Journal Description
Pathogens
Pathogens
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on pathogens and pathogen-host interactions published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, PubAg, CaPlus / SciFinder, AGRIS, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Microbiology) / CiteScore - Q2 (General Immunology and Microbiology )
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.4 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Pathogens include: Parasitologia, Bacteria and Zoonotic Diseases.
Impact Factor:
3.7 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.7 (2022)
Latest Articles
Development and Application of an In Vitro Tick Feeding System to Identify Ixodes Tick Environment-Induced Genes of the Lyme Disease Agent, Borrelia burgdorferi
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 487; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060487 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The bacterial agent of Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi, exists in an enzootic cycle by adapting to dissimilar mammalian and tick environments. The genetic elements necessary for host and vector adaptation are spread across a bacterial genome comprised of a linear chromosome and
[...] Read more.
The bacterial agent of Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi, exists in an enzootic cycle by adapting to dissimilar mammalian and tick environments. The genetic elements necessary for host and vector adaptation are spread across a bacterial genome comprised of a linear chromosome and essential linear and circular plasmids. The promoter trap system, In Vivo Expression Technology (IVET), has been used to identify promoters of B. burgdorferi that are transcriptionally active specifically during infection of a murine host. However, an observed infection bottleneck effect in mice prevented the application of this system to study promoters induced in a tick environment. In this study, we adapted a membrane-based in vitro feeding system as a novel method to infect the Ixodes spp. vector with B. burgdorferi. Once adapted, we performed IVET screens as a proof of principle via an infected bloodmeal on the system. The screen yielded B. burgdorferi promoters that are induced during tick infection and verified relative expression levels using qRT-PCR. The results of our study demonstrate the potential of our developed in vitro tick feeding system and IVET systems to gain insight into the adaptive gene expression of the Lyme disease bacteria to the tick vector.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)
Open AccessBrief Report
Detection of Human Adenovirus and Rotavirus in Wastewater in Lusaka, Zambia: Demonstrating the Utility of Environmental Surveillance for the Community
by
Ngonda Saasa, Ethel M’kandawire, Joseph Ndebe, Mulenga Mwenda, Fred Chimpukutu, Andrew Nalishuwa Mukubesa, Fred Njobvu, Doreen Mainza Shempela, Jay Sikalima, Carol Chiyesu, Bruce Muvwanga, Sarah M. Nampokolwe, Clement Sulwe, Thokozile Khondiwa, Todd Jennings, Ameck Kamanga, Edgar Simulundu, Conceptor Mulube, Wizaso Mwasinga, Jalaimo Mumeka, John Simwanza, Patrick Sakubita, Otridah Kapona, Chilufya Susan Aneta Mulenga, Musole Chipoya, Kunda Musonda, Nathan Kapata, Nyambe Sinyange, Muzala Kapina, Joyce Siwila, Misheck Shawa, Masahiro Kajihara, Ayato Takada, Hirofumi Sawa, Simulyamana A. Choonga, Roma Chilengi, Earnest Muyunda, King S. Nalubamba and Bernard M. Hang’ombeadd
Show full author list
remove
Hide full author list
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060486 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Enteric infections due to viral pathogens are a major public health concern. Detecting the risk areas requires a strong surveillance system for pathogenic viruses in sources such as wastewater. Towards building an environmental surveillance system in Zambia, we aimed to identify group A
[...] Read more.
Enteric infections due to viral pathogens are a major public health concern. Detecting the risk areas requires a strong surveillance system for pathogenic viruses in sources such as wastewater. Towards building an environmental surveillance system in Zambia, we aimed to identify group A rotavirus (RVA) and human adenovirus (HAdV) in wastewater. Convenient sampling was conducted at four study sites every Tuesday for five consecutive weeks. The research team focused on three different methods of viral concentration to determine the suitability in terms of cost and applicability for a regular surveillance system: the bag-mediated filtration system (BMFS), polyethylene glycol-based (PEG) precipitation, and skimmed milk (SM) flocculation. We screened 20 wastewater samples for HAdV and RVA using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and conventional polymerase chain reaction (cPCR). Of the 20 samples tested using qPCR, 18/20 (90%) tested positive for HAdV and 14/20 (70%) tested positive for RVA. For the genetic sequencing, qPCR positives were subjected to cPCR, of which 12 positives were successfully amplified. The human adenovirus was identified with a nucleotide identity range of 98.48% to 99.53% compared with the reference genome from GenBank. The BMFS and SM flocculation were the most consistent viral concentration methods for HAdV and RVA, respectively. A statistical analysis of the positives showed that viral positivity differed by site (p < 0.001). SM and PEG may be the most appropriate options in resource-limited settings such as Zambia due to the lower costs associated with these concentration methods. The demonstration of HAdV and RVA detection in wastewater suggests the presence of the pathogens in the communities under study and the need to establish a routine wastewater surveillance system for the identification of pathogens.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Viruses in Water)
Open AccessCommunication
Novel Theileria sp. as an Etiology of Cutaneous Theileriosis among the Vulnerable Arabian Oryx
by
Sonia Boughattas, Mutassim A. Salih, Andrea Dogliero and Nahla O. Eltai
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 485; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060485 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
The Arabian Peninsula’s endemic ungulate, Oryx leucoryx, was on the verge of extinction at the end of the 1970s. Despite the different reintroduction programs, the International Union for Conservation of Nature is still classifying it as Vulnerable. Among other factors, their vulnerability
[...] Read more.
The Arabian Peninsula’s endemic ungulate, Oryx leucoryx, was on the verge of extinction at the end of the 1970s. Despite the different reintroduction programs, the International Union for Conservation of Nature is still classifying it as Vulnerable. Among other factors, their vulnerability lies in their susceptibility to specific etiological agents that affect livestock, necessitating health monitoring and strict preventive/biosecurity measures. Within this frame, the current work investigated the determination of the etiological agent potentially involved with cutaneous lesions observed in eight males of Arabian oryx within one of the several national governance conservation programs. Microscopic examination from one animal specimen suggested theileriosis association, which was confirmed by molecular tools using 18S gene sequencing and the report of a novel Theileria sp. not clustering with previously reported antelope sequences. This finding prompts further explorations into the disease dynamics within the Arabian oryx population, especially with the scarcity of data in Qatar about tick-borne pathogens and their transmission.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Ticks and Tick-Borne Pathogens)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Parasitic Plants—Potential Vectors of Phytopathogens
by
Stefan Savov, Bianka Marinova, Denitsa Teofanova, Martin Savov, Mariela Odjakova and Lyuben Zagorchev
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060484 - 7 Jun 2024
Abstract
Parasitic plants represent a peculiar group of semi- or fully heterotrophic plants, possessing the ability to extract water, minerals, and organic compounds from other plants. All parasitic plants, either root or stem, hemi- or holoparasitic, establish a vascular connection with their host plants
[...] Read more.
Parasitic plants represent a peculiar group of semi- or fully heterotrophic plants, possessing the ability to extract water, minerals, and organic compounds from other plants. All parasitic plants, either root or stem, hemi- or holoparasitic, establish a vascular connection with their host plants through a highly specialized organ called haustoria. Apart from being the organ responsible for nutrient extraction, the haustorial connection is also a highway for various macromolecules, including DNA, proteins, and, apparently, phytopathogens. At least some parasitic plants are considered significant agricultural pests, contributing to enormous yield losses worldwide. Their negative effect is mainly direct, by the exhaustion of host plant fitness and decreasing growth and seed/fruit formation. However, they may pose an additional threat to agriculture by promoting the trans-species dispersion of various pathogens. The current review aims to summarize the available information and to raise awareness of this less-explored problem. We further explore the suitability of certain phytopathogens to serve as specific and efficient methods of control of parasitic plants, as well as methods for control of the phytopathogens.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Paths of Plant Pathogens—Interactions with Host and Nonhosts and Insight of Mechanisms of Pathogenesis)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
First Report of Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens in Bulgaria
by
Yoana Kizheva, Maria Pandova, Melani Dimitrova, Yoana Gladicheva, Maria Garkova, Desislava Pirnareva, Deyan Donchev, Penka Moncheva and Petya Hristova
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 483; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060483 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study aims at the identification and characterization of five actinobacterial strains with presumed belonging to the species Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens isolated from tomato and pepper plants, and establishing the potential role of both plants as natural reservoirs of this phytopathogen. Species identification was
[...] Read more.
This study aims at the identification and characterization of five actinobacterial strains with presumed belonging to the species Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens isolated from tomato and pepper plants, and establishing the potential role of both plants as natural reservoirs of this phytopathogen. Species identification was performed via MALDI-ToF MS, 16S rDNA sequencing and PCR. The strains were Gram-positive with a coryneform cell shape having yellow/orange-pigmented colonies; positive for catalase and esculin, and starch and casein hydrolysis; oxidase-, urease-, indole- and nitrate-reduction-negative and were strictly aerobic. All isolates produced antimicrobial substances against various phytopathogenic bacteria. Tomato and pepper plants were artificially infected with newly isolated strains in order to establish their role as natural reservoirs of the bacteria. Morphological alterations were observed only in the tomato plants, with defoliation of the first two to four leaves at the 28th day. Then, viable coryneform bacterial isolates (n = 73) were successfully re-isolated only from the stems of the infected plants. The similarity between the re-isolates and the respective initial isolates was confirmed phenotypically and genotypically by RAPD-PCR, confirming that solanaceous vegetables can act as reservoirs of C. flaccumfaciens. This is the first report of C. flaccumfaciens in Bulgaria.
Full article
Open AccessArticle
Peptide-Alkoxyamine Drugs: An Innovative Approach to Fight Schistosomiasis: “Digging Their Graves with Their Forks”
by
Ange W. Embo-Ibouanga, Michel Nguyen, Jean-Patrick Joly, Mathilde Coustets, Jean-Michel Augereau, Lucie Paloque, Nicolas Vanthuyne, Raphaël Bikanga, Anne Robert, Françoise Benoit-Vical, Gérard Audran, Philippe Mellet, Jérôme Boissier and Sylvain R. A. Marque
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 482; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060482 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
The expansion of drug resistant parasites sheds a serious concern on several neglected parasitic diseases. Our recent results on cancer led us to envision the use of peptide-alkoxyamines as a highly selective and efficient new drug against schistosome adult worms, the etiological agents
[...] Read more.
The expansion of drug resistant parasites sheds a serious concern on several neglected parasitic diseases. Our recent results on cancer led us to envision the use of peptide-alkoxyamines as a highly selective and efficient new drug against schistosome adult worms, the etiological agents of schistosomiasis. Indeed, the peptide tag of the hybrid compounds can be hydrolyzed by worm’s digestive enzymes to afford a highly labile alkoxyamine which homolyzes spontaneously and instantaneously into radicals—which are then used as a drug against Schistosome adult parasites. This approach is nicely summarized as digging their graves with their forks. Several hybrid peptide-alkoxyamines were prepared and clearly showed an activity: two of the tested compounds kill 50% of the parasites in two hours at a concentration of 100 µg/mL. Importantly, the peptide and alkoxyamine fragments that are unable to generate alkyl radicals display no activity. This strong evidence validates the proposed mechanism: a specific activation of the prodrugs by the parasite proteases leading to parasite death through in situ alkyl radical generation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Parasitic Diseases: Challenges and Progress in Drug Discovery and Target Identification)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
Congenital Syphilis: A Re-Emerging but Preventable Infection
by
Serena Salomè, Maria Donata Cambriglia, Giovanna Montesano, Letizia Capasso and Francesco Raimondi
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 481; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060481 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Congenital syphilis presents a significant global burden, contributing to fetal loss, stillbirth, neonatal mortality, and congenital infection. Despite the target established in 2007 by the World Health Organization (WHO) of fewer than 50 cases per 100,000 live births, the global incidence is on
[...] Read more.
Congenital syphilis presents a significant global burden, contributing to fetal loss, stillbirth, neonatal mortality, and congenital infection. Despite the target established in 2007 by the World Health Organization (WHO) of fewer than 50 cases per 100,000 live births, the global incidence is on the rise, particularly in low- and middle-income regions. Recent data indicate a rate of 473 cases per 100,000 live births, resulting in 661,000 total cases of congenital syphilis, including 355,000 adverse birth outcomes such as early fetal deaths, stillbirths, neonatal deaths, preterm or low-birth-weight births, and infants with clinical congenital syphilis. Alarmingly, only 6% of these adverse outcomes occurred in mothers who were enrolled, screened, and treated. Unlike many neonatal infections, congenital syphilis is preventable through effective antenatal screening and treatment of infected pregnant women. However, despite available screening tools, affordable treatment options, and the integration of prevention programs into antenatal care in various countries, congenital syphilis remains a pressing public health concern worldwide. This review aims to summarize the current epidemiology, transmission, and treatment of syphilis in pregnancy, as well as to explore global efforts to reduce vertical transmission and address the reasons for falling short of the WHO elimination target.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging and Re-emerging Infections in Pediatrics)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Catalytic Differences between Flavohemoglobins of Giardia intestinalis and E. coli
by
Sarah Hill, Isabelle Decorso, Novin Nezamololama, Zahra Babaei and Steven Patrick Rafferty
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 480; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060480 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
The sole known heme enzyme of the parasitic protist Giardia intestinalis is a flavohemoglobin (gFlHb) that acts as a nitric oxide dioxygenase (NOD) and protects the organism from the free radical nitric oxide. To learn more about the properties of this enzyme, we
[...] Read more.
The sole known heme enzyme of the parasitic protist Giardia intestinalis is a flavohemoglobin (gFlHb) that acts as a nitric oxide dioxygenase (NOD) and protects the organism from the free radical nitric oxide. To learn more about the properties of this enzyme, we measured its nitric oxide dioxygenase, NADH oxidase, and cytochrome c reductase activities and compared these to the activities of the E. coli flavohemoglobin (Hmp). The turnover number for the NOD activity of gFlHb (23 s−1) is about two-thirds of that of Hmp (34 s−1) at pH 6.5 and 37 °C. The two enzymes differ in their sensitivity towards molecules that act as heme ligands. For both gFlHb and Hmp, inhibition with miconazole, a large imidazole ligand, is adequately described by simple competitive inhibition, with KI = 10 μM and 0.27 μM for gFlHb and Hmp, respectively. Inhibition plots with the small ligand imidazole were biphasic, which is consistent with previous experiments with carbon monoxide as a probe that show that the active site of flavohemoglobins exists in two conformations. Interestingly, the largest difference is observed with nitrite, which, like imidazole, also shows a biphasic inhibition plot; however, nitrite inhibits gFlHb at sub-millimolar concentrations while Hmp is not significantly affected. NADH oxidase activity measured under aerobic conditions in the absence of nitric oxide for Hmp was more than twice the activity of gFlHb. The addition of 1 mM hydrogen peroxide in these assays stimulated the NADH oxidase activity of gFlHb but not Hmp. Both enzymes had nearly identical cytochrome c reductase activities but the extent of the contribution of indirect reduction by flavohemoglobin-generated superoxide was much lower with gFlHb (4% SOD-inhibited) than with Hmp (17% SOD-inhibited). Although the active sites of the two enzymes share the same highly conserved residues that are important for catalysis, differences in the distal ligand binding site may account for these differences in activity and sensitivity towards NOD inhibitors. The differences observed in the NADH oxidase and cytochrome c reductase assays suggest that gFlHb may have evolved to protect the protist, which lacks both superoxide dismutase and catalase, from the damaging effects of superoxide by minimizing its production and from peroxide by actively reducing it.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis and Treatment of Giardiasis)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Comparing Occurrence of Bovine Respiratory Pathogens Detected by High-Throughput Real-Time PCR in Nasal Swabs and Non-Endoscopic Bronchoalveolar Lavage Samples from Dairy and Veal Calves
by
Nina Dam Otten, Nicole Bakkegård Goecke, Anne Marie Michelsen, Liza Rosenbaum Nielsen, Nynne Capion, Henrik Læssøe Martin, Bodil Højlund Nielsen, Lars Erik Larsen and Mette Bisgaard Petersen
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 479; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060479 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to enhance our understanding of the agreement between two sampling methods for the detection of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) pathogens in calves using high-throughput real-time qPCR (ht-RT-qPCR). In total, 233 paired nasal swab (NS) and non-endoscopic bronchoalveolar lavage (nBAL) samples
[...] Read more.
This study aimed to enhance our understanding of the agreement between two sampling methods for the detection of bovine respiratory disease (BRD) pathogens in calves using high-throughput real-time qPCR (ht-RT-qPCR). In total, 233 paired nasal swab (NS) and non-endoscopic bronchoalveolar lavage (nBAL) samples were collected from 152 calves from 12 Danish cattle herds. In 202 of the observations, the calves were examined using a standardized clinical protocol. Samples were tested for three viruses (bovine respiratory syncytial virus, bovine corona virus, and influenza D virus) and six bacteria (Histophilus somni, Mannheimia haemolytica, Mycoplasma bovis, Mycoplasma species, Pasteurella multocida, and Truepurella pyogenes). The results showed age-related differences in disease and pathogen occurrence, with the highest detection rates in calves aged 35 days or older. Poor to moderate agreement was found between the NS and nBAL results. The presence of Mannheimia haemolytica in both NS and nBAL in younger calves and in nBAL in older calves was associated with clinical BRD. There was a potential link between BRD and influenza D virus in older calves, although it was only found in one herd in a small sample size. Overall, NS was a relatively poor predictor of pathogens in the lower respiratory tract. The present study confirms the complexity of pathogen detection in BRD, with marked influences of age and the sampling method on pathogen detection and disease associations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mycoplasmas in Respiratory Tract Infections of Cattle)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Comparative Analysis of Immune Gene Transcription in Sea Bream (Sparus aurata) Challenged with RGNNV or RGNNV/SJNNV Betanodaviruses
by
Juan Gemez-Mata, Patricia Moreno, Daniel Alvarez-Torres, Esther Garcia-Rosado, Julia Bejar and M. Carmen Alonso
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 478; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060478 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Gilthead sea bream and European sea bass display different resistance–susceptibility patterns during infection with different nervous necrosis virus (NNV) species, which may derive from differences in the triggered immune response. Based on this premise, we analysed the transcription of several selected immune-related genes
[...] Read more.
Gilthead sea bream and European sea bass display different resistance–susceptibility patterns during infection with different nervous necrosis virus (NNV) species, which may derive from differences in the triggered immune response. Based on this premise, we analysed the transcription of several selected immune-related genes in sea bream experimentally infected with NNV isolates obtained from sea bass (DlNNV, RGNNV) or sea bream (SaNNV, RGNNV/SJNNV). Viral replication only occurred in SaNNV-inoculated fish; therefore, the differences between the immune response elicited by both viruses may be the key to understanding the mechanism behind the inhibition of DlNNV replication. Principal component analysis clustered samples according to the viral isolate from 1 day post infection onwards and evidenced differences in the immune response against both viruses, even though no mortalities or symptoms were recorded. The response against DlNNV is characterized by higher rtp3 transcription early after the infection, longer-lasting il-10 transcription and stronger induction of casp1 and hsp70. These genes should be targets for future studies in order to elucidate their role in hampering NNV replication in sea bream, which is essential for developing effective prophylactic measures.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Viral Pathogens)
Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of the Local and Peripheral Immune Responses in Patients with Cystic Echinococcosis
by
Linda Petrone, Saeid Najafi-Fard, Laura Falasca, Settimia Sbarra, Antonella Teggi, Emanuele Nicastri, Lucia Rosalba Grillo, Mirco Burocchi, Giuseppe Maria Ettorre, Alessandra Ludovisi, Daniele Colombo, Franca Del Nonno and Delia Goletti
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 477; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060477 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) cysts may persist for decades because of immune modulation mechanisms. Here, we characterize the cysts and the blood immune responses in patients with CE. Methods: We enrolled 61 patients with CE and 19 control subjects. We received tissue samples
[...] Read more.
Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) cysts may persist for decades because of immune modulation mechanisms. Here, we characterize the cysts and the blood immune responses in patients with CE. Methods: We enrolled 61 patients with CE and 19 control subjects. We received tissue samples from seven patients with CE and a control subject requiring liver cystectomy. The immunohistochemistry evaluation of the immune cell subtypes and cytokines in the pericysts and surrounding liver and the antigen B (AgB)-specific response analysis of whole blood were performed. Results: In CE, the pericyst and the surrounding liver parenchyma showed aggregates of CD3+ T lymphocytes, mainly CD4+. B lymphocyte aggregates were present in the liver tissue. Monocytes/granulocytes were rarely observed. Th2 cytokine expression was scarce, whereas IFN-γ expression was present in the CE tissues. The control subject did not show an inflammatory infiltrate. The IL-4-specific response to AgB was increased in the patients with CE compared to the control, and this result was confirmed in a larger cohort (p = 0.003), whereas the IFN-γ-response was similar between the two groups (p = 0.5570). Conclusion: In patients with CE, CD4+ lymphocytes infiltrate the pericyst and the surrounding liver tissue with a low IL-4/IL-13 expression level and a moderate IFN-γ expression level; moreover, an IL-4 parasite-specific response is detected in the periphery. These results support adventitia involvement in CE immunopathogenesis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Zoonotic Cestodiasis: Echinococcosis and Taeniasis)
Open AccessArticle
The Phylogenetic Characterization of Balantioides coli Isolated in the Pavlova Culture Medium Supplemented with Coconut Water and Animal Serum
by
Camila Souza Carvalho Class, Laís Lisboa Corrêa, Fabiana Batalha Knackfuss, Maria Regina Reis Amendoeira, Francisco Ponce Gordo and Alynne da Silva Barbosa
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 476; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060476 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Balantioides coli is a ciliated protist that can cause dysentery in humans, pigs and nonhuman primates and may have the potential for zoonotic transmission. Its diagnosis is routinely performed through conventional parasitological techniques, and few studies have used culturing techniques to isolate it,
[...] Read more.
Balantioides coli is a ciliated protist that can cause dysentery in humans, pigs and nonhuman primates and may have the potential for zoonotic transmission. Its diagnosis is routinely performed through conventional parasitological techniques, and few studies have used culturing techniques to isolate it, applying molecular tools for the characterization of this protozoan. Thus, the objective of this study was to confirm B. coli diagnosis using molecular tools and to characterize the genetic variants of this parasite isolated from pigs kept on family farms in Brazil using three different culture media that differed in the serum added. Fecal samples from pigs were inoculated in Pavlova medium plus coconut water (PC), fetal bovine serum (PB) and horse serum (PH). Of the 127 samples positive for forms compatible with the phylum Ciliophora, 31 were selected for isolation. The most successful medium for isolation was PB 19/31 (61.3%), followed by PH 18/31 (58.1%) and PC 11/31 (35.5%). Of the nucleotide sequences generated, 20 were classified as genetic variant type B0, two as A1 and 15 as A0. The results indicated that PC, despite having allowed the isolation of B. coli for a short period, was not an adequate medium for the maintenance of this parasite in vitro, therefore requiring improvement.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Prevalence, Pathology, and Alternative Control of Intestinal Parasites)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Assessing the Prevalence and Dynamics of Emerging Campylobacterales in Human Stool Samples in Brussels by Filtration Culture
by
Emmanuelle Giraudon, V. Y. Miendje Deyi and Delphine Martiny
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 475; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060475 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Thermophilic C. jejuni/coli is reported to be the first bacterial cause of gastroenteritis worldwide and the most common zoonosis in Europe. Although non-jejuni/coli Campylobacter sp. are increasingly suspected to be responsible for diarrhoea or to be involved in
[...] Read more.
Thermophilic C. jejuni/coli is reported to be the first bacterial cause of gastroenteritis worldwide and the most common zoonosis in Europe. Although non-jejuni/coli Campylobacter sp. are increasingly suspected to be responsible for diarrhoea or to be involved in inflammatory bowel disease, they remain poorly isolated due to their fastidious and non-thermophilic nature. Additionally, they are not targeted by commercial syndromic PCR assays. In this study, we present routine diagnostic results over 6 years (2017–2019 and 2021–2023) of Campylobacter sp. and related species, obtained by optimised culture from 51,065 stools by both 0.65 µm pore filtration on antibiotic-free agar, incubated in an H2-enriched atmosphere at 37 °C (also known as the Cape Town protocol), and the use of selective inhibitory Butzler medium incubated at 42 °C. This allowed the isolation of 16 Campylobacter species, 2 Aliarcobacter species, and 2 Helicobacter species, providing a completely different view of the epidemiology of Campylobacterales, in which C. jejuni/coli represents only 30.0% of all isolates, while C. concisus represents 44.4%. C. ureolyticus, representing only 5.5% of all Campylobacterales pre-COVID-19, represented 20.6% of all strains post-COVID-19 (218% increase; p < 0.05). At the same time, the proportions of C. jejuni, C. coli, and C. concisus decreased by 37, 53, and 28%, respectively (p < 0.05).
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Campylobacter Infections Collection)
Open AccessArticle
The Anti-Inflammatory Effect of SDF-1 Derived Peptide on Porphyromonas gingivalis Infection via Regulation of NLRP3 and AIM2 Inflammasome
by
Si Yeong Kim, Min Kee Son, Jung Hwa Park, Hee Sam Na and Jin Chung
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 474; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060474 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Peptides are appealing as pharmacological materials because they are easily produced, safe, and tolerable. Despite increasing gum-care awareness, periodontitis is still prevalent and is influenced by factors like high sugar consumption, smoking, and aging. Porphyromonas gingivalis is considered a major
[...] Read more.
(1) Background: Peptides are appealing as pharmacological materials because they are easily produced, safe, and tolerable. Despite increasing gum-care awareness, periodontitis is still prevalent and is influenced by factors like high sugar consumption, smoking, and aging. Porphyromonas gingivalis is considered a major etiologic agent of periodontitis and activates the NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) but is absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2) inflammasomes, resulting in pro-inflammatory cytokine release. (2) Methods: We examined the anti-inflammatory effects of 18 peptides derived from human stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) on THP-1 macrophages. Inflammation was induced by P. gingivalis, and the anti-inflammatory effects were analyzed using molecular biological techniques. In a mouse periodontitis model, alveolar bone resorption was assessed using micro-CT. (3) Results: Of the 18 SDF-1-derived peptides, S10 notably reduced IL-1β and TNF-α secretion. S10 also diminished the P. gingivalis-induced expression of NLRP3, AIM2, ASC (apoptosis-associated speck-like protein), caspase-1, and IL-1β. Furthermore, S10 attenuated the enhanced TLR (toll-like receptor) signaling pathway and decreased the phosphorylation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs). In addition, S10 mitigated alveolar bone loss in our P. gingivalis-induced mouse model of periodontitis. (4) Conclusions: S10 suppressed TLR/NF-κB/NLRP3 inflammasome signaling and the AIM2 inflammasome in our P. gingivalis-induced murine periodontitis model, which suggests that it has potential use as a therapeutic treatment for periodontitis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nosocomial Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of Immune Exhaustion and Co-Inhibitory Receptor Expression in Mycobacterium avium Subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) Seropositive Diarrhoeic Bovines
by
Shalini Sharma, Khushbu Sharma, Ram Kumar, Deen Dayal, Shweta Dhanda, Naveen Kumar, Kundan Kumar Chaubey, Shoor Vir Singh, Sikander Banger and Vishal Sharma
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 473; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060473 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) infection leads to chronic, persistent granulomatous enteritis, causing prolonged diarrhoea and emaciation. The disease is managed using medications such as antibiotics, live vaccines, mycobacteriophage therapies and other treatments; however, a notable proportion of affected animals do not show
[...] Read more.
Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) infection leads to chronic, persistent granulomatous enteritis, causing prolonged diarrhoea and emaciation. The disease is managed using medications such as antibiotics, live vaccines, mycobacteriophage therapies and other treatments; however, a notable proportion of affected animals do not show improvement with this approach. We hypothesise that immunoinhibitory receptors TIM-3 (T cell immunoglobulin mucin protein-3) and PD-1 (Programmed death receptor 1) may be upregulated on Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of MAP-seropositive bovines, potentially contributing to immune exhaustion. Samples (blood and faeces) were collected from 32 diarrhoeic bovines suspected of MAP infection; eight apparently healthy buffaloes from the dairy farm at Hisar, Haryana and from 14 cows (suffering from chronic diarrhoea, weakness and emaciation) housed in stray cattle shed. MAP infection was estimated using indigenous ELISA (i-ELISA), faecal IS900 PCR, culture and acid-fast staining. TIM-3 and PD-1 gene expression on PBMCs were determined using qRT-PCR. TIM3 expression was relatively higher (~400-fold, 330-fold, 112-fold, 65-fold and 16-fold) in 5 chronically diarrhoeic PBMCs samples (MAP-seropositive), and higher PD-1 expression (around ~7-fold, 1.75-fold, 2.5-fold, 7.6-fold) was recorded in 4 diarrhoeic MAP-seropositive animals, compared to apparently healthy and other MAP-seronegative diarrhoeic animals. High co-expression of TIM-3 and PD-1 levels was also recorded in chronically diarrhoeic, emaciated stray cattle. Understanding immune responses in field conditions might aid in the therapeutic management of paratuberculosis.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue T Cell Responses to Pathogenic Infections)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessReview
The Role of the Airway and Gut Microbiome in the Development of Chronic Lung Disease of Prematurity
by
Lieve Boel, David J. Gallacher, Julian R. Marchesi and Sailesh Kotecha
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 472; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060472 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Chronic lung disease (CLD) of prematurity, a common cause of morbidity and mortality in preterm-born infants, has a multifactorial aetiology. This review summarizes the current evidence for the effect of the gut and airway microbiota on the development of CLD, highlighting the differences
[...] Read more.
Chronic lung disease (CLD) of prematurity, a common cause of morbidity and mortality in preterm-born infants, has a multifactorial aetiology. This review summarizes the current evidence for the effect of the gut and airway microbiota on the development of CLD, highlighting the differences in the early colonisation patterns in preterm-born infants compared to term-born infants. Stool samples from preterm-born infants who develop CLD have less diversity than those who do not develop CLD. Pulmonary inflammation, which is a hallmark in the development of CLD, may potentially be influenced by gut bacteria. The respiratory microbiota is less abundant than the stool microbiota in preterm-born infants. There is a lack of clear evidence for the role of the respiratory microbiota in the development of CLD, with results from individual studies not replicated. A common finding is the presence of a single predominant bacterial genus in the lungs of preterm-born infants who develop CLD. Probiotic preparations have been proposed as a potential therapeutic strategy to modify the gut or lung microbiota with the aim of reducing rates of CLD but additional robust evidence is required before this treatment is introduced into routine clinical practice.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Host-Pathogen Interaction in Respiratory Infections of the Neonate)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
The Impact of Acute EBV Infection on Changes in the Serum Proteome in Children—A Pilot Study
by
Katarzyna Mazur-Melewska, Magdalena Luczak, Joanna Watral, Paweł Małecki, Anna Mania and Magdalena Figlerowicz
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 471; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060471 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection on children’s proteomes across different phases of the disease, utilising seventy-nine blood samples categorised into three groups: EBV-naive patients, acute infectious mononucleosis (IM) cases, and convalescents followed up for 12 months post-IM. The
[...] Read more.
This study investigates the impact of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection on children’s proteomes across different phases of the disease, utilising seventy-nine blood samples categorised into three groups: EBV-naive patients, acute infectious mononucleosis (IM) cases, and convalescents followed up for 12 months post-IM. The aim is to identify proteins influenced by EBV infection, shedding light on the chronic processes triggered by the virus. The results reveal thirty-nine proteins distinguishing between naive patients and those with IM, including actin, lumican, peroxiredoxin-2, fibulin-1, gelsolin, and alpha-2-macroglobulin, which are involved in immune responses, cell adhesion, and inflammation. Elevated oxidative stress markers like peroxiredoxin-2 in IM patients suggest potential links to EBV’s induction of reactive oxygen species. Increased levels of apolipoproteins A-I, A-IV, C-IV, and M during IM imply associations with viral infection, while complement system proteins (C1q, C1r, and C8 gamma chain) are also elevated, reflecting their role in the immune response and viral clearance. This study’s focus on children provides unique insights into EBV’s impact on young populations, emphasising proteomics’ role in uncovering protein associations and understanding the virus’s long-term consequences. However, specific relationships between identified proteins and EBV infection require further investigation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Epstein Barr Virus (EBV) in Clinical Practice)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessSystematic Review
Human Placental Schistosomiasis—A Systematic Review of the Literature
by
Jacob Gerstenberg, Sasmita Mishra, Martha Holtfreter, Joachim Richter, Saskia Dede Davi, Dearie Glory Okwu, Michael Ramharter, Johannes Mischlinger and Benjamin T. Schleenvoigt
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 470; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060470 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Schistosome egg deposition in pregnant women may affect the placenta of infected mothers and cause placental schistosomiasis (PS). Histopathological examination of placental tissue is an inadequate detection method due to low sensitivity. So far, there has not been any systematic review on
[...] Read more.
Background: Schistosome egg deposition in pregnant women may affect the placenta of infected mothers and cause placental schistosomiasis (PS). Histopathological examination of placental tissue is an inadequate detection method due to low sensitivity. So far, there has not been any systematic review on PS. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search on PubMed, EMBASE, and Medline and included all publications that reported microscopically confirmed cases of PS, as well as the relevant secondary literature found in the citations of the primarily included publications. Results: Out of 113 abstracts screened we found a total of 8 publications describing PS with a total of 92 cases describing egg deposition of dead and/or viable eggs and worms of S. haematobium and S. mansoni in placental tissue. One cross-sectional study investigating the prevalence of PS and its association with adverse birth outcomes, found 22% of placentas to be infested using a maceration technique but only <1% using histologic examination. Additionally, no direct link to deleterious pregnancy outcomes could be shown. Conclusions: PS is a highly unattended and underdiagnosed condition in endemic populations, due to a lack of awareness as well as low sensitivity of histopathological examinations. However, PS may play an important role in mediating or reinforcing adverse birth outcomes (ABO) such as fetal growth restriction (FGR) in maternal schistosomiasis, possibly by placental inflammation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Schistosomiasis: From Immunopathology to Vaccines)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Oropouche Virus Exposure in Febrile Patients during Chikungunya Virus Introduction in the State of Amapá, Amazon Region, Brazil
by
Raquel Curtinhas de Lima, Helver Gonçalves Dias, Thiara Manuele Alves de Souza, Débora Familiar-Macedo, Edcelha D’Athaide Ribeiro, Valmir Corrêa e Corrêa, Alex Pauvolid-Corrêa, Elzinandes Leal de Azeredo and Flávia Barreto dos Santos
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 469; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060469 - 3 Jun 2024
Abstract
Oropouche orthobunyavirus (OROV) is an arbovirus transmitted by midges that has been involved in outbreaks throughout Central and South America. In Brazil, human cases have been historically concentrated in the northern region of the country. Oropouche fever in humans range from mild clinical
[...] Read more.
Oropouche orthobunyavirus (OROV) is an arbovirus transmitted by midges that has been involved in outbreaks throughout Central and South America. In Brazil, human cases have been historically concentrated in the northern region of the country. Oropouche fever in humans range from mild clinical signs to rare neurological events, and is considered a neglected tropical disease in Brazil. Due to the clinical similarities to other arboviruses, such as chikungunya and dengue viruses, OROV infections are likely to be underreported. Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) cases in Brazil were first recognized in 2014 in the states of Amapá and Bahia in the north and northeast regions, respectively. Both OROV and CHIKV cause nonspecific symptoms, making clinical diagnosis difficult in a scenario of arbovirus cocirculation. Aiming to investigate OROV transmission during the CHIKV introduction in the state of Amapá located in the Brazilian Amazon, we conducted a retrospective molecular (RT-qPCR) and serological investigation in febrile cases (N = 166) collected between August 2014 and May 2015. All acute serum samples were negative for OROV RNA using RT-qPCR. However, neutralizing antibodies for OROV were detected using a plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT90) in 10.24% (17/166) of the patients, with neutralizing antibody titers ranging from 20 to ≥640, suggesting the previous exposure of patients to OROV. Regarding CHIKV, recent exposure was confirmed by the detection of CHIKV RNA in 20.25% (33/163) of the patients and by the detection of anti-CHIKV IgM in 28.57% (44/154) of the patients. The additional detection of anti-CHIKV IgG in 12.58% (19/151) of the febrile patients suggests that some individuals had been previously exposed to CHIKV. Whether the OROV exposure reported here occurred prior or during the CHIKV circulation in Amapá, is unknown, but because those arboviral infections share similar clinical signs and symptoms, a silent circulation of enzootic arboviruses during the introduction of exotic arboviruses may occur, and highlights the importance of syndromic cases’ surveillance to arboviruses in Brazil.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Arboviruses: Epidemiology, Vector Dynamics, and Pathogenesis)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Open AccessArticle
Sex Differences during Influenza A Virus Infection and Vaccination and Comparison of Cytokine and Antibody Responses between Plasma and Serum Samples
by
Santosh Dhakal, Brian W. Wolfe, Saurav Pantha and Saranya Vijayakumar
Pathogens 2024, 13(6), 468; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens13060468 - 1 Jun 2024
Abstract
In this study, we evaluated sex differences during infection with mouse-adapted H1N1 and H3N2 influenza A viruses (IAVs) in the C57BL/6J mouse model and compared the cytokine and antibody responses between plasma and serum samples during IAV infection and vaccination. Lethal doses for
[...] Read more.
In this study, we evaluated sex differences during infection with mouse-adapted H1N1 and H3N2 influenza A viruses (IAVs) in the C57BL/6J mouse model and compared the cytokine and antibody responses between plasma and serum samples during IAV infection and vaccination. Lethal doses for both H1N1 and H3N2 IAVs were lower for adult females and they suffered with greater morbidity than adult males when infected with sublethal doses. In influenza virus-infected mice, cytokine responses differed between plasma and serum samples. After inactivated influenza virus vaccination and drift variant challenge, adult female mice had greater antibody responses and were better protected. In influenza-vaccinated and challenged mice, binding antibodies were unaffected between paired plasma or serum samples. However, functional antibody assays, including hemagglutination inhibition, microneutralization, and antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity assays, were affected by the use of plasma and serum sample types. Our results indicate that careful consideration is required while selecting plasma versus serum samples to measure cytokine and antibody responses during IAV infection and vaccination.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunity to Respiratory Infections)
►▼
Show Figures
Figure 1
Journal Menu
► ▼ Journal Menu-
- Pathogens Home
- Aims & Scope
- Editorial Board
- Reviewer Board
- Topical Advisory Panel
- Instructions for Authors
- Special Issues
- Topics
- Sections & Collections
- Article Processing Charge
- Indexing & Archiving
- Editor’s Choice Articles
- Most Cited & Viewed
- Journal Statistics
- Journal History
- Journal Awards
- Conferences
- Editorial Office
Journal Browser
► ▼ Journal BrowserHighly Accessed Articles
Latest Books
E-Mail Alert
News
Topics
Topic in
Biology, Cancers, Current Oncology, Diseases, JCM, Pathogens
Pathogenetic, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Perspectives in Head and Neck Cancer
Topic Editors: Shun-Fa Yang, Ming-Hsien ChienDeadline: 20 June 2024
Topic in
Diseases, IJMS, Microbiology Research, Pathogens, Vaccines
Advances in Human Pathogen Control—a 21st Century Challenge 2.0
Topic Editors: Jorge H. Leitão, Nitin Amdare, Joana R FelicianoDeadline: 30 June 2024
Topic in
Biomedicines, JCM, Pathogens, Vaccines, Viruses
Discovery and Development of Monkeypox Disease Treatments
Topic Editors: Mohd Imran, Ali A. RabaanDeadline: 31 August 2024
Topic in
Animals, Pathogens, Veterinary Sciences, Zoonotic Diseases
Zoonotic Vector-Borne Diseases of Companion Animals
Topic Editors: Anastasia Diakou, Donato TraversaDeadline: 20 December 2024
Conferences
Special Issues
Special Issue in
Pathogens
New Diagnostic Techniques for Mycobacterial Infections and Their Outcomes
Guest Editors: Hwa-Jung Kim, Isdore Chola Shamputa, Kapil TahlanDeadline: 15 June 2024
Special Issue in
Pathogens
Gastrointestinal Pathogens in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Guest Editors: Daniela Dobru, Boeriu Alina, Roman AdinaDeadline: 1 July 2024
Special Issue in
Pathogens
Virulence Mechanisms of Uropathogenic Bacteria
Guest Editors: Ritwij Kulkarni, Jennifer N. WalkerDeadline: 15 July 2024
Special Issue in
Pathogens
Epidemiology of Emerging Infectious Disease: Importance of Surveillance and Detection in Public Health Initiatives
Guest Editor: Fabio TramutoDeadline: 30 July 2024
Topical Collections
Topical Collection in
Pathogens
Mastitis in Dairy Ruminants
Collection Editors: George Fthenakis, Maria Filippa Addis
Topical Collection in
Pathogens
Feature Papers on Parasitic Pathogens
Collection Editor: Sébastien Besteiro
Topical Collection in
Pathogens
Emerging and Re-emerging Pathogens
Collection Editors: Sheng-Fan Wang, Wen-Hung Wang, Arunee Thitithanyanont
Topical Collection in
Pathogens
New Insights into Bacterial Pathogenesis
Collection Editor: Carmelo Biondo