Amoebiasis, a parasitic infection caused by the protozoan Entamoeba histolytica, primarily affects individuals in developing nations with poor sanitation. This disease, transmitted via an extracellular route, is prevalent in areas where hygiene standards are inadequate. Our company offers comprehensive services for the development of amoebiasis vaccines, leveraging cutting-edge research and advanced technologies, providing high-quality services to support your research.
Overview of Amoebiasis
Amoebiasis is a significant parasitic infection caused by Entamoeba histolytica, particularly prevalent in tropical regions with poor sanitation. Recent studies highlight that the disease remains endemic in parts of Central and South America, Africa, and Asia. Globally, while the incidence in developed countries is low, there are still reports of amoebiasis, primarily linked to travelers from endemic regions.
Fig.1 The lifecycle of Entamoeba histolytica is influenced by the microbiota. (Guillen, N., 2023)
The pathogenic mechanisms of Entamoeba histolytica involve several critical steps and factors. Initially, the parasite adheres to the intestinal epithelium using surface molecules such as the Gal/GalNAc lectin. Following adhesion, E. histolytica releases enzymes like cysteine proteases and amebapores, which degrade the extracellular matrix and cause host cell lysis. This degradation facilitates tissue invasion and leads to the formation of 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
Due to the limitations of traditional methods, antigen detection ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) has become widely used for diagnosing intestinal amoebiasis. ELISA detects specific E. histolytica antigens in individual samples, offering higher sensitivity and specificity. It can also differentiate between pathogenic and 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
Current vaccine research in rodent and nonhuman primate models shows promise for protecting against E. histolytica. Studies using both native and recombinant forms of the amoebic Gal/GalNAc lectin, as well as coadministering Cholera toxin B subunit with Gal-lectin in baboons, have resulted in significant protection and immune responses.
Challenges in Vaccine Development
Rigorous testing is essential for developing a successful vaccine against E. histolytica, including optimizing doses, adjuvants, and boosts. While animal models, particularly nonhuman primates, show promise, long-term memory induction, a key marker of vaccine success has not yet been demonstrated.
Our Services
At our company, we are proud to offer a comprehensive suite of services to support our clients in the development of innovative amoebiasis vaccines and therapies. Our team of seasoned scientists, immunologists, and pharmacologists leverages state-of-the-art technologies and deep domain expertise to accelerate the progress of your projects.
Animal Models of Amoebiasis
Drawing on our extensive expertise, we develop and employ animal models that accurately replicate the disease characteristics and therapeutic responses of amoebiasis. These models are crucial for precisely studying the pathophysiology of amoebiasis and for rigorously evaluating the safety and efficacy of potential therapies.
| 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 |
In amoebiasis therapy development, our team focuses on discovering and characterizing new antimicrobial agents, such as small molecules, peptides, and biologics, that target virulence factors. We also offer services to support the evaluation, optimization, and advancement of your 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.
