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Helicobacter felis as a cofactor alone or together with stress in cryptosporidial activation in mice
G Tatar1, R Haziroğlu, G Hasçelik
1Division of Gastroenterology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
Abstract:
Cryptosporidiosis is caused by a protozoan parasite, mainly found in animals, which usually results in transient, mild gastroenteritis in humans but can cause severe and prolonged disease in immunocompromised individuals. Immunocompetent mice, naturally infected with Cryptosporidium muris, were used to investigate the effects of inoculation with Helicobacter felis and of stress on the activity of the C. muris infection, as indicated by histopathological examination of their stomachs. The results indicate that both H. felis inoculation and/or stress activate C. muris and cause gastric inflammation. The extent of the activation of C. muris depends on the duration of the stress.
Insights
Stress and Helicobacter felis infection activate Cryptosporidium muris in mice, leading to gastric inflammation. The severity of this activation correlates with the duration of stress experienced by the host.
Area of Science:
- Parasitology
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Cryptosporidiosis, caused by protozoan parasites, typically presents as mild gastroenteritis in humans but can be severe in immunocompromised individuals.
- Cryptosporidium muris is a parasite primarily found in animals, with potential implications for host health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of Helicobacter felis inoculation and stress on Cryptosporidium muris infection activity in immunocompetent mice.
- To determine the relationship between stress duration and the activation of C. muris infection.
Main Methods:
- Immunocompetent mice naturally infected with Cryptosporidium muris were utilized.
- Mice were inoculated with Helicobacter felis and subjected to varying durations of stress.
- Gastric tissues were examined histopathologically to assess C. muris infection activity and inflammation.
Main Results:
- Both H. felis inoculation and stress were found to activate C. muris infection in the stomach.
- Gastric inflammation was observed in mice subjected to H. felis and/or stress.
- The degree of C. muris activation was dependent on the duration of the applied stress.
Conclusions:
- Co-infection with H. felis and exposure to stress can exacerbate Cryptosporidium muris activity in the gastric environment.
- Stress is a significant factor influencing the pathogenesis of C. muris infections, particularly in conjunction with other potential co-infections.