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Bacteria isolated from Aedes aegypti with potential vector control applications. J Invertebr Pathol 2024; 204:108094. [PMID: 38479456 DOI: 10.1016/j.jip.2024.108094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Highly anthropophilic and adapted to urban environments, Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are the main vectors of arboviruses that cause human diseases such as dengue, zika, and chikungunya fever, especially in countries with tropical and subtropical climates. Microorganisms with mosquitocidal and larvicidal activities have been suggested as environmentally safe alternatives to chemical or mechanical mosquito control methods. Here, we analyzed cultivable bacteria isolated from all stages of the mosquito life cycle for their larvicidal activity against Ae. aegypti. A total of 424 bacterial strains isolated from eggs, larvae, pupae, or adult Ae. aegypti were analyzed for the pathogenic potential of their crude cultures against larvae of this same mosquito species. Nine strains displayed larvicidal activity comparable to the strain AM65-52, reisolated from commercial BTi-based product VectoBac® WG. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that the set of larvicidal strains contains two representatives of the genus Bacillus, five Enterobacter, and two Stenotrophomonas. This study demonstrates that some bacteria isolated from Ae. aegypti are pathogenic for the mosquito from which they were isolated. The data are promising for developing novel bioinsecticides for the control of these medically important mosquitoes.
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Biotechnological Potential of Microorganisms for Mosquito Population Control and Reduction in Vector Competence. INSECTS 2023; 14:718. [PMID: 37754686 PMCID: PMC10532289 DOI: 10.3390/insects14090718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
Mosquitoes transmit pathogens that cause human diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya, yellow fever, Zika fever, and filariasis. Biotechnological approaches using microorganisms have a significant potential to control mosquito populations and reduce their vector competence, making them alternatives to synthetic insecticides. Ongoing research has identified many microorganisms that can be used effectively to control mosquito populations and disease transmission. However, the successful implementation of these newly proposed approaches requires a thorough understanding of the multipronged microorganism-mosquito-pathogen-environment interactions. Although much has been achieved in discovering new entomopathogenic microorganisms, antipathogen compounds, and their mechanisms of action, only a few have been turned into viable products for mosquito control. There is a discrepancy between the number of microorganisms with the potential for the development of new insecticides and/or antipathogen products and the actual available products, highlighting the need for investments in the intersection of basic research and biotechnology.
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Comparative assessment of the bacterial communities associated with Anopheles darlingi immature stages and their breeding sites in the Brazilian Amazon. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:156. [PMID: 37127597 PMCID: PMC10150499 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05749-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neotropical anopheline mosquito Anopheles darlingi is a major malaria vector in the Americas. Studies on mosquito-associated microbiota have shown that symbiotic bacteria play a major role in host biology. Mosquitoes acquire and transmit microorganisms over their life cycle. Specifically, the microbiota of immature forms is largely acquired from their aquatic environment. Therefore, our study aimed to describe the microbial communities associated with An. darlingi immature forms and their breeding sites in the Coari municipality, Brazilian Amazon. METHODS Larvae, pupae, and breeding water were collected in two different geographical locations. Samples were submitted for DNA extraction and high-throughput 16S rRNA gene sequencing was conducted. Microbial ecology analyses were performed to explore and compare the bacterial profiles of An. darlingi and their aquatic habitats. RESULTS We found lower richness and diversity in An. darlingi microbiota than in water samples, which suggests that larvae are colonized by a subset of the bacterial community present in their breeding sites. Moreover, the bacterial community composition of the immature mosquitoes and their breeding water differed according to their collection sites, i.e., the microbiota associated with An. darlingi reflected that in the aquatic habitats where they developed. The three most abundant bacterial classes across the An. darlingi samples were Betaproteobacteria, Clostridia, and Gammaproteobacteria, while across the water samples they were Gammaproteobacteria, Bacilli, and Alphaproteobacteria. CONCLUSIONS Our findings reinforce the current evidence that the environment strongly shapes the composition and diversity of mosquito microbiota. A better understanding of mosquito-microbe interactions will contribute to identifying microbial candidates impacting host fitness and disease transmission.
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Culturable bacteria associated with Anopheles darlingi and their paratransgenesis potential. Malar J 2021; 20:40. [PMID: 33441101 PMCID: PMC7805163 DOI: 10.1186/s12936-020-03574-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Malaria remains a major public health problem in South America, mostly in the Amazon region. Among newly proposed ways of controlling malaria transmission to humans, paratransgenesis is a promising alternative. Paratransgenesis aims to inhibit the development of parasites within the vector through the action of genetically modified bacteria. The first step towards successful paratransgenesis in the Amazon is the identification of Anopheles darlingi symbiotic bacteria, which are transmitted vertically among mosquitoes, and are not pathogenic to humans. Methods Culturable bacteria associated with An. darlingi and their breeding sites were isolated by conventional microbiological techniques. Isolated strains were transformed with a GFP expressing plasmid, pSPT-1-GFP, and reintroduced in mosquitoes by feeding. Their survival and persistence in the next generation was assessed by the isolation of fluorescent bacteria from eggs, larvae, pupae and adult homogenates. Results A total of 179 bacterial strains were isolated from samples from two locations, Coari and Manaus. The predominant genera identified in this study were Acinetobacter, Enterobacter, Klebsiella, Serratia, Bacillus, Elizabethkingia, Stenotrophomonas and Pantoea. Two isolated strains, Serratia-Adu40 and Pantoea-Ovo3, were successfully transformed with the pSPT-1-GFP plasmid and expressed GFP. The fluorescent bacteria fed to adult females were transferred to their eggs, which persisted in larvae and throughout metamorphosis, and were detected in adult mosquitoes of the next generation. Conclusion Serratia-Adu40 and Pantoea-Ovo3 are promising candidates for paratransgenesis in An. darlingi. Further research is needed to determine if these bacteria are vertically transferred in nature.
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Vector-Focused Approaches to Curb Malaria Transmission in the Brazilian Amazon: An Overview of Current and Future Challenges and Strategies. Trop Med Infect Dis 2020; 5:E161. [PMID: 33092228 PMCID: PMC7709627 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed5040161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In Brazil, malaria transmission is mostly confined to the Amazon, where substantial progress has been made towards disease control in the past decade. Vector control has been historically considered a fundamental part of the main malaria control programs implemented in Brazil. However, the conventional vector-control tools have been insufficient to control or eliminate local vector populations due to the complexity of the Amazonian rainforest environment and ecological features of malaria vector species in the Amazon, especially Anopheles darlingi. Malaria elimination in Brazil and worldwide eradication will require a combination of conventional and new approaches that takes into account the regional specificities of vector populations and malaria transmission dynamics. Here we present an overview on both conventional and novel promising vector-focused tools to curb malaria transmission in the Brazilian Amazon. If well designed and employed, vector-based approaches may improve the implementation of malaria-control programs, particularly in remote or difficult-to-access areas and in regions where existing interventions have been unable to eliminate disease transmission. However, much effort still has to be put into research expanding the knowledge of neotropical malaria vectors to set the steppingstones for the optimization of conventional and development of innovative vector-control tools.
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Characterization of Bacterial Communities in Breeding Waters of Anopheles darlingi in Manaus in the Amazon Basin Malaria-Endemic Area. MICROBIAL ECOLOGY 2019; 78:781-791. [PMID: 30989355 PMCID: PMC6842340 DOI: 10.1007/s00248-019-01369-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The microbiota in mosquito breeding waters can affect ovipositing mosquitoes, have effects on larval development, and can modify adult mosquito-gut bacterial composition. This, in turn, can affect transmission of human pathogens such as malaria parasites. Here, we explore the microbiota of four breeding sites for Anopheles darlingi, the most important malaria vector in Latin America. The sites are located in Manaus in the Amazon basin in Brazil, an area of active malaria transmission. Using 16S rRNA gene sequencing by MiSeq, we found that all sites were dominated by Proteobacteria and Firmicutes and that 94% of the total number of reads belonged to 36 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) identified in all sites. Of these, the most common OTUs belonged to Escherichia/Shigella, Staphylococcus, and Pseudomonas. Of the remaining 6% of the reads, the OTUs found to differentiate between the four sites belonged to the orders Burkholderiales, Actinomycetales, and Clostridiales. We conclude that An. darlingi can develop in breeding waters with different surface-water bacteria, but that the common microbiota found in all breeding sites might indicate or contribute to a suitable habitat for this important malaria vector.
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Fibroblast Biomarkers of Sporadic Parkinson's Disease and LRRK2 Kinase Inhibition. Mol Neurobiol 2015; 53:5161-77. [PMID: 26399642 PMCID: PMC5012155 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-015-9435-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 09/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
It has been uncertain whether specific disease-relevant biomarker phenotypes can be found using sporadic Parkinson’s disease (PD) patient-derived samples, as it has been proposed that there may be a plethora of underlying causes and pathological mechanisms. Fibroblasts derived from familial PD patients harboring leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2), PTEN-induced putative kinase 1 (PINK1), and Parkin mutations show clear disease-relevant mitochondrial phenotypes, which are exacerbated under conditions of pharmacological stress. We utilized fibroblasts derived from non-familial sporadic PD patients (without LRRK2 mutations) or LRRK2 mutation carriers to directly compare the cellular phenotypes during and after mitochondrial stress. We then determined the effects of pharmacological LRRK2 kinase inhibition using LRRK2-in-1. We found that there were two distinct populations of sporadic PD patient-derived fibroblast lines. One group of sporadic PD lines was highly susceptible to valinomycin-induced mitochondrial depolarization, emulating the mutant LRRK2 phenotype. These lines showed elevated mitochondrial superoxide/ nitric oxide levels, displayed increased mitochondrial and lysosome co-localization, and an increased rate of mitochondrial collapse, which corresponded with changes in mitochondrial fission and fusion proteins. The application of LRRK2-in-1 reversed decreased levels of mitochondrial and lysosome co-localization and partially restored mitochondrial network associated proteins and the mitochondrial membrane potential in the fibroblasts. This study identifies novel mitochondrial biomarkers in sporadic PD patient-derived fibroblast lines, which could be used as preclinical tools in which to test novel and known neuroprotective compounds.
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Nonfunctional overreaching leads to inflammation and myostatin upregulation in swiss mice. Int J Sports Med 2013; 35:139-46. [PMID: 23868687 DOI: 10.1055/s-0033-1349077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The aims of the this study were a) to verify whether the performance decrease induced by nonfunctional overreaching (NFOR) is linked to high concentrations of cytokines in serum, skeletal muscles and liver; b) to verify muscle myostatin adaptation to NFOR; c) to verify the effects of chronic glucose supplementation on the parameters mentioned above. Mice were divided into control (C), trained (TR), overtrained (OTR) and supplemented overtrained (OTR + S). The incremental load test (ILT) and exhaustive test (ET) were used to measure performances before and after exercise protocols. 24 h after ET, muscles and liver were removed and stored at -80°C for subsequent measurements. Total blood was collected from decapitation for subsequent determination of cytokine concentrations. Generally, OTR and OTR + S presented higher contents of IL-6, TNF-alpha, GLUT-4 and myostatin in muscle samples compared to C and TR. Glucose supplementation attenuated the high contents of IL-6, TNF-alpha and IL-15 in liver, and of IL-6 in serum. In summary, NFOR led to low-grade chronic inflammation and myostatin upregulation.
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Risk factors and characteristics of ocular complications, and efficacy of autologous serum tears after haematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation. Bone Marrow Transplant 2006; 38:223-7. [PMID: 16785864 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bmt.1705426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to evaluate the frequency and clinical characteristics of ocular complications and their risk factors, as well as autologous serum tears (AST) for the treatment of dry eye in these patients. Data from the files of 124 patients who had undergone allogeneic haematopoietic progenitor cell transplantation (HPCT) were evaluated. In addition, 33 HPCT patients were examined and their data were compared with controls. Analysis of tears and AST was performed. Dry eye manifestation occurred in 32% of patients and was positively correlated with age over 27 years (P = 0.05), peripheral blood progenitor cell transplant (P = 0.002), chronic graft-versus-host disease (P = 0.0027), and chronic or acute myeloid leukaemia (P = 0.001). Dry mouth and Schirmer test < 5 mm were predictive factors for dry eye in HPCT patients (P = 0.002 and odds ratio 3.9 and P = 0.007, odds ratio = 5.9, respectively). Microbiological analysis revealed that six of 11 AST samples were contaminated after 30 days of use. The present study supports the role of potential risk factors for ocular complications and key elements to detect alterations in the tear film from HPCT patients. In addition, AST contamination must be considered after longer periods of use.
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Increased expression of advanced glycation end-products and their receptor, and activation of nuclear factor kappa-B in lacrimal glands of diabetic rats. Diabetologia 2005; 48:2675-81. [PMID: 16283249 DOI: 10.1007/s00125-005-0010-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2005] [Accepted: 07/12/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS/HYPOTHESIS To assess the involvement of the AGE-specific receptor (AGER, also known as RAGE) axis and nuclear factor kappa-B (NFKB, also known as NF-kappaB) activation in the development of lacrimal gland and tear film dysfunction in diabetes, the present study evaluated: (1) lacrimal gland and tear film alterations in diabetic rats; and (2) the expression of AGE, AGER and NFKB in ocular tissues of normoglycaemic and diabetic rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS Diabetes was induced in male Wistar rats with intravenous streptozotocin. Tear secretion parameters were measured and NFKB expression was evaluated in lacrimal glands of control and diabetic rats by western blot. Immunohistochemistry with confocal microscopy was used to assess AGE, AGER and NFKB expression in lacrimal glands of both groups. RESULTS Lacrimal gland weight and tear film volume were lower in diabetic than in control rats (p=0.01 and 0.02, respectively). IL1B and TNF concentrations in tears were higher in diabetic than in control rats (p=0.007 and 0.02, respectively). NFKB protein was identified in rat cornea, conjunctiva and lacrimal glands. AGE, AGER and NFKB expression were greater in lacrimal glands of diabetic than in those of control rats. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION Diabetes induces significant alterations in rat lacrimal gland structure and secretion. The higher expression of AGE, AGER and NFKB in lacrimal glands of diabetic rats suggests that these factors are involved in signalling and in subsequent inflammatory alterations related to dry eye in diabetes mellitus.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Blotting, Western
- Conjunctiva/metabolism
- Conjunctiva/physiopathology
- Cornea/metabolism
- Cornea/physiopathology
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/genetics
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/metabolism
- Diabetes Mellitus, Experimental/physiopathology
- Dry Eye Syndromes/physiopathology
- Gene Expression
- Glycation End Products, Advanced/analysis
- Glycation End Products, Advanced/genetics
- Glycation End Products, Advanced/metabolism
- Immunohistochemistry
- Interleukin-1/metabolism
- Lacrimal Apparatus/metabolism
- Lacrimal Apparatus/physiopathology
- Male
- NF-kappa B/genetics
- NF-kappa B/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Wistar
- Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products
- Receptors, Immunologic/genetics
- Receptors, Immunologic/metabolism
- Tears/metabolism
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/metabolism
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pain may signal impending or actual injury, or the achievement of optimum workload to produce a physical conditioning effect. These different functions of pain present a challenge for athletes wanting to improve their skill and conditioning level in the most efficient manner without injury. As children may be particularly vulnerable to exacerbating pain and injury owing to limited knowledge, it is important to learn more about the development of their understanding of pain concepts (e.g. pain as a signal of impending injury vs. soreness from exertion). METHODS A structured interview and scoring criteria were developed to measure children's understanding of the functions of pain in sport and the consequences of pain and injury. Competitive gymnasts (6-13 years; n = 68; 63% girls) were interviewed and their responses were scored for indices of understanding of different types of pain. RESULTS Age differences were found in: number of different types of pain identified; understanding of pain causality; understanding the value of pain; distinguishing pain from exertion; and use of pain descriptors. Analyses revealed that gymnasts responded differently to different types of pain and were aware of the need to stop their sport in some cases and to continue in others. Most did not describe social pressure to continue gymnastics while in pain. Gymnasts demonstrated an understanding that there was little they could do about chronic pain, yet appreciated that pain or damage could worsen with continued practice. DISCUSSION This study was a first step in elucidating young gymnasts' understanding of sport-related pain. Further research is needed with athletes from other sports, and comparisons should be made with non-athletic children and those with pain from other sources. Within various sports, it will be important to determine the relative effects of age, sex, and number of hours spent training. Appreciation of individual differences in children's understanding of pain may contribute to prevention of injury in sport. For example, children who understand the difference between soreness from exertion and acute pain owing to injury may be able to make better decisions about pain management and continued practice.
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Regulation of insulin-stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of Shc and Shc/Grb2 association in liver, muscle, and adipose tissue of epinephrine- and streptozotocin-treated rats. Endocrine 2001; 14:295-302. [PMID: 11444425 DOI: 10.1385/endo:14:3:295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2000] [Revised: 08/09/2000] [Accepted: 10/03/2000] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Shc protein phosphorylation has been extensively characterized as the initial step that activates a complex mitogenic pathway through its association with Grb2. In the present study, we investigated the adrenergic control of insulin-induced Shc phosphorylation and Shc-Grb2 association, and the modulating effect of streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus on Shc phosphorylation and Shc/Grb2 association. Acute treatment with epinephrine, which leads to a normoglycemic insulin-resistant state, does not affect insulin-induced Shc tyrosine phosphorylation or Shc-Grb2 association in liver, muscle, or fat. By contrast, a significant increase in insulin-induced Shc phosphorylation is observed in liver and muscle of rats treated with streptozotocin. The association of Shc/Grb2 is also increased in both tissues following insulin treatment. These data suggest that while epinephrine preserves the insulin-induced phosphorylation of Shc and the mitogenic pathway stimulated by Shc-Grb2 association, treatment with streptozotocin leads to a tissue-specific increase in the activity of the initial step that ultimately results in the activation of the Shc/Grb2 mitogenic pathway.
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Abstract
PURPOSE Insulin has been acknowledged as a mediator of several physiological events in lacrimal and salivary glands. We investigated the presence of insulin receptors and of insulin-induced autophosphorylation of the insulin receptor and activation of elements involved in the early steps of insulin signaling in lacrimal and salivary glands of rats. METHODS Lacrimal and salivary glands of Wistar rats were removed and processed for immunohistochemistry using anti-insulin receptor and anti-IGF-1 receptor antibodies. The activation of insulin receptors following insulin treatment, and the involvement of insulin receptor substrates-1 and -2, Shc, JAK-2 and STAT-1, were analyzed by immunoprecipitation, followed by SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting of rat lacrimal and salivary glands after exposure to insulin. RESULTS Insulin and IGF-1 receptors were present in rat lacrimal and salivary glands and were located predominantly in the cytoplasm and plasma membrane. Functional studies demonstrated that insulin induced a dose-dependent phosphorylation of the insulin receptor, IGF-1R, insulin receptor substrates-1 and -2, Shc, and STAT-1. In rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus there was a significant reduction in insulin-induced insulin receptor and STAT-1 phosphorylation in the lacrimal gland but not in the salivary gland; there was no influence on Shc phosphorylation in either tissue. CONCLUSIONS The present results indicate that insulin and IGF-1 receptors are expressed in lacrimal and salivary glands, and that insulin can induce the phosphorylation of its receptor and activate elements involved in the early steps of insulin signaling in both tissues.
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Androgen influence on the meibomian gland. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2000; 41:3732-42. [PMID: 11053270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The hypothesis in the study was that androgens control meibomian gland function, regulate the quality and/or quantity of lipids produced by this tissue, and promote the formation of the tear film's lipid layer. To test this hypothesis, a study was conducted to determine whether androgen receptor protein exists in the epithelial cell nuclei of rat meibomian glands and, in addition, whether androgen deficiency and/or treatment influences the gross morphology, neutral lipid content, and fatty acid profile of the rabbit meibomian gland, as well as the appearance of the tear film lipid layer. METHODS Rat lids were obtained and processed for immunohistochemistry. Meibomian glands from intact, androgen- and/or placebo-treated rabbits were analyzed by histology, and glandular lipids were evaluated by gas chromatography, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and mass spectrometry. The rabbit tear film lipid layer was assessed by interferometry. RESULTS In the current study androgen receptor protein existed within acinar epithelial cell nuclei of rat meibomian glands; androgen deficiency was associated with alterations in the lipid content of the rabbit meibomian gland; 19-nortestosterone treatment modulated the fatty acid profile in the total and neutral lipid fractions of the rabbit meibomian gland; and androgens did not appear to influence the gross morphology of meibomian tissue or to exert a demonstrable effect on the rabbit tear film lipid layer. CONCLUSIONS The findings show that the meibomian gland is an androgen target organ and that androgens influence the lipid profile within this tissue. However, the extent to which androgens regulate the production of these lipids and whether this action may impact tear film stability remain to be determined.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine whether children with developmental delays respond to painful events differently than nondelayed children. METHODS Sixty families participated. Children between the ages of 2 and 6 years were observed at daycare centers while engaged in usual daily activities, such as free play. Spontaneous painful incidents and the child's responses were recorded using an observational measure (Dalhousie Everyday Pain Scale) designed to capture pain behavior. RESULTS Children with developmental delays (n = 24) displayed a less intense distress response to an equivocal pain event than nondelayed children (n = 36). Children with developmental delays were more likely to display no reaction following a pain event, whereas children without delays cried more often. Further, children with developmental delays engaged in fewer help-seeking behaviors and were less likely to display a social response following a pain event than nondelayed children. CONCLUSIONS Children with developmental delays appear to react in a different manner to pain events than nondelayed children do; we discuss a possible socio-communicative deficit.
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The microfilarial periodicity of Wuchereria bancrofti in north-eastern Brazil. ANNALS OF TROPICAL MEDICINE AND PARASITOLOGY 2000; 94:373-9. [PMID: 10945047 DOI: 10.1080/00034983.2000.11813552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The periodicity of Wuchereria bancrofti microfilariae (mff) in peripheral blood was analysed in 42 microfilaraemics living in Maceió, in Alagoas state, north-eastern Brazil. Nine blood samples were collected from each subject, over a 24-h period, and two quantitative (60-microliter) thick smears were prepared from each sample. Although all the subjects had detectable microfilaraemias from 23.00 hours to 06.00 hours, no mff could be detected in most (71.4%) of the smears prepared from samples collected at 15.00 hours. Samples collected during the day, at 15.00 hours, contained 170 times fewer mff/microliter than those collected at 01.00 hours, when microfilaraemias were generally most intense. For diagnosis of bancroftian filariasis in Maceió, blood samples should be collected between 22.00 and 03.00 hours, when microfilarial counts will be at least 90% of the peak counts. The circadian variation observed was independent of the subject's gender and microfilarial density. Mathematical analysis, using a simple harmonic-wave model, indicated a periodicity index of 127.6 and that maximum microfilarial densities occurred at 00.51 hours, confirming the nocturnal pattern of microfilaraemia in the study area.
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Abstract
Two cases of GVHD with severe dry eyes are reported where conventional therapy failed to control ocular signs and symptoms. Autologous serum tears, however, resulted in a beneficial clinical effect with marked attenuation of the symptoms. This therapy proved to be safe during 10 months of treatment. Bone Marrow Transplantation (2000).
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Identification of androgen, estrogen and progesterone receptor mRNAs in the eye. ACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA 2000; 78:146-53. [PMID: 10794246 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0420.2000.078002146.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 247] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Previous research has demonstrated that sex steroids exert a significant influence on the structure and function of numerous ocular tissues. To begin to explore the underlying basis of this hormone action, we examined whether various anterior and posterior tissues of the eye contain androgen, estrogen and progesterone receptor mRNAs. METHODS Tissue samples were obtained from adult male and female rats, rabbits and humans, processed for the isolation of total RNA and analyzed by RT-PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis and Southern blot hybridization. All PCR amplifications included positive and negative controls. RESULTS Our findings showed that androgen, estrogen and/or progesterone receptor mRNAs are present in the lacrimal gland, lacrimal gland acinar epithelial cells, meibomian gland, lid, palpebral and bulbar conjunctivae, cornea, iris/ciliary body, lens, retina/uvea, retina/choroid and retinal pigment epithelial cells of rats, rabbits or humans. CONCLUSIONS Our findings demonstrate that sex steroid receptor mRNAs exist in a variety of ocular tissues and suggest that these sites may represent target organs for androgens, estrogens and/or progestins.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Androgens have been reported to influence the structural organisation, functional activity, and/or pathological features of many ocular tissues. In addition, these hormones have been proposed as a topical therapy for such conditions as dry eye syndromes, corneal wound healing, and high intraocular pressure. To advance our understanding of androgen action in the eye, the purpose of the present study was twofold: firstly, to determine whether tissues of the anterior and posterior segments contain androgen receptor protein, which might make them susceptible to hormone effects following topical application; and, secondly, to examine whether these tissues contain the mRNA for types 1 and/or 2 5alpha-reductase, an enzyme that converts testosterone to the very potent metabolite, dihydrotestosterone. METHODS Human ocular tissues and cells were obtained and processed for histochemical and molecular biological procedures. Androgen receptor protein was identified by utilising specific immunoperoxidase techniques. The analysis of type 1 and type 2 5alpha-reductase mRNAs was performed by the use of RT-PCR, agarose gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequence analysis. All immunohistochemical evaluations and PCR amplifications included positive and negative controls. RESULTS These findings show that androgen receptor protein exists in the human lacrimal gland, meibomian gland, cornea, bulbar and forniceal conjunctivae, lens epithelial cells, and retinal pigment epithelial cells. In addition, our results demonstrate that the mRNAs for types 1 and 2 5alpha-reductase occur in the human lacrimal gland, meibomian gland, bulbar conjunctiva, cornea, and RPE cells. CONCLUSION These combined results indicate that multiple ocular tissues may be target sites for androgen action.
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Abstract
Insulin stimulates rapid tyrosine phosphorylation of the protein Shc, which subsequently binds to Grb2, resulting in the activation of a complex mitogenic signaling network. In this study, we examined the levels of Shc protein, its phosphorylation state and Shc-Grb2 association in liver, muscle and adipose tissue before and after insulin administration in three animal models of insulin resistance (chronic dexamethasone treatment, 72-h starvation and aging). There were no differences in Shc protein expression between tissues from control and insulin resistant animals. In fasted hypoinsulinemic rats, there was a decrease in insulin-induced Shc phosphorylation in liver and adipose tissue. However, a significant increase in Shc phosphorylation was observed in liver and muscle from dexamethasone-treated hyperinsulinemic rats and in liver, muscle and adipose tissue of hyperinsulinemic 20-month-old rats. Alterations in Shc phosphorylation correlated well with the level of Shc-Grb2 association. These results indicate that Shc tyrosyl phosphorylation and Shc-Grb2 association are regulated in the different types of insulin resistance and that this regulation is apparently related to the animals' plasma insulin levels. The Shc-Grb2 association is directly related to the insulin-induced tyrosyl phosphorylation of Shc.
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Abstract
Sjögren's syndrome is a complex autoimmune disorder, that occurs almost exclusively in females, induces extensive lymphocyte accumulation in lacrimal and salivary glands, and represents one of the leading causes of dry eye and mouth in the world. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the profound, gender-related differences observed in the magnitude of exocrine gland inflammation in Sjögren's syndrome may also be found in tissues of mouse models of this disorder. Lacrimal and submandibular glands were obtained from adult MRL/lpr, MRL+/+ (MRL+), NZB/NZW F1 (F1), C3H/lpr, C3H/gld (gld), C57BL/6-lpr/lpr [B6/lpr; with (bcl-2(+)/lpr) or without (bcl-2(-)/lpr) bcl-2 transgene insertion] and nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice after the onset of autoimmune disease, and processed for microscopy and image analysis. Our results showed that: (1) the extent of inflammation was significantly greater in lacrimal glands of female MRL/lpr, MRL+, F1, C3H/lpr and gld mice, and salivary glands of female MRL+, F1 and gld mice, relative to those of males; (2) the severity of inflammation in NOD mice showed a tissue-specific pattern: inflammation was far worse in lacrimal glands of males, whereas immune pathology was far greater in salivary tissues in females; and (3) no gender-related variations were present in the degree of inflammation in lacrimal glands of bcl-2(+)/lpr and bcl-2(-)/lpr mice or in submandibular tissues of MRL/lpr, C3H/lpr, bcl-2(+)/lpr and bcl-2(-)/lpr mice. Our findings demonstrate that gender-, strain- and tissue-related differences exist in the extent of inflammation in several mouse models of Sjögren's syndrome.
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Massive orbital myiasis infestation. ARCHIVES OF OPHTHALMOLOGY (CHICAGO, ILL. : 1960) 1999; 117:1436-7. [PMID: 10532464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/14/2023]
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Development of Dirofilaria immitis (Leidy) in Aedes aegypti (L.) and Culex quinquefasciatus (say) from Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 1999; 94:575-6. [PMID: 10446022 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02761999000400026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Abstract
Sjögren's syndrome is an extremely complex and currently incurable autoimmune disorder, which occurs primarily in females, and is associated with lacrimal gland inflammation, meibomian gland dysfunction, and severe dry eye. We hypothesize that androgen deficiency, which reportedly occurs in primary and secondary Sjögren's syndrome (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis), is a critical etiologic factor in the pathogenesis of dry eye syndromes. We further hypothesize that androgen treatment to the ocular surface will promote both lacrimal and meibomian gland function and alleviate both "aqueous-deficient" and "evaporative" dry eye. Our results demonstrate that androgens regulate both lacrimal and meibomian gland function, and suggest that topical androgen administration may serve as a safe and effective therapy for the treatment of dry eye in Sjögren's syndrome.
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Experimental infection of Culex (Culex) quinquefasciatus and Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti with Wuchereria bancrofti. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 1998; 93:855-60. [PMID: 9921316 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02761998000600029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
A study was conducted to determine the susceptibility of local strains of Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti to infection with the strain of Wuchereria bancrofti that occurs in Maceió. State of Alagoas, Brazil. Cx. quinquefasciatus blood fed simultaneously on the same microfilariae carrier ingested more blood and 2-3x more microfilariae than Ae. aegypti. Survival rates of both species of insects living for 21 days after blood feeding on microfilaraemic patients were not significantly different from the survival rates of mosquitoes that blood fed on amicrofilaraemic individuals. W. bancrofti parasites underwent normal development in Cx. quinquefasciatus, with third stage larvae first being recorded on the 11th day post infection, and their numbers increasing thereafter. Development of filariae in Ae. aegypti did not proceed beyond the first larval stage, and there was a progressively increasing number of non-viable larvae with the passage of time. It is concluded that Ae. aegypti is not involved in the transmission of W. bancrofti in Maceió.
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Abstract
A cross-sectional survey conducted among evening students was used to determine the prevalence of Wuchereria bancrofti infection in Maceió, capital of the State of Alagoas, northeast Brazil. A single thick-blood smear was used, being collected between 10 p.m. and 12 a.m. From a total of 29,551 students enrolled at evening elementary schools in the 33 city sectors, 16,569 (56.4%) were random selected for inclusion in the study. From those, 10,857 (65.5%) were interviewed and examined and 73 (0.7%) were found to have microfilaraemia. Autochthonous W. bancrofti carriers live in 10 of the 33 city sectors, suggesting a focal distribution. Moreover, 84% of infections were diagnosed among 29% of all students examined, inhabiting three contiguous sectors at the city central area, presenting infection rates up to 5.3%. Students living in city sectors with prevalence of microfilariae carriers greater than 1% were found to have a higher risk for infection when compared to students from the rest of the town [Relative Odds (RO) 12.8, 95% CI 6.7-25.1]. Eleven positive individuals from non endemic areas were living in Maceió for more than 10 years; time of residence in the area was a major risk factor for infection among students not born in the region (p < 0.01). Regarding sex, male students presented a higher proportion of positive (RO 1.7, 95% CI 1.1-2.9).
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Identification and hormonal control of sex steroid receptors in the eye. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 1998; 438:95-100. [PMID: 9634870 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4615-5359-5_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Influence of gender, sex steroid hormones, and the hypothalamic-pituitary axis on the structure and function of the lacrimal gland. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 1998; 438:11-42. [PMID: 9634860 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4615-5359-5_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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29
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Presence and testosterone influence on the levels of anti- and pro-inflammatory cytokines in lacrimal tissues of a mouse model of Sjögren's syndrome. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 1998; 438:485-91. [PMID: 9634925 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4615-5359-5_67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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31
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Gender- and androgen-related impact on the expression of proto-oncogenes and apoptotic factors in lacrimal and salivary glands of mouse models of Sjögren's syndrome. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 1998; 438:447-52. [PMID: 9634920 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4615-5359-5_62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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32
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Bancroftian filariasis in Maceio, state of Alagoas, Brazil: Observations on Culex quinquefasciatus after blood feeding on individuals with different densities of microfilariae in the peripheral blood stream. Am J Trop Med Hyg 1998; 58:489-94. [PMID: 9574797 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.1998.58.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Females of laboratory-reared Culex quinquefasciatus were allowed to take blood meals on individuals with low (1-100 microfilariae/ml of peripheral blood), moderate (101-500 microfilariae/ml), and high (> 500 microfilariae/ml) microfilaremia. The mosquitoes ingested 1.39-3.80 microl of blood and infective third-stage (L3) larvae were first recorded 13-14 days after the infecting blood meal. The number of microfilariae ingested by mosquitoes was proportional to the density of microfilariae in the peripheral blood of the human subjects, but with a concentration factor of up to 6.5 times the expected number. Survival of mosquitoes was not influenced by the density of microfilariae in the peripheral blood of infected individuals. Infectivity indices were proportional to microfilaremia in human subjects. The number of L3 larvae/female (intensity of infection) was not influenced by individual microfilaremia. The highest vector efficiency and the best experimental infection index were recorded in mosquitoes that blood fed on individuals with moderate microfilaremia. The results are discussed in relation to the transmission on Bancroftian filariasis in the study area.
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Abstract
The past and present distribution of Bancroftian filariasis in Brazil is reviewed. Parasitological and entomological surveys were conducted between 1951 and 1958, the autochthonous transmission of Wuchereria bancrofti having been found only in 11 places in the country as follows, with the corresponding prevalences; Ponta Grossa (SC), 14.5% Belém (PA), 9.8%; Barra de Laguna (SC), 9.4%; Recife (PE), 6.9%; Castro Alves (BA), 5.9%; Florianópolis (SC), 1.4%; São Luis (MA), 0.6%; Salvador (BA), 0.4%; Maceió (AL), 0.3%; Manaus (AM). 0.2% and Porto Alegre (RS), 0.1%. The distribution of infection was urban and focal, occurring mainly along the coast. Control measures carried out against filariasis achieved considerable success, reducing infection and transmission, only Belém and Recife being considered endemic areas. Recent studies show the active transmission of filariasis with higher prevalences than those observed in the past, in Maceió, considered to be free from infection, and in Recife. The knowledge of the present status of Bancroftian filariasis in Brazil is important as baseline information, because it will allow for the establishment of control measures by Public Health organizations.
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A comparison of two Brazilian populations of Culex quinquefasciatus (Say, 1823) from endemic and non-endemic areas to infection with Wuchereria bancrofti (Cobbold, 1877). Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 1997; 92:33-6. [PMID: 9302411 DOI: 10.1590/s0074-02761997000100007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Culex quinquefasciatus is known to be an efficient insect host of Wuchereria bancrofti. In Brazil Cx. quinquefasciatus is widely distributed throughout the country and is often abundant in and around human habitations. In contrast, Bancroftian filariasis is limited to three foci in Brazil. Experiments were undertaken to compare the vector capacities of Cx. quinquefasciatus originating from Maceió (Alagoas), one of the endemic areas of W. bancrofti infection in Brazil, and Belo Horizonte (Minas Gerais), a non endemic area. Laboratory-reared Cx. quinquefasciatus were dissected 20 days after blood feeding on microfilaraemic patients. Survival rates and the number of infective larvae that developed did not differ in female mosquitoes of different origins. Thus both populations of Culex were susceptible to infection with W. bancrofti.
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Antisporozoite antibodies with protective and nonprotective activities: in vitro and in vivo correlations using Plasmodium gallinaceum, an avian model. J Eukaryot Microbiol 1995; 42:705-8. [PMID: 8520586 DOI: 10.1111/j.1550-7408.1995.tb01620.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
A correlation was observed between in vivo and in vitro activity of six monoclonal antibodies (mAb) against the major circumsporozoite protein of the avian malaria Plasmodium gallinaceum as follows. (1) Two mAb were protective, totally abrogating sporozoite infectivity to chicks, its natural host, in vivo; they caused 100% inhibition of sporozoite invasion (ISI) in vitro to SL-29 chicken fibroblasts and intense ISI to cultured chicken macrophages, as well as inhibited the exoerythrocytic development of sporozoites taken up by macrophages, the initial cell host of P. gallinaceum sporozoites. (2) Two mAb were partially protective in that they reduced sporozoite infectivity to chicks, caused partial ISI to SL-29 and macrophage cells and partial inhibition to the exoerythrocytic development of sporozoites in macrophages in vitro. (3) Two mAb were totally inactive in vivo although they both bound to the sporozoite antigens as detected by indirect immunofluorescence, western blot, and ELISA; they both failed to induce ISI or inhibit the exoerythrocytic development in macrophages. The possible participation of macrophages as the initial cell type involved in sporozoite destruction in the presence of anti-circumsporozoite antibodies is discussed.
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Common epitopes in the circumsporozoite proteins of Plasmodium berghei and Plasmodium gallinaceum identified by monoclonal antibodies to the P. gallinaceum circumsporozoite protein. J Eukaryot Microbiol 1993; 40:61-3. [PMID: 7681341 DOI: 10.1111/j.1550-7408.1993.tb04882.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies that react with the circumsporozoite protein of the avian malaria Plasmodium gallinaceum sporozoites also reacted with circumsporozoite protein of the rodent malaria Plasmodium berghei. Two types of reactivity were identified: 1) two monoclonal antibodies reacted with P. berghei sporozoite protein by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence antibody, 2) six other monoclonal antibodies reacted with P. berghei sporozoites by ELISA and Western blot only. We studied whether these differences could be explained by reactivity in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with different P. berghei circumsporozoite peptides. Although all P. gallinaceum monoclonal antibodies reacted with the P. berghei repeats, the first group reacted with a conserved peptide sequence, N1, whereas the second group did not. These results suggest that circumsporozoite proteins from P. gallinaceum and P. berghei share common epitopes. The biological significance of our finding is not yet clear. Indeed, the cross-reactive monoclonal antibodies giving a positive indirect immunofluorescence antibody with the P. berghei sporozoites only caused a borderline effect on the living P. berghei parasites in vitro as measured by inhibition of sporozoite infectivity.
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Exoerythrocytic development of Plasmodium gallinaceum sporozoites in a chicken fibroblast cell line and inhibition of the cell invasion by specific anti-sporozoite monoclonal antibodies. J Eukaryot Microbiol 1993; 40:64-6. [PMID: 8457801 DOI: 10.1111/j.1550-7408.1993.tb04883.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Cultivation of the Plasmodium gallinaceum exoerythrocytic forms from sporozoites was attempted in three different cell lines: HEPG2-A16 (from a human hepatoma), VERO (monkey kidney epithelial cells) and SL-29 (chicken embryo fibroblast cells). The sporozoites invaded all three cells types but their development into exoerythrocytic forms occurred only in the SL-29 cells. In the presence of specific monoclonal antibodies against the major circumsporozoite protein, there were varying degrees of inhibition of parasite invasion of the SL-29 cells. Of seven monoclonal antibodies tested, two completely inhibited cell invasion at high concentrations and caused intense inhibition at concentrations as low as 2.5 micrograms/ml, four caused intense inhibition at these various concentrations, and one had no effect on sporozoite invasion.
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[The effect of respiratory rehabilitation on the functional ventilation changes in the asthmatic child]. ALLERGIE ET IMMUNOLOGIE 1993; 25:26-8, 31-4. [PMID: 8471136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The aim of this study was to evaluate the improvement of lung function abnormalities during asymptomatic periods in children with perennial atopic asthma after physical respiratory rehabilitation and swimming (RR). MATERIAL AND METHODS 240 lung function tests were performed regularly by whole-body plethysmography during asymptomatic periods on 68 atopic asthmatic children aged 5-13 (means 8.7 y), in a follow up four years study (1983-87). TLC, VC, FEV1, Raw, MEF50, RV and TGV were recorded. We selected TGV for measured hyperinflation, Resistance (Raw) for bronchial obstruction and MEF50 for small airways obstruction. We divided these children population in two groups: group A control (20 subjects, means 9.3 y. age) immunotherapy (IT) alone; group B (48 subjects, means 8.03 y. age) IT and respiratory rehabilitation and swimming. Furthermore, we compared the evolution of the lung function according to the severity of asthma on B group alone. RESULTS the number of hyperinflated or bronchial obstructed children who did RRS is significantly smaller than on the control group. Nevertheless, breathing exercises and swimming has no effect on peripheral airway obstruction. When we compared the effect of asthma on B group alone, we noted that the recovery of lung abnormalities were observed on the great majority of mild and moderate hyperinflated and bronchial obstructed asthma. In severe asthma, the results were not so good, particularly on bronchial and peripheral airway obstruction. In these last cases the functional prognosis will be uncertain. CONCLUSION respiratory rehabilitation and swimming have an unquestionable effect on improvement of hyperinflated asthmatic children, some effect on improvement on permanent bronchial obstruction, and without any benefit on permanent peripheral airway obstruction. Lung function tests might be monitored the RR in all asthmatic children with lung function impairment.
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Abstract
Plants traditionally employed for the treatment of malaria in certain areas of Brazil, where this disease is prevalent, were surveyed by interviewing natives and migrants in the Amazon Region. Forty-one plants used for malarial treatment and/or for the related symptoms (fever and liver disorders) were collected and identified. Given the potential of Brazil's forests and medicinal plants, research on traditional plant-based remedies in this country may lead to the development of new drugs.
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In vitro development of exoerythrocytic forms of Plasmodium gallinaceum sporozoites in avian macrophages. THE JOURNAL OF PROTOZOOLOGY 1991; 38:40-4. [PMID: 1997676 DOI: 10.1111/j.1550-7408.1991.tb04796.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Exoerythrocytic forms of Plasmodium gallinaceum were cultured in vitro using salivary gland sporozoites extracted from experimentally infected Aedes fluviatilis mosquitoes. The host cells were macrophage precursors from chicken bone marrow. At various times after introduction of sporozoites, the cultures were stained by Giemsa or by immunofluorescence assay (IFA) using anti-sporozoite-specific monoclonal antibodies (MAb). The time to complete parasite development in vitro was 50-70 h. By 70 h, ruptured segmenters and free merozoites were visible within the cells. Inoculation of normal chickens with infected cultures induced parasitemia after a pre-patent period of 10-11 days. In vitro young exoerythrocytic forms, late schizonts that include the matured segmenters, and free merozoites shared common antigens with the sporozoites as revealed by IFA using anti-sporozoite-specific MAbs. Our data indicate that macrophages support development of P. gallinaceum sporozoites and that the circumsporozoite proteins are present until the end of the primary exoerythrocytic schizogony.
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[Tracheobronchial wheezing of childhood turning into asthma?]. ALLERGIE ET IMMUNOLOGIE 1989; 21:14-20. [PMID: 2920092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
In order to study the allergic, immunological, functional and bronchial hyperreactivity (BHR) differences between wheezy bronchitis and perennial asthma, the author studied 285 children aged 4 to 13, divided in three groups: asthma group (A.g.) 102; wheezy bronchitis (W.b.g.) 103; control group 20. The following tests were done: skin prick test (SPT) with D. pteronyssinus (DP), Total IgE, specific IgE anti-DP (RAST), functional respiratory tests (FRT) with a Jaeger whole body plethysmography, and acetylcholine challenge to test the nonspecific BHR. The results show us that there are a greater number of positive SPT and positive RAST, functional abnormalities and a higher sensitivity to acetylcholine in asthmatic children (A.g.) than in those with wheezy bronchitis (differences between the two groups are statistically significant). (table; see text) The findings indicate that it exists in w.b. children an allergo-immunological mechanism and a bronchial hyperreactivity as we observe in asthma, but in a milder degree. W.b. must be carefully watched over because an important number go on to overt asthma. In conclusion, there is a close link between wheezy bronchitis and asthma in children. Atopic w.b. should be treated as an atopic asthma.
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Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (MoAb) were produced against both salivary gland sporozoites (SGS) and oocyst sporozoites (OS) of Plasmodium gallinaceum, an avian malaria parasite. By indirect immunofluorescence, all of the MoAbs reacted with both SGS and OS of P. gallinaceum and two of the MoAbs cross-reacted weakly with P. berghei sporozoites. None of the MoAbs reacted with sporozoites of six additional species of mammalian plasmodia. In Western blot analysis of extracts of either SGS or OS of P. gallinaceum, these MoAbs identified two polypeptides with molecular weights of approximately 76,000 and 64,000 D. The results of a MoAb inhibition of binding assay and a two-site one-antibody immunoradiometric assay indicate that the circumsporozoite protein of P. gallinaceum, like those of mammalian malaria parasites, contains a repetitive immunodominant epitope. Two of the anti-P. gallinaceum MoAbs were tested in a sporozoite neutralization assay and decreased, but did not abolish, the infectivity of sporozoites for chickens, indicating that the polypeptide of P. gallinaceum identified by immunoblot is probably the protective antigen.
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Refractoriness of Callithrix penicillata red blood cells to Plasmodium falciparum in vivo and in vitro. J Parasitol 1988; 74:514-5. [PMID: 3132548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Attempts to infect the New World marmot Callithrix penicillata with Plasmodium falciparum were unsuccessful. Attempts were also made to infect red blood cells of C. penicillata and Saimiri sciureus with P. falciparum in vitro, and these too were unsuccessful due to a high rate of hemolysis produced by apparently adverse culture conditions. It is concluded that modifications to the existing culture conditions will need to be made before successful parasitemia can be induced in vitro in simian erythrocytes.
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[Effect of 2 therapeutic protocols in minor forms of respiratory allergy]. ALLERGIE ET IMMUNOLOGIE 1986; 18:29-41. [PMID: 3453709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this prospective study was to determine in 261 children whether the "minor" allergic respiratory diseases (MARD) (chronic cough, bronchitis asthmatic, rhinopharyngitis, recurrent otitis media, croup) are due to inhalants allergens and, if so, whether they can be treated with two therapeutic protocols. First protocol (B) included nonspecific immunotherapy with bacterial vaccines aerosols + Fusafungin sprays and Ketotifen were employed in 103 children; and the second protocol (C) included specific immunotherapy with D. Pteronyssinus, in 64 children. This two formula were compared with a control group (67 children). The children were previous tested by PRIST, prick test with house dust, mite, pollens, moulds and by RAST to house dust and mite allergens (56.5% positive results). The follow up study was conducted over 1 to 4 years periods (mean = 1.95 years). Each child's behaviour was monitored regularly by parents and doctor. 54 children drop out this study. Specific hyposensitized children (C) had significant higher improvement (83.6% - p less than 0.01) than B protocol (52.4%) and than control group (16.4%) in overall population. During this study, 51 children with previous MARD go on to more serious obstructive lung disease - asthma: 37.3% in the control group, 23.3% in B group and 6% in hyposensitized group. The results suggest that it is important in children with MARD to monitor the levels of the total and specific Ig E and cutaneous reactions with prick test to common allergens; specific immunotherapy is highly indicated in atopic MARD; in non-atopic MARD children, ketotifen and nonspecific immunotherapy have satisfactory results. Total and specific Ig E levels and prick test must be repeated once a year in this non-atopic children in order to find the specific allergens.
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