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Gregory BT, Desouky M, Slaughter J, Hallem EA, Bryant AS. Thermosensory behaviors of the free-living life stages of Strongyloides species support parasitism in tropical environments. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.12.612595. [PMID: 39314377 PMCID: PMC11419086 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.12.612595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
Soil-transmitted parasitic nematodes infect over 1 billion people worldwide and are a common source of neglected disease. Strongyloides stercoralis is a potentially fatal skin-penetrating human parasite that is endemic to tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The complex life cycle of Strongyloides species is unique among human-parasitic nematodes in that it includes a single free-living generation featuring soil-dwelling, bacterivorous adults whose progeny all develop into infective larvae. The sensory behaviors that enable free-living Strongyloides adults to navigate and survive soil environments are unknown. S. stercoralis infective larvae display parasite-specific sensory-driven behaviors, including robust attraction to mammalian body heat. In contrast, the free-living model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans displays thermosensory behaviors that guide adult worms to stay within a physiologically permissive range of environmental temperatures. Do S. stercoralis and C. elegans free-living adults, which experience similar environmental stressors, display common thermal preferences? Here, we characterize the thermosensory behaviors of the free-living adults of S. stercoralis as well as those of the closely related rat parasite, Strongyloides ratti. We find that Strongyloides free-living adults are exclusively attracted to near-tropical temperatures, despite their inability to infect mammalian hosts. We further show that lifespan is shorter at higher temperatures for free-living Strongyloides adults, similar to the effect of temperature on C. elegans lifespan. However, we also find that the reproductive potential of the free-living life stage is enhanced at warmer temperatures, particularly for S. stercoralis. Together, our results reveal a novel role for thermotaxis to maximize the infectious capacity of obligate parasites and provide insight into the biological adaptations that may contribute to their endemicity in tropical climates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben T Gregory
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Mariam Desouky
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Jaidyn Slaughter
- BRIGHT-UP Summer Research Program, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Elissa A Hallem
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Astra S Bryant
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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Potârniche AV, Cerbu C, Olah D, Trif E, D’Amico G, Györke A, Mickiewicz M, Nowek Z, Czopowicz M, Nadolu D, Anghel AH, Kaba J. An Insight into Practices Associated with the Control of Internal Parasites in the Dairy Goat Herds of Romania: A Questionnaire Survey. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2375. [PMID: 39199910 PMCID: PMC11350891 DOI: 10.3390/ani14162375] [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: 07/23/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The widespread and uncontrolled use of anthelmintic products has contributed to the emergence of anthelmintic resistance (AR). This phenomenon globally threatens the productivity and welfare of small ruminants. A questionnaire consisting of 34 questions was handed to 234 goat farmers across Romania to gain insight into control practices against internal parasites and the farmers' perception of the parasitic infections present in their herds and the efficacy of anthelmintic treatments. The majority of farmers (88.5%) admitted they had never submitted fecal samples for parasitological laboratory analysis, and 77.4% had treated the animals on their own. In general, the farmers dewormed their goats based on visual body weight estimation. Prophylactic anthelmintic treatment was practiced by more than 85% of the farmers. A traditional control approach based on treating the entire herd at fixed time intervals is widespread among Romanian goat and sheep farmers. The most commonly used anthelmintic drugs in the previous 3 years (2021-2023) were benzimidazoles (85.5%) and macrocyclic lactones (81.6%). Poor anthelmintic efficacy was suspected by 14.5% of farmers, and the minority (18.0%) considered internal parasites as a problem in their herds. Regarding the farmers' perception of the presence of parasites, there was a significant level of uncertainty. This is the first survey carried out in Romanian goat herds, and it provides up-to-date information on practices aimed at controlling internal parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian-Valentin Potârniche
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Mănăștur Str. 3–5, 400372 Cluj, Romania; (A.-V.P.)
| | - Constantin Cerbu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Mănăștur Str. 3–5, 400372 Cluj, Romania; (A.-V.P.)
| | - Diana Olah
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Mănăștur Str. 3–5, 400372 Cluj, Romania; (A.-V.P.)
| | - Emilia Trif
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Mănăștur Str. 3–5, 400372 Cluj, Romania; (A.-V.P.)
| | - Gianluca D’Amico
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Mănăștur Str. 3–5, 400372 Cluj, Romania
| | - Adriana Györke
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Mănăștur Str. 3–5, 400372 Cluj, Romania
| | - Marcin Mickiewicz
- Division of Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska Str. 159c, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zofia Nowek
- Division of Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska Str. 159c, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Czopowicz
- Division of Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska Str. 159c, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dorina Nadolu
- Institute of Research and Development for Sheep and Goat Breeding Palas Constanța, 248 I.C. Brătianu, 900316 Constanța, Romania
| | - Andreea Hortanse Anghel
- Institute of Research and Development for Sheep and Goat Breeding Palas Constanța, 248 I.C. Brătianu, 900316 Constanța, Romania
- Department of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Agricultural Sciences, Ovidius University of Constanța, Universității Str. 1, 900470 Constanța, Romania
| | - Jarosław Kaba
- Division of Veterinary Epidemiology and Economics, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Nowoursynowska Str. 159c, 02-776 Warsaw, Poland
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Megersa B, Hussein B, Shemsu J, Kassahun R, Merera O, Moje N, Edao BM, Waktole H, Ashenafi H, Ayana D. Trematode infection in ruminants and diversity of snail hosts across three agro-ecological zones in Ethiopia. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:197. [PMID: 38741097 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-04049-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The occurrence of trematodes among ruminants and their snail vectors is a major concern across various agro-ecological regions of Ethiopia. Trematodes pose significant threats to animals, causing considerable economic losses and impacting public health. In this study, we have investigated 784 ruminant fecal samples, and 520 abattoir samples, alongside the collection and identification of snail vectors from various agro-ecological regions. Fecal examinations revealed Fasciola, Paramphistomum and Schistosoma species infected 20.5% (95% CI: 17.6, 23.8), 11.7% (95% CI: 9.6, 14.2), and 6.3% (95% CI: 4.1, 9.1) of the animals, respectively. The overall prevalence of trematodes among ruminants was 28.8% (95% CI: 25.7, 32.1%), with 6.0% (95% CI: 4.3, 7.7) showing mixed infections. Fasciola was more prevalent in Asela (26%) compared to Batu (19%) and Hawassa (11.5%), while a higher proportion of animals in Batu were infected with Paramphistomum. Schistosoma eggs were detected only in Batu (12.5%), but not in other areas. Sheep and cattle exhibited higher infection rates with Fasciola, Paramphistoma, and Schistosoma compared to goats. Significant associations were observed between trematode infections and risk factors including agro-ecology, animal species, body condition score, and deworming practices. About 20.8% and 22.7% of the slaughtered animals harbored Fasciola and Paramphistomum flukes, respectively, with a higher prevalence in Asela and Hawassa abattoirs compared to Batu abattoir. Additionally, a total of 278 snails were collected from the study areas and identified as lymnae natalensis, lymnae trancatula, Biomphalaria pffiferi, Biomphlaria sudanica, and Bulinus globosus. In conclusion, the study highlights the widespread occurrence of trematode infections, emphasizing the need for feasible control measures to mitigate their economic and public health impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bekele Megersa
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia.
| | - Bilisuma Hussein
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Jemila Shemsu
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Redeat Kassahun
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Olana Merera
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Nebyou Moje
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Bedaso Mammo Edao
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Illinois, Champaign, USA
| | - Hika Waktole
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Hagos Ashenafi
- Aklilu Lemma Institute of Pathobiology, Addis Ababa University, Addis, Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Dinka Ayana
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
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Boughton CJ, Lancaster LT, Morgan ER. Biotic interactions in soil and dung shape parasite transmission in temperate ruminant systems: An integrative framework. ECOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS : A PUBLICATION OF THE ECOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF AMERICA 2024; 34:e2956. [PMID: 38426805 DOI: 10.1002/eap.2956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal helminth parasites undergo part of their life cycle outside their host, such that developmental stages interact with the soil and dung fauna. These interactions are capable of affecting parasite transmission on pastures yet are generally ignored in current models, empirical studies and practical management. Dominant methods of parasite control, which rely on anthelmintic medications for livestock, are becoming increasingly ineffective due to the emergence of drug-resistant parasite populations. Furthermore, consumer and regulatory pressure on decreased chemical use in agriculture and the consequential disruption of biological processes in the dung through nontarget effects exacerbates issues with anthelmintic reliance. This presents a need for the application and enhancement of nature-based solutions and biocontrol methods. However, successfully harnessing these options relies on advanced understanding of the ecological system and interacting effects among biotic factors and with immature parasite stages. Here, we develop a framework linking three key groups of dung and soil fauna-fungi, earthworms, and dung beetles-with each other and developmental stages of helminths parasitic in farmed cattle, sheep, and goats in temperate grazing systems. We populate this framework from existing published studies and highlight the interplay between faunal groups and documented ecological outcomes. Of 1756 papers addressing abiotic drivers of populations of these organisms and helminth parasites, only 112 considered interactions between taxa and 36 presented data on interactions between more than two taxonomic groups. Results suggest that fungi reduce parasite abundance and earthworms may enhance fungal communities, while competition between dung taxa may reduce their individual effect on parasite transmission. Dung beetles were found to impact fungal populations and parasite transmission variably, possibly tied to the prevailing climate within a specific ecological context. By exploring combinations of biotic factors, we consider how interactions between species may be fundamental to the ecological consequences of biocontrol strategies and nontarget impacts of anthelmintics on dung and soil fauna and how pasture management alterations to promote invertebrates might help limit parasite transmission. With further development and parameterization the framework could be applied quantitatively to guide, prioritize, and interpret hypothesis-driven experiments and integrate biotic factors into established models of parasite transmission dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Eric R Morgan
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Merlin A, Ravinet N, Briot L, Chauvin A, Hébert L, Valle-Casuso JC, Delerue M. Prevalence and seasonal dynamic of gastrointestinal parasites in equids in France during two years. Prev Vet Med 2024; 223:106100. [PMID: 38198900 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.106100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Grazing equids are constantly exposed to three clinically important gastrointestinal parasites (small strongyles/cyathostomins, Anoplocephala spp. and Parascaris spp.). Knowledge of the local seasonal dynamic of these parasitic infections is important for constructing a sustainable parasite control program with a rational number of anthelmintic treatments. However, studies describing these patterns are sparse in France. In this context, a two-year study was carried out to assess i) the seasonal dynamic and variability of strongyle faecal egg counts (FEC) and infective larvae (L3) counts on pastures, and ii) the prevalence of Anoplocephala spp. and Parascaris spp. and the dynamic evolution of their presence. During 2021 and 2022 grazing seasons, monthly individual faecal egg counts (FEC) and diarrhea scores (DS) were determined on 428 equids divided into 33 groups. A monthly body condition score (BCS) was also attributed to animals ≥3 years old and a monthly bodyweight was estimated for each animal <3 years old. At the group level, the strongyle L3 counts on grazed pastures were carried out at least in spring, summer and autumn. Eggs of strongyles were observed in 97% of equids. In 64% of the groups, the peaks of FEC were noted in September and October. At the individual level, the maximum strongyle FEC was related to age, group of breeds, number of grazed plots and number of anthelmintic treatments. No negative association was observed between strongyle FEC and BCS or average daily weight gain. In the pastures, cyathostomin larvae were found almost exclusively. Over the two years, the peaks of cyathostomin L3 counts occurred in 87% of the groups between September and November and ranged from 635 to 87,500 L3 kg-1 dry herbage. The variability of the maximum cyathostomin L3 count in each group was explained by the year and the number of grazed plots. Eggs of Anoplocephala spp. were observed in 12% of equids. Eggs of Parascaris spp. were noted in 34% of one year-old animals, 9% of two years-olds and 2% of olders. Anoplocephala spp. and Parascaris spp. eggs were observed every month with a peak in the percentage of shedders in groups in October for Anoplocephala spp. and May-June for Parascaris spp.This study highlights the prevalence of each parasite, the variability in cyathostomin egg excretion and L3 counts amongst groups and individuals and the factors involved in this variation These local epidemiological data will help us to re-think a newer strategy against these parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Merlin
- ANSES, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France.
| | | | - Laurie Briot
- Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France; French Horse and Riding Institute (IFCE), Development, Innovation, Research Department, 61310 Gouffern-en-Auge, France
| | | | - Laurent Hébert
- ANSES, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France
| | - José-Carlos Valle-Casuso
- ANSES, Laboratory for Animal Health in Normandy, Physiopathology and Epidemiology of Equine Diseases Unit, 14430 Goustranville, France; Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France
| | - Marie Delerue
- Mixed Technological Unit "Equine Health and Welfare - Organisation and Traceability of the Equine Industry" (UMT SABOT), France; French Horse and Riding Institute (IFCE), Development, Innovation, Research Department, 61310 Gouffern-en-Auge, France
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Abbas G, Stevenson MA, Bauquier J, Beasley A, Jacobson C, El-Hage C, Wilkes EJA, Carrigan P, Cudmore L, Hurley J, Beveridge I, Nielsen MK, Hughes KJ, Jabbar A. Assessment of worm control practices recommended by equine veterinarians in Australia. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1305360. [PMID: 38026649 PMCID: PMC10654783 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1305360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to assess Australian veterinarians' knowledge, perceptions and treatment strategies for worm control in horses with an online questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised 64 questions covering various aspects of: (i) veterinary practice; (ii) the veterinarian's knowledge of gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) and the importance of parasites in different age groups of horses; (iii) the diagnosis and control of worms; (iv) anthelmintics and anthelmintic resistance (AR); (v) grazing management; and (vi) the means of communication and the discussion between veterinarians and their clients regarding worm control. Following a pilot survey, a link for the questionnaire survey was sent to all (n = 1,148) registered members of Equine Veterinarians Australia in April 2020. The response rate for the questionnaire was 10% (118 of 1,148). The findings of this study illustrate veterinarians' good understanding of aspects of equine parasites, including control. However, respondents mainly recommended frequent, interval-based prophylactic deworming in young horses, and only 40% (96 of 239) diagnosed GIN infections based on faecal egg count (FEC) results in all age groups of horses. Furthermore, only 27% (88 of 330) of the respondents made deworming decisions based on FECs. Most of the respondents recommended macrocyclic lactones (MLs) for all age groups of horses (71%, 481 of 677), and the most frequently used method to calculate the dose of anthelmintics was by estimating the weight of animals visually (53%, 63 of 118). Although the majority of respondents (97%, 115 of 118) perceived AR to be a critical issue in managing worms in horses, 58% (67 of 118) of them were unaware of the status of AR on their clients' properties. Forty-two percent (50 of 118) of the respondents perceived the presence of AR in worms, including pinworms (16%), strongylins (15%), species of Draschia and Habronema (6%), Strongyloides westeri (2%) and tapeworms (1%). Twenty-seven percent (32 of 118) of the respondents rarely discussed equine worm control practices with their clients. This study provides insights into the perception and worm control practices recommended by Australian veterinarians to manage equine parasites. The findings highlight the importance of continued education and awareness of AR, and the use of non-chemical methods as well as consideration of the legislation of prescription-only use of anthelmintics based on FECs to achieve sustainable control of GINs in Australian horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghazanfar Abbas
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | - Mark A. Stevenson
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | - Jenni Bauquier
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | - Anne Beasley
- School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability, University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD, Australia
| | - Caroline Jacobson
- Centre for Animal Production and Health, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
| | - Charles El-Hage
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | | | | | - Ian Beveridge
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
| | - Martin K. Nielsen
- M.H. Gluck Equine Research Center, Department of Veterinary Science, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY, United States
| | - Kristopher J. Hughes
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
| | - Abdul Jabbar
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Werribee, VIC, Australia
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Rizwan HM, Sajid MS, Younus M, Naeem MA, Taseer MSA, Ebaid H. Evaluation of trace elements in forages and their effect on gastrointestinal parasite burden in grazing sheep. Saudi J Biol Sci 2023; 30:103768. [PMID: 37645686 PMCID: PMC10461023 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2023.103768] [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: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was designed to evaluate the trace elements (minerals) in forages fed to sheep and their effect on gastrointestinal parasite burdens. The ultimate objective was to determine the correlation between the burden of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites and the level of trace minerals in sheep serum as a result of the forages they grazed on. A total of 384 faecal samples were collected from sheep in each of the districts (Sialkot and Multan) and examined quantitatively using the McMaster technique. Serum collected from them and plants were pre-treated, and spectrophotometry was used to determine the concentration of trace minerals (Mn, Co, Cu, and Zn). The level of these trace elements differed significantly (P < 0.05) in forages from both districts. In the district of Sialkot, the highest concentrations (mg/Kg) of Zn (38.53 ± 0.16) were found in Cichorium intybus, Cu (41.57 ± 0.07) in Cynodon dactylon, Mn (39.61 ± 0.05) in Parthenium hysterophorus, and Co (1.42 ± 0.03) in Coronopus didymus. In the district of Multan, the highest concentrations (mg/Kg) of Zn (39.43 ± 0.46) were found in Cichorium intybus, Cu (25.76 ± 0.36) in Cynodon dactylon, Mn (34.29 ± 0.53) in Launaea nudicaulis, and Co (1.74 ± 0.08) in Brachiaria raptens. The prevalence of GI parasites in sheep populations in district Sialkot was 34%, while in district Multan, it was 32%. In tehsil Sialkot of district Sialkot, Zn and Cu were significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces, while in tehsil Multan City of district Multan, only Cu was significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with EPG. The potential mechanism behind the role of trace minerals in lowering the burdens of GI parasites requires more investigation. It is recommended that plants with high content of trace minerals should be utilized as part of comprehensive preventive and control strategies against GI parasitism in ruminant animals like sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hafiz Muhammad Rizwan
- Section of Parasitology, Department of Pathobiology, KBCMA College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Narowal, Sub campus UVAS, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Sohail Sajid
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Younus
- Section of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, KBCMA College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Narowal, Sub campus UVAS, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Ahsan Naeem
- Section of Pharmacology, Department of Basic Sciences, KBCMA College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Narowal, Sub campus UVAS, Lahore, Pakistan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Muhammad Sulman Ali Taseer
- Section of Pathology, Department of Pathobiology, KBCMA College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Narowal, Sub campus UVAS, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Hossam Ebaid
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Erez MS, Doğan İ, Kozan E, Göksu A. A Survey of Knowledge, Approaches, and Practices Surrounding Parasitic Infections and Antiparasitic Drug Usage by Veterinarians in Türkiye. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2693. [PMID: 37684957 PMCID: PMC10486779 DOI: 10.3390/ani13172693] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite a global background of increasing anthelmintic resistance in parasites, little is known about the current parasite control strategies adopted within the livestock industry in Türkiye. The aim of this survey is to identify the parasitic diseases encountered by veterinarians, the methods and drugs used for the diagnosis and treatment of these diseases, parasite control practices, and other related factors. This survey was conducted online between October 2018 and March 2019 with the participation of 607 veterinarians working in different areas from seven different geographical regions of Türkiye. A total of 29 questions were posed to the veterinarians in the online survey. As a result of this survey, it was determined that veterinarians should utilize laboratory methods more frequently for the detection and diagnosis of parasitic diseases and anthelmintic resistance. It was concluded that to effectively implement diagnosis, prevention, and control measures for parasitic diseases, field veterinarians need to establish closer relationships within academia and increase their participation in national and international conferences, symposia, and workshops where knowledge sharing and exchange take place. In conclusion, antiparasitic drug resistance has become increasingly important recently, and therefore measures taken to prevent the development of resistance should be increased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmut Sinan Erez
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Afyon Kocatepe University, 03200 Afyonkarahisar, Türkiye; (M.S.E.)
| | - İlkay Doğan
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep University, 27310 Gaziantep, Türkiye
| | - Esma Kozan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Afyon Kocatepe University, 03200 Afyonkarahisar, Türkiye; (M.S.E.)
| | - Ahmet Göksu
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Afyon Kocatepe University, 03200 Afyonkarahisar, Türkiye; (M.S.E.)
- Eville & Jones, Leeds LS15 8ZB, UK
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Strydom T, Lavan RP, Torres S, Heaney K. The Economic Impact of Parasitism from Nematodes, Trematodes and Ticks on Beef Cattle Production. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1599. [PMID: 37238028 PMCID: PMC10215612 DOI: 10.3390/ani13101599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Global human population growth requires the consumption of more meat such as beef to meet human needs for protein intake. Cattle parasites are a constant and serious threat to the development of the beef cattle industry. Studies have shown that parasites not only reduce the performance of beef cattle, but also negatively affect the profitability of beef agriculture and have many other impacts, including contributing to the production of greenhouse gases. In addition, some zoonotic parasitic diseases may also threaten human health. Therefore, ongoing cattle parasite research is crucial for continual parasite control and the development of the beef cattle industry. Parasitism challenges profitable beef production by reducing feed efficiency, immune function, reproductive efficiency, liveweight, milk yield, calf yield and carcass weight, and leads to liver condemnations and disease transmission. Globally, beef cattle producers incur billions (US$) in losses due to parasitism annually, with gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) and cattle ticks causing the greatest economic impact. The enormity of losses justifies parasitic control measures to protect profits and improve animal welfare. Geographical differences in production environment, management practices, climate, cattle age and genotype, parasite epidemiology and susceptibility to chemotherapies necessitate control methods customized for each farm. Appropriate use of anthelmintics, endectocides and acaricides have widely been shown to result in net positive return on investment. Implementing strategic parasite control measures, with thorough knowledge of parasite risk, prevalence, parasiticide resistance profiles and prices can result in positive economic returns for beef cattle farmers in all sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Strydom
- MSD Animal Health, 20 Spartan Road, Isando, Kempton Park 1619, South Africa;
| | - Robert P. Lavan
- Merck & Co., Inc., 126 E. Lincoln Avenue, Rahway, NJ 07065, USA
| | - Siddhartha Torres
- Merck Animal Health, 2 Giralda Farms, Madison, NJ 07940, USA; (S.T.); (K.H.)
| | - Kathleen Heaney
- Merck Animal Health, 2 Giralda Farms, Madison, NJ 07940, USA; (S.T.); (K.H.)
- Heaney Veterinary Consulting, 303 Fletcher Lake Avenue, Bradley Beach, NJ 07720, USA
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10
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Nts'aoana ME, Molapo S, Kompi P, Phalatsi M. Awareness and control measures for gastrointestinal parasites in donkeys in Maseru district, Lesotho. Res Vet Sci 2023; 159:19-25. [PMID: 37062228 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.03.028] [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: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Parasitic infection is one of the major problems in equines which negatively influence their health. It hinders working performance of equines. This study was conducted to evaluate donkey owners' knowledge and control measures on prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites (GIPs) in three agro-ecological zones (AEZs) of Maseru district. A total of 144 donkey owners were selected for individual interviews through a stratified random sampling. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyze data. The significance (p <0.05) of different AEZs was tested using a post-hoc cell-wise adjusted standardized residual analysis. Majority of donkey owners were familiar with the GIPs especially nematodes as it seemed to be the most occurring, but there was no significant effect (p > 0.05) across the AEZs. The adult donkeys were mostly susceptible to different GIPs according to respondents and severe infection was experienced in summer and winter. Donkeys were dewormed seasonally using anthelmintics with inappropriate weighing instruments to establish the dosage, however, chi-square test pointed out the significance (p = 0.004) effect between types of medication used across the AEZs. Donkeys were kept in non-roofed stables that were not cleaned regularly hence, these compromised their welfare. However, communal grazing shared by different livestock species was the main source of animal feeding though it was found to be the major source of GIPs. Therefore, there is a need to equip them on the proper skills to improve on their management practices and the behaviour of parasites in different areas. This will help donkey owners adhere to appropriate control and prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masara Elizabeth Nts'aoana
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, National University of Lesotho, P.O. Roma 180, Maseru, Lesotho.
| | - Setsumi Molapo
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, National University of Lesotho, P.O. Roma 180, Maseru, Lesotho.
| | - Paseka Kompi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, National University of Lesotho, P.O. Roma 180, Maseru, Lesotho.
| | - Moeketsi Phalatsi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, National University of Lesotho, P.O. Roma 180, Maseru, lesotho
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11
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In vitro ovicidal activity of Brongniartia montalvoana against small ruminant gastrointestinal nematodes. Exp Parasitol 2022; 240:108336. [PMID: 35850275 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2022.108336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Several plants of the Fabaceae family have been assessed regarding their high nutritional value and anthelmintic properties. The ovicidal effect of the hydroalcoholic extract (Bm-HAE) and subfractions from the aerial parts of Brongniartia montalvoana (Fabaceae) against a mixed strain of gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) (Haemonchus spp., Trichostrongylus spp. and Oesophagostomum spp.) resistant to albendazole sulfoxide, ivermectin and levamisole was evaluated by the egg hatch test (EHT). The Bm-HAE was subjected to liquid-liquid chemical separation with ethyl acetate giving two fractions, an aqueous (Bm-Aq) and an organic (Bm-EtOAct). The purification of the bioactive fraction (Bm-EtOAct) through chromatographic separation resulted in four bioactive subfractions (BmR6, BmR7, BmR8 and BmR10). The treatments were designed as follows: Bm-HAE at 800, 1,500, 3,000 and 6,000 μg/mL, and Bm-Aq, Bm-EtOAct and subfractions (BmR6, BmR7, BmR8 and BmR10) at 100, 200, 400 and 800 μg/mL. Two properly negative controls (distilled water and 2% methanol) and thiabendazole (100 μg/mL) as a positive control were used for each bioassay. The chemical identification of the extract, fractions and subfractions was performed through chromatographic processes like open column chromatography, thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-PDA). Additionally, the GIN eggs exposed to the bioactive compounds were observed through confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The Bm-HAE showed 99.5% egg hatching inhibition (EHI) at 6,000 μg/mL with a lethal concentration (LC50) of 1110 μg/mL. The Bm-EtOAc fraction displayed 99.1% EHI at 800 μg/mL with LC50 = 180 μg/mL. The ovicidal activity of the four subfractions was similar at 800 μg/mL: BmR6 (92% EHI); BmR7 (100% EHI); BmR8 (97.8%); and BmR10 (99.1%). The HPLC-PDA analysis of the bioactive subfractions allowed identification of p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid and coumarin derivatives as major compounds. The CLSM analysis allowed observation of morphological alterations in unhatched larvae caused by bioactive compounds present in the Bm-EtOAc and BmR10. In addition, the flavonoids eriodyctiol, luteolin and cynaroside were described for the first time for B. montalvoana.
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Differential Expression of CD45RO and CD45RA in Bovine T Cells. Cells 2022; 11:cells11111844. [PMID: 35681539 PMCID: PMC9180881 DOI: 10.3390/cells11111844] [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: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Effective vaccination induces immune memory to protect animals upon pathogen re-encounter. Despite contradictory reports, bovine memory T cells are identified based on two isoforms of CD45, expression of CD45RO plus exclusion of CD45RA. In this report, we contrasted CD45RA/RO expression on circulatory T cells with IFNγ and IL4 expression induced by a conventional method. To our surprise, 20% of cattle from an enclosed herd did not express CD45RO on T cells without any significant difference on CD45RA expression and IFNγ or IL4 induction. In CD45RO expressing cattle, CD45RA and CD45RO expressions excluded each other, with dominant CD45RO (>90%) expression on gamma delta (γδ) followed by CD4+ (60%) but significantly higher CD45RA expression on CD8+ T cells (about 80%). Importantly, more than 80% of CD45RO expressing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells failed to produce IFNγ and IL-4; however, within the cytokine inducing cells, CD4+ T cells highly expressed CD45RO but those within CD8+ T cells mostly expressed CD45RA. Hence, CD45RO is not ubiquitously expressed in cattle, and rather than with memory phenotype, CD45RA/RO expression are more associated with distinct T cell subtypes.
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Control of Strongyles in First-Season Grazing Ewe Lambs by Integrating Deworming and Thrice-Weekly Administration of Parasiticidal Fungal Spores. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10101338. [PMID: 34684288 PMCID: PMC8538233 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10101338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasiticidal fungi have been used in several in vivo experiments in livestock farms worldwide, constituting an effective tool for the biocontrol of gastrointestinal parasites in grazing animals. In the first year of study, two groups of eight first-season pasturing ewe lambs infected by strongyles were dewormed with albendazole, and then, the test group received an oral dose of 106 chlamydospores of Mucor circinelloides and 106 Duddingtonia flagrans individually and thrice a week from mid-September to May (FS1), while the control group remained without fungi (CT1). In the second year, two new groups of first-season grazing ewe lambs were treated with ivermectin and subjected to the same experimental design (FS2 and CT2, respectively). The anthelmintic efficacy was 96.6% (CT1), 95.6% (FS1), 96.1% (CT2), and 95.1% (FS2). The counts of strongyle egg output increased in the control groups (CT1 and CT2) throughout the study and reached numbers higher than 600 eggs per gram of feces (EPG), while in FS1 and FS2, they were <250 EPG. The values of red blood cell parameters registered for CT1 and CT2 were lower than those of the reference standards, while a significant increment was recorded in FS1 and FS2, and values within the physiological range were attained. It is concluded that integrating efficient anthelminthic deworming with rotational pasturing and the regular intake of chlamydospores of M. circinelloides and D. flagrans provides a helpful strategy for maintaining low levels of strongyle egg output in first-season grazing ewe lambs and improves their health status.
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Qokweni L, Chimonyo M, Marufu MC. Differences in burden of gastrointestinal nematode infestations in indigenous does foraging in grassland and forestland vegetation types. Trop Anim Health Prod 2021; 53:455. [PMID: 34537924 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-021-02929-3] [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: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infestations remain a major challenge to the health, productivity and reproductive performance of small ruminants. A longitudinal study was conducted to assess the effect of vegetation type, season and parity on the burden of GIN in indigenous does that were foraging in grassland and forestland vegetation types. Body condition scores (BCS), packed cell volume (PCV), FAMACHA score and faecal egg counts (FEC) were determined in Xhosa lob-eared does (n = 165) during the cool-dry, hot-wet and post-rainy seasons in both vegetation types. Faecal samples were collected from the rectum and analysed using the modified McMaster technique. There was a significant association between vegetation type and season on the recorded BCS, body weight (BW), FEC, PCV and FAMACHA scores. Xhosa lob-eared does in the forestland had higher (P < 0.05) BCS as compared to those in grassland. Higher FEC (P < 0.05) were observed in Xhosa lob-eared does in the grassland vegetation compared to those in forestland. Body condition scores, FEC and FAMACHA scores were significantly higher in the hot-wet season than cool-dry and post-rainy seasons, while PCV was significantly higher during the cool-dry compared to hot-wet season in forestland. Strongyles and Strongyloides eggs were higher in does grazing in the grassland than those in the forestland during the hot-wet season. Strategies for the effective control of GIN in goats should consider that infestation levels differ with vegetation type, season and parity. Controlling of GIN in goats, therefore, requires an integrated control strategy that should consider the vegetation type that the goats are reared on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luxolo Qokweni
- Animal and Poultry Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P Bag X01 Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Michael Chimonyo
- Animal and Poultry Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P Bag X01 Scottsville 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
| | - Munyaradzi Christopher Marufu
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
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15
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Nenadović K, Ilić T, Jovanović N, Bugarski D, Vučinić M. Welfare of Native Goat Breeds in Serbia-Emphasis on Parasitological Infections. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:678880. [PMID: 34532351 PMCID: PMC8438408 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.678880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Native goat breeds in Serbia has been recognized as an important element of regional agrobiodiversity and play an important role in the safeguarding of cultural and traditional heritage. The aim of this study was to identify the main welfare issues likely to be encountered in extensive goat farming systems with an emphasis on parasitological infections. The study was conducted during the winter season on four small farms of native Balkan and Serbian white goats. For welfare assessment, animal-based indicators from AWIN protocol for goats were used. All fecal samples for parasites were qualitatively and quantitatively examined. The main welfare issues identified were poor hair coat condition (62.79%), dirty and light soiling hindquarters (31.40%), thin body condition score (26.74%), abscesses (19.78%), and udder asymmetry (18.60%). In addition, an important and prevalent welfare problem identified across all farms was parasite infection and weak significant (p < 0.001) correlation between certain parasites (Strongylidae, Moniezia spp., Buxtonella sulcate, and Protostrongylidae) and welfare indicators such as poor hair coat condition and nasal discharge. The results of this study provided the first overview and valuable insight into the impact of extensive systems on the welfare of native goats in the Balcan region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Nenadović
- Department of Animal Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tamara Ilić
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Nemanja Jovanović
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dejan Bugarski
- Scientific Veterinary Institute “Novi Sad”, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marijana Vučinić
- Department of Animal Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
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16
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Qokweni L, Marufu MC, Chimonyo M. Attitudes and practices of resource-limited farmers on the control of gastrointestinal nematodes in goats foraging in grasslands and forestlands. Trop Anim Health Prod 2020; 52:3265-3273. [PMID: 32776269 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-020-02355-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal nematode infestations remain one of the main constraints to goat productivity. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to investigate the perceptions of goat farmers on the infestation and control of gastrointestinal nematode infestation. A total of 282 goat farmers from two villages of Mbizana local municipality in Alfred Nzo district were interviewed. Higher prevalence of diseases, parasites and feed availability were among the major constraints to goat productivity. Gastrointestinal parasites were ranked as the major constraint by farmers in the grassland than those in the forestland. Ordinal logistic regression analyses revealed that farmers in the grassland were 3.2 times more likely to experience gastrointestinal nematode infestation than those in the forestland (P < 0.05). On both vegetation types, tethered goats were perceived to have higher (P < 0.05) GIN infestation compared with free browsing goats. Poor farmers were 3.1 times more (P < 0.05) likely to experience high GIN infestation compared with less poor farmers. Farmers in the grassland were 2.1 times more likely to control GI nematode infestation than to those in the forestland (P < 0.05). Intervention strategies to control gastrointestinal nematodes should mainly target farmers from the grassland vegetation since they experience higher infestation rates of gastrointestinal nematodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luxolo Qokweni
- Animal and Poultry Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P Bag X01 Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209, South Africa
| | - Munyaradzi Christopher Marufu
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, Republic of South Africa
| | - Michael Chimonyo
- Animal and Poultry Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P Bag X01 Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, 3209, South Africa.
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17
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Sharpton TJ, Combrink L, Arnold HK, Gaulke CA, Kent M. Harnessing the gut microbiome in the fight against anthelminthic drug resistance. Curr Opin Microbiol 2020; 53:26-34. [PMID: 32114334 DOI: 10.1016/j.mib.2020.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Intestinal helminth parasites present major challenges to the welfare of humans and threaten the global food supply. While the discovery of anthelminthic drugs empowered our ability to offset these harms to society, the alarming rise of anthelminthic drug resistance mitigates contemporary efforts to treat and control intestinal helminthic infections. Fortunately, emerging research points to potential opportunities to combat anthelminthic drug resistance by harnessing the gut microbiome as a resource for discovering novel therapeutics and informing responsible drug administration. In this review, we highlight research that demonstrates this potential and provide rationale to support increased investment in efforts to uncover and translationally utilize knowledge about how the gut microbiome mediates intestinal helminthic infection and its outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas J Sharpton
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA; Department of Statistics, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA.
| | - Leigh Combrink
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | - Holly K Arnold
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA; Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
| | | | - Michael Kent
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, 97331, USA
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18
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Haley N, Henderson D, Donner R, Wyckoff S, Merrett K, Tennant J, Hoover E, Love D, Kline E, Lehmkuhl A, Thomsen B. Management of chronic wasting disease in ranched elk: conclusions from a longitudinal three-year study. Prion 2020; 14:76-87. [PMID: 32033521 PMCID: PMC7009334 DOI: 10.1080/19336896.2020.1724754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic wasting disease is a fatal, horizontally transmissible prion disease of cervid species that has been reported in free-ranging and farmed animals in North America, Scandinavia, and Korea. Like other prion diseases, CWD susceptibility is partly dependent on the sequence of the prion protein encoded by the host's PRNP gene; it is unknown if variations in PRNP have any meaningful effects on other aspects of health. Conventional diagnosis of CWD relies on ELISA or IHC testing of samples collected post-mortem, with recent efforts focused on antemortem testing approaches. We report on the conclusions of a study evaluating the role of antemortem testing of rectal biopsies collected from over 570 elk in a privately managed herd, and the results of both an amplification assay (RT-QuIC) and conventional IHC among animals with a several PRNP genotypes. Links between PRNP genotype and potential markers of evolutionary fitness, including pregnancy rates, body condition, and annual return rates were also examined. We found that the RT-QuIC assay identified significantly more CWD positive animals than conventional IHC across the course of the study, and was less affected by factors known to influence IHC sensitivity - including follicle count and PRNP genotype. We also found that several evolutionary markers of fitness were not adversely correlated with specific PRNP genotypes. While the financial burden of the disease in this herd was ultimately unsustainable for the herd owners, our scientific findings and the hurdles encountered will assist future CWD management strategies in both wild and farmed elk and deer.
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Affiliation(s)
- N.J. Haley
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA,CONTACT N.J. Haley Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA
| | - D.M. Henderson
- Prion Research Center, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - R. Donner
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA
| | - S. Wyckoff
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA
| | - K. Merrett
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Graduate Studies, Midwestern University, Glendale, AZ, USA
| | - J Tennant
- Prion Research Center, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - E.A. Hoover
- Prion Research Center, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - D. Love
- Colorado Department of Agriculture Animal Health Division, Broomfield, CO, USA
| | - E. Kline
- Colorado Department of Agriculture Animal Health Division, Broomfield, CO, USA
| | - A.D. Lehmkuhl
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, United States Department of Agriculture, APHIS, VS, Ames, IA, USA
| | - B.V. Thomsen
- National Veterinary Services Laboratories, United States Department of Agriculture, APHIS, VS, Ames, IA, USA,Center for Veterinary Biologics, United States Department of Agriculture, APHIS, VS, Ames, IA, USA
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Voinot M, Cazapal-Monteiro C, Hernández JÁ, Palomero AM, Arroyo FL, Sanchís J, Pedreira J, Sánchez-Andrade R, Paz-Silva A, Arias MS. Integrating the control of helminths in dairy cattle: Deworming, rotational grazing and nutritional pellets with parasiticide fungi. Vet Parasitol 2020; 278:109038. [PMID: 32000048 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2020.109038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Revised: 01/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Thirty-two Friesian cattle under a leaders/followers four-day rotation and passing eggs of trematodes and gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN) were studied in two trials for the integrated control of these helminths over two years. In the first trial, the effect of rotational pasturing was assessed on a group of leaders (milking cows, G-L1) and followers (dried-off cows and heifers, G-F1) supplemented daily with commercial nutritional pellets. In the second trial, leaders (G-L2) and followers (G-F2) were maintained under a rotational pasturing regime; the cows received daily commercial pelleted feed and heifers pellets manufactured with a blend of parasiticide fungi (3 × 105 chlamydospores of both Mucor circinelloides and Duddingtonia flagrans/kg pellet). Deworming via closantel and albendazole was performed in cows in each trial at the beginning of their drying periods, and fourteen days later, the fecal egg-count reductions (FECR) of Calicophoron daubneyi and GIN were from 94 to 100% (average 98 %), while the percentages of reduction of cattle shedding eggs (CPCR) were from 50 to 100% (average 77 % and 82 %, respectively). The heifers were dewormed one time only, at the beginning of each trial, and the values of FECR and CPCR were 100 % against C. daubneyi and 96 % and 83 %, respectively, against GIN. Over a period of 24 months, significantly higher numbers of helminth egg-output were observed in G-L1, with the lowest numbers in G-F2. C. daubneyi egg output was reduced by 5 % (G-L1) and 42 % (G-F1) at the end of trial 1 and by 83 % (G-L2) and 100 % (G-F2) at the end of trial 2; the numbers of GIN egg-output decreased by 13 % (G-L1) and 18 % (G-F1) at the end of trial 1, and by 72 % (G-L2) and 85 % (G-F2) at the end of trial 2. No adverse effects were detected in cattle taking pellets enriched with fungal spores (G-F2). It is concluded that long-term ingestion of spores of M. circinelloides and D. flagrans provides a valuable tool to improve the effect of rotational grazing and to lessen the risk of infection by C. daubneyi and GIN in dairy cattle, and accordingly, the performance of integrated control programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Voinot
- Control of Parasites Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Cristiana Cazapal-Monteiro
- Control of Parasites Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - José Ángel Hernández
- Control of Parasites Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Antonio Miguel Palomero
- Control of Parasites Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Fabián Leonardo Arroyo
- Control of Parasites Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Jaime Sanchís
- Parasitic Diseases, Veterinary Faculty, University of "La República (Regional Norte)", 50000, Salto, Uruguay
| | | | - Rita Sánchez-Andrade
- Control of Parasites Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Adolfo Paz-Silva
- Control of Parasites Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain.
| | - María Sol Arias
- Control of Parasites Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
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Gastrointestinal parasites as a possible threat to an endangered autochthonous Portuguese sheep breed. J Helminthol 2019; 94:e103. [PMID: 31679528 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x19000968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Helminth and protozoan infections are responsible for important diseases in grazing sheep, which can be especially threatening in an autochthonous breed at risk of extinction like the Churra Galega Mirandesa Portuguese sheep breed. The aim of the present study was to determine the diversity, prevalence and burden of gastrointestinal parasites in these sheep and to assess the effects of deworming practices, cohabiting animals on the farm and feed management. Coprological qualitative and quantitative analysis (flotation, natural sedimentation and McMaster method) were used to identify and quantify gastrointestinal parasites and a questionnaire was designed and applied. A total of 512 faecal samples were collected from 49 flocks, and 49 replies to the questionnaire were received. Parasites were identified in 100% of the flocks, and in 97% of the samples. The genera or species that have been morphologically identified were: strongyle-type, Nematodirus spp., Skrjabinema spp., Moniezia expansa, Moniezia benedeni, Trichuris spp., Capillaria spp., Eimeria spp., Dicrocoelium spp. and Fasciola hepatica. This is the first report in Portugal of Skrjabinema spp. The burden of parasites' oocysts and eggs per gram in faecal samples ranged, respectively, from 50 to 17,550 for Eimeria spp., and from 50 to 6250 for strongyle-type eggs. Factors affecting parasitic infections were evaluated using a multivariate logistic regression. Grazing time and a lack of anthelmintic treatment were positively associated with Nematodirus spp. infection. This study showed that there is a high prevalence and diversity of gastrointestinal parasites in the Churra Galega Mirandesa sheep breed.
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Prevalence and risk factors associated with gastrointestinal parasites in ruminant livestock in the Coastal Savannah zone of Ghana. Acta Trop 2019; 199:105126. [PMID: 31394078 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Revised: 08/03/2019] [Accepted: 08/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GIT) parasite infections result in significant economic losses to ruminant livestock production. To determine the prevalence and risk factors associated with GIT parasite infections in livestock from Ghana, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in cattle and small ruminants kept under different management systems in the Coastal Savannah zone from October 2014 to February 2015. Faecal samples were collected from 328 cattle and 502 small ruminants (sheep and goats) and examined by formal ether concentration microscopy. The management systems and environmental conditions of the farm or household were observed, and a questionnaire administered to the livestock owners. Overall, 90.8% (754/830) of livestock were infected with at least one of ten different parasites (Eimeria, Strongylid nematodes, Toxocara, Trichuris, Schistosoma, Dicrocoelium, Paramphistomum, Fasciola, Moniezia and Thysaniezia), with Eimeria the most prevalent (78.4%). Most (64.5%) livestock had coinfections with two to five parasites with parasite intensity mostly light and at least one parasite was found in 98.6% (140/142) of the herds. Binary logistic regression models were generated to assess the risk factors associated with infection. Earthen floor was positively associated with strongylid infection, multiple ruminant species with Paramphistomum infection and flock size (>25 animal) with Thysaniezia, Dicrocoelium and Fasciola infections. Separating young animals from older animals was negatively associated with Strongylid infection, feed supplementation with Thysaniezia infection and small ruminant species with Paramphistomum and Toxocara infections. The findings from this study suggests that good sanitation, proper husbandry practices and improved nutrition can improve livestock health and production in Ghana.
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Abstract
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an important sensory cue for many animals, including both parasitic and free-living nematodes. Many nematodes show context-dependent, experience-dependent and/or life-stage-dependent behavioural responses to CO2, suggesting that CO2 plays crucial roles throughout the nematode life cycle in multiple ethological contexts. Nematodes also show a wide range of physiological responses to CO2. Here, we review the diverse responses of parasitic and free-living nematodes to CO2. We also discuss the molecular, cellular and neural circuit mechanisms that mediate CO2 detection in nematodes, and that drive context-dependent and experience-dependent responses of nematodes to CO2.
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Lasprilla-Mantilla MI, Wagner V, Pena J, Frechette A, Thivierge K, Dufour S, Fernandez-Prada C. Effects of recycled manure solids bedding on the spread of gastrointestinal parasites in the environment of dairies and milk. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:11308-11316. [PMID: 31548050 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-16866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The primary aim of this work was to isolate common bovine digestive tract parasites in recycled manure bedding (RMS), as well as to determine the ability of current RMS preparation procedures to eliminate these pathogens. Other objectives were to assess whether any of the aforementioned parasites could be retrieved in bulk milk from dairies using RMS and to study whether the prevalence of these parasites differed among manure of cows housed on RMS versus on straw bedding. For the study, 27 RMS farms and 61 control farms were recruited. Samples of manure from the pre-pit and milk from the bulk tank were recovered from straw-bedding farms and RMS-based farms. In addition, samples from the manure solid fraction after liquid extraction, RMS before use, and RMS currently in use were recovered from RMS herds. Parasites were first detected by double centrifugation zinc sulfate flotation to enhance isolation of gastrointestinal protozoa, and by modified Wisconsin sugar flotation for the appraisal of gastrointestinal nematodes. Cryptosporidium parasites were confirmed by nested PCR amplification and sequencing of a portion of the gene encoding the small subunit rRNA. Results revealed a high prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. (C. parvum, C. andersoni, and C. meleagridis, identified by PCR) and Eimeria spp. (mainly E. bovis and E. zuernii) parasites in both types of farms, with a larger proportion of manure samples from RMS-bedded farms testing positive for Cryptosporidium parasites compared with manure from straw-bedded farms. Both Cryptosporidium spp. and Eimeria spp. oocysts were found at every step of RMS preparation and transformation, showing that current RMS preparation strategies do not guarantee the destruction of protozoan parasites. Cryptosporidium parvum, a potential zoonotic risk for professionals in close contact with livestock, was found to be present in 32 out of 61 straw-bedded and 24 of 27 RMS farms. No protozoan parasites were found in any sample derived from bulk milk, neither by microscopy analysis nor by molecular methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlen I Lasprilla-Mantilla
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada; Groupe de recherche sur les maladies infectieuses des animaux de production (GREMIP), Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada; Regroupement de recherche Op+Lait, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada
| | - Victoria Wagner
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada; Groupe de recherche sur les maladies infectieuses des animaux de production (GREMIP), Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada
| | - Joan Pena
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada; Groupe de recherche sur les maladies infectieuses des animaux de production (GREMIP), Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada
| | - Annie Frechette
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada; Regroupement de recherche Op+Lait, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada
| | - Karine Thivierge
- Laboratoire de santé publique du Québec, Institut national de santé publique du Québec, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Québec H9X 3R5 Canada; Institute of Parasitology, Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University, Macdonald Campus, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Québec H9X 3V9 Canada
| | - Simon Dufour
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada; Regroupement de recherche Op+Lait, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada
| | - Christopher Fernandez-Prada
- Département de Pathologie et Microbiologie, Faculté de Médecine Vétérinaire, Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada; Groupe de recherche sur les maladies infectieuses des animaux de production (GREMIP), Université de Montréal, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada; Regroupement de recherche Op+Lait, Saint-Hyacinthe, Québec J2S 2M2 Canada.
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Prasad MSR, Sundaram SM, Gnanaraj PT, Bandeswaran C, Harikrishnan TJ, Sivakumar T, Azhahiannambi P. Influence of intensive rearing, continuous and rotational grazing systems of management on parasitic load of lambs. Vet World 2019; 12:1188-1194. [PMID: 31641296 PMCID: PMC6755402 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2019.1188-1194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM A trial was conducted to assess the influence of parasitic load on the lambs reared under the intensive system, continuous grazing, and rotational grazing systems of management. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of thirty numbers of the undetermined breed of ewe lambs around 4-5 months of age were randomly selected and allotted to three treatment groups: T1 (intensive system - control), T2 (rotational grazing), and T3 (continuous grazing). The T1 group lambs were raised under a stall-fed system of management, the T2 group lambs were grazed under rotational grazing strategy in four paddocks of plot-A, while the T3 group lambs were continuously grazed in plot-B. RESULTS At the end of the study, there was a highly significant difference (p=0.01) in the fortnightly strongyle egg count per gram (EPG) of feces among the lambs pertaining to the three treatment groups; the lambs in T3 had a higher strongyle EPG compared to T2 lambs. With regard to the overall reduction in EPG from the initial count, lambs under rotational grazing showed the maximum decrease of 54.52% compared to lambs under T3 (continuous grazing). There was a strong positive correlation noticed between the mean temperature of the day at each fortnight and the subsequent EPG at each fortnight with R2=0.87. There was a strong positive correlation noticed between mean FAMACHA© scores and the EPG with R2=0.84, R2=0.83, and R2=0.83 for T1, T2, and T3, respectively. CONCLUSION The grazing management with pasture rotation should be considered as a viable option for sustainable parasitic control in case of grazing-dependent livestock husbandry in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. S. Ram Prasad
- Department of Livestock Production and Management, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - S. Meenakshi Sundaram
- Instructional Livestock Farm Complex, Tamil Nadu Veterinary, and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - P. Tensingh Gnanaraj
- Department of Livestock Production and Management, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - C. Bandeswaran
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - T. J. Harikrishnan
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - T. Sivakumar
- Department of Animal Nutrition, Veterinary College and Research Institute, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - P. Azhahiannambi
- Department of Veterinary Parasitology, Madras Veterinary College, Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
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Impacts of breed type and vaccination on Teladorsagia circumcincta infection in native sheep in Gran Canaria. Vet Res 2019; 50:29. [PMID: 31029163 PMCID: PMC6486963 DOI: 10.1186/s13567-019-0646-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccines and genetic resistance offer potential future alternatives to the exclusive use of anthelmintics to control gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN). Here, a Teladorsagia circumcincta prototype vaccine was administered to two sheep breeds which differ in their relative levels of resistance to infection with GIN. Vaccination of the more susceptible Canaria Sheep (CS) breed induced significant reductions in worm length and numbers of worm eggs in utero (EIU) when compared to control CS sheep. In the more resistant Canaria Hair Breed (CHB), although vaccination induced a reduction in all parasitological parameters analysed, differences between vaccinated and control sheep were not statistically significant. Such interactions between sheep breed and vaccination may allow better integrated control of GIN in future.
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Bryant AS, Hallem EA. Terror in the dirt: Sensory determinants of host seeking in soil-transmitted mammalian-parasitic nematodes. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2018; 8:496-510. [PMID: 30396862 PMCID: PMC6287541 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2018.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Infection with gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes is a major cause of chronic morbidity and economic burden around the world, particularly in low-resource settings. Some parasitic nematode species, including the human-parasitic threadworm Strongyloides stercoralis and human-parasitic hookworms in the genera Ancylostoma and Necator, feature a soil-dwelling infective larval stage that seeks out hosts for infection using a variety of host-emitted sensory cues. Here, we review our current understanding of the behavioral responses of soil-dwelling infective larvae to host-emitted sensory cues, and the molecular and cellular mechanisms that mediate these responses. We also discuss the development of methods for transgenesis and CRISPR/Cas9-mediated targeted mutagenesis in Strongyloides stercoralis and the closely related rat parasite Strongyloides ratti. These methods have established S. stercoralis and S. ratti as genetic model systems for gastrointestinal parasitic nematodes and are enabling more detailed investigations into the neural mechanisms that underlie the sensory-driven behaviors of this medically and economically important class of parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astra S Bryant
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Elissa A Hallem
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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27
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Bryant AS, Hallem EA. Temperature-dependent behaviors of parasitic helminths. Neurosci Lett 2018; 687:290-303. [PMID: 30336196 PMCID: PMC6240462 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2018.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 10/09/2018] [Accepted: 10/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Parasitic helminth infections are the most common source of neglected tropical disease among impoverished global communities. Many helminths infect their hosts via an active, sensory-driven process in which environmentally motile infective larvae position themselves near potential hosts. For these helminths, host seeking and host invasion can be divided into several discrete behaviors that are regulated by both host-emitted and environmental sensory cues, including heat. Thermosensation is a critical sensory modality for helminths that infect warm-blooded hosts, driving multiple behaviors necessary for host seeking and host invasion. Furthermore, thermosensory cues influence the host-seeking behaviors of both helminths that parasitize endothermic hosts and helminths that parasitize insect hosts. Here, we discuss the role of thermosensation in guiding the host-seeking and host-infection behaviors of a diverse group of helminths, including mammalian-parasitic nematodes, entomopathogenic nematodes, and schistosomes. We also discuss the neural circuitry and molecular pathways that underlie thermosensory responses in these species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astra S Bryant
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Elissa A Hallem
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA.
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Bryant AS, Ruiz F, Gang SS, Castelletto ML, Lopez JB, Hallem EA. A Critical Role for Thermosensation in Host Seeking by Skin-Penetrating Nematodes. Curr Biol 2018; 28:2338-2347.e6. [PMID: 30017486 PMCID: PMC6091634 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2018.05.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Skin-penetrating parasitic nematodes infect approximately one billion people worldwide and are a major source of neglected tropical disease [1-6]. Their life cycle includes an infective third-larval (iL3) stage that searches for hosts to infect in a poorly understood process that involves both thermal and olfactory cues. Here, we investigate the temperature-driven behaviors of skin-penetrating iL3s, including the human-parasitic threadworm Strongyloides stercoralis and the human-parasitic hookworm Ancylostoma ceylanicum. We show that human-parasitic iL3s respond robustly to thermal gradients. Like the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, human-parasitic iL3s show both positive and negative thermotaxis, and the switch between them is regulated by recent cultivation temperature [7]. When engaging in positive thermotaxis, iL3s migrate toward temperatures approximating mammalian body temperature. Exposing iL3s to a new cultivation temperature alters the thermal switch point between positive and negative thermotaxis within hours, similar to the timescale of thermal plasticity in C. elegans [7]. Thermal plasticity in iL3s may enable them to optimize host finding on a diurnal temperature cycle. We show that temperature-driven responses can be dominant in multisensory contexts such that, when thermal drive is strong, iL3s preferentially engage in temperature-driven behaviors despite the presence of an attractive host odorant. Finally, targeted mutagenesis of the S. stercoralis tax-4 homolog abolishes heat seeking, providing the first evidence that parasitic host-seeking behaviors are generated through an adaptation of sensory cascades that drive environmental navigation in C. elegans [7-10]. Together, our results provide insight into the behavioral strategies and molecular mechanisms that allow skin-penetrating nematodes to target humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astra S Bryant
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Felicitas Ruiz
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Spencer S Gang
- Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Michelle L Castelletto
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Jacqueline B Lopez
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Elissa A Hallem
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA; Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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Hernández JÁ, Sánchez-Andrade R, Cazapal-Monteiro CF, Arroyo FL, Sanchís JM, Paz-Silva A, Arias MS. A combined effort to avoid strongyle infection in horses in an oceanic climate region: rotational grazing and parasiticidal fungi. Parasit Vectors 2018; 11:240. [PMID: 29650055 PMCID: PMC5897951 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-018-2827-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background An approach to preventing strongyle infection in horses was tested, comprising rotational pasturing and the administration of spores of two parasiticidal fungi, Mucor circinelloides and Duddingtonia flagrans. Methods Twenty-two adult Spanish Sport Horses were dewormed with ivermectin (1 mg pour-on/kg body weight) and then randomly divided into three groups. G-1 was maintained with continuous grazing, and G-2 and G-3 were kept on a four-paddock rotation system. Commercial pelleted feed (2.5 kg/horse) was supplied to G-1 and G-2 twice a week; horses in G-3 received pellets containing 2 × 106 spores/kg of each fungus. Fecal samples were analyzed by the flotation method to estimate the reduction in the fecal egg counts (FECR), the percentage of horses shedding eggs (PHR), and the egg reappearance period (ERP). Results Third-stage larvae were identified in fecal pats as Cyathostomum (sensu lato) types A, C and D, Gyalocephalus capitatus, Triodontophorus serratus, Poteriosthomum spp., Strongylus vulgaris and S. edentatus. Two weeks after treatment, the FECR values were 100% in G-1, 96% in G-2 and 99% in G-3; the PHR values were 100% in G-1, 75% in G-2 and 88% in G-3. A strongyle ERP of 6 weeks was observed in G-1, ERP of 10 weeks was observed in G-2, and ERP of 16 weeks was observed in G-3. The counts of eggs per gram of feces (EPG) were > 300 EPG in G-1 and G-2 but remained below 250 EPG in G-3 throughout the observation period of 12 months. Conclusions These results suggest that horse strongyle infection could be decreased by combining rotational pasturing with feeding pellets containing the spores of parasiticidal fungi.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Ángel Hernández
- Equine Diseases Study Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Rita Sánchez-Andrade
- Equine Diseases Study Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Cristiana Filipa Cazapal-Monteiro
- Equine Diseases Study Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - Fabián Leonardo Arroyo
- Equine Diseases Study Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | | | - Adolfo Paz-Silva
- Equine Diseases Study Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain
| | - María Sol Arias
- Equine Diseases Study Group (COPAR, GI-2120), Animal Pathology Department, Veterinary Faculty, Santiago de Compostela University, 27002, Lugo, Spain.
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Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasitism Infections in Cattle of Bass Kabylie Area: Case of Bejaia Province, Algeria. MACEDONIAN VETERINARY REVIEW 2018. [DOI: 10.2478/macvetrev-2018-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence, identification of species and the dynamics of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites during humid and dry seasons in local cattle of different ages. The study was carried out in the Province of Bejaia, Algeria from December 2013 to June 2014. A total of 143 fecal samples were collected from different cattle herds. Fecal samples were visually examined then observed using flotation and sedimentation microscopic techniques. Eggs and worms were identified according to standard procedures. 63% of the cattle examined were found positive with one or more parasite species. Our results revealed that the eggs of Eimeria spp. are predominant (43.87%) followed by Strongylus spp. (30.32%) and Fasciola hepatica (12.25%). Eggs of Strongyloides papillosus, Moniezia benedeni, Paramphistomum daubneyi. and Toxocara vitulorum represent 1.29%, 1.93%, 1.93% and 6.45%, respectively. There is a significant difference between the sex of the animal and the prevalence rate of Strongyle spp. and Eimeria spp. (P< 0.01
). As for the body condition score, there is a statically significant (P< 0.01
) difference between the prevalence rate of GI parasite and the nutritional status of cattle. In conclusion, our preliminary investigation demonstrated highly prevalent and that abundance of the polyparasitism nature of the disease in Bass Kabylie area. Also, there was a relationship between the distribution of GI parasitism in cattle and the factors analyzed (body condition score, age and sex). Further studies are need for planning future research and to design rational and sustainable locally GI parasites control programmes.
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Kyriánová IA, Vadlejch J, Kopecký O, Langrová I. Seasonal dynamics of endoparasitic infections at an organic goat farm and the impact of detected infections on milk production. Parasitol Res 2017; 116:3211-3219. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-017-5643-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Kvapil P, Kastelic M, Dovc A, Bartova E, Cizek P, Lima N, Strus S. An eight-year survey of the intestinal parasites of carnivores, hoofed mammals, primates, ratites and reptiles in the Ljubljana zoo in Slovenia. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2017; 64. [DOI: 10.14411/fp.2017.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Tirab AB, Chimonyo M. Constraints to Hamari sheep farming under range conditions in Darfur and Kordofan Regions of Western Sudan. Trop Anim Health Prod 2016; 48:1109-14. [PMID: 27126220 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-016-1056-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The study was conducted to identify the major production constraints of Hamari sheep in Darfur and Kordofan Regions of Western Sudan. A structured questionnaire was administered to 128 farmers in Darfur and Kordofan. Feed shortages, prevalence of diseases and parasites, and predation were more severe in Darfur than Kordofan (P < 0.05). Thefts were ranked higher by farmers using the sedentary system compared to those using semi-nomadic system (P < 0.05). Water shortage was ranked higher by farmers with small flocks, large flocks, semi-nomadic and sedentary husbandry system in Kordofan than their counterparts in Darfur Region (P < 0.05). Farmers practising semi-nomadic husbandry system and sedentary system in Darfur region ranked diseases, parasites and predation higher than those practising semi-nomadic and sedentary system in Kordofan region (P < 0.05). Feed shortage was ranked higher as a challenge by farmers practising semi-nomadic system in Darfur Region than those practising semi-nomadic system in Kordofan Region (P < 0.05). It can be concluded that the severity of challenges facing Hamari sheep producers vary with flock size, region and production system used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed Berima Tirab
- School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - Michael Chimonyo
- School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville, 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.
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