Editor’s Choice Articles

Editor’s Choice articles are based on recommendations by the scientific editors of MDPI journals from around the world. Editors select a small number of articles recently published in the journal that they believe will be particularly interesting to readers, or important in the respective research area. The aim is to provide a snapshot of some of the most exciting work published in the various research areas of the journal.

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12 pages, 247 KiB  
Article
Investigating the Presence of SARS CoV-2 in Free-Living and Captive Animals
by Lorena Jemeršić, Ivana Lojkić, Nina Krešić, Tomislav Keros, Tajana Amšel Zelenika, Luka Jurinović, Damir Skok, Ingeborg Bata, Jadranko Boras, Boris Habrun and Dragan Brnić
Pathogens 2021, 10(6), 635; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10060635 - 21 May 2021
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 5240
Abstract
Due to SARS CoV-2 recombination rates, number of infected people and recent reports of environmental contamination, the possibility of SARS CoV-2 transmission to animals can be expected. We tested samples of dominant free-living and captive wildlife species in Croatia for the presence of [...] Read more.
Due to SARS CoV-2 recombination rates, number of infected people and recent reports of environmental contamination, the possibility of SARS CoV-2 transmission to animals can be expected. We tested samples of dominant free-living and captive wildlife species in Croatia for the presence of anti-SARS CoV-2 antibodies and viral RNA. In total, from June 2020 until February 2021, we tested blood, muscle extract and fecal samples of 422 free-living wild boars (Sus scrofa), red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) and jackals (Canis aureus); blood and cloacal swabs of 111 yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis) and fecal samples of 32 zoo animals. A commercially available ELISA (ID.Vet, France) and as a confirmatory test, a surrogate virus neutralization test (sVNT; GenScript, Netherlands) were used. Fecal samples were tested for the presence of viral RNA by a real-time RT–PCR protocol. Fifteen out of 533 (2.8%) positive ELISA results were detected; in wild boars (3.9%), red foxes (2.9%) and jackals (4.6%). However, the positive findings were not confirmed by sVNT. No viral RNA was found. In conclusion, no spillover occurred within the investigated period (second COVID-19 wave). However, further investigation is needed, especially regarding wildlife sample features for serological tests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging and Neglected Viruses and Zoonoses)
14 pages, 2419 KiB  
Article
An Outer Membrane Vesicle-Adjuvanted Oral Vaccine Protects Against Lethal, Oral Salmonella Infection
by Jaikin E. Harrell, Jonathan R. Kurtz, David L. Bauer, J. Timothy Prior, Patrick S. Gellings, Lisa A. Morici and James B. McLachlan
Pathogens 2021, 10(5), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10050616 - 18 May 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4609
Abstract
Non-typhoidal salmonellosis, caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is a common fecal-oral disease characterized by mild gastrointestinal distress resulting in diarrhea, chills, fever, abdominal cramps, head and body aches, nausea, and vomiting. Increasing incidences of antibiotic resistant invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella infections makes this [...] Read more.
Non-typhoidal salmonellosis, caused by Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium is a common fecal-oral disease characterized by mild gastrointestinal distress resulting in diarrhea, chills, fever, abdominal cramps, head and body aches, nausea, and vomiting. Increasing incidences of antibiotic resistant invasive non-typhoidal Salmonella infections makes this a global threat requiring novel treatment strategies including next-generation vaccines. The goal of the current study was to formulate a novel vaccine platform against Salmonella infection that could be delivered orally. To accomplish this, we created a Salmonella-specific vaccine adjuvanted with Burkholderia pseudomallei outer membrane vesicles (OMVs). We show that adding OMVs to a heat-killed oral Salmonella vaccine (HKST + OMVs) protects against a lethal, oral challenge with Salmonella. Further, we show that opsonizing anti-Salmonella antibodies are induced in response to immunization and that CD4 T cells and B cells can be induced when OMVs are used as the oral adjuvant. This study represents a novel oral vaccine approach to combatting the increasing problem of invasive Salmonella infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Vaccine Strategies against Intracellular Bacteria)
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14 pages, 1031 KiB  
Review
Neonatal SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Practical Tips
by Cinzia Auriti, Domenico Umberto De Rose, Vito Mondì, Ilaria Stolfi, Chryssoula Tzialla and on behalf of the Study Group of Neonatal Infectious Diseases
Pathogens 2021, 10(5), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10050611 - 17 May 2021
Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5027
Abstract
The recent viral pandemic in Wuhan, Hubei, China has led to the identification of a new species of beta-coronavirus, able to infect humans, the 2019-nCoV, later named SARS-CoV-2. SARS-CoV-2 causes a clinical syndrome named COVID-19, which presents with a spectrum of symptoms ranging [...] Read more.
The recent viral pandemic in Wuhan, Hubei, China has led to the identification of a new species of beta-coronavirus, able to infect humans, the 2019-nCoV, later named SARS-CoV-2. SARS-CoV-2 causes a clinical syndrome named COVID-19, which presents with a spectrum of symptoms ranging from mild upper respiratory tract infection to severe pneumonia, with acute respiratory distress syndrome and frequent death. All age groups are susceptible to the infection, but children, especially infants, seem to be partially spared, having a more favorable clinical course than other age groups. There is currently no clear evidence showing vertical transmission and intrauterine SARS-CoV-2 infection in fetuses of women developing COVID-19 pneumonia in late pregnancy, and even if transmission is possible, the SARS-CoV2 positivity of the mother does not require delivery by caesarean section, does not contraindicate the management of the infant in rooming-in and allows breastfeeding. This review provides an overview on the biology of the virus, on the pathogenesis of the infection, with particular attention to pregnancy and neonatal age, on the clinical presentation of infection in newborns and young infants and summarizes the international recommendations currently available on the clinical care of neonates with SARS-CoV2 infection or at risk of catching the virus. The main objective of the review is to provide an update especially focused to the clinical management of COVID-19 infection in the perinatal and neonatal age. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection SARS-CoV Infections)
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17 pages, 2377 KiB  
Article
Isolation and Characterization of Nocardiae Associated with Foaming Coastal Marine Waters
by Luke Wright, Mohammad Katouli and D. İpek Kurtböke
Pathogens 2021, 10(5), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10050579 - 10 May 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5555
Abstract
Nocardiosis is an infectious disease caused by Nocardia species that occurs worldwide, albeit more prevalently in tropical/subtropical regions. It can appear as either acute, subacute or as a chronic infection mostly with those with a compromised/weakened immune system. Inhalation of spores and or [...] Read more.
Nocardiosis is an infectious disease caused by Nocardia species that occurs worldwide, albeit more prevalently in tropical/subtropical regions. It can appear as either acute, subacute or as a chronic infection mostly with those with a compromised/weakened immune system. Inhalation of spores and or mycelium fragments is the main transmission route for developing pulmonary nocardiosis. In contrast, cutaneous nocardiosis usually occurs via direct contact. In the subtropical region of the Sunshine Coast in Australia foaming events with thick and persistent and orange-brown color foam have been observed during summer seasons in the near shore marine environments. This study reports the existence of nocardiae in these near shore marine environments by the use of a novel isolation method which used the gas requirements of nocardiae as a selective battery. A total of 32 nocardiae were isolated with the use of this novel method and subsequently conducted molecular identification methods confirmed that the isolates belonged to the genus Nocardia. Twenty-one isolates out of the 32 were closely related to N. nova strains MGA115 and one was related to CBU 09/875, in addition when compared with human pathogenic nocardiae twenty of the isolates were found to be related to N. nova strain JCM 6044. Isolates displayed varied resistance against some of the antibiotics tested when interpretation threshold recommended the Comite de L’Antibiogramme de la Societe Francaise de Microbiologie were used. The highest level of resistance against cefotaxime (n = 27) and ceftriaxone (n = 24). Some of the isolates (n = 6) that displayed resistance to selected antibiotics also possessed potential human pathogenic characteristics such as adherence and translocation through human long epithelial cells as well as displaying phage resistance (n = 26). They might thus present a potential public health risk if frequently encountered through exposure to aerosols generated by the foam as well as direct contact through a wound. Preventative measures to control the growth of nocardiae in such environments such as the control of pollutants, might prevent potential infections that might be caused by these bacteria in humans as well as in marine animals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ecology and Pathogenicity of Nocardiae)
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15 pages, 1608 KiB  
Review
The Rotavirus Vaccine Landscape, an Update
by Roberto Cárcamo-Calvo, Carlos Muñoz, Javier Buesa, Jesús Rodríguez-Díaz and Roberto Gozalbo-Rovira
Pathogens 2021, 10(5), 520; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10050520 - 26 Apr 2021
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 6488
Abstract
Rotavirus is the leading cause of severe acute childhood gastroenteritis, responsible for more than 128,500 deaths per year, mainly in low-income countries. Although the mortality rate has dropped significantly since the introduction of the first vaccines around 2006, an estimated 83,158 deaths are [...] Read more.
Rotavirus is the leading cause of severe acute childhood gastroenteritis, responsible for more than 128,500 deaths per year, mainly in low-income countries. Although the mortality rate has dropped significantly since the introduction of the first vaccines around 2006, an estimated 83,158 deaths are still preventable. The two main vaccines currently deployed, Rotarix and RotaTeq, both live oral vaccines, have been shown to be less effective in developing countries. In addition, they have been associated with a slight risk of intussusception, and the need for cold chain maintenance limits the accessibility of these vaccines to certain areas, leaving 65% of children worldwide unvaccinated and therefore unprotected. Against this backdrop, here we review the main vaccines under development and the state of the art on potential alternatives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Viral Pathogens)
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19 pages, 10255 KiB  
Article
Cell-Type Apoptosis in Lung during SARS-CoV-2 Infection
by Yakun Liu, Tania M. Garron, Qing Chang, Zhengchen Su, Changcheng Zhou, Yuan Qiu, Eric C. Gong, Junying Zheng, Y. Whitney Yin, Thomas Ksiazek, Trevor Brasel, Yang Jin, Paul Boor, Jason E. Comer and Bin Gong
Pathogens 2021, 10(5), 509; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10050509 - 23 Apr 2021
Cited by 40 | Viewed by 7882
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has inspired renewed interest in understanding the fundamental pathology of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) following infection. However, the pathogenesis of ARDS following SRAS-CoV-2 infection remains largely unknown. In the present study, we examined apoptosis in postmortem lung sections from [...] Read more.
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has inspired renewed interest in understanding the fundamental pathology of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) following infection. However, the pathogenesis of ARDS following SRAS-CoV-2 infection remains largely unknown. In the present study, we examined apoptosis in postmortem lung sections from COVID-19 patients and in lung tissues from a non-human primate model of SARS-CoV-2 infection, in a cell-type manner, including type 1 and 2 alveolar cells and vascular endothelial cells (ECs), macrophages, and T cells. Multiple-target immunofluorescence assays and Western blotting suggest both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways are activated during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Furthermore, we observed that SARS-CoV-2 fails to induce apoptosis in human bronchial epithelial cells (i.e., BEAS2B cells) and primary human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), which are refractory to SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, infection of co-cultured Vero cells and HUVECs or Vero cells and BEAS2B cells with SARS-CoV-2 induced apoptosis in both Vero cells and HUVECs/BEAS2B cells but did not alter the permissiveness of HUVECs or BEAS2B cells to the virus. Post-exposure treatment of the co-culture of Vero cells and HUVECs with a novel non-cyclic nucleotide small molecule EPAC1-specific activator reduced apoptosis in HUVECs. These findings may help to delineate a novel insight into the pathogenesis of ARDS following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cutting-Edge Approaches in Pathogen Study)
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13 pages, 1312 KiB  
Article
Human Pleural Fluid and Human Serum Albumin Modulate the Behavior of a Hypervirulent and Multidrug-Resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii Representative Strain
by Camila Pimentel, Casin Le, Marisel R. Tuttobene, Tomas Subils, Jasmine Martinez, Rodrigo Sieira, Krisztina M. Papp-Wallace, Niroshika Keppetipola, Robert A. Bonomo, Luis A. Actis, Marcelo E. Tolmasky and Maria Soledad Ramirez
Pathogens 2021, 10(4), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10040471 - 13 Apr 2021
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3998
Abstract
Acinetobacter baumannii is a nosocomial pathogen capable of causing serious infections associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Due to its antimicrobial drug resistance profile, A. baumannii is categorized as an urgent priority pathogen by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [...] Read more.
Acinetobacter baumannii is a nosocomial pathogen capable of causing serious infections associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Due to its antimicrobial drug resistance profile, A. baumannii is categorized as an urgent priority pathogen by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States and a priority group 1 critical microorganism by the World Health Organization. Understanding how A. baumannii adapts to different host environments may provide critical insights into strategically targeting this pathogen with novel antimicrobial and biological therapeutics. Exposure to human fluids was previously shown to alter the gene expression profile of a highly drug-susceptible A. baumannii strain A118 leading to persistence and survival of this pathogen. Herein, we explore the impact of human pleural fluid (HPF) and human serum albumin (HSA) on the gene expression profile of a highly multi-drug-resistant strain of A. baumannii AB5075. Differential expression was observed for ~30 genes, whose products are involved in quorum sensing, quorum quenching, iron acquisition, fatty acid metabolism, biofilm formation, secretion systems, and type IV pilus formation. Phenotypic and further transcriptomic analysis using quantitative RT-PCR confirmed RNA-seq data and demonstrated a distinctive role of HSA as the molecule involved in A. baumannii’s response. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Status of Acinetobacter Infections)
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32 pages, 796 KiB  
Review
Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC): An Overview of Virulence and Pathogenesis Factors, Zoonotic Potential, and Control Strategies
by Dipak Kathayat, Dhanashree Lokesh, Sochina Ranjit and Gireesh Rajashekara
Pathogens 2021, 10(4), 467; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10040467 - 12 Apr 2021
Cited by 250 | Viewed by 19192
Abstract
Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) causes colibacillosis in avian species, and recent reports have suggested APEC as a potential foodborne zoonotic pathogen. Herein, we discuss the virulence and pathogenesis factors of APEC, review the zoonotic potential, provide the current status of antibiotic resistance [...] Read more.
Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) causes colibacillosis in avian species, and recent reports have suggested APEC as a potential foodborne zoonotic pathogen. Herein, we discuss the virulence and pathogenesis factors of APEC, review the zoonotic potential, provide the current status of antibiotic resistance and progress in vaccine development, and summarize the alternative control measures being investigated. In addition to the known virulence factors, several other factors including quorum sensing system, secretion systems, two-component systems, transcriptional regulators, and genes associated with metabolism also contribute to APEC pathogenesis. The clear understanding of these factors will help in developing new effective treatments. The APEC isolates (particularly belonging to ST95 and ST131 or O1, O2, and O18) have genetic similarities and commonalities in virulence genes with human uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) and neonatal meningitis E. coli (NMEC) and abilities to cause urinary tract infections and meningitis in humans. Therefore, the zoonotic potential of APEC cannot be undervalued. APEC resistance to almost all classes of antibiotics, including carbapenems, has been already reported. There is a need for an effective APEC vaccine that can provide protection against diverse APEC serotypes. Alternative therapies, especially the virulence inhibitors, can provide a novel solution with less likelihood of developing resistance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Surveillance and Control of Infectious Diseases)
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32 pages, 6910 KiB  
Review
Cat Respiratory Nematodes: Current Knowledge, Novel Data and Warranted Studies on Clinical Features, Treatment and Control
by Simone Morelli, Anastasia Diakou, Mariasole Colombo, Angela Di Cesare, Alessandra Barlaam, Dimitris Dimzas and Donato Traversa
Pathogens 2021, 10(4), 454; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10040454 - 10 Apr 2021
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 15163
Abstract
The nematodes Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Troglostrongylus brevior and Capillaria aerophila are the most important parasites inhabiting the airways of cats. They are receiving growing attention from academia, pharmaceutical companies and veterinarians, and are now considered a primary cause of respiratory diseases in feline [...] Read more.
The nematodes Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Troglostrongylus brevior and Capillaria aerophila are the most important parasites inhabiting the airways of cats. They are receiving growing attention from academia, pharmaceutical companies and veterinarians, and are now considered a primary cause of respiratory diseases in feline clinical practice and parasitology. In the past few years, several studies have been conducted in both natural and experimental settings to increase knowledge, provide new insights and fill gaps on respiratory parasitoses of cats. Awareness and knowledge of clinical scenarios towards appropriate and timely diagnosis and prompt and efficacious treatment options have become a priority to investigate. At the same time, chemopreventative approaches have been evaluated to assess the geographical spreading of these parasites and the rise in the number of clinical cases in cat populations of different countries. Given the intense accumulation of novel data, this review presents and discusses the state of the art and the latest updates on the clinical features, treatment, and control of major respiratory parasitoses of cats. Moreover, food for thought is also provided with the aim of spurring on new studies in the near future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Felid Parasitoses, New Insights and Open Perspectives)
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25 pages, 2904 KiB  
Article
Alternative σ Factors Regulate Overlapping as Well as Distinct Stress Response and Metabolic Functions in Listeria monocytogenes under Stationary Phase Stress Condition
by Renato H. Orsi, Soraya Chaturongakul, Haley F. Oliver, Lalit Ponnala, Ahmed Gaballa and Martin Wiedmann
Pathogens 2021, 10(4), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10040411 - 1 Apr 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3367
Abstract
Listeria monocytogenes can regulate and fine-tune gene expression, to adapt to diverse stress conditions encountered during foodborne transmission. To further understand the contributions of alternative sigma (σ) factors to the regulation of L. monocytogenes gene expression, RNA-Seq was performed on L. monocytogenes strain [...] Read more.
Listeria monocytogenes can regulate and fine-tune gene expression, to adapt to diverse stress conditions encountered during foodborne transmission. To further understand the contributions of alternative sigma (σ) factors to the regulation of L. monocytogenes gene expression, RNA-Seq was performed on L. monocytogenes strain 10403S and five isogenic mutants (four strains bearing in-frame null mutations in three out of four alternative σ factor genes, ΔCHL, ΔBHL, ΔBCL, and ΔBCH, and one strain bearing null mutations in all four genes, ΔBCHL), grown to stationary phase. Our data showed that 184, 35, 34, and 20 genes were positively regulated by σB, σL, σH, and σC (posterior probability > 0.9 and Fold Change (FC) > 5.0), respectively. Moreover, σB-dependent genes showed the highest FC (based on comparisons between the ΔCHL and the ΔBCHL strain), with 44 genes showing an FC > 100; only four σL-dependent, and no σH- or σC-dependent genes showed FC >100. While σB-regulated genes identified in this study are involved in stress-associated functions and metabolic pathways, σL appears to largely regulate genes involved in a few specific metabolic pathways, including positive regulation of operons encoding phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP)-dependent phosphotransferase systems (PTSs). Overall, our data show that (i) σB and σL directly and indirectly regulate genes involved in several energy metabolism-related functions; (ii) alternative σ factors are involved in complex regulatory networks and appear to have epistatic effects in stationary phase cells; and (iii) σB regulates multiple stress response pathways, while σL and σH positively regulate a smaller number of specific pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Listeria monocytogenes Pathogenesis)
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10 pages, 1570 KiB  
Article
A Novel Infection Protocol in Zebrafish Embryo to Assess Pseudomonas aeruginosa Virulence and Validate Efficacy of a Quorum Sensing Inhibitor In Vivo
by Pauline Nogaret, Fatima El Garah and Anne-Béatrice Blanc-Potard
Pathogens 2021, 10(4), 401; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10040401 - 29 Mar 2021
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4588
Abstract
The opportunistic human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa is responsible for a variety of acute infections and is a major cause of mortality in chronically infected cystic fibrosis patients. Due to increased resistance to antibiotics, new therapeutic strategies against P. aeruginosa are urgently needed. In [...] Read more.
The opportunistic human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa is responsible for a variety of acute infections and is a major cause of mortality in chronically infected cystic fibrosis patients. Due to increased resistance to antibiotics, new therapeutic strategies against P. aeruginosa are urgently needed. In this context, we aimed to develop a simple vertebrate animal model to rapidly assess in vivo drug efficacy against P. aeruginosa. Zebrafish are increasingly considered for modeling human infections caused by bacterial pathogens, which are commonly microinjected in embryos. In the present study, we established a novel protocol for zebrafish infection by P. aeruginosa based on bath immersion in 96-well plates of tail-injured embryos. The immersion method, followed by a 48-hour survey of embryo viability, was first validated to assess the virulence of P. aeruginosa wild-type PAO1 and a known attenuated mutant. We then validated its relevance for antipseudomonal drug testing by first using a clinically used antibiotic, ciprofloxacin. Secondly, we used a novel quorum sensing (QS) inhibitory molecule, N-(2-pyrimidyl)butanamide (C11), the activity of which had been validated in vitro but not previously tested in any animal model. A significant protective effect of C11 was observed on infected embryos, supporting the ability of C11 to attenuate in vivo P. aeruginosa pathogenicity. In conclusion, we present here a new and reliable method to compare the virulence of P. aeruginosa strains in vivo and to rapidly assess the efficacy of clinically relevant drugs against P. aeruginosa, including new antivirulence compounds. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pseudomonas aeruginosa Pathogenesis)
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20 pages, 15025 KiB  
Article
Circulation of Babesia Species and Their Exposure to Humans through Ixodes ricinus
by Tal Azagi, Ryanne I. Jaarsma, Arieke Docters van Leeuwen, Manoj Fonville, Miriam Maas, Frits F. J. Franssen, Marja Kik, Jolianne M. Rijks, Margriet G. Montizaan, Margit Groenevelt, Mark Hoyer, Helen J. Esser, Aleksandra I. Krawczyk, David Modrý, Hein Sprong and Samiye Demir
Pathogens 2021, 10(4), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10040386 - 24 Mar 2021
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 5843
Abstract
Human babesiosis in Europe has been attributed to infection with Babesia divergens and, to a lesser extent, with Babesia venatorum and Babesia microti, which are all transmitted to humans through a bite of Ixodes ricinus. These Babesia species circulate in the Netherlands, [...] Read more.
Human babesiosis in Europe has been attributed to infection with Babesia divergens and, to a lesser extent, with Babesia venatorum and Babesia microti, which are all transmitted to humans through a bite of Ixodes ricinus. These Babesia species circulate in the Netherlands, but autochthonous human babesiosis cases have not been reported so far. To gain more insight into the natural sources of these Babesia species, their presence in reservoir hosts and in I. ricinus was examined. Moreover, part of the ticks were tested for co-infections with other tick borne pathogens. In a cross-sectional study, qPCR-detection was used to determine the presence of Babesia species in 4611 tissue samples from 27 mammalian species and 13 bird species. Reverse line blotting (RLB) and qPCR detection of Babesia species were used to test 25,849 questing I. ricinus. Fragments of the 18S rDNA and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene from PCR-positive isolates were sequenced for confirmation and species identification and species-specific PCR reactions were performed on samples with suspected mixed infections. Babesia microti was found in two widespread rodent species: Myodes glareolus and Apodemus sylvaticus, whereas B. divergens was detected in the geographically restricted Cervus elaphus and Bison bonasus, and occasionally in free-ranging Ovis aries. B. venatorum was detected in the ubiquitous Capreolus capreolus, and occasionally in free-ranging O. aries. Species-specific PCR revealed co-infections in C. capreolus and C. elaphus, resulting in higher prevalence of B. venatorum and B. divergens than disclosed by qPCR detection, followed by 18S rDNA and COI sequencing. The non-zoonotic Babesia species found were Babesia capreoli, Babesia vulpes, Babesia sp. deer clade, and badger-associated Babesia species. The infection rate of zoonotic Babesia species in questing I. ricinus ticks was higher for Babesia clade I (2.6%) than Babesia clade X (1.9%). Co-infection of B. microti with Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato and Neoehrlichia mikurensis in questing nymphs occurred more than expected, which reflects their mutual reservoir hosts, and suggests the possibility of co-transmission of these three pathogens to humans during a tick bite. The ubiquitous spread and abundance of B. microti and B. venatorum in their reservoir hosts and questing ticks imply some level of human exposure through tick bites. The restricted distribution of the wild reservoir hosts for B. divergens and its low infection rate in ticks might contribute to the absence of reported autochthonous cases of human babesiosis in the Netherlands. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Research on Hard Tick-Borne Diseases)
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14 pages, 2819 KiB  
Article
WGS of Commensal Neisseria Reveals Acquisition of a New Ribosomal Protection Protein (MsrD) as a Possible Explanation for High Level Azithromycin Resistance in Belgium
by Tessa de Block, Jolein Gyonne Elise Laumen, Christophe Van Dijck, Said Abdellati, Irith De Baetselier, Sheeba Santhini Manoharan-Basil, Dorien Van den Bossche and Chris Kenyon
Pathogens 2021, 10(3), 384; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10030384 - 23 Mar 2021
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 3894
Abstract
In this study, we characterized all oropharyngeal and anorectal isolates of Neisseria spp. in a cohort of men who have sex with men. This resulted in a panel of pathogenic Neisseria (N. gonorrhoeae [n = 5] and N. meningitidis [n = 5]) [...] Read more.
In this study, we characterized all oropharyngeal and anorectal isolates of Neisseria spp. in a cohort of men who have sex with men. This resulted in a panel of pathogenic Neisseria (N. gonorrhoeae [n = 5] and N. meningitidis [n = 5]) and nonpathogenic Neisseria (N. subflava [n = 11], N. mucosa [n = 3] and N. oralis [n = 2]). A high proportion of strains in this panel were resistant to azithromycin (18/26) and ceftriaxone (3/26). Whole genome sequencing (WGS) of these strains identified numerous mutations that are known to confer reduced susceptibility to azithromycin and ceftriaxone in N. gonorrhoeae. The presence or absence of these known mutations did not explain the high level resistance to azithromycin (>256 mg/L) in the nonpathogenic isolates (8/16). After screening for antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes, we found a ribosomal protection protein, Msr(D), in these highly azithromycin resistant nonpathogenic strains. The complete integration site originated from Streptococcus pneumoniae and is associated with high level resistance to azithromycin in many other bacterial species. This novel AMR resistance mechanism to azithromycin in nonpathogenic Neisseria could be a public health concern if it were to be transmitted to pathogenic Neisseria. This study demonstrates the utility of WGS-based surveillance of nonpathogenic Neisseria. Full article
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14 pages, 1246 KiB  
Article
Host-Feeding Preference and Diel Activity of Mosquito Vectors of the Japanese Encephalitis Virus in Rural Cambodia
by Sébastien Boyer, Benoit Durand, Sony Yean, Cécile Brengues, Pierre-Olivier Maquart, Didier Fontenille and Véronique Chevalier
Pathogens 2021, 10(3), 376; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10030376 - 21 Mar 2021
Cited by 31 | Viewed by 5214
Abstract
Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is the most important cause of human encephalitis in Southeast Asia, and this zoonosis is mainly transmitted from pigs to human by mosquitoes. A better understanding of the host-feeding preference of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) major vectors is crucial for [...] Read more.
Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is the most important cause of human encephalitis in Southeast Asia, and this zoonosis is mainly transmitted from pigs to human by mosquitoes. A better understanding of the host-feeding preference of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) major vectors is crucial for identifying risk areas, defining bridge vector species and targeting adapted vector control strategies. To assess host-feeding preference of JE vectors in a rural Cambodian area where JE is known to circulate, in 2017, we implemented four sessions of mosquito trapping (March, June, September, December), during five consecutive nights, collecting four times a night (6 p.m. to 6 a.m.), and using five baited traps simultaneously, i.e., cow, chicken, pig, human, and a blank one for control. In addition, blood meals of 157 engorged females trapped at the same location were opportunistically analyzed with polymerase chain reaction (PCR), using cow, pig, human, and dog blood primers. More than 95% of the 36,709 trapped mosquitoes were potential JE vectors. These vectors were trapped in large numbers throughout the year, including during the dry season, and from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Despite the apparent host-feeding preference of Culex vishnui, Cx. gelidus, and Cx. tritaenhyorhincus for cows, statistical analysis suggested that the primary target of these three mosquito species were pigs. Dog blood was detected in eight mosquitoes of the 157 tested, showing that mosquitoes also bite dogs, and suggesting that dogs may be used as proxy of the risk for human to get infected by JE virus. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Japanese Encephalitis and Rift Valley Fever)
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31 pages, 4564 KiB  
Review
Acinetobacter baumannii Antibiotic Resistance Mechanisms
by Ioannis Kyriakidis, Eleni Vasileiou, Zoi Dorothea Pana and Athanasios Tragiannidis
Pathogens 2021, 10(3), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10030373 - 19 Mar 2021
Cited by 395 | Viewed by 40518
Abstract
Acinetobacter baumannii is a Gram-negative ESKAPE microorganism that poses a threat to public health by causing severe and invasive (mostly nosocomial) infections linked with high mortality rates. During the last years, this pathogen displayed multidrug resistance (MDR), mainly due to extensive antibiotic abuse [...] Read more.
Acinetobacter baumannii is a Gram-negative ESKAPE microorganism that poses a threat to public health by causing severe and invasive (mostly nosocomial) infections linked with high mortality rates. During the last years, this pathogen displayed multidrug resistance (MDR), mainly due to extensive antibiotic abuse and poor stewardship. MDR isolates are associated with medical history of long hospitalization stays, presence of catheters, and mechanical ventilation, while immunocompromised and severely ill hosts predispose to invasive infections. Next-generation sequencing techniques have revolutionized diagnosis of severe A. baumannii infections, contributing to timely diagnosis and personalized therapeutic regimens according to the identification of the respective resistance genes. The aim of this review is to describe in detail all current knowledge on the genetic background of A. baumannii resistance mechanisms in humans as regards beta-lactams (penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems, monobactams, and beta-lactamase inhibitors), aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, macrolides, lincosamides, streptogramin antibiotics, polymyxins, and others (amphenicols, oxazolidinones, rifamycins, fosfomycin, diaminopyrimidines, sulfonamides, glycopeptide, and lipopeptide antibiotics). Mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance refer mainly to regulation of antibiotic transportation through bacterial membranes, alteration of the antibiotic target site, and enzymatic modifications resulting in antibiotic neutralization. Virulence factors that may affect antibiotic susceptibility profiles and confer drug resistance are also being discussed. Reports from cases of A. baumannii coinfection with SARS-CoV-2 during the COVID-19 pandemic in terms of resistance profiles and MDR genes have been investigated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Status of Acinetobacter Infections)
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13 pages, 6404 KiB  
Review
Squalene-Based Influenza Vaccine Adjuvants and Their Impact on the Hemagglutinin-Specific B Cell Response
by Phuong Nguyen-Contant, Mark Y. Sangster and David J. Topham
Pathogens 2021, 10(3), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10030355 - 17 Mar 2021
Cited by 37 | Viewed by 7070
Abstract
Influenza infections continue to cause significant annual morbidity and mortality despite ongoing influenza vaccine research. Adjuvants are administered in conjunction with influenza vaccines to enhance the immune response and strengthen protection against disease. Squalene-based emulsion adjuvants including MF59, AS03, and AF03, are registered [...] Read more.
Influenza infections continue to cause significant annual morbidity and mortality despite ongoing influenza vaccine research. Adjuvants are administered in conjunction with influenza vaccines to enhance the immune response and strengthen protection against disease. Squalene-based emulsion adjuvants including MF59, AS03, and AF03, are registered for administration with influenza vaccines and are widely used in many countries. Squalene-based emulsion adjuvants induce a strong innate immune response, enhancing antigen presentation both quantitively and qualitatively to generate strong B cell responses and antibody production. They also diversify the reactivity profiles and strengthen the affinities of antibodies against the influenza hemagglutinin, increasing protection across virus clades. In this review, we consider the mechanisms of the enhancement of innate and adaptive immune responses by squalene-based emulsionSE adjuvants and the resulting increase in magnitude and breadth of hemagglutinin-specific B cell responses. We relate observed effects of SE adjuvants and current mechanistic understandings to events in responding lymph nodes. These insights will guide the rational design and optimization of influenza vaccines to provide broad and effective protection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Influenza A Virus)
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17 pages, 2315 KiB  
Article
Inactivation of Human Coronavirus by FATHHOME’s Dry Sanitizer Device: Rapid and Eco-Friendly Ozone-Based Disinfection of SARS-CoV-2
by Timsy Uppal, Amir Khazaieli, Antoine M. Snijders and Subhash C. Verma
Pathogens 2021, 10(3), 339; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10030339 - 14 Mar 2021
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 7240
Abstract
The pandemic of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 was reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Pertaining to its high transmissibility and wide host adaptability, this unique human coronavirus spread across the planet inflicting 115 million people and causing 2.5 million deaths (as of March 3rd, 2021). [...] Read more.
The pandemic of SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 was reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. Pertaining to its high transmissibility and wide host adaptability, this unique human coronavirus spread across the planet inflicting 115 million people and causing 2.5 million deaths (as of March 3rd, 2021). Limited or negligible pre-existing immunity to multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants has resulted in severe morbidity and mortality worldwide, as well as a record-breaking surge in the use of medical-surgical supplies and personal protective equipment. In response to the global need for effective sterilization techniques, this study evaluated the virucidal efficacy of FATHHOME’s self-contained, ozone-based dry-sanitizing device, by dose and time response assessment. We tested inactivation of human coronavirus, HCoV-OC43, a close genetic model of SARS-CoV-2, on porous (N95 filtering facepiece respirator/FFR) and nonporous (glass) surfaces. We started our assays with 20 ppm-10 min ozone exposure, and effectively reduced 99.8% and 99.9% of virus from glass and N95 FFR surfaces, respectively. Importantly, the virus was completely inactivated, below the detection limit (over 6-log10 reduction) with 25 ppm-15 min ozone exposure on both tested surfaces. As expected, a higher ozone exposure (50 ppm-10 min) resulted in faster inactivation of HCoV-OC43 with 100% inactivation from both the surfaces, with no residual ozone present after completion of the 5-min post exposure recapture cycle and no measurable increase in ambient ozone levels. These results confirmed that FATHHOME’s device is suitable for rapid decontamination of SARS-CoV-2- from worn items, frequently touched items, and PPE including N95 FFRs, face shields, and other personal items. Full article
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19 pages, 2807 KiB  
Article
Molecular Diversity of Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Blastocystis sp. in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Schoolchildren in Zambézia Province (Mozambique)
by Aly S. Muadica, Pamela C. Köster, Alejandro Dashti, Begoña Bailo, Marta Hernández-de-Mingo, Sooria Balasegaram and David Carmena
Pathogens 2021, 10(3), 255; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10030255 - 24 Feb 2021
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3893
Abstract
Infections by the protist enteroparasites Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and, to a much lesser extent, Blastocystis sp. are common causes of childhood diarrhoea in low-income countries. This molecular epidemiological study assesses the frequency and molecular diversity of these pathogens in faecal samples [...] Read more.
Infections by the protist enteroparasites Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and, to a much lesser extent, Blastocystis sp. are common causes of childhood diarrhoea in low-income countries. This molecular epidemiological study assesses the frequency and molecular diversity of these pathogens in faecal samples from asymptomatic schoolchildren (n = 807) and symptomatic children seeking medical attention (n = 286) in Zambézia province, Mozambique. Detection and molecular characterisation of pathogens was conducted by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based methods coupled with Sanger sequencing. Giardia duodenalis was the most prevalent enteric parasite found [41.7%, 95% confidence interval (CI): 38.8–44.7%], followed by Blastocystis sp. (14.1%, 95% CI: 12.1–16.3%), and Cryptosporidium spp. (1.6%, 95% CI: 0.9–2.5%). Sequence analyses revealed the presence of assemblages A (7.0%, 3/43) and B (88.4%, 38/43) within G. duodenalis-positive children. Four Cryptosporidium species were detected, including C. hominis (30.8%; 4/13), C. parvum (30.8%, 4/13), C. felis (30.8%, 4/13), and C. viatorum (7.6%, 1/13). Four Blastocystis subtypes were also identified including ST1 (22.7%; 35/154), ST2 (22.7%; 35/154), ST3 (45.5%; 70/154), and ST4 (9.1%; 14/154). Most of the genotyped samples were from asymptomatic children. This is the first report of C. viatorum and Blastocystis ST4 in Mozambique. Molecular data indicate that anthropic and zoonotic transmission (the latter at an unknown rate) are important spread pathways of diarrhoea-causing pathogens in Mozambique. Full article
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15 pages, 2498 KiB  
Article
Atopobium vaginae and Prevotella bivia Are Able to Incorporate and Influence Gene Expression in a Pre-Formed Gardnerella vaginalis Biofilm
by Joana Castro, Aliona S. Rosca, Christina A. Muzny and Nuno Cerca
Pathogens 2021, 10(2), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10020247 - 20 Feb 2021
Cited by 43 | Viewed by 10920
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is associated with a highly structured polymicrobial biofilm on the vaginal epithelium where Gardnerella species presumably play a pivotal role. Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, and Prevotella bivia are vaginal pathogens detected during the early stages of incident BV. [...] Read more.
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is associated with a highly structured polymicrobial biofilm on the vaginal epithelium where Gardnerella species presumably play a pivotal role. Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, and Prevotella bivia are vaginal pathogens detected during the early stages of incident BV. Herein, we aimed to analyze the impact of A. vaginae and P. bivia on a pre-established G. vaginalis biofilm using a novel in vitro triple-species biofilm model. Total biofilm biomass was determined by the crystal violet method. We also discriminated the bacterial populations in the biofilm and in its planktonic fraction by using PNA FISH. We further analyzed the influence of A. vaginae and P. bivia on the expression of key virulence genes of G. vaginalis by quantitative PCR. In our tested conditions, A. vaginae and P. bivia were able to incorporate into pre-established G. vaginalis biofilms but did not induce an increase in total biofilm biomass, when compared with 48-h G. vaginalis biofilms. However, they were able to significantly influence the expression of HMPREF0424_0821, a gene suggested to be associated with biofilm maintenance in G. vaginalis. This study suggests that microbial relationships between co-infecting bacteria can deeply affect the G. vaginalis biofilm, a crucial marker of BV. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaginal Bacteria from the Genus Gardnerella)
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14 pages, 2376 KiB  
Article
Significant Growth by Rickettsia Species within Human Macrophage-Like Cells Is a Phenotype Correlated with the Ability to Cause Disease in Mammals
by M. Nathan Kristof, Paige E. Allen, Lane D. Yutzy, Brandon Thibodaux, Christopher D. Paddock and Juan J. Martinez
Pathogens 2021, 10(2), 228; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10020228 - 19 Feb 2021
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5468
Abstract
Rickettsia are significant sources of tick-borne diseases in humans worldwide. In North America, two species in the spotted fever group of Rickettsia have been conclusively associated with disease of humans: Rickettsia rickettsii, the causative agent of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Rickettsia [...] Read more.
Rickettsia are significant sources of tick-borne diseases in humans worldwide. In North America, two species in the spotted fever group of Rickettsia have been conclusively associated with disease of humans: Rickettsia rickettsii, the causative agent of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Rickettsia parkeri, the cause of R. parkeri rickettsiosis. Previous work in our lab demonstrated non-endothelial parasitism by another pathogenic SFG Rickettsia species, Rickettsia conorii, within THP-1-derived macrophages, and we have hypothesized that this growth characteristic may be an underappreciated aspect of rickettsial pathogenesis in mammalian hosts. In this work, we demonstrated that multiple other recognized human pathogenic species of Rickettsia, including R. rickettsii, R. parkeri, Rickettsia africae, and Rickettsiaakari can grow within target endothelial cells as well as within PMA-differentiated THP-1 cells. In contrast, Rickettsia bellii, a Rickettsia species not associated with disease of humans, and R. rickettsii strain Iowa, an avirulent derivative of pathogenic R. rickettsii, could invade both cell types but proliferate only within endothelial cells. Further analysis revealed that similar to previous studies on R. conorii, other recognized pathogenic Rickettsia species could grow within the cytosol of THP-1-derived macrophages and avoided localization with two different markers of lysosomal compartments; LAMP-2 and cathepsin D. R. bellii, on the other hand, demonstrated significant co-localization with lysosomal compartments. Collectively, these findings suggest that the ability of pathogenic rickettsial species to establish a niche within macrophage-like cells could be an important factor in their ability to cause disease in mammals. These findings also suggest that analysis of growth within mammalian phagocytic cells may be useful to predict the pathogenic potential of newly isolated and identified Rickettsia species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Virulence Mechanisms of Rickettsiae)
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15 pages, 1731 KiB  
Review
Regulation of Latency and Reactivation by Human Cytomegalovirus miRNAs
by Nicole L. Diggins, Rebecca L. Skalsky and Meaghan H. Hancock
Pathogens 2021, 10(2), 200; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10020200 - 13 Feb 2021
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3933
Abstract
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) encodes 22 mature microRNAs (miRNAs), which regulate a myriad of cellular processes, including vesicular trafficking, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and immune evasion, as well as viral gene expression. Recent evidence points to a critical role for HCMV miRNAs in mediating [...] Read more.
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) encodes 22 mature microRNAs (miRNAs), which regulate a myriad of cellular processes, including vesicular trafficking, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and immune evasion, as well as viral gene expression. Recent evidence points to a critical role for HCMV miRNAs in mediating latency in CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor cells through modulation of cellular signaling pathways, including attenuation of TGFβ and EGFR signaling. Moreover, HCMV miRNAs can act in concert with, or in opposition to, viral proteins in regulating host cell functions. Here, we comprehensively review the studies of HCMV miRNAs in the context of latency and highlight the novel processes that are manipulated by the virus using these small non-coding RNAs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Infection and Latency)
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21 pages, 4165 KiB  
Review
Brucella: Reservoirs and Niches in Animals and Humans
by Gabriela González-Espinoza, Vilma Arce-Gorvel, Sylvie Mémet and Jean-Pierre Gorvel
Pathogens 2021, 10(2), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10020186 - 9 Feb 2021
Cited by 93 | Viewed by 13278
Abstract
Brucella is an intracellular bacterium that causes abortion, reproduction failure in livestock and leads to a debilitating flu-like illness with serious chronic complications if untreated in humans. As a successful intracellular pathogen, Brucella has developed strategies to avoid recognition by the immune system [...] Read more.
Brucella is an intracellular bacterium that causes abortion, reproduction failure in livestock and leads to a debilitating flu-like illness with serious chronic complications if untreated in humans. As a successful intracellular pathogen, Brucella has developed strategies to avoid recognition by the immune system of the host and promote its survival and replication. In vivo, Brucellae reside mostly within phagocytes and other cells including trophoblasts, where they establish a preferred replicative niche inside the endoplasmic reticulum. This process is central as it gives Brucella the ability to maintain replicating-surviving cycles for long periods of time, even at low bacterial numbers, in its cellular niches. In this review, we propose that Brucella takes advantage of the environment provided by the cellular niches in which it resides to generate reservoirs and disseminate to other organs. We will discuss how the favored cellular niches for Brucella infection in the host give rise to anatomical reservoirs that may lead to chronic infections or persistence in asymptomatic subjects, and which may be considered as a threat for further contamination. A special emphasis will be put on bone marrow, lymph nodes, reproductive and for the first time adipose tissues, as well as wildlife reservoirs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Host Immune Responses and Pathogenesis to Brucella spp. Infection)
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11 pages, 280 KiB  
Review
Potential SARS-CoV-2 Immune Correlates of Protection in Infection and Vaccine Immunization
by Yongjun Sui, Yonas Bekele and Jay A. Berzofsky
Pathogens 2021, 10(2), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10020138 - 30 Jan 2021
Cited by 53 | Viewed by 9513
Abstract
Both SARS-CoV-2 infections and vaccines induce robust immune responses. Current data suggested that high neutralizing antibody titers with sustained Th1 responses might correlate with protection against viral transmission and disease development and severity. In addition, genetic and innate immune factors, including higher levels [...] Read more.
Both SARS-CoV-2 infections and vaccines induce robust immune responses. Current data suggested that high neutralizing antibody titers with sustained Th1 responses might correlate with protection against viral transmission and disease development and severity. In addition, genetic and innate immune factors, including higher levels of type I interferons, as well as the induction of trained immunity and local mucosal immunity also contribute to lower risk of infection and amelioration of disease severity. The identification of immune correlates of protection will facilitate the development of effective vaccines and therapeutics strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immune Responses to Emerging Viruses)
24 pages, 1803 KiB  
Review
Autophagy—A Story of Bacteria Interfering with the Host Cell Degradation Machinery
by Anna K. Riebisch, Sabrina Mühlen, Yan Yan Beer and Ingo Schmitz
Pathogens 2021, 10(2), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10020110 - 22 Jan 2021
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 7632
Abstract
Autophagy is a highly conserved and fundamental cellular process to maintain cellular homeostasis through recycling of defective organelles or proteins. In a response to intracellular pathogens, autophagy further acts as an innate immune response mechanism to eliminate pathogens. This review will discuss recent [...] Read more.
Autophagy is a highly conserved and fundamental cellular process to maintain cellular homeostasis through recycling of defective organelles or proteins. In a response to intracellular pathogens, autophagy further acts as an innate immune response mechanism to eliminate pathogens. This review will discuss recent findings on autophagy as a reaction to intracellular pathogens, such as Salmonella typhimurium, Listeria monocytogenes, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Staphylococcus aureus, and pathogenic Escherichia coli. Interestingly, while some of these bacteria have developed methods to use autophagy for their own benefit within the cell, others have developed fascinating mechanisms to evade recognition, to subvert the autophagic pathway, or to escape from autophagy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Immunological Responses and Immune Defense Mechanisms)
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15 pages, 5640 KiB  
Article
Enlisting the Ixodes scapularis Embryonic ISE6 Cell Line to Investigate the Neuronal Basis of Tick—Pathogen Interactions
by Lourdes Mateos-Hernández, Natália Pipová, Eléonore Allain, Céline Henry, Clotilde Rouxel, Anne-Claire Lagrée, Nadia Haddad, Henri-Jean Boulouis, James J. Valdés, Pilar Alberdi, José de la Fuente, Alejandro Cabezas-Cruz and Ladislav Šimo
Pathogens 2021, 10(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10010070 - 14 Jan 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4900
Abstract
Neuropeptides are small signaling molecules expressed in the tick central nervous system, i.e., the synganglion. The neuronal-like Ixodes scapularis embryonic cell line, ISE6, is an effective tool frequently used for examining tick–pathogen interactions. We detected 37 neuropeptide transcripts in the I. scapularis ISE6 [...] Read more.
Neuropeptides are small signaling molecules expressed in the tick central nervous system, i.e., the synganglion. The neuronal-like Ixodes scapularis embryonic cell line, ISE6, is an effective tool frequently used for examining tick–pathogen interactions. We detected 37 neuropeptide transcripts in the I. scapularis ISE6 cell line using in silico methods, and six of these neuropeptide genes were used for experimental validation. Among these six neuropeptide genes, the tachykinin-related peptide (TRP) of ISE6 cells varied in transcript expression depending on the infection strain of the tick-borne pathogen, Anaplasma phagocytophilum. The immunocytochemistry of TRP revealed cytoplasmic expression in a prominent ISE6 cell subpopulation. The presence of TRP was also confirmed in A. phagocytophilum-infected ISE6 cells. The in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry of TRP of I. scapularis synganglion revealed expression in distinct neuronal cells. In addition, TRP immunoreaction was detected in axons exiting the synganglion via peripheral nerves as well as in hemal nerve-associated lateral segmental organs. The characterization of a complete Ixodes neuropeptidome in ISE6 cells may serve as an effective in vitro tool to study how tick-borne pathogens interact with synganglion components that are vital to tick physiology. Therefore, our current study is a potential stepping stone for in vivo experiments to further examine the neuronal basis of tick–pathogen interactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ticks)
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21 pages, 4803 KiB  
Article
Engineered Phage Endolysin Eliminates Gardnerella Biofilm without Damaging Beneficial Bacteria in Bacterial Vaginosis Ex Vivo
by Christine Landlinger, Lenka Tisakova, Vera Oberbauer, Timo Schwebs, Abbas Muhammad, Agnieszka Latka, Leen Van Simaey, Mario Vaneechoutte, Alexander Guschin, Gregory Resch, Sonja Swidsinski, Alexander Swidsinski and Lorenzo Corsini
Pathogens 2021, 10(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10010054 - 8 Jan 2021
Cited by 52 | Viewed by 10001
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis is characterized by an imbalance of the vaginal microbiome and a characteristic biofilm formed on the vaginal epithelium, which is initiated and dominated by Gardnerella bacteria, and is frequently refractory to antibiotic treatment. We investigated endolysins of the type 1,4-beta-N-acetylmuramidase encoded [...] Read more.
Bacterial vaginosis is characterized by an imbalance of the vaginal microbiome and a characteristic biofilm formed on the vaginal epithelium, which is initiated and dominated by Gardnerella bacteria, and is frequently refractory to antibiotic treatment. We investigated endolysins of the type 1,4-beta-N-acetylmuramidase encoded on Gardnerella prophages as an alternative treatment. When recombinantly expressed, these proteins demonstrated strong bactericidal activity against four different Gardnerella species. By domain shuffling, we generated several engineered endolysins with 10-fold higher bactericidal activity than any wild-type enzyme. When tested against a panel of 20 Gardnerella strains, the most active endolysin, called PM-477, showed minimum inhibitory concentrations of 0.13–8 µg/mL. PM-477 had no effect on beneficial lactobacilli or other species of vaginal bacteria. Furthermore, the efficacy of PM-477 was tested by fluorescence in situ hybridization on vaginal samples of fifteen patients with either first time or recurring bacterial vaginosis. In thirteen cases, PM-477 killed the Gardnerella bacteria and physically dissolved the biofilms without affecting the remaining vaginal microbiome. The high selectivity and effectiveness in eliminating Gardnerella, both in cultures of isolated strains as well as in clinically derived samples of natural polymicrobial biofilms, makes PM-477 a promising alternative to antibiotics for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis, especially in patients with frequent recurrence. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Human Pathogens)
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11 pages, 728 KiB  
Review
Liver Abnormalities after Elimination of HCV Infection: Persistent Epigenetic and Immunological Perturbations Post-Cure
by Stephen J. Polyak, I. Nicholas Crispe and Thomas F. Baumert
Pathogens 2021, 10(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10010044 - 7 Jan 2021
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3437
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. While directly acting antiviral (DAA) drugs are now able to cure virtually all hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections, even in subjects with advanced liver disease, what happens to the liver [...] Read more.
Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. While directly acting antiviral (DAA) drugs are now able to cure virtually all hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections, even in subjects with advanced liver disease, what happens to the liver and progression of the disease after DAA-induced cure of viremia is only beginning to emerge. Several large-scale clinical studies in different patient populations have shown that patients with advanced liver disease maintain a risk for developing HCC even when the original instigator, the virus, is eliminated by DAAs. Here we review emerging studies derived from multiple, complementary experimental systems involving patient liver tissues, human liver cell cultures, human liver slice cultures, and animal models, showing that HCV infection induces epigenetic, signaling, and gene expression changes in the liver associated with altered hepatic innate immunity and liver cancer risk. Of critical importance is the fact that these virus-induced abnormalities persist after DAA cure of HCV. These nascent findings portend the discovery of pathways involved in post-HCV immunopathogenesis, which may be clinically actionable targets for more comprehensive care of DAA-cured individuals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hepatitis C Virus: Remaining Challenges)
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17 pages, 3020 KiB  
Review
Felid Cardiopulmonary Nematodes: Dilemmas Solved and New Questions Posed
by Donato Traversa, Simone Morelli, Angela Di Cesare and Anastasia Diakou
Pathogens 2021, 10(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10010030 - 2 Jan 2021
Cited by 42 | Viewed by 4611
Abstract
In the past decade cardiopulmonary nematodes affecting felids have become a core research topic in small animal parasitology. In the late 2000s, an increase in studies was followed by unexpected findings in the early 2010s, which have stimulated research teams to start investigating [...] Read more.
In the past decade cardiopulmonary nematodes affecting felids have become a core research topic in small animal parasitology. In the late 2000s, an increase in studies was followed by unexpected findings in the early 2010s, which have stimulated research teams to start investigating these intriguing parasites. Prolific scientific debate and exchanges have then fostered field and laboratory studies and epizootiological surveys. New data have improved basic and applied knowledge, solved dilemmas and posed new questions. This article discusses the past and present background to felid cardiopulmonary nematodes after the last few years of intense scientific research. New data which have demonstrated the key role of Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Troglostrongylus brevior in causing respiratory infections in domestic cats, and on the nil to negligible current importance of other species, i.e., Troglostrongylus subcrenatus, Oslerus rostratus and Angiostrongylus chabaudi, are presented. Biological information and hypothesized alternative routes of infection are analysed and discussed. Novel identification and taxonomical data and issues are reported and commented upon. On the whole, recent biological, ecological and epizootiological information on felid metastrongyloids is critically analysed, with the aim to answer outstanding questions, stimulate future studies, and underline new research perspectives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Felid Parasitoses, New Insights and Open Perspectives)
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24 pages, 2125 KiB  
Review
Poxviral Strategies to Overcome Host Cell Apoptosis
by Chathura D. Suraweera, Mark G. Hinds and Marc Kvansakul
Pathogens 2021, 10(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10010006 - 23 Dec 2020
Cited by 44 | Viewed by 4450
Abstract
Apoptosis is a form of cellular suicide initiated either via extracellular (extrinsic apoptosis) or intracellular (intrinsic apoptosis) cues. This form of programmed cell death plays a crucial role in development and tissue homeostasis in multicellular organisms and its dysregulation is an underlying cause [...] Read more.
Apoptosis is a form of cellular suicide initiated either via extracellular (extrinsic apoptosis) or intracellular (intrinsic apoptosis) cues. This form of programmed cell death plays a crucial role in development and tissue homeostasis in multicellular organisms and its dysregulation is an underlying cause for many diseases. Intrinsic apoptosis is regulated by members of the evolutionarily conserved B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family, a family that consists of pro- and anti-apoptotic members. Bcl-2 genes have also been assimilated by numerous viruses including pox viruses, in particular the sub-family of chordopoxviridae, a group of viruses known to infect almost all vertebrates. The viral Bcl-2 proteins are virulence factors and aid the evasion of host immune defenses by mimicking the activity of their cellular counterparts. Viral Bcl-2 genes have proved essential for the survival of virus infected cells and structural studies have shown that though they often share very little sequence identity with their cellular counterparts, they have near-identical 3D structures. However, their mechanisms of action are varied. In this review, we examine the structural biology, molecular interactions, and detailed mechanism of action of poxvirus encoded apoptosis inhibitors and how they impact on host–virus interactions to ultimately enable successful infection and propagation of viral infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Poxviruses: Novel Concepts and Emerging Trends)
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16 pages, 2591 KiB  
Article
Preclinical Evaluation of Oral Urolithin-A for the Treatment of Acute Campylobacteriosis in Campylobacter jejuni Infected Microbiota-Depleted IL-10−/− Mice
by Soraya Mousavi, Dennis Weschka, Stefan Bereswill and Markus M. Heimesaat
Pathogens 2021, 10(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens10010007 - 23 Dec 2020
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3306
Abstract
Human campylobacteriosis represents an infectious enteritis syndrome caused by Campylobacter species, mostly Campylobacter jejuni. Given that C. jejuni infections are rising worldwide and antibiotic treatment is usually not indicated, novel treatment options for campylobacteriosis are needed. Urolithin-A constitutes a metabolite produced by [...] Read more.
Human campylobacteriosis represents an infectious enteritis syndrome caused by Campylobacter species, mostly Campylobacter jejuni. Given that C. jejuni infections are rising worldwide and antibiotic treatment is usually not indicated, novel treatment options for campylobacteriosis are needed. Urolithin-A constitutes a metabolite produced by the human gut microbiota from ellagitannins and ellagic acids in berries and nuts which have been known for their health-beneficial including anti-inflammatory effects since centuries. Therefore, we investigated potential pathogen-lowering and immunomodulatory effects following oral application of synthetic urolithin-A during acute campylobacteriosis applying perorally C. jejuni infected, microbiota-depleted IL-10−/− mice as preclinical inflammation model. On day 6 post infection, urolithin-A treated mice harbored slightly lower pathogen loads in their ileum, but not colon as compared to placebo counterparts. Importantly, urolithin-A treatment resulted in an improved clinical outcome and less pronounced macroscopic and microscopic inflammatory sequelae of infection that were paralleled by less pronounced intestinal pro-inflammatory immune responses which could even be observed systemically. In conclusion, this preclinical murine intervention study provides first evidence that oral urolithin-A application is a promising treatment option for acute C. jejuni infection and paves the way for future clinical studies in human campylobacteriosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Waterborne/Foodborne/Airborne Pathogens)
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10 pages, 1995 KiB  
Review
Molecular Epidemiology of HIV-1 in African Countries: A Comprehensive Overview
by Marta Giovanetti, Massimo Ciccozzi, Cristina Parolin and Alessandra Borsetti
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1072; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121072 - 21 Dec 2020
Cited by 41 | Viewed by 8182
Abstract
The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) originated in non-human primates in West-central Africa and continues to be a major global public health issue, having claimed almost 33 million lives so far. In Africa, it is estimated that more than 20 million people [...] Read more.
The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) originated in non-human primates in West-central Africa and continues to be a major global public health issue, having claimed almost 33 million lives so far. In Africa, it is estimated that more than 20 million people are living with HIV/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and that more than 730,000 new HIV-1 infections still occur each year, likely due to low access to testing. The high genetic variability of HIV-1, due to a fast replication cycle and high mutation rate, may cause the generation of many viral variants in a single infected patient during a single day. Therefore, the active monitoring and characterization of the HIV-1 subtypes and recombinant forms circulating through African countries poses a significant challenge to more specific diagnoses, treatments, care, and intervention strategies. In this review, a concise characterization of all the subtypes and recombinant forms circulating in Africa is presented to highlight the magnitude of the HIV-1 threat among the African countries and to understand virus genetic diversity and dispersion dynamics better. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reviews from Section "Human Pathogens")
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7 pages, 233 KiB  
Review
Animal and Human Vaccines against West Nile Virus
by Juan-Carlos Saiz
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1073; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121073 - 21 Dec 2020
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 4771
Abstract
West Nile virus (WNV) is a widely distributed enveloped flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes, which main hosts are birds. The virus sporadically infects equids and humans with serious economic and health consequences, as infected individuals can develop a severe neuroinvasive disease that can even [...] Read more.
West Nile virus (WNV) is a widely distributed enveloped flavivirus transmitted by mosquitoes, which main hosts are birds. The virus sporadically infects equids and humans with serious economic and health consequences, as infected individuals can develop a severe neuroinvasive disease that can even lead to death. Nowadays, no WNV-specific therapy is available and vaccines are only licensed for use in horses but not for humans. While several methodologies for WNV vaccine development have been successfully applied and have contributed to significantly reducing its incidence in horses in the US, none have progressed to phase III clinical trials in humans. This review addresses the status of WNV vaccines for horses, birds, and humans, summarizing and discussing the challenges they face for their clinical advance and their introduction to the market. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue West Nile Virus Infection)
19 pages, 363 KiB  
Review
Recent Advances in the Pursuit of an Effective Acinetobacter baumannii Vaccine
by Patrick S. Gellings, Ashley A. Wilkins and Lisa A. Morici
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1066; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121066 - 19 Dec 2020
Cited by 53 | Viewed by 5875
Abstract
Acinetobacter baumannii has been a major cause of nosocomial infections for decades. The absence of an available vaccine coupled with emerging multidrug resistance has prevented the medical community from effectively controlling this human pathogen. Furthermore, the ongoing pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has increased [...] Read more.
Acinetobacter baumannii has been a major cause of nosocomial infections for decades. The absence of an available vaccine coupled with emerging multidrug resistance has prevented the medical community from effectively controlling this human pathogen. Furthermore, the ongoing pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has increased the risk of hospitalized patients developing ventilator-associated pneumonia caused by bacterial opportunists including A. baumannii. The shortage of antibiotics in the development pipeline prompted the World Health Organization to designate A. baumannii a top priority for the development of new medical countermeasures, such as a vaccine. There are a number of important considerations associated with the development of an A. baumannii vaccine, including strain characteristics, diverse disease manifestations, and target population. In the past decade, research efforts have revealed a number of promising new immunization strategies that could culminate in a safe and protective vaccine against A. baumannii. In this review, we highlight the recent progress in the development of A. baumannii vaccines, discuss potential challenges, and propose future directions to achieve an effective intervention against this human pathogen. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reviews from Section "Human Pathogens")
11 pages, 822 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Anthelminthic Efficacy of Aqueous Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Extracts against Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Sheep
by Fabio Castagna, Domenico Britti, Manuela Oliverio, Antonio Bosco, Sonia Bonacci, Giuseppe Iriti, Monica Ragusa, Vincenzo Musolino, Laura Rinaldi, Ernesto Palma and Vincenzo Musella
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1063; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121063 - 18 Dec 2020
Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4261
Abstract
The worldwide increased difficulty to counteract gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infection in sheep, due to progressing anthelmintic resistance, has led to the evaluation of other alternative helminth control options, mainly from plants. The anthelmintic efficacy of an aqueous Punica granatum macerate was evaluated in [...] Read more.
The worldwide increased difficulty to counteract gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infection in sheep, due to progressing anthelmintic resistance, has led to the evaluation of other alternative helminth control options, mainly from plants. The anthelmintic efficacy of an aqueous Punica granatum macerate was evaluated in sheep naturally infected by GIN in southern Italy. The macerate was chemically characterized by chromatographic analysis coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC/HRMS) and an aliquot was concentrated to obtain a dry extract. A part was characterized, the remaining washed with methanol to obtain an insoluble residue and methanol phase. In the methanol fraction, the quantitatively predominant gallic acid was purified to obtain the pure molecule. The three fractions thus obtained were used for in vitro studies (i.e., egg hatch test) to verify anthelmintic efficacy. For this purpose, fecal samples were collected from sheep naturally infected by GINs. Fractions were diluted in H2O/DMSO 0.5% at 1.00, 0.5, 0.25, 0.125, 0.05, and 0.005 mg/mL concentrations. Thiabendazole (0.25 and 0.5 mg/mL) and deionized water were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. Egg hatch test results indicated that all fractions caused a significant (p < 0.05) egg hatch inhibition within 48 h of exposure highlighting a high (>82%) efficacy in vitro at all tested doses. Maximal egg hatching inhibition effect was exhibited by the methanol fraction (99.3% and 89.3% at 1 and 0.005 mg/mL concentrations), followed by the insoluble residue and gallic acid (94.7% and 85.3% and 94.0% and 82.7% at 1 and 0.005 mg/mL, respectively). The current study validated the anthelmintic potential of traditional P. granatum macerate against GIN infection in sheep, thus highlighting the role of gallic acid as principal component and justifying a need to undertake further in vivo studies on these ethno-veterinary remedies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Animal Parasitic Diseases)
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20 pages, 10165 KiB  
Review
Biofilm Formation as a Complex Result of Virulence and Adaptive Responses of Helicobacter pylori
by Paweł Krzyżek, Rossella Grande, Paweł Migdał, Emil Paluch and Grażyna Gościniak
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1062; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121062 - 18 Dec 2020
Cited by 70 | Viewed by 8254
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that is capable of colonizing a host for many years, often for a lifetime. The survival in the gastric environment is enabled by the production of numerous virulence factors conditioning adhesion to the mucosa surface, acquisition of nutrients, [...] Read more.
Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that is capable of colonizing a host for many years, often for a lifetime. The survival in the gastric environment is enabled by the production of numerous virulence factors conditioning adhesion to the mucosa surface, acquisition of nutrients, and neutralization of the immune system activity. It is increasingly recognized, however, that the adaptive mechanisms of H. pylori in the stomach may also be linked to the ability of this pathogen to form biofilms. Initially, biofilms produced by H. pylori were strongly associated by scientists with water distribution systems and considered as a survival mechanism outside the host and a source of fecal-oral infections. In the course of the last 20 years, however, this trend has changed and now the most attention is focused on the biomedical aspect of this structure and its potential contribution to the therapeutic difficulties of H. pylori. Taking into account this fact, the aim of the current review is to discuss the phenomenon of H. pylori biofilm formation and present this mechanism as a resultant of the virulence and adaptive responses of H. pylori, including morphological transformation, membrane vesicles secretion, matrix production, efflux pump activity, and intermicrobial communication. These mechanisms will be considered in the context of transcriptomic and proteomic changes in H. pylori biofilms and their modulating effect on the development of this complex structure. Full article
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20 pages, 913 KiB  
Review
Extracellular Vesicles: Roles in Human Viral Infections, Immune-Diagnostic, and Therapeutic Applications
by Ayodeji O. Ipinmoroti and Qiana L. Matthews
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1056; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121056 - 17 Dec 2020
Cited by 49 | Viewed by 5030
Abstract
Membrane-bound vesicles that are released from cells are increasingly being studied as a medium of intercellular communication, as these act to shuttle functional proteins, such as lipids, DNA, rRNA, and miRNA, between cells during essential physiological processes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), most commonly exosomes, [...] Read more.
Membrane-bound vesicles that are released from cells are increasingly being studied as a medium of intercellular communication, as these act to shuttle functional proteins, such as lipids, DNA, rRNA, and miRNA, between cells during essential physiological processes. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), most commonly exosomes, are consistently produced by virus-infected cells, and they play crucial roles in mediating communication between infected and uninfected cells. Notably, pathophysiological roles for EVs have been established in various viral infections, including human immune deficiency virus (HIV), coronavirus (CoV), and human adenovirus (HAdv). Retroviruses, such as HIV, modulate the production and composition of EVs, and critically, these viruses can exploit EV formation, secretion, and release pathways to promote infection, transmission, and intercellular spread. Consequently, EV production has been investigated as a potential tool for the development of improved viral infection diagnostics and therapeutics. This review will summarize our present knowledge of EV–virus relationships, focusing on their known roles in pathophysiological pathways, immunomodulatory mechanisms, and utility for biomarker discovery. This review will also discuss the potential for EVs to be exploited as diagnostic and treatment tools for viral infection. Full article
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16 pages, 2733 KiB  
Review
COVID-19 and Acute Kidney Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Fabrizio Fabrizi, Carlo M. Alfieri, Roberta Cerutti, Giovanna Lunghi and Piergiorgio Messa
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1052; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121052 - 15 Dec 2020
Cited by 61 | Viewed by 6365
Abstract
Background: coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome—coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)—is an ongoing pandemic with high morbidity and mortality rates. Preliminary evidence suggests that acute kidney injury (AKI) is uncommon in patients with COVID-19 and associated with poor outcomes. Study aims and [...] Read more.
Background: coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome—coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2)—is an ongoing pandemic with high morbidity and mortality rates. Preliminary evidence suggests that acute kidney injury (AKI) is uncommon in patients with COVID-19 and associated with poor outcomes. Study aims and design: we performed a systematic review of the literature with a meta-analysis of clinical studies to evaluate the frequency of AKI and dialysis requirement in patients who underwent hospitalization due to COVID-19. The incidence of AKI according to the death risk was calculated in these patients. The random-effects model of DerSimonian and Laird was adopted, with heterogeneity and stratified analyses. Results: thirty-nine clinical studies (n = 25,566 unique patients) were retrieved. The pooled incidence of AKI was 0.154 (95% CI, 0.107; 0.201; p < 0.0001) across the studies. Significant heterogeneity was found (p = 0.0001). The overall frequency of COVID-19-positive patients who underwent renal replacement therapy (RRT) was 0.043 (95% CI, 0.031; 0.055; p < 0.0001); no publication bias was found (Egger’s test, p = 0.11). The pooled estimate of AKI incidence in patients with severe COVID-19 was 0.53 (95% CI, 0.427; 0.633) and heterogeneity occurred (Q = 621.08, I2 = 97.26, p = 0.0001). According to our meta-regression, age (p < 0.007) and arterial hypertension (p < 0.001) were associated with AKI occurrence in hospitalized COVID-19 positive patients. The odds ratio (OR) for the incidence of AKI in deceased COVID-19 positive patients was greater than among survivors, 15.4 (95% CI, 20.99; 11.4; p < 0.001). Conclusions: AKI is a common complication in hospitalized COVID-19 positive patients. Additional studies are under way to assess the risk of AKI in COVID-19 patients and to deepen the mechanisms of kidney injury. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Human Pathogens)
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12 pages, 255 KiB  
Review
Porcine Circovirus 2 Genotypes, Immunity and Vaccines: Multiple Genotypes but One Single Serotype
by Giovanni Franzo and Joaquim Segalés
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1049; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121049 - 14 Dec 2020
Cited by 60 | Viewed by 4749
Abstract
Identified for the first time in the 1990s, Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV-2) should not be considered an emerging virus anymore. Nevertheless, many aspects of its biology and epidemiology are still controversial. Particularly, its high evolutionary rate has caused the emergence of several variants [...] Read more.
Identified for the first time in the 1990s, Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV-2) should not be considered an emerging virus anymore. Nevertheless, many aspects of its biology and epidemiology are still controversial. Particularly, its high evolutionary rate has caused the emergence of several variants and genotypes, alternating on the worldwide proscenium. The biological and practical implications of such heterogenicity are unfortunately largely unknown. The effectiveness of currently available vaccines against new genotypes that have emerged over time has been the topic of an intense debate and often inconclusive or contradictory results between experimental, field, and epidemiological studies have been gathered. The challenge in establishing an effective PCV-2 disease model, the peculiarities in experimental design and settings and the strains involved could justify the observed differences. The present work aims to summarize and critically review the available knowledge on PCV-2 genetic heterogeneity, immunity, and vaccine efficacy, organizing and harmonizing the available data from different sources, shedding light on this complex field and highlighting current knowledge gaps and future perspectives. So far, all vaccines in the market have shown great efficacy in reducing clinical signs associated to diseases caused by PCV-2, independently of the genotype present in the farm. Moreover, experimental data demonstrated the cross-protection of PCV-2a vaccines against the most widespread genotypes (PCV-2a, PCV-2b, and PCV-2d). Therefore, despite the significant number of genotypes described/proposed (PCV-2a to PCV-2i), it seems one single PCV-2 serotype would exist so far. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Pathogens)
22 pages, 10934 KiB  
Article
Piscine Orthoreovirus-1 Isolates Differ in Their Ability to Induce Heart and Skeletal Muscle Inflammation in Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar)
by Øystein Wessel, Elisabeth F. Hansen, Maria K. Dahle, Marta Alarcon, Nina A. Vatne, Ingvild B. Nyman, Karen B. Soleim, Kannimuthu Dhamotharan, Gerrit Timmerhaus, Turhan Markussen, Morten Lund, Håvard Aanes, Magnus Devold, Makoto Inami, Marie Løvoll and Espen Rimstad
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1050; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121050 - 14 Dec 2020
Cited by 39 | Viewed by 6403
Abstract
Piscine orthoreovirus 1 (PRV-1) is the causative agent of heart and skeletal muscle inflammation (HSMI) in farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). The virus is widespread in Atlantic salmon and was present in Norway long before the first description of HSMI in [...] Read more.
Piscine orthoreovirus 1 (PRV-1) is the causative agent of heart and skeletal muscle inflammation (HSMI) in farmed Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar). The virus is widespread in Atlantic salmon and was present in Norway long before the first description of HSMI in 1999. Furthermore, in Canada the virus is prevalent in farmed Atlantic salmon but HSMI is not and Canadian isolates have failed to reproduce HSMI experimentally. This has led to the hypothesis that there are virulence differences between PRV-1 isolates. In this study we performed a dose standardized challenge trial, comparing six PRV-1 isolates, including two Norwegian field isolates from 2018, three historical Norwegian isolates predating the first report of HSMI and one Canadian isolate. The Norwegian 2018 isolates induced lower viral protein load in blood cells but higher plasma viremia. Following peak replication in blood, the two Norwegian 2018 isolates induced histopathological lesions in the heart consistent with HSMI, whereas all three historical Norwegian and the Canadian isolates induced only mild cardiac lesions. This is the first demonstration of virulence differences between PRV-1 isolates and the phenotypic differences are linked to viral proteins encoded by segment S1, M2, L1, L2 and S4. Full article
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11 pages, 1433 KiB  
Article
Detection of Crenosoma spp., Angiostrongylus vasorum and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in Gastropods in Eastern Austria
by Hans-Peter Fuehrer, Simone Morelli, Julian Bleicher, Thomas Brauchart, Mirjam Edler, Nicole Eisschiel, Tatjana Hering, Sigrun Lercher, Karoline Mohab, Simon Reinelt, Theresa Stessl, Doris Fasching, Ricarda Nimphy, Anja Pelzl, Bita Shahi-Barogh, Licha Natalia Wortha, Karin Bakran-Lebl, Michael Duda, Helmut Sattmann, Roland Schaper, Donato Traversa and Anja Joachimadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1046; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121046 - 13 Dec 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3951
Abstract
Canine and feline cardiorespiratory parasites are of utmost relevance in veterinary medicine. Key epizootiological information on major pet metastrongyloids, i.e., Angiostrongylus vasorum and Crenosoma vulpis infecting dogs, and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Troglostrongylus brevior infecting cats, is missing from Austria. This study investigated their [...] Read more.
Canine and feline cardiorespiratory parasites are of utmost relevance in veterinary medicine. Key epizootiological information on major pet metastrongyloids, i.e., Angiostrongylus vasorum and Crenosoma vulpis infecting dogs, and Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Troglostrongylus brevior infecting cats, is missing from Austria. This study investigated their occurrence in 1320 gastropods collected in the Austrian provinces of Styria, Burgenland, Lower Austria, and in metropolitan Vienna. Metastrongyloid larvae were microscopically detected in 25 samples, and sequence analysis confirmed the presence of metastrongyloids in nine samples, i.e., A. vasorum in one slug (Arion vulgaris) (0.07%), C. vulpis in five slugs (one Limax maximus and four A. vulgaris) (0.4%), A. abstrusus in two A. vulgaris (0.17%), and the hedgehog lungworm Crenosoma striatum was detected in one A. vulgaris. The present study confirms the enzooticity of major cardiorespiratory nematodes in Austria and that canine and feline populations are at risk of infection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Pathogens)
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14 pages, 1317 KiB  
Article
Lack of Interleukin-6 Affects IFN-γ and TNF-α Production and Early In Vivo Control of Brucella abortus Infection
by Erika S. Guimarães, Jéssica M. Martins, Marco Túlio R. Gomes, Daiane M. Cerqueira and Sergio C. Oliveira
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1040; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121040 - 11 Dec 2020
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3828
Abstract
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine promptly produced in response to infections, which contributes to host defense through the stimulation of acute phase immune responses. Brucella abortus is an intracellular bacterium that causes chronic disease in humans and domestic animals and triggers a [...] Read more.
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a pleiotropic cytokine promptly produced in response to infections, which contributes to host defense through the stimulation of acute phase immune responses. Brucella abortus is an intracellular bacterium that causes chronic disease in humans and domestic animals and triggers a robust immune response, characterized by the production of inflammatory cytokines. However, the mechanisms of IL-6-related immune responses in the context of Brucella infections are not completely understood. In this report, we describe an increased susceptibility of IL-6 knockout (KO) mice in the early phase of Brucella infection. Furthermore, we demonstrate that IL-6 is required for interferon (IFN)-γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α induction by infected splenocytes, indicating a protective role for IL-6 against B. abortus that parallels with Th1 type of immune response. Additionally, IL-6 KO mice exhibited reduced splenomegaly during the early phase of the infection. Corroborating this result, IL-6 KO mice displayed reduced numbers of macrophages, dendritic cells, and neutrophils in the spleen and reduced myeloperoxidase activity in the liver compared to wild-type infected mice. However, we demonstrate that IL-6 is not involved in B. abortus intracellular restriction in mouse macrophages. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that IL-6 contributes to host resistance during the early phase of B. abortus infection in vivo, and suggest that its protective role maybe partially mediated by proinflammatory immune responses and immune cell recruitment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reviews From Section "Animal Pathogens")
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23 pages, 746 KiB  
Review
Bovine Babesiosis in Turkey: Impact, Current Gaps, and Opportunities for Intervention
by Sezayi Ozubek, Reginaldo G. Bastos, Heba F. Alzan, Abdullah Inci, Munir Aktas and Carlos E. Suarez
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1041; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121041 - 11 Dec 2020
Cited by 41 | Viewed by 5856
Abstract
Bovine babesiosis is a global tick-borne disease that causes important cattle losses and has potential zoonotic implications. The impact of bovine babesiosis in Turkey remains poorly characterized, but several Babesia spp., including B. bovis, B. bigemina, and B. divergens, among [...] Read more.
Bovine babesiosis is a global tick-borne disease that causes important cattle losses and has potential zoonotic implications. The impact of bovine babesiosis in Turkey remains poorly characterized, but several Babesia spp., including B. bovis, B. bigemina, and B. divergens, among others and competent tick vectors, except Rhipicephalus microplus, have been recently identified in the country. Bovine babesiosis has been reported in all provinces but is more prevalent in central and highly humid areas in low and medium altitude regions of the country housing approximately 70% of the cattle population. Current control measures include acaricides and babesicidal drugs, but not live vaccines. Despite the perceived relevant impact of bovine babesiosis in Turkey, basic research programs focused on developing in vitro cultures of parasites, point-of-care diagnostic methods, vaccine development, “omics” analysis, and gene manipulation techniques of local Babesia strains are scarce. Additionally, no effective and coordinated control efforts managed by a central animal health authority have been established to date. Development of state-of-the-art research programs in bovine babesiosis to address current gaps in knowledge and implementation of long-term plans to control the disease will surely result in important economic, nutritional, and public health benefits for the country and the region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bovine Babesiosis)
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21 pages, 297 KiB  
Review
Mechanisms of Dysregulated Humoral and Cellular Immunity by SARS-CoV-2
by Nima Taefehshokr, Sina Taefehshokr and Bryan Heit
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1027; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121027 - 8 Dec 2020
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5431
Abstract
The current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was first identified in December 2019 in China, and has led to thousands of mortalities globally each day. While the innate immune response serves [...] Read more.
The current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), was first identified in December 2019 in China, and has led to thousands of mortalities globally each day. While the innate immune response serves as the first line of defense, viral clearance requires activation of adaptive immunity, which employs B and T cells to provide sanitizing immunity. SARS-CoV-2 has a potent arsenal of mechanisms used to counter this adaptive immune response through processes, such as T cells depletion and T cell exhaustion. These phenomena are most often observed in severe SARS-CoV-2 patients, pointing towards a link between T cell function and disease severity. Moreover, neutralizing antibody titers and memory B cell responses may be short lived in many SARS-CoV-2 patients, potentially exposing these patients to re-infection. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of B and T cells immune responses and activity in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Immunological Responses and Immune Defense Mechanism)
19 pages, 4291 KiB  
Article
Bartonella Associated Cutaneous Lesions (BACL) in People with Neuropsychiatric Symptoms
by Edward B. Breitschwerdt, Julie M. Bradley, Ricardo G. Maggi, Erin Lashnits and Paul Reicherter
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1023; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121023 - 4 Dec 2020
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 37450
Abstract
Bartonella species are globally important emerging pathogens that were not known to infect animals or humans in North America prior to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. Ongoing improvements in diagnostic testing modalities have allowed for the discovery of Bartonella species (spp.) DNA [...] Read more.
Bartonella species are globally important emerging pathogens that were not known to infect animals or humans in North America prior to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. Ongoing improvements in diagnostic testing modalities have allowed for the discovery of Bartonella species (spp.) DNA in blood; cerebrospinal fluid; and the skin of patients with cutaneous lesions, fatigue, myalgia, and neurological symptoms. We describe Bartonella spp. test results for participants reporting neuropsychiatric symptoms, the majority of whom reported the concurrent development of cutaneous lesions. Study participants completed a medical history, a risk factor questionnaire, and provided cutaneous lesion photographs. Bartonella spp. serology and Bartonella alpha proteobacteria enrichment blood culture/PCR were assessed. Within a 14-month period, 33 participants enrolled; 29/33 had serological and/or PCR evidence supporting Bartonella spp. infection, of whom 24 reported concurrent cutaneous lesions since neuropsychiatric symptom onset. We conclude that cutaneous lesions were common among people reporting neuropsychiatric symptoms and Bartonella spp. infection or exposure. Additional studies, using sensitive microbiological and imaging techniques, are needed to determine if, or to what extent, Bartonella spp. might contribute to cutaneous lesions and neuropsychiatric symptoms in patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Evolving Biomedical Importance of Bartonella Species Infections)
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24 pages, 1580 KiB  
Review
Anti-Influenza Strategies Based on Nanoparticle Applications
by Klaudia Wieczorek, Barbara Szutkowska and Elzbieta Kierzek
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1020; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121020 - 3 Dec 2020
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4644
Abstract
Influenza virus has the potential for being one of the deadliest viruses, as we know from the pandemic’s history. The influenza virus, with a constantly mutating genome, is becoming resistant to existing antiviral drugs and vaccines. For that reason, there is an urgent [...] Read more.
Influenza virus has the potential for being one of the deadliest viruses, as we know from the pandemic’s history. The influenza virus, with a constantly mutating genome, is becoming resistant to existing antiviral drugs and vaccines. For that reason, there is an urgent need for developing new therapeutics and therapies. Despite the fact that a new generation of universal vaccines or anti-influenza drugs are being developed, the perfect remedy has still not been found. In this review, various strategies for using nanoparticles (NPs) to defeat influenza virus infections are presented. Several categories of NP applications are highlighted: NPs as immuno-inducing vaccines, NPs used in gene silencing approaches, bare NPs influencing influenza virus life cycle and the use of NPs for drug delivery. This rapidly growing field of anti-influenza methods based on nanotechnology is very promising. Although profound research must be conducted to fully understand and control the potential side effects of the new generation of antivirals, the presented and discussed studies show that nanotechnology methods can effectively induce the immune responses or inhibit influenza virus activity both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, with its variety of modification possibilities, nanotechnology has great potential for applications and may be helpful not only in anti-influenza but also in the general antiviral approaches. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance in Influenza A Virus)
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12 pages, 825 KiB  
Article
Antibiotic Resistance and Biofilm-Forming Ability in Enterococcal Isolates from Red Meat and Poultry Preparations
by Ana Castaño-Arriba, Camino González-Machado, Gilberto Igrejas, Patrícia Poeta, Carlos Alonso-Calleja and Rosa Capita
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1021; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121021 - 3 Dec 2020
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2991
Abstract
This study investigated the resistance to antibiotics and the capacity to form a biofilm of 200 isolates of enterococci isolated from raw preparations of beef (51 strains), pork (47), chicken (50), and turkey (52) acquired in north-western Spain. Fifteen antimicrobials of clinical importance [...] Read more.
This study investigated the resistance to antibiotics and the capacity to form a biofilm of 200 isolates of enterococci isolated from raw preparations of beef (51 strains), pork (47), chicken (50), and turkey (52) acquired in north-western Spain. Fifteen antimicrobials of clinical importance were tested by the disc diffusion method. The average number of resistances per strain was 4.48 ± 1.59. If resistant strains were taken together with those showing reduced susceptibility, the total number of resistances per strain was 6.97 ± 2.02. Two isolates (1.0% of strains) were resistant to a single antibiotic, twenty-two isolates (11.0%) presented resistance to two, one strain (0.5%) was resistant to three, and 175 isolates (87.5%) showed a multiple drug-resistant phenotype (MDR; defined as no susceptibility to at least one agent from each of three or more antimicrobial categories). The prevalence of resistance varied between 0.5% (gentamicin) and 100% (kanamycin). All strains produced biofilm on polystyrene microwell plates, determined using crystal violet assay. Isolates were classified as having a weak (51 strains; average optical density at 580 nanometers -OD580- = 0.206 ± 0.033), moderate (78 strains; average OD580 = 0.374 ± 0.068), or strong (71 strains; average OD580 = 1.167 ± 0.621) ability to produce biofilm (p < 0.05). Isolates from beef preparations produced the most substantial (p < 0.05) biofilms. The results of this study indicate that meat and poultry preparations are major reservoirs of antibiotic-resistant enterococcal strains capable of forming a biofilm. In order for food-borne infections to be prevented, the importance of careful handling of these foodstuffs during preparation, avoiding cross-contamination, and ensuring thorough cooking, is stressed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Waterborne/Foodborne/Airborne Pathogens)
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10 pages, 242 KiB  
Article
Screening for Rickettsia, Coxiella and Borrelia Species in Ticks from Queensland, Australia
by Hazizul Hussain-Yusuf, John Stenos, Gemma Vincent, Amy Shima, Sandra Abell, Noel D. Preece, Mythili Tadepalli, Sze Fui Hii, Naomi Bowie, Kate Mitram and Stephen Graves
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1016; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121016 - 2 Dec 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3761
Abstract
Tick bites in Australia are linked to the transmission of a variety of infectious diseases in humans, livestock and wildlife. Despite this recognition, little is currently known about the variety of potential pathogens that are carried and transmitted by Australian ticks. In this [...] Read more.
Tick bites in Australia are linked to the transmission of a variety of infectious diseases in humans, livestock and wildlife. Despite this recognition, little is currently known about the variety of potential pathogens that are carried and transmitted by Australian ticks. In this study, we attempted to expand knowledge of Australian tick-borne bacterial pathogens by analyzing various tick species from the state of Queensland for potential human pathogens belonging to the Rickettsia, Coxiella and Borrelia genera. A total of 203 ticks, comprising of four genera and nine different tick species, were screened by specific qPCR assays. An overall Rickettsia qPCR positivity of 6.4% (13/203) was detected with rickettsial DNA found in four tick species (Ixodes holocyclus, I. tasmani, Amblyommatriguttatum, and Haemaphysalis longicornis). Amplification and analysis of several rickettsial genes from rickettsial qPCR positive samples identified sequences closely related to but genetically distinct from several previously described cultured and uncultured rickettsial species in the Rickettsia spotted fever subgroup. No ticks were positive for either Coxiella or Borrelia DNA. This work suggests that a further diversity of rickettsiae remain to be described in Australian ticks with the full importance of these bacteria to human and animal health yet to be elucidated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Updates on Rickettsia and Coxiella)
11 pages, 829 KiB  
Article
Cryptosporidium Species and C. parvum Subtypes in Farmed Bamboo Rats
by Falei Li, Wentao Zhao, Chenyuan Zhang, Yaqiong Guo, Na Li, Lihua Xiao and Yaoyu Feng
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1018; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121018 - 2 Dec 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2843
Abstract
Bamboo rats (Rhizomys sinensis) are widely farmed in Guangdong, China, but the distribution and public health potential of Cryptosporidium spp. in them are unclear. In this study, 724 fecal specimens were collected from bamboo rats in Guangdong Province and analyzed for [...] Read more.
Bamboo rats (Rhizomys sinensis) are widely farmed in Guangdong, China, but the distribution and public health potential of Cryptosporidium spp. in them are unclear. In this study, 724 fecal specimens were collected from bamboo rats in Guangdong Province and analyzed for Cryptosporidium spp. using PCR and sequence analyses of the small subunit rRNA gene. The overall detection rate of Cryptosporidium spp. was 12.2% (88/724). By age, the detection rate in animals under 2 months (23.2% or 13/56) was significantly higher than in animals over 2 months (11.2% or 75/668; χ2 = 6.95, df = 1, p = 0.0084). By reproduction status, the detection rate of Cryptosporidium spp. in nursing animals (23.1% or 27/117) was significantly higher than in other reproduction statuses (6.8% or 4/59; χ2 = 7.18, df = 1, p = 0.0074). Five Cryptosporidium species and genotypes were detected, including Cryptosporidium bamboo rat genotype I (n = 49), C. parvum (n = 31), Cryptosporidium bamboo rat genotype III (n = 5), C. occultus (n = 2), and C. muris (n = 1). The average numbers of oocysts per gram of feces for these Cryptosporidium spp. were 14,074, 494,636, 9239, 394, and 323, respectively. The genetic uniqueness of bamboo rat genotypes I and III was confirmed by sequence analyses of the 70 kDa heat shock protein and actin genes. Subtyping C. parvum by sequence analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein gene identified the presence of IIoA15G1 (n = 20) and IIpA6 (n = 2) subtypes. The results of this study indicated that Cryptosporidium spp. are common in bamboo rats in Guangdong, and some of the Cryptosporidium spp. in these animals are known human pathogens. Full article
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22 pages, 744 KiB  
Article
Hand Hygiene Behaviors in a Representative Sample of Polish Adolescents in Regions Stratified by COVID-19 Morbidity and by Confounding Variables (PLACE-19 Study): Is There Any Association?
by Dominika Skolmowska, Dominika Głąbska and Dominika Guzek
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1011; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121011 - 1 Dec 2020
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4014
Abstract
The hand hygiene may possibly influence the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the multifactorial influence on hand hygiene knowledge and behaviors is proven. The aim of the study was to analyze hand hygiene behaviors in a national representative sample of Polish adolescents [...] Read more.
The hand hygiene may possibly influence the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the multifactorial influence on hand hygiene knowledge and behaviors is proven. The aim of the study was to analyze hand hygiene behaviors in a national representative sample of Polish adolescents in regions stratified by COVID-19 morbidity, while taking socioeconomic status of the region, as well rural or urban environment, into account as possible interfering factors. The study was conducted Polish Adolescents’ COVID-19 Experience (PLACE-19) Study population (n = 2323) that was recruited based on a random sampling of schools, while the pair-matching procedure was applied within schools and age, in order to obtain adequate number of boys and girls, representative for the general Polish population (n = 1222). The participants were asked about their handwashing habits while using Handwashing Habits Questionnaire (HHQ) and about applied procedure of washing hands. The results were compared in subgroups that were stratified by region for COVID-19 morbidity, socioeconomic status of the region, and rural/urban environment. In regions of low COVID-19 morbidity, a higher share of adolescents, than in regions of high morbidity, declared washing their hands before meals (p = 0.0196), after meals (p = 0.0041), after preparing meals (p = 0.0297), before using the restroom (p = 0.0068), after using the restroom (p = 0.0014), after combing their hair (p = 0.0298), after handshaking (p = 0.0373), after touching animals (p = 0.0007), after contacting babies (p = 0.0278), after blowing nose (p = 0.0435), after touching sick people (p = 0.0351), and after cleaning home (p = 0.0234). For the assessed steps of the handwashing procedure, in regions of low COVID-19 morbidity, a higher share of adolescents included them to their daily handwashing, than in regions of high morbidity, that was stated for removing watch and bracelets (p = 0.0052), removing rings (p = 0.0318), and drying hands with towel (p = 0.0031). For the comparison in regions stratified by Gross Domestic Product, the differences were only minor and inconsistent. For the comparison in place of residence stratified by number of residents in city, there were some minor differences indicating better hand hygiene behaviors in the case of villages and small towns when compared with medium and large cities (p < 0.05). It may be concluded that, in a population-based sample of Polish adolescents, individuals from regions of low COVID-19 morbidity presented more beneficial hand hygiene habits than those from regions of high COVID-19 morbidity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection SARS-CoV Infections)
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15 pages, 282 KiB  
Article
Evidence of Exposure to USUV and WNV in Zoo Animals in France
by Orianne Constant, Karine Bollore, Marion Clé, Jonathan Barthelemy, Vincent Foulongne, Baptiste Chenet, David Gomis, Laurie Virolle, Serafin Gutierrez, Caroline Desmetz, Rayane Amaral Moares, Cécile Beck, Sylvie Lecollinet, Sara Salinas and Yannick Simonin
Pathogens 2020, 9(12), 1005; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens9121005 - 30 Nov 2020
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4306
Abstract
West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) are zoonotic arboviruses. These flaviviruses are mainly maintained in the environment through an enzootic cycle involving mosquitoes and birds. Horses and humans are incidental, dead-end hosts, but can develop severe neurological disorders. Nevertheless, there is [...] Read more.
West Nile virus (WNV) and Usutu virus (USUV) are zoonotic arboviruses. These flaviviruses are mainly maintained in the environment through an enzootic cycle involving mosquitoes and birds. Horses and humans are incidental, dead-end hosts, but can develop severe neurological disorders. Nevertheless, there is little data regarding the involvement of other mammals in the epidemiology of these arboviruses. In this study, we performed a serosurvey to assess exposure to these viruses in captive birds and mammals in a zoo situated in the south of France, an area described for the circulation of these two viruses. A total of 411 samples comprising of 70 species were collected over 16 years from 2003 to 2019. The samples were first tested by a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The positive sera were then tested using virus-specific microneutralization tests against USUV and WNV. USUV seroprevalence in birds was 10 times higher than that of WNV (14.59% versus 1.46%, respectively). Among birds, greater rhea (Rhea Americana) and common peafowl (Pavo cristatus) exhibited the highest USUV seroprevalence. Infections occurred mainly between 2016–2018 corresponding to a period of high circulation of these viruses in Europe. In mammalian species, antibodies against WNV were detected in one dama gazelle (Nanger dama) whereas serological evidence of USUV infection was observed in several Canidae, especially in African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus). Our study helps to better understand the exposure of captive species to WNV and USUV and to identify potential host species to include in surveillance programs in zoos. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Usutu Virus Infection)
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