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In the absence of local studies, the current study was conducted in four villages located in the province of Cajabamba (Cajamarca, Peru) to demonstrate and determine the point prevalence of enteric nematodes in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) raised in a family-commercial breeding system. A total of 384 faecal samples were collected from guinea pigs and processed using the Sheather Sugar method. The eggs of P. uncinata, Trichuris spp., and Capillaria spp. were identified in guinea pigs from all four villages, resulting in an overall prevalence of 66.15±4.73%. Among the villages, the highest prevalence was observed in Naranjos, with a prevalence of 78.16±8.68% (68 out of 87 guinea pigs). This was followed by Malcas with a prevalence of 67.24±8.54% (78 out of 116 guinea pigs), Ogosgón-Paucamonte with a prevalence of 64.08±9.27% (66 out of 103 guinea pigs), and La Esperanza with a prevalence of 53.85±11.06% (42 out of 78 guinea pigs). Furthermore, it was found that 66.54±5.80% of guinea pigs had a single nematode, 28.35±5.54% had two nematodes, and 5.12±2.71% had three nematodes. Thus, the presence of enteric nematodes in guinea pigs raised in a family-commercial breeding system from four villages in the Cajabamba district was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The efficacy of the combination therapy of albendazole and ivermectin against Trichuris trichiura infection is higher in Tanzania than in Côte d'Ivoire. This study therefore aimed to investigate the difference between the population pharmacokinetics (PK) at these study sites and to determine if an exposure‐response analysis could explain the low efficacy of the combination therapy in Côte d'Ivoire. Twenty‐four participants (aged 12‐19 years) receiving single doses of ivermectin (200 µg/kg) and albendazole (400 mg) were included in the population PK modeling. A regression analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between the reduction of fecal whipworm eggs and different exposure metrics (peak concentration, area under the plasma drug concentration‐time curve [AUC], and time above a certain threshold). The PK profile of ivermectin was best described by a one‐compartment model, first‐order absorption, and no delay in absorption, with the absorption rate constant estimated as 0.26 per h, an apparent volume of distribution of 162.43 L, and an apparent clearance of 7.82 L/h. In Tanzania, all patients showed a very high reduction in egg count independent of exposure. In Côte d'Ivoire, a relationship was found between higher ivermectin exposure and egg reduction, although not statistically significant. There was no significant difference between the PK profiles at both study sites, despite a difference in clinical outcome. Model‐based simulations indicate that higher ivermectin doses such as 400 and 600 µg/kg may be associated with reduced egg count. Larger clinical studies are warranted to explore further the exposure‐efficacy response relationship at 200 µg/kg and higher ivermectin doses in adults and children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Orang Asli (OA), Malaysia's indigenous minority, continue to experience ongoing soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections despite efforts including the Resettlement Programme (RPS). This study explores STH epidemiology and associated risks of moderate-to-heavy infections among 259 indigenous Negritos across four states in Peninsular Malaysia. Stool samples, anthropometrics, haemoglobin levels (finger-prick) and sociodemographic and environmental-sanitation factors via pretested questionnaires were collected. Parasitological examinations (direct faecal smear, formol-ether concentration, and Kato-Katz techniques) were thoroughly performed. The study revealed a 63.3% overall STH prevalence, with Trichuris trichiura (57.9%) being the most common, followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (35.5%) and hookworm (8.9%). Moderate-to-heavy infections were observed in 39.3% for T. trichiura and 48.9% for A. lumbricoides, with mixed infections of these two species being the most prevalent (50.6%). The risk for moderate-to-heavy infection increased significantly if other household members were infected (P < 0.001). Adults and adolescents also showed high infection rates, with no significant differences with children's groups. These findings emphasize the need for anthelmintic treatment across all age groups and strategize local policies targeting older groups of the OA community to control ongoing transmission and reduce the STH burden and protect the future well-being of OA children, who deserve a healthier future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Comparison of three diagnostic methods for faecal egg count (FEC) • The Kato-Katz method yielded FEC values very close to the 'true' spiking value. • The concentration McMaster method yielded FEC values closer to the 'true' spiking value than the simple McMaster method. • The concentration McMaster method allowed sample storage at 5 °C for up to 14 days without affecting the FEC. • The concentration McMaster method was considerably easier to read compared with Kato-Katz. In tropical and subtropical regions, soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections such as Ascaris lumbricoides , Trichuris trichiura , and hookworms have a significant impact on public health. Globally, A. lumbricoides infects approximately 0.8 billion people, while T. trichiura infects around 500 million. This study involved a comparison of three diagnostic methods, Kato-Katz and two flotation methods (concentration McMaster, and simple McMaster), for the detection of Ascaris and Trichuris in human faeces. We conducted a comparison of the number of eggs in faeces (or faecal egg counts (FECs)) obtained with these methods using freshly collected samples that were positive for T. trichiura and spiked with a known quantity of Ascaris sp. eggs. Additionally, for the concentration McMaster method we assessed FECs after storing the samples at 5 °C for up to 21 days. The concentration McMaster method demonstrated superiority over the simple McMaster method in terms of higher detection levels for both helminths, while the Kato-Katz method yielded FEC values very close to the 'true' spiking values. Importantly, the concentration McMaster method was considerably easier to read compared with the Kato-Katz method, and it allowed for sample storage at 5 °C for up to 14 days without affecting FEC results. Consequently, we conclude that the concentration McMaster method is an effective and user-friendly alternative for diagnosis of Ascaris and Trichuris infections in humans. Furthermore, it offers the advantage of sample storage before analysis, enhancing flexibility in the workflow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Soil-transmitted helminths infect an estimated 18% of the world's population, causing a significant health burden. Microscopy has been the primary tool for diagnosing eggs from fecal samples, but its sensitivity drops in low-prevalence settings. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) is slowly increasing in research and clinical settings. However, there is still no consensus on preferred qPCR targets. Methods: We aimed to compare soil-transmitted helminth (STH) DNA detection methods by testing naïve stool samples spiked with known quantities of STH eggs and larvae. DNA extracts from spiked samples were tested using independent quantitative realtime PCR (qPCR) assays targeting ribosomal or putative non-protein coding satellite sequences. Results: For Trichuris trichiura, there was a strong correlation between egg/larvae counts and qPCR results using either qPCR method (0.86 and 0.87, respectively). Strong correlations also existed for A. lumbricoides (0.60 and 0.63, respectively), but weaker correlations were found for Ancylostoma duodenale (0.41 for both assays) and Strongyloides stercoralis (0.48 and 0.65, respectively). No correlation for Necator americanus was observed when testing with either qPCR assay. Both assays had fair-to-moderate agreement across targets when using field-collected stool samples (0.28–0.45, for all STHs), except for S. stercoralis (0.12) with slight agreement. Conclusions: There is a strong correlation between qPCR results and egg/larvae counts. Our study confirms that qPCR is an effective diagnostic tool, even with low-intensity infections, regardless of the DNA-based diagnostic marker used. However, the moderate agreement between the two different qPCR assays when testing field samples highlights the need to understand the role of these targets in the genome so that the parasite burden can be quantified more accurately and consistently by qPCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Infections of endoparasites in primates in natural habitats are highly prevalent and can cause disease, reduce health quality, and disrupt their life. This study investigated endoparasites prevalence value in the endangered Javan gibbon (Hylobates moloch) in Citalahab Forest, Gunung Halimun Salak National Park, Indonesia, from June to August 2022 by collected fecal samples (N = 10) and analyzed it using floatation methods. As a result, we found five genera of nematodes Trichuris trichiura (10% egg worm prevalence, Oesophagostomum spp. (50%), Trichostrongylus spp. (60%), Ancylostoma spp. (80%), and Strongyloides spp. (100%). The prevalence value of the worms in the larvae stage of Trichostrongylus spp. 20% and Strongyloides spp. 70%. Nematode infection status successively is Strongyloides spp., which is, frequently; Trichostrongylus spp. and Ancylostoma spp., which is, often; Oesophagostomum spp. and Trichuris trichiura which is, occasionally. Four species of nematode were found in both ages, and only Trichuris trichiura was found in one adolescent individual. The threat posed by this parasite deserves attention; further research is needed to fill the gap in our knowledge of their pathogenicity and transmission in Javan gibbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthelmintic resistance has been documented worldwide, but few cases have been reported in dogs. Shelter dogs are a great opportunity to study intestinal helminths and assess their potential resistance to anthelmintic compounds. With these two goals in mind, 361 faecal samples were collected from dogs in 18 municipalities in Portugal, from 19 shelters and 11 private tutors. These samples were analysed using the Mini-FLOTAC before and 13 days after deworming. The percentage of faecal egg count reduction was calculated. Parasitic forms were identified in 22.4% of the samples collected: Trichuris vulpis (10.5%), Toxocara canis (8.0%), members of the family Ancylostomatidae (6.4%), Toxascaris leonina (0.8%), Dipylidium caninum (0.6%) and members of the family Taeniidae (0.3%). The first three nematode parasites showed the highest intensity of infection (2900, 1325, and 1265 eggs per gram, respectively). In the second faecal collection, parasites were present in 20.8% of the samples. The anthelmintics febendazole + pyrantel embonate + praziquantel and praziquantel + fenbendazole were ineffective for T. vulpis and members of the family Ancylostomatidae in 16.2% and 6.9% of the samples, respectively. The parasites identified are all potentially zoonotic. This study is the first to suggest a potential resistance of T. vulpis to anthelmintics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The mammalian gut microbiome includes a community of eukaryotes with significant taxonomic and functional diversity termed the eukaryome. The molecular analysis of eukaryotic diversity in microbiomes of wild mammals is still in its early stages due to the recent emergence of interest in this field. This study aimed to fill this knowledge gap by collecting data on eukaryotic species found in the intestines of wild rodents. Because little is known about the influence of climate on the gut eukaryome, we compared the composition of the gut eukaryotes in two rodent species, Mus musculus domesticus and Acomys cahirinus, which inhabit a transect crossing a temperate and tropical zone on the Jordanian side of the Great Rift Valley (GRV). Methods: We used high-throughput amplicon sequencing targeting the 18S rRNA gene in fecal samples from rodents to identify eukaryotic organisms, their relative abundance, and their potential for pathogenicity. Results: Nematodes and protozoa were the most prevalent species in the eukaryome communities, whereas fungi made up 6.5% of the total. Sixty percent of the eukaryotic ASVs belonged to taxa that included known pathogens. Eighty percent of the rodents were infected with pinworms, specifically Syphacia obvelata. Eukaryotic species diversity differed significantly between bioclimatic zones (p = 0.001). Nippostrongylus brasiliensis and Aspiculuris tetraptera were found to be present exclusively in the Sudanian zone rodents. This area has not reported any cases of Trichuris infections. Yet, Capillaria infestations were unique to the Mediterranean region, while Trichuris vulpis infestations were also prevalent in the Mediterranean and Irano-Turanian regions. Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of considering host species diversity and environmental factors when studying eukaryome composition in wild mammals. These data will be valuable as a reference to eukaryome study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the constrain in proboscis monkey (Nasalis larvatus) conservation is gastrointestinal helminth (GH) infection. Here, we conducted a study to determine the prevalence of GHs in captive proboscis monkeys in Surabaya Zoo, Indonesia. Methods: Twenty fecal samples were collected from three groups (i.e., nursery cage [NC] [n = 1], communal show cage [SC] [n = 8], and free‐ranging colonies [FC] [n = 11]). The fecal samples have been examined through McMaster and sugar floatation techniques. Results: The total prevalence of GH infection was 85.00% (17/20). We confirmed infection of Trichuris sp., Ascaris sp., Strongyloides sp., and Hymenolepis nana with Trichuris eggs was dominant. Although the prevalence of infection was high, the number of eggs per gram (epg) was low. Conclusion: GH infection in captive proboscis monkeys in Surabaya Zoo, Indonesia, is highly prevalent. These results were useful for future research, control, and prevention of zoonotic potency purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Simple Summary: This retrospective study aimed to compare clinical and diagnostic features of Trichuris vulpis-infected dogs with those also harboring other intestinal parasites. Forty-five dogs were included, twenty-five solely infected with T. vulpis (categorized as G1) and twenty with concurrent infections (categorized as G2). Weight loss was more frequent in G2 than in G1 (p = 0.006). No significant differences were observed in laboratory abnormalities between G1 and G2. Only diarrhea was more frequent in younger dogs compared to adults (p = 0.007), while adult dogs had higher egg shedding compared to young ones (p = 0.04). A significant positive correlation (r = 0.41; p = 0.005) between egg shedding and age was also found. These findings suggest T. vulpis may cause clinical signs in dogs regardless of age or co-infection. Trichuris vulpis is a parasite of the large intestine of canids and has a global distribution. Despite its well-established epidemiology, the question of its pathogenicity in dogs remains debated. It has been suggested that younger age and concurrent infection with Ancylostoma caninum may be responsible for more severe clinical presentations. This retrospective study aimed to describe the clinical and diagnostic features of T. vulpis-infected dogs and to compare these findings with dogs infected with both T. vulpis and other intestinal parasites (poly-infected dogs). Forty-five dogs were included, with twenty-five being solely infected by T. vulpis and twenty poly-infected dogs. Only weight loss was more frequent (p = 0.006) in poly-infected dogs compared to T. vulpis mono-infected dogs. No significant differences were observed in laboratory abnormalities between mono-infected and poly-infected dogs. Only diarrhea was more frequent (p = 0.007) in younger dogs compared to adults. The egg shedding pattern was significantly higher (p = 0.04) among adult dogs compared to young ones, and there was a significant positive correlation between egg shedding and age (r = 0.41; p = 0.005). These findings suggest that T. vulpis might be responsible for both clinical signs and laboratory abnormalities in dogs, irrespective of the host's age and the presence of other intestinal parasites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Digital imaging combined with deep-learning-based computational image analysis is a growing area in medical diagnostics, including parasitology, where a number of automated analytical devices have been developed and are available for use in clinical practice. Methods: The performance of Parasight All-in-One (AIO), a second-generation device, was evaluated by comparing it to a well-accepted research method (mini-FLOTAC) and to another commercially available test (Imagyst). Fifty-nine canine and feline infected fecal specimens were quantitatively analyzed by all three methods. Since some samples were positive for more than one parasite, the dataset consisted of 48 specimens positive for Ancylostoma spp., 13 for Toxocara spp. and 23 for Trichuris spp. Results: The magnitude of Parasight AIO counts correlated well with those of mini-FLOTAC but not with those of Imagyst. Parasight AIO counted approximately 3.5-fold more ova of Ancylostoma spp. and Trichuris spp. and 4.6-fold more ova of Toxocara spp. than the mini-FLOTAC, and counted 27.9-, 17.1- and 10.2-fold more of these same ova than Imagyst, respectively. These differences translated into differences between the test sensitivities at low egg count levels (< 50 eggs/g), with Parasight AIO > mini-FLOTAC > Imagyst. At higher egg counts Parasight AIO and mini-FLOTAC performed with comparable precision (which was significantly higher that than Imagyst), whereas at lower counts (> 30 eggs/g) Parasight was more precise than both mini-FLOTAC and Imagyst, while the latter two methods did not significantly differ from each other. Conclusions: In general, Parasight AIO analyses were both more precise and sensitive than mini-FLOTAC and Imagyst and quantitatively correlated well with mini-FLOTAC. While Parasight AIO produced lower raw counts in eggs-per-gram than mini-FLOTAC, these could be corrected using the data generated from these correlations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Trichuris spp. (whipworms) are soil-transmitted helminths distributed worldwide, parasitizing several mammalian hosts such as ruminants, primates, and rodents. Trichuris spp. is one of the most common intestinal parasites affecting both humans and animals, and it can spread directly through the fecal-oral route, resulting in severe illness and financial loss. So, this work aims to detect the frequency of Trichuris spp. in camels in Beheira Governorate, Egypt, and to identify Trichuris spp. through morphometrical studies, molecular analysis, and phylogenetic analysis. Results: A total of 35 dromedaries out of 127 investigated had Trichuris spp. infection, meaning that the overall prevalence was 27.56%. The age of the camel affected the infection rate, older animals (> 5 years) having a higher prevalence of infection (24%) than animals of ages (< 3 years) (20%) than animals of ages (3–5 years) (19.14%). According to season: Trichuris spp. showed a unique pattern in camels in different seasons: summer (31.25%) > autumn (28.13%) > spring (25.8%) > winter (25%) indicating year-round infection. T. globulosa was identified morphometrically from camels in Beheira Governorate, Egypt. The BLAST analysis revealed the presence of T. globulosa isolate from camels using the Genbank database depending on nuclear small subunit ribosomal RNA (18s) and cytochrome b (Cytb) genes. Conclusion: A high prevalence of T. globulosa was found in camels in Beheira Governorate, Egypt. This is the first report to confirm the identification of T. globulosa from camel based on morphometrical studies and molecular and phylogenetic analysis in Egypt. More thorough studies on the incidence, molecular, and genetic analysis of Trichuris spp. in Egypt are required in addition to camel control programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Soil-transmitted worm infections, usually treated with benzimidazoles, can develop resistance due to genetic variations in a specific gene called β-tubulin isotype 1. This study aimed to create a new, quick, and accurate way to identify these genetic variations. We designed a test to spot changes in certain parts of the β-tubulin gene of Trichuris trichiura, the worm causing the infection. By using two different primers, we could distinguish between different genetic types at specific positions in the gene. We tested our method on samples from captive primates and found it to be reliable. Additionally, we explored whether the β-tubulin gene could be useful as a marker in genetic studies. Our tests worked well when we used them on samples from the field. However, we did not find any of the expected genetic variations in the worms or eggs we examined. Instead, all the samples showed the same genetic type. Despite this, our analysis of the β-tubulin gene confirmed the close relationship between T. trichiura and a related Trichuris suis species, which suggests that this gene could be valuable for understanding their evolutionary history. Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections, commonly treated with benzimidazoles, are linked to resistance through single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at position 167, 198, or 200 in the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene. The aim of this study was to establish a novel genotyping assay characterized by its rapidity and specificity. This assay was designed to detect the presence of SNPs within the partial β-tubulin gene of Trichuris trichiura. This was achieved through the biallelic discrimination at codons 167, 198, and 200 by employing the competitive binding of two allele-specific forward primers. The specificity and reliability of this assay were subsequently confirmed using Trichuris samples isolated from captive primates. Furthermore, a molecular study was conducted to substantiate the utility of the β-tubulin gene as a molecular marker. The assays showed high sensitivity and specificity when applied to field samples. Nevertheless, none of the SNPs within the β-tubulin gene were detected in any of the adult worms or eggs from the analyzed populations. All specimens consistently displayed an SS genotype. The examination of the β-tubulin gene further validated the established close relationships between the T. trichiura clade and Trichuris suis clade. This reaffirms its utility as a marker for phylogenetic analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Trichuriasis caused by the human whipworm Trichuris trichiura poses a significant public health concern. Albendazole-ivermectin co-medication is currently the most effective treatment. Studies conducted in Tanzania and Côte d'Ivoire unveiled differences in efficacy for albendazole-ivermectin combination therapy in both countries. A pharmacometrics approach was used to assess co-medication and study population effects on the pharmacokinetics of the two main metabolites of albendazole. An exploratory exposure-efficacy analysis was also carried out to investigate relationships between exposure measures and the egg reduction rate. Methods: Pharmacokinetic data from studies in Tanzania and Côte d'Ivoire in adolescents (aged 12–19 years) were included in the pharmacometric analysis. Participants received a single dose of either albendazole 400 mg alone or in combination with ivermectin 200 µg/kg. A pharmacometric analysis was performed to investigate the potential effects of the study population and co-administered ivermectin on the apparent clearance of the metabolites of albendazole. Non-linear mixed-effects modeling was conducted with MonolixSuite 2023R1. The pharmacokinetic exposure measures derived from simulations with individual model parameters were used in the exploratory-exposure response analysis. Results: Pharmacokinetic profiles were best described by a two-compartment model for albendazole sulfoxide and a one-compartment model for albendazole sulfone, with a transit compartment and linear elimination. While no co-medication effect was found, apparent clearance of albendazole sulfoxide (albendazole sulfone) in the Tanzanian study population was 75% (46%) higher than that in the Côte d'Ivoire study population. Exposure-efficacy response analyses indicated that peak concentration and the time-above-exposure threshold were associated with the egg reduction rate. Conclusions: Study population but not co-administered ivermectin showed an effect on apparent clearance of albendazole sulfoxide and albendazole sulfone. Polymorphisms in drug-metabolizing enzymes and host-parasite interaction may explain this result. Difference in drug exposure did not explain the disparate efficacy responses in Tanzania and Côte d'Ivoire. Peak concentration and time-above-threshold were exposure measures associated with the egg reduction rate. Further studies evaluating genetic and resistance patterns in various regions in Africa are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Parasitic helminths influence the composition of the gut microbiome. However, the microbiomes of individuals living in helminth-endemic regions are understudied. The Orang Asli, an indigenous population in Malaysia with high burdens of the helminth Trichuris trichiura, display microbiotas enriched in Clostridiales, an order of spore-forming obligate anaerobes with immunogenic properties. We previously isolated novel Clostridiales that were enriched in these individuals and found that a subset promoted the Trichuris life cycle. In this study, we aimed to further characterize the functional properties of these bacteria. Results: Clostridiales isolates were profiled for their ability to perform 57 enzymatic reactions and produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and hydrogen sulfide, revealing that these bacteria were capable of a range of activities associated with metabolism and host response. Consistent with this finding, monocolonization of mice with individual isolates identified bacteria that were potent inducers of regulatory T-cell (Treg) differentiation in the colon. Comparisons between variables revealed by these studies identified enzymatic properties correlated with Treg induction and Trichuris egg hatching. Conclusion: We identified Clostridiales species that are sufficient to induce high levels of Tregs. We also identified a set of metabolic activities linked with Treg differentiation and Trichuris egg hatching mediated by these newly isolated bacteria. Altogether, this study provides functional insights into the microbiotas of individuals residing in a helminth-endemic region. -EyM7p7tfAvrAjtAePB85J Video Abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Helminth infection occurs due to contact with contaminated soils and poor hygiene practices. Even though there is immense progression in human medicine, infections that occur due to bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites persist as a crucial threat to public health. Over the years, many studies indicated cow urine has antimicrobial activity. Hence, this study looks into anthelminthic property of cow urine in Ascaris spp., and Trichuris spp., eggs. Methods: The soil sample was collected at the riverside, near the toilet area and at the pond area at an aborigine village in Malaysia. Next, floatation technique was used to isolate the helminth eggs and it was identified using a light microscope. The cow urine was prepared as raw cow urine (RCU), evaporated raw cow urine diluted with distilled water (ERCUD), evaporation raw cow urine diluted with saline (ERCUS) and evaporated filtered cow urine diluted with saline (EFCUS). Results: From the soil samples, mainly two types of helminths were found which were Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura. Evaporated cow urine diluted with saline showed the most prominent result in the destruction of helminth eggs. Conclusion: Evaporated cow urine possesses biochemical agents that can be used in the future as anthelmintic agents whereby further studies can be made to explore more possibilities to use cow urine as a potential anthelmintic agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laboratory model organisms have provided a window into how the immune system functions. An increasing body of evidence, however, suggests that the immune responses of naive laboratory animals may differ substantially to those of their wild counterparts. Past exposure, environmental challenges and physiological condition may all impact on immune responsiveness. Chronic infections of soil-transmitted helminths, which we define as establishment of adult, fecund worms, impose significant health burdens on humans, livestock and wildlife, with limited treatment success. In laboratory mice, Th1 versus Th2 immune polarisation is the major determinant of helminth infection outcome. Here we compared antigen-specific immune responses to the soil-transmitted whipworm Trichuris muris between controlled laboratory and wild free-ranging populations of house mice (Mus musculus domesticus). Wild mice harbouring chronic, low-level infections produced lower levels of cytokines in response to Trichuris antigen than laboratory-housed C57BL/6 mice. Wild mouse effector/memory CD4+ T cell phenotype reflected the antigen-specific cytokine response across the Th1/Th2 spectrum. Increasing worm burden was associated with body condition loss. However, local Trichuris-specific Th1/Th2 balance was positively associated with worm burden only in older wild mice. Thus, although the fundamental relationships between the CD4+ T helper cell response and resistance to T. muris infection are similar in both laboratory and wild M. m. domesticus, there are quantitative differences and age-specific effects that are analogous to human immune responses. These context-dependent immune responses demonstrate the fundamental importance of understanding the differences between model and natural systems for translating mechanistic models to 'real world' immune function. Author summary: Most knowledge of immune responses to parasitic infection stems from controlled laboratory mouse models. We found that adaptive immune responses to Trichuris muris under natural conditions are not fully reflected by laboratory infection models employing a single bolus of high or low egg doses. Whilst the Th1/Th2 paradigm persists in the wild, immune responses are dampened compared to laboratory mice. Further, we reveal that in wild mice, worm burden is only explained by the immune response in older, but not younger mice, a pattern previously observed in humans but not laboratory mice. By studying immune responses in a wild system, we can expand our well-established laboratory disease models to reflect the real world and enhance their utility for biomedical research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The World Health Organization emphasizes the importance of integrated monitoring and evaluation in neglected tropical disease (NTD) control programs. Serological assays offer a potential solution for integrated diagnosis of NTDs, particularly for those requiring mass drug administration (MDA) as primary control and elimination strategy. This scoping review aims (i) to provide an overview of assays using serum or plasma to detect infections with soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) in both humans and animals, (ii) to examine the methodologies used in this research field and (iii) to discuss advancements in serological diagnosis of STHs to guide prevention and control programs in veterinary and human medicine. Methodology: We conducted a systematic search in the Ovid MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library databases, supplemented by a Google search using predefined keywords to identify commercially available serological assays. Additionally, we performed a patent search through Espacenet. Principal findings: We identified 85 relevant literature records spanning over 50 years, with a notable increased interest in serological assay development in recent years. Most of the research efforts concentrated on diagnosing Ascaris infections in both humans and pigs, primarily using ELISA and western blot technologies. Almost all records targeted antibodies as analytes, employing proteins and peptides as analyte detection agents. Approximately 60% of sample sets described pertained to human samples. No commercially available tests for Trichuris or hookworms were identified, while for Ascaris, there are at least seven different ELISAs on the market. Conclusions: While a substantial number of assays are employed in epidemiological research, the current state of serological diagnosis for guiding STH prevention and control programs is limited. Only two assays designed for pigs are used to inform efficient deworming practices in pig populations. Regarding human diagnosis, none of the existing assays has undergone extensive large-scale validation or integration into routine diagnostics for MDA programs. Author summary: To further integrate the monitoring and evaluation of public health control programs against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), the diagnostic platforms used should ideally be able to screen multiple NTDs in one and the same sample. A stepping stone for more synergies across these programs are blood-based diagnostic assays. Although they have been both developed and implemented to inform public health programs for a number of NTDs, little is known about the progress towards a blood-based diagnostic assays to follow-up on public health programs against intestinal worms. Therefore, we conducted an extensive review of blood-based tests for intestinal worm infections in humans and animals, analysing their progress from assay-development towards routine use in both public and animal health control programs. Our results indicated that, despite many tests are used in research, the use of blood-based assays for guiding control programs against intestinal worms is limited. Only two tests for pigs are currently used to inform deworming programs in pig herds. For human diagnosis, none of the current assays has been extensively evaluated or used for routine diagnosis in control programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Parasitic infestations have a substantial economic impact on pig production. This study aimed to investigate the gastrointestinal (GI) helminths in pigs and to molecularly characterise two important nematodes, Ascaris and Trichuris species. Materials and methods: A total of 500 pig faecal samples were collected from small holder backyard pig farms in five townships within Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar. Microscopic examination was conducted to estimate the prevalence of GI helminth infestation in the pigs. DNA extraction and PCR were performed on faecal samples that were morphologically positive for Ascaris and Trichuris eggs. Molecular analysis was then conducted to characterise A. suum and T. suis, the most common and zoonotic helminths. Results: According to microscopic examination, 69.2% (346/500) were positive for GI helminth eggs. The GI helminth species observed were A. suum, Strongyle, Strongyloides spp., T. suis, Metastrongylus spp., Hyostrongylus spp., Fasciolopsis spp., Paragonimus spp., and Schistosoma spp., with occurrences of 34.8%, 29.6%, 21.4%, 20.0%, 4.0%, 1.6%, 1.0%, 1.0%, and 0.4%, respectively. Mixed infections of GI helminths were noted in 31.0% of the samples. Overall, sampled pigs excreted mostly low levels (< 100 EPG) or moderate levels (> 100–500 EPG) of GI helminth eggs. The highest mean EPG for each parasite species was noted in A. suum. The presence of A. suum and T. suis was confirmed molecularly. The sequences of the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) region of A. suum showed high similarity with previously reported sequences. Likewise, the sequences of T. suis exhibited high similarity with the sequences reported from humans and pigs. Age was noted as an associated factor (P < 0.05) for GI helminth infection status. Conclusions: In this report, A. suum and T. suis were molecularly identified for the first time in Myanmar. It is important to extend the information among the farmers to be aware of the necessity of preventing zoonotic parasites by practicing regular deworming, proper use of anthelmintics and maintaining hygienic conditions in their pig farms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the presence of Trichuris trichiura eggs in soil samples collected from urban areas in Lahore, Pakistan. A total of 3600 soil samples were collected over two years from Lahore's urban regions. The detection of helminth eggs in these samples was performed using sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) as a diagnostic technique. The study reveals an overall prevalence rate of T. trichiura at 0.97 % (35 out of 3600) in the contaminated soil samples from Lahore's slum areas. When analyzing the data by geographical areas, the study found the highest prevalence of T. trichiura in Allama Iqbal Town (1.83 %, 11 out of 600), followed by Samanabad (1.16 %, 7 out of 600), Wapda Town (1.00 %, 6 out of 600), Gulberg (1.00 %, 6 out of 600), and Cantt (0.50 %, 3 out of 600). Conversely, Valencia Town had the lowest prevalence rate at 0.33 % (2 out of 600). However, these variations in prevalence rates were not statistically significant (p = 0.117). Prevalence rates of T. trichiura's eggs varied significantly across different sampling seasons (p>0.001). In autumn, a total of 900 soil samples were collected, with 19 samples (2.11 %) testing positive for T. trichiura. This rate was notably higher compared to the prevalence rates observed in winter, spring, and summer, which were 0.66 %, 0.22 %, and 0.88 %, respectively. Regarding the sampling months, the study observed a significantly higher prevalence during September (3.33 %, 10 out of 300), followed by October (2.33 %, 7 out of 300), and August (1.33 %, 4 out of 300). Prevalence rates gradually decreased in other months, ranging from 1 % to 0.33 % (3 to 1 out of 300), with no parasite detection in March (0 %, 0 out of 300) (p < 0.001). This research underscores soil contamination due to fecal waste and highlights public unawareness of parasite biology, driven by open defecation practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mass drug administration (MDA) program of albendazole to at-risk populations as preventive chemotherapy is the core public health intervention to control soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). Achieving this goal relies on drug effectiveness in reducing the parasite reservoirs in the community and preventing reinfection. We assessed the efficacy of albendazole against STH parasite infection and reinfection status after cure. Methods: A total of 984 schoolchildren infected with at least one type of STH parasite (hookworm, Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura) in southern Ethiopia were enrolled and received albendazole and praziquantel in MDA campaign conducted from January to March 2019. Stool exams at week-4 and at week-8 of post-MDA were done using Kato Katz technique. The primary outcome was efficacy assessed by cure rate (CR) and fecal egg reduction rates (ERRs) at four weeks of post-MDA. The secondary outcome was reinfection status defined as parasite egg positivity at eight weeks among those who were cured at 4 weeks of post-MDA. Group comparisons in CR and related factors were assessed with chi-square or Fisher's exact tests. Predictors of CR were examined through univariate and multivariate regression analyses. Results: The overall CR and ERR for hookworm infection were 97.2% (95% CI 94.6–99.4) and 97.02%, respectively. The overall CR and ERR for A. lumbricoides were 71.5% (95% CI 68.3–74.6) and 84.5% respectively. The overall CR and ERR and for T. trichiura were 49.5% (95% CI 44.8–54.2) and 68.3%, respectively. The CR among moderate T. trichiura infection intensity was 28.6%. Among children cured of hookworm, A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura at week 4 post-MDA, 4.6%, 18.3% and 52.4% became reinfected at week-8 post-MDA, respectively. Significantly lower CR (36.6%) and higher reinfection after cure (60.6%) among A. lumbricoides and T. trichiura coinfected children than A. lumbricoides only (CR = 69.6%, reinfection rate = 15.1%) or T. trichiura only infected children (CR = 55.6%, reinfection rate = 47.1%) was observed. Pre-treatment coinfection with ≥ two types of STH parasites was significantly associated with re-infection after cure. Conclusion: Albendazole MDA is efficacious against hookworm but has reduced efficacy against A. lumbricoides and is not effective against T. trichiura. The low drug efficacy and high reinfection rate after cure underscore the need for alternative treatment and integration of other preventive measures to achieve the target of eliminating STHs as a public health problem by 2030. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight helminth taxa, including an acanthocephalan (Centrorhynchus sp.) and 7 nematode species, were identified from material in held in the South Australian Museum Australian Helminthological Collection. All the specimens were collected from 3 individuals of Echymipera kalubu Fischer and a single Echymipera sp. at 25% prevalences, from Papua New Guinean localities. The nematodes were identified as follows: a heterakid Heterakis balamukensis Smales, 2023, known only from E. kalubu; a trichurid, most likely Trichuris peramelisBaylis, 1932; the trichostrongyloids Mackerrastrongylus peramelis (Johnston & Mawson, 1938) and Peramelostrongylus skedastosMawson, 1960; and a seuratid, Linstowinema sp., likely Linstowinema latensSmales, 1997, the latter 4 species being also found in Australian bandicoots. The physalopterid Physaloptera echymipera n. sp. could be distinguished from all the physalopterids known from Australian and Indonesian hosts by a suite of characters including esophagus length, spicule length, vagina length, and egg size. The seuratid Owenema mikosi n. gen., n. sp. was distinguished by having, among other characters, longitudinal rows of tiny spines along the body, a buccal ring with 4 teeth, the proximal end of the esophagus ornamented, short spicules smaller than the gubernaculum, a simple ovejector, and 4 uteri. A comparison of the helminth community, albeit from a small host sample, with those known from Australian bandicoots indicated that the components of their communities were similar. Isoodon macrourus, primarily an Australian bandicoot, and E. kalubu, for example, frequent similar habitats in Papua New Guinea and share several helminth species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Control of infection by gastrointestinal nematodes remains a big problem in ruminants under continuous grazing. For the purpose of decreasing the risk of infection by Trichuris sp. in captive bison (Bison bison) always maintained in the same plot, dried gelatins having ≥106 chlamydospores of both Mucor circinelloides and Duddingtonia flagrans were given to them for one week, and at the end, fecal samples (FF) collected each week for four weeks were analyzed immediately. Feces taken one week prior to gelatin administration served as controls (CF). Eggs of Trichuris sp. were sorted into non-viable and viable, then classified into viable undeveloped (VU), viable with cellular development (VCD), or viable infective (VI). Ovistatic and ovicidal effects were determined throughout the study. In FF, viability of Trichuris eggs decreased between 9% (first week) and 57% (fourth week), egg development was delayed during the first two weeks, and VI percentages were significantly lower than in CF (p = 0.001). It is concluded that the preparation of gelatins with chlamydospores of parasiticidal fungi and their subsequent dehydration offer an edible formulation that is ready to use, stress-free to supply, and easy to store, as well as being well-accepted by ruminants and highly efficient to reduce the risk of Trichuris sp. infection among animals under continuous grazing regimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichuris vulpis is a parasite of the large intestine of canids and has a global distribution. Despite its well-established epidemiology, the question of its pathogenicity in dogs remains debated. It has been suggested that younger age and concurrent infection with Ancylostoma caninum may be responsible for more severe clinical presentations. This retrospective study aimed to describe the clinical and diagnostic features of T. vulpis-infected dogs and to compare these findings with dogs infected with both T. vulpis and other intestinal parasites (poly-infected dogs). Forty-five dogs were included, with twenty-five being solely infected by T. vulpis and twenty poly-infected dogs. Only weight loss was more frequent (p = 0.006) in poly-infected dogs compared to T. vulpis mono-infected dogs. No significant differences were observed in laboratory abnormalities between mono-infected and poly-infected dogs. Only diarrhea was more frequent (p = 0.007) in younger dogs compared to adults. The egg shedding pattern was significantly higher (p = 0.04) among adult dogs compared to young ones, and there was a significant positive correlation between egg shedding and age (r = 0.41; p = 0.005). These findings suggest that T. vulpis might be responsible for both clinical signs and laboratory abnormalities in dogs, irrespective of the host’s age and the presence of other intestinal parasites.

Background: Trichuris trichiura (whipworm) is one of the most prevalent soil transmitted helminths (STH) affecting 604–795 million people worldwide. Diagnostic tools that are affordable and rapid are required for detecting STH. Here, we assessed the performance of the near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) technique coupled with machine learning algorithms to detect Trichuris muris in faecal, blood, serum samples and non-invasively through the skin of mice. Methodology: We orally infected 10 mice with 30 T. muris eggs (low dose group), 10 mice with 200 eggs (high dose group) and 10 mice were used as the control group. Using the NIRS technique, we scanned faecal, serum, whole blood samples and mice non-invasively through their skin over a period of 6 weeks post infection. Using artificial neural networks (ANN) and spectra of faecal, serum, blood and non-invasive scans from one experiment, we developed 4 algorithms to differentiate infected from uninfected mice. These models were validated on mice from the second independent experiment. Principal findings: NIRS and ANN differentiated mice into the three groups as early as 2 weeks post infection regardless of the sample used. These results correlated with those from concomitant serological and parasitological investigations. Significance: To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate the potential of NIRS as a diagnostic tool for human STH infections. The technique could be further developed for large scale surveillance of soil transmitted helminths in human populations. Author summary: The existing diagnostic tools for STH infections can be time consuming, expensive, less sensitive and some require trained personnel. These techniques are therefore not feasible for large scale programmatic surveillance. Novel surveillance tools that can be easily scaled up to guide mass drug administration (MDA) for communities at risk remain a priority. This study investigated the role of NIRS as a potential large scale surveillance tool for soil transmitted helminths using Trichiuris muris experimental mouse model. The technique is environmentally friendly because it neither requires reagents nor sample processing procedures to operate and it only takes 5–10 seconds to analyse a sample allowing thousands of samples to be assessed in a day by unskilled personnel. Our results demonstrate for the first time that infrared light coupled with machine learning has the potential to be developed into a large-scale surveillance tool for STH infections to assess impact of interventions and guide future elimination efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal nematode parasites and gastrointestinal protozoan parasites are considered detrimental to the livestock population and manifest production-limiting effects. Small and large ruminants (cattle, buffalo, goats, and sheep) are important components of the rural economy of northern India. However, the epidemiology of gastrointestinal parasites in this agro-climatic region has not been studied extensively. In this study, the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was determined in 163 animals, including cattle (n = 86), buffalo (n = 11), goats (n = 48), and sheep (n = 18) from 26 sampling sites by copro-parasitological analysis. The prevalence values of 94.47% and 66.87% were recorded for the nematodes and protozoa, respectively. The group-wise prevalence of gastrointestinal nematode parasites was 95.3%, 90.9%, 93.7%, and 94.4% in cattle, buffalo, goats, and sheep, respectively, whereas for gastrointestinal protozoan parasites, the respective values were 70.9%, 54.5%, 60.4%, and 72.2%. Copromicroscopy revealed ten genera of nematodes—Ascaris, Capillaria, Cooperia, Haemonchus, Nematodirus, Oesophagostomum, Ostertagia, Strongyloides, Trichostrongylus, Trichuris, and one protozoan genus—Eimeria. The prevalence of Trichostrongylus spp. was highest in buffaloes, whereas in cattle, Ascaris spp. were predominant. In both goats and sheep, Haemonchus contortus was found to be predominant. The highest prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites was recorded in the rainy season. These findings indicate the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites in the ruminant population in this region and necessitate the implementation of preventive and control strategies for effective animal health management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intestinal epithelial homeostasis is maintained by intrinsic and extrinsic signals. The extrinsic signals include those provided by mesenchymal cell populations that surround intestinal crypts and is further facilitated by the extracellular matrix (ECM), which is modulated by proteases such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Extrinsic signals ensure an appropriate balance between intestinal epithelial proliferation and differentiation. This study explores the role of MMP17, which is preferentially expressed by smooth muscle cells in the intestine, in intestinal homeostasis and during immunity to infection. Mice lacking MMP17 expressed high levels of goblet-cell associated genes and proteins, such as CLCA1 and RELM-b, which are normally associated with immune responses to infection. Nevertheless, Mmp17 KO mice did not have altered resistance during a bacterial Citrobacter rodentium infection. However, when challenged with a low dose of the helminth Trichuris muris, Mmp17 KO mice had increased resistance, without a clear role for an altered immune response during infection. Mechanistically, we did not find changes in traditional modulators of goblet cell effectors such as the NOTCH pathway or specific cytokines. We found MMP17 expression in smooth muscle cells as well as lamina propria cells such as macrophages. Together, our data suggest that MMP17 extrinsically alters goblet cell maturation which is sufficient to alter clearance in a helminth infection model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichuris trichiura is a human parasite belonging to the nematode phylum. It has a genome of 75.2 Mb size that contains more than 9500 genes. Many of these are still uncharacterized proteins. Here, we have tried to annotate a protein bearing Uniprot accession id A0A077Z4I5 using various in silico tools. The amino acid sequence of this protein was subjected to various softwares which demonstrated it to be a Cysteine-knot protein. The motif search revealed the presence of this highly conserved domain, which is believed to be responsible for host parasite interaction and evasion of host immune system by the parasitic nematode. The report of this protein in human parasite T. trichiura is significant as it has not homolog in humans and can be a valid drug target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hundreds of millions of people worldwide are infected with the whipworm Trichuris trichiura. Novel treatments are urgently needed as current drugs, such as albendazole, have relatively low efficacy. We have investigated whether drugs approved for other human diseases could be repurposed as novel anti-whipworm drugs. In a previous comparative genomics analysis, we identified 409 drugs approved for human use that we predicted to target parasitic worm proteins. Here we tested these ex vivo by assessing motility of adult worms of Trichuris muris, the murine whipworm, an established model for human whipworm research. We identified 14 compounds with EC50 values of ≤50 μM against T. muris ex vivo, and selected nine for testing in vivo. However, the best worm burden reduction seen in mice was just 19%. The high number of ex vivo hits against T. muris shows that we were successful at predicting parasite proteins that could be targeted by approved drugs. In contrast, the low efficacy of these compounds in mice suggest challenges due to their chemical properties (e.g. lipophilicity, polarity, molecular weight) and pharmacokinetics (e.g. absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) that may (i) promote absorption by the host gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing availability to the worms embedded in the large intestine, and/or (ii) restrict drug uptake by the worms. This indicates that identifying structural analogues that have reduced absorption by the host, and increased uptake by worms, may be necessary for successful drug development against whipworms. Author summary: Our study describes a drug repurposing screen against the whipworm Trichuris, which causes the neglected tropical disease trichuriasis. Despite the pressing need for more effective drugs to treat whipworm infections, Trichuris has been the focus of extremely few drug screens. Using a combination of comparative genomics, and data on drugs and their targets from the ChEMBL database, we predicted that 409 drugs approved for human use would target Trichuris proteins. Using a high-throughput screening platform, we then screened these 409 drugs against Trichuris adults ex vivo. Our high hit rate of 12% demonstrated the utility of our comparative genomics approach to predict worm proteins for targeting by approved drugs. We subsequently tested the most active compounds in Trichuris-infected mice, but there were no significant hits in vivo. Interestingly, this accorded with a previously published screen against Trichuris, which also reported promising ex vivo hits but low activity in mice. We discuss possible reasons for this finding, and important implications for optimising future drug screens against Trichuris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than 23 Trichuroidea species have been identified in ruminants in different parts of the world. Most are pathogenic, causing trichurosis. Trichuris adults of most species within this family have a predilection for the ceca, where they may cause damage to the epithelial wall. In the present study, Trichuris spp. from large intestine of goats were analysed based on morphological and molecular characteristics. Fifty adult worms (male = 25 and female = 25) were selected for morphometric and molecular analysis. Male Trichuris were distinguished by their longer spicules, typical spicule sheaths, and small spicules that were always completely covered by the spicule sheath. The presence of an uneverted vulva in the vagina distinguished female worms. We have performed the molecular characterisation of adult warms to identify as Trichuris skrjabini. Genetic comparison of T. skrjabini rDNA ITS2 sequences with those from other Trichuris spp. was performed to assess within and between species variation and validate the use of ITS-2 rDNA as a robust species-specific marker for T. skrjabini identification. This work provides the first report of this parasite species from Pakistan and validated species-specific marker of T. skrjabini that reduces the production potential of goats in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichuriosis is a disease in mammals caused by the whipworms of the genus Trichuris. These worms are known for the high disease burden they cause in humans and domestic animals, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. In this study, we investigated the prevalence and seasonal variations of Trichuris worms in multimammate rats (Mastomys natalensis). The study was conducted between January and November 2021 in Tanzania, in two regions (Morogoro and Iringa) that differ in their eco-climatic conditions. Removal trapping was conducted using Sherman® live traps during the rainy and dry seasons. The gastrointestinal tracts of captured rodents were screened for the presence of Trichuris worms, which were identified using morphological keys. A total of 200 M. natalensis rats were collected from each of the regions, with 100 animals in each season. For Morogoro, the overall prevalence of Trichuris worms in M. natalensis was 36% (n = 72), of which 42% (n = 42) and 30% (n = 30) were for the rainy and dry seasons, respectively. For Iringa, the overall prevalence was 65% (n = 130), of which there were 80% (n = 80) and 50% (n = 50) for the rainy and dry seasons, respectively. Trichuris worm infections were significantly higher during the rainy season in Iringa than in Morogoro; however, no significant difference in infections between males and females was noted in either region or season. Other helminths detected were Strongyloides spp., Capillaria spp., Hymenolepis spp. and eggs of a helminth that has yet to be confirmed, possibly an Anoplocephalid species. Since M. natalensis is the most important pest species in sub-Saharan Africa, and is a carrier of several zoonotic helminths, there is a need for improved surveillance of helminths infections in the studied regions, in order to establish strategic control programs to reduce their adverse impacts on health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge about mitogenomes has been proven to be essential in human parasite diagnostics and understanding of their diversity. However, the lack of substantial data for comparative analysis is still a challenge in Trichuris trichiura research. To provide high quality mitogenomes, we utilized long-read sequencing technology of Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) to better resolve repetitive regions and to construct de novo mitogenome assembly minimizing reference biases. In this study, we got three de novo assembled mitogenomes of T. trichiura isolated from Korean individuals. These circular complete mitogenomes of T. trichiura are 14,508 bp, 14,441 bp, and 14,440 bp in length. A total of 37 predicted genes were identified consisting of 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 22 transfer RNA (tRNAs) genes, two ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes (rrnS and rrnL), and two non-coding regions. Interestingly, the assembled mitogenome has up to six times longer AT-rich regions than previous reference sequences, thus proving the advantage of long-read sequencing in resolving unreported non-coding regions. Furthermore, variant detection and phylogenetic analysis using concatenated protein coding genes, cox1, rrnL, and nd1 genes confirmed the distinct molecular identity of this newly assembled mitogenome while at the same time showing high genetic relationship with sequences from China or Tanzania. Our study provided a new set of reference mitogenome with better contiguity and resolved repetitive regions that could be used for meaningful phylogenetic analysis to further understand disease transmission and parasite biology. Author summary: Human trichuriasis, a neglected tropical disease caused by human whipworm Trichuris trichiura remains persistent in South Korea. Despite its medical importance, genomic data about their mitochondrial DNA is scarce. In this study, we used the long-read sequencing technology of Oxford Nanopore Technologies to provide high-quality complete mitogenomes of three T. trichiura isolated from Korean individuals. Interestingly, our assembled mitogenomes produced up to six times longer AT-rich regions that were not reported by previous reference mitogenome sequence proving the advantage of long-read sequencing over the short-read sequencing technologies. Also, comparative analysis through variant detection and phylogenetics confirmed the distinction of our newly assembled mitogenomes over the existing references in the database. Provision of these mitogenome information is fundamental in identifying genetic markers leading to a more reliable and precise helminth diagnostics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wildlife may serve as potential reservoirs and intermediate or accidental hosts of zoonotic pathogens due to their interactions with human beings. For the first time in Ghana, we report extempore the gastrointestinal parasites of three Ethiopian rock hyraxes captured in September 2021. Forty adult parasites (21 nematodes and 19 tapeworms) were recovered from the gastrointestinal tracts of these three game hyraxes (Procavia capensis, Pallas, 1766) from the hills of Bimbagu (near the Gambaga Scarp) in the North East Region of Ghana. Adult worms comprising 16 tapeworms and 24 nematodes were identified. The intestinal faecal examination detected ova of Trichuris spp., tapeworms, and hookworms. The results are presented alongside the results of the molecular determination of the worm identities. Since wildlife has been identified as an important source of emerging human pathogens, including helminth parasites, there is an urgent need for sufficient literature on wildlife parasites in Ghana. As the rock hyrax is hunted for its meat, there is a potential risk of transmitting these identified helminths and other zoonotic pathogens to humans, especially involving people who handle the carcasses as the transmission is faecal-oral. A more precarious situation may arise when the eggs of cestodes are ingested by handlers of these carcasses and could result in cysticercosis/neuro-cysticercosis when these eggs cross the blood-brain barrier in the person. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: According to WHO, soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections could infect up to 90% of children from deprived communities with unhygiene and improper sanitation lifestyle. In West Malaysia, commonly the aboriginal people (Orang Asli) is prone to be infected with STH infections. Albendazole (400mg) is an anthelminthic drug that has been used for more than 30 years to cure STH infections. Hence, the main objective of this project was to evaluate the efficacy of single-dose albendazole (400mg) against STH infections among Orang Asli. Methods: Stool samples were collected in Hulu Langat, Semenyih, Malaysia. Who had not previously undergone deworming treatment. The parasites were concentrated by floatation technique (using the standard salt-sugar solution) to extract the amount of helminths' egg before and after the albendazole treatment (400mg). Results: There were 44 participants after one-month post-treatment. The cure rate (CR) for Trichuris trichiura and Ascaris lumbricoides was 11.6% (n=5) and 35.0% (n=14), respectively. Moreover, there was no heavy infection for both STHs during the post-treatment of albendazole. Conclusion: The results indicated that the chosen anthelminthic showed higher cure rate efficacy in A.lumbricoides than T.trichiura. However, both species had decreased egg burden post-treatment with albendazole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intestinal helminth infection promotes a Type 2 inflammatory response in resistant C57BL/6 mice that is essential for worm clearance. The study of inbred mouse strains has revealed factors that are critical for parasite resistance and delineated the role of Type 1 versus Type 2 immune responses in worm clearance. In C57BL/6 mice, basophils are key innate immune cells that promote Type 2 inflammation and are programmed via the Notch signalling pathway during infection with the helminth Trichuris muris. However, how the host genetic background influences basophil responses and basophil expression of Notch receptors remains unclear. Here we use genetically susceptible inbred AKR/J mice that have a Type 1‐skewed immune response during T. muris infection to investigate basophil responses in a susceptible host. Basophil population expansion occurred in AKR/J mice even in the absence of fulminant Type 2 inflammation during T. muris infection. However, basophils in AKR/J mice did not robustly upregulate expression of the Notch2 receptor in response to infection as occurred in C57BL/6 mice. Blockade of the Type 1 cytokine interferon‐γ in infected AKR/J mice was not sufficient to elicit infection‐induced basophil expression of the Notch2 receptor. These data suggest that the host genetic background, outside of the Type 1 skew, is important in regulating basophil responses during T. muris infection in susceptible AKR/J mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Standard- and large-sized eggs of Trichuris trichiura were found in the feces of schoolchildren in Yangon, Myanmar during epidemiological surveys and mass deworming with albendazole in 2017-2019. The standard-sized eggs were identified as those of T. trichiura, but it was necessary to exclude the possibility of the large-sized eggs belonging to Trichuris vulpis, a dog whipworm. We conducted morphological and molecular studies to determine the species of the 2 types of Trichuris eggs. Individual eggs of both sizes were isolated from Kato-Katz fecal smears (n=20) and mechanically destroyed using a 23G injection needle. Nuclear DNA was extracted, and the 18S rRNA region was sequenced in 15 standard-sized eggs and 15 large-sized eggs. The average size of standard-sized eggs (T. trichiura) was 55.2×26.1 μm (range: 51.7-57.6×21.3-28.0 μm; n=97), whereas the size of large-sized eggs was 69.3×32.0 μm (range: 65.1-76.4×30.1-34.5 μm; n=20), slightly smaller than the known size of T. vulpis. Regarding standard-sized eggs, the 18S rRNA nucleotide sequences exhibited 100% homology with T. trichiura deposited in GenBank and 88.6-90.5% homology with T. vulpis. Regarding large-sized eggs, the nucleotide sequences showed 99.8-100% homology with T. trichiura in GenBank and 89.6- 90.7% homology with T. vulpis. Both standard- and large-sized eggs of Trichuris spp. found in Myanmar schoolchildren during 2017-2019 were morphologically and molecularly confirmed to belong to T. trichiura. The conversion of eggs from smaller to large sizes might be due to anthelmintic treatments with albendazole [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Gastrointestinal diseases caused by parasites are frequently diagnosed in dogs and cats. This study aimed to identify the main intestinal parasites obtained from fecal samples of dogs and cats in the municipality of Jataí, Brazil, and associate them with risk factors. The eggs, cysts, and oocysts were identified as those of Ancylostoma spp., Toxocara spp., Trichuris vulpis, Dipylidium caninum, Giardia spp., Entamoeba spp., Cystoisospora spp., and Platynosomum fastosum. Considering the results, the need to implement preventive and control measures to reduce the occurrence of parasites in animals and the exposure of humans to pathogenic agents is evident. Gastrointestinal diseases caused by parasites are frequently diagnosed in the clinical routine of domestic animals, especially dogs and cats. In general, they trigger factors that can affect human health due to zoonoses. Therefore, this study aims to identify the main intestinal parasites obtained from the fecal samples of dogs and cats in the municipality of Jata, Brazil, and their associated risk factors. Between October 2020 and March 2022, fecal samples were collected from 359 dogs and 55 cats through spontaneous defecation and subsequently subjected to coproparasitological analyses using the Willis fluctuation and Hoffman spontaneous sedimentation techniques. The following parasitic species were identified: Ancylostoma spp., Toxocara spp., Trichuris vulpis, Dipylidium caninum; Giardia spp., Entamoeba spp., Cystoisospora spp., and Platynosomum fastosum. The risk factors associated with parasitism include age, average income of owners, access to garbage, sewage, waste, outdated deworming, and contact with animals. The results demonstrate the need to establish public policies and implement preventive and control measures to reduce the occurrence of parasites in animals and the exposure of humans to pathogenic agents [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dogs play an important role in public health due to their close contact with humans. This study aimed to investigate the presence and prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths in stray dogs in Erzurum province. Gastrointestinal helminth eggs were detected in 190 out of 446 (42.6%) dog fecal samples collected in Erzurum. More specifically, taeniid eggs (17.71%, 79/446), Toxocara canis (16.82%, 75/446), Toxascaris leonina (12.78%, 57/446), Linguatula spp. (4.48%, 20/446), Alaria spp. (2.91%, 13/446), hookworms (2.69%, 12/446), spiny-headed worms (1.12%, 5/446), and Trichuris spp. (0.22%, 1/446) eggs were identified. These findings indicate zoonotic parasites to be common in stray dogs in Erzurum. The public health risk associated with the presence of these zoonotic parasites can be reduced through the regular deworming of stray dogs, the prevention of environmental contamination with dog feces, and the adequate enforcement of sanitation protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mouse whipworm, Trichuris muris, has been used for over 60 years as a tractable model for human trichuriasis, caused by the related whipworm species, T. trichiura. The history of T. muris research, from the discovery of the parasite in 1761 to understanding the lifecycle and outcome of infection with different doses (high versus low dose infection), as well as the immune mechanisms associated with parasite expulsion and chronic infection have been detailed in an earlier review published in 2013. Here, we review recent advances in our understanding of whipworm biology, host-parasite interactions and basic immunology brought about using the T. muris mouse model, focussing on developments from the last decade. In addition to the traditional high/low dose infection models that have formed the mainstay of T. muris research to date, novel models involving trickle (repeated low dose) infection in laboratory mice or infection in wild or semi-wild mice have led to important insights into how immunity develops in situ in a multivariate environment, while the use of novel techniques such as the development of caecal organoids (enabling the study of larval development ex vivo) promise to deliver important insights into host-parasite interactions. In addition, the genome and transcriptome analyses of T. muris and T. trichiura have proven to be invaluable tools, particularly in the context of vaccine development and identification of secreted products including proteins, extracellular vesicles and micro-RNAs, shedding further light on how these parasites communicate with their host and modulate the immune response to promote their own survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Before it spreads to other tissues, mebendazole (MBZ), a highly effective broad-spectrum anthelmintic, is used to treat worm infestations caused by roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, threadworms (pinworms), and the gastrointestinal form of trichinosis. Objective: The development of new methods for sensitive quantification of MBZ in the presence of its degraded product is the main objective of the presented research. Method: Validated chromatographic techniques with high sensitivity (HPTLC and UHPLC) are used. The HPTLC method was adopted on silica gel HPTLC F254 plates using ethanol, ethyl acetate, and formic acid (3: 8: 0.05, by volume) as a developing system. Furthermore, the UHPLC method is a green isocratic method with a mobile phase containing methanol and 0.1% sodium lauryl sulphate (20:80, v/v). Results: The suggested chromatographic methods are greener than the reported ones in terms of the used greenness assessment methods. To validate the developed methods, International Council on Harmonization (ICH/Q2) guidelines were followed. Successful application of the proposed methods was revealed by the simultaneous analysis of MBZ and its major degradation product, 2-amino-5-benzoylbenzimidazole (ABB). The linear ranges were 0.2–3.0, 0.1–2.0 μg/band for the HPTLC method and 2.0–50, 1.0–40 μg/mL for the UHPLC method for MEB and ABB, respectively. Conclusions: The suggested methods were used to analyze the studied drug in its commercial tablets. Both pharmacokinetic studies and quality control laboratories can make use of the suggested techniques. Highlights: Green and accurate HPTLC and UHPLC methods for the determination of MBZ and its major degradation products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As hosts of numerous zoonotic pathogens, the role of raccoons needs to be considered in the One Health context. Raccoons progressively expand their range as invasive alien species in Europe. This study aimed to investigate the intestinal helminth fauna of raccoons in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany, as no such screening had ever been conducted there. In total, we obtained 102 animals from hunters in 2019 and 2020. Intestinal helminths were retrieved using the SSCT (segmented sedimentation and counting technique) and identified morphologically and by PCR-based Sanger sequencing. Fecal samples were assessed using the ELISA PetChekTM IP assay (IDEXX, Germany) and flotation technique. The artificial digestion method was employed for analyzing muscle tissue. We detected species of four nematode genera (Baylisascaris procyonis, Toxocara canis, Capillaria spp., and Trichuris spp.), three cestode genera (Atriotaenia cf. incisa/procyonis, Taenia martis, and Mesocestoides spp.), and three trematode genera (Isthmiophora hortensis/melis, Plagiorchis muris, and Brachylaima spp.). Echinococcus spp. and Trichinella spp. were not found. The invasive behavior and synanthropic habits of raccoons may increase the infection risk with these helminths in wildlife, domestic and zoo animals, and humans by serving as a connecting link. Therefore, it is crucial to initiate additional studies assessing these risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Current treatments for soil-transmitted helminth infections in humans have low efficacy against Trichuris trichium. Emodepside - a drug in veterinary use and unSwitzerder development for the treatment of onchocerciasis in humans - is a leading therapeutic candidate for soil-transmitted helminth infection. METHODS We conducted two phase 2a, dose-ranging, randomized, controlled trials to evaluate the efficacy and safety of emodepside against T trichiura and hookworm infections. We randomly assigned, in equal numbers, adults 18 to 45 years of age in whom T. trichiura or hookworm eggs had been detected in stool samples to receive emodepside, at a single oral dose of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 mg; albendazole, at a single oral dose of 400 mg; or placebo. The primary outcome was the percentage of participants who were cured of T. trichiura or hookworm infection (the cure rate) with emodepside 14 to 21 days after treatment, determined with the use of the Kam-Katz thick-smear technique. Safety was assessed 3, 24, and 48 hours after the receipt of treatment or placebo. RESULTS A total of 266 persons were enrolled in the T. trichiura trial and 176 in the hookworm trial. The predicted cure rate against T. trichiura in the 5-mg emodepside group (8596 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 69 to 93]; 25 of 30 participants) was higher than the predicted cure rate in the placebo group (10% [95% CI, 3 to 26]; 3 of 31 participants) and the observed cure rate in the albendazole group (1796 [95% CI, 6 to 35]; 5 of 30 participants). A dose-dependent relationship was shown in participants with hookworm: the observed cure rate was 32% (95% CI, 13 to 57; 6 of 19 participants) in the 5-mg emodepside group and 95% (95% CI, 74 to 99.9; 18 of 19 participants) in the 30-mg emodepside group; the observed cure rates were 14% (95% CI, 3 to 36; 3 of 21 participants) in the placebo group and 70% (95% CI, 46 to 88; 14 of 20 participants) in the albendazole group. In the emodepside groups, headache, blurred vision, and dizziness were the most commonly reported adverse events 3 and 24 hours after treatment; the incidence of events generally increased in a dose-dependent fashion. Most adverse events were mild in severity and were selfilimited; there were few moderate and no serious adverse events. CONCLUSIONS Emodepside showed activity against T. trichiura and hookworm infections. (Funded by the European Research Council; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT05017194.). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Control efforts against soil-transmitted helminths focus on preventive chemotherapy with albendazole and mebendazole, however these drugs yield unsatisfactory results against Trichuris trichiura infections. We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of moxidectin and albendazole compared with ivermectin and albendazole against T trichiura in adolescents living on Pemba Island, Tanzania.Methods: This open-label, non-inferiority, randomised, controlled, phase 2/3 trial was done in four secondary schools (Kilindi, Kwale, Ndagoni [Chake Chake District], and Kiuyu [Wete District]) on Pemba Island, Tanzania. Adolescents aged 12-19 years who tested positive for T trichiura in at least two of four Kato-Katz slides with a mean infection intensity of 48 eggs per gram (EPG) of stool or higher were considered for inclusion. Participants were randomly assigned (21:21:2:2:8) to five treatment groups (8 mg moxidectin and 400 mg albendazole [group 1], 200 μg/kg ivermectin and 400 mg albendazole [group 2], 400 mg albendazole [group 3], 200 μg/kg ivermectin [group 4], or 8 mg moxidectin [group 5]) using a computer-generated randomisation code, stratified by baseline T trichiura infection intensity. Study site investigators and participants were not masked to study treatment; however, allocation was concealed to participants. The primary outcome was egg reduction rate (ERR) of T trichiura 14-21 days after treatment in the available case population. Moxidectin and albendazole was considered non-inferior to ivermectin and albendazole (control group) when the lower limit of the two-sided 95% CI of the difference was higher than the non-inferiority margin of -2 percentage points. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04700423.Findings: Between March 1 and April 30, 2021, 771 participants were assessed for eligibility. 221 (29%) of 771 participants were ineligible and a further 14 (2%) were excluded. 207 (39%) of 536 participants were randomly assigned to moxidectin and albendazole, 211 (39%) to ivermectin and albendazole, 19 (4%) to albendazole, 19 (4%) to ivermectin, and 80 (15%) to moxidectin. Primary outcome data were available for all 536 participants. The geometric mean ERR of T trichiura after 14-21 days was 96·8% (95% CI 95·8 to 97·6) with moxidectin and albendazole and 99·0% (98·7 to 99·3) with ivermectin and albendazole (difference of -2·2 percentage points [-4·2 to -1·4]). No serious adverse events were reported during the study. The most reported adverse events were headache (160 [34%] of 465), abdominal pain (78 [17%]), itching (44 [9%]), and dizziness (26 [6%]).Interpretation: Our findings show inferiority of moxidectin and albendazole to ivermectin and albendazole against T trichiura. However, given the high efficacy, moxidectin coadministration might complement treatment progammes, particularly in areas in which ivermectin is not available FUNDING: Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, reference number OPP1153928. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal parasites are responsible for substantial loss of productivity in swine and other livestock industry, they constitute a major impediment to efficient and profitable livestock production. The objective of the study is to determine the prevalence and evaluate the risks factors associated with gastrointestinal parasites among pigs in the study area. Methodologically faecal samples were macroscopically examined for the presence of blood and adult parasite. Direct smear method, floatation technique and Sedimentation by centrifugation were employed to detect the presence of eggs of parasites. Results identified eight intestinal parasites from a total of 300 fecal samples in pigs from different farms in Abakaliki metropolis, with an overall prevalence of 99.7%. Ascaris suum had the highest prevalence of 30.6%, followed by Metastrongylus spp. 17.5%, Cryptosporidium spp. 17.1%, Trichuris suis 10.6%, Eimeria spp. 10.2%, Oesophagostomum spp. 6.12%, Isospora suis 4.0% and Paragonimus westermanii 3.6%. In the present study, it can be deduced that gastrointestinal parasitism can occur in any farm irrespective of the type of housing, and management practices. Therefore, improved husbandry system and modern management practices should be embraced to enhance preventive measures against helminthosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine zoonotic parasites have been recognized as a significant public health problem especially in developing countries with vulnerable socio-environmental conditions. In the context of "One Health" the aim of this work was to assess the animal domain by the evaluation of canine zoonotic enteroparasites associated to a Parasite Vulnerability Index (PVI) in peripheral (PC) and urban communities (UC) from Mar del Plata city. The PVI was elaborated in a previous work as a vulnerability indicator of parasite diseases, in relation to socio-environmental conditions surveyed in the communities about the next dimensions: house, sanitation, hygiene, education and work. A coproparasitological study was performed to establish the presence and the richness of canine parasites in the environment in both communities. The PC evidenced homes with a higher mean number of canine fecal samples (CFS) with parasites than the UC, showing also the highest parasite specific richness with helminths and protozoan. Frequencies of Ancylostomids, Capillariids and Toxocara canis were higher in the PC, but Trichuris vulpis frequencies and the positive coproantigen test to detect Echinococcus granulosus, were similar between communities. The PC evidenced association to variables related to dogs' ownership (absence of veterinary attention and not adequate deworming), with the presence of CFS with parasites and the positive coproantigen test. Families with medium and high PVI from the PC evidenced a strong association with the presence of CFS with parasites and also with high parasitic richness, while families from the UC with low PVI evidenced CFS without parasites. These results revealed a vulnerable scenario for the permanence and the transmission of canine zoonotic parasites in most families from the PC, highlighting the value of the socio-environmental features as predictors of parasitoses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]