UDP-GalNAc:polypeptide GalNAc transferase (ppGalNAcT; EC 2.4.1.41) is the initiating enzyme for mucin-type O-glycosylation in animals. Members of this highly conserved glycosyltransferase family catalyse a single glycosidic linkage. They transfer an N-acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) residue from an activated donor (UDP-GalNAc) to a serine or threonine of an acceptor polypeptide chain. A ppGalNAcT from the freshwater snail Biomphalaria glabrata is the only characterised member of this enzyme family from mollusc origin. In this work, we interpret previously published experimental characterization of this enzyme in the context of in silico models of the enzyme and its acceptor substrates. A homology model of the mollusc ppGalNAcT is created and various substrate peptides are modelled into the active site. We hypothesize about possible molecular interpretations of the available experimental data and offer potential explanations for observed substrate and cofactor specificity. Here, we review and synthesise the current knowledge of Bge-ppGalNAcT, supported by a molecular interpretation of the available data.
Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease of public health significance. In view of its elimination as a public health problem by 2030, adopting a One Health approach is necessary, considering its multidimensional nature. Animal reservoirs, in particular, pose a significant threat to schistosomiasis control in Africa and beyond.
Background: Biomphalaria glabrata acts as the intermediate host of schistosomes that causes human schistosomiasis. Symbiotic bacteria, Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus associated with Steinernema and Heterorhabditis, produce secondary metabolites with several biological activities. Controlling B.
Accurate detection of schistosome infections in snails is vital for epidemiologic and laboratory studies. Traditional microscopy methods to detect schistosomes in snails are hindered by long prepatent periods and snail survivorship, leading to inaccurate assessment of infections. A rapid, multiplexed PCR assay targeting Biomphalaria sudanica or Biomphalaria glabrata (internal control) and Schistosoma mansoni DNA is described.
Background: Intestinal schistosomiasis was confirmed endemic in Mangochi District, Malawi, in May of 2018 following an unexpected encounter with discreet populations of Biomphalaria spp. freshwater snails during routine malacological surveillance activities. Since then, only limited malacological surveillance of Biomphalaria has been carried out, and so the distribution of Biomphalaria populations in this area is currently unclear.
Continuous efforts are made to explore alternative methods for reducing Schistosomiasis. So, this study evaluated the effectiveness of Chlorella vulgaris and Pediastrum boryanum extracts carried on their nanocrystalline cellulose (NCC) as immunostimulants for Biomphalaria alexandrina snails against Schistosoma mansoni infection. The results showed that the lowest cercarial shedding/snail was 340 and 330 with 400 mg/L of C.
