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Mamun TI, Bourhia M, Neoaj T, Akash S, Azad MAK, Hossain MS, Rahman MM, Bin Jardan YA, Ibenmoussa S, Sitotaw B. Structure based functional identification of an uncharacterized protein from Coxiella burnetii involved in adipogenesis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16789. [PMID: 39039093 PMCID: PMC11263603 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66072-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Coxiella burnetii, the causative agent of Q fever, is an intracellular pathogen posing a significant global public health threat. There is a pressing need for dependable and effective treatments, alongside an urgency for further research into the molecular characterization of its genome. Within the genomic landscape of Coxiella burnetii, numerous hypothetical proteins remain unidentified, underscoring the necessity for in-depth study. In this study, we conducted comprehensive in silico analyses to identify and prioritize potential hypothetical protein of Coxiella burnetii, aiming to elucidate the structure and function of uncharacterized protein. Furthermore, we delved into the physicochemical properties, localization, and molecular dynamics and simulations, and assessed the primary, secondary, and tertiary structures employing a variety of bioinformatics tools. The in-silico analysis revealed that the uncharacterized protein contains a conserved Mth938-like domain, suggesting a role in preadipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis. Subcellular localization predictions indicated its presence in the cytoplasm, implicating a significant role in cellular processes. Virtual screening identified ligands with high binding affinities, suggesting the protein's potential as a drug target against Q fever. Molecular dynamics simulations confirmed the stability of these complexes, indicating their therapeutic relevance. The findings provide a structural and functional overview of an uncharacterized protein from C. burnetii, implicating it in adipogenesis. This study underscores the power of in-silico approaches in uncovering the biological roles of uncharacterized proteins and facilitating the discovery of new therapeutic strategies. The findings provide valuable preliminary data for further investigation into the protein's role in adipogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tajul Islam Mamun
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, 3100, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammed Bourhia
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Natural Resources Valorization, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, 80060, Agadir, Morocco.
| | - Taufiq Neoaj
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, 3100, Bangladesh
| | - Shopnil Akash
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Birulia, Ashulia, Dhaka, 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Md A K Azad
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Birulia, Ashulia, Dhaka, 1216, Bangladesh
| | - Md Sarowar Hossain
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Birulia, Ashulia, Dhaka, 1216, Bangladesh
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Science, Assam Down Town University, Guwahati, Assam, India
| | - Md Masudur Rahman
- Department of Pathology, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, 3100, Bangladesh
| | - Yousef A Bin Jardan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Samir Ibenmoussa
- Laboratory of Therapeutic and Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Montpellier, 34000, Montpellier, France
| | - Baye Sitotaw
- Department of Biology, Bahir Dar University, P.O. Box 79, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
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Trujillo M, Conan A, Calchi AC, Mertens-Scholz K, Becker A, Gallagher C, Mau A, Marchi S, Machado M, André MR, Chapwanya A, Müller A. Bacterial burden and molecular characterization of Coxiella burnetii in shedding pregnant and postpartum ewes from Saint Kitts. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2024; 109:102188. [PMID: 38691873 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2024.102188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the bacterial burden and perform molecular characterization of Coxiella burnetii during shedding in pregnant (vaginal, mucus and feces) and postpartum (vaginal mucus, feces and milk) ewes from Saint Kitts. Positive IS1111 DNA (n=250) for C. burnetii samples from pregnant (n=87) and postpartum (n=74) Barbados Blackbelly ewes in a previous investigation were used for this study. Vaginal mucus (n=118), feces (n=100), and milk (n=32) positive IS1111 C. burnetii-DNA were analysed by real time qPCR (icd gene). For molecular characterization of C. burnetii, selected (n=10) IS1111 qPCR positive samples were sequenced for fragments of the IS1111 element and the 16 S rRNA gene. nBLAST, phylogenetic and haplotype analyses were performed. Vaginal mucus, feces and milk had estimated equal amounts of bacterial DNA (icd copies), and super spreaders were detected within the fecal samples. C. burnetii haplotypes had moderate to high diversity, were ubiquitous worldwide and similar to previously described in ruminants and ticks and humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra Trujillo
- Graduate Program, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Anne Conan
- Centre for Applied One Health Research and Policy Advice, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China
| | - Ana Cláudia Calchi
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Katja Mertens-Scholz
- Institute for Infectious Diseases and Infection Control, Jena University Hospital, Am Klinikum 1, Jena 07747, Germany
| | - Anna Becker
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Christa Gallagher
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Alex Mau
- Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, United States
| | - Silvia Marchi
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Marcus Machado
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Aspinas Chapwanya
- Clinical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
| | - Ananda Müller
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis.
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Alkenani NA, Baroom HM, Almohimeed AA, Hassan SO, Mohammed MS, Alshehri LA, Alshehri SA, Abu Sulayman SM, Al-Maaqar SM, Alshaeri MA. Serological investigation of Coxiella burnetii infection (Query fever) in livestock in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia. Vet World 2024; 17:842-847. [PMID: 38798290 PMCID: PMC11111712 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2024.842-847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Query fever (Q fever) is an endemic zoonotic disease and ruminants are considered to be the primary source of infection in humans. It is caused by Coxiella burnetii which is an obligate intracellular bacterial pathogen with a worldwide distribution. This study estimated the prevalence of Q fever in livestock with a history of abortion in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia. Material and Methods Sera from 341 camels, 326 sheep, and 121 goats of either sex from various locations (Makkah, Jeddah, AL-Taif, AL-Qunfudah, AL-Laith, and AL-Kamil) were examined using a Q fever indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results Among the 788 serum samples, 356 animals had anti-Coxiella burnetii immunoglobulin G antibodies with an overall seroprevalence of 45.4%. Significant differences were observed in seroprevalence between species and locations. Camels had the highest percentage of Q fever-positive sera, with a prevalence of 50.4%, followed by goats (44.6%) and sheep (36.8%), with a high significant difference between animals (p = 0.000). The prevalence was significantly higher in Makkah (65.4%) than in Jeddah (28.8%). Conclusion C. burnetii infection is prevalent in agricultural animals, especially camels maintained at livestock farms in Makkah province. Therefore, these animals considered as the main source of Q fever infections in Saudi Arabia, which is also a reason for the abortion in these animals. Therefore, there is an urgent need for further studies on Q fever infection with interventional approaches for prevention and control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naser A. Alkenani
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box: 80203, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Environmental Protection and Sustainability Research Group, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hassan M. Baroom
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box: 80203, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Umm Alqura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adi A. Almohimeed
- Department of Microbiology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Salaheldin O. Hassan
- Department of Microbiology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed S. Mohammed
- Department of Parasitology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Layla A. Alshehri
- Department of Parasitology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - S. A. Alshehri
- Department of Microbiology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sulaiman M. Abu Sulayman
- Department of Microbiology, Jeddah Islamic Port Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Ministry of Agriculture, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh M. Al-Maaqar
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box: 80203, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Faculty of Education, Department of Biology, Albaydha University, Al-Baydha, Yemen
| | - Majed A. Alshaeri
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box: 80203, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Environmental Protection and Sustainability Research Group, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Trujillo M, Conan A, Calchi AC, Mertens-Scholtz K, Becker AA, Gallagher C, Mau A, Marchi S, Machado M, André MR, Chapwanya A, Müller A. Coxiella burnetii shedding and serological status in pregnant and postpartum ewes. Acta Trop 2023; 244:106962. [PMID: 37271355 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2023.106962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the occurence C. burnetii-DNA shedding by pregnant (vaginal mucus and feces) and postpartum (vaginal mucus, feces and milk) meat breed ewes from Saint Kitts. Additionally, antibodies anti-C. burnetii were detected in serum, and milk. Barbados Blackbelly ewes (n=187) were sampled using stratified convenience cross-sectional sampling. There were two animal groups: pregnant (n=96) and postpartum (n=91). Vaginal mucus (n=187), feces (n=177) and milk (n=83) samples were subjected to a TaqMan real time qPCR assay for C. burnetii based on the IS1111 multi copy element. IgG antibodies against C. burnetii were tested in blood serum (n=187) and milk (n=61) samples, via indirect ELISA. McNemar and Fischer exact tests were used to compare occurrence between routes and between groups, respectively. Overall, 86.6% of all the animals (162/187) were shedding C. burnetti DNA through at least one route (vaginal and/or fecal and/or milk). The DNA shedding occurrence via vaginal (73% vs 51%, p-value=0.003) and fecal routes (64% vs 47%, p-value=0.001) was higher in the pregnant compared to the postpartum animals. There was no prevalent shedding route among vaginal, fecal or milk in all ewes. Overall, 38% of the ewes were seropositive for C. burnetii IgG and a total of 19.7% of the tested postpartum ewes had IgG antibodies in milk. The vaginal and fecal DNA shedding were not associated with the blood serology, nor was milk DNA shedding related to the milk serology status, thus there was no association between C. burnetii seropositivity and bacterial DNA shedding. In short, high occurrence of C. burnetii DNA shedding was observed within ewes in St. Kitts, and represents the first detection of the Q fever agent within the Caribbean islands. Bacterial shedding was more prevalent in pregnant ewes, highlighting the importance of gestating animals as a source of C. burnetii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mayra Trujillo
- Graduate program, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, West Indies
| | - Anne Conan
- Centre for Applied One Health Research and Policy Advice, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Ana Cláudia Calchi
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Katja Mertens-Scholtz
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Bacterial Infections and Zoonoses, Jena, Germany
| | - Anne Amj Becker
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, West Indies
| | - Christa Gallagher
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, West Indies
| | - Alex Mau
- Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California- Davis, Davis, California, United States of America
| | - Silvia Marchi
- Research Laboratory, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, West Indies
| | - Marcus Machado
- Research Laboratory, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, West Indies
| | - Marcos Rogério André
- Vector-Borne Bioagents Laboratory (VBBL), Departamento de Patologia, Reprodução e Saúde Única, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (FCAV/UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Aspinas Chapwanya
- Clinical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, West Indies
| | - Ananda Müller
- Biomedical Sciences Department, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, West Indies; Instituto de Ciencias Clínicas Veterinarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile.
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Luan Y, Gou J, Zhong D, Ma L, Yin C, Shu M, Liu G, Lin Q. The Tick-Borne Pathogens: An Overview of China's Situation. Acta Parasitol 2023; 68:1-20. [PMID: 36642777 PMCID: PMC9841149 DOI: 10.1007/s11686-023-00658-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ticks are important medical arthropods that can transmit hundreds of pathogens, such as parasites, bacteria, and viruses, leading to serious public health burdens worldwide. Unexplained fever is the most common clinical manifestation of tick-borne diseases. Since the emergence of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the surge of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases led to the hospital overload and fewer laboratory tests for tick-borne diseases. Therefore, it is essential to review the tick-borne pathogens and further understand tick-borne diseases. PURPOSE The geographic distribution and population of ticks in the Northern hemisphere have expanded while emerging tick-borne pathogens have been introduced to China continuously. This paper focused on the tick-borne pathogens that are threatening public health in the world. Their medical significant tick vectors, as well as the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and control measures, are emphasized in this document. METHODS In this study, all required data were collected from articles indexed in English databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. RESULTS Ticks presented a great threat to the economy and public health. Although both infections by tick-borne pathogens and SARS-CoV-2 have fever symptoms, the history of tick bite and its associated symptoms such as encephalitis or eschar could be helpful for the differential diagnosis. Additionally, as a carrier of vector ticks, migratory birds may play a potential role in the geographical expansion of ticks and tick-borne pathogens during seasonal migration. CONCLUSION China should assess the risk score of vector ticks and clarify the potential role of migratory birds in transmitting ticks. Additionally, the individual and collective protection, vector control, comprehensive surveillance, accurate diagnosis, and symptomatic treatment should be carried out, to meet the challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuxuan Luan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.,School of Basic Medical Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Jingmin Gou
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongjie Zhong
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Li Ma
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Chuansong Yin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Minfeng Shu
- School of Basic Medical Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Guangyuan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu, China
| | - Qing Lin
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China. .,State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu, China.
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Héloïse VN, Marcella M, Marielle M, Evelyne M, Sophie L, Doina G, El Mehdi C, Philippe C. A zoonotic cause of blood culture-negative infective endocarditis in Belgium: Case report and review of the literature on Q fever. IDCases 2022; 29:e01595. [PMID: 36032176 PMCID: PMC9399264 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2022.e01595] [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: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Q fever is a worldwide zoonotic infection caused by Coxiella burnetii. In Belgium, the disease must be notified, and the incidence is low. Human contamination is mostly due to sheep and goats. Herein, we report a case of chronic Q fever presenting as a prolonged fever in a patient with a history of valve prosthesis. Blood culture-negative endocarditis was diagnosed through an assessment including echocardiography and systematic serological testing. Despite the absence of travel abroad or obvious contact with domestic or wildlife animals, C. burnetii phase I and phase II IgG antibody titers were > 1:8192, and polymerase chain reaction performed on blood was positive for C. burnetii. Genotypic single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis of the pathogen strain identified a SNP-type 1 genomic group, which is associated with small ruminants in Belgium. The epidemiological investigation did not confirm the presence of positive C. burnetii cattle or sheep herds in the vicinity of the patient’s workplace and home, nor in the pest animals surrounding the workplace. Patients with risk factors for chronic Q fever should be tested for C. burnetii infection in case of prolonged fever of unknown origin, osteomyelitis, abscess or blood culture-negative endocarditis, even in the absence of direct exposure to animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Van Noten Héloïse
- Infectious Diseases Department, CHU-Brugmann, Brussels, Belgium
- Correspondence to: CHU Brugmann Victor Horta, Département de cardiologie, Place Arthur Van Gehuchten 4, 1020 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Mori Marcella
- National Reference Center for Coxiella burnetii and Bartonella, Zoonoses of Animals Unit, Sciensano, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | - Leemans Sophie
- Infectious Diseases Department, CHU-Brugmann, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Gvinda Doina
- Cardiology Department, CHU-Brugmann, Brussels, Belgium
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Jodełko A, Szymańska-Czerwińska M, Rola JG, Niemczuk K. Molecular detection of Coxiella burnetii in small ruminants and genotyping of specimens collected from goats in Poland. BMC Vet Res 2021; 17:341. [PMID: 34711239 PMCID: PMC8554849 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-03051-0] [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: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Coxiella burnetii is the etiological agent of Q fever, a zoonosis affecting many animal species including sheep and goats. The aims of this study were to evaluate the shedding of Coxiella burnetii in small ruminant herds and to identify the pathogen’s genotypes and sequence types (STs) using multiple-locus variable number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) and multispacer sequence typing (MST) methods. Results Overall, 165 samples from 43 herds of goats and 9 flocks of sheep were collected including bulk tank milk (BTM), individual milk samples, vaginal swabs, tissue sections from stillborn kids, feces and placentas. These were tested by real-time PCR targeting the IS1111 element. C. burnetii infection was confirmed in 51.16% of the herds of goats and 22.2% of the flocks of sheep. Six out of nine samples originating from goats were successfully genotyped using the MLVA method. The presence was confirmed of two widely distributed MLVA genotypes (I and J) and genotype PL1 previously reported only in cattle. Only one sequence type (ST61) was identified; however, the majority of specimens represented partial STs and some of them may belong to ST61. Other partial STs could possibly be ST74. Conclusion This study confirmed the relatively common occurrence of Coxiella burnetii in small ruminant herds in Poland. Interestingly, all genotyped samples represent cattle-associated MLVA genotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Jodełko
- Department of Cattle and Sheep Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, Pulawy, Poland.
| | | | - Jolanta Grażyna Rola
- Department of Hygiene of Food of Animal Origin, National Veterinary Research Institute, Pulawy, Poland
| | - Krzysztof Niemczuk
- Department of Cattle and Sheep Diseases, National Veterinary Research Institute, Pulawy, Poland
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Coxiella burnetii Shedding in Milk and Molecular Typing of Strains Infecting Dairy Cows in Greece. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10030287. [PMID: 33802264 PMCID: PMC7998660 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10030287] [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: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Ruminants are considered the commonest animal reservoir for human infection of Coxiella burnetii, the Q fever causative agent. Considering the recently described importance of human Q fever in Greece, we aimed at providing the first comprehensive direct evidence of C. burnetii in dairy cows in Greece, including the genetic characterization of strains. The 462 examined dairy farms represented all geographical areas of Greece. One bulk tank milk sample was collected from every farm and tested for the presence of C. burnetii. Molecular genotyping of strains, performed directly on samples, revealed the existence of two separate clades characterized by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotypes of type 1 and type 2. The two clades were clearly distinguished in multiple locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) by two discriminative loci: MS30 and MS28. Whereas MLVA profiles of SNP-type 2 clade were closely related to strains described in other European cattle populations, the MLVA profile observed within the SNP type 1 clade highlighted a peculiar genetic signature for Greece, related to genotypes found in sheep and goats in Europe. The shedding of C. burnetii bearing this genotype might have yet undefined human epidemiological consequences. Surveillance of the genetic distribution of C. burnetii from different sources is needed to fully understand the epidemiology of Q fever in Greece.
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Beard D, Stannard HJ, Old JM. Parasites of wombats (family Vombatidae), with a focus on ticks and tick-borne pathogens. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:395-409. [PMID: 33409643 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-07036-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Ticks (Arachnida: Acari) are vectors for pathogens and the biggest threat to animal health. Many Australian ticks are associated with pathogens that impact humans, domestic animals and livestock. However, little is known about the presence or impact of tick-borne pathogens in native Australian wildlife. Wombats are particularly susceptible to the effects of the ectoparasite Sarcoptes scabiei which causes sarcoptic mange, the reason for which is unknown. Factors such as other ectoparasites and their associated pathogens may play a role. A critical understanding of the species of ectoparasites that parasitise wombats and their pathogens, and particularly ticks, is therefore warranted. This review describes the ectoparasites of wombats, pathogens known to be associated with those ectoparasites, and related literature gaps. Pathogens have been isolated in most tick species that typically feed on wombats; however, there are minimal molecular studies to determine the presence of pathogens in any other wombat ectoparasites. The development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies allows us to explore entire microbial communities in ectoparasite samples, allowing fast and accurate identification of potential pathogens in many samples at once. These new techniques have highlighted the diversity and uniqueness of native ticks and their microbiomes, including pathogens of potential medical and veterinary importance. An increased understanding of all ectoparasites that parasitise wombats, and their associated pathogens, requires further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Beard
- School of Science, Hawkesbury, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia
| | - Hayley J Stannard
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Julie M Old
- School of Science, Hawkesbury, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, 2751, Australia.
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Janik E, Ceremuga M, Niemcewicz M, Bijak M. Dangerous Pathogens as a Potential Problem for Public Health. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2020; 56:E591. [PMID: 33172013 PMCID: PMC7694656 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56110591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2020] [Revised: 11/01/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Pathogens are various organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa, which can cause severe illnesses to their hosts. Throughout history, pathogens have accompanied human populations and caused various epidemics. One of the most significant outbreaks was the Black Death, which occurred in the 14th century and caused the death of one-third of Europe's population. Pathogens have also been studied for their use as biological warfare agents by the former Soviet Union, Japan, and the USA. Among bacteria and viruses, there are high priority agents that have a significant impact on public health. Bacillus anthracis, Francisella tularensis, Yersinia pestis, Variola virus, Filoviruses (Ebola, Marburg), Arenoviruses (Lassa), and influenza viruses are included in this group of agents. Outbreaks and infections caused by them might result in social disruption and panic, which is why special operations are needed for public health preparedness. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria that significantly impede treatment and recovery of patients are also valid threats. Furthermore, recent events related to the massive spread of Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are an example of how virus-induced diseases cannot be ignored. The impact of outbreaks, such as SARS-CoV-2, have had far-reaching consequences beyond public health. The economic losses due to lockdowns are difficult to estimate, but it would take years to restore countries to pre-outbreak status. For countries affected by the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19), their health systems have been overwhelmed, resulting in an increase in the mortality rate caused by diseases or injuries. Furthermore, outbreaks, such as SARS-CoV-2, will induce serious, wide-ranging (and possibly long-lasting) psychological problems among, not only health workers, but ordinary citizens (this is due to isolation, quarantine, etc.). The aim of this paper is to present the most dangerous pathogens, as well as general characterizations, mechanisms of action, and treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edyta Janik
- Biohazard Prevention Centre, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland; (E.J.); (M.N.)
| | - Michal Ceremuga
- Military Institute of Armament Technology, Prymasa Stefana Wyszyńskiego 7, 05-220 Zielonka, Poland;
| | - Marcin Niemcewicz
- Biohazard Prevention Centre, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland; (E.J.); (M.N.)
| | - Michal Bijak
- Biohazard Prevention Centre, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Pomorska 141/143, 90-236 Lodz, Poland; (E.J.); (M.N.)
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Clark NJ, Tozer S, Wood C, Firestone SM, Stevenson M, Caraguel C, Chaber AL, Heller J, Soares Magalhães RJ. Unravelling animal exposure profiles of human Q fever cases in Queensland, Australia, using natural language processing. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 67:2133-2145. [PMID: 32259390 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Revised: 02/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Q fever, caused by the zoonotic bacterium Coxiella burnetii, is a globally distributed emerging infectious disease. Livestock are the most important zoonotic transmission sources, yet infection in people without livestock exposure is common. Identifying potential exposure pathways is necessary to design effective interventions and aid outbreak prevention. We used natural language processing and graphical network methods to provide insights into how Q fever notifications are associated with variation in patient occupations or lifestyles. Using an 18-year time-series of Q fever notifications in Queensland, Australia, we used topic models to test whether compositions of patient answers to follow-up exposure questionnaires varied between demographic groups or across geographical areas. To determine heterogeneity in possible zoonotic exposures, we explored patterns of livestock and game animal co-exposures using Markov Random Fields models. Finally, to identify possible correlates of Q fever case severity, we modelled patient probabilities of being hospitalized as a function of particular exposures. Different demographic groups consistently reported distinct sets of exposure terms and were concentrated in different areas of the state, suggesting the presence of multiple transmission pathways. Macropod exposure was commonly reported among Q fever cases, even when exposure to cattle, sheep or goats was absent. Males, older patients and those that reported macropod exposure were more likely to be hospitalized due to Q fever infection. Our study indicates that follow-up surveillance combined with text modelling is useful for unravelling exposure pathways in the battle to reduce Q fever incidence and associated morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas J Clark
- UQ Spatial Epidemiology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Qld, Australia
| | - Sarah Tozer
- Queensland Centre for Gynaecological Cancer, The University of Queensland, Qld, Australia
| | - Caitlin Wood
- UQ Spatial Epidemiology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Qld, Australia
| | - Simon M Firestone
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Mark Stevenson
- Melbourne Veterinary School, Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Vic., Australia
| | - Charles Caraguel
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Anne-Lise Chaber
- School of Animal and Veterinary Science, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Jane Heller
- Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga, NSW, Australia
| | - Ricardo J Soares Magalhães
- UQ Spatial Epidemiology Laboratory, School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Qld, Australia
- Children's Health and Environment Program, Child Health Research Centre, The University of Queensland, Qld, Australia
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Jaydari A, Nazifi N, Forouharmehr A. Computational design of a novel multi-epitope vaccine against Coxiella burnetii. Hum Immunol 2020; 81:596-605. [PMID: 32718721 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2020.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Query fever is a zoonotic disease caused by Coxiella burnetii. There is no universal method for the prevention of this disease. Recombinant vaccine is a potent strategy that can be utilized for this purpose. The current study was conducted to develop a multi-epitope vaccine against Coxiella burnetii. Hence, OmpA, Tuf2, GroEL, Mip and sucB antigens were used for the prediction of epitopes. Then, a multi-epitope vaccine was developed based on a molecular adjuvant and fragments that contained the best MHCI, B cell, MHCII and IFN-γ epitopes. The features of the developed vaccine including physicochemical parameters, antigenicity and protein structures were assessed. Also, interaction between the developed vaccine and TLR4/MD2 receptor along with molecular dynamics of the ligand-receptor complex were investigated. Finally, the codon adaptation and cloning were conducted for the developed vaccine. According to the results, molecular weight, instability index, antigenicity and random coil percentage of the developed vaccine were 54.4 kDa, 32.84, 1.1936 and 34.92%, respectively. Besides, residues distribution in core region of the refined model was 85%. The results demonstrated that the developed vaccine could dock to its receptor with the lowest energy of -976.7 as well as RMSD value of the complex was between 0.15 and 0.22 nm. Also, the results showed that CIA index of the codon adapted sequence was 0.95. Finally, cloning results revealed that nucleotide sequence of the developed vaccine could be successfully cloned into pET-21a (+). Based on these results, it seems that the developed vaccine can be a suitable candidate to prevent Coxiella burnetii.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Jaydari
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran.
| | - Narges Nazifi
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Ali Forouharmehr
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran
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El-Sayed A, Kamel M. Climatic changes and their role in emergence and re-emergence of diseases. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:22336-22352. [PMID: 32347486 PMCID: PMC7187803 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-08896-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Global warming and the associated climate changes are predictable. They are enhanced by burning of fossil fuels and the emission of huge amounts of CO2 gas which resulted in greenhouse effect. It is expected that the average global temperature will increase with 2-5 °C in the next decades. As a result, the earth will exhibit marked climatic changes characterized by extremer weather events in the coming decades, such as the increase in temperature, rainfall, summertime, droughts, more frequent and stronger tornadoes and hurricanes. Epidemiological disease cycle includes host, pathogen and in certain cases intermediate host/vector. A complex mixture of various environmental conditions (e.g. temperature and humidity) determines the suitable habitat/ecological niche for every vector host. The availability of suitable vectors is a precondition for the emergence of vector-borne pathogens. Climate changes and global warming will have catastrophic effects on human, animal and environmental ecosystems. Pathogens, especially neglected tropical disease agents, are expected to emerge and re-emerge in several countries including Europe and North America. The lives of millions of people especially in developing countries will be at risk in direct and indirect ways. In the present review, the role of climate changes in the spread of infectious agents and their vectors is discussed. Examples of the major emerging viral, bacterial and parasitic diseases are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amr El-Sayed
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Kamel
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.
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