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Stensvold CR, Larsen TG, Grüttner J, Nielsen L, Engberg J, Lebbad M. Rodent-adapted Cryptosporidium infection in humans: Seven new cases and review of the literature. One Health 2024; 18:100682. [PMID: 39010954 PMCID: PMC11247268 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2024.100682] [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: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Cases of cryptosporidiosis in humans have been reported with strong indication of transmission from rodents. Here, we report seven new human cases of cryptosporidiosis involving rodent-adapted species (Cryptosporidium ditrichi [n = 1], Cryptosporidium mortiferum [n = 4; previously known as Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I], Cryptosporidium tyzzeri [n = 1], and Cryptosporidium viatorum [n = 1]) and review cases of human infection caused by these four species published to date. The seven new cases were detected in Denmark within a period of twelve months from 2022 to 2023. Only the C. tyzzeri and C. viatorum cases were associated with travel outside Denmark. The total number of human cases of cryptosporidiosis due to C. ditrichi and C. tyzzeri documented to date globally are still limited (4 and 7, respectively), whereas cases involving C. viatorum and C. mortiferum have been detected to a larger extent (43 and 63 cases, respectively). The four new cases of C. mortiferum were all of the XIVaA20G2T1 subtype, which is the only subtype identified so far in Scandinavia, and which is a subtype not yet found outside of Scandinavia. The new C. viatorum case was identified as the XVaA3g subtype. The C. tyzzeri case was subtyped as IXbA6. No subtype data were produced for C. ditrichi due to lack of a subtype assay. Review of existing data suggests the presence of C. ditrichi and C. mortiferum primarily in northern countries and C. tyzzeri and C. viatorum primarily in warmer climates. While our data may further support the role of Cryptosporidium as a cause of zoonotic disease, case descriptions should be obtained where possible to determine if Cryptosporidium species primarily adapted to rodents are the likely cause of symptoms or just an incidental finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christen Rune Stensvold
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
| | - Tine Graakjær Larsen
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen, Denmark
- European Programme for Public Health Microbiology Training (EUPHEM), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jana Grüttner
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Bacteria, Parasites and Fungi, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark
- European Programme for Public Health Microbiology Training (EUPHEM), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Lene Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Engberg
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
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Egan S, Barbosa AD, Feng Y, Xiao L, Ryan U. Critters and contamination: Zoonotic protozoans in urban rodents and water quality. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 251:121165. [PMID: 38290188 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Rodents represent the single largest group within mammals and host a diverse array of zoonotic pathogens. Urbanisation impacts wild mammals, including rodents, leading to habitat loss but also providing new resources. Urban-adapted (synanthropic) rodents, such as the brown rat (R. norvegicus), black rat (R. rattus), and house mouse (Mus musculus), have long successfully adapted to living close to humans and are known carriers of zoonotic pathogens. Two important enteric, zoonotic protozoan parasites, carried by rodents, include Cryptosporidium and Giardia. Their environmental stages (oocysts/cysts), released in faeces, can contaminate surface and wastewaters, are resistant to common drinking water disinfectants and can cause water-borne related gastritis outbreaks. At least 48 species of Cryptosporidium have been described, with C. hominis and C. parvum responsible for the majority of human infections, while Giardia duodenalis assemblages A and B are the main human-infectious assemblages. Molecular characterisation is crucial to assess the public health risk linked to rodent-related water contamination due to morphological overlap between species. This review explores the global molecular diversity of these parasites in rodents, with a focus on evaluating the zoonotic risk from contamination of water and wasterwater with Cryptosporidium and Giardia oocysts/cysts from synanthropic rodents. Analysis indicates that while zoonotic Cryptosporidium and Giardia are prevalent in farmed and pet rodents, host-specific Cryptosporidium and Giardia species dominate in urban adapted rodents, and therefore the risks posed by these rodents in the transmission of zoonotic Cryptosporidium and Giardia are relatively low. Many knowledge gaps remain however, and therefore understanding the intricate dynamics of these parasites in rodent populations is essential for managing their impact on human health and water quality. This knowledge can inform strategies to reduce disease transmission and ensure safe drinking water in urban and peri‑urban areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siobhon Egan
- Harry Butler Institute, Vector- and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Group, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia.
| | - Amanda D Barbosa
- Harry Butler Institute, Vector- and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Group, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia; CAPES Foundation, Ministry of Education of Brazil, Brasilia, DF 70040-020, Brazil
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Una Ryan
- Harry Butler Institute, Vector- and Water-Borne Pathogen Research Group, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia
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Romeo C, Filipe J, Wauters LA, Comazzi S, Riva F, Ferrari N. Shifts in immune responses of an invasive alien species: A test of the evolution of increased competitive ability hypothesis using American Eastern gray squirrels in Italy. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 900:165747. [PMID: 37495139 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Based on the Evolution of Increased Competitive Ability (EICA) hypothesis, a reduced investment in immunity, consequent to parasite loss, could partly explain the success of invasive alien species. We investigated variation in parasite load and immune responses of alien Eastern gray squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis) along the invasion wave of an expanding population. We first verified by fecal analyses that 1) parasite abundance decreased moving from the core towards the invasion front. Next, we used multiple measures of immunity to investigate whether, in response to the lower parasite pressure, individuals at the invasion front 2) dampened their costly inflammatory response, and 3) increased their investment in less expensive acquired immunity. We first explored variation in hematological variables related either to the inflammatory or the acquired response. On a subset of individuals, we carried out ex vivo cell cultures to analyse the basal expression of MHC class II genes and the expression of TNF-α genes in response to an immune challenge. Platelet counts and TNF-α expression suggested higher inflammation in individuals living at the invasion core, whereas parameters associated with an acquired response (lymphocyte counts and MHC II expression by spleen cells), conversely, were higher in squirrels at the front. Overall, our results suggest a shift between different immune strategies along the invasion wave, supporting a reduced investment in costly inflammatory responses and an increased investment in acquired immunity in individuals at the expanding edge of the range, which are subjected to high selective pressures for dispersal and reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Romeo
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell'Emilia Romagna, Via Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy.
| | - Joel Filipe
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Lucas A Wauters
- Università degli Studi dell'Insubria, Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, Environment Analysis and Management Unit - Guido Tosi Research Group, Via Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy; University of Antwerp, Department of Biology - Evolutionary Ecology Group, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Stefano Comazzi
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; Università degli Studi di Milano, WildlifeHealth Lab, Via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Federica Riva
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
| | - Nicola Ferrari
- Università degli Studi di Milano, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; Università degli Studi di Milano, WildlifeHealth Lab, Via dell'Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy
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Bezerra-Santos MA, Dantas-Torres F, Mendoza-Roldan JA, Thompson RCA, Modry D, Otranto D. Invasive mammalian wildlife and the risk of zoonotic parasites. Trends Parasitol 2023; 39:786-798. [PMID: 37429777 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2023.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
Invasive wild mammals are present in all continents, with Europe, North America, and the Asian-Pacific region having the largest number of established species. In particular, Europe has been the continent with the highest number of zoonotic parasites associated with invasive wild mammals. These invasive species may represent a major threat for the conservation of native ecosystems and may enter in the transmission cycle of native parasites, or act as spreaders of exotic parasites. Here, we review the role of invasive wild mammals as spreaders of zoonotic parasites, presenting important examples from Europe, America, and the Asia-Pacific region. Finally, we emphasize the need for more research on these mammals and their parasites, especially in areas where their monitoring is scantily performed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - R C Andrew Thompson
- Division of Veterinary Biology, School of Veterinary Studies, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, 6150, Australia
| | - David Modry
- Biology Centre, Institute of Parasitology, Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Department of Botany and Zoology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Department of Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Domenico Otranto
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, Italy; Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bu-Ali Sina University, Hamedan, Iran.
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Jezkova J, Holubova N, Kvicerova J, Mateju J, Sak B, Kvac M. European ground squirrels Spermophilus citellus (Linnaeus) do not share identical Cryptosporidium spp. with North American ground squirrels. Folia Parasitol (Praha) 2023; 70:2023.016. [PMID: 37565460 DOI: 10.14411/fp.2023.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Cryptosporidium Tyzzer, 1910 is one of the most common protistan parasites of vertebrates. The results of this study provide the first data on Cryptosporidium diversity in the European ground squirrel Spermophilus citellus (Linnaeus). A total of 128 faecal samples of European ground squirrels from 39 localities in the Czech Republic were analysed for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. by microscopy and PCR/sequence analysis of small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU) and the actin gene. While the microscopical examination did not reveal the presence of any Cryptosporidium oocysts, eight samples from six localities were PCR-positive. Phylogenetic analyses revealed the presence of five different Cryptosporidium spp. isolates. Four isolates, designated as Cryptosporidium sp. isolate Sc01-04, detected in wild populations and never recorded before, clustered closely to Cryptosporidium genotypes that have previously been found in North American ground squirrels' species. Cryptosporidium sciurinum Prediger, Ježková, Holubová, Sak, Konečný, Rost, McEvoy, Rajský et Kváč, 2021 was found in an animal sanctuary. Because C. sciurinum had previously been detected in Eurasian red squirrels Sciurus vulgaris Linnaeus at the same facility, it can be concluded that this Cryptosporidium was transmitted from tree squirrels to ground squirrels within the animal sanctuary. The results indicate that populations of European and North American ground squirrels are parasitised by different Cryptosporidium spp. At the same time, this is the first description of the occurrence of C. sciurinum in ground squirrels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Jezkova
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Nikola Holubova
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Kvicerova
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Science, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Mateju
- Museum Karlovy Vary, Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic *Address for correspondence: Martin Kvac, Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branisovska 31, 370 05 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, E-mail
| | - Bohumil Sak
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Kvac
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
- Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
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Tůmová L, Ježková J, Prediger J, Holubová N, Sak B, Konečný R, Květoňová D, Hlásková L, Rost M, McEvoy J, Xiao L, Santín M, Kváč M. Cryptosporidium mortiferum n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Cryptosporidiidae), the species causing lethal cryptosporidiosis in Eurasian red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris). Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:235. [PMID: 37454101 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05844-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidium spp. are globally distributed parasites that infect epithelial cells in the microvillus border of the gastrointestinal tract of all classes of vertebrates. Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I is a common parasite in North American tree squirrels. It was introduced into Europe with eastern gray squirrels and poses an infection risk to native European squirrel species, for which infection is fatal. In this study, the biology and genetic variability of different isolates of chipmunk genotype I were investigated. METHODS The genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I was analyzed by PCR/sequencing of the SSU rRNA, actin, HSP70, COWP, TRAP-C1 and gp60 genes. The biology of chipmunk genotype I, including oocyst size, localization of the life cycle stages and pathology, was examined by light and electron microscopy and histology. Infectivity to Eurasian red squirrels and eastern gray squirrels was verified experimentally. RESULTS Phylogenic analyses at studied genes revealed that chipmunk genotype I is genetically distinct from other Cryptosporidium spp. No detectable infection occurred in chickens and guinea pigs experimentally inoculated with chipmunk genotype I, while in laboratory mice, ferrets, gerbils, Eurasian red squirrels and eastern gray squirrels, oocyst shedding began between 4 and 11 days post infection. While infection in mice, gerbils, ferrets and eastern gray squirrels was asymptomatic or had mild clinical signs, Eurasian red squirrels developed severe cryptosporidiosis that resulted in host death. The rapid onset of clinical signs characterized by severe diarrhea, apathy, loss of appetite and subsequent death of the individual may explain the sporadic occurrence of this Cryptosporidium in field studies and its concurrent spread in the population of native European squirrels. Oocysts obtained from a naturally infected human, the original inoculum, were 5.64 × 5.37 μm and did not differ in size from oocysts obtained from experimentally infected hosts. Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I infection was localized exclusively in the cecum and anterior part of the colon. CONCLUSIONS Based on these differences in genetics, host specificity and pathogenicity, we propose the name Cryptosporidium mortiferum n. sp. for this parasite previously known as Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenka Tůmová
- Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Ježková
- Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Jitka Prediger
- Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Nikola Holubová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Bohumil Sak
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Roman Konečný
- Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Dana Květoňová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Hlásková
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Michael Rost
- Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - John McEvoy
- Microbiological Sciences Department, North Dakota State University, 1523 Centennial Blvd, Van Es Hall, Fargo, ND, 58102, USA
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, Guangdong, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou, 510642, Guangdong, China
| | - Monica Santín
- Environmental Microbial and Food Safety Laboratory, Beltsville Agricultural Research Center, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD, USA
| | - Martin Kváč
- Faculty of Agriculture and Technology, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
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Wauters LA, Lurz PWW, Santicchia F, Romeo C, Ferrari N, Martinoli A, Gurnell J. Interactions between native and invasive species: A systematic review of the red squirrel-gray squirrel paradigm. Front Ecol Evol 2023. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2023.1083008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) has been labeled as one of the 100 worst invasive alien species by the IUCN. In Europe, the species has been introduced to Britain, Ireland and Italy, and its subsequent spread has resulted in wide-scale extinction of native Eurasian red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) from the areas colonized by the gray squirrel. This replacement of a native by an alien competitor is one of the best documented cases of the devastating effects of biological invasions on native fauna. To understand how this replacement occurs, we present a systematic review of the literature on competition and interactions between red and gray squirrels. We describe the patterns of red and gray squirrel distribution in those parts of Europe where gray squirrels occur and summarize the evidence on the different processes and mechanisms determining the outcome of competition between the native and alien species including the influence of predators and pathogens. Some of the drivers behind the demise of the red squirrel have been intensively studied and documented in the past 30 years, but recent field studies and mathematical models revealed that the mechanisms underlying the red-gray paradigm are more complex than previously thought and affected by landscape-level processes. Therefore, we consider habitat type and multi-species interactions, including host-parasite and predator-prey relationships, to determine the outcome of the interaction between the two species and to better address gray squirrel control efforts.
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Perec-Matysiak A, Hildebrand J, Popiołek M, Buńkowska-Gawlik K. The Occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in Wild-Living Carnivores in Poland-A Question Concerning Its Host Specificity. Pathogens 2023; 12:pathogens12020198. [PMID: 36839469 PMCID: PMC9968153 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12020198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is an apicomplexan protozoan parasite that primarily infects the gastrointestinal epithelium in humans and domestic and wild animals. The majority of studies have been focused on human, livestock, and pet infections. Hence, Cryptosporidium spp. in wildlife, including wild carnivores, remained neglected. There are several studies reporting the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in wild foxes, but these are only a few molecular surveys; no data is available concerning the occurrence of this parasite in raccoon dogs and martens in Europe, and to the best of our knowledge to date, only one study has reported Cryptosporidium from badgers in Spain. Therefore, we used molecular analyses to identify and genotype Cryptosporidium spp. in wild-living mesocarnivores in Poland. A total of 322 individual fecal samples from six carnivore species, i.e., raccoon, raccoon dog, red fox, European badger, pine, and beech martens were collected and then analyzed for the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. using the nested PCR method. The appearance of PCR products in the reaction with Cryptosporidium-specific primers against the 18S rRNA and actin genes demonstrated that Cryptosporidium spp. occurred in 23.0% of all examined species of animals. Performed sequence analyses showed the presence of the Cryptosporidium skunk genotype, Cryptosporidium vole genotype II, Cryptosporidium canis dog and fox genotypes, as well as Cryptosporidium erinacei, Cryptosporidium ditrichi, Cryptosporidium suis, and Cryptosporidium alticolis, in these hosts. Molecular data presented here indicate that examined mesocarnivores may be a significant reservoir of specific and non-specific Cryptosporidium species, including those with zoonotic potential. Most studies of carnivores have described the presence of non-specific Cryptosporidium spp. in carnivore hosts, and this is probably the result of the transfer of these parasites from prey species through the digestive tract or the transfer of the parasite from a contaminated environment.
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Ryan U, Zahedi A, Feng Y, Xiao L. An Update on Zoonotic Cryptosporidium Species and Genotypes in Humans. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:3307. [PMID: 34828043 PMCID: PMC8614385 DOI: 10.3390/ani11113307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The enteric parasite, Cryptosporidium is a major cause of diarrhoeal illness in humans and animals worldwide. No effective therapeutics or vaccines are available and therefore control is dependent on understanding transmission dynamics. The development of molecular detection and typing tools has resulted in the identification of a large number of cryptic species and genotypes and facilitated our understanding of their potential for zoonotic transmission. Of the 44 recognised Cryptosporidium species and >120 genotypes, 19 species, and four genotypes have been reported in humans with C. hominis, C. parvum, C. meleagridis, C. canis and C. felis being the most prevalent. The development of typing tools that are still lacking some zoonotic species and genotypes and more extensive molecular epidemiological studies in countries where the potential for transmission is highest are required to further our understanding of this important zoonotic pathogen. Similarly, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and amplicon next-generation sequencing (NGS) are important for more accurately tracking transmission and understanding the mechanisms behind host specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Una Ryan
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6152, Australia;
| | - Alireza Zahedi
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, WA 6152, Australia;
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.F.); (L.X.)
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China; (Y.F.); (L.X.)
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
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Prevalence and Molecular Characterization of the Zoonotic Enteric Protozoans Cryptosporidium spp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Blastocystis from Pallas's Squirrels (Callosciurus erythraeus) in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. Microbiol Spectr 2021; 9:e0099021. [PMID: 34730381 PMCID: PMC8567245 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.00990-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pallas's squirrel (Callosciurus erythraeus) was introduced in Japan in the 1930s and has since established itself in several areas across the country. Although wild Sciuridae populations have been demonstrated to be potential reservoirs for zoonotic enteric protozoa, epidemiological studies of such pathogens in Japan are scarce. Here, we examined 423 fecal samples from Pallas's squirrels captured in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, using PCR and DNA sequencing to determine the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp., Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Blastocystis. The overall prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp., E. bieneusi, and Blastocystis was 4.3% (18/423 samples), 13.0% (55/423 samples), and 44.0% (186/423 samples), respectively. The prevalence of Blastocystis and E. bieneusi was significantly higher in spring (60.1% and 17.4%, respectively) than in winter (27.6% and 8.6%, respectively [P < 0.01]). Sequence analysis of Cryptosporidium spp., targeting the partial small subunit ribosomal RNA gene (SSU rDNA), showed 100% identity (541/541 bp) to Cryptosporidium ubiquitum, and analysis of the gp60 gene showed 99.76% (833/835 bp) identity to C. ubiquitum subtype XIIh. The sequences of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region of E. bieneusi and the partial SSU rDNA of Blastocystis were identified as E. bieneusi genotype SCC-2 and Blastocystis subtype 4, respectively. This study confirmed the presence of C. ubiquitum, E. bieneusi, and Blastocystis in Pallas's squirrels in Kanagawa Prefecture. Because Pallas's squirrels inhabit urban areas, living close to humans, the species may serve as a potential source of infection in human populations. IMPORTANCE Pallas's squirrel is designated a "regulated organism" under the Invasive Alien Species Act in Japan, and municipal authorities are introducing control measures to reduce its populations. It has been suggested that wild mammals may play a role in contaminating the environment with zoonotic pathogens. The present study detected the enteric pathogens Cryptosporidium ubiquitum, Enterocytozoon bieneusi, and Blastocystis in the feces of Pallas's squirrels inhabiting Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. These pathogens persist in the environment and contaminate soils and water, which may potentially infect humans. Because Pallas's squirrels in Kanagawa Prefecture are found in urban areas, where they are in close contact with human populations, continued monitoring of zoonotic diseases among squirrel populations will be important for evaluating the significance of wildlife in pathogen transmission.
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Mazzamuto MV, Wauters LA, Koprowski JL. Exotic Pet Trade as a Cause of Biological Invasions: The Case of Tree Squirrels of the Genus Callosciurus. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:biology10101046. [PMID: 34681145 PMCID: PMC8533491 DOI: 10.3390/biology10101046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary The pet industry is a growing global multibillion dollar market. The increase of exotic and non-domesticated animal ownership has led to an increase in the number of non-native pets released that create invasive alien species (IAS) populations in the wild. IAS negatively impact the biodiversity, human health and countries’ economies. We use tree squirrels of the genus Callosciurus as a well-documented case study of pets that become IAS. We review the pathways and range of introduction and the challenge and legal importance of species identification. Next, we document how they negatively affect native plants and animals, their parasitic infections that can threat native wildlife and human health and their impact on human activities and productive systems. We discuss the diverse biological, social, political and economic reasons that make control/eradication of these charismatic species difficult in most countries. However, we also highlight the successful management of the IAS in two countries where the early detection and engagement of stakeholders were key to successful eradication. We conclude that efforts to educate and involve the broader public by actively engaging a diversity of stakeholders are more likely to build a consensus toward IAS management and should be a priority for each country. Abstract The trade of non-native pets, especially of non-domesticated and exotic animals, and their subsequent release and establishment of populations is one of the major pathways of introduction for invasive alien reptiles, amphibia, birds and mammals. Here, we use a group of arboreal mammals, tree squirrels of the genus Callosciurus, as a well-documented case study, reviewing the pathways of introduction, the current areas of non-native distribution, the rate of establishment success and the challenge and legal importance of species identification. We further illustrate the importance of early detection and effective monitoring methods and plans. Next, we document how they interfere with native species, their risk of acting as vectors for emerging infectious diseases and their potential role in maintaining parasitic infections that can affect human health. We conclude by reviewing the current management, or the lack of it, and highlight the diverse biological, social, political and economic reasons that make control/eradication of these charismatic species difficult or even impractical in most countries. However, reviewing the only two successful eradications of the IAS, we highlight the need to acknowledge the public opinion and the importance of communication, transparency and the engagement of a diversity of stakeholders to create a consensus about the actions to undertake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Vittoria Mazzamuto
- Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, 1000 E. University Ave, Laramie, WY 82071, USA;
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Lucas A. Wauters
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, Via J.H. Dunant 3, 21100 Varese, Italy;
| | - John L. Koprowski
- Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, University of Wyoming, 1000 E. University Ave, Laramie, WY 82071, USA;
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12
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Prediger J, Ježková J, Holubová N, Sak B, Konečný R, Rost M, McEvoy J, Rajský D, Kváč M. Cryptosporidium sciurinum n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Cryptosporidiidae) in Eurasian Red Squirrels ( Sciurus vulgaris). Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9102050. [PMID: 34683369 PMCID: PMC8537388 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9102050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. are common protozoan pathogens in mammals. The diversity and biology of Cryptosporidium in tree squirrels are not well studied. A total of 258 Eurasian red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) from 25 and 15 locations in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, respectively, were examined for Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts and specific DNA at the SSU, actin, HSP70, TRAP-C1, COWP, and gp60 loci. Out of 26 positive animals, only juveniles (9/12) were microscopically positive (18,000 to 72,000 OPG), and molecular analyses revealed the presence of Cryptosporidium sp. ferret genotype in all specimens. Oocysts obtained from naturally-infected squirrels measured 5.54-5.22 μm and were not infectious for laboratory mice (BALB/c and SCID), Mongolian gerbils, Guinea pigs, Southern multimammate mice, chickens, or budgerigars. None of naturally infected squirrels showed clinical signs of disease. The frequency of occurrence of the ferret genotype in squirrels did not vary statistically based on host age, gender or country of capture. Phylogenetic analysis of sequences from six loci revealed that Cryptosporidium sp. ferret genotype is genetically distinct from the currently accepted Cryptosporidium species. Morphological and biological data from this and previous studies support the establishment of Cryptosporidium sp. ferret genotype as a new species, Cryptosporidium sciurinum n. sp.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jitka Prediger
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.P.); (J.J.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
| | - Jana Ježková
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.P.); (J.J.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
| | - Nikola Holubová
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.P.); (J.J.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic;
| | - Bohumil Sak
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic;
| | - Roman Konečný
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.P.); (J.J.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
| | - Michael Rost
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.P.); (J.J.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
| | - John McEvoy
- Microbiological Sciences Department, North Dakota State University, 1523 Centennial Blvd, Van Es Hall, Fargo, ND 58102, USA;
| | - Dušan Rajský
- Faculty of Forestry, Technical University in Zvolen, T.G. Masaryka 24, 960 01 Zvolen, Slovakia;
| | - Martin Kváč
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.P.); (J.J.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 370 05 České Budějovice, Czech Republic;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-387775419
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13
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Chen S, Chai Y, Deng L, Liu H, Zhong Z, Fu H, Hu Y, Shen L, Zhou Z, Geng Y, Peng G. CRYPTOSPORIDIUM SPP. IN PET DWARF WINTER WHITE RUSSIAN HAMSTERS (PHODOPUS SUNGORIS SUNGORIS) IN CHINA. J Parasitol 2021; 107:770-777. [PMID: 34547101 DOI: 10.1645/20-102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. have been identified in a wide range of hosts, such as humans and domestic and wild animals, while less information about the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. in pet hamsters is documented. A total of 351 dwarf winter white Russian hamsters' fecal specimens were collected from 6 pet markets from the cities of Luzhou and Ziyang in Sichuan province in the southwestern part of China. The prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. determined with nested-PCR amplification of the partial small-subunit (SSU) rRNA gene was 39.32% (138/351). The highest prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. was in pet market 5 (79.49%, 62/78), followed by pet market 6 (38.64%, 17/44). The lowest prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. was observed in pet market 3 (14.89%, 7/47). Statistically significant differences in the prevalence of Cryptosporidium spp. were observed among different pet markets (χ2 = 76.386, df = 5, P < 0.05), and a further post hoc test revealed that only pet market 5 was significantly different from other pet markets. Molecular analysis showed that 4 different Cryptosporidium species or genotypes were identified: Cryptosporidium parvum (n = 127), Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype III (n = 6), Cryptosporidium andersoni (n = 4), and Cryptosporidium wrairi (n = 1). The identification of Cryptosporidium spp. was further tested with the 60-kDa glycoprotein (GP60) gene, and the positive rate was 29.7% (41/138). This is the first molecular report on Cryptosporidium spp. infection in dwarf winter white Russian hamsters in China. With C. parvum and C. andersoni being identified in both humans and pet hamsters, these findings suggest that pet hamsters may be potential reservoirs of zoonotic Cryptosporidium species and subtypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanyu Chen
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Yijun Chai
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Lei Deng
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Haifeng Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Zhijun Zhong
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Hualin Fu
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Yanchun Hu
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Liuhong Shen
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Ziyao Zhou
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Yi Geng
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
| | - Guangneng Peng
- The Key Laboratory of Animal Disease and Human Health of Sichuan Province, College of Veterinary Medicine, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 611130, China
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Trogu T, Formenti N, Marangi M, Viganò R, Bionda R, Giangaspero A, Lanfranchi P, Ferrari N. Detection of Zoonotic Cryptosporidium ubiquitum in Alpine Wild Ruminants. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10060655. [PMID: 34070669 PMCID: PMC8228762 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium is a widespread apicomplexan protozoan of major zoonotic importance, characterized by a wide host range, and with relevant economic implications and potential negative effects on livestock and wildlife population dynamics. Considering the recent strong demographic increase of alpine ungulates, in this study, carried out in the Italian Northwestern Alps, we investigated the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in these species and their potential involvement in environmental contamination with Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts. The immune-enzymatic approach revealed a Cryptosporidium prevalence of 1.7% (5/293), 0.5% (1/196) and 3.4% (4/119) in alpine chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra), red deer (Cervus elaphus) and roe deer (Capreolus capreolus), respectively. Positive samples were subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification for the COWP and gp60 genes. The presence of Cryptosporidium was confirmed in one chamois and four roe deer. Sequences obtained clustered within Cryptosporidium ubiquitum, currently recognized as an emerging zoonotic species. This finding represents the first detection of zoonotic C. ubiquitum in chamois and in the Alpine environment. Despite the low observed prevalences, environmental contamination by oocysts could play a role as a potential source of infections for humans and livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Trogu
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna ‘‘Bruno Ubertini’’ (IZSLER), via Bianchi 7/9, 25124 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Nicoletta Formenti
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna ‘‘Bruno Ubertini’’ (IZSLER), via Bianchi 7/9, 25124 Brescia, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Marianna Marangi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, degli Alimenti e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Foggia, via Napoli 25, 71121 Foggia, Italy; (M.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Roberto Viganò
- Studio Associato AlpVet, Piazza Venzaghi 2, 21052 Busto Arsizio, Italy;
| | - Radames Bionda
- Ente di Gestione delle Aree Protette dell’Ossola, Villa Gentinetta-Viale Pieri 27, 28868 Varzo, Italy;
| | - Annunziata Giangaspero
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, degli Alimenti e dell’Ambiente, Università degli Studi di Foggia, via Napoli 25, 71121 Foggia, Italy; (M.M.); (A.G.)
| | - Paolo Lanfranchi
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (P.L.); (N.F.)
| | - Nicola Ferrari
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria, Università degli Studi di Milano, via dell’Università 6, 26900 Lodi, Italy; (P.L.); (N.F.)
- Centro di Ricerca Coordinata Epidemiologia e Sorveglianza Molecolare delle Infezioni, EpiSoMI, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133 Milan, Italy
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15
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Chen J, Wang W, Lin Y, Sun L, Li N, Guo Y, Kvac M, Ryan U, Feng Y, Xiao L. Genetic characterizations of Cryptosporidium spp. from pet rodents indicate high zoonotic potential of pathogens from chinchillas. One Health 2021; 13:100269. [PMID: 34113708 PMCID: PMC8170418 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2021.100269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. are common protozoan pathogens in mammals. With pet rodents being integrated into modern life, the potential roles of them in transmitting parasites to humans need assessments. In the present study, we examined the occurrence of Cryptosporidium spp. in pet rodents in Guangdong, south China. A total of 697 fecal samples were collected from 11 species of rodents in seven pet shops, one pet market and one farm. Cryptosporidium spp. were identified by PCR analysis of the small subunit rRNA gene. An overall infection rate of 36.9% (257/697) was obtained, with infection rates varying from 9.3% in chinchillas, 52.3% in guinea pigs, 57.1% in squirrels, to 68.4% in cricetid animals. Nine Cryptosporidium species and genotypes were identified, including C. wrairi (in 129 guinea pigs), C. andersoni (in 34 hamsters), C. homai (in 32 guinea pigs), Cryptosporidium hamster genotype (in 30 hamsters), C. ubiquitum (in 24 chinchillas and squirrels), C. parvum (in 2 chinchillas), Cryptosporidium ferret genotype (in 2 chipmunks), C. muris (in 1 hamster and 1 guinea pig), and Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype V (in 1 chinchilla and 1 chipmunk). Sequence analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein gene identified three subtype families of C. ubiquitum, including family XIId in 15 chinchillas, XIIa in 5 chinchillas, and a new subtype family (XIIi) in 1 squirrel. The identification of C. parvum and C. ubiquitum in pet rodents suggests that these animals, especially chinchillas, could serve as reservoirs of human-pathogenic Cryptosporidium spp. Hygiene should be practiced in the rear and care of these animals, and One Health measures should be developed to reduce the occurrence of zoonotic Cryptosporidium infections due to contact with pet rodents. Cryptosporidium spp. were prevalent in pet rodents in Guangdong, China. Nine Cryptosporidium species and genotypes were identified. Chinchillas were commonly infected with zoonotic C. ubiquitum. The XIId subtype family of C. ubiquitum has been imported into China together with chinchillas. One Health measures should be developed to control zoonotic cryptosporidiosi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Chen
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Weijian Wang
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yu Lin
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lianbei Sun
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Na Li
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yaqiong Guo
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Martin Kvac
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branisovska 31, 37005 Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic
| | - Una Ryan
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Lihua Xiao
- Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.,Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
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16
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Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I - An emerging cause of human cryptosporidiosis in Sweden. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2021; 92:104895. [PMID: 33971308 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2021.104895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Most cases of cryptosporidiosis in humans are caused by Cryptosporidium parvum or Cryptosporidium hominis. However, more uncommon species are increasingly being recognised to cause infection in humans. Here we report that Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I, which has various rodents as its natural host, is the third most common source of human cryptosporidiosis in Sweden. We also describe the first small outbreak of cryptosporidiosis caused by Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I and report the first case of zoonotic transmission of Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I from a red squirrel to a human. Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I was identified in 20 human cases, including 16 sporadic cases, three outbreak-related cases, and one zoonotic case, as well as in two squirrel samples. Gp60 subtyping which was successful for 19 human cases and two squirrel samples showed that all samples harboured the same subtype, XIVaA20G2T1. The work presented here suggests that red squirrel is a natural host of Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I and that infection with Cryptosporidium chipmunk genotype I is an emerging cause of domestic cryptosporidiosis in Sweden and a potential source of outbreaks.
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17
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Ježková J, Limpouchová Z, Prediger J, Holubová N, Sak B, Konečný R, Květoňová D, Hlásková L, Rost M, McEvoy J, Rajský D, Feng Y, Kváč M. Cryptosporidium myocastoris n. sp. (Apicomplexa: Cryptosporidiidae), the Species Adapted to the Nutria ( Myocastor coypus). Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9040813. [PMID: 33921541 PMCID: PMC8069493 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9040813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp., common parasites of vertebrates, remain poorly studied in wildlife. This study describes the novel Cryptosporidium species adapted to nutrias (Myocastor coypus). A total of 150 faecal samples of feral nutria were collected from locations in the Czech Republic and Slovakia and examined for Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts and specific DNA at the SSU, actin, HSP70, and gp60 loci. Molecular analyses revealed the presence of C. parvum (n = 1), C. ubiquitum subtype family XIId (n = 5) and Cryptosporidium myocastoris n. sp. XXIIa (n = 2), and XXIIb (n = 3). Only nutrias positive for C. myocastoris shed microscopically detectable oocysts, which measured 4.8–5.2 × 4.7–5.0 µm, and oocysts were infectious for experimentally infected nutrias with a prepatent period of 5–6 days, although not for mice, gerbils, or chickens. The infection was localised in jejunum and ileum without observable macroscopic changes. The microvilli adjacent to attached stages responded by elongating. Clinical signs were not observed in naturally or experimentally infected nutrias. Phylogenetic analyses at SSU, actin, and HSP70 loci demonstrated that C. myocastoris n. sp. is distinct from other valid Cryptosporidium species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jana Ježková
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.J.); (J.P.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
| | - Zlata Limpouchová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (Z.L.); (B.S.); (D.K.); (L.H.)
| | - Jitka Prediger
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.J.); (J.P.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
| | - Nikola Holubová
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.J.); (J.P.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (Z.L.); (B.S.); (D.K.); (L.H.)
| | - Bohumil Sak
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (Z.L.); (B.S.); (D.K.); (L.H.)
| | - Roman Konečný
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.J.); (J.P.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
| | - Dana Květoňová
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (Z.L.); (B.S.); (D.K.); (L.H.)
| | - Lenka Hlásková
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (Z.L.); (B.S.); (D.K.); (L.H.)
| | - Michael Rost
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.J.); (J.P.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
| | - John McEvoy
- Microbiological Sciences Department, North Dakota State University, 1523 Centennial Blvd, Van Es Hall, Fargo, ND 58102, USA;
| | - Dušan Rajský
- Faculty of Forestry, Technical University in Zvolen, 960 01 Zvolen, Slovakia;
| | - Yaoyu Feng
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis of Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China;
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Martin Kváč
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Studentská 1668, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (J.J.); (J.P.); (N.H.); (R.K.); (M.R.)
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Branišovská 31, 37005 České Budějovice, Czech Republic; (Z.L.); (B.S.); (D.K.); (L.H.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-3877-75419
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18
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Small ruminants and zoonotic cryptosporidiosis. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:4189-4198. [PMID: 33712929 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07116-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Sheep and goats are commonly infected with three Cryptosporidium species, including Cryptosporidium parvum, Cryptosporidium ubiquitum, and Cryptosporidium xiaoi, which differ from each in prevalence, geographic distribution, and public health importance. While C. parvum appears to be a dominant species in small ruminants in European countries, its occurrence in most African, Asian, and American countries appear to be limited. As a result, zoonotic infections due to contact with lambs and goat kids are common in European countries, leading to frequent reports of outbreaks of cryptosporidiosis on petting farms. In contrast, C. xiaoi is the dominant species elsewhere, and mostly does not infect humans. While C. ubiquitum is another zoonotic species, it occurs in sheep and goats at much lower frequency. Host adaptation appears to be present in both C. parvum and C. ubiquitum, consisting of several subtype families with different host preference. The host-adapted nature of C. parvum and C. ubiquitum has allowed the use of subtyping tools in tracking infection sources. This has led to the identification of geographic differences in the importance of small ruminants in epidemiology of human cryptosporidiosis. These tools have also been used effectively in linking zoonotic transmission of C. parvum between outbreak cases and the suspected animals. Further studies should be directly elucidating the reasons for differences in the distribution and public health importance of major Cryptosporidium species in sheep and goats.
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Romeo C, D’Alessandro S, Bielli M, Comazzi S, Ferrari N. Reference intervals for hematological variables in wild Eastern grey squirrels (Sciurus carolinensis). EUR J WILDLIFE RES 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10344-020-01443-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Cryptosporidium Species and C. parvum Subtypes in Farmed Bamboo Rats. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9121018. [PMID: 33276616 PMCID: PMC7761605 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9121018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bamboo rats (Rhizomys sinensis) are widely farmed in Guangdong, China, but the distribution and public health potential of Cryptosporidium spp. in them are unclear. In this study, 724 fecal specimens were collected from bamboo rats in Guangdong Province and analyzed for Cryptosporidium spp. using PCR and sequence analyses of the small subunit rRNA gene. The overall detection rate of Cryptosporidium spp. was 12.2% (88/724). By age, the detection rate in animals under 2 months (23.2% or 13/56) was significantly higher than in animals over 2 months (11.2% or 75/668; χ2 = 6.95, df = 1, p = 0.0084). By reproduction status, the detection rate of Cryptosporidium spp. in nursing animals (23.1% or 27/117) was significantly higher than in other reproduction statuses (6.8% or 4/59; χ2 = 7.18, df = 1, p = 0.0074). Five Cryptosporidium species and genotypes were detected, including Cryptosporidium bamboo rat genotype I (n = 49), C. parvum (n = 31), Cryptosporidium bamboo rat genotype III (n = 5), C. occultus (n = 2), and C. muris (n = 1). The average numbers of oocysts per gram of feces for these Cryptosporidium spp. were 14,074, 494,636, 9239, 394, and 323, respectively. The genetic uniqueness of bamboo rat genotypes I and III was confirmed by sequence analyses of the 70 kDa heat shock protein and actin genes. Subtyping C. parvum by sequence analysis of the 60 kDa glycoprotein gene identified the presence of IIoA15G1 (n = 20) and IIpA6 (n = 2) subtypes. The results of this study indicated that Cryptosporidium spp. are common in bamboo rats in Guangdong, and some of the Cryptosporidium spp. in these animals are known human pathogens.
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Mfeka MS, Martínez-Oyanedel J, Chen W, Achilonu I, Syed K, Khoza T. Comparative analyses and structural insights of new class glutathione transferases in Cryptosporidium species. Sci Rep 2020; 10:20370. [PMID: 33230237 PMCID: PMC7683740 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-77233-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidiosis, caused by protozoan parasites of the genus Cryptosporidium, is estimated to rank as a leading cause in the global burden of neglected zoonotic parasitic diseases. This diarrheal disease is the second leading cause of death in children under 5 years of age. Based on the C. parvum transcriptome data, glutathione transferase (GST) has been suggested as a drug target against this pathogen. GSTs are diverse multifunctional proteins involved in cellular defense and detoxification in organisms and help pathogens to alleviate chemical and environmental stress. In this study, we performed genome-wide data mining, identification, classification and in silico structural analysis of GSTs in fifteen Cryptosporidium species. The study revealed the presence three GSTs in each of the Cryptosporidium species analyzed in the study. Based on the percentage identity and comprehensive comparative phylogenetic analysis, we assigned Cryptosporidium species GSTs to three new GST classes, named Vega (ϑ), Gamma (γ) and Psi (ψ). The study also revealed an atypical thioredoxin-like fold in the C. parvum GST1 of the Vega class, whereas C. parvum GST2 of the Gamma class and C. melagridis GST3 of the Psi class has a typical thioredoxin-like fold in the N-terminal region. This study reports the first comparative analysis of GSTs in Cryptosporidium species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mbalenhle Sizamile Mfeka
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal (Pietermaritzburg Campus), Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, 3209, South Africa
| | - José Martínez-Oyanedel
- Laboratorio de Biofísica Molecular, Departamento de Bioquímica y Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Concepción, Barrio Universitario S/N, Casilla 160_C, Concepción, Chile
| | - Wanping Chen
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Genetics, University of Göttingen, 37077, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Ikechukwu Achilonu
- Protein Structure-Function Research Unit, School of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of the Witwatersrand, Braamfontein, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Khajamohiddin Syed
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Agriculture, University of Zululand, 1 Main Road Vulindlela, KwaDlangezwa, 3886, South Africa.
| | - Thandeka Khoza
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal (Pietermaritzburg Campus), Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, 3209, South Africa.
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Cunha FS, Peralta RHS, Peralta JM. New insights into the detection and molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium with emphasis in Brazilian studies: a review. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2019; 61:e28. [PMID: 31241657 PMCID: PMC6592014 DOI: 10.1590/s1678-9946201961028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptosporidium spp. is a pathogenic protozoan present in the gastrointestinal tract of several hosts. This protozoan was originally classified as within the Coccidia Class and has recently been reclassified to gregarine based on studies that observed the evolutionary phases from the process of excision and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene. Molecular biology techniques have become diagnostic tools and have also been used to understand the epidemiology of Cryptosporidium spp., since several species of this genus are very similar morphologically and morphometrically. Molecular techniques have been used in the identification of parasites, at the species and subtypes levels and to study disease transmission. The laboratory diagnosis of human cryptosporidiosis can be made by parasite detection methods, such as optical microscopy, antigens or genetic material detection, as well as serum antibodies raised to Cryptosporidium spp. Molecular methods were developed and allowed, not only an extensive revision of the taxonomy, but also an improvement in the laboratory diagnosis. In Brazil, there are few reports of Cryptosporidium spp. outbreaks in humans and all of them took place in nurseries. A few epidemiological studies developed in Brazil have used molecular methods for the detection of Cryptosporidium spp., as well as genotyping studies of their species and subtypes. The use of real-time PCR, together with microscopy and immunochromatography techniques, would result in a more precise diagnosis of cryptosporidiosis. The analysis of genotypes, subtypes and clonality of Cryptosporidium could be useful to understand and define the prognosis and severity of infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Souza Cunha
- Universidade Federal Fluminense, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento
de Patologia, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - José Mauro Peralta
- Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Microbiologia
Prof. Paulo de Góes, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Čondlová Š, Horčičková M, Havrdová N, Sak B, Hlásková L, Perec-Matysiak A, Kicia M, McEvoy J, Kváč M. Diversity of Cryptosporidium spp. in Apodemus spp. in Europe. Eur J Protistol 2019; 69:1-13. [PMID: 30826667 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejop.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 02/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The genetic diversity of Cryptosporidium spp. in Apodemus spp. (striped field mouse, yellow-necked mouse and wood mouse) from 16 European countries was examined by PCR/sequencing of isolates from 437 animals. Overall, 13.7% (60/437) of animals were positive for Cryptosporidium by PCR. Phylogenetic analysis of small-subunit rRNA, Cryptosporidium oocyst wall protein and actin gene sequences showed the presence of Cryptosporidium ditrichi (22/60), Cryptosporidium apodemi (13/60), Cryptosporidium apodemus genotype I (8/60), Cryptosporidium apodemus genotype II (9/60), Cryptosporidium parvum (2/60), Cryptosporidium microti (2/60), Cryptosporidium muris (2/60) and Cryptosporidium tyzzeri (2/60). At the gp60 locus, novel gp60 families XVIIa and XVIIIa were identified in Cryptosporidium apodemus genotype I and II, respectively, subtype IIaA16G1R1b was identified in C. parvum, and subtypes IXaA8 and IXcA6 in C. tyzzeri. Only animals infected with C. ditrichi, C. apodemi, and Cryptosporidium apodemus genotypes shed oocysts that were detectable by microscopy, with the infection intensity ranging from 2000 to 52,000 oocysts per gram of faeces. None of the faecal samples was diarrheic in the time of the sampling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Šárka Čondlová
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Michaela Horčičková
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Nikola Havrdová
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Bohumil Sak
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Lenka Hlásková
- Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic
| | - Agnieszka Perec-Matysiak
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Wrocław, Poland
| | - Marta Kicia
- Department of Biology and Medical Parasitology, Wroclaw Medical University, Poland
| | - John McEvoy
- Microbiological Sciences Department, North Dakota State University, Fargo, USA
| | - Martin Kváč
- Faculty of Agriculture, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, České Budějovice, Czech Republic.
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First surveillance and molecular identification of the Cryptosporidium skunk genotype and Cryptosporidium parvum in wild raccoons (Procyon lotor) in Osaka, Japan. Parasitol Res 2018; 117:3669-3674. [PMID: 30269175 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-6089-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Recent research suggests that raccoons (Procyon lotor) can transmit several important pathogens affecting humans, including protozoans. In Japan, the number of wild raccoons has increased since they were first introduced more than 50 years ago. Here, we report the first survey of Cryptosporidium infection using fecal swabs of raccoons captured in Osaka, Japan. Of 116 raccoons examined by PCR targeting of the Cryptosporidium 18S rRNA gene, 7 (6.03%; 2 adults and 5 young animals) were positive, and the isolates were identified as Cryptosporidium skunk genotype (subtype XVIa) and C. parvum based on sequence and phylogenetic analyses. Both species and the genotype are zoonotic; thus, our results suggest that raccoons could transmit Cryptosporidium infections to humans in Japan.
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Kubota R, Matsubara K, Tamukai K, Ike K, Tokiwa T. Molecular and histopathological features of Cryptosporidium ubiquitum infection in imported chinchillas Chinchilla lanigera in Japan. Parasitol Int 2018; 68:9-13. [PMID: 30240872 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2018.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 08/15/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Long-tailed chinchillas Chinchilla lanigera are popular rodent species kept both in households, where they are hand-raised as pets, and in zoological facilities. From January 2016 to February 2017, 13 juvenile chinchillas from five facilities in Japan were diagnosed with cryptosporidiosis at the animal hospital. Eight of the cases were fatal. All of the animals were imported from the Czech Republic by the same vendor. Histopathological and multilocus sequence analyses using 18S ribosomal RNA, actin, 70-kDa heat shock protein, and 60-kDa glycoprotein genes confirmed Cryptosporidium ubiquitum of subtype XIId as the etiological agent. Multilocus analysis demonstrated the presence of two new sequence types closely related to the C. ubiquitum Xlld strain isolated from a human in the USA. This study indicated that potentially zoonotic Cryptosporidium is widespread and may have caused a high number of deaths among imported juvenile chinchillas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rie Kubota
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonancho, Musashino, Tokyo 180-8602, Japan
| | | | - Kenichi Tamukai
- Den-en-chofu Animal Hospital, Denenchofu, Ota, Tokyo 145-0071, Japan
| | - Kazunori Ike
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonancho, Musashino, Tokyo 180-8602, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Tokiwa
- Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Nippon Veterinary and Life Science University, 1-7-1 Kyonancho, Musashino, Tokyo 180-8602, Japan.
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Mori E, Pisanu B, Zozzoli R, Solano E, Olivieri E, Sassera D, Montagna M. Arthropods and associated pathogens from native and introduced rodents in Northeastern Italy. Parasitol Res 2018; 117:3237-3243. [PMID: 30058030 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-6022-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Introduced Siberian chipmunks Eutamias sibiricus have been reported to be important reservoirs for human Lyme disease, as they may host high numbers of hard ticks carrying Borrelia spp. and other pathogens. In the present study, we assessed the prevalence of Borrelia spp. and other pathogenic bacteria in ectoparasite arthropod species infesting Siberian chipmunks and coexisting native small rodents. Small rodents were trapped with Sherman traps in Veneto (NE Italy), where the largest Italian populations of chipmunks occur. A total of 14 individual ticks were found on 223 rodents, with 6 more ticks obtained from stored dead chipmunks from the same study area. Ectoparasites were screened for pathogens by molecular analyses including species-specific PCR amplifications. Rickettsia monacensis, Borrelia lusitaniae, and Anaplasma platys were present in the parasites of both native rodents and introduced chipmunks. The present findings suggest a role for the invasive species E. sibiricus in the maintenance of the Ixodes ricinus life cycle, which may result in the modification of the transmission dynamics of tick-borne pathogens. Moreover, the presence of Rickettsia in urban populations of chipmunks may represent a serious risk for human health and should be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emiliano Mori
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Vita, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100, Siena, Italy. .,Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei, Palazzo Corsini, Via della Lungara 10, 00165, Rome, Italy.
| | - Benoît Pisanu
- Centre d'expertise et de données sur la nature (UMS Patrimoine Naturel), AFB, MNHN, CNRS, CP41, 36 rue Geoffroy Saint-Hilaire, 75005, Paris, France.,Centre d'Ecologie et des Sciences de la Conservation (UMR 7204), MNHN, CNRS, UPMC, Sorbonne Universités, Paris, France
| | - Rudy Zozzoli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Chimiche, della Vita e della Sostenibilità Ambientale, Università degli Studi di Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze, 11a, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Emanuela Solano
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie "Charles Darwin", Università di Roma "La Sapienza", Via Borelli 50, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Olivieri
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologia "L. Spallanzani", Università degli Studi di Pavia, Via A. Ferrata 9, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Davide Sassera
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Agroambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Matteo Montagna
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Agroambientali, Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133, Milan, Italy
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