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Infectious Diseases of Poverty Nov 2020With the promotion of national control programs on parasitic and tropical diseases in China, the National Institute of Parasitic Diseases (NIPD), Chinese Center for...
BACKGROUND
With the promotion of national control programs on parasitic and tropical diseases in China, the National Institute of Parasitic Diseases (NIPD), Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention has gained significant experience in the global health arena through international cooperation over the last seven decades allowing a multilateral impact in the elimination of major endemic diseases.
METHODS
The achievements of NIPD since 1950 has been analyzed with emphasis on the various stages that started with research and control of the endemic parasitic and other tropical diseases at the national level and progressed via international cooperation into a global presence.
RESULTS
The major achievements contributed by NIPD consist of (i) improving technical capability; (ii) promoting control and elimination of parasitic and tropical diseases; (iii) participating in global health governance and cooperation; and (iv) developing a cooperation model for technical assistance and global public health development. It is expected that NIPD's experience of international cooperation will be essential for the dissemination of China's successful experience in global health governance, emergency response and development, with focus on malaria and neglected tropical diseases such as schistosomiasis, soil-borne and food-borne helminthiases and echinococcosis.
CONCLUSIONS
NIPD's new tasks will not only continue to promote national control of endemic parasitic infections and disease elimination programs in China, but also play a leading role in global health and disease elimination programs in the future.
Topics: Academies and Institutes; China; Disease Eradication; Global Health; Government Agencies; Humans; International Cooperation; Parasitic Diseases; Public Health; Tropical Medicine
PubMed: 33256842
DOI: 10.1186/s40249-020-00783-3 -
Journal of Clinical Microbiology Nov 2022Advances in laboratory techniques have revolutionized parasitology diagnostics over the past several decades. Widespread implementation of rapid antigen detection tests...
Advances in laboratory techniques have revolutionized parasitology diagnostics over the past several decades. Widespread implementation of rapid antigen detection tests has greatly expanded access to tests for global parasitic threats such as malaria, while next-generation amplification and sequencing methods allow for sensitive and specific detection of human and animal parasites in complex specimen matrices. Recently, the introduction of multiplex panels for human gastrointestinal infections has enhanced the identification of common intestinal protozoa in feces along with bacterial and viral pathogens. Despite the benefits provided by novel diagnostics, increased reliance on nonmicroscopy-based methods has contributed to the progressive, widespread loss of morphology expertise for parasite identification. Loss of microscopy and morphology skills has the potential to negatively impact patient care, public health, and epidemiology. Molecular- and antigen-based diagnostics are not available for all parasites and may not be suitable for all specimen types and clinical settings. Furthermore, inadequate morphology experience may lead to missed and inaccurate diagnoses and erroneous descriptions of new human parasitic diseases. This commentary highlights the need to maintain expert microscopy and morphological parasitology diagnostic skills within the medical and scientific community. We proposed that light microscopy remains an important part of training and practice in the diagnosis of parasitic diseases and that efforts should be made to train the next generation of morphological parasitologists before the requisite knowledge, skills, and capacity for this complex and important mode of diagnosis are lost. In summary, the widespread, progressive loss of morphology expertise for parasite identification negatively impacts patient care, public health, and epidemiology.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Parasitic Diseases; Parasites; Microscopy; Feces; Bacteria
PubMed: 36314793
DOI: 10.1128/jcm.00986-22 -
Cells Nov 2023Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) constitute a group of diseases that generally develop in tropical or subtropical climatic conditions and are related to poverty.... (Review)
Review
Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) constitute a group of diseases that generally develop in tropical or subtropical climatic conditions and are related to poverty. Within the spectrum of NTDs, diseases caused by protozoa such as malaria, Chagas disease, and leishmaniasis exhibit elevated mortality rates, thereby constituting a substantial public health concern. Beyond their protozoan etiology, these NTDs share other similarities, such as the challenge of control and the lack of affordable, safe, and effective drugs. In view of the above, the need to explore novel diagnostic predictors and therapeutic targets for the treatment of these parasitic diseases is evident. In this context, galectins are attractive because they are a set of lectins bound to β-galactosides that play key roles in a variety of cellular processes, including host-parasite interaction such as adhesion and entry of parasites into the host cells, and participate in antiparasitic immunity in either a stimulatory or inhibitory manner, especially the galectins-1, -2, -3, and -9. These functions bestow upon galectins significant therapeutic prospects in the context of managing and diagnosing NTDs. Thus, the present review aims to elucidate the potential role of galectins in the diagnosis and treatment of malaria, leishmaniasis, and Chagas disease.
Topics: Animals; Parasites; Galectins; Parasitic Diseases; Leishmaniasis; Chagas Disease; Malaria
PubMed: 38067100
DOI: 10.3390/cells12232671 -
Trends in Parasitology Aug 2020Reptiles are reservoirs of a wide range of pathogens, including many protozoa, helminths, pentastomids, and arthropod parasitic species, some of which may be of public... (Review)
Review
Reptiles are reservoirs of a wide range of pathogens, including many protozoa, helminths, pentastomids, and arthropod parasitic species, some of which may be of public health concern. In this review we discuss the zoonotic risks associated with human-reptile interactions. Increased urbanization and introduction of exotic species of reptile may act as drivers for the transmission of zoonotic parasites through the environment. In addition, being a part of human diet, reptiles can be a source of life-threatening parasitoses, such as pentastomiasis or sparganosis. Finally, reptiles kept as pets may represent a risk to owners given the possibility of parasites transmitted by direct contact or fecal contamination. Awareness of reptile-borne zoonotic parasitoses is important to advocate control, prevention, and surveillance of these neglected diseases.
Topics: Animals; Food Parasitology; Humans; Parasites; Parasitic Diseases; Pets; Reptiles; Zoonoses
PubMed: 32448703
DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2020.04.014 -
Advances in Parasitology 2020Being a zoonotic parasitic disease, schistosomiasis was widely spread in 12 provinces of Southern China in the 1950s, severly harming human health and hindering economic... (Review)
Review
Being a zoonotic parasitic disease, schistosomiasis was widely spread in 12 provinces of Southern China in the 1950s, severly harming human health and hindering economic development. The National Institute of Parasitic Diseases at the Chinese Center for Diseases Control and Prevention, and Chinese Center for Tropical Diseases Research (NIPD-CTDR), as the only professional institution focussing on parasitic diseases at the national level, has played an important role in schistosomiasis control in the country. In this article, we look back at the changes of schistosomiasis endemicity and the contribution of NIPD-CTDR to the national schistosomiasis control programme. We review NIPD-CTDR's activities, including field investigations, design of control strategies and measures, development of diagnostics and drugs, surveillance-response of endemic situation, and monitoring & evaluation of the programme. The NIPD-CTDR has mastered the transmission status of schistosomiasis, mapped the snail distribution, and explored strategies and measures suitable for different types of endemic areas in China. With a good understanding of the life cycle of Schistosoma japonicum and transmission patterns of the disease, advanced research carried out in the NIPD-CTDR based on genomics and modern technology has made it possible to explore highly efficient and soft therapeutic drugs and molluscicides, making it possible to develop new diagnostic tools and produce vaccine candidates. In the field, epidemiological studies, updated strategies and targeted intervention measures developed by scientists from the NIPD-CTDR have contributed significantly to the national schistosomiasis control programme. This all adds up to a strong foundation for eliminating schistosomiasis in China in the near future, and recommendations have been put forward how to reach this goal.
Topics: Academies and Institutes; Animals; Cattle; China; Disease Eradication; Drug Development; Endemic Diseases; Government Programs; Humans; Molluscacides; National Health Programs; Schistosomiasis japonica; Vaccination
PubMed: 32563322
DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2020.04.002 -
PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases Aug 2021Protozoan parasites are responsible for severe disease and suffering in humans worldwide. Apart from disease transmission via insect vectors and contaminated soil, food,... (Review)
Review
Protozoan parasites are responsible for severe disease and suffering in humans worldwide. Apart from disease transmission via insect vectors and contaminated soil, food, or water, transmission may occur congenitally or by way of blood transfusion and organ transplantation. Several recent outbreaks associated with fresh produce and potable water emphasize the need for vigilance and monitoring of protozoan parasites that cause severe disease in humans globally. Apart from the tropical parasite Plasmodium spp., other protozoa causing debilitating and fatal diseases such as Trypanosoma spp. and Naegleria fowleri need to be studied in more detail. Climate change and socioeconomic issues such as migration continue to be major drivers for the spread of these neglected tropical diseases beyond endemic zones. Due to the complex life cycles of protozoa involving multiple hosts, vectors, and stringent growth conditions, studying these parasites has been challenging. While in vivo models may provide insights into host-parasite interaction, the ethical aspects of laboratory animal use and the challenge of ready availability of parasite life stages underline the need for in vitro models as valid alternatives for culturing and maintaining protozoan parasites. To our knowledge, this review is the first of its kind to highlight available in vitro models for protozoa causing highly infectious diseases. In recent years, several research efforts using new technologies such as 3D organoid and spheroid systems for protozoan parasites have been introduced that provide valuable tools to advance complex culturing models and offer new opportunities toward the advancement of parasite in vitro studies. In vitro models aid scientists and healthcare providers in gaining insights into parasite infection biology, ultimately enabling the use of novel strategies for preventing and treating these diseases.
Topics: Animals; Host-Parasite Interactions; Humans; Life Cycle Stages; Parasitic Diseases; Parasitology; Plasmodium; Trypanosoma
PubMed: 34437538
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009668 -
Revista Medica de Chile Feb 2022Neurocysticercosis is the most prevalent parasitic disease of the central nervous system in Chile, where sporadic cases are reported, without information about the...
BACKGROUND
Neurocysticercosis is the most prevalent parasitic disease of the central nervous system in Chile, where sporadic cases are reported, without information about the epidemiology or distribution of the disease.
AIM
To identify the main risk zones for cysticercosis in Chile.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
Analysis of hospital discharge databases between 2002 and 2019, available at the website of the Chilean Ministry of Health. Cases with B69 code of the tenth international classification of diseases were identified.
RESULTS
In the study period, there were 1752 discharges with the diagnoses of neurocysticercosis, ocular cysticercosis and cysticercosis of other sites. The ages of patients ranged from 0 to 89 years with a clustering between 30 and 59 years. Sixty two percent were males. The zone between the regions of Maule and Araucania concentrated 82% of cases.
CONCLUSIONS
We identified the zone with the greatest concentration of cysticercosis in Chile, where preventive strategies should eventually be directed.
Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Central Nervous System; Child; Child, Preschool; Chile; Cysticercosis; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Male; Middle Aged; Neurocysticercosis; Patient Discharge; Young Adult
PubMed: 36156649
DOI: 10.4067/S0034-98872022000200222 -
Polish Journal of Veterinary Sciences Mar 2023Bovine tuberculosis (BTB) is a dangerous zoonosis which presents a serious problem for endangered species such as European bison ( Bison bonasus). Little is known about... (Review)
Review
Bovine tuberculosis (BTB) is a dangerous zoonosis which presents a serious problem for endangered species such as European bison ( Bison bonasus). Little is known about the influence of parasitic co-infections on the course and diagnosis of tuberculosis in animals. The best known co-infection in cattle is Fasciola hepatica and Mycobacterium bovis. The aim of this study was to review the most recent literature regarding tuberculosis and parasite co-infection in ungulates and relate the results to European bison. Our findings indicate that any comprehensive diagnosis of BTB should include parasitological monitoring, and the possible impact of such invasions on cellular response-based tuberculosis tests should be taken into account. The diagnosis of BTB is complex, as is its pathogenesis, and parasitic infestations can have a significant impact on both. This should be taken into account during further research and monitoring of tuberculosis in European bison.
Topics: Cattle; Animals; Bison; Coinfection; Tuberculosis; Mycobacterium bovis; Tuberculosis, Bovine; Parasitic Diseases; Cattle Diseases
PubMed: 36961266
DOI: 10.24425/pjvs.2023.145018 -
Talanta Nov 2021A group of infectious and parasitic diseases with prevalence in tropical and subtropical regions of the planet, especially in places with difficult access, internal... (Review)
Review
A group of infectious and parasitic diseases with prevalence in tropical and subtropical regions of the planet, especially in places with difficult access, internal conflicts, poverty, and low visibility from the government and health agencies are classified as neglected tropical diseases. While some well-intentioned isolated groups are making the difference on a global scale, the number of new cases and deaths is still alarming. The development and employment of low-cost, miniaturized, and easy-to-use devices as biosensors could be the key to fast diagnosis in such areas leading to a better treatment to further eradication of such diseases. Therefore, this review contains useful information regarding the development of such devices in the past ten years (2010-2020). Guided by the updated list from the World Health Organization, the work evaluated the new trends in the biosensor field applied to the early detection of neglected tropical diseases, the efficiencies of the devices compared to the traditional techniques, and the applicability on-site for local distribution. So, we focus on Malaria, Chagas, Leishmaniasis, Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya, Schistosomiasis, Leprosy, Human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), Lymphatic filariasis, and Rabies. Few papers were found concerning such diseases and there is no available commercial device in the market. The works contain information regarding the development of point-of-care devices, but there are only at proof of concepts stage so far. Details of electrode modification and construction of electrochemical biosensors were summarized in Tables. The demand for the eradication of neglected tropical diseases is increasing. The use of biosensors is pivotal for the cause, but appliable devices are scarce. The information present in this review can be useful for further development of biosensors in the hope of helping the world combat these deadly diseases.
Topics: Biosensing Techniques; Humans; Leprosy; Malaria; Neglected Diseases; Parasitic Diseases; Zika Virus; Zika Virus Infection
PubMed: 34364426
DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2021.122617 -
Frontiers in Cellular and Infection... 2019Parasitic diseases cause significant morbidity and mortality in the developing and underdeveloped countries. No efficacious vaccines are available against most parasitic... (Review)
Review
Parasitic diseases cause significant morbidity and mortality in the developing and underdeveloped countries. No efficacious vaccines are available against most parasitic diseases and there is a critical need for developing novel vaccine strategies for care. IL-21 is a pleiotropic cytokine whose functions in protection and immunopathology during parasitic diseases have been explored in limited ways. IL-21 and its cognate receptor, IL-21R, are highly expressed in parasitized organs of infected humans as well in murine models of the human parasitic diseases. Prior studies have indicated the ability of the IL-21/IL-21R signaling axis to regulate the effector functions (e.g., cytokine production) of T cell subsets by enhancing the expression of T-bet and STAT4 in human T cells, resulting in an augmented production of IFN-γ. Mice deficient for either IL-21 () or IL-21R () showed significantly reduced inflammatory responses following parasitic infections as compared with their WT counterparts. Targeting the IL-21/IL-21R signaling axis may provide a novel approach for the development of new therapeutic agents for the prevention of parasite-induced immunopathology and tissue destruction.
Topics: Animals; Disease Susceptibility; Gene Expression Regulation; Humans; Immunity; Inflammation; Interleukin-21 Receptor alpha Subunit; Interleukins; Parasitic Diseases; Signal Transduction
PubMed: 31867283
DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2019.00401