Amoebiasis, a disease which occurs due to the presence of the protozoan Entamoeba histolytica, is more common among people who live in underdeveloped or developing countries. This disease is transmitted via an extracellular route, therefore it remains common in areas where there is poor hygiene and sanitation. The vaccines for amoebiasis can be developed with the help of technologies that our company possesses, therefore making us the most competent service providers of research amoebiasis.
Overview of Amoebiasis
Amoebiasis is caused by an intestinal parasitic infection which is caused by Entamoeba histolytica which has been set as the norm in the tropical countries where hygiene is not properly maintained. And as per the studies conducted throughout the years, it has been evident that there are still some parts of central and South America, and Africa where amoebiasis is still present and is not eradicated completely, additionally India and Australia have some affected parts too. Even though the disease is not that common in the developed countries still there are a few cases which can be associated with travelers who visit infected areas.
Fig.1 The lifecycle of Entamoeba histolytica is influenced by the microbiota. (Guillen, N., 2023)
The pathogenic mechanisms of Entamoeba histolytica encompass a multitude of important steps and components. First, the parasite attaches to the intestinal epithelium by means of molecules like the Gal/GalNAc lectin. Then, after adhesion has occurred E. histolytica secretes such enzymatic products as cysteine proteases and amebapeptides, which subsequently degrade the extracellular matrix and lyse the host’s cells. This degradation promotes in tissue infiltration and subsequently ulcers and abscesses.
Fig.2 Steps in the establishment of intestinal amoebiasis and host and parasite factors involved. (Carrero, J.C., et al., 2020)
Diagnosis Development of Amoebiasis
Antigen detection ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) is gaining popularity to diagnose intestinal amoebiasis because of the shortcomings of conventional techniques. ELISA is able to identify select E. histolytica antigens from individual samples and this translates into good accuracy. It is also possible to establish the pathogenic from the non-pathogenic amoebae. In a study conducted in Bangladesh, the TechLab E. histolytica II ELISA kit demonstrated sensitivity ranging from 86% to 95% and specificity from 93% to 100%, outperforming microscopy and culture methods in detecting E. histolytica in stool samples from individuals with diarrhea.
Vaccine Development for Amoebiasis
Progress of Vaccine Development
According to current vaccine research, both rodent and non-human primate models show potential in preventing against E. Histolytica. Vaccines based on both native and recombinant forms of the amoebic Gal/GalNAc lectin and Cholera toxin B subunit when combined with Gal-lectin in baboons shows considerable and immune responses and protection.
Challenges in Vaccine Development
To successfully develop an E. histolytica vaccine, various aspects need to be addressed such as emulsion dosage, adjuvants and boosts which requires extensive trials. Although research on nonhuman primates suggests that all models have potential, nothing has been done that shows indications of vaccine efficacy.
Our Services
Our company has a dedicated team that works with clients to develop technology that can assist in formulating innovative vaccines and therapies and provides solutions regarding amoebiasis. Working in collaboration with clients through our group of highly experienced scientists, immunologists, and pharmacologists we utilize advanced technologies and methodologies to expedite the project process.
Animal Models of Amoebiasis
Capitalizing on our vast knowledge, we create and utilize animal models that closely mimic the features of amebiasis disease and its treatment responses. For a thorough understanding of the pathophysiology of amebiasis and for the convincing assessment of how safe and effective the disease treatments are, these models are indispensable.
| Pathogen Infection Models |
| These models involve infecting specific animal models with Entamoeba histolytica to study disease mechanisms, immune responses, and potential therapies. |
| Optional Models |
- Entamoeba histolytica-Infected SCID Mouse Model
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- Entamoeba histolytica-Infected C3H/HeJ Mouse Model
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| Humanized Models |
| Humanized models are engineered to express human tissues or immune components, allowing for a more accurate representation of human disease conditions. |
| Optional Models |
- SCID Mice with Human Intestinal Xenografts
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- NOD/SCID/γcnull Mice Reconstituted with Human Immune Cells
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| Optional Species |
Mice, Rats, Non-human primates, Others |
The focus is directed towards finding and analyzing novel chemotherapeutic and antibacterial agents which can include small molecules, peptides and recombinant biologics, that counter the virulence factors in the amoebiasis therapy. Even so we provide assistance with the assessment, refining and progression of the therapeutic pipeline.
If you are interested in our services, please don't hesitate to contact us.
References
- Guillen, N., "Pathogenicity and virulence of Entamoeba histolytica, the agent of amoebiasis." Virulence, (2023). 14(1): p. 2158656.
- Carrero, J.C., et al., "Intestinal amoebiasis: 160 years of its first detection and still remains as a health problem in developing countries." Int J Med Microbiol, (2020). 310(1): p. 151358.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use
only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
