Exploring the therapeutic potential of allogeneic amniotic membrane for quality wound healing in rabbit model

BACKGROUND

The amniotic membrane (AM) has shown immense potential in repairing wounds due to its great regenerative qualities. Although the role of AM as a biological scaffold in repairing wounds has been studied well, the tissue regenerative potential of AM-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and conditioned media (CM) derived from it remains to be discovered as of now. Here, we examined the wound healing abilities of fresh and frozen thawed rabbit AM (rAM) along with the MSCs and their lyophilised CM in rabbits challenged with skin wounds.

METHODS

To elucidate the role of rAM-MSCs and its CM in repairing the wound, we isolated it from the freshly derived placenta and characterised their differentiation potential by performing an in vitro tri-lineage differentiation assay besides other standard confirmations. We compared the wound repair capacities of rAM-MSCs and lyophilised CM with the fresh and cryopreserved AM at different timelines by applying them to excision wounds created in rabbits.

RESULTS

By monitoring wound contractions and tissue histology of wounded skin at different time points after the application, we observed that rAM-MSCs and rAM-MSC-derived CM significantly promoted wound closure compared to the control group. We also observed that the wound closure capacity of rAM-MSCs and rAM-MSC-derived CM is as efficient as fresh and cryopreserved rAM.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that rAM-MSCs and rAM-MSC derived CM can be effectively used to treat skin wounds in animals and correctly delivered to the damaged tissue using AM as a bioscaffold, either fresh or frozen.

Pathomolecular epidemiology, antimicrobial resistance, and virulence genes of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis isolates from slaughtered pigs in India

AIMS

We aimed to investigate the prevalence, pathology, and characterization of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis (SDSE) in slaughtered pigs of India.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We collected 1254 morbid tissues (lungs-627 and spleen-627) and 627 heart-blood from 627 slaughtered pigs. The bacterial isolation, antibiogram, virulence gene profiling, and mouse pathogenicity testing were performed for the detection and characterization of SDSE. A total of 177 isolates (heart-blood-160 and tissues-17) were recovered from 627 slaughtered pigs with higher isolation rate in heart-blood (25.51%). The prevalence of SDSE was 11% in morbid tissues by polymerase chain reaction. Majority of isolates showed higher detection of streptolysin O, followed by streptokinase and extracellular phospholipase A virulence genes with higher degree of resistance to azithromycin, clindamycin, erythromycin, and penicillin antibiotics. Mouse pathogenicity testing confirmed virulence based on histopathological lesions and re-isolation of SDSE.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the high prevalence of SDSE in slaughtered pigs. The presence of virulence genes and mouse pathogenicity testing confirm their pathogenic potential.

Tularemia - a re-emerging disease with growing concern

Tularemia caused by Gram-negative, coccobacillus bacterium, Francisella tularensis, is a highly infectious zoonotic disease. Human cases have been reported mainly from the United States, Nordic countries like Sweden and Finland, and some European and Asian countries. Naturally, the disease occurs in several vertebrates, particularly lagomorphs. Type A (subspecies tularensis) is more virulent and causes disease mainly in North America; type B (subspecies holarctica) is widespread, while subspecies mediasiatica is present in central Asia. F. tularensis is a possible bioweapon due to its lethality, low infectious dosage, and aerosol transmission. Small mammals like rabbits, hares, and muskrats are primary sources of human infections, but true reservoir of F. tularensis is unknown. Vector-borne tularemia primarily involves ticks and mosquitoes. The bacterial subspecies involved and mode of transmission determine the clinical picture. Early signs are flu-like illnesses that may evolve into different clinical forms of tularemia that may or may not include lymphadenopathy. Ulcero-glandular and glandular forms are acquired by arthropod bite or handling of infected animals, oculo-glandular form as a result of conjunctival infection, and oro-pharyngeal form by intake of contaminated food or water. Pulmonary form appears after inhalation of bacteria. Typhoidal form may occur after infection via different routes. Human-to-human transmission has not been known. Diagnosis can be achieved by serology, bacterial culture, and molecular methods. Treatment for tularemia typically entails use of quinolones, tetracyclines, or aminoglycosides. Preventive measures are necessary to avoid infection although difficult to implement. Research is underway for the development of effective live attenuated and subunit vaccines.

Pathological and molecular identification of Mycobacterium avium infection in a loft of domestic pigeons (Columba livia var. domestica) from India

Mycobacterium avium is a zoonotic pathogen associated with a wide range of pulmonary and extrapulmonary manifestations in a range of host species like humans, animals, and birds. The disease is more common in the avian population, and opportunistic infections have been reported in immune-compromised or debilitated animals and humans. This study reports the pathological and molecular identification of Mycobacterium avium causing avian mycobacteriosis in a loft of domestic pigeons (Columba livia var. domestica). Out of 30 pigeons aged 2-3 years, ten adult racing pigeons revealed a severe chronic and debilitating disease followed by death. The clinical signs included chronic emaciation, dullness, ruffled feathers, lameness, and greenish, watery diarrhea. Post-mortem examination of birds revealed multifocal gray- to yellow-colored raised nodules in the liver parenchyma, spleen, lungs, intestines, bone marrow, and joints. Avian mycobacteriosis was suspected based on the tissue impression smears stained by Ziehl-Neelsen staining. Histopathological examination also revealed multifocal granulomatous lesions in affected organs, which is characteristic of avian mycobacteriosis. The PCR analysis based on 16S rRNA, IS1245, and IS901 regions suggested the presence of Mycobacterium avium infection belonging to either subspecies avium or sylvaticum. This is the first detailed report of avian mycobacteriosis in pigeons from India, warranting a strict surveillance program to identify the carrier status of these microorganisms in the pigeons, which may prove a fatal zoonotic infection in humans.

Revealing the structural and molecular interaction landscape of the favipiravir-RTP and SARS-CoV-2 RdRp complex through integrative bioinformatics: Insights for developing potent drugs targeting SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses

BACKGROUND

The global research community has made considerable progress in therapeutic and vaccine research during the COVID-19 pandemic. Several therapeutics have been repurposed for the treatment of COVID-19. One such compound is, favipiravir, which was approved for the treatment of influenza viruses, including drug-resistant influenza. Despite the limited information on its molecular activity, clinical trials have attempted to determine the effectiveness of favipiravir in patients with mild to moderate COVID-19. Here, we report the structural and molecular interaction landscape of the macromolecular complex of favipiravir-RTP and SARS-CoV-2 RdRp with the RNA chain.

METHODS

Integrative bioinformatics was used to reveal the structural and molecular interaction landscapes of two macromolecular complexes retrieved from RCSB PDB.

RESULTS

We analyzed the interactive residues, H-bonds, and interaction interfaces to evaluate the structural and molecular interaction landscapes of the two macromolecular complexes. We found seven and six H-bonds in the first and second interaction landscapes, respectively. The maximum bond length is 3.79 Å. In the hydrophobic interactions, five residues (Asp618, Asp760, Thr687, Asp623, and Val557) were associated with the first complex and two residues (Lys73 and Tyr217) were associated with the second complex. The mobilities, collective motion, and B-factor of the two macromolecular complexes were analyzed. Finally, we developed different models, including trees, clusters, and heat maps of antiviral molecules, to evaluate the therapeutic status of favipiravir as an antiviral drug.

CONCLUSIONS

The results revealed the structural and molecular interaction landscape of the binding mode of favipiravir with the nsp7-nsp8-nsp12-RNA SARS-CoV-2 RdRp complex. Our findings can help future researchers in understanding the mechanism underlying viral action and guide the design of nucleotide analogs that mimic favipiravir and exhibit greater potency as antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2 and other infectious viruses. Thus, our work can help in preparing for future epidemics and pandemics.

A European perspective of phylogenomics, sublineages, geographical distribution, epidemiology, and mutational landscape of mpox virus: Emergence pattern may help to fight the next public health emergency in Europe

BACKGROUND

The 2022 outbreak of the mpox virus (previously monkeypox virus, MPXV) in non-epidemic regions has created a global issue. The emergence of MPXV was first reported in Europe, which was described as the MPXV epicenter, however, no reports are available to illustrate its outbreak patterns in Europe.

METHODS

The study used numerous in silico and statistical methods to analyze hMPXV1 in European countries. Here, we used different bioinformatics servers and software to evaluate the spread of hMPXV1 in European countries. For analysis, we use various advanced servers like Nextstrain, Taxonium, MpoxSpectrum, etc. Similarly, for the statistical model, we used PAST software.

RESULTS

The phylogenetic tree was depicted to illustrate the origin and evolution of hMPXV1 using vas number of genome sequences (n = 675). We found several sublineages in Europe, indicating microevolution. The scatter plot reveals the clustering patterns of the newly developed lineages in Europe. We developed statistical models for the monthly total relative frequency counts of these sublineages. The epidemiology of MPX in Europe was examined in an attempt to capture the epidemiological pattern, total cases, and deaths. Our Study noted the highest number of cases was in Spain (7500 cases) and the second-highest in France (4114 cases). The third highest number of cases was in the UK (3730 cases), which was very similar to Germany (3677 cases). Finally, we noted the mutational landscape throughout European genomes. Significant mutations were observed at the nucleotide and protein levels. We identified several unique homoplastic mutations in Europe.

CONCLUSION

This study reveals several essential aspects of the European outbreak. It might help to eradicate the virus in Europe, assist in strategy formation to fight against the virus, and support working against the next public health emergency in Europe.

A retrospective study showing a high rate of seropositivity against SARS-CoV-2 in wild felines in India

We report a high rate of seropositivity against SARS-CoV-2 in wild felines in India. Seropositivity was determined by microneutralization and plaque reduction neutralization assays in captive Asiatic lions, leopards, and Bengal tigers. The rate of seropositivity was positively correlated with that of the incidence in humans, suggesting the occurrence of large spillover events.

Pathological and molecular studies on elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus haemorrhagic disease among captive and free-range Asian elephants in India

In the present research pathology and molecular diagnosis of elephant endotheliotropic herpes virus-haemorrhagic disease (EEHV-HD) among Asian elephants was studied. Out of 76 cases, 20 were positive for EEHV infection in PANPOL and POL1 based semi-nested PCR. Out of 20 samples, 10 samples were fatal cases of EEHV-HD while 10 were of either subclinical or latent infection. Acute onset haemorrhagic disease with EEHV-HD had anorexia, facial and neck swelling, cyanotic buccal mucosa and tongue, nasal and ocular discharge, and colic. The hallmark of gross finding in all cases were severe haemorrhagic lesions in the internal organs viz. cyanosis of tongue with multifocal petechial haemorrhages, diffuse epicardial and endocardial haemorrhages, swollen liver (rounded edges) with parenchymal haemorrhages, serosal and mucosal haemorrhages in gastrointestinal tract, congested kidneys with corticomedullary haemorrhages, highly congested meninges, and brain capillaries with haemorrhages. Microscopic findings in all the cases had severe vascular changes in the visceral organs. Microthrombi was present in the vasculature of tongue, heart, lung, liver, kidney, and brain. The endothelial lining of most of the blood vessels were swollen with apoptotic changes. Amphophilic to basophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies were observed in the endothelial cells. Immunostaining using anti-EEHV DNAPOL hyperimmune sera revealed intense positive signals in the endothelium of blood vessels and their walls. Quantification of viral load in necropsy tissue samples revealed highest in the heart (7.4 × 10⁶/μg of sample) and least in the brain (9 × 10³/μg of sample). The PCR amplicons from EEHV1 specific genes (POL1(U38) and TER were subjected to partial genome sequencing which had 99.9% similarity with the EEHV1A subtype. It was concluded that Asian elephants in India are latently infected for EEHV1 and in all the fatal EEHV-HD cases, EEHV1A subtype was the causative agent with characteristic pathomorphological changes in visceral organs.

Strategies to tackle SARS-CoV-2 Mu, a newly classified variant of interest likely to resist currently available COVID-19 vaccines

Several severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants have recently been reported in many countries. These have exacerbated the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-induced global health threats and hindered COVID-19 vaccine development and therapeutic progress. This commentary discusses the potential risk of the newly classified Mu variant of interest, seeming a highly vaccine-resistant variant, and the approaches that can be adopted to tackle this variant based on the available evidence. The SARS-CoV-2 B.1.621 (Mu variant) lineage has shown approximately ten times higher resistance to neutralizing sera obtained from COVID-19 survivors or BNT161b2-vaccinated people than the parenteral B.1 lineage. Several urgent and long-term strategic plans, including quick genomic surveillance for uncovering the genetic characteristics of the variants, equitable global mass vaccination, booster dose administration if required, and strict implementation of public health measures or non-pharmaceutical interventions, must be undertaken concertedly to restrict further infections, mutations, or recombination of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and its deadly strains.

Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in a free ranging leopard (Panthera pardus fusca) in India

We report an incidence of natural infection of SARS-CoV-2 in free-ranging Indian leopard (Panthera pardus fusca). The case was detected during routine screening. Post-mortem and laboratory examination suggested virus-induced interstitial pneumonia. Viral genome could be detected in various organs including brain, lung, spleen, and lymph nodes by real-time PCR. Whole-genome sequence analysis confirmed infection of Pango lineage B.1.617.2 of SARS-CoV-2. Till now, only Asiatic lions have been reported to be infected by SARS-CoV-2 in India. Infections in animals were detected during peak phase of pandemic and all the cases were captive with close contacts with humans, whereas the present case was observed when human cases were significantly low. No tangible evidence linked to widespread infection in the wild population and the incidence seems to be isolated case. High nucleotide sequence homology with prevailing viruses in humans suggested spillover infection to the animal. This report underlines the need for intensive screening of wild animals for keeping track of the virus evolution and development of carrier status of SARS-CoV-2 among wildlife species.

Pathomorphology, immunohistochemical, and molecular detection of an atypical porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS) due to PCV-2d-2 in naturally affected grower pigs of India

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV-2) is of great economic significance to porcine industry worldwide. PCV-2 variants and genotypes, alternating world over, are the etiological agent of several clinical syndromes such as porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS), post-weaning multi-systemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) and others in pigs. This study is reporting an atypical manifestation of PDNS in twelve grower pigs, 3- to - 4.5 months age and either sex, died of the disease, with predominant lesions of nephropathy and no obvious clinical lesions in skin. Necropsy examination of pigs showed lesions of petechial -to- ecchymotic hemorrhages in the kidneys and in the right auricular musculature of the hearts. Microscopic lesions in H & E sections of the kidneys showed acute glomerulonephritis, interstitial nephritis, and vasculitis, but the skin morphology and architecture remained unaltered in contrast to the pathognomonic lesions of PDNS described in the literature. Other syndromic associations of PDNS in these cases included-perimyocarditis, interstitial pneumonia, depleted lymphoid tissues, tonsillitis, enteritis, and meningo-encephalitis. The lesional sites in duplicate paraffin tissue sections of kidneys, heart, lungs, spleen, lymph nodes, intestine, and brain demonstrated PCV-2 antigen in the cytoplasm of cells as highlighted by the intense immunolabeling on IHC staining. The PCV-2 positive organs reconfirmed by PCR, targeting ORF2 gene, which yielded 481bp size of products. The sequencing results of 481bp products on phylogenetic analysis showed 94% similarity with that of PCV-2 sequences in the database that grouped into PCV2d-2 genotype. The present report confirms, probably for the first time, the atypical PDNS cases due to PCV2d-2 genotype in naturally affected grower pigs of India.

Detection of porcine enteric picornaviruses from faecal samples of Indian pigs

Porcine enteric picornaviruses often consequence diarrhoea and nervous complications in pig and pose enormous loss to pig farming. The present study expands the limited Indian data of porcine enteric picornaviruses which is needed for the early implementation of control measures and to check further outbreaks. A total of 398 porcine faecal samples from Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand state of India were screened for porcine teschovirus (PTV), porcine sapelovirus (PSV) and enterovirus G (EV-G) by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) using 5'UTR-specific primers. The prevalence of PTV, PSV and EV-G was found to be 12.81% (51/398), 5.77% (23/398) and 24.37% (97/398), respectively. EV-G was relatively higher in circulation in Indian pigs among all the included enteric picornaviruses. Conversely, the concurrent infection of more than one enteric picornavirus was also frequent.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s13337-022-00756-0.

Twin combination of Omicron and Delta variant triggering a Tsunami wave of ever high surges in COVID-19 cases: a challenging global threat with a special focus on Indian sub-continent

Due to the continuous emergence of multiple variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome cronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has caused severe morbidity and mortality worldwide in the last two years amidst waves of pandemic within the ongoing pandemic resulting into high global health concerns and adverse socioeconomics impacts. 1-4 Omicron, the recent highly mutated SARS-CoV-2 variant (B.1.1.529), classified as variant of concern (VoC) by WHO on 26 November 2021, is now becoming a dominant strain in several countries and a very massive surge in COVID-19 cases is being faced presently with nearly 300 million cumulative cases and 5.5 million deaths reported as of January 5, 2022 This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Comparative analysis of the immunomodulatory potential of caprine fetal adnexa derived mesenchymal stem cells

The caprine mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) derived from fetal adnexa are highly proliferative. These cells possess tri-lineage differentiation potential and express MSC surface antigens and pluripotency markers with a wound-healing potential. This present study was conducted to compare the immunomodulatory potential of caprine MSCs derived from the fetal adnexa. Mid-gestation caprine uteri (2-3 months) were collected from the abattoir to isolate MSCs from amniotic fluid (cAF), amniotic sac (cAS), Wharton's jelly (cWJ) and cord blood (cCB), which were expanded and characterized at the 3^rd passage. These MSCs were then stimulated with inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ and TNF-α) to assess the percentage of inhibition produced on peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) proliferation. The percentage of inhibition on activated PBMCs proliferation produced by cWJ MSCs and cAS MSCs was significantly higher than cCB and cAF MSCs. The relative mRNA expression profile and immunofluorescent localization of different immunomodulatory cytokines and growth factors were conducted upon stimulation. The mRNA expression profile of a set of different cytokines and growth factors in each caprine fetal adnexa MSCs were modulated. Indoleamine 2, 3 dioxygenase appeared to be the major immunomodulator in cWJ, cAF, and cCB MSCs whereas inducible nitric oxide synthase in cAS MSCs. This study suggests that caprine MSCs derived from fetal adnexa display variable immunomodulatory potential, which appears to be modulated by different molecules among sources.

Isolation and propagation of classical swine fever virus in porcine Wharton's Jelly mesenchymal stem cells

Classical Swine Fever (CSF) is an extremely infectious and deadly disease of pigs and wild boars caused by the CSF virus (CSFV) which is a member of the Pestivirus genus and the family Flaviviridae. This study was designed to detect the permissibility and replication of CSFV in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) monolayer derived from Porcine Wharton's jelly. Porcine Wharton's jelly MSCs (pWJ-MSCs) were ex vivo expanded and propagated for more than 81 generations and third passage pWJ-MSCs were characterized as per standard criteria i.e., growth characteristics, trilineage differentiation potential and molecular characterization for pluripotency and stem cell surface markers. Porcine WJ tissue samples found negative for CSFV by RT-PCR test were processed further for the isolation of pWJ-MSCs and CSFV was propagated over the characterized pWJ-MSCs monolayer. No cytopathic effect was observed, which was consistent with non-cytopathic nature of CSFV. The replication of CSFV in pWJ-MSCs was affirmed by RT-PCR and demonstration of viral antigen in the cytoplasm of virus infected cells by immuno-staining technique. In total, three different CSFV isolates were propagated in pWJ-MSCs. Primary pWJ-MSCs permitted CSFV replication to good titer. To the best of our information, this is the first ever report of isolation of CSFV in pWJ-MSCs.

Expression pattern of GLUT 1, 5, 8 and citrate synthase transcripts in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) preimplantation embryos produced in vitro and derived in vivo

In vitro-produced (IVP) embryos are reported to be developmentally lesser competent than in vivo-derived (IVD) embryos and supposed to differ in the expression of genes related with glucose metabolism. So, the present study was conducted to analyse the expression pattern of GLUT 1, 5, 8 and citrate synthase (CS) in oocytes and embryos produced in vivo or in vitro in buffalo. IVD embryos were obtained from 18 superovulated buffaloes. IVP embryos were obtained from slaughterhouse-derived oocytes subsequently subjected to in vitro fertilization and culture. Total RNA was isolated from different stages of oocytes (immature and in vitro matured) and embryos (8-16 cell to blastocysts of IVP embryos and morula to blastocysts of IVD embryos). Results demonstrated that the expression of GLUT1, GLUT 8 increased from 8 to 16 cells to blastocyst and was significantly (p < .05) higher in IVP embryos. Expression of both genes was (p < .05) higher in IVD than in IVP blastocysts; though GLUT5 transcripts were not detected at 8- to 16-cell stage IVP embryos, significantly (p < .05) higher transcripts were found at morula and blastocyst stages irrespective of embryo source with significantly (p < .05) higher expression in IVD embryos compared to IVP embryos. No significant difference was observed in citrate synthase expression in embryos at morula stage irrespective of the embryo source while significantly (p < .05) higher transcript level was observed at blastocyst stage with no difference between in vivo and in vitro embryos. It can be concluded that expression of GLUTs and CS is upregulated with progression of embryonic stage and expression is higher in in vivo embryos than in vitro counter parts; thus, it can be said that in vivo-produced embryos are metabolically superior to in vitro embryos.

Japanese encephalitis virus-induced neuropathology in mouse model infected through the conjunctival route

Background & objectives:

Mouse is a preferred animal model for studying pathogenesis of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) infections, and different routes of inoculation have been tried. Some neurotropic viruses can reach the brain following infection through ocular route. This study was undertaken to establish JEV-induced clinical disease in mouse model through conjunctival route and document the neuropathological effects.

Methods:

Ten two-week old Swiss albino mice were inoculated with 5 μl Vero cell cultured virus containing 10^4.7 TCID₅₀ JEV through conjunctival route. Clinical signs of mice were observed twice daily. After necropsy examination, different organs including eyes and olfactory bulbs were collected for histopathological examination, quantification of viral copy number and antigen by real-time TaqMan assay and immunohistochemistry, respectively.

Results:

Infected mice showed characteristic clinical signs of JE by 4 days post-infection (dpi). Histopathological lesions in brain included perivascular cuffing by mononuclear cells, focal gliosis, necrosis of neurons and neuronophagia and astrocytosis in the cerebrum, cerebellum and the brainstem. JEV viral load was highest in the brain followed by intestine, heart, liver, spleen, lung and kidney. JEV antigen was detected in the bipolar and ganglion cells of the retina and in the mitral cells and periglomerular cells of olfactory bulb and other parts of the brain.

Interpretation & conclusions:

JEV infection in mice through conjunctival route produced characteristic clinical signs of the disease and neuropathological lesions. Demonstration of JEV antigen in association with neuropathological lesions in the central nervous system and neuronal cells of the eye showed that conjunctival route could be an effective alternate route for virus invasion into the brain. These findings have biosafety implications for researchers, veterinary practitioners and pig farmers.

Mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned media: A novel alternative of stem cell therapy for quality wound healing

Mesenchymal stem cells-conditioned media (MSCs-CM) contains several growth factors and cytokines, thus may be used as a better alternative to stem cell therapy, which needs to be elucidated. The present study was conducted to evaluate the therapeutic potential of caprine, canine, and guinea pig bone marrow-derived MSCs-CM in excision wound healing in a guinea pig model. MSCs were obtained from bone marrow, expanded ex vivo and characterized as per ISCT criteria. CM was collected assayed by western blot to ascertain the presence of important secretory biomolecules. Quantitative estimation by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was done for a vascular epidermal growth factor (VEGF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in caprine MSCs-CM and optimum time for collection of CM was decided as 72 hr. CM from all the species was lyophilized by freeze-drying method. Full-thickness (2 × 2 cm² ) excision skin wounds were created in guinea pigs (six animals in each group) and respective lyophilized CM mixed with laminin gel was applied topically at weekly interval. On Day 28, histopathological examinations of healed skin were done by hemotoxylin and eosin staining. MSCs were found to secrete important growth factors and cytokines (i.e., VEGF, transforming growth factor-β1, fibroblast growth factor-2, insulin-like growth factor-1, stem cell factor, and IL-6) as demonstrated by immunohistochemistry and western blot assay. It was found that allogenic and xenogenic application of CM significantly improved quality wound healing with minimal scar formation. Thus, MSCs-CM can be used allogenically as well as xenogenically for quality wound healing.

Identification and genotypic characterization of porcine teschovirus from selected pig populations in India

Porcine teschovirus (PTV) previously classified as porcine enteroviruses in the family Picornaviridae are associated with a wide range of illnesses in swine ranging from asymptomatic infection to acute fatal encephalomyelitis, diarrhea, and pneumonia. This study was planned to investigate whether porcine teschovirus is prevalent among pigs in India and to characterize the PTV identified in the study population. The study conducted in certain farms of North India revealed that 13 of 190 (6.84%) fecal samples were PTV positive by RT-PCR. Three viruses were successfully isolated from fecal samples using IB-RS-2 cell lines which were confirmed by RT-PCR and sequencing. Molecular characterization based on the VP1 region of the viral genome identified the isolated viruses as serotype 5 and serotype 8 of PTV. A new variant of teschovirus was also identified which showed significant nucleotide diversity from the known serotypes of the teschoviruses. This is the first report of isolation, identification, and characterization of porcine teschoviruses in India.

Emerging horizon for bat borne viral zoonoses

Bats are the only flying placental mammals that constitute the second largest order of mammals and present all around the world except in Arctic, Antarctica and a few oceanic islands. Sixty percent of emerging infectious diseases originating from animals are zoonotic and more than two-thirds of them originate in wildlife. Bats were evolved as a super-mammal for harboring many of the newly identified deadly diseases without any signs and lesions. Their unique ability to fly, particular diet, roosting behavior, long life span, ability to echolocate and critical susceptibility to pathogens make them suitable host to harbor numerous zoonotic pathogens like virus, bacteria and parasite. Many factors are responsible for the emergence of bat borne zoonoses but the most precipitating factor is human intrusions. Deforestation declined the natural habitat and forced the bats and other wild life to move out of their niche. These stressed bats, having lost foraging and behavioral pattern invade in proximity of human habitation. Either directly or indirectly they transmit the viruses to humans and animals. Development of fast detection modern techniques for viruses from the diseased and environmental samples and the lessons learned in the past helped in preventing the severity during the latest outbreaks.

Immunohistochemical detection of naturally occurring porcine Sapelovirus infection in Indian pigs

We investigated immunohistochemical detection of porcine Sapelovirus (PSV) in naturally infected pigs of different ages. Forty-nine fecal samples, intestinal contents and other tissue samples from dead pigs were screened in previous study using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for PSV infection. Eight animals were positive for PSV based on RT-PCR examination. Gross lesions were recorded mainly in the large and small intestines. Microscopic examination of intestines showed severe enteritis. Tissue sections of all organs from PSV positive animals were immunostained using hyperimmune serum raised in rats against PSV that had been grown in a BHK-21 cell line. Staining of PSV was found only in the large and small intestines.

Immunocytochemistry assay in BHK-21 cell line infected with Porcine Sapelovirus

The present study describes an immunocytochemistry (ICC) assay with self-raised hyperimmune sera and a Baby Hamster Kidney-21 (BHK-21) cell line infected with Porcine Sapelovirus (PSV). Sapelovivus/IVRI/SPF-c-6/2015 strain Indian PSV was isolated from the porcine IBRS-2 cell line and investigated for growth on non-porcine cell lines. After two passages, PSV was successfully grown in BHK-21 and produced the same cytopathic effects as in IBRS-2 such as shrinking of cytoplasm, rounding of cells and detachment of cells from the surface of flask within 24 h. For raising of hyperimmune sera, PSV was grown in IBRS-2 cell line up to the required volume and purified by ultracentrifugation. With self-raised hyperimmune sera in laboratory rats, ICC was performed in BHK-21 cells infected with PSV. Positive signals consisted of large granular aggregates of virus in the cytoplasm near the nucleus, suggesting that PSV can infect cell lines other than those of porcine origin.

Development of a Taqman-based real-time PCR assay for detection of porcine sapelovirus infection in pigs

The objective of the present study was to develop a rapid, simple, specific and sensitive Taqman-based real-time PCR assay for porcine sapelovirus (PSV) detection. Specific primers and probe were designed from the five untranslated regions (UTRs) of the viral genome. The detection limit of the real-time PCR was 10² copies. The specificity of the Taqman real-time PCR assay was evaluated using other animal viruses and nuclease free water as a negative control. Strong fluorescent signals were obtained only in the detection of PSV real-time PCR and conventional RT-PCR were preformed simultaneously on 90 faecal samples. Based on conventional RT-PCR study 17.7% (16/90) of the faecal samples were positive for PSV. Whereas 21 of 90 samples (23.3%) were positive by real-time RT-PCR. The results showed that real-time PCR was more sensitive than the conventional RT-PCR assay. In conclusion, the Taqman real-time PCR assay for detection of PSV developed, herein, is sensitive, specific, and reliable. This assay will be useful for clinical diagnosis, epidemiological, and pathogenesis studies.

Pathological and molecular investigation of porcine sapelovirus infection in naturally affected Indian pigs

The aim of the present study was to pathological and molecular investigation of porcine sapelovirus (PSV) in naturally infected Indian pigs of various age groups. Eight samples (16%) out of 49 necropsied animals were positive for PSV on the basis of pathological and molecular investigation. Major lesions of PSV positive cases were thickening and clouding of meninges, congestion in brain, severe to moderate congestion in lungs along with froathy exudates in trachea, thickening of intestinal mucosa, especially mucosal folds of ileum. Microscopic lesions of PSV positive cases in CNS were perivascular cuffing, neuronophagia and focal gliosis. In lungs, interstitial pneumonia was noticed in all cases, and intestinal lesions comprised of sloughing of villi epithelium, moderate to severe congestion of blood vessels and infiltration of mononuclear cells mainly plasma cells in both large and small intestine. RT-PCR results of total cases examined for PSV were targeted for PSV 3D Polymerase, 5'UTR region and VP1 gene respectively. Genetic characterization was done on the basis of viral capsid protein 1 (VP1) gene of PSV. The sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of amplified VP1 gene product showed maximum identity 85-90% with South Korean, KJ821021.1 and Indian, KY053835.1 strain of PSV. Further explorative surveillance and epidemiological studies are suggested to find out the real impact of this economically important disease affecting pigs population of India.

Evaluation of persistence and distribution of intra-dermally administered PKH26 labelled goat bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells in cutaneous wound healing model

The current study was designed to study the persistence and distribution of caprine bone marrow derived mesenchymal stem cells (cBM-MSCs) when administered intra-dermally in experimentally induced cutaneous wounds in rabbits. MSC's from goat bone marrow were isolated and their differentiation potential towards adipogenic and osteogenic lineages were assayed in vitro. The isolated cells were phenotypically analysed using flow cytometry for the expression of MSC specific matrix receptors (CD73, CD105 and Stro-1) and absence of hematopoietic lineage markers. Further, these in vitro expanded MSCs were stained with PKH26 lipophilic cell membrane red fluorescent dye and prepared for transplantation into cutaneous wounds created on rabbits. Five, 2 cm linear full thickness skin incisions were created on either side of dorsal midline of New Zealand white rabbits (n = 4). Four wounds in each animal were implanted intra-dermally with PKH26 labelled cBM-MSCs suspended in 500 µl of Phosphate Buffer Saline (PBS). Fifth wound was injected with PBS alone and treated as negative control. The skin samples were collected from respective wounds on 3, 7, 10 and 14 days after the wound creation, and cryosections of 6 µM were made from it. Fluorescent microscopy of these cryosections showed that the PKH26 labelled transplanted cells and their daughter cells demonstrated a diffuse pattern of distribution initially and were later concentrated towards the wound edges and finally appeared to be engrafted with the newly developed skin tissues. The labelled cells were found retained in the wound bed throughout the period of 14 days of experimental study with a gradual decline in their intensity of red fluorescence probably due to the dye dilution as a result of multiple cell division. The retention of transplanted MSCs within the wound bed even after the complete wound healing suggests that in addition to their paracrine actions as already been reported, they may have direct involvement in various stages of intricate wound healing process which needs to be explored further.

A Comparative Study of Growth Kinetics, In Vitro Differentiation Potential and Molecular Characterization of Fetal Adnexa Derived Caprine Mesenchymal Stem Cells

The present study was conducted with an objective of isolation, in vitro expansion, growth kinetics, molecular characterization and in vitro differentiation of fetal adnexa derived caprine mesenchymal stem cells. Mid-gestation gravid caprine uteri (2–3 months) were collected from abattoir to derive mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from fetal adnexa {amniotic fluid (cAF), amniotic sac (cAS), Wharton’s jelly (cWJ) and cord blood (cCB)} and expanded in vitro. These cultured MSCs were used at the 3^rd passage (P3) to study growth kinetics, localization as well as molecular expression of specific surface antigens, pluripotency markers and mesenchymal tri-lineage differentiation. In comparison to cAF and cAS MSCs, cWJ and cCB MSCs showed significantly (P<0.05) higher clonogenic potency, faster growth rate and low population doubling (PDT) time. All the four types of MSCs were positive for alkaline phosphatase (AP) and differentiated into chondrogenic, osteogenic, and adipogenic lineages. These stem cells expressed MSC surface antigens (CD73, CD90 and CD105) and pluripotency markers (Oct4, Sox2, Nanog, KLF, cMyc, FoxD3) but did not express CD34, a hematopoietic stem cell marker (HSC) as confirmed by RT-PCR, immunocytochemistry and flow cytometric analysis. The relative mRNA expression of MSC surface antigens (CD73, CD90 and CD105) was significantly (P<0.05) higher in cWJ MSCs compared to the other cell lines. The mRNA expression of Oct4 was significantly (P<0.05) higher in cWJ, whereas mRNA expression of KLF and cMyc was significantly (P<0.05) higher in cWJ and cAF than that of cAS and cCB. The comparative assessment revealed that cWJ MSCs outperformed MSCs from other sources of fetal adnexa in terms of growth kinetics, relative mRNA expression of surface antigens, pluripotency markers and tri-lineage differentiation potential, hence, these MSCs could be used as a preferred source for regenerative medicine.

Impact of gonadotropin supplementation on the expression of germ cell marker genes (MATER, ZAR1, GDF9, and BMP15) during in vitro maturation of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) oocyte

The present study was designed to investigate whether gonadotropins [follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH)] and buffalo follicular fluid (bFF) supplementation in maturation medium influences the transcript abundance of germ cell marker genes [maternal antigen that embryos require (MATER), Zygote arrest 1 (ZAR1), growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15)] mRNA in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) oocytes. Buffalo ovaries were collected from local abattoir, oocytes were aspirated from antral follicles (5-8 mm) and matured in vitro using two different maturation regimens, viz, group A: gonadotropin (FSH and LH) and group B: non-gonadotropin-supplemented maturation medium containing 20% buffalo follicular fluid (bFF). mRNA was isolated from immature (330) and in vitro matured oocytes from both the groups (A, 320; B, 340), and reverse transcribed using Moloney murine leukemia virus reverse transcriptase. Expression levels of MATER, ZAR1, GDF9, and BMP15 mRNA transcripts were analyzed in oocytes of both maturation groups as well as immature oocytes using real-time PCR. QPCR results showed that GDF9 and BMP15 transcripts were significantly (p<0.05) influenced with gonadotropins and bFF supplementation during in vitro maturation of buffalo oocyte; however, MATER and ZAR1 transcripts were not influenced with gonadotropins and bFF supplementation in vitro. These results indicated that the expression levels of MATER, ZAR1, GDF9, and BMP15 mRNA were varied differentially during in vitro maturation of buffalo oocyte and were found to be gonadotropins (FSH and LH) or bFF dependent for GDF9 and BMP15.

Molecular and cellular characterization of buffalo bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Immune privileged mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can differentiate into multiple cell types and possess great potential for human and veterinary regenerative therapies. This study was designed with an objective to isolate, expand and characterize buffalo bone marrow-derived MSCs (BM-MSCs) at molecular and cellular level. Buffalo BM-MSCs were isolated by Ficoll density gradient method and cultured in Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium supplemented with fetal bovine serum (FBS). These cells were characterized through alkaline phosphatase (AP) staining, colony-forming unit (CFU) assay, mRNA expression analysis (CD 73, CD 90, CD 105, Oct4 and Nanog), immunolocalization along with flow cytometry (Stro 1, CD 73, CD 105, Oct4, Sox2 and Nanog) and in situ hybridization (Oct4 and Sox2). Multilineage differentiation (osteogenic, adipogenic and chondrogenic) was induced in vitro, which was further assessed by specific staining. Buffalo BM-MSCs have the capacity to form plastic adherent clusters of fibroblast-like cells and were successfully maintained up to 16(th) passage. These cells were AP positive, and further CFU assay confirmed their clonogenic property. RT-PCR analysis and protein localization study showed that buffalo BM-MSCs are positive for various cell surface markers and pluripotency markers. Cytoplasmic distribution of mRNA for pluripotency markers in buffalo BM-MSCs and multilineage differentiation were induced in vitro, which was further assessed by specific staining. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of buffalo BM-MSCs, which suggests that MSCs can be derived and expanded from buffalo bone marrow and can be used after characterization as a novel agent for regenerative therapy.

Expression and characterization of constitutive heat shock protein 70.1 (HSPA-1A) gene in in vitro produced and in vivo-derived buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) embryos

Cells are blessed with a group of stress protector molecules known as heat shock proteins (HSPs), amongst them HSP70, encoded by HSPA-1A gene, is most abundant and highly conserved protein. Variety of stresses hampers the developmental competence of embryos under in vivo and in vitro conditions. Present work was designed to study the quantitative expression of HSPA-1A mRNA in immature oocytes (IMO), matured oocytes (MO), in vitro produced (IVP) and in vivo-derived (IVD) buffalo embryos to assess the level of stress to which embryos are exposed under in vivo and in vitro culture conditions. Further, HSPA-1A gene sequence was analysed to determine its homology with other mammalian sequences. The mRNA expression analysis was carried out on 72 oocytes (40 IMO; 32 MO), 76 IVP and 55 IVD buffalo embryos. Expression of HSPA-1A was found in oocytes and throughout the developmental stages of embryos examined irrespective of the embryo source; however, higher (p < 0.05) expression was observed in 8-16 cell, morula and blastocyst stages of IVP embryos as compared to IVD embryos. Phylogenetic analysis of bubaline HSPA-1A revealed that it shares 91-98% identity with other mammalian sequences. It can be concluded that higher level of HSPA-1A mRNA in IVP embryos in comparison with in vivo-derived embryos is an indicator of cellular stress in IVP system. This study suggests need for further optimization of in vitro culture system in which HSPA-1A gene could be used as a stress biomarker during pre-implantation development.

Expression of nitric oxide synthase isoforms in different stages of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) ovarian follicles: effect of nitric oxide on in vitro development of preantral follicle

The present study was designed to investigate the expression of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms in buffalo ovarian preantral (PFs), antral (AFs) and ovulatory (OFs) follicles (Experiment 1); effect of NO on in vitro survival and growth of PFs (Experiment 2) and NOS activity in immature oocytes by NADPH-diaphorase test (Experiment 3). In Experiment 1, NOS isoforms (neuronal, inducible and endothelial) were localized immunohistochemically; mRNA and protein expression was analyzed by semi-quantitative RT-PCR and western blot, respectively. In Experiment 2, PFs were isolated by micro-dissection method from buffalo ovaries and cultured in 0 (control), 10(-3), 10(-5), 10(-7) and 10(-9) M sodium nitroprusside (SNP). PFs were further cultured with 10(-5) M SNP + 1.0 mM N(ω)-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) or 1.0 μg/ml hemoglobin (Hb) to examine the reversible effect of SNP. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated that inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) immunoreactivity was predominantly localized in granulosa and theca cells whereas, neuronal (nNOS) and endothelial (eNOS) nitric oxide synthase in the theca, granulosa and cumulus cells of PFs, AFs and OFs. The amount of mRNA as well as protein of nNOS and eNOS was found similar between different stages of follicles. In contrast, higher level of iNOS mRNA was observed in OFs and protein in the AFs. Higher doses of SNP (10(-3), 10(-5), 10(-7) M) inhibited (P < 0.05) while, lower dose of SNP (10(-9) M) stimulated (P < 0.05) the survival, growth, and antrum formation of PFs. The inhibitory effects of SNP were reversed by Hb, while L-NAME was not found effective. In conclusion, expression of NOS isoforms mRNA and protein in PFs, AFs, and OFs and NOS enzyme activity in immature follicular oocytes suggest a role for NO during ovarian folliculogenesis in buffalo. NO plays a dual role on growth and survival of PFs depending on its concentration in the culture medium.

Virus load in pigs affected with different clinical forms of classical swine fever

Classical swine fever (CSF) is an endemic disease in India, but the real magnitude of the problem is not known as only outbreaks of acute CSF are reported and many cases of chronic and clinically inapparent forms of the disease, which manifest a confusing clinical picture, remain undiagnosed. The real status of classical swine fever virus (CSFV) infection can only be known by testing pigs with highly specific and sensitive diagnostic assays. To obtain the baseline prevalence of CSFV infection among pigs in an endemic region where no vaccination was being performed, a real-time PCR assay was used to detect viral genetic material in tissue samples collected from a slaughterhouse in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh in India. In total, 1120 slaughtered pigs were examined for the presence of CSF suggestive pathological lesions and tissues from suspected cases were tested for the presence of CSFV antigen and nucleic acids by indirect immuno-peroxidase test and real-time PCR, respectively. Based on the detection of viral genetic material in the tonsils, the prevalence of CSFV infection among slaughtered pigs was found to be 7.67%. Pigs detected positive for viral genome by quantitative real-time PCR assay when categorized into different forms of CSF, depending upon the pathological lesions observed, the viral load in the tonsils of some of the pigs with chronic or clinically inapparent form of the disease was similar to that detected in pigs with acute CSF. The results of the study suggested that the risk posed by pigs with chronic disease or those infected but showing no clinical disease may be relatively higher as they can transmit the virus to new susceptible hosts over a longer period of time.

Influenza A H1N1 virus in Indian pigs & its genetic relatedness with pandemic human influenza A 2009 H1N1

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

With the emergence of a new reassortant influenza A H1N1 virus that caused the 2009 pandemic it was felt necessary that pigs should be closely monitored for early detection of any influenza virus infection. Therefore, we investigated disease outbreaks with clinical history suggestive for swine influenza reported to our laboratory by owners of affected pig farms in Uttar Pradesh.

METHODS

Detection of swine influenza A virus (SIV) was attempted by isolation in embryonated chicken eggs. Presence of virus was detected by haemagglutination (HA) test and RT-PCR for amplification of different gene segments, cloning and sequencing. BLAST analysis of sequence data, phylogenetic analysis and mutation analysis based on HA, NA and matrix genes was done.

RESULTS

SIV could be isolated from one farm and all eight gene segments amplified by RT-PCR. BLAST analysis of partial nucleotide sequences and phylogenetic analysis using nucleotide sequence of HA (601 nt), NA (671 nt) and M (1031 nt) genes indicated close genetic relationship of the Indian swine isolate (A/Sw/UP-India-IVRI01/2009) with human pandemic 2009 (H1N1). The HA gene showed close relationship with the viruses of "North American Swine" lineage, whereas the NA and M genes clustered with the viruses of "Eurasian Swine" lineage, indicating a novel HA-NA reassortant. The remaining of 5 genes (NP, PA, PB1, PB2 and NS) belonged to "North American Swine" lineage.

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSIONS

This is perhaps the first report describing swine influenza among Indian pigs caused by an influenza A H1N1 virus sharing close homology with the human pandemic (H1N1) 2009 virus. Further reassortment with circulating influenza viruses must be closely monitored.