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Klaman SL, Godino JG, Northrup A, Lewis SV, Tam A, Carrillo C, Lewis R, Matthews E, Mendez B, Reyes L, Rojas S, Ramers C. Does a simplified algorithm and integrated HCV care model improve linkage to care, retention, and cure among people who inject drugs? A pragmatic quality improvement randomized controlled trial protocol. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:105. [PMID: 38238686 PMCID: PMC10797714 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-08982-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND As many as 2.4 million Americans are affected by chronic Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) in the United States.In 2018, the estimated number of adults with a history of HCV infection in San Diego County was 55,354 (95% CI: 25,411-93,329). This corresponded to a seroprevalence of 2.1% (95% CI: 2.1-3.4%). One-third of infections were among PWID. Published research has demonstrated that direct-acting antivirals (DAAs) have high efficacy and can now be used by primary care providers to treat HCV. In addition, limited evidence exists to support the effectiveness of simplified algorithms in clinical trial and real-world settings. Even with expanded access to HCV treatment in primary care settings, there are still groups, especially people who inject drugs (PWID) and people experiencing homelessness, who experience treatment disparities due to access and treatment barriers. The current study extends the simplified algorithm with a streetside 'one-stop-shop' approach with integrated care (including the offer of buprenorphine prescriptions and abscess care) using a mobile clinic situated adjacent to a syringe service program serving many homeless populations. Rates of HCV treatment initiation and retention will be compared between patients offered HCV care in a mobile clinic adjacent to a syringe services program (SSP) and homeless encampment versus those who are linked to a community clinic's current practice of usual care, which includes comprehensive patient navigation. METHODS A quasi-experimental, prospective, interventional, comparative effectiveness trial with allocation of approximately 200 patients who inject drugs and have chronic HCV to the "simplified care" pathway (intervention group) or the "usual care" pathway (control group). Block randomization will be performed with a 1:1 randomization. DISCUSSION Previous research has demonstrated acceptable outcomes for patients treated using simplified algorithms for DAAs and point-of-care testing in mobile medical clinics; however, there are opportunities to explore how these new, innovative systems of care impact treatment initiation rates or other HCV care cascade outcomes among PWID. TRIAL REGISTRATION We have registered our study with ClinicalTrials.gov, a resource of the United States National Library of Medicine. This database contains research studies from United States and other countries around the world. Our study has not been previously published. The ClinicalTrials.gov registration identifier is NCT04741750.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey L Klaman
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA
| | - Job G Godino
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA.
| | - Adam Northrup
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA
| | - Sydney V Lewis
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA
| | - Aaron Tam
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA
| | - Robert Lewis
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA
| | - Eva Matthews
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA
| | - Blanca Mendez
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA
| | - Letty Reyes
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA
| | - Sarah Rojas
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA
| | - Christian Ramers
- Laura Rodriguez Research Institute - Family Health Centers of San Diego, 1750 Fifth Avenue, San Deigo, CA, 92101, USA
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Werbajh S, Larocca L, Carrillo C, Stolowicz F, Ogas L, Pallotto S, Cassará S, Mammana L, Zapiola I, Bouzas MB, Vojnov AA. Colorimetric RT-LAMP Detection of Multiple SARS-CoV-2 Variants and Lineages of Concern Direct from Nasopharyngeal Swab Samples without RNA Isolation. Viruses 2023; 15:1910. [PMID: 37766315 PMCID: PMC10537693 DOI: 10.3390/v15091910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Since, during the Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemic, a large part of the human population has become infected, a rapid and simple diagnostic method has been necessary to detect its causative agent, the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-related Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), and control its spread. Thus, in the present study, we developed a colorimetric reverse transcription-loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) kit that allows the detection of SARS-CoV-2 from nasopharyngeal swab samples without the need for RNA extraction. The kit utilizes three sets of LAMP primers targeting two regions of ORF1ab and one region in the E gene. The results are based on the colorimetric change of hydroxynaphthol blue, which allows visual interpretation without needing an expensive instrument. The kit demonstrated sensitivity to detect between 50 and 100 copies of the viral genome per reaction. The kit was authorized by the National Administration of Drugs, Food and Technology (ANMAT) of Argentina after validation using samples previously analyzed by the gold standard RT-qPCR. The results showed a sensitivity of 90.6% and specificity of 100%, consistent with conventional RT-qPCR. In silico analysis confirmed the recognition of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (B.1.1.7, B.1.351, P.1, B.1.617.2, B.1.427, and B.1.429), and lineages of the Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) with 100% homology. This rapid, simple, and sensitive RT-LAMP method paves the way for a large screening strategy to be carried out at locations lacking sophisticated instrumental and trained staff, as it particularly happens in regional hospitals and medical centers from rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Werbajh
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein, Fundación Pablo Cassará, CONICET. Saladillo 2468, Buenos Aires C1440FFX, Argentina (C.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Luciana Larocca
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein, Fundación Pablo Cassará, CONICET. Saladillo 2468, Buenos Aires C1440FFX, Argentina (C.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein, Fundación Pablo Cassará, CONICET. Saladillo 2468, Buenos Aires C1440FFX, Argentina (C.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Fabiana Stolowicz
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein, Fundación Pablo Cassará, CONICET. Saladillo 2468, Buenos Aires C1440FFX, Argentina (C.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Lorena Ogas
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein, Fundación Pablo Cassará, CONICET. Saladillo 2468, Buenos Aires C1440FFX, Argentina (C.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Sergio Pallotto
- Laboratorio Pablo Cassará S.R.L. Saladillo 2452, Buenos Aires C1440FFX, Argentina
| | - Solange Cassará
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein, Fundación Pablo Cassará, CONICET. Saladillo 2468, Buenos Aires C1440FFX, Argentina (C.C.); (S.C.)
| | - Liliana Mammana
- Sección Virología, Hospital de Enfermedades Infecciosas Francisco Javier Muñiz Uspallata 2272, Buenos Aires C1282AEN, Argentina (I.Z.); (M.B.B.)
| | - Inés Zapiola
- Sección Virología, Hospital de Enfermedades Infecciosas Francisco Javier Muñiz Uspallata 2272, Buenos Aires C1282AEN, Argentina (I.Z.); (M.B.B.)
| | - María Belén Bouzas
- Sección Virología, Hospital de Enfermedades Infecciosas Francisco Javier Muñiz Uspallata 2272, Buenos Aires C1282AEN, Argentina (I.Z.); (M.B.B.)
| | - Adrian A. Vojnov
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein, Fundación Pablo Cassará, CONICET. Saladillo 2468, Buenos Aires C1440FFX, Argentina (C.C.); (S.C.)
- Facultad de Medicina-Universidad del Salvador, Av. Córdoba 1601, Buenos Aires C1055AAG, Argentina
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Taylor E, Aguilar-Ancori EG, Banyard AC, Abel I, Mantini-Briggs C, Briggs CL, Carrillo C, Gavidia CM, Castillo-Neyra R, Parola AD, Villena FE, Prada JM, Petersen BW, Falcon Perez N, Cabezas Sanchez C, Sihuincha M, Streicker DG, Maguina Vargas C, Navarro Vela AM, Vigilato MAN, Wen Fan H, Willoughby R, Horton DL, Recuenco SE. The Amazonian Tropical Bites Research Initiative, a hope for resolving zoonotic neglected tropical diseases in the One Health era. Int Health 2023; 15:216-223. [PMID: 35896028 PMCID: PMC9384559 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihac048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) disproportionately affect populations living in resource-limited settings. In the Amazon basin, substantial numbers of NTDs are zoonotic, transmitted by vertebrate (dogs, bats, snakes) and invertebrate species (sand flies and triatomine insects). However, no dedicated consortia exist to find commonalities in the risk factors for or mitigations against bite-associated NTDs such as rabies, snake envenoming, Chagas disease and leishmaniasis in the region. The rapid expansion of COVID-19 has further reduced resources for NTDs, exacerbated health inequality and reiterated the need to raise awareness of NTDs related to bites. METHODS The nine countries that make up the Amazon basin have been considered (Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Surinam and Venezuela) in the formation of a new network. RESULTS The Amazonian Tropical Bites Research Initiative (ATBRI) has been created, with the aim of creating transdisciplinary solutions to the problem of animal bites leading to disease in Amazonian communities. The ATBRI seeks to unify the currently disjointed approach to the control of bite-related neglected zoonoses across Latin America. CONCLUSIONS The coordination of different sectors and inclusion of all stakeholders will advance this field and generate evidence for policy-making, promoting governance and linkage across a One Health arena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Taylor
- University of Surrey, School of Veterinary Medicine, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford, GU2 7AL, UK
| | - Elsa Gladys Aguilar-Ancori
- Instituto Universitario de Enfermedades Tropicales y Biomedicina de Cusco - Universidad Nacional de San Antonio Abad del Cusco, Cusco, 08003, Peru
| | - Ashley C Banyard
- Animal and PlantHealth Agency, WoodhamLane, New Haw, Weybridge, Surrey, KT15 3NB, United Kingdom
| | - Isis Abel
- Laboratório de Epidemiologia e Geoprocessamento, Instituto de MedicinaVeterinária, Universidade Federal do Pará, Castanhal, Pará, 68743-970, Brasil
| | - Clara Mantini-Briggs
- Berkeley Center for Social Medicine and the Institute for the Study of Societal Issues, University of California, Berkeley, 94720-5670, USA
| | - Charles L Briggs
- Berkeley Center for Social Medicine and the Department of Anthropology, University of California, Berkeley, 94720-5670, USA
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. Cesar Milstein, Fundación Pablo Cassará - ConsejoNacional de InvestigacionesCientíficas y Técnicas, Saladillo 2468 (C1440FFX) Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cesar M Gavidia
- Facultad de MedicinaVeterinaria, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, 15021, Perú
| | - Ricardo Castillo-Neyra
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, Perelman School of Medicine at University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, 19104-6021, USA
- One Health Unit, School of Public Health and Administration, Universidad PeruanaCayetano Heredia, Lima, 15102, Peru
| | - Alejandro D Parola
- Fundación Pablo Cassará. Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. Cesar Milstein, Saladillo 2468 (C1440FFX) Ciudad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fredy E Villena
- Asociaciónpara el Empleo y Bienestar Animal en Investigación y Docencia (ASOPEBAID), Lima, 15072, Peru
| | - Joaquin M Prada
- University of Surrey, School of Veterinary Medicine, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford, GU2 7AL, UK
| | - Brett W Petersen
- Poxvirus and Rabies Branch, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, 30333, USA
| | - Nestor Falcon Perez
- Facultad de MedicinaVeterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, 15102, Perú
| | - Cesar Cabezas Sanchez
- Centro de InvestigacionesTecnologicas, Biomedicas y Medioambientales-CITBM, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, 15081, Peru
| | | | - Daniel G Streicker
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, G61 1QH, UK
| | - Ciro Maguina Vargas
- Instituto de Medicina Tropical Alexander Von Humbolt, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, 15102, Perú
| | | | - Marco A N Vigilato
- Pan American Center for Foot and Mouth Disease and Veterinary Public Health, Department of Communicable Diseases and Environmental Determinants of Health, Pan American Health Organization, Rio de Janeiro, 25040-004, Brazil
| | - Hui Wen Fan
- Bioindustrial Center, InstitutoButantan, São Paulo, 05503-900, Brazil
| | | | - Daniel L Horton
- University of Surrey, School of Veterinary Medicine, Daphne Jackson Road, Guildford, GU2 7AL, UK
| | - Sergio E Recuenco
- Centro de InvestigacionesTecnologicas, Biomedicas y Medioambientales-CITBM, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, 15081, Peru
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Llanos MA, Alberca LN, Ruiz MD, Sbaraglini ML, Miranda C, Pino-Martinez A, Fraccaroli L, Carrillo C, Alba Soto CD, Gavernet L, Talevi A. A combined ligand and target-based virtual screening strategy to repurpose drugs as putrescine uptake inhibitors with trypanocidal activity. J Comput Aided Mol Des 2023; 37:75-90. [PMID: 36494599 DOI: 10.1007/s10822-022-00491-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [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: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chagas disease, also known as American trypanosomiasis, is a neglected tropical disease caused by the protozoa Trypanosoma cruzi, affecting nearly 7 million people only in the Americas. Polyamines are essential compounds for parasite growth, survival, and differentiation. However, because trypanosomatids are auxotrophic for polyamines, they must be obtained from the host by specific transporters. In this investigation, an ensemble of QSAR classifiers able to identify polyamine analogs with trypanocidal activity was developed. Then, a multi-template homology model of the dimeric polyamine transporter of T. cruzi, TcPAT12, was created with Rosetta, and then refined by enhanced sampling molecular dynamics simulations. Using representative snapshots extracted from the trajectory, a docking model able to discriminate between active and inactive compounds was developed and validated. Both models were applied in a parallel virtual screening campaign to repurpose known drugs as anti-trypanosomal compounds inhibiting polyamine transport in T. cruzi. Montelukast, Quinestrol, Danazol, and Dutasteride were selected for in vitro testing, and all of them inhibited putrescine uptake in biochemical assays, confirming the predictive ability of the computational models. Furthermore, all the confirmed hits proved to inhibit epimastigote proliferation, and Quinestrol and Danazol were able to inhibit, in the low micromolar range, the viability of trypomastigotes and the intracellular growth of amastigotes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel A Llanos
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas and Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. La Plata (B1900ADU), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Lucas N Alberca
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas and Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. La Plata (B1900ADU), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María D Ruiz
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Bioquímica en Trypanosoma cruzi y otros agentes infecciosos, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología (ICT) Milstein - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María L Sbaraglini
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas and Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. La Plata (B1900ADU), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cristian Miranda
- Departamento de Microbiología, Parasitología e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM, UBA-CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires., Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Agustina Pino-Martinez
- Departamento de Microbiología, Parasitología e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM, UBA-CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires., Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Fraccaroli
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Bioquímica en Trypanosoma cruzi y otros agentes infecciosos, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología (ICT) Milstein - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Bioquímica en Trypanosoma cruzi y otros agentes infecciosos, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología (ICT) Milstein - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Catalina D Alba Soto
- Departamento de Microbiología, Parasitología e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM, UBA-CONICET), Universidad de Buenos Aires., Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luciana Gavernet
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas and Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. La Plata (B1900ADU), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Alan Talevi
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas and Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata. La Plata (B1900ADU), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Fraccaroli L, Ruiz MD, Perdomo VG, Clausi AN, Balcazar DE, Larocca L, Carrillo C. Broadening the spectrum of ivermectin: Its effect on Trypanosoma cruzi and related trypanosomatids. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:885268. [PMID: 35967842 PMCID: PMC9366347 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.885268] [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: 02/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease is an endemic American parasitosis, caused by Trypanosoma cruzi. The current therapies, benznidazole (BZN) and nifurtimox (NFX), show limited efficacy and multiple side effects. Thus, there is a need to develop new trypanocidal strategies. Ivermectin (IVM) is a broad-spectrum antiparasitic drug with low human and veterinary toxicity with effects against T. brucei and Leishmania spp. Considering this and its relatively low cost, we evaluate IVM as a potential repurposed trypanocidal drug on T. cruzi and other trypanosomatids. We found that IVM affected, in a dose-dependent manner, the proliferation of T. cruzi epimastigotes as well as the amastigotes and trypomastigotes survival. The Selectivity Index for the amastigote stage with respect to Vero cells was 12. The IVM effect was also observed in Phytomonas jma 066 and Leishmania mexicana proliferation but not in Crithidia fasciculata. On the epimastigote stage, the IVM effect was trypanostatic at 50 μM but trypanocidal at 100 μM. The assays of the drug combinations of IVM with BNZ or NFX showed mainly additive effects among combinations. In silico studies showed that classical structures belonging to glutamate-gated Cl channels, the most common IVM target, are absent in kinetoplastids. However, we found in the studied trypanosomatid genomes one copy for putative IMPα and IMPβ, potential targets for IVM. The putative IMPα genes (with 76% similarity) showed conserved Armadillo domains but lacked the canonical IMPβ binding sequence. These results allowed us to propose a novel molecular target in T. cruzi and suggest IVM as a good candidate for drug repurposing in the Chagas disease context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fraccaroli
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Bioquímica en Trypanosoma cruzi y otros agentes infecciosos, CONICET for Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología (ICT) Milstein - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Laura Fraccaroli, ; Carolina Carrillo,
| | - María Daniela Ruiz
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Bioquímica en Trypanosoma cruzi y otros agentes infecciosos, CONICET for Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología (ICT) Milstein - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Virginia Gabriela Perdomo
- Área Parasitología, Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), Rosario, Argentina
| | - Agustina Nicole Clausi
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Bioquímica en Trypanosoma cruzi y otros agentes infecciosos, CONICET for Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología (ICT) Milstein - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Darío Emmanuel Balcazar
- Área Parasitología, Microbiología, Facultad de Ciencias Bioquímicas y Farmacéuticas, Universidad Nacional de Rosario (UNR), Rosario, Argentina
| | - Luciana Larocca
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Bioquímica en Trypanosoma cruzi y otros agentes infecciosos, CONICET for Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología (ICT) Milstein - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular y Bioquímica en Trypanosoma cruzi y otros agentes infecciosos, CONICET for Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología (ICT) Milstein - Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Laura Fraccaroli, ; Carolina Carrillo,
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Figueredo F, Stolowicz F, Vojnov A, Coltro WKT, Larocca L, Carrillo C, Cortón E. Towards a versatile and economic Chagas Disease point-of-care testing system, by integrating loop-mediated isothermal amplification and contactless/label-free conductivity detection. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009406. [PMID: 33989282 PMCID: PMC8153438 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Rapid diagnosis by using small, simple, and portable devices could represent one of the best strategies to limit the damage and contain the spread of viral, bacterial or protozoa diseases, principally when they can be transmitted by air and are highly contagious, as some respiratory viruses are. The presence of antibodies in blood or serum samples is not the best option for deciding when a person must be quarantined to stop transmission of disease, given that cured patients have antibodies, so the best diagnosis methods rely on the use of nucleic acid amplification procedures. Here we present a very simple device and detection principle, based on paper discs coupled to contactless conductivity (C4D) sensors, can provide fast and easy diagnostics that are needed when an epidemic outbreak develops. The paper device presented here solves one of the main drawbacks that nucleic acid amplification tests have when they are performed outside of central laboratories. As the device is sealed before amplification and integrally disposed in this way, amplimers release cannot occur, allowing repetitive testing in the physician’s practice, ambulances, or other places that are not prepared to avoid cross-contamination of new samples. The use of very low volume samples allows efficient reagent use and the development of low cost, simple, and disposable point-of-care diagnostic systems. In 2005, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognized Chagas Disease as a neglected tropical disease. Meanwhile the serological tests, recommended by WHO, can be performed for chronic disease diagnosis, the nucleic acid amplification tests must be performed for the detection of the acute phase of the disease. Although the existing laboratory diagnosis tests for Chagas Disease are sensitive and highly reproducible, they cannot be performed in rural, low infrastructure environments, where this disease prevails. In this sense, the use of simple and portable analytical devices may be able to offer an affordable solution to this problem, allowing fast sampling, diagnosis and treatment prescription in one simple and fast intervention, as the performed by short term medical missions. In this study we show for the first time a diagnosis test comprising low cost materials and employing a contactless and label-free conductivity detection system that is used to read the result of a nucleic acid amplification reaction. The test showed high sensitivity for Chagas Disease diagnosis showing the potential to be used in rural and low income places.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Figueredo
- Biological Chemistry Department, Science School and IQUIBICEN (FCEN–UBA-CONICET), Argentine
- Science and Technology Institute Cesar Milstein (ICT–Milstein–CONICET), Argentine
| | - Fabiana Stolowicz
- Science and Technology Institute Cesar Milstein (ICT–Milstein–CONICET), Argentine
| | - Adrián Vojnov
- Science and Technology Institute Cesar Milstein (ICT–Milstein–CONICET), Argentine
| | - Wendell K. T. Coltro
- Chemistry Institute, Federal University of Goiás, Campus Samambaia, Goiânia, Brazil
- National Institute of Science and Technology in Bioanalytics, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Luciana Larocca
- Science and Technology Institute Cesar Milstein (ICT–Milstein–CONICET), Argentine
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Science and Technology Institute Cesar Milstein (ICT–Milstein–CONICET), Argentine
| | - Eduardo Cortón
- Biological Chemistry Department, Science School and IQUIBICEN (FCEN–UBA-CONICET), Argentine
- * E-mail:
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Llanos MA, Sbaraglini ML, Villalba ML, Ruiz MD, Carrillo C, Alba Soto C, Talevi A, Angeli A, Parkkila S, Supuran CT, Gavernet L. A structure-based approach towards the identification of novel antichagasic compounds: Trypanosoma cruzi carbonic anhydrase inhibitors. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2020; 35:21-30. [PMID: 31619095 PMCID: PMC6807911 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2019.1677638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi carbonic anhydrase (TcCA) has recently emerged as an interesting target for the design of new compounds to treat Chagas disease. In this study we report the results of a structure-based virtual screening campaign to identify novel and selective TcCA inhibitors. The combination of properly validated computational methodologies such as comparative modelling, molecular dynamics and docking simulations allowed us to find high potency hits, with KI values in the nanomolar range. The compounds also showed trypanocidal effects against T. cruzi epimastigotes and trypomastigotes. All the candidates are selective for inhibiting TcCA over the human isoform CA II, which is encouraging in terms of possible therapeutic safety and efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel A. Llanos
- Laboratory of Bioactive Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences, National University of La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María L. Sbaraglini
- Laboratory of Bioactive Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences, National University of La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María L. Villalba
- Laboratory of Bioactive Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences, National University of La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María D. Ruiz
- Instituto de Ciencias y Tecnología Dr. Cesar Milstein (ICT Milstein), Argentinean National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Instituto de Ciencias y Tecnología Dr. Cesar Milstein (ICT Milstein), Argentinean National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Catalina Alba Soto
- Departamento de Microbiología, Parasitología e Inmunología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM), UBA-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alan Talevi
- Laboratory of Bioactive Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences, National University of La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrea Angeli
- Neurofarba Department, Sezione di Scienze Farmaceutiche e Nutraceutiche, Universita degli Studi di Firenze, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Seppo Parkkila
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Technology, University of Tampere, Tampere, Finland
| | - Claudiu T. Supuran
- Neurofarba Department, Sezione di Scienze Farmaceutiche e Nutraceutiche, Universita degli Studi di Firenze, Sesto Fiorentino, Florence, Italy
| | - Luciana Gavernet
- Laboratory of Bioactive Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences, National University of La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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8
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Losinno AD, Martínez SJ, Labriola CA, Carrillo C, Romano PS. Induction of autophagy increases the proteolytic activity of reservosomes during Trypanosoma cruzi metacyclogenesis. Autophagy 2020; 17:439-456. [PMID: 31983275 DOI: 10.1080/15548627.2020.1720428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cruzipain, the major cysteine protease of the pathogenic protozoa Trypanosoma cruzi, is an important virulence factor that plays a key role in the parasite nutrition, differentiation and host cell infection. Cruzipain is synthesized as a zymogen, matured, and delivered to reservosomes. These organelles that store proteins and lipids ingested by endocytosis undergo a dramatic decrease in number during the metacyclogenesis of T. cruzi. Autophagy is a process that digests the own cell components to supply energy under starvation or different stress situations. This pathway is important during cell growth, differentiation and death. Previously, we showed that the autophagy pathway of T. cruzi is induced during metacyclogenesis. This work aimed to evaluate the participation of macroautophagy/autophagy in the distribution and function of reservosomes and cruzipain during this process. We found that parasite starvation promotes the cruzipain delivery to reservosomes. Enhanced autophagy increases acidity and hydrolytic activity in these compartments resulting in cruzipain enzymatic activation and self- processing. Inhibition of autophagy similarly impairs cruzipain traffic and activity than protease inhibitors, whereas mutant parasites that exhibit increased basal autophagy, also display increased cruzipain processing under control conditions. Further experiments showed that autophagy induced cruzipain activation and self-processing promote T. cruzi differentiation and host cell infection. These findings highlight the key role of T. cruzi autophagy in these processes and reveal a potential new target for Chagas disease therapy.Abbreviations: Baf: bafilomycin A1; CTE: C-terminal extension; Cz: cruzipain; IIF: indirect immunofluorescence; K777: vinyl sulfone with specific Cz inhibitory activity; Prot Inh: broad-spectrum protease inhibitor; Spa1: spautin-1; Wort: wortmannin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Denise Losinno
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma Cruzi y la célula hospedadora, Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM-CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (FCM-UNCUYO), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Santiago José Martínez
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma Cruzi y la célula hospedadora, Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM-CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Carlos Alberto Labriola
- Laboratorio de Biología estructural y celular, Fundación Instituto Leloir (FIL-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Laboratorio de Parasitología molecular y bioquímica, Instituto de Ciencias y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein (ICT-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Patricia Silvia Romano
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma Cruzi y la célula hospedadora, Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM-CONICET), Mendoza, Argentina.,Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo (FCM-UNCUYO), Mendoza, Argentina
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Talevi A, Carrillo C, Comini M. The Thiol-polyamine Metabolism of Trypanosoma cruzi: Molecular Targets and Drug Repurposing Strategies. Curr Med Chem 2019; 26:6614-6635. [PMID: 30259812 DOI: 10.2174/0929867325666180926151059] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 07/23/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Chagas´ disease continues to be a challenging and neglected public health problem in many American countries. The etiologic agent, Trypanosoma cruzi, develops intracellularly in the mammalian host, which hinders treatment efficacy. Progress in the knowledge of parasite biology and host-pathogen interaction has not been paralleled by the development of novel, safe and effective therapeutic options. It is then urgent to seek for novel therapeutic candidates and to implement drug discovery strategies that may accelerate the discovery process. The most appealing targets for pharmacological intervention are those essential for the pathogen and, whenever possible, absent or significantly different from the host homolog. The thiol-polyamine metabolism of T. cruzi offers interesting candidates for a rational design of selective drugs. In this respect, here we critically review the state of the art of the thiolpolyamine metabolism of T. cruzi and the pharmacological potential of its components. On the other hand, drug repurposing emerged as a valid strategy to identify new biological activities for drugs in clinical use, while significantly shortening the long time and high cost associated with de novo drug discovery approaches. Thus, we also discuss the different drug repurposing strategies available with a special emphasis in their applications to the identification of drug candidates targeting essential components of the thiol-polyamine metabolism of T. cruzi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Talevi
- Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences, University of La Plata, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Instituto de Ciencias y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein (ICT Milstein) - CONICET. Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marcelo Comini
- Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, Mataojo 2020, Montevideo 11400, Uruguay
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Sbaraglini ML, Bellera CL, Quarroz Braghini J, Areco Y, Miranda C, Carrillo C, Kelly J, Buchholz B, Gelpi RJ, Talevi A, Alba Soto CD. Combined therapy with Benznidazole and repurposed drugs Clofazimine and Benidipine for chronic Chagas disease. Eur J Med Chem 2019; 184:111778. [PMID: 31630056 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2019.111778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- María L Sbaraglini
- Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), 47 y 115 (B1900AJI) La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina L Bellera
- Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), 47 y 115 (B1900AJI) La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan Quarroz Braghini
- Instituto de Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM, CONICET-UBA), Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Yésica Areco
- Instituto de Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM, CONICET-UBA), Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cristian Miranda
- Instituto de Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM, CONICET-UBA), Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Instituto de Ciencias y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein (ICT Milstein), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jazmín Kelly
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Patología, Instituto de Fisiopatología Cardiovascular (INFICA) y Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular (IBIMOL), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Bruno Buchholz
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Patología, Instituto de Fisiopatología Cardiovascular (INFICA) y Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular (IBIMOL), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ricardo J Gelpi
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Patología, Instituto de Fisiopatología Cardiovascular (INFICA) y Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Instituto de Bioquímica y Medicina Molecular (IBIMOL), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alan Talevi
- Laboratorio de Investigación y Desarrollo de Bioactivos (LIDeB), Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), 47 y 115 (B1900AJI) La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Catalina D Alba Soto
- Instituto de Microbiología y Parasitología Médica (IMPaM, CONICET-UBA), Departamento de Microbiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Ruiz M, Fraccaroli L, Balcazar D, Larocca L, Torres P, Carrillo C. Identification and characterization of the Trypanosoma cruzi Pantothenate Transporter (TcPPT1) and its role in survival under stress conditions. Int J Infect Dis 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2018.04.4148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
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12
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Carrillo C, Werbajh S, Malnero C, Stolowicz F, Larocca L, Malirat V, Vojnov A. Development of a colorimetric RT-LAMP amplification assay adapted to an early and easy detection of Dengue virus. Int J Infect Dis 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2018.04.3801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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13
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Alberca L, Sbaraglini M, Ruiz D, Larrea SV, Villamil SF, Carrillo C, Talevi A. Computer-aided search of novel inhibitors of n-myristoyl transferase with trypanocidal effects. Int J Infect Dis 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2018.04.4121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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14
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Larocca L, Stolowicz F, Oneto A, Macallini G, Smithius F, Dima E, Abudara M, Aranda C, Vojnov A, Carrillo C. First steps in the clinical evaluation of a simplified test to detect congenital Chagas disease on newborns. Int J Infect Dis 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2018.04.4118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
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15
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Alberca LN, Sbaraglini ML, Morales JF, Dietrich R, Ruiz MD, Pino Martínez AM, Miranda CG, Fraccaroli L, Alba Soto CD, Carrillo C, Palestro PH, Talevi A. Cascade Ligand- and Structure-Based Virtual Screening to Identify New Trypanocidal Compounds Inhibiting Putrescine Uptake. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2018; 8:173. [PMID: 29888213 PMCID: PMC5981162 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2018.00173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Chagas disease is a neglected tropical disease endemic to Latin America, though migratory movements have recently spread it to other regions. Here, we have applied a cascade virtual screening campaign combining ligand- and structure-based methods. In order to find novel inhibitors of putrescine uptake in Trypanosoma cruzi, an ensemble of linear ligand-based classifiers obtained by has been applied as initial screening filter, followed by docking into a homology model of the putrescine permease TcPAT12. 1,000 individual linear classifiers were inferred from a balanced dataset. Subsequently, different schemes were tested to combine the individual classifiers: MIN operator, average ranking, average score, average voting, with MIN operator leading to the best performance. The homology model was based on the arginine/agmatine antiporter (AdiC) from Escherichia coli as template. It showed 64% coverage of the entire query sequence and it was selected based on the normalized Discrete Optimized Protein Energy parameter and the GA341 score. The modeled structure had 96% in the allowed area of Ramachandran's plot, and none of the residues located in non-allowed regions were involved in the active site of the transporter. Positivity Predictive Value surfaces were applied to optimize the score thresholds to be used in the ligand-based virtual screening step: for that purpose Positivity Predictive Value was charted as a function of putative yields of active in the range 0.001-0.010 and the Se/Sp ratio. With a focus on drug repositioning opportunities, DrugBank and Sweetlead databases were subjected to screening. Among 8 hits, cinnarizine, a drug frequently prescribed for motion sickness and balance disorder, was tested against T. cruzi epimastigotes and amastigotes, confirming its trypanocidal effects and its inhibitory effects on putrescine uptake. Furthermore, clofazimine, an antibiotic with already proven trypanocidal effects, also displayed inhibitory effects on putrescine uptake. Two other hits, meclizine and butoconazole, also displayed trypanocidal effects (in the case of meclizine, against both epimastigotes and amastigotes), without inhibiting putrescine uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas N. Alberca
- Laboratory of Bioactive Compounds Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Science, Exact Sciences College, National University of La PlataBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María L. Sbaraglini
- Laboratory of Bioactive Compounds Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Science, Exact Sciences College, National University of La PlataBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Juan F. Morales
- Laboratory of Bioactive Compounds Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Science, Exact Sciences College, National University of La PlataBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Roque Dietrich
- Laboratory of Bioactive Compounds Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Science, Exact Sciences College, National University of La PlataBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María D. Ruiz
- Institute of Sciences and Technology Dr César Milstein (ICT Milstein), Argentinean National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET)Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Agustina M. Pino Martínez
- Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Institute of Microbiology and Medical Parasitology (CONICET), University of Buenos AiresBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cristian G. Miranda
- Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Institute of Microbiology and Medical Parasitology (CONICET), University of Buenos AiresBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Fraccaroli
- Institute of Sciences and Technology Dr César Milstein (ICT Milstein), Argentinean National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET)Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Catalina D. Alba Soto
- Department of Microbiology, Parasitology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Institute of Microbiology and Medical Parasitology (CONICET), University of Buenos AiresBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Institute of Sciences and Technology Dr César Milstein (ICT Milstein), Argentinean National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET)Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Pablo H. Palestro
- Laboratory of Bioactive Compounds Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Science, Exact Sciences College, National University of La PlataBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alan Talevi
- Laboratory of Bioactive Compounds Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Science, Exact Sciences College, National University of La PlataBuenos Aires, Argentina
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Dietrich R, Alberca L, Ruiz M, Palestro P, Carrillo C, Talevi A, Gavernet L. Identification of cisapride as new inhibitor of putrescine uptake in Trypanosoma cruzi by combined ligand- and structure-based virtual screening. Eur J Med Chem 2018; 149:22-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2018.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/03/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Vanrell MC, Losinno AD, Cueto JA, Balcazar D, Fraccaroli LV, Carrillo C, Romano PS. The regulation of autophagy differentially affects Trypanosoma cruzi metacyclogenesis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0006049. [PMID: 29091711 PMCID: PMC5683653 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a cellular process required for the removal of aged organelles and cytosolic components through lysosomal degradation. All types of eukaryotic cells from yeasts to mammalian cells have the machinery to activate autophagy as a result of many physiological and pathological situations. The most frequent stimulus of autophagy is starvation and the result, in this case, is the fast generation of utilizable food (e.g. amino acids and basic nutrients) to maintain the vital biological processes. In some organisms, starvation also triggers other associated processes such as differentiation. The protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi undergoes a series of differentiation processes throughout its complex life cycle. Although not all autophagic genes have been identified in the T. cruzi genome, previous works have demonstrated the presence of essential autophagic-related proteins. Under starvation conditions, TcAtg8, which is the parasite homolog of Atg8/LC3 in other organisms, is located in autophagosome-like vesicles. In this work, we have characterized the autophagic pathway during T. cruzi differentiation from the epimastigote to metacyclic trypomastigote form, a process called metacyclogenesis. We demonstrated that autophagy is stimulated during metacyclogenesis and that the induction of autophagy promotes this process. Moreover, with exception of bafilomycin, other classical autophagy modulators have similar effects on T. cruzi autophagy. We also showed that spermidine and related polyamines can positively regulate parasite autophagy and differentiation. We concluded that both polyamine metabolism and autophagy are key processes during T. cruzi metacyclogenesis that could be exploited as drug targets to avoid the parasite cycle progression. In spite of its old discovery, more than one hundred years ago, Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas’ disease, is still prevalent in the world, infecting more than 6 million people mostly in Latin America, where this illness is endemic. Only two approved drugs, benznidazole and nifurtimox, are currently used for the treatment of Chagas’ disease. Although efficient for the acute phase, they are poorly effective in the chronic period of the disease and they cause many undesirable side effects. There is an urgent need for therapeutic alternatives. To this end, identifying and validating novel molecular targets is critically relevant. This study describes the effect of different inhibitors on the T. cruzi autophagic pathway, a process required for parasite differentiation. Herein, we demonstrate that the regulation of parasite autophagy exhibits similarities and differences with host cell autophagy. Our study provides new insights that could be used to avoid T. cruzi cycle progression in both insect and mammalian hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Cristina Vanrell
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma cruzi y la célula hospedadora. Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Antonella Denisse Losinno
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma cruzi y la célula hospedadora. Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Juan Agustín Cueto
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma cruzi y la célula hospedadora. Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Darío Balcazar
- Instituto de Ciencias y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein—CONICET; Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Carolina Carrillo
- Instituto de Ciencias y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein—CONICET; Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Patricia Silvia Romano
- Laboratorio de Biología de Trypanosoma cruzi y la célula hospedadora. Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo-CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina
- * E-mail:
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Sbaraglini ML, Vanrell MC, Bellera CL, Benaim G, Carrillo C, Talevi A, Romano PS. Neglected Tropical Protozoan Diseases: Drug Repositioning as a Rational Option. Curr Top Med Chem 2017; 16:2201-22. [PMID: 26881713 DOI: 10.2174/1568026616666160216154309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2015] [Revised: 08/17/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Neglected tropical diseases represent a major sanitary problem and a huge economic burden to endemic countries, and are currently expanding to non-endemic countries owing to migration currents. Though long abandoned in the past, recent research on novel therapeutics has already started to show results. Drug repositioning is one of the prominent, more successful strategies to approach the development of new treatments for these diseases. Here we present an overview on the limitations of the current available medications to treat African trypanosomiasis, Chagas disease and Leishmaniasis, along with a review on drug candidates presently undergoing clinical trials and drug candidates identified through drug repositioning initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Carolina Carrillo
- Instituto de Ciencias y Tecnología César Milstein, Saladillo 2468, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (1440), Argentina.
| | - Alan Talevi
- Faculty of Exact Sciences, National University of La Plata, 47 y 115, La Plata (1900), Argentina.
| | - Patricia Silvia Romano
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, National University of Cuyo, Avenida Libertador 80, Mendoza (5500), Argentina.
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Salerno A, Celentano AM, López J, Lara V, Gaozza C, Balcazar DE, Carrillo C, Frank FM, Blanco MM. Novel 2-arylazoimidazole derivatives as inhibitors of Trypanosoma cruzi proliferation: Synthesis and evaluation of their biological activity. Eur J Med Chem 2017; 125:327-334. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2016.09.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Sbaraglini ML, Bellera CL, Fraccaroli L, Larocca L, Carrillo C, Talevi A, Alba Soto CD. Novel cruzipain inhibitors for the chemotherapy of chronic Chagas disease. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2016; 48:91-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2016.02.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2015] [Revised: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Alberca LN, Sbaraglini ML, Balcazar D, Fraccaroli L, Carrillo C, Medeiros A, Benitez D, Comini M, Talevi A. Discovery of novel polyamine analogs with anti-protozoal activity by computer guided drug repositioning. J Comput Aided Mol Des 2016; 30:305-21. [PMID: 26891837 DOI: 10.1007/s10822-016-9903-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Chagas disease is a parasitic infection caused by the protozoa Trypanosoma cruzi that affects about 6 million people in Latin America. Despite its sanitary importance, there are currently only two drugs available for treatment: benznidazole and nifurtimox, both exhibiting serious adverse effects and limited efficacy in the chronic stage of the disease. Polyamines are ubiquitous to all living organisms where they participate in multiple basic functions such as biosynthesis of nucleic acids and proteins, proliferation and cell differentiation. T. cruzi is auxotroph for polyamines, which are taken up from the extracellular medium by efficient transporters and, to a large extent, incorporated into trypanothione (bis-glutathionylspermidine), the major redox cosubstrate of trypanosomatids. From a 268-compound database containing polyamine analogs with and without inhibitory effect on T. cruzi we have inferred classificatory models that were later applied in a virtual screening campaign to identify anti-trypanosomal compounds among drugs already used for other therapeutic indications (i.e. computer-guided drug repositioning) compiled in the DrugBank and Sweetlead databases. Five of the candidates identified with this strategy were evaluated in cellular models from different pathogenic trypanosomatids (T. cruzi wt, T. cruzi PAT12, T. brucei and Leishmania infantum), and in vitro models of aminoacid/polyamine transport assays and trypanothione synthetase inhibition assay. Triclabendazole, sertaconazole and paroxetine displayed inhibitory effects on the proliferation of T. cruzi (epimastigotes) and the uptake of putrescine by the parasite. They also interfered with the uptake of others aminoacids and the proliferation of infective T. brucei and L. infantum (promastigotes). Trypanothione synthetase was ruled out as molecular target for the anti-parasitic activity of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas N Alberca
- Laboratory of Bioactive Compounds Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Science, Exact Sciences College, National University of La Plata (UNLP), Argentina, 47 & 115, B1900AJI, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María L Sbaraglini
- Laboratory of Bioactive Compounds Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Science, Exact Sciences College, National University of La Plata (UNLP), Argentina, 47 & 115, B1900AJI, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Darío Balcazar
- Instituto de Ciencias y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein (ICT Milstein), Argentinean National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura Fraccaroli
- Instituto de Ciencias y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein (ICT Milstein), Argentinean National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Instituto de Ciencias y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein (ICT Milstein), Argentinean National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrea Medeiros
- Laboratory Redox Biology of Trypanosomes, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Diego Benitez
- Laboratory Redox Biology of Trypanosomes, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Marcelo Comini
- Laboratory Redox Biology of Trypanosomes, Institut Pasteur de Montevideo, 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - Alan Talevi
- Laboratory of Bioactive Compounds Research and Development (LIDeB), Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Science, Exact Sciences College, National University of La Plata (UNLP), Argentina, 47 & 115, B1900AJI, La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Sanford B, Holinka LG, O'Donnell V, Krug PW, Carlson J, Alfano M, Carrillo C, Wu P, Lowe A, Risatti GR, Gladue DP, Borca MV. Deletion of the thymidine kinase gene induces complete attenuation of the Georgia isolate of African swine fever virus. Virus Res 2015; 213:165-171. [PMID: 26656424 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2015.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Revised: 11/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
African swine fever virus (ASFV) is the etiological agent of a contagious and often lethal viral disease of domestic pigs. There are no vaccines to control Africa swine fever (ASF). Experimental vaccines have been developed using genetically modified live attenuated ASFVs obtained by specifically deleting virus genes involved in virulence, including the thymidine kinase (TK) gene. TK has been shown to be involved in the virulence of several viruses, including ASFV. Here we report the construction of a recombinant virus (ASFV-G/V-ΔTK) obtained by deleting the TK gene in a virulent strain of ASFV Georgia adapted to replicate in Vero cells (ASFV-G/VP30). ASFV-G/P-ΔTK demonstrated decreased replication both in primary swine macrophage cell cultures and in Vero cells compared with ASFV-G/VP30. In vivo, intramuscular administration of up to 10(6) TCID50 of ASFV-G/V-ΔTK does not result in ASF disease. However, these animals are not protected when challenged with the virulent parental Georgia strain.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Sanford
- Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - L G Holinka
- Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - V O'Donnell
- Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Greenport, NY 11944, USA; Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, CANR, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - P W Krug
- Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - J Carlson
- Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - M Alfano
- Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - C Carrillo
- APHIS, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - Ping Wu
- APHIS, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - Andre Lowe
- APHIS, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - G R Risatti
- Department of Pathobiology and Veterinary Science, CANR, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
| | - D P Gladue
- Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - M V Borca
- Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Greenport, NY 11944, USA.
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Bellera CL, Sbaraglini ML, Balcazar DE, Fraccaroli L, Vanrell MC, Casassa AF, Labriola CA, Romano PS, Carrillo C, Talevi A. High-throughput drug repositioning for the discovery of new treatments for Chagas disease. Mini Rev Med Chem 2015; 15:182-93. [PMID: 25769967 DOI: 10.2174/138955751503150312120208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2014] [Revised: 11/12/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Despite affecting around 8 million people worldwide and representing an economic burden above $7 billion/ year, currently approved medications to treat Chagas disease are still limited to two drugs, nifurtimox and benznidazole, which were developed more than 40 years ago and present important efficacy and safety limitations. Drug repositioning (i.e. finding second or further therapeutic indications for known drugs) has raised considerable interest within the international drug development community. There are many explanations to the current interest on drug repositioning including the possibility to partially circumvent clinical trials and the consequent saving in time and resources. It has been suggested as a particular attractive approach for the development of novel therapeutics for neglected diseases, which are usually driven by public or non-profit organizations. Here we review current computer-guided approaches to drug repositioning and reports on drug repositioning stories oriented to Chagas disease, with a focus on computer-guided drug repositioning campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Alan Talevi
- Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Science, Exact Science College, National University of La Plata (UNLP), Argentina, 47 & 115 (B1900AJI) La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Miranda MR, Sayé M, Reigada C, Carrillo C, Pereira CA. Phytomonas: A non-pathogenic trypanosomatid model for functional expression of proteins. Protein Expr Purif 2015; 114:44-7. [PMID: 26142019 DOI: 10.1016/j.pep.2015.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2014] [Revised: 06/11/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Phytomonas are protozoan parasites from the Trypanosomatidae family which infect a wide variety of plants. Herein, Phytomonas Jma was tested as a model for functional expression of heterologous proteins. Green fluorescent protein expression was evaluated in Phytomonas and compared with Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas' disease. Phytomonas was able to express GFP at levels similar to T. cruzi although the transgenic selection time was higher. It was possible to establish an efficient transfection and selection protocol for protein expression. These results demonstrate that Phytomonas can be a good model for functional expression of proteins from other trypanosomatids, presenting the advantage of being completely safe for humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana R Miranda
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas Alfredo Lanari, Universidad de Buenos Aires and CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Melisa Sayé
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas Alfredo Lanari, Universidad de Buenos Aires and CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Chantal Reigada
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas Alfredo Lanari, Universidad de Buenos Aires and CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein (ICT Milstein), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Claudio A Pereira
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Molecular, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas Alfredo Lanari, Universidad de Buenos Aires and CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Bellera CL, Balcazar DE, Vanrell MC, Casassa AF, Palestro PH, Gavernet L, Labriola CA, Gálvez J, Bruno-Blanch LE, Romano PS, Carrillo C, Talevi A. Computer-guided drug repurposing: Identification of trypanocidal activity of clofazimine, benidipine and saquinavir. Eur J Med Chem 2015; 93:338-48. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2015.01.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2014] [Revised: 12/29/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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26
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Sarrate R, Ticó JR, Miñarro M, Carrillo C, Fàbregas A, García-Montoya E, Pérez-Lozano P, Suñé-Negre JM. Modification of the morphology and particle size of pharmaceutical excipients by spray drying technique. POWDER TECHNOL 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.powtec.2014.08.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Sánchez V, Sanders M, Andrews ML, Hale R, Carrillo C. Community health coalitions in context: associations between geographic context, member type and length of membership with coalition functions. Health Educ Res 2014; 29:715-729. [PMID: 24974218 DOI: 10.1093/her/cyu028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The coalition literature recognizes context (geography, demographics and history) as a variable of interest, yet few coalition evaluation studies have focused on it. This study explores the association between geographic context and structures (e.g. member type) with functional characteristics (e.g. decision making or levels of conflict) in a statewide system of community health councils (coalitions). The study was part of a multiyear, statewide evaluation of New Mexico's health councils' contributions to systems-level changes. We adapted the Coalition Self-Assessment Survey (CSAS) for all county health council members and paid council coordinators. Both multilevel univariate and multivariate procedures were used to compare index scores, summaries of CSAS questions used to characterize council functions, with selected demographic variables and region. Member type was associated with decision making and policy capacity; paid staff expressed higher levels of agreement than voting members for both items. Length of membership was associated with decision making, positive leadership and shared vision. Results indicated that geographic context was significantly associated with many functional characteristics. The study highlights the idea that geographic context may influence coalition functioning. Understanding how geographic context influences coalition planning and actions may help explain differences among coalitions that on the surface share common organizational characteristics and external goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Sánchez
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Public Health Program, MSC 09_5060, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA and New Mexico Department of Health Public Health Division, 300 San Mateo NE, Suite 902, Albuquerque, NM 87108, USA.
| | - M Sanders
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Public Health Program, MSC 09_5060, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA and New Mexico Department of Health Public Health Division, 300 San Mateo NE, Suite 902, Albuquerque, NM 87108, USA
| | - M L Andrews
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Public Health Program, MSC 09_5060, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA and New Mexico Department of Health Public Health Division, 300 San Mateo NE, Suite 902, Albuquerque, NM 87108, USA
| | - R Hale
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Public Health Program, MSC 09_5060, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA and New Mexico Department of Health Public Health Division, 300 San Mateo NE, Suite 902, Albuquerque, NM 87108, USA.
| | - C Carrillo
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Public Health Program, MSC 09_5060, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA and New Mexico Department of Health Public Health Division, 300 San Mateo NE, Suite 902, Albuquerque, NM 87108, USA
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Andrews ML, Sánchez V, Carrillo C, Allen-Ananins B, Cruz YB. Using a participatory evaluation design to create an online data collection and monitoring system for New Mexico's Community Health Councils. Eval Program Plann 2014; 42:32-42. [PMID: 24184843 DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2013.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2013] [Revised: 07/04/2013] [Accepted: 09/11/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
We present the collaborative development of a web-based data collection and monitoring plan for thirty-two county councils within New Mexico's health council system. The monitoring plan, a key component in our multiyear participatory statewide evaluation process, was co-developed with the end users: representatives of the health councils. Guided by the Institute of Medicine's Community, Health Improvement Process framework, we first developed a logic model that delineated processes and intermediate systems-level outcomes in council development, planning, and community action. Through the online system, health councils reported data on intermediate outcomes, including policy changes and funds leveraged. The system captured data that were common across the health council system, yet was also flexible so that councils could report their unique accomplishments at the county level. A main benefit of the online system was that it provided the ability to assess intermediate, outcomes across the health council system. Developing the system was not without challenges, including creating processes to ensure participation across a large rural state; creating shared understanding of intermediate outcomes and indicators; and overcoming technological issues. Even through the challenges, however, the benefits of committing to using participatory processes far outweighed the challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Andrews
- Family & Community Medicine, Public Health Program, MSC 09_5060, 1 University of New Mexico 87131, Albuquerque, NM 87131, United States
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Bellera CL, Balcazar DE, Alberca L, Labriola CA, Talevi A, Carrillo C. Identification of levothyroxine antichagasic activity through computer-aided drug repurposing. ScientificWorldJournal 2014; 2014:279618. [PMID: 24592161 PMCID: PMC3926237 DOI: 10.1155/2014/279618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2013] [Accepted: 11/13/2013] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cruzipain (Cz) is the major cysteine protease of the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, etiological agent of Chagas disease. A conformation-independent classifier capable of identifying Cz inhibitors was derived from a 163-compound dataset and later applied in a virtual screening campaign on the DrugBank database, which compiles FDA-approved and investigational drugs. 54 approved drugs were selected as candidates, 3 of which were acquired and tested on Cz and T. cruzi epimastigotes proliferation. Among them, levothyroxine, traditionally used in hormone replacement therapy in patients with hypothyroidism, showed dose-dependent inhibition of Cz and antiproliferative activity on the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina L. Bellera
- Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences, National University of La Plata, 47 y 115, La Plata (B1900AJI) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Darío E. Balcazar
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein (ICT Milstein), Argentinean National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Saladillo 2468, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (C1440FFX), Argentina
| | - Lucas Alberca
- Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences, National University of La Plata, 47 y 115, La Plata (B1900AJI) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carlos A. Labriola
- Instituto de Investigaciones Bioquímicas de Buenos Aires, Argentinean National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Avenida Patricias Argentinas 435, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (C1405BWE), Argentina
| | - Alan Talevi
- Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences, National University of La Plata, 47 y 115, La Plata (B1900AJI) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Carrillo
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein (ICT Milstein), Argentinean National Council of Scientific and Technical Research (CONICET), Saladillo 2468, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires (C1440FFX), Argentina
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Saurí J, Millán D, Suñé-Negre J, Pérez-Lozano P, Sarrate R, Fàbregas A, Carrillo C, Miñarro M, Ticó J, García-Montoya E. The use of the SeDeM diagram expert system for the formulation of Captopril SR matrix tablets by direct compression. Int J Pharm 2014; 461:38-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2013.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2013] [Revised: 11/13/2013] [Accepted: 11/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Carrillo C, Cavia MDM, Alonso-Torre SR. Antitumor effect of oleic acid; mechanisms of action: a review. NUTR HOSP 2013; 27:1860-5. [PMID: 23588432 DOI: 10.3305/nh.2012.27.6.6010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2012] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The beneficial effects of oleic acid in cancer processes can no longer be doubted, but little is known about the mechanisms of action behind this phenomenon. AIM The aim of the present review is to clarify whether oleic acid has an effect on important mechanisms related to the carcinogenic processes. METHODS We searched electronic databases and bibliographies of selected articles were inspected for further reference. We focused our research on two cellular transformations characterizing cancer development: proliferation and cell death or apoptosis. RESULTS Numerous studies have reported an inhibition in cell proliferation induced by oleic acid in different tumor cell lines. Herein, oleic acid could suppress the over-expression of HER2 (erbB-2), a well-characterized oncogene which plays a key role in the etiology, invasive progression and metastasis in several human cancers. In addition, oleic acid could play a role in intracellular calcium signaling pathways linked to the proliferation event. Regarding cell death, oleic acid has been shown to induce apoptosis in carcinoma cells. The mechanisms behind the apoptotic event induced by oleic acid could be related to an increase in intracellular ROS production or caspase 3 activity. Several unsaturated fatty acids have been reported to induce apoptosis through a release of calcium from intracellular stores. However, evidence regarding such a role in oleic acid is lacking. CONCLUSIONS Oleic acid plays a role in the activation of different intracellular pathways involved in carcinoma cell development. Such a role could be the root of its antitumoral effects reported in clinical studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Carrillo
- Área de Nutrición y Bromatología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Burgos, Burgos, Spain
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Carrillo C, Cavia MDM, Alonso-Torre S. Role of oleic acid in immune system; mechanism of action; a review. NUTR HOSP 2013; 27:978-90. [PMID: 23165533 DOI: 10.3305/nh.2012.27.4.5783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2012] [Accepted: 03/02/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids have been widely described as anti-inflammatory fats, little is known about the role of oleic acid in immune system. AIM The aim of the present review is to join all the reports available in order to analyze where exactly the knowledge concerning this topic is and what the causes of the controversial data could be. METHODS We searched electronic databases and bibliographies of selected articles were inspected for further reference. RESULTS Diets rich in oleic acid have beneficial effects in inflammatory-related diseases. In addition, a wide range of studies evaluate the effect of oleic acid in different cellular functions thus reporting a potential mechanism for the biological effect of such a fat. However, some controversial data can be found in literature, maybe related to the kind of study or even the dose of the reagent added. CONCLUSION In conclusion, oleic acid could be reported as an anti-inflammatory fatty acid playing a role in the activation of different pathways of immune competent cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Carrillo
- Área de Nutrición y Bromatología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Burgos, Burgos, Spain
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Ventura A, Gonzalez W, Barrette R, Swenson S, Bracht A, Rowland J, Fabian A, Moran K, Mohamed F, O'Hearn E, Jenkins-Moore M, Toms D, Shaw J, Morales P, Pyburn D, Carrillo C, Mayr G, McIntosh M, Deng M. Virus and Antibody Diagnostics for Swine Samples of the Dominican Republic Collected in Regions Near the Border to Haiti. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.5402/2013/425831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The Dominican Republic (DR) and Haiti share the island of Hispaniola, and reportable transboundary animal diseases have been introduced between the two countries historically. Outbreaks of severe teschovirus encephalomyelitis in pigs began occurring in Haiti in February 2009, and a field and laboratort study in April 2010 indicated that the teschovirus disease is prevalent in many regions in Haiti including areas near the border with DR and that other viral disease agents, including CSF virus (CSFV), porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV-2), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), and swine influenza virus (SIV), are present in the swine population in these regions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the introduction of teschovirus encephalomyelitis from Haiti to DR and to identify the other viral disease agents present in the swine population in regions of DR near the border with Haiti. Six of 7 brains and 6 of 7 spinal cords collected from pigs with central nervous system (CNS) signs were positive in reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction for PTV. Genome sequencing on the Dominican PTV and phylogenetic analysis on the polyprotein of PTV strains indicate that the sequence of the Dominican PTV is 99.1% identical to the Haitian isolate and closely related to other PTV-1 strains in the world. Among 109 serum samples tested, 65 (59.6%) were positive for antibodies to PCV-2, and 51 (46.8%) were positive for antibodies to CSFV. Fifty-four of the 109 serum samples were tested for antibodies to other agents. Among the 54 samples, 20 (37.0%) were seropositive to PTV-1, 17 (31.5%) tested seropositive to SIV H3N2, 12 (22.2%) were seropositive to SIV H1N1, and 1 (1.9%) was seropositive to PRRSV.
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Affiliation(s)
- A. Ventura
- Ministry of Agriculture, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - W. Gonzalez
- Ministry of Agriculture, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - R. Barrette
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, FADDL, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - S. Swenson
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, Ames, IA 50010, USA
| | - A. Bracht
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, FADDL, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - J. Rowland
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, FADDL, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - A. Fabian
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, FADDL, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - K. Moran
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, FADDL, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - F. Mohamed
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, FADDL, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - E. O'Hearn
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, FADDL, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | | | - D. Toms
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, Ames, IA 50010, USA
| | - J. Shaw
- USDA, APHIS, IS, US Embassy, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - P. Morales
- USDA, APHIS, IS, US Embassy, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
| | - D. Pyburn
- USDA, APHIS, VS, Swine Health Program, Des Moines, IA, USA
| | - C. Carrillo
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, FADDL, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - G. Mayr
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, FADDL, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - M. McIntosh
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, FADDL, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
| | - M. Deng
- USDA, APHIS, VS, NVSL, FADDL, Greenport, NY 11944, USA
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Bellera CL, Balcazar DE, Alberca L, Labriola CA, Talevi A, Carrillo C. Application of computer-aided drug repurposing in the search of new cruzipain inhibitors: discovery of amiodarone and bromocriptine inhibitory effects. J Chem Inf Model 2013; 53:2402-8. [PMID: 23906322 DOI: 10.1021/ci400284v] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Cruzipain (Cz) is the major cystein protease of the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi , etiological agent of Chagas disease. From a 163 compound data set, a 2D-classifier capable of identifying Cz inhibitors was obtained and applied in a virtual screening campaign on the DrugBank database, which compiles FDA-approved and investigational drugs. Fifty-four approved drugs were selected as candidates, four of which were acquired and tested on Cz and T. cruzi epimastigotes. Among them, the antiparkinsonian and antidiabetic drug bromocriptine and the antiarrhythmic amiodarone showed dose-dependent inhibition of Cz and antiproliferative activity on the parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina L Bellera
- Medicinal Chemistry, Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Exact Sciences, National University of La Plata , 47 y 115, La Plata (B1900AJI), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Vanrell MC, Cueto JA, Barclay JJ, Carrillo C, Colombo MI, Gottlieb RA, Romano PS. Polyamine depletion inhibits the autophagic response modulating Trypanosoma cruzi infectivity. Autophagy 2013; 9:1080-93. [PMID: 23697944 DOI: 10.4161/auto.24709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Autophagy is a cell process that in normal conditions serves to recycle cytoplasmic components and aged or damaged organelles. The autophagic pathway has been implicated in many physiological and pathological situations, even during the course of infection by intracellular pathogens. Many compounds are currently used to positively or negatively modulate the autophagic response. Recently it was demonstrated that the polyamine spermidine is a physiological inducer of autophagy in eukaryotic cells. We have previously shown that the etiological agent of Chagas disease, the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, interacts with autophagic compartments during host cell invasion and that preactivation of autophagy significantly increases host cell colonization by this parasite. In the present report we have analyzed the effect of polyamine depletion on the autophagic response of the host cell and on T. cruzi infectivity. Our data showed that depleting intracellular polyamines by inhibiting the biosynthetic enzyme ornithine decarboxylase with difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) suppressed the induction of autophagy in response to starvation or rapamycin treatment in two cell lines. This effect was associated with a decrease in the levels of LC3 and ATG5, two proteins required for autophagosome formation. As a consequence of inhibiting host cell autophagy, DFMO impaired T. cruzi colonization, indicating that polyamines and autophagy facilitate parasite infection. Thus, our results point to DFMO as a novel autophagy inhibitor. While other autophagy inhibitors such as wortmannin and 3-methyladenine are nonspecific and potentially toxic, DFMO is an FDA-approved drug that may have value in limiting autophagy and the spread of the infection in Chagas disease and possibly other pathological settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- María C Vanrell
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular; Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM); Universidad Nacional de Cuyo; CONICET; Mendoza, Argentina
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Fàbregas A, Miñarro M, García-Montoya E, Pérez-Lozano P, Carrillo C, Sarrate R, Sánchez N, Ticó J, Suñé-Negre J. Impact of physical parameters on particle size and reaction yield when using the ionic gelation method to obtain cationic polymeric chitosan–tripolyphosphate nanoparticles. Int J Pharm 2013; 446:199-204. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2013.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2012] [Accepted: 02/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Ehizibolo DO, Perez AM, Carrillo C, Pauszek S, AlKhamis M, Ajogi I, Umoh JU, Kazeem HM, Ehizibolo PO, Fabian A, Berninger M, Moran K, Rodriguez LL, Metwally SA. Epidemiological analysis, serological prevalence and genotypic analysis of foot-and-mouth disease in Nigeria 2008-2009. Transbound Emerg Dis 2013; 61:500-10. [PMID: 23347819 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The epidemiological situation of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) is uncertain in Nigeria, where the disease is endemic, and the majority of outbreaks are unreported. Control measures for FMD in Nigeria are not being implemented due to the absence of locally produced vaccines and an official ban on vaccine importation. This study summarizes the findings of a 3-year study aimed at quantifying the seroprevalence of FMD, its distribution in susceptible species and the genetic diversity of FMDV isolated from the Plateau State of Nigeria. A 29% FMD prevalence was estimated using 3ABC enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (3ABC ELISA). Farms with suspected FMD nearby, with contact with wildlife, that used drugs or FMD vaccines or with >100 animals, and animals of large ruminant species and in pastures other than nomadic grazing were significantly (P < 0.05) associated with FMD. Antibodies against five FMDV serotypes, (A, O, SAT1, SAT2 and SAT3) were detected by the virus neutralization test (VNT) at various titres (<100->800) from all tested sera from most parts of the region. This is probably the first report of the presence of FMDV SAT3 in Nigeria. Further studies to investigate the potential probable presence and prevalence of SAT 3 virus in Nigeria are required. Tissue samples collected from clinical animals were positive for FMDV. Virus isolates were sequenced and confirmed as serotype A. All of the isolates showed marked genetic homogeneity with >99% genetic identity in the VP1 region and were most closely related to a previously described virus collected from Cameroon in 2000. This study provides knowledge on the epidemiological situation of FMD in Plateau State, Nigeria, and will probably help to develop effective control and preventive strategies for the disease in Nigeria and other countries in the West African subregion.
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Affiliation(s)
- D O Ehizibolo
- Viral Research Division, National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Nigeria
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Canepa GE, Carrillo C, Miranda MR, Sayé M, Pereira CA. Arginine kinase in Phytomonas, a trypanosomatid parasite of plants. Comp Biochem Physiol B Biochem Mol Biol 2011; 160:40-3. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpb.2011.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2011] [Revised: 05/16/2011] [Accepted: 05/17/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Barclay JJ, Morosi LG, Vanrell MC, Trejo EC, Romano PS, Carrillo C. Trypanosoma cruzi Coexpressing Ornithine Decarboxylase and Green Fluorescence Proteins as a Tool to Study the Role of Polyamines in Chagas Disease Pathology. Enzyme Res 2011; 2011:657460. [PMID: 21687606 PMCID: PMC3112526 DOI: 10.4061/2011/657460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2010] [Revised: 02/24/2011] [Accepted: 03/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyamines are essential for Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease. As T. cruzi behaves as a natural auxotrophic organism, it relies on host polyamines biosynthesis. In this paper we obtained a double-transfected T. cruzi parasite that expresses the green fluorescent protein (GFP) and a heterologous ornithine decarboxylase (ODC), used itself as a novel selectable marker. These autotrophic and fluorescent parasites were characterized; the ODC presented an apparent Km for ornithine of 0.51 ± 0.16 mM and an estimated Vmax value of 476.2 nmoles/h/mg of protein. These expressing ODC parasites showed higher metacyclogenesis capacity than the auxotrophic counterpart, supporting the idea that polyamines are engaged in this process. This double-transfected T. cruzi parasite results in a powerful tool—easy to follow by its fluorescence—to study the role of polyamines in Chagas disease pathology and in related processes such as parasite survival, invasion, proliferation, metacyclogenesis, and tissue spreading.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeremías José Barclay
- Fundación Instituto Leloir-(FIL-IIBBA-) CONICET and Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, 1428 Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Mohamed F, Swafford S, Petrowski H, Bracht A, Schmit B, Fabian A, Pacheco JM, Hartwig E, Berninger M, Carrillo C, Mayr G, Moran K, Kavanaugh D, Leibrecht H, White W, Metwally S. Foot-and-Mouth Disease in Feral Swine: Susceptibility and Transmission. Transbound Emerg Dis 2011; 58:358-71. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1865-1682.2011.01213.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Penarrocha MA, Ata-Ali J, Carrillo C, Penarrocha M. Subcutaneous emphysema resulting from surgical extraction without elevation of a mucoperiosteal skin flap. J Clin Exp Dent 2011. [DOI: 10.4317/jced.3.e265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Inbar E, Canepa GE, Carrillo C, Glaser F, Suter Grotemeyer M, Rentsch D, Zilberstein D, Pereira CA. Lysine transporters in human trypanosomatid pathogens. Amino Acids 2010; 42:347-60. [PMID: 21170560 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-010-0812-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2010] [Accepted: 11/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In previous studies we characterized arginine transporter genes from Trypanosoma cruzi and Leishmania donovani, the etiological agents of chagas disease and kala azar, respectively, both fatal diseases in humans. Unlike arginine transporters in higher eukaryotes that transport also lysine, these parasite transporters translocate only arginine. This phenomenon prompted us to identify and characterize parasite lysine transporters. Here we demonstrate that LdAAP7 and TcAAP7 encode lysine-specific permeases in L. donovani and T. cruzi, respectively. These two lysine permeases are both members of the large amino acid/auxin permease family and share certain biochemical properties, such as specificity and Km. However, we evidence that LdAAP7 and TcAAP7 differ in their regulation and localization, such differences are likely a reflection of the dissimilar L. donovani and T. cruzi life cycles. Failed attempts to delete both alleles of LdAAP7 support the premise that this is an essential gene that encodes the only lysine permeases expressed in L. donovani promastigotes and T. cruzi epimastigotes, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehud Inbar
- Faculty of Biology, Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, 32000, Haifa, Israel
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Metwally S, Mohamed F, Faaberg K, Burrage T, Prarat M, Moran K, Bracht A, Mayr G, Berninger M, Koster L, To TL, Nguyen VL, Reising M, Landgraf J, Cox L, Lubroth J, Carrillo C. Pathogenicity and molecular characterization of emerging porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus in Vietnam in 2007. Transbound Emerg Dis 2010; 57:315-29. [PMID: 20629970 DOI: 10.1111/j.1865-1682.2010.01152.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In 2007, Vietnam experienced swine disease outbreaks causing clinical signs similar to the 'porcine high fever disease' that occurred in China during 2006. Analysis of diagnostic samples from the disease outbreaks in Vietnam identified porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV-2). Additionally, Escherichia coli and Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus were cultured from lung and spleen, and Streptococcus suis from one spleen sample. Genetic characterization of the Vietnamese PRRSV isolates revealed that this virus belongs to the North American genotype (type 2) with a high nucleotide identity to the recently reported Chinese strains. Amino acid sequence in the nsp2 region revealed 95.7-99.4% identity to Chinese strain HUN4, 68-69% identity to strain VR-2332 and 58-59% identity to strain MN184. A partial deletion in the nsp2 gene was detected; however, this deletion did not appear to enhance the virus pathogenicity in the inoculated pigs. Animal inoculation studies were conducted to determine the pathogenicity of PRRSV and to identify other possible agents present in the original specimens. Pigs inoculated with PRRSV alone and their contacts showed persistent fever, and two of five pigs developed cough, neurological signs and swollen joints. Necropsy examination showed mild to moderate bronchopneumonia, enlarged lymph nodes, fibrinous pericarditis and polyarthritis. PRRSV was re-isolated from blood and tissues of the inoculated and contact pigs. Pigs inoculated with lung and spleen tissue homogenates from sick pigs from Vietnam developed high fever, septicaemia, and died acutely within 72 h, while their contact pigs showed no clinical signs throughout the experiment. Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus was cultured, and PRRSV was re-isolated only from the inoculated pigs. Results suggest that the cause of the swine deaths in Vietnam is a multifactorial syndrome with PRRSV as a major factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Metwally
- FAO Reference Center for Vesicular Diseases, USDA, APHIS, Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, National Veterinary Service Laboratories (NVSL), Plum Island Animal Disease Center (PIADC), Greenport, NY, USA.
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Carrillo C, Canepa GE, Giacometti A, Bouvier LA, Miranda MR, de los Milagros Camara M, Pereira CA. Trypanosoma cruziamino acid transporter TcAAAP411 mediates arginine uptake in yeasts. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2010; 306:97-102. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.2010.01936.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Marcora MS, Cejas S, González NS, Carrillo C, Algranati ID. Polyamine biosynthesis in Phytomonas: biochemical characterisation of a very unstable ornithine decarboxylase. Int J Parasitol 2010; 40:1389-94. [PMID: 20406645 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2010.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2010] [Revised: 03/31/2010] [Accepted: 04/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The metabolism of polyamines as well as their functions as growth regulators in plants have been extensively studied for many years. However, almost nothing is known about the biosynthesis and roles of these substances in Phytomonas spp., parasites of several plants. We have used HPLC and electrophoretic analyses to investigate the presence and metabolism of polyamines in Phytomonas Jma strain, detecting both putrescine and spermidine but not spermine. Experiments carried out by incubation of intact parasites with labelled ornithine or putrescine showed the formation of radioactive putrescine or spermidine, respectively. These results indicated that Phytomonas Jma can synthesise these polyamines through the action of ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) and spermidine synthase. On the other hand, we could not detect the conversion of arginine to agmatine, suggesting the absence of arginine decarboxylase (ADC) in Phytomonas. However, we cannot ensure the complete absence of this enzymatic activity in the parasite. Phytomonas ODC required pyridoxal 5'-phosphate for maximum activity and was specifically inhibited by α-difluoromethylornithine. The metabolic turnover of the enzyme was very high, with a half-life of 10-15 min, one of the shortest found among all ODC enzymes studied to date. The parasite proteasome seems to be involved in degradation of the enzyme, since Phytomonas ODC can be markedly stabilized by MG-132, a well known proteasome inhibitor. The addition of polyamines to Phytomonas cultures did not decrease ODC activity, strongly suggesting the possible absence of antizyme in this parasite.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Silvina Marcora
- Fundación Instituto Leloir, IIBBA - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Ponce APV, Carrillo C. Identifying putative Ornithine Decarboxylase gene sequence in Phytomonas Jma. FASEB J 2010. [DOI: 10.1096/fasebj.24.1_supplement.467.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Carrillo C, Penarrocha MA, Penarrocha M, Vera-Sempere F, Penarrocha-Oltra D. Immunohistochemical study of Langerhans cells in periapical lesions: correlation with inflammatory cell infiltration and epithelial cell proliferation. Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal 2010. [DOI: 10.4317/medoral.15.e335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Pereira CA, Carrillo C, Miranda MR, Bouvier LA, Cánepa GE. [Trypanosoma cruzi: transport of essential metabolites acquired from the host]. Medicina (B Aires) 2008; 68:398-404. [PMID: 18977714] [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: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi is the etiological agent of Chagas disease, a disease endemic not only in Argentina but also in all of Latin America. T. cruzi presents several metabolic characteristics which are completely absent in its insect vectors and in mammalian hosts. Some of these differences were acquired after millions of years of adaptation to parasitism, during which this protozoan replaced many biosynthetic routes for transport systems. In the present review, we describe the advances in the knowledge of T. cruzi transport processes and the molecules involved. In particular, we focus on amino acid and polyamine transporters from the AAAP family (Amino Acid/Auxin Permeases), because they seem to be exclusive transporters from trypanosomatids. Taking into account that these permeases are completely absent in mammals, they could be considered as a potential target against Trypanosoma cruzi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudio A Pereira
- Laboratorio de Biología Molecular de Trypanosoma cruzi, Instituto de Investigaciones Médicas Alfredo P. Lanari, (UBA-CONICET) Facultad de Medicina.
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Carrillo C, González NS, Algranati ID. Trypanosoma cruzi as a model system to study the expression of exogenous genes coding for polyamine biosynthetic enzymes. Induction of DFMO resistance in transgenic parasites. Biochim Biophys Acta Gen Subj 2007; 1770:1605-11. [PMID: 17920200 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbagen.2007.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2007] [Revised: 08/08/2007] [Accepted: 08/10/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiologic agent of Chagas' disease, is a polyamine auxotroph organism because its genome contains neither ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) nor arginine decarboxylase (ADC) genes, presumably lost during evolution. After transformation with a recombinant plasmid bearing the complete coding region of Crithidia fasciculata ODC gene, the transgenic parasites were able to synthesize putrescine and simultaneously became susceptible to alpha-difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), an irreversible inhibitor of ODC. We have studied the emergence of DFMO-resistant T. cruzi after one-step selection of ODC-transformed parasites cultivated in the presence of high levels of the drug (5 mM). Our results have indicated a duplication of the ODC gene copy number in the drug-resistant cell line. The ODC transcripts and the corresponding translation products showed very significant increases (about 7- and 25-fold, respectively) in DFMO-resistant parasites, while the ODC enzymatic activity was 5 times higher than in drug-sensitive T. cruzi. The unequal increases of ODC protein and enzymatic activity in DFMO-resistant protozoa strongly suggest that in addition to gene amplification and enhanced transcription and translation, the assembly of ODC polypeptide chains into dimeric active enzyme molecules might also contribute to regulate the development of DFMO resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Carrillo
- Fundación Instituto Leloir, IIBBA-CONICET, and Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, C1405BWE-Buenos Aires, Argentina
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