Pub Date : 2025-08-19DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109004
Sâmia F. Silva , Fernanda Batista-Santos , Thiago Santos , Débora M. Lima , Raquel MF. Sousa , Ricardo A. Barata
In Brazil, Leishmania infantum is transmitted mainly through the bite of the sand fly Lutzomyia longipalpis, the main visceral leishmaniasis (VL) vector. Although the most common vector control strategy is the application of synthetic insecticides, growing resistance to these products has sparked interest in developing new alternatives. In this context, plants emerge as a viable possibility due to the diversity of secondary metabolites with insecticidal potential. This work aimed to chemically characterize the essential oil of Pseudobrickellia brasiliensis and evaluate its toxicity on L. longipalpis. The essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger apparatus from fresh leaves of P. brasiliensis and chemically analyzed using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). For the bioassay, sand flies were collected in the field and then exposed to different concentrations of the essential oil (2.5, 5.0 and 10 mg mL−1), also being used in the negative and positive control group. The mortality rate was assessed at established times. GC-MS analysis of essential oil of the P. brasiliensis identified 49 compounds with the predominance of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes. α-Pinene and isobicyclogermacrenal as the main constituents of the relative peak area of the total ion chromatogram with 17.9 and 13.3 %, respectively. The bioassay showed toxicity of P. brasiliensis essential oil on L. longipalpis at all concentrations evaluated, showing it to be a promising natural insecticide to be used in vector control of VL.
在巴西,婴儿利什曼原虫主要通过沙蝇的叮咬传播,沙蝇是利什曼病的主要内脏媒介。虽然最常见的病媒控制策略是使用合成杀虫剂,但对这些产品日益增长的抗药性引发了开发新替代品的兴趣。在这种情况下,由于具有杀虫潜力的次生代谢物的多样性,植物成为一种可行的可能性。本研究旨在对巴西刺槐挥发油进行化学性质表征,并评价其对长掌松毛虫的毒性。采用Clevenger蒸馏装置从巴西青叶中提取精油,并采用气相色谱-质谱联用(GC-MS)进行化学分析。为了进行生物测定,在野外收集沙蝇,然后暴露于不同浓度的精油(2.5,5.0和10 mg mL - 1),也用于阴性和阳性对照组。在确定的时间评估死亡率。GC-MS分析鉴定出49种化合物,以单萜类、倍半萜类和二萜类为主。α-蒎烯和异双环大肾是总离子色谱相对峰面积的主要成分,分别占17.9%和13.3%。生物测定结果表明,在不同浓度下,巴西木挥发油对长掌螨均有一定的毒性,是一种很有前途的天然杀虫剂,可用于病媒防治。
{"title":"Chemical composition and insecticidal activity of the essential oil of Pseudobrickellia brasiliensis (Spreng) R. M. King & H. Rob (Asteraceae) on Lutzomyia longipalpis (Diptera: Psychodidae)","authors":"Sâmia F. Silva , Fernanda Batista-Santos , Thiago Santos , Débora M. Lima , Raquel MF. Sousa , Ricardo A. Barata","doi":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109004","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109004","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In Brazil, <em>Leishmania infantum</em> is transmitted mainly through the bite of the sand fly <em>Lutzomyia longipalpis</em>, the main visceral leishmaniasis (VL) vector. Although the most common vector control strategy is the application of synthetic insecticides, growing resistance to these products has sparked interest in developing new alternatives. In this context, plants emerge as a viable possibility due to the diversity of secondary metabolites with insecticidal potential. This work aimed to chemically characterize the essential oil of <em>Pseudobrickellia brasiliensis</em> and evaluate its toxicity on <em>L. longipalpis</em>. The essential oil was obtained by hydrodistillation in a Clevenger apparatus from fresh leaves of <em>P. brasiliensis</em> and chemically analyzed using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). For the bioassay, sand flies were collected in the field and then exposed to different concentrations of the essential oil (2.5, 5.0 and 10 mg mL<sup>−1</sup>), also being used in the negative and positive control group. The mortality rate was assessed at established times. GC-MS analysis of essential oil of the <em>P. brasiliensis</em> identified 49 compounds with the predominance of monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes. α-Pinene and isobicyclogermacrenal as the main constituents of the relative peak area of the total ion chromatogram with 17.9 and 13.3 %, respectively. The bioassay showed toxicity of <em>P. brasiliensis</em> essential oil on <em>L. longipalpis</em> at all concentrations evaluated, showing it to be a promising natural insecticide to be used in vector control of VL.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12117,"journal":{"name":"Experimental parasitology","volume":"276 ","pages":"Article 109004"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-08-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144885514","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-18DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109003
Amirali Ghahremani , Hasan Namdar Ahmadabad , Reza shafiei
This study examined the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), a neurotropic protozoan associated with neuropsychiatric disorders, in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and its influence on clinical outcomes. This case-control study included 100 AIS patients at Imam Hassan Hospital, Bojnourd. Stroke severity was assessed using the NIHSS on days one and seven post-admission. Disability was evaluated three months post-discharge with the mRS. A control group of 100 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals was included. Serum samples were tested for anti-T. gondii IgG and IgM antibodies using indirect ELISA. IgG avidity was measured with modified ELISA using urea treatment. No significant difference was observed in anti-Toxoplasma gondii IgG seroprevalence between AIS patients (48 %) and controls (35 %, P = 0.084), with all subjects seronegative for IgM. However, seropositive AIS patients had significantly higher 3-month mRS scores, indicating greater disability. Anti-T. gondii IgG levels were significantly elevated in the AIS group and correlated with higher 24-h NIHSS scores, reflecting increased stroke severity. No differences in IgG avidity were found. Although our findings do not establish T. gondii infection as a direct risk factor for AIS, they suggest a potential role in disease pathogenesis and outcomes. However, further studies are needed to validate these observations.
{"title":"Seroprevalence of latent toxoplasmosis and its association with clinical outcomes in patients with acute ischemic stroke; a case-control study in northeastern Iran","authors":"Amirali Ghahremani , Hasan Namdar Ahmadabad , Reza shafiei","doi":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109003","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109003","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study examined the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma <em>gondii</em> (T. <em>gondii</em>), a neurotropic protozoan associated with neuropsychiatric disorders, in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and its influence on clinical outcomes. This case-control study included 100 AIS patients at Imam Hassan Hospital, Bojnourd. Stroke severity was assessed using the NIHSS on days one and seven post-admission. Disability was evaluated three months post-discharge with the mRS. A control group of 100 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals was included. Serum samples were tested for anti-T. <em>gondii</em> IgG and IgM antibodies using indirect ELISA. IgG avidity was measured with modified ELISA using urea treatment. No significant difference was observed in anti-Toxoplasma <em>gondii</em> IgG seroprevalence between AIS patients (48 %) and controls (35 %, <em>P</em> = 0.084), with all subjects seronegative for IgM. However, seropositive AIS patients had significantly higher 3-month mRS scores, indicating greater disability. Anti-T. <em>gondii</em> IgG levels were significantly elevated in the AIS group and correlated with higher 24-h NIHSS scores, reflecting increased stroke severity. No differences in IgG avidity were found. Although our findings do not establish T. <em>gondii</em> infection as a direct risk factor for AIS, they suggest a potential role in disease pathogenesis and outcomes. However, further studies are needed to validate these observations.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12117,"journal":{"name":"Experimental parasitology","volume":"276 ","pages":"Article 109003"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-08-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144879368","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-09DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109000
Kevin Austin L. Ona , Jose Ma M. Angeles , Elena A. Villacorte , Katrina Theresa M. Balboa , Atcharaphan Wanlop , Adrian Miki C. Macalanda , Pilarita T. Rivera , Shin-ichiro Kawazu
Exploring molecular targets for the diagnosis of schistosomiasis has been a key priority in Schistosoma japonicum research. In this study, the antigenicity of recombinant Sj14-3-3 protein (rSj14-3-3) was evaluated using sera from schistosome-infected subjects. rSj14-3-3 was expressed and subsequently analyzed via SDS-PAGE and Western blot. Its antigenicity was then tested with sera from schistosome-infected mice and humans through ELISA. Results showed that rSj14-3-3 had significant antigenicity when tested with infected mice sera (P < 0.05) and human sera (P < 0.05) compared to negative controls. These findings suggest that rSj14-3-3 could serve as an alternative diagnostic antigen for schistosomiasis. Nevertheless, further research is needed to fully evaluate its immunodiagnostic potential.
{"title":"Preliminary evaluation of the recombinant Sj14-3-3 protein as an immunodiagnostic antigen for schistosomiasis","authors":"Kevin Austin L. Ona , Jose Ma M. Angeles , Elena A. Villacorte , Katrina Theresa M. Balboa , Atcharaphan Wanlop , Adrian Miki C. Macalanda , Pilarita T. Rivera , Shin-ichiro Kawazu","doi":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109000","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109000","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Exploring molecular targets for the diagnosis of schistosomiasis has been a key priority in <em>Schistosoma japonicum</em> research. In this study, the antigenicity of recombinant Sj14-3-3 protein (rSj14-3-3) was evaluated using sera from schistosome-infected subjects. rSj14-3-3 was expressed and subsequently analyzed <em>via</em> SDS-PAGE and Western blot. Its antigenicity was then tested with sera from schistosome-infected mice and humans through ELISA. Results showed that rSj14-3-3 had significant antigenicity when tested with infected mice sera (<em>P</em> < 0.05) and human sera (<em>P</em> < 0.05) compared to negative controls. These findings suggest that rSj14-3-3 could serve as an alternative diagnostic antigen for schistosomiasis. Nevertheless, further research is needed to fully evaluate its immunodiagnostic potential.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12117,"journal":{"name":"Experimental parasitology","volume":"276 ","pages":"Article 109000"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-08-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144810476","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-08-09DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109001
Marilia Bergamini Valentini, Tiago Manuel Fernandes Mendes, Silmara Marques Allegretti
Different Schistosoma mansoni strains exhibit distinct phenotypes, influencing parasite distribution, control strategies, and therapeutic alternatives for schistosomiasis. This study compared three Brazilian strains: Belo Horizonte/MG (SmBH), Ilha das Flores/SE (SmSE), and São José dos Campos/SP (SmSJ). To understand differences in infection, morphometry and response to praziquantel (PZQ) treatment, BALB/c mice were infected with each strain and treated 45 days post-infection (dpi) with praziquantel (PZQ) in different dosages. Egg elimination was monitored weekly from 30 dpi and euthanasia was performed 60 dpi. Untreated groups showed SmBH with the highest infection rates, with a larger number of recovered worms and a greater number of eggs. Morphometric analysis showed that SmSE females were significantly longer, while SmBH eggs were larger. Granuloma size was similar in SmBH- and SmSJ-infected mice, but SmSE-induced granulomas were smaller. SmBH infection resulted in a greater number of granulomas, suggesting higher pathogenicity. PZQ treatment at 150 or 300 mg/kg significantly reduced parasite burden, fecal egg count, and hepatic/intestinal granulomas in SmBH- and SmSJ-infected mice. SmBH infection also showed fewer immature and mature eggs and more dead eggs after treatment. However, SmSE-infected mice exhibited no significant differences between treated and untreated groups, suggesting higher resistance/tolerance to PZQ. These findings highlight phenotypic differences among S. mansoni strains: SmBH produced and retained more eggs, aggravating pathology; SmSJ had the lowest egg production; SmSE showed the highest resistance to PZQ. Understanding strain variability is crucial for improving schistosomiasis control and advancing drug development.
不同的曼氏血吸虫株表现出不同的表型,影响寄生虫的分布、控制策略和血吸虫病的治疗方案。本研究比较了3种巴西菌株:Belo Horizonte/MG (SmBH)、Ilha das Flores/SE (SmSE)和s o jos dos Campos/SP (SmSJ)。为了解BALB/c小鼠感染、形态及对吡喹酮(PZQ)治疗的反应差异,分别感染各菌株,并在感染后45天给予不同剂量的吡喹酮(PZQ)治疗。每周从30 dpi开始监测卵子清除,60 dpi进行安乐死。未处理组显示SmBH感染率最高,恢复的蠕虫数量和卵数量较多。形态计量学分析表明,SmSE雌虫明显较长,而SmBH雌虫的卵较大。SmBH-和smsj感染小鼠的肉芽肿大小相似,但smse诱导的肉芽肿较小。SmBH感染导致肉芽肿数量较多,提示致病性较高。150或300 mg/kg的PZQ治疗显著降低了SmBH-和smsj感染小鼠的寄生虫负担、粪卵数量和肝脏/肠道肉芽肿。SmBH感染治疗后未成熟卵和成熟卵较少,死卵较多。然而,smse感染小鼠在治疗组和未治疗组之间没有显着差异,表明对PZQ有更高的抗性/耐受性。这些发现突出了曼氏链球菌菌株之间的表型差异:SmBH产生并保留了更多的卵子,加重了病理;SmSJ的产蛋量最低;SmSE对PZQ的抗性最高。了解菌株变异对改善血吸虫病控制和推进药物开发至关重要。
{"title":"Comparison of three Schistosoma mansoni strains: Infection, morphometry and susceptibility to treatment","authors":"Marilia Bergamini Valentini, Tiago Manuel Fernandes Mendes, Silmara Marques Allegretti","doi":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109001","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.109001","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Different <em>Schistosoma mansoni</em> strains exhibit distinct phenotypes, influencing parasite distribution, control strategies, and therapeutic alternatives for schistosomiasis. This study compared three Brazilian strains: Belo Horizonte/MG (SmBH), Ilha das Flores/SE (SmSE), and São José dos Campos/SP (SmSJ). To understand differences in infection, morphometry and response to praziquantel (PZQ) treatment, BALB/c mice were infected with each strain and treated 45 days post-infection (dpi) with praziquantel (PZQ) in different dosages. Egg elimination was monitored weekly from 30 dpi and euthanasia was performed 60 dpi. Untreated groups showed SmBH with the highest infection rates, with a larger number of recovered worms and a greater number of eggs. Morphometric analysis showed that SmSE females were significantly longer, while SmBH eggs were larger. Granuloma size was similar in SmBH- and SmSJ-infected mice, but SmSE-induced granulomas were smaller. SmBH infection resulted in a greater number of granulomas, suggesting higher pathogenicity. PZQ treatment at 150 or 300 mg/kg significantly reduced parasite burden, fecal egg count, and hepatic/intestinal granulomas in SmBH- and SmSJ-infected mice. SmBH infection also showed fewer immature and mature eggs and more dead eggs after treatment. However, SmSE-infected mice exhibited no significant differences between treated and untreated groups, suggesting higher resistance/tolerance to PZQ. These findings highlight phenotypic differences among <em>S</em>. <em>mansoni</em> strains: SmBH produced and retained more eggs, aggravating pathology; SmSJ had the lowest egg production; SmSE showed the highest resistance to PZQ. Understanding strain variability is crucial for improving schistosomiasis control and advancing drug development.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12117,"journal":{"name":"Experimental parasitology","volume":"276 ","pages":"Article 109001"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-08-09","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144821002","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-31DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108991
Priyanka Agarwal , David D. N’Da , C. Johan van der Westhuizen , Robyn L. van Zyl
Malaria continues to pose a major global health burden affecting millions annually. Despite advancements in treatment, the emergence of drug-resistant Plasmodium strains has undermined current treatment strategies, including atovaquone. Atovaquone is a key mitochondrial inhibitor targeting the cytochrome bc1 (cyt bc1) complex, with resistance primarily driven by mutation in the cytochrome b gene. Moreover, atovaquone's reliance on a single target site and its pharmacokinetic limitations further underscore the urgent need for alternative drugs. To address these challenges, this dual in vitro and in silico study evaluated ten 1,4-naphthoquinone-1,2,3-triazole hybrids targeting atovaquone-resistant (FCR3) P. falciparum. Molecular modelling studies were performed on Saccharomyces cerevisiae (PDB ID 3CX5), involving the building of a mutant model to simulate the Y279S mutation (equivalent to Y268S mutation in P. falciparum), in order to rationalise the observed results. Additionally, pharmacokinetic properties and drug-likeness of these hybrids were predicted in silico. Hybrids D12 and D13 exhibited strong antiplasmodial activities, 61- and 52-fold, respectively, more than atovaquone. Molecular modelling studies indicated a strong correlation between in silico and in vitro activities by displaying binding interactions between the ligand and the mutant model. Structure-activity relationships (SAR) analysis identified key structural features essential for favourable binding interactions with target binding site residues. Furthermore, in silico evaluations of these hybrids suggested good oral bioavailability and high gastrointestinal absorption, with no significant risk of severe toxicity. Hybrids D12 and D13 exhibit potential as lead candidates, with their strong in vitro efficacy well-supported by in silico data, warranting further optimisation and development.
疟疾继续造成重大的全球健康负担,每年影响数百万人。尽管在治疗方面取得了进展,但耐药疟原虫菌株的出现破坏了目前的治疗策略,包括阿托伐醌。Atovaquone是一种针对细胞色素bc1 (cyt bc1)复合物的关键线粒体抑制剂,其耐药性主要由细胞色素b基因突变驱动。此外,阿托伐酮对单一靶点的依赖及其药代动力学的局限性进一步强调了替代药物的迫切需要。为了应对这些挑战,这项体外和计算机双试验评估了10个针对阿托伐醌耐药(FCR3)恶性疟原虫的1,4-萘醌-1,2,3-三唑杂交体。我们对酿酒酵母(PDB ID 3CX5)进行了分子模型研究,包括建立一个突变模型来模拟Y279S突变(相当于恶性疟原虫中的Y268S突变),以使观察到的结果合理化。此外,用计算机预测了这些杂交种的药代动力学性质和药物相似性。D12和D13表现出较强的抗疟原虫活性,分别是阿托伐醌的61倍和52倍。分子模型研究表明,通过显示配体和突变模型之间的结合相互作用,在硅和体外活性之间存在很强的相关性。结构-活性关系(SAR)分析确定了与目标结合位点残基有利的结合相互作用所必需的关键结构特征。此外,这些混合物的计算机评价表明,良好的口服生物利用度和高胃肠道吸收,没有严重毒性的显著风险。杂种D12和D13表现出作为主要候选物的潜力,其强大的体外功效得到了硅数据的支持,值得进一步优化和开发。
{"title":"A dual In vitro and In silico approach to evaluate 1,4-naphthoquinone-1,2,3-triazole hybrids against atovaquone-resistant malaria","authors":"Priyanka Agarwal , David D. N’Da , C. Johan van der Westhuizen , Robyn L. van Zyl","doi":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108991","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108991","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Malaria continues to pose a major global health burden affecting millions annually. Despite advancements in treatment, the emergence of drug-resistant <em>Plasmodium</em> strains has undermined current treatment strategies, including atovaquone. Atovaquone is a key mitochondrial inhibitor targeting the cytochrome <em>bc</em><sub>1</sub> (cyt <em>bc</em><sub>1</sub>) complex, with resistance primarily driven by mutation in the cytochrome <em>b</em> gene. Moreover, atovaquone's reliance on a single target site and its pharmacokinetic limitations further underscore the urgent need for alternative drugs. To address these challenges, this dual <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in silico</em> study evaluated ten 1,4-naphthoquinone-1,2,3-triazole hybrids targeting atovaquone-resistant (FCR3) <em>P. falciparum</em>. Molecular modelling studies were performed on <em>Saccharomyces cerevisiae</em> (PDB ID <span><span>3CX5</span><svg><path></path></svg></span>), involving the building of a mutant model to simulate the Y279S mutation (equivalent to Y268S mutation in <em>P. falciparum</em>), in order to rationalise the observed results. Additionally, pharmacokinetic properties and drug-likeness of these hybrids were predicted <em>in silico</em>. Hybrids <strong>D12</strong> and <strong>D13</strong> exhibited strong antiplasmodial activities, 61- and 52-fold, respectively, more than atovaquone. Molecular modelling studies indicated a strong correlation between <em>in silico</em> and <em>in vitro</em> activities by displaying binding interactions between the ligand and the mutant model. Structure-activity relationships (SAR) analysis identified key structural features essential for favourable binding interactions with target binding site residues. Furthermore, <em>in silico</em> evaluations of these hybrids suggested good oral bioavailability and high gastrointestinal absorption, with no significant risk of severe toxicity. Hybrids <strong>D12</strong> and <strong>D13</strong> exhibit potential as lead candidates, with their strong <em>in vitro</em> efficacy well-supported by <em>in silico</em> data, warranting further optimisation and development.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12117,"journal":{"name":"Experimental parasitology","volume":"276 ","pages":"Article 108991"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-07-31","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144768560","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-07-30DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108983
Sunkara Prathyusha , R. Radhika , Bindu Lakshmanan , K. Syamala , Marykutty Thomas , K. Justin Davis , K. Devada
Theileria orientalis, the causative agent of oriental theileriosis is a globally distributed protozoan parasite affecting livestock. Rapid and accurate parasite detection is crucial for effective disease management and evaluating therapeutic interventions. The high prevalence of T. orientalis in Kerala, a south Indian state demanded the development of a sensitive field tool for specific detection. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a rapid and highly sensitive nucleic acid amplification technique conducted under isothermal conditions. In this study, a LAMP assay was developed targeting the major piroplasm surface protein (MPSP) gene of T. orientalis using colourimetric dyes (both hydroxy naphthol blue (HNB) and phenol red) for improved visual detection of amplification. This assay utilised a set of six specifically designed primers, recognizing eight distinct regions on the target gene. Both wet LAMP assays demonstrated the ability to amplify DNA at levels as low as 10−4 ng (0.1 pg), corresponding to a parasitaemia level of 0.0012 % and exhibited higher detection abilities than PCR. The assay also demonstrated high specificity, with no amplification observed for DNA template from other haemoprotozoans. Positive LAMP products were identified by a distinct colour change from violet to blue and pink to yellow for HNB and phenol red dyes, respectively. Results were confirmed using agarose gel electrophoresis, showing characteristic ladder patterns. The LAMP assays detected T. orientalis in 62.8 % of samples, outperforming PCR (60 %) and microscopy (52.8 %). With a sensitivity of 100 %, specificity of 93 %, positive predictive value of 95.54 % and negative predictive value of 100 %, the wet LAMP assay demonstrated diagnostic efficacy for T. orientalis.
东方盲肠菌是一种全球分布的家畜寄生原虫,是东方盲肠菌病的病原体。快速和准确的寄生虫检测对于有效的疾病管理和评估治疗干预措施至关重要。在印度南部喀拉拉邦,东方弓形虫的高流行率要求开发一种敏感的现场检测工具。环介导等温扩增(LAMP)是一种在等温条件下进行的快速、高灵敏度的核酸扩增技术。本研究采用羟基萘酚蓝(HNB)和酚红两种比色染料,建立了一种针对东洋田螺主要螺质表面蛋白(MPSP)基因的LAMP检测方法,以提高检测效果。该试验利用了一组6个专门设计的引物,识别目标基因上的8个不同区域。两种湿式LAMP检测方法都显示出在低至10-4 ng (0.1 pg)的水平下扩增DNA的能力,相当于寄生虫血症水平为0.0012%,并且表现出比PCR更高的检测能力。该检测还显示出高特异性,对其他血原动物的DNA模板没有扩增。在HNB和酚红染料中,LAMP阳性产物的颜色分别由紫色变为蓝色和粉红色变为黄色。琼脂糖凝胶电泳证实了结果,显示出特有的阶梯结构。LAMP法在62.8%的样品中检出东方弓形虫,优于PCR法(60%)和显微镜法(52.8%)。湿法LAMP检测方法的灵敏度为100%,特异度为93%,阳性预测值为95.54%,阴性预测值为100%,具有较好的诊断效果。
{"title":"A novel colourimetric loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay for rapid field-level detection of Theileria orientalis","authors":"Sunkara Prathyusha , R. Radhika , Bindu Lakshmanan , K. Syamala , Marykutty Thomas , K. Justin Davis , K. Devada","doi":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108983","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108983","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Theileria orientalis</em>, the causative agent of oriental theileriosis is a globally distributed protozoan parasite affecting livestock. Rapid and accurate parasite detection is crucial for effective disease management and evaluating therapeutic interventions. The high prevalence of <em>T. orientalis</em> in Kerala, a south Indian state demanded the development of a sensitive field tool for specific detection. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a rapid and highly sensitive nucleic acid amplification technique conducted under isothermal conditions. In this study, a LAMP assay was developed targeting the major piroplasm surface protein <em>(MPSP)</em> gene of <em>T. orientalis</em> using colourimetric dyes (both hydroxy naphthol blue (HNB) and phenol red) for improved visual detection of amplification. This assay utilised a set of six specifically designed primers, recognizing eight distinct regions on the target gene. Both wet LAMP assays demonstrated the ability to amplify DNA at levels as low as 10<sup>−4</sup> ng (0.1 pg), corresponding to a parasitaemia level of 0.0012 % and exhibited higher detection abilities than PCR. The assay also demonstrated high specificity, with no amplification observed for DNA template from other haemoprotozoans. Positive LAMP products were identified by a distinct colour change from violet to blue and pink to yellow for HNB and phenol red dyes, respectively. Results were confirmed using agarose gel electrophoresis, showing characteristic ladder patterns. The LAMP assays detected <em>T. orientalis</em> in 62.8 % of samples, outperforming PCR (60 %) and microscopy (52.8 %). With a sensitivity of 100 %, specificity of 93 %, positive predictive value of 95.54 % and negative predictive value of 100 %, the wet LAMP assay demonstrated diagnostic efficacy for <em>T. orientalis</em>.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12117,"journal":{"name":"Experimental parasitology","volume":"276 ","pages":"Article 108983"},"PeriodicalIF":1.6,"publicationDate":"2025-07-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144764726","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Bisphenol-A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor, disrupts hormonal and chemical signaling within the body, negatively impacting health. One target of this disruption is the immune system. While BPA has been implicated in increased susceptibility to some pathogen infections, its effects on protozoan parasite infections remain understudied. This work evaluated the effect of BPA exposure on experimental Trypanosoma cruzi parasitemia in BALB/c mice.
Parasitemia was evaluated in BALB/c mice by counting parasites in a Neubauer chamber. Additionally, ELISA assays were used to identify the presence of antibodies, cytokine gene expression was analyzed by RT-PCR, and liver marker levels were quantified using enzymatic kinetic methods. Both pre- and post-exposure to BPA increased parasitemia during T. cruzi infection and decreased levels of IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b isotypes. Furthermore, BPA modulated the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in response to infection. In addition, all mice exposed to BPA showed alterations in liver enzymes compared to the control group. These results demonstrate that the immune system during critical periods of T. cruzi infection is highly sensitive to BPA exposure, increasing susceptibility to the parasite.
{"title":"Exposure to Bisphenol-A increases susceptibility to Trypanosoma cruzi infection","authors":"Aracely López-Monteon , Anahí Sosa-Arróniz , Mariana Colorado-Zuñiga , Enrique Méndez-Bolaina , Jesús Torres-Montero , Angel Ramos-Ligonio","doi":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108990","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108990","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Bisphenol-A (BPA), an endocrine disruptor, disrupts hormonal and chemical signaling within the body, negatively impacting health. One target of this disruption is the immune system. While BPA has been implicated in increased susceptibility to some pathogen infections, its effects on protozoan parasite infections remain understudied. This work evaluated the effect of BPA exposure on experimental <em>Trypanosoma cruzi</em> parasitemia in BALB/c mice.</div><div>Parasitemia was evaluated in BALB/c mice by counting parasites in a Neubauer chamber. Additionally, ELISA assays were used to identify the presence of antibodies, cytokine gene expression was analyzed by RT-PCR, and liver marker levels were quantified using enzymatic kinetic methods. Both pre- and post-exposure to BPA increased parasitemia during <em>T. cruzi</em> infection and decreased levels of IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b isotypes. Furthermore, BPA modulated the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines in response to infection. In addition, all mice exposed to BPA showed alterations in liver enzymes compared to the control group. These results demonstrate that the immune system during critical periods of <em>T. cruzi</em> infection is highly sensitive to BPA exposure, increasing susceptibility to the parasite.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12117,"journal":{"name":"Experimental parasitology","volume":"275 ","pages":"Article 108990"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-07-24","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144711395","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study addresses coccidiosis, a prevalent disease causing significant economic losses, and focuses on the EtMIC3 protein due to its critical role in Eimeria tenella pathogenesis. Our goal is to develop innovative therapeutic and preventive strategies leveraging the potential of the EtMIC3 protein.
In this investigation, we evaluate the interaction of the EtMIC3 protein with its receptors, develop inhibitory peptides, and select epitopes from EtMIC3 using immunoinformatic tools. We assess the presentation of these epitopes to immune cells, model a multi-epitope protein, predict the mRNA structure, and evaluate the immune response to the newly designed vaccine.
Docking studies indicated that the predicted peptides exhibited a strong affinity for binding to the EtMIC3 protein, with identified epitopes residing within the antigen-binding groove of their respective MHC alleles. The developed vaccine demonstrated stability, non-toxicity, and non-allergenicity, effectively eliciting responses from both the innate and adaptive immune systems.
These findings suggest that the EtMIC3 protein is a promising target for both the inhibition of E. tenella and vaccine development. However, further validation through experimental and clinical studies is essential to corroborate these computational predictions.
{"title":"Computational design of inhibitory peptides and an mRNA-Based multi-epitope vaccine targeting the MIC3 protein of Eimeria tenella","authors":"Roohollah Fattahi , Ali Shivaee , Maryam Bahraminia , Nazanin Omidi , Behrooz Sadeghi Kalani","doi":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108986","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108986","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study addresses coccidiosis, a prevalent disease causing significant economic losses, and focuses on the EtMIC3 protein due to its critical role in Eimeria <em>tenella</em> pathogenesis. Our goal is to develop innovative therapeutic and preventive strategies leveraging the potential of the EtMIC3 protein.</div><div>In this investigation, we evaluate the interaction of the EtMIC3 protein with its receptors, develop inhibitory peptides, and select epitopes from EtMIC3 using immunoinformatic tools. We assess the presentation of these epitopes to immune cells, model a multi-epitope protein, predict the mRNA structure, and evaluate the immune response to the newly designed vaccine.</div><div>Docking studies indicated that the predicted peptides exhibited a strong affinity for binding to the EtMIC3 protein, with identified epitopes residing within the antigen-binding groove of their respective MHC alleles. The developed vaccine demonstrated stability, non-toxicity, and non-allergenicity, effectively eliciting responses from both the innate and adaptive immune systems.</div><div>These findings suggest that the EtMIC3 protein is a promising target for both the inhibition of <em>E. tenella</em> and vaccine development. However, further validation through experimental and clinical studies is essential to corroborate these computational predictions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12117,"journal":{"name":"Experimental parasitology","volume":"275 ","pages":"Article 108986"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-07-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144625682","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis. The current treatment against toxoplasmosis is based on the combination of sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine, which are toxic and unable to clear the infection. Due to the need for new active drugs against T. gondii, we have described here the effects of Furan derivatives on T. gondii in vitro. They were previously used with relevant activity against Leishmania amazonensis and Trypanosoma cruzi. The anti-Toxoplasma effects of the furan derivatives were evaluated using tachyzoites of T. gondii from RH strain and as host cells the human foreskin fibroblast (HFF) and the epithelial lineage from Macaca mulatta LLC-MK2. High-content screening and other microscopy techniques were employed to analyze the infected cells after incubation in the presence of the compounds tested. The most effective derivative was 3g, presenting a 50 % inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 4.3 μM after 48 h of incubation. The 50 % cytotoxic concentration (CC50) in the host cells was 50 μM after a 72-h treatment. The ultrastructural analysis showed that after treatment the parasites presented cytoplasmic emptying, mitochondrial swelling, and interference with cell division. It was revealed by TUNEL assay that the parasites dyed in part due to an apoptosis-like cell death. These findings suggest that the furan derivative 3g is a potential candidate for further studies in vivo to find alternative drugs to treat T. gondii infections.
{"title":"Furan derivative affects the cell division and mitochondrial integrity of tachyzoites of Toxoplasma gondii","authors":"Juliana de Araujo Portes , Anushree Achari , Jayaraman Vinayagam , Pinaki Bhattacharjee , Sourav Chatterjee , Parasuraman Jaisankar , Wanderley de Souza","doi":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108988","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.exppara.2025.108988","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div><em>Toxoplasma gondii</em> is an obligate intracellular protozoan, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis. The current treatment against toxoplasmosis is based on the combination of sulfadiazine and pyrimethamine, which are toxic and unable to clear the infection. Due to the need for new active drugs against <em>T. gondii</em>, we have described here the effects of Furan derivatives on <em>T. gondii in vitro</em>. They were previously used with relevant activity against <em>Leishmania amazonensis</em> and <em>Trypanosoma cruzi.</em> The <em>anti-Toxoplasma</em> effects of the furan derivatives were evaluated using tachyzoites of <em>T. gondii</em> from RH strain and as host cells the human foreskin fibroblast (HFF) and the epithelial lineage from Macaca mulatta LLC-MK2. High-content screening and other microscopy techniques were employed to analyze the infected cells after incubation in the presence of the compounds tested. The most effective derivative was <strong>3g</strong>, presenting a 50 % inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 4.3 μM after 48 h of incubation. The 50 % cytotoxic concentration (CC50) in the host cells was 50 μM after a 72-h treatment. The ultrastructural analysis showed that after treatment the parasites presented cytoplasmic emptying, mitochondrial swelling, and interference with cell division<strong>.</strong> It was revealed by TUNEL assay that the parasites dyed in part due to an apoptosis-like cell death. These findings suggest that the furan derivative <strong>3g</strong> is a potential candidate for further studies <em>in vivo</em> to find alternative drugs to treat <em>T. gondii</em> infections.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12117,"journal":{"name":"Experimental parasitology","volume":"275 ","pages":"Article 108988"},"PeriodicalIF":1.4,"publicationDate":"2025-07-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144604918","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}