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Effect of immunization with the mannose-induced Acanthamoeba protein and Acanthamoeba plasminogen activator in

Hassan Alizadeh1, Sudha Neelam, Jerry Y Niederkorn

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75390-9057, USA. hassan.alizadeh@utsouthwestern.edu

Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|December 7, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Oral immunization with mannose-induced cytopathic protein (MIP-133) significantly reduced Acanthamoeba keratitis severity. This protein is crucial for initiating corneal disease following Acanthamoeba infection.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK) is a severe corneal infection.
  • Mannose-induced cytopathic protein (MIP-133) and Acanthamoeba plasminogen activator (aPA) contribute to AK pathogenesis.
  • These factors cause cytopathic effects and facilitate parasite invasion.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the pathogenicity of Acanthamoeba infection.
  • To evaluate the protective effects of oral immunization with aPA and MIP-133 against AK.
  • To determine if combined immunization offers additive protection.

Main Methods:

  • MIP-133 and aPA were isolated and purified.
  • In vitro cytolysis assays were performed on corneal cells.
  • Chinese hamsters received oral immunization with MIP-133 or aPA conjugated with cholera toxin.
  • Animals were infected with Acanthamoeba castellanii via contact lenses to assess prophylactic and therapeutic effects.

Main Results:

  • Oral immunization with MIP-133 significantly reduced corneal infection severity (infiltration, ulceration) and disease duration (P < 0.05).
  • Immunization with aPA alone did not significantly impact the disease course (P > 0.05).
  • MIP-133 was characterized in pathogenic and nonpathogenic Acanthamoeba strains.

Conclusions:

  • MIP-133 is essential for initiating corneal disease in AK.
  • MIP-133 plays a critical role in the pathogenic cascade of Acanthamoeba keratitis.
  • Targeting MIP-133 may be a viable strategy for AK treatment or prevention.

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