Pathogens

8 pages, 475 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Human Placental Schistosomiasis—A Systematic Review of the Literature

by Jacob Gerstenberg, Sasmita Mishra, Martha Holtfreter, Joachim Richter, Saskia Dede Davi, Dearie Glory Okwu, Michael Ramharter, Johannes Mischlinger and Benjamin T. Schleenvoigt

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060470 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024

Abstract

Background: Schistosome egg deposition in pregnant women may affect the placenta of infected mothers and cause placental schistosomiasis (PS). Histopathological examination of placental tissue is an inadequate detection method due to low sensitivity. So far, there has not been any systematic review on [...] Read more.

Background: Schistosome egg deposition in pregnant women may affect the placenta of infected mothers and cause placental schistosomiasis (PS). Histopathological examination of placental tissue is an inadequate detection method due to low sensitivity. So far, there has not been any systematic review on PS. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search on PubMed, EMBASE, and Medline and included all publications that reported microscopically confirmed cases of PS, as well as the relevant secondary literature found in the citations of the primarily included publications. Results: Out of 113 abstracts screened we found a total of 8 publications describing PS with a total of 92 cases describing egg deposition of dead and/or viable eggs and worms of S. haematobium and S. mansoni in placental tissue. One cross-sectional study investigating the prevalence of PS and its association with adverse birth outcomes, found 22% of placentas to be infested using a maceration technique but only <1% using histologic examination. Additionally, no direct link to deleterious pregnancy outcomes could be shown. Conclusions: PS is a highly unattended and underdiagnosed condition in endemic populations, due to a lack of awareness as well as low sensitivity of histopathological examinations. However, PS may play an important role in mediating or reinforcing adverse birth outcomes (ABO) such as fetal growth restriction (FGR) in maternal schistosomiasis, possibly by placental inflammation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Schistosomiasis: From Immunopathology to Vaccines)

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11 pages, 844 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Oropouche Virus Exposure in Febrile Patients during Chikungunya Virus Introduction in the State of Amapá, Amazon Region, Brazil

by Raquel Curtinhas de Lima, Helver Gonçalves Dias, Thiara Manuele Alves de Souza, Débora Familiar-Macedo, Edcelha D’Athaide Ribeiro, Valmir Corrêa e Corrêa, Alex Pauvolid-Corrêa, Elzinandes Leal de Azeredo and Flávia Barreto dos Santos

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060469 (registering DOI) - 3 Jun 2024

Abstract

Oropouche orthobunyavirus (OROV) is an arbovirus transmitted by midges that has been involved in outbreaks throughout Central and South America. In Brazil, human cases have been historically concentrated in the northern region of the country. Oropouche fever in humans range from mild clinical [...] Read more.

Oropouche orthobunyavirus (OROV) is an arbovirus transmitted by midges that has been involved in outbreaks throughout Central and South America. In Brazil, human cases have been historically concentrated in the northern region of the country. Oropouche fever in humans range from mild clinical signs to rare neurological events, and is considered a neglected tropical disease in Brazil. Due to the clinical similarities to other arboviruses, such as chikungunya and dengue viruses, OROV infections are likely to be underreported. Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) cases in Brazil were first recognized in 2014 in the states of Amapá and Bahia in the north and northeast regions, respectively. Both OROV and CHIKV cause nonspecific symptoms, making clinical diagnosis difficult in a scenario of arbovirus cocirculation. Aiming to investigate OROV transmission during the CHIKV introduction in the state of Amapá located in the Brazilian Amazon, we conducted a retrospective molecular (RT-qPCR) and serological investigation in febrile cases (N = 166) collected between August 2014 and May 2015. All acute serum samples were negative for OROV RNA using RT-qPCR. However, neutralizing antibodies for OROV were detected using a plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT₉₀) in 10.24% (17/166) of the patients, with neutralizing antibody titers ranging from 20 to ≥640, suggesting the previous exposure of patients to OROV. Regarding CHIKV, recent exposure was confirmed by the detection of CHIKV RNA in 20.25% (33/163) of the patients and by the detection of anti-CHIKV IgM in 28.57% (44/154) of the patients. The additional detection of anti-CHIKV IgG in 12.58% (19/151) of the febrile patients suggests that some individuals had been previously exposed to CHIKV. Whether the OROV exposure reported here occurred prior or during the CHIKV circulation in Amapá, is unknown, but because those arboviral infections share similar clinical signs and symptoms, a silent circulation of enzootic arboviruses during the introduction of exotic arboviruses may occur, and highlights the importance of syndromic cases’ surveillance to arboviruses in Brazil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Arboviruses: Epidemiology, Vector Dynamics, and Pathogenesis)

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14 pages, 2270 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sex Differences during Influenza A Virus Infection and Vaccination and Comparison of Cytokine and Antibody Responses between Plasma and Serum Samples

by Santosh Dhakal, Brian W. Wolfe, Saurav Pantha and Saranya Vijayakumar

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 468; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060468 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2024

Abstract

In this study, we evaluated sex differences during infection with mouse-adapted H1N1 and H3N2 influenza A viruses (IAVs) in the C57BL/6J mouse model and compared the cytokine and antibody responses between plasma and serum samples during IAV infection and vaccination. Lethal doses for [...] Read more.

In this study, we evaluated sex differences during infection with mouse-adapted H1N1 and H3N2 influenza A viruses (IAVs) in the C57BL/6J mouse model and compared the cytokine and antibody responses between plasma and serum samples during IAV infection and vaccination. Lethal doses for both H1N1 and H3N2 IAVs were lower for adult females and they suffered with greater morbidity than adult males when infected with sublethal doses. In influenza virus-infected mice, cytokine responses differed between plasma and serum samples. After inactivated influenza virus vaccination and drift variant challenge, adult female mice had greater antibody responses and were better protected. In influenza-vaccinated and challenged mice, binding antibodies were unaffected between paired plasma or serum samples. However, functional antibody assays, including hemagglutination inhibition, microneutralization, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity assays, were affected by the use of plasma and serum sample types. Our results indicate that careful consideration is required while selecting plasma versus serum samples to measure cytokine and antibody responses during IAV infection and vaccination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunity to Respiratory Infections)

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39 pages, 2096 KiB

Open AccessReview

Pediatric Tuberculosis: A Review of Evidence-Based Best Practices for Clinicians and Health Care Providers

by Brittany K. Moore, Stephen M. Graham, Subhadra Nandakumar, Joshua Doyle and Susan A. Maloney

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 467; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060467 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2024

Abstract

Advances in pediatric TB care are promising, the result of decades of advocacy, operational and clinical trials research, and political will by national and local TB programs in high-burden countries. However, implementation challenges remain in linking policy to practice and scaling up innovations [...] Read more.

Advances in pediatric TB care are promising, the result of decades of advocacy, operational and clinical trials research, and political will by national and local TB programs in high-burden countries. However, implementation challenges remain in linking policy to practice and scaling up innovations for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of TB in children, especially in resource-limited settings. There is both need and opportunity to strengthen clinician confidence in making a TB diagnosis and managing the various manifestations of TB in children, which can facilitate the translation of evidence to action and expand access to new tools and strategies to address TB in this population. This review aims to summarize existing guidance and best practices for clinicians and health care providers in low-resource, TB-endemic settings and identify resources with more detailed and actionable information for decision-making along the clinical cascade to prevent, find, and cure TB in children. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Pediatric Infectious Diseases)

13 pages, 696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of SARS-CoV-2 Infection among Companion Animals in Households with Confirmed Human COVID-19 Cases

by Heather Venkat, Hayley D. Yaglom, Gavriella Hecht, Andrew Goedderz, Jennifer L. Ely, Michael Sprenkle, Taylor Martins, Daniel Jasso-Selles, Darrin Lemmer, Jordan Gesimondo, Irene Ruberto, Kenneth Komatsu and David M. Engelthaler

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 466; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060466 (registering DOI) - 1 Jun 2024

Abstract

We aimed to characterize SARS-CoV-2 infection in companion animals living in households with COVID-19-positive people and understand the dynamics surrounding how these animals become infected. Public health investigators contacted households with at least one confirmed, symptomatic person with COVID-19 for study recruitment. Blood, [...] Read more.

We aimed to characterize SARS-CoV-2 infection in companion animals living in households with COVID-19-positive people and understand the dynamics surrounding how these animals become infected. Public health investigators contacted households with at least one confirmed, symptomatic person with COVID-19 for study recruitment. Blood, nasal, and rectal swab specimens were collected from pet dogs and cats and a questionnaire was completed. Specimens were tested for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR, and for neutralizing antibodies; genomic sequencing was performed on viral-positive samples. A total of 36.4% of 110 pets enrolled had evidence of infection with SARS-CoV-2. Pets were more likely to test positive if the pet was immunocompromised, and if more than one person in the home was positive for COVID-19. Among 12 multi-pet households where at least one pet was positive, 10 had at least one other pet test positive. Whole-genome sequencing revealed the genomes of viral lineages circulating in the community during the time of sample collection. Our findings suggest a high likelihood of viral transmission in households with multiple pets and when pets had very close interactions with symptomatic humans. Further surveillance studies are needed to characterize how new variants impact animals and to understand opportunities for infection and spillover in susceptible species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue From Sporadic Cases of Bird Flu to Global Pandemic of SARS-CoV-2: The Science Behind and Battle against Zoonotic Viruses)

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21 pages, 1742 KiB

Open AccessReview

Aeromonas dhakensis: A Zoonotic Bacterium of Increasing Importance in Aquaculture

by Kerry L. Bartie and Andrew P. Desbois

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 465; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060465 - 31 May 2024

Abstract

Aeromonas dhakensis is increasingly recognised to be an important pathogen responsible for disease losses in warm-water aquaculture and, similar to several other Aeromonas species, it can infect humans. Knowledge of A. dhakensis is accumulating, but this species remains relatively under-investigated compared to its [...] Read more.

Aeromonas dhakensis is increasingly recognised to be an important pathogen responsible for disease losses in warm-water aquaculture and, similar to several other Aeromonas species, it can infect humans. Knowledge of A. dhakensis is accumulating, but this species remains relatively under-investigated compared to its close relative, Aeromonas hydrophila. The significance of A. dhakensis may have been overlooked in disease events of aquatic animals due to issues with reliable identification. Critical to appreciating the importance of this pathogen is the application of dependable molecular tools that enable accurate identification and discrimination from A. hydrophila and other motile aeromonads. This review aims to synthesise the key literature on A. dhakensis, particularly with relevance to aquaculture, including knowledge of the bacterium derived from disease case studies in aquatic hosts. Identification methods and strain phylogeny are discussed, with accurate detection important for prompt diagnosis and for distinguishing strains with heightened virulence. Increasing evidence suggests that A. dhakensis may be more virulent than A. hydrophila and correct identification is required to determine the zoonotic risks posed, which includes concerns for antibiotic-resistant strains. This review provides an impetus to improve species identification in the future and screen strain collections of presumptive Aeromonas spp. retrospectively to reveal the true prevalence and impact of A. dhakensis in aquaculture, the environment, and healthcare settings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Pathogens)

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15 pages, 7715 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Recombinant Bile Salt Hydrolase Enhances the Inhibition Efficiency of Taurodeoxycholic Acid against Clostridium perfringens Virulence

by Tahrir Alenezi, Bilal Alrubaye, Ying Fu, Janashrit Shrestha, Samar Algehani, Hong Wang, Rohana Liyanage and Xiaolun Sun

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 464; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060464 - 31 May 2024

Abstract

Clostridium perfringens is the main pathogen of chicken necrotic enteritis (NE) causing huge economic losses in the poultry industry. Although dietary secondary bile acid deoxycholic acid (DCA) reduced chicken NE, the accumulation of conjugated tauro-DCA (TDCA) raised concerns regarding DCA efficacy. In this [...] Read more.

Clostridium perfringens is the main pathogen of chicken necrotic enteritis (NE) causing huge economic losses in the poultry industry. Although dietary secondary bile acid deoxycholic acid (DCA) reduced chicken NE, the accumulation of conjugated tauro-DCA (TDCA) raised concerns regarding DCA efficacy. In this study, we aimed to deconjugate TDCA by bile salt hydrolase (BSH) to increase DCA efficacy against the NE pathogen C. perfringens. Assays were conducted to evaluate the inhibition of C. perfringens growth, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) production, and virulence gene expression by TDCA and DCA. BSH activity and sequence alignment were conducted to select the bsh gene for cloning. The bsh gene from Bifidobacterium longum was PCR-amplified and cloned into plasmids pET-28a (pET-BSH) and pDR111 (pDR-BSH) for expressing the BSH protein in E. coli BL21 and Bacillus subtilis 168 (B-sub-BSH), respectively. His-tag-purified BSH from BL21 cells was evaluated by SDS-PAGE, Coomassie blue staining, and a Western blot (WB) assays. Secretory BSH from B. subtilis was analyzed by a Dot-Blot. B-sub-BSH was evaluated for the inhibition of C. perfringens growth. C. perfringens growth reached 7.8 log10 CFU/mL after 24 h culture. C. perfringens growth was at 8 vs. 7.4, 7.8 vs. 2.6 and 6 vs. 0 log10 CFU/mL in 0.2, 0.5, and 1 mM TDCA vs. DCA, respectively. Compared to TDCA, DCA reduced C. perfringens H₂S production and the virulence gene expression of asrA1, netB, colA, and virT. BSH activity was observed in Lactobacillus johnsonii and B. longum under anaerobe but not L. johnsonii under 10% CO₂ air. After the sequence alignment of bsh from ten bacteria, bsh from B. longum was selected, cloned into pET-BSH, and sequenced at 951 bp. After pET-BSH was transformed in BL21, BSH expression was assessed around 35 kDa using Coomassie staining and verified for His-tag using WB. After the subcloned bsh and amylase signal peptide sequence was inserted into pDR-BSH, B. subtilis was transformed and named B-sub-BSH. The transformation was evaluated using PCR with B. subtilis around 3 kb and B-sub-BSH around 5 kb. Secretory BSH expressed from B-sub-BSH was determined for His-tag using Dot-Blot. Importantly, C. perfringens growth was reduced greater than 59% log10 CFU/mL in the B-sub-BSH media precultured with 1 vs. 0 mM TDCA. In conclusion, TDCA was less potent than DCA against C. perfringens virulence, and recombinant secretory BSH from B-sub-BSH reduced C. perfringens growth, suggesting a new potential intervention against the pathogen-induced chicken NE. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modulation of Gut Microbiota and Pathogens by Biotics (Prebiotics, Probiotics, Postbiotics, Parabiotics, Synbiotics))

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13 pages, 655 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Detection and Genetic Characterization of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in Seropositive Cats in Northern Italy

by Andrea Balboni, Veronica Facile, Laura Gallina, Maria Chiara Sabetti, Francesco Dondi and Mara Battilani

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 463; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060463 - 31 May 2024

Abstract

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is responsible for immunodeficiency syndrome in cats. Several viral subtypes have been identified, each with a variable geographical distribution. To date, the subtype B is known to be the genotype spread in Italy. In this study, the genetic diversity [...] Read more.

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is responsible for immunodeficiency syndrome in cats. Several viral subtypes have been identified, each with a variable geographical distribution. To date, the subtype B is known to be the genotype spread in Italy. In this study, the genetic diversity of FIV in northern Italy was assessed by detecting proviral DNA in the blood samples of 50 cats determined to be positive through an anti-FIV antibodies test. These cats were tested using six different PCR assays, and the identified viruses were sequenced and analyzed. Forty-eight cats were confirmed positive, and several FIV subtypes were characterized. As expected, the subtype B was the most commonly observed, and the subtype A was reported for the first time in Italy. Moreover, a new taxon possibly representing an additional FIV subtype was detected, and one virus belonging to subtype B potentially had a recombinant origin. The genetic variability between the FIV viruses that emerged in this study may lead to the potential diagnostic failure of single molecular tests. Therefore, a new diagnostic strategy, which adopts different molecular tests and sequencing, is recommended to monitor the evolution and spread of FIV. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viral Pathogens)

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19 pages, 3273 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Climatological Factors on the Incidence of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) in Colombian Municipalities from 2017 to 2019

by Daniel Muñoz Morales, Fernanda Suarez Daza, Oliva Franco Betancur, Darly Martinez Guevara and Yamil Liscano

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 462; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060462 - 30 May 2024

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Abstract

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a zoonotic disease caused by protozoa of the Leishmania genus, transmitted by vectors from the Phlebotominae subfamily. The interaction between the vector, reservoir, and parasite is susceptible to climate change. This study explores how temperature and rainfall influenced the [...] Read more.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a zoonotic disease caused by protozoa of the Leishmania genus, transmitted by vectors from the Phlebotominae subfamily. The interaction between the vector, reservoir, and parasite is susceptible to climate change. This study explores how temperature and rainfall influenced the incidence of CL in 15 Colombian municipalities between 2017 and 2019. Epidemiological data were obtained from Colombia’s Instituto Nacional de Salud, while climatological data came from the Instituto de Hidrología, Meteorología y Estudios Ambientales. Using Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, we examined the relationships between monthly climatic variables and the cumulative incidence of CL, considering various lag times. The data were further analyzed using Locally Weighted Scatterplot Smoothing (LOWESS). Our findings reveal both significant positive and negative correlations, depending on locality and climate variables. LOWESS analysis indicates that while rainfall-related incidence remains stable, temperature impacts incidence in a parabolic trend. This study underscores the significant yet complex influence of climatic factors on CL incidence. The insights gained could aid public health efforts by improving predictive models and crafting targeted interventions to mitigate the disease’s impact, particularly in regions vulnerable to climate variability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Leishmaniasis: Transmission, Pathogenesis and Treatment)

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16 pages, 359 KiB

Open AccessReview

Hospital Acquired Sepsis, Disease Prevalence, and Recent Advances in Sepsis Mitigation

by Mary Garvey

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 461; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060461 - 30 May 2024

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Abstract

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection, commonly associated with nosocomial transmission. Gram-negative bacterial species are particularly problematic due to the release of the lipopolysaccharide toxins upon cell death. The lipopolysaccharide toxin of E. coli has [...] Read more.

Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection, commonly associated with nosocomial transmission. Gram-negative bacterial species are particularly problematic due to the release of the lipopolysaccharide toxins upon cell death. The lipopolysaccharide toxin of E. coli has a greater immunogenic potential than that of other Gram-negative bacteria. The resultant dysregulation of the immune system is associated with organ failure and mortality, with pregnant women, ICU patients, and neonates being particularly vulnerable. Additionally, sepsis recovery patients have an increased risk of re-hospitalisation, chronic illness, co-morbidities, organ damage/failure, and a reduced life expectancy. The emergence and increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial and fungal species has impacted the treatment of sepsis patients, leading to increasing mortality rates. Multidrug resistant pathogens including vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus, beta lactam-resistant Klebsiella, and carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter species are associated with an increased risk of mortality. To improve the prognosis of sepsis patients, predominantly high-risk neonates, advances must be made in the early diagnosis, triage, and control of sepsis. The identification of suitable biomarkers and biomarker combinations, coupled with machine learning and artificial intelligence, show promise in early detection protocols. Rapid diagnosis of sepsis in patients is essential to inform on clinical treatment, especially with resistant infectious agents. This timely review aims to discuss sepsis prevalence, aetiology, and recent advances towards disease mitigation and control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nosocomial Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance)

14 pages, 2203 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Senescent CD8⁺T Cells in the Pathogenesis of Disseminated Leishmaniasis

by Cayo A. Abreu, Maurício Teixeira Nascimento, Olívia Bacellar, Lucas Pedreira Carvalho, Edgar Marcelino Carvalho and Thiago Marconi Cardoso

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060460 - 29 May 2024

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Abstract

Disseminated leishmaniasis (DL) caused by L. braziliensis is characterized by the presence of 10 to more than 1000 lesions spread on the body. While protection against Leishmania is mediated by macrophages upon activation by IFN-γ produced by CD4⁺T cells, the pathology [...] Read more.

Disseminated leishmaniasis (DL) caused by L. braziliensis is characterized by the presence of 10 to more than 1000 lesions spread on the body. While protection against Leishmania is mediated by macrophages upon activation by IFN-γ produced by CD4⁺T cells, the pathology of disseminated leishmaniasis (DL) could be mediated by macrophages, NK, and CD8⁺T cells. Herein, we evaluate the participation of senescent CD8⁺T cells in the pathogenesis of DL. Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), biopsies, co-cultures of CD8⁺T cells with uninfected and infected macrophages (MØ), and PBMC cultures stimulated with soluble L. braziliensis antigen (SLA) for 72 h from patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) and DL were used to characterize senescent CD8⁺T cells. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests, followed by Dunn’s. Results: Patients with DL have an increase in the frequency of circulating CD8⁺T cells that present a memory/senescent phenotype, while lesions from DL patients have an increase in the frequency of infiltrating CD8⁺T cells with a senescent/degranulation phenotype. In addition, after specific stimuli, DL patients’ circulating CD8⁺T with memory/senescent profile, showing degranulation characteristics, increased upon SLA stimuli, and those specific CD8⁺T cells from DL patients had an increased degranulation phenotype, causing more apoptosis of infected target cells. Conclusions: DL patients show a higher frequency of cytotoxic senescent CD8⁺T cells compared to CL patients, and that could promote the lysis of infected cells, although without parasite killing, releasing Leishmania to the extracellular compartment, contributing to the spread of parasites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Host Immune Responses in the Control of Leishmania Infection and New Forms of Therapy for Tegumentary Leishmaniasis)

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17 pages, 2165 KiB

Open AccessReview

Forty Years of HIV Research in French Guiana: Comprehend to Combat

by Mathieu Nacher, Aude Lucarelli, Astrid Van-Melle, Célia Basurko, Sébastien Rabier, Malorie Chroum, Thiago Santana, Karine Verin, Ketty Bienvenu, Myriam El Guedj, Tania Vaz, Hawa Cisse, Loïc Epelboin, Paul Le Turnier, Philippe Abboud, Félix Djossou, Roger Pradinaud, Antoine Adenis and Pierre Couppié

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 459; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060459 - 28 May 2024

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Abstract

The drivers of the HIV epidemic, the viruses, the opportunistic infections, the attitudes and the resources allocated to the fight against HIV/AIDS, vary substantially across countries. French Guiana, at the crossroads between Amazonian South America and the Caribbean, constitutes a singular context with [...] Read more.

The drivers of the HIV epidemic, the viruses, the opportunistic infections, the attitudes and the resources allocated to the fight against HIV/AIDS, vary substantially across countries. French Guiana, at the crossroads between Amazonian South America and the Caribbean, constitutes a singular context with poor populations and rich country health funding, which has allowed researchers to gather lots of information on the particulars of our epidemic. We aimed to focus on the little known story of forty years of HIV research in French Guiana and emphasize how local research intertwined with public health action has yielded continuous progress, despite the difficult social conditions of the affected population. We searched Web of Science and associated local experts who worked through much of the epidemic in selecting the most meaningful products of local research for clinical and public health outcomes in French Guiana. Research tools and facilities included, from 1991 onwards, the HIV hospital cohort and the HIV-histoplasmosis cohort. Ad hoc studies funded by the ANRS or the European Regional Development fund shed light on vulnerable groups. The cumulative impact of prospective routine collection and focused efforts has yielded a breadth of knowledge, allowing for informed decisions and the adaptation of prevention, testing and care in French Guiana. After this overview, we emphasize that the close integration of research and public health was crucial in adapting interventions to the singular context of French Guiana. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Viral Infections of Humans: Epidemiology and Control)

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16 pages, 1570 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Potential of Plant-Produced Virus-like Particle Vaccines for African Horse Sickness and Other Equine Orbiviruses

by Kieran G. Pitchers, Oliver D. Boakye, Ivan Campeotto and Janet M. Daly

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 458; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060458 - 28 May 2024

Viewed by 286

Abstract

African horse sickness is a devastating viral disease of equids. It is transmitted by biting midges of the genus Culicoides with mortalities reaching over 90% in naïve horses. It is endemic to sub-Saharan Africa and is seasonally endemic in many parts of southern [...] Read more.

African horse sickness is a devastating viral disease of equids. It is transmitted by biting midges of the genus Culicoides with mortalities reaching over 90% in naïve horses. It is endemic to sub-Saharan Africa and is seasonally endemic in many parts of southern Africa. However, outbreaks in Europe and Asia have occurred that caused significant economic issues. There are attenuated vaccines available for control of the virus but concerns regarding the safety and efficacy means that alternatives are sought. One promising alternative is the use of virus-like particles in vaccine preparations, which have the potential to be safer and more efficacious as vaccines against African horse sickness. These particles are best made in a complex, eukaryotic system, but due to technical challenges, this may cause significant economic strain on the developing countries most affected by the disease. Therefore, this review also summarises the success so far, and potential, of recombinant protein expression in plants to reduce the economic strain of production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Vaccine Strategies and Novel Vaccine Development for Bluetongue Virus and Other Orbiviruses)

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13 pages, 2078 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Frequencies of kdr Mutation and Chikungunya Infection in Aedes aegypti Population from Minas Gerais, Brazil

by Pedro Augusto Almeida-Souza, Cirilo Henrique de Oliveira, Luiz Paulo Brito, Thaynara de Jesus Teixeira, Iago Alves Celestino, Gabriele Barbosa Penha, Ronaldo Medeiros dos Santos, Wexley Miranda Mendes, Bergmann Morais Ribeiro, Fabrício Souza Campos, Paulo Michel Roehe, Natalia Rocha Guimarães, Felipe C. M. Iani, Ademir Jesus Martins and Filipe Vieira Santos de Abreu

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 457; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060457 - 28 May 2024

Viewed by 554

Abstract

The Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) presents global health challenges, with Brazil experiencing outbreaks since its introduction in 2014. In 2023, following a CHIKV outbreak in Minas Gerais (MG), social media was used to optimize an entomological survey aimed at identifying vectors and viral lineages [...] Read more.

The Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) presents global health challenges, with Brazil experiencing outbreaks since its introduction in 2014. In 2023, following a CHIKV outbreak in Minas Gerais (MG), social media was used to optimize an entomological survey aimed at identifying vectors and viral lineages and assessing insecticide resistance. Following Instagram posts, residents with suspected CHIKV infection were able to schedule mosquito aspirations. In total, 421 mosquitoes (165 Aedes aegypti and 256 Culex quinquefasciatus) were captured from 40 households in Salinas city (MG) and tested for the Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya viruses through RT-qPCR. Twelve of 57 pools (10 Ae. aegypti and two Cx. quinquefasciatus) tested positive for CHIKV RNA. Viral RNA was also detected in the heads of nine Ae. aegypti, indicating viral dissemination but not in Cx. quinquefasciatus. Genome sequencing yielded the first near-complete genome from the 2023 outbreak, unveiling that the CHIKV strain belonged to the East/Central/South African (ECSA) genotype. Additionally, genetic analyses revealed high frequencies of kdr alleles, including in CHIKV-infected mosquitoes, suggesting resistance to pyrethroid insecticides in this Ae. aegypti population. Social media was important for guiding mosquito-capture efforts in CHIKV transmission hotspots, thus optimizing the opportunity for viral detection. These findings emphasize the urgent need for innovative vector studies and control strategies, as well as interdisciplinary approaches in public health interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Epidemiology of Emerging Viruses)

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12 pages, 3022 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antibiotic Resistance in Enterococci and Enterobacteriaceae from Laboratory-Reared Fresh Mealworm Larvae (Tenebrio molitor L.) and Their Frass

by Barbara Turchi, Simone Mancini, Francesca Pedonese, Ilaria Resci, Beatrice Torracca, Francesca Marconi, Chiara Barone, Roberta Nuvoloni and Filippo Fratini

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 456; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060456 - 28 May 2024

Viewed by 342

Abstract

The occurrence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in foodstuff involves a human health risk. Edible insects are a precious resource; however, their consumption raises food safety issues. In this study, the occurrence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in laboratory-reared fresh mealworm larvae (Tenebrio molitor L.) [...] Read more.

The occurrence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in foodstuff involves a human health risk. Edible insects are a precious resource; however, their consumption raises food safety issues. In this study, the occurrence of antibiotic resistant bacteria in laboratory-reared fresh mealworm larvae (Tenebrio molitor L.) and frass was assessed. Antibiotics were not used during the rearing. Enterobacteriaceae and enterococci were isolated from 17 larvae and eight frass samples. In total, 62 and 69 isolates presumed to belong to Enterobacteriaceae and Enterococcus spp., respectively, were obtained and tested for antibiotic susceptibility via disk diffusion. Based on the results, isolates were grouped, and representative resistant isolates were identified at species level through 16S rRNA gene sequencing. For enterococci resistance, percentages higher than 15% were observed for vancomycin and quinupristin–dalfopristin, whereas Enterobacteriaceae resistance higher than 25% was found against cefoxitin, ampicillin, and amoxicillin–clavulanic acid. Based on the species identification, the observed resistances seemed to be intrinsic both for enterococci and Enterobacteriaceae, except for some β-lactams resistance in Shigella boydii (cefoxitin and aztreonam). These could be due to transferable genetic elements. This study suggests the need for further investigations to clarify the role of edible insects in the spreading of antibiotic resistance determinants through the food chain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Pathogens)

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25 pages, 882 KiB

Open AccessReview

Global Distribution of Canine Visceral Leishmaniasis and the Role of the Dog in the Epidemiology of the Disease

by Diego Fernandes Vilas-Boas, Eiji Kevin Nakasone Nakasone, Ana Alice Maia Gonçalves, Daniel Ferreira Lair, Diana Souza de Oliveira, Diogo Fonseca Soares Pereira, Geralda Gabriele Silva, Ingrid dos Santos Soares Conrado, Lucilene Aparecida Resende, Maykelin Fuentes Zaldívar, Reysla Maria da Silveira Mariano, Walderez Ornelas Dutra, Miguel Angel Chávez-Fumagalli, Alexsandro Sobreira Galdino, Denise Silveira-Lemos and Rodolfo Cordeiro Giunchetti

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 455; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060455 - 27 May 2024

Viewed by 387

Abstract

Visceral leishmaniasis is a disease caused by protozoa of the species Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum (syn = Leishmania chagasi) and Leishmania (Leishmania) donovani, which are transmitted by hematophagous insects of the genera Lutzomyia and Phlebotomus. The domestic dog (Canis familiaris [...] Read more.

Visceral leishmaniasis is a disease caused by protozoa of the species Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum (syn = Leishmania chagasi) and Leishmania (Leishmania) donovani, which are transmitted by hematophagous insects of the genera Lutzomyia and Phlebotomus. The domestic dog (Canis familiaris) is considered the main urban reservoir of the parasite due to the high parasite load on its skin, serving as a source of infection for sandfly vectors and, consequently, perpetuating the disease in the urban environment. Some factors are considered important in the perpetuation and spread of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) in urban areas, such as stray dogs, with their errant behavior, and houses that have backyards with trees, shade, and organic materials, creating an attractive environment for sandfly vectors. CVL is found in approximately 50 countries, with the number of infected dogs reaching millions. However, due to the difficulty of controlling and diagnosing the disease, the number of infected animals could be even greater. In the four continents endemic for CVL, there are reports of disease expansion in endemic countries such as Brazil, Italy, Morocco, and Tunisia, as well as in areas where CVL is not endemic, for example, Uruguay. Socio-environmental factors, such as migration, drought, deforestation, and global warming, have been pointed out as reasons for the expansion into areas where it had been absent. Thus, the objective of this review is to address (i) the distribution of CVL in endemic areas, (ii) the role of the dog in the visceral leishmaniasis epidemiology and the factors that influence dog infection and the spread of the disease, and (iii) the challenges faced in the control of CVL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insects Vectors of Pathogens)

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19 pages, 13924 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Purinergic Receptor Antagonists Inhibit Hemolysis Induced by Clostridium perfringens Alpha Toxin

by Zishuo Guo, Nan Yue, Ming Chen, Jiaxin Li, Ruomei Lv, Jing Wang, Tingting Liu, Jing Huang, Shan Gao, Yanwei Li, Bing Yuan, Jinglin Wang, Lin Kang, Bin Ji and Wenwen Xin

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 454; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060454 - 27 May 2024

Viewed by 255

Abstract

Clostridium perfringens alpha toxin (CPA), which causes yellow lamb disease in sheep and gas gangrene and food poisoning in humans, is produced by all types of C. perfringens and is the major virulence determinant of C. perfringens type A. CPA induces hemolysis in [...] Read more.

Clostridium perfringens alpha toxin (CPA), which causes yellow lamb disease in sheep and gas gangrene and food poisoning in humans, is produced by all types of C. perfringens and is the major virulence determinant of C. perfringens type A. CPA induces hemolysis in many species, including humans, murines, sheep and rabbits, through its enzymatic activity, which dissolves the cell membrane. Recent studies have shown that some pore-forming toxins cause hemolysis, which is achieved by the activation of purinergic receptors (P2). However, the relationship between P2 receptors and non-pore-forming toxin hemolysis has not been investigated. In the present study, we examined the function of P2 receptors in CPA toxin hemolysis and found that CPA-induced hemolysis was dependent on P2 receptor activation, and this was also true for Staphylococcus aureus β-Hemolysin, another non-pore-forming toxin. Furthermore, we use selective P2 receptor antagonists to demonstrate that P2X1 and P2X7 play important roles in the hemolysis of human and murine erythrocytes. In addition, we found that redox metabolism was mainly involved in CPA-induced hemolysis using metabolomic analysis. We further demonstrate that CPA activates P2 receptors and then activates NADPH oxidase through the PI3K/Akt and MEK1/ERK1 pathways, followed by the production of active oxygen to induce hemolysis. These findings contribute to our understanding of the pathological effects of CPA, clarify the relationship between P2 activation and non-pore-forming toxin-induced hemolysis, and provide new insights into CPA-induced hemolysis. Full article

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15 pages, 1408 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vertical Intrauterine Bovine and Ovine Papillomavirus Coinfection in Pregnant Cows

by Francesca De Falco, Anna Cutarelli, Leonardo Leonardi, Ioan Marcus and Sante Roperto

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 453; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060453 - 26 May 2024

Viewed by 207

Abstract

There is very little information available about transplacental infections by the papillomavirus in ruminants. However, recent evidence has emerged of the first report of vertical infections of bovine papillomavirus (BPV) in fetuses from naturally infected, pregnant cows. This study reports the coinfection of [...] Read more.

There is very little information available about transplacental infections by the papillomavirus in ruminants. However, recent evidence has emerged of the first report of vertical infections of bovine papillomavirus (BPV) in fetuses from naturally infected, pregnant cows. This study reports the coinfection of BPV and ovine papillomavirus (OaPV) in bovine fetuses from infected pregnant cows suffering from bladder tumors caused by simultaneous, persistent viral infections. Some molecular mechanisms involving the binary complex composed of Eras and platelet-derived growth factor β receptor (PDGFβR), by which BPVs and OaPVs contribute to reproductive disorders, have been investigated. A droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) was used to detect and quantify the nucleic acids of the BPVs of the Deltapapillomavirus genus (BPV1, BPV2, BPV13, and BPV14) and OaPVs belonging to the Deltapapillomavirus (OaPV1, OaPV2, and OaPV4) and Dyokappapapillomavirus (OaPV3) genera in the placenta and fetal organs (heart, lung, liver, and kidneys) of four bovine fetuses from four pregnant cows with neoplasia of the urinary bladder. A papillomaviral evaluation was also performed on the bladder tumors and peripheral blood of these pregnant cows. In all fetal and maternal samples, the genotype distribution of BPVs and OaPVs were evaluated using both their DNA and RNA. A BPV and OaPV coinfection was seen in bladder tumors, whereas only BPV infection was found in peripheral blood. The genotype distribution of both the BPVs and OaPVs detected in placentas and fetal organs indicated a stronger concordance with the viral genotypes detected in bladder tumors rather than in peripheral blood. This suggests that the viruses found in placentas and fetuses may have originated from infected bladders. Our study highlights the likelihood of vertical infections with BPVs and OaPVs and emphasizes the importance of gaining further insights into the mechanisms and consequences of this exposure. This study warrants further research as adverse pregnancy outcomes are a major source of economic losses in cattle breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Updates on Animal Papillomaviruses)

12 pages, 763 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prion Seeding Activity in Plant Tissues Detected by RT-QuIC

by Kate Burgener, Stuart Siegfried Lichtenberg, Daniel P. Walsh, Heather N. Inzalaco, Aaron Lomax and Joel A. Pedersen

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 452; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060452 - 26 May 2024

Viewed by 449

Abstract

Prion diseases such as scrapie, bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), and chronic wasting disease (CWD) affect domesticated and wild herbivorous mammals. Animals afflicted with CWD, the transmissible spongiform encephalopathy of cervids (deer, elk, and moose), shed prions into the environment, where they may persist [...] Read more.

Prion diseases such as scrapie, bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), and chronic wasting disease (CWD) affect domesticated and wild herbivorous mammals. Animals afflicted with CWD, the transmissible spongiform encephalopathy of cervids (deer, elk, and moose), shed prions into the environment, where they may persist and remain infectious for years. These environmental prions may remain in soil, be transported in surface waters, or assimilated into plants. Environmental sampling is an emerging area of TSE research and can provide more information about prion fate and transport once shed by infected animals. In this study, we have developed the first published method for the extraction and detection of prions in plant tissue using the real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) assay. Incubation with a zwitterionic surfactant followed by precipitation with sodium phosphotungstate concentrates the prions within samples and allows for sensitive detection of prion seeding activity. Using this protocol, we demonstrate that prions can be detected within plant tissues and on plant surfaces using the RT-QuIC assay. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Chronic Wasting Disease)

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31 pages, 809 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of Oncogenic Viruses in the Pathogenesis of Sporadic Breast Cancer: A Comprehensive Review of the Current Literature

by Chiara Rossi, Frediano Socrate Inzani, Stefania Cesari, Gianpiero Rizzo, Marco Paulli, Paolo Pedrazzoli, Angioletta Lasagna and Marco Lucioni

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 451; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060451 - 25 May 2024

Viewed by 238

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in the female sex; although recent therapies have significantly changed the natural history of this cancer, it remains a significant challenge. In the past decade, evidence has been put forward that some oncogenic viruses may play [...] Read more.

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in the female sex; although recent therapies have significantly changed the natural history of this cancer, it remains a significant challenge. In the past decade, evidence has been put forward that some oncogenic viruses may play a role in the development of sporadic breast cancer; however, data are scattered and mostly reported as sparse case series or small case–control studies. In this review, we organize and report current evidence regarding the role of high-risk human papillomavirus, mouse mammary tumor virus, Epstein–Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, bovine leukemia virus, human polyomavirus 2, and Merkel cell polyomavirus in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Viral Pathogens)

11 pages, 490 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Low Plasma Lipids Are Associated with Relapsing and Lethal Visceral Leishmaniasis in HIV-Infected Patients

by Renata V. S. Silva, Silvia R. B. Uliana, Jenicer K. U. Y. Yasunaka, Cláudio S. Veloso, Emille Sousa, Maria M. L. Ferreira, Vivianne S. Carvalho, Gabriel R. Ferreira, Dorcas L. Costa and Carlos H. N. Costa

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 450; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060450 - 25 May 2024

Viewed by 285

Abstract

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) results from protozoa Leishmania infantum and L. donovani infection. This study investigated whether host factors would explain the relapses. First, susceptibility to amphotericin B of L. infantum isolates was evaluated in vitro. Then, clinical data and the lipid profile of [...] Read more.

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) results from protozoa Leishmania infantum and L. donovani infection. This study investigated whether host factors would explain the relapses. First, susceptibility to amphotericin B of L. infantum isolates was evaluated in vitro. Then, clinical data and the lipid profile of patients with relapsing and non-relapsing VL were assessed. Susceptibility to amphotericin B was similar between the isolates. CD4+ lymphocytes were reduced in both groups of patients in the first episode and with relapsing VL. Still, the strongest blood cell indicator associated with relapses was low total lymphocyte counts. Total plasma cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, and, uniquely, triglycerides of the six individuals in the first episode and twenty-three with relapsing VL were lower in relapsing patients than those in the first episode. Deceased patients had extremely low low-density lipoprotein. After CD4+ decreases, lymphocyte CD8+ reduction is the final stage of immunological failure. The lower lipid concentrations appear to be secondary to the depletion of fat stores by inflammation-induced cachexia and fat exhaustion provoked by the co-occurrence of both diseases, which can finally lead to death. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis and Immunology of Visceral Leishmaniasis)

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13 pages, 2088 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pathogens Detected in Questing Ixodes ricinus Ticks in a Mountainous Area in Greece

by Katerina Tsioka, Anastasios Saratsis, Styliani Pappa and Anna Papa

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 449; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060449 - 25 May 2024

Viewed by 385

Abstract

Ixodes ricinus ticks are vectors of a plethora of pathogens. The purpose of this study was to screen 398 I. ricinus ticks for a variety of pathogens. Following the pooling, homogenization, and extraction of total nucleic acids, a real-time PCR was applied for [...] Read more.

Ixodes ricinus ticks are vectors of a plethora of pathogens. The purpose of this study was to screen 398 I. ricinus ticks for a variety of pathogens. Following the pooling, homogenization, and extraction of total nucleic acids, a real-time PCR was applied for the detection of a panel of tick-borne pathogens, while additional conventional PCRs combined with Sanger sequencing were applied for the detection of viruses and typing of Rickettsia and Borrelia species. At least one pathogen was detected in 60 of the 80 (75%) tick pools. Rickettsia spp. predominated, as it was detected in 63.75% of the pools (51/80; MIR 12.81%), followed by Borrelia spp. (35 pools (45%); MIR 8.79%), while Anaplasma phagocytophilum was detected in 2 pools (2.5%, MIR 0.5%). The ticks of six Rickettsia-positive pools were tested individually (from stored half-ticks); all sequences were identical to those of R. monacensis. Similarly, the ticks of six Borrelia-positive pools were tested individually, and it was shown that four belonged to the genospecies Borrelia garinii and two to Borrelia valaisiana. Phleboviruses were detected in 3 pools (3.75%; MIR 0.75%), with sequences clustering in the Ixovirus genus, while nairoviruses were detected in 7 pools (8.75%; MIR 1.76%), with one sequence clustering in the Orthonairovirus genus, and six clustering in the Norwavirus genus. Although a small number of ticks from only one area in Greece were tested, a variety of pathogens together with recently identified viruses were detected, prompting further studies in ticks and surveillance studies in humans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Spotted Fever)

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14 pages, 1758 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Functional Analysis of Type III Effectors in Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris Reveals Distinct Roles in Modulating Arabidopsis Innate Immunity

by Jing Huang, Hao Zhou, Min Zhou, Nana Li, Bole Jiang and Yongqiang He

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 448; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060448 - 24 May 2024

Viewed by 237

Abstract

Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) is a significant phytopathogen causing black rot disease in crucifers. Its virulence relies heavily on the type III secretion system (T3SS), facilitating effector translocation into plant cells. The type III effectors (T3Es) disrupt cellular processes, promoting [...] Read more.

Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) is a significant phytopathogen causing black rot disease in crucifers. Its virulence relies heavily on the type III secretion system (T3SS), facilitating effector translocation into plant cells. The type III effectors (T3Es) disrupt cellular processes, promoting pathogen proliferation. However, only a few T3Es from Xcc have been thoroughly characterized. In this study, we further investigated two effectors using the T3Es-deficient mutant and the Arabidopsis protoplast system. XopE2_Xcc triggers Arabidopsis immune responses via an unidentified activator of the salicylic acid (SA) signaling pathway, whereas XopL_Xcc suppresses the expression of genes associated with patterns-triggered immunity (PTI) and the SA signaling pathway. These two effectors exert opposing effects on Arabidopsis immune responses. Additionally, we examined the relationship between the specific domains and functions of these two effector proteins. Our findings demonstrate that the N-myristoylation motif and N-terminal domain are essential for the subcellular localization and virulence of XopE2_Xcc and XopL_Xcc, respectively. These novel insights enhance our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of T3Es and contribute to developing effective strategies for controlling bacterial disease. Full article

28 pages, 2086 KiB

Open AccessReview

Beyond Tradition: Exploring Cutting-Edge Approaches for Accurate Diagnosis of Human Filariasis

by Damian Pietrzak, Julia Weronika Łuczak and Marcin Wiśniewski

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 447; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060447 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2024

Viewed by 312

Abstract

Filariasis is recognised as a global public health threat, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. It is caused by infection with a nematode parasite of the superfamily Filarioidea, including Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, Onchocerca volvulus, and Onchocerca lupi. Three [...] Read more.

Filariasis is recognised as a global public health threat, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. It is caused by infection with a nematode parasite of the superfamily Filarioidea, including Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, Onchocerca volvulus, and Onchocerca lupi. Three main types of filariasis have been classified: lymphatic filariasis, subcutaneous filariasis, and serous cavity filariasis. The symptoms exhibited by individuals afflicted with filariasis are diverse and contingent upon several variables, including the species of parasite, the host’s health and immune response, and the stage of infection. While many classical parasitological techniques are considered indispensable tools for the diagnosis of parasitic infections in humans, alternative methods are being sought due to their limitations. Novel tests based on host–parasite interactions offer a rapid, simple, sensitive, and specific diagnostic tool in comparison to traditional parasitological methods. This article presents methods developed in the 21st century for the diagnosis of filariasis caused by invasion from W. bancrofti, B. malayi, O. volvulus, and O. lupi, as well as techniques that are currently in use. The development of modern diagnostic methods based on molecular biology constitutes a significant advancement in the fight against filariasis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights into Molecular Epidemiology and Diagnostics of Human Pathogens)

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7 pages, 234 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Clinical Outcome of Patients with Escherichia coli Isolated from Catheter Lumens and/or Peripheral Blood Cultures: A Retrospective Analysis

by Álvaro Irigoyen-von-Sierakowski, Marta Díaz-Navarro, Andrés Visedo, Mª Jesús Pérez-Granda, Pablo Martín-Rabadán, Patricia Muñoz and María Guembe

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 446; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060446 - 24 May 2024

Viewed by 247

Abstract

Background. Escherichia coli commonly causes catheter-related bloodstream infection (C-RBSI) in specific populations. The differential time to positivity (DTTP) technique is the recommended conservative procedure for diagnosing C-RBSIs. Methods. We conducted a retrospective study of episodes in which E. coli was isolated from catheter [...] Read more.

Background. Escherichia coli commonly causes catheter-related bloodstream infection (C-RBSI) in specific populations. The differential time to positivity (DTTP) technique is the recommended conservative procedure for diagnosing C-RBSIs. Methods. We conducted a retrospective study of episodes in which E. coli was isolated from catheter lumens obtained using the DTTP technique. Microbiological and clinical data were obtained based on the DTTP technique as either catheter colonization, C-RBSI, or non-C-RBSI. Results. A total of 89 catheter blood cultures were included, classified as follows: catheter colonization, 33.7%; C-RBSI, 9.0%; and non-C-RBSI, 57.3%. Only 15.7% of the catheters were withdrawn, with no positive catheter-tip cultures. We found no statistically significant differences in catheter type, antibiotic treatment, or clinical outcome among the groups, except for the frequency of catheter lock therapy or in the frequency of successful treatment. Mortality was associated with C-RBSI in only one patient. Conclusion. E. coli bacteremia diagnosed by the DTTP technique was classified as non-catheter-related in most patients. As the majority of the catheters were retained, E. coli bacteremia could not be microbiologically confirmed as catheter-related by the catheter-tip culture. Future studies are needed to assess the profitability of the DTTP technique for diagnosing E. coli C-RBSIs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Pathogens)

17 pages, 1445 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Novel Betanucleorhabdoviruses Infecting Elderberry (Sambucus nigra L.): Genome Characterization and Genetic Variability

by Dana Šafářová, Thierry Candresse, Jana Veselská and Milan Navrátil

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 445; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060445 - 24 May 2024

Viewed by 268

Abstract

The genus Betanucleorhabdovirus includes plant viruses with negative sense, non-segmented, single-stranded RNA genomes. Here, we characterized putative novel betanucleorhabdoviruses infecting a medically important plant, elderberry. Total RNA was purified from the leaves of several plants, ribodepleted and sequenced using the Illumina platform. Sequence [...] Read more.

The genus Betanucleorhabdovirus includes plant viruses with negative sense, non-segmented, single-stranded RNA genomes. Here, we characterized putative novel betanucleorhabdoviruses infecting a medically important plant, elderberry. Total RNA was purified from the leaves of several plants, ribodepleted and sequenced using the Illumina platform. Sequence data analysis led to the identification of thirteen contigs of approximately 13.5 kb, showing a genome structure (3’-N-P-P3-M-G-L-5´) typical of plant rhabdoviruses. The detected isolates showed 69.4 to 98.9% pairwise nucleotide identity and had the highest identity among known viruses (64.7–65.9%) with tomato betanucleorhabdovirus 2. A detailed similarity analysis and a phylogenetic analysis allowed us to discriminate the elderberry isolates into five groups, each meeting the sequence-based ICTV demarcation criterion in the Betanucleorhabdovirus genus (lower than 75% identity for the complete genome). Hence, the detected viruses appear to represent five novel, closely related betanucleorhabdoviruses, tentatively named Sambucus betanucleorhabdovirus 1 to 5. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Plant Viruses)

11 pages, 583 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Prevalence of Virulence-Associated Genes and Length Polymorphism in actA and inlB Genes Identified in Listeria monocytogenes Isolates from Meat Products and Meat-Processing Environments in Poland

by Iwona Kawacka and Agnieszka Olejnik-Schmidt

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 444; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060444 - 23 May 2024

Viewed by 295

Abstract

Listeria monocytogenes is a human pathogen that has the ability to cause listeriosis, a disease with possible fatal outcomes. The typical route of infection is ingestion of the bacteria with contaminated food. In this study, 13 virulence-associated genes were examined with PCR in [...] Read more.

Listeria monocytogenes is a human pathogen that has the ability to cause listeriosis, a disease with possible fatal outcomes. The typical route of infection is ingestion of the bacteria with contaminated food. In this study, 13 virulence-associated genes were examined with PCR in the genomes of 153 L. monocytogenes isolates collected from meat products and processing environments in Poland. All isolates possessed genes from LIPI-1—hly, actA, plcA, plcB and mpl—as well as four internalins: inlA, inlB, inlC, inlJ. Invasion-associated protein iap, as well as genes prfA and sigB, encoding regulatory proteins, were also detected in all isolates. Gene flaA, encoding flagellin, was detected in 113 (74%) isolates. This was the only gene that was not detected in all isolates, as its presence is serotype-dependent. Gene actA showed polymorphism with longer and shorter variants in PCR amplicons. Two isolates were characterized by truncated inlB genes, lacking 141 bp in their sequence, which was confirmed by gene sequencing. All isolates were positive in hemolysis assays, proving the synthesis of functional PrfA and Hly proteins. Four genotypes of L. monocytogenes based on actA polymorphism and two genotypes based on inlB polymorphism were distinguished within the isolates’ collection. Full article

9 pages, 441 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Endoparasite Infections in Captive Inland Bearded Dragons (Pogona vitticeps) in Italy

by Lisa Guardone, Alessandro Marigliano, Francesca Mancianti and Stefania Perrucci

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 443; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060443 - 23 May 2024

Viewed by 302

Abstract

The inland bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) is a lizard species commonly kept as a pet worldwide. Endoparasites are among the most important pathogens affecting bearded dragons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the endoparasites in captive P. vitticeps in [...] Read more.

The inland bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps) is a lizard species commonly kept as a pet worldwide. Endoparasites are among the most important pathogens affecting bearded dragons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the endoparasites in captive P. vitticeps in Italy. Faecal samples from 30 P. vitticeps were analysed by fresh faecal smears, flotation tests, the Mini-FLOTAC technique, and a rapid immunoassay to detect Cryptosporidium spp. To search for microsporidia, PCR and sequencing were performed on the faecal samples. Data were statistically analysed. The overall positivity rate for endoparasites was 83.3% (25/30). The identified endoparasites were oxyurids (17/30, 56.7%), Isosospora amphiboluri (13/30, 43.3%), Encephalitozoon pogonae (4/18, 22.22%), and Cryptosporidium sp. (1/30, 3.33%). The positivity for protozoa was significantly higher in juveniles compared to adults. Moreover, the frequency of clinical signs was significantly higher in the positive animals. The results obtained here emphasize the importance of regular veterinary examinations of captive P. vitticeps, aimed at the diagnosis, treatment, and control of endoparasites. This study is one of the largest surveys on microsporidia infections in living bearded dragons, suggesting that E. pogonae may be widespread in this lizard. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Research on Host–Pathogen Interaction in 2024)

21 pages, 6782 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fluorescently Tagged Verticillium dahliae to Understand the Infection Process on Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) and Weed Plant Species

by Andrew Chen, Sabrina Morrison, Aphrika Gregson, Duy P. Le, Andrew S. Urquhart, Linda J. Smith, Elizabeth A. B. Aitken and Donald M. Gardiner

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060442 - 23 May 2024

Viewed by 418

Abstract

Verticillium wilt is a soil-borne disease caused by distinct vegetative compatibility groups (VCG) of the fungus Verticillium dahliae. Defoliating (VCG 1A) and non-defoliating (VCG 2A) pathotypes of V. dahliae have contributed to yield losses of cotton production in Australia. To study the [...] Read more.

Verticillium wilt is a soil-borne disease caused by distinct vegetative compatibility groups (VCG) of the fungus Verticillium dahliae. Defoliating (VCG 1A) and non-defoliating (VCG 2A) pathotypes of V. dahliae have contributed to yield losses of cotton production in Australia. To study the virulence and the infection process of V. dahliae on cotton, two isolates, one representing each VCG, have been transformed with fluorescent protein genes. The transformants maintained their ability to infect the host, and both strains were observed to move through the plant vasculature to induce wilt symptoms. Furthermore, virulence testing suggests that the cotton V. dahliae strains can endophytically colonise common weed plant species found in the Australian landscape, and that is contrasted by their ability to infect and colonise native tobacco plants. The fluorescently labelled strains of V. dahliae not only allowed us to gain a thorough understanding of the infection process but also provided a method to rapidly identify recovered isolates from host colonisation studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fungal Pathogens)

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28 pages, 1333 KiB

Open AccessReview

Current Progress in the Science of Novel Adjuvant Nano-Vaccine-Induced Protective Immune Responses

by Mansab Ali Saleemi, Yan Zhang and Guoquan Zhang

Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 441; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060441 - 23 May 2024

Viewed by 736

Abstract

Vaccinations are vital as they protect us from various illness-causing agents. Despite all the advancements in vaccine-related research, developing improved and safer vaccines against devastating infectious diseases including Ebola, tuberculosis and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) remains a significant challenge. In addition, some [...] Read more.

Vaccinations are vital as they protect us from various illness-causing agents. Despite all the advancements in vaccine-related research, developing improved and safer vaccines against devastating infectious diseases including Ebola, tuberculosis and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) remains a significant challenge. In addition, some of the current human vaccines can cause adverse reactions in some individuals, which limits their use for massive vaccination program. Therefore, it is necessary to design optimal vaccine candidates that can elicit appropriate immune responses but do not induce side effects. Subunit vaccines are relatively safe for the vaccination of humans, but they are unable to trigger an optimal protective immune response without an adjuvant. Although different types of adjuvants have been used for the formulation of vaccines to fight pathogens that have high antigenic diversity, due to the toxicity and safety issues associated with human-specific adjuvants, there are only a few adjuvants that have been approved for the formulation of human vaccines. Recently, nanoparticles (NPs) have gain specific attention and are commonly used as adjuvants for vaccine development as well as for drug delivery due to their excellent immune modulation properties. This review will focus on the current state of adjuvants in vaccine development, the mechanisms of human-compatible adjuvants and future research directions. We hope this review will provide valuable information to discovery novel adjuvants and drug delivery systems for developing novel vaccines and treatments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Vaccines and Therapeutic Developments)

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Pathogens, Volume 13, Issue 6 (June 2024) – 40 articles

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