Do Leishmania parasites cross the blood-testis barrier and can we ignore sexual transmission (SEXUAL)?

The predominant Leishmania transmission route is through a bite of female sand flies. However, studies conducted on dogs and case reports from humans suggest that immunocompromised visceral leishmaniasis (VL) patients might also be able to transmit Leishmania parasites through sexual intercourse. We aim to initiate an unprecedented pilot study to gather preliminary evidence on parasite presence and persistence in the semen of male VL-HIV patients and its underlying pathophysiology. First, we will perform a qualitative study to gather perspectives of health care workers and patients regarding semen sample collection to develop appropriate operating procedures in suitable conditions. Second, 15 VL-HIV patients will be recruited, clinically examined and viable Leishmania parasites will be measured in semen samples prior to and post treatment. The immunological and histopathological impact of semen parasite infiltration will be assessed in detail in an immune-competent and -compromised hamster model and by measuring corresponding inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in patients' semen. If parasite infiltration and persistence can be shown, this proof-of-concept study in humans and rodent models would significantly increase our competitiveness to apply for a more comprehensive study on the prevalence of sexual transmission and impact on fertility.

Keywords:LEISHMANIA

Disciplines:Parasitology

Project type:Collaboration project