Haghighi L, Dalimi A, Pirestani M
… +1 more, Ghaffarifar F
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747510
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BACKGROUND: We aimed to analyze the presence of lectin light chain antigen and protein in colorectal cancer biopsies to uncover potential antigenic interactions between them. METHODS: Overall, 150 colorectal cancer bio...BACKGROUND: We aimed to analyze the presence of lectin light chain antigen and protein in colorectal cancer biopsies to uncover potential antigenic interactions between them. METHODS: Overall, 150 colorectal cancer biopsy samples were subjected to examination for the specific antigen and protein through the application of the immunohistochemical technique. To augment diagnostic precision, the western blotting method was employed and its results were compared with those obtained from immunohistochemistry (IHC). RESULTS: Among the 150 colorectal cancer biopsy samples examined, 100 cases tested positive for the protein, while 19 cases exhibited positivity for the light chain lectin antigen. Notably, only 14 cases demonstrated a positive presence for both the protein and the protozoan. CONCLUSION: , a leading cause of parasitic infections, raises questions about its potential link to colorectal cancer, specifically in connection with the protein. The findings presented in this investigation signal the need for further research to comprehensively understand the implications of in colorectal cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747509
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BACKGROUND: Among the many species that infect humans, only is considered pathogenic, being responsible for amoebiasis or amoebic dysentery. METHODS: Between June and October 2022, a total of 106 stool samples were col...BACKGROUND: Among the many species that infect humans, only is considered pathogenic, being responsible for amoebiasis or amoebic dysentery. METHODS: Between June and October 2022, a total of 106 stool samples were collected from children under six years of age presenting with diarrhea at Paiji Hospital in the city of Paiji, Iraq. DNA was extracted from all stool specimens to detect the presence of parasitic organisms. RESULTS: Of the 106 fecal samples, 4 (3.7%) tested positive for spp. using an initial PCR amplification targeting approximately 900 bp of the 18S rRNA gene. Among these, only one sample tested positive for using a nested multiplex PCR assay. In this study, neither nor was detected. Sequence analysis of the partial 18S rRNA gene revealed that 0.9% of samples were positive for , while 2.8% were positive for . The sequences were deposited in GenBank under the accession numbers OP868733.1 for and OP868730.1, OP868731.1, and OP868732.1 for . CONCLUSION: Children were infected with different species of . Molecular methods are essential for distinguishing between species due to their significance in accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment strategies.
Zare N, Najm A, Mohebali M
… +5 more, Sahebani A, Rayani M, Zareei Z, Bemana M, Barazesh A
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747508
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BACKGROUND: The Mediterranean form of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is endemic in some regions of Iran and is often seen in children under 10 years old. There is a 90% mortality in patients, if diagnosis and treatment are...BACKGROUND: The Mediterranean form of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is endemic in some regions of Iran and is often seen in children under 10 years old. There is a 90% mortality in patients, if diagnosis and treatment are not done on time. Canids, as reservoirs, play an important role in the spread of the disease. METHODS: Bushehr Province, southern Iran is always mentioned as one of the endemic areas for VL, so for this purpose, as the first study in the region, 112 sheltered dogs in Bushehr City were evaluated for canine leishmaniasis (CanL) using serological Direct Agglutination Test (DAT) as well as detailed clinical examinations. RESULTS: Out of 112 samples collected, 71.4% of cases had anti- IgG antibody titers of 1:80 and higher and therefore considered as seropositive. Furthermore, from the 70 seropositive dogs with antibody titer of 1:320 and higher, 47 (42%) had at least one of the clinical symptoms associated with VL and considered as cases with CanL. CONCLUSION: The current seroprevalence situation of dogs in this region, is very noticeable and can be an important alarm for policymakers and health system practitioners. More comprehensive and complementary parasitological studies should be carried out on a number of reservoirs in the region for diagnosis and treatment and to accurately determine the statistics of the disease compared to the obtained seroprevalence status.
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747507
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BACKGROUND: Respiratory infections caused by and are significant threats, especially to immunocompromised patients. Both pathogens are associated with severe pneumonia and are often underdiagnosed due to the challenges...BACKGROUND: Respiratory infections caused by and are significant threats, especially to immunocompromised patients. Both pathogens are associated with severe pneumonia and are often underdiagnosed due to the challenges in identifying them accurately, particularly in co-infections. We aimed to evaluate the prevalence and clinical impact of co-infections with and in patients with respiratory symptoms. METHODS: This cross-sectional study involved 111 patients admitted to the Pulmonary Ward of Imam Reza Hospital in Mashhad, Iran in 2023. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples were collected from all patients and analyzed microscopically and molecularly. PCR amplification targeting and was performed, with subsequent sequencing for molecular identification. The presence of was identified using a 346-bp PCR band. RESULTS: Of the 111 patients, was detected in 48 patients (43.2%), and in 47 patients (42.3%). Co-infections were identified in 26 patients (23.6%). Both infections were more common in males, though the difference between genders was not statistically significant. The highest prevalence was observed in patients over 60 years, with 18% and 19.8% infection rates for and , respectively. Co-infection rates were significantly higher in older patients and in males (= 0.028). CONCLUSION: The study demonstrates a significant prevalence of co-infections with and in patients with respiratory conditions, particularly in the elderly. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive diagnostic strategies, including molecular and microscopic approaches, to accurately diagnose and manage these co-infections in high-risk populations.
Haruay S, Loyha K, Doungboobpa C
… +2 more, Sawangkaew P, Khampoosa P
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747505
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BACKGROUND: We investigated the contributing factors of amoebic dysentery across five provinces in Northeastern Thailand from 2019 to 2023. Comprehensive data were collected regarding agricultural practices, disaster imp...BACKGROUND: We investigated the contributing factors of amoebic dysentery across five provinces in Northeastern Thailand from 2019 to 2023. Comprehensive data were collected regarding agricultural practices, disaster impacts, and demographic characteristics for Sisaket, Ubon Ratchathani, Yasothorn, Amnat Charoen, and Mukdahan. METHODS: Overall, 1,112 cases of amoebic dysentery were analyzed, revealing a higher prevalence among males in younger age groups, while females dominated in older cohorts. Sisaket reported the highest number of cases, followed by Ubon Ratchathani, Amnat Charoen, Yasothorn, and Mukdahan. Notably, Sisaket demonstrated the highest incidence rate of 10.28 cases per 100,000 population, compared with Ubon Ratchathani's 5.27 cases. RESULTS: The study highlights the interplay between environmental factors, agricultural practices, and sociodemographic characteristics, emphasizing how high disaster impact and reliance on natural agriculture may facilitate amoebic dysentery transmission. The findings underscore the importance of tailored public health interventions to mitigate the disease burden, particularly in vulnerable populations. Future research should focus on pinpointing specific factors driving the observed variations in disease prevalence across the region. CONCLUSION: This study serves as an essential resource for policymakers and public health officials aiming to enhance amoebic dysentery management strategies in Northeastern Thailand.
Fauziah N, Sari IP, Faridah L
… +4 more, Afriandi I, Adrizain R, Nugraha NF, Kurniawan A
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747504
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BACKGROUND: Stunting, resulting from chronic malnutrition, increases susceptibility to infections due to immature immunity. and may contribute to stunting. We aimed to determine the characteristics of intestinal protoz...BACKGROUND: Stunting, resulting from chronic malnutrition, increases susceptibility to infections due to immature immunity. and may contribute to stunting. We aimed to determine the characteristics of intestinal protozoan infection among stunting children. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2020 among 280 stunted children in Bandung Regency, West Java, Indonesia. Faecal specimens were collected, with portions preserved separately in 10% formaldehyde and RNA Later solution. Of these, 230 met the examination criteria. Risk factors and demographic data were obtained through interviews. DNA was extracted, and intestinal protozoan infection were detected using PCR targeting the 18S SSU rRNA gene for and 16S-like RNA gene for . RESULTS: The prevalence of and was 5.6% (13/230) and 55.6% (128/230), respectively. Multivariate analysis identified age ( 0.004; OR 0.327) and no availability of a septic tank ( 0.021; OR 4.881) were the significant risk factors for infection. For infection, significant risk factors included age ( 0.033; OR 0.722) and gender ( 0.047; OR 1.742). CONCLUSION: Stunting and intestinal protozoan infection present a dual burden. and infections were prevalent among stunted children. Significant risk factors included age and septic tank unavailability for , while age and gender were associated with infection. Improved sanitation and targeted interventions are essential to reduce infection risks.
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747503
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BACKGROUND: We aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of cutaneous leishmaniasis's (CL) clinical polymorphism by examining the relationship between clinical forms, duration of illness, and their spatiotemporal distrib...BACKGROUND: We aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of cutaneous leishmaniasis's (CL) clinical polymorphism by examining the relationship between clinical forms, duration of illness, and their spatiotemporal distribution. METHODS: A retrospective study at University of Gondar Hospital analyzed cutaneous leishmaniasis patients treated from 2022 to 2024. Demographic and epidemiologic data were collected, with parasite detection via microscopic and clinical examination. RESULTS: Overall, 454 CL cases from 49 districts were diagnosed, predominantly affecting males aged ≤30, with a mean age of 25.31 yr (SD ±18.3). Significant differences were noted in age and sex (<0.05). Approximately 70% had lesions ≥4 cm. Most CL cases had 2+ parasite loads. Sodium stibogluconate (SSG) remained the primary treatment choice for patients. The spatial distribution of CL cases covered a larger geographical area, although the cases (>20) were concentrated in Central Gondar. The mucosal CL shared a similar geographical pattern with the recurrent CL type. Notably, 48% had chronic presentations and lived with the disease for ≥12 months. In diffuse CL (DCL) a longer delay was seen and its clinical presentation was associated with longitudinal time series. Acute patients exhibited a higher parasitic load than chronic ones (38% vs. 24%), respectively. CONCLUSION: CL significantly affected school-aged children. The symmetrical distribution of cases in districts studied could increase the attention of clinicians and enhance management strategies. Extended disease durations necessitated specialized treatments for clinical transitions.
Ebrahimi Toodarvari M, Eskafian H, Staji H
… +1 more, Ahmadi-Hamedani M
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747502
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BACKGROUND: is a protozoan parasite transmitted by ticks and affects felids. Acute infection in domestic cats is characterized by symptoms such as lethargy, anorexia, fever, and anemia. METHODS: The present study focuse...BACKGROUND: is a protozoan parasite transmitted by ticks and affects felids. Acute infection in domestic cats is characterized by symptoms such as lethargy, anorexia, fever, and anemia. METHODS: The present study focuses on diagnosing and molecularly identifying using a real-time PCR method in cats from Semnan, Iran. During the winter and spring of 2024, two hundred cats were randomly selected from veterinary clinics in Semnan. Blood samples were collected from the cats for DNA extraction and molecular analysis. Samples were divided into 40 pooled of 5 samples, each consisting of a combination of 5 blood samples. Then, the genomic DNAs were extracted from blood specimens and screened by real-time PCR (RT-PCR) for the presence of infection by amplifying of ITS2 gene belonging to the genus. RESULTS: The results indicated that 6 out of the 200 blood samples were infected (3%). CONCLUSION: This study was conducted for the first time in Semnan and shows that the prevalence of in cats is significant.
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747501
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BACKGROUND: We aimed to investigate the presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO) in women with spontaneous abortion, both with and without toxoplasmosis. This was achieved by evaluating and comparing the seru...BACKGROUND: We aimed to investigate the presence of thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO) in women with spontaneous abortion, both with and without toxoplasmosis. This was achieved by evaluating and comparing the serum levels of interleukins IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, and TNF-α in women who experienced abortion due to toxoplasmosis, categorized by positive and negative anti-TPO status, with those who were toxoplasmosis-negative and also negative for anti-TPO. METHODS: We evaluated the serological presence of IgG and IgM antibodies to using an ELISA method, in Samarra City, Salah al-Din Governorate, Iraq in 2021-2022. A sample of 153 women with spontaneous abortion were enrolled. We also measured the serum levels of interleukins IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17, TNF-α, and anti-TPO using the same technique. RESULTS: Overall, 103 were -positive. Of these, 14 had positive anti-TPO results (13.5%), compared to only 3 positive cases among the 50 matched controls who were -negative (6.0%). The difference between -positive and -negative women regarding anti-TPO status was statistically significant for interleukins IL-4 (=0.010), IL-6 (=0.017), and IL-10 (=0.003), but not for IL-17 or TNF-α. Additionally, the statistical analysis revealed a highly significant difference in the average concentrations of interleukins IL-4 (=0.013) and IL-10 (<0.001) between the -positive/anti-TPO-positive group and the -negative/anti-TPO-negative group of aborted women. CONCLUSION: Elevated concentrations of IL-4, IL-10, and IL-6 have been associated with women undergoing recurrent miscarriages and negative anti-TPO results. The complex interaction between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines is essential for immunological balance and pregnancy outcomes in a condition of toxoplasmosis. An increase in IL-4 and IL-10 levels in anti-TPO-positive individuals may lead to an imbalance in immune response, facilitating the development of autoimmune thyroid disease.
Mikaeili F, Maraghi S, Kia EB
… +5 more, Sadjjadi FS, Karamian M, Shekarforoush SS, Fasihi Harandi M, Sadjjadi SM
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747499
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UNLABELLED: Cerebral cystic echinococcosis (CCE) and coenurosis are zoonotic diseases caused by the larval stages of and spp., respectively. Due to the similarity between the symptoms and clinical samples of CCE and ce...UNLABELLED: Cerebral cystic echinococcosis (CCE) and coenurosis are zoonotic diseases caused by the larval stages of and spp., respectively. Due to the similarity between the symptoms and clinical samples of CCE and cerebral coenurosis, especially in cases with no protoscoleces, the diagnostic methods for the differentiation of CCE from cerebral coenurosis are crucial, especially in countries where both diseases are endemic. To compare CCE and coenurosis, morphometric indices of protoscoleces and molecular methods were used in the present study. METHODS: In this regard, four isolates of human cerebral echinococcal cysts, three isolates of from sheep, and one non-cerebral from sheep muscles were evaluated. The isolated specimens have been collected from Shiraz, Ahvaz, Tehran and Kerman from before 2000 to 2022. The molecular characterization was carried out using the partial NADH dehydrogenase1 (nad1) gene. Phylogenetic analysis was performed using the maximum likelihood method. RESULTS: In fertile cysts, the total size of the large and small hooks of was larger than cerebral echinococcal cyst. These parameters demonstrated significant morphological differences between the and the cerebral echinococcal cyst. Molecular methods identified the cerebral echinococcal cysts as (G6) genotype. One and the non-cerebral were identified as and , respectively. CONCLUSION: Morphometric indices are significantly different between protoscoleces of and cerebral echinococcal cysts. Hence, they could be used for differential diagnosis of the fertile cysts of these cestodes. However, in cases with no protoscoleces, molecular methods are essential for the differentiation of CCE from cerebral coenurosis, especially in regions where both diseases are prevalent and endemic.
Ebrahimisadr P, Ghaffarifar F, Jabari J
… +4 more, Horton J, Sharifi Z, Dalimi A, Dayer MS
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747498
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BACKGROUND: is an obligate and intracellular pathogen and the macrophages are the cell hosts for . Imiquimod stimulates macrophages to secrete different cytokines via the expression of TLRs. METHODS: This study was carr...BACKGROUND: is an obligate and intracellular pathogen and the macrophages are the cell hosts for . Imiquimod stimulates macrophages to secrete different cytokines via the expression of TLRs. METHODS: This study was carried out in the Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, in 2018. The effect of imiquimod was investigated on non-infected and infected macrophages with on the expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and inflammatory cytokines. TLRs play an important role in enhancing the proceeding of phagocytosis and killing parasites. Moreover, the cytokines such as TNFα, IL6, and IL1, are often identified in inflammatory conditions as interfering targets in treatment. Healthy macrophages and macrophages infected with parasites were affected by different concentrations of imiquimod, after that the expression of TLR genes (TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR7 and TLR9) and cytokines were evaluated by real time RT-PCR. For experiments in laboratory animals, infected BALB/c mice were exposed to imiquimod and then isolated peritoneal macrophages. RESULTS: The expression of TLR2 decreased in non-infected macrophages were affected by the imiquimod. The expression level of TLR7 in healthy macrophages, decreased and the difference with control group was significant. Imiquimod increases the expression of inflammatory cytokines and IL12 in mouse macrophages and also decrease the expression of IL10. CONCLUSION: This suggests that imiquimod may improve the therapeutic effects in infected mice with . Imiquimod causes that TLR2 decreased expression but TLR7 and TLR9 increased expression. Imiquimod as TLR7 agonist, enhance the recovery of leishmaniasis.
Razmand B, Tahvildar Biderouni F, Abadi A
… +1 more, Taghipour N
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747497
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BACKGROUND: Toxoplasmosis and toxocariasis are two zoonotic diseases with global impact. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can lead to complications, associated with reduced immune responses that predispose them to frequent p...BACKGROUND: Toxoplasmosis and toxocariasis are two zoonotic diseases with global impact. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can lead to complications, associated with reduced immune responses that predispose them to frequent parasitic infections. We aimed to determine the prevalence of toxoplasmosis and toxocariasis in CKD patients to propose a new way to control them in dialyses duration in Tehran, Iran. METHODS: Three hundred and sixty-five CKD patients and 72 healthy individuals were tested for anti- (IgG, IgM) and anti- (IgG) antibodies using conventional ELISA technique. IgM positive samples underwent genetic analysis. RESULTS: Of the 437 samples studied (365 patients and 72 controls), 182 CKD patients (49.8%) and 20 controls (27.9%) were positive for IgG, and 8 (2.2%) CKD samples were positive for IgM, while none of the control samples were positive for IgM. Molecular analysis of the 8 IgM positive samples with B1gene confirmed the presence of Toxoplasma antigen in all of them. IgG antibodies showed a lower prevalence in CKD patients (5.7%) compared to controls (9.7%). The study revealed significant differences ( <0.05) in IgG and IgM antibodies, as well as variables such as dialysis and dialysis duration between the two groups of patients and the control group. However, variables such as IgG, age, gender, lupus, and pets showed no significant difference between the control group and the patients. CONCLUSION: The collected data in this study could serve as a reference for future studies and may be useful for examination and evaluation of acute and chronic toxoplasmosis before and after starting dialysis.
Putra DE, Kasman I, Boro AMB
… +2 more, Purnama A, Zulfikar E
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40747496
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Malaria continues to pose a significant public health challenge, particularly in certain regions of Indonesia, where it remains endemic. is responsible for the most severe form of the disease, often leading to life-thre...Malaria continues to pose a significant public health challenge, particularly in certain regions of Indonesia, where it remains endemic. is responsible for the most severe form of the disease, often leading to life-threatening complications such as acute kidney injury (AKI). Here, we report the case of a 22-year-old male from Sikka Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia, with a seven-day history of intermittent fever following recent travel to malaria-endemic areas. On physical examination, he appeared somnolent and exhibited icteric sclera, hepatomegaly, and dark yellow urine. Laboratory findings were notable for impaired kidney function (serum creatinine 3.52 mg/dL (311 μmol/L)), elevated transaminases, hyperbilirubinemia, thrombocytopenia, and a parasitemia level of 9.7%. Imaging studies revealed pulmonary edema, enlarged kidneys, ascites, pleural effusion, and hepatomegaly. The patient was diagnosed with severe falciparum malaria, complicated by AKI, pulmonary edema, and jaundice. He was then treated with intravenous artesunate for six days, followed by a three-day course of oral dihydroartemisinin/piperaquine and a single dose of primaquine. Additionally, he underwent two sessions of timely hemodialysis. His clinical condition and kidney function gradually improved thereafter, and he was discharged without sequelae. This case highlights that early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can lead to full recovery from AKI caused by severe malaria.
Arbabi M, Haddad A, Hosseipour Mashkani SM
… +1 more, Hooshyar H
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40206379
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BACKGROUND: Dicrocoeliasis is an important helminthic zoonosis reported from many parts of the world. Due to low-performance medications, drug delivery is a great challenge in improving the treatment of this liver fluke...BACKGROUND: Dicrocoeliasis is an important helminthic zoonosis reported from many parts of the world. Due to low-performance medications, drug delivery is a great challenge in improving the treatment of this liver fluke infection. We aimed to determine the anthelmintic properties of Nanosilver oxide (AgO) against infection. METHODS: The impacts of various concentrations of AgO nanoparticles (50-200 μg/ml) for 12-24 hours were compared with closantel, a chemical drug. The anthelmintic efficacy was evaluated using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) technique. The synthesized nanoparticles were analyzed for structural assessment using XRD, UV-VIS spectroscopy, and SEM. The XRD pattern shows the formation of AgO nanoparticles. RESULTS: The UV-VIS spectra showed the broad peak, corresponding to Ag nanoparticles. SEM images of treated parasites by AgO (200 μg/ml) showed severe damage, which includes complete loss of sensory papillae and destruction of prominent network structures and tegument vesicles. The mortality rate increases with the increase in the concentration and exposure time of the parasite to nanoparticles. Besides the MTT assay, the toxicity of AgO, at concentrations of 800 μg/ml was 8.7%. CONCLUSION: AgO NPs have potent anthelmintic effects on liver fluke . This is the first research that assessed the effect of AgO NP on liver fluke . Hence, the present study provides a basis for future research on the control of this common trematode.
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40206378
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species are a significant cause of persistent untreatable diarrhea in HIV-positive patients, especially in developing countries; however, extra-intestinal instances are rarely documented. Herein, we present three cases o...species are a significant cause of persistent untreatable diarrhea in HIV-positive patients, especially in developing countries; however, extra-intestinal instances are rarely documented. Herein, we present three cases of pulmonary cryptosporidiosis in HIV patients at Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Despite the combination treatment with antiretroviral therapy, azithromycin, and paromomycin, the death of all 3 patients occurred due to severe complications. These cases highlight the importance of early diagnosis and management of respiratory cryptosporidiosis in HIV patients with low CD4 counts.
Gashaw B, Yizengaw E, Nigatie F
… +1 more, Nibret E
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40206377
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BACKGROUND: is the leading cause of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Ethiopia. Different clinical manifestations might be related to host immunity, which itself can be influenced by the host's nutritional status. However...BACKGROUND: is the leading cause of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Ethiopia. Different clinical manifestations might be related to host immunity, which itself can be influenced by the host's nutritional status. However, there is limited evidence that associates nutritional status with CL in Ethiopia. We investigated the relationship between clinical variables of CL and malnutrition. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted in June 2024. Patient data was analyzed from those treated for CL and screened for nutrition from January 2022 to May 2024 at Tefera Hailu and Addis Zemen Primary Hospitals. Nutritional status was assessed through Anthropometric measurements. RESULTS: A total of 470 CL patients were treated, with a prevalence of 14.65/100, 000 population affected. Out of the total CL patients, 217 were assessed for nutrition, 22% were malnourished. Malnutrition was most prevalent in mucosal (30%) and recurrent cases (38.5%), compared to localized (20%) and new cases (21%) respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Malnutrition might have the potential to shape the clinical manifestation and treatment outcome in CL patients. In CL endemic areas nutritional supplement with the treatment of CL could require for better patient outcome.
Amin Ghobadi M, Mahmoudvand H, Khalaf AK
… +3 more, Azadbakht F, Rashidipour M, Salimikia I
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40206376
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BACKGROUND: Given the significant role of chitosan nanoparticles in medicine, the present study aimed to assess the efficacy of synthesized chitosan nanoparticles coated with thymol (CNCT) in combating infection. METHO...BACKGROUND: Given the significant role of chitosan nanoparticles in medicine, the present study aimed to assess the efficacy of synthesized chitosan nanoparticles coated with thymol (CNCT) in combating infection. METHODS: Mice were administered CNCT orally at dosages ranging from 0.25 to 0.75 mg/kg/day for a duration of 14 days. Following this treatment, they were infected with tachyzoites of the Rh strain to induce acute toxoplasmosis. Then, the mortality rate, parasite load, antioxidant activity, and the gene expression level of proinflammatory cytokines were evaluated. RESULTS: The dimensions of CNTN exhibit variability, with a mean size of 295 nm. The prophylactic administration of CNTN in mice infected with T. gondii resulted in a significant enhancement in survival rates and a considerable decrease in parasite load (<0.001). The CNTN caused a significant decrease in malondialdehyde level, while a notable increase ( < 0.001) in the activity of the antioxidant enzymes. The feeding the mice infected with CNTN caused a meaningful elevation in the expression level of TNFα- and IL-1β (<0.001). The biochemical analyses indicated no significant changes in the serum levels of liver and kidney function markers. CONCLUSION: The recent study revealed that CNTN demonstrates promising effects against toxoplasmosis in murine models. These effects are attributed to its antioxidant properties and immunomodulatory capabilities, which increase specific pro-inflammatory cytokines without any noticeable signs of toxicity to liver and kidney function.
Asfaram S, Zarei Z, Teimoorpour R
… +9 more, Heidari Z, Iranpour S, Azghani P, Motavallibashi SE, Rakhshidan Z, Khademi Z, Mohammadi-Ghalehbin B, Habibzadeh S, Molaei S
Iran J Parasitol
· 2025 · PMID 40206375
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BACKGROUND: We aimed to investigate the serological and molecular characteristics of infection among pregnant women and their aborted placentas in Meshkin-Shahr City during 2019-2020. METHODS: Blood samples of 210 pregn...BACKGROUND: We aimed to investigate the serological and molecular characteristics of infection among pregnant women and their aborted placentas in Meshkin-Shahr City during 2019-2020. METHODS: Blood samples of 210 pregnant women were evaluated for anti- antibodies and related risk factors were determined. Also, the sera of aborted women and their buffy coats and aborted placenta tissues were used to detect anti- antibodies and the parasite's DNA, respectively. The parasite genotypes were determined by the PCR-RFLP using the gene. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of anti- IgG was 24.3% and only 1% of participants were seropositive for the IgM antibody. There was a significant relationship between raw or unwashed vegetable consumption, contact with soil, vegetable/fruit washing type, and seropositivity (<0.05). During pregnancy, 4.7% of women encountered an abortion and 30% and 50% of cases were positive for IgG antibodies before and after abortion, respectively. Only two cases were IgM seropositive after abortion. In the avidity IgG test, 20% of cases showed low avidity. BLAST and phylogenetic analysis exhibited that all isolates belonged to the type III genotype. Although two women with spontaneous abortions showed seropositivity for IgM antibody, parasite DNA was detected in three cases. CONCLUSION: The seroprevalence of infection is not high in pregnant women. Seropositive women are not safe from congenital transmission. type III is the etiology of fetus infection in mothers with spontaneous abortion. It seems that screening and essential care are still necessary during pregnancy.