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Tchatchouang S, Andre Mbongue Mikangue C, Kenmoe S, Bowo-Ngandji A, Mahamat G, Thierry Ebogo-Belobo J, Serge Mbaga D, Rodrigue Foe-Essomba J, Numfor H, Irma Kame-Ngasse G, Nyebe I, Bosco Taya-Fokou J, Zemnou-Tepap C, Félicité Yéngué J, Nina Magoudjou-Pekam J, Gertrude Djukouo L, Antoinette Kenmegne Noumbissi M, Kenfack-Momo R, Aimee Touangnou-Chamda S, Flore Feudjio A, Gael Oyono M, Paola Demeni Emoh C, Raoul Tazokong H, Zeukeng F, Kengne-Ndé C, Njouom R, Flore Donkeng Donfack V, Eyangoh S. Systematic review: Global host range, case fatality and detection rates of Mycobacterium ulcerans in humans and potential environmental sources. J Clin Tuberc Other Mycobact Dis 2024; 36:100457. [PMID: 39026996 PMCID: PMC11254744 DOI: 10.1016/j.jctube.2024.100457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Fundamental aspects of the epidemiology and ecology of Mycobacterium ulcerans (MU) infections including disease burden, host range, reservoir, intermediate hosts, vector and mode of transmission are poorly understood. Understanding the global distribution and burden of MU infections is a paramount to fight against Buruli ulcer (BU). Four databases were queried from inception through December 2023. After critical review of published resources on BU, 155 articles (645 records) published between 1987 and 2023 from 16 countries were selected for this review. Investigating BU in from old endemic and new emerging foci has allowed detection of MU in humans, animals, plants and various environmental samples with prevalence from 0 % up to 100 % depending of the study design. A case fatality rate between 0.0 % and 50 % was described from BU patients and deaths occurred in Central African Republic, Gabon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burkina Faso and Australia. The prevalence of MU in humans was higher in Africa. Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAAT) and non-NAAT were performed in > 38 animal species. MU has been recovered in culture from possum faeces, aquatic bugs and koala. More than 7 plant species and several environmental samples have been tested positive for MU. This review provided a comprehensive set of data on the updates of geographic distribution, the burden of MU infections in humans, and the host range of MU in non-human organisms. Although MU have been found in a wide range of environmental samples, only few of these have revealed the viability of the mycobacterium and the replicative non-human reservoirs of MU remain to be explored. These findings should serve as a foundation for further research on the reservoirs, intermediate hosts and transmission routes of MU.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sebastien Kenmoe
- Virology Department, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Arnol Bowo-Ngandji
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Gadji Mahamat
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Jean Thierry Ebogo-Belobo
- Medical Research Centre, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Hycenth Numfor
- Scientific Direction, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Department of Mycobacteriology, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Ginette Irma Kame-Ngasse
- Medical Research Centre, Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Inès Nyebe
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Raoul Kenfack-Momo
- Department of Biochemistry, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Martin Gael Oyono
- Department of Animals Biology and Physiology, The University of Yaounde I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | | | - Francis Zeukeng
- Department Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Cyprien Kengne-Ndé
- Research Monitoring and Planning Unit, National Aids Control Committee, Douala, Cameroon
| | - Richard Njouom
- Virology Department, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | | | - Sara Eyangoh
- Scientific Direction, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- Department of Mycobacteriology, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaounde, Cameroon
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Combe M, Cherif E, Blaizot R, Breugnot D, Gozlan RE. What about Current Diversity of Mycolactone-Producing Mycobacteria? Implication for the Diagnosis and Treatment of Buruli Ulcer. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13727. [PMID: 37762030 PMCID: PMC10531242 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241813727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The identification of an emerging pathogen in humans can remain difficult by conventional methods such as enrichment culture assays that remain highly selective, require appropriate medium and cannot avoid misidentifications, or serological tests that use surrogate antigens and are often hampered by the level of detectable antibodies. Although not originally designed for this purpose, the implementation of polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR) has resulted in an increasing number of diagnostic tests for many diseases. However, the design of specific molecular assays relies on the availability and reliability of published genetic sequences for the target pathogens as well as enough knowledge on the genetic diversity of species and/or variants giving rise to the same disease symptoms. Usually designed for clinical isolates, molecular tests are often not suitable for environmental samples in which the target DNA is mixed with a mixture of environmental DNA. A key challenge of such molecular assays is thus to ensure high specificity of the target genetic markers when focusing on clinical and environmental samples in order to follow the dynamics of disease transmission and emergence in humans. Here we focus on the Buruli ulcer (BU), a human necrotizing skin disease mainly affecting tropical and subtropical areas, commonly admitted to be caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans worldwide although other mycolactone-producing mycobacteria and even mycobacterium species were found associated with BU or BU-like cases. By revisiting the literature, we show that many studies have used non-specific molecular markers (IS2404, IS2606, KR-B) to identify M. ulcerans from clinical and environmental samples and propose that all mycolactone-producing mycobacteria should be definitively considered as variants from the same group rather than different species. Importantly, we provide evidence that the diversity of mycolactone-producing mycobacteria variants as well as mycobacterium species potentially involved in BU or BU-like skin ulcerations might have been underestimated. We also suggest that the specific variants/species involved in each BU or BU-like case should be carefully identified during the diagnosis phase, either via the key to genetic identification proposed here or by broader metabarcoding approaches, in order to guide the medical community in the choice for the most appropriate antibiotic therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marine Combe
- ISEM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, 34095 Montpellier, France; (E.C.); (D.B.); (R.E.G.)
| | - Emira Cherif
- ISEM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, 34095 Montpellier, France; (E.C.); (D.B.); (R.E.G.)
| | - Romain Blaizot
- Service de Dermatologie, Centre Hospitalier Andrée Rosemon, Cayenne 97306, French Guiana;
| | - Damien Breugnot
- ISEM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, 34095 Montpellier, France; (E.C.); (D.B.); (R.E.G.)
| | - Rodolphe Elie Gozlan
- ISEM, Université de Montpellier, CNRS, IRD, 34095 Montpellier, France; (E.C.); (D.B.); (R.E.G.)
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Kim D, Crippen TL, Dhungel L, Delclos PJ, Tomberlin JK, Jordan HR. Behavioral interplay between mosquito and mycolactone produced by Mycobacterium ulcerans and bacterial gene expression induced by mosquito proximity. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0289768. [PMID: 37535670 PMCID: PMC10399876 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0289768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycolactone is a cytotoxic lipid metabolite produced by Mycobacterium ulcerans, the environmental pathogen responsible for Buruli ulcer, a neglected tropical disease. Mycobacterium ulcerans is prevalent in West Africa, particularly found in lentic environments, where mosquitoes also occur. Researchers hypothesize mosquitoes could serve as a transmission mechanism resulting in infection by M. ulcerans when mosquitoes pierce skin contaminated with M. ulcerans. The interplay between the pathogen, mycolactone, and mosquito is only just beginning to be explored. A triple-choice assay was conducted to determine the host-seeking preference of Aedes aegypti between M. ulcerans wildtype (MU, mycolactone active) and mutant (MUlac-, mycolactone inactive). Both qualitative and quantitative differences in volatile organic compounds' (VOCs) profiles of MU and MUlac- were determined by GC-MS. Additionally, we evaluated the interplay between Ae. aegypti proximity and M. ulcerans mRNA expression. The results showed that mosquito attraction was significantly greater (126.0%) to an artificial host treated with MU than MUlac-. We found that MU and MUlac produced differential profiles of VOCs associated with a wide range of biological importance from quorum sensing (QS) to human odor components. RT-qPCR assays showed that mycolactone upregulation was 24-fold greater for MU exposed to Ae. aegypti in direct proximity. Transcriptome data indicated significant induction of ten chromosomal genes of MU involved in stress responses and membrane protein, compared to MUlac- when directly having access to or in near mosquito proximity. Our study provides evidence of possible interkingdom interactions between unicellular and multicellular species that MU present on human skin is capable of interreacting with unrelated species (i.e., mosquitoes), altering its gene expression when mosquitoes are in direct contact or proximity, potentially impacting the production of its VOCs, and consequently leading to the stronger attraction of mosquitoes toward human hosts. This study elucidates interkingdom interactions between viable M. ulcerans bacteria and Ae. aegypti mosquitoes, which rarely have been explored in the past. Our finding opens new doors for future research in terms of disease ecology, prevalence, and pathogen dispersal outside of the M. ulcerans system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongmin Kim
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Tawni L Crippen
- Southern Plains Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Laxmi Dhungel
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, Mississippi, United States of America
| | - Pablo J Delclos
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of Houston-Downtown, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jeffery K Tomberlin
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, United States of America
| | - Heather R Jordan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, Mississippi, United States of America
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Ayerakwa EA, Abban MK, Isawumi A, Mosi L. Profiling Mycobacterium ulcerans: sporulation, survival strategy and response to environmental factors. Future Sci OA 2023; 9:FSO845. [PMID: 37026027 PMCID: PMC10072065 DOI: 10.2144/fsoa-2022-0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans is the causative agent of Buruli ulcer – a necrotizing skin infection. As an environmental pathogen, it has developed stress response mechanisms for survival. Similar to endospore formation in M. marinum, it is likely that M. ulcerans employs sporulation mechanisms for its survival and transmission. In this review, we modeled possible transmission routes and patterns of M. ulcerans from the environment to its host. We provided insights into the evolution of M. ulcerans and its genomic profiles. We discuss reservoirs of M. ulcerans as an environmental pathogen and its environmental survival. We comprehensively discuss sporulation as a possible stress response mechanism and modelled endospore formation in M. ulcerans. At last, we highlighted sporulation associated markers, which upon expression trigger endospore formation.
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Ehouman E, Soro D, Ouattara DN, Cissé CB, Bakayoko A, Dosso M, Zo-Bi IC, Kouassi AF, Koné MW. Floristic Diversity as an Indicator in Low and High Endemic Buruli Ulcer Areas in Côte d'Ivoire. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 17:40. [PMID: 37128551 PMCID: PMC10130806 DOI: 10.1007/s41742-023-00520-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans is an environmental bacterium responsible for Buruli ulcer. This disease has a high frequency index in humid tropical regions, with a high incidence in Sub-Saharan Africa. The ecology and mode of transmission of this disease is not well established. Based on dilution effect hypothesis, acting as lowering disease transmission due to greater biodiversity, floristic inventory was carried out in the Health Districts of Daloa and Bouaké in Côte d'Ivoire. In each district, high and low endemic sites were investigated. A total of 169 plant species were inventoried for both low and high endemicity of Buruli ulcer sites in the districts. The Indval index revealed that 13 plant species were good indicators for Buruli ulcer highly endemic areas. The plants which correlate with high endemicity area were Leersia hexandra, Panicum laxum, Mimosa pudica, Paspalum distichum, Persicaria senegalensis, Calopogonium mucunoides, Echinochloa colona, Ipomoea sagittata, and Eichhornia crassipes. For low endemic sites, a strong relationship was recorded for 37 plants. The indices revealed low similarity between high and low endemicity sites. Low endemicity sites expressed the highest plant species diversity. These results suggest the hypothesis that floristic richness is more important in sites of low endemicity than in those of high endemicity. Moreover, we observed a co-occurrence of some plant species and Buruli ulcer endemicity. This finding may lead to the fact that it is important to care about the biodiversity to prevent outbreak of Buruli ulcer cases. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s41742-023-00520-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evans Ehouman
- UFR Sciences de la Nature, Université Nangui Abrogoua, 02 BP 801, Abidjan 02, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Dramane Soro
- Department of Biological Sciences, Université Péléforo Gon Coulibaly, Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire (CSRS), Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Doudjo Noufou Ouattara
- UFR Sciences de la Nature, Université Nangui Abrogoua, 02 BP 801, Abidjan 02, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire (CSRS), Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Cathérine Boni Cissé
- Department of Medical Science, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Institut Pasteur, Mycobactéries Tuberculeuses et Atypiques, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Adama Bakayoko
- UFR Sciences de la Nature, Université Nangui Abrogoua, 02 BP 801, Abidjan 02, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire (CSRS), Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Mireille Dosso
- Department of Medical Science, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Institut Pasteur, Mycobactéries Tuberculeuses et Atypiques, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Irié Casimir Zo-Bi
- Department of Forest Science, Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny (INP-HB), Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire
| | | | - Mamidou Witabouna Koné
- UFR Sciences de la Nature, Université Nangui Abrogoua, 02 BP 801, Abidjan 02, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire (CSRS), Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Department of Medical Science, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
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6
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Gyamfi E, Dogbe MA, Quaye C, Affouda AA, Kyei-Baffour E, Awuku-Asante D, Sarpong-Duah M, Mosi L. Variable Number Tandem Repeat Profiling of Mycobacterium ulcerans Reveals New Genotypes in Buruli Ulcer Endemic Communities in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:872579. [PMID: 35814673 PMCID: PMC9262091 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.872579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU), a necrotic skin disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, is mainly prevalent in West Africa, but cases have also been reported in other tropical parts of the world. It is the second most common mycobacterial disease after tuberculosis in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. Heterogeneity among M. ulcerans from different geographical locations has not been clearly elucidated, and some studies seem to suggest genetic differences between M. ulcerans in humans and in the environment. This study aimed at identifying genetic differences among M. ulcerans strains between two BU endemic countries: Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. Clinical samples consisting of swabs, fine needle aspirates, and tissue biopsies of suspected BU lesions and environmental samples (e.g., water, biofilms from plants, soil, and detrital material) were analyzed. BU cases were confirmed via acid fast staining and PCR targeting the 16S rRNA, IS2404, IS2606, and ER domain genes present on M. ulcerans. Heterogeneity among M. ulcerans was determined through VNTR profiling targeting 10 loci. Eleven M. ulcerans genotypes were identified within the clinical samples in both Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, whiles six M. ulcerans genotypes were found among the environmental samples. Clinical M. ulcerans genotypes C, D, F, and G were common in both countries. Genotype E was unique among the Ghanaian samples, whiles genotypes A, Z, J, and K were unique to the Ivorian samples. Environmental isolates were found to be more conserved compared with the clinical isolates. Genotype W was observed only among the Ghanaian environmental samples. Genotype D was found to be prominent in both clinical and environmental samples, suggesting evidence of possible transmission of M. ulcerans from the environment, particularly water bodies and biofilms from aquatic plants, to humans through open lesions on the skin.
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7
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Receveur JP, Bauer A, Pechal JL, Picq S, Dogbe M, Jordan HR, Rakestraw AW, Fast K, Sandel M, Chevillon C, Guégan JF, Wallace JR, Benbow ME. A need for null models in understanding disease transmission: the example of Mycobacterium ulcerans (Buruli ulcer disease). FEMS Microbiol Rev 2022; 46:fuab045. [PMID: 34468735 PMCID: PMC8767449 DOI: 10.1093/femsre/fuab045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the interactions of ecosystems, humans and pathogens is important for disease risk estimation. This is particularly true for neglected and newly emerging diseases where modes and efficiencies of transmission leading to epidemics are not well understood. Using a model for other emerging diseases, the neglected tropical skin disease Buruli ulcer (BU), we systematically review the literature on transmission of the etiologic agent, Mycobacterium ulcerans (MU), within a One Health/EcoHealth framework and against Hill's nine criteria and Koch's postulates for making strong inference in disease systems. Using this strong inference approach, we advocate a null hypothesis for MU transmission and other understudied disease systems. The null should be tested against alternative vector or host roles in pathogen transmission to better inform disease management. We propose a re-evaluation of what is necessary to identify and confirm hosts, reservoirs and vectors associated with environmental pathogen replication, dispersal and transmission; critically review alternative environmental sources of MU that may be important for transmission, including invertebrate and vertebrate species, plants and biofilms on aquatic substrates; and conclude with placing BU within the context of other neglected and emerging infectious diseases with intricate ecological relationships that lead to disease in humans, wildlife and domestic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph P Receveur
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Alexandra Bauer
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Jennifer L Pechal
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Sophie Picq
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Magdalene Dogbe
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, USA
| | - Heather R Jordan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, USA
| | - Alex W Rakestraw
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, The University of West Alabama, Livingston, AL, USA
| | - Kayla Fast
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, The University of West Alabama, Livingston, AL, USA
| | - Michael Sandel
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, The University of West Alabama, Livingston, AL, USA
| | - Christine Chevillon
- Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs : Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle (MIVEGEC), Université de Montpellier (UM), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut pour la Recherche et le Développement, Montpellier, France
| | - Jean-François Guégan
- Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs : Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle (MIVEGEC), Université de Montpellier (UM), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Institut pour la Recherche et le Développement, Montpellier, France
- UMR Animal, santé, territoires, risques et écosystèmes, Institut national de recherche pour l'agriculture, l'alimentation et l'environnement (INRAE), Centre de coopération internationale en recherche agronomique pour le développement (Cirad), Université de Montpellier (UM), Montpellier, France
| | - John R Wallace
- Department of Biology, Millersville University, Millersville, PA, USA
| | - M Eric Benbow
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
- Ecology, Evolution and Behavior Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- AgBioResearch, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
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8
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Linking the Mycobacterium ulcerans environment to Buruli ulcer disease: Progress and challenges. One Health 2021; 13:100311. [PMID: 34485670 PMCID: PMC8403752 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2021.100311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU), the second most common mycobacterial disease in West Africa, is a necrotizing skin disease that can lead to high morbidity in affected patients. The disease is caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans (MU), whose major virulence factor is mycolactone. Although early infection can be treated with antibiotics, an effective preventative strategy is challenging due to unknown reservoir(s) and unresolved mode(s) of transmission. Further, disease occurrence in remote locations with limited access to health facilities further complicates disease burden and associated costs. We discuss here MU transmission hypotheses and investigations into environmental reservoirs and discuss successes and challenges of studying MU and Buruli ulcer across human, animal, and environmental interfaces. We argue that a One Health approach is needed to advance the understanding of MU transmission and designing management scenarios that prevent and respond to epidemics. Although previous work has provided significant insights into risk factors, epidemiology and clinical perspectives of disease, understanding the bacterial ecology, environmental niches and role of mycolactone in natural environments and during infection of the human host remains equally important to better understanding and preventing this mysterious disease.
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9
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Muleta AJ, Lappan R, Stinear TP, Greening C. Understanding the transmission of Mycobacterium ulcerans: A step towards controlling Buruli ulcer. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009678. [PMID: 34437549 PMCID: PMC8389476 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans is the causative agent of Buruli ulcer, a rare but chronic debilitating skin and soft tissue disease found predominantly in West Africa and Southeast Australia. While a moderate body of research has examined the distribution of M. ulcerans, the specific route(s) of transmission of this bacterium remain unknown, hindering control efforts. M. ulcerans is considered an environmental pathogen given it is associated with lentic ecosystems and human-to-human spread is negligible. However, the pathogen is also carried by various mammals and invertebrates, which may serve as key reservoirs and mechanical vectors, respectively. Here, we examine and review recent evidence from these endemic regions on potential transmission pathways, noting differences in findings between Africa and Australia, and summarising the risk and protective factors associated with Buruli ulcer transmission. We also discuss evidence suggesting that environmental disturbance and human population changes precede outbreaks. We note five key research priorities, including adoption of One Health frameworks, to resolve transmission pathways and inform control strategies to reduce the spread of Buruli ulcer. Buruli ulcer is a debilitating skin and soft tissue disease characterised by large ulcerative wounds that are treated with antibiotics or with adjunctive surgery for advanced cases. Found predominantly in West Africa and Southeast Australia, the causative agent is the environmental bacterial pathogen Mycobacterium ulcerans. Lack of understanding of transmission pathways, combined with the absence of a vaccine, has hindered efforts to control the spread of M. ulcerans. Here, in order to identify probable transmission pathways and inform future studies, we review literature linking M. ulcerans to environmental reservoirs, mammalian hosts, and potential invertebrate vectors. We also summarise factors and behaviours that reduce the risk of developing Buruli ulcer, to inform effective prevention strategies and further shed light on transmission pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony J. Muleta
- Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Rachael Lappan
- Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Timothy P. Stinear
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Chris Greening
- Department of Microbiology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
- Centre to Impact AMR, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- * E-mail:
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Simpson H, Tabah EN, Phillips RO, Frimpong M, Maman I, Ampadu E, Timothy J, Saunderson P, Pullan RL, Cano J. Mapping suitability for Buruli ulcer at fine spatial scales across Africa: A modelling study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009157. [PMID: 33657104 PMCID: PMC7959670 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer (BU) is a disabling and stigmatising neglected tropical disease (NTD). Its distribution and burden are unknown because of underdiagnosis and underreporting. It is caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, an environmental pathogen whose environmental niche and transmission routes are not fully understood. The main control strategy is active surveillance to promote early treatment and thus limit morbidity, but these activities are mostly restricted to well-known endemic areas. A better understanding of environmental suitability for the bacterium and disease could inform targeted surveillance, and advance understanding of the ecology and burden of BU. We used previously compiled point-level datasets of BU and M. ulcerans occurrence, evidence for BU occurrence within national and sub-national areas, and a suite of relevant environmental covariates in a distribution modelling framework. We fitted relationships between BU and M. ulcerans occurrence and environmental predictors by applying regression and machine learning based algorithms, combined in an ensemble model to characterise the optimal ecological niche for the disease and bacterium across Africa at a resolution of 5km x 5km. Proximity to waterbodies was the strongest predictor of suitability for BU, followed potential evapotranspiration. The strongest predictors of suitability for M. ulcerans were deforestation and potential evapotranspiration. We identified patchy foci of suitability throughout West and Central Africa, including areas with no previous evidence of the disease. Predicted suitability for M. ulcerans was wider but overlapping with that of BU. The estimated population living in areas predicted suitable for the bacterium and disease was 46.1 million. These maps could be used to inform burden estimations and case searches which would generate a more complete understanding of the spatial distribution of BU in Africa, and may guide control programmes to identify cases beyond the well-known endemic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hope Simpson
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Earnest Njih Tabah
- National Yaws, Leishmaniasis, Leprosy and Buruli ulcer Control Programme, Cameroon
| | - Richard O. Phillips
- School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Michael Frimpong
- School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Issaka Maman
- National Reference Laboratory for Buruli Ulcer Disease in Togo, Ecole Supérieure des Techniques Biologiques et Alimentaires (ESTBA), Laboratoire des Sciences Biologiques et des Substances Bioactives, Université de Lomé, Lomé, Togo
| | - Edwin Ampadu
- National Buruli Ulcer Control Program, Ghana Health Service, Accra, Ghana
| | - Joseph Timothy
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Saunderson
- Accelerating Integrated Management (AIM) Initiative, Accra, Ghana
| | - Rachel L. Pullan
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jorge Cano
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
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11
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Tracing Mycobacterium ulcerans along an alimentary chain in Côte d'Ivoire: A one health perspective. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008228. [PMID: 32463813 PMCID: PMC7255608 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mycobacterium ulcerans is an environmental mycobacterium responsible for an opportunistic, noncontagious tropical infection named Buruli ulcer that necrotizes the skin and the subcutaneous tissues. M. ulcerans is thought to penetrate through breached skin after contact with contaminated wetland environments, yet the exact biotopes where M. ulcerans occurs remain elusive, hence obscuring the epidemiological chain of transmission of this opportunistic pathogen. Methodology/Principal findings Polymerase chain reaction investigations detected M. ulcerans in 39/46 (84.7%) rhizosphere specimens collected in 13 Buruli ulcer-endemic areas in Côte d’Ivoire and 3/20 (15%) specimens collected in a nonendemic area (P = 5.73.E-7); only 3/63 (4.7%) sediment specimens from sediment surrounding the rhizospheres were positive in endemic area (P = 6.51.E-12). High-throughput sequencing further detected three PCR-positive plants, Croton hirtus, Corton kongensis and Oriza sativa var. japonica (rice), in the rectal content of two M. ulcerans-positive wild Thryonomys swinderianus grasscutters that were hunted in Buruli ulcer-endemic areas, while no PCR-positive plants were detected in the rectal content of two negative control animals that were farmed in a nonendemic area. Conclusions/Significance Our data suggest an alimentary chain of transmission of M. ulcerans from plants to T. swinderianus grasscutters and people that utilize T. swinderianus as bush meat in Buruli ulcer-endemic areas in Côte d’Ivoire. Guidance to adopt protective measures and avoid any direct contact with potentially contaminated rhizospheres and with grasscutter intestinal content when preparing the animals for cooking should be established for at-risk populations. Buruli ulcer caused by inoculated Mycobacterium ulcerans is a tropical infection fibrosing subcutaneous tissues thus causing severe disabilities. The reservoir and the mode of transmission of M. ulcerans remain elusive. Here, using molecular approaches, we traced M. ulcerans along an alimentary chain comprising some plants and a small herbivore named Thryonomys swinderianus (grasscutters), in Côte d’Ivoire. Grasscutters are hunted animals, sold as bush meat. People in Buruli ulcer endemic regions spend much time in close contacts with this animal during hunting and subsequent evisceration with unprotected hands increasing their risk of contamination. Our findings demonstrate for the first time, the transmission of M. ulcerans through a food-chain and propose prophylactic measures against Buruli ulcer in Côte d’Ivoire.
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12
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Cano J, Rodríguez A, Simpson H, Tabah EN, Gómez JF, Pullan RL. Modelling the spatial distribution of aquatic insects (Order Hemiptera) potentially involved in the transmission of Mycobacterium ulcerans in Africa. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:501. [PMID: 30189883 PMCID: PMC6127916 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-3066-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Biting aquatic insects belonging to the order Hemiptera have been suggested as potential vectors of Mycobacterium ulcerans in endemic areas for Buruli ulcer (BU). If this is the case, these insects would be expected to co-exist with M. ulcerans in the same geographical areas. Here, we studied the geographical distribution of six aquatic Hemiptera families that are thought to be vectors of M. ulcerans and explored their potential geographical overlapping with communities reporting BU cases in endemic countries. Methods We have developed ensemble ecological models of predicted distribution for six families of the Hemiptera (Naucoridae, Belostomatidae, Notonectidae, Nepidae, Corixidae and Gerridae) applying a robust modelling framework over a collection of recorded presences and a suite of environmental and topographical factors. Ecological niche factor analysis (ENFA) was first used to identify factors that best described the ecological niches for each hemipteran family. Finally, we explored the potential geographical co-occurrence of these insects and BU in two endemic countries, Cameroon and Ghana. Results Species of the families Naucoridae and Belostomatidae, according to our models, are widely distributed across Africa, although absent from drier and hotter areas. The other two families of biting Hemiptera, the Notonectidae and Nepidae, would have a more restricted distribution, being more predominant in western and southern Africa. All these four families of biting water bugs are widely distributed across coastal areas of West Africa. They would thrive in areas where annual mean temperature varies between 15–22 °C, with moderate annual precipitation (i.e. 350–1000 mm/annual) and near to water courses. Species of all hemipteran families show preference for human-made environments such as agricultural landscapes and urbanized areas. Finally, our analysis suggests that M. ulcerans and species of these aquatic insects might coexist in the same ecological niches, although there would be variation in species diversity between BU endemic areas. Conclusions Our findings predict the geographical co-existence of some species of aquatic hemipteran families and BU. Considering the existing biological evidence that points to some of these aquatic insects as potential phoretic vectors of M. ulcerans, its presence in BU endemic areas should be considered a risk factor. The ecological models here presented may be helpful to inform future environmental based models intended to delineate the potential geographical distribution of BU in the African region. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13071-018-3066-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Cano
- Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Antonio Rodríguez
- Department of Horticulture, Botany and Landscaping, School of Agriculture, Food and Forestry Science and Engineering, University of Lleida, Lleida, Spain
| | - Hope Simpson
- Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Earnest N Tabah
- National Yaws, Leishmaniasis, Leprosy and Buruli ulcer Control Programme, Ministry of Public Health, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Jose F Gómez
- Department of Biodiversity, Ecology & Evolution, Complutense University, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rachel L Pullan
- Faculty of Infectious & Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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13
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Djouaka R, Zeukeng F, Bigoga JD, Kakou-Ngazoa SE, Akoton R, Tchigossou G, Coulibaly DN, Tchebe SJE, Aboubacar S, Nguepdjo CN, Tossou E, Adeoti R, Ngo Nsonga TM, Akpo Y, Djegbe I, Tamo M, Mbacham WF, Ablordey A. Domestic animals infected with Mycobacterium ulcerans-Implications for transmission to humans. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006572. [PMID: 29965961 PMCID: PMC6044547 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 05/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The environmental pathogen, Mycobacterium ulcerans (MU) can infect both humans and animals and cause Buruli ulcer (BU) disease. However, its mode(s) of transmission from the colonized environment to human/animal hosts remain unclear. In Australia, MU can infect both wildlife and domestic mammals. Till date, BU-like lesions have only been reported in wildlife in Africa. This warrants a thorough assessment of possible MU in domestic animals in Africa. Here, we screened roaming domesticated animals that share the human microhabitat in two different BU endemic sites, Sedje-Denou in Benin and Akonolinga in Cameroon, for MU lesions. Methodology/Principal findings We screened roaming mammals and birds across 3 endemic villages of Sedje-Denou in Southern Benin and 6 endemic villages of Akonolinga in Cameroon. After approval from relevant authorities, specimens (wound swabs and tissue fragments) were collected from animals with open or active lesion and systematically screened to detect the presence of MU though the diagnostic DNA targets IS2404, IS2606 and KR-B. Out of 397 animals surveyed in Akonolinga, 44 (11.08%) carried skin lesions and all were negative for MU DNA. For Sedje-Denou, only 25 (6.93%) out of 361 animals surveyed carried external skin lesions of which 2 (8%) were positive for MU DNA targets. These MU infected lesions were found in two different villages on a goat (abdominal part) and on a dog (nape area of the neck). Source-tracking of MU isolates within infected animal lesions was performed using VNTR genotyping and further confirmed with sequencing. One MU VNTR genotype (Z) was successfully typed from the goat lesion. The evolutionary history inferred from sequenced data revealed a clustering of animal MU isolates within isolates from human lesions. Conclusion/Significance This study describes the first report of two MU infected lesions in domestic animals in Africa. Their DNA sequence analyses show close relationship to isolates from human cases. It suggests that MU infection should be suspected in domestic hosts and these could play a role in transmission. The findings further support the hypothesis that MU is a ubiquitous environmental pathogen found in endemic areas, and probably involved in a multiple transmission pathway. Buruli ulcer (BU) remains a major Public Health problem in rural communities in sub-Saharan Africa. There are several reports of the occurrence of BU in Wildlife as well as domestic animals in Australia leading to the suggestion that animals may play a role in the transmission of MU to humans. Report of BU in animals is however scanty in Africa and no significant link has been made between BU in humans and animals. BU-like lesions were investigated in 397 and 361 roaming domestic animals respectively from Sedje-Denou and Akonolinga. Wound swabs, and tissue fragments were collected from animals with active lesions. Overall, 2 (8%) type I (<5 cm) animal lesions (localized on the abdominal part of a goat and the nape area of a dog) were colonized by MU in Benin. MU VNTR genotypes Z (4, 1, 2, 2) and C- (3, 1, 2, 0) were identified in the lesions of the goat and dog respectively. Significant homology was found between orthologous sequences of MU strains infecting animals and humans. The evolutionary history inferred from sequenced data revealed a clustering of animal MU isolates within isolates from human lesions. New reservoirs of MU were found through this study and allowed to a new interpretation of the life cycle of this mycobacterium from the risk environment to humans in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rousseau Djouaka
- The AgroEcoHealth Platform, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Cotonou, Bénin
| | - Francis Zeukeng
- The AgroEcoHealth Platform, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Cotonou, Bénin
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
- * E-mail:
| | - Jude Daiga Bigoga
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Solange E. Kakou-Ngazoa
- Department of Technics and Technology, Platform of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute Abidjan, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Romaric Akoton
- The AgroEcoHealth Platform, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Cotonou, Bénin
- University of Abomey-Calavi, Faculty of Science and Technics, Calavi, Benin
| | - Genevieve Tchigossou
- The AgroEcoHealth Platform, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Cotonou, Bénin
- University of Abomey-Calavi, Faculty of Science and Technics, Calavi, Benin
| | - David N’golo Coulibaly
- Department of Technics and Technology, Platform of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute Abidjan, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | | | - Sylla Aboubacar
- Department of Technics and Technology, Platform of Molecular Biology, Pasteur Institute Abidjan, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | | | - Eric Tossou
- The AgroEcoHealth Platform, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Cotonou, Bénin
- University of Abomey-Calavi, Faculty of Science and Technics, Calavi, Benin
| | - Razack Adeoti
- The AgroEcoHealth Platform, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Cotonou, Bénin
| | | | - Yao Akpo
- Faculty of Agronomy, University of Parakou, Laboratory of Ecology, Health and Animal Production (LESPA), Parakou, Bénin
| | - Innocent Djegbe
- The AgroEcoHealth Platform, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Cotonou, Bénin
| | - Manuele Tamo
- The AgroEcoHealth Platform, International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Cotonou, Bénin
| | - Wilfred Fon Mbacham
- Faculty of Science, Department of Biochemistry, University of Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Anthony Ablordey
- Department of Bacteriology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Buruli Ulcer, a Prototype for Ecosystem-Related Infection, Caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans. Clin Microbiol Rev 2017; 31:31/1/e00045-17. [PMID: 29237707 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00045-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer is a noncontagious disabling cutaneous and subcutaneous mycobacteriosis reported by 33 countries in Africa, Asia, Oceania, and South America. The causative agent, Mycobacterium ulcerans, derives from Mycobacterium marinum by genomic reduction and acquisition of a plasmid-borne, nonribosomal cytotoxin mycolactone, the major virulence factor. M. ulcerans-specific sequences have been readily detected in aquatic environments in food chains involving small mammals. Skin contamination combined with any type of puncture, including insect bites, is the most plausible route of transmission, and skin temperature of <30°C significantly correlates with the topography of lesions. After 30 years of emergence and increasing prevalence between 1970 and 2010, mainly in Africa, factors related to ongoing decreasing prevalence in the same countries remain unexplained. Rapid diagnosis, including laboratory confirmation at the point of care, is mandatory in order to reduce delays in effective treatment. Parenteral and potentially toxic streptomycin-rifampin is to be replaced by oral clarithromycin or fluoroquinolone combined with rifampin. In the absence of proven effective primary prevention, avoiding skin contamination by means of clothing can be implemented in areas of endemicity. Buruli ulcer is a prototype of ecosystem pathology, illustrating the impact of human activities on the environment as a source for emerging tropical infectious diseases.
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Meyin A Ebong S, García-Peña GE, Pluot-Sigwalt D, Marsollier L, Le Gall P, Eyangoh S, Guégan JF. Ecology and Feeding Habits Drive Infection of Water Bugs with Mycobacterium ulcerans. ECOHEALTH 2017; 14:329-341. [PMID: 28315039 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-017-1228-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2016] [Revised: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/19/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Mycobacterium ulcerans (MU), the causative agent of Buruli ulcer, is present in a wide spectrum of environments, including terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in tropical regions. The most promising studies on the epidemiological risk of this disease suggest that some ecological settings may favor infection of animals with MU including human. A species' needs and impacts on resources and the environment, i.e., its ecological niche, may influence its susceptibility to be infected by this microbial form. For example, some Naucoridae may dive in fresh waters to prey upon infected animals and thus may get infected with MU. However, these studies have rarely considered that inference on the ecological settings favoring infection and transmission may be confounded because host carrier sister species have similar ecological niches, and potentially the same host-microbe interactions. Hence, a relationship between the ecological niche of Naucoridae and its infection with MU may be due to a symbiotic relationship between the host and the pathogen, rather than its ecological niche. To account for this confounding effect, we investigated the relationships between surrogates of the ecological niche of water bug species and their susceptibility to MU, by performing phylogenetic comparative analyses on a large dataset of 11 families of water bugs collected in 10 different sites across Cameroon, central Africa. Our results indicate that MU circulates and infects a couple of host taxa, i.e., Belostomatidae, Naucoridae, living both in the aquatic vegetation and as predators inside the trophic network and sister species of water bugs have indeed similar host-microbe interactions with MU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solange Meyin A Ebong
- UMR MIVEGEC IRD, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, Centre IRD de Montpellier, BP 64501, 34394, Montpellier Cedex, France.
- Service de Mycobactériologie, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaoundé, Cameroon.
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Ecologie, Faculté des Sciences, Université de Yaoundé I, Yaoundé, Cameroon.
| | - Gabriel E García-Peña
- UMR MIVEGEC IRD, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, Centre IRD de Montpellier, BP 64501, 34394, Montpellier Cedex, France
- Centre de Synthèse et d'Analyse sur la Biodiversité (CESAB), 13857, Aix-en-Provence Cedex 3, France
| | - Dominique Pluot-Sigwalt
- Département Systématique et Evolution, UMR7205 CNRS/MNHN, Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
| | - Laurent Marsollier
- Inserm Avenir ATOMycA CRCNA Inserm U892 & CNRS U6299, Université et CHU d'Angers, Angers, France
| | - Philippe Le Gall
- UMR EGCE IRD, CNRS et Université Paris-Sud Orsay, Centre CNRS de Gif-sur-Yvette, 91198, Gif-sur-Yvette Cedex, France
| | - Sara Eyangoh
- Service de Mycobactériologie, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, BP 1274, Yaoundé, Cameroon
| | - Jean-François Guégan
- UMR MIVEGEC IRD, CNRS, Université de Montpellier, Centre IRD de Montpellier, BP 64501, 34394, Montpellier Cedex, France
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Assan B, Nyabadza F, Landi P, Hui C. Modeling the transmission of Buruli ulcer in fluctuating environments. INT J BIOMATH 2017. [DOI: 10.1142/s1793524517500632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The transmission dynamics of Buruli ulcer (BU) largely depends on environmental changes. In this paper a deterministic model for the transmission of BU in fluctuating environments is proposed. The model incorporates periodicity in the disease transmission pathways and the Mycobacterium ulcerans density that are thought to vary seasonally. Two reproduction numbers, the time-averaged reproduction number [Formula: see text] and the basic reproduction number [Formula: see text], are determined and compared. It is shown that the time-averaged reproduction underestimates the number of infections. Numerical simulations confirmed that if [Formula: see text] the infection is sustained seasonally. The model outcome suggests that environmental fluctuations should be taken into consideration in designing policies aimed at BU control and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belthasara Assan
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Cape Town 7602, South Africa
| | - Farai Nyabadza
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Cape Town 7602, South Africa
| | - Pietro Landi
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Cape Town 7602, South Africa
| | - Cang Hui
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, Cape Town 7602, South Africa
- African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS), Cape Town 7945, South Africa
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17
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Douine M, Gozlan R, Nacher M, Dufour J, Reynaud Y, Elguero E, Combe M, Velvin CJ, Chevillon C, Berlioz-Arthaud A, Labbé S, Sainte-Marie D, Guégan JF, Pradinaud R, Couppié P. Mycobacterium ulcerans infection (Buruli ulcer) in French Guiana, South America, 1969-2013: an epidemiological study. Lancet Planet Health 2017; 1:e65-e73. [PMID: 29851583 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(17)30009-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Revised: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mycobacterium ulcerans infection is the third most common mycobacterial disease in the world after tuberculosis and leprosy. To date, transmission pathways from its environmental reservoir to humans are still unknown. In South America, French Guiana has the highest reported number of M ulcerans infections across the continent. This empirical study aimed to characterise the epidemiology of M ulcerans infection in French Guiana between 1969 and 2013. METHODS Data were collected prospectively mainly by two dermatologists at Cayenne Hospital's dermatology department between Jan 1, 1969, and Dec 31, 2013, for age, date of diagnosis, sex, residence, location of the lesion, type of lesion, associated symptoms, and diagnostic method (smear, culture, PCR, or histology) for all confirmed and suspected cases of M ulcerans. We obtained population data from censuses. We calculated mean M ulcerans infection incidences, presented as the number of cases per 100 000 person-years. FINDINGS 245 patients with M ulcerans infections were reported at Cayenne Hospital's dermatology department during the study period. M ulcerans infection incidence decreased over time, from 6·07 infections per 100 000 person-years (95% CI 4·46-7·67) in 1969-83 to 4·77 infections per 100 000 person-years (3·75-5·79) in 1984-98 and to 3·49 infections per 100 000 person-years (2·83-4·16) in 1999-2013. The proportion of children with infections also declined with time, from 42 (76%) of 55 patients in 1969-83 to 26 (31%) of 84 in 1984-98 and to 22 (21%) of 106 in 1999-2013. Most cases occurred in coastal areas surrounded by marshy savannah (incidence of 21·08 per 100 000 person-years in Sinnamary and 21·18 per 100 000 person-years in Mana). Lesions mainly affected limbs (lower limbs 161 [66%] patients; upper limbs 60 [24%] patients). We diagnosed no bone infections. INTERPRETATION The decrease of M ulcerans infection incidence and the proportion of children with infections over a 45 year period in this ultra-peripheral French territory might have been mostly driven by improving living conditions, prophylactic recommendations, and access to health care. FUNDING Agence Nationale de la Recherche.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maylis Douine
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale 1424, Cayenne Hospital, Cayenne, French Guiana; Université de Guyane, EA3593 Epidémiologie des Parasitoses Tropicales, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Rodolphe Gozlan
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement Unité Mixte de Recherche Biologie des Organismes et Ecosystèmes Aquatiques, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
| | - Mathieu Nacher
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale 1424, Cayenne Hospital, Cayenne, French Guiana; Université de Guyane, EA3593 Epidémiologie des Parasitoses Tropicales, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Julie Dufour
- Service de Dermatologie, Cayenne Hospital, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Yann Reynaud
- Institut Pasteur de la Guadeloupe, Tuberculosis and Mycobacteria Unit, Morne Jolivière, Les Abymes, Guadeloupe, France
| | - Eric Elguero
- Unité Mixte de Recherche Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle Institut de Recherche pour le Développement-Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique-Université de Montpellier, Centre Institut de Recherche pour le Développement de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Marine Combe
- Unité Mixte de Recherche Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle Institut de Recherche pour le Développement-Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique-Université de Montpellier, Centre Institut de Recherche pour le Développement de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Camilla J Velvin
- Unité Mixte de Recherche Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle Institut de Recherche pour le Développement-Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique-Université de Montpellier, Centre Institut de Recherche pour le Développement de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Christine Chevillon
- Unité Mixte de Recherche Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle Institut de Recherche pour le Développement-Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique-Université de Montpellier, Centre Institut de Recherche pour le Développement de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Alain Berlioz-Arthaud
- Institut Pasteur de la Guyane, Laboratoire de Biologie Médicale, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Sylvain Labbé
- Service D'Anatomie-Pathologique, Cayenne Hospital, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | | | - Jean-François Guégan
- Unité Mixte de Recherche Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle Institut de Recherche pour le Développement-Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique-Université de Montpellier, Centre Institut de Recherche pour le Développement de Montpellier, Montpellier, France; Future Earth United Nations International Programme, OneHealth Research Initiative, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Roger Pradinaud
- Service de Dermatologie, Cayenne Hospital, Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Pierre Couppié
- Service de Dermatologie, Cayenne Hospital, Cayenne, French Guiana; Université de Guyane, EA3593 Epidémiologie des Parasitoses Tropicales, Cayenne, French Guiana.
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Pileggi SM, Jordan H, Clennon JA, Whitney E, Benbow ME, Merritt R, McIntosh M, Kimbirauskas R, Small P, Boakye D, Quaye C, Qi J, Campbell L, Gronseth J, Ampadu E, Opare W, Waller LA. Landscape and environmental influences on Mycobacterium ulcerans distribution among aquatic sites in Ghana. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0176375. [PMID: 28437439 PMCID: PMC5402941 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0176375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli ulcer, caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, is highly endemic in West Africa. While the mode of transmission is unknown, many studies associate Buruli ulcer with different types of water exposure. We present results from the largest study to date to test for M. ulcerans in aquatic sites and identify environmental attributes associated with its presence. Environmental samples from 98 aquatic sites in the Greater Accra, Ashanti, and Volta regions of Ghana were tested for the presence of M. ulcerans DNA by polymerase chain reaction. The proportion of aquatic sites positive for M. ulcerans varied by region: Ashanti 66% (N = 39), Greater Accra 34% (N = 29), and Volta 0% (N = 30). We explored the spatial distribution of M. ulcerans positive and negative water bodies and found no significant clusters. We also determined both highly localized water attributes and broad scale remotely sensed land cover and terrain environmental characteristics associated with M. ulcerans presence through logistic regression. Our results concur with published results regarding conditions suitable for M. ulcerans growth and associations with Buruli ulcer disease burden with regards to water characteristics and disturbed environments, but differ from others with regards to spatial associations and topographic effects such as elevation and wetness. While our results suggest M. ulcerans is an environmental organism existing in a specific ecological niche, they also reveal variation in the elements defining this niche across the sites considered. In addition, despite the causal association between Buruli ulcer and M. ulcerans, we observed no significant statistical association between case reports of Buruli ulcer and presence of M. ulcerans in nearby waterbodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon M. Pileggi
- Department of Statistics, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Heather Jordan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, Mississippi, United States of America
| | - Julie A. Clennon
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Ellen Whitney
- International Association of National Public Health Institutes’ Office, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - M. Eric Benbow
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Richard Merritt
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Mollie McIntosh
- Department of Biology, Xavier University, Cincinnati, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Ryan Kimbirauskas
- Department of Entomology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Pamela Small
- Department of Microbiology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Daniel Boakye
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Charles Quaye
- Parasitology Department, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Jiaguo Qi
- Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Lindsay Campbell
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Jenni Gronseth
- Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Edwin Ampadu
- National Buruli ulcer Control Programme, Accra, Ghana
| | - William Opare
- National Buruli ulcer Control Programme, Accra, Ghana
| | - Lance A. Waller
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
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Sanders ML, Jordan HR, Serewis-Pond C, Zheng L, Benbow ME, Small PL, Tomberlin JK. Mycobacterium ulcerans toxin, mycolactone may enhance host-seeking and oviposition behaviour by Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae). Environ Microbiol 2016; 19:1750-1760. [PMID: 27907248 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.13629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2016] [Accepted: 11/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The ecological functions of many toxins continue to remain unknown for those produced by environmental pathogens. Mycobacterium ulcerans, the causative agent of the neglected tropical disease, Buruli ulcer, produces a cytotoxic macrolide, mycolactone, whose function(s) in the environment remains elusive. Through a series of dual-choice behaviour assays, they show that mycolactone may be an interkingdom cue for the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti, seeking blood-meals as well as oviposition sites. Results provide novel insight into the evolution between bacteria and potential vectors. While further studies are needed to determine if mycolactone is an actual signal rather than simply a cue, this discovery could serve as a model for determining roles for toxins produced by other environmental pathogens and provide opportunities for developing novel strategies for disease prevention. The relationship between M. ulcerans, mycolactone, and Ae. aegypti further suggests there could be an amplification effect for the spread of pathogens responsible for other diseases, such as yellow fever and dengue.
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Affiliation(s)
- M L Sanders
- Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, USA.,Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - H R Jordan
- Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, USA
| | | | - L Zheng
- Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - M E Benbow
- Department of Entomology, Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - P L Small
- University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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20
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García-Peña GE, Garchitorena A, Carolan K, Canard E, Prieur-Richard AH, Suzán G, Mills JN, Roche B, Guégan JF. Niche-based host extinction increases prevalence of an environmentally acquired pathogen. OIKOS 2016. [DOI: 10.1111/oik.02700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel E. García-Peña
- UMR MIVEGEC, Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle, UMR 5290 CNRS-IRD-Université de Montpellier, Centre de Recherche IRD; 911 Avenue Agropolis, BP 64501 FR-34394 Montpellier Cedex 5 France
- Centre de Synthèse et d'Analyse sur la Biodiversité -CESAB. Bâtiment Henri Poincaré, Domaine du Petit Arbois; FR-13857 Aix-en-Provence Cedex 3 France
| | - Andrés Garchitorena
- UMR MIVEGEC, Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle, UMR 5290 CNRS-IRD-Université de Montpellier, Centre de Recherche IRD; 911 Avenue Agropolis, BP 64501 FR-34394 Montpellier Cedex 5 France
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique; Rennes France
| | - Kevin Carolan
- UMR MIVEGEC, Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle, UMR 5290 CNRS-IRD-Université de Montpellier, Centre de Recherche IRD; 911 Avenue Agropolis, BP 64501 FR-34394 Montpellier Cedex 5 France
- UMR Territoires, Environnement, Télédétection et Information Spatiale (TETIS) CIRAD; FR-34093 Montpellier France
| | - Elsa Canard
- UMR MIVEGEC, Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle, UMR 5290 CNRS-IRD-Université de Montpellier, Centre de Recherche IRD; 911 Avenue Agropolis, BP 64501 FR-34394 Montpellier Cedex 5 France
| | | | - Gerardo Suzán
- Depto de Etología, Fauna Silvestre y Animales de Laboratorio, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria Zootecnia; Univ. Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria; México D.F. C.P. 04510 México
| | - James N. Mills
- Population Biology, Ecology and Evolution Program, Emory University; Atlanta GA USA
| | | | - Jean-François Guégan
- UMR MIVEGEC, Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle, UMR 5290 CNRS-IRD-Université de Montpellier, Centre de Recherche IRD; 911 Avenue Agropolis, BP 64501 FR-34394 Montpellier Cedex 5 France
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique; Rennes France
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21
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N’krumah RTAS, Koné B, Tiembre I, Cissé G, Pluschke G, Tanner M, Utzinger J. Socio-Environmental Factors Associated with the Risk of Contracting Buruli Ulcer in Tiassalé, South Côte d'Ivoire: A Case-Control Study. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2016; 10:e0004327. [PMID: 26745723 PMCID: PMC4712845 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Buruli ulcer (BU) is a cutaneous infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans. The exact mode of transmission remains elusive; yet, some studies identified environmental, socio-sanitary, and behavioral risk factors. The purpose of this study was to assess the association of such factors to contracting BU in Tiassalé, south Côte d'Ivoire. METHODOLOGY A case-control study was conducted in 2012. Cases were BU patients diagnosed according to clinical definition put forth by the World Health Organization, readily confirmed by IS2404 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis prior to our study and recruited at one of the health centers of the district. Two controls were matched for each control, by age group (to the nearest 5 years), sex, and living community. Participants were interviewed after providing oral witnessed consent, assessing behavioral, environmental, and socio-sanitary factors. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS A total of 51 incident and prevalent cases and 102 controls were enrolled. Sex ratio (male:female) was 0.9. Median age was 25 years (range: 5-70 years). Regular contact with unprotected surface water (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 6.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.1-19.7) and absence of protective equipment during agricultural activities (aOR = 18.5, 95% CI = 5.2-66.7) were identified as the main factors associated with the risk of contracting BU. Etiologic fractions among exposed to both factors were 84.9% and 94.6%, respectively. Good knowledge about the risks that may result in BU (aOR = 0.3, 95% CI = 0.1-0.8) and perception about the disease causes (aOR = 0.1, 95% CI = 0.02-0.3) showed protection against BU with a respective preventive fraction of 70% and 90%. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Main risk factors identified in this study were the contact with unprotected water bodies through daily activities and the absence of protective equipment during agricultural activities. An effective strategy to reduce the incidence of BU should involve compliance with protective equipment during agricultural activities and avoidance of contact with surface water and community capacity building through training and sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raymond T. A. S. N’krumah
- Département Recherche et Développement, Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences Médicales, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Brama Koné
- Département Recherche et Développement, Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
- Institut de Gestion Agropastorale, Université Péléforo Gon Coulibaly, Korhogo, Côte d’Ivoire
- * E-mail:
| | - Issaka Tiembre
- Unité de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences Médicales, Université Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
| | - Guéladio Cissé
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gerd Pluschke
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Tanner
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Jürg Utzinger
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, Basel, Switzerland
- University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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22
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Tschakert P, Ricciardi V, Smithwick E, Machado M, Ferring D, Hausermann H, Bug L. Situated knowledge of pathogenic landscapes in Ghana: Understanding the emergence of Buruli ulcer through qualitative analysis. Soc Sci Med 2015; 150:160-71. [PMID: 26761375 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2015.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Revised: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Successfully addressing neglected tropical diseases requires nuanced understandings of pathogenic landscapes that incorporate situated, contexualized community knowledge. In the case of Buruli ulcer (BU), the role of social science is vital to investigate complex human-environment interactions and navigate different ways of knowing. We analyze a set of qualitative data from our interdisciplinary project on BU in Ghana, drawing from participatory mapping, focus group discussions, semi-structured interviews, and open-ended survey questions to explore how people in endemic and non-endemic areas see themselves embedded in changing environmental and social landscapes. We pay particular attention to landscape disturbance through logging and small-scale alluvial gold mining. The results from our participatory research underscore the holistic nature of BU emergence in landscapes, encapsulated in partial and incomplete local descriptions, the relevance of collective learning to distill complexity, and the potential of rich qualitative data to inform quantitative landscape-disease models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Tschakert
- Department of Geography, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA; Earth and Environmental Systems Institute, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA; School of Earth and Environment, University of Western Australia, M004, Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia.
| | - Vincent Ricciardi
- Department of Geography, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA; Institute for Resources, Environment, and Sustainability (IRES), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
| | - Erica Smithwick
- Department of Geography, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA; Earth and Environmental Systems Institute, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
| | - Mario Machado
- Department of Geography, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
| | - David Ferring
- Department of Geography, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854-8045, USA.
| | - Heidi Hausermann
- Department of Human Ecology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901-8520, USA.
| | - Leah Bug
- Center for Science and the Schools, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, 16802, USA.
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23
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Garchitorena A, Ngonghala CN, Texier G, Landier J, Eyangoh S, Bonds MH, Guégan JF, Roche B. Environmental transmission of Mycobacterium ulcerans drives dynamics of Buruli ulcer in endemic regions of Cameroon. Sci Rep 2015; 5:18055. [PMID: 26658922 PMCID: PMC4676024 DOI: 10.1038/srep18055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 11/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Buruli Ulcer is a devastating skin disease caused by the pathogen Mycobacterium ulcerans. Emergence and distribution of Buruli ulcer cases is clearly linked to aquatic ecosystems, but the specific route of transmission of M. ulcerans to humans remains unclear. Relying on the most detailed field data in space and time on M. ulcerans and Buruli ulcer available today, we assess the relative contribution of two potential transmission routes--environmental and water bug transmission--to the dynamics of Buruli ulcer in two endemic regions of Cameroon. The temporal dynamics of Buruli ulcer incidence are explained by estimating rates of different routes of transmission in mathematical models. Independently, we also estimate statistical models of the different transmission pathways on the spatial distribution of Buruli ulcer. The results of these two independent approaches are corroborative and suggest that environmental transmission pathways explain the temporal and spatial patterns of Buruli ulcer in our endemic areas better than the water bug transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Garchitorena
- UMR MIVEGEC 5290 CNRS - IRD - Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, Rennes, France
| | - Calistus N. Ngonghala
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Gaëtan Texier
- Service d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun
- UMR 912 - SESSTIM - INSERM/IRD/Aix-Marseille Université Faculté de Médecine, Marseille, France
| | - Jordi Landier
- Service d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun
- Unité d’Epidémiologie de Maladies Emergentes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Sara Eyangoh
- Laboratoire de Mycobactériologie, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Matthew H. Bonds
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
- Department of Earth System Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Jean-François Guégan
- UMR MIVEGEC 5290 CNRS - IRD - Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, Rennes, France
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24
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Zogo B, Djenontin A, Carolan K, Babonneau J, Guegan JF, Eyangoh S, Marion E. A Field Study in Benin to Investigate the Role of Mosquitoes and Other Flying Insects in the Ecology of Mycobacterium ulcerans. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015. [PMID: 26196901 PMCID: PMC4510061 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Buruli ulcer, the third mycobacterial disease after tuberculosis and leprosy, is caused by the environmental mycobacterium M. ulcerans. There is at present no clear understanding of the exact mode(s) of transmission of M. ulcerans. Populations affected by Buruli ulcer are those living close to humid and swampy zones. The disease is associated with the creation or the extension of swampy areas, such as construction of dams or lakes for the development of agriculture. Currently, it is supposed that insects (water bugs and mosquitoes) are host and vector of M. ulcerans. The role of water bugs was clearly demonstrated by several experimental and environmental studies. However, no definitive conclusion can yet be drawn concerning the precise importance of this route of transmission. Concerning the mosquitoes, DNA was detected only in mosquitoes collected in Australia, and their role as host/vector was never studied by experimental approaches. Surprisingly, no specific study was conducted in Africa. In this context, the objective of this study was to investigate the role of mosquitoes (larvae and adults) and other flying insects in ecology of M. ulcerans. This study was conducted in a highly endemic area of Benin. Methodology/Principal Findings Mosquitoes (adults and larvae) were collected over one year, in Buruli ulcer endemic in Benin. In parallel, to monitor the presence of M. ulcerans in environment, aquatic insects were sampled. QPCR was used to detected M. ulcerans DNA. DNA of M. ulcerans was detected in around 8.7% of aquatic insects but never in mosquitoes (larvae or adults) or in other flying insects. Conclusion/Significance This study suggested that the mosquitoes don't play a pivotal role in the ecology and transmission of M. ulcerans in the studied endemic areas. However, the role of mosquitoes cannot be excluded and, we can reasonably suppose that several routes of transmission of M. ulcerans are possible through the world. Buruli ulcer is a neglected tropical disease due to M. ulcerans, an environmental mycobacteria. Modes of transmission to human remain unclear and water bugs and mosquitoes had been incriminated with more or less experimental laboratory evidences and filed studies. In this context, we have investigated the presence of M. ulcerans DNA in mosquitoes and other flying insect in a highly endemic area of Buruli ulcer in Benin. No trace of the bacteria was found in mosquitoes and other flying insects, while 8,7% of aquatic insects, including water bugs, caught in the same area and in the same period were found positive to M. ulcerans DNA. Our results support the hypothesis that mosquitoes don’t play a major role in ecology of M. ulcerans in our research area and is in favor of a transmission from the aquatic environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barnabas Zogo
- IRD-CREC Cotonou, Bénin, and University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Bénin
| | - Armel Djenontin
- IRD-CREC Cotonou, Bénin, and University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Bénin
| | - Kevin Carolan
- UMR MIVEGEC, CNRS, IRD, Universities of Montpellier I and II, Montpellier, France
| | - Jeremy Babonneau
- ATOMycA, Inserm Avenir Team, CRCNA, Inserm U892, 6299 CNRS, University and CHU of Angers, Angers, France
| | - Jean-François Guegan
- UMR MIVEGEC, CNRS, IRD, Universities of Montpellier I and II, Montpellier, France
| | - Sara Eyangoh
- Laboratoire de Mycobactériologie, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Estelle Marion
- ATOMycA, Inserm Avenir Team, CRCNA, Inserm U892, 6299 CNRS, University and CHU of Angers, Angers, France
- Centre de Diagnostic et de Traitement de l’ulcère de Buruli, Fondation Raoul Follereau, Pobè, Bénin
- * E-mail:
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25
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Carolan K, Garchitorena A, García-Peña GE, Morris A, Landier J, Fontanet A, Le Gall P, Texier G, Marsollier L, Gozlan RE, Eyangoh S, Lo Seen D, Guégan JF. Topography and land cover of watersheds predicts the distribution of the environmental pathogen Mycobacterium ulcerans in aquatic insects. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2014; 8:e3298. [PMID: 25375173 PMCID: PMC4222759 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND An understanding of the factors driving the distribution of pathogens is useful in preventing disease. Often we achieve this understanding at a local microhabitat scale; however the larger scale processes are often neglected. This can result in misleading inferences about the distribution of the pathogen, inhibiting our ability to manage the disease. One such disease is Buruli ulcer, an emerging neglected tropical disease afflicting many thousands in Africa, caused by the environmental pathogen Mycobacterium ulcerans. Herein, we aim to describe the larger scale landscape process describing the distribution of M. ulcerans. METHODOLOGY Following extensive sampling of the community of aquatic macroinvertebrates in Cameroon, we select the 5 dominant insect Orders, and conduct an ecological niche model to describe how the distribution of M. ulcerans positive insects changes according to land cover and topography. We then explore the generalizability of the results by testing them against an independent dataset collected in a second endemic region, French Guiana. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS We find that the distribution of the bacterium in Cameroon is accurately described by the land cover and topography of the watershed, that there are notable seasonal differences in distribution, and that the Cameroon model does not predict the distribution of M. ulcerans in French Guiana. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE Future studies of M. ulcerans would benefit from consideration of local structure of the local stream network in future sampling, and further work is needed on the reasons for notable differences in the distribution of this species from one region to another. This work represents a first step in the identification of large-scale environmental drivers of this species, for the purposes of disease risk mapping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Carolan
- Unité mixte de recherche (UMR) Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Écologie, Génétique, Evolution, et Contrôle (MIVEGEC) IRD-CNRS-Universities of Montpellier I and II, Centre IRD de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- UMR Territoires, Environnement, Télédétection et Information Spatiale (TETIS) CIRAD, Montpellier, France
- Unité d'Epidémiologie de Maladies Emergentes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
| | - Andres Garchitorena
- Unité mixte de recherche (UMR) Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Écologie, Génétique, Evolution, et Contrôle (MIVEGEC) IRD-CNRS-Universities of Montpellier I and II, Centre IRD de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, Rennes, France
| | - Gabriel E. García-Peña
- Unité mixte de recherche (UMR) Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Écologie, Génétique, Evolution, et Contrôle (MIVEGEC) IRD-CNRS-Universities of Montpellier I and II, Centre IRD de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Centre de Synthèse et d'Analyse sur la Biodiversité -CESAB. Bâtiment Henri Poincaré, Domaine du Petit Arbois. Aix-en-Provence, France
| | - Aaron Morris
- Unité mixte de recherche (UMR) Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Écologie, Génétique, Evolution, et Contrôle (MIVEGEC) IRD-CNRS-Universities of Montpellier I and II, Centre IRD de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Bournemouth University, School of Applied Sciences, Dorset, United Kingdom
| | - Jordi Landier
- Unité d'Epidémiologie de Maladies Emergentes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Service d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Arnaud Fontanet
- Unité d'Epidémiologie de Maladies Emergentes, Institut Pasteur, Paris, France
- Chaire Santé et Développement, Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers, Paris, France
| | - Philippe Le Gall
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), UR 072, Laboratoire Evolution, Génomes et Spéciation, UPR 9034, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Gif sur Yvette, France et Université Paris-Sud 11, Orsay, France
| | - Gaëtan Texier
- Service d'épidémiologie et de santé publique, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun
- UMR 912 - SESSTIM - INSERM/IRD/Aix-Marseille Université Faculté de Médecine - 27, Marseille, France
| | - Laurent Marsollier
- ATOMycA, Inserm Avenir Team, CRCNA, Inserm U892, 6299 CNRS and LUNAM, Angers, France
| | - Rodolphe E. Gozlan
- Unité mixte de recherche (UMR) Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Écologie, Génétique, Evolution, et Contrôle (MIVEGEC) IRD-CNRS-Universities of Montpellier I and II, Centre IRD de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Bournemouth University, School of Applied Sciences, Dorset, United Kingdom
- UMR 207 BOREA IRD-MNHN-Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
| | - Sara Eyangoh
- Service de Mycobactériologie, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Danny Lo Seen
- UMR Territoires, Environnement, Télédétection et Information Spatiale (TETIS) CIRAD, Montpellier, France
| | - Jean-Francois Guégan
- Unité mixte de recherche (UMR) Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Écologie, Génétique, Evolution, et Contrôle (MIVEGEC) IRD-CNRS-Universities of Montpellier I and II, Centre IRD de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, Rennes, France
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Carolan K, Ebong SMA, Garchitorena A, Landier J, Sanhueza D, Texier G, Marsollier L, Gall PL, Guégan JF, Lo Seen D. Ecological niche modelling of Hemipteran insects in Cameroon; the paradox of a vector-borne transmission for Mycobacterium ulcerans, the causative agent of Buruli ulcer. Int J Health Geogr 2014; 13:44. [PMID: 25344052 PMCID: PMC4213541 DOI: 10.1186/1476-072x-13-44] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mode of transmission of the emerging neglected disease Buruli ulcer is unknown. Several potential transmission pathways have been proposed, such as amoebae, or transmission through food webs. Several lines of evidence have suggested that biting aquatic insects, Naucoridae and Belostomatidae, may act as vectors, however this proposal remains controversial. MATERIALS AND METHODS Herein, based on sampling in Cameroon, we construct an ecological niche model of these insects to describe their spatial distribution. We predict their distribution across West Africa, describe important environmental drivers of their abundance, and examine the correlation between their abundance and Buruli ulcer prevalence in the context of the Bradford-Hill guidelines. RESULTS We find a significant positive correlation between the abundance of the insects and the prevalence of Buruli ulcer. This correlation changes in space and time, it is significant in one Camerounese study region in (Akonolinga) and not other (Bankim). We discuss notable environmental differences between these regions. CONCLUSION We interpret the presence of, and change in, this correlation as evidence (though not proof) that these insects may be locally important in the environmental persistence, or transmission, of Mycobacterium. ulcerans. This is consistent with the idea of M. ulcerans as a pathogen transmitted by multiple modes of infection, the importance of any one pathway changing from region to region, depending on the local environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Carolan
- Unité mixte de recherche (UMR) Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs : Écologie, Génétique, Evolution, et Contrôle (MIVEGEC) IRD-CNRS-Universities of Montpellier I and II, Centre IRD de Montpellier, BP 64501, 34394 Montpellier Cedex 5, France.
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Garchitorena A, Roche B, Kamgang R, Ossomba J, Babonneau J, Landier J, Fontanet A, Flahault A, Eyangoh S, Guégan JF, Marsollier L. Mycobacterium ulcerans ecological dynamics and its association with freshwater ecosystems and aquatic communities: results from a 12-month environmental survey in Cameroon. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2014; 8:e2879. [PMID: 24831924 PMCID: PMC4022459 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mycobacterium ulcerans (MU) is the agent responsible for Buruli Ulcer (BU), an emerging skin disease with dramatic socioeconomic and health outcomes, especially in rural settings. BU emergence and distribution is linked to aquatic ecosystems in tropical and subtropical countries, especially to swampy and flooded areas. Aquatic animal organisms are likely to play a role either as host reservoirs or vectors of the bacilli. However, information on MU ecological dynamics, both in space and time, is dramatically lacking. As a result, the ecology of the disease agent, and consequently its mode of transmission, remains largely unknown, which jeopardizes public health attempts for its control. The objective of this study was to gain insight on MU environmental distribution and colonization of aquatic organisms through time. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS Longitudinal sampling of 32 communities of aquatic macro-invertebrates and vertebrates was conducted from different environments in two BU endemic regions in Cameroon during 12 months. As a result, 238,496 individuals were classified and MU presence was assessed by qPCR in 3,084 sample-pools containing these aquatic organisms. Our study showed a broad distribution of MU in all ecosystems and taxonomic groups, with important regional differences in its occurrence. Colonization dynamics fluctuated along the year, with the highest peaks in August and October. The large variations observed in the colonization dynamics of different taxonomic groups and aquatic ecosystems suggest that the trends shown here are the result of complex ecological processes that need further investigation. CONCLUSION/PERSPECTIVES This is the largest field study on MU ecology to date, providing the first detailed description of its spatio-temporal dynamics in different aquatic ecosystems within BU endemic regions. We argue that coupling this data with fine-scale epidemiological data through statistical and mathematical models will provide a major step forward in the understanding of MU ecology and mode of transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Garchitorena
- UMR MIVEGEC 5290 CNRS - IRD - Université de Montpellier I - Université de Montpellier II, Montpellier, France
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, Rennes, France
- Service de Mycobactériologie, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Benjamin Roche
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, Rennes, France
- UMMISCO, UMI IRD-UPMC 209, Bondy, France
| | - Roger Kamgang
- Service de Mycobactériologie, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Joachim Ossomba
- Service de Mycobactériologie, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Jérémie Babonneau
- ATOMycA, Inserm Avenir Team, CRCNA, Inserm U892, 6299 CNRS and LUNAM, CHU and Université d'Angers, Angers, France
| | - Jordi Landier
- Service de Mycobactériologie, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun
- Institut Pasteur, Unité d'Epidemiologie de Maladies Emergentes, Paris, France
| | - Arnaud Fontanet
- Institut Pasteur, Unité d'Epidemiologie de Maladies Emergentes, Paris, France
- Conservatoire National des Arts et Métiers, Paris, France
| | - Antoine Flahault
- Centre Virchow-Villermé, Descartes School of Medicine, Université Sorbonne Paris-Cité, Paris, France
- Global Health Institute, School of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Sara Eyangoh
- Service de Mycobactériologie, Centre Pasteur du Cameroun, Réseau International des Instituts Pasteur, Yaoundé, Cameroun
| | - Jean-François Guégan
- UMR MIVEGEC 5290 CNRS - IRD - Université de Montpellier I - Université de Montpellier II, Montpellier, France
- Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique, Rennes, France
| | - Laurent Marsollier
- ATOMycA, Inserm Avenir Team, CRCNA, Inserm U892, 6299 CNRS and LUNAM, CHU and Université d'Angers, Angers, France
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Microscopy, culture, and quantitative real-time PCR examination confirm internalization of mycobacteria in plants. Appl Environ Microbiol 2014; 80:3888-94. [PMID: 24747896 DOI: 10.1128/aem.00496-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The environment is a reservoir of nontuberculous mycobacteria and is considered a source of infection for animals and humans. Mycobacteria can persist in different types of environments for a relatively long time. We have studied their possible internalization into plant tissue through intact, as well as damaged, root systems of different types of plants grown in vitro and under field conditions. The substrate into which plants were seeded was previously contaminated with different strains of Mycobacterium avium (10(8) to 10(10) cells/g of soil) and feces from animals with paratuberculosis. We detected M. avium subsp. avium, hominissuis, and paratuberculosis in the stems and leaves of the plants by both culture and real-time quantitative PCR. The presence of mycobacteria in the plant tissues was confirmed by microscopy. The concentration of mycobacteria found inside plant tissue was several orders of magnitude lower (up to 10(4) cells/g of tissue) than the initial concentration of mycobacteria present in the culture medium or substrate. These findings led us to the hypothesis that plants may play a role in the spread and transmission of mycobacteria to other organisms in the environment.
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