Host-parasite interactions in infections due to Entamoeba histolytica

Abstract

Entamoeba histolytica ( E. histolytica ) is an enteric microaerophilic protozoan parasite responsible for millions of cases worldwide. Majority of the infections due to E. histolytica remain asymptomatic; however, it can cause an array of symptoms ranging from devastating dysentery, colitis, and abscesses in different vital organs. The interactions between the E. histolytica and its host are a multifaceted chain of events rather than merely destruction and invasion. There are manifold decisive steps for the establishment of infections by E. histolytica which includes degradation of mucosal layer, adherence to the host epithelium, invasion into the host tissues, and dissemination to vital organs. It is widely hypothesized that, for establishment of infections, the interactions at the intestinal mucosa decides the fate of the disease. The delicate communications between the parasite, the host factors, and the associated bacterial microflora play a significant role in the pathogenesis of E. histolytica . In this review, we summarize the interactions between the E. histolytica and it's host at the genetic and immunological interphases emphasizing the crucial role of microbiota in these interactions.

Protozoan Infections Acquired from Food or Drinking Water: An Update

“…The amoeba also actively increases the production of host matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that break down the extracellular matrix favoring the translocation of intestinal bacteria into the tissue and their dissemination in organs with risk of systemic diseases [140]. Cysteine proteases, prostaglandin E2 and amoebaepores play important roles in trophozoite colonization and intestinal mucose invasion by E. histolytica, while Gal-lectin and a 21 KDa surface protein is involved in extraintestinal dissemination [141].…”

Food and Drinking Water as Sources of Pathogenic Protozoans: An Update

“…Cysteine proteases, prostaglandin E2, and amoebaepores play important roles in trophozoite colonization and intestinal mucosa invasion by E. histolytica. Gal-lectin and a 21 KDa surface protein are involved in extraintestinal dissemination [183].…”

“…Extra-intestinal infections may develop in some patients with severe outcomes that can be fatal. These include amoebic liver abscesses (ALA), which is the most common, peritonitis, venous thrombosis, lung abscesses/pneumonitis, hepatic encephalopathy, and pyopericardium/tamponade mediastinitis which are direct or indirect complications of ALA rupture [183,189,192]. These severe forms can be observed in young children, pregnant women, the elderly, and immunocompromised subjects.…”

“…E. gingivalis was significantly higher in inflamed periodontal pockets in a metagenomics analysis and a case-control study, it was detected in the oral cavity of 15% of controls and 77% of patients with inflamed gingival pockets. This amoeba was able to penetrate the cytoplasm of gingival epithelial cells in wounded live gingival biopsies and damaged host cells, thus indicating its active role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis in turn associated with increased risk for cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and oral cancer [183].…”