Institute of Health Science

School of Medical Laboratory Science

Department of Medical Microbiology
Course Title: Advanced Parasitology

Review on the role of microbiota towards the development of parasitic

control

Submitted by: Musa Gabi

Submission date: July 30, 2023

Submitted to: Dr. Serkadis D. (PhD)

Jimma, Ethiopia
Contents
Abstract............................................................................................................................................1
1. Introduction..................................................................................................................................1
2. Method........................................................................................................................................2
3. Mechanisms used by microbiota towards controlling parasitic disease......................................2
4. Conclusion...................................................................................................................................4
5. References....................................................................................................................................5

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Abstract
Infections by parasites are largely neglected, despite threatening millions of people, particularly
in developing countries. With descriptions of the microbiota in humans, a new frontier of
investigation is developing to decipher the complexity of host–parasite– microbiota
relationships, instead of the classic reductionist approach, which considers host–parasite in
isolation. Here, I reviewed different research papers from different data bases to show the
potential roles that the resident microbiota can play in the control of parasites. Although the
mechanisms underlying these relationships remain poorly understood, some examples provide
compelling evidence that specific components of the microbiota can potentially alter the
outcomes of parasitic infections and diseases in humans. Most findings suggest a protective role
of the microbiota, which might lead to exploratory research comprising microbiota-based
interventions to prevent and treat parasitic infections in the future. The Aim of This review was
to provide relevant information on the role of host microbiota toward the development parasitic
disease control.

1. Introduction

The human microbiota, which refers to the diverse community of microorganisms living in and
on the human body, has been increasingly recognized for its role in human health and disease.
The microbiota plays a crucial role in various physiological processes, including digestion,
immune regulation, nutrient absorption, and protection against pathogens(1)(2).

Parasitic diseases, which are caused by various parasitic organisms such as protozoa, helminths,
and ectoparasites, pose a significant global burden, particularly in developing countries. While
traditional approaches for the control of parasitic diseases have mainly focused on drug
treatments and vector control strategies, recent studies have started to explore the potential of the
microbiota in controlling parasite infections.This review focuses attention on the importance of
considering the role of host microbiota toward the development parasitic disease control(3).

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 2. Method
In this Review different data bases such as Pub Med.central, google scholar, scopeus, Hinari,
winey library, Cochrene library were used to get recent scientific articles and relevant
information regarding the topic was extracted.

3. Mechanisms used by microbiota towards controlling parasitic disease

The existence of both synergistic and antagonistic interactions between hosts, parasites, and
microbiota, as presented in this review, expands our understanding of the ecological nature of
parasitic infections. In recent years, there has been growing evidence that shows The microbiota
plays a critical role in preventing the establishment and proliferation of parasitic diseases in the
host through the following mechanisms(1)(4).

Competition for Nutrients: Microbiota can compete with parasitic organisms for nutrients and
resources. This competition between the microbiota and parasites for the same food sources may
limit the ability of parasites to establish and proliferate. Certain bacterial strains, such as
Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, produce antimicrobial compounds that can inhibit the growth
of parasites in the gut(3)(4).

Immune System Stimulation: the presence of a healthy microbiota can enhance the host
immune system's response against parasitic infections. The microbiota helps to train and regulate
the immune system, promoting appropriate immune responses to parasites. This includes the
activation of specific immune cells, such as T cells and dendritic cells, leading to an effective
immune defense against parasites. study shows that When T. gondii reaches the gut of an
individual with a native and functional microbiota, an immune response is initiated at the level of
the intestinal mucosa by activation of toll-like receptors (TLRs) such as TLR2, TLR3, TLR4,
TLR7, and TLR9 in response to T. gondii infection. Microbiota can also, stimulate the immune
system, promoting the production of antibodies and cytokines that can protect against parasitic
infection. Specifically, microbiota can enhance the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA),
which plays a critical role in preventing the attachment and colonization of parasites in the gut(3)
(5).

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Regulation of Inflammation: Microbiota can regulate inflammatory responses, preventing
excessive inflammation that can damage host tissues and exacerbate parasitic infection. Studies
have shown that certain bacterial strains, such as Bacteroidetes, can produce short-chain fatty
acids (SCFAs) that promote anti-inflammatory responses in the gut. SCFAs also play a role in
regulating the immune system response to parasites, helping to reduce inflammation and prevent
tissue damage(4)(6).

Alteration of Gut Environment: Microbiota can alter the gut environment, making it less
hospitable for parasitic organisms. For example, certain bacterial strains can produce lactic acid,
which can lower the pH of the gut, making it more acidic and less favorable for the growth of
parasites. Furthermore, the microbiota can directly inhibit the growth and development of
parasites through the production of antimicrobial substances. These substances can have
detrimental effects on the parasites, either by disrupting their cellular processes or by altering
their environment(1)(5)

Furthermore, the microbiota can influence the behavior and physiology of the host, indirectly
affecting the transmission and severity of parasitic diseases. Studies have shown that gut
microbiota composition can influence the attractiveness of individuals to mosquito vectors,
potentially impacting the transmission of vector-borne parasitic diseases. Additionally,the
microbiota of the host that the vector feeds on can also impact the transmission of parasites. The
composition of the host's microbiota can influence the vector's feeding behavior, survival, and
reproductive fitness. studies suggest that specific gut bacteria in animals can alter their
attractiveness to mosquitoes, making them less likely to be bitten and subsequently reducing the
transmission of parasites(6)(7).

The microbiota present in the vectors themselves can also influence their ability to transmit
parasites. Studies have shown that certain bacteria present in the mosquito gut can inhibit the
development and survival of parasites within the mosquito. This can reduce the mosquito's
competence as a vector and subsequently decrease the transmission of parasitic diseases(7).

Finally, the microbiota can influence the efficacy of parasitic disease treatments, such as
antiparasitic drugs. This occurs through various mechanisms, including interactions between the

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microbiota and drug metabolism and absorption, and the ability of the microbiota to modulate
the host immune response to parasites(2)(5).

4. Conclusion

Overall, the role of the microbiota in the control of parasitic diseases is complex and
multifaceted. The composition and diversity of the microbiota play a critical role in regulating
host immune responses, directly inhibiting parasite growth, and influencing host physiology and
behavior. Harnessing the potential of the microbiota may provide new avenues for the prevention
and treatment of parasitic diseases in the future. However, further research is needed to fully
understand the intricate interactions between the microbiota and parasitic organisms and to
develop targeted interventions.

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 5. References

1. Elsaftawy EA, Wassef RM. Conceptions in parasite-microbiota relationships. 2021;

2. Bär A, Phukan N, Pinheiro J, Simoes-barbosa A. The Interplay of Host Microbiota and

Parasitic Protozoans at Mucosal Interfaces : Implications for the Outcomes of Infections
and Diseases. 2015;1–12.

3. Libertucci J, Young VB. The role of the microbiota in infectious diseases. Nat Microbiol
[Internet]. 2019;4(January):35–45. Available from: http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41564-018-
0278-4

4. Cantacessi C, Giacomin P, Croese J, Zakrzewski M, Sotillo J, Mccann L, et al. Impact of

Experimental Hookworm Infection on the Human Gut Microbiota. 2014;210:1431–4.

5. Berrilli F, Cave D Di, Cavallero S, Amelio SD. Interactions between parasites and microbial
communities in the human gut. 2012;(May 2014).

6. Ulusan O, Ayse B. The interaction of gut microbiota with parasitic protozoa. J Parasit Dis
[Internet]. 2022;46(1):8–11. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12639-021-01443-5

7. Chora F, Mota MM, Mukherjee D. Microbiota , a Third Player in the Host – Plasmodium
Affair. 2020;36(1):11–8.

Actinomyces, Streptomyces, and Nocardia are three genera of bacteria belonging to the phylum
Actinobacteria. These bacteria have various biological and ecological roles and are significant in
fields like medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology.

1. Actinomyces:

Actinomyces bacteria are gram-positive, anaerobic or microaerophilic, and filamentous in nature.

They typically reside as commensal organisms in the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and

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genitourinary system of humans and animals. However, they can also cause infections in certain
conditions.

Actinomyces species are known for their ability to form dense branching filaments called
mycelium, resembling fungi. They are involved in the development of dental caries, periodontal
disease, and certain genital tract infections. Actinomycosis, a chronic and slowly progressive
infection, is another notable disease caused by these bacteria.

2. Streptomyces:

Streptomyces is a genus of filamentous, gram-positive bacteria found in soil and freshwater

environments. They have a unique ability to produce a myriad of bioactive secondary
metabolites, including antibiotics, antifungals, immunosuppressants, antitumor agents, and
enzymes. Streptomyces species are thus widely used in the pharmaceutical industry for drug
discovery and production.

Streptomyces bacteria undergo a complex life cycle, starting with the formation of mycelium that
differentiates into aerial hyphae. These hyphae eventually give rise to chains of spores called
conidia. This specialized life cycle enables Streptomyces to survive adverse environmental
conditions and dispersal. They also play essential roles in the decomposition of organic matter in
soil as well as in the nitrogen cycle.

3. Nocardia:

Nocardia is a genus of aerobic, gram-positive bacteria commonly found in soil and water
environments. They are known for their ability to form filamentous hyphae and reproduce by
sporulation. Nocardia species are opportunistic pathogens that can cause infections in humans
and animals, primarily affecting the lungs, brain, and skin.

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Nocardia infections are often associated with immunocompromised individuals and can lead to
severe and sometimes fatal diseases. Pulmonary nocardiosis is the most common type of
infection caused by Nocardia. Like Actinomyces, these bacteria are also involved in the
decomposition of organic matter in soil and the biodegradation of various environmental
pollutants.

In conclusion, Actinomyces, Streptomyces, and Nocardia are diverse genera of bacteria that play
important roles in various biological systems. Their ability to produce bioactive compounds,
cause infections, and participate in ecological processes makes them fascinating subjects of study
in the field of biology.

Second part

Actinomyces, Streptomyces, and Nocardia are all bacteria that belong to the Actinobacteria
group. While they share some general characteristics, they also have distinct features, clinical
manifestations, and laboratory diagnosis.

General Features:

1. Actinomyces: These bacteria are anaerobic, Gram-positive, and filamentous in nature. They
are normal inhabitants of the oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract, and female genital tract.

2. Streptomyces: These bacteria are aerobic, Gram-positive, and filamentous. They are
commonly found in soil and are important producers of antibiotics, such as streptomycin.

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3. Nocardia: These bacteria are aerobic, Gram-positive, and filamentous. They are also
commonly found in soil and are responsible for causing infections, particularly in
immunocompromised individuals.

Clinical Manifestations:

1. Actinomyces: Actinomyces infections often occur as chronic and indolent infections. The
most common clinical manifestation is actinomycosis, which typically involves the cervicofacial
region (lumpy jaw), thorax, abdomen, or pelvis. It can present as abscesses, sinus tracts, or soft
tissue swelling.

2. Streptomyces: Streptomyces are not known to cause infections in humans; rather, they are
extensively used in biotechnology and the production of antibiotics.

3. Nocardia: Nocardia infections primarily affect the lungs, leading to the development of
pulmonary nocardiosis. Disseminated infections can occur in people with weakened immune
systems and can involve the skin, central nervous system, bones, or other organs.

Laboratory Diagnosis:

1. Actinomyces: Actinomyces can be difficult to culture, as they are slow-growing and

anaerobic. Diagnosis is usually made by identifying characteristic sulfur granules or filamentous
forms in clinical specimens such as pus, biopsy tissue, or aspirates.

2. Streptomyces: Streptomyces are not typically associated with human infections, so laboratory
diagnosis is not commonly performed for these bacteria.

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3. Nocardia: Laboratory diagnosis of Nocardia involves culturing the bacteria from clinical
specimens, such as sputum, tissue, or cerebrospinal fluid. Special media, such as blood agar or
selective media like Sabouraud agar, may be used. Identification is confirmed by microscopic
examination of the colonies, biochemical tests, and detection of characteristic filamentous forms.

In summary, Actinomyces is associated with chronic indolent infections, while Nocardia causes
opportunistic infections in immunocompromised individuals. Streptomyces is not typically
pathogenic to humans. Laboratory diagnosis involves culturing the bacteria from clinical samples
and identifying their characteristic features.