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The role of complement system in a gerbil model of cutaneous leishmaniasis
Baycan Mor1, Arzu Gormez2, Berna Demırcı1
1Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Science, Kafkas University, Kars 36100, Türkiye.
Insights
The complement system is activated during cutaneous leishmaniasis infections in gerbils. This immune response involves increased complement gene and protein expression, alongside oxidative stress and elevated leukocyte counts.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Parasitology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Leishmaniasis, caused by Leishmania species, is a rising global health concern.
- The role of complement pathways in host immunity against Leishmania remains incompletely understood.
- Cutaneous leishmaniasis pathogenesis requires further elucidation of immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the involvement of the complement system in gerbil models of cutaneous leishmaniasis.
- To assess complement gene and protein expression, oxidative stress markers, and hematological changes.
- To explore the immunopathological mechanisms underlying Leishmania infection.
Main Methods:
- Gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) were used as a model for cutaneous leishmaniasis.
- Gene expression analysis of complement factors (MBL-1, MBL-2, C2, C3) was performed.
- Protein levels of MBL-1, C2, and C3 were quantified.
- Biochemical assays measured glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) for oxidative stress.
- Hematological analysis assessed leukocyte counts.
Main Results:
- Significant upregulation of complement system genes (MBL-1, MBL-2, C2, C3) and proteins (MBL-1, C2, C3) in infected gerbils.
- Evidence of oxidative stress, characterized by decreased GSH and increased MDA levels.
- A significant increase in leukocyte counts was observed in infected animals.
- Complement pathway activation was confirmed in response to Leishmania infection.
Conclusions:
- Complement system pathways are demonstrably activated during cutaneous leishmaniasis.
- The findings highlight the interplay between the complement system, oxidative stress, and hematological changes in leishmaniasis.
- Further genomic, proteomic, and immunopathological studies are crucial for a comprehensive understanding of disease pathogenesis.
Abstract:
Leishmania species are intracellular protozoans responsible for causing both cutaneous and visceral infections. In recent years, the prevalence of leishmaniasis, a systemic and chronic disease, has been on the rise. Complement pathway mechanisms, part of the immune response of host organisms against Leishmania species, have not been fully revealed in leishmaniasis, which is very important for public health. This study aimed to explore the role of the complement system, an integral part of the immune response to Leishmania infections, in gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) models of cutaneous leishmaniasis. This was achieved by assessing the expression levels of complement system genes (MBL-1, MBL-2, C2, and C3) and quantifying the protein levels of MBL-1, C2, and C3. Additionally, the study aimed to conduct biochemical tests, specifically measuring GSH and MDA levels, to detect oxidative stress in response to infection in gerbils. Finally, hematological analyses were performed to evaluate leukocyte counts in the blood. The expression of complement system genes and some complement system proteins were significantly increased in infected gerbils. Oxidative stress was evident, as indicated by reduced GSH levels and increased MDA levels. Additionally, a significant rise in leukocyte counts was observed as a consequence of the infection. The study concluded that complement system pathways are activated in cutaneous leishmaniasis infections. It was also determined that a thorough evaluation of genomic, proteomic, and immunopathological mechanisms is essential for understanding the pathogenesis of the disease.
