1
|
Azami-Conesa I, Pérez-Moreno P, Matas Méndez P, Sansano-Maestre J, González F, Mateo Barrientos M, Gómez-Muñoz MT. Occurrence of Leishmania infantum in Wild Mammals Admitted to Recovery Centers in Spain. Pathogens 2023; 12:1048. [PMID: 37624008 PMCID: PMC10458632 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12081048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum is distributed worldwide and affects humans and domestic and wild mammals. In Europe, specifically in the Mediterranean basin, leishmaniasis is endemic due to the concurrence of the phlebotomine vectors and reservoir mammals, including carnivorous wildlife species and other less studied wild species. In this article, spleen, skin, and eye or oral swabs taken from 134 wild mammals admitted to five wildlife recovery centers in Spain were used. PCR employing fragments of the Repeat region, ITS1, and SSUrRNA were used for detection, and positive samples were processed for sequencing. L. infantum was detected in three out of the nine species analyzed, including European hedgehog, European badger, and red squirrel, with percentages ranging from 11.53 to 35.71%, depending on the species. Most of the species showed higher percentages of positivity in spleen samples than in skin samples. A small number of animals from the remaining six species tested negative, including Algerian hedgehog, stone marten, least weasel, garden dormouse, western polecat, and Egyptian mongoose. Hedgehogs and badgers are good candidates for consideration as epidemiological sentinels and pose a higher risk as potential reservoirs of leishmaniasis based on their percentage of infection and wide distribution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iris Azami-Conesa
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.A.-C.); (P.P.-M.)
- Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid, Villaviciosa de Odón, 28670 Madrid, Spain
| | - Paula Pérez-Moreno
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.A.-C.); (P.P.-M.)
| | - Pablo Matas Méndez
- Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Alfonso X el Sabio, Villanueva de la Cañada, 28691 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Jose Sansano-Maestre
- Department of Animal Health and Public Health, Catholic University of Valencia, 46002 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Fernando González
- GREFA (Grupo de Rehabilitación de la Fauna Autóctona y su Hábitat), Monte del Pilar, 28220 Madrid, Spain;
- Departmental Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University Complutense of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Marta Mateo Barrientos
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - María Teresa Gómez-Muñoz
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Complutense University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain; (I.A.-C.); (P.P.-M.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
El‐Farhati H, Hizem MW, Nouira S. Melanistic North African hedgehog
Atelerix algirus
(Lereboullet, 1842): First report case in Erinaceidae. Afr J Ecol 2023. [DOI: 10.1111/aje.13128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Haithem El‐Farhati
- Tunis Faculty of Sciences Department of Biological Sciences Research Unit Wildlife Ecology (UR17‐ES44) University of Tunis El Manar Tunis Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Wassim Hizem
- Tunis Faculty of Sciences Department of Biological Sciences Research Unit Wildlife Ecology (UR17‐ES44) University of Tunis El Manar Tunis Tunisia
| | - Saïd Nouira
- Tunis Faculty of Sciences Department of Biological Sciences Research Unit Wildlife Ecology (UR17‐ES44) University of Tunis El Manar Tunis Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Khelifi Touhami NA, Ouchene N, Ouchetati I, Naghib I. Animal leishmaniasis in Algeria: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2023; 93:101930. [PMID: 36584413 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2022.101930] [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: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis is a neglected tropical parasitic vector-borne disease that has emerged or re-emerged in recent years and is a major health problem. Algeria is a country where leishmaniasis reaches high levels of endemicity. This systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to collect, compile and summarise data on the prevalence of animal leishmaniasis in Algeria. Data were collected from 2004 to 2022 during which a number of 12 papers were published from dogs, cats, hedgehogs, and jackals. A total of 4812 dogs, 388 stray cats, 24 hedgehogs and 2 Jackals were included in this analysis. The diagnosis of leishmaniasis was performed using serological or molecular tests. The overall prevalence in dogs was 21.2 % (95 %CI, 15.7-26.9 %), and in stray cats, hedgehogs and Jackal was, respectively, 25.3 % (95 %CI, 17-36.6 %), 20.8 % (95 %CI, 8.8-40.9 %) and 50 %. This study is a comprehensive epidemiological analysis of canine leishmaniasis in Algeria and will therefore be a useful tool for researchers. Further studies are needed for a better and continuous assessment of the occurrence of this zoonosis. It can also be used to propose or improve appropriate national surveillance programs for these diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadjet Amina Khelifi Touhami
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University Saad Dahlab of Blida 1, Street Soumâa, BP270, 09000 Blida, Algeria.
| | - Nassim Ouchene
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University Saad Dahlab of Blida 1, Street Soumâa, BP270, 09000 Blida, Algeria
| | - Imane Ouchetati
- Normal High School of Technological Teaching, University of Skikda, 21000 Skikda, Algeria
| | - Ines Naghib
- Institute of Veterinary Sciences, University Saad Dahlab of Blida 1, Street Soumâa, BP270, 09000 Blida, Algeria
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gago H, Ruiz-Fons F, Drechsler RM, Alambiaga I, Monrós JS. Patterns of adult tick parasitization of coexisting European (Erinaceus europaeus) and Algerian (Atelerix algirus) hedgehog populations in eastern Iberia. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2022; 13:102048. [PMID: 36183586 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2022.102048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The availability of data regarding population abundance and dynamics of ticks in wild vertebrate populations is crucial to understand the host-tick relationship and to assess the risk for domestic animals and humans from possible zoonotic diseases. In this study we analyse several host-intrinsic and environmental factors affecting the tick population of two sympatric hedgehog species (the European and the Algerian hedgehog) in two differently anthropized habitats in eastern Spain. We captured 215 hedgehogs and sampled 356 adult ticks of four different species (Rhipicephalus sanguineus, R. turanicus, R. bursa and R. pusillus). We analysed by General Linear Mixed Models how the hosts' species, sex, capture month and site and their interactions affected tick presence and tick load. Further, we carried out Spearman correlation tests to analyse how environmental temperature and precipitation affect tick presence and load on hedgehogs. We found that, in general, male hedgehogs were more infested than females. However, the effects of the different factors depended on the tick species, especially related to their endophilic or exophilic character. High values of general tick infestation can be explained by the coincidence of tick activity peaks and higher male host activity levels, especially within areas with higher habitat diversity and species richness. We also discuss how the potential immunosuppressive effect of testosterone could be affecting our results. Our results show that in highly anthropized environments hedgehogs potentially act as important mixing vessels for tick-borne zoonotic pathogens and that monitoring ticks in periurban wildlife is important to assess potential health risks for pets and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Héctor Gago
- Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, c/Catedrático José Beltrán Martínez 2, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Francisco Ruiz-Fons
- Health and Biotechnology (SaBio) group, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC (CSIC-UCLM-JCCM), Ciudad Real, Spain
| | - Robby M Drechsler
- Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, c/Catedrático José Beltrán Martínez 2, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Iván Alambiaga
- Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, c/Catedrático José Beltrán Martínez 2, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan S Monrós
- Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, c/Catedrático José Beltrán Martínez 2, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Independent Circulation of Leishmania major and Leishmania tropica in Their Respective Sandfly Vectors for Transmission of Zoonotic and Chronic Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Co-Existing in a Mixed Focus of Central Tunisia. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11080855. [PMID: 36014976 PMCID: PMC9414077 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11080855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) and chronic cutaneous leishmaniasis (CCL) are known to overlap in Central Tunisia. Sandflies were collected using sticky traps and CDC light-traps set in rodent burrows at the ecotones surrounding the village, in houses, and in animal shelters during July–October 2017, 2018, and 2019. A total of 17,175 sandflies were collected during the three sandfly seasons and identified morphologically to species level. Of a total of 18 sandfly species reported in Tunisia, 16 were identified in this mixed focus of ZCL and CCL. Except for the rocky mountainous areas, Phlebotomus papatasi was the most abundant sandfly species in all biotopes. In the mountainous areas, Phlebotomus sergenti is the most abundant sandfly species belonging to the genus Phlebotomus. Female sandflies were tested for the presence of Leishmania species by PCR. The overall infection prevalence of sandflies with Leishmania major and Leishmania tropica was 0.42% and 0.065%, respectively. The sequencing of PCR-amplified ITS1 products showed that L. major is the predominant species in all biotopes and transmitted mostly by P. papaptasi followed by Phlebotomus longicuspis and Sergentomyia species. Leishmania tropica was detected in Phlebotomus sergenti and in Phlebotomus longicuspis collected in bedrooms and in the ecotone of rocky mountainous areas. Our results provided strong evidence that the proximity of human settlements to biotopes of rodent reservoir hosts of L. major and of L. tropica resulted into the cocirculation of both Leishmania species leading to a mixed focus of ZCL and CCL. The epidemiology of leishmaniases in North Africa is highly complex by the high diversity of sandfly vectors and their associated Leishmania species, leading to a mixed form of cutaneous leishmaniasis. It is of major epidemiological importance to point to the risk of spillover from rural to urban areas leading to the anthroponization of cutaneous leishmaniasis. Therefore, efficient control to reduce the indoor abundance of sandfly vectors in order to reduce the incidence of leishmaniases is urgently needed.
Collapse
|
6
|
Ghawar W, Chaouch M, Ben Salah A, Snoussi MA, Salem S, Kharroubi G, Chouchen S, Bouaoun A, Laouini D, Bettaieb J, Ben Abderrazak S. First Report of Two Jaculus Rodents as Potential Reservoir Hosts of Leishmania Parasites in Tunisia. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10081502. [PMID: 35893560 PMCID: PMC9332729 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10081502] [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: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
This study shows, for the first time, natural Leishmania infection among Jaculus spp. in an endemic region of Tataouine, South Tunisia. To better characterize the transmission cycles in this complex focus of mixed transmission, Leishmania detection and species identification were performed by direct examination, internal transcribed spacer-1 (ITS1)-PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), and sequencing of Jaculus (J.) jaculus (Linnaeus, 1758) and J. hirtipes (Lichtenstein, 1823) rodent species, which are frequently encountered in this area. Leishmania parasites were observed in 19 (41.3%) smears, while DNA parasites were detected in 28 (60.9%) Jaculus spp. spleens; among them, 12 (54.5%) were from 22 J. jaculus individuals and 16 (66.7%) were from 24 J. hirtipes individuals. Leishmania parasites were confirmed as Leishmania (L.) killicki (syn. L. tropica) in two J. hirtipes individuals (4.3%) and L. major (n = 24; 52.2%) in 10 J. jaculus and 14 J. hirtipes individuals. This finding represents the first evidence of natural infection with Leishmania parasites in rodents belonging to the Jaculus genus, providing the rationale to consider them as potential reservoir hosts of Old World Leishmania parasites in Tunisia and North Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wissem Ghawar
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (A.B.S.); (M.A.S.); (S.S.); (G.K.); (J.B.)
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR16IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia;
- Clinical Investigation Center (CIC), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (S.C.); (A.B.)
- Campus Universitaire Farhat Hached, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (M.C.); (S.B.A.)
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +216-71-843-755; Fax: +216-71-791-833
| | - Melek Chaouch
- Campus Universitaire Farhat Hached, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (M.C.); (S.B.A.)
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules (LR16IPT06), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Biomathematics and Biostatistics (LR16IPT09), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia
| | - Afif Ben Salah
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (A.B.S.); (M.A.S.); (S.S.); (G.K.); (J.B.)
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR16IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia;
- Clinical Investigation Center (CIC), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (S.C.); (A.B.)
- Campus Universitaire Farhat Hached, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (M.C.); (S.B.A.)
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences (CMMS), Arabian Gulf University (AGU), Manama 329, Bahrain
| | - Mohamed Ali Snoussi
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (A.B.S.); (M.A.S.); (S.S.); (G.K.); (J.B.)
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR16IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia;
- Clinical Investigation Center (CIC), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (S.C.); (A.B.)
- Campus Universitaire Farhat Hached, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (M.C.); (S.B.A.)
| | - Sadok Salem
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (A.B.S.); (M.A.S.); (S.S.); (G.K.); (J.B.)
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR16IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia;
- Clinical Investigation Center (CIC), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (S.C.); (A.B.)
- Campus Universitaire Farhat Hached, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (M.C.); (S.B.A.)
| | - Ghassen Kharroubi
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (A.B.S.); (M.A.S.); (S.S.); (G.K.); (J.B.)
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR16IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia;
- Clinical Investigation Center (CIC), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (S.C.); (A.B.)
- Campus Universitaire Farhat Hached, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (M.C.); (S.B.A.)
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
| | - Said Chouchen
- Clinical Investigation Center (CIC), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (S.C.); (A.B.)
- Health Regional Directorate of Tataouine, Administrative City, Tataouine Nouvelle, Tataouine 3263, Tunisia
| | - Amor Bouaoun
- Clinical Investigation Center (CIC), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (S.C.); (A.B.)
- Health Regional Directorate of Tataouine, Administrative City, Tataouine Nouvelle, Tataouine 3263, Tunisia
| | - Dhafer Laouini
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR16IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia;
- Clinical Investigation Center (CIC), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (S.C.); (A.B.)
- Campus Universitaire Farhat Hached, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (M.C.); (S.B.A.)
| | - Jihene Bettaieb
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (A.B.S.); (M.A.S.); (S.S.); (G.K.); (J.B.)
- Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR16IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia;
- Clinical Investigation Center (CIC), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia; (S.C.); (A.B.)
- Campus Universitaire Farhat Hached, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (M.C.); (S.B.A.)
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia
| | - Souha Ben Abderrazak
- Campus Universitaire Farhat Hached, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1068, Tunisia; (M.C.); (S.B.A.)
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules (LR16IPT06), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis 1002, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Derghal M, Tebai A, Balti G, Souguir-Omrani H, Chemkhi J, Rhim A, Bouattour A, Guizani I, M’Ghirbi Y, Guerbouj S. High-resolution melting analysis identifies reservoir hosts of zoonotic Leishmania parasites in Tunisia. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:12. [PMID: 34996507 PMCID: PMC8742351 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-05138-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Leishmaniasis is endemic in Tunisia and presents with different clinical forms, caused by the species Leishmania infantum, Leishmania major, and Leishmania tropica. The life cycle of Leishmania is complex and involves several phlebotomine sand fly vectors and mammalian reservoir hosts. The aim of this work is the development and evaluation of a high-resolution melting PCR (PCR-HRM) tool to detect and identify Leishmania parasites in wild and domestic hosts, constituting confirmed (dogs and Meriones rodents) or potential (hedgehogs) reservoirs in Tunisia. METHODS Using in vitro-cultured Leishmania isolates, PCR-HRM reactions were developed targeting the 7SL RNA and HSP70 genes. Animals were captured or sampled in El Kef Governorate, North West Tunisia. DNA was extracted from the liver, spleen, kidney, and heart from hedgehogs (Atelerix algirus) (n = 3) and rodents (Meriones shawi) (n = 7) and from whole blood of dogs (n = 12) that did not present any symptoms of canine leishmaniasis. In total, 52 DNA samples were processed by PCR-HRM using both pairs of primers. RESULTS The results showed melting curves enabling discrimination of the three Leishmania species present in Tunisia, and were further confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Application of PCR-HRM assays on reservoir host samples showed that overall among the examined samples, 45 were positive, while seven were negative, with no Leishmania infection. Meriones shawi were found infected with L. major, while dogs were infected with L. infantum. However, co-infections with L. major/L. infantum species were detected in four Meriones specimens and in all tested hedgehogs. In addition, multiple infections with the three Leishmania species were found in one hedgehog specimen. Sequence analyses of PCR-HRM products corroborated the Leishmania species found in analyzed samples. CONCLUSIONS The results of PCR-HRM assays applied to field specimens further support the possibility of hedgehogs as reservoir hosts of Leishmania. In addition, we showed their usefulness in the diagnosis of canine leishmaniasis, specifically in asymptomatic dogs, which will ensure a better evaluation of infection extent, thus improving elaboration of control programs. This PCR-HRM method is a robust and reliable tool for molecular detection and identification of Leishmania and can be easily implemented in epidemiological surveys in endemic regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Moufida Derghal
- Laboratoire d’Epidémiologie Moléculaire Et Pathologie Expérimentale Appliquée Aux Maladies Infectieuses (LR16IPT04), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Faculté Des Sciences de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Abir Tebai
- Laboratoire d’Epidémiologie Moléculaire Et Pathologie Expérimentale Appliquée Aux Maladies Infectieuses (LR16IPT04), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ghofrane Balti
- Laboratoire d’épidémiologie Et Microbiologie Vétérinaire (LR16IPT03), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratoire Des Virus, Vecteurs Et Hôtes (LR20IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Hajer Souguir-Omrani
- Laboratoire d’Epidémiologie Moléculaire Et Pathologie Expérimentale Appliquée Aux Maladies Infectieuses (LR16IPT04), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Jomaa Chemkhi
- Laboratoire d’Epidémiologie Moléculaire Et Pathologie Expérimentale Appliquée Aux Maladies Infectieuses (LR16IPT04), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Adel Rhim
- Laboratoire d’épidémiologie Et Microbiologie Vétérinaire (LR16IPT03), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratoire Des Virus, Vecteurs Et Hôtes (LR20IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ali Bouattour
- Laboratoire d’épidémiologie Et Microbiologie Vétérinaire (LR16IPT03), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratoire Des Virus, Vecteurs Et Hôtes (LR20IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ikram Guizani
- Laboratoire d’Epidémiologie Moléculaire Et Pathologie Expérimentale Appliquée Aux Maladies Infectieuses (LR16IPT04), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Youmna M’Ghirbi
- Laboratoire d’épidémiologie Et Microbiologie Vétérinaire (LR16IPT03), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- Laboratoire Des Virus, Vecteurs Et Hôtes (LR20IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Souheila Guerbouj
- Laboratoire d’Epidémiologie Moléculaire Et Pathologie Expérimentale Appliquée Aux Maladies Infectieuses (LR16IPT04), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Université Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Canine leishmaniosis in Tunisia: Growing prevalence, larger zones of infection. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009990. [PMID: 34890393 PMCID: PMC8664200 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Discovered by Nicolle and Comte in 1908 in Tunisia, Leishmania infantum is an intracellular protozoan responsible for zoonotic canine leishmaniosis (CanL) and zoonotic human visceral leishmaniasis (HVL). It is endemic in several regions of the world, including Tunisia, with dogs considered as the main domestic reservoir. The geographic expansion of canine leishmaniosis (CanL) has been linked to global environmental changes that have affected the density and the distribution of its sand fly vectors. Methodology/Principal findings In this study, a cross-sectional epidemiological survey on CanL was carried out in 8 localities in 8 bioclimatic areas of Tunisia. Blood samples were taken from 317 dogs after clinical examination. Collected sera were tested by indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT; 1:80) for the presence of anti-Leishmania infantum antibodies. The overall seroprevalence was 58.3% (185/317). Among positive dogs, only 16.7% showed clinical signs suggestive of leishmaniosis. Seroprevalence rates varied from 6.8% to 84.6% and from 28% to 66% by bioclimatic zone and age group, respectively. Serological positivity was not statistically associated with gender. The presence of Leishmania DNA in blood, using PCR, revealed 21.2% (64/302) prevalence in dogs, which varied by bioclimatic zone (7.3% to 31%) and age group (7% to 25%). The entomological survey carried out in the studied localities showed 16 species of the two genera (Phlebotomus and Sergentomyia). P. perniciosus, P. papatasi, and P. perfiliewi were the most dominant species with relative abundances of 34.7%, 25% and 20.4%, respectively. Conclusions/Significance The present report suggests a significant increase of CanL in all bioclimatic areas in Tunisia and confirms the ongoing spread of the infection of dogs to the country’s arid zone. Such an expansion of infection in dog population could be attributed to ecological, agronomic, social and climatic factors that affect the presence and density of the phlebotomine vectors. Visceral leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infantum is an endemic disease in several regions of the world, especially, in the Mediterranean basin, where dogs constitute the main domestic reservoir for humans. This zoonotic vector-borne disease is closely associated with the environment. We carried out studies in 8 different regions of Tunisia, collecting and testing blood samples from 317 dogs. Out of which, more than half (58.3%) tested positive for L. infantum (IFAT+), although, only one-third of these displayed clinical signs. However, the detection of Leishmania DNA by blood PCR revealed a global prevalence in dogs of 21.2% (64/302) with a variation between bioclimatic zones. Our entomological survey revealed 16 sand fly species, dominated by the Phlebotomus and Sergentomyia genera, of which the most dominant were P. perniciosus, P. perfiliewi and P. papatasi. The first two of these are recognized vectors of L. infantum. Canine leishmaniosis continues to spread across Tunisia, moving southward, to arid zones because of global warming and agronomic and social factors affecting the presence and density of the phlebotomine vectors.
Collapse
|
9
|
Alcover MM, Riera MC, Fisa R. Leishmaniosis in Rodents Caused by Leishmania infantum: A Review of Studies in the Mediterranean Area. Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:702687. [PMID: 34422948 PMCID: PMC8377756 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.702687] [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: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniosis infection begins when a phlebotomine sand fly vector inoculates pathogenic protozoan parasites of the genus Leishmania into a mammalian host. In the case of Leishmania infantum, the domestic dog is considered to be the main parasite reservoir, and canine leishmaniosis (CanL) has a high mortality rate in untreated dogs. Hundreds of cases of human leishmaniosis (HL) are reported in the world each year, the incidence in Europe being relatively low. Leishmaniosis control is primarily focused on the dog, combining methods that prevent sand fly bites and boost host resistance to infection. However, these measures are only partially effective and new solutions need to be found. One of the main factors limiting CanL and HL control is the existence of a sylvatic Leishmania transmission cycle that interacts with the domestic cycle maintained by dogs. It is suspected that the main reservoir of infection in wildlife are rodents, whose expansion and rapid population growth worldwide is increasing the risk of human and zoonotic pathogen transfer. The aim of this review is therefore to analyze reports in the literature that may shed light on the potential role of rodents in the leishmaniosis transmission cycle in the Mediterranean area. Following the general methodology recommended for reviews, six databases (Google Scholar, Ovid, PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus and Web of Science) were explored for the period January 1995 to December 2020. The results extracted from 39 publications that met the established inclusion criteria were analyzed. It was found that 23 species of rodents have been studied in nine countries of the Mediterranean basin. Of the 3,643 specimens studied, 302 tested positive for L. infantum infection by serology, microscopy and/or molecular techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Magdalena Alcover
- Section of Parasitology, Department of Biology, Health, and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Cristina Riera
- Section of Parasitology, Department of Biology, Health, and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Roser Fisa
- Section of Parasitology, Department of Biology, Health, and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Atelerix algirus, the North African Hedgehog: Suitable Wild Host for Infected Ticks and Fleas and Reservoir of Vector-Borne Pathogens in Tunisia. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10080953. [PMID: 34451417 PMCID: PMC8399139 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10080953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Small wild mammals are an important element in the emergence and transmission of vector-borne pathogens (VBPs). Among these species, hedgehogs have been found to be a reservoir of VBPs and host of arthropod vectors. Surveillance of VBPs in wildlife and their arthropods are crucial in a one health context. We conducted an exploratory study to screen Atelerix algirus hedgehogs and their infesting ticks and fleas for VBPs using a high throughput microfluidic real-time PCR system. Tested biopsies from hedgehogs were found to be naturally infected by Theileria youngi, Hepatozoon sp., Ehrlichia ewingii, Coxiella burnetii, and Candidatus Ehrlichia shimanensis. Similarly, Haemaphysalis erinacei and Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick species were infected by Ehrlichia ewingii, Rickettsia spp., Rickettsia massiliae, Borrelia sp., Coxiella burnetii, Rickettsia lusitaniae and Anaplasma sp. Archaeopsylla erinacei fleas were infected by Rickettsia asembonensis, Coxiella burnetii, and Rickettsia massiliae. Co-infections by two and three pathogens were detected in hedgehogs and infesting ticks and fleas. The microfluidic real-time PCR system enabled us not only to detect new and unexpected pathogens, but also to identify co-infections in hedgehogs, ticks, and fleas. We suggest that hedgehogs may play a reservoir role for VBPs in Tunisia and contribute to maintaining enzootic pathogen cycles via arthropod vectors.
Collapse
|
11
|
Invasive Species as Hosts of Zoonotic Infections: The Case of American Mink ( Neovison vison) and Leishmania infantum. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9071531. [PMID: 34361966 PMCID: PMC8304841 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9071531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Leishmania infantum produces an endemic disease in the Mediterranean Basin that affects humans and domestic and wild mammals, which can act as reservoir or minor host. In this study, we analyzed the presence of the parasite in wild American minks, an invasive species in Spain. We screened for L. infantum DNA by PCR using five primer pairs: Two targeting kinetoplast DNA (kDNA), and the rest targeting the ITS1 region, the small subunit of ribosomal RNA (SSU) and a repetitive sequence (Repeat region). The detection limit was determined for each method using a strain of L. infantum and a bone marrow sample from an infected dog. PCR approaches employing the Repeat region and kDNA (RV1/RV2 primers) showed higher sensitivity than the other PCR methods when control samples were employed. However, only PCR of the Repeat region and nested PCR of SSU (LnSSU) detected the parasite in the samples, while the other three were unable to do so. The majority of the analyzed animals (90.1%) tested positive. American mink may act as an incidental host of the disease for other mammals and should be further investigated, not only for their negative impact on the local fauna, but also as carriers of zoonotic diseases.
Collapse
|
12
|
A Systematic Review (1990-2021) of Wild Animals Infected with Zoonotic Leishmania. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9051101. [PMID: 34065456 PMCID: PMC8160881 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9051101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Leishmaniasis are neglected diseases caused by several species of Leishmania that affect humans and many domestic and wild animals with a worldwide distribution. The objectives of this review are to identify wild animals naturally infected with zoonotic Leishmania species as well as the organs infected, methods employed for detection and percentage of infection. A literature search starting from 1990 was performed following the PRISMA methodology and 161 reports were included. One hundred and eighty-nine species from ten orders (i.e., Carnivora, Chiroptera, Cingulata, Didelphimorphia, Diprotodontia, Lagomorpha, Eulipotyphla, Pilosa, Primates and Rodentia) were reported to be infected, and a few animals were classified only at the genus level. An exhaustive list of species; diagnostic techniques, including PCR targets; infected organs; number of animals explored and percentage of positives are presented. L. infantum infection was described in 98 wild species and L. (Viania) spp. in 52 wild animals, while L. mexicana, L. amazonensis, L. major and L. tropica were described in fewer than 32 animals each. During the last decade, intense research revealed new hosts within Chiroptera and Lagomorpha. Carnivores and rodents were the most relevant hosts for L. infantum and L. (Viannia) spp., with some species showing lesions, although in most of the studies clinical signs were not reported.
Collapse
|
13
|
Remadi L, Chargui N, Jiménez M, Molina R, Haouas N, González E, Chaabane-Banaouas R, Ben Salah E, Haddaji M, Chaabouni Y, Babba H. Molecular detection and identification of Leishmania DNA and blood meal analysis in Phlebotomus (Larroussius) species. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008077. [PMID: 32214313 PMCID: PMC7098558 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Phlebotomus (Larroussius) perniciosus and Canis familiaris are respectively the only confirmed vector and reservoir for the transmission of Leishmania (L.) infantum MON-1 in Tunisia. However, the vector and reservoir hosts of the two other zymodemes, MON-24 and MON-80, are still unknown. The aim of this study was to analyze the L. infantum life cycle in a Tunisian leishmaniasis focus. For this purpose, we have focused on: i) the detection, quantification and identification of Leishmania among this sand fly population, and ii) the analysis of the blood meal preferences of Larroussius (Lar.) subgenus sand flies to identify the potential reservoirs. METHODOLOGY AND FINDINGS A total of 3,831 sand flies were collected in seven locations from the center of Tunisia affected by human visceral leishmaniasis. The collected sand flies belonged to two genus Phlebotomus (Ph.) (five species) and Sergentomyia (four species). From the collected 1,029 Lar. subgenus female sand flies, 8.26% was positive to Leishmania by ITS1 nested PCR. Three Leishmania spp. were identified: L. infantum 28% (24/85), L. killicki 13% (11/85), and L. major 22% (19/85). To identify the blood meal sources in Ph. Lar. subgenus sand flies, engorged females were analyzed by PCR-sequencing targeting the vertebrate cytochrome b gene. Among the 177 analyzed blood-fed females, 169 samples were positive. Sequencing results showed seven blood sources: cattle, human, sheep, chicken, goat, donkey, and turkey. In addition, mixed blood meals were detected in twelve cases. Leishmania DNA was found in 21 engorged females, with a wide range of blood meal sources: cattle, chicken, goat, chicken/cattle, chicken/sheep, chicken/turkey and human/cattle. The parasite load was quantified in fed and unfed infected sand flies using a real time PCR targeting kinetoplast DNA. The average parasite load was 1,174 parasites/reaction and 90 parasites/reaction in unfed and fed flies, respectively. CONCLUSION Our results support the role of Ph. longicuspis, Ph. perfiliewi, and Ph. perniciosus in L. infantum transmission. Furthermore, these species could be involved in L. major and L. killicki life cycles. The combination of the parasite detection and the blood meal analysis in this study highlights the incrimination of the identified vertebrate in Leishmania transmission. In addition, we quantify for the first time the parasite load in naturally infected sand flies caught in Tunisia. These findings are relevant for a better understanding of L. infantum transmission cycle in the country. Further investigations and control measures are needed to manage L. infantum transmission and its spreading.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Latifa Remadi
- University of Monastir, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Tunisia
| | - Najla Chargui
- University of Monastir, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Tunisia
- * E-mail:
| | - Maribel Jiménez
- Laboratory of Medical Entomology, National Center for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo Molina
- Laboratory of Medical Entomology, National Center for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Najoua Haouas
- University of Monastir, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Tunisia
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Hail, Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Estela González
- Laboratory of Medical Entomology, National Center for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raja Chaabane-Banaouas
- University of Monastir, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Tunisia
| | - Eya Ben Salah
- University of Monastir, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Tunisia
| | - Mohsen Haddaji
- Regional Commissariat for Agricultural Development of Kairouan, Tunisia
| | | | - Hamouda Babba
- University of Monastir, Faculty of Pharmacy, Laboratory of Medical and Molecular Parasitology-Mycology LP3M (code LR12ES08), Department of Clinical Biology B, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Alcover MM, Ribas A, Guillén MC, Berenguer D, Tomás-Pérez M, Riera C, Fisa R. Wild mammals as potential silent reservoirs of Leishmania infantum in a Mediterranean area. Prev Vet Med 2019; 175:104874. [PMID: 31901603 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2019.104874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 11/13/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
A molecular survey of wild mammals was performed to assess their potential as reservoirs of L. infantum. A total of 156 specimens of wild mammalian fauna were obtained for analysis from areas in Catalonia with a reported incidence of canine leishmaniasis. They consisted of 124 small mammals: 35 Mus spretus (Muridae); 64 Erinaceus europaeus (Erinaceidae), 25 Sciurus vulgaris (Sciuridae) and 32 carnivores: 11 Vulpes vulpes (Canidae), 1 Felis catus (Felidae), 15 Meles meles, 4 Martes foina and 1 Mustela vison (Mustelidae). The analysis was performed on samples of liver, spleen, skin (ear) and blood extracted from the heart. Leishmania DNA was determined by a qPCR and specific anti-Leishmania antibodies were detected by an in-house (ELISA). Among the 156 specimens studied, 29.48% were positive in at least one of the samples studied and considered infected. In M. spretus, Leishmania DNA was detected in the liver, spleen or skin of 37.1% of 35 specimens, and 2 of the 13 specimens tested serologically were positive (15.38%). In E. europaeus, 34.4% of the 64 specimens were infected. Leishmania DNA was detected in 19/51 spleens and 5/50 skins; 2 of the 37 specimens analysed in both spleen and skin gave positive results in both samples. Serology was positive in 12.8% (6/47) by ELISA; 3 specimens were positive by both ELISA and qPCR. In S. vulgaris, Leishmania DNA was detected in 5 of 25 specimens (20%). Of the 32 carnivore specimens analysed, Leishmania DNA was detected in both samples studied (spleen and liver) of 4 (12.5%) (2 M. foina, 1 M. vison and 1 F. catus), which were not studied serologically. The data obtained indicate that small mammals, above all wild rodents and carnivores, could act as naturally infected hosts of L. infantum in this endemic area. Among the rodents, M. spretus stands out with the highest prevalence of infection. In E. europaeus, the presence of L. infantum DNA in spleen and skin, and antibodies in heart blood, reported here for the first time, indicates this small mammal could be a possible reservoir. Additionally, S. vulgaris, not previously studied as an L. infantum reservoir, showed non-negligible prevalence values, indicating a potential role in leishmaniasis transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Magdalena Alcover
- Parasitology Section, Department of Biology, Healthcare and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Av. de Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Alexis Ribas
- Parasitology Section, Department of Biology, Healthcare and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Av. de Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Institut de Recerca de la Biodiversitat (IRBio), Universitat de Barcelona, Av. Diagonal, 645, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - M Carmen Guillén
- Parasitology Section, Department of Biology, Healthcare and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Av. de Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Diana Berenguer
- Parasitology Section, Department of Biology, Healthcare and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Av. de Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Míriam Tomás-Pérez
- Parasitology Section, Department of Biology, Healthcare and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Av. de Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Cristina Riera
- Parasitology Section, Department of Biology, Healthcare and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Av. de Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Roser Fisa
- Parasitology Section, Department of Biology, Healthcare and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy and Food Science, University of Barcelona, Av. de Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
El‐Farhati H, Jaziri B, Hizem MW, Nouira S. Distribution, bioclimatic niche and sympatry of two Erinaceidae in Tunisia. Afr J Ecol 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/aje.12671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Haithem El‐Farhati
- Research Unit (Biodiversity and Populations Biology), Department of Biological Sciences, Tunis Faculty of Sciences Tunis El‐Manar University Tunis Tunisia
| | - Brahim Jaziri
- Research Unit (Gematics and Geosystems), Department of Geography, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences of Tunis Tunis University Tunis Tunisia
| | - Mohamed Wassim Hizem
- Research Unit (Biodiversity and Populations Biology), Department of Biological Sciences, Tunis Faculty of Sciences Tunis El‐Manar University Tunis Tunisia
| | - Saïd Nouira
- Research Unit (Biodiversity and Populations Biology), Department of Biological Sciences, Tunis Faculty of Sciences Tunis El‐Manar University Tunis Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Elucidating in vitro and in vivo phenotypic behaviour of L. infantum/L. major natural hybrids. Parasitology 2018; 146:580-587. [DOI: 10.1017/s0031182018001993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
AbstractThe clinical manifestation and course of Leishmania infections depend on factors such as species, virulence and host-immunity. Although trypanosomatids are considered to have clonal propagation, genetic hybridization has produced successful natural hybrid lineages. Hybrids displaying strong selective advantages may have an impact on pathogenesis and the eco-epidemiology of leishmaniasis. Thus, characterization of phenotypic properties of Leishmania hybrids could bring significant insight into the biology, infectivity, pathogenicity and transmission dynamics of these atypical strains. The present study focuses on phenotypic features and survival capacity of Leishmania infantum/Leishmania major hybrid isolates as compared with representative putative parental species, L. infantum and L. major. In vitro assays (growth kinetics, susceptibility to different conditions) and in vivo infection (parasite detection and histopathological alterations) showed that hybrids present higher growth capacity and decreased susceptibility to reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, evaluation of infected spleen tissue suggests that hybrids induce a stronger immune reaction than their putative parents, leading to the development of white pulp hyperplasia in B-lymphocyte compartments. Overall, these hybrids have shown high plasticity in terms of their general behaviour within the different phenotypic parameters, suggesting that they might have acquired genetic features conferring different mechanisms to evade host cells.
Collapse
|
17
|
Souguir-Omrani H, Chemkhi J, Fathallah-Mili A, Saadi-BenAoun Y, BelHadjAli I, Guizani I, Guerbouj S. Paraechinus aethiopicus (Ehrenberg 1832) and Atelerix algirus (Lereboullet 1842) hedgehogs: Possible reservoirs of endemic leishmaniases in Tunisia. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2018; 63:219-230. [DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2018.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2017] [Revised: 05/14/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
|
18
|
Ben Othman S, Ghawar W, Chaouch M, Ayari C, Chemkhi J, Cancino-Faure B, Tomás-Pérez M, Alcover MM, Riera C, Ben Salah A, Fisa R, Ben Ismail R, Ben Abderrazak S. First detection of Leishmania DNA in Psammomys obesus and Psammomys vexillaris: Their potential involvement in the epidemiology of leishmaniasis in Tunisia. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2018; 59:7-15. [PMID: 29413886 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2018.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2017] [Revised: 01/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Leishmaniasis, a public health problem in Tunisia, are diseases caused by different Leishmania species. Cutaneous leishmaniasis is present from the North to the South under different forms, due to Leishmania (L.) major, L. infantum or L. tropica. Whereas, Psammomys (P.) obesus is the confirmed reservoir host of L. major, those of L. tropica and dermotropic L. infantum wait to be identified. Importantly, P. vexillaris species have been recently highlighted; however, no studies have been carried out to explore its potential role in leishmaniasis epidemiology. Seventy two rodents were collected from Central and South-West of Tunisia between 2007 and 2010. Using several methods, 43 animals were identified as P. obesus and 29 as P. vexillaris. Leishmania kinetoplast DNA was detected in liver samples by real-time PCR in 18 P. obesus and in 8 P. vexillaris. Then, the direct sequencing of the amplified internal transcribed spacer 1, allowed the identification of L. infantum DNA in five P. obesus and in three P. vexillaris, as well as L. tropica DNA in three other P. vexillaris. Whereas, PCR fluorescent fragment length analysis of the 7 spliced leaders, allowed identifying L. major among infected P. obesus and P. vexillaris, and interestingly co-infection (L. major/L. infantum) among two P. obesus. We report here for the first time, the infection of P. obesus, from Central Tunisia, by L. infantum. Suggesting that P. obesus the known reservoir host of L. major, may also serve as reservoir host for L. infantum and thus play a role in the spread of sporadic cutaneous or visceral leishmaniasis in this region. Of equal importance, this work establish for the first time, the natural infection of P. vexillaris by different Leishmania species, suggesting its potential epidemiological role as reservoir host.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Souad Ben Othman
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia; Faculty of Sciences of Bizerte, Carthage University, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Wissem Ghawar
- Service of Medical Epidemiology, Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Melek Chaouch
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Chiraz Ayari
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Jomaa Chemkhi
- Laboratory of Molecular Epidemiology and Experimental Pathology Applied to Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Beatriz Cancino-Faure
- Department of Biology, Health and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Preclinical Sciences, Laboratory of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Catholic University of Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Miriam Tomás-Pérez
- Department of Biology, Health and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Magdalena Alcover
- Department of Biology, Health and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Cristina Riera
- Department of Biology, Health and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Afif Ben Salah
- Service of Medical Epidemiology, Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Roser Fisa
- Department of Biology, Health and Environment, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Riadh Ben Ismail
- Laboratory of Molecular Epidemiology and Experimental Pathology Applied to Infectious Diseases, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Souha Ben Abderrazak
- Laboratory of Medical Parasitology, Biotechnology and Biomolecules, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ghawar W, Bettaieb J, Salem S, Snoussi MA, Jaouadi K, Yazidi R, Ben-Salah A. Natural infection of Ctenodactylus gundi by Leishmania major in Tunisia. Acta Trop 2018; 177:89-93. [PMID: 28963065 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.09.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Revised: 05/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Incriminating new rodent species, as reservoir hosts of Leishmania parasites is crucial for understanding the transmission cycle of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Tunisia. Ctenodactylus (C.) gundi was previously described as extremely abundant in all Tunisian Leishmania (L.) tropica foci in south Tunisia besides its presence in L. major endemic area. The aim of this study was to detect Leishmania species parasites among C. gundi in two endemic regions in Tunisia: Sidi Bouzid and Tataouine. Total DNA was isolated from the spleens and the livers of 92C. gundi. Leishmaniasis clinical manifestations were detected among 11 rodents (12%). Leishmania parasites were detected in 30 (32.6%) rodents using direct exam method. Leishmania DNA was detected in 40 (43.5%) C. gundi by combining results among spleens and livers using ITS1-PCR. Positive samples were confirmed to be L. major except for only one specimen which was L. tropica. These results demonstrated, for the first time, the high natural infection rate of C. gundi with L. major parasites in Tunisia. Hence, C. gundi should be considered as potential reservoir host of Leishmania parasites causing cutaneous leishmaniasis in Tunisia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wissem Ghawar
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia; Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia.
| | - Jihène Bettaieb
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia; Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Sadok Salem
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia; Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia.
| | - Mohammed-Ali Snoussi
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia; Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia.
| | - Kaouther Jaouadi
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia; Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia.
| | - Rihab Yazidi
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia; Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia.
| | - Afif Ben-Salah
- Department of Medical Epidemiology, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia; Laboratory of Transmission, Control and Immunobiology of Infections (LR11IPT02), Institut Pasteur de Tunis, 13, Place Pasteur, BP 74 1002, Tunis-Belvédère, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia; Department of Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine and Medical Sciences (CMMS), Arabian Gulf University (AGU), Manama, Bahrain.
| |
Collapse
|