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Collins JB, Stone SA, Koury EJ, Paredes AG, Shao F, Lovato C, Chen M, Shi R, Li AY, Candal I, Al Moutaa K, Moya ND, Andersen EC. Quantitative tests of albendazole resistance in Caenorhabditis elegans beta-tubulin mutants. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2024; 25:100556. [PMID: 38991432 PMCID: PMC11296247 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2024.100556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Benzimidazole (BZ) anthelmintics are among the most important treatments for parasitic nematode infections in the developing world. Widespread BZ resistance in veterinary parasites and emerging resistance in human parasites raise major concerns for the continued use of BZs. Knowledge of the mechanisms of resistance is necessary to make informed treatment decisions and circumvent resistance. Benzimidazole resistance has traditionally been associated with mutations and natural variants in the C. elegans beta-tubulin gene ben-1 and orthologs in parasitic species. However, variants in ben-1 alone do not explain the differences in BZ responses across parasite populations. Here, we examined the roles of five C. elegans beta-tubulin genes (tbb-1, mec-7, tbb-4, ben-1, and tbb-6) in the BZ response as well as to determine if another beta-tubulin acts redundantly with ben-1. We generated C. elegans strains with a loss of each beta-tubulin gene, as well as strains with a loss of tbb-1, mec-7, tbb-4, or tbb-6 in a genetic background that also lacks ben-1. We found that the loss of ben-1 conferred the maximum level of resistance following exposure to a single concentration of albendazole, and the loss of a second beta-tubulin gene did not alter the level of resistance. However, additional traits other than larval development could be affected by the loss of additional beta-tubulins, and the roles of other beta-tubulin genes might be revealed at different albendazole concentrations. Therefore, further work is needed to fully define the possible roles of other beta-tubulin genes in the BZ response.
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Affiliation(s)
- J B Collins
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Skyler A Stone
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Emily J Koury
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Anna G Paredes
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Fiona Shao
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Crystal Lovato
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Michael Chen
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Richelle Shi
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Anwyn Y Li
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Isa Candal
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Khadija Al Moutaa
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Nicolas D Moya
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Erik C Andersen
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA.
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Nezami R, Otis C, Boyer A, Blanchard J, Moreau M, Pelletier JP, Martel-Pelletier J, Godoy P, Troncy E. Surveillance of Ancylostoma caninum in naturally infected dogs in Quebec, Canada, and assessment of benzimidazole anthelmintics reveal a variable efficacy with the presence of a resistant isolate in imported dogs. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2024; 52:101036. [PMID: 38880561 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2024.101036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
Ancylostoma caninum is a widely prevalent parasitic nematode in dogs across the world. There has been a notable increase in reports of anthelmintic resistance in A. caninum within the United States of America in recent years, which has led us to investigate the potential of this scenario in Canada. The study objectives were to assess the prevalence of A. caninum in two different groups, including a colony of rescued dogs in Canada and three imported Greyhound dogs from USA, and to evaluate the efficacy of two benzimidazole (BZ) anthelmintics against A. caninum, complemented with a molecular genetic analysis adapted to low prevalence. Fecal samples were collected at pre- and post-treatment with fenbendazole for the native shelters-origin group, and a combination of anthelmintic formulations, including the pro-BZ febantel for the USA-origin group. The coprology analyses found several genera of internal parasites. Canine ancylostomiasis was the most prevalent parasitosis with 30.77% in the native group and 100% in the USA group, but with overall low average of A. caninum eggs per gram. Through the fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), applying a cut-off at 90% as baseline of egg reduction for successful efficacy, BZ showed variable efficacy. Furthermore, molecular analysis confirmed the presence of A. caninum in both groups of dogs and found differences in the genetics linked to BZ resistance on the A. caninum β-tubulin isotype 1 gene. In the isolate from the native group, both codons 167 and 200 were homozygous without the presence of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). In contrast, the selected isolate from the USA group, showed a homozygous allele at position 200 and a heterozygous SNP at position 167. The latter was congruent with the low efficacy in FECRT and agrees with the recent findings of USA A. caninum isolate resistant phenotype to the BZ anthelmintics. The limitations of the study include an overall low eggs-per-gram in both canine groups, and the shortage of additional fecal samples from the USA group, restraining the molecular analysis only to one out of the three Greyhounds. This study provided some insights on the efficacy of BZs against A. caninum and revealed the presence of BZ resistant isolates in imported dogs in Quebec, Canada. All this information should be considered, for choosing the best strategy in the control of A. caninum using anthelmintic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxana Nezami
- Research Group in Animal Pharmacology of Quebec (GREPAQ) - Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte St., Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Colombe Otis
- Research Group in Animal Pharmacology of Quebec (GREPAQ) - Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte St., Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Alexandre Boyer
- Research Group in Animal Pharmacology of Quebec (GREPAQ) - Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte St., Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - Julie Blanchard
- Hôpital vétérinaire de Buckingham, Gatineau, QC, J8L 2H5, Canada
| | - Maxim Moreau
- Université de Montréal Hospital Research Center (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Jean-Pierre Pelletier
- Université de Montréal Hospital Research Center (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada
| | | | - Pablo Godoy
- Research Group in Animal Pharmacology of Quebec (GREPAQ) - Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte St., Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2, Canada.
| | - Eric Troncy
- Research Group in Animal Pharmacology of Quebec (GREPAQ) - Université de Montréal, 3200 Sicotte St., Saint-Hyacinthe, QC J2S 2M2, Canada; Université de Montréal Hospital Research Center (CRCHUM), Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada.
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Antonopoulos A, Gilleard JS, Charlier J. Next-generation sequencing technologies for helminth diagnostics and surveillance in ruminants: shifting diagnostic barriers. Trends Parasitol 2024; 40:511-526. [PMID: 38760257 DOI: 10.1016/j.pt.2024.04.013] [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: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Helminth infections in grazing ruminants are a major issue for livestock farming globally, but are unavoidable in outdoor grazing systems and must be effectively managed to avoid deleterious effects to animal health, and productivity. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies are transforming our understanding of the genetic basis of anthelmintic resistance (AR) and epidemiological studies of ruminant gastrointestinal parasites. They also have the potential to not only help develop and validate molecular diagnostic tests but to be directly used in routine diagnostics integrating species-specific identification and AR into a single test. Here, we review how these developments have opened the pathway for the development of multi-AR and multispecies identification in a single test, with widespread implications for sustainable livestock farming for the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair Antonopoulos
- Kreavet, Kruibeke, Belgium; School of Biodiversity, One Health, and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
| | - John S Gilleard
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Gravdal M, Woolsey ID, Robertson LJ, Höglund J, Chartier C, Stuen S. Occurrence of gastrointestinal nematodes in lambs in Norway, as assessed by copromicroscopy and droplet digital polymerase chain reaction. Acta Vet Scand 2024; 66:22. [PMID: 38796502 PMCID: PMC11127287 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-024-00743-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) have a major impact on sheep production, health, and welfare worldwide. Norway is no exception, but there are only a few studies on the prevalence of GINs in Norwegian sheep. The aim of this study was to investigate the current occurrence of the most important nematodes in sheep flocks in Norway. Faecal samples were collected from flocks in 2021/2022, mainly from three geographical regions in Norway, i.e., northern, eastern, and western. In each of 134 flocks included, individual samples from 10 lambs (autumn) were pooled. Third stage larvae (L3) were cultivated and harvested (Baermann method) from the pooled samples. The DNA was then extracted and further analysed using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). This enables assessment of the proportions of the three most important nematode species/genera, i.e., H. contortus, T. circumcincta, and Trichostrongylus. The fractional abundance/relative proportion of each species/genus was assessed by performing duplex assays with universal strongyle and species/genus-specific primers and probe sets. In addition, the occurrence of Nematodirus eggs was assessed by standard faecal egg counts (i.e., McMaster method). RESULTS Of the 134 flocks sampled, 24 were from the northern region, 31 from eastern, and 71 from western Norway. In addition, some flocks from central (n = 7), and southern (n = 1) Norway were included. Among the sampled flocks, T. circumcincta occurred most commonly (94%), followed by H. contortus (60%) and Trichostrongylus (55%), and Nematodirus (51%). In general, mixed infections were observed, with 38% and 18% of flocks infected with three or all four genera, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study indicate that GINs are widespread in Norway. Teladorsagia circumcincta seems to be present in most flocks based on this screening. Moreover, the results show that Nematodirus spp. infect lambs throughout the country, predominantly N. battus, and indicate that this nematode has become more abundant, which could lead to an increase in nematodirosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maiken Gravdal
- Department of Production Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Svebastadveien 112, 4325, Sandnes, Norway.
| | - Ian David Woolsey
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Elizabeth Stephansens Vei 15, 1433, Ås, Norway
| | - Lucy Jane Robertson
- Department of Paraclinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Elizabeth Stephansens Vei 15, 1433, Ås, Norway
| | - Johan Höglund
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7028, 75007, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Snorre Stuen
- Department of Production Animal Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Svebastadveien 112, 4325, Sandnes, Norway
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Jones BP, Kozel K, Alonte AJI, Llanes KKR, Juhász A, Chaudhry U, Roose S, Geldhof P, Belizario VY, Nejsum P, Stothard JR, LaCourse EJ, van Vliet AHM, Paller VGV, Betson M. Worldwide absence of canonical benzimidazole resistance-associated mutations within β-tubulin genes from Ascaris. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:225. [PMID: 38755679 PMCID: PMC11098727 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06306-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The giant roundworm Ascaris is an intestinal nematode, causing ascariasis by infecting humans and pigs worldwide. Recent estimates suggest that Ascaris infects over half a billion people, with chronic infections leading to reduced growth and cognitive ability. Ascariasis affects innumerable pigs worldwide and is known to reduce production yields via decreased growth and condemnation of livers. The predominant anthelminthic drugs used to treat ascariasis are the benzimidazoles. Benzimidazoles interact with β-tubulins and block their function, and several benzimidazole resistance-associated mutations have been described in the β-tubulins of ruminant nematodes. Recent research on ascarids has shown that these canonical benzimidazole resistance-associated mutations are likely not present in the β-tubulins of Ascaris, Ascaridia or Parascaris, even in phenotypically resistant populations. METHODS To further determine the putative absence of key β-tubulin polymorphisms, we screened two β-tubulin isotypes of Ascaris, highly expressed in adult worms. Using adult and egg samples of Ascaris obtained from pigs and humans worldwide, we performed deep amplicon sequencing to look for canonical resistance-associated mutations in Ascaris β-tubulins. Subsequently, we examined these data in closer detail to study the population dynamics of Ascaris and genetic diversity within the two isotypes and tested whether genotypes appeared to partition across human and pig hosts. RESULTS In the 187 isolates, 69 genotypes were found, made up of eight haplotypes of β-tubulin isotype A and 20 haplotypes of isotype B. Single nucleotide polymorphisms were seen at 14 and 37 positions for β-tubulin isotype A and isotype B, respectively. No evidence of any canonical benzimidazole resistance-associated mutations was found in either human- or pig-derived Ascaris isolates. There was, however, a difference in the genetic diversity of each isotype and distribution of β-tubulin genotypes between human- and pig-derived Ascaris. Statistical tests of population differentiation show significant differences (p < 0.001) between pig- and human-derived worms; however, more diversity was seen between worms from different populations than worms from different hosts. CONCLUSIONS Our work suggests an absence of canonical β-tubulin mutations within Ascaris, but alternative modes of anthelminthic resistance may emerge necessitating continued genetic scrutiny alongside monitoring of drug efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben P Jones
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7AL, UK
| | - Kezia Kozel
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7AL, UK
| | - Allen Jethro I Alonte
- Institute of Biological Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines
| | - Kennesa Klariz R Llanes
- Institute of Biological Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines
| | - Alexandra Juhász
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Umer Chaudhry
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7AL, UK
- School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, True Blue, West Indies, Grenada
| | - Sara Roose
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Peter Geldhof
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Vicente Y Belizario
- Department of Parasitology, College of Public Health, University of the Philippines Manila, Manila, Philippines
| | - Peter Nejsum
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - J Russell Stothard
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - E James LaCourse
- Department of Tropical Disease Biology, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, L3 5QA, UK
| | - Arnoud H M van Vliet
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7AL, UK
| | - Vachel Gay V Paller
- Institute of Biological Sciences, University of the Philippines Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines
| | - Martha Betson
- Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, GU2 7AL, UK.
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Shaver AO, Miller IR, Schaye ES, Moya ND, Collins JB, Wit J, Blanco AH, Shao FM, Andersen EJ, Khan SA, Paredes G, Andersen EC. Quantifying the fitness effects of resistance alleles with and without anthelmintic selection pressure using Caenorhabditis elegans. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012245. [PMID: 38768235 PMCID: PMC11142691 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 05/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Albendazole (a benzimidazole) and ivermectin (a macrocyclic lactone) are the two most commonly co-administered anthelmintic drugs in mass-drug administration programs worldwide. Despite emerging resistance, we do not fully understand the mechanisms of resistance to these drugs nor the consequences of delivering them in combination. Albendazole resistance has primarily been attributed to variation in the drug target, a beta-tubulin gene. Ivermectin targets glutamate-gated chloride channels (GluCls), but it is unknown whether GluCl genes are involved in ivermectin resistance in nature. Using Caenorhabditis elegans, we defined the fitness costs associated with loss of the drug target genes singly or in combinations of the genes that encode GluCl subunits. We quantified the loss-of-function effects on three traits: (i) multi-generational competitive fitness, (ii) fecundity, and (iii) development. In competitive fitness and development assays, we found that a deletion of the beta-tubulin gene ben-1 conferred albendazole resistance, but ivermectin resistance required the loss of two GluCl genes (avr-14 and avr-15). The fecundity assays revealed that loss of ben-1 did not provide any fitness benefit in albendazole conditions and that no GluCl deletion mutants were resistant to ivermectin. Next, we searched for evidence of multi-drug resistance across the three traits. Loss of ben-1 did not confer resistance to ivermectin, nor did loss of any single GluCl subunit or combination confer resistance to albendazole. Finally, we assessed the development of 124 C. elegans wild strains across six benzimidazoles and seven macrocyclic lactones to identify evidence of multi-drug resistance between the two drug classes and found a strong phenotypic correlation within a drug class but not across drug classes. Because each gene affects various aspects of nematode physiology, these results suggest that it is necessary to assess multiple fitness traits to evaluate how each gene contributes to anthelmintic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda O. Shaver
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
- Dept. of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Isabella R. Miller
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Etta S. Schaye
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Nicolas D. Moya
- Dept. of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - J. B. Collins
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
- Dept. of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Janneke Wit
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Alyssa H. Blanco
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Fiona M. Shao
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Elliot J. Andersen
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Sharik A. Khan
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Gracie Paredes
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Erik C. Andersen
- Dept. of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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Collins J, Stone SA, Koury EJ, Paredes AG, Shao F, Lovato C, Chen M, Shi R, Li AY, Candal I, Al Moutaa K, Moya N, Andersen EC. Quantitative tests of albendazole resistance in beta-tubulin mutants. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.11.589070. [PMID: 38665774 PMCID: PMC11044196 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.11.589070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Benzimidazole (BZ) anthelmintics are among the most important treatments for parasitic nematode infections in the developing world. Widespread BZ resistance in veterinary parasites and emerging resistance in human parasites raise major concerns for the continued use of BZs. Knowledge of the mechanisms of resistance is necessary to make informed treatment decisions and circumvent resistance. Benzimidazole resistance has traditionally been associated with mutations and natural variants in the C. elegans beta-tubulin gene ben-1 and orthologs in parasitic species. However, variants in ben-1 alone do not explain the differences in BZ responses across parasite populations. Here, we examine the roles of five C. elegans beta-tubulin genes (tbb-1, mec-7, tbb-4, ben-1, and tbb-6) to identify the role each gene plays in BZ response. We generated C. elegans strains with a loss of each beta-tubulin gene, as well as strains with a loss of tbb-1, mec-7, tbb-4, or tbb-6 in a genetic background that also lacks ben-1 to test beta-tubulin redundancy in BZ response. We found that only the individual loss of ben-1 conferred a substantial level of BZ resistance, although the loss of tbb-1 was found to confer a small benefit in the presence of albendazole (ABZ). The loss of ben-1 was found to confer an almost complete rescue of animal development in the presence of 30 μM ABZ, likely explaining why no additive effects caused by the loss of a second beta-tubulin were observed. We demonstrate that ben-1 is the only beta-tubulin gene in C. elegans where loss confers substantial BZ resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- J.B. Collins
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Skyler A. Stone
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Emily J. Koury
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Anna G. Paredes
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Fiona Shao
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Crystal Lovato
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Michael Chen
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Richelle Shi
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Anwyn Y. Li
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Isa Candal
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Khadija Al Moutaa
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, USA
| | - Nicolas Moya
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
| | - Erik C. Andersen
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA
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Francis EK, Šlapeta J. The proof is in the poo-ding: Benefits of the longitudinal molecular surveillance of drug resistance demonstrated in a New South Wales cattle herd. Vet Parasitol 2024; 327:110145. [PMID: 38382382 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2024.110145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Our understanding of anthelmintic resistance in the gastrointestinal nematodes of Australian cattle relies exclusively on small-scale phenotypic reports utilising traditional faecal egg count reduction tests. This approach is not readily scalable to establish the national prevalence of resistance, nor is it conducive of routine longitudinal surveillance for the emergence of resistance in its early stages. This study introduces the benefits of applying mixed amplicon metabarcoding longitudinally for timely and cost-efficient molecular surveillance of multiple anthelmintic resistance mutations, as they emerge on farms. Using opportunistically collected faecal samples from a cattle herd in central west New South Wales (2019-2023), we detected the early emergence of Haemonchus spp. levamisole-resistant S168T shortly after levamisole introduction, while benzimidazole-resistant allele frequencies remained constant. Additionally, we observed the possible spill-over of resistant Haemonchus contortus from sheep, along with variations in faecal burdens and species diversity influenced by climate stochasticity and host immunity. This study emphasises the power of molecular diagnostics for farm-level anthelmintic resistance management, providing essential evidence to support its integration into routine surveillance programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Kate Francis
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia.
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia; The University of Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
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Lyons M, Brown TL, Lahuerta-Marin A, Morgan ER, Airs PM. A molecular assessment of Ostertagia leptospicularis and Spiculopteragia asymmetrica among wild fallow deer in Northern Ireland and implications for false detection of livestock-associated species. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:141. [PMID: 38500187 PMCID: PMC10949651 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06147-2] [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: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wild deer populations utilizing livestock grazing areas risk cross-species transmission of gastrointestinal nematode parasites (GINs), including GINs with anthelmintic resistance (AR) traits. Wild deer have been shown to carry problematic GIN species such as Haemonchus contortus and Trichostrongylus species in the UK, but the presence of livestock GINs in Northern Ireland deer populations is unknown. Also, is it not known whether AR traits exist among GINs of deer such as Ostertagia leptospicularis and Spiculopteragia asymmetrica in pastureland where anthelmintics are heavily used. METHODS Adult-stage GIN samples were retrieved from Northern Irish wild fallow deer abomasa. Individual specimens were subject to a species-specific PCR analysis for common sheep and cattle GIN species with ITS-2 sequence analysis to validate species identities. In addition, the beta-tubulin gene was subject to sequencing to identify benzimidazole (BZ) resistance markers. RESULTS ITS-2 sequencing revealed O. leptospicularis and S. asymmetrica, but species-specific PCR yielded false-positive hits for H. contortus, Teladorsagia circimcincta, Trichostrongylus axei, T. colubriformis, T. vitrinus and Ostertagia ostertagi. For beta-tubulin, O. leptospicularis and S. asymmetrica yielded species-specific sequences at the E198 codon, but no resistance markers were identified in either species at positions 167, 198 or 200 of the coding region. DISCUSSION From this report, no GIN species of significance in livestock were identified among Northern Ireland fallow deer. However, false-positive PCR hits for sheep and cattle-associated GINs is concerning as the presence of deer species in livestock areas could impact both deer and livestock diagnostics and lead to overestimation of both GIN burden in deer and the role as of deer as drivers of these pathogens. ITS-2 sequences from both O. leptospicularis and S. asymmetrica show minor sequence variations to geographically distinct isolates. AR has been noted among GINs of deer but molecular analyses are lacking for GINs of wildlife. In producing the first beta-tubulin sequences for both O. leptospicularis and S. asymmetrica, we report no BZ resistance in this cohort. CONCLUSIONS This work contributes to genetic resources for wildlife species and considers the implications of such species when performing livestock GIN diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maggie Lyons
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, UK
- Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute Northern Ireland, 12 Stoney Road, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT4 3SD, UK
| | - Tony L Brown
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Angela Lahuerta-Marin
- Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute Northern Ireland, 12 Stoney Road, Belfast, Co Antrim, BT4 3SD, UK
| | - Eric R Morgan
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, UK
| | - Paul M Airs
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast, BT9 5DL, UK.
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10
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McKean EL, Grill E, Choi YJ, Mitreva M, O'Halloran DM, Hawdon JM. Altered larval activation response associated with multidrug resistance in the canine hookworm Ancylostoma caninum. Parasitology 2024; 151:271-281. [PMID: 38163962 PMCID: PMC11007283 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023001385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Parasitic gastrointestinal nematodes pose significant health risks to humans, livestock, and companion animals, and their control relies heavily on the use of anthelmintic drugs. Overuse of these drugs has led to the emergence of resistant nematode populations. Herein, a naturally occurring isolate (referred to as BCR) of the dog hookworm, Ancylostoma caninum, that is resistant to 3 major classes of anthelmintics is characterized. Various drug assays were used to determine the resistance of BCR to thiabendazole, ivermectin, moxidectin and pyrantel pamoate. When compared to a drug-susceptible isolate of A. caninum, BCR was shown to be significantly resistant to all 4 of the drugs tested. Multiple single nucleotide polymorphisms have been shown to impart benzimidazole resistance, including the F167Y mutation in the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene, which was confirmed to be present in BCR through molecular analysis. The frequency of the resistant allele in BCR was 76.3% following its first passage in the lab, which represented an increase from approximately 50% in the founding hookworm population. A second, recently described mutation in codon 134 (Q134H) was also detected at lower frequency in the BCR population. Additionally, BCR exhibits an altered larval activation phenotype compared to the susceptible isolate, suggesting differences in the signalling pathways involved in the activation process which may be associated with resistance. Further characterization of this isolate will provide insights into the mechanisms of resistance to macrocyclic lactones and tetrahydropyrimidine anthelmintics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elise L. McKean
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Emilia Grill
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Young-Jun Choi
- Infectious Diseases Division, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Makedonka Mitreva
- Infectious Diseases Division, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- McDonnell Genome Institute, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Damien M. O'Halloran
- Department of Biological Sciences, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - John M. Hawdon
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Tropical Medicine, The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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11
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Shaver AO, Miller IR, Schaye ES, Moya ND, Collins J, Wit J, Blanco AH, Shao FM, Andersen EJ, Khan SA, Paredes G, Andersen EC. Quantifying the fitness effects of resistance alleles with and without anthelmintic selection pressure using Caenorhabditis elegans. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.01.578300. [PMID: 38370666 PMCID: PMC10871296 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.01.578300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Albendazole and ivermectin are the two most commonly co-administered anthelmintic drugs in mass-drug administration programs worldwide. Despite emerging resistance, we do not fully understand the mechanisms of resistance to these drugs nor the consequences of delivering them in combination. Albendazole resistance has primarily been attributed to variation in the drug target, a beta-tubulin gene. Ivermectin targets glutamate-gated chloride channel (GluCl) genes, but it is unknown whether these genes are involved in ivermectin resistance in nature. Using Caenorhabditis elegans, we defined the fitness costs associated with loss of the drug target genes singly or in combinations of the genes that encode GluCl subunits. We quantified the loss-of function effects on three traits: (i) multi-generational competitive fitness, (ii) fecundity, and (iii) development. In competitive fitness and development assays, we found that a deletion of the beta-tubulin gene ben-1 conferred albendazole resistance, but ivermectin resistance required loss of two GluCl genes (avr-14 and avr-15) or loss of three GluCl genes (avr-14, avr-15, and glc-1). The fecundity assays revealed that loss of ben-1 did not provide any fitness benefit in albendazole and that no GluCl deletion mutants were resistant to ivermectin. Next, we searched for evidence of multi-drug resistance across the three traits. Loss of ben-1 did not confer resistance to ivermectin, nor did loss of any single GluCl subunit or combination confer resistance to albendazole. Finally, we assessed the development of 124 C. elegans wild strains across six benzimidazoles and seven macrocyclic lactones to identify evidence of multi-drug resistance between the two drug classes and found a strong phenotypic correlation within a drug class but not across drug classes. Because each gene affects various aspects of nematode physiology, these results suggest that it is necessary to assess multiple fitness traits to evaluate how each gene contributes to anthelmintic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda O. Shaver
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Isabella R. Miller
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Etta S. Schaye
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Nicolas D. Moya
- Dept. of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
| | - J.B. Collins
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Janneke Wit
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Alyssa H. Blanco
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Fiona M. Shao
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Elliot J. Andersen
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Sharik A. Khan
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Gracie Paredes
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Erik C. Andersen
- Dept. of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, United States of America
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12
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Antonopoulos A, Higgins O, Doyle SR, Bartley D, Morrison A, Shalaby MM, Reboud J, Devaney E, Smith TJ, Laing R, Busin V. Real-time single-base specific detection of the Haemonchus contortus S168T variant associated with levamisole resistance using loop-primer endonuclease cleavage loop-mediated isothermal amplification. Mol Cell Probes 2024; 73:101946. [PMID: 38097144 PMCID: PMC10884526 DOI: 10.1016/j.mcp.2023.101946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Haemonchus contortus is a parasitic haematophagous nematode that primarily affects small ruminants and causes significant economic loss to the global livestock industry. Treatment of haemonchosis typically relies on broad-spectrum anthelmintics, resistance to which is an important cause of treatment failure. Resistance to levamisole remains less widespread than to other major anthelmintic classes, prompting the need for more effective and accurate surveillance to maintain its efficacy. Loop-primer endonuclease cleavage loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LEC-LAMP) is a recently developed diagnostic method that facilitates multiplex target detection with single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) specificity and portable onsite testing. In this study, we designed a new LEC-LAMP assay and applied it to detect the levamisole resistance marker S168T in H. contortus. We explored multiplexing probes for both the resistant S168T and the susceptible S168 alleles in a single-tube assay. We then included a generic probe to detect the acr-8 gene in the multiplex assay, which could facilitate the quantification of both resistance markers and overall genetic material from H. contortus in a single step. Our results showed promising application of these technologies, demonstrating a proof-of-concept assay which is amenable to detection of resistance alleles within the parasite population, with the potential for multiplex detection, and point-of-care application enabled by lateral flow end-point detection. However, further optimisation and validation is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair Antonopoulos
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom; Kreavet, Kruibeke, Belgium.
| | - Owen Higgins
- Molecular Diagnostics Research Group, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Stephen R Doyle
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
| | - David Bartley
- Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Morrison
- Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Maha Mansour Shalaby
- James Watt School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom; Food Control Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr-El-Sheikh, Egypt
| | - Julien Reboud
- James Watt School of Engineering, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Eileen Devaney
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Terry J Smith
- Molecular Diagnostics Research Group, School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Roz Laing
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Valentina Busin
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom.
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13
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Kapo N, Omeragić J, Goletić Š, Šabić E, Softić A, Smajlović A, Mujezinović I, Škapur V, Goletić T. First Report of Benzimidazole Resistance in Field Population of Haemonchus contortus from Sheep, Goats and Cattle in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Pathogens 2024; 13:77. [PMID: 38251384 PMCID: PMC10818805 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13010077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Haemonchus contortus is a globally significant parasitic nematode in ruminants, with widespread resistance to benzimidazole due to its excessive and prolonged use. Given the extensive use of benzimidazole anthelmintics in Bosnia and Herzegovina, we hypothesized that resistance is prevalent. The aim of this study was to identify the presence of anthelmintic resistance to benzimidazole in H. contortus from naturally infected sheep, goats and cattle in Bosnia and Herzegovina through the detection of the Phe/Tyr polymorphism in the amino acid at position 200 of the β-tubulin protein. From 19 locations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a total of 83 adult H. contortus were collected from the abomasum of ruminants. Among these, 45 H. contortus specimens were isolated from sheep, 19 from goats and 19 from cattle. Results showed that 77.8% of H. contortus in sheep exhibited homozygous resistant genotypes at position 200 of the β-tubulin gene, with 15.5% being heterozygous. In goats, all tested H. contortus (100%) were homozygous resistant, and no heterozygous resistant or homozygous sensitive genotypes were found. Cattle had 94.7% homozygous resistant H. contortus, with no heterozygous resistant genotypes detected. In H. contortus from sheep and cattle, 6.7% and 5.3%, respectively, displayed homozygous sensitive genotypes. This study, for the first time, highlights the presence of a resistant population of H. contortus in sheep, goats and cattle in Bosnia and Herzegovina, using the rt-qPCR method. The resistance likely spread from sheep or goats to cattle, facilitated by shared pastures and the practice of transhumance, indicating a widespread and growing issue of anthelmintic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naida Kapo
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (E.Š.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (I.M.); (T.G.)
| | - Jasmin Omeragić
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (E.Š.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (I.M.); (T.G.)
| | - Šejla Goletić
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (E.Š.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (I.M.); (T.G.)
| | - Emina Šabić
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (E.Š.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (I.M.); (T.G.)
| | - Adis Softić
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (E.Š.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (I.M.); (T.G.)
| | - Ahmed Smajlović
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (E.Š.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (I.M.); (T.G.)
| | - Indira Mujezinović
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (E.Š.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (I.M.); (T.G.)
| | - Vedad Škapur
- Faculty of Agriculture and Food Science, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina;
| | - Teufik Goletić
- Veterinary Faculty, University of Sarajevo, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina; (J.O.); (Š.G.); (E.Š.); (A.S.); (A.S.); (I.M.); (T.G.)
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14
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Francis EK, Antonopoulos A, Westman ME, McKay-Demeler J, Laing R, Šlapeta J. A mixed amplicon metabarcoding and sequencing approach for surveillance of drug resistance to levamisole and benzimidazole in Haemonchus spp. Int J Parasitol 2024; 54:55-64. [PMID: 37536387 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2023.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Anthelmintic-resistant parasitic nematodes present a significant threat to sustainable livestock production worldwide. The ability to detect the emergence of anthelmintic resistance at an early stage, and therefore determine which drugs remain most effective, is crucial for minimising production losses. Despite many years of research into the molecular basis of anthelmintic resistance, no molecular-based tools are commercially available for the diagnosis of resistance as it emerges in field settings. We describe a mixed deep amplicon sequencing approach to determine the frequency of the levamisole (LEV)-resistant single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) within arc-8 exon 4 (S168T) in Haemonchus spp., coupled with benzimidazole (BZ)-resistant SNPs within β-tubulin isotype-1 and the internal transcribed spacer-2 (ITS-2) nemabiome. This constitutes the first known multi-drug and multi-species molecular diagnostic developed for helminths of veterinary importance. Of the ovine, bovine, caprine and camelid Australian field isolates we tested, S168T was detected in the majority of Haemonchus spp. populations from sheep and goats, but rarely at a frequency greater than 16%; an arbitrary threshold we set based on whole genome sequencing (WGS) of LEV-resistant Haemonchus contortus GWBII. Overall, BZ resistance was far more prevalent in Haemonchus spp. than LEV resistance, confirming that LEV is still an effective anthelmintic class for small ruminants in New South Wales, Australia. The mixed amplicon metabarcoding approach described herein paves the way towards the use of large scale sequencing as a surveillance technology in the field, the results of which can be translated into evidence-based recommendations for the livestock sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Kate Francis
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Alistair Antonopoulos
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, G61 1QH Scotland, United Kingdom; Kreavet, Kruibeke, Belgium
| | - Mark Edward Westman
- Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Menangle, New South Wales 2568, Australia
| | - Janina McKay-Demeler
- Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute, New South Wales Department of Primary Industries, Menangle, New South Wales 2568, Australia
| | - Roz Laing
- School of Biodiversity, One Health and Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, G61 1QH Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia; The University of Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, New South Wales 2006, Australia.
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15
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Titcomb G, Hulke J, Mantas JN, Gituku B, Young H. Cattle aggregations at shared resources create potential parasite exposure hotspots for wildlife. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20232239. [PMID: 38052242 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.2239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally rising livestock populations and declining wildlife numbers are likely to dramatically change disease risk for wildlife and livestock, especially at resources where they congregate. However, limited understanding of interspecific transmission dynamics at these hotspots hinders disease prediction or mitigation. In this study, we combined gastrointestinal nematode density and host foraging activity measurements from our prior work in an East African tropical savannah system with three estimates of parasite sharing capacity to investigate how interspecific exposures alter the relative riskiness of an important resource - water - among cattle and five dominant herbivore species. We found that due to their high parasite output, water dependence and parasite sharing capacity, cattle greatly increased potential parasite exposures at water sources for wild ruminants. When untreated for parasites, cattle accounted for over two-thirds of total potential exposures around water for wild ruminants, driving 2-23-fold increases in relative exposure levels at water sources. Simulated changes in wildlife and cattle ratios showed that water sources become increasingly important hotspots of interspecific transmission for wild ruminants when relative abundance of cattle parasites increases. These results emphasize that livestock have significant potential to alter the level and distribution of parasite exposures across the landscape for wild ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Titcomb
- Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins 80523-1019, CO, USA
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Jenna Hulke
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | | | - Benard Gituku
- Ecological Monitoring Unit, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Nanyuki, Kenya
| | - Hillary Young
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
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16
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Mukherjee A, Kar I, Patra AK. Understanding anthelmintic resistance in livestock using "omics" approaches. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:125439-125463. [PMID: 38015400 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31045-y] [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: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
Widespread and improper use of various anthelmintics, genetic, and epidemiological factors has resulted in anthelmintic-resistant (AR) helminth populations in livestock. This is currently quite common globally in different livestock animals including sheep, goats, and cattle to gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections. Therefore, the mechanisms underlying AR in parasitic worm species have been the subject of ample research to tackle this challenge. Current and emerging technologies in the disciplines of genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and proteomics in livestock species have advanced the understanding of the intricate molecular AR mechanisms in many major parasites. The technologies have improved the identification of possible biomarkers of resistant parasites, the ability to find actual causative genes, regulatory networks, and pathways of parasites governing the AR development including the dynamics of helminth infection and host-parasite infections. In this review, various "omics"-driven technologies including genome scan, candidate gene, quantitative trait loci, transcriptomic, proteomic, and metabolomic approaches have been described to understand AR of parasites of veterinary importance. Also, challenges and future prospects of these "omics" approaches are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayan Mukherjee
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Nadia, Mohanpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Indrajit Kar
- Department of Avian Sciences, West Bengal University of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Nadia, Mohanpur, West Bengal, India
| | - Amlan Kumar Patra
- American Institute for Goat Research, Langston University, Oklahoma, 73050, USA.
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17
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Stocker T, Scott I, Šlapeta J. Unambiguous identification of Ancylostoma caninum and Uncinaria stenocephala in Australian and New Zealand dogs from faecal samples. Aust Vet J 2023; 101:373-376. [PMID: 37537874 DOI: 10.1111/avj.13272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Hookworms (Ancylostomatidae) are well-known parasites in dogs due to their health impacts and zoonotic potential. While faecal analysis is the traditional method for detection, improvements in husbandry and deworming have decreased their prevalence in urban owned dogs. Drug resistance in Ancylostoma caninum is becoming a discussion point in small animal practices across the region. This study aimed to identify hookworm species present in Australian and New Zealand dogs using molecular techniques. The ITS-2 and isotype-1 β-tubulin assays were used to identify and quantify hookworm species. Results showed absence of coinfection in Australian samples from Greater Sydney region belonging either to A. caninum or Uncinaria stenocephala, while New Zealand samples were a mixture of A. caninum and U. stenocephala. The amplified isotype-1 β-tubulin sequences exhibited susceptibility to benzimidazole drugs. Rare mutations were identified in A. caninum and U. stenocephala sequences, representing a small percentage of reads. This study highlights the importance of molecular techniques in accurately identifying and quantifying hookworm species in dog populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Stocker
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - I Scott
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, 4410, New Zealand
| | - J Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
- The University of Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
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18
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Francis EK, Šlapeta J. Refugia or reservoir? Feral goats and their role in the maintenance and circulation of benzimidazole-resistant gastrointestinal nematodes on shared pastures. Parasitology 2023; 150:672-682. [PMID: 37165895 PMCID: PMC10410396 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182023000380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal nematodes threaten the productivity of grazing livestock and anthelmintic resistance has emerged globally. It is broadly understood that wild ruminants living in sympatry with livestock act as a positive source of refugia for anthelmintic-susceptible nematodes. However, they might also act as reservoirs of anthelmintic-resistant nematodes, contributing to the spread of anthelmintic resistance at a regional scale. Here, we sampled managed sheep and cattle together with feral goats within the same property in New South Wales, Australia. Internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS-2) nemabiome metabarcoding identified 12 gastrointestinal nematodes (Cooperia oncophora, Cooperia punctata, Haemonchus contortus, Haemonchus placei, Nematodirus spathiger, Ostertagia ostertagi, Teladorsagia circumcincta, Oesophagostomum radiatum, Oesophagostomum venulosum, Trichostrongylus axei, Trichostrongylus colubriformis and Trichostrongylus rugatus). Isotype-1 β-tubulin metabarcoding targeting benzimidazole resistance polymorphisms identified 6 of these nematode species (C. oncophora, C. punctata, H. contortus, H. placei, O. ostertagi and T. circumcincta), with the remaining 3 genera unable to be identified to the species level (Nematodirus, Oesophagostomum, Trichostrongylus). Both ITS-2 and β-tubulin metabarcoding showed the presence of a cryptic species of T. circumcincta, known from domestic goats in France. Of the gastrointestinal nematodes detected via β-tubulin metabarcoding, H. contortus, T. circumcincta, Nematodirus and Trichostrongylus exhibited the presence of at least one resistance genotype. We found that generalist gastrointestinal nematodes in untreated feral goats had a similarly high frequency of the benzimidazole-resistant F200Y polymorphism as those nematodes in sheep and cattle. This suggests cross-transmission and maintenance of the resistant genotype within the wild ruminant population, affirming that wild ruminants should be considered potential reservoirs of anthelmintic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Kate Francis
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
- The University of Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, New South Wales 2006, Australia
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19
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Vinueza P, Calispa M, Condolo L, Toalombo P, Geldhof P. Benzimidazole Resistance in Cattle: The First Report of the Presence of F200Y Mutation in Cooperia in Ecuador. Vet Sci 2023; 10:378. [PMID: 37368764 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10060378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Anthelmintic resistance among GINs in cattle is a worldwide issue. Identifying the early signs of anthelmintic resistance (AR) is necessary to sustainably manage bovine parasitic infections. This study aimed to evaluate the resistance status of bovine parasitic nematodes against FBZ on a farm with a known history of broad-spectrum anthelmintic usage in Ecuador. FBZ efficacy was analyzed using a fecal egg count reduction test (FECR test) and β-tubulin 1 mutation identification in Cooperia spp., the dominant nematode parasite identified before and after treatment. According to the FECR test, the nematode population was susceptible to FBZ. After amplifying and cloning the β-tubulin 1 of Cooperia spp., an F200Y mutation was found in 43% of the pooled larva coproculture after treatment. This study reports, for the first time, the presence of F200Y resistance-conferring mutation in Cooperia spp. in Ecuador. Although the nematode population was phenotypically susceptible to FBZ, the presence of F200Y suggests the existence of resistance in the early stages. Our findings highlight the need to implement alternative control strategies for parasitic infections besides broad-spectrum anthelmintics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Vinueza
- Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Facultad de Ciencias Pecuarias, Carrera de Medicina Veterinaria, Riobamba 060106, Ecuador
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133-B, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Marlon Calispa
- UCLouvain, Earth al Life Institute ELIE, ELI Croix du Sud 2L/L7.05.05, 1348 Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Luis Condolo
- Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Facultad de Ciencias Pecuarias, Carrera de Medicina Veterinaria, Riobamba 060106, Ecuador
| | - Paula Toalombo
- Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Facultad de Ciencias Pecuarias, Carrera de Medicina Veterinaria, Riobamba 060106, Ecuador
| | - Peter Geldhof
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133-B, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
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20
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Kaplan RM, Denwood MJ, Nielsen MK, Thamsborg SM, Torgerson PR, Gilleard JS, Dobson RJ, Vercruysse J, Levecke B. World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology (W.A.A.V.P.) guideline for diagnosing anthelmintic resistance using the faecal egg count reduction test in ruminants, horses and swine. Vet Parasitol 2023; 318:109936. [PMID: 37121092 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2023.109936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) remains the method of choice for establishing the efficacy of anthelmintic compounds in the field, including the diagnosis of anthelmintic resistance. We present a guideline for improving the standardization and performance of the FECRT that has four sections. In the first section, we address the major issues relevant to experimental design, choice of faecal egg count (FEC) method, statistical analysis, and interpretation of the FECRT results. In the second section, we make a series of general recommendations that are applicable across all animals addressed in this guideline. In the third section, we provide separate guidance details for cattle, small ruminants (sheep and goats), horses and pigs to address the issues that are specific to the different animal types. Finally, we provide overviews of the specific details required to conduct an FECRT for each of the different host species. To address the issues of statistical power vs. practicality, we also provide two separate options for each animal species; (i) a version designed to detect small changes in efficacy that is intended for use in scientific studies, and (ii) a less resource-intensive version intended for routine use by veterinarians and livestock owners to detect larger changes in efficacy. Compared to the previous FECRT recommendations, four important differences are noted. First, it is now generally recommended to perform the FECRT based on pre- and post-treatment FEC of the same animals (paired study design), rather than on post-treatment FEC of both treated and untreated (control) animals (unpaired study design). Second, instead of requiring a minimum mean FEC (expressed in eggs per gram (EPG)) of the group to be tested, the new requirement is for a minimum total number of eggs to be counted under the microscope (cumulative number of eggs counted before the application of a conversion factor). Third, we provide flexibility in the required size of the treatment group by presenting three separate options that depend on the (expected) number of eggs counted. Finally, these guidelines address all major livestock species, and the thresholds for defining reduced efficacy are adapted and aligned to host species, anthelmintic drug and parasite species. In conclusion, these new guidelines provide improved methodology and standardization of the FECRT for all major livestock species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ray M Kaplan
- Pathobiology Department, School of Veterinary Medicine, St. George's University, W.I., Grenada.
| | - Matthew J Denwood
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Martin K Nielsen
- Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center, University of Kentucky, KY, USA
| | - Stig M Thamsborg
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Paul R Torgerson
- Section of Epidemiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Switzerland
| | - John S Gilleard
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Robert J Dobson
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Australia
| | - Jozef Vercruysse
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Bruno Levecke
- Department of Translational Physiology, Infectiology and Public Health, Ghent University, Merelbeke, Belgium
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21
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Maurizio A, Marchiori E, Tessarin C, Cassini R. Comparing pooled and individual samples for estimation of gastrointestinal strongyles burden and treatment efficacy in small ruminants. Vet Parasitol 2023; 318:109935. [PMID: 37060789 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2023.109935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring endoparasite burden (FEC) and treatment efficacy (FECR) is a key element of sustainable parasite control. However, the costs of the analysis often discourage their implementation by farmers and veterinary practitioners. Pooling samples is considered to be a good alternative to reduce time and monetary costs, but limited data are available on the use of pooled samples in small ruminants, especially for goats. In this study, data collected over the years in sheep and goat farms were analyzed, and results obtained from individual and pooled analysis were compared for the purposes of FEC and FECR assessment. A total of 801 individual and 134 pooled samples (composed of 3-12 individual samples) were included. For FECR testing, 2 pools of 5 samples each were created per trial and the same animals were sampled at day 0 (D0 - treatment day) and 14 days after (D14). Samples were analyzed by McMaster technique (limit of detection 20 EPG). Results from pooled and individual FEC were not significantly different (Wilcoxon signed-rank test) and correlation (Spearman's rank test) was high for all sub-categories, although agreement (Lin's concordance correlation) was often classified as poor. Results were not influenced by the pool size (<6 or ≥6). Interpretation of treatment efficacy between the two methods was comparable for all sheep trials, while it differed for goats in 4 out of 10 trials. Wilcoxon signed-rank test indicated a non significant difference between pooled and individual FECR. However, correlation and agreement between FECR were considerably better for sheep compared to goats, for which they were very limited, despite the correlation between FEC at D0 and D14 was always high. According to our results, pooled FECR can be a good option but the absence of 95 %CI represents a major drawbacks in the interpretation of results. Further studies on the topic for goats are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maurizio
- Deparment of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy.
| | - Erica Marchiori
- Deparment of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Cinzia Tessarin
- Deparment of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy
| | - Rudi Cassini
- Deparment of Animal Medicine, Production and Health, University of Padova, Viale dell'Università, 16, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy
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22
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Thorn CS, Maness RW, Hulke JM, Delmore KE, Criscione CD. Population genomics of helminth parasites. J Helminthol 2023; 97:e29. [PMID: 36927601 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x23000123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Next generation sequencing technologies have facilitated a shift from a few targeted loci in population genetic studies to whole genome approaches. Here, we review the types of questions and inferences regarding the population biology and evolution of parasitic helminths being addressed within the field of population genomics. Topics include parabiome, hybridization, population structure, loci under selection and linkage mapping. We highlight various advances, and note the current trends in the field, particularly a focus on human-related parasites despite the inherent biodiversity of helminth species. We conclude by advocating for a broader application of population genomics to reflect the taxonomic and life history breadth displayed by helminth parasites. As such, our basic knowledge about helminth population biology and evolution would be enhanced while the diversity of helminths in itself would facilitate population genomic comparative studies to address broader ecological and evolutionary concepts.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Thorn
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, 3258 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - R W Maness
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, 3258 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - J M Hulke
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, 3258 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - K E Delmore
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, 3258 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - C D Criscione
- Department of Biology, Texas A&M University, 3258 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
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23
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Leutenegger CM, Lozoya CE, Tereski J, Savard C, Ogeer J, Lallier R. Emergence of Ancylostoma caninum parasites with the benzimidazole resistance F167Y polymorphism in the US dog population. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2023; 21:131-140. [PMID: 36958067 PMCID: PMC10068012 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2023.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anthelmintic resistance to benzimidazole has been detected in the canine hookworm, Ancylostoma caninum. Benzimidazole resistance is believed to have developed originally in greyhounds, but has also been detected in non-greyhound pet dogs. The aim of this study was to validate a probe-based allele-specific real-time PCR tests for the F167Y polymorphism on the β-tubulin isotype-1 gene and to determine the geographic distribution. METHODS Allele-specific real-time PCR tests were established and validated to detect the codon 167 polymorphism in the Ancylostoma caninum β-tubulin isotype-1gene. Additionally, real-time PCR tests were validated for Ancylostoma spp. and Uncinaria stenocephala. Two nucleic acid extraction protocols were validated including mechanical disruption of parasite structures in stool. The frequency of the F167Y single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was determined in hookworm confirmed stool samples. Samples with the resistant 167Y genotype were confirmed by β-tubulin gene sequencing and allele frequencies were determined. RESULTS The Ancylostoma spp. and A. caninum F167Y allele-specific real-time PCR tests were highly sensitive and specific when tested against synthetic DNA, spiked samples, and characterized parasites. Using an optimized total nucleic acid extraction protocol, 54 of 511 (10.6%) were found to contain the benzimidazole resistance allele. All 55 samples containing hookworms with the resistance mutation were confirmed by β-tubulin gene sequencing. The majority of resistant hookworms (44 resistant, 183 tested; 24.4%) originated from Florida, five from California (103 tested, 4.9%), three from Idaho (40 tested, 7.5%), two from Nevada (22 tested, 9.1%), and one sample from Hawaii (13 tested, 7.7%). Resistant genotypes were found in 14 different dog breeds including eight in Greyhounds. Allele-frequency determination revealed resistance allele frequencies between 1 and 100% with 58% above 50%. CONCLUSIONS This data strongly supports recent findings of benzimidazole resistant canine hookworms present throughout the general US pet dog population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cecilia E Lozoya
- Antech Diagnostics, Innovation Molecular Diagnostics R&D, Fountain Valley, CA, USA.
| | - Jeffrey Tereski
- Antech Diagnostics, Innovation Molecular Diagnostics R&D, Fountain Valley, CA, USA.
| | | | - Jennifer Ogeer
- Antech Diagnostics, Innovation Molecular Diagnostics R&D, Fountain Valley, CA, USA.
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24
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Venkatesan A, Jimenez Castro PD, Morosetti A, Horvath H, Chen R, Redman E, Dunn K, Collins JB, Fraser JS, Andersen EC, Kaplan RM, Gilleard JS. Molecular evidence of widespread benzimidazole drug resistance in Ancylostoma caninum from domestic dogs throughout the USA and discovery of a novel β-tubulin benzimidazole resistance mutation. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011146. [PMID: 36862759 PMCID: PMC10013918 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Ancylostoma caninum is an important zoonotic gastrointestinal nematode of dogs worldwide and a close relative of human hookworms. We recently reported that racing greyhound dogs in the USA are infected with A. caninum that are commonly resistant to multiple anthelmintics. Benzimidazole resistance in A. caninum in greyhounds was associated with a high frequency of the canonical F167Y(TTC>TAC) isotype-1 β-tubulin mutation. In this work, we show that benzimidazole resistance is remarkably widespread in A. caninum from domestic dogs across the USA. First, we identified and showed the functional significance of a novel benzimidazole isotype-1 β-tubulin resistance mutation, Q134H(CAA>CAT). Several benzimidazole resistant A. caninum isolates from greyhounds with a low frequency of the F167Y(TTC>TAC) mutation had a high frequency of a Q134H(CAA>CAT) mutation not previously reported from any eukaryotic pathogen in the field. Structural modeling predicted that the Q134 residue is directly involved in benzimidazole drug binding and that the 134H substitution would significantly reduce binding affinity. Introduction of the Q134H substitution into the C. elegans β-tubulin gene ben-1, by CRISPR-Cas9 editing, conferred similar levels of resistance as a ben-1 null allele. Deep amplicon sequencing on A. caninum eggs from 685 hookworm positive pet dog fecal samples revealed that both mutations were widespread across the USA, with prevalences of 49.7% (overall mean frequency 54.0%) and 31.1% (overall mean frequency 16.4%) for F167Y(TTC>TAC) and Q134H(CAA>CAT), respectively. Canonical codon 198 and 200 benzimidazole resistance mutations were absent. The F167Y(TTC>TAC) mutation had a significantly higher prevalence and frequency in Western USA than in other regions, which we hypothesize is due to differences in refugia. This work has important implications for companion animal parasite control and the potential emergence of drug resistance in human hookworms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhinaya Venkatesan
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Pablo D. Jimenez Castro
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
- Zoetis, Parsippany, New Jersey, United States of America
- Grupo de Parasitología Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Colombia
| | - Arianna Morosetti
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Hannah Horvath
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Rebecca Chen
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Redman
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kayla Dunn
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - James Bryant Collins
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - James S. Fraser
- Department of Bioengineering and Therapeutic Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, United States of America
| | - Erik C. Andersen
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Ray M. Kaplan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
- St. George’s University, School of Veterinary Medicine, Grenada, West Indies
| | - John S. Gilleard
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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25
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Dolinská MU, Königová A, von Samson Himmelstjerna G, Várady M. Variation in allele frequencies in benzimidazole resistant and susceptible isolates of Haemonchus contortus during patent infection in lambs. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1296. [PMID: 36690654 PMCID: PMC9870880 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28168-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the variation in the frequency of benzimidazole (BZ) resistance-associated alleles at codons 200, 167 and 368 (F200Y, F167Y, V368L) of the β-tubulin isotype 1 gene during the patent period in isolates of Haemonchus contortus susceptible and resistant to BZ using pyrosequencing. Four lambs 5-6 months old were infected with 5000-6000 infective third-stage larvae (L3) of the susceptible MHco1 and the multi-resistant MHco4 isolates, respectively. Faecal samples were collected 28-times during 20-90 days post-infection (dpi). Coprocultures were subsequently prepared to produce L3 for genotyping. The frequency of the resistant allele (TAC) at codon 200 in MHco1 was lowest at 43 and 76 dpi with at each time point 0% and highest at 36 dpi with 10.85%, with a mean of 6.47% ± 2.39 and a coefficient of variation of 37.01%. The frequency of the TAC at codon 200 in MHco4 was lowest at 76 dpi with 25.6% and highest at 90 dpi with 49.25%, with a mean of 35.7% ± 4.42 and a coefficient of variation of 12.39%. No resistance alleles were detected in MHco1 at either codon 167 or 368. For MHco4 isolate, resistance alleles were detected only on codon 167 with a mean of 8.00% ± 4.83 and a mean coefficient of variation of 60.40%. Our results demonstrate the considerable variation in the frequency of resistant alleles in the susceptible and resistant isolates during the patent period. This variation should be considered when testing for the presence of BZ resistance in populations of gastrointestinal parasites, especially those with a low frequency of TAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michaela Urda Dolinská
- Institute of Parasitology of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Alžbeta Königová
- Institute of Parasitology of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01, Košice, Slovakia
| | - Georg von Samson Himmelstjerna
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-Von-Ostertag-Str. 7-13, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Marián Várady
- Institute of Parasitology of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 040 01, Košice, Slovakia.
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26
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Antonopoulos A, Doyle SR, Bartley DJ, Morrison AA, Kaplan R, Howell S, Neveu C, Busin V, Devaney E, Laing R. Allele specific PCR for a major marker of levamisole resistance in Haemonchus contortus. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2022; 20:17-26. [PMID: 35970104 PMCID: PMC9399269 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2022.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Haemonchus contortus is a haematophagous parasitic nematode that infects small ruminants and causes significant animal health concerns and economic losses within the livestock industry on a global scale. Treatment primarily depends on broad-spectrum anthelmintics, however, resistance is established or rapidly emerging against all major drug classes. Levamisole (LEV) remains an important treatment option for parasite control, as resistance to LEV is less prevalent than to members of other major classes of anthelmintics. LEV is an acetylcholine receptor (AChR) agonist that, when bound, results in paralysis of the worm. Numerous studies implicated the AChR sub-unit, ACR-8, in LEV sensitivity and in particular, the presence of a truncated acr-8 transcript or a deletion in the acr-8 locus in some resistant isolates. Recently, a single non-synonymous SNP in acr-8 conferring a serine-to-threonine substitution (S168T) was identified that was strongly associated with LEV resistance. Here, we investigate the role of genetic variation at the acr-8 locus in a controlled genetic cross between the LEV susceptible MHco3(ISE) and LEV resistant MHco18(UGA2004) isolates of H. contortus. Using single worm PCR assays, we found that the presence of S168T was strongly associated with LEV resistance in the parental isolates and F3 progeny of the genetic cross surviving LEV treatment. We developed and optimised an allele-specific PCR assay for the detection of S168T and validated the assay using laboratory isolates and field samples that were phenotyped for LEV resistance. In the LEV-resistant field population, a high proportion (>75%) of L3 encoded the S168T variant, whereas the variant was absent in the susceptible isolates studied. These data further support the potential role of acr-8 S168T in LEV resistance, with the allele-specific PCR providing an important step towards establishing a sensitive molecular diagnostic test for LEV resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alistair Antonopoulos
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom; Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health, & Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Stephen R Doyle
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom
| | - David J Bartley
- Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Sue Howell
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, USA
| | - Cedric Neveu
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, Nouzilly, France
| | - Valentina Busin
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Eileen Devaney
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health, & Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Roz Laing
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health, & Comparative Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom.
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27
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Gibson SB, Ness-Cohn E, Andersen EC. Benzimidazoles cause lethality by inhibiting the function of Caenorhabditis elegans neuronal beta-tubulin. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2022; 20:89-96. [PMID: 36332489 PMCID: PMC9771835 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2022.10.004] [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: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Parasitic nematode infections cause an enormous global burden to both humans and livestock. Resistance to the limited arsenal of anthelmintic drugs used to combat these infections is widespread, including benzimidazole (BZ) compounds. Previous studies using the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans to model parasitic nematode resistance have shown that loss-of-function mutations in the beta-tubulin gene ben-1 confer resistance to BZ drugs. However, the mechanism of resistance and the tissue-specific susceptibility are not well known in any nematode species. To identify in which tissue(s) ben-1 function underlies BZ susceptibility, transgenic strains that express ben-1 in different tissues, including hypodermis, muscles, neurons, intestine, and ubiquitous expression were generated. High-throughput fitness assays were performed to measure and compare the quantitative responses to BZ compounds among different transgenic lines. Significant BZ susceptibility was observed in animals expressing ben-1 in neurons, comparable to expression using the ben-1 promoter. This result suggests that ben-1 function in neurons underlies susceptibility to BZ. Subsetting neuronal expression of ben-1 based on the neurotransmitter system further restricted ben-1 function in cholinergic neurons to cause BZ susceptibility. These results better inform our current understanding of the cellular mode of action of BZs and also suggest additional treatments that might potentiate the effects of BZs in neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia B. Gibson
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Elan Ness-Cohn
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA,Driskill Graduate Program in Life Sciences, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA
| | - Erik C. Andersen
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA,Corresponding author. Department of Molecular Biosciences Northwestern University 4619 Silverman Hall 2205 Tech Drive Evanston, IL, 60208, USA.
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28
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Doyle SR, Laing R, Bartley D, Morrison A, Holroyd N, Maitland K, Antonopoulos A, Chaudhry U, Flis I, Howell S, McIntyre J, Gilleard JS, Tait A, Mable B, Kaplan R, Sargison N, Britton C, Berriman M, Devaney E, Cotton JA. Genomic landscape of drug response reveals mediators of anthelmintic resistance. Cell Rep 2022; 41:111522. [PMID: 36261007 PMCID: PMC9597552 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Like other pathogens, parasitic helminths can rapidly evolve resistance to drug treatment. Understanding the genetic basis of anthelmintic drug resistance in parasitic nematodes is key to tracking its spread and improving the efficacy and sustainability of parasite control. Here, we use an in vivo genetic cross between drug-susceptible and multi-drug-resistant strains of Haemonchus contortus in a natural host-parasite system to simultaneously map resistance loci for the three major classes of anthelmintics. This approach identifies new alleles for resistance to benzimidazoles and levamisole and implicates the transcription factor cky-1 in ivermectin resistance. This gene is within a locus under selection in ivermectin-resistant populations worldwide; expression analyses and functional validation using knockdown experiments support that cky-1 is associated with ivermectin survival. Our work demonstrates the feasibility of high-resolution forward genetics in a parasitic nematode and identifies variants for the development of molecular diagnostics to combat drug resistance in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen R Doyle
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, UK.
| | - Roz Laing
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK.
| | - David Bartley
- Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - Alison Morrison
- Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, Midlothian EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - Nancy Holroyd
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, UK
| | - Kirsty Maitland
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Alistair Antonopoulos
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Umer Chaudhry
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Ilona Flis
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Sue Howell
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Jennifer McIntyre
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - John S Gilleard
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Andy Tait
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Barbara Mable
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Ray Kaplan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| | - Neil Sargison
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Collette Britton
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | | | - Eileen Devaney
- Institute of Biodiversity Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - James A Cotton
- Wellcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, Cambridgeshire CB10 1SA, UK
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29
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Genomic signatures of selection associated with benzimidazole drug treatments in Haemonchus contortus field populations. Int J Parasitol 2022; 52:677-689. [PMID: 36113620 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2022.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Genome-wide methods offer a powerful approach to detect signatures of drug selection. However, limited availability of suitable reference genomes and the difficulty of obtaining field populations with well-defined, distinct drug treatment histories mean there is little information on the signatures of selection in parasitic nematodes and on how best to detect them. This study addresses these knowledge gaps by using field populations of Haemonchus contortus with well-defined benzimidazole treatment histories, leveraging a recently completed chromosomal-scale reference genome assembly. We generated a panel of 49,393 genomic markers to genotype 20 individual adult worms from each of four H. contortus populations: two from closed sheep flocks with an approximate 20 year history of frequent benzimidazole treatment, and two populations with a history of little or no treatment. Sampling occurred in the same geographical region to limit genetic differentiation and maximise the detection sensitivity. A clear signature of selection was detected on chromosome I, centred on the isotype-1 β-tubulin gene. Two additional, but weaker, signatures of selection were detected; one near the middle of chromosome I spanning 3.75 Mbp and 259 annotated genes, and one on chromosome II spanning a region of 3.3 Mbp and 206 annotated genes, including the isotype-2 β-tubulin locus. We also assessed how sensitivity was impacted by sequencing depth, worm number, and pooled versus individual worm sequence data. This study provides the first known direct genome-wide evidence for any parasitic nematode, that the isotype-1 β-tubulin gene is quantitatively the single most important benzimidazole resistance locus. It also identified two additional genomic regions that likely contain benzimidazole resistance loci of secondary importance. This study provides an experimental framework to maximise the power of genome-wide approaches to detect signatures of selection driven by anthelmintic drug treatments in field populations of parasitic nematodes.
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30
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Rinaldi L, Krücken J, Martinez-Valladares M, Pepe P, Maurelli MP, de Queiroz C, Castilla Gómez de Agüero V, Wang T, Cringoli G, Charlier J, Gilleard JS, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G. Advances in diagnosis of gastrointestinal nematodes in livestock and companion animals. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2022; 118:85-176. [PMID: 36088084 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2022.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Diagnosis of gastrointestinal nematodes in livestock and companion animals has been neglected for years and there has been an historical underinvestment in the development and improvement of diagnostic tools, undermining the undoubted utility of surveillance and control programmes. However, a new impetus by the scientific community and the quickening pace of technological innovations, are promoting a renaissance of interest in developing diagnostic capacity for nematode infections in veterinary parasitology. A cross-cutting priority for diagnostic tools is the development of pen-side tests and associated decision support tools that rapidly inform on the levels of infection and morbidity. This includes development of scalable, parasite detection using artificial intelligence for automated counting of parasitic elements and research towards establishing biomarkers using innovative molecular and proteomic methods. The aim of this review is to assess the state-of-the-art in the diagnosis of helminth infections in livestock and companion animals and presents the current advances of diagnostic methods for intestinal parasites harnessing (i) automated methods for copromicroscopy based on artificial intelligence, (ii) immunodiagnosis, and (iii) molecular- and proteome-based approaches. Regardless of the method used, multiple factors need to be considered before diagnostics test results can be interpreted in terms of control decisions. Guidelines on how to apply diagnostics and how to interpret test results in different animal species are increasingly requested and some were recently made available in veterinary parasitology for the different domestic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Rinaldi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - J Krücken
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Martinez-Valladares
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León), Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - P Pepe
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - M P Maurelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - C de Queiroz
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, 3331 Hospital Drive, Host-Parasite Interactions (HPI) Program University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada; Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, St Georges University, Grenada
| | - V Castilla Gómez de Agüero
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León), Departamento de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de León, León, Spain
| | - T Wang
- Kreavet, Kruibeke, Belgium
| | - Giuseppe Cringoli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | | | - J S Gilleard
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, 3331 Hospital Drive, Host-Parasite Interactions (HPI) Program University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - G von Samson-Himmelstjerna
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
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31
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Hassan NMF, Ghazy AA. Advances in diagnosis and control of anthelmintic resistant gastrointestinal helminths infecting ruminants. J Parasit Dis 2022; 46:901-915. [PMID: 36091263 PMCID: PMC9458815 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01457-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection with gastrointestinal helminths is widely spread among ruminant causing severe losses and adversely affects the livestock husbandry. Synthetic chemotherapeutics have been utilized throughout years, as a means of combating helminthiasis. Anthelmintic resistance (AR) has a serious concern on livestock industry which, mainly arises as outcome of misuse, improper dosing and frequent utilization of the synthetic drugs.Various gastrointestinal helminths have the capability to survive the therapeutic dose of anthelmintics and become resistant to the major anthelmintic classes. Early diagnosis might delay or reduce the risk of AR. Conventional phenotyping methods were commonly used for detection of anthelmintic resistant helminths, but appeared to lack of sensitivity, especially when the frequency of resistant allele is very low. Several molecular assays were carried out to detect the AR with greater accuracy. Sustainable effective preventive and control measures for gastrointestinal helminths infection remain the corner stone to overcome AR. Rational use of anthelmintics with keeping unexposed proportion of worm populations, could have the potentiality to maintain and prolong the efficacy of anthelmintics. Several alternative anthelmintic treatments might offer valuable solutions either alone or adjunct to synthetic drugs to dilute the spread of resistance alleles among the helminths population. This article reviews current status of various diagnostic methods and control measures for anthelmintic resistant gastrointestinal helminths infecting ruminants and tries to present a practical protocol to avoid or delay the development of AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha M. F. Hassan
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, National Research Centre, P.O. Box: 12622, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Alaa A. Ghazy
- Department of Parasitology and Animal Diseases, National Research Centre, P.O. Box: 12622, Cairo, Egypt
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32
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Mendes de Oliveira VNG, Zuccherato LW, dos Santos TR, Rabelo ÉML, Furtado LFV. Detection of Benzimidazole Resistance-Associated Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in the Beta-Tubulin Gene in Trichuris trichiura from Brazilian Populations. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2022; 107:tpmd220157. [PMID: 35895340 PMCID: PMC9490667 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.22-0157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Preventive chemotherapy is recommended by the WHO as the main strategy for controlling infections caused by nematodes in humans, aiming to eliminate the morbidity associated with these infections. This strategy consists of routine periodic administration of benzimidazoles, among other drugs. Although these drugs decrease the intensity of infections, they have the potential to exert selection pressure for genotypes bearing mutations associated with drug resistance, which may result in the establishment of resistant worm populations. There is evidence in the literature of resistance to these drugs in nematodes that infect humans, including in the species Trichuris trichiura. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the beta-tubulin gene located at codons 167, 198, and 200 are associated with the mechanism of resistance to benzimidazoles in nematodes. Here, we standardized a molecular technique based on an amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (ARMS-PCR) to analyze codons 167, 198, and 200 of T. trichiura. The ARMS-PCR methodology was successfully established to evaluate the codons of interest. A total of 420 samples of individual eggs were analyzed from populations obtained from five Brazilian states. A mutation in codon 198 was observed at a frequency of 4.8% (20/420), while for the other two codons, no polymorphism was observed. This is the first report of the presence of this mutation in populations of T. trichiura in Brazil. This fact and the emergence of the problem already observed in other species reinforces the need for regular monitoring of SNPs related to benzimidazole resistance using techniques that are highly sensitive and specific.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luciana Werneck Zuccherato
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Talita Rodrigues dos Santos
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Élida Mara Leite Rabelo
- Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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33
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Muchiut S, Fiel C, Lirón JP, Lloberas M, Ceriani C, Lorenzo R, Riva E, Bernat G, Cardozo P, Fernández S, Steffan P. Population replacement of benzimidazole-resistant Haemonchus contortus with susceptible strains: evidence of changes in the resistance status. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:2623-2632. [PMID: 35779120 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07582-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The spread of anthelmintic resistance (AR) in nematode populations threatens the viability of sheep production systems worldwide, and warrants the adoption of sensitive, practical, and standardized tests to detect AR. The aim of this study was to characterize the replacement of an Haemonchus contortus population resistant to benzimidazoles (BZDs) by a susceptible one, by means of both phenotypic and genotypic techniques. Phenotypic methods to assess BZD resistance included in vivo tests, such as the fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), and in vitro tests, such as the egg hatch assay (EHA). Additionally, genotypification of polymorphisms associated with BZD resistance by sequencing a fragment of the isotype 1 β-tubulin gene was carried out. The initial, BZD-resistant population (initial Balcarce population) exhibited an egg count reduction (ECR) of 59.3%. Following refugium replacement, the final population (final Balcarce population) exhibited an ECR of 95.2%. For the initial Balcarce population, the median effective dose (ED50) for the EHA was 0.607 μg thiabendazole (TBZ)/mL, with a rate of eclosion at a discriminating dose (EDD) of 0.1 μg TBZ/mL of 76.73%. For the final Balcarce population, ED50 was 0.02 μg TBZ/mL, and EDD was 1.97%. In the initial population, 93% of the analyzed individuals exhibited genotypic combinations associated with BZD resistance (53% Phe/Phe167-Tyr/Tyr200, 37% Phe/Tyr167-Phe/Tyr200, and 3% Phe/Tyr167-Glu/Leu198). Conversely, no combination associated with resistance was found in individuals from the final population. All of the tests were useful for detecting AR to BZDs. The results from the genetic and phenotypical studies were consistent, and the resulting information greatly aided in interpreting the outcomes of the population replacement and the potential impact of this strategy on management of AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastián Muchiut
- Área de Parasitología y Enfermedades Parasitarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Pje. Arroyo Seco s/n, B7000, Tandil, Argentina. .,Centro de Investigación Veterinaria de Tandil (CIVETAN) (UNCPBA-CICPBA-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, UNCPBA, Tandil, Argentina.
| | - César Fiel
- Área de Parasitología y Enfermedades Parasitarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Pje. Arroyo Seco s/n, B7000, Tandil, Argentina.,Centro de Investigación Veterinaria de Tandil (CIVETAN) (UNCPBA-CICPBA-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, UNCPBA, Tandil, Argentina
| | - Juan Pedro Lirón
- Centro de Investigación Veterinaria de Tandil (CIVETAN) (UNCPBA-CICPBA-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, UNCPBA, Tandil, Argentina
| | - Mercedes Lloberas
- Instituto de Innovación para la Producción Agropecuaria y el Desarrollo Sostenible (IPADS Balcarce) EEA-INTA, Balcarce, Argentina
| | - Carolina Ceriani
- Centro de Investigación Veterinaria de Tandil (CIVETAN) (UNCPBA-CICPBA-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, UNCPBA, Tandil, Argentina.,Área de Virología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, UNCPBA, Pje. Arroyo Seco s/n, B7000, Tandil, Argentina
| | - Ramiro Lorenzo
- Centro de Investigación Veterinaria de Tandil (CIVETAN) (UNCPBA-CICPBA-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, UNCPBA, Tandil, Argentina
| | - Eliana Riva
- Área de Parasitología y Enfermedades Parasitarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Pje. Arroyo Seco s/n, B7000, Tandil, Argentina.,Centro de Investigación Veterinaria de Tandil (CIVETAN) (UNCPBA-CICPBA-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, UNCPBA, Tandil, Argentina
| | - Gisele Bernat
- Área de Parasitología y Enfermedades Parasitarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Pje. Arroyo Seco s/n, B7000, Tandil, Argentina.,Centro de Investigación Veterinaria de Tandil (CIVETAN) (UNCPBA-CICPBA-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, UNCPBA, Tandil, Argentina
| | - Patricia Cardozo
- Instituto de Innovación para la Producción Agropecuaria y el Desarrollo Sostenible (IPADS Balcarce) EEA-INTA, Balcarce, Argentina
| | - Silvina Fernández
- Área de Parasitología y Enfermedades Parasitarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Pje. Arroyo Seco s/n, B7000, Tandil, Argentina.,Centro de Investigación Veterinaria de Tandil (CIVETAN) (UNCPBA-CICPBA-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, UNCPBA, Tandil, Argentina
| | - Pedro Steffan
- Área de Parasitología y Enfermedades Parasitarias, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Centro de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Pje. Arroyo Seco s/n, B7000, Tandil, Argentina.,Centro de Investigación Veterinaria de Tandil (CIVETAN) (UNCPBA-CICPBA-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, UNCPBA, Tandil, Argentina
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34
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Pallotto LM, Dilks CM, Park YJ, Smit RB, Lu B, Gopalakrishnan C, Gilleard JS, Andersen EC, Mains PE. Interactions of C. elegans β-tubulins with the microtubule inhibitor and anthelmintic drug albendazole. Genetics 2022; 221:6613138. [PMID: 35731216 DOI: 10.1093/genetics/iyac093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Parasitic nematodes are major human and agricultural pests, and benzimidazoles are amongst the most important broad spectrum anthelmintic drug class used for their control. Benzimidazole resistance is now widespread in many species of parasitic nematodes in livestock globally and an emerging concern for the sustainable control of human soil transmitted helminths. β-tubulin is the major benzimidazole target, although other genes may influence resistance. Among the six C. elegans β-tubulin genes, loss of ben-1 causes resistance without other apparent defects. Here, we explored the genetics of C. elegans β-tubulin genes in relation to the response to the benzimidazole derivative albendazole. The most highly expressed β-tubulin isotypes, encoded by tbb-1 and tbb-2, were known to be redundant with each other for viability, and their products are predicted not to bind benzimidazoles. We found that tbb-2 mutants, and to a lesser extent tbb-1 mutants, were hypersensitive to albendazole. The double mutant tbb-2 ben-1 is uncoordinated and short, resembling the wild type exposed to albendazole, but the tbb-1 ben-1 double mutant did not show the same phenotypes. These results suggest that tbb-2 is a modifier of ABZ sensitivity. To better understand how BEN-1 mutates to cause benzimidazole resistance, we isolated mutants resistant to albendazole and found that 15 of 16 mutations occurred in the ben-1 coding region. Mutations ranged from likely nulls to hypomorphs, and several corresponded to residues that cause resistance in other organisms. Null alleles of ben-1 are albendazole-resistant and BEN-1 shows high sequence identity with tubulins from other organisms, suggesting that many amino acid changes could cause resistance. However, our results suggest that missense mutations conferring resistance are not evenly distributed across all possible conserved sites. Independent of their roles in benzimidazole resistance, tbb-1 and tbb-2 may have specialized functions as null mutants of tbb-1 or tbb-2 were cold or heat sensitive, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda M Pallotto
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Clayton M Dilks
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA.,Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Ye-Jean Park
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Ryan B Smit
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | - Brian Lu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
| | | | - John S Gilleard
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions (HPI) Program, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1 Canada
| | - Erik C Andersen
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Paul E Mains
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4N1, Canada
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35
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Jones BP, van Vliet AHM, LaCourse EJ, Betson M. In Silico Docking of Nematode β-Tubulins With Benzimidazoles Points to Gene Expression and Orthologue Variation as Factors in Anthelmintic Resistance. FRONTIERS IN TROPICAL DISEASES 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fitd.2022.898814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of benzimidazole anthelmintics can vary depending on the target parasite, with Ascaris nematodes being highly responsive, and whipworms being less responsive. Anthelmintic resistance has become widespread, particularly in strongyle nematodes such as Haemonchus contortus in ruminants, and resistance has recently been detected in hookworms of humans and dogs. Past work has shown that there are multiple β-tubulin isotypes in helminths, yet only a few of these contribute to benzimidazole interactions and resistance. The β-tubulin isotypes of ascarids and soil-transmitted helminths were identified by mining available genome data, and phylogenetic analysis showed that the ascarids share a similar repertoire of seven β-tubulin isotypes. Strongyles also have a consistent pattern of four β-tubulin isotypes. In contrast, the whipworms only have two isotypes, with one of these clustering more basally and distinct from any other group. Key β-tubulin isotypes selected based on previous studies were the focus of in silico molecular docking simulations to look at the interactions with benzimidazoles. These showed that all β-tubulins had similar interactions with benzimidazoles and maintained the key bond with residue E198 in all species, indicating similar mechanisms of action. However, the interaction was stronger and more consistent in the strongyles and whipworms than it was in the ascarids. Alteration of β-tubulin isotypes with the common resistance-associated mutations originally identified in H. contortus resulted in similar interaction modeling for all species. In conclusion, ascarids, strongyles, and whipworms all have their own unique repertoire of β-tubulins, which could explain why benzimidazole resistance and susceptibility varies between these groups of parasites. These data complement recent work that has highlighted the roles of essential residues in benzimidazole drug binding and shows that there is a separation between strongyle parasites that frequently develop resistance and ascarid parasites, which have been much less prone to developing resistance.
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36
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Brown TL, Airs PM, Porter S, Caplat P, Morgan ER. Understanding the role of wild ruminants in anthelmintic resistance in livestock. Biol Lett 2022; 18:20220057. [PMID: 35506237 PMCID: PMC9065971 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2022.0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Wild ruminants are susceptible to infection from generalist helminth species, which can also infect domestic ruminants. A better understanding is required of the conditions under which wild ruminants can act as a source of helminths (including anthelmintic-resistant genotypes) for domestic ruminants, and vice versa, with the added possibility that wildlife could act as refugia for drug-susceptible genotypes and hence buffer the spread and development of resistance. Helminth infections cause significant productivity losses in domestic ruminants and a growing resistance to all classes of anthelmintic drug escalates concerns around helminth infection in the livestock industry. Previous research demonstrates that drug-resistant strains of the pathogenic nematode Haemonchus contortus can be transmitted between wild and domestic ruminants, and that gastro-intestinal nematode infections are more intense in wild ruminants within areas of high livestock density. In this article, the factors likely to influence the role of wild ruminants in helminth infections and anthelmintic resistance in livestock are considered, including host population movement across heterogeneous landscapes, and the effects of climate and environment on parasite dynamics. Methods of predicting and validating suspected drivers of helminth transmission in this context are considered based on advances in predictive modelling and molecular tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tony L. Brown
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-food and Biosciences Institute, Belfast, UK
| | - Paul M. Airs
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Siobhán Porter
- Veterinary Sciences Division, Agri-food and Biosciences Institute, Belfast, UK
| | - Paul Caplat
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Eric R. Morgan
- School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Absence of Polymorphisms in Codons 167, 198 and 200 of All Seven β-tubulin Isotypes of Benzimidazole Susceptible and Resistant Parascaris spp. Specimens from Australia. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11050490. [PMID: 35631011 PMCID: PMC9143322 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11050490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Benzimidazoles resistance is widespread in strongyle parasitic nematodes and associated with polym orphisms in the codons 167, 198 and 200 of isotype 1 β-tubulin (tbb-1). In ascarids, benzimidazole (BZ) resistance has rarely been reported and in none of these cases were any of these polymorphisms detected. Here, available genome and transcriptome data from WormBase ParaSite were used to compare the complete β-tubulin reservoirs of Parascaris univalens, Ascaris suum and Ascaris lumbricoides. Adult Parascaris spp. specimens collected in Australia from horses after BZ treatment (susceptible, n = 13) or surviving BZ treatment and collected after ivermectin treatment (resistant, n = 10) were genotyped regarding codons 167, 198 and 200 using Sanger sequencing. Phylogenetic analyses clearly showed that there are no one-to-one ascarid orthologs of strongyle tbb-1 genes. In the reference genomes, as well as phenotypically susceptible and resistant Parascaris spp. from Australia, six out of seven β-tubulin genes showed a BZ-susceptible genotype (F167, E198, F200). The only exception were the testis-specific β-tubulin D genes from all three ascarid species that encode tyrosine at codon 200. This was observed independently of the BZ-susceptibility phenotype of Parascaris spp. These data suggest that different mechanisms lead to BZ resistance in ascarid and strongyle nematodes.
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Papaiakovou M, Littlewood DTJ, Doyle SR, Gasser RB, Cantacessi C. Worms and bugs of the gut: the search for diagnostic signatures using barcoding, and metagenomics-metabolomics. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:118. [PMID: 35365192 PMCID: PMC8973539 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05225-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal (GI) helminth infections cause significant morbidity in both humans and animals worldwide. Specific and sensitive diagnosis is central to the surveillance of such infections and to determine the effectiveness of treatment strategies used to control them. In this article, we: (i) assess the strengths and limitations of existing methods applied to the diagnosis of GI helminth infections of humans and livestock; (ii) examine high-throughput sequencing approaches, such as targeted molecular barcoding and shotgun sequencing, as tools to define the taxonomic composition of helminth infections; and (iii) discuss the current understanding of the interactions between helminths and microbiota in the host gut. Stool-based diagnostics are likely to serve as an important tool well into the future; improved diagnostics of helminths and their environment in the gut may assist the identification of biomarkers with the potential to define the health/disease status of individuals and populations, and to identify existing or emerging anthelmintic resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Papaiakovou
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0ES UK
- Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD UK
| | | | | | - Robin B. Gasser
- Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Cinzia Cantacessi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB3 0ES UK
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Charlier J, Bartley DJ, Sotiraki S, Martinez-Valladares M, Claerebout E, von Samson-Himmelstjerna G, Thamsborg SM, Hoste H, Morgan ER, Rinaldi L. Anthelmintic resistance in ruminants: challenges and solutions. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2022; 115:171-227. [PMID: 35249662 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2021.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Anthelmintic resistance (AR) is a growing concern for effective parasite control in farmed ruminants globally. Combatting AR will require intensified and integrated research efforts in the development of innovative diagnostic tests to detect helminth infections and AR, sustainable anthelmintic treatment strategies and the development of complementary control approaches such as vaccination and plant-based control. It will also require a better understanding of socio-economic drivers of anthelmintic treatment decisions, in order to support a behavioural shift and develop targeted communication strategies that promote the uptake of evidence-based sustainable solutions. Here, we review the state-of-the-art in these different fields of research activity related to AR in helminths of livestock ruminants in Europe and beyond. We conclude that in the advent of new challenges and solutions emerging from continuing spread of AR and intensified research efforts, respectively, there is a strong need for transnational multi-actor initiatives. These should involve all key stakeholders to develop indicators of infection and sustainable control, set targets and promote good practices to achieve them.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - D J Bartley
- Disease Control, Moredun Research Institute, Penicuik, United Kingdom
| | - S Sotiraki
- Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organisation ELGO-DIMITRA, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - M Martinez-Valladares
- Instituto de Ganadería de Montaña (CSIC-Universidad de León), Departamento de Sanidad Animal, León, Spain
| | - E Claerebout
- Ghent University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Laboratory of Parasitology, Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - G von Samson-Himmelstjerna
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - S M Thamsborg
- Veterinary Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - H Hoste
- INRAE, UMR 1225 IHAP INRAE/ENVT, Toulouse University, Toulouse, France
| | - E R Morgan
- Institute for Global Food Security, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, United Kingdom
| | - L Rinaldi
- University of Naples Federico II, Unit of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, CREMOPAR, Napoli, Italy.
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Francis EK, Šlapeta J. A new diagnostic approach to fast-track and increase the accessibility of gastrointestinal nematode identification from faeces: FECPAK G2 egg nemabiome metabarcoding. Int J Parasitol 2022; 52:331-342. [PMID: 35218762 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2022.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Effective gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) management in livestock industries is becoming increasingly difficult due to the rise of anthelmintic resistance and changes in the temporal and geographical distribution of major GINs. Underpinning the response to these challenges is the need for a fast-tracked diagnostic identification technique, making it easier for livestock producers to make informed GIN management decisions. The traditional 'gold-standard' approach, larval culture followed by morphological differentiation, is laborious and potentially inaccurate. We developed a new diagnostic approach to identify GINs that integrates a remote-location digital faecal egg count platform, FECPAKG2, with internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) nemabiome metabarcoding. The technique involves a quick and simple protocol to harvest concentrated strongyle eggs from the FECPAKG2 cassette utilising a repurposed pipette tip, followed by DNA isolation and Illumina next generation amplicon sequencing. The GIN compositions and alpha diversity generated by our FECPAKG2 egg nemabiome metabarcoding approach was not significantly different to traditional morphological larval differentiation and nemabiome metabarcoding of larval and faecal samples. We demonstrated that storing FECPAKG2 harvested eggs in either DNA isolation lysis buffer or 80% ethanol (v/v) had no impact on GIN identification outcomes for at least 60 days; enabling the transport of biological samples from their remote origins to a molecular diagnostic facility for nemabiome metabarcoding, in the absence of a cold chain. We discovered that sustained GIN egg embryonation in the lysis buffer storage solution lead to higher yields of DNA compared with ethanol-stored GIN eggs or faeces with GIN eggs. Taking advantage of an already well-established platform such as FECPAKG2, and providing the livestock producers that use it with the option to identify GINs in their samples and contribute to large-scale GIN distribution and/or anthelmintic resistance surveys, is an important future direction for the FECPAKG2 egg nemabiome metabarcoding approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Kate Francis
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia
| | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, University of Sydney, New South Wales, 2006, Australia.
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De Seram EL, Redman EM, Wills FK, de Queiroz C, Campbell JR, Waldner CL, Parker SE, Avramenko RW, Gilleard JS, Uehlinger FD. Regional heterogeneity and unexpectedly high abundance of Cooperia punctata in beef cattle at a northern latitude revealed by ITS-2 rDNA nemabiome metabarcoding. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:17. [PMID: 34991707 PMCID: PMC8734358 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-05137-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The species composition of cattle gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) communities can vary greatly between regions. Despite this, there is remarkably little large-scale surveillance data for cattle GIN species which is due, at least in part, to a lack of scalable diagnostic tools. This lack of regional GIN species-level data represents a major knowledge gap for evidence-based parasite management and assessing the status and impact of factors such as climate change and anthelmintic drug resistance. METHODS This paper presents a large-scale survey of GIN in beef herds across western Canada using ITS-2 rDNA nemabiome metabarcoding. Individual fecal samples were collected from 6 to 20 randomly selected heifers (n = 1665) from each of 85 herds between September 2016 and February 2017 and 10-25 first season calves (n = 824) from each of 42 herds between November 2016 and February 2017. RESULTS Gastrointestinal nematode communities in heifers and calves were similar in Alberta and Saskatchewan, with Ostertagia ostertagi and Cooperia oncophora being the predominant GIN species in all herds consistent with previous studies. However, in Manitoba, Cooperia punctata was the predominant species overall and the most abundant GIN species in calves from 4/8 beef herds. CONCLUSIONS This study revealed a marked regional heterogeneity of GIN species in grazing beef herds in western Canada. The predominance of C. punctata in Manitoba is unexpected, as although this parasite is often the predominant cattle GIN species in more southerly latitudes, it is generally only a minor component of cattle GIN communities in northern temperate regions. We hypothesize that the unexpected predominance of C. punctata at such a northerly latitude represents a range expansion, likely associated with changes in climate, anthelmintic use, management, and/or animal movement. Whatever the cause, these results are of practical concern since C. punctata is more pathogenic than C. oncophora, the Cooperia species that typically predominates in cooler temperate regions. Finally, this study illustrates the value of ITS-2 rDNA nemabiome metabarcoding as a surveillance tool for ruminant GIN parasites.
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Suminda GGD, Bhandari S, Won Y, Goutam U, Kanth Pulicherla K, Son YO, Ghosh M. High-throughput sequencing technologies in the detection of livestock pathogens, diagnosis, and zoonotic surveillance. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:5378-5392. [PMID: 36212529 PMCID: PMC9526013 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Increasing globalization, agricultural intensification, urbanization, and climatic changes have resulted in a significant recent increase in emerging infectious zoonotic diseases. Zoonotic diseases are becoming more common, so innovative, effective, and integrative research is required to better understand their transmission, ecological implications, and dynamics at wildlife-human interfaces. High-throughput sequencing (HTS) methodologies have enormous potential for unraveling these contingencies and improving our understanding, but they are only now beginning to be realized in livestock research. This study investigates the current state of use of sequencing technologies in the detection of livestock pathogens such as bovine, dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), sheep (Ovis aries), pigs (Sus scrofa), horses (Equus caballus), chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus), and ducks (Anatidae) as well as how it can improve the monitoring and detection of zoonotic infections. We also described several high-throughput sequencing approaches for improved detection of known, unknown, and emerging infectious agents, resulting in better infectious disease diagnosis, as well as surveillance of zoonotic infectious diseases. In the coming years, the continued advancement of sequencing technologies will improve livestock research and hasten the development of various new genomic and technological studies on farm animals.
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Khanyari M, Robinson S, Morgan ER, Salemgareyev A, Milner‐Gulland EJ. Identifying relationships between multi‐scale social–ecological factors to explore ungulate health in a Western Kazakhstan rangeland. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Munib Khanyari
- School of Biological Sciences University of Bristol Bristol UK
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Sciences Oxford University Oxford UK
- Nature Conservation Foundation Mysore India
| | - Sarah Robinson
- Interdisciplinary Centre for Conservation Sciences Oxford University Oxford UK
| | - Eric R. Morgan
- School of Biological Sciences Queen's University‐Belfast Belfast UK
| | - Albert Salemgareyev
- Association for the Conservation of Biodiversity of Kazakhstan Nur‐Sultan Kazakhstan
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A journey through 50 years of research relevant to the control of gastrointestinal nematodes in ruminant livestock and thoughts on future directions. Int J Parasitol 2021; 51:1133-1151. [PMID: 34774857 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2021.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This review article provides an historical perspective on some of the major research advances of relevance to ruminant livestock gastrointestinal nematode control over the last 50 years. Over this period, gastrointestinal nematode control has been dominated by the use of broad-spectrum anthelmintic drugs. Whilst this has provided unprecedented levels of successful control for many years, this approach has been gradually breaking down for more than two decades and is increasingly unsustainable which is due, at least in part, to the emergence of anthelmintic drug resistance and a number of other factors discussed in this article. We first cover the remarkable success story of the discovery and development of broad-spectrum anthelmintic drugs, the changing face of anthelmintic drug discovery research and the emergence of anthelmintic resistance. This is followed by a review of some of the major advances in the increasingly important area of non-pharmaceutical gastrointestinal nematode control including immunology and vaccine development, epidemiological modelling and some of the alternative control strategies such as breeding for host resistance, refugia-based methods and biological control. The last 50 years have witnessed remarkable innovation and success in research aiming to improve ruminant livestock gastrointestinal nematode control, particularly given the relatively small size of the research community and limited funding. In spite of this, the growing global demand for livestock products, together with the need to maximise production efficiencies, reduce environmental impacts and safeguard animal welfare - as well as specific challenges such as anthelmintic drug resistance and climate change- mean that gastrointestinal nematode researchers will need to be as innovative in the next 50 years as in the last.
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Newly identified parasitic nematode beta-tubulin alleles confer resistance to benzimidazoles. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2021; 17:168-175. [PMID: 34637983 PMCID: PMC8503852 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2021.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Infections by parasitic nematodes cause large health and economic burdens worldwide. We use anthelmintic drugs to reduce these infections. However, resistance to anthelmintic drugs is extremely common and increasing worldwide. It is essential to understand the mechanisms of resistance to slow its spread. Recently, four new parasitic nematode beta-tubulin alleles have been identified in benzimidazole (BZ) resistant parasite populations: E198I, E198K, E198T, and E198stop. These alleles have not been tested for the ability to confer resistance or for any effects that they might have on organismal fitness. We introduced these four new alleles into the sensitive C. elegans laboratory-adapted N2 strain and exposed these genome-edited strains to both albendazole and fenbendazole. We found that all four alleles conferred resistance to both BZ drugs. Additionally, we tested for fitness consequences in both control and albendazole conditions over seven generations in competitive fitness assays. We found that none of the edited alleles had deleterious effects on fitness in control conditions and that all four alleles conferred strong and equivalent fitness benefits in BZ drug conditions. Because it is unknown if previously validated alleles confer a dominant or recessive BZ resistance phenotype, we tested the phenotypes caused by five of these alleles and found that none of them conferred a dominant BZ resistance phenotype. Accurate measurements of resistance, fitness effects, and dominance caused by the resistance alleles allow for the generation of better models of population dynamics and facilitate control practices that maximize the efficacy of this critical anthelmintic drug class. Four newly identified parasitic nematode beta-tubulin alleles confer benzimidazole resistance. The four newly identified alleles do not confer deleterious fitness consequences. Five beta-tubulin alleles confer recessive benzimidazole resistance.
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Characterization of the β-tubulin gene family in Ascaris lumbricoides and Ascaris suum and its implication for the molecular detection of benzimidazole resistance. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009777. [PMID: 34570778 PMCID: PMC8496844 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The treatment coverage of control programs providing benzimidazole (BZ) drugs to eliminate the morbidity caused by soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) is unprecedently high. This high drug pressure may result in the development of BZ resistance in STHs and so there is an urgent need for surveillance systems detecting molecular markers associated with BZ resistance. A critical prerequisite to develop such systems is an understanding of the gene family encoding β-tubulin proteins, the principal targets of BZ drugs. Methodology and principal findings First, the β-tubulin gene families of Ascaris lumbricoides and Ascaris suum were characterized through the analysis of published genomes. Second, RNA-seq and RT-PCR analyses on cDNA were applied to determine the transcription profiles of the different gene family members. The results revealed that Ascaris species have at least seven different β-tubulin genes of which two are highly expressed during the entire lifecycle. Third, deep amplicon sequencing was performed on these two genes in more than 200 adult A. lumbricoides (Ethiopia and Tanzania) and A. suum (Belgium) worms, to investigate the intra- and inter-species genetic diversity and the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are associated with BZ resistance in other helminth species; F167Y (TTC>TAC or TTT>TAT), E198A (GAA>GCA or GAG>GCG), E198L (GAA>TTA) and F200Y (TTC>TAC or TTT>TAT). These particular SNPs were absent in the two investigated genes in all three Ascaris populations. Significance This study demonstrated the presence of at least seven β-tubulin genes in Ascaris worms. A new nomenclature was proposed and prioritization of genes for future BZ resistance research was discussed. This is the first comprehensive description of the β-tubulin gene family in Ascaris and provides a framework to investigate the prevalence and potential role of β-tubulin sequence polymorphisms in BZ resistance in a more systematic manner than previously possible. Benzimidazole (BZ) drugs remain the standard of treatment in large-scale deworming programs that aim to control the morbidity caused by intestinal worms. As these deworming programs are expanding world-wide, there is an increasing risk of worms becoming resistant to BZ drugs, highlighting the necessity for tools to detect gene mutations associated with drug resistance. However, the development of such tools is impeded by a lack of insights into the genes that are coding for β-tubulin proteins, which are the principal targets of BZ drugs. The aim of this study was to comprehensively characterize these genes in the worm species Ascaris lumbricoides and Ascaris suum. The findings highlight that these species have at least seven β-tubulin genes. Only two genes are highly expressed throughout the different life stages of the worm, and hence are more likely to be involved in the development of BZ resistance. No mutations that have previously been associated with BZ resistance in other intestinal worms were found. This study provides a baseline towards more efficient and accurate monitoring of drug resistance in large-scale deworming programs.
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Martin F, Halvarsson P, Delhomme N, Höglund J, Tydén E. Exploring the β-tubulin gene family in a benzimidazole-resistant Parascaris univalens population. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2021; 17:84-91. [PMID: 34467878 PMCID: PMC8406161 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2021.08.004] [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: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Benzimidazole (BZ) drugs are frequently used to treat infections with the equine ascarid Parascaris univalens due to increasing resistance to macrocyclic lactones and pyrantel. Benzimidazole resistance is rare in ascarids in contrast to strongyle parasites where this resistance is widespread. In strongyles, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at codons 167, 198 and 200 in a β-tubulin gene have been correlated to BZ resistance, but little is known about the β-tubulin genes and their possible involvement in BZ resistance in P. univalens and other ascarids. Previously two β-tubulin genes have been identified in P. univalens. In this study, we present five additional β-tubulin genes as well as the phylogenetic relationship of all seven genes to β-tubulins of other clade III and V nematodes. In addition, the efficacy of fenbendazole for treatment of P. univalens on a Swedish stud farm was studied in 2019 and 2020 using faecal egg count reduction test. Reductions varied from 73% to 88%, indicating the presence of a resistant P. univalens population on the farm. The emergence of BZ resistance emphasizes the need for development of molecular markers for rapid and more sensitive detection of resistant populations. We therefore investigated whether possible SNPs at positions 167, 198 or 200 in any of the β-tubulin genes could be used to distinguish between resistant and susceptible P. univalens populations. Amplicon sequencing covering the mutation sites 167, 198 and 200 in all seven β-tubulin genes revealed an absence of SNPs in both resistant and susceptible populations, suggesting that the mechanism behind BZ resistance in ascarids is different from that in strongyle nematodes and the search for a molecular marker for BZ resistance in P. univalens needs to continue. First case of fenbendazole resistance in Parascaris univalens in Europe. The P. univalens β-tubulin family contains seven genes. P. univalens β-tubulin genes cluster with β-tubulins from other clade V nematodes. No resistance associated SNPs were identified in P. univalens β-tubulin genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frida Martin
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Section for Parasitology, Box 7036, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Peter Halvarsson
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Section for Parasitology, Box 7036, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Nicolas Delhomme
- Umeå Plant Science Centre (UPSC), Department of Forest Genetics and Plant Physiology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, 901 83, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Johan Höglund
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Section for Parasitology, Box 7036, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Eva Tydén
- Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Section for Parasitology, Box 7036, 750 07, Uppsala, Sweden
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Jimenez Castro PD, Venkatesan A, Redman E, Chen R, Malatesta A, Huff H, Zuluaga Salazar DA, Avramenko R, Gilleard JS, Kaplan RM. Multiple drug resistance in hookworms infecting greyhound dogs in the USA. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL FOR PARASITOLOGY-DRUGS AND DRUG RESISTANCE 2021; 17:107-117. [PMID: 34492564 PMCID: PMC8426179 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Ancylostoma caninum is the most prevalent nematode parasite of dogs. We confirmed multiple-drug resistance (MDR) in several A. caninum isolates to all anthelmintic drug classes approved for the treatment of hookworms in dogs in the USA. Cases of MDR hookworms appear to be highly overrepresented in greyhounds. The aims of this study were to evaluate the drug-resistant phenotypes and genotypes of the A. caninum infecting greyhounds. Fecal samples from greyhounds of the USA were acquired from two greyhound adoption kennels, one active greyhound racing kennel, and three veterinary practices. Fecal egg counts (FECs) were performed on fecal samples from 219 greyhounds, and despite treatment with anthelmintics, the mean FEC was 822.4 eggs per gram (EPG). Resistance to benzimidazoles and macrocyclic lactones were measured using the egg hatch assay (EHA) and the larval development assay (LDA), respectively. We performed 23 EHA and 22 LDA on either individual or pooled feces, representing 54 animals. Mean and median IC50 and IC95 values for the EHA were 5.3 μM, 3.6 μM, and 24.5 μM, 23.4 μM, respectively. For the LDA, the median IC50 value was >1000 nM. These values ranged 62–81 times higher than our susceptible laboratory isolate. Only post-treatment samples were available. For samples collected <10 days post-treatment with albendazole, moxidectin, or a combination of febantel-pyrantel-moxidectin, the mean FEC were 349, 333, and 835 EPG, respectively. We obtained DNA from hookworm eggs isolated from 70 fecal samples, comprised of 60 individual dogs and 10 pools. Deep sequencing of the isotype 1 β-tubulin gene only revealed the presence of the F167Y (TTC>TAC) resistance polymorphism in 99% of these samples. These clinical, in vitro, and genetic data provide strong evidence that greyhound dogs in the USA are infected with MDR A. caninum at very high levels in prevalence and infection intensity. Conclusive evidence that most racing greyhounds in the USA are infected with MDR A. caninum. 79% of the samples from racing or retired greyhounds were positive. IC50 values for BZs and MLs were 62–81 times higher in greyhounds. The F167Y SNP was detected in 99% of samples, and in more than 2/3 the frequency was ≥ 75%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo D Jimenez Castro
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA; Grupo de Parasitología Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Colombia.
| | - Abhinaya Venkatesan
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Redman
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Rebecca Chen
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Abigail Malatesta
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Hannah Huff
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Daniel A Zuluaga Salazar
- Laboratorio de Parasitología Veterinaria, Corporación Universitaria Santa Rosa de Cabal-UNISARC, Santa Rosa de Cabal, Risaralda, Colombia
| | - Russell Avramenko
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - John S Gilleard
- Department of Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Host-Parasite Interactions Program, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ray M Kaplan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
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49
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Costa-Junior LM, Chaudhry UN, Skuce PJ, Stack S, Sargison ND. A loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay to identify isotype 1 β-tubulin locus SNPs in synthetic double-stranded Haemonchus contortus DNA. J Parasit Dis 2021; 46:47-55. [PMID: 35295940 PMCID: PMC8901900 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-021-01414-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of sustainable gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) control strategies depends on the ability to identify the frequencies of drug-susceptible and resistant genotypes in GIN populations arising from management practices undertaken on individual farms. Resistance to BZ drugs in GINs has been shown to be conferred by the presence of defined SNPs in the isotype 1 β-tubulin locus. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assays are amenable to use on a range of DNA templates and are potentially adaptable to use in practical, cost-effective, pen-side diagnostic platforms that are needed to detect anthelmintic resistance in the field. In this study, we designed primers and examined LAMP assays to detect each of the three major isotype 1 β-tubulin SNPs conferring genetic susceptibility to BZ drugs. We used artificial pools of synthetic DNA, containing different proportions of susceptible and resistant SNPs to determine reproducibility of the assays. We demonstrated the detection of each of the isotype 1 β-tubulin SNPs conferring susceptibility to BZ drugs using the optimal LAMP assay. Isotype 1 β-tubulin SNP typing was effective in detecting BZ susceptibility, but the accuracy was reduced in samples with less than 60 % susceptible DNA. Our results show the potential for LAMP SNP typing to detect genetic susceptibility or resistance to anthelmintic drugs in livestock GINs, and some of the limitations in our approach that will need to be overcome in order to evaluate this assay using field samples.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Umer N. Chaudhry
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian, EH25 9RG UK
| | - Philip J. Skuce
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Edinburgh, Midlothian, EH26 0PZ Scotland, UK
| | - Seamus Stack
- Mast Group, Mast House, Derby Road, Bootle Merseyside, L20 1EA UK
| | - Neil D. Sargison
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Roslin, Midlothian, EH25 9RG UK
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50
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Gibson SB, Harper CS, Lackner LL, Andersen EC. The Caenorhabditis elegans and Haemonchus contortus beta-tubulin genes cannot substitute for loss of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae beta-tubulin gene. MICROPUBLICATION BIOLOGY 2021; 2021. [PMID: 34222836 PMCID: PMC8246273 DOI: 10.17912/micropub.biology.000411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
To better understand the mechanism of resistance caused by putative interactions between beta-tubulin and benzimidazole compounds, we sought to purify nematode-specific beta-tubulins using heterologous expression after replacement of the single Saccharomyces cerevisiae beta-tubulin gene. However, we found that haploid yeast cells containing nematode-specific beta-tubulin genes were not viable, suggesting that nematode beta-tubulin cannot substitute for the loss of the yeast beta-tubulin gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia B Gibson
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Clare S Harper
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA.,Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Program, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Laura L Lackner
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
| | - Erik C Andersen
- Molecular Biosciences, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA
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