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Within the research conducted in the years 2016–2022 in the area of Volovsky Mountains in Slovakia, 63,950 biting midges were collected during 74 trapping sessions. The aim of the study was to identify species composition of biting midges, their host preference and potential transmission of parasites by these insects under natural conditions. The collected biting midges fell into 29 species and the most common were the Culicoides (C. obsoletus/C. scoticus/C. montanus) that accounted for 47.9% of the collected biting midges. Identification of species was based on the morphology of biting midges and the use of molecular methods. We confirmed positive suckling results on red deer in three samples namely C. montanus, C. scoticus and C. deltus. We examined these samples for the presence of Onchocerca worm DNA. We confirmed the presence of O. flexuosa DNA in one C. deltus sample. The host preference of biting midges was identified by molecular technique that involved sequencing a 350-bp sequence of the mitochondrial cytochrome b gene (cyt b). The presence of Onchocerca flexuosa DNA in C. deltus was confirmed by sequencing of fragments of mitochondrial genes cox1. The sequences matched the previously published sequences for O. flexuosa. Data on high prevalence of infections caused by Onchocerca worms in red deer in Slovakia have already been published and indicated favourable conditions for the vectors and a suitable environment for parasite circulation in Slovakia. According to the authors’ knowledge, this was the first ever detection of O. flexuosa in C. deltus in wild nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthelmintic treatment may select for biological traits more relevant than anthelmintic resistance. Some of these biological traits may also affect anthelmintic performance, without fulfilling the definition of resistance. Other non-drug ecological selection pressures could potentially affect anthelmintic performance. Long-term intensive use of anthelmintics for parasite control of livestock, companion animals, and humans has resulted in widespread anthelmintic resistance, a problem of great socioeconomic significance. But anthelmintic therapy may also select for other biological traits, which could have implications for anthelmintic performance. Here, we highlight recent examples of changing parasite dynamics following anthelmintic administration, which do not fit the definition of anthelmintic resistance. We also consider other possible examples in which anthelmintic resistance has clearly established, but where coselection for other biological traits may have also occurred. We offer suggestions for collecting more information and gaining a better understanding of these phenomena. Finally, we propose research questions that require further investigation and make suggestions to help address these knowledge gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the genetic diversity of Onchocerca (O.) species was investigated by amplifying a fragment of the 16S rRNA gene from the parasite obtained in some endemic areas in Taraba State, Nigeria. Three local government areas were selected: two onchocerciasisendemic and one non-onchocerciasis-endemic regions. A total of 211 skin snips using a sterile sclera punch were obtained from consenting participants, males and females residing within the areas for at least ten years or since birth, by convenience sampling methods. The emerged microfilariae were examined microscopically. Nine microfilaria-positive skin snips were identified and preserved in RNALater®. DNA was extracted from recovered microfilariae and residual skin snip specimens and was tested by standard Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) using primers targeting the 16S gene. Six PCR-positive samples were sequenced and analyzed. Two sequences varied with those from other regions, suggesting a likely diversity of O. volvulus populations in the study area. A novel finding of O. ochengi, the pathogenic cattle parasite, was identified in some samples, suggesting a potential zoonotic species in humans. Further investigation on the extent of emerging zoonotic onchocerciasis by O. ochengi in the light of cattle, Simulium vectors (blackflies), and environmental and human overlap in the study area is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Filarioid nematodes, which are vector-borne parasites of cosmopolitan distribution, of dogs are medically important. They are represented by species in which microfilariae were found to be circulating in the bloodstream (e.g., Dirofilaria sp., Acanthocheilonema sp., and Brugia sp.) or skin-dwelling (e.g., Cercopithifilaria sp. and Onchocerca sp.). Those species whose microfilariae are detected in blood have been extensively studied, especially Dirofilaria immitis, due to their clinical importance. In recent decades, there has been an increased interest by the scientific community in filarioid nematodes whose microfilariae are detected in the skin because of the zoonotic aspect of Onchocerca lupi. In the United States (US), although D. immitis has been considered the main filarioid infecting dogs, the intense animal movement and global canine filarioid diversity may indicate that the likely presence of cutaneous filarioid nematodes is more common than previously expected. Hence, a question remains: Are these canine filarioid nematodes emerging, neglected, or simply underdiagnosed in the US? In this review, we provide an overview of pertinent information that briefly summarizes the biology of the different canine filarioid nematode species, clinical signs associated with infections, and currently available diagnostic tools using molecular and microscopy-based methods and highlight knowledge gaps where research and surveillance efforts remain necessary. The data herein presented serve as an alert to the scientific community about the importance of filarioid nematodes infecting dogs other than D. immitis. Additionally, the zoonotic potential of several filarioid species reinforces the necessity of a proper diagnosis and the need for broader surveillance to understand their diversity and distribution, to highlight the potential introduction of certain species, and mitigate their establishment in the country and new animal and human cases.

• Rhinoceros unicornis was screened for vector-borne parasites. • Theileria bicornis with novel haplotypes H8 and H9 were detected. • Filarial nematodes of the genera Mansonella and Onchocerca were detected. • Wolbachia endosymbionts of supergroups C and F were detected. Vector-borne parasite infections affect both domestic and wild animals. They are often asymptomatic but can result in fatal outcomes under natural and human-induced stressors. Given the limited availability of molecular data on vector-borne parasites in Rhinoceros unicornis (greater one-horned rhinoceros), this study employed molecular tools to detect and characterize the vector-borne parasites in rescued rhinoceros in Chitwan National Park, Nepal. Whole blood samples were collected from thirty-six R. unicornis during rescue and treatment operations. Piroplasmida infections were first screened using nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting 18S ribosomal RNA gene. Wolbachia was detected by amplifying 16S rRNA gene, while filarial nematodes were detected through amplification of 28S rRNA, COI, myo HC and hsp 70 genes. Our results confirmed the presence of Theileria bicornis with a prevalence of 75% (27/36) having two previously unreported haplotypes (H8 and H9). Wolbachia endosymbionts were detected in 25% (9/36) of tested samples and belonged to either supergroup C or F. Filarial nematodes of the genera Mansonella and Onchocerca were also detected. There were no significant association between T. bicornis infections and the age, sex, or location from which the animals were rescued. The high prevalence of Theileria with novel haplotypes along with filarial parasites has important ecological and conservational implications and highlights the need to implement parasite surveillance programs for wildlife in Nepal. Further studies monitoring vector-borne pathogens and interspecies transmission among wild animals, livestock and human are required. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onchocerciasis is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by Onchocerca Diesing 1841 (Spirurida: Onchocercidae) nematodes transmitted by blackflies. It is associated with poverty and imposes a significant health, welfare and economic burden on many tropical countries. Current methods to visualize infections within the vectors rely on invasive methods. However, using micro‐computed tomography techniques, without interference from physical tissue manipulation, we visualized in three dimensions for the first time an L1 larva of an Onchocerca species within the thoracic musculature of a blackfly, Simulium damnosum s.l. Theobald 1903 (Diptera: Simuliidae), naturally infected in Ghana. The possibility that thicker peritrophic membranes in savannah flies could account for their lower parasite loads was not supported, but there were limits to our analysis. While there were no statistically significant differences between the mean thicknesses of the peritrophic membranes, in the anterior, dorsal and ventral regions, of forest and savannah blackflies killed 34–48 min after a blood‐meal, the thickness of the peritrophic membrane in the posterior region could not be measured. Micro‐computed tomography has the potential to provide novel information on many other parasite/vector systems and impactful images for public engagement in health education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports the occurrence for the first time in Italy of autochthonous Onchocerca infection in donkeys. Four jennies, bred on the same farm, were referred to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Pisa for a check-up on ovarian activity (n = 3) or for veterinary support during the delivery (n = 1). Microfilariae were incidentally detected during the blood smear examination of one jenny. Peripheral blood samples were then collected from the other three jennies and the presence of microfilariae was investigated by Knott's test. Circulating unsheathed microfilariae were identified in all the animals. The level of microfilaraemia was between 1 and 31 microfilariae in 2 mL of blood. Hematological changes showed moderate eosinophilia in one case or both remarkable eosinophilia and basophilia in another case. Based on molecular findings by PCR and sequencing, the microfilariae showed 98% sequence similarity with Onchocerca sp. in the NCBI GenBank database (Accession No.: MK541848.1). The present report provides evidence that Onchocerca is an etiological agent of parasitic infection in donkeys in Italy. Our findings highlight the importance of screening in donkeys for Onchocerca even in the absence of clinical indications.

The filarial nematode Onchocerca fasciata lives as an adult worm, forming well developed fibrous tissue nodules within the fascial sheath of various parts of the camel body. This study was conducted to identify the prevalence and pathology of camel onchocercosis. A total of 298 dromedary camels of both sexes and different ages were examined carefully before and at the time of slaughtering. Twenty nine out of 298 camels (9.73%) were infected with O. fasciata. Nineteen out of 156 females (12.17%) and ten out of 142 males (7.04%) were positive. Grossly, one or multiple nodules with 1 to 2.5 centi-meters in diameter were observed. The nodules were dry and raised, tactile or hard in their texture. On cross section, tangled masses of thin filarial worms were surrounded by a thick whitish fibrous connective tissue. Maximum number of nodular lesions was found in subcutaneous tissues of the neck, abdomen, hind limbs and other parts of infected camels. The intensity of infection, varied be-tween one nodule and 18 nodules. Histopathologically, multifocal granulomatous inflammatory reac-tions were observed to be associated with the parasites in the affected areas. Transverse and longitu-dinal cross sections or fragment of the worms with different degrees of surrounding inflammatory reaction were scattered inside the granulomas.

Onchocerciasis is a devastating skin and eye disease that afflicts about 21 million people, most of whom live in sub-Saharan Africa. Its control with the microfilaricidal drug ivermectin is limited, thus necessitating the development of preclinical animal models to aid in the discovery of a macrofilaricide. Previously, we found that Onchocerca ochengi (the closest relative of the human O. volvulus) worm masses survive better in hamsters than in gerbils. The aim of this study was to compare the survival of O. ochengi adult male worms and their susceptibility to flubendazole (FBZ, a macrofilaricide) in gerbils and hamsters. The animals were intraperitoneally implanted with O. ochengi male worms, treated with FBZ, and sacrificed 35 days post-implantation. Unlike gerbils which had some worms moving freely in the peritoneum and some in newly formed nodules (neo-nodules), all the worms in the hamsters were found in neo-nodules. FBZ significantly decreased worm burden, motility, and viability in gerbils whereas it had no significant effect in hamsters. These results highlight a major difference in how O. ochengi adult male worms are sustained and affected by FBZ in gerbils compared to hamsters. Understanding the difference between these two models is important in the development of effective macrofilaricides for onchocerciasis., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: After ivermectin became available, diethylcarbamazine (DEC) use was discontinued because of severe adverse reactions, including ocular reactions, in individuals with high Onchocerca volvulus microfilaridermia (microfilariae/mg skin, SmfD). Assuming long-term ivermectin use led to < 5 SmfD with little or no eye involvement, DEC + ivermectin + albendazole treatment a few months after ivermectin was proposed. In 2018, the US FDA approved moxidectin for treatment of O. volvulus infection. The Phase 3 study evaluated SmfD, microfilariae in the anterior chamber (mfAC) and adverse events (AEs) in ivermectin-naïve individuals with ≥ 10 SmfD after 8 mg moxidectin (n = 978) or 150 µg/kg ivermectin (n = 494) treatment., Methods: We analyzed the data from 1463 participants with both eyes evaluated using six (0, 1-5, 6-10, 11-20, 21-40, > 40) mfAC and three pre-treatment (< 20, 20 to < 50, ≥ 50) and post-treatment (0, > 0-5, > 5) SmfD categories. A linear mixed model evaluated factors and covariates impacting mfAC levels. Ocular AEs were summarized by type and start post-treatment. Logistic models evaluated factors and covariates impacting the risk for ocular AEs., Results: Moxidectin and ivermectin had the same effect on mfAC levels. These increased from pre-treatment to Day 4 and Month 1 in 20% and 16% of participants, respectively. Six and 12 months post-treatment, mfAC were detected in ≈5% and ≈3% of participants, respectively. Ocular Mazzotti reactions occurred in 12.4% of moxidectin- and 10.2% of ivermectin-treated participants without difference in type or severity. The risk for ≥ 1 ocular Mazzotti reaction increased for women (OR 1.537, 95% CI 1.096-2.157) and with mfAC levels pre- and 4 days post-treatment (OR 0: > 10 mfAC 2.704, 95% CI 1.27-5.749 and 1.619, 95% CI 0.80-3.280, respectively)., Conclusions: The impact of SmfD and mfAC levels before and early after treatment on ocular AEs needs to be better understood before making decisions on the risk-benefit of strategies including DEC. Such decisions should take into account interindividual variability in SmfD, mfAC levels and treatment response and risks to even a small percentage of individuals., (© 2024. World Health Organization.)

Parasitic keratitis (PK) is unique entity among parasitic infections where corneal involvement could result from direct inoculation of the parasite via exogenous environment or spread via endogenous neighboring organs or as a result of immune-mediated damage secondary to a systemic parasitic infection. Most cases of PK are caused by Acanthamoeba spp. and Microsporidia spp. though few other parasitic agents can also lead to corneal involvement. Mimicking as other infectious and non-infectious causes of keratitis, PK often escapes detection. This review summarizes the predominant causes of PK along with the epidemiological, clinical and microbiological details of each. Though several gaps exist in our understanding of the prevalence of PK, the one thing for sure is that PK is on the rise. With advanced diagnostic modalities and enough literature on optimal management of cases of PK, it is now imperative that a strong clinical suspicion of PK is kept when examining a case of corneal pathology and adequate investigations are ordered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Filarial nematodes possess glutathione transferases (GSTs), ubiquitous enzymes with the potential to detoxify xenobiotic and endogenous substrates, and modulate the host immune system, which may aid worm infection establishment, maintenance and survival in the host. Here we have identified and characterized a σ class glycosylated GST (OoGST1), from the cattle-infective filarial nematode Onchocerca ochengi, which is homologous (99% amino acid identity) with an immunodominant GST and potential vaccine candidate from the human parasite, O. volvulus , (OvGST1b). Onchocerca ochengi native GSTs were purified using a two-step affinity chromatography approach, resolved by 2D and 1D SDS-PAGE and subjected to enzymic deglycosylation revealing the existence of at least four glycoforms. A combination of lectin-blotting and mass spectrometry (MS) analyses of the released N -glycans indicated that OoGST1 contained mainly oligomannose Man5GlcNAc2 structure, but also hybrid- and larger oligommanose-type glycans in a lower proportion. Furthermore, purified OoGST1 showed prostaglandin synthase activity as confirmed by Liquid Chromatography (LC)/MS following a coupled-enzyme assay. This is only the second reported and characterized glycosylated GST and our study highlights its potential role in host-parasite interactions and use in the study of human onchocerciasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Filariae are parasitic nematodes that are transmitted to their definitive host as third-stage larvae by arthropod vectors like mosquitoes. Filariae cause diseases including: lymphatic filariasis with distressing and disturbing symptoms like elephantiasis; and river blindness. Filarial diseases affect millions of people in 73 countries throughout the topics and sub-tropics. The drugs available for mass drug administration, (ivermectin, albendazole and diethylcarbamazine), are ineffective against adult filariae (macrofilariae) at the registered dosing regimen; this generates a real and urgent need to identify effective macrofilaricides. Emodepside, a veterinary anthelmintic registered for treatment of nematode infections in cats and dogs, is reported to have macrofilaricidal effects. Here, we explore the mode of action of emodepside using adult Brugia malayi, one of the species that causes lymphatic filariasis. Whole-parasite motility measurement with Worminator and patch-clamp of single muscle cells show that emodepside potently inhibits motility by activating voltage-gated potassium channels and that the male is more sensitive than the female. RNAi knock down suggests that emodepside targets SLO-1 K channels. We expressed slo-1 isoforms, with alternatively spliced exons at the RCK1 (Regulator of Conductance of Potassium) domain, heterologously in Xenopus laevis oocytes. We discovered that the slo-1f isoform, found in muscles of males, is more sensitive to emodepside than the slo-1a isoform found in muscles of females; and selective RNAi of the slo-1a isoform in female worms increased emodepside potency. In Onchocerca volvulus, that causes river blindness, we found two isoforms in adult females with homology to Bma-SLO-1A and Bma-SLO-1F at the RCK1 domain. In silico modeling identified an emodepside binding pocket in the same RCK1 region of different species of filaria that is affected by these splice variations. Our observations show that emodepside has potent macrofilaricidal effects and alternative splicing in the RCK1 binding pocket affects potency. Therefore, the evaluation of potential sex-dependent effects of an anthelmintic compound is of importance to prevent any under-dosing of one or the other gender of nematodes once given to patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The current strategy for the elimination of onchocerciasis is based on annual or bi-annual mass drug administration with ivermectin. However, due to several limiting factors there is a growing concern that elimination of onchocerciasis cannot be achieved solely through the current strategy. Additional tools are critically needed including a prophylactic vaccine. Presently Ov-103 and Ov-RAL-2 are the most promising vaccine candidates against an Onchocerca volvulus infection. Methodology/Principal findings: Protection induced by immunization of mice with the alum-adjuvanted Ov-103 or Ov-RAL-2 vaccines appeared to be antibody dependent since AID-/- mice that could not mount antigen-specific IgG antibody responses were not protected from an Onchocerca volvulus challenge. To determine a possible association between antigen-specific antibody responses and anti-larvae protective immunity in humans, we analyzed the presence of anti-Ov-103 and anti-Ov-RAL-2 cytophilic antibody responses (IgG1 and IgG3) in individuals classified as putatively immune, and in infected individuals who developed concomitant immunity with age. It was determined that 86% of putatively immune individuals and 95% individuals with concomitant immunity had elevated IgG1 and IgG3 responses to Ov-103 and Ov-RAL-2. Based on the elevated chemokine levels associated with protection in the Ov-103 or Ov-RAL-2 immunized mice, the profile of these chemokines was also analyzed in putatively immune and infected individuals; both groups contained significantly higher levels of KC, IP-10, MCP-1 and MIP-1β in comparison to normal human sera. Moreover, human monospecific anti-Ov-103 antibodies but not anti-Ov-RAL-2 significantly inhibited the molting of third-stage larvae (L3) in vitro by 46% in the presence of naïve human neutrophils, while both anti-Ov-103 and anti-Ov-RAL-2 antibodies significantly inhibited the molting by 70–80% when cultured in the presence of naive human monocytes. Interestingly, inhibition of molting by Ov-103 antibodies and monocytes was only in part dependent on contact with the cells, while inhibition of molting with Ov-RAL-2 antibodies was completely dependent on contact with the monocytes. In comparison, significant levels of parasite killing in Ov-103 and Ov-RAL-2 vaccinated mice only occurred when cells enter the parasite microenvironment. Taken together, antibodies to Ov-103 and Ov-RAL-2 and cells are required for protection in mice as well as for the development of immunity in humans. Conclusions/Significance: Alum-adjuvanted Ov-103 and Ov-RAL-2 vaccines have the potential of reducing infection and thus morbidity associated with onchocerciasis also in humans. The development of cytophilic antibodies, that function in antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity, is essential for a successful prophylactic vaccine against this infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

I volvulus i infection is endemic generally have a lower possibility of skin microfilariae and less ocular disease than do visitors to these regions [[3]]. A clinical suspicion of onchocerciasis should be evoked when travelers from endemic regions have skin lesions compatible with the disease. A diagnosis of onchocerciasis is usually based on the presence of microfilariae in superficial skin shavings or a punch biopsy, with adult worms in histologic sections of excised nodules. I volvulus i is associated with the essential endosymbiotic bacterium I Wolbachia i , anti- I Wolbachia i therapies (including doxycycline) are an evolving treatment strategy for onchocerciasis [[4]]. [Extracted from the article]

For a long time, wildlife carnivores have been disregarded for their potential in transmitting zoonotic nematodes. However, human activities and politics (e.g., fragmentation of the environment, land use, recycling in urban settings) have consistently favoured the encroachment of urban areas upon wild environments, ultimately causing alteration of many ecosystems with changes in the composition of the wild fauna and destruction of boundaries between domestic and wild environments. Therefore, the exchange of parasites from wild to domestic carnivores and vice versa have enhanced the public health relevance of wild carnivores and their potential impact in the epidemiology of many zoonotic parasitic diseases. The risk of transmission of zoonotic nematodes from wild carnivores to humans via food, water and soil (e.g., genera Ancylostoma , Baylisascaris , Capillaria , Uncinaria , Strongyloides , Toxocara , Trichinella) or arthropod vectors (e.g., genera Dirofilaria spp., Onchocerca spp., Thelazia spp.) and the emergence, re-emergence or the decreasing trend of selected infections is herein discussed. In addition, the reasons for limited scientific information about some parasites of zoonotic concern have been examined. A correct compromise between conservation of wild carnivores and risk of introduction and spreading of parasites of public health concern is discussed in order to adequately manage the risk of zoonotic nematodes of wild carnivores in line with the 'One Health' approach. Image 1 • A large variety of wild carnivore nematodes have zoonotic potential. • Limited epidemiological information is available for nematode zoonoses of wild carnivores. • Some nematode zoonosis of wild carnivores may display a considerable morbidity. • A compromise between animal conservation and zoonotic infection is advocated. • Strict control of exotic carnivore species invading wildlife are urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onchocerca volvulus is the nematode pathogen responsible for human onchocerciasis also known as “River blindness”, a neglected tropical disease that affects up to 18 million people worldwide. Helminths Excretory Secretory Products (ESPs) constitute a rich repertoire of molecules that can be exploited for host-parasite relationship, diagnosis and vaccine studies. Here, we report, using a range of molecular techniques including PCR, western blot, recombinant DNA technology, ELISA, high performance thin-layer chromatography and mass spectrometry that the 28 KDa cysteine-rich protein (Ov28CRP) is a reliable component of the O. volvulus ESPs to address the biology of this parasite. We showed that (1) Ov28CRP is a putative ganglioside GM2 Activator Protein (GM2AP) conserved in nematode; (2) OvGM2AP gene is transcriptionally activated in all investigated stages of the parasitic life cycle, including larval and adult stages; (3) The full-length OvGM2AP was detected in in-vitro O. volvulus ESPs of adult and larval stages; (4) the mass expressed and purified recombinant OvGM2AP purified from insect cell culture medium was found to be glycosylated at asparagine 173 and lacked N-terminal signal peptide sequence; (5) the recombinant OvGM2AP discriminated serum samples of infected and uninfected individuals; (6) OvGM2AP competitively inhibits MUG degradation by recombinant β-hexosaminidase A but not MUGS, and could not hydrolyze the GM2 to GM3; (7) humoral immune responses to the recombinant OvGM2AP revealed a negative correlation with ivermectin treatment. Altogether, our findings suggest for the first time that OvGM2AP is an antigenic molecule whose biochemical and immunological features are important to gain more insight into our understanding of host-parasite relationship, as well as its function in parasite development at large. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information related to the implications for onchocerciasis elimination programs (OEP). Topics discussed include OEP do not include identification and management of onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy (OAE) in their strategies; creating awareness about OAE, that can increase community-directed treatment with ivermectin adherence; and the morbidity management and disease prevention strategy.

Background: High epilepsy prevalence and incidence were observed in onchocerciasis-endemic villages in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). We investigated the clinical characteristics of onchocerciasis-associated epilepsy (OAE), and the relationship between seizure severity and microfilarial density. Methods: In October 2017, ivermectin-naive persons with epilepsy (PWE) were recruited from onchocerciasis-endemic areas in the Logo health zone in the DRC. Additional PWE were enrolled in the Aketi health zone, where ivermectin had been distributed annually for 14 years. Past medical history, clinical characteristics and skin snips for Onchocerca volvulus detection were obtained from participants. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were used to investigate associations with microfilarial density. Results: Of the 420 PWE in the Logo health zone, 392 were skin snipped (36.5% positive). Generalized motor seizures were most frequent (392 PWE, 93.3%), and nodding seizures were reported in 32 (7.6%) participants. Twelve PWE (3.1%) presented Nakalanga features. Sixty-three (44.1%) skin snip-positive PWE had a family history of epilepsy, compared to only 82 (32.9%) skin snip-negative PWE (p = 0.027). Eighty-one onchocerciasis-infected PWE were recruited in the Aketi health zone. Positive correlations between seizure frequency and microfilarial density were observed in Logo (Spearman-rho = 0.175; p<0.001) and Aketi (Spearman-rho = 0.249; p = 0.029). In the multivariable model adjusted for age, gender, and previous treatment, high seizure frequency was associated with increasing microfilarial density in Aketi (p = 0.025) but not in Logo (p = 0.148). Conclusion: In onchocerciasis-endemic regions in the DRC, a wide spectrum of seizures was observed. The occurrence of Nodding seizures and Nakalanga features, as well as an association between seizure severity and O. volvulus microfilarial density suggest a high OAE prevalence in the study villages. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mosquitoes are the main vectors of pathogens affecting wild animals, livestock and humans. Here, we used molecular tools to assess the local circulation of filarial parasites in mosquitoes collected during 2013 from natural, rural and urban habitats from southern Spain. We screened parasites in 22,791 female mosquitoes of the genera Aedes, Culex and Culiseta. Filarial worms were only detected in two mosquito pools. An Ae. caspius pool was positive for Setaria equina and an unidentified worm related to Onchocerca was detected in a Cx. pipiens pool. None of the mosquito pools were positive for Dirofilaria. These results underlay the role of Ae. caspius in the transmission of Setaria parasites among livestock and/or wildlife to humans in southern Spain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Onchocerciasis currently afflicts an estimated 15 million people and is the second leading infectious cause of blindness world-wide. The development of a macrofilaricide to cure the disease has been hindered by the lack of appropriate small laboratory animal models. This study therefore, was aimed at developing and validating the Mongolian gerbil, as an Onchocerca ochengi (the closest in phylogeny to O. volvulus) adult male worm model. Methodology/Principal findings: Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) were each implanted with 20 O. ochengi male worms (collected from infected cattle), in the peritoneum. Following drug or placebo treatments, the implanted worms were recovered from the animals and analyzed for burden, motility and viability. Worm recovery in control gerbils was on average 35%, with 89% of the worms being 100% motile. Treatment of the gerbils implanted with male worms with flubendazole (FBZ) resulted in a significant reduction (p = 0.0021) in worm burden (6.0% versus 27.8% in the control animals); all recovered worms from the treated group had 0% worm motility versus 91.1% motility in control animals. FBZ treatment had similar results even after four different experiments. Using this model, we tested a related drug, oxfendazole (OFZ), and found it to also significantly (p = 0.0097) affect worm motility (22.7% versus 95.0% in the control group). Conclusions/Significance: We have developed and validated a novel gerbil O. ochengi adult male worm model for testing new macrofilaricidal drugs in vivo. It was also used to determine the efficacy of oxfendazole in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to provide insight into the pathogenicity of Onchocerca fasciata in Camelus bactrianus to help control onchocerciasis. From November 2015 to January 2016, the prevalence and severity of onchocerciasis were recorded in 152 camels. Nodules containing Onchocerca were collected and observed. Adult parasites were extracted from the nodules and identified via light microscopy as well as by partial sequencing of the cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene. The sequences were examined and compared to similar sequences from other Onchocerca species. In total, 80.3% of camels were parasitized. The severity of infection varied, as camels harboured between one and fifteen nodules. The morphology and the cuticle differed in both sexes and displayed considerable variation in the thickness and structure of different body parts. Identification was further confirmed using molecular biology methods. This study provides a comprehensive morphological description of Onchocerca fasciata isolated from camels. The prevalence and intensity of infection (assessed via nodules) varied in the Bactrian camels. The structure of the cuticle was an important morphological feature for species differentiation in Onchocerca. Based on our data, the morphological assessment of O. fasciata represents a reliable method to characterize other Onchocerca species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Standard human landing catches (sHLCs) have historically been a key component of Onchocerca volvulus transmission monitoring, but expose health-workers to potentially hazardous vector bites. Novel human-bait-free trapping methods have been developed, but do not always work where they are needed and may not generate O. volvulus surveillance data that is directly comparable with historic data. Methodology: Simuliid sHLCs and mineral-oil protected HLCs (mopHLCs) were performed in a rural village of Amazonas state, Brazil. A four-hour direct comparisons of sHLCs and mopHLCs was carried-out using six vector collectors, each of whom used one leg for a HLC and one for a mopHLC. Two-person collection teams then exclusively performed either mopHLCs or sHLCs for a further set of 12 four-hour collections. Following the completion of all collections, simuliid-bite mark estimates were made from legs used exclusively in sHLCs and legs used exclusively in mopHLCs. Principal findings: All of the 1669 captured simuliids were identified as the O. volvulus vector Simulium oyapockense. Overall, mopHLC simuliids captured per hour (S/H) rates were lower than those obtained with sHLC trapping (15.5 S/H versus 20 S/H). Direct comparisons of simuliid capture rates found that vector-collectors captured simuliids significantly more efficiently (: 20.5 S/H) with mopHLC trapping than with sHLC trapping (: 16.4 S/H): P-value = 0.002. MopHLCs performed in isolation were, however, observed to capture vectors less efficiently (: 13.4 S/H) than sHLCs performed under similar conditions (: 19.98 S/H). All six vector collectors had significantly higher simuliid capture per counted bite mark (SC/CBM) rates using mopHLCs than they were observe to have using sHLCs (: 21 SC/CBM versus : 1 SC/CBM; p-value = 0.03125). Conclusions: Vector collectors captured significantly more simuliids per counted bite mark with mopHLCs than with sHLCs. Further investigations into the utility of mopHLCs for onchocerciasis xenomonitoring and beyond are merited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Despite the efforts employed for the control of onchocerciasis, the latter has remained a significant public health problem, due mainly to the lack of safe and effective adult worm drugs and/or microfilaricides that do not kill Loa loa microfilariae (mf). Serious adverse events have been encountered after administering ivermectin to some onchocerciasis patients coinfected with Loa loa. There is therefore, an urgent need for a macro and/or microfilaricidal drug which kills Onchocerca but not L. loa microfilariae. A total of 12 crude extracts from Milletia comosa and Annona senegalensis were prepared and screened in vitro against the bovine species of Onchocerca , O. ochengi, and L. loa mf from humans. Mf and male worm viabilities were determined by motility scoring using microscopy at 120 h of incubation with drug, while adult female worm viability and cytotoxicity were determined biochemically by MTT/formazan colorimetry after 120 h of incubation with drug. Out of the 12 extracts, all 6 from M. comosa and 4 from A. senegalensis were active against male, female and mf of O. ochengi. The hexane extract from M. comosa leaves (MCL hex) was the most active with IC 50 values of 1.38, 0.86 and 17.74 μg/mL for O. ochengi adult males, adult female and the mf, respectively. About 58% of the extracts were more active against O. ochengi than L. loa mf. These results demonstrate that these extracts contain active principles that kill Onchocerca parasite and to a lesser extent L. loa , and suggest that they can be fractionated for isolation of lead molecules for the safe treatment of onchocerciasis. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • The microfilaricides, ivermectin and moxidectin are used for the treatment of onchocerciasis. •. Neurological adverse events after administering ivermectin to patients co-infected with Loa loa have been reported •. There is an urgent need for macrofilaricides which selectively kill onchocerca but not L. loa. • Six extracts from M. comosa and four from A. senegalensis were active against male, female and mf of O. ochengi. • Dose dependent relationships were observed and about 58% of the extracts were active against O. ochengi than L. loa mf. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Onchocerca includes several species associated with ungulates as hosts, although some have been identified in canids, felids, and humans. Onchocerca species have a wide geographical distribution, and the disease they produce, onchocerciasis, is generally seen in adult individuals because of its large prepatency period. In recent years, Onchocerca species infecting animals have been found as subcutaneous nodules or invading the ocular tissues of humans; the species involved are O. lupi, O. dewittei japonica, O. jakutensis, O. gutturosa, and O. cervicalis. These findings generally involve immature adult female worms, with no evidence of being fertile. However, a few cases with fertile O. lupi, O. dewittei japonica, and O. jakutensis worms have been identified recently in humans. These are relevant because they indicate that the parasite’s life cycle was completed in the new host—humans. In this work, we discuss the establishment of zoonotic Onchocerca infections in humans, and the possibility of these infections to produce symptoms similar to human onchocerciasis, such as dermatitis, ocular damage, and epilepsy. Zoonotic onchocerciasis is thought to be an emerging human parasitic disease, with the need to take measures such as One Health Strategies, in order to identify and control new cases in humans.

Onchocerca lupi is a zoonotic filarioid parasite of dogs and cats with widespread distribution. A specific non-invasive diagnostic assay for the detection of O. lupi infections remains unavailable. This study aimed to assess the accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity of an ELISA test designed using nine peptides from two O. lupi proteins. Sera (n = 54) collected from O. lupi infected dogs from endemic areas (Portugal and USA), alongside sera from dogs positive for Dirofilaria immitis, D. repens, Cercopithifilaria bainae, and Acanthocheilonema reconditum (n = 53) from a non-endemic area for O. lupi, as well as from helminth-free dogs (n = 60), were tested. The checkerboard titration method was applied for the optimization of peptide concentrations and conjugate anti-dog dilutions. Sensitivity, specificity, and optimal cut-off values were calculated using ROC curve analysis. All peptides reacted against sera of O. lupi, with no correlation between optic density (OD) values and microfilariae (mfs) loads. Sensitivity and specificity values ranging from 85.45 to 100%, and 88.89% to 100%, respectively, were recorded for all peptides examined, with 100% specificity and sensitivity observed for peptides 40&#95;3, 40&#95;5, 130&#95;3, 120&#95;3 and 40&#95;1, 130&#95;5, respectively. The maximum cut-off value was observed for peptides 40&#95;5 (0.765) and 40&#95;3 (0.708). Testing of sera from dogs positive for other filarioids resulted in lower OD values (up to 1.565) for peptides 40&#95;3 and 40&#95;5 when compared with O. lupi (up to 2.929). The availability of this assay will be of value in epidemiological studies of canine O. lupi infection in both endemic and non-endemic areas, and in assessing the risk for zoonotic transmission., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Abstract Background Control and elimination of filarial pathogens is a central focus of major global health efforts directed at parasitic diseases of developing countries. Accomplishment of these goals would be markedly enhanced by the enhanced destruction of the adult stage of filariae. The identification of new, more quantitative biomarkers that correlate with mortality or chemotherapeutic damage to adult filariae, would greatly facilitate, for example, the development of new macrofilaricides. Methods An immunocytochemical approach using an antibody against human Nras was used to identify and detect changes in the nematode homolog let-60 that is associated with cell growth and maintenance. Single Onchocerca volvulus nodules were removed from each of 13 patients treated with ivermectin (as part of a community-wide mass drug administration programme), and from each of 13 untreated individuals; these 26 nodules were stained with the anti-Nras antibody. The localization and degree of positivity of Nras/let-60 staining were assessed subjectively and compared between the two groups; the positivity of staining was also quantified, using image analysis, in a subgroup of these nodules. In addition, the specific morphological association between Nras/let-60 and the Wolbachia endosymbiont present in these parasites was also observed in 4 additional filarial species using an anti-Wolbachia surface protein (WSP) antibody under light and confocal microscopy. Results Nras/let-60 is present in many structures within the adult female worms. A statistically significant decrease in the general staining intensity of Nras/let-60 was observed in adult female O. volvulus treated with ivermectin when compared with parasites from untreated patients. Nras/let-60 staining was frequently observed to be co-localized with WSP in O.volvulus, Brugia malayi, Litomosoides sigmodontis and Dirofilaria immitis. Nras/let60 is also present in Onchocerca ochengi. Conclusion Nras/let-60, as detected by immunocytochemical staining, is decreased in ivermectin-treated adult female O. volvulus relative to untreated control specimens, suggesting a suppressive effect of ivermectin on the overall biochemical activity of these parasites. Co-localization of Nras/let-60 and WSP suggests the possibility that the endosymbiont utilizes this nematode protein as part of a mutualistic relationship. Nras/let60 appears to be a useful biomarker for assessing the health of filariae.

Background: Mali has become increasingly interested in the evaluation of transmission of both Wuchereria bancrofti and Onchocerca volvulus as prevalences of both infections move toward their respective elimination targets. The SD Bioline Onchocerciasis/LF IgG4 Rapid Test was used in 2 evaluation units (EU) to assess its performance as an integrated surveillance tool for elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF) and onchocericiasis. Methodology/Principal findings: A cross sectional survey with SD Bioline Onchocerciasis/LF IgG4 Rapid Test was piggy-backed onto a transmission assessment survey (TAS) (using the immunochromatographic card test (ICT) Binax Filariasis Now test for filarial adult circulating antigen (CFA) detection) for LF in Mali among 6–7 year old children in 2016 as part of the TAS in two EUs namely Kadiolo-Kolondieba in the region of Sikasso and Bafoulabe -Kita-Oussoubidiagna-Yelimane in the region of Kayes. In the EU of Kadiolo- Kolondieba, of the 1,625 children tested, the overall prevalence of W. bancrofti CFA was 0.62% (10/1,625) [CI = 0.31–1.09]; while that of IgG4 to Wb123 was 0.19% (3/1,600) [CI = 0.04–0.50]. The number of positives tested with the two tests were statistically comparable (p = 0.09). In the EU of Bafoulabe-Kita-Oussoubidiagna-Yelimane, an overall prevalence of W. bancrofti CFA was 0% (0/1,700) and that of Wb123 IgG4 antibody was 0.06% (1/1,700), with no statistically significant difference between the two rates (p = 0.99). In the EU of Kadiolo- Kolondieba, the prevalence of Ov16-specific IgG4 was 0.19% (3/1,600) [CI = 0.04–0.50]. All 3 positives were in the previously O. volvulus-hyperendemic district of Kolondieba. In the EU of Bafoulabe-Kita-Oussoubidiagna-Yelimane, an overall prevalence of Ov16-specific IgG4 was 0.18% (3/1,700) [CI = 0.04–0.47]. These 3 Ov16 IgG4 positives were from previously O.volvulus-mesoendemic district of Kita. Conclusions/Significance: The SD Bioline Onchocerciasis/LF IgG4 Rapid test appears to be a good tool for integrated exposure measures of LF and onchocerciasis in co-endemic areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The human filarial parasite Onchocerca volvulus is the causative agent of onchocerciasis (river blindness). It causes blindness in 270,000 individuals with an additional 6.5 million suffering from severe skin pathologies. Current international control programs focus on the reduction of microfilaridermia by annually administering ivermectin for more than 20 years with the ultimate goal of blocking of transmission. The adult worms of O. volvulus can live within nodules for over 15 years and actively release microfilariae for the majority of their lifespan. Therefore, protracted treatment courses of ivermectin are required to block transmission and eventually eliminate the disease. To shorten the time to elimination of this disease, drugs that successfully target macrofilariae (adult parasites) are needed. Unfortunately, there is no small animal model for the infection that could be used for discovery and screening of drugs against adult O. volvulus parasites. Here, we present an in vitro culturing system that supports the growth and development of O. volvulus young adult worms from the third-stage (L3) infective stage. Methodology/Principal findings: In this study we optimized the culturing system by testing several monolayer cell lines to support worm growth and development. We have shown that the optimized culturing system allows for the growth of the L3 worms to L5 and that the L5 mature into young adult worms. Moreover, these young O. volvulus worms were used in preliminary assays to test putative macrofilaricidal drugs and FDA-approved repurposed drugs. Conclusion: The culture system we have established for O. volvulus young adult worms offers a promising new platform to advance drug discovery against the human filarial parasite, O. volvulus and thus supports the continuous pursuit for effective macrofilaricidal drugs. However, this in vitro culturing system will have to be further validated for reproducibility before it can be rolled out as a drug screen for decision making in macrofilaricide drug development programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Onchocerca ochengi adult implant and Brugia malayi microfilariemic Severe-Combined Immunodeficient (SCID) mouse models are validated screens to measure macrofilaricidal and microfilaricidal activities of candidate onchocerciasis drugs. The purpose of this study was to assess whether 5 daily sub-cutaneous (s.c.) injections of standard flubendazole (FBZ) suspension (10mg/kg), a single s.c. injection (10mg/kg) or 5 daily repeated oral doses of FBZ amorphous solid dispersion (ASD) formulation (0.2, 1.5 or 15mg/kg) mediated macrofilaricidal efficacy against O. ochengi male worms implanted into SCID mice. The direct microfilaricidal activity against circulating B. malayi microfilariae of single dose FBZ ASD formulation (2 or 40 mg/kg) was also evaluated and compared against the standard microfilaricide, ivermectin (IVM). Systemic exposures of FBZ/FBZ metabolites achieved following dosing were measured by pharmacokinetic (PK) bioanalysis. At necropsy, five weeks following start of FBZ SC injections, there were significant reductions in burdens of motile O. ochengi worms following multiple injections (93%) or single injection (82%). Further, significant proportions of mice dosed following multiple injections (5/6; 83%) or single injection (6/10; 60%) were infection negative (drug-cured). In comparison, no significant reduction in recovery of motile adult O. ochengi adult worms was obtained in any multiple-oral dosage group. Single oral-dosed FBZ did not mediate any significant microfilaricidal activity against circulating B. malayi mf at 2 or 7 days compared with >80% efficacy of single dose IVM. In conclusion, multiple oral FBZ formulation doses, whilst achieving substantial bioavailability, do not emulate the efficacy delivered by the parenteral route in vivo against adult O. ochengi. PK analysis determined FBZ efficacy was related to sustained systemic drug levels rather than achievable Cmax. PK modelling predicted that oral FBZ would have to be given at low dose for up to 5 weeks in the mouse model to achieve a matching efficacious exposure profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study of Onchocerca volvulus has been limited by its host range, with only humans and non-human primates shown to be susceptible to the full life cycle infection. Small animal models that support the development of adult parasites have not been identified. Methodology/Principal findings: We hypothesized that highly immunodeficient NSG mice would support the survival and maturation of O. volvulus and alteration of the host microenvironment through the addition of various human cells and tissues would further enhance the level of parasite maturation. NSG mice were humanized with: (1) umbilical cord derived CD34+ stem cells, (2) fetal derived liver, thymus and CD34+ stem cells or (3) primary human skeletal muscle cells. NSG and humanized NSG mice were infected with 100 O. volvulus infective larvae (L3) for 4 to 12 weeks. When necropsies of infected animals were performed, it was observed that parasites survived and developed throughout the infection time course. In each of the different humanized mouse models, worms matured from L3 to advanced fourth stage larvae, with both male and female organ development. In addition, worms increased in length by up to 4-fold. Serum and urine, collected from humanized mice for identification of potential biomarkers of infection, allowed for the identification of 10 O. volvulus-derived proteins found specifically in either the urine or the serum of the humanized O. volvulus-infected NSG mice. Conclusions/Significance: The newly identified mouse models for onchocerciasis will enable the development of O. volvulus specific biomarkers, screening for new therapeutic approaches and potentially studying the human immune response to infection with O. volvulus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Massangam health district (HD), in the West Region of Cameroon, has received ivermectin mass drug administration (MDA) for 20 years, however there is evidence of continued high transmission of Onchocerca volvulus. In order to better understand the transmission dynamics in the HD and inform intervention strategies there is a need to delineate the boundaries of the suspected area of high transmission within the wider transmission zone. Methodology/Principal findings: Parasitological and entomological surveys were conducted to map out the breeding sites of Simulium damnosum and evaluate the prevalence of onchocerciasis in neighbouring communities, including Makouopsap sentinel community. Potential rapids were prospected for identification of S. damnosum larvae and black flies collected to determine infectivity rates. Adults were assessed for the presence of O. volvulus microfilariae through a skin snip biopsy and examined for the presence of nodules. Anti Ov-16 antibodies were tested for in children. Four perennial breeding sites were identified on the Rivers Mbam and Nja. Large number of flies were collected along the River Mbam, especially in the rainy season, with up to 955 flies per day, suggesting this river is a perennial source of black flies. A total of 0.8% of parous flies were infective across the study area. Parasitological studies provided evidence of high rates of infection in the sentinel community and three neighbouring communities, with 37.1% of adults microfilariae positive in Makouopsap. High Ov-16 seropositivity in children also provided evidence of recent on-going transmission. In comparison, communities sampled further away from the sentinel community and neighbouring breeding sites were much closer to reaching onchocerciasis elimination targets. Conclusions/Significance: This study provides evidence of a particular geographic area of high transmission in an approximate 12 km range around the sentinel community of Makouopsap and the neighbouring breeding sites on the River Nja. To eliminate onchocerciasis by 2025, there is a need to explore alternative intervention strategies in this area of high transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Onchocerciasis control in Côte d’Ivoire started with aerial insecticide spraying in 1974 and continued with community directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTi) from 1992 to the present. Onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis (LF) are co-endemic in 46 of the 81 health districts in the country. Fourteen and 12 districts are endemic for only LF or onchocerciasis, respectively. This paper aims to review the impact of past interventions on onchocerciasis in Côte d’Ivoire between 1975 and 2013, and review plans for disease elimination. Methods: We reviewed microfilaria (MF, skin snip) prevalence and community microfilarial load (CMFL) data from published reports from 53 health districts during two major epidemiological assessment periods. Data from 1975 through 1991 provided information on the impact of vector control, and data from 1992 through 2016 provided information on the impact of CDTi. Results: Weekly aerial insecticide spraying in 8 endemic districts between 1975 and 1991 reduced the overall MF prevalence by 68.1% from 43.5% to 13.9%. The CMFL also decreased in 7 out of 8 surveyed communities by 95.2% from 9.24 MF/snip to 0.44 MF/snip. Ivermectin distribution started in 1992. The coverage targets for control (65% of the total population) was reached in most endemic districts, and some areas achieved 80% coverage. Two sets of surveys were conducted to assess the impact of CDTi. Results from the first repeat surveys showed a significant decrease in overall MF prevalence (by 75.7%, from 41.6% to 10.1%). The second follow-up evaluation showed further improvement in most endemic districts and also documented major reductions in CMFL compared to baseline. Conclusions: Extensive data collected over many years document the very significant impact of interventions conducted by the National Onchocerciasis and other Eyes Diseases Control Programme during challenging times with periods of civil unrest. The Health Ministry has now integrated efforts to control neglected tropical diseases and adopted the goal of onchocerciasis elimination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasitic nematodes produce an unusual class of fatty acid and retinol (FAR)-binding proteins that may scavenge host fatty acids and retinoids. Two FARs from Brugia malayi (Bm-FAR-1 and Bm-FAR-2) were expressed as recombinant proteins, and their ligand binding, structural characteristics, and immunogenicities examined. Circular dichroism showed that rBm-FAR-1 and rBm-FAR-2 are similarly rich in α-helix structure. Unexpectedly, however, their lipid binding activities were found to be readily differentiated. Both FARs bound retinol and cis-parinaric acid similarly, but, while rBm-FAR-1 induced a dramatic increase in fluorescence emission and blue shift in peak emission by the fluorophore-tagged fatty acid (dansyl-undecanoic acid), rBm-FAR-2 did not. Recombinant forms of the related proteins from Onchocerca volvulus, rOv-FAR-1 and rOv-FAR-2, were found to be similarly distinguishable. This is the first FAR-2 protein from parasitic nematodes that is being characterized. The relative protein abundance of Bm-FAR-1 was higher than Bm-FAR-2 in the lysates of different developmental stages of B. malayi. Both FAR proteins were targets of strong IgG1, IgG3 and IgE antibody in infected individuals and individuals who were classified as endemic normal or putatively immune. In a B. malayi infection model in gerbils, immunization with rBm-FAR-1 and rBm-FAR-2 formulated in a water-in-oil-emulsion (®Montanide-720) or alum elicited high titers of antigen-specific IgG, but only gerbils immunized with rBm-FAR-1 formulated with the former produced a statistically significant reduction in adult worms (68%) following challenge with B. malayi infective larvae. These results suggest that FAR proteins may play important roles in the survival of filarial nematodes in the host, and represent potential candidates for vaccine development against lymphatic filariasis and related filarial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onchocerciasis is a severely debilitating yet neglected tropical disease (NTD) that creates social stigma, generates and perpetuates poverty, and leads ultimately in some cases to irreversible unilateral or bilateral blindness if untreated. Consequently, the disease is a major impediment to socioeconomic development. Many control programs have been launched for the disease with moderate successes achieved. This mitigated hit is partially due to the lingering need for reliable, non-invasive and easily applicable tools for mapping endemic regions and post-elimination surveillance. In this work, bioinformatics analyses combined with immunological assays were applied in a bid to develop potential tools for diagnosis and assessing the success of drug treatment programs. We report that (i) the O. volvulus antigen, Ov58GPCR is a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) conserved in related nematodes, (ii) synthetic peptides predicted to be in the extracellular domain (ECD) of Ov58GPCR are indeed immunogenic epitopes in actively-infected individuals, (iii) synthetic peptide cocktails discriminate between actively-infected individuals, treated individuals and healthy African controls, (iv) polyclonal antibodies against one of the peptides or against the bacterially-expressed ECD reacted specifically with the native antigen of O. volvulus total and surface extracts, (v) Ov58GPCR is transcribed in both larvae and adult parasite stages, (vi) IgG and IgE responses to the recombinant ECD decline with ivermectin treatment. All these findings suggest that the extracellular domain and synthetic peptides of Ov58GPCR, as well as the specific immune response generated could be harnessed in the context of disease diagnosis and surveillance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Onchocerciasis a neglected tropical disease that historically has been a major cause of morbidity and an obstacle to economic development in the developing world. It is caused by infection with Onchocerca volvulus, which is transmitted by black flies of the genus Simulium. The discovery of the potent effect of Mectizan (ivermectin) on O. volvulus microfilariae and the decision by its manufacturer to donate the drug for onchocerciasis spurred the implementation of international programs to control and, more recently, eliminate this scourge. These programs rely primarily on mass distribution of ivermectin (MDA) to the afflicted populations. However, MDA alone will not be sufficient to eliminate onchocerciasis where transmission is intense and where ivermectin MDA is precluded by co-endemicity with Loa loa. Vector control will likely be required as a supplemental intervention in these situations. Methodology/Principal findings: Because biting by the black fly vectors is often a major nuisance in onchocerciasis afflicted communities, we hypothesized that community members might be mobilized to clear the breeding sites of the vegetation that represents the primary black fly larvae attachment point. We evaluated the effect of such a community based "slash and clear" intervention in multiple communities in Northern Uganda. Slash and Clear resulted in 89–99% declines in vector biting rates. The effect lasted up to 120 days post intervention. Conclusions/Significance: Slash and clear might represent an effective, inexpensive, community- based tool to supplement ivermectin distribution as a contributory method to eliminate onchocerciasis and prevent recrudescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neglected tropical diseases caused by metazoan parasites are major public health concerns, and therefore, new methods for their control and elimination are needed. Research over the last 25 years has revealed the vital contribution of cysteine proteases to invasion of and migration by (larval) helminth parasites through host tissues, in addition to their roles in embryogenesis, molting, egg hatching, and yolk degradation. Their central function to maintaining parasite survival in the host has made them prime intervention targets for novel drugs and vaccines. This review focuses on those helminth cysteine proteases that have been functionally characterized during the varied early stages of development in the human host and embryogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ivermectin is the only drug currently recommended for the treatment of onchocerciasis, the second leading infectious cause of blindness in the world. This drug kills only the first stage larvae—microfilariae (mf) of Onchocerca volvulus and is to be used cautiously in areas where Loa loa is prevalent because of severe adverse events observed with coinfected patients. Methodology/Principal findings: This study investigated the anti-filarial activities of two Cameroonian medicinal plants, Lantana camara and Tamarindus indica locally used to treat onchocerciasis. Twelve (12) extracts were prepared and tested in vitro on the bovine model parasite, O. ochengi as well as L. loa mf. Both mf and adult male worm viabilities were assessed by motility scoring, while adult female worm viability was determined biochemically by standard MTT/formazan colorimetry. Cytotoxicity and acute toxicity were determined respectively, in monkey kidney epithelial cells and in BALB/c mice. Pure compounds were isolated by LC/MS using a bio-assay guided strategy. All the extracts showed 100% activity at 500 μg/mL against O. ochengi adult worms and mf. The highest activity against O. ochengi was observed with the hexane extract of L. camara leaves (LCLhex), with IC50 of 35.1 μg/mL for adult females and 3.8 μg/mL for the mf. Interestingly, this extract was more active against O. ochengi mf than L. loa mf. Further studies on the extracts led to the isolation of lantadene A from the methylene chloride extract of L. camara leaves, with IC50s of 7.85 μg/mL for adult males, 10.38 μg/mL for adult females, 10.84 μg/mL for O. ochengi mf and 20.13 μg/mL for L. loa mf. Conclusions/Significance: We report for the first time the anti-onchocercal activities of these locally consumed medicinal plants and lantadene A, a potential lead for further development as an onchocerciasis cure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ocular onchocercosis is caused is by the zoonotic parasite Onchocerca lupi (Spirurida: Onchocercidae). A major hindrance to scientific progress is the absence of a reliable diagnostic test in affected individuals. Microscopic examination of skin snip sediments and the identification of adults embedded in ocular nodules are seldom performed and labour-intensive. A quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assay was herein standardized for the detection of O. lupi DNA and the results compared with microscopic examination and conventional PCR (cPCR). The specificity of qPCR and cPCR was assessed by processing the most common filarial nematodes infecting dogs, skin samples from O. lupi infected (n = 35 dogs) or uninfected animals (n = 21 dogs; n = 152 cats) and specimens of potential insect vector (n = 93 blackflies; n = 59 mosquitoes/midges). The analytical sensitivity of both assays was assessed using 10-fold serial dilutions of DNA from adult specimen and from a pool of microfilariae. The qPCR on skin samples revealed an analytical specificity of 100% and a sensitivity up to 8 x 10−1 fg/2μl O. lupi adult-DNA and up to 3.6 x 10−1 pg/2μl of mfs-DNA (corresponding to 1 x 10−2 mfs/2μl). Only 9.5% O. lupi-infected skin samples were positive for cPCR with a sensitivity of 8 x 10−1 pg/2μl of DNA. Out of 152 blackflies and mosquitoes/midges, eight specimens experimentally infected (n = 1 S. erythrocephalum; n = 1 S. ornatum; n = 6 Simulium sp.) were positive by qPCR. The qPCR assay herein standardized represents an important step forward in the diagnosis of zoonotic onchocercosis caused by O. lupi, especially for the detection and quantification of low number of mfs. This assay provides a fundamental contribution for the establishment of surveillance strategies aiming at assessing the presence of O. lupi in carnivores and in insect species acting as potential intermediate hosts. The O. lupi qPCR assay will enable disease progress monitoring as well as the diagnosis of apparently clinical healthy dogs and cats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onchocerca ochengi is a nodule-forming filarial nematode parasite of cattle. It is the closest known relative of the human parasite Onchocerca volvulus, with which it shares the black fly vector Simulium damnosum. Onchocerca sp. "Siisa" was described in black flies and in cattle and, based on limited mitochondrial sequence information, appeared to be about equally phylogenetically distant from O. ochengi and O. volvulus. Based on molecular genetic markers and apparent interbreeding, we later proposed that O. sp. "Siisa" belongs to the species O. ochengi. However, we did not demonstrate directly that the hybrids were fertile, and we were still unable to resolve the phylogenetic relationship of O. ochengi, O. sp. "Siisa", and O. volvulus, leaving some concerns with the conclusion mentioned above. Here, we present fully assembled, manually curated mitochondrial genomes of O. ochengi and O. sp. "Siisa", and we compare multiple individuals of these two taxa with respect to their whole mitochondrial and nuclear genomes. Based on the mitochondrial genomes, O. ochengi and O. sp. "Siisa" are phylogenetically much closer to each other than to O. volvulus. The differences between them are well within the range of what is expected for within-species variation. The nuclear genome comparison provided no indication of genetic separation of O. ochengi and O. sp. "Siisa". From this, in combination with the earlier literature, we conclude that O. ochengi and O. sp. "Siisa" should be considered one species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Onchocerciasis in Yemen is one of the most neglected diseases, where baseline estimates of onchocerciasis and monitoring of the impact of ivermectin regularly administered to the affected individuals on its transmission are lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the anti-Ov16 IgG4 seroprevalence among local communities of Hodeidah and Al-Mahwit governorates of Tihama Region. The factors possibly associated with previous exposure to infection were also studied. Methodology/Principal findings: This cross-sectional study was conducted in two ivermectin-targeted districts endemic for onchocerciasis in Hodeidah and Al-Mahwit and two untargeted districts with unknown previous endemicity in Hodeidah between February and July 2017. For 508 residents sampled by a multi-stage random approach, data were collected and blood specimens were screened for anti-Ov16 IgG4 using the SD BIOLINE Onchocerciasis IgG4 rapid tests. The study revealed an overall anti-Ov16 IgG4 rate of 18.5% (94/508) in all surveyed districts, with 10.2% (12/118) of children aged ≤10 years being seropositive. Moreover, rates of 8.0% (4/50) and 6.1% (4/66) were found in districts not officially listed as endemic for the disease. Multivariable analysis confirmed the age of more than ten years and residing within a large family as the independent predictors of exposure to infection. Conclusions/Significance: Onchocerciasis transmission is still ongoing as supported by the higher anti-Ov16 IgG4 seroprevalence rate among children aged ≤10 years compared to that (<0.1%) previously set by the World Health Organization as a serologic criterion for transmission interruption. Further large-scale studies combining serologic and entomologic criteria are recommended for the mapping of O. volvulus in human and blackfly populations in endemic foci and their neighboring areas of uncertain endemicity. In addition, ivermectin distribution, coverage and impact on disease transmission need to be continually assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mass drug administration (MDA) of ivermectin has become the main intervention to control onchocerciasis or “river blindness”. In Togo, after many years of MDA, Onchocerca volvulus infection has declined dramatically, and elimination appears achievable, but in certain river basins the current situation remains unknown. We have conducted parasitological, serological, ophthalmological, and entomological assessments in northern and central Togo within the river basins of Ôti, Kéran and Mô. Methodology/Principal findings: Examinations were completed in 1,455 participants from 11 onchocerciasis sentinel villages, and O. volvulus transmission by Simulium damnosum sensu lato (s.l.) was evaluated. In children (aged 1–10 years), the prevalence of microfilariae (Mf) was 2.3% and in adults it ranged from 5.1 to 13.3%. Positive IgG4 responses to O. volvulus adult (crude) worm antigen (OvAg) and the recombinant Ov16 antigen were in all-ages 48.7% and 34.4%, and 29.1% and 14.9% in children, respectively. In the river basin villages of Kéran, Mô and Ôti, the IgG4 seroprevalences to OvAg in children were 51.7%, 23.5% and 12.7%, respectively, and to the Ov16 antigen 33.3% (Kéran) and 5.2% (Ôti). Onchocerciasis ocular lesions (punctate keratitis, evolving iridocyclitis and chorioretinitis) were observed in children and young adults. O. volvulus-specific DNA (Ov150) was detected by poolscreen in vector samples collected from Tchitchira/Kéran(22.8%), Bouzalo/Mô(11.3%), Baghan/Mô(2.9%) and Pancerys/Ôti(4.9%); prevalences of O. volvulus infection in S. damnosum s.l. were, respectively, 1%, 0.5%, 0.1% and 0.2%. Conclusions/Significance: In the northern and central river basins in Togo, interruption of O. volvulus transmission has not yet been attained. Patent O. volvulus infections, positive antibody responses, progressive ocular onchocerciasis were diagnosed, and parasite transmission by S. damnosum s.l. occurred close to the survey locations. Future interventions may require approaches selectively targeted to non-complying endemic populations, to the seasonality of parasite transmission and national onchocerciasis control programs should harmonize cross-border MDA as a coordinated intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background New drugs effective against adult filariae (macrofilaricides) would accelerate the elimination of lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis. Anti-Onchocerca drug development is hampered by the lack of a facile model. We postulated that SCID mice could be developed as a fmacrofilaricide screening model. Methods The filaricides: albendazole (ABZ), diethylcarbamazine (DEC), flubendazole (FBZ), ivermectin (IVM) and the anti-Wolbachia macrofilaricide, minocycline (MIN) were tested in Brugia malayi (Bm)-parasitized BALB/c SCID mice vs vehicle control (VC). Responses were compared to BALB/c wild type (WT). Onchocerca ochengi male worms or onchocercomata were surgically implanted into BALB/c SCID, CB.17 SCID, BALB/c WT mice or Meriones gerbils. Survival was evaluated at 7–15 days. BALB/c SCID were tested to evaluate the responsiveness of pre-clinical macrofilaricides FBZ and rifapentine (RIFAP) against male Onchocerca. Results WT and SCID responded with >95% efficacy following ABZ or DEC treatments against Bm larvae (P < 0.0001). IVM was partially filaricidal against Bm larvae in WT and SCID (WT; 39.8%, P = 0.0356 and SCID; 56.7%, P = 0.026). SCID responded similarly to WT following IVM treatment of microfilaraemias (WT; 79%, P = 0.0194. SCID; 76%, P = 0.0473). FBZ induced a total macrofilaricidal response against adult Bm in WT and SCID (WT; P = 0.0067, SCID; P = 0.0071). MIN induced a >90% reduction in Bm Wolbachia burdens (P < 0.0001) and a blockade of microfilarial release (P = 0.0215) in SCID. Male Onchocerca survival was significantly higher in SCID vs WT mice, but not gerbils, after +15 days (60% vs 22% vs 39% P = 0.0475). Onchocercoma implants had engrafted into host tissues, with evidence of neovascularisation, after +7 days and yielded viable macro/microfilariae ex vivo. FBZ induced a macrofilaricidal effect in Onchocerca male implanted SCID at +5 weeks (FBZ; 1.67% vs VC; 43.81%, P = 0.0089). Wolbachia loads within male Onchocerca were reduced by 99% in implanted SCID receiving RIFAP for +2 weeks. Conclusions We have developed a `pan-filarial’ small animal research model that is sufficiently robust, with adequate capacity and throughput, to screen existing and future pre-clinical candidate macrofilaricides. Pilot data suggests a murine onchocercoma xenograft model is achievable.