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Balaga KB, Pavon RDN, Calayag AMB, Justo CAC, Adao DEV, Rivera WL. Development of a closed-tube, calcein-based loop-mediated isothermal amplification assay to detect Salmonella spp. in raw meat samples. J Microbiol Methods 2024; 220:106922. [PMID: 38513919 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2024.106922] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Foodborne pathogens compromise food safety and public health, and Salmonella spp. are among the major pathogenic bacteria that cause outbreaks worldwide. Proper surveillance through timely and cost-effective detection methods across the food animal production chain is crucial to prevent Salmonella outbreaks and agricultural losses. Traditional culture methods are labor- and resource-intensive, with lengthy turnaround times. Meanwhile, conventional molecular tools, such as PCR and qPCR, are expensive and require technical skills and equipment. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a simple, rapid, inexpensive, highly sensitive, and specific molecular assay that does not require expensive equipment. Hence, this study developed and optimized a closed-tube, calcein-based LAMP assay to detect Salmonella using the invA gene and performed evaluation and validation against conventional PCR. The LAMP assay showed high specificity and sensitivity. It showed 10-fold higher sensitivity than conventional PCR, at <1 ng/μL DNA concentrations. Meanwhile, for CFU/mL, LAMP assay showed 1000-fold higher sensitivity than conventional PCR at 4.8 × 103 cells/mL than 4.8 × 107 cells/mL, respectively. For parallel testing of 341 raw meat samples, after conventional culture enrichment (until Rappaport-Vassiliadis broth), the optimized LAMP assay showed 100% detection on all samples while conventional PCR showed 100%, 99.04%, and 96.64% for raw chicken, beef, and pork samples, respectively. Meanwhile, a shortened enrichment protocol involving 3-h incubation in buffered peptone water only, showed lower accuracy in tandem with the optimized LAMP assay ranging from 55 to 75% positivity rates among samples. These suggest that the optimized LAMP assay possesses higher sensitivity over conventional PCR for invA gene detection when coupled with conventional enrichment culture methods. Hence, this assay has potential as a powerful complementary or alternative Salmonella detection method to increase surveillance capacity and protect consumer food safety and public health worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khristine B Balaga
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Rance Derrick N Pavon
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Alyzza Marie B Calayag
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Christine Aubrey C Justo
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Davin Edric V Adao
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.
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Vejano MRA, dela Peña LBRO, Rivera WL. Source tracking of fecal contamination in Asian green mussels ( Perna viridis) harvested in Manila Bay, Philippines by molecular detection and genotyping of Cryptosporidium spp. J Parasit Dis 2024; 48:5-13. [PMID: 38440756 PMCID: PMC10908986 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-023-01634-2] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Manila Bay, a multipurpose body of water located around Metro Manila, Philippines, is progressively deteriorating because of massive pollution. Reports have shown that the bay and its aquatic resources (i.e., seafood) are contaminated with fecal matter and enteric pathogens, posing a threat to public health and industry. This problem raises the need for a microbial source tracking methodology as a part of the rehabilitation efforts in the bay. Bivalve mollusks cultivated in water can serve as sentinel species to detect fecal pollution and can complement water monitoring. With the use of polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequence analysis, this study detected Cryptosporidium spp. in Asian green mussels (Perna viridis) cultivated and harvested in Manila Bay and sold in Bulungan Seafood Market, Parañaque, Philippines, from 2019 to 2021 with an overall occurrence of 8.77% (n = 57). The analysis of the 18S rDNA segment revealed three genotypes from Cryptosporidium-positive samples, namely, Cryptosporidium sp. rat genotype IV (60%), C. galli (20%), and C. meleagridis (20%). These findings suggest fecal pollution in bivalve cultivation sites coming from sewage, nonpoint, and agricultural sources. The presence of C. meleagridis, the third most common cause of human cryptosporidiosis, in mussels poses a threat to human health. Thus, there is a need to establish routine detection and source tracking of Cryptosporidium spp. in Manila Bay and to educate seafood consumers on food safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Raymond A. Vejano
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Laurice Beatrice Raphaelle O. dela Peña
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
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Mora JFB, Meclat VYB, Calayag AMB, Campino S, Hafalla JCR, Hibberd ML, Phelan JE, Clark TG, Rivera WL. Genomic analysis of Salmonella enterica from Metropolitan Manila abattoirs and markets reveals insights into circulating virulence and antimicrobial resistance genotypes. Front Microbiol 2024; 14:1304283. [PMID: 38312499 PMCID: PMC10835624 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1304283] [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] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
The integration of next-generation sequencing into the identification and characterization of resistant and virulent strains as well as the routine surveillance of foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella enterica have not yet been accomplished in the Philippines. This study investigated the antimicrobial profiles, virulence, and susceptibility of the 105 S. enterica isolates from swine and chicken samples obtained from slaughterhouses and public wet markets in Metropolitan Manila using whole-genome sequence analysis. Four predominant serovars were identified in genotypic serotyping, namely, Infantis (26.7%), Anatum (19.1%), Rissen (18.1%), and London (13.3%). Phenotypic antimicrobial resistance (AMR) profiling revealed that 65% of the isolates were resistant to at least one antibiotic, 37% were multidrug resistant (MDR), and 57% were extended-spectrum β-lactamase producers. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that isolates had resistance genes and plasmids belonging to the Col and Inc plasmid families that confer resistance against tetracycline (64%), sulfonamide (56%), and streptomycin (56%). Further analyses revealed the presence of 155 virulence genes, 42 of which were serovar-specific. The virulence genes primarily code for host immune system modulators, iron acquisition enzyme complexes, host cell invasion proteins, as well as proteins that allow intracellular and intramacrophage survival. This study showed that virulent MDR S. enterica and several phenotypic and genotypic AMR patterns were present in the food chain. It serves as a foundation to understand the current AMR status in the Philippines food chain and to prompt the creation of preventative measures and efficient treatments against foodborne pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonah Feliza B Mora
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Vanessa Yvonne B Meclat
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Alyzza Marie B Calayag
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Susana Campino
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Julius C R Hafalla
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin L Hibberd
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jody E Phelan
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Taane G Clark
- Department of Infection Biology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
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Yu Y, Li YP, Ren K, Hao X, Fru EC, Rønn R, Rivera WL, Becker K, Feng R, Yang J, Rensing C. A brief history of metal recruitment in protozoan predation. Trends Microbiol 2023:S0966-842X(23)00326-8. [PMID: 38103995 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2023.11.008] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Metals and metalloids are used as weapons for predatory feeding by unicellular eukaryotes on prokaryotes. This review emphasizes the role of metal(loid) bioavailability over the course of Earth's history, coupled with eukaryogenesis and the evolution of the mitochondrion to trace the emergence and use of the metal(loid) prey-killing phagosome as a feeding strategy. Members of the genera Acanthamoeba and Dictyostelium use metals such as zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu), and possibly metalloids, to kill their bacterial prey after phagocytosis. We provide a potential timeline on when these capacities first evolved and how they correlate with perceived changes in metal(loid) bioavailability through Earth's history. The origin of phagotrophic eukaryotes must have postdated the Great Oxidation Event (GOE) in agreement with redox-dependent modification of metal(loid) bioavailability for phagotrophic poisoning. However, this predatory mechanism is predicted to have evolved much later - closer to the origin of the multicellular metazoans and the evolutionary development of the immune systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanshuang Yu
- Institute of Environmental Microbiology, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China
| | - Yuan-Ping Li
- Institute of Environmental Microbiology, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China
| | - Kexin Ren
- Aquatic EcoHealth Group, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Xiuli Hao
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Ernest Chi Fru
- Centre for Geobiology and Geochemistry, School of Earth and Ocean Sciences, Cardiff University, CF10 3AT Cardiff, UK
| | - Regin Rønn
- Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Karsten Becker
- Friedrich Loeffler-Institute for Medical Microbiology, University Medicine Greifswald, D-17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Renwei Feng
- Institute of Environmental Microbiology, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China
| | - Jun Yang
- Aquatic EcoHealth Group, Fujian Key Laboratory of Watershed Ecology, Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China.
| | - Christopher Rensing
- Institute of Environmental Microbiology, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, Fujian 350002, China.
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Mamawal DRD, Calayo JDV, Gandola KP, Nacario MAG, Vejano MRA, Dela Peña LBRO, Rivera WL. Genotypic detection of β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli isolates obtained from Seven Crater Lakes of San Pablo, Laguna, Philippines. J Water Health 2023; 21:1518-1529. [PMID: 37902206 PMCID: wh_2023_157 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2023.157] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
The extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli is becoming a global public health concern. More comprehensive surveillance of β-lactam resistance in E. coli would improve monitoring strategies and control resistance transmission in contaminated environments. This study investigated the prevalence of β-lactamase genes in E. coli isolated from the Seven Crater Lakes in San Pablo, Laguna, Philippines. Water samples from lakes were collected for the isolation of E. coli (n = 846) and molecular characterization by detecting the presence of the uidA gene. The isolates were then tested for the presence of β-lactamase genes using PCR. Among the screened genes, blaAmpC was the most dominant (91%). Other β-lactamase genes such as blaTEM, blaSHV, and blaCTXM were also detected with percentage occurrence of 34, 5, and 1%, respectively. Multiple genes within individual isolates were also observed, wherein blaTEM/AmpC was the most prevalent gene combination. Moreover, a significant negative correlation between blaAmpC with blaSHV and blaCTXM was depicted in this study. Overall, these findings demonstrate the presence of β-lactamase genes in E. coli in the Seven Crater Lakes of San Pablo and can be used in developing effective strategies to control antibiotic resistance in environmental waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Rose D Mamawal
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines E-mail:
| | - Jonah David V Calayo
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Kherson P Gandola
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Mae Ashley G Nacario
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Mark Raymond A Vejano
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Laurice Beatrice Raphaelle O Dela Peña
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
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Tongco AMP, Rivera WL. Design of a multi-epitope subunit vaccine candidate for chikungunya virus using computational methodology. Trop Biomed 2023; 40:129-137. [PMID: 37650398 DOI: 10.47665/tb.40.2.002] [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] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a neglected tropical pathogen that causes fever and long-lasting severe arthralgia. Despite its high morbidity, there is still no licensed specific therapeutic option for it. This study proposes a multi-epitope subunit vaccine candidate for CHIKV, designed using computational methods. It was based on the E2 spike glycoprotein in CHIKV, from which T- and B-cell epitopes were predicted and then refined. The pan HLA DR-binding epitope (PADRE) was added to this refined construct, then simulated compared with the native protein, where it was predicted to elicit more than twice the number of antibody titers. Thus, this construct is potentially effective against CHIKV, which further experimentation using live models would be able to verify. This study also demonstrates the feasibility of using rational tools in the future to further optimize vaccine design.
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Affiliation(s)
- A M P Tongco
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - W L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
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Malajacan GT, Nacario MAG, Obusan MCM, Rivera WL. Host-Associated Bacteroides 16S rDNA-Based Markers for Source Tracking of Fecal Pollution in Laguna Lake, Philippines. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1142. [PMID: 37317116 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11051142] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Sources of fecal contamination in Laguna Lake, Philippines, were identified using a library-independent microbial source tracking method targeting host-associated Bacteroides 16S rDNA-based markers. Water samples from nine lake stations were assessed for the presence of the fecal markers HF183 (human), BoBac (cattle), Pig-2-Bac (swine), and DuckBac (duck) from August 2019 to January 2020. HF183 (average concentration = 1.91 log10 copies/mL) was the most frequently detected, while Pig-2-Bac (average concentration = 2.47 log10 copies/mL) was the most abundant. The detected marker concentrations in different stations corresponded to the land use patterns around the lake. Generally, all marker concentrations were higher during the wet season (August-October), suggesting the effect of rainfall-associated factors on the movement and retention of markers from sources. There was a significant association (ρ = 0.45; p < 0.001) between phosphate and the concentration of HF183, suggesting domestic sewage-derived pollution. The markers had acceptable sensitivity and specificity, i.e., HF183 (S = 0.88; R = 0.99), Pig-2-Bac (S = 1.00; R = 1.00), and DuckBac (S = 0.94; R = 1.00), and therefore may be used for the continuous monitoring of fecal pollution in the lake and in designing interventions to improve the quality of the lake water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gicelle T Malajacan
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Mae Ashley G Nacario
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Marie Christine M Obusan
- Microbial Ecology of Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
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Li HP, Han QQ, Liu QM, Gan YN, Rensing C, Rivera WL, Zhao Q, Zhang JL. Roles of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria in mediating soil legacy phosphorus availability. Microbiol Res 2023; 272:127375. [PMID: 37058784 DOI: 10.1016/j.micres.2023.127375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 09/15/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Phosphorus (P), an essential macronutrient for all life on Earth, has been shown to be a vital limiting nutrient element for plant growth and yield. P deficiency is a common phenomenon in terrestrial ecosystems across the world. Chemical phosphate fertilizer has traditionally been employed to solve the problem of P deficiency in agricultural production, but its application has been limited by the non-renewability of raw materials and the adverse influence on the ecological health of the environment. Therefore, it is imperative to develop efficient, economical, environmentally friendly and highly stable alternative strategies to meet the plant P demand. Phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) are able to improve plant productivity by increasing P nutrition. Pathways to fully and effectively use PSB to mobilize unavailable forms of soil P for plants has become a hot research topic in the fields of plant nutrition and ecology. Here, the biogeochemical P cycling in soil systems are summarized, how to make full use of soil legacy P via PSB to alleviate the global P resource shortage are reviewed. We highlight the advances in multi-omics technologies that are helpful for exploring the dynamics of nutrient turnover and the genetic potential of PSB-centered microbial communities. Furthermore, the multiple roles of PSB inoculants in sustainable agricultural practices are analyzed. Finally, we project that new ideas and techniques will be continuously infused into fundamental and applied research to achieve a more integrated understanding of the interactive mechanisms of PSB and rhizosphere microbiota/plant to maximize the efficacy of PSB as P activators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Ping Li
- Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Center for Grassland Microbiome, State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Qing-Qing Han
- Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Center for Grassland Microbiome, State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Qiong-Mei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Center for Grassland Microbiome, State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ya-Nan Gan
- Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Center for Grassland Microbiome, State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Christopher Rensing
- Institute of Environmental Microbiology, College of Resource and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, The Philippines
| | - Qi Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Center for Grassland Microbiome, State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| | - Jin-Lin Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Grassland Livestock Industry Innovation, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Center for Grassland Microbiome, State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
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Meclat VYB, Ancheta KSB, Adao DEV, Rivera WL. Phylogenetic relationship of nonmammalian and avian Blastocystis isolates and conventional subtypes. J Parasit Dis 2023; 47:192-197. [PMID: 36910318 PMCID: PMC9998794 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-022-01554-7] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis is an intestinal protist commonly identified in human and animal feces. At present, there are 28 proposed subtypes (STs) identified based on the small subunit rRNA gene, 13 of which are found in both humans and animals. In general, nonmammalian and avian groups are infected by the nonmammalian and avian subtypes (NMASTs). However, NMASTs were also isolated from mammalian hosts, suggesting possible cross-contamination and transmission from nonmammalian and avian hosts to other animals and, potentially, humans. Thus, this study determined the possible relationship between NMAST sequences and conventional STs to provide new insights into Blastocystis classification, identification, and epidemiological significance. Phylogenetic trees were constructed using three statistical models, namely, Maximum Likelihood, Neighbor Joining, and Maximum Parsimony, based on the 30 NMAST sequences. The NMAST sequences formed groups clustered closely with other NMAST subtrees. Most sequences of nonmammalian and avian isolates formed distinct monophyletic clades based on their NMAST classification, with some clustering with mammalian and avian STs. These results indicate the close relationship between Blastocystis isolated from mammalian and avian hosts and nonmammalian and avian hosts. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at (10.1007/s12639-022-01554-7).
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Yvonne B. Meclat
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Keith Sigfred B. Ancheta
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Davin Edric V. Adao
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
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Pavon RDN, Mendoza PDG, Flores CAR, Calayag AMB, Rivera WL. Genotypic virulence profiles and associations in Salmonella isolated from meat samples in wet markets and abattoirs of Metro Manila, Philippines. BMC Microbiol 2022; 22:292. [PMID: 36474155 PMCID: PMC9724337 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-022-02697-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Salmonella are pathogenic foodborne bacteria with complex pathogenicity from numerous virulence genes housed in Salmonella pathogenicity islands (SPIs), plasmids, and other gene cassettes. However, Salmonella virulence gene distributions and mechanisms remain unestablished. In the Philippines, studies mainly report Salmonella incidences and antimicrobial resistance, but little to none on virulence profiles, their associations to animal sources, collection sites and Salmonella serogroups. Hence, a total of 799 Salmonella isolates, previously obtained from pig, cow, and chicken meat samples in wet markets and abattoirs (wet markets: 124 chicken, 151 cow, and 352 pig meat isolates; abattoirs: 172 pig tonsil and jejunum isolates) in Metro Manila, Philippines, were revived and confirmed as Salmonella through invA gene polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Isolates were then screened for eight virulence genes, namely avrA, hilA, sseC, mgtC, spi4R, pipB, spvC and spvR, by optimized multiplex PCR and significant pair associations between virulence genes were determined through Fisher's exact test. Gene frequency patterns were also determined. Salmonella serogroups in addition to animal sources and location types were also used to predict virulence genes prevalence using binary logistic regression. RESULTS High frequencies (64 to 98%) of SPI virulence genes were detected among 799 Salmonella isolates namely mgtC, pipB, avrA, hilA, spi4R and sseC, from most to least. However, only one isolate was positive for plasmid-borne virulence genes, spvC and spvR. Diversity in virulence genes across Salmonella serogroups for 587 Salmonella isolates (O:3 = 250, O:4 = 133, O:6,7 = 99, O:8 = 93, O:9 = 12) was also demonstrated through statistical predictions, particularly for avrA, hilA, sseC, and mgtC. mgtC, the most frequent virulence gene, was predicted by serogroup O:9, while sseC, the least frequent, was predicted by serogroup O:4 and chicken animal source. The highest virulence gene pattern involved SPIs 1-5 genes which suggests the wide distribution and high pathogenic potential of Salmonella. Statistical analyses showed five virulence gene pair associations, namely avrA and hilA, avrA and spi4R, hilA and spi4R, sseC and spi4R, and mgtC and pipB. The animal sources predicted the presence of virulence genes, sseC and pipB, whereas location type for hilA and spi4R, suggesting that these factors may contribute to the type and pathogenicity of Salmonella present. CONCLUSION The high prevalence of virulence genes among Salmonella in the study suggests the high pathogenic potential of Salmonella from abattoirs and wet markets of Metro Manila, Philippines which poses food safety and public health concerns and threatens the Philippine food animal industry. Statistical associations between virulence genes and prediction analyses across Salmonella serogroups and external factors such as animal source and location type and presence of virulence genes suggest the diversity of Salmonella virulence and illustrate determining factors to Salmonella pathogenicity. This study recommends relevant agencies in the Philippines to improve standards in food animal industries and increase efforts in monitoring of foodborne pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rance Derrick N. Pavon
- grid.11134.360000 0004 0636 6193Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Philippines
| | - Paolo D. G. Mendoza
- grid.11134.360000 0004 0636 6193Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Philippines
| | - Camille Andrea R. Flores
- grid.11134.360000 0004 0636 6193Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Philippines
| | - Alyzza Marie B. Calayag
- grid.11134.360000 0004 0636 6193Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- grid.11134.360000 0004 0636 6193Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Philippines
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11
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Nacario MAG, Dela Pena LBRO, Labrador KL, Rivera WL. DNA fingerprinting using BOX-A1R and (GTG) 5 primers identify spatial variations of fecal contamination along Pasig River, Philippines. Environ Monit Assess 2022; 194:868. [PMID: 36221015 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-10504-y] [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: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Pasig River is one of the most economically important rivers in Metro Manila, Philippines. It traverses some of the region's major cities, and because of its strategic location, it is utilized as a means of transportation, as a source of water for domestic and industrial uses, and for recreational purposes. However, due to population growth, industrialization, and land use, the river's water quality is deteriorating. Wastes that pollute the river pose health risks to the people that benefit from it. To prevent the river's further degradation, it is essential to identify the origin of contamination. In this study, the sources of fecal contamination in Pasig River were identified using BOX-A1R and (GTG)5 primers in the DNA fingerprinting of Escherichia coli isolated from the river. Results showed the dominance of human contamination (percent composition = 65.55%), followed by agricultural sources (percent composition = 23.48%), and the lowest was from sewage (percent composition = 10.98%). The results of this research can help in evaluating public health risks and can be used as a scientific basis for policymaking and implementation for the rehabilitation and improvement of Pasig River.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mae Ashley G Nacario
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Laurice Beatrice Raphaelle O Dela Pena
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Kevin L Labrador
- Department of Biological Sciences and Environmental Studies, College of Science and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Mindanao, Davao City, 8022, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines.
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12
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Adao DEV, Li AOC, Dy AES, Rivera WL. Development of a salivary IgA detection method for accurate diagnosis of amebiasis. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:714-721. [PMID: 36091277 PMCID: PMC9458784 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-022-01490-6] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
An amebiasis detection method was developed based on identifying anti-Entamoeba histolytica IgA in the saliva of infected individuals. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)-based detection method was tested along with microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on saliva and stool samples from 110 asymptomatic individuals visiting the Manila Health Department - Public Health Laboratory of the City of Manila, Philippines. A receiver operating curve (ROC) was constructed to compare the ELISA results with PCR results. E. histolytica infection was detected in 18 of the 110 individuals. The developed method had an accuracy of 90%, sensitivity of 88.89%, specificity of 90.22%, positive predictive value of 64%, and negative predictive value of 97.65% if a 1:2 dilution of crude saliva sample in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) was used for diagnosis when compared to PCR. The area under the curve (AUC) of the ROC was 0.9436 if a 1:2 dilution of a crude saliva sample was used. The developed assay presents an easy and accurate method of detecting amebiasis in infected individuals using saliva samples instead of stool or blood samples and has potential applications in both diagnosis and epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davin Edric V. Adao
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Angeline Odelia C. Li
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Alexander Edward S. Dy
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
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13
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Adao DEV, Rivera WL. Variations in active proteases of Blastocystis sp. obtained from water and animal isolates from the Philippines. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:627-636. [PMID: 36091281 PMCID: PMC9458825 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-022-01472-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a commonly encountered gut protozoan with unclear pathogenicity. The presence of proteases in this organism may be related to its potential pathogenicity or other physiological differences. This study aimed to identify the various proteases that may be present in different subtypes (STs) of Blastocystis sp. using azocasein assay and gelatin zymography. In this study, cysteine, serine, aspartic protease, metalloproteases, and unknown proteases were identified in Blastocystis sp. cultures obtained from animal and water samples belonging to ST1-ST5 and ST7. Azocasein assay and gelatin zymography were conducted on different batches of protease extracts, which showed varying results. Cysteine protease was the most commonly encountered. Protease activity in general is not associated with ST or source (animal or water). However, the presence of cysteine protease alone was associated with animal samples, whereas the presence of more than two protease types was associated with water samples. Azocasein assay and gelatin zymography were conducted on different batches of protease extracts, which showed varying results. Protease activity and the types present may change over time. Blastocystis sp. shows high protease diversity, including possible novel types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davin Edric V. Adao
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101 Quezon City, Philippines
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Carascal MB, Pavon RDN, Rivera WL. Corrigendum: Recent Progress in Recombinant Influenza Vaccine Development Toward Heterosubtypic Immune Response. Front Immunol 2022; 13:948031. [PMID: 35769471 PMCID: PMC9235355 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.948031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mark B. Carascal
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- Clinical and Translational Research Institute, The Medical City, Pasig City, Philippines
| | - Rance Derrick N. Pavon
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- *Correspondence: Windell L. Rivera,
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Carascal MB, Pavon RDN, Rivera WL. Recent Progress in Recombinant Influenza Vaccine Development Toward Heterosubtypic Immune Response. Front Immunol 2022; 13:878943. [PMID: 35663997 PMCID: PMC9162156 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.878943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Flu, a viral infection caused by the influenza virus, is still a global public health concern with potential to cause seasonal epidemics and pandemics. Vaccination is considered the most effective protective strategy against the infection. However, given the high plasticity of the virus and the suboptimal immunogenicity of existing influenza vaccines, scientists are moving toward the development of universal vaccines. An important property of universal vaccines is their ability to induce heterosubtypic immunity, i.e., a wide immune response coverage toward different influenza subtypes. With the increasing number of studies and mounting evidence on the safety and efficacy of recombinant influenza vaccines (RIVs), they have been proposed as promising platforms for the development of universal vaccines. This review highlights the current progress and advances in the development of RIVs in the context of heterosubtypic immunity induction toward universal vaccine production. In particular, this review discussed existing knowledge on influenza and vaccine development, current hemagglutinin-based RIVs in the market and in the pipeline, other potential vaccine targets for RIVs (neuraminidase, matrix 1 and 2, nucleoprotein, polymerase acidic, and basic 1 and 2 antigens), and deantigenization process. This review also provided discussion points and future perspectives in looking at RIVs as potential universal vaccine candidates for influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark B Carascal
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines.,Clinical and Translational Research Institute, The Medical City, Pasig City, Philippines
| | - Rance Derrick N Pavon
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
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16
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Obusan MCM, Caras JAA, Lumang LSL, Calderon EJS, Villanueva RMD, Salibay CC, Siringan MAT, Rivera WL, Masangkay JS, Aragones LV. Bacteriological and histopathological findings in cetaceans that stranded in the Philippines from 2017 to 2018. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0243691. [PMID: 34762695 PMCID: PMC8584710 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0243691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The relatively high frequency of marine mammal stranding events in the Philippines provide many research opportunities. A select set of stranders (n = 21) from 2017 to 2018 were sampled for bacteriology and histopathology. Pertinent tissues and bacteria were collected from individuals representing eight cetacean species (i.e. Feresa attenuata, Kogia breviceps, Globicephala macrorhynchus, Grampus griseus, Lagenodelphis hosei, Peponocephala electra, Stenella attenuata and Stenella longirostris) and were subjected to histopathological examination and antibiotic resistance screening, respectively. The antibiotic resistance profiles of 24 bacteria (belonging to genera Escherichia, Enterobacter, Klebsiella, Proteus, and Shigella) that were isolated from four cetaceans were determined using 18 antibiotics. All 24 isolates were resistant to at least one antibiotic class, and 79.17% were classified as multiple antibiotic resistant (MAR). The MAR index values of isolates ranged from 0.06 to 0.39 with all the isolates resistant to erythromycin (100%; n = 24) and susceptible to imipenem, doripenem, ciprofloxacin, chloramphenicol, and gentamicin (100%; n = 24). The resistance profiles of these bacteria show the extent of antimicrobial resistance in the marine environment, and may inform medical management decisions during rehabilitation of stranded cetaceans. Due to inadequate gross descriptions and limited data gathered by the responders during the stranding events, the significance of histopathological lesions in association with disease diagnosis in each cetacean stranding or mortality remained inconclusive; however, these histopathological findings may be indicative or contributory to the resulting debility and stress during their strandings. The findings of the study demonstrate the challenges faced by cetacean species in the wild, such as but not limited to, biological pollution through land-sea movement of effluents, fisheries interactions, and anthropogenic activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Christine M. Obusan
- Microbial Ecology of Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- Natural Sciences Research Institute, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Jamaica Ann A. Caras
- Microbial Ecology of Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- Marine Mammal Research Stranding Laboratory, Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Lara Sabrina L. Lumang
- Microbial Ecology of Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Erika Joyce S. Calderon
- Microbial Ecology of Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Ren Mark D. Villanueva
- Microbial Ecology of Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Cristina C. Salibay
- College of Science and Computer Studies, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, City of Dasmariñas Cavite, Philippines
| | - Maria Auxilia T. Siringan
- Natural Sciences Research Institute, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Joseph S. Masangkay
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines
| | - Lemnuel V. Aragones
- Marine Mammal Research Stranding Laboratory, Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
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17
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Mendoza MV, Rivera WL. Application of simplified MLST scheme for direct typing of clinical samples from human leptospirosis cases in a tertiary hospital in the Philippines. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258891. [PMID: 34669742 PMCID: PMC8528318 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the major threat of leptospirosis to public health in the Philippines, its epidemiologic data remain scarce. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) is a method often used for identification of circulating Leptospira species and disease surveillance. Unfortunately, molecular typing of Leptospira isolates is not routinely done in most hospital settings. A simplified MLST scheme targeting three loci (adk, lipL41, mreA) was performed for rapid direct typing of Leptospira in clinical specimens. Blood samples from suspected or clinically diagnosed cases (n = 50) were initially screened via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting 23S rRNA, 16S rRNA (rrs2), and lipL32 genes. From the nine positives, seven had interpretable data from MLST. Allelic profiles identified L. interrogans in all positive samples. Six were assigned to ST12 of serovar Manilae (serogroup Pyrogenes) while one sample cannot be clearly differentiated between two serovars/serogroups, Bataviae/Losbanos (serogroup Bataviae) or Australis (serogroup Australis), indicating possibility of a new ST. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that the application of simplified MLST scheme produces consistent results with the seven-loci genetic profile of published Leptospira MLST schemes. Reduced scheme addressed the challenges often encountered in the amplification of full MLST genetic profile of Leptospira. The approach is a potential alternative to serological tests for rapid typing of clinical specimens and can also aid in investigations on disease epidemiology specifically to monitor occurrence, pathogen transmission, host specificity and susceptibility, and other factors that could lead to potential outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjo V. Mendoza
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- * E-mail:
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18
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Boda RLB, Caluag CAM, Dante RAS, Petate AGJ, Candaza HPT, Rivera WL, Jacinto SD, Sabido PMG. Evaluation of
l
‐2,4‐diaminobutyric acid‐based ultrashort cationic lipopeptides as potential antimicrobial and anticancer agents. J CHIN CHEM SOC-TAIP 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/jccs.202100273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ramoncito Luis B. Boda
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman Quezon City Philippines
- Natural Sciences Research Institute, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman Quezon City Philippines
| | - Carl Angelo M. Caluag
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman Quezon City Philippines
| | - Rachelle Anne S. Dante
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman Quezon City Philippines
| | - Art Gersun J. Petate
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman Quezon City Philippines
| | - Hermie Patrice T. Candaza
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman Quezon City Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman Quezon City Philippines
| | - Sonia D. Jacinto
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman Quezon City Philippines
| | - Portia Mahal G. Sabido
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman Quezon City Philippines
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Dela Peña LBRO, Labrador KL, Nacario MAG, Bolo NR, Rivera WL. Microbial source tracking of fecal contamination in Laguna Lake, Philippines using the library-dependent method, rep-PCR. J Water Health 2021; 19:762-774. [PMID: 34665769 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2021.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Laguna Lake is an economically important resource in the Philippines, with reports of declining water quality due to fecal pollution. Currently, monitoring methods rely on counting fecal indicator bacteria, which does not supply information on potential sources of contamination. In this study, we predicted sources of Escherichia coli in lake stations and tributaries by establishing a fecal source library composed of rep-PCR DNA fingerprints of human, cattle, swine, poultry, and sewage samples (n = 1,408). We also evaluated three statistical methods for predicting fecal contamination sources in surface waters. Random forest (RF) outperformed k-nearest neighbors and discriminant analysis of principal components in terms of average rates of correct classification in two- (84.85%), three- (82.45%), and five-way (74.77%) categorical splits. Overall, RF exhibited the most balanced prediction, which is crucial for disproportionate libraries. Source tracking of environmental isolates (n = 332) revealed the dominance of sewage (47.59%) followed by human sources (29.22%), poultry (12.65%), swine (7.23%), and cattle (3.31%) using RF. This study demonstrates the promising utility of a library-dependent method in augmenting current monitoring systems for source attribution of fecal contamination in Laguna Lake. This is also the first known report of microbial source tracking using rep-PCR conducted in surface waters of the Laguna Lake watershed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurice Beatrice Raphaelle O Dela Peña
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines E-mail:
| | - Kevin L Labrador
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines E-mail:
| | - Mae Ashley G Nacario
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines E-mail:
| | - Nicole R Bolo
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines E-mail:
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines E-mail:
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20
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Abello JJM, Malajacan GT, Labrador KL, Nacario MAG, Galarion LH, Obusan MCM, Rivera WL. Library-independent source tracking of fecal contamination in selected stations and tributaries of Laguna Lake, Philippines. J Water Health 2021; 19:846-854. [PMID: 34665776 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2021.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Laguna Lake is the largest inland freshwater body in the Philippines. Although it is classified to be usable for agricultural and recreational purposes by the country's Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), studies looking at lake ecology revealed severe fecal contamination which contributes to the deterioration of water quality. Determining the sources of fecal contamination is necessary for lake protection and management. This study utilized a library-independent method of microbial source tracking (LIM-MST) to identify sources of fecal contamination in selected Laguna Lake stations and tributaries. Genetic markers of the host-associated Escherichia coli, heat-labile toxin (LTIIA) and heat-stable II (STII), were used to identify cattle and swine fecal contaminations, respectively. Meanwhile, human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was used to identify human fecal contamination. Results identified the presence of agricultural and human fecal contamination in Laguna Lake Stations 1 and 5, Mangangate River, and Alabang River. The selected sites are known to be surrounded by residential and industrial complexes, and most of their discharges find their way into the lake. The identification of the specific sources of fecal contamination will guide management practices that aim to regulate the discharges in order to improve the water quality of Laguna Lake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseth Jermaine M Abello
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Gicelle T Malajacan
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Kevin L Labrador
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Mae Ashley G Nacario
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Luiza H Galarion
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Marie Christine M Obusan
- Microbial Ecology of Terrestrial and Aquatic Systems Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
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21
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Popruk S, Adao DEV, Rivera WL. Epidemiology and subtype distribution of Blastocystis in humans: A review. Infect Genet Evol 2021; 95:105085. [PMID: 34530156 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2021.105085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is a commonly encountered gastrointestinal protozoan in humans and animals with uncertain pathogenicity. Despite its potential public health impact, epidemiological data regarding the prevalence and molecular subtype (ST) distribution of Blastocystis have been rarely reported. Among Blastocystis STs, ST1-ST4 are common in humans, including healthy and immunodeficient populations. According to the Chi-squared (χ2) association based on the data compiled for this cross-sectional study, the presence of ST1 is associated with asymptomatic infection, whereas the presence of ST4 is associated with symptomatic infection. However, cross-sectional studies cannot clarify the potential pathogenicity of Blastocystis, unlike in vivo and in vitro studies. Poor hygiene, poor sanitation and zoonotic transmission are possible factors associated with high Blastocystis prevalence, although this protozoan may be part of the normal healthy human gastrointestinal microbiota. This review covers the prevalence, STs and distribution of Blastocystis infection in humans. Thus, future epidemiological and subtyping studies could reveal new STs in humans as well as possible associations of STs with disease, drug resistance and related mechanisms such as protease activity. These associations with proper ST identification may facilitate the control of potential threats to host health, including the direct pathogenic effects of Blastocystis or alterations of the gastrointestinal microbiome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supaluk Popruk
- Department of Protozoology, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, 420/6 Ratchawithi Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Davin Edric V Adao
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.
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Vejano MRA, Dela Peña LBRO, Rivera WL. Occurrence of Giardia duodenalis in selected stations and tributary rivers of Laguna Lake, Philippines. Environ Monit Assess 2021; 193:466. [PMID: 34224003 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-021-09240-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [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: 12/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Fecal pollution is a major contributor to the progressive degradation of Laguna Lake, the Philippines' largest inland lake used for aquaculture, recreation, and as a source of irrigation and domestic water. Consequently, intestinal parasites may be present in this body of water, posing risks to water safety and human health. This study was able to detect the protozoan parasite, Giardia duodenalis, in three Laguna Lake stations and seven tributary rivers in a 13-month monitoring period by PCR amplification of the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene of Giardia cysts concentrated from water samples. The pathogen was present in 37.7% of tributary samples (n = 69) and 16.7% of lake samples (n = 36). Notable frequencies of detection were observed in four tributary rivers -Bagumbayan, Taguig (66.7%); Santa Rosa, Laguna (55.6%); San Cristobal, Cabuyao, Laguna (44.4%); and Biñan, Laguna (42.9%). All test SSU rRNA gene sequences were identified as human-infective genotypes of G. duodenalis predominated by Assemblage A (94.1%). Furthermore, analysis of the glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) gene revealed the possible presence of mixed genotypes in at least two samples. These results support the pressing need to include protozoan pathogen monitoring in Laguna Lake and its tributaries to prevent Giardia infection in humans and animals. This study also recommends microbial source tracking to identify fecal pollution sources and aid in regulation of waste discharges into the lake and its tributaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Raymond A Vejano
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Laurice Beatrice Raphaelle O Dela Peña
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, 1101, Quezon City, Philippines.
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Valle DLJ, Puzon JJM, Cabrera EC, Cena-Navarro RB, Rivera WL. Antimicrobial efficacy and activity of ethanolic extract of Piper betle L. on Staphylococcus aureus-infected wound in mice and clinical isolates of multiple drug-resistant bacterial pathogens. Trop Biomed 2021; 38:134-142. [PMID: 34172702 DOI: 10.47665/tb.38.2.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the in vivo effectiveness of the ethanolic extract of Piper betle L. leaves against Staphylococcus aureus-infected wounds in mice and its antimicrobial properties on clinical isolates of multiple drug-resistant bacterial pathogens. Twenty mice were divided into four groups. Wounds were created in all mice under anesthesia by excision from the dorsal skin down to the subcutaneous fat and inoculating with S. aureus. After 24 h, the wound of each mouse was treated once daily by application of the respective cream. Group I was treated with mupirocin antibacterial cream; Group II received a cream base containing no active ingredient; Groups III and IV were treated with 2.5% and 5.0% concentrations of P. betle cream, respectively. Further, an in vitro study was performed by adding undiluted, 1:50 and 1:100 dilutions of the four studied creams in normal saline containing 1.5 × 108 CFU/mL of the following bacteria: antimicrobial-susceptible S. aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, methicillin-resistant S. aureus, extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Escherichia coli, vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus, metallo-βlactamase-producing P. aeruginosa and carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae. The mice in Groups III and IV had significantly faster wound contraction and significantly shorter reepithelialization time than Group II (p < 0.05), which were not significantly different from Group I (p > 0.05). P. betle creams inhibited all studied bacterial strains at full concentration and at a dilution of 1:50. The inhibitory effect was more significant than Groups I and II (p < 0.05), except on S. aureus. Specifically, S. aureus inhibition was not significantly different for Groups III and IV (p > 0.05) when compared with Group I. Cream formulations derived from P. betle ethanolic extract have great potential as antimicrobial agents for the treatment of wound infection. Further clinical tests are recommended to determine the safety and efficacy of these formulations in other mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- D L Jr Valle
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.,Makati Medical Center, Makati City 1229, Philippines.,Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, City of Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - J J M Puzon
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - E C Cabrera
- Biology Department, De La Salle University, City of Manila 0922, Philippines
| | - R B Cena-Navarro
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, National Institutes of Health, University of the Philippines Manila, City of Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - W L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
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Dela Rosa CJO, Lee AC, Rivera WL. Pink Pigmented Facultative Methylotrophic Bacteria Isolated from Fermented Philippine Shrimp Paste. Trop Life Sci Res 2021; 32:147-161. [PMID: 34367520 PMCID: PMC8300941 DOI: 10.21315/tlsr2021.32.2.10] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Pink pigmented facultative methylotrophic (PPFM) bacteria are ecologically distributed microorganisms. They have been isolated in many types of ecosystems like soil, water, air, in association with plants and even as pathogens in humans. However, a yet unexplored area for PPFM bacteria research is in food. Hence, the objective of this study was to establish the presence of PPFM bacteria in Philippine fermented food, in particular shrimp paste, and characterise them phenotypically and genotypically. A total of 13 PPFM bacteria were obtained from Philippine shrimp paste. Sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene revealed that the PPFM bacterial isolates belong to the genus Methylobacterium. A total of 35 phenotypic characterisations were performed that included morphological, biochemical and physiological tests. Phylogenetic tree was constructed to establish the genetic relatedness of the isolates. Morphological test results showed that all 13 isolates were consistent with the established phenotypic characters of the genus such as pink colony colour, Gram negative and rod-shaped. Biochemically, the use of API® 20 NE tests showed heterogeneity of results and physiological tests exhibited that the isolates are primarily mesophilic and halotolerant, being able to grow at 2% salt. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the isolates are Methylobacterium populi, M. dankookense, M. lusitanum, M. radiotolerans and M. zatmanii. This study confirmed the presence and diversity of PPFM bacteria in Philippine shrimp paste. Further studies are needed to show the functional activity of Methylobacterium in Philippine shrimp paste production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Jordan O Dela Rosa
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.,Biology Department, College of Science, De La Salle University, City of Manila 0922, Philippines
| | - Anthony C Lee
- Biology Department, College of Science, De La Salle University, City of Manila 0922, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
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Dela Peña LBRO, Vejano MRA, Rivera WL. Molecular surveillance of Cryptosporidium spp. for microbial source tracking of fecal contamination in Laguna Lake, Philippines. J Water Health 2021; 19:534-544. [PMID: 34152304 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2021.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Water quality deterioration in source waters poses increased health, environmental, and economic risks. Here, we genotyped Cryptosporidium spp. obtained from water samples of Laguna Lake, Philippines, and its tributaries for the purpose of source-tracking fecal contamination. A total of 104 surface water samples were collected over a 1-year period (March 2018 to April 2019). Detection of Cryptosporidium was carried out using genus-specific primers targeting a fragment of the small subunit (SSU) rRNA gene. The study revealed 8 (14%) tributary samples and 1 (2.77%) lake sample positive for contamination. The species were determined to be C. parvum (n = 4), C. muris (n = 2), C. hominis (n = 1), C. galli (n = 1), C. baileyi (n = 1), C. suis (n = 1), as well as rat genotype IV (n = 1). Two species were detected in duck (C. baileyi) and cattle (C. parvum) fecal samples. The data presented suggest that Cryptosporidium contamination is likely to come from sewage or human feces as well as various agricultural sources (i.e. cattle, swine, and poultry). This information reveals the importance of mitigating fecal pollution in the lake system and minimizing health risks due to exposure to zoonotic Cryptosporidium species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurice Beatrice Raphaelle O Dela Peña
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines E-mail:
| | - Mark Raymond A Vejano
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines E-mail:
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines E-mail:
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Manahan-Suyom L, Mina-Cuaño PMG, Rivera WL. Development of diffractive optics technology-based immunoassay protocol and its application in the detection of Entamoeba histolytica infections. J Immunol Methods 2021; 493:113016. [PMID: 33689809 DOI: 10.1016/j.jim.2021.113016] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Amebiasis due to infection with Entamoeba histolytica is a problematic parasitic disease in many countries. By means of a novel technology developed by Axela Biosensors, Inc., the dotLab™ system, a rapid immunoassay was developed to detect at least 5.45 cells/mL of E. histolytica, the causative agent of amebiasis, in spiked stool samples in 66 min. Regeneration of the dotLab™ sensor using 0.1 M glycine (pH 2.5) solution was established, enabling the assessment of multiple stool samples (up to 8 X) using a single sensor. This developed assay was applied to assess the health status of a community in relation to E. histolytica infections of relocated families in San Isidro, Rodriguez, Rizal, Philippines. The community was found to be 15.6% and 26.1% positive for E. histolytica using real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR) and dotLab™ methods, respectively. Compared to real-time PCR, the dotLab™ method is 94.74% sensitive and 74.79% specific. The agreement of the two methods was tested using Kappa coefficient test and it showed that dotLab™ is a reliable alternative to real-time PCR. The optimized dotLab™ assay did not cross-react with stool samples containing Escherichia coli, Blastocystis sp., Cryptosporidium sp. and Giardia intestinalis. The community had 17 X to 24 X higher infection rate than previous reports in the Philippines. Sex, age, and duration of settlement in the relocation area were not related to the rate of infection. This increase may be due to improper hygiene and sanitation in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lani Manahan-Suyom
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Patricia Maria Gregoria Mina-Cuaño
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.
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Rivera WL, De Jesus Ii FC, De Cadiz AE, Villacorte EA, Tongol-Rivera PN, Kanbara H. Entamoeba histolytica infections in a slum community in Manila, Philippines as detected by stool ELISA. Ann Parasitol 2021; 67:757-762. [PMID: 35294144 DOI: 10.17420/ap6704.393] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica in BASECO, an urban slum community situated in Manila Harbor, Manila, Philippines using stool enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). It also aimed to determine if age, sex, and geographic location are contributory factors to the prevalence of E. histolytica. Stool samples were collected from 627 urban slum community residents of BASECO. Samples were viewed under light microscopy and the different parasites observed were identified. Stool ELISA was done using E. histolytica II antigen detection kits (TECHLAB®). Using E. histolytica II kits, E. histolytica had a prevalence of 9.09% (5/55) among the microscopically-positive samples for E. histolytica/E. dispar indicating a greater prevalence for the nonpathogenic species. No significant difference was observed in the prevalence of infection across all three variables: age, sex and geographic location. The overall prevalence of E. histolytica in BASECO, Manila, Philippines is 0.797% (5/627) which is lower than previous studies done on estimating the prevalence of E. histolytica using various techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Federico C De Jesus Ii
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Aleyla E De Cadiz
- Department of Biological Sciences and Environmental Studies, College of Science and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Mindanao, Mintal, Tugbok District, Davao City 8022, Philippines
| | - Elena A Villacorte
- Department of Parasitology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Pilarita N Tongol-Rivera
- Department of Parasitology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Hiroji Kanbara
- Department of Protozoology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan
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Santos PDM, Widmer KW, Rivera WL. PCR-based detection and serovar identification of Salmonella in retail meat collected from wet markets in Metro Manila, Philippines. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0239457. [PMID: 32997676 PMCID: PMC7526908 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to detect Salmonella from retail meat collected from nine wet markets in Metro Manila, and identify the subtypes of Salmonella isolates using molecular serotyping assays from previously developed primers. Of the 720 collected meat samples, 57.64% were found to be Salmonella-contaminated. The most predominant serogroup was Salmonella O:3, and Salmonella serogroups O:4, O:6,7, O:8, O:9, and undetermined serogroups were also found. Most frequently detected isolates in bovine meat were S. 3:e,h:1,6 (putative identity: S. Anatum) and S: 4:e,h:1,2 (putative identity: S. Saintpaul), in porcine meat was S. 3:e,h:1,6 (putative identity: S. Anatum), and S. 8:i:z6 (putative identity: S. Kentucky) was common in poultry products. This study also demonstrated retail meat samples were contaminated with multiple Salmonella serogroups and serovars. This is the first Philippine study that utilized PCR-based assays to characterize Salmonella isolates down to a serovar level and provides baseline information regarding Salmonella prevalence and serovar distribution in retail meat. Molecular serotyping performed in this study can be used as an alternative approach to traditional serotyping in surveillance of Salmonella in the Philippines since the latter is expensive, time-consuming, and requires skilled technicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pauline Dianne M. Santos
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Kenneth W. Widmer
- International Environmental Research Institute, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju, Republic of Korea
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- * E-mail:
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Singer GA, Loya FP, Lapsley WD, Tobar BZ, Carlos S, Carlos RS, Carlos ET, Adao DEV, Rivera WL, Jaffe DA, Mazet JAK, Chomel BB. Detection of Bartonella infection in pet dogs from Manila, the Philippines. Acta Trop 2020; 205:105277. [PMID: 32035056 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 10/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Dogs can be infected by a wide range of Bartonella spp., but studies regarding the prevalence of Bartonella infection in dogs in the Philippines have not been conducted. This study aimed at determining the prevalence of Bartonella infection in pets dogs from two veterinary clinics in Metro Manila, The Philippines, using both serology and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Blood samples from 116 dogs from two different groups, one of 60 mainly "healthy dogs" and the other one of 56 dogs enrolled in a tick-borne disease suspect group, were tested for presence of B. henselae antibodies and to detect Bartonella DNA using primers specific for the citrate synthase gene. Seroprevalence for B. henselae was very low (2.6%), as the only three (5%) seropositive dogs (titer 1:64) where among the healthy pet dog group. Following subsequent sequencing, 13 samples, all from the tick-borne disease group, were determined positive for B. henselae (11.2%). This is the first study to report dog infection with B. henselae in the Philippines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gar A Singer
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Felina P Loya
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Wallis D Lapsley
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Bret Z Tobar
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Sixto Carlos
- Makati Dog and Cat Hospital, Makati City 1210, Philippines
| | | | | | - Davin Edric V Adao
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - David A Jaffe
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jonna A K Mazet
- One Health Institute, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Bruno B Chomel
- Department of Population Health and Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA.
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Labrador KL, Nacario MAG, Malajacan GT, Abello JJM, Galarion LH, Rensing C, Rivera WL. Selecting rep-PCR markers to source track fecal contamination in Laguna Lake, Philippines. J Water Health 2020; 18:19-29. [PMID: 32129183 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2019.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Fecal contamination is one of the factors causing deterioration of Laguna Lake. Although total coliform levels are constantly monitored, no protocol is in place to identify their origin. This can be addressed using the library-dependent microbial source tracking (MST) method, repetitive element sequence-based polymerase chain reaction (rep-PCR) fingerprinting. Serving as a prerequisite in developing the host-origin library, we assessed the discriminatory power of three fingerprinting primers, namely BOX-A1R, (GTG)5, and REP1R-1/2-1. Fingerprint profiles were obtained from 290 thermotolerant Escherichia coli isolated from sewage waters and fecal samples of cows, chickens, and pigs from regions surrounding the lake. Band patterns were converted into binary profiles and were classified using the discriminant analysis of principal components. Results show that: (1) REP1R-1/2-1 has a low genotyping success rate and information content; (2) increasing the library size led to more precise estimates of library accuracy; and (3) combining fingerprint profiles from BOX-A1R and (GTG)5 revealed the best discrimination (average rate of correct classification (ARCC) = 0.82 ± 0.06) in a two-way categorical split; while (4) no significant difference was found between the combined profiles (0.74 ± 0.15) and using solely BOX-A1R (0.76 ± 0.09) in a four-way split. Testing the library by identifying known isolates from a separate dataset has shown that a two-way classification performed better (ARCC = 0.66) than a four-way split (ARCC = 0.29). The library can be developed further by adding more representative isolates per host source. Nevertheless, our results have shown that combining profiles from BOX-A1R and (GTG)5 is recommended in developing the MST library for Laguna Lake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin L Labrador
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines E-mail:
| | - Mae Ashley G Nacario
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines E-mail: ; Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Gicelle T Malajacan
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines E-mail: ; Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Joseth Jermaine M Abello
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines E-mail: ; Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Luiza H Galarion
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines E-mail:
| | - Christopher Rensing
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil Environmental Health and Regulation, College of Resources and Environment, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines E-mail: ; Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
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Rivera WL, Aquino IMC, De Cadiz AE, Villacorte EA, Tongol-Rivera PN, Kanbara H. Prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar among residents of an urban slum area in Manila, Philippines as detected by the polymerase chain reaction. Ann Parasitol 2020; 66:547-553. [PMID: 33789027 DOI: 10.17420/ap6604.297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba dispar infections among residents in BASECO compound, Manila, Philippines using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Formalin-ether concentration technique (FECT)-treated stool samples were examined under the light microscope to determine the presence of Entamoeba, helminths and other protozoan parasites. DNA was directly extracted from the FECT-treated samples and was subjected to PCR to determine E. histolytica and E. dispar infections. In this study, stool samples were collected from 2,232 residents of BASECO compound. Microscopic examination of FECT concentrated samples found 38 samples (1.703%) positive for E. histolytica/E. dispar. The E. histolytica/E. dispar microscopically positive samples were further analyzed by PCR and found 8 samples (0.358%) infected with E. histolytica and 23 samples (1.030%) infected with E. dispar. No statistically significant difference was observed in the sex distribution, while statistically significant difference was observed among the age group and area distribution of both the Entamoeba species. The results demonstrate PCR using DNA extracted from the formalin-fixed stools as an effective epidemiologic detection method of E. histolytica and E. dispar infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Windell L Rivera
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Inah Marie C Aquino
- College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Aleyla E De Cadiz
- Department of Biological Sciences and Environmental Studies, College of Science and Mathematics, University of the Philippines Mindanao, Mintal, Tugbok District, Davao City 8022, Philippines
| | - Elena A Villacorte
- Department of Parasitology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Pilarita N Tongol-Rivera
- Department of Parasitology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Hiroji Kanbara
- Department of Protozoology, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, 1-12-4 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan
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Francisco JCE, Rivera WL, Vital PG. Influences of carbohydrate, nitrogen, and phosphorus sources on the citric acid production by fungal endophyte Aspergillus fumigatus P3I6. Prep Biochem Biotechnol 2019; 50:292-301. [DOI: 10.1080/10826068.2019.1689510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jude Christian E. Francisco
- Biological Research and Services Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Pierangeli G. Vital
- Biological Research and Services Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
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Obusan MCM, Villanueva RMD, Siringan MAT, Rivera WL, Aragones LV. Leptospira spp. and Toxoplasma gondii in stranded representatives of wild cetaceans in the Philippines. BMC Vet Res 2019; 15:372. [PMID: 31655601 PMCID: PMC6815370 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-019-2112-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The stranding events of cetaceans in the Philippines provide opportunities for gathering biological information and specimens, especially from the pelagic forms. As part of an effort to monitor the health of wild cetaceans, this study detected Leptospira spp. and Toxoplasma gondii, causative agents of the emerging zoonotic diseases leptospirosis and toxoplasmosis respectively, in their stranded representatives. From October 2016–August 2018, 40 cetaceans (representing 14 species) that stranded nationwide were sampled for brain, cardiac muscle, skeletal muscle, kidney, and blood tissues, urine, and sera. These were subjected to molecular, serological, culture, and histopathological analyses to detect the target pathogens. Results T. gondii was detected in 20 (71%) of the 28 cetaceans with biological samples subjected to either molecular detection through RE gene amplification or IgG antibodies detection through agglutination-based serological assay. On the other hand, Leptospira was detected in 18 (64%) of 28 cetaceans with biological samples subjected to bacterial culture, molecular detection through 16S rDNA amplification, or IgM antibodies detection through ELISA-based serological assay. Conclusions There is the plausibility of toxoplasmosis and leptospirosis in cetacean populations found in the Philippines, however, acute or chronic phases of infections in sampled stranded individuals cannot be confirmed in the absence of supporting pathological observations and corroborating detection tests. Further studies should look for more evidences of pathogenicity, and explore the specific mechanisms by which pelagic cetacean species become infected by Leptospira spp. and T. gondii. As there is growing evidence on the role of cetaceans as sentinels of land-sea movement of emerging pathogens and the diseases they cause, any opportunity, such as their stranding events, should be maximized to investigate the health of their populations. Moreover, the role of leptospirosis or toxoplasmosis in these stranding events must be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Christine M Obusan
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines. .,Natural Sciences Research Institute, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines.
| | - Ren Mark D Villanueva
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines.,Natural Sciences Research Institute, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Maria Auxilia T Siringan
- Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines.,Natural Sciences Research Institute, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Lemnuel V Aragones
- Natural Sciences Research Institute, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines.,Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
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Mendoza MV, Rivera WL. Identification of Leptospira spp. from environmental sources in areas with high human leptospirosis incidence in the Philippines. Pathog Glob Health 2019; 113:109-116. [PMID: 31008691 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2019.1607460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Leptospira is the causative agent of leptospirosis, which is considered an emerging major threat to public health due to its increasing frequency reported worldwide. In the Philippines, the prevalence of the disease continuously rises, particularly in urban areas. Because leptospirosis is commonly transmitted through contact with contaminated environment, water and soil samples were collected in regions in the Philippines where high incidence of human leptospirosis cases was reported recently. Of the 54 samples screened for the presence of Leptospira, 35% were found positive through 23S rRNA gene PCR-based detection. None were found positive when primers targeting lipL32, lipL41, and ompL1 genes were used. Most of these isolates were collected from rural areas. However, 16S rRNA gene sequencing identified all isolates to be L. yanagawae and L. meyeri, which are nonpathogenic. Despite the lack of evidence of the presence of pathogenic species in the environmental sources, the results still suggest that leptospires persist in these areas. These data are crucial for environmental monitoring and identification of contaminated areas where humans may be at risk of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjo V Mendoza
- a Institute of Biology, College of Science , University of the Philippines , Quezon City , Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- a Institute of Biology, College of Science , University of the Philippines , Quezon City , Philippines.,b Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory , Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines , Quezon City , Philippines
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Bolo NR, Pagoso EJA, Widmer KW, Rivera WL. Quantitative microbial risk assessment of Cryptosporidium in bivalve samples from Manila Bay, Philippines. Ann Parasitol 2019; 65:315-320. [PMID: 32191418 DOI: 10.17420/ap6504.215] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In the Philippines, consumption of bivalves is very common due to its year-round availability and cheap price. However, many consume bivalves as lightly-cooked or raw. This might pose health hazards because bivalves are filter-feeders which act as vehicles for transmission of several pathogens such as the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium, the causative agent of cryptosporidiosis. Cryptosporidiosis in humans is manifested by profuse diarrhea and abdominal pain. To determine the risk of acquiring cryptosporidiosis from consumption of bivalves, quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) should be done. This study aimed to determine the risk associated with the consumption of bivalves which are contaminated with Cryptosporidium oocysts. The results indicate that consumption of at least 21 grams of cooked bivalves contaminated with at least 0.1% viable oocysts might pose a risk to consumers, especially to immunocompromised individuals. This estimated risk of infection exceeded the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) standards (1.0×10-4). Results call for drive of decision-makers to establish an educational or treatment program to reduce the incidence of gastrointestinal infections of the consumers. Improvement of sanitation techniques and hygienic practices will contribute to the decrease of occurrence of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole R. Bolo
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Edison Jay A. Pagoso
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Kenneth W. Widmer
- International Environmental Research Institute, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, Gwangju 61005, Republic of South Korea
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
- Pathogen-Host-Environment Interactions Research Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
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Espiritu CAL, Justo CAC, Rubio MJ, Svobodova M, Bashammakh AS, Alyoubi AO, Rivera WL, Rollon AP, O’Sullivan CK. Aptamer Selection against a Trichomonas vaginalis Adhesion Protein for Diagnostic Applications. ACS Infect Dis 2018; 4:1306-1315. [PMID: 29972299 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.8b00065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Trichomoniasis, caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, is the leading nonviral sexually transmitted infection worldwide. We report the selection of a DNA aptamer against a T. vaginalis adhesion protein, AP65, using a microtiter plate-based in vitro combinatorial chemistry process termed systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment. The enriched library pool was sequenced by next-generation sequencing, and several aptamer candidates with high affinity and specificity were identified. The aptamer with the highest affinity and specificity had a KD in the low nanomolar range, as confirmed by three different techniques: surface plasmon resonance, enzyme-linked aptamer assay, and biolayer interferometry. The selected aptamer was demonstrated to have a high specificity to the AP65 protein and to T. vaginalis cells with no cross-reactivity to other enteric and urogenital microorganisms. Current work is focused on the development of inexpensive and easy-to-use aptamer-based diagnostic assays for the reliable and rapid detection of T. vaginalis in vaginal swabs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Miriam Jauset Rubio
- Interfibio Group, Departament d’Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Avinguda Països Catalans, 26, Tarragona 43007, Spain
| | - Marketa Svobodova
- Interfibio Group, Departament d’Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Avinguda Països Catalans, 26, Tarragona 43007, Spain
| | - Abdulaziz S. Bashammakh
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulrahman O. Alyoubi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Ciara K. O’Sullivan
- Interfibio Group, Departament d’Enginyeria Química, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Avinguda Països Catalans, 26, Tarragona 43007, Spain
- Institució Catalana de Recerca i Estudis Avançats, Passeig Lluis Companys 23, Barcelona 08010, Spain
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Salas RL, Garcia JKDL, Miranda ACR, Rivera WL, Nellas RB, Sabido PMG. Effects of truncation of the peptide chain on the secondary structure and bioactivities of palmitoylated anoplin. Peptides 2018; 104:7-14. [PMID: 29614317 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2018.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 03/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Anoplin (GLLKRIKTLL-NH2) is of current interest due to its short sequence and specificity towards bacteria. Recent studies on anoplin have shown that truncation and acylation compromises its antimicrobial activity and specificity, respectively. In this study, truncated analogues (pal-ano-9 to pal-ano-5) of palmitoylated anoplin (pal-anoplin) were synthesized to determine the effects of C-truncation on its bioactivities. Moreover, secondary structure of each analogue using circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy was determined to correlate with bioactivities. Interestingly, pal-anoplin, pal-ano-9 and pal-ano-6 were helical in water, unlike anoplin. In contrast, pal-ano-8, pal-ano-7 and pal-ano-5, with polar amino acid residues at the C-terminus, were random coil in water. Nevertheless, all the peptides folded into helical structures in 30% trifluoroethanol/water (TFE/H2O) except for the shortest analogue pal-ano-5. Hydrophobicity played a significant role in the enhancement of activity against bacteria E. coli and S. aureus as all lipopeptides including the random coil pal-ano-5 were more active than the parent anoplin. Meanwhile, the greatest improvement in activity against the fungus C. albicans was observed for pal-anoplin analogues (pal-ano-9 and pal-ano-6) that were helical in water. Although, hydrophobicity is a major factor in the secondary structure and antimicrobial activity, it appears that the nature of amino acids at the C-terminus also influence folding of lipopeptides in water and its antifungal activity. Moreover, the hemolytic activity of the analogues was found to correlate with hydrophobicity, except for the least hemolytic, pal-ano-5. Since most of the analogues are more potent and shorter than anoplin, they are promising drug candidates for further development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Remmer L Salas
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Jan Kathryne D L Garcia
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines; Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Ana Carmela R Miranda
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines; Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Ricky B Nellas
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines; Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines
| | - Portia Mahal G Sabido
- Institute of Chemistry, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines; Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101, Philippines.
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Vital PG, Caballes MBD, Rivera WL. Antimicrobial resistance in Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. isolates from fresh produce and the impact to food safety. J Environ Sci Health B 2017; 52:683-689. [PMID: 28679083 DOI: 10.1080/03601234.2017.1331676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Foodborne diseases associated with fresh produce consumption have escalated worldwide, causing microbial safety of produce of critical importance. Bacteria that have increasingly been detected in fresh produce are Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp., both of which have been shown to progressively display antimicrobial resistance. The study focused on the assessment of antimicrobial resistance of these enteric bacteria from different kinds of fresh produce from various open air markets and supermarkets in the Philippines. Using the disk diffusion assay on a total of 50 bacterial isolates obtained from 410 fresh produce surveyed, monoresistance to tetracycline was observed to be the most prevalent (38%), followed by multidrug resistance to tetracycline, chloramphenicol, ciprofloxacin, and nalidixic acid (4%), and lastly by dual resistance to tetracycline and chloramphenicol (2%). Using multiplex and simplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays, tetA (75%) and tetB (9%) were found in tetracycline resistant isolates, whereas catI (67%) and catIII (33%) were detected in chloramphenicol resistant isolates. Sequence analysis of gyr and par genes from the ciprofloxacin and nalidixic acid resistant isolates revealed different mutations. Based on the results, fresh produce act as a reservoir of these antibiotic resistant bacteria which may pose health threat to consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierangeli G Vital
- a Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman , Quezon City , Philippines
- b Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman , Quezon City , Philippines
| | - Marie Bernadine D Caballes
- a Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman , Quezon City , Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- a Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Diliman , Quezon City , Philippines
- b Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines Diliman , Quezon City , Philippines
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39
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Pagoso EJA, Rivera WL. Cryptosporidium species from common edible bivalves in Manila Bay, Philippines. Mar Pollut Bull 2017; 119:31-39. [PMID: 28325609 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [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: 12/29/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Manila Bay is one of the major propagation sites of edible bivalves in the Philippines. Studies have shown that bivalves might be contaminated with human pathogens like the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium, one of the major causes of gastroenteritis in the world. In this study, Cryptosporidium from four species of edible bivalves were isolated using a combination of sucrose flotation and immunomagnetic separation. Using direct fluorescent antibody test, Cryptosporidium oocysts were found in 67 out of 144 samples collected. DNA sequence analysis of the 18S rRNA gene of the isolates detected C. parvum and C. hominis (major causes of human cryptosporidiosis) and C. meleagridis (causes infection in avian species). Analysis of the 60kDa glycoprotein gene further confirmed the genotypes of the Cryptosporidium isolates. This study is the first to provide baseline information on Cryptosporidium contamination of Manila Bay where bivalves are commonly cultured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edison Jay A Pagoso
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines; Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines; Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.
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40
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Paraoan CEM, Rivera WL, Vital PG. Detection of Class I and II integrons for the assessment of antibiotic and multidrug resistance among Escherichia coli isolates from agricultural irrigation waters in Bulacan, Philippines. J Environ Sci Health B 2017; 52:306-313. [PMID: 28277085 DOI: 10.1080/03601234.2017.1281647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Contaminated irrigation water may greatly affect not only the quality of produce but also the people exposed to it. In this study, agricultural irrigation waters in Bulacan, Philippines were assessed and found to be contaminated with Escherichia coli (E. coli) ranging from 0.58 to 4.51 log10 CFU/mL. A total of 79 isolates of E. coli were confirmed through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplifying the uidA gene and were tested for phenotypic resistance using 10 antimicrobials through the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Forty-six isolates (58.22%) were noted to be multidrug resistant (MDR) with high resistance rate to cephalothin, tetracycline, streptomycin, ampicillin, trimethoprim, nalidixic acid, and chloramphenicol. Moreover, this study also examined the prevalence of Class I and II integrons accounting to 67.39% and 17.39%, respectively, of the MDR E. coli strains using multiplex PCR. The results imply that the agricultural water used in Bulacan is contaminated with the fecal material of man or other animals present in the area, and the presence of MDR bacteria, which pose a potential threat to individuals in these areas, is alarming. In addition, detection of integrons could be a good marker for the identification of MDR isolates. Lastly, this study could develop strategies for the proper management of farming sites leading to the detection of food-borne pathogens and prevention of infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cielo Emar M Paraoan
- a Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines , Diliman, Quezon City , Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- a Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines , Diliman, Quezon City , Philippines
- b Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines , Diliman, Quezon City , Philippines
| | - Pierangeli G Vital
- a Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines , Diliman, Quezon City , Philippines
- b Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines , Diliman, Quezon City , Philippines
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Feliciano CP, Rivera WL. Data on preparation of psychrotolerant bacterium Shewanella olleyana sp. nov. cells for transmission electron microscopy. Data Brief 2016; 9:710-715. [PMID: 27830165 PMCID: PMC5094100 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2016.09.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
This data article contains transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images of psychrotolerant bacterium Shewanella olleyana sp. nov. Cells of S. olleyana were grown following an optimized culture conditions in liquid medium. Procedure for the preparation of cells suitable for TEM is described in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chitho P Feliciano
- Microbiological Research Laboratory, Biomedical Research Section, Atomic Research Division, Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, Department of Science and Technology (PNRI-DOST), Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines; Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines; Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
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42
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Adao DEV, Dela Serna AO, Belleza MLB, Bolo NR, Rivera WL. Subtype analysis of Blastocystis sp. isolates from asymptomatic individuals in an urban community in the Philippines. Ann Parasitol 2016; 62:193–200. [PMID: 27770759 DOI: 10.17420/ap6203.53] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis sp. is a commonly reported enteric protistan parasite in faecal specimens with a worldwide distribution afflicting both humans and a wide range of animals. The aim of this study is to characterize the subtypes (STs) of Blastocystis sp. isolates from asymptomatic individuals in an urban community in Pateros, Metro Manila, Philippines. The 600-bp small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) barcoding region of Blastocystis sp. isolates was amplified and sequenced using the primers RD5 and BhRDr. Subtypes were identified by uploading the sequences onto the Basic Local Alignment and Search Tool (BLAST) websites, the Blastocystis Subtype (18S) and Sequence Typing (MLST) Database and by construction of a phylogenetic tree. Twenty-nine (29) out of 35 individuals were detected positive for Blastocystis sp. ST3 is the most common among the three STs detected (65.5%), followed by ST1 (31.0%) and ST4 (3.44%). This study showed that DNA barcoding can serve as a helpful tool to investigate the diversity of Blastocystis sp. in the Philippines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davin Edric V. Adao
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines,Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Ace O. Dela Serna
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Maria Luz B. Belleza
- Department of Parasitology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines, Ermita, Manila 1000, Philippines
| | - Nicole R. Bolo
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines,Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L. Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines,Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
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Adao DEV, Rivera WL. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay for the rapid detection of the sexually-transmitted parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis. Ann Parasitol 2016; 62:25-31. [PMID: 27262954 DOI: 10.17420/ap6201.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay was developed to detect the sexually-transmitted parasite, Trichomonas vaginalis in vaginal swabs. The presence of T. vaginalis was detected from 121 female sex workers attending a social hygiene clinic in Balibago, Angeles City, Pampanga, Philippines using culture, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the developed LAMP assay. The high analytical sensitivity of LAMP detected a higher prevalence of T. vaginalis (42.06%) compared to culture (8.26%) and PCR (7.44%). Additionally, this assay did not cross-react with DNAs of other trichomonads that can infect humans such as Trichomonas tenax and Pentatrichomonas hominis as well as the pathogens, Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus. The LAMP assay developed had a limit of detection (0.036 ng/μl) lower than that of PCR using the primers TvK3 and TvK7 (0.36 ng/μl). Prevalence of T. vaginalis in female sex workers in this area of the Philippines may be higher than previously estimated. Discordant results of PCR and LAMP may be due to different reactions to different kinds of inhibitors in the vaginal swabs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davin Edric V Adao
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.,Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.,Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
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Valle DL, Paclibare PAP, Cabrera EC, Rivera WL. Molecular and phenotypic characterization of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates from a tertiary hospital in the Philippines. Trop Med Health 2016; 44:3. [PMID: 27398062 PMCID: PMC4934148 DOI: 10.1186/s41182-016-0003-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Accepted: 01/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) poses a major threat to public health worldwide. There are relatively few studies addressing the molecular epidemiology of MRSA in the Philippines. Methods This study characterized MRSA isolates in terms of their antimicrobial susceptibility profile, the SCCmec type, and the presence of lukF-lukS genes for Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL) and determined the relatedness of the isolates by random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD)-polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Results A total of 236 S. aureus were isolated from clinical specimens of the Makati Medical Center in Makati City, Philippines, between January 2013 and June 2013, and 108 or 45.76 % were found to be MRSA. Results showed that the MRSA strains were resistant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (20.37 %), azithromycin (10.19 %), gentamicin (5.56 %), and linezolid (4.63 %), while all were susceptible to vancomycin, nitrofurantoin, levofloxacin, minocycline, rifampin, and tetracycline. One isolate was found positive for inducible clindamycin resistance. All of the 108 MRSA strains were confirmed to carry the mecA and SCCmec genes, while the PVL genes were detected in 41 (38 %) of the isolates. Ninety-six isolates (89 %) carried SCCmec type IV, while the remaining isolates carried SCCmec type I (11 isolates) or type III (one isolate). Conclusion This study is the first to present a comprehensive MRSA surveillance data with molecular characterization in a tertiary hospital in the Philippines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demetrio L Valle
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Philippines ; Department of Pathology and Laboratories, Makati Medical Center, Makati City, 1229 Philippines
| | - Phyllis Anne P Paclibare
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Philippines ; Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Philippines
| | - Esperanza C Cabrera
- Biology Department, De La Salle University, Taft Ave., Manila City, 1004 Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Philippines ; Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101 Philippines
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Martin-Puzon JJR, Valle DL, Rivera WL. TLC profiles and antibacterial activity of Glinus oppositifolius L. Aug. DC. (Molluginaceae) leaf and stem extracts against bacterial pathogens. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/s2222-1808(15)60838-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Valle DL, Andrade JI, Puzon JJM, Cabrera EC, Rivera WL. Antibacterial activities of ethanol extracts of Philippine medicinal plants against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apjtb.2015.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Ng KCS, Rivera WL. Multiplex PCR-Based Serogrouping and Serotyping of Salmonella enterica from Tonsil and Jejunum with Jejunal Lymph Nodes of Slaughtered Swine in Metro Manila, Philippines. J Food Prot 2015; 78:873-80. [PMID: 25951380 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-14-342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Food poisoning outbreaks and livestock mortalities caused by Salmonella enterica are widespread in the Philippines, with hogs being the most commonly recognized carriers of the pathogen. To prevent and control the occurrence of S. enterica infection in the country, methods were used in this study to isolate and rapidly detect, differentiate, and characterize S. enterica in tonsils and jejuna with jejunal lymph nodes of swine slaughtered in four locally registered meat establishments (LRMEs) and four meat establishments accredited by the National Meat Inspection Services in Metro Manila. A total of 480 samples were collected from 240 animals (120 pigs from each type of meat establishment). A significantly higher proportion of pigs were positive for S. enterica in LRMEs (60 of 120) compared with meat establishments accredited by the National Meat Inspection Services (38 of 120). More S. enterica-positive samples were found in tonsils compared with jejuna with jejunal lymph nodes in LRMEs, but this difference was not significant. A PCR assay targeting the invA gene had sensitivity that was statistically similar to that of the culture method, detecting 93 of 98 culture-confirmed samples. Multiplex PCR-based O-serogrouping and H/Sdf I typing revealed four S. enterica serogroups (B, C1, D, and E) and six serotypes (Agona, Choleraesuis, Enteritidis, Heidelberg, Typhimurium, and Weltevreden), respectively, which was confirmed by DNA sequencing of the PCR products. This study was the first to report detection of S. enterica serotype Agona in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamela Charmaine S Ng
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines; Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.
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Garcia BCB, Dimasupil MAZ, Vital PG, Widmer KW, Rivera WL. Fecal contamination in irrigation water and microbial quality of vegetable primary production in urban farms of Metro Manila, Philippines. J Environ Sci Health B 2015; 50:734-743. [PMID: 26273758 DOI: 10.1080/03601234.2015.1048107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Microbial contamination of fresh produce can present a severe risk to public health. By conducting a rigorous survey of irrigation waters, the impacts of fecal contamination on the quality of produce could be assessed. In this study, surface waters were observed to be contaminated with Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., and somatic coliphages. Culture methods show that out of 373 irrigation water, soil, and vegetable samples collected for a 1-year period, 232 (62.20%) were found positive for E. coli, 213 (57.26%) for somatic coliphages, and 2 (0.53%) for Salmonella spp. Out of 190 water samples, 167 (87.9%) were found to have E.coli, 174 (91.6%) have somatic coliphages, and 1 (0.5%) with Salmonella spp. In soil samples, 36 of 91 (39.6%) have E. coli, 31 (34.0%) have somatic coliphages, and none with Salmonella spp. Lastly, out of 92 vegetable samples, 29 (31.5%), 8 (8.7%), and 1 (1.1%) were found to have E. coli, somatic coliphages, and Salmonella spp., respectively. Molecular analysis confirmed the presence of bacterial contaminants. Seasonal weather conditions were noted to have an effect on the presence and number of these fecal indicator organisms. The observed data suggest that contaminated irrigation water may greatly affect the quality of fresh produce from these agricultural operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bea Clarise B Garcia
- a Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines , Diliman , Quezon City , Philippines
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Cruz ARS, Rivera WL. Genotype analysis of Acanthamoeba isolated from human nasal swabs in the Philippines. ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2014; 7S1:S74-8. [PMID: 25312195 DOI: 10.1016/s1995-7645(14)60206-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 01/20/2014] [Revised: 03/08/2014] [Accepted: 04/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the genotypes of Acanthamoeba species isolated from human nasal swabs in the Philippines. METHODS Human nasal swabs were collected from two groups: a low exposure group composed of students of the University of the Philippines-Diliman and a high exposure group composed of laborers frequently exposed to garbage, soil and dust. After isolation using non-nutrient agar plate lawned with Escherichia coli and DNA extraction using Chelex-100 resin, the ASA.S1 region of the gene (Rns) coding for nuclear, small subunit ribosomal RNA of Acanthamoeba was amplified through polymerase chain reaction. Purified polymerase chain reaction products were then sequenced. Neighbor-joining, maximum parsimony, and maximum likelihood phylogenetic trees were then constructed. RESULTS In the low exposure group, 1 out of 70 (1.43%) students and 7 out of 110 (6.36%) in the high exposure group were culture-positive. Four soil samples were also obtained for comparison, all of which were tested culture-positive. Of the 12 Acanthamoeba isolates, only 9 were successfully sequenced. The basic local alignment search tool of the US National Center for Biotechnology Information was used to identify most similar sequences. Five isolates were identified as genotype T5, and 3 isolateds were genotype T4. Genotype T11 was also isolated from soil, the first to be reported in the Philippines. CONCLUSIONS Genotype T11 is a possible pathogenic strain and both T4 and T5 can be pathogenic to human, hence, healthy provisions, especially for high exposure groups, should be given more attention and reevaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Rafael S Cruz
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, the Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, the Philippines; Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, the Philippines.
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Salvador-Membreve DMC, Jacinto SD, Rivera WL. Trichomonas vaginalis induces cytopathic effect on human lung alveolar basal carcinoma epithelial cell line A549. Exp Parasitol 2014; 147:33-40. [PMID: 25307688 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2014.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [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: 06/22/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Trichomonas vaginalis, the causative agent of trichomoniasis is generally known to inhabit the genitourinary tract. However, several case reports with supporting molecular and immunological identifications have documented its occurrence in the respiratory tract of neonates and adults. In addition, the reports have documented that its occurrence is associated with respiratory failures. The medical significance or consequence of this association is unclear. Thus, to establish the possible outcome from the interaction of T. vaginalis with lung cells, the cytopathic effects of the parasites were evaluated using monolayer cultures of the human lung alveolar basal carcinoma epithelial cell line A549. The possible effect of association of T. vaginalis with A549 epithelial cells was analyzed using phase-contrast, scanning electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy. MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide), crystal-violet and TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyltransferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling) assays were conducted for cytotoxicity testing. The results demonstrate that T. vaginalis: (1) adheres to A549 epithelial cells, suggesting a density-dependent parasite-cell association; (2) adherence on A549 is through flagella, membrane and axostyle; (3) causes cell detachment and cytotoxicity (50-72.4%) to A549 and this effect is a function of parasite density; and (4) induces apoptosis in A549 about 20% after 6 h of incubation. These observations indicate that T. vaginalis causes cytopathic effects on A549 cell. To date, this is the first report showing a possible interaction of T. vaginalis with the lung cells using A549 monolayer cultures. Further studies are recommended to completely elucidate this association.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sonia D Jacinto
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
| | - Windell L Rivera
- Institute of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines; Molecular Protozoology Laboratory, Natural Sciences Research Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines.
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