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Gutiérrez-Liberato GA, Lotta-Arévalo IA, Rodríguez-Almonacid CC, Vargas-Ramírez M, Matta NE. Molecular and morphological description of the first Hepatozoon (Apicomplexa: Hepatozoidae) species infecting a neotropical turtle, with an approach to its phylogenetic relationships. Parasitology 2021; 148:747-759. [PMID: 33536100 PMCID: PMC11010207 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182021000184] [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] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Haemogregarines (Adeleorina) have a high prevalence in turtles. Nevertheless, there is only one Hepatozoon species described that infects Testudines so far; it is Hepatozoon fitzsimonsi which infects the African tortoise Kinixys belliana. Colombia harbours a great diversity of chelonians; however, most of them are threatened. It is important to identify and characterize chelonian haemoparasite infections to improve the clinical assessments, treatments and the conservation and reintroduction programs of these animals. To evaluate such infections for the Colombian wood turtle Rhinoclemmys melanosterna, we analysed blood from 70 individuals. By using the morphological characteristics of blood stages as well as molecular information (18S rRNA sequences), here we report a new Hepatozoon species that represents the first report of a hepatozoid species infecting a semi-aquatic continental turtle in the world. Although the isolated lineage clusters within the phylogenetic clades that have morphological species of parasites already determined, their low nodal support makes their position within each group inconclusive. It is important to identify new molecular markers to improve parasite species identification. In-depth research on blood parasites infecting turtles is essential for increasing knowledge that could assess this potential unknown threat, to inform the conservation of turtles and for increasing the state of knowledge on parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Germán A. Gutiérrez-Liberato
- Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
- Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Salud Pública, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
| | - Ingrid A. Lotta-Arévalo
- Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
| | - Cristian C. Rodríguez-Almonacid
- Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
| | - Mario Vargas-Ramírez
- Facultad de Ciencias, Estación de Biología Tropical Roberto Franco (EBTRF), Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Carrera 33 #33 −76, Villavicencio500005 Meta, Colombia
- Instituto de Genética, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
| | - Nubia E. Matta
- Facultad de Ciencias, Departamento de Biología, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Sede Bogotá. Carrera 30 No. 45-03, Bogotá111321, Colombia
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Snak A, Henrique SM, Sebolt APR, Cristani J, Sato ME, Miletti LC, de Moura AB. Experimental infection of tachyzoites of the NC1 strain of Neosporacaninum in female swine. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:1049-1057. [PMID: 33506333 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07054-6] [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] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is a protozoan that can cause reproductive problems in several animal species. Although N. caninum infection has been reported in swine, the pathogenesis and clinical signs are not fully known in this species. The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of experimental infection with tachyzoites of the N. caninum strain Nc1 in swine matrices at different stages of gestation. For that purpose, 12 gilts, seronegative for N. caninum and T. gondii, were selected and allocated into four groups of three animals each. Animals in group A were not inoculated (control) and animals in groups B, C, and D were inoculated intravenously with of 2.9 × 107 tachyzoites, 30 days before conception, and at 45 and 90 days of gestation, respectively. Temperature, heart rate, blood, saliva, and vaginal mucus samples from the animals were collected periodically until the time of delivery for the investigation of IgG and IgM antibodies against N. caninum using IFAT and PCR to detect the parasite DNA. All gilts sero-converted from 5 and 7 DPI (days postinoculation) to IgM and IgG, respectively. Two gilts showed hypothermia on the 5th and 7th DPI, and five inoculated animals had leukocytosis on the 7th DPI. It was possible to detect DNA of N. caninum in samples of saliva (33/84), vaginal mucus (17/84), and blood (2/84). Based on serology (IgM) and PCR, three animals in group B showed evidence of reappearance of the infection during pregnancy. It is concluded that N. caninum can cause clinical signs in infected swine females, in addition to indicating saliva as a suitable diagnostic biological material for the detection of N. caninum DNA in this animal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Snak
- Universidade do Estado de SantaCatarina, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil.
| | | | | | - José Cristani
- Universidade do Estado de SantaCatarina, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
| | - Mere Erika Sato
- Universidade do Estado de SantaCatarina, Lages, Santa Catarina, Brazil
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Kaur N, Singh H, Sharma P, Singh NK, Kashyap N, Singh NK. Development and application of multiplex PCR assay for the simultaneous detection of Babesia vogeli, Ehrlichia canis and Hepatozoon canis in dogs. Acta Trop 2020; 212:105713. [PMID: 32949487 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2020.105713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 05/02/2020] [Accepted: 09/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
A multiplex PCR assay was standardized and evaluated to simultaneously detect the DNA of Babesia vogeli, Ehrlichia canis and Hepatozoon canis in dogs of selected districts of Punjab state, India. Amplicons of 602 bp, 380 bp and 306 bp corresponding to B. vogeli (18S rRNA gene), E. canis (VirB9 gene), and H. canis (18S rRNA gene) were obtained, without any non-specific amplification. The results of multiplex PCR assay were further compared with the corresponding singleplex PCR assay. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of multiplex PCR assay with respect to singleplex PCR assay in the detection of B. vogeli, E. canis and H. canis varied from 50% to 100% and 92.08% to 98.79%, respectively revealing "moderate" to "very good" agreement by kappa value statistics. Blood samples from 322 dogs collected from selected districts of Punjab state, India, when screened by microscopy revealed the prevalence of B. vogeli, E. canis and H. canis as 0.31%, 0.93% and 1.86%, respectively whereas with multiplex PCR assay the values were 0.93%, 10.24% and 4.65%, respectively, with concurrent infection of E. canis & H. canis (1.86%) and B. vogeli & E. canis (0.31%). The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of multiplex PCR assay with respect to microscopy in the detection of B. vogeli, E. canis and H. canis varied from 69.15% to 100% and 85.11% to 92.33%, respectively revealing "fair" agreement by kappa value statistics and the data was statistically significant. The analytical sensitivity of multiplex PCR assay in the detection of B. vogeli, E. canis and H. canis was 100 pg, 10 pg and 0.1 pg, respectively, whereas the values for the singleplex counterpart were 0.1 pg, 0.01 pg and 0.01 pg. Furthermore, various risk factors viz. age, breed, sex, season and districts were non-significantly associated with the prevalence of these haemoparasites except for E. canis that revealed a significant association with districts by multiplex PCR assay. Therefore the multiplex PCR assay developed may be useful in identification of the aetiological agents of these diseases during their early phase, which may in turn be useful in development of better health care and appropriate treatment of suspected dogs, particularly in endemic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navpreet Kaur
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, 141004, Punjab, India
| | - Harkirat Singh
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, 141004, Punjab, India.
| | - Payal Sharma
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, 141004, Punjab, India
| | - Niraj Kumar Singh
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, 141004, Punjab, India
| | - Neeraj Kashyap
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, 141004, Punjab, India
| | - Nirbhay Kumar Singh
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, 141004, Punjab, India
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Buss LF, Campos de Oliveira- da Silva L, Moreira CHV, Manuli ER, Sales FC, Morales I, Di Germanio C, de Almeida-Neto C, Bakkour S, Constable P, Pinto-Filho MM, Ribeiro AL, Busch M, Sabino EC. Declining antibody levels to Trypanosoma cruzi correlate with polymerase chain reaction positivity and electrocardiographic changes in a retrospective cohort of untreated Brazilian blood donors. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008787. [PMID: 33108390 PMCID: PMC7647114 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although infection with Trypanosoma cruzi is thought to be lifelong, less than half of those infected develop cardiomyopathy, suggesting greater parasite control or even clearance. Antibody levels appear to correlate with T. cruzi (antigen) load. We test the association between a downwards antibody trajectory, PCR positivity and ECG alterations in untreated individuals with Chagas disease. Methodology/Principal findings This is a retrospective cohort of T. cruzi seropositive blood donors. Paired blood samples (index donation and follow-up) were tested using the VITROS Immunodiagnostic Products Anti-T.cruzi (Chagas) assay (Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, Raritan NJ) and PCR performed on the follow-up sample. A 12-lead resting ECG was performed. Significant antibody decline was defined as a reduction of > 1 signal-to-cutoff (S/CO) unit on the VITROS assay. Follow-up S/CO of < 4 was defined as borderline/low. 276 untreated seropositive blood donors were included. The median (IQR) follow-up was 12.7 years (8.5–16.9). 56 (22.1%) subjects had a significant antibody decline and 35 (12.7%) had a low/borderline follow-up result. PCR positivity was lower in the falling (26.8% vs 52.8%, p = 0.001) and low/borderline (17.1% vs 51.9%, p < 0.001) antibody groups, as was the rate of ECG abnormalities. Falling and low/borderline antibody groups were predominantly composed of individuals with negative PCR and normal ECG findings: 64% and 71%, respectively. Conclusions/Significance Low and falling antibody levels define a phenotype of possible spontaneous parasite clearance. Infection with the single-celled parasite Trypanosoma cruzi (Chagas disease) is thought to be lifelong. However, only a third of infected people develop Chagas cardiomyopathy–the main disease manifestation. This may reflect the different extent to which individuals control the parasite, with some potentially clearing it entirely. In chronically infected immunocompetent patients, a marker of parasite burden is the quantity of antibody against T. cruzi in the blood: more parasite, more immune stimulation, more antibody. In this study we show how antibody levels change over many years in a cohort of untreated patients with Chagas disease. We find that among individuals with falling or low/borderline antibody levels there was a lower rate of parasite detection in the blood and a lower rate of cardiomyopathy. 60% of subjects with falling antibody levels had no evidence of active disease, twice as many as among patients with other antibody trajectories (stable or rising). Our findings support an account of the natural history of Chagas disease in which a proportion of those infected achieve a greater control of the parasite, with some individuals potentially clearing it completely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis F. Buss
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical da Faculdade de Medicina (FMUSP) da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Carlos H. V. Moreira
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical da Faculdade de Medicina (FMUSP) da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Erika R. Manuli
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical da Faculdade de Medicina (FMUSP) da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Flavia C. Sales
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical da Faculdade de Medicina (FMUSP) da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Ingra Morales
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical da Faculdade de Medicina (FMUSP) da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Clara Di Germanio
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | | | - Sonia Bakkour
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Paul Constable
- Ortho Clinical Diagnostics, Rochester, NY, United States of America
| | - Marcelo M. Pinto-Filho
- Telehealth Center, Hospital das Clínicas, and Internal Medicine Department, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Antonio L. Ribeiro
- Telehealth Center, Hospital das Clínicas, and Internal Medicine Department, School of Medicine, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Michael Busch
- Vitalant Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Ester C. Sabino
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical da Faculdade de Medicina (FMUSP) da Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Okino CH, Bassetto CC, Giglioti R, Silva PC, Tonelli MF, Marcondes CR, de Oliveira HN, de Sena Oliveira MC. A polymorphic CD4 epitope related to increased susceptibility to Babesia bovis in Canchim calves. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2020; 230:110132. [PMID: 33129193 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2020.110132] [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] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Different allelic forms of bovine CD4 were previously described in cattle and were also observed in Canchim calves examined in the present experiment. However, the functional relevance of these different CD4 phenotypes has not yet been investigated. CD4 + T helper cells are known to play a central role in immune control against Babesia bovis infection. Thus, our study aimed to compare the profiles of immune cells, specific antibody titers and blood infection levels measured by qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) in calves naturally infected with B. bovis, phenotyped as CD4- (absence of anti-CD4 staining), CD4 + (intermediate staining) or CD4 ++ (high staining). The CD4 mRNA precursor was also measured in these animals. Calves with the CD4- phenotype showed higher amounts of B. bovis DNA in blood samples, compared to the other CD4 phenotypes. It was also observed that these calves with higher levels of infection had lower amounts of natural killer cells and higher expression of the CD4 gene, which can be interpreted as a compensation for the failure of the altered CD4 receptor to recognize relevant B. bovis epitopes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cintia Hiromi Okino
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234, Fazenda Canchim, zip code: 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.
| | - César Cristiano Bassetto
- Departamento de Zootecnia - Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, zip code: 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Giglioti
- Centro de Pesquisa de Genética e Reprodução Animal, Instituto de Zootecnia (IZ), Rua Heitor Penteado, n. 56, zip code 13380-011, Nova Odessa, SP, Brazil
| | - Pamella Cristini Silva
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234, Fazenda Canchim, zip code: 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Fernanda Tonelli
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234, Fazenda Canchim, zip code: 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Cintia Righetti Marcondes
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234, Fazenda Canchim, zip code: 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Henrique Nunes de Oliveira
- Departamento de Zootecnia - Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, zip code: 14884-900, Jaboticabal, SP, Brazil
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Gummery L, Jallow S, Raftery AG, Bennet E, Rodgers J, Sutton DGM. Comparison of loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) and PCR for the diagnosis of infection with Trypanosoma brucei ssp. in equids in The Gambia. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0237187. [PMID: 32833981 PMCID: PMC7444819 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0237187] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Infection of equids with Trypanosoma brucei (T. brucei) ssp. is of socioeconomic importance across sub-Saharan Africa as the disease often progresses to cause fatal meningoencephalitis. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has been developed as a cost-effective molecular diagnostic test and is potentially applicable for use in field-based laboratories. Part I Threshold levels for T. brucei ssp. detection by LAMP were determined using whole equine blood specimens spiked with known concentrations of parasites. Results were compared to OIE antemortem gold standard of T. brucei-PCR (TBR-PCR). Results I Threshold for detection of T. brucei ssp. on extracted DNA from whole blood was 1 parasite/ml blood for LAMP and TBR-PCR, and there was excellent agreement (14/15) between tests at high (1 x 103/ml) concentrations of parasites. Detection threshold was 100 parasites/ml using LAMP on whole blood (LWB). Threshold for LWB improved to 10 parasites/ml with detergent included. Performance was excellent for LAMP at high (1 x 103/ml) concentrations of parasites (15/15, 100%) but was variable at lower concentrations. Agreement between tests was weak to moderate, with the highest for TBR-PCR and LAMP on DNA extracted from whole blood (Cohen’s kappa 0.95, 95% CI 0.64–1.00). Part II A prospective cross-sectional study of working equids meeting clinical criteria for trypanosomiasis was undertaken in The Gambia. LAMP was evaluated against subsequent TBR-PCR. Results II Whole blood samples from 321 equids in The Gambia were processed under field conditions. There was weak agreement between LWB and TBR-PCR (Cohen’s kappa 0.34, 95% CI 0.19–0.49) but excellent agreement when testing CSF (100% agreement on 6 samples). Conclusions Findings support that LAMP is comparable to PCR when used on CSF samples in the field, an important tool for clinical decision making. Results suggest repeatability is low in animals with low parasitaemia. Negative samples should be interpreted in the context of clinical presentation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Gummery
- Weipers Centre Equine Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Saloum Jallow
- Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust, Sambel Kunda, The Gambia
| | - Alexandra G. Raftery
- Weipers Centre Equine Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Euan Bennet
- Weipers Centre Equine Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Jean Rodgers
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - David G. M. Sutton
- Weipers Centre Equine Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Gómez-Luque A, Parejo JC, Clavijo-Chamorro MZ, López-Espuela F, Munyaruguru F, Belinchón Lorenzo S, Monroy I, Gómez-Nieto LC. Method for Malaria Diagnosis Based on Extractions of Samples Using Non-Invasive Techniques: An Opportunity for the Nursing Clinical Practice. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2020; 17:E5551. [PMID: 32752015 PMCID: PMC7432767 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17155551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Malaria has been for millennia one of the best known and most destructive diseases affecting humans. Its high impact has aroused great interest for the development of new effective and reliable diagnostic techniques. Recently it has been recently published that hairs from mammal hosts are able to capture, hold and finally remove foreign DNA sequences of Leishmania parasites. The aim of this study was to check if Plasmodium falciparum (P. falciparum) DNA remains stable in blood samples deposited in Whatman paper after suffering different transport and storage conditions, and to compare the sensitivity of these results with those offered by thick a smear and Rapid Diagnostic Test, and besides to examine whether P. falciparum DNA would be detected and quantified by Real time quantitative PCR (qPCR) from hairs of people with different types of malaria. P. falciparum Histidine Repeat Protein II (pHRP-II) antigen detection and P. falciparum DNA were detected in 18 of 19 dry blood samples adhered to Whatman paper (94.74%), besides, Plasmodium DNA was also detected in seven out of 19 hair samples analyzed (36.84%), remaining stable until analysis for several months under the exposure to different environmental conditions. Although the sensitivity of PCR for the diagnosis of malaria in hair samples is not as high as blood analysis, the study of Plasmodium DNA presence in blood and hair could constitute a complementary tool with numerous advantages in sample collection, transport and storage. We suggest that the method could be also applied to medical, forensic and paleo-parasitological diagnosis, not only for malaria but also for searching many other pathogens in hair samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adela Gómez-Luque
- Department of Nursing, Nursing and Occupational Therapy College, University of Extremadura s/n, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (A.G.-L.); (M.Z.C.-C.)
| | - Juan Carlos Parejo
- Unidad de Genética, Facultad de Veterinaria, University of Extremadura s/n, 10003 Cáceres, Spain;
| | - Maria Zoraida Clavijo-Chamorro
- Department of Nursing, Nursing and Occupational Therapy College, University of Extremadura s/n, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (A.G.-L.); (M.Z.C.-C.)
| | - Fidel López-Espuela
- Department of Nursing, Nursing and Occupational Therapy College, University of Extremadura s/n, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (A.G.-L.); (M.Z.C.-C.)
| | | | - Silvia Belinchón Lorenzo
- Laboratorio LeishmanCeres, Unidad de Parasitología, Facultad de Veterinaria, University of Extremadura s/n, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (S.B.L.); (I.M.); (L.C.G.-N.)
| | - Isabel Monroy
- Laboratorio LeishmanCeres, Unidad de Parasitología, Facultad de Veterinaria, University of Extremadura s/n, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (S.B.L.); (I.M.); (L.C.G.-N.)
| | - Luis Carlos Gómez-Nieto
- Laboratorio LeishmanCeres, Unidad de Parasitología, Facultad de Veterinaria, University of Extremadura s/n, 10003 Cáceres, Spain; (S.B.L.); (I.M.); (L.C.G.-N.)
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Soltani Tehrani B, Mirzajani E, Fallahi S, Manouchehri Naeini K, Mahmoudi MR, Safari Kavishahi M, Eskandari V, Zebardast N. Challenging TaqMan probe-based real-time PCR and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP): the two sensitive molecular techniques for the detection of toxoplasmosis, a potentially dangerous opportunistic infection in immunocompromised patients. Arch Microbiol 2020; 202:1881-1888. [PMID: 32448961 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-020-01903-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Due to defects and drawbacks of most conventional diagnostic methods including serology for the diagnosis of toxoplasmosis as a dangerous opportunistic infection in immunocompromised individuals, the accurate, rapid, and sensitive detection of infection in such patients is essential. In this study, the TaqMan probe-based real-time PCR and, a relatively new nucleic acid amplification method, the loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) technique was compared based on the repetitive elements (RE) sequence to detect Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) DNA in blood samples of immunocompromised individuals. During this study, 119 blood samples from immunocompromised cancer patients with renal failure, undergoing dialysis were studied. After DNA extraction from blood samples using the salt extraction method, the molecular techniques of TaqMan probe-based real-time PCR and LAMP were used to investigate the contamination of the samples with T. gondii, based on the 529 bp (RE) sequence of T. gondii. The analytical sensitivity of LAMP and real-time PCR was evaluated by duplicating the five-step serial dilutions of T. gondii tachyzoites from 0.25 to 5×105 spiked tachyzoites per milliliter of the Toxoplasma seronegative blood sample. The extracted DNA from other parasites and human chromosomal DNA were used to determine the specificity of the molecular methods. The obtained results were analyzed using Kappa statistical test and SPSS22 software. Out of 119 studied samples, 7 (5.8%) and 5 (4.2%) samples were positive for Toxoplasma by TaqMan probe-based real-time PCR and LAMP, respectively. The limits of detection of TaqMan probe-based real-time PCR and RE-LAMP in negative serum samples were one and five tachyzoites (CT 38), respectively. Both real-time PCR and LAMP methods were 100% specific for Toxoplasma detection. Positive results were obtained only with T. gondii DNA, while other DNA samples were negative. The TaqMan probe-based real-time PCR based on the RE sequence showed higher sensitivity to T. gondii DNA detection in blood samples of cancer patients and serial dilutions of parasitic tachyzoites. The results show that TaqMan probe-based real-time PRC is a sensitive and specific method for the detection of toxoplasmosis in immunocompromised individuals, as well as the LAMP assay, which can be used as a suitable alternative diagnostic method for the detection of toxoplasmosis in such patients, without need the for any expensive equipment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahram Soltani Tehrani
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Mirzajani
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Shirzad Fallahi
- Hepatitis Research Center, Lorestan University of Medical Science, Khorramabad, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Kourosh Manouchehri Naeini
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Mahmoudi
- Research Center for Fascioliasis and Parasitic Diseases, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | | | - Vajiheh Eskandari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - Nozhat Zebardast
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran.
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9
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Molina R, Jiménez M, García-Martínez J, San Martín JV, Carrillo E, Sánchez C, Moreno J, Alves F, Alvar J. Role of asymptomatic and symptomatic humans as reservoirs of visceral leishmaniasis in a Mediterranean context. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008253. [PMID: 32324738 PMCID: PMC7200008 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the Mediterranean basin, Leishmania infantum is the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis (VL), a zoonosis in which the dog is the primary domestic reservoir, although wildlife may have a leading role in the sylvatic cycle of the disease in some areas. Infections without disease are very frequent. There is limited information regarding the role that VL patients and asymptomatic infected individuals could be playing in the transmission of L. infantum. Xenodiagnosis of leishmaniasis has been used in this descriptive study to explore the role of symptomatic and asymptomatic infected individuals as reservoirs in a recent focus of leishmaniasis in southwestern Madrid, Spain. Methodology and main findings Asymptomatic blood donors (n = 24), immunocompetent patients who were untreated (n = 12) or treated (n = 11) for visceral leishmaniasis (VL), and immunocompromised patients with VL (n = 3) were enrolled in the study. Their infectivity to Phlebotomus perniciosus was studied by indirect xenodiagnosis on peripheral blood samples. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction of blood samples from immunocompetent patients untreated for VL and immunocompromised untreated, treated and under secondary prophylaxis for VL was performed. Antibodies against Leishmania were studied by indirect fluorescent antibody and rK39-immunochromatographic tests. A lymphoproliferative assay with a soluble Leishmania antigen was used to screen for leishmaniasis infection in the healthy population. Sixty-two xenodiagnostic tests were carried out and 5,080 sand flies were dissected. Positive xenodiagnosis was recorded in four patients, with different sand fly infection rates: 1 immunosuppressed HIV / L. infantum coinfected asymptomatic patient, 1 immunosuppressed patient with multiple myeloma and symptomatic active VL, and 2 immunocompetent patients with untreated active VL. All blood donors were negative for both xenodiagnosis and conventional PCR. Conclusions / Significance There is no consensus amongst authors on the definition of an ‘asymptomatic case’ nor on the tools for screening; we, therefore, have adopted one for the sake of clarity. Immunocompetent subjects, both infected asymptomatics and those treated for VL, are limited in number and appear to have no epidemiological relevance. The impact is limited for immunocompetent patients with untreated active VL, whilst immunosuppressed individuals undergoing immunosuppressive therapy and immunosuppressed individuals HIV / L. infantum coinfected were the most infectious towards sand flies. It is noteworthy that the HIV / L. infantum coinfected patient with asymptomatic leishmaniasis was easily infectious to sand flies for a long time, despite being under continuous prophylaxis for leishmaniasis. Accordingly, screening for latent Leishmania infection in HIV-infected patients is recommended in scenarios where transmission occurs. In addition, screening for VL in HIV-infected patients who have spent time in VL-endemic areas should also be implemented in non-endemic areas. More research is needed to better understand if some asymptomatic coinfected individuals contribute to transmission as ‘super-spreaders’. Leishmaniasis is a set of diseases caused by Leishmania parasites and transmitted through the bites of infected phlebotomine sand fly females during blood ingestion. Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is caused by Leishmania infantum in the Mediterranean region and dog is the primary domestic reservoir, although we can not ignore the role that wild reservoirs can have under certain conditions. As for the role of the human host in the transmission of the disease is not fully understood. The present work explores this important epidemiological aspect to try to clarify it. The study concludes that asymptomatic infected individuals and the immunocompetent patients treated for VL have no epidemiological impact in the transmission of L. infantum. As for the immunocompetent patients with untreated active VL its impact is limited, whilst immunosupressed patients are the most infectious towards sand flies. Thus, the screening for latent Leishmania infection in HIV-infected patients is recommended in scenarios where transmission occurs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Molina
- Laboratory of Medical Entomology, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail: (RM); (MJ); (JA)
| | - Maribel Jiménez
- Laboratory of Medical Entomology, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
- * E-mail: (RM); (MJ); (JA)
| | - Jesús García-Martínez
- Clinical Laboratory Service, Blood Bank, Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Víctor San Martín
- Internal Medicine Service, Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eugenia Carrillo
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Carmen Sánchez
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier Moreno
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Leishmaniasis, Centro Nacional de Microbiología, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fabiana Alves
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jorge Alvar
- Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative, Geneva, Switzerland
- * E-mail: (RM); (MJ); (JA)
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10
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Bajer A, Dwużnik D, Tołkacz K, Alsarraf M, Mierzejewska EJ. Comparison of the detection efficiency of haemoparasite DNA in blood and faecal samples - the way to eco-epidemiological studies. Ann Agric Environ Med 2019; 26:538-543. [PMID: 31885225 DOI: 10.26444/aaem/109664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [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: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE It is easier and non-invasive to obtain faecal samples compared with blood samples. Molecular techniques may enable detection of parasites even in tiny amounts of blood-containing faeces. We aimed to compare the sensitivity of detection of three Babesia species and Hepatozoon canis in blood and faecal samples, including samples derived from naturally infected hosts. MATERIAL AND METHODS Three groups were involved: 1) Nine BALB/c mice infected with Babesia microti sampled during acute (n=3), post-acute (n=3) and chronic phases of infection (n=3); 2) Eight dogs with symptoms of babesiosis; 3) Six red foxes infected with B. vulpes, one fox infected with B. canis, four foxes infected with H. canis. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood and faeces by use of commercial kits and amplified with genus-specific primers in one-step or nested PCR reactions. Selected PCR products were sequenced. RESULTS No positive results for faecal samples were obtained from H. canis-positive foxes in contrast to Babesia spp. infections. Positive results from PCRs were obtained for all BALB/c mice (100%), five dogs (62.5%) and four of seven foxes (57.1%). Successful sequencing was obtained for six selected murine samples (B. microti), four canine samples (B. canis) and for one fox sample (B. vulpes). The success of B. microti detection in murine faecal samples from acute, post-acute and chronic phases was identical (100%). CONCLUSIONS Detectability of Babesia spp. infections was lower in naturally infected dogs and foxes, compared to experimentally infected mice. Detection of DNA in faecal samples can be useful in the detection of Babesia infection in populations from which blood samples are hard to obtain, but due regard must be given to the possibility that prevalence of infection may be severely underestimated.
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11
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Arefkhah N, Goodarzi R, Rezaei Z, Layegh Gigloo A, Sarkari B. Low prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection among children in a rural community in Fars province, Southern Iran. Infez Med 2019; 27:322-327. [PMID: 31545777] [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
The current study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection and associated risk factors in children in a rural community in Fars province in southern Iran. Blood samples were collected from 671 children living in three rural areas, and sera and buffy coats were isolated from each sample. Anti-T. gondii antibodies were detected by ELISA, using a commercial kit. Also, buffy coats of seropositive children were examined by a PCR method, targeting a 529 bp gene of T. gondii. Of 671 children participating in the study, 319 (51.7%) were boys and 298 (48.3%) were girls. The mean age of the children was 9.7 (±10.7) years. Anti-Toxoplasma antibodies were detected in sera of 23 out of 671 children, corresponding to a seroprevalence rate of 3.8%. Gender and level of education had no significant influence on the risk of Toxoplasma infection (p>0.05). Toxoplasma DNA was not detected in buffy coats of any of the seropositive cases. Geographic location, as well as the low age of the participants, may contribute to the low rate of Toxoplasma infection in children of rural areas in southern Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasir Arefkhah
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Roghayeh Goodarzi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zahra Rezaei
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Akram Layegh Gigloo
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Bahador Sarkari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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12
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Vergara C, Muñoz G, Martínez G, Apt W, Zulantay I. Detection of Trypanosoma cruzi by PCR in adults with chronic Chagas disease treated with nifurtimox. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0221100. [PMID: 31433828 PMCID: PMC6703690 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0221100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [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: 02/01/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease, a vector-borne parasitosis caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, is endemic to Latin America and has spread to other countries due to immigration of infected persons. It is estimated that 160,000 people are infected in Chile, most of them in the chronic phase and without etiological treatment. The infection is confirmed by conventional serological methods while molecular methods have become in valuable tools to evaluate parasitemia in treated and non-treated chronic Chagas disease patients. The objective of this study was to determine, by conventional Polymerase Chain Reaction, the presence of T. cruzi kinetoplastid DNA in peripheral blood samples from 114 adult individuals with confirmed chronic Chagas disease, before and 6.6 years (average) after treatment with nifurtimox. The samples were received and preserved in guanidine-EDTA until DNA purification. Conventional PCR assays were performed in triplicate with T. cruzi kinetoplastid DNA primers 121 and 122. The amplified products were fractionated by electrophoresis in 2% agarose gels. A 330 bp product represented a positive assay. 84.2% (96 cases) and 6.1% (7 cases) of the samples taken before and after the treatment, respectively, were positive. The McNemar test showed a statistically significant difference between the groups of samples (p<0.001). Since serological negativization (the current cure criterion) delay many years after therapy and positive parasitological results represent a treatment failure, the conversion of pre-therapy positive conventional PCR is a qualitative and complementary tool that could be included in protocols of prolonged follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilo Vergara
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Básico-Clínico, Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gabriela Muñoz
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Básico-Clínico, Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gabriela Martínez
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Básico-Clínico, Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Werner Apt
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Básico-Clínico, Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Inés Zulantay
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Básico-Clínico, Programa de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Ciencias Biomédicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Dai F, Zhuo X, Kong Q, Du J, Yu H, Zhou S, Song X, Tong Q, Lou D, Lou Q, Lu L, Lv Y, Sa X, Lu S. Early Detection of Toxoplasma gondii Infection In Mongolian Gerbil By Quantitative Real-Time PCR. J Parasitol 2019; 105:52-57. [PMID: 30807726] [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] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis, caused by Toxoplasma gondii, is associated with several clinical syndromes, including encephalitis, chorioretinitis, and congenital infection. Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous apicomplexan parasite found in both humans and animals. Mongolian gerbils, which are more susceptible to both high- and low-virulence Toxoplasma strains compared with mice, are considered useful models for assessing diagnosis and treatment methods for toxoplasmosis, as well as infection by and host defense to this organism. Here we established a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method targeting the B1 gene for early and specific detection of T. gondii infection in Mongolian gerbil. The detection limit of the developed qPCR was approximately 1 T. gondii tachyzoite. This method was also applied to detect T. gondii genomic DNA in experimentally infected Mongolian gerbils, with positive results in blood (66.7%), liver (73.3%), lung (80.0%), spleen (80.0%), and peritoneal fluid (66.7%) samples as early as 1 day postinfection. Specificity tests confirmed no cross-reactivity with DNA templates of Neospora caninum, Cryptosporidium parvum, Eimeria tenella, Trypanosoma evansi, Schistosoma japonicum, Angiostrongylus cantonensis, and Strongyloides stercoralis. This study first reports the use of Mongolian gerbils as an animal model for early diagnosis of toxoplasmosis by qPCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangwei Dai
- 1 Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Xunhui Zhuo
- 2 Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Qingming Kong
- 2 Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Jiangtao Du
- 1 Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Haijie Yu
- 3 Jiaxing Vocational Technical College, Jiaxing, China
| | - Shasang Zhou
- 1 Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Xiaoming Song
- 4 Laboratory Animal Centre of Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, China
| | - Qunbo Tong
- 2 Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Di Lou
- 2 Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Qi Lou
- 1 Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Lingqun Lu
- 1 Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Yu Lv
- 1 Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Xiaoying Sa
- 1 Laboratory Animal Centre of Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
| | - Shaohong Lu
- 2 Department of Immunity and Biochemistry, Institute of Parasitic Disease, Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, 310013, China
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Caldas IS, Menezes APDJ, Diniz LDF, Nascimento ÁFDSD, Novaes RD, Caldas S, Bahia MT. Parasitaemia and parasitic load are limited targets of the aetiological treatment to control the progression of cardiac fibrosis and chronic cardiomyopathy in Trypanosoma cruzi-infected dogs. Acta Trop 2019; 189:30-38. [PMID: 30290285 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2018.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 04/14/2018] [Revised: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 09/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
It is still unclear whether the progression of acute to chronic Chagas cardiomyopathy is predominantly associated with the limited efficacy of aetiological chemotherapy, or with the pharmacological resistance profiles and pathogenicity of specific Trypanosoma cruzi strains. Thus, we tested the hypothesis that parasitic load could be a limited target of aetiological chemotherapy to prevent chronic cardiomyopathy in dogs infected by different T. cruzi strains. Animals were infected with benznidazole-susceptible (Berenice-78) and -resistant (VL-10 and AAS) strains of T. cruzi. A quantitative real-time PCR strategy was developed to comparatively quantify the parasite load of the three different strains using a single standard curve. For dogs infected with the VL-10 strain, benznidazole treatment reduced cardiac parasitism during the acute phase of infection. However, similar parasite load and collagen deposition were detected in the myocardium of treated and untreated animals in the chronic phase of the infection. In animals infected with the AAS strain, benznidazole reduced parasite load, myocarditis and type III collagen deposition in the acute phase. However, increased type III collagen deposition was verified in the chronic phase. Dogs infected with the Berenice-78 strain showed a parasitological cure and no evidence of myocardial fibrosis. Parasitic load and cardiac fibrosis presented no correlation in acute or chronic phases of T. cruzi infection. Our findings in a canine model of Chagas disease suggest that parasite burden is a limited predictor for disease progression after treatment and show that benznidazole, although not inducing parasitological cure, is able to prevent total fibrosis in the early stages of infection, as well as complete prevention of cardiac damage when it eliminates parasites at the onset of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivo Santana Caldas
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, MG, Brazil.
| | - Ana Paula de Jesus Menezes
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, School of Medicine, Department of Biological Sciences and NUPEB, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil
| | - Lívia de Figueiredo Diniz
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Álvaro Fernando da Silva do Nascimento
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, School of Medicine, Department of Biological Sciences and NUPEB, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil
| | - Rômulo Dias Novaes
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Department of Pathology and Parasitology, Federal University of Alfenas, Alfenas, MG, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Caldas
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Health, Research and Development Center, Ezequiel Dias Foundation, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Maria Terezinha Bahia
- Laboratory of Parasitic Diseases, School of Medicine, Department of Biological Sciences and NUPEB, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Ouro Preto, MG, Brazil
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15
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Kundave VR, Ram H, Banerjee PS, Garg R, Mahendran K, Ravikumar GVPPS, Tiwari AK. Development of multiplex PCR assay for concurrent detection of tick borne haemoparasitic infections in bovines. Acta Parasitol 2018; 63:759-765. [PMID: 30367760 DOI: 10.1515/ap-2018-0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 01/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study describes development and evaluation of a multiplex PCR assay for simultaneous detection of Theileria annulata, Babesia bigemina and Anaplasma marginale infections in bovines. The assay was developed using parasites specific genomic DNA and three sets of PCR primers targeting the Tams1, 18S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes of T. annulata, B. bigemina and A. marginale, respectively. Blood samples collected from a total of 461 bovines, suspected for haemoparasitic infections, were examined microscopically to record the status of infection and simultaneously, genomic DNA extracted from these blood samples were utilized for the optimization and validation of multiplex PCR assay. Microscopic examination of blood samples revealed presence of single and multiple species of haemoparasites in 25.8% and 2.4% samples, respectively. Results of multiplex PCR revealed the presence of single haemoparasitic species infection in 159 cases (34.5%), whereas mixed infection was recorded in 82 (17.8%) samples. Occurrence of individual species infection detected by mPCR in the study was 26.03% (120/461) for T. annulata, 3.25% (15/461) for B. bigemina and 5.20% (24/461) for A. marginale. The detection limit of multiplex PCR assay was at the template dilutions of 10-6, 10-6 and 10-4, which corresponded to 0.1 pg, 0.1 pg and 10.0 pg of DNA for T. annulata, A. marginale, and B. bigemina, respectively. Based on the high diagnostic sensitivity and throughput, multiplex PCR assay developed in the present study could be exploited as a tool to conduct large-scale epidemiological survey for tick-borne haemoparasitic infection of bovines.
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MESH Headings
- Anaplasma/genetics
- Anaplasma/isolation & purification
- Anaplasmosis/diagnosis
- Animals
- Antigens, Protozoan/genetics
- Babesia/genetics
- Babesia/isolation & purification
- Babesiosis/diagnosis
- Babesiosis/parasitology
- Cattle
- Cattle Diseases/diagnosis
- Cattle Diseases/parasitology
- Cloning, Molecular
- DNA, Bacterial/blood
- DNA, Bacterial/chemistry
- DNA, Bacterial/isolation & purification
- DNA, Protozoan/blood
- DNA, Protozoan/chemistry
- DNA, Protozoan/isolation & purification
- Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction/veterinary
- RNA, Ribosomal, 16S/genetics
- RNA, Ribosomal, 18S/genetics
- Reproducibility of Results
- Sensitivity and Specificity
- Theileria annulata/genetics
- Theileria annulata/isolation & purification
- Theileriasis/diagnosis
- Theileriasis/parasitology
- Tick-Borne Diseases/diagnosis
- Tick-Borne Diseases/veterinary
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Affiliation(s)
- V R Kundave
- Division of Parasitology, ICAR-IVRI, Izatnagar-243122 India
| | - Hira Ram
- Division of Parasitology, ICAR-IVRI, Izatnagar-243122 India
| | | | - Rajat Garg
- Division of Parasitology, ICAR-IVRI, Izatnagar-243122 India
| | - K Mahendran
- Division of Veterinary Medicine, ICAR-IVRI, Izatnagar-243122 India
| | | | - Ashok K Tiwari
- Division of Biological Standardization, ICAR-IVRI, Izatnagar-243122 India
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16
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Ramírez JD, Herrera G, Hernández C, Cruz-Saavedra L, Muñoz M, Flórez C, Butcher R. Evaluation of the analytical and diagnostic performance of a digital droplet polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) assay to detect Trypanosoma cruzi DNA in blood samples. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0007063. [PMID: 30586355 PMCID: PMC6324824 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 01/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent development of novel Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technologies that confer theoretical advantages over quantitative PCR has considerable potential in the diagnosis of low load infections, such as Trypanosoma cruzi in the chronic phase of Chagas disease. We evaluated the utility of the digital droplet (dd)PCR platform in the detection of T. cruzi infection. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We imported a validated qPCR assay targeting the T. cruzi satellite tandem repeat (TcSTR) region to the ddPCR platform. Following optimization, we tested and repeated a standard curve of TcI epimastigotes to characterise the analytical performance of the assay on the ddPCR platform. We compared this to published qPCR performance data, and the performance of the qPCR assay in our own testing. We subsequently tested a panel of 192 previously characterized DNA specimens, extracted from the blood of individuals with and without T. cruzi infection. The assay performed well on the ddPCR platform, showing a limit of detection of 5 copies/μL or 1 parasite/mL. This was higher than the published limit of detection for qPCR, which was 0.46 parasites/mL. The ddPCR platform was not significantly more accurate than qPCR at any concentration tested. However, the clinical sensitivity and specificity of the assay were both 100% with perfect agreement between qPCR and ddPCR positive and negative result calling in clinical specimens. An average of 9,286 copies of TcSTR were detected per parasite. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE The use of the ddPCR platform to run this assay was comparable, but not superior in terms of performance, to the qPCR platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan David Ramírez
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Programa de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Matemáticas, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Giovanny Herrera
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Programa de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Matemáticas, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Carolina Hernández
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Programa de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Matemáticas, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Lissa Cruz-Saavedra
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Programa de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Matemáticas, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Marina Muñoz
- Grupo de Investigaciones Microbiológicas-UR (GIMUR), Programa de Biología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Matemáticas, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Carolina Flórez
- Grupo de Parasitología, Instituto Nacional de Salud, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Robert Butcher
- Clinical Research Department, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Nascimento J, Sampaio VS, Karl S, Kuehn A, Almeida A, Vitor-Silva S, de Melo GC, Baia da Silva DC, C. P. Lopes S, Fé NF, Lima JBP, Guerra MGB, Pimenta PFP, Bassat Q, Mueller I, Lacerda MVG, Monteiro WM. Use of anthropophilic culicid-based xenosurveillance as a proxy for Plasmodium vivax malaria burden and transmission hotspots identification. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006909. [PMID: 30418971 PMCID: PMC6258424 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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: 07/06/2018] [Revised: 11/26/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Vector-borne diseases account for more than 17% of all infectious diseases, causing more than one million deaths annually. Malaria remains one of the most important public health problems worldwide. These vectors are bloodsucking insects, which can transmit disease-producing microorganisms during a blood meal. The contact of culicids with human populations living in malaria-endemic areas suggests that the identification of Plasmodium genetic material in the blood present in the gut of these mosquitoes may be possible. The process of assessing the blood meal for the presence of pathogens is termed 'xenosurveillance'. In view of this, the present work investigated the relationship between the frequency with which Plasmodium DNA is found in culicids and the frequency with which individuals are found to be carrying malaria parasites. A cross-sectional study was performed in a peri-urban area of Manaus, in the Western Brazilian Amazon, by simultaneously collecting human blood samples and trapping culicids from households. A total of 875 individuals were included in the study and a total of 13,374mosquito specimens were captured. Malaria prevalence in the study area was 7.7%. The frequency of households with at least one culicid specimen carrying Plasmodium DNA was 6.4%. Plasmodium infection incidence was significantly related to whether any Plasmodium positive blood-fed culicid was found in the same household [IRR 3.49 (CI95% 1.38-8.84); p = 0.008] and for indoor-collected culicids [IRR 4.07 (CI95%1.25-13.24); p = 0.020]. Furthermore, the number of infected people in the house at the time of mosquito collection was related to whether there were any positive blood-fed culicid mosquitoes in that household for collection methods combined [IRR 4.48 (CI95%2.22-9.05); p<0.001] or only for indoor-collected culicids [IRR 4.88 (CI95%2.01-11.82); p<0.001]. Our results suggest that xenosurveillance can be used in endemic tropical regions in order to estimate the malaria burden and identify transmission foci in areas where Plasmodium vivax is predominant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joabi Nascimento
- Diretoria de Ensino e Pesquisa, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brazil
- Escola Superior de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Vanderson S. Sampaio
- Diretoria de Ensino e Pesquisa, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brazil
- Escola Superior de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Stephan Karl
- Population Health & Immunity Division, Walter & Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Entomology Section, Vector-borne Diseases Unit, Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Papua, New Guinea
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Andrea Kuehn
- Diretoria de Ensino e Pesquisa, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Anne Almeida
- Diretoria de Ensino e Pesquisa, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brazil
- Escola Superior de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Sheila Vitor-Silva
- Diretoria de Ensino e Pesquisa, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brazil
- Escola Superior de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Gisely Cardoso de Melo
- Diretoria de Ensino e Pesquisa, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brazil
- Escola Superior de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Djane C. Baia da Silva
- Diretoria de Ensino e Pesquisa, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | | | - Nelson F. Fé
- Diretoria de Ensino e Pesquisa, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - José B. Pereira Lima
- Laboratório de Fisiologia e Controle de Artrópodes Vetores, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz (Fiocruz), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Maria G. Barbosa Guerra
- Diretoria de Ensino e Pesquisa, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brazil
- Escola Superior de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Paulo F. P. Pimenta
- Laboratório de Entomologia Médica, Centro de Pesquisas René Rachou (Fiocruz), Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Quique Bassat
- ISGlobal, Hospital Clínic—Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Maputo, Mozambique
- ICREA, Barcelona, Spain
- Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, Pediatrics Department, Hospital Sant Joan de Déu (University of Barcelona), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ivo Mueller
- Population Health & Immunity Division, Walter & Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Australia
- Parasites & Hosts Unit, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Marcus V. G. Lacerda
- Diretoria de Ensino e Pesquisa, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brazil
- Instituto Leônidas & Maria Deane, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Manaus, AM, Brazil
| | - Wuelton M. Monteiro
- Diretoria de Ensino e Pesquisa, Fundação de Medicina Tropical Doutor Heitor Vieira Dourado, Manaus, AM, Brazil
- Escola Superior de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade do Estado do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, Brazil
- * E-mail:
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Iwagami M, Nakatsu M, Khattignavong P, Soundala P, Lorphachan L, Keomalaphet S, Xangsayalath P, Kawai S, Hongvanthong B, Brey PT, Kano S. First case of human infection with Plasmodium knowlesi in Laos. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006244. [PMID: 29565973 PMCID: PMC5863935 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Moritoshi Iwagami
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Malaria, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- SATREPS project (JICA/AMED) for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- Parasitology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Lao PDR, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Masami Nakatsu
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Malaria, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- SATREPS project (JICA/AMED) for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Phonepadith Khattignavong
- SATREPS project (JICA/AMED) for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- Parasitology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Lao PDR, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Pheovaly Soundala
- SATREPS project (JICA/AMED) for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- Parasitology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Lao PDR, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Lavy Lorphachan
- SATREPS project (JICA/AMED) for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- Parasitology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Lao PDR, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Sengdeuane Keomalaphet
- SATREPS project (JICA/AMED) for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- Parasitology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Lao PDR, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Phonepadith Xangsayalath
- SATREPS project (JICA/AMED) for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- Parasitology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Lao PDR, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- National Institute of Public Health, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Satoru Kawai
- SATREPS project (JICA/AMED) for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- Parasitology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Lao PDR, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Dokkyo Medical University, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Bouasy Hongvanthong
- SATREPS project (JICA/AMED) for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- Center of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Paul T. Brey
- SATREPS project (JICA/AMED) for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- Institut Pasteur du Lao PDR, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
| | - Shigeyuki Kano
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Malaria, Research Institute, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
- SATREPS project (JICA/AMED) for Parasitic Diseases, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- Parasitology Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Lao PDR, Ministry of Health, Vientiane, Lao PDR
- * E-mail:
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Koepfli C, Ome-Kaius M, Jally S, Malau E, Maripal S, Ginny J, Timinao L, Kattenberg JH, Obadia T, White M, Rarau P, Senn N, Barry AE, Kazura JW, Mueller I, Robinson LJ. Sustained Malaria Control Over an 8-Year Period in Papua New Guinea: The Challenge of Low-Density Asymptomatic Plasmodium Infections. J Infect Dis 2017; 216:1434-1443. [PMID: 29029179 PMCID: PMC5853328 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jix507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The scale-up of effective malaria control in the last decade has resulted in a substantial decline in the incidence of clinical malaria in many countries. The effects on the proportions of asymptomatic and submicroscopic infections and on transmission potential are yet poorly understood. Methods In Papua New Guinea, vector control has been intensified since 2008, and improved diagnosis and treatment was introduced in 2012. Cross-sectional surveys were conducted in Madang Province in 2006 (with 1280 survey participants), 2010 (with 2117 participants), and 2014 (with 2516 participants). Infections were quantified by highly sensitive quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis, and gametocytes were quantified by reverse-transcription qPCR analysis. Results Plasmodium falciparum prevalence determined by qPCR decreased from 42% in 2006 to 9% in 2014. The P. vivax prevalence decreased from 42% in 2006 to 13% in 2010 but then increased to 20% in 2014. Parasite densities decreased 5-fold from 2006 to 2010; 72% of P. falciparum and 87% of P. vivax infections were submicroscopic in 2014. Gametocyte density and positivity correlated closely with parasitemia, and population gametocyte prevalence decreased 3-fold for P. falciparum and 29% for P. vivax from 2010 to 2014. Conclusions Sustained control has resulted in reduced malaria transmission potential, but an increasing proportion of gametocyte carriers are asymptomatic and submicroscopic and represent a challenge to malaria control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristian Koepfli
- Population Health and Immunity Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- University of California–Irvine
| | - Maria Ome-Kaius
- Population Health and Immunity Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Madang
| | | | - Elisheba Malau
- Population Health and Immunity Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | | | - Jason Ginny
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Madang
| | | | - Johanna Helena Kattenberg
- Population Health and Immunity Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Madang
| | - Thomas Obadia
- Malaria: Parasites & Hosts Unit, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Bioinformatics and Biostatistics Hub, Center for Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, and Integrative Biology, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Michael White
- Population Health and Immunity Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Medical Research Council Centre for Outbreak Analysis and Modelling, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
| | - Patricia Rarau
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Madang
| | - Nicolas Senn
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Madang
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Alyssa E Barry
- Population Health and Immunity Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | | | - Ivo Mueller
- Population Health and Immunity Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Malaria: Parasites & Hosts Unit, Department of Parasites and Insect Vectors, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Barcelona Center for International Health, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Leanne J Robinson
- Population Health and Immunity Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Madang
- Correspondence: L. Robinson, PhD, MPH, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, 1G Royal Parade, Parkville VIC 3052, Australia ()
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Lai MY, Ooi CH, Lau YL. Rapid Detection of Plasmodium knowlesi by Isothermal Recombinase Polymerase Amplification Assay. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2017; 97:1597-1599. [PMID: 28820700 PMCID: PMC5817784 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.17-0427] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In this study, we developed a recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) assay for specific diagnosis of Plasmodium knowlesi. Genomic DNA was extracted from whole blood samples using a commercial kit. With incubation at 37°C, the samples were successfully amplified within 20 minutes. The end product of RPA was further examined by loading onto agarose gel and a specific band was observed with a size of 128 bp. The RPA assay exhibited high sensitivity with limits of detection down to one copy of the plasmid. From the specificity experiments, it was demonstrated that all P. knowlesi samples (N = 45) were positive while other Plasmodium spp. (N = 42) and negative samples (N = 6) were negative. Therefore, the RPA assay is a highly promising approach with the potential to be used in resource-limited settings. This assay can be further optimized for bedside and on field application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Yee Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Choo-Huck Ooi
- Sarawak State Health Department, Jalan Diplomatik, Off Jalan Bako, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Yee-Ling Lau
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Besuschio SA, Llano Murcia M, Benatar AF, Monnerat S, Cruz I, Picado A, Curto MDLÁ, Kubota Y, Wehrendt DP, Pavia P, Mori Y, Puerta C, Ndung'u JM, Schijman AG. Analytical sensitivity and specificity of a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) kit prototype for detection of Trypanosoma cruzi DNA in human blood samples. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005779. [PMID: 28727723 PMCID: PMC5544240 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [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: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess analytical parameters of a prototype LAMP kit that was designed for detection of Trypanosoma cruzi DNA in human blood. The prototype is based on the amplification of the highly repetitive satellite sequence of T.cruzi in microtubes containing dried reagents on the inside of the caps. The reaction is carried out at 65°C during 40 minutes. Calcein allows direct detection of amplified products with the naked eye. Inclusivity and selectivity were tested in purified DNA from Trypanosoma cruzi stocks belonging to the six discrete typing units (DTUs), in DNA from other protozoan parasites and in human DNA. Analytical sensitivity was estimated in serial dilutions of DNA samples from Sylvio X10 (Tc I) and CL Brener (Tc VI) stocks, as well as from EDTA-treated or heparinized blood samples spiked with known amounts of cultured epimastigotes (CL Brener). LAMP sensitivity was compared after DNA extraction using commercial fiberglass columns or after “Boil & Spin” rapid preparation. Moreover, the same DNA and EDTA-blood spiked samples were subjected to standardized qPCR based on the satellite DNA sequence for comparative purposes. A panel of peripheral blood specimens belonging to Chagas disease patients, including acute, congenital, chronic and reactivated cases (N = 23), as well as seronegative controls (N = 10) were evaluated by LAMP in comparison to qPCR. LAMP was able to amplify DNAs from T. cruzi stocks representative of the six DTUs, whereas it did not amplify DNAs from Leishmania sp, T. brucei sp, T. rangeli KPN+ and KPN-, P. falciparum and non-infected human DNA. Analytical sensitivity was 1x10-2 fg/μL of both CL Brener and Sylvio X10 DNAs, whereas qPCR detected up to 1x 10−1 fg/μL of CL Brener DNA and 1 fg/μl of Sylvio X10 DNA. LAMP detected 1x10-2 parasite equivalents/mL in spiked EDTA blood and 1x10-1 par.eq/mL in spiked heparinized blood using fiberglass columns for DNA extraction, whereas qPCR detected 1x10-2 par.eq./mL in EDTA blood. Boil & Spin extraction allowed detection of 1x10-2 par.eq /mL in spiked EDTA blood and 1 par.eq/ml in heparinized blood. LAMP was able to detect T.cruzi infection in peripheral blood samples collected from well-characterised seropositive patients, including acute, congenital, chronic and reactivated Chagas disease. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a prototype LAMP kit with appropriate analytical sensitivity for diagnosis of Chagas disease patients, and potentially useful for monitoring treatment response. Trypanosoma cruzi, a parasite transmitted to humans from hematophagous insects, causes Chagas Disease, a Neglected Tropical Disease with public health impact, affecting 7 million people in Latin America. Although mainly related to low income populations inhabiting rural environments, migrations have conveyed Chagas Disease to urban areas of endemic and non-endemic countries. It often presents non-specific symptoms, and direct, low cost microscopy-based diagnosis only detects acute infections, missing a high proportion of cases. Serology is the “gold standard” diagnostic technique for chronic stages and needs the concordance of at least two different assays to confirm infection. In this context, we aimed to evaluate the analytical sensitivity and specificity of a prototype kit based on a novel and rapid molecular biology reaction, named Loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), using standardized Real Time PCR as a comparator. To our knowledge, this is the first LAMP prototype kit with an analytical performance appropriate for human diagnosis of Chagas disease and potentially useful for monitoring treatment response. Its simple handling using basic laboratory devices will enable point-of-care diagnosis and screening for congenital infection at birth as well as early detection of acute infections due to oral contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susana A. Besuschio
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de la Enfermedad de Chagas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingeniería Genética y Biología Molecular – Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (INGEBI-CONICET), Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Mónica Llano Murcia
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias -Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Alejandro F. Benatar
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de la Enfermedad de Chagas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingeniería Genética y Biología Molecular – Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (INGEBI-CONICET), Buenos Aires Argentina
| | | | - Israel Cruz
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Albert Picado
- Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - María de los Ángeles Curto
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de la Enfermedad de Chagas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingeniería Genética y Biología Molecular – Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (INGEBI-CONICET), Buenos Aires Argentina
| | | | - Diana P. Wehrendt
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de la Enfermedad de Chagas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingeniería Genética y Biología Molecular – Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (INGEBI-CONICET), Buenos Aires Argentina
| | - Paula Pavia
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias -Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Concepción Puerta
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias -Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia
| | | | - Alejandro G. Schijman
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de la Enfermedad de Chagas, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ingeniería Genética y Biología Molecular – Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (INGEBI-CONICET), Buenos Aires Argentina
- * E-mail:
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Alvarado-Esquivel C, Méndez-Hernández EM, Salas-Pacheco JM, Ruano-Calderón LÁ, Hernández-Tinoco J, Arias-Carrión O, Sánchez-Anguiano LF, Castellanos-Juárez FX, Sandoval-Carrillo AA, Liesenfeld O, Ramos-Nevárez A. Toxoplasma gondii exposure and Parkinson's disease: a case-control study. BMJ Open 2017; 7:e013019. [PMID: 28193849 PMCID: PMC5318570 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2016-013019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the association between Toxoplasma gondii infection and Parkinson's disease and to investigate whether T. gondii seropositivity is associated with the general characteristics of patients with Parkinson's disease. DESIGN Case-control study. SETTING Cases and controls were enrolled in Durango City, Mexico. PARTICIPANTS 65 patients with Parkinson's disease and 195 age- and gender-matched control subjects without Parkinson's disease. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Serum samples of participants were analysed for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies by commercially available enzyme-linked immunoassays. Prevalence of T. gondii DNA was determined in seropositive subjects using PCR. The association between clinical data and infection was examined by bivariate analysis. RESULTS Anti-T. gondii IgG antibodies were found in 6/65 cases (9.2%) and in 21/195 controls (10.8%) (OR 0.84; 95% CI 0.32 to 2.18; p=0.81). The frequency of high (>150 IU/mL) antibody levels was similar among cases and controls (p=0.34). None of the anti-T. gondii IgG positive cases and four of the anti-T. gondii IgG positive controls had anti-T. gondii IgM antibodies (p=0.54). The prevalence of T. gondii DNA was comparable in seropositive cases and controls (16.7% and 25%, respectively; p=1.0). Seroprevalence of T. gondii infection was associated with a young age onset of disease (p=0.03), high Unified Parkinson Disease Rating Scale scores (p=0.04) and depression (p=0.02). Seropositivity to T. gondii infection was lower in patients treated with pramipexole than in patients without this treatment (p=0.01). However, none of the associations remained significant after Bonferroni correction. CONCLUSIONS The results do not support an association between T. gondii infection and Parkinson's disease. However, T. gondii infection might have an influence on certain symptoms of Parkinson's disease. Further research to elucidate the role of T. gondii exposure on Parkinson's disease is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cosme Alvarado-Esquivel
- Faculty of Medicine and Nutrition, Biomedical Research Laboratory, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Edna Madai Méndez-Hernández
- Institute for Scientific Research “Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm”, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - José Manuel Salas-Pacheco
- Institute for Scientific Research “Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm”, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | | | - Jesús Hernández-Tinoco
- Institute for Scientific Research “Dr. Roberto Rivera-Damm”, Juárez University of Durango State, Durango, Mexico
| | - Oscar Arias-Carrión
- Unidad de Trastornos del Movimiento y Sueño, Hospital General Dr Manuel Gea González, Ciudad de México, México, Mexico
| | | | | | | | - Oliver Liesenfeld
- Institute for Microbiology and Hygiene, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Charité Medical School, Hindenburgdamm 27, Berlin, Germany
- Roche Molecular Diagnostics, Pleasanton, California, USA
| | - Agar Ramos-Nevárez
- Hospital Santiago Ramón y Cajal, Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado, Durango, Mexico
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Akhtardanesh B, Sharifi I, Mohammadi A, Mostafavi M, Hakimmipour M, Pourafshar NG. Feline visceral leishmaniasis in Kerman, southeast of Iran: Serological and molecular study. J Vector Borne Dis 2017; 54:96-102. [PMID: 28352052] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is a fatal zoonotic disease in tropical and sub-tropical countries including Iran. Dogs constitute the main domestic reservoir for VL (kala-azar) in Iran but incidence of the disease in cats from Fars and East Azerbaijan provinces has led to propose them as secondary reservoirs, and possible expansion of the feline role in the transmission of disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of Leishmania infantum infection in stray cats in Kerman City by ELISA and PCR methods. METHODS In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 60 stray cats were randomly live trapped from different parts of Kerman City during a six month period between March and September 2014. About 3 ml blood samples were drawn from jugular vein of captured cats and a detailed questionnaire about demographic characteristics and clini- cal status of each cat was recorded by attending veterinarian. The complete blood counts and biochemistry analysis were performed for all cats. Finally collected sera samples were tested by an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit and PCR amplification method. RESULTS Prevalence of Leishmania infantum infection was 6.7 and 16.7% by ELISA and PCR assays, respectively. Infection rate was significantly higher in leukopenic cats, which were older than 3 yr. INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSION The results of the study indicate that stray cats are at risk of L. infantum infection in Kerman City. Further, studies are required to elucidate the role of cats as potential reservoir host in the epidemiol- ogy of VL in endemic regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baharak Akhtardanesh
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman; Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Ali Mohammadi
- Leishmaniasis Research Center, Kerman; Research Center for Hydatid Disease in Iran, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Mojdeh Hakimmipour
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Neda Ghasemi Pourafshar
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
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Monteiro DCS, Sousa AQ, Lima DM, Fontes RM, Praciano CC, Frutuoso MS, Matos LC, Teixeira MJ, Pearson RD, Pompeu MML. Leishmania infantum Infection in Blood Donors, Northeastern Brazil. Emerg Infect Dis 2016; 22:739-40. [PMID: 26982482 PMCID: PMC4806976 DOI: 10.3201/eid2204.150065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Babesia microti, a tickborne intraerythrocytic parasite that can be transmitted by means of blood transfusion, is responsible for the majority of cases of transfusion-transmitted babesiosis in the United States. However, no licensed test exists for screening for B. microti in donated blood. We assessed data from a large-scale, investigational product-release screening and donor follow-up program. METHODS From June 2012 through September 2014, we performed arrayed fluorescence immunoassays (AFIAs) for B. microti antibodies and real-time polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR) assays for B. microti DNA on blood-donation samples obtained in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. We determined parasite loads with the use of quantitative PCR testing and assessed infectivity by means of the inoculation of hamsters and the subsequent examination for parasitemia. Donors with test-reactive samples were followed. Using data on cases of transfusion-transmitted babesiosis, we compared the proportions of screened versus unscreened donations that were infectious. RESULTS Of 89,153 blood-donation samples tested, 335 (0.38%) were confirmed to be positive, of which 67 (20%) were PCR-positive; 9 samples were antibody-negative (i.e., 1 antibody-negative sample per 9906 screened samples), representing 13% of all PCR-positive samples. PCR-positive samples were identified all through the year; antibody-negative infections occurred from June through September. Approximately one third of the red-cell samples from PCR-positive or high-titer AFIA-positive donations infected hamsters. Follow-up showed DNA clearance in 86% of the donors but antibody seroreversion in 8% after 1 year. In Connecticut and Massachusetts, no reported cases of transfusion-transmitted babesiosis were associated with screened donations (i.e., 0 cases per 75,331 screened donations), as compared with 14 cases per 253,031 unscreened donations (i.e., 1 case per 18,074 unscreened donations) (odds ratio, 8.6; 95% confidence interval, 0.51 to 144; P=0.05). Overall, 29 cases of transfusion-transmitted babesiosis were linked to blood from infected donors, including blood obtained from 10 donors whose samples tested positive on the PCR assay 2 to 7 months after the implicated donation. CONCLUSIONS Blood-donation screening for antibodies to and DNA from B. microti was associated with a decrease in the risk of transfusion-transmitted babesiosis. (Funded by the American Red Cross and Imugen; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01528449 .).
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin D Moritz
- From Scientific Affairs, American Red Cross, Gaithersburg, MD (E.D.M., C.S.W., L.T., R.L.T., R.Y.D., S.L.S.); and the Research Division, Imugen, Norwood, MA (V.P.B., M.-E.H., K.E.W.)
| | - Colleen S Winton
- From Scientific Affairs, American Red Cross, Gaithersburg, MD (E.D.M., C.S.W., L.T., R.L.T., R.Y.D., S.L.S.); and the Research Division, Imugen, Norwood, MA (V.P.B., M.-E.H., K.E.W.)
| | - Laura Tonnetti
- From Scientific Affairs, American Red Cross, Gaithersburg, MD (E.D.M., C.S.W., L.T., R.L.T., R.Y.D., S.L.S.); and the Research Division, Imugen, Norwood, MA (V.P.B., M.-E.H., K.E.W.)
| | - Rebecca L Townsend
- From Scientific Affairs, American Red Cross, Gaithersburg, MD (E.D.M., C.S.W., L.T., R.L.T., R.Y.D., S.L.S.); and the Research Division, Imugen, Norwood, MA (V.P.B., M.-E.H., K.E.W.)
| | - Victor P Berardi
- From Scientific Affairs, American Red Cross, Gaithersburg, MD (E.D.M., C.S.W., L.T., R.L.T., R.Y.D., S.L.S.); and the Research Division, Imugen, Norwood, MA (V.P.B., M.-E.H., K.E.W.)
| | - Mary-Ellen Hewins
- From Scientific Affairs, American Red Cross, Gaithersburg, MD (E.D.M., C.S.W., L.T., R.L.T., R.Y.D., S.L.S.); and the Research Division, Imugen, Norwood, MA (V.P.B., M.-E.H., K.E.W.)
| | - Karen E Weeks
- From Scientific Affairs, American Red Cross, Gaithersburg, MD (E.D.M., C.S.W., L.T., R.L.T., R.Y.D., S.L.S.); and the Research Division, Imugen, Norwood, MA (V.P.B., M.-E.H., K.E.W.)
| | - Roger Y Dodd
- From Scientific Affairs, American Red Cross, Gaithersburg, MD (E.D.M., C.S.W., L.T., R.L.T., R.Y.D., S.L.S.); and the Research Division, Imugen, Norwood, MA (V.P.B., M.-E.H., K.E.W.)
| | - Susan L Stramer
- From Scientific Affairs, American Red Cross, Gaithersburg, MD (E.D.M., C.S.W., L.T., R.L.T., R.Y.D., S.L.S.); and the Research Division, Imugen, Norwood, MA (V.P.B., M.-E.H., K.E.W.)
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Wei B, Chen L, Kibukawa M, Kang J, Waskin H, Marton M. Development of a PCR Assay to Detect Low Level Trypanosoma cruzi in Blood Specimens Collected with PAXgene Blood DNA Tubes for Clinical Trials Treating Chagas Disease. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0005146. [PMID: 27906977 PMCID: PMC5131911 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 08/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease is caused by the parasitic infection of Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi). The STOP CHAGAS clinical trial was initiated in 2011 to evaluate posaconazole in treating Chagas disease, with treatment success defined as negative qualitative PCR results of detecting the parasites in blood specimens collected post-treatment. PAXgene Blood DNA tubes were utilized as a simple procedure to collect and process blood specimens. However, the PAXgene blood specimens challenged published T. cruzi PCR methods, resulting in poor sensitivity and reproducibility. To accurately evaluate the treatment efficacy of the clinical study, we developed and validated a robust PCR assay for detecting low level T. cruzi in PAXgene blood specimens. The assay combines a new DNA extraction method with a custom designed qPCR assay, resulting in limit of detection of 0.005 and 0.01 fg/μl for K98 and CL Brener, two representative strains of two of T. cruzi’s discrete typing units. Reliable qPCR standard curves were established for both strains to measure parasite loads, with amplification efficiency ≥ 90% and the lower limit of linearity ≥ 0.05 fg/μl. The assay successfully analyzed the samples collected from the STOP CHAGAS study and may prove useful for future global clinical trials evaluating new therapies for asymptomatic chronic Chagas disease. Chagas disease is caused by the infection of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi) and carries a significant tropical disease burden in the Western Hemisphere. The STOP CHAGAS study was a global clinical trial evaluating therapies for Chagas disease. PAXgene blood DNA tubes used by the study simplified and standardized the sample collection and processing procedures, but challenged published PCR assays that detect circulating T. cruzi. In this study, we report our effort of developing and validating a robust, sensitive and specific PCR assay for detecting T. cruzi in PAXgene blood specimens. The efficacy outcome results of the STOP CHAGAS study that utilized our assay further support the use of the PCR assay as a marker of therapeutic response for patients with Chagas disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Wei
- Merck Research Laboratories, Translational Molecular Biomarkers, Rahway, New Jersey, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Lei Chen
- Merck Research Laboratories, Translational Molecular Biomarkers, Rahway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Miho Kibukawa
- Merck Research Laboratories, Translational Molecular Biomarkers, Rahway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - John Kang
- Merck Research Laboratories, Biometrics Research, Rahway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Hetty Waskin
- Merck Research Laboratories, Infectious Disease, Rahway, New Jersey, United States of America
| | - Matthew Marton
- Merck Research Laboratories, Companion Diagnostics, Rahway, New Jersey, United States of America
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Al-Harthi SA. RETROSPECTIVE INVESTIGATION OF PYRIMETHAMINE-SULFADOXINE RESISTANCE INDICATORS IN FALCIPARUM-MALARIA POSITIVE BLOOD SAMPLES FROM SOUTH-WESTERN SAUDI ARABIA. J Egypt Soc Parasitol 2016; 46:387-392. [PMID: 30152948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The efficacy of Sulphadoxine/Pyrimethamine (SP) in Plasmodium falciparum malaria treatment was increasingly compromised by development of parasites' resistance. Saudi Arabia shifted to new combinations including Artesunat compound during the last decade. We investigated the occurrence of mutations in P. falciparum dihydrofolate reductase (Pfdhfr) N51I, C59R and S108N and P. falciparum dihyropteroate synthetase (Pfdhps) A437G and K540D as major indicators of SP resistance in stored DNA extracts of 41 P. falciparum infected specimens collected from KSA southern endemic regions between 2012 and 2014. Analysis of alleles' polymorphisms by Nested-PCR-RFLP showed that 68%, 7%, and 24% of samples carried parasites with Pfdhfr 51I, 59R, and 108N mutant type alleles, respectively. Only one isolate's genotype shared both mutations 51I and 108N. All parasites conserved wild type alleles at codons 437 and 540 of Pfdhps gene.
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Sánchez-Montalvá A, Salvador F, Rodríguez-Palomares J, Sulleiro E, Sao-Avilés A, Roure S, Valerio L, Evangelista A, Molina I. Chagas Cardiomyopathy: Usefulness of EKG and Echocardiogram in a Non-Endemic Country. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0157597. [PMID: 27308824 PMCID: PMC4911085 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0157597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chagas disease (CD) is a major cause of cardiomyopathy in Latin America, and migration movements have now spread the disease worldwide. However, data regarding Chagas cardiomyopathy (CC) and the usefulness of echocardiography in non endemic countries are still scarce. METHODS AND RESULTS We selected 485 patients in the chronic phase of CD from two Spanish settings. Data from physical examination, electrocardiogram (EKG), x-ray, and two dimensional transthoracic echocardiogram were recorded. Trypanosoma cruzi DNA was assessed by PCR in peripheral blood. Patients were stratified according to the Kuschnir classification and a combination of echocardiogram and electrocardiogram findings. Patients mainly came from Bolivia (459; 94.6%). One hundred and forty three patients (31.5%) had at least one electrocardiogram abnormality. Twenty seven patients (5.3%) had an abnormal echocardiography. Patients with abnormal echocardiography were older (47 (IQR 38-57) years vs 41 (IQR 38-57) years); p = 0.019) and there was a greater proportion of males (66.7% vs 29.7%); p<0.001). Among echocardiographic variables, diastolic dysfunction was associated with poor cardiac status. In the multivariate analysis, abnormal EKG and gender were associated with abnormal echocardiography. Echocardiography may be spared for males under 30 and females under 45 years old with normal EKG as the likelihood of having an abnormal echocardiography is minimal. Association between T. cruzi DNA in the peripheral blood and cardiac involvement was not observed. CONCLUSION CC rates in the studied population are low. Age and sex are important determinants for the development of CC, and with the EKG should guide echocardiogram performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián Sánchez-Montalvá
- Tropical Medicine Unit, Infectious Disease Department. PROSICS (International Health Program of the Catalan Health Institute), Hospital Universitario Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fernando Salvador
- Tropical Medicine Unit, Infectious Disease Department. PROSICS (International Health Program of the Catalan Health Institute), Hospital Universitario Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Rodríguez-Palomares
- Cardiology Department, Cardiac Imaging Department, Hospital Universitario Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elena Sulleiro
- Microbiology Department, Hospital Universitario Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Augusto Sao-Avilés
- Tropical Medicine Unit, Infectious Disease Department. PROSICS (International Health Program of the Catalan Health Institute), Hospital Universitario Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sílvia Roure
- North Metropolitan International Health Unit, PROSICS (International Health Program of the Catalan Health Institute), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lluís Valerio
- North Metropolitan International Health Unit, PROSICS (International Health Program of the Catalan Health Institute), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Arturo Evangelista
- Cardiology Department, Cardiac Imaging Department, Hospital Universitario Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Israel Molina
- Tropical Medicine Unit, Infectious Disease Department. PROSICS (International Health Program of the Catalan Health Institute), Hospital Universitario Vall d’Hebron, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Schreeg ME, Marr HS, Griffith EH, Tarigo JL, Bird DM, Reichard MV, Cohn LA, Levy MG, Birkenheuer AJ. PCR amplification of a multi-copy mitochondrial gene (cox3) improves detection of Cytauxzoon felis infection as compared to a ribosomal gene (18S). Vet Parasitol 2016; 225:123-30. [PMID: 27369587 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2016.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 01/04/2016] [Revised: 06/02/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cytauxzoon felis is a tick-transmitted protozoan parasite that infects felids. Clinical disease caused by acute C. felis infection rapidly progresses in domestic cats, leading to high morbidity and mortality. Accurately diagnosing cytauxzoonosis as soon as possible during acute infection would allow for earlier initiation of antiprotozoal therapy which could lead to higher survival rates. Molecular detection of parasite rRNA genes (18S) by PCR has previously been shown to be a sensitive method of diagnosing C. felis infections. Based on evidence from related apicomplexan species, we hypothesized that C. felis mitochondrial genes would exist at higher copy numbers than 18S and would be a more sensitive diagnostic target. In this study we have designed a PCR assay targeting the C. felis mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit III (cox3). Herein we demonstrate that (1) the cox3 PCR can detect as low as 1 copy of DNA target and can detect C. felis in samples with known mitochondrial sequence heterogeneity, (2) cox3 copy number is increased relative to 18S in blood and tissue samples from acutely infected cats, and (3) the cox3 PCR is more sensitive than 18S PCR for detection of C. felis during early infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan E Schreeg
- North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 1060 William Moore Dr., Raleigh, NC 27607, United States
| | - Henry S Marr
- North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 1060 William Moore Dr., Raleigh, NC 27607, United States
| | - Emily H Griffith
- North Carolina State University, College of Sciences, Campus Box 8201/4216, Broughton Hall, Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Jaime L Tarigo
- North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 1060 William Moore Dr., Raleigh, NC 27607, United States
| | - David M Bird
- North Carolina State University, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, 317A Ricks Hall 1, Lampe Dr., Raleigh, NC 27695, United States
| | - Mason V Reichard
- Oklahoma State University, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, 205 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078, United States
| | - Leah A Cohn
- University of Missouri, College of Veterinary Medicine, 900 E. Campus Dr., Columbia, MO, 65211, United States
| | - Michael G Levy
- North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 1060 William Moore Dr., Raleigh, NC 27607, United States
| | - Adam J Birkenheuer
- North Carolina State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 1060 William Moore Dr., Raleigh, NC 27607, United States.
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Pegha Moukandja I, Biteghe Bi Essone JC, Sagara I, Kassa Kassa RF, Ondzaga J, Lékana Douki JB, Bouyou Akotet M, Nkoghe Mba D, Touré Ndouo FS. Marked Rise in the Prevalence of Asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum Infection in Rural Gabon. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153899. [PMID: 27228058 PMCID: PMC4881998 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Control strategies implemented a decade ago led to a marked reduction in the prevalence of malaria in many countries. In Dienga, southeastern Gabon, the prevalence of microscopic P. falciparum infection was 7% in 2003, close to the pre-elimination threshold of 5%. The aim of this work was to determine the prevalence of P. falciparum infection in the same community a decade later. A cohort of 370 individuals aged from 3 to 85 years living in Dienga was investigated for P. falciparum infection; during six passages (P) in 15-month period. Demographic data were collected, along with behaviors and attitudes towards malaria. Plasmodium infection was diagnosed by microscopy (ME), followed by PCR to detect submicroscopic infection. The prevalence of P. falciparum infection in P1, P2, P3, P4, P5 and P6 was respectively 43.5% (25.1% ME+, 18.4% PCR+); 40.9% (27.0% ME+, 13.9% PCR+), 52.7% (26.1% ME+, 26.6% PCR+); 34.1% (14.1% ME+, 20% PCR+), 57.7% (25.4.% ME+, 32.3% PCR+); and 46.2% (21.4% ME+, 24.8% PCR+) with an overall average of 45.9% (95%CI [37.0–54.7], 23.2% ME+ and 22.7% PCR+). P4 and P5 prevalences were statically different throughout the six passages. Microscopic prevalence was significantly higher than that observed ten years ago (23% [n = 370] vs 7% [n = 323], p < 0.001). Asymptomatic infections were the most frequent (96%). Gametocytes were detected in levels ranging from 5.9% to 13.9%. Insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual insecticides, and self-medication were used by respectively 33.2% (95%CI [29.0–37.4]), 17.7% (95%CI [15.5–19.9]) and 12.1% (95%CI [10.6–13.6]) of the study population. A near-threefold increase in P. falciparum infection has been observed in a rural area of southeastern Gabon during a 10-year period. Most infections were asymptomatic, but these subjects likely represent a parasite reservoir. These findings call for urgent reinforcement of preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irène Pegha Moukandja
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF) B.P. 769 Franceville, Gabon
- Ecole Doctorale Régionale (EDR) en Infectiologie Tropicale, BP: 876 Franceville, Gabon
| | - Jean Claude Biteghe Bi Essone
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF) B.P. 769 Franceville, Gabon
- Ecole Doctorale Régionale (EDR) en Infectiologie Tropicale, BP: 876 Franceville, Gabon
| | - Issaka Sagara
- Département d'Epidémiologie et des Affections Parasitaires, MRTC, Faculté de Médecine et d'Odontostomatologie, Université de Bamako, BP 1805 Bamako, Mali
| | | | - Julien Ondzaga
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF) B.P. 769 Franceville, Gabon
| | - Jean-Bernard Lékana Douki
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF) B.P. 769 Franceville, Gabon
- Ecole Doctorale Régionale (EDR) en Infectiologie Tropicale, BP: 876 Franceville, Gabon
- Département de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médecine Tropicale, Faculté de Médecine, Université des Sciences de la Santé, B.P. 4009 Libreville, Gabon
| | - Marielle Bouyou Akotet
- Département de Parasitologie-Mycologie Médecine Tropicale, Faculté de Médecine, Université des Sciences de la Santé, B.P. 4009 Libreville, Gabon
| | - Dieudonne Nkoghe Mba
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF) B.P. 769 Franceville, Gabon
| | - Fousseyni S. Touré Ndouo
- Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF) B.P. 769 Franceville, Gabon
- * E-mail:
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Bousema T, Stresman G, Baidjoe AY, Bradley J, Knight P, Stone W, Osoti V, Makori E, Owaga C, Odongo W, China P, Shagari S, Doumbo OK, Sauerwein RW, Kariuki S, Drakeley C, Stevenson J, Cox J. The Impact of Hotspot-Targeted Interventions on Malaria Transmission in Rachuonyo South District in the Western Kenyan Highlands: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial. PLoS Med 2016; 13:e1001993. [PMID: 27071072 PMCID: PMC4829260 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1001993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Malaria transmission is highly heterogeneous, generating malaria hotspots that can fuel malaria transmission across a wider area. Targeting hotspots may represent an efficacious strategy for reducing malaria transmission. We determined the impact of interventions targeted to serologically defined malaria hotspots on malaria transmission both inside hotspots and in surrounding communities. METHODS AND FINDINGS Twenty-seven serologically defined malaria hotspots were detected in a survey conducted from 24 June to 31 July 2011 that included 17,503 individuals from 3,213 compounds in a 100-km2 area in Rachuonyo South District, Kenya. In a cluster-randomized trial from 22 March to 15 April 2012, we randomly allocated five clusters to hotspot-targeted interventions with larviciding, distribution of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets, indoor residual spraying, and focal mass drug administration (2,082 individuals in 432 compounds); five control clusters received malaria control following Kenyan national policy (2,468 individuals in 512 compounds). Our primary outcome measure was parasite prevalence in evaluation zones up to 500 m outside hotspots, determined by nested PCR (nPCR) at baseline and 8 wk (16 June-6 July 2012) and 16 wk (21 August-10 September 2012) post-intervention by technicians blinded to the intervention arm. Secondary outcome measures were parasite prevalence inside hotpots, parasite prevalence in the evaluation zone as a function of distance from the hotspot boundary, Anopheles mosquito density, mosquito breeding site productivity, malaria incidence by passive case detection, and the safety and acceptability of the interventions. Intervention coverage exceeded 87% for all interventions. Hotspot-targeted interventions did not result in a change in nPCR parasite prevalence outside hotspot boundaries (p ≥ 0.187). We observed an average reduction in nPCR parasite prevalence of 10.2% (95% CI -1.3 to 21.7%) inside hotspots 8 wk post-intervention that was statistically significant after adjustment for covariates (p = 0.024), but not 16 wk post-intervention (p = 0.265). We observed no statistically significant trend in the effect of the intervention on nPCR parasite prevalence in the evaluation zone in relation to distance from the hotspot boundary 8 wk (p = 0.27) or 16 wk post-intervention (p = 0.75). Thirty-six patients with clinical malaria confirmed by rapid diagnostic test could be located to intervention or control clusters, with no apparent difference between the study arms. In intervention clusters we caught an average of 1.14 female anophelines inside hotspots and 0.47 in evaluation zones; in control clusters we caught an average of 0.90 female anophelines inside hotspots and 0.50 in evaluation zones, with no apparent difference between study arms. Our trial was not powered to detect subtle effects of hotspot-targeted interventions nor designed to detect effects of interventions over multiple transmission seasons. CONCLUSIONS Despite high coverage, the impact of interventions targeting malaria vectors and human infections on nPCR parasite prevalence was modest, transient, and restricted to the targeted hotspot areas. Our findings suggest that transmission may not primarily occur from hotspots to the surrounding areas and that areas with highly heterogeneous but widespread malaria transmission may currently benefit most from an untargeted community-wide approach. Hotspot-targeted approaches may have more validity in settings where human settlement is more nuclear. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01575613.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teun Bousema
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
- Department of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Gillian Stresman
- Department of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Amrish Y. Baidjoe
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - John Bradley
- MRC Tropical Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Philip Knight
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - William Stone
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Victor Osoti
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Euniah Makori
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Chrispin Owaga
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Wycliffe Odongo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Pauline China
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Shehu Shagari
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Ogobara K. Doumbo
- Malaria Research and Training Center, University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Robert W. Sauerwein
- Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Department of Medical Microbiology, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Simon Kariuki
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Centre for Global Health Research, Kisumu, Kenya
| | - Chris Drakeley
- Department of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer Stevenson
- Department of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jonathan Cox
- Department of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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Belfort RN, Isenberg J, Fernandes BF, Di Cesare S, Belfort R, Burnier MN. Evaluating the presence of Toxoplasma gondii in peripheral blood of patients with diverse forms of uveitis. Int Ophthalmol 2016; 37:19-23. [PMID: 26975400 DOI: 10.1007/s10792-016-0221-8] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Accepted: 03/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the presence of Toxoplasmosis gondii in samples of peripheral blood from patients with varying etiologies of uveitis. Whole blood from patients with different forms of uveitis was tested for the presence of T. gondii using real-time PCR targeting the well-characterized 529 bp fragment. Extracted DNA was both frozen. Thirty-one patients were included in the current study and grouped as follows: acute toxoplasmosis (n = 10); toxoplasmic retinal scars (n = 9); non-infectious etiologies of uveitis (n = 6); and IgG negative for toxoplasmosis (n = 6). In total, only two patients were shown to have circulating T. gondii in peripheral blood; both of these patients were IgG positive for toxoplasmosis, were receiving immunosuppressive therapy for autoimmune uveitis, and had no clinical features of toxoplasmosis. T. gondii was identified in peripheral blood of some immunosuppressed patients. No other patients, including those with acute toxoplasmosis, had circulating parasites in peripheral blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rubens N Belfort
- The Henry C. Witleson Ocular Pathology Laboratory, McGill University, 3375 University, Room 216, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vision Institute, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Botucatu, 821, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Jordan Isenberg
- The Henry C. Witleson Ocular Pathology Laboratory, McGill University, 3375 University, Room 216, Montréal, QC, Canada.
| | - Bruno F Fernandes
- The Henry C. Witleson Ocular Pathology Laboratory, McGill University, 3375 University, Room 216, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Sebastian Di Cesare
- The Henry C. Witleson Ocular Pathology Laboratory, McGill University, 3375 University, Room 216, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Rubens Belfort
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vision Institute, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Botucatu, 821, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Miguel N Burnier
- The Henry C. Witleson Ocular Pathology Laboratory, McGill University, 3375 University, Room 216, Montréal, QC, Canada
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vision Institute, Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Botucatu, 821, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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Shi L, Fu S, Wang L, Li X, Gu D, Liu C, Zhao C, He J, Liang G. Surveillance of mosquito-borne infectious diseases in febrile travelers entering China via Shenzhen ports, China, 2013. Travel Med Infect Dis 2016; 14:123-30. [PMID: 26960752 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2016.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Revised: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 02/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND About 100 million passengers enter China via Shenzhen ports every year and such huge populations increase the risk of various infectious diseases, particularly mosquito-borne diseases, entering China. This paper reports the testing and monitoring of mosquito-borne diseases in febrile travelers through Shenzhen ports in 2013. METHODS The blood samples of 619 febrile cases were collected and the serum of each sample was used for the specific gene amplification and IgM antibody detection of five typical mosquito-borne pathogens: Dengue virus (DENV), Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), yellow fever virus (YFV), and West Nile Virus (WNV). Additionally, malaria was diagnosed by rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs). RESULTS In total, 34 cases were detected of DENV infection (serotype I to IV), 17 cases of JEV infection, 2 cases of CHIKV infection, and 3 cases of malaria infection. No virus genes or IgM antibodies of YFV or WNV were detected in the samples. DENV, JEV and CHIKV cases were mainly from Southeast Asia, while malaria cases from Africa. CONCLUSIONS DENV, JEV and CHIKV were the primary pathogens imported via Shenzhen ports. International travelers with mosquito-borne infections would accelerate the spread of these diseases, thus reinforcing the need for surveillance of mosquito-borne infections at ports should become a high priority.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Shi
- Shen Zhen International Travel Healthcare Center, 8 South of Fuqiang Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518033, PR China
| | - Shihong Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, PR China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, 310003, PR China
| | - Lihua Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, PR China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, 310003, PR China
| | - Xiaolong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, PR China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, 310003, PR China
| | - Dayong Gu
- Shen Zhen International Travel Healthcare Center, 8 South of Fuqiang Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518033, PR China
| | - Chunxiao Liu
- Shen Zhen International Travel Healthcare Center, 8 South of Fuqiang Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518033, PR China
| | - Chunzhong Zhao
- Shen Zhen International Travel Healthcare Center, 8 South of Fuqiang Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518033, PR China
| | - Jian'an He
- Shen Zhen International Travel Healthcare Center, 8 South of Fuqiang Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, 518033, PR China
| | - Guodong Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Key Laboratory for Medical Virology, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 155 Changbai Road, Changping District, Beijing, 102206, PR China; Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, Hangzhou, 310003, PR China.
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Reiterová K, Špilovská S, Blaňarová L, Derdáková M, Čobádiová A, Hisira V. Wild boar (Sus scrofa) - reservoir host of Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in Slovakia. Acta Parasitol 2016; 61:255-60. [PMID: 27078648 DOI: 10.1515/ap-2016-0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In Central Europe the wild boar population is permanently growing and consequently Cf foodborne infections. In this study serological and molecular detection of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum in wild boars was evaluated. Moreover, same samples were screened for the presence and genetic variability of tick-borne bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum. Blood samples collected from 113 wild boars from Southern Slovakia were examined for antibodies to T. gondii by indirect and to N. caninum by competitive ELISA. The presence of parasitic DNA in blood samples was determined by standard or real time PCR techniques. Antibodies against T. gondii and N. caninum were detected in 45 (39.8%) and 38 (33.6%) animals, respectively. Females were more frequently infected for both pathogens than males. The high seropositivity against both coccidia indicates a permanent occurrence of these pathogens in the studied locality. T. gondii DNA was confirmed in five seropositive boars (4.4%) and N. caninum in 23 blood samples (20.4%). Three out of 23 N. caninum PCR positive animals did not show seropositivity. Three out of 113 blood samples of wild boars were positive for A. phagocytophilum (2.7%). The obtained A. phagocytophilum sequences were 100% identical with GenBankTM isolates from Slovak dog (KC985242); German horse (JF893938) or wild boar (EF143810) and red deer (EF143808) from Poland. Coinfections of T. gondii with N. caninum and N. caninum with A. phagocytophilum were detected in single cases. Results suggest a potential zoonotic risk of toxoplasmosis transmission to humans and the spread of neosporosis to farm animals.
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Velásquez JN, di Risio CA, Etchart CB, Chertcoff AV, Nigro MG, Pantano ML, Ledesma BA, Vittar N, Carnevale S. First report of Cystoisospora belli parasitemia in a patient with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Acta Parasitol 2016; 61:172-7. [PMID: 26751889 DOI: 10.1515/ap-2016-0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Cystoisospora belli in patients with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has been described as cause of chronic diarrhea and disseminated cystoisosporosis. Diagnosis of intestinal cystoisosporosis can be achieved at the tissue level in the villus epithelium of the small bowel. Disseminated cystoisosporosis is diagnosed by microscopy identification of unizoite tissue cysts in the lamina propria of the intestine. We report a case of disseminated cystoisosporosis in a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patient with detection of parasitemia. We studied a 39-year old patient with AIDS and chronic diarrhea by analysis of stool and duodenal biopsy samples. Blood samples were also collected and examined by light microscopy and molecular techniques for C. belli DNA detection. The unizoite tissue cyst stages were present in the lamina propria, with unsporulated oocysts in feces. Zoites were present in blood smears and DNA of C. belli was detected in blood samples. Our study identified a new stage in the life cycle of C. belli. Detection of parasitemia is a novel and noninvasive tool for diagnosis of disseminated cystoisosporosis.
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Daniels R, Hamilton EJ, Durfee K, Ndiaye D, Wirth DF, Hartl DL, Volkman SK. Methods to Increase the Sensitivity of High Resolution Melting Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Genotyping in Malaria. J Vis Exp 2015:e52839. [PMID: 26575471 PMCID: PMC4692701 DOI: 10.3791/52839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite decades of eradication efforts, malaria remains a global burden. Recent renewed interest in regional elimination and global eradication has been accompanied by increased genomic information about Plasmodium parasite species responsible for malaria, including characteristics of geographical populations as well as variations associated with reduced susceptibility to anti-malarial drugs. One common genetic variation, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), offers attractive targets for parasite genotyping. These markers are useful not only for tracking drug resistance markers but also for tracking parasite populations using markers not under drug or other selective pressures. SNP genotyping methods offer the ability to track drug resistance as well as to fingerprint individual parasites for population surveillance, particularly in response to malaria control efforts in regions nearing elimination status. While informative SNPs have been identified that are agnostic to specific genotyping technologies, high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis is particularly suited to field-based studies. Compared to standard fluorescent-probe based methods that require individual SNPs in a single labeled probe and offer at best 10% sensitivity to detect SNPs in samples that contain multiple genomes (polygenomic), HRM offers 2-5% sensitivity. Modifications to HRM, such as blocked probes and asymmetric primer concentrations as well as optimization of amplification annealing temperatures to bias PCR towards amplification of the minor allele, further increase the sensitivity of HRM. While the sensitivity improvement depends on the specific assay, we have increased detection sensitivities to less than 1% of the minor allele. In regions approaching malaria eradication, early detection of emerging or imported drug resistance is essential for prompt response. Similarly, the ability to detect polygenomic infections and differentiate imported parasite types from cryptic local reservoirs can inform control programs. This manuscript describes modifications to high resolution melting technology that further increase its sensitivity to identify polygenomic infections in patient samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Daniels
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University; Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health;
| | - Elizabeth J Hamilton
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
| | - Katelyn Durfee
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
| | - Daouda Ndiaye
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cheikh Anta Diop University
| | - Dyann F Wirth
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health; Institute of Infectious Diseases, Broad Institute
| | - Daniel L Hartl
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University
| | - Sarah K Volkman
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health; School of Nursing and Health Sciences, Simmons College
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Sguassero Y, Cuesta CB, Roberts KN, Hicks E, Comandé D, Ciapponi A, Sosa-Estani S. Course of Chronic Trypanosoma cruzi Infection after Treatment Based on Parasitological and Serological Tests: A Systematic Review of Follow-Up Studies. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0139363. [PMID: 26436678 PMCID: PMC4593559 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0139363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Chagas disease is caused by the flagellate protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi). It is endemic in Latin American countries outside the Caribbean. The current criterion for cure in the chronic phase of the disease is the negativization of at least two serological tests such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), indirect immunofluorescence assay (IIF) and indirect hemagglutination assay (IHA). The serological evolution of treated subjects with chronic T. cruzi infection is variable. Treatment failure is indicated by a positive parasitological and/or molecular test (persistence of parasitemia). Objectives To summarize the pattern of response to treatment of parasitological, molecular and serological tests performed during the follow-up of subjects with chronic T. cruzi infection. Methods Electronic searches in relevant databases and screening of citations of potentially eligible articles were accomplished. Organizations focusing on neglected infectious diseases were asked for help in identifying relevant studies. Included studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), quasi-RCTs, and cohort studies involving adults and children with chronic infection who received trypanocidal treatment (benznidazole or nifurtimox) and were followed over time. The assessment of risk of bias was performed separately for each study design. The Cochrane Collaboration’s tool and the guidelines developed by Hayden et al. were used. Two reviewers extracted all data independently. A third review author was consulted in case of discordant opinion. Additional analyses were defined in ad-hoc basis. Scatter plots for percentage of positive parasitological and molecular tests and for negative serological tests were developed by using the lowess curve technique. Heterogeneity was measured by I2. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO, an international prospective register of systematic review protocols (Registration Number CRD42012002162). Results Out of 2,136 citations screened, 54 studies (six RCTs and 48 cohort studies) were included. The smoothed curves for positive xenodiagnosis and positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were characterized by a sharp decrease at twelve month posttreatment. Afterwards, they reached 10–20% and 40% for xenodiagnosis and PCR, respectively. The smoothed curves for negative conventional serological tests increased up to 10% after 48 months of treatment. In the long-term, the rate of negativization was between 20% and 45%. The main sources of bias identified across cohort studies were the lack of control for confounding and attrition bias. In general, RCTs were judged as low risk of bias in all domains. The level of heterogeneity across included studies was moderate to high. Additional analysis were incomplete because of the limited availability of data. In this regard, the country of origin of study participants might affect the results of parasitological and molecular tests, while the level of risk of bias might affect serological outcomes. Subgroup analysis suggested that seronegativization occurs earlier in children compared to adults. Conclusions We acknowledge that there is a dynamic pattern of response based on parasitological, molecular and serological tests in subjects chronically infected with T. cruzi after treatment. Our findings suggest a trypanocidal effect in the long-term follow-up. Further research is needed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity and to conduct reliable subgroup analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanina Sguassero
- Centro Rosarino de Estudios Perinatales (CREP), Cochrane Centre CREP, Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
- Instituto Nacional de Parasitología (INP), “Dr Mario Fatala Chaben”, Administración Nacional de Laboratorios e Institutos de Salud (ANLIS) Malbrán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cristina B. Cuesta
- Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Estadística, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Karen N. Roberts
- Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Estadística, Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Elizabeth Hicks
- Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Daniel Comandé
- Instituto de Efectividad Clínica y Sanitaria (IECS), Cochrane Centre IECS, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Agustín Ciapponi
- Instituto de Efectividad Clínica y Sanitaria (IECS), Cochrane Centre IECS, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sergio Sosa-Estani
- Instituto Nacional de Parasitología (INP), “Dr Mario Fatala Chaben”, Administración Nacional de Laboratorios e Institutos de Salud (ANLIS) Malbrán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- * E-mail:
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Xu C, Wei QK, Li J, Xiao T, Jia FJ, Wang WY, Yin K, Fu TX, Zhao GH, Liu GZ, Huang BC. [Extraction Method of Malaria Parasite DNA from Preserved Positive Blood Smears]. Zhongguo Ji Sheng Chong Xue Yu Ji Sheng Chong Bing Za Zhi 2015; 33:372-376. [PMID: 26931044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop a method for DNA extraction from malaria parasites on preserved blood smears, to provide basis for research on malaria genetic traceability. METHODS The improved DNA extraction kit (QIAamp DNA Mini Kit) was used to extract plasmodium DNA from 41 giemsa-stained blood smears, and the extraction was compared with that using the Chelex-100 and Na(2)HPO(4) methods. Nested PCR was used to amplify small subunit ribosomal RNA to identify Plasmodium parasite. The PCR products underwent sequencing and sequence alignment, to analyze the difference in PCR positive rates between blood smears prepared in the 1980s and in recent 10 years, between blood smears with and without deoil/decoloration, and between blood smears with different qualities. RESULTS The total PCR positive rate for the improved kit method was 70.7% (29/41). The PCR positive rate for blood smears prepared in the 1980s and in recent 10 years was 78.6% (11/14) and 66.7% (18/27) respectively, with no significant difference (W=0.63, P>0.05). The PCR positive rate for blood smears with and with- out deoil/decoloration was 62.5% (15/24) and 82.4% (14/17) respectively, also with no significant difference (χ(2)= 1.89, P>0.05). However, the PCR positive rate was significantly higher in blood smears with high quality [93.3% (28/30)] than those with low quality [9.1%(1/1l)](=27.59, P<0.01). Sequence alignment showed that the PCR products were consistent with the target DNA fragments. However, DNA extracted using the Chelex-100 and Na(2)HPO(4) methods showed negative PCR results. CONCLUSIONS DNA extracted from blood smears prepared in the 1980s using the improved Kit (QIAamp DNA Mini Kit) shows a high PCR positive rate. Besides, blood smear staining and use of oil for microscopic examination do not affect DNA extraction.
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Niang M, Thiam LG, Sow A, Loucoubar C, Bob NS, Diop F, Diouf B, Niass O, Mansourou A, Varela ML, Perraut R, Sall AA, Toure-Balde A. A molecular survey of acute febrile illnesses reveals Plasmodium vivax infections in Kedougou, southeastern Senegal. Malar J 2015; 14:281. [PMID: 26186936 PMCID: PMC4506577 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-015-0808-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [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: 05/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Control efforts towards malaria due to Plasmodium falciparum significantly decreased the incidence of the disease in many endemic countries including Senegal. Surprisingly, in Kedougou (southeastern Senegal) P. falciparum malaria remains highly prevalent and the relative contribution of other Plasmodium species to the global malaria burden is very poorly documented, partly due to the low sensitivity of routine diagnostic tools. Molecular methods offer better estimate of circulating Plasmodium species in a given area. A molecular survey was carried out to document circulating malaria parasites in Kedougou region. METHODS A total of 263 long-term stored sera obtained from patients presenting with acute febrile illness in Kedougou between July 2009 and July 2013 were used for malaria parasite determination. Sera were withdrawn from a collection established as part of a surveillance programme of arboviruses infections in the region. Plasmodium species were characterized by a nested PCR-based approach targeting the 18S small sub-unit ribosomal RNA genes of Plasmodium spp. RESULTS Of the 263 sera screened in this study, Plasmodium genomic DNA was amplifiable by nested PCR from 62.35% (164/263) of samples. P. falciparum accounted for the majority of infections either as single in 85.97% (141/164) of Plasmodium-positive samples or mixed with Plasmodium ovale (11.58%, 19/164) or Plasmodium vivax (1.21%, 2/164). All 19 (11.58%) P. ovale-infected patients were mixed with P. falciparum, while no Plasmodium malariae was detected in this survey. Four patients (2.43%) were found to be infected by P. vivax, two of whom were mixed with P. falciparum. P. vivax infections originated from Bandafassi and Ninefesha villages and concerned patients aged 4, 9, 10, and 15 years old, respectively. DNA sequences alignment and phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that sequences from Kedougou corresponded to P. vivax, therefore confirming the presence of P. vivax infections in Senegal. CONCLUSION The results confirm the high prevalence of P. falciparum in Kedougou and provide the first molecular evidence of P. vivax infections in Senegal. These findings pave the ways for further investigations of P. vivax infections in Senegal and its contribution to the global burden of malaria disease before targeted strategies can be deployed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Makhtar Niang
- Immunology Unit, Pasteur Institute of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
| | - Laty Gaye Thiam
- Immunology Unit, Pasteur Institute of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
- Department of Animal Biology, Cheikh Anta Diop University of de Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
| | - Abdourahmane Sow
- Arbovirus and Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers Unit, Pasteur Institute of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
| | - Cheikh Loucoubar
- Arbovirus and Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers Unit, Pasteur Institute of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
| | - Ndeye Sakha Bob
- Arbovirus and Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers Unit, Pasteur Institute of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
| | - Fode Diop
- Immunology Unit, Pasteur Institute of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
| | - Babacar Diouf
- Immunology Unit, Pasteur Institute of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
| | - Oumy Niass
- Immunology Unit, Pasteur Institute of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
| | | | | | - Ronald Perraut
- Immunology Unit, Pasteur Institute of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
| | - Amadou A Sall
- Arbovirus and Viral Haemorrhagic Fevers Unit, Pasteur Institute of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
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Ueti MW, Olafson PU, Freeman JM, Johnson WC, Scoles GA. A Virulent Babesia bovis Strain Failed to Infect White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus). PLoS One 2015; 10:e0131018. [PMID: 26083429 PMCID: PMC4471175 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0131018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Wildlife are an important component in the vector-host-pathogen triangle of livestock diseases, as they maintain biological vectors that transmit pathogens and can serve as reservoirs for such infectious pathogens. Babesia bovis is a tick-borne pathogen, vectored by cattle fever ticks, Rhipicephalus spp., that can cause up to 90% mortality in naive adult cattle. While cattle are the primary host for cattle fever ticks, wild and exotic ungulates, including white-tailed deer (WTD), are known to be viable alternative hosts. The presence of cattle fever tick populations resistant to acaricides raises concerns regarding the possibility of these alternative hosts introducing tick-borne babesial parasites into areas free of infection. Understanding the B. bovis reservoir competence of these alternative hosts is critical to mitigating the risk of introduction. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that WTD are susceptible to infection with a B. bovis strain lethal to cattle. Two groups of deer were inoculated intravenously with either B. bovis blood stabilate or a larval extract supernatant containing sporozoites from infected R. microplus larvae. The collective data demonstrated that WTD are neither a transient host nor reservoir of B. bovis. This conclusion is supported by the failure of B. bovis to establish an infection in deer regardless of inoculum. Although specific antibody was detected for a short period in the WTD, the PCR results were consistently negative at multiple time points throughout the experiment and blood from WTD that had been exposed to parasite, transferred into naïve recipient susceptible calves, failed to establish infection. In contrast, naïve steers inoculated intravenously with either B. bovis blood stabilate or the larval extract supernatant containing sporozoites rapidly succumbed to disease. These findings provide evidence that WTD are not an epidemiological component in the maintenance of B. bovis infectivity to livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massaro W. Ueti
- USDA, ARS, Animal Disease Research Unit, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Pia U. Olafson
- USDA, ARS, Knipling-Bushland United States Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, Kerrville, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jeanne M. Freeman
- USDA, ARS, Knipling-Bushland United States Livestock Insects Research Laboratory, Kerrville, Texas, United States of America
| | - Wendell C. Johnson
- USDA, ARS, Animal Disease Research Unit, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
| | - Glen A. Scoles
- USDA, ARS, Animal Disease Research Unit, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, United States of America
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Orlov M, Smeaton LM, Kumwenda J, Hosseinipour MC, Campbell TB, Schooley RT. Presence of Plasmodium falciparum DNA in Plasma Does Not Predict Clinical Malaria in an HIV-1 Infected Population. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0129519. [PMID: 26053030 PMCID: PMC4460081 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0129519] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2014] [Accepted: 05/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HIV-1 and Plasmodium falciparum malaria cause substantial morbidity in Sub-Saharan Africa, especially as co-infecting pathogens. We examined the relationship between presence of P. falciparum DNA in plasma samples and clinical malaria as well as the impact of atazanavir, an HIV-1 protease inhibitor (PI), on P. falciparum PCR positivity. METHODS ACTG study A5175 compared two NNRTI-based regimens and one PI-based anti-retroviral (ARV) regimen in antiretroviral therapy naïve participants. We performed nested PCR on plasma samples for the P. falciparum 18s rRNA gene to detect the presence of malaria DNA in 215 of the 221 participants enrolled in Blantyre and Lilongwe, Malawi. We also studied the closest sample preceding the first malaria diagnosis from 102 persons with clinical malaria and randomly selected follow up samples from 88 persons without clinical malaria. RESULTS PCR positivity was observed in 18 (8%) baseline samples and was not significantly associated with age, sex, screening CD4+ T-cell count, baseline HIV-1 RNA level or co-trimoxazole use within the first 8 weeks. Neither baseline PCR positivity (p = 0.45) nor PCR positivity after initiation of antiretroviral therapy (p = 1.0) were significantly associated with subsequent clinical malaria. Randomization to the PI versus NNRTI ARV regimens was not significantly associated with either PCR positivity (p = 0.5) or clinical malaria (p = 0.609). Clinical malaria was associated with a history of tuberculosis (p = 0.006) and a lower BMI (p = 0.004). CONCLUSION P. falciparum DNA was detected in 8% of participants at baseline, but was not significantly associated with subsequent development of clinical malaria. HIV PI therapy did not decrease the prevalence of PCR positivity or incidence of clinical disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marika Orlov
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Laura M Smeaton
- Center for Biostatistics in AIDS Research, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | | | - Mina C Hosseinipour
- Department of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America; University of North Carolina Project, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Thomas B Campbell
- School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Robert T Schooley
- School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, San Diego, California, United States of America
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Hofmann N, Mwingira F, Shekalaghe S, Robinson LJ, Mueller I, Felger I. Ultra-sensitive detection of Plasmodium falciparum by amplification of multi-copy subtelomeric targets. PLoS Med 2015; 12:e1001788. [PMID: 25734259 PMCID: PMC4348198 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1001788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 232] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2014] [Accepted: 01/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Planning and evaluating malaria control strategies relies on accurate definition of parasite prevalence in the population. A large proportion of asymptomatic parasite infections can only be identified by surveillance with molecular methods, yet these infections also contribute to onward transmission to mosquitoes. The sensitivity of molecular detection by PCR is limited by the abundance of the target sequence in a DNA sample; thus, detection becomes imperfect at low densities. We aimed to increase PCR diagnostic sensitivity by targeting multi-copy genomic sequences for reliable detection of low-density infections, and investigated the impact of these PCR assays on community prevalence data. METHODS AND FINDINGS Two quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays were developed for ultra-sensitive detection of Plasmodium falciparum, targeting the high-copy telomere-associated repetitive element 2 (TARE-2, ∼250 copies/genome) and the var gene acidic terminal sequence (varATS, 59 copies/genome). Our assays reached a limit of detection of 0.03 to 0.15 parasites/μl blood and were 10× more sensitive than standard 18S rRNA qPCR. In a population cross-sectional study in Tanzania, 295/498 samples tested positive using ultra-sensitive assays. Light microscopy missed 169 infections (57%). 18S rRNA qPCR failed to identify 48 infections (16%), of which 40% carried gametocytes detected by pfs25 quantitative reverse-transcription PCR. To judge the suitability of the TARE-2 and varATS assays for high-throughput screens, their performance was tested on sample pools. Both ultra-sensitive assays correctly detected all pools containing one low-density P. falciparum-positive sample, which went undetected by 18S rRNA qPCR, among nine negatives. TARE-2 and varATS qPCRs improve estimates of prevalence rates, yet other infections might still remain undetected when absent in the limited blood volume sampled. CONCLUSIONS Measured malaria prevalence in communities is largely determined by the sensitivity of the diagnostic tool used. Even when applying standard molecular diagnostics, prevalence in our study population was underestimated by 8% compared to the new assays. Our findings highlight the need for highly sensitive tools such as TARE-2 and varATS qPCR in community surveillance and for monitoring interventions to better describe malaria epidemiology and inform malaria elimination efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Hofmann
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Felista Mwingira
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- Biological Sciences Department, Dar es Salaam University College of Education, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Leanne J. Robinson
- Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research, Madang and Maprik, Papua New Guinea
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ivo Mueller
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Centre de Recerca en Salut Internacional de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ingrid Felger
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
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Zhao GH, Yin K, Zhong WX, Cui Y, Wang HF. [Development and application of rapid molecular method for detection of asymptomatic infection of Leishmania]. Zhongguo Xue Xi Chong Bing Fang Zhi Za Zhi 2015; 27:45-52. [PMID: 26094413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To develop a rapid molecular biological method for detection of the asymptomatic infection of Leishmania. METHODS Two pairs of primers named RV1-RV2 and K13A-K13B were selected to be the fast diagnosis primers since they were designed according to the conserved region of Leishmania kinetoplast DNA (kDNA) minicircles. The PCR amplification products of Leishmania donovani promastigote from Shandong Province were sequenced to compare their conservatism. The method was applied to detect 105 venous blood samples from healthy home canine and 7 venous blood samples from home canine suffered from Kala-azar in Heishui County of Sichuan Province, and 75 venous blood samples from susceptible population (no leishmaniasis symptoms) and 7 venous blood samples from patients in Xinjiang Kashi area in order to verify the feasibility and accuracy of the method. RESULTS The size of PCR products was consistent with the expected fragments with high conservative among Leishmania species. The positive rates of 105 home canine samples and 75 susceptible population samples were 37.14% (39/105) and 82.67% (62/75) rspectively, and the positive rates of home canine suffered from Kala-azar and patients were all 100%(7/7). CONCLUSION This rapid diagnosis method is suitable for detection of asymptomatic infection of Leishmania in Kalaazar endemic areas of China with high sensitive and specific, thus it has bright perspective to be used.
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Kato-Hayashi N, Leonardo LR, Arevalo NL, Tagum MNB, Apin J, Agsolid LM, Chua JC, Villacorte EA, Kirinoki M, Kikuchi M, Ohmae H, Haruki K, Chigusa Y. Detection of active schistosome infection by cell-free circulating DNA of Schistosoma japonicum in highly endemic areas in Sorsogon Province, the Philippines. Acta Trop 2015; 141:178-83. [PMID: 24836919 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2014.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [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: 06/05/2013] [Revised: 05/08/2014] [Accepted: 05/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The current status of schistosomiasis in highly endemic areas is difficult to determine by ovum detection because of the superficially low parasite load after mass drug administration, whereas the parasite transmission rates are still high. Cell-free parasite DNA is fragments of parasite-derived DNA existing in the host's body fluids. We conducted population-based studies to test the presence of cell-free schistosome DNA in endemic areas of Sorsogon Province, the Philippines. Schistosome DNA in the serum and urine of Kato-Katz (KK)-positive subjects was detected by PCR (100% sensitivity). Schistosome DNA was also detected from KK-negative subjects (9/22 serum and 10/41 urine samples). Schistosome DNA was found to be network echogenic pattern (NW)-positive (serum 53.3%, urine 42.9%) or NW-negative (serum 25.5%, urine 20.8%) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)-positive (serum 47.1%, urine 40%) or ELISA-negative (serum 33.3%, urine 13.3%). These results indicate that cell-free schistosome DNA is a promising diagnostic marker for active schistosome infection in the case of light infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoko Kato-Hayashi
- Laboratory of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Dokkyo Medical University, Mibu 321-0293, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Lydia R Leonardo
- Department of Parasitology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, 625 Pedro Gil St., Ermita, Manila 1000, the Philippines
| | - Napoleon L Arevalo
- Center for Health Development No. 5, Department of Health, Sorsogon City, Sorsogon, the Philippines
| | | | - James Apin
- Municipal Health Office, Juban, Sorsogon, the Philippines
| | - Lea M Agsolid
- Provincial Health Office, Sorsogon City, Sorsogon, the Philippines
| | - James C Chua
- Department of Parasitology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, 625 Pedro Gil St., Ermita, Manila 1000, the Philippines
| | - Elena A Villacorte
- Department of Parasitology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, 625 Pedro Gil St., Ermita, Manila 1000, the Philippines
| | - Masashi Kirinoki
- Laboratory of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Dokkyo Medical University, Mibu 321-0293, Tochigi, Japan
| | - Mihoko Kikuchi
- Department of Immunogenetics, Institute of Tropical Medicine (NEKKEN), Nagasaki University, Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8523, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Ohmae
- Department of Parasitology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Toyama 1-23-1, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8640, Japan
| | - Kosuke Haruki
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Dokkyo Medical University Koshigaya Hospital, Koshigaya 343-8555, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yuichi Chigusa
- Laboratory of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, Dokkyo Medical University, Mibu 321-0293, Tochigi, Japan.
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Li Y, Luo Y, Cao S, Terkawi MA, Lan DTB, Long PT, Yu L, Zhou M, Gong H, Zhang H, Zhou J, Yokoyama N, Suzuki H, Xuan X. Molecular and seroepidemiological survey of Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina infections in cattle and water buffaloes in the central region of Vietnam. Trop Biomed 2014; 31:406-413. [PMID: 25382466] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, a total of 137 blood samples were collected from cattle and water buffaloes in central region of Vietnam and tested using nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT) to determine the molecular and serological prevalence of Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina. In cattle, the prevalence of B. bovis and B. bigemina was 21.3% and 16.0% by nPCR, 73.4% and 42.6% by ELISA and 60.6% and 59.6% by IFAT, respectively, whereas those of water buffalos were 23.3% and 0% by nPCR, 37.2% and 9.3% by ELISA and 27.9% and 18.6% by IFAT, respectively. IFAT and ELISA detected a higher number of infected cattle and water buffaloes than nPCR totally. Statistically significant differences in the prevalence of the two infections were observed on the basis of age. Overall, the current data suggest high incidence of B. bovis and B. bigemina infections in the central region of Vietnam, which is needed to develop comprehensive approach to the modern surveillance, diagnosis and control of bovine babesiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Yuzi Luo
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Shinuo Cao
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Mohamad Alaa Terkawi
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Dinh Thi Bich Lan
- Institute of Resources, Environment and Biotechnology, Hue University, 7 Hanoi Street, Hue City 47000, Vietnam
| | - Phung Thang Long
- Hue University of Agriculture and Forestry, 102 Phung Hung Street, Hue City 47000, Vietnam
| | - Longzheng Yu
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Mo Zhou
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Haiyan Gong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Houshuang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Jinlin Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Animal Parasitology of Ministry of Agriculture, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Naoaki Yokoyama
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Suzuki
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-8555, Japan
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Hong SH, Anu D, Jeong YI, Abmed D, Cho SH, Lee WJ, Lee SE. Molecular Detection and Seroprevalence ofBabesia microti among Stock Farmers in Khutul City, Selenge Province, Mongolia. Korean J Parasitol 2014; 52:443-7. [PMID: 25246726 PMCID: PMC4170043 DOI: 10.3347/kjp.2014.52.4.443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2013] [Revised: 05/21/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Babesiosis is an emerging tick-borne disease in humans worldwide; however, little is known about the frequency of infection or prevalence of this disease in other parts of the world, excluding North America. In this study, we aimed to investigate Babesia microti infection frequency in a human population in Mongolia. One hundred blood samples were collected from stock farmers living in Khutul city of Selenge province, Mongolia. The sera and DNA from blood samples were evaluated for the presence of B. microti infection by using indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) tests and PCR. The positive detection rates obtained using the IFA tests and PCR assays were 7% and 3%, respectively. This study is the first to detect of B. microti infections based on antibody seroprevalence or PCR assays for the presence of B. microti DNA in a Mongolian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Hee Hong
- Division of Malaria & Parasitic Diseases, Korea National Institute of Health, Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Osong 363-951, Korea
| | - Davaasuren Anu
- Laboratory of Parasitology, National Center for Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Health, Ulaanbaator-210648, Mongolia
| | - Young-Il Jeong
- Division of Malaria & Parasitic Diseases, Korea National Institute of Health, Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Osong 363-951, Korea
| | - Davaajav Abmed
- Laboratory of Parasitology, National Center for Communicable Diseases, Ministry of Health, Ulaanbaator-210648, Mongolia
| | - Shin-Hyeong Cho
- Division of Malaria & Parasitic Diseases, Korea National Institute of Health, Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Osong 363-951, Korea
| | - Won-Ja Lee
- Division of Malaria & Parasitic Diseases, Korea National Institute of Health, Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Osong 363-951, Korea
| | - Sang-Eun Lee
- Division of Malaria & Parasitic Diseases, Korea National Institute of Health, Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Osong 363-951, Korea
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Yuan L, Yan W, Wang T, Qian W, Ding K, Zhang L, Han L, Shao X. Effects of different inoculation routes on the parasitic sites of Cryptosporidium baileyi infection in chickens. Exp Parasitol 2014; 145:152-6. [PMID: 25148714 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2014.08.010] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2013] [Revised: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 08/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis is prevalent in domesticated, caged, and wild birds. Cryptosporidium baileyi, an ascendant species of avian Cryptosporidium, is an important pathogen. It causes respiratory disease in chickens, especially chickens younger than 50 days. In this study, SEM, histological, semi-quantitative PCR, and nested PCR techniques were used to explore the impact of different inoculation routes on sites of C. baileyi infection in chickens. Results showed that inoculation with sporozoites or oocysts via the rectum was an effective means of causing infection. This may provide an important reference for the development of the transfection system of C. baileyi in chickens. Numerous endogenous stages of C. baileyi were observed in the bursas of Fabricius (BF) and cloacas of chickens inoculated with sporozoites or oocysts via the rectum, but no parasite was seen in the tracheas of any of these chickens. In chickens infected with oocysts via the crop, the number of parasites in the BF was approximately 23-fold more than in the trachea. All blood samples collected after inoculation were negative for C. baileyi. These data show that C. baileyi was not transferred by blood circulation between the BF and respiratory tract. Different routes of inoculation were here found to distinctly affect sites of parasitism in chickens. These findings may facilitate further understanding of the biology of C. baileyi and efforts to control avian cryptosporidiosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Yuan
- Animal Quarantine Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Wenchao Yan
- Animal Quarantine Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China; Animal Diseases and Public Safety Academician Workstation of Henan Province, Luoyang 471003, China.
| | - Tianqi Wang
- Animal Quarantine Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Weifeng Qian
- Animal Quarantine Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Ke Ding
- Animal Quarantine Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China; Animal Diseases and Public Safety Academician Workstation of Henan Province, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Longxian Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Henan Agricultural University, Zhengzhou 45002, China
| | - Lifang Han
- Animal Quarantine Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
| | - Xiaodong Shao
- Animal Quarantine Laboratory, College of Animal Science and Technology, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang 471003, China
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Aydin-Schmidt B, Xu W, González IJ, Polley SD, Bell D, Shakely D, Msellem MI, Björkman A, Mårtensson A. Loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) accurately detects malaria DNA from filter paper blood samples of low density parasitaemias. PLoS One 2014; 9:e103905. [PMID: 25105591 PMCID: PMC4126669 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2014] [Accepted: 07/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Loop mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) provides an opportunity for improved, field-friendly detection of malaria infections in endemic areas. However data on the diagnostic accuracy of LAMP for active case detection, particularly low-density parasitaemias, are lacking. We therefore evaluated the performance of a new LAMP kit compared with PCR using DNA from filter paper blood spots. Methods and Findings Samples from 865 fever patients and 465 asymptomatic individuals collected in Zanzibar were analysed for Pan (all species) and Pf (P. falciparum) DNA with the Loopamp MALARIA Pan/Pf kit. Samples were amplified at 65°C for 40 minutes in a real-time turbidimeter and results were compared with nested PCR. Samples with discordant results between LAMP and nested PCR were analysed with real-time PCR. The real-time PCR corrected nested PCR result was defined as gold standard. Among the 117 (13.5%) PCR detected P. falciparum infections from fever patients (mean parasite density 7491/µL, range 6–782,400) 115, 115 and 111 were positive by Pan-LAMP, Pf-LAMP and nested PCR, respectively. The sensitivities were 98.3% (95%CI 94–99.8) for both Pan and Pf-LAMP. Among the 54 (11.6%) PCR positive samples from asymptomatic individuals (mean parasite density 10/µL, range 0–4972) Pf-LAMP had a sensitivity of 92.7% (95%CI 80.1–98.5) for detection of the 41 P. falciparum infections. Pan-LAMP had sensitivities of 97% (95%CI 84.2–99.9) and 76.9% (95%CI 46.2–95) for detection of P. falciparum and P. malariae, respectively. The specificities for both Pan and Pf-LAMP were 100% (95%CI 99.1–100) in both study groups. Conclusion Both components of the Loopamp MALARIA Pan/Pf detection kit revealed high diagnostic accuracy for parasite detection among fever patients and importantly also among asymptomatic individuals of low parasite densities from minute blood volumes preserved on filter paper. These data support LAMPs potential role for improved detection of low-density malaria infections in pre-elimination settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berit Aydin-Schmidt
- Malaria Research, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cellbiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Unit of infectious diseases, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Weiping Xu
- Malaria Research, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cellbiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Iveth J. González
- Department of Clinical Parasitology, Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND), Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Spencer D. Polley
- Hospital for Tropical Diseases, University College London Hospitals, London, United Kingdom
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and University College, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Bell
- Global Good Fund, Bellevue, Washington, United States of America
| | - Delér Shakely
- Malaria Research, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cellbiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Mwinyi I. Msellem
- Zanzibar Malaria Elimination Program, Ministry of Health, Zanzibar, Tanzania
| | - Anders Björkman
- Malaria Research, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cellbiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andreas Mårtensson
- Malaria Research, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cellbiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Global Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Center for Clinical Research, Sörmland County Council, Sörmland, Sweden
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de Miranda RL, O'Dwyer LH, de Castro JR, Metzger B, Rubini AS, Mundim AV, Eyal O, Talmi-Frank D, Cury MC, Baneth G. Prevalence and molecular characterization of Hepatozoon canis in dogs from urban and rural areas in Southeast Brazil. Res Vet Sci 2014; 97:325-8. [PMID: 25039064 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2014.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [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: 12/04/2012] [Revised: 05/26/2014] [Accepted: 06/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this survey was to investigate the prevalence of Hepatozoon infection in dogs in the rural and urban areas of Uberlândia, Brazil by PCR and molecular characterization. DNA was obtained from blood samples collected from 346 local dogs from both genders and various ages. Seventeen PCR products from positive blood samples of urban dogs and 13 from the rural dogs were sequenced. Partial sequences of the 18S rRNA gene indicated that all 30 dogs were infected with Hepatozoon canis similar in sequence to H. canis from southern Europe. Four local dog sequences were submitted to GenBank (accessions JN835188; KF692038; KF692039; KF692040). This study indicates that H. canis is the cause of canine hepatozoonosis in Uberlândia and that infection is similarly widespread in rural and urban dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- R L de Miranda
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - L H O'Dwyer
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - J R de Castro
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - B Metzger
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - A S Rubini
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - A V Mundim
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - O Eyal
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - D Talmi-Frank
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - M C Cury
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil.
| | - G Baneth
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil
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Dolgikh TI, Goncharov DB, Sokolova TF, Chekmarev GV, Turok NE. [The patterns of immune and behavioral disorders in Toxoplasma gondii antigen-sensitized rat posterity in the postnatal period]. Med Parazitol (Mosk) 2014:33-36. [PMID: 25296425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
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