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Parasites, Hosts and Diseases Feb 2024Ancylostoma ceylanicum is a zoonotic soil-derived nematode that parasitizes the intestines of humans and animals (dogs and cats), leading to malnutrition and...
Ancylostoma ceylanicum is a zoonotic soil-derived nematode that parasitizes the intestines of humans and animals (dogs and cats), leading to malnutrition and iron-deficiency anemia. Helminth parasites secrete calreticulin (CRT), which regulates or blocks the host's immune response. However, no data on A. ceylanicum calreticulin (Ace-CRT) are available. We investigated the biological function of recombinant Ace-CRT (rAce-CRT). rAce-CRT showed reliable antigenicity and stimulated the proliferation of mouse splenocytes and canine peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Quantitative reverse-transcription PCR assays revealed that rAce-CRT primarily promoted the expression of T helper 2 cytokines, particularly IL-13, in canine peripheral blood lymphocytes. rAce-CRT inhibited complement-mediated sheep erythrocyte hemolysis in vitro. Our findings indicate that Ace-CRT plays an immunomodulatory role and may be a promising candidate molecule for a hookworm vaccine.
Topics: Humans; Animals; Dogs; Cats; Mice; Sheep; Ancylostoma; Calreticulin; Cat Diseases; Leukocytes, Mononuclear; Dog Diseases; Immunity
PubMed: 38443772
DOI: 10.3347/PHD.23108 -
Parasitology Research Mar 2024Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections inflict disability worldwide, especially in the poorest communities. Current therapeutic options against STHs show limited...
Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections inflict disability worldwide, especially in the poorest communities. Current therapeutic options against STHs show limited efficacy, particularly against Trichuris trichiura. The empirical management of patients coming from high-prevalence areas has been suggested for non-endemic areas. This study aimed to describe the management of STH infections in a non-endemic setting using an individualised approach. We performed a retrospective, descriptive study of all patients up to 16 years of age with STH infections attended at an international health unit in a non-endemic area (2014-2018), including all T. trichiura, Necator americanus, Ancylostoma duodenale, and Ascaris lumbricoides infections diagnosed using a formol-ether concentration technique and direct visualisation. Patients were treated according to current international guidelines. Sixty-one stool samples from 48 patients testing positive for STHs were collected, with 96% (46/48) reporting a previous long-term stay in endemic areas. Cure rates with 3-day benzimidazole regimens were 72% for T. trichiura, 40% for hookworms, and 83% for A. lumbricoides. The results were not influenced by any reinfection risk due to the study being performed in a non-endemic area. Patients coming from STH-endemic areas should be evaluated with appropriate diagnostic tools and followed up until cure control results. Cure rates in our cohort were moderate to low, similar to those published in studies in endemic areas. The efficacy of current treatment options is insufficient to recommend a specific empirical approach in high-income countries' healthcare systems.
Topics: Humans; Child; Animals; Global Health; Retrospective Studies; Helminthiasis; Ascariasis; Ancylostoma
PubMed: 38441714
DOI: 10.1007/s00436-024-08171-8 -
Journal of Parasitic Diseases :... Mar 2024American cockroach () has been implicated as mechanical vector of parasites of humans and animals. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and determine the prevalence...
American cockroach () has been implicated as mechanical vector of parasites of humans and animals. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and determine the prevalence of human intestinal parasites associated with the body surface and gut of . A total of 221 cockroaches which include 104 males and 117 females were collected from household kitchen, toilet area and canteen after which they were brought to laboratory for study. The body surface of the cockroach was washed with 5 ml normal saline solution to remove external parasites on the body surface for examination and later rinsed with 70% alcohol and dried before dissecting. The cockroach was dissected to examine internal parasites. Eleven parasites were recovered and identified, these include (51.58%), (48.42%) (52.49%), (.10%), spp (14.93%), (31.67%), spp (34.84%), (53.39%), and (66.23%) (66.52%). The parasites were recorded both on the body surface and gut of the cockroach. There is no significant difference ( > 0.05) between parasites infection rate comparing both sexes; though, female cockroach having a higher infection rate (91.45%) than male (81.5%). Cockroach collected from toilets carried more parasites (96.34%) as compared to those from restaurants/canteen (89.71%) and household kitchens (81.69%). All parasites encountered were pathogenic to human and animals. This study has revealed that can act as mechanical vector by transporting and transmitting these parasites easily to man and animal. Good sanitary practices, reinforcement of worms' eradication programs, and the fight against these insects remain a necessity to contain the menace of parasites burden and cockroach control.
PubMed: 38440767
DOI: 10.1007/s12639-024-01645-7 -
Journal of Parasitic Diseases :... Mar 2024Infection with intestinal parasites is widespread worldwide, especially in developing countries. Intestinal parasites are a major cause of diarrhea in both...
Infection with intestinal parasites is widespread worldwide, especially in developing countries. Intestinal parasites are a major cause of diarrhea in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised people, but cancer patients are more prone to infection. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy at Nepal Cancer Hospital and Research Center (NCHRC) in Nepal. One hundred individuals were selected with a convenience sampling strategy. The stool samples were examined by direct wet mount, sedimentation, flotation, and acid-fast methods to determine the prevalence and intensity of IPIs in this population. The overall prevalence of IPIs was 8% (4% protozoan and 4% helminths). Altogether, three species of intestinal parasites were detected. (4%) was predominant followed by (2%) and (2%). Multivariable regression analysis revealed that "not using soap for handwashing" was significantly associated with the prevalence of overall IPIs. None of the other evaluated risk factors indicated an association with IPIs infection. In this study, the IPIs were attributable to individual hygiene behaviors, but not to nutritional status or socio-demographic characteristics. Yet, significant numbers of males reported anemia and undernutrition in this study population.
PubMed: 38440754
DOI: 10.1007/s12639-023-01638-y -
Parasites & Vectors Mar 2024Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) infect more than a quarter of the world's human population. In the absence of vaccines for most animal and human gastrointestinal...
Phytochemical analysis and anthelmintic activity of Combretum mucronatum leaf extract against infective larvae of soil-transmitted helminths including ruminant gastrointestinal nematodes.
BACKGROUND
Soil-transmitted helminths (STH) infect more than a quarter of the world's human population. In the absence of vaccines for most animal and human gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), treatment of infections primarily relies on anthelmintic drugs, while resistance is a growing threat. Therefore, there is a need to find alternatives to current anthelmintic drugs, especially those with novel modes of action. The present work aimed to study the composition and anthelmintic activity of Combretum mucronatum leaf extract (CMLE) by phytochemical analysis and larval migration inhibition assays, respectively.
METHODS
Combretum mucronatum leaves were defatted with petroleum ether and the residue was extracted by ethanol/water (1/1) followed by freeze-drying. The proanthocyanidins and flavonoids were characterized by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UPLC). To evaluate the inhibitory activity of this extract, larval migration assays with STH and GIN were performed. For this purpose, infective larvae of the helminths were, if necessary, exsheathed (Ancylostoma caninum, GIN) and incubated with different concentrations of CMLE.
RESULTS
CMLE was found to be rich in flavonoids and proanthocyanidins; catechin and epicatechin were therefore quantified for standardization of the extract. Data indicate that CMLE had a significant effect on larval migration. The effect was dose-dependent and higher concentrations (1000 µg/mL) exerted significantly higher larvicidal effect (P < 0.001) compared with the negative control (1% dimethyl sulfoxide, DMSO) and lower concentrations (≤ 100 µg/ml). Infective larvae of Ascaris suum [half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC) = 5.5 µg/mL], Trichuris suis (IC = 7.4 µg/mL), and A. caninum (IC = 18.9 µg/mL) were more sensitive to CMLE than that of Toxocara canis (IC = 310.0 µg/mL), while infective larvae of Toxocara cati were largely unaffected (IC > 1000 µg/mL). Likewise, CMLE was active against most infective larvae of soil-transmitted ruminant GIN, except for Cooperia punctata. Trichostrongylus colubriformis was most sensitive to CMLE (IC = 2.1 µg/mL) followed by Cooperia oncophora (IC = 27.6 µg/mL), Ostertagia ostertagi (IC = 48.5 µg/mL), Trichostrongylus axei (IC = 54.7 µg/mL), Haemonchus contortus (IC = 145.6 µg/mL), and Cooperia curticei (IC = 156.6 µg/mL).
CONCLUSIONS
These results indicate that CMLE exhibits promising anthelmintic properties against infective larvae of a large variety of soil-transmitted nematodes.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Combretum; Proanthocyanidins; Larva; Plant Extracts; Nematoda; Anthelmintics; Helminths; Ruminants; Flavonoids; Trichostrongyloidea; Phytochemicals
PubMed: 38429804
DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06194-9 -
Indian Journal of Pathology &... Feb 2024Infections caused due to zoonotic hookworms are rare and are often under reported. Here we report a case of diarrheal disease caused by Ancylostoma ceylanicum, an...
Infections caused due to zoonotic hookworms are rare and are often under reported. Here we report a case of diarrheal disease caused by Ancylostoma ceylanicum, an important emerging zoonotic hookworm. There is limited knowledge about the epidemiology and disease burden of A. ceylanicum infections in Kerala. A 50-year-old male patient presented with complaints of loose stools for past five weeks. The laboratory investigations revealed a high total WBC count and eosinophil count. Diagnostic colonoscopy showed numerous worms which were identified as A. ceylanicum. Timely diagnosis aided in successful treatment of the patient. Improvement in diagnostic tools and awareness enable accurate and early detection of this neglected but emerging pathogen.
PubMed: 38427762
DOI: 10.4103/ijpm.ijpm_385_23 -
Cytokine May 2024Over the years, there has been progress in understanding the molecular aspects of iron metabolism and erythropoiesis. However, despite research conducted both in...
Over the years, there has been progress in understanding the molecular aspects of iron metabolism and erythropoiesis. However, despite research conducted both in laboratories and living organisms, there are still unanswered questions due to the complex nature of these fields. In this study we investigated the effects of hookworm infection on iron metabolism and how the hosts response to anemia is affected using hamsters infected with Ancylostoma ceylanicum as a model. Our data revealed interesting relationships between infection-induced anemia, erythropoiesis, iron metabolism, and immune modulation, such that the elevated production of erythropoietin (EPO) in renal tissue indicated intensified erythropoiesis in response to anemia. Additionally, the increased expression of the erythroferrone (ERFE) gene in the spleen suggested its involvement in iron regulation and erythropoiesis. Gene expression patterns of genes related to iron metabolism varied in different tissues, indicating tissue-specific adaptations to hypoxia. The modulation of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines highlighted the delicate balance between immune response and erythropoiesis. Data derived from the investigation of changes induced in iron metabolism and stress erythropoiesis following anemia aid in our understanding of mechanisms related to blood spoliation and anemia, which could potentially be extrapolated or compared to other types or causes of anemia. These findings also contribute to our understanding of the pathophysiology of erythropoiesis in the context of blood loss.
Topics: Humans; Erythropoiesis; Hepcidins; Anemia; Iron; Erythropoietin; Hookworm Infections
PubMed: 38412767
DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2024.156559 -
International Journal of Environmental... Jan 2024Zoonotic parasitic diseases in dogs are particularly concerning in regions with low human development indices due to inadequate sanitary services and insufficient...
Zoonotic parasitic diseases in dogs are particularly concerning in regions with low human development indices due to inadequate sanitary services and insufficient environmental and health education. This study aimed to assess the parasitological status of dogs living in households and evaluate their owners' knowledge about zoonoses. A total of 183 dogs from Rolim de Moura, Rondônia State, were screened for the presence of ectoparasites, and 163 fecal samples were collected for analysis. The results showed that 74.23% (112/163) of the animals had at least one species of endoparasite. The most identified pathogens were spp. (68.71%, 112/163), (11.66%, 19/163), (6.75%, 11/163), (4.91%, 8/163), (1.23%, 2/163), and (0.61%, 1/163). Ectoparasites were observed in 43.17% (79/183) of the evaluated animals, with found in 31.15% (57/183) and in 20.77% (38/183). Only 11.48% (7/61) of the owners were familiar with the term "Zoonoses." However, a significant majority (83.61%, 51/61) believed that dogs can transmit diseases to humans. Our findings highlight the prevalence of parasites in the studied area and associated risk factors, underscoring the urgent need for educational interventions to raise awareness about these diseases and their risks to human health.
Topics: Humans; Animals; Dogs; Intestinal Diseases, Parasitic; Zoonoses; Parasites; Ecosystem; Feces; Prevalence; Dog Diseases; Perception
PubMed: 38397629
DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21020138 -
Journal of the American Animal Hospital... Mar 2024A 4 yr old castrated male greyhound presented with a history of chronic (>3 wk) intermittent diarrhea. Initial fecal analysis identified infection with Ancylostoma...
A 4 yr old castrated male greyhound presented with a history of chronic (>3 wk) intermittent diarrhea. Initial fecal analysis identified infection with Ancylostoma caninum. Despite treatment with routine anthelmintics, the dog remained persistently A caninum positive for several months. A novel fecal gastrointestinal real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) parasite panel detected A caninum and the genetic benzimidazole (BZ) F167Y resistance marker in multiple samplings over 48 hr. This finding, together with the dog's clinical signs (diarrhea) and lack of response to routine anthelmintics, prompted treatment with cyclooctadepsipeptide emodepside, a drug currently not registered for dogs in the United States. The dog's clinical signs resolved and post-treatment fecal qPCR testing was negative. However, 5 mo later, retesting with fecal qPCR detected A caninum and concurrent BZ resistance marker, as well as Giardia. A presumptive diagnosis of re-infection was made and the emodepside treatment was continued. The dog again reverted to undetected (A caninum and the 167 resistance marker) on reassessment fecal qPCR. This case report describes the use of a novel fecal qPCR panel for gastrointestinal parasites, persistent hookworm and BZ F167Y resistance marker detection in a dog, and highlights the importance of a stepwise approach to clinical management, treatment, and retesting.
Topics: Dogs; Male; Animals; United States; Ancylostoma; Ancylostomatoidea; Dog Diseases; Anthelmintics; Benzimidazoles; Feces; Polymerase Chain Reaction; Diarrhea
PubMed: 38394692
DOI: 10.5326/JAAHA-MS-7366 -
Parasites & Vectors Feb 2024Nematodes of the Ascarididae, Ancylostomatidae and Onchocercidae families are parasites of human and veterinary importance causing infections with high prevalence...
BACKGROUND
Nematodes of the Ascarididae, Ancylostomatidae and Onchocercidae families are parasites of human and veterinary importance causing infections with high prevalence worldwide. Molecular tools have significantly improved the diagnosis of these helminthiases, but the selection of genetic markers for PCR or metabarcoding purposes is often challenging because of the resolution these may show.
METHODS
Nuclear 18S rRNA, internal transcribed spacers 1 (ITS-1) and 2 (ITS-2), mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase 1 (cox1) and mitochondrial rRNA genes 12S and 16S loci were studied for 30 species of the mentioned families. Accordingly, their phylogenetic interspecies resolution, pairwise nucleotide p-distances and sequence availability in GenBank were analyzed.
RESULTS
The 18S rRNA showed the least interspecies resolution since separate species of the Ascaris, Mansonella, Toxocara or Ancylostoma genus were intermixed in phylogenetic trees as opposed to the ITS-1, ITS-2, cox1, 12S and 16S loci. Moreover, pairwise nucleotide p-distances were significantly different in the 18S compared to the other loci, with an average of 99.1 ± 0.1%, 99.8 ± 0.1% and 98.8 ± 0.9% for the Ascarididae, Ancylostomatidae and Onchocercidae families, respectively. However, ITS-1 and ITS-2 average pairwise nucleotide p-distances in the three families ranged from 72.7% to 87.3%, and the cox1, 12S and 16S ranged from 86.4% to 90.4%. Additionally, 2491 cox1 sequences were retrieved from the 30 analyzed species in GenBank, whereas 212, 1082, 994, 428 and 143 sequences could be obtained from the 18S, ITS-1, ITS-2, 12S and 16S markers, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS
The use of the cox1 gene is recommended because of the high interspecies resolution and the large number of sequences available in databases. Importantly, confirmation of the identity of an unknown specimen should always be complemented with the careful morphological examination of worms and the analysis of other markers used for specific parasitic groups.
Topics: Humans; Animals; RNA, Ribosomal, 18S; Sarcocystis; Sarcocystosis; Phylogeny; Nematoda; Nucleotides
PubMed: 38378676
DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-06113-4