Current research on Sarcocystis species of domestic animals

First Molecular Identification and Prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. in Sheep Intended for Human Consumption in Shanxi Province, China

Sarcocystis species are intracellular coccidian protozoans that can infect a range of animals and humans and cause public health problems and economically significant losses. Sarcocystosis in sheep (Ovis aries) can cause abortion, neurological symptoms, and even death and results in significant economic losses to the livestock industry. To date, however, it is yet unknown whether sheep in Shanxi Province, north China, are infected with Sarcocystis spp. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. in sheep in Shanxi Province. Thus, 582 muscle samples of sheep were purchased from farmers' markets from ten representative counties in Shanxi Province, north China, and examined for the presence and prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. by PCR amplification of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (cox1) gene. Of the examined 582 mutton samples, 197 samples (33.85%) were Sarcocystis-positive and were sequenced. Of the obtained 197 cox1 sequences, 196 sequences showed nucleotide similarity of 98.56-99.81% with those of S. tenella, and the remaining one cox1 sequence showed nucleotide similarity of 99.71% with that of S. arieticanis. Two representative cox1 sequences of S. tenella (accession nos. PQ189447 and PQ189448) have 99.52% and 99.61% identity with S. tenalla (KC209725) and S. tenalla (MK419984), respectively. The sequence of S. arieticanis (accession no. PQ165949) obtained in this study has 99.71% identity with S. arieticanis (MK419975). This present study documents the occurrence and prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. in sheep in Shanxi Province for the first time, which enriches the data on the distribution of Sarcocystis spp. in sheep in China and has implications for the control of sheep sarcocystosis.

Morphological and molecular characterization of Sarcocystis spp. in pigs (Sus scrofa domestica) from Argentina

Sarcocystis spp. are intracellular protozoan parasites with an obligatory heteroxenous life cycle. The objective of this study was to identify Sarcocystis spp. in pig muscles from Argentina, by light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and molecular studies. Muscles samples from 561 pigs (Sus scrofa domestica) were classified according to the breeding system in: intensive farming (IF, n = 295; animals kept in confinement during most of their productive cycle), or semi-extensive farming (SEF, n = 266; animals bred outdoors, generally family or backyard production). Results showed that 24.8% (139/561) were positive by light microscopy, with a significantly higher prevalence in the SEF (34.6%; 92/266) than the IF pigs (15.9%; 47/295) (p < 0.05). Of the 202 samples analyzed by PCR, 96 were positive (47.5%) for the 18S rRNA (18S ribosomal RNA) fragment. All samples analyzed by the S. suihominis specific coxI (mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I) PCR (n = 235; 96 positives by 18S rRNA PCR and 139 positives by light microscopy) were negative. Fourteen individual cysts were positive for the 18S rRNA PCR and sequenced. Consensus sequences obtained from the 18S rRNA fragment PCR ranged from 613 to 880 bp and showed 100% of identity between them and with previously reported S. miescheriana sequences. In all the pig samples analyzed by TEM, cyst wall ultrastructure was compatible with S. miescheriana. This is the first study that provides infection rates and describes and identifies morphological and molecular features of Sarcocystis spp. cysts in pigs from Argentina.

Sarcocystis in horses from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: Molecular identification of Sarcocystis bertrami and Sarcocystis neurona in muscle tissues

Horses are intermediate hosts of Sarcocystis spp. capable of forming cysts in their musculature. This study aimed to detect sarcocysts and investigate the presence of nucleic acids from Sarcocystis spp. in samples of striated muscles from horses in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, necropsied at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Santa Maria. A total of 108 samples were collected from 24 horses and examined through direct examination. Microscopic tissue cysts were observed in three samples: tongue (2) and esophagus (1) from two animals. Extractions were performed on the found cysts and tissues, even though sarcocystosis detection was not present. DNA samples were subjected to Nested-PCR using Tg18s primers, and the amplified products were subjected to Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) using DdeI and HpaII enzymes. DNA belonging to Sarcocystis spp. was amplified in tissues from 91.7% (22/24) of the equines, and 67.6% (73/108) of the samples tested positive in the Nested-PCR reaction. The tissues with the highest detection frequency were: diaphragm 92.3% (12/13), gluteal muscle 77.2% (17/22), and esophagus 66.7% (4/6). In RFLP, Sarcocystis spp. was detected in 21 tissues from 11/22 equines, and cysts, identified through nucleotide sequencing, were determined to be S. bertrami. S. neurona was identified in 11 samples from 7/22 animals, with co-infection detected in 5/22 cases. The high detection rate indicates a concerning circulation of the protozoan, particularly the zoonotic S. bertrami found in all tissues, which are commonly exported for human consumption.

Sarcocystis sp. shed by the common boa snake (Boa constrictor) in Brazil

The genus Sarcocystis contains around 200 species and 25 of these infect snakes. Two Sarcocystis spp. shed by snakes have called special attention of the scientific community. S. nesbitti, which is shed by scrub pythons (Simalia amethistina), causes myopathy in humans that consume water or food contaminated with the parasite. Sporocysts of S. singaporensis, excreted by reticulated pythons (Malayopython reticulatus), is letal for rats and was successfully tested in the biological control of these rodents. A high biodiversity of snakes is found in Brazil, however, scarce information is available about Sarcocystis spp. in Brazilian snakes. Herein, we investigated Sarcocystis sp. in feces of the common boa (Boa constrictor) from Salvador, as it is widely distributed in Brazil and it is also bred in other countries. Feces of 65 boas were examined, and Sarcocystis sp. was found in 1/65 (1.53%) snakes. All snakes were alive, and for this reason, intestinal scrapping, which is the most sensitive method to detect the parasite, was not performed. Morphometric evaluation of sporocysts showed significant differences in their sizes. PCR and multilocus sequencing of four genetic markers (cox1, 18S, ITS1, and 28S) revealed that sporocysts corresponded to a new Sarcocystis species. Sequences of cox1 and 18S had identities of 100% and higher than 98%, respectively, with sequences obtained from the rodent Lagostomus maximus in Argentina. ITS1 and 28S sequences did not match with any known Sarcocystis sp. No ITS1 and 28S sequences were available for the Sarcocystis sp. found in the Argentinian L.maximus. Bioassay using the boa sporocysts was conducted in three mouse lineages and in Rattus norvegicus, but no parasitic stages were detected in these rodents. We concluded that the common boa is probably the definitive host of a new species of Sarcocystis sp. that has L. maximus or related rodents as intermediate hosts.

Identification of Sarcocystis spp. in wild boars (Sus scrofa) from Argentina

Sarcocystis spp. are intracellular protozoan parasites with an obligatory heteroxenous life cycle. The objective of this study is to identify Sarcocystis spp. in wild boar muscles from Argentina by light and transmission electron microscopy and molecular characterization. Muscle samples from diaphragm, tongue, masseter, intercostals, heart, and forelimbs of 240 wild boars were analyzed. Of the animals, 48.3% (116/240) were positive for sarcocysts by light microscopy, whereas 45.8% (110/240) were positive for Sarcocystis spp. by PCR targeting 18S rRNA fragment. These samples were subjected to a specific PCR for S. suihominis coxI gene, 3.6% (4/110) of which were weak positives. Unfortunately, sequence analysis was inconclusive. This could be related to a potentially low S. suihominis cyst load in the samples, or to an incomplete primer matching with the South American S. suihominis sequences. Seventeen individual sarcocysts were positive by PCR for the 18S rRNA fragment, whose sequences showed 99.75-100% identity with each other and with previously reported S. miescheriana sequences. A total of 21 cysts collected from 11 muscle samples and analyzed by TEM presented a cyst wall type compatible with S. miescheriana, and one cyst presented an ultrastructure compatible with S. suihominis. The latter came from a sample that also contained S. miescheriana cysts, indicating that the animal was co-infected. This is the first study that provides infection rates and describes and identifies morphological and molecular features of Sarcocystis spp. cysts in wild boars from South America.

Molecular Identification of Sarcocystis rileyi and Sarcocystis sp. (Closely Related to Sarcocystis wenzeli) in Intestines of Mustelids from Lithuania

The genus Sarcocystis is a group of numerous protozoan parasites having a two-host life cycle. Based on laboratory experiments and/or phylogenetic analysis results it was shown that seven Sarcocystis spp. producing sarcocsyts in bird tissues are transmitted via predatory placental mammals. To date the role of small mammals of the family Mustelidae in the distribution of avian Sarcocystis spp. have not been studied. During the current investigation, intestinal mucosa scrapings of 115 mustelids belonging to five species were tested for S. albifronsi, S. anasi, S. rileyi, and S. wenzeli infecting anseriforms and chickens. Microscopically, free sporocysts, sporulating oocysts, and loose oocysts were found in 61 samples (53.0%). Using nested PCR targeting the ITS1 region and sequencing, S. rileyi was confirmed in eight American minks, two European polecats and single European badger. Sarcocystis sp. was identified in one American mink and one European pine marten. Based on the partial ITS1 region this parasite showed that 100% identity to pathogenic Sarcocystis sp. caused a fatal infection in backyard chickens from Brazil. Phylogenetically, the Sarcocystis sp. identified in our study was most closely related to S. wenzeli parasitising domestic fowl (Gallus domesticus).

The Occurrence and Meta-Analysis of Investigations on Sarcocystis Infection among Ruminants (Ruminantia) in Mainland China

Sarcocystis is a zoonotic pathogen that threatens public health and the quality of food safety. To determine the Sarcocystis spp. prevalence in ruminants (Ruminantia) in China, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis. Data were collected from English databases (PubMed and Web of Science) and Chinese databases (Chinese Web of knowledge (CNKI), Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals (VIP) and Wan Fang databases). A total of 20,301 ruminants from 54 publications were evaluated. The pooled prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. among ruminants in mainland China was 65% (95% CI: 57-72%). Our results indicate that sarcocystosis is prevalent in ruminants, which show significant geographical differences. Therefore, it there is a need for continuous monitoring of infections of Sarcocystis spp. in ruminants to reduce the threat to human health and economic losses to the animal industry.

Molecular detection and identification of three intracellular parasites of retail mutton products in Beijing, China

Sarcocystis spp., Neospora caninum and Toxoplasma gondii are globally ubiquitous pathogens, and domestic sheep are considered to be one of the intermediate hosts. 83 myocardial samples of sheep were collected from 12 retail stores in Beijing, China. Sarcocystis spp., N. caninum and T. gondii were identified by PCR amplification of the 18S rRNA gene, Nc-5 gene and 529bp DNA fragment with a prevalence of 86.7% (95% CI: 77.5–93.2) and 43.4% (95% CI: 32.5–54.7) for Sarcocystis spp. and N. caninum infections, respectively, and no T. gondii was detected. The co-infection prevalence of Sarcocystis and N. caninum was 38.6% (95% CI: 28.1–49.9). Two Sarcocystis species were subtyped by analyzing 18SrRNA sequences and were identified as Sarcocystis tenella and Sarcocystis arieticanis. The prevalence of S. tenella and S. arieticanis infections was 84.3% (95% CI: 74.7–91.4) and 56.6% (95% CI: 45.3–67.5), respectively. This study shows that sheep have a high risk of infection with Sarcocystis and N. caninum, suggests that effective prevention measures are needed to avoid the spread of these parasites in sheep. Toxoplasmosis in sheep poses a threat to human and animal health and requires monitoring and preventing continuously.

First Report of Sarcocystis Masoni in a Captive Alpaca (Vicugna Pacos) From China

Background: Sarcocystosis is a parasitic disease caused by intracellular protozoan parasite of the genus Sarcocystis. Tissue samples of alpacas (n = 4) from Henan province (China) were screened for Sarcocystis spp. infection by histological examination, pepsin digestion, and molecular assays.

Results:Sarcocystis spp. was detected in heart, liver, spleen, lung, and kidney of an alpaca by molecular assays. Many sarcocysts with inflammation responses were observed in this alpaca myocardium, and they showed a high similarity to Sarcocystis masoni by sequence analysis.

Conclusion: This study is the first to demonstrate Sarcocystis spp. infection in alpaca from China. The higher parasite load in the alpaca myocardium indicated that it had contact with an environment contaminated with sporocysts, and that the alpaca was susceptible to Sarcocystis spp.

Molecular characterization of Sarcocystis spp. as a cause of protozoal encephalitis in a free-ranging black bear

A free-ranging juvenile male black bear (Ursus americanus), found dead in Alberta, Canada, had severe nonsuppurative encephalitis. Lesions in the brain were most severe in the gray matter of the cerebral cortex, and included perivascular cuffs of lymphocytes and plasma cells, areas of gliosis that disrupted the neuropil, and intralesional protozoan schizonts. The left hindlimb had suppurative myositis associated with Streptococcus halichoeri. Immunohistochemistry and molecular analyses (PCR and sequencing of 4 discriminatory loci: 18S rDNA, ITS-1 rDNA, cox1, rpoB) identified Sarcocystis canis or a very closely related Sarcocystis sp. in the affected muscle and brain tissues. The main lesion described in previously reported cases of fatal sarcocystosis in bears was necrotizing hepatitis. Fatal encephalitis associated with this parasite represents a novel presentation of sarcocystosis in bears. Sarcocystosis should be considered a differential diagnosis for nonsuppurative encephalitis in bears.

Epidemiological and Histopathological Investigation of Sarcocystis spp. in Slaughtered Dromedary Camels (Camelus dromedarius) in Egypt

Sarcocystosis is considered one of the major parasitic diseases with a worldwide distribution. It is caused by the obligatory intracellular protozoan parasites of the genus Sarcocystis. Besides its public health issues, sarcocystosis results in significant economic losses due to its impact on productivity and milk yield. A wide range of final and intermediate hosts have been identified, including mammals, birds, and reptiles; however, few studies have investigated the contribution of camels to maintaining the epidemiological foci of the disease in countries such as Egypt. The present study was conducted to grossly and histopathologically identify the prevalence rate of Sarcocystis spp. in camels (N = 100) from the Aswan Governorate, Egypt. Furthermore, the major risk factors related to the development of sarcocystosis in camels were investigated. Samples from the diaphragm, cardiac muscle, esophagus, and testes of the slaughtered camels were collected. Interestingly, Sarcocystis was detected in 75% of the examined camels. Following the studied variable factors, camels aged 5 years or more were found to be at higher risk, with an infection rate of 87.7% (57 of 65) than those younger than 5 years. The infection rate was 81.4% (57 of 70) in males and 60% (18 of 30) in females. The esophagus was the most affected organ (49%), followed by the diaphragm (26%) and cardiac muscle (17%), whereas none of the testes samples were affected. Taken together, the present study demonstrates the high prevalence of Sarcocystis in the examined camels and suggests the importance of these animals in preserving the epidemiological foci of sarcocystosis in Egypt. Future research should map the circulating strains in Egypt and aim to raise public health awareness about the importance of sarcocystosis and other related zoonotic diseases.

Morphometric Study of Microscopic Cysts of Sarcocystis Sp. in Sheep Carcasses

Muscular samples of the oesophagus and diaphragm of 335 sheep collected from the slaughterhouse of El Harrach were analyzed by the histopathological method to describe the morphology of two species of Sarcocystis: S. arieticanis and S. tenella. The cysts were counted and measured with a micrometer for their dimensions. A total of 895 cysts were measured. The width, length, shape index (length/width), the thickness of the wall and the length of the projections were recorded. The thick-walled cysts of S. tenella were 10—450 μm long (the mean ± SD value was 50.35 μm ± 1.380) and 1—110 μm (the mean ± SD value was 27.51 μm ± 0.533) wide. The cyst walls were 0.5—4 μm thick (the mean ± SD value was 1.547 μm ± 0.020) and provided with radial striations. The shape index was 1—14 μm (the mean ± SD value was 1.93 ± 0.045). While in the S. arieticanis, the cyst wall was thin and had long hair-like protrusions, the cysts measured 8—780 μm (the mean ± SD value was 123.13 μm ± 12.799) in length and 5—100 μm (the mean ± SD value was 37.00 μm ± 1.68) in width. The hair-like protrusions reached a length of 3—14 μm (the mean ± SD value was 5.428 ± 0.353) and the shape index was 1—17 μm (the mean ± SD value was 3.10 ± 0.281). For the length, the width and the shape index, the differences were statistically significant between thin-walled cysts and thick-walled cysts. The general structural features of the cysts, previously described by other authors, were confirmed.

Genetic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of Sarcocystis suihominis infecting domestic pigs (Sus scrofa) in India

A total of 57 tissue samples of domestic pigs (Sus scrofa) were collected from the meat outlets of five north Indian states and examined for sarcocystosis by histological and molecular methods. The genomic DNA extracted from five representative positive isolates was subjected to PCR amplification of the partial 18S rRNA gene followed by cloning and sequencing. Sequence analysis of the newly generated Indian isolates recorded 96.9-100.0% identity with published sequences of Sarcocystis suihominis. Two new haplotypes that have not been previously described manifested 99.5-100.0% nucleotide homology within themselves. In the phylogenetic analysis, Indian isolates of S. suihominis grouped together with S. suihominis originating from Italy, and they collectively formed a sister clade with Sarcocystis miescheriana within a clade containing various Sarcocystis spp. of ruminants having felids as final hosts. At the same time, this clade separated from a sister clade containing Sarcocystis spp. of bovid or cervid ruminants using canids as known or surmised definitive host. The current study established the phylogenetic relationship of Indian isolates of S. suihominis with various Sarcocystis spp. as well as with other taxa of Sarcocystidae family based on 18S rRNA gene for the first time.

Identification of Sarcocystis Spp. in One-humped Camels (Camelus dromedarius) from Riyadh and Dammam, Saudi Arabia, via Histological and Phylogenetic Approaches

Simple Summary

In the present work, we explored the existence of Sarcocystis spp. in samples of camels obtained from abattoirs in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We examined tissues of the tongue, heart, esophagus, diaphragm, and skeletal muscle by macroscopic assessments, optical microscopy of tissues, optical microscopy of digested sediment, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by gene sequencing. The results identified Sarcocystis cameli (S. cameli) and S. camelicanis. Sarcocystis spp. were detected in Saudi Arabian camels by molecular analysis. S. levinei and S. miescheriana were most closely related.

Abstract

Sarcocystis (S.) spp. are intracellular protozoan parasites that infect birds and animals, resulting in substantial commercial losses. Sarcocystis spp. have an indirect life cycle; canines and felines are known to act as final hosts, and numerous domestic and wild animals act as intermediate hosts. The presence of sarcocysts in camel meat may diminish its commercial quality. There is limited knowledge regarding the taxonomy and diagnosis of Sarcocystis spp. that infect camels in Saudi Arabia. In this study, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed S. cameli and S. camelicanis (camelicanis) in Camelus (C.) dromedarius. This is the first report of S. camelicanis in Saudi Arabia and is considered a significant finding. Based on cytochrome c oxidase subunit I gene (COX1) sequences, two samples of Sarcocystis spp. isolated from C. dromedarius in Riyadh and Dammam were grouped with S. levinei hosted by Bubalus bubalis in India, S. rangi hosted by Rangifer tarandus in Norway, S. miescheriana hosted by Sus scrofa in Italy and S. fayeri hosted by Equus caballus in Canada. The sequences obtained in this study have been deposited in GenBank.

Neosporosis, Toxoplasmosis, and Sarcocystosis in Ruminants: An Update

Neospora caninum, Toxoplasma gondii, and Sarcocystis spp. are related Apicomplexan parasites that have 2 hosts in their life cycles. The definitive hosts excrete unsporulated (Neospora caninum, T gondii) or sporulated (Sarcocystis spp.) oocysts in their feces after ingesting tissue cysts from the tissues of ruminant intermediate hosts. These coccidians can cause abortion and neonatal mortality in ruminants. T gondii and Sarcocystis hominis (from cattle) are zoonotic. This article reviews information on the etiology, life cycle, diagnosis, control and prevention of these parasites and the diseases they cause in ruminants.

Sarcocystis species in wild and domestic sheep (Ovis ammon and Ovis aries) from China

BACKGROUND

Sarcocystis species are intracellular protozoan parasites that can pose a threat to animal health and food safety. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of infection with Sarcocystis infection in sheep from China.

RESULTS

In total, 52.51% (335/638) of tissue samples from domestic sheep contained sarcocysts through examination by light microscopy. The organisms were identified as S. tenella and S. arieticanis by molecular assays. Macroscopic S. gigantea and S. medusiformis were not found. The average sarcocysts loading was 18.07 ± 29.87 per square centimeter in the myocardium of domestic sheep. Furthermore, two specimens of argali (Ovis ammon) were examined and sarcocysts were found in the myocardium of one animal. According to the sequence of the cox1 gene of sarcocysts from argali, it was speculated as S. tenella.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a high prevalence and parasite load of Sarcocystis in sheep from both central and northwest China. This report is the first to indicate that argali may be a natural intermediate host for S. tenella.

An update on sarcocystosis in one-humped camels (Camelus dromedarius)

Sarcocystis spp. are intracellular coccidian parasites which infect domestic and wild animals and birds, resulting in considerable economic losses in production animals, and public health concerns worldwide. Sarcocystis spp. have an indirect life cycle where wild and/or domestic canine species primarily serve as definitive hosts and several domestic and wild animals (such as camels) act as intermediate hosts. In Northern Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia and China, camel meat is preferred due to cultural and religious traditions as well as its lower cholesterol/fat content than other red meat. However, camel meat quality could be downgraded by the presence of sarcocysts. To date, two Sarcocystis spp. have been reported from camels, including Sarcocystis ippeni (forms microscopic sarcocysts) and Sarcocystis cameli (forms both macroscopic and microscopic sarcocysts). Sarcocystosis is usually asymptomatic, though significant pathogenic effects have also been reported in camels. Despite the high occurrence of sarcocystosis in camels, little is known about various aspects of the disease in these animals. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the existing knowledge on the taxonomy, pathogenesis, epidemiology and diagnosis of Sarcocystis spp. infecting camels and it also highlights areas for further research that could enhance our understanding about sarcocystosis in camels.

Sarcocystosis in South American camelids: The state of play revisited

Members of the genus Sarcocystis (Apicomplexa: Sarcocystidae) are intracellular protozoan parasites that infect a wide range of domestic and wild animals, resulting in economic losses in production animals worldwide. Sarcocystis spp. have indirect life-cycles where canids and felids serve as main definitive hosts while a range of domestic and wild animals serve as intermediate hosts, including South American camelids (SACs) such as alpacas, llamas and guanacos. These animals primarily occur in South American countries on Andean, elevated plains but in recent years, alpacas and llamas have become emerging animal industries in other parts of the world such as Australia, Europe and the USA due to their high-quality fiber, meat and hides. For instance, alpaca meat is becoming popular in many parts of the world due to its lower cholesterol content than other red meat, thereby it has the potential of a valuable product for both local and international markets. However, SAC meat can be degraded and/or even condemned due to the presence of macroscopic sarcocysts in skeletal muscles, leading to significant economic losses to farmers. The infection is generally asymptomatic, though highly pathogenic or even fatal Sarcocystis infections have also been reported in alpacas and llamas. Despite the economic importance of sarcocystosis in SACs, little is known about the life-cycle of parasites involved, disease transmission, epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, control and public health significance. This review article provides an in-depth analysis of the existing knowledge on the taxonomy, epidemiology, clinicopathology and diagnosis of Sarcocystis in SACs, highlights knowledge gaps and proposes future areas of research that could contribute to our better understanding of sarcocystosis in these animals.

First detection and molecular identification of Sarcocystis spp. in small ruminants in North-West Tunisia

Sarcocystosis is a parasitic disease caused by varying Sarcocystis species infecting humans and animals. It is commonly found in small ruminants causing pathogenic effects. This contributes to detrimental economic loss for local farmers and the local economy due this disease. Although the distribution of Sarcocystis can be found all over the world, the species infecting small ruminants in Tunisia is still unknown. Through this study, we aim to estimate the molecular prevalence of natural infection with Sarcocystis spp. in sheep and goats using molecular identification. Also, phylogenetic analyses were used to identify the different species of this parasite infecting small ruminants in northern Tunisia for the first time. DNA was extracted from 198 and 121, sheep and goats meat samples, respectively. The molecular prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. in sheep and goats was 58.6% (116/198) and 50.4% (61/121), respectively. Compared to the Noire de Thibar and cross-breeds, the Barbarine sheep had the highest infection prevalence (63.4%) (p = .004). Five of the 116 positive samples were sequenced identifying Sarcocystis tenella from sheep. For goats, the sequencing results showed that five positive PCR products belonged to Sarcocystis capracanis species.

Parasitemia due to Sarcocystis neurona-like infection in a clinically ill domestic cat

An 8-year-old, 6-kg, male neutered Domestic Shorthair cat was presented to The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center (OSU-VMC) for difficulty breathing. Physical examination and thoracic radiographs indicated pneumonia, a soft-tissue mass in the left caudal lung lobe, and diffuse pleural effusion. The effusion was classified as modified transudate. Rare extracellular elongated (~5-7 μm × 1-2 μm) zoites with a central round to oval-shaped purple to deep purple vesicular nucleus with coarsely stippled chromatin and light blue cytoplasm were seen on a peripheral blood smear. Serum IgG and IgM were positive for Sarcocystis sp. antibodies and negative for Toxoplasma gondii antibodies, suggesting that the infection was acute rather than a recrudescence of prior infection. This organism was most consistent with either Sarcocystis neurona or Sarcocystis dasypi based on DNA sequence analysis of PCR products using COC ssRNA, ITS-1, snSAG2, and JNB25/JD396 primer sets. This is the first report to visualize by light microscopy circulating Sarcocystis sp. merozoites in the peripheral blood of a domestic cat. Therefore, Sarcocystis should be considered as a differential diagnosis in cats with suspected systemic protozoal infection.

Molecular identification of Sarcocystis species in raw hamburgers using PCR-RFLP method in Kashan, central Iran

The prevalence of bovine Sarcocystosis is high in the most regions of the world. It can be a human health problem due to consumption of raw or under cooked hamburgers or other bovine meat products. This study was carried out to investigate the prevalence and species identification of Sarcocystis among of hamburgers, using PCR-RFLP methods in Kashan, central Iran. Overall 200 raw industrial hamburgers samples with at least 60% meat were randomly collected from nine different brands in Kashan, central Iran. The genomic DNA was extracted and a PCR-RFLP method was used to amplify an approximately 900 bp fragment at the 18S rRNA(SSU) gene, restriction enzyme BclI was used for species identification. The results showed that 58 (29%) of 200 tested hamburger samples were infected to Sarcocystis spp. The prevalence rate was 31.25 and 26.9% in the hamburgers with 90 and 60-75% meat, respectively. According to PCR-RFLP analysis, 43 (74.1%) of the 58 isolates were Sarcocystis cruzi, 12 (20.7%) showed co-infection to S. cruzi and Sarcocystis hirsuta, 2 (3.5%) was mixed infected to S. cruzi and Sarcocystis hominis, 1 (1.7%) showed the pattern of mix infection to three species. This study revealed one-third of industrial hamburger were infected to S. cruzi or mixed infection of S. cruzi with other bovine sarcocytosis. To prevent cattle infection, the possible ingestion of the disposal sporocyst stage from dogs must be eliminated. Although in this study, the prevalence of S. hominis was low and cannot be considered as a major zoonosis, it should be recommended avoiding eating under cooked hamburger and other bovine meat products to prevent human infection.

Diagnosis of bovine sarcocystosis by immunoflourescent antibody technique

Studies on sarcocystosis showed an overall sero-prevalence of 79.46% by IFAT which included 80.14% in cattle and 78.59% in buffaloes out of 716 animals screened. The antibody titers of six randomly selected positive samples from different age groups of <2, 2-5, 5-10 and >10 years old bovines ranged from 16 to 64, 32 to 256, 32 to 128 and 16 to 64 with an average titer of 32 ± 2.92, 106.6 ± 34, 74.6 ± 17 and 34.6 ± 9, respectively. Significantly, lower rates of infection were observed in the cattle of below 2 years (60%) age and an ascending rate of infection in the age groups of 2-5 years (81.33%), 5-10 years (80.52%) and above 10 years (90.9%).

Meningoencephalitis caused by pathogenic Sarcocystis species in a naturally infected sheep in Turkey

A 3-year-old sheep was examined after an acute onset of hind limb paralysis and ataxia. At necropsy, central nervous system, pulmonary and intestinal hyperaemia and ecchymoses in the aortic arch were observed. Main microscopic lesions were confined to the heart, cerebrum and cerebellum. There were a multifocal mild myocarditis and nonsuppurative meningoencephalitis together with protozoal cysts in the heart and the brain. Protozoal cystic structures were observed within many of the myocardial fibers as well as in the cerebrum and cerebellum. Using light microscopy it could not be morphologically determined whether these organisms were Toxoplasma (T.) gondii or Neospora (N.) caninum. Additional diagnostic methods like immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction provided differentiation of Sarcocystis from T. gondii and N. caninum. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated characteristic features of Sarcocystis sp. as previously described. This is the first confirmed diagnosis of Sarcocystis sp. in the central nervous system of a sheep from Turkey.

Molecular detection of Sarcocystis aucheniae in the blood of llamas from Argentina

Sarcocystis aucheniae are apicomplexan protozoa that infect South American camelids (SACs), giving rise to macroscopic cysts similar to rice grains in skeletal muscles. Visual detection of macrocysts in slaughtered animals hampers commercialization of SAC meat, a highly relevant economic exploitation for Andean rural families. Importantly, the consumption of undercooked S. aucheniae-infested meat causes gastroenteritis. A carnivore definitive host, possibly the dog, acquires the parasite when feeding on infected SAC meat, and later eliminates infective oocysts in its feces. The parasite cycle is completed when SACs ingest contaminated water or pastures. We hypothesized that parasite DNA can be detected in SAC blood using molecular methods. In order to test this hypothesis, a seminested PCR format was specifically designed to target the hypervariable 18S rRNA gene region of S. aucheniae. PCR conditions were optimized using genomic DNA extracted from macrocyst bradyzoites. A detection limit of up to 1 parasite in 10μl of llama blood was established based on DNA samples extracted from aliquots of S. aucheniae bradyzoite-spiked non-infected llama blood. The seminested PCR allowed to detect natural infections of S. aucheniae in llama blood samples originating in the Andean flatlands of Argentina. Specific amplification of S. aucheniae DNA was corroborated by amplicon sequencing. This is the first report of S. aucheniae detection in llama blood, which provides a valuable diagnostic tool for epidemiological studies and for the evaluation of the efficacy of control measures for this parasitosis.

No evidence of Sarcocystis calchasi involvement in mammalian meningoencephalitis of unknown origin

Sarcocystis calchasi has recently been identified as the cause of pigeon protozoal encephalitis, PPE, a lethal brain disease in pigeons and parrots. While only avian species have been identified so far to be susceptible to this pathogen as definitive or intermediate hosts, we speculated whether mammals may be susceptible as well, as in Sarcocystis neurona and other related apicomplexan parasites. Specifically, we hypothesized its involvement in mammalian meningoencephalitis of unknown origin, MUO. A total of 143 archived formalin fixed, paraffin embedded brain samples with MUO from dogs, cats, pigs, cattle, sheep, guinea pigs, horses, goats, mice, raccoon, ferret, hamster, mink and maned wolf were examined pathohistologically and by PCR for parasitic stages or DNA, respectively, of Sarcocystis calchasi or other apicomplexan parasites. All samples had non-suppurative, lymphoplasmacytic and/or granulomatous encephalitis or meningoencephalitis typical of MUO with many similarities to PPE in pigeons. However, neither parasitic structures nor DNA of Sarcocystis calchasi or other apicomplexan parasites were detected. It thus appears that, despite histological similarities between mammalian MUO and pigeon PPE and despite seemingly high prevalence of PPE and a persistent threat by Sarcocystis calchasi in pigeons, based on histopathology and PCR there is no evidence for a role of this parasite in MUO in mammals as intermediate or aberrant hosts.

Cross-sectional investigation on sheep sarcosporidiosis in Sardinia, Italy

An epidemiological survey on sarcosporidiosis was carried out with a cross sectional investigation on macroscopic and microscopic Sarcocystis spp. in Sarda breed sheep slaughtered in different abbatoirs of Sardinia, Italy. For the macroscopic survey, muscular samples (diaphragm, abdominal and intercostals muscles, cutaneous muscles and muscles of the thigh) from 769 slaughtered Sarda sheep, oesophagus (n=365) and laryngeal and pterygoid muscles (n=521) were macroscopically investigated and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) on selected macroscopic cysts was performed for a molecular identification of macroscopic Sarcocystis species. For the microscopic investigation 112 heart samples from slaughtered Sarda sheep were collected and investigated with two different protocols: unstained (compression) examination and a molecular technique. The overall prevalence of infection for macroscopic forms of sarcocysts was of 23.3% (179/769) with prevalences higher in the oesophagus (31.6%; 125/395) compared with the other investigated tissue type; two different morphotypes, classified as large oval (LO) macroscopic cysts, identified as Sarcocystis gigantea, and slender fusiform (SF) sarcocysts, were identified. The examination of heart samples revealed an overall prevalence of 77.7% (87/112) for Sarcocystis spp.; the nested-PCR analysis of heart samples allowed to identify the microscopic species, Sarcocystis tenella and Sarcocystis arieticanis, with prevalences of 95.5% (107/112) and 17.8% (5/112) respectively. Reported results highlight the high prevalence of Sarcocystis infection in the island and suggests the need of an improvement of control and prevention strategies for this parasitosis.

Intra-uterine exposure of horses to Sarcocystis spp. antigens

The aim of this study was to examine the intra-uterine exposure to Sarcocystis spp. antigens, determining the number of foals with detectable concentrations of antibodies against these agents in the serum, before colostrum ingestion and collect data about exposure of horses to the parasite. Serum samples were collected from 195 thoroughbred mares and their newborns in two farms from southern Brazil. Parasite specific antibody responses to Sarcocystis antigens were detected using the indirect immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT) and immunoblot analysis. In 84.1% (159/189) of the pregnant mares and in 7.4% (14/189) of foals we detected antibodies anti-Sarcocystis spp. by IFAT. All samples seropositive from foals were also positive in their respective mares. Serum samples of seropositive foals by IFAT, showed no reactivity on the immunoblot, having as antigens S. neurona merozoites. In conclusion, the intra-uterine exposure to Sarcocystis spp. antigens in horses was demonstrated, with occurrence not only in mares, but also in their foals, before colostrum ingestion these occurrences were reduced.

Sarcocystosis in wild red deer (Cervus elaphus) in Patagonia, Argentina

Sarcocystis spp. are protozoan parasites with a heteroxenous life cycle, which produce cysts in the muscle of herbivorous animals. In these animal species, sarcocystosis is frequently asymptomatic, although it may occur with high prevalence. Seven Sarcocystis spp. have been described in red deer (Cervus elephus). The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of sarcocystosis, and to perform the morphological and molecular characterization of Sarcocystis spp. found in wild red deer of the Nahuel Huapi National Park (NHNP), Patagonia, Argentina. Full necropsies of 62 red deer killed by hunters in the NHNP and neighboring areas were performed. Samples of heart and skeletal muscle were examined histologically and selected samples were also examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), PCR and sequencing. Sarcocystis spp. thin walled cysts were detected in 62 % (38/62) of heart, and in 22 % (3/14) of skeletal muscle samples examined histologically. TEM revealed a smooth and thin cyst wall (≤1 μm), with scarce and separated ribbon-like protrusions. A total of three partial and one full 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene sequences were obtained, and showed the highest identity (≥99 %) with Sarcocystis taeniata, a species described in moose (Alces alces). The morphological and molecular results indicate that red deer in Argentina are frequently infected with S. taeniata, a species for which the definitive host is unknown. The present results also confirm that Sarcocystis spp. using cervids as intermediate host are not host-specific. Further studies are needed to improve the epidemiological knowledge of Sarcocystosis in red deer.

Unraveling Sarcocystis miescheriana and Sarcocystis suihominis infections in wild boar

Sarcocystis species are worldwide spread cyst-forming protozoa that can infect wild boar but little is known about the prevalence of these parasites. In this study we assessed the prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. infections in wild boars from northeastern Portugal, for which novel PCR testing assays targeting Sarcocystis genus, S. miescheriana and S. suihominis were implemented, and risk factors potentially associated with these infections were evaluated. Samples from muscle tissue, namely diaphragm (n=102), oesophagus (n=96) and heart (n=101), were collected from a total of 103 wild boar hunted between October 2011 and February 2012. Diaphragm muscle was used for the PCR detection of Sarcocystis nucleic acids since a higher proportion of samples showed the presence of cysts during histological examination. PCR assay targeting Sarcocystis genus yielded a 73.8% infection rate, which indicate a high level of exposure to these protozoan parasites among wild boars. These samples showed to be positive with the S. miescheriana-specific PCR assay and no sample was positive with the S. suihominis-specific assay, suggesting that a single species infecting wild boar is circulating in Portugal. These results were confirmed by the partial sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene amplified from selected samples from different geographic regions. Adults, young adults and female wild boars were found to be more likely infected. Hunters have an important role in the life cycle of S. miescheriana since potentially infected viscera and carcasses can be left behind promoting the protozoan dissemination to the scavenging final hosts. If hunting dogs bite and ingest infected meat they can perpetuate the life cycle of Sarcocystis spp. spreading oocysts or sporocysts in the environment.

First molecular characterization of Sarcocystis tenella in Tatra chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra tatrica) in Poland

In this study, sarcocysts from three Polish Tatra chamois were isolated and identified using morphological and molecular methods for the first time. Six cysts were found in the latissimus dorsi muscle and another two in the diaphragm. No sarcocysts were detected in the myocardium, tongue, and esophagus. The isolated cysts were long with rounded ends, 0.35-0.61 mm in length, and 0.02-0.06 mm in width. All the sarcocysts were identified as Sarcocystis tenella on the basis of light microscopy and sequencing of cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (cox1) and small-subunit rRNA (ssu rRNA) genes. Comparative analysis showed a 99.23% identity of the cox1 gene sequences from Tatra chamois and sheep sarcocysts, and an even higher degree of sequence identity (99.88%) was documented in the case of the ssu rRNA gene. When compared at a haplotype level, all the sheep sequences of cox1 differed from those isolated from Tatra chamois. In contrast, one out of the two ssu rRNA haplotypes from the sheep isolates was identical with the haplotype from Tatra chamois. In conclusion, we showed that cox1 and ssu rRNA genes can be used as genetic markers for identification of the S. tenella, with cox1 gene providing better resolution during phylogenetic analyses. However, both genetic population analysis and phylogenetic inference with cox1 and ssu rRNA genes demonstrated that they do not constitute good markers for spatial differentiation of S. tenella.

Sarcocystis fayeri-Induced Granulomatous and Eosinophilic Myositis in 2 Related Horses

This report describes 2 genetically related paint mares, case Nos. 1 and 2, presented to the Oklahoma State University Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital for chronic weight loss and abnormal gait, respectively. Notable findings in both cases included marked persistent eosinophilia and multiple intramuscular lateral thoracic masses. Histologic examination of masses revealed eosinophilic, centrally necrotic granulomas and marked eosinophilic myositis. Granulomas in case No. 1 also contained intralesional Sarcocystis sp material, and adjacent muscle fibers contained intact protozoal cysts. Case No. 1 developed severe refractory muscle pain and recurrent esophageal dysphagia. At necropsy, disseminated, grossly visible granulomas were present throughout all examined striated muscles. Nested polymerase chain reaction of the 18S rRNA gene revealed >99% homology with Sarcocystis fayeri. Sarcocystis spp are apicomplexan protozoa that infect striated muscle of many omnivorous species, typically without inciting clinical disease. Sarcocystosis should be considered a rare cause of granulomatous eosinophilic myositis and choke in horses.

The common zoonotic protozoal diseases causing abortion

Toxoplasmosis, neosporosis, sarcosporidiosis (sarcocystosis) and trypanosomiasis are the common zoonotic protozoal diseases causing abortion which caused by single-celled protozoan parasites; Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, Sarcocystis spp and Trypanosoma evansi, respectively. Toxoplasmosis is generally considered the most important disease that causing abortion of both pregnant women and different female animals throughout the world, about third of human being population had antibodies against T. gondii. The infection can pass via placenta, causing encephalitis, chorio-retinitis, mental retardation and loss of vision in congenitally-infected children and stillbirth or mummification of the aborted fetuses of livestock. Neosporosis is recognized as a major cause of serious abortion in varieties of wild and domestic animals around the world particularly cattle, the disease cause serious economic losses among dairy and beef cattle due to decrease in milk and meat production. While unlike toxoplasmosis, neosporosis is not recognized as a human pathogen and evidence to date shows that neosporosis is only detected by serology in the human population. Sarcosporidiosis also can cause abortion in animals particularly cattle, buffaloes and sheep with acute infection through high dose of infection with sarcocysts. On the other hand, humans have been reported as final and intermediate host for sarcosporidiosis but not represent a serious health problem. Trypanosomiasis by T. evansi cause dangerous infection among domestic animals in tropical and subtropical areas. Several cases of abortion had been recorded in cattle and buffaloes infected with T. evansi while, a single case of human infection was reported in India. Trichomoniasis and babesiosis abortion occurs with non-zoonotic Trichomonas and Babesia species while the zoonotic species had not been incriminated in induction of abortion in both animals and man. The current review article concluded that there is still need of wide scope for evaluation of the zoonotic impact and control of these diseases.

Molecular characterization of Sarcocystis species from Polish roe deer based on ssu rRNA and cox1 sequence analysis

Sarcocysts from four Polish roe deer were collected and examined by light microscopy, small subunit ribosomal RNA (ssu rRNA), and the subunit I of cytochrome oxidase (cox1) sequence analysis. This resulted in identification of Sarcocystis gracilis, Sarcocystis oviformis, and Sarcocystis silva. However, we were unable to detect Sarcocystis capreolicanis, the fourth Sarcocystis species found previously in Norwegian roe deer. Polish sarcocysts isolated from various tissues differed in terms of their shape and size and were larger than the respective Norwegian isolates. Analysis of ssu rRNA gene revealed the lack of differences between Sarcocystis isolates belonging to one species and a very low degree of genetic diversity between Polish and Norwegian sarcocysts, ranging from 0.1 % for Sarcocystis gracilis and Sarcocystis oviformis to 0.44 % for Sarcocystis silva. Contrary to the results of the ssu rRNA analysis, small intraspecies differences in cox1 sequences were found among Polish Sarcocystis gracilis and Sarcocystis silva isolates. The comparison of Polish and Norwegian cox1 sequences representing the same Sarcocystis species revealed similar degree of sequence identity, namely 99.72 % for Sarcocystis gracilis, 98.76 % for Sarcocystis silva, and 99.85 % for Sarcocystis oviformis. Phylogenetic reconstruction and genetic population analyses showed an unexpected high degree of identity between Polish and Norwegian isolates. Moreover, cox1 gene sequences turned out to be more accurate than ssu rRNA when used to reveal phylogenetic relationships among closely related species. The results of our study revealed that the same Sarcocystis species isolated from the same hosts living in different geographic regions show a very high level of genetic similarity.

Sarcocystis schneideri n. sp. (Sarcocystidae) infecting the barber skink Eumeces schneideri schneideri (Scincidae) Daudin, 1802. A light and ultrastructural study

The current study provides the first record of infection with Sarcocystis species in the barber skink Eumeces schneideri schneideri (Scincidae) captured from the north region of Egypt around the cities of El-Hamam and Al-Dabaa, Mersa Matruh Governorate, Egypt. Morphology of the parasite cysts was described using light and transmission electron microscopy. Five out of 80 (6.25%) of the examined skinks were found to be infected. The infection was recorded firstly by light microscopy as spindle-shaped cysts embedded in the muscle tissue. The cysts were microscopic and measured 250-900 μm in length × 50-100 μm in width (mean, 575 × 75 μm). The validity of this species was confirmed by means of ultrastructural characteristics of the primary cyst wall (0.28 μm thick) which revealed the presence of irregularly shaped crowded and osmiophilic knob-like projections underlined by a thin layer of ground substance measuring 0.15-0.17 μm (mean, 0.16 μm). This layer consisted mainly of fine, dense homogenous granules enclosing the developing metrocytes and merozoites that usually contain nearly all the structures of the apical complex and fill the interior cavity of the cyst. Several septa derived from the ground substance divided the cyst into compartments. The merozoites were banana-shaped and measured 3-5 μm in length and 1.5-2.5 in width with centrally or posteriorly located nuclei. The morphological and morphometric data obtained during study were compared with those recorded previously from organisms within the Scincidae family. It was observed that this parasite possessed some distinguishing characteristics from the comparable species, which should be considered as a new species of the Sarcocystis genus, and the proposed name was Sarcocystis schneideri n. sp. with new host and locality records in Egypt.

Sarcocystis sinensis is the most prevalent thick-walled Sarcocystis species in beef on sale for consumers in Germany

Bovines are intermediate hosts of Sarcocystis cruzi, Sarcocystis hirsuta, and Sarcocystis hominis, which use canids, felids, or primates as definitive hosts, respectively. Cattle represent also intermediate hosts of Sarcocystis sinensis, but the definitive hosts of this parasite are not yet known. Sarcocystosis in cattle is frequently asymptomatic. The infection is characterized by the presence of thin-walled (S. cruzi) or thick-walled muscle cysts or sarcocysts (S. hominis, S. sinensis, and S. hirsuta). Recent reports suggest high prevalence of the zoonotic S. hominis in beef in Europe. We therefore aimed at differentiating Sarcocystis spp. in beef offered to consumers in Germany using molecular and microscopical methods, focusing on those species producing thick-walled sarcocysts. A total of 257 beef samples were obtained from different butcheries and supermarkets in Germany and processed by conventional and multiplex real-time PCR. In addition, 130 of these samples were processed by light microscopy and in 24.6% thick-walled cysts were detected. Transmission electron microscopical analysis of six of these samples revealed an ultrastructural cyst wall pattern compatible with S. sinensis in five samples and with S. hominis in one sample. PCR-amplified 18S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) fragments of 28 individual thick-walled cysts were sequenced, and sequence identities of ≥98% with S. sinensis (n = 22), S. hominis (n = 5) and S. hirsuta (n = 1) were observed. Moreover, nine Sarcocystis sp. 18S rDNA full length gene sequences were obtained, five of S. sinensis, three of S. hominis, and one of S. hirsuta. Out of all samples (n = 257), 174 (67.7%) tested positive by conventional PCR and 179 (69.6%) by multiplex real-time PCR for Sarcocystis spp. Regarding individual species, 134 (52%), 95 (37%), 17 (6.6%), and 16 (6.2%) were positive for S. cruzi, S. sinensis, S. hirsuta, and S. hominis, respectively. In conclusion, S. sinensis is the most prevalent thick-walled Sarcocystis species in beef offered for consumption in Germany. Further studies are needed to identify the final host of S. sinensis as well as the potential role of this protozoan as a differential diagnosis to the zoonotic species S. hominis.

Prevalence and molecular characterization of Sarcocystis species in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalus) in Egypt

The present study was planned to investigate the prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. among slaughtered water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) at Alexandria province, Egypt. Three hundred blood samples were collected from slaughtered buffaloes (5-7 years old). Two techniques were used to evaluate the seroprevalence of Sarcocystis spp., enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and indirect haemagglutination assay (IHA). It was revealed that 203 (67.6 %) and 191 (63.6 %) of the tested serum samples were seropositive to Sarcocystis spp. by ELISA and IHA, respectively. The results of sensitivity and specificity of IHA relative to ELISA were 94 and 100 %, respectively. For molecular characterization of inter- and intra-species genetic polymorphism within Egyptian isolates of Sarcocystis spp. of water buffaloes, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and polymerase chain reaction-restriction length polymorphisms (PCR-RFLPs) were performed on four macroscopic isolates. The isolates represented two different geographical regions of Egypt, Alexandria and Assuit provinces. Alexandria isolates (large and small-sized cyst of the same host) and Assuit isolates (large and small-sized cyst of the same host) were used. The 18S rDNA of the macroscopic cysts were characterized, in tandem, by four restriction endonucleases, RsaI, MboI, SspI and DraI. RsaI and MboI enzymes did not show any restriction sites for all isolates, leaving the amplified fragments without cutting. SspI showed two fragments in Alexandria and Assuit small-sized isolates cut by the enzyme at 600-700-bp fragments, while Alexandria and Assuit large-sized cysts amplicons were not digested by this enzyme. The fourth enzyme, DraI, cut the PCR product of Alexandria large-sized cysts into two fragments (420-780 bp), while Assuit large-sized amplicon was not cut. It could be concluded that there was a far distance between the two local isolates (small and large sized), but there were no differences between the large-sized isolates.

Japanese encephalitis in a 114-month-old cow: pathological investigation of the affected cow and genetic characterization of Japanese encephalitis virus isolate

Background

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is classified into the genus Flavivirus in the family Flaviviridae. JEV can cause febrile illness and encephalitis mainly in humans and horses, and occasionally in cattle.

Case presentation

In late September 2010, a 114-month-old cow showed neurological symptoms similar to the symptoms observed in previous bovine cases of Japanese encephalitis (JE); therefore, we conducted virological and pathological tests on the cow. As a result, JEV was isolated from the cerebrum of the affected cow. We determined the complete genome sequence of the JEV isolate, which we named JEV/Bo/Aichi/1/2010, including the envelope (E) gene region and 3’ untranslated region (3’UTR). Our phylogenetic analyses of the E region and complete genome showed that the isolate belongs to JEV genotype 1 (G1). The isolate, JEV/Bo/Aichi/1/2010, was most closely related to several JEV G1 isolates in Toyama Prefecture, Japan in 2007–2009 by the phylogenetic analysis of the E region. In addition, the nucleotide alignment revealed that the deletion in the 3’UTR was the same between JEV/Bo/Aichi/1/2010 and several other JEV G1 isolates identified in Toyama Prefecture in 2008–2009. A hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test was conducted for the detection of anti-JEV antibodies in the affected cow, and the test detected 2-mercaptoethanol (2-ME)-sensitive HI antibodies against JEV in the serum of the affected cow. The histopathological investigation revealed nonsuppurative encephalomyelitis in the affected cow, and the immunohistochemical assay detected JEV antigen in the cerebrum.

Conclusion

We diagnosed the case as JE of a cow based on the findings of nonsuppurative encephalomyelitis observed in the central nervous system, JEV antigen detected in the cerebrum, JEV isolated from the cerebrum, and 2-ME-sensitive HI antibodies against JEV detected in the serum. This is the first reported case of JE in a cow over 24 months old.

Detection of Sarcocystis spp. in cattle (Bos taurus) and water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) in Iran by PCR-RFLP

Sarcocystis species are cyst-forming intracellular protozoan parasites. Cattle are mainly infected with Sarcocystis cruzi, Sarcocystis hominis and Sarcocystis hirsuta. Water buffaloes are intermediate hosts for Sarcocystis fusiformis, Sarcocystis levinei (S. cruzi-like species), Sarcocystis dubeyi, Sarcocystis sinensis (S. hominis-like species) and Sarcocystis buffalonis (S. hirsuta- like species). The aim of this study was Identification of Sarcocystis spp. in slaughtered cattle and water buffaloes in Ahvaz, Khuzestan province by PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Meat inspection was done on 124 cattle and 147 water buffaloes. From each animal tissue samples (each 50 g) from heart, esophagus, diaphragm and intercostal muscle were collected during meat inspection. Samples examined with digestion method. Genomic DNA of 80 positive samples was extracted and their 18S rRNA gene was amplified. PCR products were digested by restricted enzymes (FokI, SspI and DraI). S. cruzi in cattle and S. fusiformis in water buffaloes were identified. Our study clarified that sarcocystosis in cattle in Ahvaz district may be results acute infection according to determined species, but in buffaloes as S. fusiformis was detected we may expect only economic loss follow up slaughterhouse inspection.

Theileria infection in domestic ruminants in northern Ethiopia

Piroplasmosis caused by different tick-borne hemoprotozoan parasites of the genera Theileria and Babesia is among the most economically important infections of domestic ruminants in sub-Saharan Africa. A survey for piroplasm infection was conducted in three locations in Northern Ethiopia. Of 525 domestic ruminants surveyed, 80% of the cattle, 94% of the sheep and 2% of the goats were positive for different Theileria spp. based on PCR of blood followed by DNA sequencing. Sheep had a significantly higher rate of infection compared with cattle (P<0.0003) and both sheep and cattle had higher rates of infection compared to goats (P<0.0001). Four species of Theileria were detected in cattle: T. velifera, T. mutans, T. orientalis complex and T. annulata with infection rates of 66, 8, 4, and 2%, respectively. This is the first report of T. annulata, the cause of Tropical Theileriosis in Ethiopia. Of the two Theileria spp. detected in small ruminants, T. ovis was highly prevalent (92%) in sheep and rare in goats (1.5%) whereas T. seperata was infrequent in sheep (2%) and rare in goats (0.4%). None of the animals were positive for Babesia spp.; however, Sarcocystis capracanis and S. tenella were detected in one goat and a sheep, respectively. The widespread distribution of Theileria spp. among cattle in northern Ethiopia including the virulent T. annulata and more mildly pathogenic T. mutans and T. orientalis, and the high infection rate in sheep with the usually sub-clinical T. ovis indicate extensive exposure to ticks and transmission of piroplasms with an important economic impact.

Genetic assemblage of Sarcocystis spp. in Malaysian snakes

Background

Sarcocystis species are protozoan parasites with a wide host range including snakes. Although there were several reports of Sarcocytis species in snakes, their distribution and prevalence are still not fully explored.

Methods

In this study, fecal specimens of several snake species in Malaysia were examined for the presence of Sarcocystis by PCR of 18S rDNA sequence. Microscopy examination of the fecal specimens for sporocysts was not carried as it was difficult to determine the species of the infecting Sarcocystis.

Results

Of the 28 snake fecal specimens, 7 were positive by PCR. BLASTn and phylogenetic analyses of the amplified 18S rDNA sequences revealed the snakes were infected with either S. nesbitti, S. singaporensis, S. zuoi or undefined Sarcocystis species.

Conclusion

This study is the first to report Sarcocystis infection in a cobra, and S. nesbitti in a reticulated python.

Development of a multiplex real time PCR to differentiate Sarcocystis spp. affecting cattle

Cattle are intermediate hosts of Sarcocystis cruzi, Sarcocystis hirsuta and Sarcocystis hominis which use canids, felids or primates as definitive hosts (DH), respectively, and in addition of Sarcocystis sinensis from which the DH is unknown. The aims of the present study were to develop and optimize a multiplex real time PCR for a sensitive and specific differentiation of Sarcocystis spp. affecting cattle and to estimate the prevalence of Sarcocystis spp. in Argentinean cattle. The 18S rRNA genes from individual sarcocysts were amplified and cloned to serve as controls. For the amplification of bovine Sarcocystis spp. a total of 3 primers were used in combination with specific individual probes. Each assay was evaluated and optimized individually and subsequently combined in a multiplex assay (BovSarcoMultiplex real time PCR). The analytical specificity of the multiplex assay was assessed using 5 ng of DNA of heterologous Sarcocystis spp. and other apicomplexan parasites, and no positive reactions were observed other than for the species the PCR targeted. The analytical sensitivity ranged between 0.0125 and 0.125 fg of plasmid DNA (equivalent to the DNA of 2-20 plasmid DNA copies) or resembling DNA of 0.1-0.3 bradyzoites. A total of 380 DNA loin samples from Argentina were tested and 313, 29, 14 and 2 were positive for S. cruzi, S. sinensis, S. hirsuta and S. hominis, respectively. S. sinensis was the most prevalent species among thick walled Sarcocystis spp. in Argentinean cattle. Mixed infections were detected in 8.9% of all samples. Diagnostic sensitivity and specificity for the BovSarcoMultiplex real time PCR relative to previous microscopic examination for thin and thick-walled cyst were 91.5% and 41.7%, 36.3% and 95.9% respectively. Improved DNA extraction methods may allow to further increase the specific and sensitive detection of Sarcocystis spp. in meat samples.

Identification of Sarcocystis capracanis in cerebrospinal fluid from sheep with neurological disease

Protozoal merozoites were identified in the cerebrospinal fluid of two sheep with neurological disease in the UK. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) identified the merozoites as Sarcocystis capracanis, a common protozoal pathogen of goats. This is the first report of this species infecting sheep and may represent an aberrant infection with sheep acting as dead end hosts, or alternatively could indicate that sheep are able to act as intermediate hosts for S. capracanis, widening the previously reported host range of this pathogen. It is possible that S. capracanis is a previously unrecognised cause of ovine protozoal meningoencephalitis (OPM) in the UK.

Molecular detection of Sarcocystis species in slaughtered sheep by PCR-RFLP from south-western of Iran

Sarcocystis spp. are the cyst forming protozoan parasites that prevalent in livestock all around the world. In the presented work, we examined 40 macroscopic and 40 microscopic sarcocysts from Khouzestan and Lorestan provinces, south-western Iran, utilizing PCR-RFLP based on amplification of 18S rRNA gene. Using AvaI, HindII, TaqI and EcoRI restriction enzymes the results represented Sarcocystis gigantea in both macroscopic and microscopic cysts. This result supports the importance of molecular investigations on characterization of Sarcocystis species when we aimed to assess the reliable control and preventive programs.