Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Arthur Vengesai, Victor Muleya, Herald Midzi, Tryphine Vimbai Tinago, Isaac Chipako, Marble Manuwa, Thajasvarie Naicker, Takafira Mduluza
Summary: This review identifies recombinant proteins, peptides, and chimeric proteins that have the potential to be used as sensitive and specific diagnostic tools for schistosomiasis. The tetraspanin CD63 antigen shows the best diagnostic performance for S. haematobium, while peptide Smp_150390.1 (216-230) has the best diagnostic performance for S. mansoni. Peptides demonstrate good to excellent diagnostic performances, and S. mansoni multi-peptide chimeric protein further improves diagnostic accuracy. The development of urine-based multi-peptide chimeric proteins point of care tools is recommended.
Review
Immunology
Kaijuan Wu, Xingyu Zhai, Shuaiqin Huang, Liping Jiang, Zheng Yu, Jing Huang
Summary: Infection by Schistosoma japonicum can lead to serious organ damage and schistosomiasis japonica, with drug resistance being a continual concern. Protein kinases play essential roles in the growth and development of S. japonicum and interactions with hosts, providing potential drug targets for developing new treatments. The current challenges and problems in studying SjPKs can guide future development of anti-schistosomiasis drugs and vaccines.
FRONTIERS IN CELLULAR AND INFECTION MICROBIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Parasitology
Xianyu Piao, Ning Jiang, Shuai Liu, Jiamei Duan, Hang Dai, Nan Hou, Qijun Chen
Summary: This study identified a novel schistosomula protein, SjEKLF, which showed potential for schistosomiasis japonica immunodiagnosis and immunoprotection. SjEKLF was highly expressed in hepatic schistosomula and adult worms, and immunization with SjEKLF reduced infection symptoms in mice. These findings provide a new target for controlling schistosomiasis japonica infection and transmission.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Jingyi Liu, Xiaoxu Wang, Fei Sheng, Bikash R. Giri, Shun Li, Tianqi Xia, Xuxin Li, Guofeng Cheng
Summary: Timely diagnosis of Schistosoma infection, particularly in the early stage, is crucial for effective control strategies. This study used metagenomic next-generation sequencing to identify specific circulating DNAs in infected rabbits and developed diagnostic methods for murine and human schistosomiasis. The results showed the potential of using specific cDNAs as biomarkers for detecting Schistosoma infection in the early stages.
Review
Parasitology
Cheng Chen, Qinghong Guo, Zhiqiang Fu, Jinming Liu, Jiaojiao Lin, Kai Xiao, Pengxiang Sun, Xiaonan Cong, Runxia Liu, Yang Hong
Summary: Despite a significant decrease in the prevalence and intensity of Schistosoma japonicum infection in China, this disease remains a serious public health concern in certain endemic areas in the Philippines and Indonesia. Therefore, more accurate and sensitive diagnostic methods are crucial for further control of this disease. This review explores the research progress in techniques for diagnosing S. japonicum infection.
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Andrea G. Buchwald, Elise Grover, Julia Van Dyke, Katerina Kechris, Ding Lu, Yang Liu, Bo Zhong, Elizabeth J. Carlton
Summary: Urbanization increases human mobility, potentially altering the transmission of vector-borne diseases like schistosomiasis. Factors such as frequent travel and travel in July may decrease the risk of infection, while water-contact behavior also plays a role in individual infection status. Understanding the timing and frequency of human movement in and out of endemic areas is important for assessing potential drivers of rural infectious diseases.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF EPIDEMIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Public, Environmental & Occupational Health
Andrea G. Buchwald, Elise Grover, Julia Van Dyke, Katerina Kechris, Ding Lu, Yang Liu, Bo Zhong, Elizabeth J. Carlton
Summary: Urbanization increases human mobility, affecting the transmission of traditional rural infectious diseases. Findings suggest that frequent travel and travel in July may reduce infection risk, decreasing risky water-contact time, potentially removing opportunities for schistosome exposure.
AMERICAN JOURNAL OF EPIDEMIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Parasitology
Elise Grover, Sara Paull, Katerina Kechris, Andrea Buchwald, Katherine James, Yang Liu, Elizabeth J. Carlton
Summary: This study investigates the physical and environmental predictors of bovine Schistosoma japonicum infection in rural areas of China using a machine learning approach. The results highlight the importance of factors such as bovine density, agricultural practices, and human infection prevalence in predicting bovine infection.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Parasitology
Jing Huang, Xinguang Yin, Lifang Zhang, Ming Yao, Dahai Wei, Yiming Wu
Summary: This study used proteomics analysis to identify differentially expressed proteins in serum samples from patients with advanced S. japonicum-induced hepatic fibrosis, and found that C1QA and CFD may serve as potential diagnostic markers for distinguishing patients at different stages of the disease.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2021)
Article
Immunology
Feng Miao, Gongzhen Liu, Yongbin Wang, Jingxuan Kou, Kun Yang, Wei Li, Chunrong Xiong, Fengjian Zhang, Xinyao Wang, Haoyun Yan, Changyin Wei, Ge Yan, Changlei Zhao, Xin Liu
Summary: This study performed proteomics analysis on adult schistosomes hatched in two intermediate hosts using iTRAQ technology. The differentially expressed proteins identified provide insights into the growth and developmental mechanisms of Schistosoma japonicum.
FRONTIERS IN CELLULAR AND INFECTION MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Parasitology
Yang Liu, PengPeng Zhang, JunHui Li, Hao Li, Chen Zhou, Yu Zhang, YingZi Ming
Summary: This study aimed to explore the association between lipid profile and liver fibrosis in patients infected with Schistosoma japonicum and develop a new predictive index. The study found that high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), hemoglobin (HB), and platelets (PLT) were independently associated with liver fibrosis. The new index, (HDL x 100)/(LDL x HB), outperformed existing indexes in predicting liver fibrosis.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Pengyue Jiang, Jing Wang, Shanli Zhu, Chao Hu, Yu Lin, Weiqing Pan
Summary: This study identified a schistosome miRNA (Sja-miR-71a) that exhibits anti-tumor activity in vitro and in vivo models. The miRNA was found to target a host gene (FZD4) and suppress cell proliferation and migration of hepatoma cells. These findings suggest that Sja-miR-71a could be a potential therapeutic target in cancer treatment.
FRONTIERS IN CELLULAR AND INFECTION MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Parasitology
Bikash R. Giri, Chuantao Fang, Guofeng Cheng
Summary: This study identified hundreds of gender-associated circRNAs in the blood fluke Schistosoma japonicum, and suggested their potential regulatory roles in gene expression through binding with microRNAs.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Yu Zhang, Junhui Li, Hao Li, Jie Jiang, Chen Guo, Chen Zhou, Zhaoqin Zhou, Yingzi Ming
Summary: Our study used single-cell sequencing to explore the mechanism of hepatic fibrosis in murine schistosomiasis japonica. We found that NKT cells and Th2 cells were increased, and there was close communication between NKT cells and the FASLG signaling pathway. Additionally, flow cytometry analysis showed that the expression of Fasl in NKT cells, CD8+ T cells, and NK cells was higher in the schistosomiasis group. Marker genes of alternatively activated macrophages (M2) were mainly expressed in mononuclear phagocyte (MP(1)), suggesting M2-like polarization of Kupffer cells might occur in the fibrotic liver of schistosomiasis. Analysis of CXCL and CCL signaling pathways showed prominent interactions between T cells and mononuclear phagocytes.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Shun Li, Bikash R. Giri, Jingyi Liu, Xiaobing He, Pengfei Cai, Zhizhong Jing, Guofeng Cheng
Summary: The study investigated the microRNA profiles of extracellular vesicles (EVs) isolated from host plasma at different stages of Schistosoma japonicum infection, revealing a correlation between the abundance of miRNA cargo in host plasma EVs and the stages of infection. These miRNAs may play a role in the pathogenesis and immune regulation of schistosomiasis.
FRONTIERS IN CELLULAR AND INFECTION MICROBIOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Immunology
Hua Liu, Hongxia Ni, Shike Liu, Yujuan Shen, Rong Wang, Jianping Cao, Jianhai Yin
Summary: In this study, the molecular characterization of Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Cryptosporidium spp., and Cyclospora cayetanensis in fecal samples from 489 diarrheal outpatients in Ningbo, China was carried out. The results showed the presence of E. bieneusi and C. cayetanensis in the patients, with several known and novel genotypes identified. This study highlights the importance of these zoonotic pathogens in causing intestinal diseases and suggests the need for further investigations from a One Health perspective.
MICROBIAL PATHOGENESIS
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Yanyan Jiang, Li Liu, Zhongying Yuan, Aiqin Liu, Jianping Cao, Yujuan Shen
Summary: This study aimed to investigate the occurrence and genetic characteristics of opportunistic intestinal pathogens in HIV/AIDS patients. By genotyping and sequencing, Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis, and Enterocytozoon bieneusi were identified in a small percentage of the patients. The findings of this study should raise awareness about these pathogens and the importance of routine examination in clinical practice.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2023)
Review
Microbiology
Haroon Ahmed, Seyma Gunyakti Kilinc, Figen Celik, Harun Kaya Kesik, Sami Simsek, Khawaja Shafique Ahmad, Muhammad Sohail Afzal, Sumaira Farrakh, Waseem Safdar, Fahad Pervaiz, Sadia Liaqat, Jing Zhang, Jianping Cao
Summary: In recent years, there has been a comprehensive assessment of the use of natural plant products to treat helminth parasites in veterinary science. The study reviewed a large number of medicinal plants and their pharmacological effects, providing valuable information for the development of effective management strategies against helminth parasites. A total of 259 potential plant species were identified as sources of anthelmintic drugs, which could potentially reduce economic losses and improve livestock production.
Article
Veterinary Sciences
Nazeer Hussain, Rana Muhammad Kamran Shabbir, Haroon Ahmed, Muhammad Sohail Afzal, Shafi Ullah, Abid Ali, Shumaila Irum, Syed Kamran-ul-Hassan Naqvi, Jianhai Yin, Jianping Cao
Summary: Ticks are abundant in different agro-ecological zones of Pakistan and parasitize a variety of animals, including livestock and their associated canines and equines. This study identified 11 tick species belonging to 4 genera and examined the tick infestation rate among different hosts and zones. The overall tick prevalence was 14.3% and varied among different animals and zones.
FRONTIERS IN VETERINARY SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Parasitology
Yuhuan Wei, Wujun Li, Chunhai Shao, Hai Zhao, Yuan Hu, Hua Liu, Jianping Cao
Summary: This study investigated the genetic polymorphisms of Echinococcus granulosus in the Ngari region of Tibet. Seventy-nine hydatid cyst samples were collected from surgical patients and analyzed. The results showed that G1/G3 was the main genotype, with occasional presence of G6/G7. Analysis also indicated population expansion or negative selection in Echinococcus granulosus s.s. in the Ngari region. Further surveys and control efforts are recommended to investigate the transmission of G1/G3 and G6/G7 in this region.
Article
Parasitology
Wenwen Si, Chuantao Fang, Chuang Liu, Meng Yin, Wenyue Xu, Yanna Li, Xiaoli Yan, Yujuan Shen, Jianping Cao, Jun Sun
Summary: Babesia spp. lacks certain genes, especially those related to haem synthesis, found in Plasmodium spp., which likely contributes to their insensitivity to artemisinin. Single-cell sequencing analysis showed differences in gene expression between Babesia and Plasmodium when treated with drugs, indicating a distinct mechanism in Babesia. Iron supplementation promotes the reproduction of Babesia.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Yuan Gao, Xiaocheng Zhang, Tingting Jiang, Hao Zhou, Hua Liu, Yuan Hu, Jianping Cao
Summary: Schistosomiasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease that causes liver fibrosis, which endangers human health. NK cells play a crucial role in inhibiting liver fibrosis, but their function is significantly inhibited in Schistosoma japonicum infection. This study found that the inhibitory receptor Tigit is highly expressed on NK cells during infection, and Tigit knockout enhances NK cell function and reduces liver fibrosis in schistosomiasis.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Xu Wang, Yanyan Jiang, Weiping Wu, Xiaozhou He, Zhenghuan Wang, Yayi Guan, Ning Xu, Qilu Chen, Yujuan Shen, Jianping Cao
Summary: In this study, ecological niche models were used to predict the potential spatial distribution of Cryptosporidium in China, aiming at providing a risk warning and prevention and control strategies. The results showed that the suitable habitats for Cryptosporidium were mainly located in high-population density areas, especially in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, the lower reaches of the Yellow River, and the Huai and Pearl River Basins. Future climate change is expected to expand the suitable habitats for Cryptosporidium, particularly in the northeastern, southwestern, and northwestern regions.
INFECTIOUS DISEASES OF POVERTY
(2023)
Review
Microbiology
Xihan Wang, Xu Wang, Jianping Cao
Summary: Environmental factors have a significant impact on the transmission of intestinal protozoan diseases, specifically cryptosporidiosis and giardiasis. These diseases, characterized by diarrhea, are mainly spread through water and food contaminated with fecal-borne oocysts. The One Health approach is effective in addressing environmentally influenced zoonotic diseases. However, the influence of environmental factors on the survival of Cryptosporidium/Giardia and disease transmission is not well characterized. This review examines the associations between climatic, soil, and water characteristics and Cryptosporidium/Giardia, highlighting the varying relationships found in different studies and locations.
Article
Veterinary Sciences
Sajida Riaz, Haroon Ahmed, Sana Azeem Kiani, Muhammad Sohail Afzal, Sami Simsek, Figen Celik, Samia Wasif, Nazneen Bangash, Syed Kamran Naqvi, Jing Zhang, Jianping Cao
Summary: This study investigated the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to schistosomiasis and fascioliasis among individuals living in close contact with livestock and pets in Pakistan. The majority of participants had good knowledge and a positive attitude towards these two diseases, but lacked awareness about snails as intermediate hosts.
FRONTIERS IN VETERINARY SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Veterinary Sciences
Sadia Liaqat, Mazhar Qayyum, Figen Celik, Sami Simsek, Faheem Ahmad, Xiaocheng Zhang, Haroon Ahmed, Jianping Cao
Summary: This study aimed to identify the best diagnostic method for the early detection of goat warble fly infestation (GWFI) by comparing three enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods. The results showed that the indirect ELISA with the crude antigen of P. silenus was more sensitive and accurate. This method can accurately detect the prevalence of GWFI in goats in the Punjab region.
VETERINARY SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Tingting Jiang, Xiaoying Wu, Hao Zhou, Yuan Hu, Jianping Cao
Summary: The study reveals that infection of Schistosomiasis japonica leads to pathological changes in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs), promoting epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and liver fibrosis. The proportions, phenotype, and secretory function of LSECs are significantly altered during different stages of infection. The number of fenestrae in LSECs decrease, and complete basement membrane formation is observed after infection, along with changes in EMT and fibrosis-related indicators.
TROPICAL MEDICINE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Fariha Ayub, Haroon Ahmed, Tehreem Sohail, Khuram Shahzad, Figen Celik, Xu Wang, Sami Simsek, Jianping Cao
Summary: This study used bioinformatics tools to evaluate the physio-chemical properties, sequence alignment, structures, modification sites, and epitopes of T. gondii rhoptry proteins ROP7, ROP21, and ROP22, aiming to predict and analyze immunogenic epitopes for vaccine development. Nine epitopes were identified for each protein, with ROP22 having the highest immunogenicity score. The results provide a foundation for further experimental analysis and potential vaccine development for toxoplasmosis.
Article
Veterinary Sciences
Sadia Saleem, Haroon Ahmed, Kaleem Imdad, Jing Zhang, Jianping Cao
Summary: This study evaluated the epidemiological characteristics and prevalence of cystic echinococcosis (CE) in cattle in Punjab, Pakistan. The prevalence of CE was 6.22% in all examined animals, with a higher prevalence in cattle. The study found that most infected animals came from three slaughterhouses in Rawalpindi city, originating from 23 districts of Punjab, Khyber PakhtunKhwa (KP), and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). These findings are important for estimating the eco-epidemiology of CE and improving surveillance and prevention programs in Pakistan.
VETERINARY SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Medicine, Research & Experimental
Saba Bibi, Muhammad Kamran, Haroon Ahmad, Kainat Bibi, Syed Kamran Ul Hassan Naqvi, Qingqiu Zuo, Naseer Ali Shah, Jianping Cao
Summary: This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of taeniasis among rural and urban communities in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan. The results showed that most respondents had little knowledge about the disease but were willing to participate in elimination campaigns. The respondents took some preventive measures when cooking, and these practices were associated with factors such as age, income, and residency.