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González-Barrio D, Carpio AJ, Preite L, Miguel-Vicedo M, Estévez-Reboredo RM, González-Viadero M, Barba-Sánchez R, Calero-Bernal R, Carmena D, Fuentes I. Toxoplasma gondii exposure in wildlife in Spain: Is there any predictable threat for humans and domestic animals? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 935:173290. [PMID: 38782291 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic zoonosis of key importance in veterinary and public health. This article summarizes the available data (from 2000 to 2023) of exposition to Toxoplasma gondii in wildlife species in Spain based on a systematic bibliographic search, as well as further analysis of its potential relationship with environmental variables, biodiversity, anthropogenic impact on the habitat, and the reported human cases of toxoplasmosis. The overall seroprevalence of T. gondii in carnivorous mammals, birds, ungulate and lagomorph species in Spain was estimated at 69.3 %, 36.4 %, 18.4 %, and 16.2 %, respectively. Among the studies considered, great heterogeneity was observed both between and within taxonomic groups [Cohen's d > 0.8; X2 = 1039.10, df = 4 (p < 0.01) I2 = 97 %, r2 = 1.88, (p < 0.001)] and between and within bioregions [Cohen's d > 0.5; X2 = 368.59, df = 4 (p < 0.01)]. The results of a generalized linear model explaining T. gondii seroprevalence in wild animals suggest the influence of abiotic variables [wetland (p < 0.001), unvegetated (p < 0.001), isothermality (p < 0.001), and mean temperature during wettest quarter (p < 0.05)] and number of intermediate host species as positively associated with increased exposure of wildlife to T. gondii (p < 0.01). Toxoplasma gondii DNA was detected in both wild birds and wild mammals (range: 0.0-51.2 %) mainly from north-centre, northeast, and central-west of Spain. Regarding hospitalisation rates due to toxoplasmosis in humans, some abiotic variables [permanent crops (p < 0.05) and mean temperature during wettest quarter (p < 0.05)] showed a positive association. Despite certain limitations, this research evidences a substantial gap of knowledge on the implication of wildlife in the life cycle of T. gondii in Spain. This lack of knowledge is particularly evident in areas where the human-livestock-wildlife interface overlaps, preventing us from accurately determining its true distribution in different habitats, as well as its potential direct or indirect implications on public and veterinary health.
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Affiliation(s)
- David González-Barrio
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health In-stitute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain.
| | - Antonio J Carpio
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (UCLM-CSIC-JCCM), Ciudad Real, Spain; Department of Botany, Ecology and Plant Physiology, University of Cordoba, Campus de Rabanales, Cordoba, Spain.
| | - Ludovica Preite
- Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos, IREC (UCLM-CSIC-JCCM), Ciudad Real, Spain.
| | - Mariola Miguel-Vicedo
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health In-stitute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain; PhD Programme in Biomedical Sciences and Public Health, IMIENS, National University of Distance Education (UNED), Madrid, Spain
| | - Rosa M Estévez-Reboredo
- Epidemiological Surveillance Analysis Area, Spanish National Centre for Epidemiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - María González-Viadero
- Epidemiological Surveillance Analysis Area, Spanish National Centre for Epidemiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raquel Barba-Sánchez
- Epidemiological Surveillance Analysis Area, Spanish National Centre for Epidemiology, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; The National School of Public Health, Health Institute Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Rafael Calero-Bernal
- SALUVET, Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary, Complutense University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain.
| | - David Carmena
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health In-stitute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain; CIBER Infectious Diseases (CIBERINFEC), Health Institute Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Isabel Fuentes
- Parasitology Reference and Research Laboratory, Spanish National Centre for Microbiology, Health In-stitute Carlos III, Majadahonda, Spain.
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Berrouch S, Escotte-Binet S, Biary A, Nast E, Laaouidi Y, Aubert D, Maarouf A, Harrak R, Villena I, Hafid J. Investigation of the presence of Toxoplasma gondii, Giardia duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. in drinking waters in the region of Marrakech, Morocco. J Food Prot 2023:100112. [PMID: 37286083 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfp.2023.100112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The association between the parasitic illnesses and the consumption of contaminated water has been largely reported. However, there is still a lack of studies investigating the extent of parasitic contamination in water in Morocco. This is the first study in Morocco that aimed at assessing the presence of protozoan parasites, namely Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia duodenalis and Toxoplasma gondii, in drinking water consumed in the region of Marrakech. Samples processing was performed by membrane filtration and qPCR detection. A total of 104 drinking water samples (tap water, well and spring waters) was collected between 2016 and 2020. The analysis revealed an overall protozoa contamination rate of 67.3% (70/104), of which 35 samples were positive for Giardia duodenalis, 18 for Toxoplasma gondii and 17 for both parasites. Whereas no sample was positive for Cryptosporidium spp. This first study showed that drinking water in the region of Marrakech contained parasites which could represent a risk for consumers. For better understanding and estimation of the risk encountered by local inhabitants, further studies concerned with (oo)cyst viability, infectivity and genotype identification need to be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Berrouch
- Bioresources and Food Safety Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco; Ecole Supérieure de Technologie Kelaa des Sraghna, Cadi Ayyad University, El Kelaa des Sraghna, Morocco
| | - Sandie Escotte-Binet
- Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA 7510 ESCAPE, SFR CAP-SANTE, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne and CHU Reims, Hospital Maison Blanche, National Reference Centre of Toxoplasmosis, 51097, Reims, France
| | - Abdelkader Biary
- Bioresources and Food Safety Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Eva Nast
- Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA 7510 ESCAPE, SFR CAP-SANTE, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne and CHU Reims, Hospital Maison Blanche, National Reference Centre of Toxoplasmosis, 51097, Reims, France
| | - Younes Laaouidi
- Bioresources and Food Safety Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Dominique Aubert
- Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA 7510 ESCAPE, SFR CAP-SANTE, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne and CHU Reims, Hospital Maison Blanche, National Reference Centre of Toxoplasmosis, 51097, Reims, France
| | - Abdelmalek Maarouf
- Bioresources and Food Safety Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Rajae Harrak
- Regional Laboratory for Epidemiological Diagnosis and Environmental Health, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Isabelle Villena
- Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, EA 7510 ESCAPE, SFR CAP-SANTE, University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne and CHU Reims, Hospital Maison Blanche, National Reference Centre of Toxoplasmosis, 51097, Reims, France
| | - Jamaleddine Hafid
- Bioresources and Food Safety Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, 40000 Marrakech, Morocco.
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Doline FR, Farinhas JH, Biondo LM, de Oliveira PRF, Rodrigues NJL, Patrício KP, Mota RA, Langoni H, Pettan-Brewer C, Giuffrida R, Santarém VA, de Castro WAC, dos Santos AP, Kmetiuk LB, Biondo AW. Toxoplasma gondii exposure in Brazilian indigenous populations, their dogs, environment, and healthcare professionals. One Health 2023; 16:100567. [PMID: 37363212 PMCID: PMC10288134 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2023.100567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 05/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Although Toxoplasma gondii exposure has been reported in indigenous populations worldwide, a One Health approach has not been applied to date. This study concurrently assessed T. gondii exposure in indigenous populations, and their dogs, environment, and indigenous or non-indigenous healthcare professionals (HPs). Human and dog serum samples from 9 indigenous communities in Brazil were assessed by indirect immunofluorescence antibody test for anti-T. gondii antibodies. Soil samples (30 per community) were processed with PCR to amplify T. gondii DNA. Associated risk factors and seroprevalence were analyzed using logistic regression models. Human seropositivity and type of water source were assessed by generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) with binomial error distribution, and game meat consumption with chi-squared test. Overall, 225/463 (49%) indigenous persons were seropositive for anti-T. gondii antibodies. Of all the HPs, 67/168 (40%) were positive, and included 54/147 (37%) positive non-indigenous HPs. Indigenous persons more likely to be seropositive compared with non-indigenous HPs (OR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.11-2.39). A total of 97/253 (38%) dogs were seropositive and highly associated with seropositive owners (p < 0.001). Based on univariate analysis for indigenous individuals, state location of community (p < 0.001), ethnicity (p < 0.001), consumption of game meat (p < 0.001), type of water source (p < 0.001), and educational level (p = 0.026) were associated with seropositivity. Logistic regression showed that indigenous seropositivity was associated with eating game meat (p = 0.002), drinking water from rivers (p < 0.001), and inversely proportional to the educational level. According to univariate analysis for non-indigenous HP, age (p = 0.005), frequency of visits to the indigenous populations (p < 0.001), consumption of water at the indigenous communities (p < 0.001), and ingestion of raw meat (p = 0.023) were associated with T. gondii seropositivity. Logistic regression revealed living outdoors (p = 0.042), habit of hunting (p = 0.008), and drinking river water (p = 0.007) as risk factors associated to seropositivity in dogs. In addition, indigenous communities lacking water treatment had higher seroprevalence for all groups including indigenous persons (GLMM; z = -7.153; p < 0.001), their dogs (GLMM; z = -2.405; p = 0.0162), and all HPs (GLMM; z = -2.420; p = 0.0155). Human seropositivity was associated with that of their dogs (p < 0.001). A single soil sample, out of 270 (0.37%), was positive for T. gondii by PCR. Our results indicate water source is a risk for human and dog toxoplasmosis in indigenous communities; both share similar exposure. Moreover, quality water access was shown to be crucial to prevent toxoplasmosis in both total and non-indigenous HPs who work in these indigenous communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando Rodrigo Doline
- Graduate College of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - João Henrique Farinhas
- Graduate College of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | - Leandro Meneguelli Biondo
- National Institute of the Atlantic Forest (INMA), Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Santa Teresa, Espirito Santo, Brazil
| | | | - Nássarah Jabur Lot Rodrigues
- Department for Animal Production and Preventive Veterinary Medicine department for Animal Production and Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Karina Pavão Patrício
- Department of Public Health, Medical School, São Paulo State University, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Rinaldo Aparecido Mota
- Graduate College of Animal Bioscience, Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, Recife, PE, Brazil
| | - Helio Langoni
- Department for Animal Production and Preventive Veterinary Medicine department for Animal Production and Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Botucatu, SP, Brazil
| | - Christina Pettan-Brewer
- Department of Comparative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Rogério Giuffrida
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Western São Paulo, Presidente Prudente, SP, Brazil
| | - Vamilton Alvares Santarém
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Western São Paulo, Presidente Prudente, SP, Brazil
| | - Wagner Antônio Chiba de Castro
- Latin-American Institute of Life and Nature Sciences, Federal University for Latin American Integration, Foz do Iguaçu, PR, Brazil
| | | | - Louise Bach Kmetiuk
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Alexander Welker Biondo
- Graduate College of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Paraná, Curitiba, PR, Brazil
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
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Nemati S, Shalileh F, Mirjalali H, Omidfar K. Toward waterborne protozoa detection using sensing technologies. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1118164. [PMID: 36910193 PMCID: PMC9999019 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1118164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Drought and limited sufficient water resources will be the main challenges for humankind during the coming years. The lack of water resources for washing, bathing, and drinking increases the use of contaminated water and the risk of waterborne diseases. A considerable number of waterborne outbreaks are due to protozoan parasites that may remain active/alive in harsh environmental conditions. Therefore, a regular monitoring program of water resources using sensitive techniques is needed to decrease the risk of waterborne outbreaks. Wellorganized point-of-care (POC) systems with enough sensitivity and specificity is the holy grail of research for monitoring platforms. In this review, we comprehensively gathered and discussed rapid, selective, and easy-to-use biosensor and nanobiosensor technologies, developed for the early detection of common waterborne protozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Nemati
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Shalileh
- Department of Life Science Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamed Mirjalali
- Foodborne and Waterborne Diseases Research Center, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kobra Omidfar
- Biosensor Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular–Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Li MY, Kang YH, Sun WC, Hao ZP, Elsheikha HM, Cong W. Terrestrial runoff influences the transport and contamination levels of Toxoplasma gondii in marine organisms. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 851:158168. [PMID: 35988599 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing concern regarding the potential adverse impact of Toxoplasma gondii contamination of the marine environment on marine wildlife and public health. Terrestrial runoff is a significant route for dissemination of T. gondii oocysts from land to sea. Yet, the influence of terrestrial runoff on T. gondii prevalence in marine animals in China is largely unknown. To address this concern, we examined the presence of T. gondii in marine oysters Crassostrea spp., rockfish Sebastes schlegelii (S. schlegelii), fat greenling fish Hexagrammos otakii (H. otakii), and Asian paddle crab Charybdis japonica (C. japonica) using a PCR assay targeting T. gondii B1 gene. A total of 1920 samples were randomly collected, in Jan-Dec 2020, from terrestrial runoff areas (TRA, TRB, and TRC) and non-terrestrial runoff area (Grape bay) in Weihai, China. T. gondii prevalence in TRB and TRC was 6.04 % and 5.83 %, respectively, which was higher than 2.29 % detected in the non-terrestrial runoff area. The highest prevalence was detected in Crassostrea spp., and a correlation was observed between T. gondii prevalence and weight of Crassostrea spp. The temperature, but not precipitation, significantly correlated with T. gondii prevalence. Understanding the fate of T. gondii delivered to oceans by terrestrial runoff is critical for predicting future disease risks for marine wildlife and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man-Yao Li
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong 264209, PR China
| | - Yuan-Huan Kang
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong 264209, PR China
| | - Wen-Chao Sun
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Water Environment and Marine Biological Resources Protection, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou 32503, PR China
| | - Zhi-Peng Hao
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong 264209, PR China
| | - Hany M Elsheikha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, United Kingdom.
| | - Wei Cong
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong 264209, PR China.
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Investigation of Toxoplasma gondii in wastewater and surface water in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China using real-time PCR and multilocus genotyping. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5428. [PMID: 35361820 PMCID: PMC8971506 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09166-0] [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: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a protozoan parasite, causing one of the most prevalent parasitic infections in the world. In the present study water sources of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP), China, where the hygienic infrastructure is still developing, were investigated. A total of 214 water samples of 10 L volume, were collected from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), a slaughterhouse and rivers. The samples were filtered and then analysed using real-time PCR and multilocus genotyping. T. gondii DNA was found in four (1.9%) samples representing T. gondii type I; in one of them T. gondii-like oocysts were also confirmed microscopically. The approximate level of contamination of positive samples ranged between 30 and 2300 T. gondii sporozoites. The results of this study confirmed that T. gondii is present in wastewater in the greater metropolitan area of Xining and a neighbouring county. Contamination of wastewater at this level constitutes rather a moderate source of Toxoplasma infections in humans and animals. It suggests, however, a link between environmental exposure of animals, meat processing facilities and WWTPs. To our knowledge, this is the first investigation describing T. gondii detection in wastewater and environmental water samples collected from the territory of P.R. China using sensitive molecular tools.
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Sağlam T, Düşen S, Mete E, Karaman Ü. Comparative Evaluation of Re 529-Bp Sequence and B1 Gene in the Detection of Toxoplasma gondii Through PCR in Water Samples of Denizli, Turkey. Acta Parasitol 2022; 67:555-559. [PMID: 34817741 PMCID: PMC8611623 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-021-00494-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Purpose While Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) infection is asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals, it is a life-threatening protozoan in immunocompromised individuals. Its water-borne transmission to humans poses a serious public health concern. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) has a considerable potential for the sensitive and specific detection of T. gondii oocysts in waters. Methods Comparative evaluation of RE 529-bp sequence and B1 gene to detect T. gondii tachyzoites and oocysts via PCR in agricultural irrigation water taken from downtown Denizli, Turkey and water samples collected from neighborhood fountains was performed for the first time in Turkish context. Results Based on real-time PCR targeting the B1 genetic markers and RE 529-bp sequence, T. gondii DNA was identified in 6 (16.7%) out of 48 samples collected from agricultural irrigation water. Besides, our PCR analysis did not establish any presence of T. gondii in drinking water samples. Conclusion T. gondii showed lower sensitivity in B1-based PCR than in PCR targeting RE 529-bp sequence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuğba Sağlam
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Science, Bolu Abant İzzet Baysal University, 14030, Bolu, Turkey.
| | - Serdar Düşen
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Arts and Science, Pamukkale University, 20180, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Ergun Mete
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Pamukkale University, 20180, Denizli, Turkey
| | - Ülkü Karaman
- Department of Medical Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Ordu University, 52000, Ordu, Turkey
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Li XT, Wang L, Ding Y, Sun WW. Toxoplasma gondii infection in pet cats and their owners in northeastern China:an important public health concern. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:9. [PMID: 34980114 PMCID: PMC8722283 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-03110-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Limited information about Toxoplasma gondii infection in pet cats and their owners is available in China. Methods In this study, blood samples were randomly collected from 306 pet cats and 397 corresponding pet owners in Jilin province, northeastern China. Sera from the pet cats and the pet owners were tested for anti-T. gondii antibodies using an modified agglutination test (MAT) and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), respectively. Moreover, the risk factors for T. gondii infection in pet cats and corresponding pet owners were explored. Result In total, 62 sera out of 306 examined pet cats (20.3%) and 18.1% (72/397) pet cat owners were seropositive for T. gondii, respectively. The results of statistical analysis showed that both pet cats and their owners from rural area had significantly higher T. gondii seroprevalence than those from urban area (p < 0.001). Moreover, owners of pet cas who have the knowledge of zoonotic protozoan diseases had a significantly lower T. gondii seroprevalence than those without the knowledge of zoonotic protozoan diseases (p < 0.001). Conclusions The present results revealed that the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection are widespread in pet cats and their owners in Jilin province, northeastern China. Residence area and understanding knowledge of zoonotic protozoan diseases are considered to be raleted to the T. gondii infection. Hence, it is necessary to highlight the dangers and protection methods of zoonotic protozoan diseases caused by pet cats, especially in rural area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin-Tong Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, People's Republic of China
| | - Lu Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan Ding
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, People's Republic of China
| | - Wu-Wen Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, People's Republic of China.
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Inpankaew T, Thi Thuy N, Nimsuphan B, Kengradomkij C, Kamyingkird K, Chimnoi W, Boonaue B, Xuan X. Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infection from water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in northeastern and southern Thailand. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2021; 68. [PMID: 34994346 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2021.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic disease resulting from infection with the apicomplexan Toxoplasma gondii (Nicolle et Manceaux, 1908), one of the world's most common parasites in warm-blooded animals, including humans. Sources of infection can be exposed to infected cat faeces, mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy, and notably, the consumption of undercooked contaminated meat of intermediate hosts. In Thailand, water buffaloes are highly valued for rice cultivation, traditional culture and meat production. Like several other mammalian species, these animals play a role as reservoirs of T. gondii, thus representing a threat to human health. The seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in swamp buffaloes was examined in southern and northeastern Thailand. In total, serum samples of 721 water buffaloes were collected from seven provinces (Ubon Ratchathani, Roi Et, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Buri Ram, Sakon Nakhon, and Songkhla) and examined for the presence of T. gondii infection using commercial latex agglutination test kits (TOXOCHECK-MT, Eiken Chemical Co., Tokyo, Japan). Of the 721 animals analysed, 49 (6.8%) were positive for T. gondii. Songkhla province had the highest seroprevalence (14.7%) among the seven provinces covered in this survey. There was a potential risk to local citizens of T. gondii infection identified by the present study, notably in northeastern Thailand, where despite lower seroprevalence consuming raw buffalo meat salad should be restricted to avoid the risk of zoonotic infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tawin Inpankaew
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Nguyen Thi Thuy
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, University of Agriculture and Forestry, Hue University, Hue City, Vietnam
| | - Burin Nimsuphan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chanya Kengradomkij
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ketsarin Kamyingkird
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wissanuwat Chimnoi
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Boy Boonaue
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Xuenan Xuan
- National Research Center for Protozoan Diseases, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Inada-cho, Obihiro, Hokkaido, Japan
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Cong W, Li MY, Zou Y, Ma JY, Wang B, Jiang ZY, Elsheikha HM. Prevalence, genotypes and risk factors for Toxoplasma gondii contamination in marine bivalve shellfish in offshore waters in eastern China. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2021; 213:112048. [PMID: 33610941 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2021.112048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
We conducted a large-scale epidemiological investigation to detect the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in four marine bivalve shellfish species collected from six representative coastal regions of Weihai, eastern China. Between January 2018 and December 2018, 14,535 marine bivalve shellfish pooled into 2907 samples were randomly collected and examined for T. gondii DNA by a nested PCR assay targeting B1 gene. The results showed that 2.8% (82) of the 2907 pooled samples were tested positive for T. gondii DNA. Two T. gondii genotype (ToxoDB Genotype #9 and ToxoDB Genotype #1) were identified PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Factors that were found significantly associated with the presence of T. gondii DNA in marine bivalve shellfish included the source of samples (being wild) (odds ratio [OR], 3.34; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.00-5.84; p < 0.01), surface runoff near the sampling site (OR, 2.64; 95% CI, 1.47-4.72; p < 0.01), and presence of cats near the sampling site (OR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.02-3.07; p = 0.04). Moreover, the prevalence of T. gondii DNA in marine bivalve shellfish correlated with temperature (Pearson's correlation: R = 0.75, p = 0.0049) and precipitation (R = 0.87, p = 0.00021). These findings provide new insights into the presence of T. gondii DNA in marine bivalve shellfish and highlight the impact of human activity on marine pollution by such an important terrestrial pathogen pollutant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Cong
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China
| | - Man-Yao Li
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China
| | - Yang Zou
- Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Pharmaceutical Development, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, 600 Changjiang Street, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Jun-Yang Ma
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China
| | - Bo Wang
- School of Mathematics and Actuarial Science, University of Leicester, Leicester LE1 7RH, UK
| | - Zhao-Yang Jiang
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, Shandong, 264209, PR China.
| | - Hany M Elsheikha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, UK.
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Omidian M, Ganjkarimi AH, Asgari Q, Hatam G. Molecular and serological study on congenital toxoplasmosis in newborn of Shiraz, Southern Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:16122-16128. [PMID: 33247407 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-11707-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a zoonotic disease caused by an obligatory intracellular parasite, Toxoplasma gondii. The congenital form of the disease is a significant health problem around the world. This study aimed to determine the incidence of congenital toxoplasmosis in the newborn of Shiraz, Southern Iran, between 2013 and 2018. A total of 2498 blood samples of neonates were randomly collected by a standard heel puncture technique and dried on Guthrie cards from Shiraz newborn screening center. We provided questionnaire forms for mothers according to their demographic characteristics, such as age, place of residence, history of having cats as pet, and literacy level. ELISA immunocapture and PCR assays were applied to detect anti-Toxoplasma IgM and the parasite DNA in dried blood spot samples. The anti-Toxoplasma IgM antibody was detected in two out of the 2498 infants. Moreover, borderline titers were observed in 3 samples, which were considered suspicious, so these were retested after 18 months to detect IgG against Toxoplasma. Positive IgG titer was observed in two infants who had a positive IgM level. The genome of Toxoplasma was detected in one sample out of 2498. No significant differences were seen between the epidemiological factors with congenital infection. The incidence of congenital toxoplasmosis is estimated at 0.08% of studied samples. It seems that this incidence could present to the health ministry as a logical research achievement for the national screening program of newborns in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Omidian
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Ganjkarimi
- Central Neonatal Screening Laboratory, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Qasem Asgari
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Gholamreza Hatam
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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12
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Saadat F, Mahmoudi MR, Rajabi E, Roshan ZA, Shad BM, Karanis P. Seroepidemiology and Associated Risk Factors of Toxoplasma gondii in Hemodialysis Patients. Acta Parasitol 2020; 65:906-912. [PMID: 32533419 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-020-00238-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Immunocompromised patients may be at risk for reactivation of the toxoplasmosis infection, because of defection in cell-mediated immunity. Therefore, early diagnosis would be highly desirable in these individuals. This case-control study was designed to increase information about toxoplasmosis in hemodialysis (HD) patients in Guilan province, Iran. METHODS The study was performed among 150 patients and 150 controls referred to hospitals of Guilan University of Medical Sciences during 2018-2019. Questionnaire forms, including demographic and epidemiological information, were completed. Peripheral blood samples were taken for serum separation and were collected into tubes and then kept at - 20 °C until use. IgG and IgM antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii were detected by a commercial ELISA kit. Accordingly, IgG absorbance levels < 9 were considered negative, 9-11 was considered borderline, and > 11 was positive; IgM absorbance levels < 0.9 were considered negative, 0.9-1.1 was assumed to be borderline, and > 1.1 was positive. RESULTS Throughout the study, 72.0% of HD patients and 64.7% of the control group were positive for anti-Toxoplasma IgG antibody subsequently. 2% of HD patients and 0.7% of the control group were positive for anti-Toxoplasma IgM antibody and these difference weren't significant between control and ones with HD (P > 0.05). There was no significant difference between dialysis duration factor and the seropositivity rate. Seroprevalence of T. gondii infection did not vary significantly with age, educational level, residence and presence of a cat at home. On the contrary, seroprevalence varied significantly with gender and consumption of raw vegetables. CONCLUSION Because of the high percentage of positivity for Toxoplasma IgG antibodies in hemodialysis patients, we suggest a periodically screening program to carry out for monitoring and evaluating the possible dissemination of toxoplasmosis during hemodialysis.
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Chiang SH, Huang HH, Chou CC, Chu CS, Shih WL, Lai JM, Lin HC, Yang WC, Lee HH, Tsai YL, Su YC. Epidemiological survey of Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum infections in dairy goats in Central-Southern Taiwan. J Vet Med Sci 2020; 82:1537-1544. [PMID: 32893199 PMCID: PMC7653309 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.20-0116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum are intracellular protozoan parasites that cause reproductive disorders in ruminants and humans. Information on the risk factors of T. gondii and N. caninum infections in goats is very limited in Taiwan. The aim of the study was to investigate the epidemiology and identify the risk factors of these two infections in goats. A total of 630 caprine sera were collected from 42 dairy goat farms and the owners were interviewed by a structured questionnaire. The apparent seroprevalences of T. gondii in farm- and individual- levels were respectively 88.1% and 32.22%, while those of N. caninum were 19.05% and 2.54%, respectively. Toxoplasma gondii B1 gene was identified in 7 feed samples and 8 from the water samples whereas N. caninum was not found. Wooden flooring was the main risk factor for T. gondii infection while the frequency of visits by staff to other farms and the breed of goat were risk factors for N. caninum. The improvement of flooring materials or thorough cleaning, periodic disinfection and maintenance of dryness on the floor are highly recommended for the prevention of T. gondii infection in farmed goats. In addition, unnecessary visits to other farms should be limited to prevent the spread of N. caninum. These factors should be highlighted for the prevention of T. gondii and N. caninum in goats, particularly when raised in intensive housing system with flooring on height.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shou-Heng Chiang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chiayi University, No. 580 Xinmin Rd., Chiayi City 60054, Taiwan
| | - Han Hsiang Huang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chiayi University, No. 580 Xinmin Rd., Chiayi City 60054, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chung Chou
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chung Hsing University, No. 250, Kuo Kuang Rd., Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Shih Chu
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biopharmaceuticals, National Chiayi University, No. 300 Syuefu Rd., Chiayi City 60004, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Ling Shih
- >Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, No.1, Shuefu Rd., Neipu, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan
| | - Jyh-Mirn Lai
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chiayi University, No. 580 Xinmin Rd., Chiayi City 60054, Taiwan
| | - Heng-Ching Lin
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chiayi University, No. 580 Xinmin Rd., Chiayi City 60054, Taiwan
| | - Wei-Cheng Yang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University, No.1, Sec. 4, Rooservelt Rd, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Hsu-Hsun Lee
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, No.1, Shuefu Rd., Neipu, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Lun Tsai
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, No.1, Shuefu Rd., Neipu, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan
| | - Yao-Chi Su
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, National Chiayi University, No. 580 Xinmin Rd., Chiayi City 60054, Taiwan
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Minuzzi CE, Fernandes FD, Portella LP, Bräunig P, Sturza DAF, Giacomini L, Salvagni E, Ribeiro JDS, Silva CR, Difante CM, Farinha LB, Menegolla IA, Gehrke G, Dilkin P, Sangioni LA, Mallmann CA, Vogel FSF. Contaminated water confirmed as source of infection by bioassay in an outbreak of toxoplasmosis in South Brazil. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 68:767-772. [PMID: 32682332 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The protozoan Toxoplasma gondii is a causative agent of toxoplasmosis, an important and widespread zoonotic disease. The transmission of this disease in humans includes ingestion of sporulated oocysts present in contaminated water or food. T. gondii oocysts are widely distributed and toxoplasmosis is considered a major food- and waterborne pathogen worldwide, making drinking water containing sporulated T. gondii oocysts a major source of contamination for people. In the first half of 2018, an unprecedented outbreak of toxoplasmosis was reported in the city of Santa Maria, southern Brazil. The temporal and spatial distribution of the cases strongly suggested a waterborne infection. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate a possible involvement of treated water as a source of the outbreak. For this, piglets received potentially contaminated water ad libitum for 21 days and the infection was monitored by serology through IFAT and investigation of T. gondii DNA in tissues by PCR amplification of a 529 bp followed by mouse bioassays. All piglets receiving test water ad libitum for 21 days as well as positive controls seroconverted to T. gondii. T. gondii DNA was detected in 62.5% of the piglets that received test water. All mice inoculated with tissues from each positive piglet were PCR-positive. These results strongly indicated the presence of viable oocysts in the test water administered to the animals during the study.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Emerson Salvagni
- Secretaria da Saúde do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Maria, Brazil
| | | | - Camila Ribeiro Silva
- CIEVS/Episus e Coordenação Geral de Laboratórios, SVS, Ministério da Saúde, Brasília, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Gisele Gehrke
- Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Santa Maria, Brazil
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15
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Silva CM, Silva ALP, Watanabe KFC, Chaves Bezerra NP, Bezerra DC, Gomes HM, Freire TB, Santos LSD, Carvalho Neta AVD, Silva EMC, Coimbra VCS. First report of detection of Toxoplasma gondii DNA in oysters (Crassostrea sp.) in the state of Maranhão. REVISTA BRASILEIRA DE PARASITOLOGIA VETERINARIA 2020; 29:e003720. [DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612020050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Abstract The aim of this study was to report on detection of Toxoplasma gondii DNA in oysters (Crassostrea sp.) in the state of Maranhão. To conduct this study, 200 farmed oysters were acquired in the municipality of Raposa and 100 in Paço do Lumiar; and a further 100 oysters were taken from the natural stock in the municipality of Primeira Cruz. This total of 400 specimens sampled was divided into 80 pools composed of five animals each. The gills and visceral mass of each oyster were removed for DNA extraction (per pool of oysters), using a commercial kit. The nested PCR technique (with the primer SAG-1) was then used to investigate any presence of protozoa. This molecular technique demonstrated the presence of DNA of T. gondii in 2.5% of the pools of oysters (n = 2/80): these oysters were exclusively from farms. The results from this study allow the conclusion that oysters of the genus Crassostrea that are farmed in the state of Maranhão are capable of filtering oocysts of T. gondii and maintaining them in their tissues. They are therefore potential sources of contamination for humans and other animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nancyleni Pinto Chaves Bezerra
- Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Brasil; Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Brasil; Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Brasil
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16
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Toxoplasma gondii Oocyst Infectivity Assessed Using a Sporocyst-Based Cell Culture Assay Combined with Quantitative PCR for Environmental Applications. Appl Environ Microbiol 2019; 85:AEM.01189-19. [PMID: 31399406 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01189-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous foodborne protozoan that can infect humans at low dose and displays different prevalences among countries in the world. Ingestion of food or water contaminated with small amounts of T. gondii oocysts may result in human infection. However, there are no regulations for monitoring oocysts in food, mainly because of a lack of standardized methods to detect them. The objectives of this study were (i) to develop a reliable method, applicable in biomonitoring, for the rapid detection of infectious oocysts by cell culture of their sporocysts combined with quantitative PCR (sporocyst-CC-qPCR) and (ii) to adapt this method to blue and zebra mussels experimentally contaminated by oocysts with the objective to use these organisms as sentinels of aquatic environments. Combining mechanical treatment and bead beating leads to the release of 84% ± 14% of free sporocysts. The sporocyst-CC-qPCR detected fewer than ten infectious oocysts in water within 4 days (1 day of contact and 3 days of cell culture) compared to detection after 4 weeks by mouse bioassay. For both mussel matrices, oocysts were prepurified using a 30% Percoll gradient and treated with sodium hypochlorite before cell culture of their sporocysts. This assay was able to detect as few as ten infective oocysts. This sporocyst-based CC-qPCR appears to be a good alternative to mouse bioassay for monitoring infectious T. gondii oocysts directly in water and also using biological sentinel mussel species. This method offers a new perspective to assess the environmental risk for human health associated with this parasite.IMPORTANCE The ubiquitous protozoan Toxoplasma gondii is the subject of renewed interest due to the spread of oocysts in water and food causing endemic and epidemic outbreaks of toxoplasmosis in humans and animals worldwide. Displaying a sensitivity close to animal models, cell culture represents a real alternative to assess the infectivity of oocysts in water and in biological sentinel mussels. This method opens interesting perspectives for evaluating human exposure to infectious T. gondii oocysts in the environment, where oocyst amounts are considered to be very small.
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Simon S, de Thoisy B, Mercier A, Nacher M, Demar M. Virulence of atypical Toxoplasma gondii strains isolated in French Guiana in a murine model. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 26:60. [PMID: 31549631 PMCID: PMC6757855 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2019048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background. Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite of warm-blooded vertebrates. Most infections in immunocompetent patients are asymptomatic. However, since 2000s, strains with particular genetic profiles that differ from the known clonal type (type I, II, III), have been described. In French Guiana, these strains are highly pathogenic in immunocompetent patients. They have defined a new clinical entity called Amazonian Toxoplasmosis. The present study aims to further improve our knowledge on the pathogenicity of these Amazonian T. gondii strains in comparison with three reference strains using Swiss strain mice. With these data, we tried to establish a predictive virulence score to classify these strains, but also to correlate this virulence with the severity of the disease in infected patients. Results. All the virulence indicators revealed that the Amazonian strains isolated in French Guiana presented a high virulence profile, but lower than the highly virulent type I reference RH strain. The findings reveal differences in virulence between human and animal strains, but also between anthropized and wild strains. Conclusion. In addition to being a clinically relevant animal model of Amazonian Toxoplasmosis, this model could also provide a solid experimental basis for future studies aiming to investigate the underlying mechanisms of Amazonian Toxoplasmosis disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stéphane Simon
- Equipe EA3593 - Ecosystèmes Amazoniens et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de la Guyane, 97300 Cayenne, French Guiana - Laboratoire de Parasitologie - Mycologie, Cayenne General Hospital, 97300 Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Benoit de Thoisy
- Laboratoire des Interactions Virus-Hôtes, Institut Pasteur de la Guyane, 97300 Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Aurélien Mercier
- INSERM UMR_S 1094, Neuroépidémiologie Tropicale, Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université de Limoges, Limoges 87025, France - Centre National de Référence Toxoplasmose/Toxoplasma Biological Ressource Center, CHU Limoges, 87042 Limoges, France
| | - Mathieu Nacher
- Equipe EA3593 - Ecosystèmes Amazoniens et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de la Guyane, 97300 Cayenne, French Guiana - Centre d'Investigation Clinique Epidémiologie Clinique Antilles Guyane CIC CIE 1424, Cayenne General Hospital, 97300 Cayenne, French Guiana
| | - Magalie Demar
- Equipe EA3593 - Ecosystèmes Amazoniens et Pathologie Tropicale, Université de la Guyane, 97300 Cayenne, French Guiana - Laboratoire de Parasitologie - Mycologie, Cayenne General Hospital, 97300 Cayenne, French Guiana
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Human cyclosporiasis. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019; 19:e226-e236. [PMID: 30885589 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(18)30789-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Cyclospora species are socioeconomically important protistan pathogens. Cyclospora cayetanensis is usually transmitted via food or water to a human host via the faecal-oral route and can cause the gastrointestinal disease cyclosporiasis, which can be complicated by extra-intestinal disorders, particularly in immune-compromised people. Although more than 2 million children die each year from diarrhoeal diseases worldwide, it is not known to what extent cyclosporiasis is involved. Few epidemiological data are available on Cyclospora as a water-borne and food-borne pathogen in both underprivileged communities and developed countries. To gain an improved understanding of human cyclosporiasis, this Review describes the background of Cyclospora, summarises salient aspects of the pathogenesis, epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and control of cyclosporiasis, and explores what is known about its prevalence and geographical distribution. The findings show that the effect on human health of cyclosporiasis is likely underestimated, and recommendations are made about areas of future research and the prevention and control of this disease within an international collaborative context.
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Tedde T, Marangi M, Papini R, Salza S, Normanno G, Virgilio S, Giangaspero A. Toxoplasma gondii and Other Zoonotic Protozoans in Mediterranean Mussel ( Mytilus galloprovincialis) and Blue Mussel ( Mytilus edulis): A Food Safety Concern? J Food Prot 2019; 82:535-542. [PMID: 30810381 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-18-157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Mediterranean mussels ( Mytilus galloprovincialis) and blue mussels ( Mytilus edulis) are among the most consumed fishery products, but they are frequent vehicles of foodborne infection worldwide. In this study, we investigated the occurrence and seasonality of zoonotic protozoans in mussels farmed or sold at retail outlets in Italy. We collected and tested 1,440 M. galloprovincialis and 180 M. edulis. Pooled samples were molecularly tested for Giardia duodenalis, Cryptosporidium spp., and Toxoplasma gondii and then sequenced. Sixty-two (45.9%; 95% confidence interval, 37.5 to 54.3%) mussel pools tested positive for one or more of the investigated pathogens. Both Mytilus species and samples from all the investigated areas harbored pathogens. Mussels were statistically more contaminated by Cryptosporidium spp., followed by T. gondii and G. duodenalis assemblage A, and M. galloprovincialis was more contaminated than M. edulis ( P < 0.01). Contamination was more likely in mussels at retail outlets ( P < 0.05) than in those from farms and in mussels collected in spring ( P < 0.01) than in other seasons. This is the first report of T. gondii found in M. galloprovincialis in Italy and in M. edulis in Europe. The detection of zoonotic protozoans in a widely consumed food source indicates the need for a more detailed microbiological risk analysis, especially considering that bivalve mollusks are often consumed raw worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Tedde
- 1 Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Marianna Marangi
- 2 Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, degli Alimenti e dell'Ambiente, Università di Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Roberto Papini
- 3 Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie, Università di Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Sara Salza
- 1 Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Giovanni Normanno
- 2 Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, degli Alimenti e dell'Ambiente, Università di Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
| | - Sebastiano Virgilio
- 1 Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sardegna, 07100 Sassari, Italy
| | - Annunziata Giangaspero
- 2 Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, degli Alimenti e dell'Ambiente, Università di Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
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Rousseau A, Villena I, Dumètre A, Escotte-Binet S, Favennec L, Dubey JP, Aubert D, La Carbona S. Evaluation of propidium monoazide–based qPCR to detect viable oocysts of Toxoplasma gondii. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:999-1010. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-019-06220-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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21
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Real-time PCR detection of Toxoplasma gondii in surface water samples in São Paulo, Brazil. Parasitol Res 2019; 118:631-640. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-6185-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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22
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El Bissati K, Levigne P, Lykins J, Adlaoui EB, Barkat A, Berraho A, Laboudi M, El Mansouri B, Ibrahimi A, Rhajaoui M, Quinn F, Murugesan M, Seghrouchni F, Gómez-Marín JE, Peyron F, McLeod R. Global initiative for congenital toxoplasmosis: an observational and international comparative clinical analysis. Emerg Microbes Infect 2018; 7:165. [PMID: 30262847 PMCID: PMC6160433 DOI: 10.1038/s41426-018-0164-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Globally, congenital toxoplasmosis remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, and outbreaks of infection with T. gondii represent a significant, emerging public health burden, especially in the developing world. This parasite is a threat to public health. Disease often is not recognized and is inadequately managed. Herein, we analyze the status of congenital toxoplasmosis in Morocco, Colombia, the United States, and France. We identify the unique challenges faced by each nation in the implementation of optimal approaches to congenital toxoplasmosis as a public health problem. We suggest that developed and developing countries use a multipronged approach, modeling their public health management protocols after those in France. We conclude that education, screening, appropriate treatment, and the development of novel modalities will be required to intervene successfully in caring for individuals with this infection. Gestational screening has been demonstrated to be cost-effective, morbidity-sparing, and life-saving. Recognition of the value and promise of public health interventions to prevent human suffering from this emerging infection will facilitate better patient and societal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamal El Bissati
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA.
| | - Pauline Levigne
- Institut de Parasitologie et de Mycologie Médicale Hôpital de la Croix Rousse, 103 grande rue de la Croix Rousse, 69317, Lyon, France
| | - Joseph Lykins
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University Health System, Richmond, VA, 23219, USA
| | | | - Amina Barkat
- Research Team on Mother-Child Health and Nutrition, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie de Rabat, Université Mohammed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Amina Berraho
- Department d'Ophtalmologie, Hôpital des Spécialités, CHU, P6220, Rabat, Morocco
| | | | | | - Azeddine Ibrahimi
- Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie de Rabat, Université Mohammed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | | | - Fred Quinn
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | | | | | - Jorge Enrique Gómez-Marín
- Grupo de Estudio en Parasitología Molecular (GEPAMOL), Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad del Quindio, Av. Bolivar 12N, Armenia, Quindio, Colombia
| | - François Peyron
- Institut de Parasitologie et de Mycologie Médicale Hôpital de la Croix Rousse, 103 grande rue de la Croix Rousse, 69317, Lyon, France
| | - Rima McLeod
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Department of Pediatrics (Infectious Diseases), Institute of Genomics, Genetics, and Systems Biology, Global Health Center, Toxoplasmosis Center, CHeSS, The College, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, 60637, USA
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Cong W, Elsheikha HM, Zhou N, Peng P, Qin SY, Meng QF, Qian AD. Prevalence of antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii in pets and their owners in Shandong province, Eastern China. BMC Infect Dis 2018; 18:430. [PMID: 30157863 PMCID: PMC6114041 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-018-3307-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pet ownership in China has been steadily increasing over recent years. However, the risk of pet-associated zoonotic infection with the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii remains poorly defined. Methods In a cross-sectional survey, we have determined the seroprevalence of T. gondii infection in pet dogs and cats, and pet owners. Serum samples were collected from 360 pets and 460 corresponding pet owners between March 2016 to June 2017, from Shandong province, eastern China. Sera from the animals were tested for anti-T. gondii antibodies using an indirect haemagglutination assay (IHA) and from the pet owners using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results Antibodies against T. gondii were detected in 67 of 360 (18.61%) pets. Seroprevalence of T. gondii in pet cats and dogs was 21.67% and 15.56%, respectively. IgG and IgM antibodies were detected in 79 (17.17%) and 4 (0.87%) of pet owners, respectively; with a total of 83 of 460 (18.04%) pet owners testing seropositive for T. gondii. Our seroprevalence data also suggest that cat owners in general and female pet owners in particular could face a higher risk of acquiring T. gondii infection. Conclusions Significant levels of anti-T. gondii antibodies were detected in the pets and their owners in Shandong province, eastern China, indicating a potential zoonotic risk. Prophylactic measures should be implemented to reduce the risk of pet owner’s exposure to T. gondii infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Cong
- Marine College, Shandong University at Weihai, Weihai, Shandong Province, 264209, People's Republic of China
| | - Hany M Elsheikha
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, UK
| | - Na Zhou
- The Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong Province, 266000, People's Republic of China
| | - Peng Peng
- General Station for Surveillance of Wildlife Diseases & Wildlife Borne Diseases, State Forestry Administration (SFA), Shenyang, Liaoning province, 110000, People's Republic of China
| | - Si-Yuan Qin
- General Station for Surveillance of Wildlife Diseases & Wildlife Borne Diseases, State Forestry Administration (SFA), Shenyang, Liaoning province, 110000, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-Feng Meng
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, People's Republic of China. .,Jilin Inspection and Quarantine Technology Center, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ai-Dong Qian
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin Province, 130118, People's Republic of China.
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Vergara A, Marangi M, Caradonna T, Pennisi L, Paludi D, Papini R, Ianieri A, Giangaspero A, Normanno G. Toxoplasma gondii Lineages Circulating in Slaughtered Industrial Pigs and Potential Risk for Consumers. J Food Prot 2018; 81:1373-1378. [PMID: 30019961 DOI: 10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-17-496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a cosmopolitan zoonotic protozoan parasite, and the consumption of raw or undercooked pig meat is one of the most important sources of T. gondii infection. Three predominant lineages, types I, II, and III, are widespread in Europe. Although still poorly understood, a relationship between each type and the severity of illness represents a public health issue. To gain further knowledge of the genotypes in circulation and of the potential risk for consumers, one heart sample and one diaphragm sample (206 total) were taken from each of 103 pig carcasses at an abattoir in Italy. Then, we used 529-bp repetitive element PCR and a B1 real-time PCR high-resolution melting assay coupled with sequencing to detect and genotype T. gondii isolates. T. gondii DNA was detected in 14 pigs (13.6%, 95% confidence interval = 7 to 20.2%), and types I (3.9%), II (5.8%), and III (3.9%) were identified. We found that heart tissue had a significantly higher PCR positivity rate for T. gondii than did diaphragm tissue. This is Europe's largest study on genotyping of T. gondii from pigs, and it demonstrates that all three main lineages are present in carcasses of industrially reared pigs in Italy. There is a potential risk to consumers of infection with any or all of the three lineages, and the related clinical consequences should be taken into account. This study suggests that monitoring of T. gondii types in meat is essential, especially in meat that is traditionally eaten raw or that is minimally processed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Vergara
- 1 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Marianna Marangi
- 2 Department of the Science of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy
| | - Tiziana Caradonna
- 2 Department of the Science of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy
| | - Luca Pennisi
- 1 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Domenico Paludi
- 1 Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Roberto Papini
- 3 Department of Veterinary Science, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy; and
| | - Adriana Ianieri
- 4 Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
| | - Annunziata Giangaspero
- 2 Department of the Science of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Normanno
- 2 Department of the Science of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Foggia, 71121 Foggia, Italy
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25
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First report of Toxoplasma gondii sporulated oocysts and Giardia duodenalis in commercial green-lipped mussels (Perna canaliculus) in New Zealand. Parasitol Res 2018; 117:1453-1463. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-5832-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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26
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The first detection of Toxoplasma gondii DNA in environmental air samples using gelatine filters, real-time PCR and loop-mediated isothermal (LAMP) assays: qualitative and quantitative analysis. Parasitology 2017; 144:1791-1801. [PMID: 28697821 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182017001172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii infections are acquired through the ingestion of oocysts present in the environment. However, there is no data about their occurrence in the air or about airborne transmission of these infections. In the present paper, we report on the identification of T. gondii using rapid molecular detection methods, supported by microscopic analysis, in environmental air samples. A total of 71 samples were collected, using gelatine filters, from kitchen gardens, recreational areas and sandpits located in northern and north-eastern Poland. Material recovered from the filters was analysed using real-time PCR and loop-mediated isothermal assays targeting the T. gondii B1 gene. Toxoplasma gondii DNA was found in two samples, as confirmed by both molecular assays. Genotyping at the SAG2 locus showed Toxoplasma SAG2 type I. Moreover, the presence of T. gondii oocysts was confirmed in one of the positive samples with the use of microscopy. The results showed that T. gondii may be present in environmental air samples and that respiratory tract infections may play a role in the high prevalence of toxoplasmosis in humans and animals. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first epidemiological evidence that oro-fecal and foodborne toxoplasmosis may be traceable to an airborne respiratory origin and that this may represent a new, previously unknown transmission route for this disease.
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Rosado-García FM, Guerrero-Flórez M, Karanis G, Hinojosa MDC, Karanis P. Water-borne protozoa parasites: The Latin American perspective. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2017; 220:783-798. [PMID: 28460996 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2017.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Revised: 03/18/2017] [Accepted: 03/18/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Health systems, sanitation and water access have certain limitations in nations of Latin America (LA): typical matters of developing countries. Water is often contaminated and therefore unhealthy for the consumers and users. Information on prevalence and detection of waterborne parasitic protozoa are limited or not available in LA. Only few reports have documented in this field during the last forty years and Brazil leads the list, including countries in South America and Mexico within Central America region and Caribbean islands. From 1979 to 2015, 16 outbreaks of waterborne-protozoa, were reported in Latin American countries. T. gondii and C. cayetanensis were the protozoa, which caused more outbreaks and Giardia spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. were the most frequently found protozoa in water samples. On the other hand, Latin America countries have not got a coherent methodology for detection of protozoa in water samples despite whole LA is highly vulnerable to extreme weather events related to waterborne-infections; although Brazil and Colombia have some implemented laws in their surveillance systems. It would be important to coordinate all surveillance systems in between all countries for early detection and measures against waterborne-protozoan and to establish effective and suitable diagnosis tools according to the country's economic strength and particular needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Félix Manuel Rosado-García
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Center for Biomedicine and Infectious Diseases, Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, PR China; National Institute of Hygiene, Epidemiology and Microbiology of Cuba, Cuba
| | - Milena Guerrero-Flórez
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Center for Biomedicine and Infectious Diseases, Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, PR China; Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Doctorate in Biotechnology, Universidad de Nariño, Research Group of Functional Materials and Catalysis, GIMFC, Colombia
| | - Gabriele Karanis
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Center for Biomedicine and Infectious Diseases, Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, PR China; Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital, Xining City, 810016, Qinghai Province, PR China
| | | | - Panagiotis Karanis
- State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Center for Biomedicine and Infectious Diseases, Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, Qinghai, PR China.
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28
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Plutzer J, Karanis P. Neglected waterborne parasitic protozoa and their detection in water. WATER RESEARCH 2016; 101:318-332. [PMID: 27281375 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2016.05.085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Outbreak incidents raise the question of whether the less frequent aetiological agents of outbreaks are really less frequent in water. Alternatively, waterborne transmission could be relevant, but the lack of attention and rapid, sensitive methods to recover and detect the exogenous stages in water may keep them under-recognized. High quality information on the prevalence and detection of less frequent waterborne protozoa, such as Cyclospora cayetanensis, Toxoplasma gondii, Isospora belli, Balantidium coli, Blastocystis hominis, Entamoeba histolytica and other free-living amoebae (FLA), are not available. This present paper discusses the detection tools applied for the water surveillance of the neglected waterborne protozoa mentioned above and provides future perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judit Plutzer
- Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China; National Public Health Center, National Directorate of Environmental Health, Environmental Health Testing Laboratory, Budapest, Hungary.
| | - Panagiotis Karanis
- Qinghai Academy of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Qinghai University, Xining, China
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29
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Lora-Suarez F, Rivera R, Triviño-Valencia J, Gomez-Marin JE. Detection of protozoa in water samples by formalin/ether concentration method. WATER RESEARCH 2016; 100:377-381. [PMID: 27219047 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2016.05.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2016] [Revised: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 05/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Methods to detect protozoa in water samples are expensive and laborious. We evaluated the formalin/ether concentration method to detect Giardia sp., Cryptosporidium sp. and Toxoplasma in water. In order to test the properties of the method, we spiked water samples with different amounts of each protozoa (0, 10 and 50 cysts or oocysts) in a volume of 10 L of water. Immunofluorescence assay was used for detection of Giardia and Cryptosporidium. Toxoplasma oocysts were identified by morphology. The mean percent of recovery in 10 repetitions of the entire method, in 10 samples spiked with ten parasites and read by three different observers, were for Cryptosporidium 71.3 ± 12, for Giardia 63 ± 10 and for Toxoplasma 91.6 ± 9 and the relative standard deviation of the method was of 17.5, 17.2 and 9.8, respectively. Intraobserver variation as measured by intraclass correlation coefficient, was fair for Toxoplasma, moderate for Cryptosporidium and almost perfect for Giardia. The method was then applied in 77 samples of raw and drinkable water in three different plant of water treatment. Cryptosporidium was found in 28 of 77 samples (36%) and Giardia in 31 of 77 samples (40%). Theses results identified significant differences in treatment process to reduce the presence of Giardia and Cryptosporidium. In conclusion, the formalin ether method to concentrate protozoa in water is a new alternative for low resources countries, where is urgently need to monitor and follow the presence of theses protozoa in drinkable water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Lora-Suarez
- Grupo GEPAMOL, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Quindio, Armenia, Colombia.
| | - Raul Rivera
- Grupo GEPAMOL, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Quindio, Armenia, Colombia
| | - Jessica Triviño-Valencia
- Grupo GEPAMOL, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Quindio, Armenia, Colombia.
| | - Jorge E Gomez-Marin
- Grupo GEPAMOL, Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Quindio, Armenia, Colombia.
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Vieira FP, Alves MDG, Martins LM, Rangel ALP, Dubey JP, Hill D, Bahia-Oliveira LMG. Waterborne toxoplasmosis investigated and analysed under hydrogeological assessment: new data and perspectives for further research. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz 2016; 110:929-35. [PMID: 26560984 PMCID: PMC4660623 DOI: 10.1590/0074-02760150262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a set of data on human and chicken Toxoplasma gondii
seroprevalence that was investigated and analysed in light of groundwater
vulnerability information in an area endemic for waterborne toxoplasmosis in Brazil.
Hydrogeological assessment was undertaken to select sites for water collection from
wells for T. gondii oocyst testing and for collecting blood from
free-range chickens and humans for anti-T. gondii serologic testing.
Serologic testing of human specimens was done using conventional commercial tests and
a sporozoite-specific embryogenesis-related protein (TgERP), which is able to
differentiate whether infection resulted from tissue cysts or oocysts. Water
specimens were negative for the presence of viable T. gondii
oocysts. However, seroprevalence in free-range chickens was significantly associated
with vulnerability of groundwater to surface contamination (p < 0.0001; odds
ratio: 4.73, 95% confidence interval: 2.18-10.2). Surprisingly, a high prevalence of
antibodies against TgERP was detected in human specimens, suggesting the possibility
of a continuous contamination of drinking water with T. gondii
oocysts in this endemic setting. These findings and the new proposed approach to
investigate and analyse endemic toxoplasmosis in light of groundwater vulnerability
information associated with prevalence in humans estimated by oocyst antigens
recognition have implications for the potential role of hydrogeological assessment in
researching waterborne toxoplasmosis at a global scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flávia Pereira Vieira
- Laboratório de Biologia do Reconhecer, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brasil
| | - Maria da Glória Alves
- Laboratório de Engenharia Civil, Centro de Ciência e Tecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brasil
| | - Livia Mattos Martins
- Laboratório de Biologia do Reconhecer, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brasil
| | - Alba Lucínia Peixoto Rangel
- Laboratório de Biologia do Reconhecer, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Brasil
| | - Jitender Prakash Dubey
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Dolores Hill
- Animal Parasitic Diseases Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, United States Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
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Impact of environmental factors on the emergence, transmission and distribution of Toxoplasma gondii. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:137. [PMID: 26965989 PMCID: PMC4785633 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1432-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan that poses a great threat to human health and economic well-being worldwide. The effects of environmental factors such as changing climate and human activities on the ecology of this protozoan are being discovered. Accumulated evidence shows that changes of these environmental factors can exert influence on the occurrence, transmission and distribution of T. gondii. This article reviews studies from different geographical regions with varying climates, social cultures and animal welfare standards. It aims to illustrate how these environmental factors work, highlighting their importance in influencing the ecology of T. gondii, as well as providing clues which may contribute to preventing transmission of this important zoonotic pathogen.
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32
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Toxoplasma gondii in women with recent abortion from Southern Mexico. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF TROPICAL DISEASE 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s2222-1808(15)61012-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Travaillé E, La Carbona S, Gargala G, Aubert D, Guyot K, Dumètre A, Villena I, Houssin M. Development of a qRT-PCR method to assess the viability of Giardia intestinalis cysts, Cryptosporidium spp. and Toxoplasma gondii oocysts. Food Control 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2015.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Wells B, Shaw H, Innocent G, Guido S, Hotchkiss E, Parigi M, Opsteegh M, Green J, Gillespie S, Innes EA, Katzer F. Molecular detection of Toxoplasma gondii in water samples from Scotland and a comparison between the 529bp real-time PCR and ITS1 nested PCR. WATER RESEARCH 2015; 87:175-181. [PMID: 26408950 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2015.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Revised: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Waterborne transmission of Toxoplasma gondii is a potential public health risk and there are currently no agreed optimised methods for the recovery, processing and detection of T. gondii oocysts in water samples. In this study modified methods of T. gondii oocyst recovery and DNA extraction were applied to 1427 samples collected from 147 public water supplies throughout Scotland. T. gondii DNA was detected, using real time PCR (qPCR) targeting the 529bp repeat element, in 8.79% of interpretable samples (124 out of 1411 samples). The samples which were positive for T. gondii DNA originated from a third of the sampled water sources. The samples which were positive by qPCR and some of the negative samples were reanalysed using ITS1 nested PCR (nPCR) and results compared. The 529bp qPCR was the more sensitive technique and a full analysis of assay performance, by Bayesian analysis using a Markov Chain Monte Carlo method, was completed which demonstrated the efficacy of this method for the detection of T. gondii in water samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beth Wells
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Hannah Shaw
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Giles Innocent
- Biomathematics and Statistics Scotland (BioSS), JCMB, King's Buildings, Peter Guthrie Tait Road, Edinburgh, EH9 3FD, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Stefano Guido
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Emily Hotchkiss
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Maria Parigi
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, United Kingdom; School of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, University of Bologna, Italy.
| | - Marieke Opsteegh
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, United Kingdom; National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
| | - James Green
- Scottish Water, Juniper House, Heriot Watt Research Centre, Edinburgh, EH14 4AP, United Kingdom.
| | - Simon Gillespie
- Scottish Water, Juniper House, Heriot Watt Research Centre, Edinburgh, EH14 4AP, United Kingdom.
| | - Elisabeth A Innes
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Frank Katzer
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ, Scotland, United Kingdom.
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Abstract
This chapter describes a variety of pathogens found in the environment that are capable of infecting humans and causing disease. Different classes of pathogens are discussed including bacteria, parasites and viruses. For each pathogen, data are provided on the incidence of the organism in a particular environmental matrix such as water, food or municipal waste. In addition, we discuss: the disease caused by the particular microbe; the mode of transmission; the incubation time needed within the host prior to the onset of disease; and the duration of illness. Fate and transport of pathogens in the environment are also described. A variety of bacterial pathogens are discussed including waterborne and waterbased bacteria. Parasites discussed include protozoa, nematodes, cestodes and trematodes. For viruses, both enteric and respiratory viruses are included.
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Andiappan H, Nissapatorn V, Sawangjaroen N, Nyunt MH, Lau YL, Khaing SL, Aye KM, Mon NCN, Tan TC, Kumar T, Onichandran S, bin Mat Adenan NA. Comparative study on Toxoplasma infection between Malaysian and Myanmar pregnant women. Parasit Vectors 2014; 7:564. [PMID: 25498432 PMCID: PMC4297455 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-014-0564-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Toxoplasma gondii, an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite, causes a disease called toxoplasmosis which can sometimes be acquired congenitally by a newborn from an infected mother. This study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of Toxoplasma infection and its associated risks among 219 and 215 pregnant women from Malaysia and Myanmar, respectively. Methods Anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies were screened by using standard commercial ELISA kits. The socio-demographic, obstetrics and risk factors associated with Toxoplasma infection data were compared between the two countries. Results The overall prevalence of Toxoplasma infection in Malaysian pregnant women (42.47%; 95% CI = 36.11-49.09) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than Myanmar pregnant women (30.70%; 95% CI = 27.92-37.16). By univariate analysis, this study identified that age group, education, parity, awareness on toxoplasmosis and consumption of undercooked meat were significantly associated (p < 0.05) with Toxoplasma seropositive Malaysian pregnant women but none of these factors associated with Toxoplasma seropositive Myanmar pregnant women. In comparison using univariate analysis between the two countries, it was found that Toxoplasma seropositive Malaysian pregnant women was associated with aged 30 years and above, secondary or lower-secondary level of education, the third trimester of pregnancy, having one child or more, lacking awareness of toxoplasmosis, absence of bad obstetrics history, having no history of close contact with cats or soil, living on a farm and also consumption of undercooked meat, unpasterized milk or untreated water. Avidity measurement was used to confirm the stages of Toxoplasma infection in pregnant women who were positive for both IgG and IgM antibodies and found all were infected in the past. Conclusion From our study, Toxoplasma screening and its risk measurement in pregnant women is firmly recommended for monitoring purposes and assisting proper management, including diagnosis and treatment during antenatal period. Also, it is necessary to initiate preventive measures for Toxoplasma infection among reproductive-age women in general and seronegative pregnant women in particular. Avidity measurement should be incorporated in Toxoplasma routine screening, especially with the availability of a single serum sample to assist in the diagnosis. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-014-0564-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hemah Andiappan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Veeranoot Nissapatorn
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Nongyao Sawangjaroen
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, 90112, Thailand.
| | - Myat Htut Nyunt
- Department of Medical Research (Lower Myanmar), Republic of the Union of Myanmar, Yangon, Myanmar.
| | - Yee-Ling Lau
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Si Lay Khaing
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Khin Myo Aye
- Department of Medical Research (Lower Myanmar), Republic of the Union of Myanmar, Yangon, Myanmar.
| | - Nan Cho Nwe Mon
- Department of Medical Research (Lower Myanmar), Republic of the Union of Myanmar, Yangon, Myanmar.
| | - Tian-Chye Tan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Thulasi Kumar
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Subashini Onichandran
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Noor Azmi bin Mat Adenan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Sang-Eun L, Hong SH, Jeong YI, Lee JH, Yoo SJ, Lim HS, Lee WJ, Cho SH. Cross-sectional analysis of the seropositivity and risk factors of Toxoplasma gondii infection among veterinarians, in relation to their public professional activities. Vet Parasitol 2014; 203:29-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2014.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2013] [Revised: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 01/02/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Verant ML, d'Ozouville N, Parker PG, Shapiro K, VanWormer E, Deem SL. Attempted detection of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in environmental waters using a simple approach to evaluate the potential for waterborne transmission in the Galápagos Islands, Ecuador. ECOHEALTH 2014; 11:207-214. [PMID: 24306552 DOI: 10.1007/s10393-013-0888-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2013] [Revised: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/09/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Toxoplasmosis is a health concern for wildlife and humans, particularly in island ecosystems. In the Galápagos Islands, exposure to Toxoplasma gondii has been found in marine avifauna on islands with and without domestic cats. To evaluate potential waterborne transmission of T. gondii, we attempted to use filtration and epifluorescent microscopy to detect autofluorescent T. gondii oocysts in fresh and estuarine surface water samples. T. gondii oocyst-like structures were microscopically visualized but were not confirmed by polymerase chain reaction and sequence analyses. Further research is needed to refine environmental pathogen screening techniques and to evaluate disease risk of waterborne zoonoses such as T. gondii for wildlife and humans, particularly in the Galápagos and other naive island ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L Verant
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, School of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 Linden Dr, Madison, WI, 53706, USA,
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Dickerson F, Stallings C, Origoni A, Vaughan C, Katsafanas E, Khushalani S, Yolken R. Antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii in individuals with mania. Bipolar Disord 2014; 16:129-36. [PMID: 24102676 DOI: 10.1111/bdi.12123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Increased rates of infection with Toxoplasma gondii have been found in individuals with schizophrenia as compared to control groups but this issue has not been studied in mania. METHODS We measured immunoglobulin G (IgG) and IgM class antibodies to T. gondii in 57 individuals with mania who were assessed at up to three time-points. We also measured these antibodies in 743 individuals in other psychiatric groups and in 314 non-psychiatric controls. T. gondii antibody levels were compared among groups by multivariate analyses. IgG class and IgM class antibodies to cytomegalovirus were also measured in the same samples. T. gondii antibody levels were also compared over time in the mania group. RESULTS The mania group had a significantly elevated level of IgM antibodies to T. gondii as compared to the control individuals without a psychiatric diagnosis [odds ratio (OR) = 2.33, p < 0.04 at hospital admission; and OR = 2.32, p < 0.02 at study entry during the hospital stay]. Elevated IgM class antibodies to T. gondii were not found in individuals with the other psychiatric diagnoses. We also did not find an increased level of IgG class antibodies to T. gondii or IgG or IgM class antibodies to CMV in the individuals with mania. Within the mania group, there was a significant difference between the prevalences of increased levels of T. gondii IgM at the baseline and the follow-up time-point (t = 2.97, p < 0.003). CONCLUSIONS Infection with T. gondii may confer risk for mania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith Dickerson
- Stanley Research Program, Sheppard Pratt Health System, Baltimore, MD, USA
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40
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Palos Ladeiro M, Aubert D, Villena I, Geffard A, Bigot A. Bioaccumulation of human waterborne protozoa by zebra mussel (Dreissena polymorpha): interest for water biomonitoring. WATER RESEARCH 2014; 48:148-155. [PMID: 24112626 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2013.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2013] [Revised: 08/14/2013] [Accepted: 09/10/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium parvum, Giardia duodenalis and Toxoplasma gondii are ubiquitous pathogens, which waterborne transmission has been largely demonstrated. Since they can be found in various watercourses, interactions with aquatic organisms are possible. Protozoan detection for watercourses biomonitoring is currently based on large water filtration. The zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorpha, is a choice biological model in ecotoxicological studies which are already in use to detect chemical contaminations in watercourses. In the present study, the zebra mussel was tested as a new tool for detecting water contamination by protozoa. In vivo exposures were conducted in laboratory experiments. Zebra mussel was exposed to various protozoan concentrations for one week. Detection of protozoa was realized by Taqman real time qPCR. Our experiments evidenced C. parvum, G. duodenalis and T. gondii oocyst bioaccumulation by mussels proportionally to ambient contamination, and significant T. gondii prevalence was observed in muscle tissue. To our knowledge, this is the first study that demonstrates T. gondii oocyst accumulation by zebra mussel. The results from this study highlight the capacity of zebra mussels to reveal ambient biological contamination, and thus to be used as a new effective tool in sanitary biomonitoring of water bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Palos Ladeiro
- Université de Reims Champagne Ardenne, Unité Interactions Animal-Environnement, EA 4689, UFR Sciences Exactes et Naturelles, Campus du Moulin de la Housse, 51687 Reims Cedex 2, France; Laboratoire de Parasitologie-Mycologie, EA 3800, SFR CAP-Santé FED 4231, Hôpital Maison Blanche, 45 rue Cognacq Jay, 51100 Reims, France
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Kijlstra A, Petersen E. Epidemiology, pathophysiology, and the future of ocular toxoplasmosis. Ocul Immunol Inflamm 2013; 22:138-47. [PMID: 24131274 DOI: 10.3109/09273948.2013.823214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Despite large advances in the field of ocular toxoplasmosis, large gaps still exist in our knowledge concerning the epidemiology and pathophysiology of this potentially blinding infectious disease. Although ocular toxoplasmosis is considered to have a high health burden, still little is known about its exact prevalence and how it affects the quality of life. The epidemiology of toxoplasmosis depends on local habits throughout the globe, and changes are likely in view of increased meat consumption in developing countries and demands for higher animal welfare in the Western world. Water is increasingly seen as an important risk factor and more studies are needed to quantitate and control the role of water exposure (drinking, swimming). Tools are now becoming available to study both the human host as well as parasite genetic factors in the development of ocular toxoplasmosis. Further research on the role of Toxoplasma strains as well as basic studies on parasite virulence is needed to explain why Toxoplasma associated eye disease is so severe in some countries, such as Brazil. Although genetic analysis of the parasite represents the gold standard, further developments in serotyping using peptide arrays may offer practical solutions to study the role of parasite strains in the pathogenesis of Toxoplasma retinochoroiditis. More research is needed concerning the pathways whereby the parasite can infect the retina. Once in the retina further tissue damage may be due to parasite virulence factors or could be caused by an aberrant host immune response. Local intraocular immune responses are nowadays used for diagnostic procedures. Future developments may include the use of Raman technology or the direct visualization of a Toxoplasma cyst by optical coherence tomography (OCT). With the availability of ocular fluid specimens obtained for diagnostic purposes and the development of advanced proteomic techniques, a biomarker fingerprint that is unique for an eye with toxoplasmosis may become available. It is hoped that such a biomarker analysis may also be able to distinguish between acquired versus congenital disease. Recently developed mouse models of congenital ocular toxoplasmosis are extremely promising with regard to disease pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aize Kijlstra
- Livestock Research, Wageningen University and Research Centre, Lelystad, The Netherlands; and University Eye Clinic Maastricht, Maastricht , The Netherlands, Maastricht , The Netherlands and
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Simon A, Poulin MB, Rousseau AN, Ogden NH. Fate and transport of Toxoplasma gondii oocysts in seasonally snow covered watersheds: a conceptual framework from a melting snowpack to the Canadian arctic coasts. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2013; 10:994-1005. [PMID: 23478399 PMCID: PMC3709299 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph10030994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2013] [Revised: 02/26/2013] [Accepted: 03/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Toxoplasma gondii is a zoonotic protozoan that causes serious illness in humans and infects animals worldwide, including the Canadian Arctic. Indeed, high prevalence of infection amongst Inuit has been recorded, possibly due to consumption of raw infected seal meat. Here we explore the hypothesis that T. gondii oocysts contaminate the coastal marine environment via surface runoff from across the boreal watershed, particularly during the snowmelt period. We propose a conceptual framework of the different processes governing the fate and transport of T. gondii oocysts from the melting snowpack to the Canadian arctic coast via the freshwater runoff. This framework identifies the feasibility of a transmission pathway of oocysts from contaminated soil to the marine environment, but also the complexity and multiplicity of mechanisms involved. In addition, the framework identifies knowledge gaps for guiding future studies on T. gondii oocysts. Furthermore, this work could be used as a tool to investigate the possible estuarine contamination by other faeces-borne pathogens transported via the spring freshet in seasonally snow covered watersheds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Simon
- Groupe de Recherche en Épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, CP 5000, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 7C6, Québec, Canada; E-Mails: (M.B.P.); (N.H.O.)
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed; E-Mail: ; Tel.: +1-450-773-8521 (ext. 0082); Fax: +1-450-778-8129
| | - Michel Bigras Poulin
- Groupe de Recherche en Épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, CP 5000, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 7C6, Québec, Canada; E-Mails: (M.B.P.); (N.H.O.)
| | - Alain N. Rousseau
- Institut National de Recherche Scientifique, Centre Eau Terre Environnement, 490, rue de la Couronne, Québec, G1K 9A9, Québec, Canada; E-Mail:
| | - Nicholas H. Ogden
- Groupe de Recherche en Épidémiologie des Zoonoses et Santé Publique, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte, CP 5000, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 7C6, Québec, Canada; E-Mails: (M.B.P.); (N.H.O.)
- Zoonoses Division, Centre for Foodborne, Environmental and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Public Health Agency of Canada, 3200 rue Sicotte, Saint-Hyacinthe, J2S 7C6, Québec, Canada
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