the plucking day in both placebo (p = 0.011) and no treatment group (p < 0.001). Effect sizes and directions were similar between dummy handling and treatment days in the 'placebo' and 'no treatment' groups, though not statistically significant (placebo, p = 0.064; no treatment p = 0.069). Mite feeding in the EMLA group was significantly lower than in the no treatment group in feeding assay 1 (p = 0.029) only. Mite mortality and fertility were unaffected. Conclusions: The ethogram successfully measured changes in observed behaviours between the dummy handling session and procedures. No adverse effects of EMLA cream on hens were demonstrated at 3mg/kg in hens. Use of analgesia for this routine procedure improves hens' experiences during experimental trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F. G. Nunn
- Vaccines, Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Scotland, EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - D. A. Ewing
- Biomathematics and Statistics Scotland, Edinburgh, EH9 3FD, UK
| | - K. Bartley
- Vaccines, Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Scotland, EH26 0PZ, UK
| | | | - W. Chen
- Vaccines, Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Scotland, EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - D. R. G. Price
- Vaccines, Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Scotland, EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - A. J. Nisbet
- Vaccines, Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Scotland, EH26 0PZ, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Marr EJ, Sargison ND, Nisbet AJ, Burgess STG. RNA interference for the identification of ectoparasite vaccine candidates. Parasite Immunol 2015; 36:616-26. [PMID: 25065384 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2014] [Accepted: 07/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Ectoparasites present a major challenge for disease management globally. With drug resistance increasingly observed in many disease-causing species, the need for novel control measures is pressing. Ever-expanding genomic resources from 'next generation' sequencing are now available for a number of arthropod ectoparasites, necessitating an effective means of screening these data for novel candidates for vaccine antigens or targets for chemotherapeutics. Such in vitro screening methods must be developed if we are to make discoveries in a timely and cost-effective manner. This review will discuss the potential that RNA interference (RNAi) has demonstrated thus far in the context of arthropod ectoparasites and the potential roles for this technology in the development of novel methods for parasite control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E J Marr
- Division of Vaccines and Diagnostics, Pentlands Science Park, Moredun Research Institute, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Edinburgh, UK; Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Roslin, Midlothian, UK
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Nisbet AJ, Burgess TG. Ectoparasite immunology. Parasite Immunol 2014; 36:551-2. [PMID: 25520973 DOI: 10.1111/pim.12154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
5
|
Ellis SE, Newlands GFJ, Nisbet AJ, Matthews JB. Phage-display library biopanning as a novel approach to identifying nematode vaccine antigens. Parasite Immunol 2012; 34:285-95. [PMID: 21770973 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2011.01317.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Infections with parasitic nematodes are of significant welfare and economic importance worldwide, and because of the emergence of anthelmintic resistance, this has lead to alternative methods of parasite control being required. Vaccination offers a feasible alternative control, and the majority of research has focused on the production of recombinant versions of native antigens previously identified as protective in vaccinated animals. Attempts at the production of protective recombinant subunit vaccines have been hindered, however, as these antigens have invariably failed to replicate the same level of protective immune response as seen with the native versions. It has been proposed that these failures are owing to the fact that the recombinant proteins do not contain the appropriate post-translational modifications to retain the protective capacity of the native molecules. In this review, we discuss a novel approach to vaccine antigen identification through the application of random peptide phage-display libraries and their use to identify peptide sequences that potentially mimic the structure(s) of antigenic epitopes. This area of research is still relatively novel with respect to parasites, and the current state of the art will be discussed here.
Collapse
|
6
|
Nisbet AJ, Zarlenga DS, Knox DP, Meikle LI, Wildblood LA, Matthews JB. A calcium-activated apyrase from Teladorsagia circumcincta: an excretory/secretory antigen capable of modulating host immune responses? Parasite Immunol 2011; 33:236-43. [PMID: 21208222 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2011.01278.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
A cDNA representing the gene Teladorsagia circumcincta apyrase-1 (Tci-apy-1) was isolated, by PCR, from a T. circumcincta fourth-stage larval (L4) cDNA library. The closest orthologue of this gene is a Ca(2+)-dependent apyrase from Ostertagia ostertagi, with 92% amino acid identity across all 339 residues. Tci-apy-1 is transcribed in a stage-specific manner, the transcript being predominant in L4, detectable in the adult cDNA, but absent from eggs and infective third-stage larvae (L3). The protein, Tci-APY-1, was detected by immunoblotting in extracts of L4 nematodes and was present in excretory/secretory products from the same developmental stage. A recombinant version of Tci-APY-1 was expressed in bacteria as an active enzyme that hydrolysed nucleoside triphosphate substrates with a preference of ATP over other nucleoside triphosphates. Recombinant Tci-APY-1 hydrolysed ATP and ADP but not AMP. Apyrase activity was divalent cation-dependent, with no hydrolysis in the presence of Mg(2+), but activation in the presence of Ca(2+). Recombinant Tci-APY-1 was bound by IgG present in serum and both IgG and IgA present in abomasal mucus from trickle-infected, immune sheep but not in material derived from lambs exposed to a single infection. The potential immunomodulatory roles of this Tci-APY-1 are discussed in relation to purinergic signalling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nisbet
- Parasitology Division, Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Scotland, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Nisbet AJ, Bell NEV, McNeilly TN, Knox DP, Maizels RM, Meikle LI, Wildblood LA, Matthews JB. A macrophage migration inhibitory factor-like tautomerase from Teladorsagia circumcincta (Nematoda: Strongylida). Parasite Immunol 2010; 32:503-11. [PMID: 20591121 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2010.01215.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF)-like molecule, Tci-MIF-1, was isolated from Teladorsagia circumcincta and subjected to detailed characterization. A cDNA representing Tci-mif-1 was isolated following its identification in third-stage larvae (L3)-enriched cDNA population. Sequencing of the cDNA indicated a 348-bp open reading frame (ORF) with the closest orthologue being a MIF derived from the human hookworm Ancylostoma ceylanicum. Messenger RNA (mRNA) representing the Tci-MIF-1 transcript was detected in eggs, L3 and adult stages of T. circumcincta. The transcript was also present, but to a lesser extent in fourth-stage larvae (L4). Detection of Tci-MIF-1 protein in T. circumcincta developmental stages reflected the transcript levels identified by reverse transcriptase-PCR. Using immunohistochemistry, the Tci-MIF-1 protein was shown to have a diffuse distribution in L3 tissue, and in L4 and adult stages, the protein was localized to the nematode gut. A recombinant version of Tci-MIF-1 was produced, and enzymic assays indicated that this recombinant protein and a somatic extract of L3 possessed dopachrome tautomerase activity as has been observed previously in other MIF-like molecules. Neither native, purified Tci-MIF nor recombinant Tci-MIF-1 dramatically influenced the in vitro migration of sheep monocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nisbet
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Scotland, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Cantacessi C, Campbell BE, Visser A, Geldhof P, Nolan MJ, Nisbet AJ, Matthews JB, Loukas A, Hofmann A, Otranto D, Sternberg PW, Gasser RB. A portrait of the "SCP/TAPS" proteins of eukaryotes--developing a framework for fundamental research and biotechnological outcomes. Biotechnol Adv 2009; 27:376-88. [PMID: 19239923 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2009.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2008] [Revised: 02/05/2009] [Accepted: 02/11/2009] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
A wide range of proteins belonging to the SCP/TAPS "family" has been described for various eukaryotic organisms, including plants and animals (vertebrates and invertebrates, such as helminths). Although SCP/TAPS proteins have been proposed to play key roles in a number of fundamental biological processes, such as host-pathogen interactions and defence mechanisms, there is a paucity of information on their genetic relationships, structures and functions, and there is no standardised nomenclature for these proteins. A detailed analysis of the relationships of members of the SCP/TAPS family of proteins, based on key protein signatures, could provide a foundation for investigating these areas. In this article, we review the current state of knowledge of key SCP/TAPS proteins of eukaryotes, with an emphasis on those from parasitic helminths, and undertake a comprehensive, systematic phylogenetic analysis of currently available full-length protein sequence data (considering characteristic protein signatures or motifs) to infer relationships and provide a framework (based on statistical support) for the naming of these proteins. This framework is intended to guide genomic and molecular biological explorations of key SCP/TAPS molecules associated with infectious diseases of plants and animals. In particular, fundamental investigations of these molecules in parasites and the integration of structural and functional data could lead to new and innovative approaches for the control of parasitic diseases, with important biotechnological outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Cantacessi
- Department of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Smith SK, Nisbet AJ, Meikle LI, Inglis NF, Sales J, Beynon RJ, Matthews JB. Proteomic analysis of excretory/secretory products released by Teladorsagia circumcincta larvae early post-infection. Parasite Immunol 2009; 31:10-9. [PMID: 19121079 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2008.01067.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Teladorsagia circumcincta is an important parasitic nematode of domestic small ruminants. Drug resistance in this species is common so alternative methods of control are required. As animals develop immunity to T. circumcincta, vaccination is a valid option. Little is known about the antigens that play a role in stimulating immunity at this host/parasite interface. As responses generated between 1 and 5 dpi are known to affect development of these nematodes in their gastric niche, we focused on proteins released during the early stages of infection. To identify molecules potentially involved in immunity, we undertook a proteomics analysis of proteins released from larvae harvested at 1-, 3- and 5-days post-infection (dpi). This analysis produced peptide sequence data that was used to search information available in T. circumcincta expressed sequence tag (EST) databases and enabled identification of a number of excretory/secretory (ES) proteins. Immunoblots were performed to assess the relative molecular weight of ES antigens that were targets of local IgA responses in mucus from sheep rendered immune to infection. ELISA was performed to assess antigen-specific mucus IgA levels in individual sheep. These experiments provided preliminary evidence that the proteins identified in the larval secretome were subject to these antibody responses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S K Smith
- Moredun Research Institute, Midlothian, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Campbell BE, Nisbet AJ, Mulvenna J, Loukas A, Gasser RB. Molecular and phylogenetic characterization of cytochromes c from Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus vitrinus (Nematoda: Trichostrongylida). Gene 2008; 424:121-9. [PMID: 18718861 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2008.07.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2008] [Revised: 06/11/2008] [Accepted: 07/16/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Although cytochrome c genes (cyt c) and proteins (CYT C) have been relatively well studied in mammals, very little is known about them in parasitic helminths. In the present study, we investigated this group of molecules in Haemonchus contortus (barber's pole worm) and Trichostrongylus vitrinus (black scour worm), two parasitic nematodes of small ruminants. The cyt c gene (512 bp) of H. contortus had one intron and encoded a transcript of 345 nucleotides, whilst that of T. vitrinus (792 bp) had two introns and encoded a transcript of 360 nucleotides. The transcription of cyt c in T. vitrinus was substantially greater in adult males compared with females, although no such gender-enrichment was evident in adults of H. contortus. These findings were supported at the protein level by immunoblot analyses. The inferred proteins (designated Hc-CYT C and Tv-CYT C, respectively) shared nucleotide and amino acid identities of 78% and 85%, respectively. The alignment of these and other CYT C sequences from nematodes, flatworms, insects and mammals identified conserved motifs associated with CYT C oxidase- and reductase- as well as haem-binding. One residue (histidine-26) was conserved for mammals, whereas this residue was absent from all nematodes; the functional significance of this difference is not yet known. Both phylogenetic analysis and protein modelling revealed that CYT C proteins of nematodes are structurally distinct from those of mammals and other organisms, suggesting their potential as targets for parasite intervention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B E Campbell
- Department of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Saverwyns H, Visser A, Nisbet AJ, Peelaers I, Gevaert K, Vercruysse J, Claerebout E, Geldhof P. Identification and characterization of a novel specific secreted protein family for selected members of the subfamily Ostertagiinae (Nematoda). Parasitology 2007; 135:63-70. [PMID: 17908364 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182007003666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
It has been shown that the bovine abomasal parasite, Ostertagia ostertagi, drastically modulates its microenvironment, causing epithelial cell damage, accumulation of inflammatory cells and pH changes in the stomach. The mechanisms used by the parasite to change the abomasal environment are largely unknown, but an important role has been attributed to excretory-secretory (ES) products from the parasite. In this study we have identified proteins representing a novel ES protein family, characterized by the SCP/Tpx-1/Ag5/PR-1/Sc7 protein motif. These proteins were named Oo-AL1 and Oo-AL2 (O. ostertagi ASP-like protein). Both proteins contain a signal peptide and 1 predicted N-glycosylation site. The transcript for Oo-AL1 was present from the L4 stage onwards in both male and female adult worms, whereas the Oo-AL2 transcript was hardly detectable. Western blots of somatic extracts and ES products from different developmental stages of O. ostertagi, probed with anti-Oo-AL1 antibodies, revealed Oo-AL proteins in the ES products of adult worms. An analysis of the nematode genome and EST databases indicated that these novel ES proteins are unique to O. ostertagi and its relative, Teladorsagia circumcincta, suggesting a key function in these abomasal parasites.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Saverwyns
- Laboratory for Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
McDevitt R, Nisbet AJ, Huntley JF. Ability of a proteinase inhibitor mixture to kill poultry red mite, Dermanyssus gallinae in an in vitro feeding system. Vet Parasitol 2006; 141:380-5. [PMID: 16797846 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2006.05.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2006] [Revised: 04/28/2006] [Accepted: 05/15/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The development of a reliable in vitro feeding system has enabled the rapid testing of presumptive anti-mite factors, a mixture of protease inhibitors (PI), by incorporating these into the blood feed. Mites were collected from a caged-hen facility and underwent a regime of starvation under varying conditions of temperature and darkness to determine the optimum conditions that encouraged mites to feed in the in vitro system. The efficacy of two anti-coagulants, heparin (HS) and acid citrate glucose (ACD), on mite feeding rates and mortality was evaluated. The ability of a mixture of PI to kill mites was also evaluated. The rate of feeding was greater in mites that were starved and cooled for between 7 and 30 days compared with mites that were not starved or cooled. The percentage of mites that fed when presented with HS treated blood (70%) was greater when compared with ACD treated blood (48%). The mortality of mites fed blood treated with HS + PI increased to 45% compared with a mortality level of 5% in mites fed on blood treated with HS alone. A reliable in vitro method for feeding D. gallinae which has the potential to be used to rapidly screen blood-borne products for their efficacy in reducing mite numbers has been developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R McDevitt
- Avian Science Research Centre, SAC, West Mains Road, Scotland, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Nisbet AJ, MacKellar A, McLean K, Brennan GP, Huntley JF. Eukaryotic expression of recombinant Pso o 1, an allergen fromPsoroptes ovis, and its localization in the mite. Parasitology 2006; 134:83-9. [PMID: 16978441 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182006001235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2006] [Revised: 07/17/2006] [Accepted: 07/17/2006] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
A cDNA encoding the immunogen Pso o 1 fromPsoroptes oviswas obtained by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification. The amplicon contained the entire coding sequence for the prepro-enzyme in an open reading frame (ORF) of 966 bp. This gene encoded a predicted protein of 322 amino acids (aa) with 64% aa identity (80% similarity) to the major house dust mite faecal allergen Der f 1. The pro-enzyme form of Pso o 1 was expressed as a recombinant protein in thePichia pastoris-eukaryotic expression system. Maturation of the recombinant pro-enzyme by autocatalytic activation was not observed, and such maturation could not be achieved using a number of techniques known to activate recombinant Der p 1 and Der f 1 expressed in the same system. Serum raised against recombinant Pso o 1 cross-reacted with mature Der p 1 and allowed Pso o 1 to be immunolocalized to the gut ofP. ovis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nisbet
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, EH26 0PZ, Scotland.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
Tropomyosin is an allergenic, actin-binding protein and a proposed vaccine candidate from several species of parasite. Tropomyosin cDNA, obtained by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification from Dermanyssus gallinae RNA, encoded a predicted protein with 89% and 88% identity to tropomyosins from the ticks Boophilus microplus and Haemaphysalis longicornis, respectively, and 85% identity to the house dust mite (HDM) tropomyosin Der p 10. Mouse antibodies raised against HDM tropomyosin reacted with a band of 38 kDa on Western blots of D. gallinae extract, consistent with the molecular masses of acarine tropomyosins and the putative product of the cDNA encoding D. gallinae tropomyosin. When the same preparation of D. gallinae proteins was used in Western blots with serum from infested hens, the IgY component of the serum bound to a number of mite proteins, but not to tropomyosin, indicating that hens are not directly exposed to this allergen during a natural infestation. Immunolocalization of tropomyosin in mites indicated a ubiquitous distribution of the molecule in mite tissues. Immunolocalization and Western blotting also indicated that poultry red mites ingest host IgY.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nisbet
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Nisbet AJ, MacKellar A, Wright HW, Brennan GP, Chua KY, Cheong N, Thomas JE, Huntley JF. Molecular characterization, expression and localization of tropomyosin and paramyosin immunodominant allergens from sheep scab mites (Psoroptes ovis). Parasitology 2006; 133:515-23. [PMID: 16817997 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182006000631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2006] [Revised: 05/08/2006] [Accepted: 05/08/2006] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
cDNAs encoding the immunodominant allergens tropomyosin and paramyosin were amplified from RNA extracted from the sheep scab mite Psoroptes ovis. The tropomyosin cDNA contained an open reading frame (ORF) of 852 bp which encoded a predicted protein with 98% and 97% identity to the house dust mite allergens Der f 10 and Der p 10 respectively. The complete paramyosin ORF generated by RT-PCR was 2625 bp in length and encoded an 875aa predicted protein of 102.6 kDa with 97%, 95% and 89% identity to the paramyosins of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Der p 11), Sarcoptes scabiei and Blomia tropicalis (Blo t 11) respectively. Full length tropomyosin and truncated and full-length paramyosin were expressed as recombinant proteins. IgG and IgE in sera from sheep with a 6-week duration primary infestation of P. ovis did not detect either full-length or truncated recombinant paramyosin. IgG in both infested and naïve sheep sera detected recombinant tropomyosin, suggesting cross-reactivity to tropomyosin and to other invertebrate species to which the sheep may have been exposed. Staining with antibodies directed against tropomyosin and paramyosin was observed throughout sections of P. ovis. Staining was especially prevalent in the anterior sections of the mites, possibly associated with locomotory muscles in this region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nisbet
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, EH26 0PZ, Scotland.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Nikolaou S, Hu M, Chilton NB, Hartman D, Nisbet AJ, Presidente PJA, Gasser RB. Isolation and characterization of class II myosin genes from Haemonchus contortus. Parasitol Res 2006; 99:200-3. [PMID: 16547732 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-006-0129-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2005] [Accepted: 01/16/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
In this study, cDNAs encoding myosin from the parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus were isolated and characterized. Several exhibited a considerable degree of sequence variation at the nucleotide and limited divergence at the amino acid levels within the various functional domains. The results suggest that the cDNAs isolated represented a single myosin heavy chain, which, by comparison with a number of other myosins, is inferred to represent a homologue of a muscle myosin (CeMHCA) of the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. The findings could have implications for investigating cytoskeletal dynamics and/or signalling pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Nikolaou
- Primary Industries Research Victoria, 475 Mickleham Road, Attwood, Victoria 3049, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Newlands GFJ, Skuce PJ, Nisbet AJ, Redmond DL, Smith SK, Pettit D, Smith WD. Molecular characterization of a family of metalloendopeptidases from the intestinal brush border of Haemonchus contortus. Parasitology 2006; 133:357-68. [PMID: 16740178 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182006000217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2006] [Revised: 02/27/2006] [Accepted: 02/27/2006] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Substantial protection against the economically important parasitic nematode Haemonchus contortus has been achieved by immunizing sheep with a glycoprotein fraction isolated from the intestinal membranes of the worm (H-gal-GP). Previous studies showed that one of the major components of H-gal-GP is a family of at least 4 zinc metalloendopeptidases, designated MEPs 1–4. This paper describes aspects of the molecular architecture of this protease family, including the proteomic analysis of the MEP fraction of the H-gal-GP complex. These enzymes belong to the M13 zinc metalloendopeptidase family (EC 3.4.24.11), also known as neutral endopeptidases or neprilysins. The sequences of MEPs 1 and 3 suggested a typical Type II integral membrane protein structure, whilst MEPs 2 and 4 had putative cleavable signal peptides, typical of secreted proteins. Proteomic analysis of H-gal-GP indicated that the extracellular domain of all 4 MEPs had been cleaved close to the transmembrane region/signal peptide with additional cleavage sites mid-way along the polypeptide. MEP3 was present as a homo-dimer in H-gal-GP, whereas MEP1 or MEP2 formed hetero-dimers with MEP4. It was found that expression of MEP3 was confined to developing 4th-stage larvae and to adult worms, the stages of Haemonchus which feed on blood. MEP-like activity was detected in the H-gal-GP complex over a broad pH range (5–9). Since all 4 MEPs must share a similar microenvironment in the complex, this suggests that each might have a different substrate specificity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G F J Newlands
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 OPZ, Scotland.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Nikolaou S, Hu M, Chilton NB, Hartman D, Nisbet AJ, Presidente PJA, Gasser RB. Class II myosins in nematodes — genetic relationships, fundamental and applied implications. Biotechnol Adv 2006; 24:338-50. [PMID: 16490342 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2005.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2005] [Revised: 12/02/2005] [Accepted: 12/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Myosins are represented by a wide range of different classes of molecule, of which the most extensively studied are the class II myosins which drive muscle contraction and cell organization; the functional unit of class II myosins comprises two myosin heavy chains (MHCs). This minireview gives an update on class II MHCs of nematodes and describes a comparative analysis of MHC genes from nematodes and other organismal groups. Genetic analyses of sequence data for the four functional domains of MHCs (i.e., the SH3-like N-terminal, head, neck and tail domains) reveal a delineation between both the nematode and non-nematode myosins and between muscle and non-muscle myosins. The distinctiveness of the MHCs of nematodes suggests functional and tissue specialization. The elucidation of the functional roles of myosins and other molecules in specific signaling pathways in nematodes has the potential to lead to new intervention strategies for parasites via the specific disruption or interruption of key developmental processes, having biotechnological implications in the longer term.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Nikolaou
- Department of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Nisbet AJ, Huntley JF. Progress and opportunities in the development of vaccines against mites, fleas and myiasis-causing flies of veterinary importance. Parasite Immunol 2006; 28:165-72. [PMID: 16542318 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-3024.2006.00803.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Despite the potential benefits offered by vaccination against ectoparasites, there have been few commercial successes with this strategy, in spite of sustained efforts using increasingly sophisticated techniques. This review outlines the progress and challenges offered by recent research into vaccination against some of the major ectoparasites of veterinary importance, and provides an insight into the opportunities arising from our increased understanding of the immunology of host-parasite relationships and the potential for exploitation of this knowledge and that arising from new genomic data provided by expressed sequence tag projects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nisbet
- Moredun Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Nikolaou S, Hu M, Chilton NB, Hartman D, Nisbet AJ, Presidente PJA, Gasser RB. Isolation and characterization of class II myosin genes from Haemonchus contortus. Parasitol Res 2006. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-006-0188-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
21
|
Cottee PA, Nisbet AJ, Abs El-Osta YG, Webster TL, Gasser RB. Construction of gender-enriched cDNA archives for adult Oesophagostomum dentatum by suppressive-subtractive hybridization and a microarray analysis of expressed sequence tags. Parasitology 2006; 132:691-708. [PMID: 16426483 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182005009728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2005] [Revised: 11/07/2005] [Accepted: 11/07/2005] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we constructed gender-enriched cDNA libraries for the adult stage of the parasitic nematode Oesophagostomum dentatum (order Strongylida) using suppressive-subtractive hybridization (SSH), sequenced clones from the female-library and male-library (480 from each) and conducted bioinformatic and microarray analyses of the expressed sequence tags (ESTs). In total, 873 ESTs (440 male and 433 female) were obtained, achieving a sequencing success of 91%The nucleotide sequences reported in this article (Tables 1-5) have been deposited in the EMBL, GenBank and DDJB databases under the Accession nos. AM157797-AM158083. Microarray analyses of 516 unique ESTs representing both gender-enriched libraries revealed differential hybridization for 391 of them (75.8%). Of these, 220 (56.3%) had significantly greater signal intensities in the female than in the male, and 154 (70%) of these were predicted to have homologues in C. elegans. These homologues were predicted to be involved in key biological processes, including embryonic nutrition, gametogenesis, molecular binding/transport or metabolism, nucleic acid synthesis and function, and signal transduction. Of the 171 ESTs with statistically higher signal intensities in male O. dentatum, 43.8% had homologues in C. elegans. These homologues included major sperm proteins (MSPs) or MSP-like molecules, keratin-like molecules, molecules involved in metabolism, PDZ domain-containing proteins, sugar binding proteins, protein kinases, serine proteases or protease inhibitors, molecules involved in proteolysis and other proteins, such as enzymes and various putative proteins. Of the 287 ESTs (from both gender-enriched cDNA libraries) with no known homologues in C. elegans, 50 (17.4%) had homologues in other nematodes, 8 had homologues in various other organisms and 104 (36.2%) had no homology to any sequence in current gene databases. The present study lays a foundation for the isolation and molecular, biochemical and functional characterization of selected genes from the gender-enriched cDNA archives established for O. dentatum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P A Cottee
- Department of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Huntley JF, Machell J, Nisbet AJ, Van den Broek A, Chua KY, Cheong N, Hales BJ, Thomas WR. Identification of tropomyosin, paramyosin and apolipophorin/vitellogenin as three major allergens of the sheep scab mite, Psoroptes ovis. Parasite Immunol 2005; 26:335-42. [PMID: 15679630 DOI: 10.1111/j.0141-9838.2004.00717.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Analysis by one-dimensional (1-D) SDS-PAGE/Western blotting of whole mite extract (larval and adult stages) with sheep sera taken 0-84 days after infection with the sheep scab mite, Psoroptes ovis revealed a progressive IgE antibody response, with a dominant high molecular weight allergen (MW 180 kDa) detected early during infection. Further analysis by two-dimensional (2-D) SDS-PAGE/Western blotting with post-infection sera, revealed a more complex picture with numerous (> 20) IgE reactive spots. Trypsin digest and Maldi-ToF analyses of these spots identified two house dust mite allergen homologues, namely tropomyosin (Der p 10) and paramyosin (Der p 11), and analysis of a third spot indicated an apolipoprotein-like IgE reactive protein (Der p 14). Further 1-D and 2-D SDS/Western blotting, with specific antibodies to the house dust mite allergens Der p 10, 11, and to the IgE reactive peptide of the high molecular weight house dust mite allergen, Der p 14 (vitellogenin/apolipophorin), provided firm evidence for the presence of these three allergens in extracts of the Psoroptes mite. These studies show for the first time that homologues of the house dust mite 10, 11 and 14 group allergens are represented as immunodominant allergens of the sheep scab mite, and may represent important vaccine candidates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J F Huntley
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentland Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kollien AH, Waniek PJ, Nisbet AJ, Billingsley PF, Schaub GA. Activity and sequence characterization of two cysteine proteases in the digestive tract of the reduviid bug Triatoma infestans. Insect Mol Biol 2004; 13:569-579. [PMID: 15606805 DOI: 10.1111/j.0962-1075.2004.00504.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Cathepsin B- and cathepsin L-like activities were identified in gut extracts of the blood-sucking bug Triatoma infestans using specific substrates and inhibitors. Activities decreased during the first 2 days after feeding but increased to a maximum value at 5 and 10 days post feeding. The deduced 332 and 328 amino acid sequences showed high levels of identity (50-60%) to other insect cathepsin B- and L-like proteases, respectively. The three amino acid residues of the catalytic domain, CHN, and the GCNGG motif were conserved in both cathepsins, but the occluding loop, characterizing B-like cathepsins, was present only in one. ERFNIN and GNFD motifs occurred in the other sequence, defining it as cathepsin L-like. The cathepsin B-like gene was expressed at low, constitutive levels in unfed and fed T. infestans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A H Kollien
- Department of Special Zoology, Ruhr-University, Bochum, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Cottee PA, Nisbet AJ, Boag PR, Larsen M, Gasser RB. Characterization of major sperm protein genes and their expression in Oesophagostomum dentatum (Nematoda: Strongylida). Parasitology 2004; 129:479-90. [PMID: 15521637 DOI: 10.1017/s003118200400561x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Major sperm protein (msp) genes were isolated from complementary (cDNA) and genomic DNA libraries prepared from the parasitic nematode, Oesophagostomum dentatum, characterized at the nucleotide and amino acid (aa) levels, and their expression was investigated. Three different msp cDNA and 2 genomic sequences were determined, each with an open reading frame (ORF) of 381 nucleotides. Nucleotide variation was detected at 30 positions in the ORF among all 5 sequences. Conceptual translation of the full-length msp sequences inferred 4 different MSPs each of 126 aa. These predicted MSPs differed at aa positions 15 (serine <----> threonine), 101 (alanine <----> glycine), 103 (glutamine <----> leucine) and 126 (proline <----> leucine). Southern blot analysis of O. dentatum genomic DNA, digested separately with various restriction endonucleases, displayed multiple (n = 7-13) bands for each enzyme, providing support for a multigene family. Also, at the genomic level, sequence tracts consistent with a 'substitute' TATA box sequence motif were identified within a region (-1 to -123 nt) preceding the 2 msp genes. In contrast to other species of nematode investigated to date, no GATA transcription factor binding motif was detected immediately upstream of the msp coding region. Real-time PCR analysis demonstrated that msp mRNA was expressed exclusively in the males of both fourth-stage larvae (L4s) and adults of O. dentatum (raised in pigs after intragastric inoculation). The magnitude of expression in male O. dentatum raised in pigs in the presence of female worms was the same as in males in the absence of females. Comparative analyses showed aa sequence conservation among MSPs from various nematodes, suggesting similar functional roles for these proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P A Cottee
- Department of Veterinary Science, The University of Melbourne, 250 Princes Highway, Werribee, Victoria 3030, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Hamilton KA, Nisbet AJ, Lehane MJ, Taylor MA, Billingsley PF. A physiological and biochemical model for digestion in the ectoparasitic mite, Psoroptes ovis (Acari: Psoroptidae). Int J Parasitol 2003; 33:773-85. [PMID: 12865077 DOI: 10.1016/s0020-7519(03)00089-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Mites are an important group of arthropod pests affecting crops, animals and humans. Despite this, detailed physiological studies on these organisms remain sparse due largely to their small size. Unifying models are required to draw together the diverse information from studies on different groups and species. This paper describes a model for digestion in the parasitic mite, Psoroptes ovis, the causative agent of psoroptic mange or sheep scab disease. The limited information about this species is supplemented with data from other acarines, especially house dust mites and ticks. We review the range of enzymes and allergens found in mites and consider their possible roles in digestion in mites, generally and in particular, P. ovis. Histological studies, enzyme biochemistry and molecular biology and experimental evidence suggest that P. ovis utilises a digestive system reliant upon acid peptidases functioning in a largely intracellular environment. The actions of the digestive enzymes are supplemented by the involvement of bacteria as potential direct and indirect sources of nutrition. It is possible that some extra-corporeal digestion also takes place. The interaction of bacteria and digestive enzymes on the skin surface of the sheep may be responsible for the excessive pathological reactions evident in clinical sheep scab.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K A Hamilton
- Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Ave., Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, Scotland, UK
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Abstract
Soluble and membrane-bound aminopeptidase activities were demonstrated in extracts of P. cuniculi (Delafond). Leucine aminopeptidase (LAP) activity in the soluble fraction of P. cuniculi extracts displayed substrate preference for amino acid derivatives with terminal leucine and methionine over those with acidic, basic or heterocyclic groups. P. cuniculi LAP was inhibited by leucinethiol (IC(50) = 1.4 +/- 0.4 nM), bestatin (IC(50) = 3.9 +/- 1.7 microM), Arphamenine A (IC(50) = 0.37 +/- 0.03 mM) the chelating agent 1,10-phenanthroline (IC(50) = 2.3 +/- 0.5 mM), Zn(2+), Cu(2+) Ni(2+), and Co(2+), and activated by Mn(2+) and Mg(2+). The LAP activity was visualised as a single major band after electrophoresis on native gels and eluted from a size exclusion column as a single major peak representing a molecular mass range of 85-116 kDa. Degenerate oligonucleotide primers were used to amplify short fragments of genomic DNA containing nucleotide sequence coding for the cation-binding motifs of the co-catalytic Zn(2+) binding domains of dizinc leucine aminopeptidases in both P. cuniculi and P.ovis (Hering). The major soluble aminopeptidase from these mites therefore displays most of the characteristics associated with typical cytosolic leucine aminopeptidases belonging to the M17 family of metalloproteinases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nisbet
- Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lee AJ, Machell J, Van Den Broek AHM, Nisbet AJ, Miller HRP, Isaac RE, Huntley JF. Identification of an antigen from the sheep scab mite, Psoroptes ovis, homologous with house dust mite group I allergens. Parasite Immunol 2002; 24:413-22. [PMID: 12406195 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-3024.2002.00480.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Infestation of sheep with the ectoparasitic mite Psoroptes ovis, results in a severe allergic dermatitis. Currently, little is known about the allergens/antigens that stimulate the allergic response. We have isolated an 836-bp cDNA from a P. ovis cDNA library which displays strong homology to cysteine proteases and, in particular, to the group I house dust mite allergens Der p 1, Der f 1 and Eur m 1. The cDNA was expressed in Escherchia coli, fused to a hexahistidine tag and the recombinant protein (Pso o 1) purified using a nickel-affinity column. The recombinant Pso o 1 was tested for recognition by immunoglobulin (Ig)G and IgE in serum from P. ovis naïve and P. ovis infested sheep. Using Western blots, both classes of antibody to Pso o 1 were detected in postinfestation serum. In enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, a pronounced IgG-antibody response to Pso o 1 was detected in five of five sheep 3 weeks postinfestation. The IgE-antibody response to whole mite extract was poor in four of five animals. However, a marked IgE response occurred in the fifth animal, and IgE anti Pso o 1 was detected in the serum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Lee
- School of Biology, The University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Nisbet AJ, Mordue Luntz AJ, Grossman RB, Jennens L, Ley SV, Mordue W. Characterization of azadirachtin binding to Sf9 nuclei in vitro. Arch Insect Biochem Physiol 2001; 46:78-86. [PMID: 11276064 DOI: 10.1002/arch.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
[22,23-(3)H(2)]dihydroazadirachtin was incorporated by Sf9 cells in culture and was bound specifically to the nuclear fraction. The observed association constant of the binding of the radioligand to a purified nuclear fraction was determined to be 0.037 +/- 0.008 min(-1) using a one-phase exponential association equation, and binding appeared to be to a single population of sites. The binding was essentially irreversible, and the dissociation constant was estimated to be 0.00065 +/- 0.00013 min(-1). An association rate constant of 7.3 x 10(6) M(-1) min(-1) was calculated from these data. Binding was saturable, and the receptor number and affinity were determined as B(max) = 23.87 +/- 1.15 pmol/mg protein, K(d) = 18.1 +/- 2.1 nM. The order of potency of semisynthetic azadirachtin analogues for competition for the binding site was as follows (IC(50) in parentheses): azadirachtin (1.55 x 10(-8) M) > dihydroazadirachtin (3.16 x 10(-8) M) > dansyl dihydroazadirachtin (7.40 x 10(-8) M) > DNP-azadirachtin (7.50 x 10(-8) M) > biotin dihydroazadirachtin (1.27 x 10(-7) M) >> 11-methoxy 22,23-dihydroazadirachtin (6.67 x 10(-7) M). [Originally published in Volume 34, Archives of Insect Biochemistry and Physiology, 34:461-473 (1997).]
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nisbet
- Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Ave., Aberdeen AB24 2TZ, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Extracts of ectoparasitic mites of birds (Dermanyssus gallinae), sheep (Psoroptes ovis) and plants (Tetranychus urticae) and of free-living mites (Acarus siro) contained acid and alkaline phosphatase, C4 and C8 esterases, lipase, leucine and valine aminopeptidases and a range of glycosidase activities. Dermanyssus gallinae and P. ovis, species highly adapted to an animal parasitic lifestyle, had very similar profiles and contained low activities of glycosidases. In contrast, the polyphagous species A. siro contained moderate to high activities of every glycosidase examined, whereas the phytophagous species, T. urticae, displayed high activities of only beta-galactosidase and beta-glucuronidase. All extracts hydrolysed haemoglobin with optima below pH6, and this hydrolysis was associated with an aspartic proteinase and variable cysteine proteinase activity dependent on species. Inhibitor-labelling with biotinyl-Phe-Ala-FMK revealed the presence of cysteine proteinases with molecular masses of 25-33.5kDa. Each mite species contains the enzymes necessary to complete digestion of the diet in the intracellular lysosomal compartment. The absolute and relative activities of each enzyme varied, and are discussed according to phylogeny and dietary habit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nisbet
- Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
Phosphatases, C4 and C8 esterases, leucine and valine aminopeptidases, n-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase, beta-glucosidase, beta-galactosidase and beta-glucuronidase were active in extracts of scab mites (Psoroptes spp.) raised on sheep or rabbits. Trypsin and chymotrypsin activities were not detected. Haemoglobin was hydrolysed by a detergent-soluble fraction of the mite extracts in a pH-dependent fashion with an optimum of pH 3-5. Acid proteinase activity was greater in mites raised on rabbits than in those raised on sheep. Inhibitors of cysteine, serine and metallo-proteinases failed to inhibit the hydrolysis of H-Pro-Thr-Glu-Phe-Phe(NO2)Arg-Leu-OH while pepstatin A, a specific inhibitor of aspartic proteinases, totally inhibited its hydrolysis at a concentration of 1 nM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nisbet
- Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Scotland, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Phosphatases, C4 and C8 esterases, leucine and valine aminopeptidases, N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase, beta-glucosidase, beta-galactosidase and beta-glucuronidase were detected in extracts of the parasitic mite Psoroptes cuniculi. Lipase, trypsin-like and chymotrypsin-like activities were not present. Haemoglobin was hydrolysed by a detergent-soluble fraction of the mite extracts with a maximum hydrolysis between pH 3 and 5. Acid proteinase activity was greater against haemoglobin than bovine serum albumin. Inhibitors of cysteine, serine and metallo-proteinases failed to inhibit the hydrolysis of H-Pro-Thr-Glu-Phe-Phe(NO2)-Arg-Leu-OH while pepstatin A inhibited its hydrolysis in a dose-dependent manner (IC50 8.02 x 10(-11) M (+/- 0.30 x 10(-11). Thermal inactivation of the proteolytic activity followed an exponential decay pattern. Typical K(m) and Vmax values were 7.2 x 10(-5) (+/- 0.7 x 10(-5) M-1 and 1.13 x 10(-3) (+/- 0.05 x 10(-3) OD unit-1 min-1 respectively. Acid proteinase activity eluted from a size exclusion column in a single, major peak representing a molecular weight range of 21-24.5 kDa. The major endoproteinase of P. cuniculi therefore appears to be a cathepsin D-like aspartic proteinase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Nisbet
- Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, UK.
| | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
J Mordue (Luntz) A, J Nisbet A, M Linton Y. The effects of azadirachtin on the testes of the desert locust, Schistocerca gregaria (Forskål). J Insect Physiol 1997; 43:1077-1084. [PMID: 12770479 DOI: 10.1016/s0022-1910(97)00060-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Testes removed from Schistocerca gregaria, injected with 5 or 7&mgr;g azadirachting(-1) body wt on day 0-2 of the Vth instar and killed by decapitation 20days after treatment, showed significant reductions between the widths, lengths and volumes of the treated groups, compared to control insects. Under cytological examination these testes, from insects exhibiting classical signs of azadirachtin poisoning, showed arrested spermatogenic meiosis at Metaphase I.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J Mordue (Luntz)
- Department of Zoology, University of Aberdeen, Tillydrone Avenue, Aberdeen, U.K
| | | | | |
Collapse
|