MedWorm: Sleeping Sickness

Uganda: WHO Unveils New Sleeping Sickness Drug

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:54:35 +0100

THE World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Ministry of Health have commissioned a new and more effective drug for the treatment of advanced sleeping sickness. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

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The development of drugs for treatment of sleeping sickness: a historical review

Parasites and Vectors — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Only four drugs are available for the chemotherapy of human African trypanosomiasis or sleeping sickness; suramin, pentamidine, melarsoprol and eflornithine. The history of the development of these drugs is well known and documented. Suramin, pentamidine and melarsoprol were developed in the first half of the last century by the then recently established methods of medicinal chemistry. Eflornithine, originally developed in the 1970s as an anti-cancer drug, became a treatment of sleeping sickness largely by accident. This review summarises the developmental processes which led to these chemotherapies from the discovery of the first bioactive lead compounds to the identification of the final drugs. (Source: Parasites and Vectors)

How can tsetse population genetics contribute to African trypanosomiasis control?

Trends in Parasitology — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Solano P, Ravel S, de Meeûs T In sub-Saharan Africa, tsetse transmitted Trypanosomiases have an enormous impact on human health and economic development. Both the World Health Organisation and African countries through the Pan African Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Eradication Campaign (PATTEC) have recently asserted their determination to rid the sub-continent of these diseases, and it is increasingly recognised that vector control should play an important role. This review mainly focuses on population genetics of tsetse of the palpalis group, the main vectors of sleeping sickness, and reports recent results on tsetse population structure and on measures of gene flow between populations. Implications of these studies for large-scale tsetse control programmes being undertaken...

Evaluation of nucleoside hydrolase inhibitors for the treatment of African trypanosomiasis.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Berg M, Kohl L, Van der Veken P, Joossens J, Al-Salabi MI, Castagna V, Giannese F, Cos P, Versées W, Steyaert J, Grellier P, Haemers A, Degano M, Maes L, de Koning HP, Augustyns K In this paper we present the biochemical and biological evaluation of N-arylmethyl-substituted iminoribitol derivatives as potential chemotherapeutic agents against trypanosomiasis. Previously, a library of 52 compounds was designed and synthesized as potent and selective inhibitors of Trypanosoma vivax IAG-NH. However, when tested against bloodstream form Trypanosoma brucei brucei, only one inhibitor, N-(9-deaza-adenin-9-yl)methyl-1,4-dideoxy-1,4-imino-D-ribitol (UAMC-00363), displayed a significant activity (IC50 = 0.49 +/- 0.31 muM). A validation in an in vivo model of African trypanosomiasis...

White House Called on to Expand Global Health Initiative

MSF News — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 09:27:00 +0100

New York, February 24, 2010 The Obama administrations Global Health Initiative (GHI) does not go far enough in combating the most lethal neglected tropical diseases for which an estimated one billion people are infected, the international medical humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) said today. MSF and DNDi call on the US government to expand the GHI to encompass treatment programs for all neglected tropical diseases, while supporting a research and development pipeline that will produce more effective, safer, and accessible medicines to patients as quickly as possible. In its current formulation, the GHI proposes significant funding increases for treating only five of 14 so-called ne...

Overproduction, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of Trypanosoma brucei gambiense glycerol kinase

Acta Crystallographica Section F — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this study, a recombinant Trypanosoma brucei gambiense GK (rTbgGK) with an N-terminal cleavable His6 tag was overexpressed, purified to homogeneity and crystallized by the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method using PEG 400 as a precipitant. A complete X-ray diffraction data set to 2.75 Å resolution indicated that the crystals belonged to the orthorhombic space group P212121, with unit-cell parameters a = 63.84, b = 121.50, c = 154.59 Å. The presence of two rTbgGK molecules in the asymmetric unit gives a Matthews coefficient (VM) of 2.5 Å3 Da−1, corresponding to 50% solvent content. (Source: Acta Crystallographica Section F)

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Digital gene expression analysis of two life cycle stages of the human-infective parasite, Trypanosoma brucei gambiense reveals differentially expressed clusters of co-regulated genes.

BMC Genomics - Latest articles — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: DGE analysis is extremely sensitive for detecting gene expression differences, revealing firstly that a far greater number of genes are stage-regulated than had previously been identified and secondly and more importantly, this analysis has revealed the existence of several differentially expressed clusters of genes present on what appears to be the same polycistronic units, a phenomenon which had not previously been observed in microarray studies. These differentially regulated clusters of genes are in addition to the previously identified RNA polymerase I polycistronic units of variant surface glycoproteins and procyclin expression sites, which encode the major surface proteins of the parasite. This raises a number of questions regarding the function and regulation of the ge...

Trypanosomatid Parasites Causing Neglected Diseases.

Current Medicinal Chemistry — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Nu Szlig Baum K, Honek J, van Curtlandt Cadmus CM, Efferth T Parasitic diseases such as Kala azar (visceral leishmaniasis), Chagas disease (American trypanosomiasis) and African sleeping sickness (African trypanosomiasis) are affecting more than 27 million people worldwide. They are categorized amongst the most important neglected diseases causing approximately 150,000 deaths annually. As no vaccination is available, treatment is solely dependent on chemotherapeutic drugs. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the treatment of Kala azar, Chagas disease and African sleeping sickness. In addition to established drugs, novel smallmolecule- based therapeutic approaches are discussed. Drugs currently used for the treatment of Kala azar include pentavalent antimonials, A...

The Central role of Macrophages in Trypanosomiasis-Associated Anemia: Rationale for Therapeutical Approaches.

Endocrine, Metabolic and Immune Disorders Drug Targets — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

In this report we review the current knowledge of the mechanisms underlying trypanosomiasis-associated anemia. In first instance, the central role of macrophages and particularly their activation state in determining the outcome of the disease (i.e. trypanosusceptibility versus trypanotolerance) will be discussed. In essence, while persistence of classically activated macrophages (M1) contributes to anemia development, switching towards alternatively activated macrophages (M2) alleviates pathology including anemia. Secondly, while parasite-derived glycolipids such as the glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) induce M1, host-derived IL-10 blocks M1-mediated inflammation, promotes M2 development and prevents anemia development. In this context, strategies aimed at inducing the M1 to M2 switch, ...

Uganda: Sleeping Sickness Hits the North

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 09:50:33 +0100

FORMER internally displaced persons in the north are facing a threat of sleeping sickness as they return to their villages after the Lord's Resistance Army insurgency ended. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

African trypanosomiasis - killer coma - the evolving story of sleeping sickness (Lancet review)

Clinical Cases and Images — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 14:12:28 +0100

Human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) occurs in sub-Saharan Africa. It is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei, transmitted by tsetse flies. With 12,000 cases of this disabling and fatal disease reported per year, trypanosomiasis belongs to the most neglected tropical diseases. Life cycle of the Trypanosoma brucei parasites. Source: CDC, Wikipedia, public domain. The clinical presentation is complex, and diagnosis and treatment difficult. The available drugs are old, complicated to administer, and can cause severe adverse reactions. Imagine a disease that starts with a fly's bite and ends in death. The first stage of this disease causes non-specific symptoms such as itching and joint pains. If left untreated, it progresses to the second stage weeks, mon...

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Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Metabolism/Pharmacokinetics Partners to Support Lead Discovery for Infectious Tropical Diseases

ScanGrants feed — Sat, 13 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

TDR is supporting innovative research on neglected disease through focused and time-limited activities. The Lead Discovery Business line of TDR (LDR) aims to facilitate the discovery of new drug leads for infectious tropical diseases through North- South networks and partnerships between public and private sectors as well as academic institutions. Through the TDRs screening activities, several confirmed hits and lead compounds have become available for further SAR exploration and progression for several TDR target diseases including schistosomiasis, onchocerciasis, filariasis, African sleeping sickness, leishmaniasis, Chagas disease, malaria and tuberculosis.We are now seeking partners with expertise in medicinal chemistry, and DMPK to take on the optimization of available molecules evalu...

Gene Expression in Trypanosomatid Parasites

Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology — Thu, 11 Feb 2010 16:22:37 +0100

The parasites Leishmania spp., Trypanosoma brucei, and Trypanosoma cruzi are the trypanosomatid protozoa that cause the deadly human diseases leishmaniasis, African sleeping sickness, and Chagas disease, respectively. These organisms possess unique mechanisms for gene expression such as constitutive polycistronic transcription of protein-coding genes and trans-splicing. Little is known about either the DNA sequences or the proteins that are involved in the initiation and termination of transcription in trypanosomatids. In silico analyses of the genome databases of these parasites led to the identification of a small number of proteins involved in gene expression. However, functional studies have revealed that trypanosomatids have more general transcription factors than originally estimated...

In Vitro activities of plant extracts from Saudi Arabia against malaria, leishmaniasis, sleeping sickness and Chagas disease

Phytotherapy Research — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

The in vitro activity of the methanol extracts of 51 plants randomly collected from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and some of their fractions (petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate and aqueous) were evaluated against Plasmodium falciparum, Trypanosoma brucei brucei, T. cruzi and Leishmania infantum, as well as toxicity against MRC-5 fibroblast cells. Ten crude methanolic extracts that demonstrated potent and adequately selective antiprotozoal activity were subjected to solvent fractionation using petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and chloroform. Only three samples showed promising antiprotozoal activity. Argemone ochroleuca (CHCl3 fraction) showed pronounced activity against P. falciparumGHA (IC50 0.32 [mgr]g/mL) and T. cruzi (IC50 0.30 [mgr]g/mL) with low cytotoxicity against MRC-5 cells ...

A critical role for highly conserved Glu610 residue of oligopeptidase B from Trypanosoma brucei in thermal stability

Journal of Biochemistry — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:26:23 +0100

In this study, the roles of Glu607, Glu609 and Glu610 in Tb OPB were investigated by site-directed mutagenesis. A striking effect on kcat/Km was obtained following mutation of Glu607 to glutamine. In contrast, the heat stability of Tb OPB decreased markedly following the single mutation of Glu610 to glutamine, although this mutation had significantly less effect on catalytic properties compared with the Glu607 mutation. Although no differences were found in the tertiary and secondary structures between wild-type (WT) OPB and the E610Q mutant prior to heat treatment, the E610Q mutant is inactivated more rapidly than WT OPB following heat treatment in a manner correlating with its attendant structural changes. Trypsin digestion showed that the boundary regions between the β-propeller an...

Human African Trypanosomiasis in Areas without Surveillance.

Emerging Infectious Diseases — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Chappuis F, Lima MA, Flevaud L, Ritmeijer K To the Editor: Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), sleeping sickness, is a systemic protozoan disease transmitted by the bite of a tsetse fly; untreated infection is fatal (1). Control of HAT caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense, which caused 97% of all cases reported from 1997 through 2006 (2), is based on active screening of the population at risk by mobile teams and treatment of all infected persons, with or without vector control. PMID: 20113585 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Emerging Infectious Diseases)

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Exocytosis and protein secretion in Trypanosoma

BMC Microbiology - Latest articles — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: This study brings out several unexpected features of the secreted proteins and opens novel perspectives concerning the survival strategy of Trypanosoma as well as possible ways to control the disease. In addition, concordant lines of evidence support the original hypothesis of the involvement of microvesicle-like bodies in the survival strategy allowing Trypanosoma to exchange proteins at least between parasites and/or to manipulate the host immune system. (Source: BMC Microbiology - Latest articles)

Uganda: Livestock Trade is Culprit in Sleeping Sickness Spread

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 20:56:57 +0100

Scientists baffled by the continued spread of sleeping sickness through Uganda have discovered that it is livestock markets that are driving the disease. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Livestock trade is culprit in sleeping sickness spread

SciDev.Net — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 03:54:25 +0100

Livestock markets are behind the spread of sleeping sickness in Uganda, say researchers, despite efforts to treat cattle. (Source: SciDev.Net)

Identification of the Leishmania major Proteins LmjF07.0430, LmjF07.0440, and LmjF27.2440 as Components of Fatty Acid Synthase II

Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 16:21:00 +0100

Leishmania major causes leishmaniasis and is grouped within the Trypanosomatidae family, which also includes the etiologic agent for African sleeping sickness, Trypanosoma brucei. Previous studies on T. brucei showed that acyl carrier protein (ACP) of mitochondrial fatty acid synthase type 2 (FASII) plays a crucial role in parasite survival. Additionally, 3-oxoacyl-ACP synthase TbKASIII as well as TbHTD2 representing 3-hydroxyacyl-ACP dehydratase were also identified; however, 3-oxoacyl-ACP reductase TbKAR1 has hitherto evaded positive identification. Here, potential Leishmania FASII components LmjF07.0440 and LmjF07.0430 were revealed as 3-hydroxyacyl-ACP dehydratases LmHTD2-1 and LmHTD2-2, respectively, whereas LmjF27.2440 was identified as LmKAR1. These Leishmania proteins were ectopica...

African sleeping sickness: Loosely coiled DNA helps trypanosomes make their escape

ScienceDaily Headlines — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 16:23:55 +0100

To escape the grip of the human immune system, Trypanosoma brucei, which causes African sleeping sickness, performs its acclaimed disappearing act. Every time the host's immune cells get close to eliminating the infection, a small number of trypanosomes avoid detection by changing their surface 'coat.' Now, after 30 years of contradictory and inconclusive findings, researchers reveal that trypanosomes' ability to strategically coil their DNA is part of the mechanism by which they make their stealthy escape. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

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How GlaxoSmithKline chief has changed the agenda for big pharma

Guardian Unlimited Science — Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:05:30 +0100

• Shift in expectations over health in developing world• Critics say GSK hopes for profits in future yearsFew who hear him doubt Andrew Witty's desire to improve health in the developing world is sincere. But critics of GlaxoSmithKline's chief executive point out that his moves to reduce the price of medicine in poor countries have cost Britain's biggest drug company little, and that there may be benefits in future years from business in emerging markets.What GSK has done is shift pharma's agenda. Even if other companies will not join in with its patent pool, declining to allow scientists to explore their patented compounds to see if any could become treatments for neglected diseases, the entire industry has to deal with changing expectations. Witty talks of duties and responsibilities...

Enzyme Structure Could Lead to New Drugs for Sleeping Sickness

NIGMS - Results — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 22:17:22 +0100

NIGMS-supported scientists have determined the structure of an enzyme essential to the survival of the protozoan parasites that cause sleeping sickness, Chagas disease and leishmaniasis. (Source: NIGMS - Results)

Scientists Hope To End Sleeping Sickness By Making Parasite That Causes It Self-Destruct

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 09:00:00 +0100

After many years of study, a team of researchers is releasing data that it hopes will lead to new drug therapies that will kill the family of parasites that causes a deadly trio of insect-borne diseases and has afflicted inhabitants of underdeveloped and developing nations for centuries... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Scientists Hope To End Sleeping Sickness By Making Parasite That Causes It Self-Destruct

Tropical Diseases News From Medical News Today — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 09:00:00 +0100

Scientists hope to end sleeping sickness by making parasite that causes it to self-destruct

ScienceDaily Headlines — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 07:00:00 +0100

Scientists are developing new drug therapies that they hope will kill the family of parasites that causes a deadly trio of insect-borne diseases and has afflicted inhabitants of underdeveloped and developing nations for centuries. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

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Scientists hope to end sleeping sickness by making parasite that causes it self-destruct

EurekAlert! - Biology — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 05:00:00 +0100

(American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology) After many years of study, a team of researchers is releasing data today that it hopes will lead to new drug therapies that will kill the family of parasites that causes a deadly trio of insect-borne diseases and has afflicted inhabitants of underdeveloped and developing nations for centuries. (Source: EurekAlert! - Biology)

Spatial distribution of African Animal Trypanosomiasis in Suba and Teso districts in Western Kenya

BMC Research Notes — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: These findings suggest a need to design control strategies that target not just the biological vector tsetse, but also the parasite in cattle in order to clear the possibly mechanically transmitted T. vivax infections. There is need to also review the accuracy of available tsetse maps. (Source: BMC Research Notes)

Diversity and Spatial distribution of vectors and hosts of T. brucei gambiense in forest zones of, Southern Cameroon: epidemiological implications.

Acta Tropica — Sat, 09 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Massussi JA, Massussi JA, Mbida JA, Djieto-Lordon C, Njiokou F, Laveissière C Host and vector distribution of T. brucei gambiense was studied in relation to habitat types and seasons. Six (19.35%) of the 31 mammal species recorded in Bipindi were reservoir hosts. Cercopithecus nictitans was confined to the undisturbed forest and the low intensive shifting cultivation zones, while Cephalophus monticola, Cephalophus dorsalis, Cricetomys gambianus,Atherurus africanus and Nandinia binotata occurred in all the habitat types. As for vectors of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), Glossina palpalis palpalis, was the most abundant (99.13%) among tsetse fly species. It occurs in all biotopes with its highest density recorded in the village-adjacent forest. The village-adjacent for...

Loosely coiled DNA helps trypanosomes make their escape

The Rockefeller University Newswire — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 18:30:00 +0100

Some animals use camouflage to outsmart their prey; others use mimicry or fake their own death. But Trypanosoma brucei, the wily parasite that causes African sleeping sickness, is the only organism we know of that can change its molecular identity on command to escape the grip of the human immune system. New research reveals a key discovery that has eluded scientists for decades: To avoid capture, trypanosomes must strategically uncoil their DNA. (Source: The Rockefeller University Newswire)

[Editorial] Killer coma: the evolving story of sleeping sickness treatment

LANCET — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Imagine a disease that starts with a fly's bite and ends in death. The first stage of this disease causes non-specific symptoms such as itching and joint pains. If left untreated, it progresses to the second stage weeks, months, or even years later in which the affected person displays dramatic neurological and psychiatric symptoms before slipping into a fatal coma. This killer disease is endemic to several countries, putting millions of people at risk with around 12 000 people infected every year. Yet there is no field-friendly diagnostic test and, until recently, the most effective treatment for the second stage was almost as dangerous as the disease. (Source: LANCET)

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[Seminar] Human African trypanosomiasis

LANCET — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) occurs in sub-Saharan Africa. It is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei, transmitted by tsetse flies. Almost all cases are due to Trypanosoma brucei gambiense, which is indigenous to west and central Africa. Prevalence is strongly dependent on control measures, which are often neglected during periods of political instability, thus leading to resurgence. With fewer than 12 000 cases of this disabling and fatal disease reported per year, trypanosomiasis belongs to the most neglected tropical diseases. The clinical presentation is complex, and diagnosis and treatment difficult. The available drugs are old, complicated to administer, and can cause severe adverse reactions. New diagnostic methods and safe and effective drugs ar...

Lancet seminar: Human African trypanosomiasis

NeLM - News — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100

Source: Lancet Area: News Human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) occurs in sub-Saharan Africa and is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma brucei, transmitted by tsetse flies. This seminar discusses its epidemiology, the vector and parasite, clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, prevention and control, and research priorities. (Source: NeLM - News)

How to Shorten Patient Follow‐Up after Treatment for Trypanosoma brucei gambiense Sleeping Sickness

The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 22:03:04 +0100

Conclusion. Combining criteria for failure and cure allows follow‐up of patients with second‐stage human African trypanosomiasis to be shortened to a maximum duration of 12 months. (Source: The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

Uganda: Sleeping Sickness Worries Health Workers

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 14:09:00 +0100

The increasing cases of sleeping sickness in Kaberamaido district have alarmed health workers. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Confusion or reduced level of consciousness in the returned traveller

Medicine — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 15:32:43 +0100

Abstract: A large number of tropical infections can cause neurological syndromes but the returning traveller is more likely to have a condition that is well known to a UK physician. Malaria is the most commonly imported life-threatening tropical infection and should be excluded urgently in all patients. It is also important not to miss herpes encephalitis, bacterial meningitis and systemic infection, especially typhoid, as early treatment will change prognosis. Infections caused by arboviruses, such as Japanese B encephalitis, are rare but rabies and human African trypanosomiasis can cause a classical encephalitic presentation. HIV must always be considered, and non-infectious causes including drugs may be more common in travellers. A detailed geographical history is crucial and a systemat...

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"Top Ten" Humanitarian Crises: Aid blocked and diseases neglected

MSF News — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 21:04:00 +0100

Civilians attacked, bombed, and cut off from aid in Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), along with stagnant funding for treating HIV/AIDS and ongoing neglect of other diseases, were among the worst emergencies in 2009, the international medical humanitarian organization Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported today in its annual list of the "Top Ten" humanitarian crises. Continuing crises in north and south Sudan, along with the failure of the international community to finally combat childhood malnutrition were also included on this year’s list. The list is drawn from MSF’s operational activities in close to 70 countries, where the organization’s medical teams witnessed some of the worst humanitarian condit...

"Top Ten" Humanitarian Crises: Aid Blocked and Diseases Neglected

MSF News — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:13:00 +0100

NEW YORK, DECEMBER 21, 2009 — Civilians attacked, bombed, and cut off from aid in Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), along with stagnant funding for treating HIV/AIDS and ongoing neglect of other diseases, were among the worst emergencies in 2009, the international medical humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported today in its annual list of the "Top Ten" humanitarian crises. Continuing crises in north and south Sudan, along with the failure of the international community to finally combat childhood malnutrition were also included on this year’s list. The list is drawn from MSF’s operational activities in close to 70 countries, where the organization’s medic...

"Top Ten" Humanitarian Crises: Aid Blocked and Diseases Neglected

MSF News — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:27:00 +0100

New York, December 21, 2009 — Civilians attacked, bombed, and cut off from aid in Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), along with stagnant funding for treating HIV/AIDS and ongoing neglect of other diseases, were among the worst emergencies in 2009, the international medical humanitarian organization Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reported today in its annual list of the "Top Ten" humanitarian crises. Continuing crises in north and south Sudan, along with the failure of the international community to finally combat childhood malnutrition were also included on this year’s list. The list is drawn from MSF’s operational activities in close to 70 countries, where the...

"Top Ten" Humanitarian Crises: Aid Blocked and Diseases Neglected

MSF News — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:27:00 +0100

Further spread of Rhodesian sleeping sickness in Uganda likely due to livestock movements

ScienceDaily Headlines — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 10:00:00 +0100

The northwards spread of human Rhodesian sleeping sickness in Uganda is likely due to the movement of infected livestock, according to new findings. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

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Chemical Validation of Trypanothione Synthetase: A POTENTIAL DRUG TARGET FOR HUMAN TRYPANOSOMIASIS [Enzyme Catalysis and Regulation]

Journal of Biological Chemistry — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 14:37:46 +0100

In the search for new therapeutics for the treatment of human African trypanosomiasis, many potential drug targets in Trypanosoma brucei have been validated by genetic means, but very few have been chemically validated. Trypanothione synthetase (TryS; EC 6.3.1.9; spermidine/glutathionylspermidine:glutathione ligase (ADP-forming)) is one such target. To identify novel inhibitors of T. brucei TryS, we developed an in vitro enzyme assay, which was amenable to high throughput screening. The subsequent screen of a diverse compound library resulted in the identification of three novel series of TryS inhibitors. Further chemical exploration resulted in leads with nanomolar potency, which displayed mixed, uncompetitive, and allosteric-type inhibition with respect to spermidine, ATP, and glutathion...

Further Spread Of Rhodesian Sleeping Sickness In Uganda Likely Due To Livestock Movements

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 01:00:00 +0100

The northwards spread of human Rhodesian sleeping sickness in Uganda is likely due to the movement of infected livestock, according to new findings from an interdisciplinary research group including members from the Centre for Infectious Diseases, University of Edinburgh; the Ministry of Health, Uganda; and the Universities of Oxford and Southampton... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Further Spread Of Rhodesian Sleeping Sickness In Uganda Likely Due To Livestock Movements

Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses News From Medical News Today — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 01:00:00 +0100

Further Spread Of Rhodesian Sleeping Sickness In Uganda Likely Due To Livestock Movements

Tropical Diseases News From Medical News Today — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 01:00:00 +0100

Also In Global Health News: Drug Trafficking In Kenya; Violence In S. Sudan; Uganda Bill; Sleeping Sickness

HIV / AIDS News From Medical News Today — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 11:00:00 +0100

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Also In Global Health News: Drug Trafficking In Kenya; Violence In S. Sudan; Uganda Bill; Sleeping Sickness

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 11:00:00 +0100

Drug Trafficking, Use Spreading HIV/AIDS In Kenya Drug trafficking and use are fueling the spread of HIV/AIDS in Kenya, according to a recent report by the U.N. Security Council, the Nation reports. "A statement from the council's Presidency currently â�¦ states that Afghan heroin was being imported, causing a dramatic increase in heroin addiction and spreading HIV/AIDS in the slums of Nairobi and Mombasa, Kenya's two main cities," the newspaper writes. The article examines efforts underway to stop drug trafficking and includes comments by U.N... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Also In Global Health News: Drug Trafficking In Kenya; Violence In S. Sudan; Uganda Bill; Sleeping Sickness

Veterinary News From Medical News Today — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 11:00:00 +0100

Sleeping sickness

BBC News | Health | UK Edition — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:42:43 +0100

Uganda fights back against deadly disease (Source: BBC News | Health | UK Edition)

Further spread of Rhodesian sleeping sickness in Uganda likely due to livestock movements

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 05:00:00 +0100

(Public Library of Science) The northwards spread of human Rhodesian sleeping sickness in Uganda is likely due to the movement of infected livestock, according to new findings from an interdisciplinary research group including members from the Center for Infectious Diseases, University of Edinburgh; the Ministry of Health, Uganda; and the Universities of Oxford and Southampton. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

A new format of the CATT test for the detection of Human African Trypanosomiasis, designed for use in peripheral health facilities

Tropical Medicine and International Health — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion The CATT-D10 is thermostable and can be used interchangeably with the old format of the CATT test. It is highly suitable for use in peripheral health facilities in HAT-endemic countries. (Source: Tropical Medicine and International Health)

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Characterization of Sleeping Sickness Transmission Sites in Rural and Periurban Areas of Kinshasa (Réublique Démocratique du Congo)

Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 21:13:29 +0100

Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases Dec 2009, Vol. 9, No. 6: 631-636. (Source: Vector-Borne and Zoonotic Diseases)

Canine trypanosomiasis: etiology of infection and implications for public health

Journal of Venomous Animals and Toxins including Tropical Diseases — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 16:20:38 +0100

This article reports etiological, epidemiological and public health aspects of canine trypanosomiasis, and the most important peculiarities of this zoonosis in dogs. (Source: Journal of Venomous Animals and Toxins including Tropical Diseases)

Human African Trypanosomiasis: Real Obstacles to Elimination

MSF Field Research — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 15:25:35 +0100

Title: Human African Trypanosomiasis: Real Obstacles to EliminationAuthors: Serge Kazadi, Michel Quere, Jacqueline Tong, Claude Mahoudeau, François ChappuisAbstract: Significant progress has been made in controlling human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) caused by T.b. gambiense as evidenced by the clear decline in the number of reported cases in recent years. Now the prevailing discourse is about the possible elimination of HAT and the need to integrate treatment for it into existing health structures. However, “Hot spots” still exist and one of which is the northeastern region of Orientale Province in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In this region there is neither a monitoring system nor working health centres capable of diagnosing and treating patients.An assessment carried ou...

Gates Foundation gives $15M to combat sleeping sickness

bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:27:32 +0100

The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is giving $15 million to the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative to treat human African trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Health Insurance headlines)

Gates Foundation gives $15M to combat sleeping sickness

bizjournals.com Health Care:Biotechnology headlines — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:27:32 +0100

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Pfizer, DNDi Partner To Identify NTD Drugs; Sanofi-Aventis, Medicines For Malaria Launch Drug Study

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Pfizer and the Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi) on Wednesday announced plans to team up in an effort to identify new drug candidates for the treatment of three tropical diseases, the Associated Press/Business Week reports. The scientists will test the efficacy of Pfizer drug candidates against sleeping sickness, visceral leishmaniasis, and Chagas disease. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Pfizer, DNDi Partner To Identify NTD Drugs; Sanofi-Aventis, Medicines For Malaria Launch Drug Study

Tropical Diseases News From Medical News Today — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Also In Global Health News: Sleeping Sickness; Aid For Philippines; U.S., China In Africa; Polio Eradication In Afghanistan; Ethiopia Famine

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0100

Lancet Infectious Diseases Examines Hold-Ups In Implementation Of Sleeping Sickness Therapy Lancet Infectious Diseases Newsdesk examines how despite evidence that a new therapy to treat sleeping sickness, called nifurtimox-eflornithine (NECT) is a step forward in treating the (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Also In Global Health News: Sleeping Sickness; Aid For Philippines; U.S., China In Africa; Polio Eradication In Afghanistan; Ethiopia Famine

Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0100

Lancet Infectious Diseases Examines Hold-Ups In Implementation Of Sleeping Sickness Therapy (Source: Immune System / Vaccines News From Medical News Today)

Distribution and Density of Tsetse Flies (Glossinidae: Diptera) at the Game/People/Livestock Interface of the Nkhotakota Game Reserve Human Sleeping Sickness Focus in Malawi

EcoHealth — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 07:39:45 +0100

Abstract In large parts sub-Saharan Africa, tsetse flies, the vectors of African human or animal trypanosomiasis, are, or will in the foreseeable future, be confined to protected areas such as game or national parks. Challenge of people and livestock is likely to occur at the game/livestock/people interface of such infested areas. Since tsetse control in protected areas is difficult, management of trypanosomiasis in people and/or livestock requires a good understanding of tsetse population dynamics along such interfaces. The Nkhotakota Game Reserve, an important focus of human trypanosomiasis in Malawi, is a tsetse-infested protected area surrounded by a virtually tsetse-free zone. The abundance of tsetse (Glossina morsitans morsitans) along the interface, within and outsid...

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Investigation of Trypanothione Reductase as a Drug Target in Trypanosoma brucei.

ChemMedChem — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Spinks D, Shanks EJ, Cleghorn LA, McElroy S, Jones D, James D, Fairlamb AH, Frearson JA, Wyatt PG, Gilbert IH There is an urgent need for new drugs for the treatment of tropical parasitic diseases such as human African trypanosomiasis, which is caused by Trypanosoma brucei. The enzyme trypanothione reductase (TryR) is a potential drug target within these organisms. Herein we report the screening of a 62 000 compound library against T. brucei TryR. Further work was undertaken to optimise potency and selectivity of two novel-compound series arising from the enzymatic and whole parasite screens and mammalian cell counterscreens. Both of these series, containing either a quinoline or pyrimidinopyrazine scaffold, yielded low micromolar inhibitors of the enzyme and growth of the par...

Propulsion of African trypanosomes is driven by bihelical waves with alternating chirality separated by kinks [Biophysics_And_Computational_Biology]

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 22:12:12 +0100

Trypanosoma brucei, a parasitic protist with a single flagellum, is the causative agent of African sleeping sickness. Propulsion of T.... (Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences)

Structure-Based Design of Pteridine Reductase Inhibitors Targeting African Sleeping Sickness and the Leishmaniases

Journal of Medicinal Chemistry — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:33:20 +0100

Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, Volume 0, Issue 0, Articles ASAP (As Soon As Publishable). (Source: Journal of Medicinal Chemistry)

[Newsdesk] New treatment for sleeping sickness still not implemented

The Lancet Infectious Diseases — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

A major advance in the treatment of sleeping sickness is still awaiting implementation 13 months after data from a successful trial was presented. Kits of the combination treatment nifurtimox–eflornithine (NECT) are sitting in a Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) warehouse pending the resolution of legal barriers to their use. Experts are optimistic that NECT will be a major advance in the fight against sleeping sickness but are warning against complacency over the disease—in particular, the belief that sleeping sickness might be soon eradicated. (Source: The Lancet Infectious Diseases)

Identification of a Parasitic Immunomodulatory Protein Triggering the Development of Suppressive M1 Macrophages during African Trypanosomiasis

The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:42:33 +0100

We report the identification of a novel putative Trypanosoma brucei M1 cell–triggering protein. The recombinant trypanosome‐suppressive immunomodulating factor (rTSIF) induced TNF and NO secretion by macrophages. Moreover, M1 cells triggered by rTSIF block T cell proliferation in a manner dependent on NO, interferon γ, and cell contact. Furthermore, rTSIF could down‐regulate type 2–oriented immune responses. Therefore, trypanosome‐suppressive immunomodulating factor (TSIF) may represent a new parasite molecule with the potential to modulate the host immune network, whereby it could contribute to the inflammatory response required to control parasite growth and to the pathogenicity of African trypanosomiasis, including immunosuppression. TSIF knock‐down trypanosomes died within...

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A luciferase based viability assay for ATP detection in 384- well format for high throughput whole cell screening of Trypanosoma brucei brucei bloodstream form strain 427

Parasites and Vectors — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Due to the reproducibility and sensitivity of this assay it is recommended for potential HTS application. As it is commercially available this assay can also be utilised in many laboratories for both large and small scale screening. (Source: Parasites and Vectors)

Three Redox States of Trypanosoma brucei Alternative Oxidase Identified by Infrared Spectroscopy and Electrochemistry [Metabolism and Bioenergetics]

Journal of Biological Chemistry — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 14:36:38 +0100

Electrochemistry coupled with Fourier transform infrared (IR) spectroscopy was used to investigate the redox properties of recombinant alternative ubiquinol oxidase from Trypanosoma brucei, the organism responsible for African sleeping sickness. Stepwise reduction of the fully oxidized resting state of recombinant alternative ubiquinol oxidase revealed two distinct IR redox difference spectra. The first of these, signal 1, titrates in the reductive direction as an n = 2 Nernstian component with an apparent midpoint potential of 80 mV at pH 7.0. However, reoxidation of signal 1 in the same potential range under anaerobic conditions did not occur and only began with potentials in excess of 500 mV. Reoxidation by introduction of oxygen was also unsuccessful. Signal 1 contained clear features ...

Uganda: Nation Unveils Plan to Eliminate Tsetse Flies

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:01:22 +0100

WAILS cut through the darkness blanketing the eastern Uganda district of Mayuge. Moments later a vehicle roves through the village's bumpy and narrow tracks. It has just returned Sam Ikoba's body. Ikoba succumbed to sleeping sickness. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Improved Treatment For Sleeping Sickness Now Available

Health News from Medical News Today — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0100

NECT (Nifurtimox-Eflornithine Combination Therapy), the first new treatment in 25 years against Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) or sleeping sickness, is now available. Endemic countries have now begun the process of ordering the new combination treatment and kits through the World Health Organization (WHO). (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

East African trypanosomiasis in a pregnant traveler.

Emerging Infectious Diseases — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Nadjm B, Van Tulleken C, Macdonald D, Chiodini PL PMID: 19891893 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Emerging Infectious Diseases)

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Trypanocidal drugs: mechanisms, resistance and new targets

Expert Reviews in Molecular Medicine — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 15:56:33 +0100

Review ArticlesShane R. Wilkinson, John M. Kelly, Expert Reviews in Molecular Medicine, Volume 11 , pp e31AbstractThe protozoan parasites Trypanosoma brucei and Trypanosoma cruzi are the causative agents of African trypanosomiasis and Chagas disease, respectively. These are debilitating infections that exert a considerable health burden on some of the poorest people on the planet. Treatment of trypanosome infections is dependent on a small number of drugs that have limited efficacy and can cause severe side effects. Here, we review the properties of these drugs and describe new findings on their modes of action and the mechanisms by which resistance can arise. We further outline how a greater understanding of parasite biology is being exploited in the search for novel chemotherapeutic agen...

Switched off: sleeping sickness in conflict

MSF News — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:07:16 +0100

Deaths from treatable diseases such as sleeping sickness are rising due to renewed conflict and aid agencies need to be vigilant once they have save access to the population (Source: MSF News)

Switched off: sleeping sickness in conflict

MSF News — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:07:16 +0100

Deaths from treatable diseases such as sleeping sickness are rising due to renewed conflict and aid agencies need to be vigilant once they have save access to the population (Source: MSF News)

Switched off: sleeping sickness in conflict

MSF News — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:07:16 +0100

Deaths from treatable diseases such as sleeping sickness are rising due to renewed conflict and aid agencies need to be vigilant once they have save access to the population (Source: MSF News)

Six months later in the Congo: how many are dead?

MSF News — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:34:12 +0100

How many people have died unnecessarily because their sleeping sickness has not been diagnosed or treated due to the violent conflict in DRC? (Source: MSF News)

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Six months later in the Congo: how many are dead?

MSF News — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:34:12 +0100

How many people have died unnecessarily because their sleeping sickness has not been diagnosed or treated due to the violent conflict in DRC? (Source: MSF News)

Six months later in the Congo: how many are dead?

MSF News — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:34:12 +0100

How many people have died unnecessarily because their sleeping sickness has not been diagnosed or treated due to the violent conflict in DRC? (Source: MSF News)

Sleeping sickness: advances in treatment put to the test

MSF News — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:15:54 +0100

New drug treatment offers hope for people infected with human African tripanosomiasis, but only if the affected regions can be made secure enough to allow healthcare workers access to the population. (Source: MSF News)

Sleeping sickness: advances in treatment put to the test

MSF News — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:15:54 +0100

Sleeping sickness: advances in treatment put to the test

MSF News — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:15:54 +0100

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[Video] NECT: An Improved Therapy for Sleeping Sickness

MSF Multimedia — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:00:00 +0100

.videoItem { margin:0 auto; } .videoItem div { width:550px; height:309px; } Sleeping sickness is a major health problem in the Democratic Republic of Congo. With existing medicines either cumbersome to administer or a cause of intense side effects, a new and cheaper therapy, NECT, holds great promise of benefiting thousands of vulnerable patients. (Source: MSF Multimedia)

Tripartite Interactions between Tsetse Flies, Sodalisglossinidius and Trypanosomes - An Epidemiological Approach in Two Historical Human African Trypanosomiasis Foci in Cameroon.

Infection, Genetics and Evolution — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Authors: Farikou O, Njiokou F, Mbida JA, Njitchouang GR, Djeunga HN, Asonganyi T, Simarro PP, Cuny G, Geiger A Epidemiological surveys were conducted in two historical human African trypanosomiasis foci in South Cameroon, Bipindi and Campo. In each focus, three sampling areas were defined. In Bipindi, only Glossina palpalis was identified, whereas four species were identified in Campo, G. palpalis being highly predominant (93%). For further analyses, 75 flies were randomly chosen among the flies trapped in each of the six villages. Large and statistically significant differences were recorded between both (1) the prevalence of Sodalis glossinidius (tsetse symbiont) and the prevalence of trypanosome infection of the major fly species G. p. palpalis and (2) the respective prevalence of s...

Improved Treatment for Sleeping Sickness Now Available

MSF News — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:02:00 +0100

Geneva/Kampala, September 22, 2009 - NECT (Nifurtimox-Eflornithine Combination Therapy), the first new treatment in 25 years against Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) or sleeping sickness, is now available. Endemic countries have now begun the process of ordering the new combination treatment and kits through the World Health Organization (WHO). Developed by DNDi and its partners, NECT cuts the cost of treatment by half and significantly reduces the burden on health workers. The announcement was made today at the International Scientific Council for Trypanosomiasi Research and Control (ISCTRC), in Kampala, Uganda. “Thanks to an innovative partnership and the hard work of health workers, researchers, and specialists from endemic countries, industry and academia, a new treatment is n...

Widespread variation in transcript abundance within and across developmental stages of Trypanosoma brucei

BMC Genomics - Latest articles — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Despite the lack of gene regulation at the level of transcription initiation, our results reveal extensive regulation of mRNA abundance associated with different life cycle and growth stages. In addition, analysis of variant surface glycoprotein gene expression reveals a more complex picture than previously thought. These data provide a valuable resource to the community of researchers studying this lethal agent. (Source: BMC Genomics - Latest articles)

Expression and Role of CXCL10 during the Encephalitic Stage of Experimental and Clinical African Trypanosomiasis

The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 21:45:51 +0100

Conclusion. IFN‐γ–dependent CXCL10 is critical for accumulation of T cells and trypanosomes in the brain during experimental African trypanosomiasis. Data suggest CXCL10 as a candidate marker for late stage human African trypanosomiasis . (Source: The Journal of Infectious Diseases Latest Issue)

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African trypanosomiasis and antibodies: implications for vaccination, therapy and diagnosis

Future Microbiology — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 13:05:38 +0100

Future Microbiology , October 2009, Vol. 4, No. 8, Pages 1075-1087. (Source: Future Microbiology)

Sub-Saharan Africa news in brief: 24 September–7 October 2009

SciDev.Net — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 03:43:54 +0100

Africa defeating sleeping sickness, Kenyan research gets financial boost, African leaders plan alliance for malaria control, and more. (Source: SciDev.Net)

Cerebrospinal fluid B lymphocyte identification for diagnosis and follow-up in human African trypanosomiasis in the field

Tropical Medicine and International Health — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion B cell rosettes being easily detected in the CSF in field conditions may be proposed to replace white cell count for defining HAT stages 1 and 2 and limit uncertainty in treatment decision in patients with intermediate stage. (Source: Tropical Medicine and International Health)

Development of an Alamar Blue viability assay in 384-well format for high throughput whole cell screening of Trypanosoma brucei brucei bloodstream form strain 427.

The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Sykes ML, Avery VM There is an urgent need for new compounds for the drug development pipeline for treatment of patients with African sleeping sickness. One approach for identifying such compounds is by high throughput screening (HTS) of compound collections. For time and cost considerations, there is a need for the development of an assay that uses at least 384-well formats. To our knowledge, there are currently no viability assays for whole cell screening of trypanosomes in the 384-well plate format. We have developed and optimized an Alamar Blue viability assay in a 384-well format for Trypanosoma brucei brucei bloodstream form strain 427 (BS427). The assay had a Z' > 0.5 and tolerated a final dimethyl-sulfoxide concentration of 0.42%. Drug sensitivity was compared with ...

Africa: New Treatment for Sleeping Sickness

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 10:01:35 +0100

Patients at an advanced stage of Human African Trypanosomiasis, or sleeping sickness, can now access more convenient, safer and cheaper treatment after the introduction of Nifurtimox-Eflornithine Combination Therapy (NECT). (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

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First isolation of Enterobacter, Enterococcus, and Acinetobacter spp. as inhabitants of the tsetse fly (Glossina palpalis palpalis) midgut.

Infection, Genetics and Evolution — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Geiger A, Fardeau ML, Grebaut P, Vatunga G, Josénando T, Herder S, Cuny G, Truc P, Ollivier B This paper reports the first evidence of the presence of bacteria, other than the three previously described as symbionts, Wigglesworthia glossinidia, Wolbachia, and Sodalis glossinidius, in the midgut of Glossina palpalis palpalis, the tsetse fly, a vector of the chronic form of human African trypanosomiasis in sub-Saharan African countries. Based on morphological, nutritional, physiological, and phylogenetic results, we identified Enterobacter, Enterococcus, and Acinetobacter spp. as inhabitants of the midgut of the tsetse fly. Enterobacter spp. was the most frequently isolated. The role of these bacteria in the gut, in terms of vector competence of the tsetse fly, is discussed...

Uganda: WHO Brings Life to Sleeping Sickness Victims

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 13:19:13 +0100

The World Health Organisation and the Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi) will extend a life line to several victims of sleeping sickness across Africa with plans of producing two drugs to treat the disease in its late stages. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Also In Global Health News: Combating Sleeping Sickness In Eastern Africa; China Commits To Developing Countries; Latin America Development

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:00:00 +0100

African Development Bank Gives $70M To Help Fight Sleeping Sickness In Eastern Africa The African Development Bank on Tuesday announced it will award eastern African countries $70 million to help fight the neglected tropical disease, trypanasomiasis, commonly known as sleeping sickness, over six years, the Monitor/allAfrica.com reports (Pacutho, 9/22). (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Uganda: New Drug for Treating Sleeping Sickness Launched

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 13:21:50 +0100

After 25 years of waiting and research, a new and improved drug for the treatment of sleeping sickness has been launched in Kampala. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

East Africa: Region Gets Money to Fight Sleeping Sickness

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 09:27:15 +0100

Eastern African countries have received $70 million from the African Development Bank to fight trypanasomiasis, commonly known as sleeping sickness. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

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[Newsdesk] Is the end in sight for sleeping sickness in Africa?

The Lancet Infectious Diseases — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Reports at the International Scientific Council for Trypanosomiasis Research and Control (ISCTRC) biennial scientific conference (Kampala, Uganda, September 21–25, 2009) will indicate that Africa is winning its battle against sleeping sickness. Aerial spraying and localised use of insecticides has eradicated the tsetse fly that carries Trypanosoma brucei gambiense and Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense from 36 000 km2 of land across Botswana, Namibia, Angola, and Zambia. “Plans are in place to progressively tackle further areas, and we expect tsetse eradication to be achieved in the entire Kwando-Zambezi tsetse belt by 2012”, says Peter Sinyangwe (Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Lusaka, Zambia). (Source: The Lancet Infectious Diseases)

Imported human African trypanosomiasis in Europe, 2005-2009.

Euro Surveill — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 02:34:02 +0100

Authors: Gautret P, Clerinx J, Caumes E, Simon F, Jensenius M, Loutan L, Schlagenhauf P, Castelli F, Freedman D, Miller A, Bronner U, Parola P Physicians in Europe are likely to see more African trypanosomiasis cases because of the increasing popularity of travel to Africa. In this paper the literature on imported cases in Europe, since 2005 is reviewed. Because of the high mortality risk associated with acute Rhodesian trypanosomiasis, travellers should be informed about preventive measures and the early disease manifestations. PMID: 19758542 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Euro Surveill)

Uganda: 10 Million At Risk of Sleeping Sickness

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 08:09:44 +0100

ABOUT 10 million people are at the risk of getting sleeping sickness, the agriculture minister has said. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Uganda: Ten Million Citizens Risk Catching Sleeping Sickness

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 13:25:18 +0100

At least 10million Ugandans are at risk of getting Sleeping Sickness, the minister of health Stephen Mallinga has said. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Imported human African trypanosomiasis in Europe, 2005-2009

Eurosurveillance latest news — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Physicians in Europe are likely to see more African trypanosomiasis cases because of the increasing popularity of travel to Africa. In this paper the literature on imported cases in Europe, since 2005 is reviewed. Because of the high mortality risk associated with acute Rhodesian trypanosomiasis, travellers should be informed about preventive measures and the early disease manifestations. (Source: Eurosurveillance latest news)

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Medical Microbiology: Laboratory Diagnosis of Infections Due to Blood and Tissue Parasites

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 16:53:42 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 49, Issue 7, Page 1103-1108, 1 October 2009. Microscopy remains the cornerstone of the laboratory diagnosis of infections due to blood and tissue parasites. Examination of thick and thin peripheral blood smears stained with Giemsa or other appropriate stains is used for detection and identification of species of Plasmodium, Babesia, Trypanosoma, Brugia, Mansonella, and Wuchereria. Even in the hands of well‐trained technologists, diagnosis may be hampered by the sparseness of organisms on the slide and by the subjective nature of differentiating similar‐appearing organisms. Microscopy and/or culture of ulcer, bone marrow, tissue aspirate, and biopsy samples are useful for the diagnosis of African trypanosomiasis, onchocerciasis, trichinosis, an...

Influence of habitat and seasonal variation on wild mammal diversity and distribution with special reference to the Trypanosoma brucei gambiense host-reservoir in Bipindi (Cameroon).

Acta Tropica — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Anselme MJ, Champlain DL, Flobert N, Claude L, Ploeg JD To evaluate the role of wildlife in the resurgence and perenisation of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), we investigated the influence of habitat and seasonal variations on the diversity and spatial distribution of wild mammals, with special reference to those recognised as potential host reservoirs of Trypanosoma brucei gambiense in Bipindi (southwestern Cameroon). To achieve this, we carried out transect surveys in four habitat types over two years. A total of 31 mammal species were recorded, of which 14 occurred in the undisturbed forest, 9 in cocoa plantations, 11 in farmlands and 11 in village-adjacent gallery forests. Among them, six species (Cephalophus monticola, Cephalophus dorsalis, Atherurus africanus, Crice...

Immunolocalization and challenge studies using a recombinant Vibrio cholerae ghost expressing Trypanosoma brucei Ca(2+) ATPase (TBCA2) antigen.

The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 07:43:09 +0100

Authors: Ramey K, Eko FO, Thompson WE, Armah H, Igietseme JU, Stiles JK Human African trypanosomiasis is a neglected disease caused by Trypanosoma brucei spp. A parasite cation pump (Ca(2+) ATPase; TBCA2) essential for survival and cation homeostasis was identified and characterized. It was hypothesized that targeting this pump using a Vibrio cholerae ghost (VCG)-based vaccine could protect against murine T. brucei infection. mRNA and protein expression of TBCA2 was differentially expressed in blood and insect stages of parasites and immunolocalized in the pericellular membrane and the flagellar pocket of bloodstream forms. Antigen-specific antibodies and Th1 cytokines, interleukin-2, interferon-gamma, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha were induced in rVCG-TBCA2-immunized mice and in vit...

Jama 100 years ago: sleeping sickness

JAMA — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

(Source: JAMA)

Chemotherapy of Human African Trypanosomiasis

Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 10:31:18 +0100

This article presents an update of classic chemotherapeutic agents, in use for >50 years and the recent development of promising non-toxic combination chemotherapy suitable for use in rural clinics. (Source: Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Infectious Diseases)

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Laboratory Diagnosis of Infections Due to Blood and Tissue Parasites

Clinical Infectious Diseases Latest Issue — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 19:39:01 +0100

Clinical Infectious Diseases, Volume 0, Issue 0, Page 000, Latest Articles. Microscopy remains the cornerstone of the laboratory diagnosis of infections due to blood and tissue parasites. Examination of thick and thin peripheral blood smears stained with Giemsa or other appropriate stains is used for detection and identification of species of Plasmodium, Babesia, Trypanosoma, Brugia, Mansonella, and Wuchereria. Even in the hands of well‐trained technologists, diagnosis may be hampered by the sparseness of organisms on the slide and by the subjective nature of differentiating similar‐appearing organisms. Microscopy and/or culture of ulcer, bone marrow, tissue aspirate, and biopsy samples are useful for the diagnosis of African trypanosomiasis, onchocerciasis, trichinosis, and leis...

Also In Global Health News: NTD Consortium; Clean Water Access; PEPFAR Lab Donation; River Blindness Elimination; Vaccines In India

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 11:00:00 +0100

European Laboratories Form Consortium To Study Neglected Tropical Diseases A handful of European universities and industries have formed a consortium to "boost drug development for the treatment of two deadly diseases, the African sleeping sickness and Leishmaniasis, which affect millions of people worldwide," afrol News reports. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

New Consortium To Develop Drugs For Neglected Tropical Diseases

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 08:00:00 +0100

A new consortium has been formed to boost drug development for the treatment of two deadly diseases, African sleeping sickness and Leishmaniasis, which affect millions of people worldwide. A total budget of nearly 3.6 million euros has been allocated over the next 4 years, to develop effective drugs for these diseases. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

The interaction of an antiparasitic peptide active against African Sleeping Sickness with cell membrane models.

Colloids and Surfaces — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

In this study, we use the Langmuir monolayer technique to investigate the surface properties of an antiparasitic peptide, namely S-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)glutathione di-2-propyl ester, and its interaction with a model membrane comprising a phospholipid monolayer. The drug formed stable Langmuir monolayers, whose main feature was a phase transition accompanied by a negative surface elasticity. This was attributed to aggregation upon compression due to intermolecular bond associations of the molecules, inferred from surface pressure and surface potential isotherms, Brewster angle microscopy (BAM) images, infrared spectroscopy and dynamic elasticity measurements. When co-spread with dipalmitoyl phosphatidyl choline (DPPC), the drug affected both the surface pressure and the monolayer morphology, ...

Probing for primary functions of prohibitin in Trypanosoma brucei.

International Journal for Parasitology — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Týč J, Faktorová D, Kriegová E, Jirků M, Vávrová Z, Maslov DA, Lukeš J Prohibitin (PHB) 1 and 2 are small conserved proteins implicated in a number of functions in the mitochondrion, as well as in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. The current understanding of PHB functions comes from studies of model organisms such as yeast, worm and mouse, but considerable debate remains with regard to the primary functions of these ubiquitous proteins. We exploit the tractable reverse genetics of Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of African sleeping sickness, in order to specifically analyze the function of PHB in this highly divergent eukaryote. Using inducible RNA interference (RNAi) we show that PHB1 is essential in T. brucei, where it is co...

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Characterization of Serratia glossinae sp. nov., isolated from the midgut of the tsetse fly, Glossina palpalis gambiensis.

International Journal of Systematic and Evolutionary Microbiology — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Geiger A, Fardeau ML, Falsen E, Ollivier B, Cuny G The present paper reports on the isolation of a novel bacterium (strain C1T) from the midgut of Glossina palpalis gambiensis, the tsetse fly that transmits the trypanosomes responsible for sleeping sickness in sub-Saharan African countries. It is a motile, facultative anaerobic rod-like bacterium (0.8-1.0 microm in diameter; 2-6 microm in length) which grows as single cells or chain-wise. Optimum growth occurred at 25-35 degrees C, at pH 6.7-8.4, in media containing 5-20 g/l NaCl. The bacterium hydrolysed the following substrates: 2-nitrophenyl-betaD galactopyranoside, urea and used L-lysine, L-ornithine, citrate, pyruvate, glucose, mannitol, inositol, sorbitol, melibiose, amygdalin, arabinose, arbutin, esculin, fructose, gala...

MSF continues aid in violent areas of northern DRC and southern Sudan

MSF News — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:19:00 +0100

DRC According to official estimates, around 250,000 people have been displaced by violence in northern DRC. In general, the situation is slowly deteriorating and humanitarian assistance is not sufficient to respond to the needs of the people. The lack of security in the region, especially outside the main towns, limits the level of assistance that MSF and other relief agencies can provide. It is also extremely difficult for people to access health facilities. In Dungu, a town in the northeastern Haut-Uélé district of DRC, an MSF medical team is carrying out an average of 300 consultations a week in two health centres which are being rehabilitated. In Dungu hospital itself, the surgical team is operating on about 20 patients per week. MSF is also providing psychological support to people...

Africa: Cheaper Trap for Tsetse Flies Developed

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 19:17:25 +0100

The mammoth task of controlling tsetse flies, which spread sleeping sickness, in Sub-Saharan Africa could be made cheaper with the development of a more efficient insecticide-treated trap. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Cheaper trap for tsetse flies developed

SciDev.Net — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 03:26:32 +0100

A more efficient insecticide-treated trap for tsetse flies could help control the spread of sleeping sickness. (Source: SciDev.Net)

New treatment option for second stage African sleeping sickness: In vitro and in vivo efficacy of aza analogs of DB289.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, DB868 with oral or DB829 with parenteral application are potential candidates for further development for a 2(nd) stage African sleeping sickness drug. PMID: 19620327 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy)

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IRIN Examines Efforts To Improve Sleeping Sickness Dectection

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 13:00:00 +0100

IRIN examines the efforts of the Geneva-based Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND) to develop less costly surveillance equipment to improve the ability to detect the parasitic disease trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness) in endemic countries. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy for second-stage African Trypanosoma brucei gambiense trypanosomiasis: a multicentre, randomised, phase III, non-inferiority trial

MSF Field Research — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 11:42:11 +0100

This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00146627.FindingsOne patient from the eflornithine group absconded after receiving the first dose, without any type of assessment done, and was excluded from all analyses. In the ITT population, 131 (91·6%) of 143 patients assigned to eflornithine and 138 (96·5%) of 143 patients assigned to NECT were cured at 18 months (difference −4·9%, one-sided 95% CI −0·3; p (Source: MSF Field Research)

Africa: Detecting Stealth Sleeping Sickness

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 12:32:56 +0100

Tens of thousands of people in Africa who are infected with trypanosomiasis, also known as sleeping sickness, go undiagnosed because the only way to detect the deadly infection is through blood exams and a painful expensive lower back puncture, according to the Geneva-based Foundation for Innovative New Diagnostics (FIND). (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

[In Context] News in brief

Lancet Neurology — Sun, 12 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100

NECT—oral nifurtimox (15 mg/kg per day every 8 h for 10 days) combined with intravenous eflornithine (400 mg/kg per day every 12 h for 7 days)—was non-inferior to eflornithine monotherapy (400 mg/kg per day every 6 h for 14 days) for the eradication of Trypanosoma brucei gambiense infection from the body fluids of patients with confirmed second-stage human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) in west and central Africa (difference in proportion of patients cured at 18 months −4·9%, one-sided 95% CI −0·3; p (Source: Lancet Neurology)

Trypanocidal activity of the proteasome inhibitor and anti-cancer drug bortezomib

BioMed Central — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100

The proteasome inhibitor and anti-cancer drug bortezomib was tested for in vitro activity against bloodstream forms of Trypanosoma brucei. The concentrations of bortezomib required to reduce the growth rate by 50% and to kill all trypanosomes were 3.3 nM and 10 nM, respectively. In addition, bortezomib was 10 times more toxic to trypanosomes than to human HL-60 cells. Moreover, exposure of trypanosomes to 10 nM bortezomib for 16 h was enough to kill 90% of the parasites following incubation in fresh medium. However, proteasomal peptidase activities of trypanosomes exposed to bortezomib were only inhibited by 10% and 30% indicating that the proteasome is not the main target of the drug. The results suggest that bortezomib may be useful as drug for the treatment of human African trypanosomia...

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[Comment] NECT trial: more than a small victory over sleeping sickness

LANCET — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100

The natural history of central nervous system infection by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense consists of a distinctive neurological syndrome (sleeping sickness) proceeding to inevitable death. For more than 50 years intravenous melarsoprol has been the most common therapeutic approach, but this arsenical compound can cause a reactive encephalopathy with high risk of mortality and shows falling efficacy in certain areas. Eflornithine is an efficacious alternative with fewer side-effects, but the need for its 6-hourly administration via slow infusion, over 14 days, has limited uptake in resource-poor settings. Oral nifurtimox shows too low an efficacy for routine use as monotherapy but has been tested recently in combination with eflornithine, yielding encouraging data on efficacy and side-effect...

[Articles] Nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy for second-stage African Trypanosoma brucei gambiense trypanosomiasis: a multicentre, randomised, phase III, non-inferiority trial

LANCET — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT; sleeping sickness) caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense is a fatal disease. Current treatment options for patients with second-stage disease are toxic, ineffective, or impractical. We assessed the efficacy and safety of nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy (NECT) for second-stage disease compared with the standard eflornithine regimen. (Source: LANCET)

SAR studies on azasterols as potential anti-trypanosomal and anti-leishmanial agents.

Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Gigante F, Kaiser M, Brun R, Gilbert IH There is an urgent need for the development of new drugs for the treatment of neglected tropical diseases such as human African trypanosomiasis, Chagas disease and leishmaniasis. Azasterols, have been shown to have activity against the parasites which cause these diseases. In this paper we report synthesis of new azasterols and subsequent analysis of the SAR. The chemistry focused on variations in the ester at the 3beta-position of the sterol and the position of the nitrogen in the side chain. The data allowed us to derive preliminary pharmacophore models for the activity of the azasterols against the parasites which cause these diseases. PMID: 19620005 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry)

Understanding the role of monocytic cells in liver inflammation using parasite infection as a model.

Immunobiology — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Bosschaerts T, Guilliams M, Stijlemans B, De Baetselier P, Beschin A Uncontrolled inflammation is a major cause of pathogenicity during chronic parasite infections. Novel therapies should therefore aim at re-establishing the balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory signals during disease to avoid tissue damage and ensure survival of the host. In this context, we are intending to identify strategies capable of inducing counter-inflammatory activity in injured liver and thereby increasing the resistance of the host to African trypanosomiasis as a model for parasite infection. Here, recent evidence is summarized revealing how monocytic cells recruited to the liver of African trypanosome-infected mice develop an M1 or M2 activation status, thereby maintaining the capacity of the...

Sub-Saharan Africa news in brief: 18 June–1 July 2009

SciDev.Net — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 02:44:49 +0100

A new treatment for sleeping sickness, researchers find a way to detect malaria in pregnant women, Africa develops its biotechnology agenda, and more. (Source: SciDev.Net)

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Uganda: Tsetse Flies Lured By Lizard Scent

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:25:52 +0100

A tsetse fly that transmits sleeping sickness has a penchant for lizard and pig odour - a preference that could be used to produce traps to control fly populations. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Optimum land cover products for use in a Glossina-morsitans habitat model of Kenya.

International Journal of Health Geographics — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: The method can be used to differentiate between various LULC products and be applied to any such research when there is a known relationship between a species and land cover. (Source: International Journal of Health Geographics)

Nifurtimox-Eflornithine Combination Offers Advantages for Sleeping Sickness

Medscape Medical News Headlines — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 20:03:32 +0100

Nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy (NECT) is an effective treatment for second-stage human African trypanosomiasis (HAT), also known as sleeping sickness. Reuters Health Information (Source: Medscape Medical News Headlines)

Promising New Drug Combination For Patients With Sleeping Sickness

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 07:00:00 +0100

Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) or sleeping sickness affects tens of thousands of people every year in sub-Saharan Africa. It is a fatal disease with few treatment options. According to an article in this week's issue of The Lancet, Nifurtimox in combination with eflornithine is safe, effective, and more affordable than current treatments for sleeping sickness. (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Africa: Tsetse Flies Lured By Lizard Scent

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 13:55:39 +0100

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Drug Combination Found Effective for Sleeping Sickness

Modern Medicine — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

In the treatment of sleeping sickness, nifurtimox-eflornithine combination therapy is as effective as eflornithine monotherapy, has a better safety profile, and is suitable for first-line use in control programs in sub-Saharan Africa, according to a study published online June 25 in The Lancet. (Source: Modern Medicine)

Human innate immunity against African trypanosomes.

Current Opinion in Immunology — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Authors: Pays E, Vanhollebeke B Humans are naturally resistant to infection by the African trypanosome prototype Trypanosoma brucei brucei, and only two variant clones of this parasite can avoid this innate immunity and cause sleeping sickness. The resistance to T. brucei is due to serum complexes associating apolipoprotein A-1 (apoA1) with two primate-specific proteins, apolipoprotein L-1 (apoL1) and haptoglobin-related protein (Hpr). We discuss recent advances on the respective functions of apoL1 and Hpr in this system. ApoL1 was found to share structural and functional similarities with proteins of the apoptotic Bcl2 family, and to kill trypanosomes through anionic pore formation in the lysosomal membrane of the parasite. In association with hemoglobin (Hb), Hpr was found to promote...

Tsetse flies lured by lizard scent

SciDev.Net — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 03:12:22 +0100

Chemicals in lizard and pig odour could be used to create traps for a tsetse fly responsible for sleeping sickness, say scientists. (Source: SciDev.Net)

[Media Watch] Books: Manson's tropical diseases

The Lancet Infectious Diseases — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

What are tropical diseases? Patrick Manson, the father of tropical medicine, grappled with this question himself when he published the first edition of Tropical Diseases: A Manual of the Diseases of Warm Climates in 1898. This text, and the creation of courses in London and Liverpool, established tropical medicine as a discipline. In Manson's words: “the title [was] more convenient than accurate. If by ‘tropical diseases’ be meant diseases peculiar to, and confined to the tropics, then half a dozen pages might have sufficed for their description…if…the expression ‘tropical diseases’ be held to include all diseases occurring in the tropics, then the work would require to cover almost the entire range of medicine”. The volume dealt with the parasitic diseases malaria, bilharz...

Transcriptionally active TFIIH of the early-diverged eukaryote Trypanosoma brucei harbors two novel core subunits but not a cyclin-activating kinase complex

Nucleic Acids Research — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Trypanosoma brucei is a member of the early-diverged, protistan family Trypanosomatidae and a lethal parasite causing African Sleeping Sickness in humans. Recent studies revealed that T. brucei harbors extremely divergent orthologues of the general transcription factors TBP, TFIIA, TFIIB and TFIIH and showed that these factors are essential for initiating RNA polymerase II-mediated synthesis of spliced leader (SL) RNA, a trans splicing substrate and key molecule in trypanosome mRNA maturation. In yeast and metazoans, TFIIH is composed of a core of seven conserved subunits and the ternary cyclin-activating kinase (CAK) complex. Conversely, only four TFIIH subunits have been identified in T. brucei. Here, we characterize the first protistan TFIIH which was purified in its transcriptionally a...

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A traveler with neurobrucellosis

Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Summary: An Indian traveler developed fever and neurological symptoms after a visit to East Africa. He was treated with suramin, melarsoprol and prednisolone for presumed East African trypanosomiasis. His condition deteriorated and cerebral lesions developed. Neurobrucellosis was diagnosed. Combination antibiotic therapy led to gradual clinical improvement and regression of the brain lesions. Misdiagnosis of East African trypanosomiasis followed by treatment with potentially lethal medication should be avoided by not relying on insufficient evidence during the diagnostic process. (Source: Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease)

Parasitology: PADding up for differentiation

Nature Reviews Microbiology — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Nature Reviews Microbiology 7, 480 (2009). doi:10.1038/nrmicro2168 Author: Andrew Jermy Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of African sleeping sickness, undergoes a programme of differentiation that allows it to adapt to changing temperature and nutrient availability. During transmission from the mammalian host to the tsetse fly vector during a blood meal, the 'slender' proliferative forms (Source: Nature Reviews Microbiology)

Molecular Biology: Start and Stop Signals

Editors' Choice — Sun, 31 May 2009 03:58:38 +0100

Human sleeping sickness is caused by the parasitic protozoan Trypanosoma brucei, which is transmitted when the tsetse fly bites. As in prokaryotes, the genes in this microorganism are arrayed in … [Read more] (Source: Editors' Choice)

Genital Stimulation Opens Door For Cryptic Female Choice In Tsetse Flies

ScienceDaily Headlines — Thu, 21 May 2009 15:38:28 +0100

Manipulation of male and/or female genitalia results in a suite of changes in female reproductive behavior in tsetse flies, carriers of African sleeping sickness. (Source: ScienceDaily Headlines)

New Promise For Sleeping Sickness Treatment

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 18 May 2009 10:00:00 +0100

NECT (Nifurtimox-Eflornithine Combination Therapy), a new treatment option for sleeping sickness, a fatal disease that threatens 60 million people across sub-Saharan Africa, has been added to the Essential Medicines List (EML) of the World Health Organization (WHO). (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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NECT Added To WHO Essential Medicines List As Combination Treatment Against Sleeping Sickness

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 18 May 2009 09:00:00 +0100

NECT (Nifurtimox-Eflornithine Combination Therapy), a new treatment option against sleeping sickness, a fatal disease which threatens 60 million people across sub-Saharan Africa, has been added to the Essential Medicines List (EML) of the World Health Organization (WHO) based on the application submi (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

New drugs raise hopes for sleeping sickness

SciDev.Net — Mon, 18 May 2009 03:33:31 +0100

A simpler drug for sleeping sickness is ready to be rolled out — and there is a pill in the pipeline. (Source: SciDev.Net)

A surface transporter family conveys the trypanosome differentiation signal

Nature — Fri, 15 May 2009 20:44:54 +0100

Authors: Samuel Dean, Rosa Marchetti, Kiaran Kirk & Keith R. Matthews Microbial pathogens use environmental cues to trigger the developmental events needed to infect mammalian hosts or transmit to disease vectors. The parasites causing African sleeping sickness respond to citrate or cis-aconitate (CCA) to initiate life-cycle development when transmitted to their tsetse fly vector. This (Source: Nature)

New Promise for Sleeping Sickness Treatment

MSF News — Fri, 15 May 2009 16:55:00 +0100

This study was built on previous Epicentre and MSF studies that identified this particular drug combination as a promising therapy,” said Emmanuel Baron, director of Epicentre. “It has provided some of the strongest evidence in sleeping sickness research to date, and has demonstrated NECT to be a better treatment option for advanced-stage sleeping sickness, as compared with the two current treatments which are either toxic or too complicated to use.” “NECT is critical in our efforts to address the needs of neglected patients suffering from a fatal disease,” said Christophe Fournier, president of MSF's international council. “This improved treatment needs to be rolled out urgently to replace the current, most commonly used therapy that kills one in every ...

New Promise for Sleeping Sickness Treatment

MSF News — Fri, 15 May 2009 16:55:00 +0100

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NECT Added to WHO Essential Medicines List as Combination Treatment Against Sleeping Sickness

MSF News — Fri, 15 May 2009 15:55:00 +0100

This study was built on previous Epicentre and MSF studies that identified this particular drug combination as a promising therapy. It has provided some of the strongest evidence in sleeping sickness research to date, and has demonstrated NECT to be a better treatment option for advanced-stage sleeping sickness, as compared with the two current treatments which are either toxic or too complicated to use,” remarked Emmanuel Baron, Director of Epicentre. “NECT is critical in our efforts to address the needs of neglected patients suffering from a fatal disease,” added Christophe Fournier, MSF's International Council president. “This new treatment needs to be rolled out urgently to replace the current most commonly used therapy which kills one in every 20 patients.”“We at DNDi welc...

New treatments raise hope of cutting sleeping sickness deaths

Guardian Unlimited Science — Thu, 14 May 2009 23:15:13 +0100

Prospects for people threatened by one of Africa's most lethal diseases are about to be transformed by new treatments to replace arsenic-based drugs that kill some of those they are meant to cure.The Drugs for Neglected Diseases Initiative (DNDi), a public-private partnership set up to find new and better medicines, has made two breakthroughs on sleeping sickness – African trypanosomiasis – its first major target. Today the UK government announced a fund of £18m to advance its work.Sleeping sickness, a disease spread by the bite of parasite-carrying tsetse flies in sub-Saharan Africa, has been one of the most grossly neglected tropical diseases. About 48,000 people died of it last year.Current treatments are old and toxic or very difficult to use. Melarsoprol, an arsenic derivative, c...

Genital stimulation opens door for cryptic female choice in tsetse flies

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100

(Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute) Manipulation of male and/or female genitalia results in a suite of changes in female reproductive behavior in tsetse flies, carriers of African sleeping sickness. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Scientists develop tool to study a deadly parasites histone code

The Rockefeller University Newswire — Wed, 13 May 2009 21:00:00 +0100

In a genome-wide study, scientists are the first to map the epigenetic changes that are likely to play a role in the molecular origami of transcription initiation in Trypanosoma brucei, the deadly single-celled parasite responsible for African sleeping sickness. (Source: The Rockefeller University Newswire)