Immunoglobulin G antibodies against the endosymbionts of filarial nematodes (Wolbachia) in patients with pulmonary dirofilariasis.

Recombination in wolbachia endosymbionts of filarial nematodes?

Immunological role of the endosymbionts of Dirofilaria immitis: the Wolbachia surface protein activates canine neutrophils with production of IL-8.

Filarial nematodes, including Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens, harbour intracellular bacteria belonging to the genus Wolbachia. These bacteria have been implicated in the pathogenesis of filarial diseases, possibly through their endotoxins. Recent studies have shown that a major surface protein of Wolbachia (WSP) induces a specific IgG response in hosts infected by D. immitis. WSP from the Wo...

A Cell-Based Screen Reveals that the Albendazole Metabolite, Albendazole Sulfone, Targets Wolbachia

Wolbachia endosymbionts carried by filarial nematodes give rise to the neglected diseases African river blindness and lymphatic filariasis afflicting millions worldwide. Here we identify new Wolbachia-disrupting compounds by conducting high-throughput cell-based chemical screens using a Wolbachia-infected, fluorescently labeled Drosophila cell line. This screen yielded several Wolbachia-disrupt...

The major surface protein of Wolbachia endosymbionts in filarial nematodes elicits immune responses through TLR2 and TLR4.

More than 150 million humans in tropical countries are infected by filarial nematodes which harbor intracellular bacterial endosymbionts of the genus Wolbachia (Rickettsiales). These bacteria have been implicated in adverse effects of drug treatment in filariasis. The present study provides evidence that purified major Wolbachia surface protein (rWSP) acts as an inducer of the innate immune sys...

The emerging role of Wolbachia species in heartworm disease.

Heartworm disease was first recognized in dogs more than 100 years ago and is still prevalent among dogs and found in cats worldwide. The complications of heartworm disease can be devastating, and treatment carries risks. Wolbachia spp are gram-negative bacteria that infect filarial nematodes, including Dirofilaria immitis, and elicit an inflammatory response in cats and dogs. Antimicrobial the...