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Parasitology Research Nov 2023The chance of getting colorectal cancer (CRC) is higher in people with chronic ulcerative colitis (UC). The impact of parasitic infections on UC is underappreciated. The...
The chance of getting colorectal cancer (CRC) is higher in people with chronic ulcerative colitis (UC). The impact of parasitic infections on UC is underappreciated. The purpose of this study was to look into the effect of intestinal protozoal infections on the dysplastic changes generated by UC. The research included 152 adult patients with histologically confirmed UC and 152 healthy controls. Fecal samples were examined for the presence of parasites and fecal calprotectin (FC). The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay measured serum anti-p53 antibodies (p53Abs) and metallothioneins (MTs). The advanced oxidation protein products (AOPPs) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were measured by a spectrophotometric method in all subjects. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and IL-6 were also measured. In addition, histopathological and immunohistochemical investigations of intestinal tissue were done. Our results exhibited significant increases in FC and CRP, IL-6, AOPPs, MTs, and p53Abs in ulcerative colitis patients with parasitic infections compared to those without parasites. In contrast, GSH levels showed a significant decrease in the same group compared with other groups. Histopathological and immunohistochemical assessments of intestinal tissue signified severe inflammation and strong expression of PD-L1 in patients with parasitic infections compared to others without parasitic infections. Our research indicated a greater frequency of intestinal protozoa in UC patients with elevated inflammatory and dysplastic biomarker levels. This suggests that these parasites may be involved in the etiology of chronic UC and the associated carcinogenetic process. This is the first report of a link between parasitic infections and dysplastic alterations in UC patients.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Colitis, Ulcerative; Advanced Oxidation Protein Products; Interleukin-6; Antibodies; Biomarkers; Parasitic Diseases; Feces
PubMed: 37710023
DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-07972-7 -
Journal of the European Academy of... Nov 2023The risk of infections among patients with psoriasis undergoing interleukin (IL)-23 inhibitors (IL-23i) and IL-17 inhibitors (IL-17i) is yet to be exhaustively...
BACKGROUND
The risk of infections among patients with psoriasis undergoing interleukin (IL)-23 inhibitors (IL-23i) and IL-17 inhibitors (IL-17i) is yet to be exhaustively determined.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the risk of infectious complications in patients with psoriasis managed by IL-23i and IL-17i with tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) as a comparator.
METHODS
A global cohort study comprised two distinct analyses comparing patients with psoriasis under different therapeutic modalities; (i) new users of IL-23i (n = 5272) versus TNFi (n = 5272) and (ii) new users of IL-17i (n = 15,160) versus TNFi (n = 15,160). Study groups were compared regarding the risk of 26 different infections. Propensity score matching was conducted to optimize between-group comparability.
RESULTS
Patients under IL-23i had a lower risk of otitis media (HR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.44-0.97), encephalitis (HR, 0.18; 95% CI, 0.04-0.78), herpes zoster (HZ; HR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.41-0.82), hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation (HR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.12-0.47), cytomegalovirus (HR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.07-0.86), influenza (HR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.38-0.71) and parasitic diseases (HR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.64-0.95). IL-17i was associated with a decreased risk of pneumonia (HR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.68-0.85), septicaemia (HR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.72-0.97), upper respiratory tract infection (HR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.77-0.92), HZ (HR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.67-0.92), HBV (HR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.46-0.76) and hepatitis C virus (HR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.57-0.88) reactivation, cytomegalovirus (HR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.36-0.93), Epstein-Barr virus (HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.19-0.75), influenza (HR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.61-0.81) and parasitic diseases (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.72-0.88).
CONCLUSION
Compared with TNFi, IL-23i and IL-17i are associated with decreased risk of several infectious diseases. These agents might be preferred in patients with susceptibility to infections.
Topics: Humans; Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors; Interleukin-17; Cohort Studies; Interleukin-23; Interleukin Inhibitors; Influenza, Human; Epstein-Barr Virus Infections; Herpesvirus 4, Human; Psoriasis; Parasitic Diseases; Antirheumatic Agents
PubMed: 37466275
DOI: 10.1111/jdv.19328 -
Infectious Diseases of Poverty Oct 2023Clonorchis sinensis, one of the most important food-borne zoonotic trematodes, remains prevalent in China. Understanding its infection status in animals is crucial for... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
Clonorchis sinensis, one of the most important food-borne zoonotic trematodes, remains prevalent in China. Understanding its infection status in animals is crucial for controlling human clonorchiasis. Here we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to focus on the spatio-temporal disparities of C. sinensis infection in animals in China.
METHODS
Data on C. sinensis prevalence in snails, the second intermediate hosts, or animal reservoirs in China were extracted from electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Chinese Wanfang database, CNKI, VIP, and China Biomedical Literature database. A random-effects meta-analysis model was utilized to estimate the pooled prevalence in each of the above animal hosts. Subgroup analysis and multivariable meta-regression were performed to explore potential sources of heterogeneity across studies and compare the temporal disparity of infection rates between high and low epidemic areas. Scatter plots were used to depict the biogeographical characteristics of regions reporting C. sinensis infection in animals.
RESULTS
The overall pooled prevalence of C. sinensis was 0.9% (95% CI: 0.6-1.2%) in snails, 14.2% (12.7-15.7%) in the second intermediate host, and 14.3% (11.4-17.6%) in animal reservoirs. Prevalence in low epidemic areas (with human prevalence < 1%) decreased from 0.6% (0.2-1.2%) before 1990 to 0.0% (0.0-3.6%) after 2010 in snails (P = 0.0499), from 20.3% (15.6-25.3%) to 8.8% (5.6-12.6%) in the second intermediate hosts (P = 0.0002), and from 18.3% (12.7-24.7%) to 4.7% (1.0-10.4%) in animal reservoirs. However, no similar decrease in prevalence was observed in high epidemic areas (with human prevalence ≥ 1.0%). C. sinensis infections were predominantly reported in areas with altitudes below 2346 m and annual cumulative precipitation above 345 mm and were mostly concentrated in eastern China.
CONCLUSIONS
There are spatio-temporal disparities in the animal infections of C. sinensis in different areas of China. Animal infections are primarily concentrated in regions with low altitude and high precipitation. The results suggest that implementing One Health-based comprehensive measures targeting both humans and animals, especially in high epidemic areas, is essential for successful eradication of C. sinensis in China.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Clonorchiasis; Clonorchis sinensis; China; Prevalence; Snails
PubMed: 37845775
DOI: 10.1186/s40249-023-01146-4 -
International Reviews of Immunology 2024Chemokines belong to the group of small proteins within the cytokine family having strong chemo-attractant properties. In most cases, the strong immuno-modulatory role... (Review)
Review
Chemokines belong to the group of small proteins within the cytokine family having strong chemo-attractant properties. In most cases, the strong immuno-modulatory role of chemokines is crucial for generating the immune response against pathogens in various protozoan diseases. In this review, we have given a brief update on the classification, characterization, homeostasis, transcellular migration, and immuno-modulatory role of chemokines. Here we will evaluate the potential role of chemokines and their regulation in various protozoan diseases. There is a significant direct relationship between parasitic infection and the recruitment of effector cells of the immune response. Chemokines play an indispensable role in mediating several defense mechanisms against infection, such as leukocyte recruitment and the generation of innate and cell-mediated immunity that aids in controlling/eliminating the pathogen. This process is controlled by the chemotactic movement of chemokines induced as a primary host immune response. We have also addressed that chemokine expressions during infection are time-dependent and orchestrated in a systematic pattern that ultimately assists in generating a protective immune response. Taken together, this review provides a systematic understanding of the complexity of chemokines profiles during protozoan disease conditions and the rationale of targeting chemokines for the development of therapeutic strategies.
Topics: Humans; Chemokines; Animals; Protozoan Infections; Inflammation; Immunity, Innate; Immunity, Cellular
PubMed: 37980574
DOI: 10.1080/08830185.2023.2281566 -
International Journal of Pharmaceutical... 2024From ancient times to the present, parasites and the diseases they transmit have jeopardized the health and wellbeing of working and companion canines worldwide. Many... (Review)
Review
From ancient times to the present, parasites and the diseases they transmit have jeopardized the health and wellbeing of working and companion canines worldwide. Many common pests that afflict dogs can be classified as ectoparasites (e.g., fleas, ticks, lice), which serve as vectors of pathogens transmitted as the organism feeds or defecates; or endoparasites (e. g, helminths, protozoa), which can cause slowly progressive subclinical canine diseases as well as acute illnesses associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Safe, effective antiparasitic prophylaxis in dogs remains a topic of major interest to both veterinarians and their clients, especially with respect to the prevention of canine heartworm infection and flea or tick infestation. Many compounders, especially those whose pharmacy includes a retail component, counsel veterinarians and pet owners about preparations and commercially available medications that prevent or treat parasitic infestations and provide assistance in obtaining those therapies. To support such efforts, this article provides information about single agents and combination-drug products prophylactic against common canine parasites, emerging resistance to those medications, and the toxic effects that such treatments can engender in some canine breeds.
Topics: Animals; Dogs; Dog Diseases; Tick Infestations; Dirofilariasis; Flea Infestations; Drug Combinations; Antiparasitic Agents
PubMed: 38768502
DOI: No ID Found -
Acta Parasitologica Mar 2024Ascariasis caused by the helminth Ascaris suum is the most common parasitosis of swine worldwide and it may involve all age categories of pigs. The present study reports...
PURPOSE
Ascariasis caused by the helminth Ascaris suum is the most common parasitosis of swine worldwide and it may involve all age categories of pigs. The present study reports an unusual localization of A. suum worms in the biliary system of a piglet slaughtered for human consumption.
METHODS
The liver was subjected to ultrasound scan and pathological examination. The isolated worms were morphologically examined and the DNA was extracted for the molecular identification of the species involved.
RESULTS
A total of 43 preadult nematodes were found within the gallbladder and the bile ducts. Parasites were morphologically identified as belonging to the genus Ascaris and molecularly as A. suum. At gross examination, the liver was moderately enlarged, with the bile ducts severely dilated. A chronic inflammatory infiltrate was noted, often centered around ectatic bile ducts (up to 5 mm in diameter), lined by hyperplastic epithelium and filled with sections of nematodes. The worm sections showed smooth cuticle, coelomyarian musculature, and an intestinal tract lined by columnar, uninucleated cells within a pseudocoelom. The ex vivo ultrasonographic examination of the liver allowed the visualization of several nematodes in the bile duct lumen and could be suggested for in vivo diagnosis. Unfortunately, the absence of the intestine did not allow to define the pathogenesis of the infection.
CONCLUSION
Although, given the unusual nature of this finding, it is difficult to identify predisposing factors for this A. suum localization, it suggests that ascariasis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pigs with hepatobiliary disease.
Topics: Animals; Ascariasis; Swine; Swine Diseases; Ascaris suum; Liver; Ultrasonography; Liver Diseases, Parasitic; Gallbladder; Bile Ducts
PubMed: 38424402
DOI: 10.1007/s11686-024-00813-2 -
The Journal of Parasitology Feb 2024Dogs are common in Tonga, where they exist in a close relationship with humans as pets and guard dogs and often are free-roaming due to limited property fencing and the...
Dogs are common in Tonga, where they exist in a close relationship with humans as pets and guard dogs and often are free-roaming due to limited property fencing and the need to scavenge for food. Little is known about the health status of these dogs and the type and level of pathogens carried by them. In this study, blood and fecal samples were analyzed to identify the presence of endoparasites and determine packed cell volume (PCV) values for dogs in Tonga. The current data deficit in this area made it necessary to develop a methodology and collect preliminary data to assist with future research in Tonga. Fecal analysis revealed hookworm in 73% of dogs, primarily those 4-12 mo old. Hematologic evaluation revealed low to borderline low PCV in 87% of dogs. The zoonotic nature of some of the pathogens identified poses a public health risk, with a particular risk for children.
Topics: Child; Animals; Dogs; Humans; Ancylostomatoidea; Tonga; Dog Diseases; Public Health; Feces; Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic
PubMed: 38348968
DOI: 10.1645/23-5 -
Current Drug Delivery 2024Despite the technological advancement in the era of personalized medicine and therapeutics development, infectious parasitic causative agents remain one of the most... (Review)
Review
Despite the technological advancement in the era of personalized medicine and therapeutics development, infectious parasitic causative agents remain one of the most challenging areas of research and development. The disadvantages of conventional parasitic prevention and control are the emergence of multiple drug resistance as well as the non-specific targeting of intracellular parasites, which results in high dose concentration needs and subsequently intolerable cytotoxicity. Nanotechnology has attracted extensive interest to reduce medication therapy adverse effects including poor bioavailability and drug selectivity. Numerous nanomaterials-based delivery systems have previously been shown in animal models to be effective in the treatment of various parasitic infections. This review discusses a variety of nanomaterials-based antiparasitic procedures and techniques as well as the processes that allow them to be targeted to different parasitic infections. This review focuses on the key prerequisites for creating novel nanotechnology-based carriers as a potential option in parasite management, specifically in the context of human-related pathogenic parasitic agents.
Topics: Humans; Nanostructures; Animals; Antiparasitic Agents; Parasitic Diseases; Drug Delivery Systems; Drug Carriers
PubMed: 36815647
DOI: 10.2174/1567201820666230223085403 -
Vector Borne and Zoonotic Diseases... Sep 2023Congenital transmission (CT) of in dogs has not been clearly demonstrated, even though dogs are important reservoirs of this agent. Seventeen late pregnant dogs...
Congenital transmission (CT) of in dogs has not been clearly demonstrated, even though dogs are important reservoirs of this agent. Seventeen late pregnant dogs seropositive for were selected, and a total of 84 fetuses were obtained. Blood and heart tissues from the fetuses and dams, and placental tissue from dam were collected. All tissues were analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for DNA (DNA) and inflammatory infiltrate and pathology by histological examination. CT was determined when physical, histological, or molecular evidence of was detected in blood or tissues of the fetuses. A general transmission frequency of 59% was found, and 0.20 ± 0.24 of fetuses per litter were infected. Dams that were qPCR positive for DNA in cardiac tissue or blood displayed a transmission frequency of 100% and 67%, respectively. The highest parasite burden was noted in dams that were positive for DNA in both blood (82E-01 ± 1.54E-01) and cardiac (5.28E+03 ± 8.85E+03) tissues. In fetuses, higher parasitic burden in blood and cardiac tissue was found in those carried by dams that were seropositive and qPCR positive for DNA in cardiac tissue and blood. No amastigote nests were recorded in the cardiac tissue of fetuses in the histopathological studies, but typical lesions of infection were identified in all fetuses where CT occurred. CT of occurred at a high frequency in naturally infected pregnant dogs from the endemic areas.
Topics: Animals; Dogs; Female; Pregnancy; Trypanosoma cruzi; Placenta; Chagas Disease; Insect Vectors; Dog Diseases
PubMed: 37339451
DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2022.0086 -
Bulletin of the World Health... Aug 2023Human African trypanosomiasis is a life-threatening parasitic infection endemic to sub-Saharan Africa. Around 95% of cases are due to , found in western and central...
Human African trypanosomiasis is a life-threatening parasitic infection endemic to sub-Saharan Africa. Around 95% of cases are due to , found in western and central Africa. Clinical signs and symptoms are nonspecific, current diagnostic tests are not sufficiently accurate, and parasitological confirmation of infection requires microscopic examination of body fluids and specialized techniques for concentrating parasites. Moreover, current treatment is not recommended on the basis of suspicion alone because it is not sufficiently safe. The availability of a simple and accurate diagnostic test to identify individuals harbouring parasites would widen treatment and help decrease disease prevalence. A subcommittee of the World Health Organization's Neglected Tropical Diseases Diagnostics Technical Advisory Group has developed a target product profile for a diagnostic tool to identify infection. This tool should have a high sensitivity for detecting but be simple enough to use in rural Africa. Ideally, the tool could be applied by any minimally trained individual in an unsophisticated peripheral health facility, or a mobile team in a village with little infrastructure. The test should be able to function under hot and humid conditions. Basic training should take under 2 hours and the test should involve fewer than five steps. There should be no need for instrumentation or precision liquid handling. The test should yield a qualitative result in under 20 minutes that can be easily observed, and one test should be sufficient for determining treatment. A unit cost below 1 United States dollar (US$) would enable mass screening.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Trypanosoma brucei gambiense; Trypanosomiasis, African; Africa; Body Fluids; Diagnostic Tests, Routine
PubMed: 37529027
DOI: 10.2471/BLT.23.290172