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Gharekhani J, Rafaat Mohammed R, Heidari R, Hajipour N, Trotta M, Villanueva-Saz S. Assessment of Neospora caninum infection in bulls using serological and molecular techniques. Vet Parasitol Reg Stud Reports 2023; 46:100940. [PMID: 37935541 DOI: 10.1016/j.vprsr.2023.100940] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is a significant cause of abortion and economic losses in cattle worldwide. The main aim of the present work was to detect the prevalence of N. caninum infection in bulls in Hamedan (Iran) using serology and molecular techniques. All blood samples (n = 792) were screened for detecting the antibodies to N. caninum using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Then seropositive animals were rechecked using the immunofluorescent antibody test (IFAT). Also, blood, epididymis, and spinal cord samples were collected from animals for molecular analysis using nested PCR. In serology, using ELISA, 3.91% of animals were seropositive for N. caninum. Additionally, true prevalence based on the sensitivity and specificity of the ELISA was calculated 1.25% (95% CI: 0.48-2.02%). Neospora-infection in animals, calculated as the number of bulls seropositive and/or one sample positive to nested PCR, was 3.40%; and 19 bulls tested positive by both serology and molecular diagnostic methods. The overlaps between ELISA and molecular results were observed in 74.19% of whole blood samples, 80.64% of the epididymis, and 87.09% of the spinal cord. Using ELISA, the seroprevalence of N. caninum was detected 1.8% in ≤2 and 5.45% in >2 years old group of animals (p = 0.009, PR = 3.1). In addition, the seropositivity in Holstein and native breed animals was calculated 6.57% and 2.93%, respectively (p = 0.019, PR = 2.3). Seven sequences with 94.9-99.3% similarity were detected in multiple alignments of positive PCR products. Our work was the first comprehensive evaluation of Neospora-infection/neosporosis in Iranian bulls. We detected a low prevalence of infection in animals compared to previous reports. The ELISA is a sensitive serological technique for detecting the highest number of positive bulls in the present investigation and, the nested PCR is a reliable technique to identify Neospora-DNA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamal Gharekhani
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, Central Veterinary Laboratory, Iranian Veterinary Organization, Hamedan, Iran.
| | - Rebin Rafaat Mohammed
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran; Director of the Central Clinical Laboratory of Sulaimani, Iraq
| | - Reza Heidari
- Medical Biotechnology Research Center, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Research Center for Cancer Screening and Epidemiology, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasser Hajipour
- Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Michele Trotta
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sergio Villanueva-Saz
- Clinical Immunology Laboratory, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Department of Animal Pathology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain; Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2 (Universidad de Zaragoza-CITA), Zaragoza, Spain
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van Velsen CM. Neosporosis in bulls: potential for venereal transmission, and effect on semen quality and production. N Z Vet J 2021; 69:193-200. [PMID: 33441050 DOI: 10.1080/00480169.2020.1854883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Neospora caninum caninum is a protozoan parasite that can cause abortions, birth of congenitally infected calves, and reduced milk production in cattle. Neosporosis in cattle can be transmitted through vertical transplacental transmission from dam to calf, or through horizontal transmission between animals. While it is well established that horizontal transmission from dogs (the definitive host) to cattle (an intermediate host) occurs, it is not clear whether horizontal transmission may occur between cows and bulls during mating. Transmission via infected semen of seropositive bulls was suggested when N. caninum DNA was found in bull semen. The primary objective of this article is to critically evaluate the evidence for venereal transmission of N. caninum between cattle, to determine whether this transmission route is likely to occur. A secondary objective is to review and evaluate published evidence for whether neosporosis in bulls may affect semen quality and production. N. caninum DNA can be detected by PCR in occasional batches of semen straws from bulls that are seropositive for N. caninum. Insemination of heifers with semen experimentally infected with 5 × 104 N. caninum tachyzoites has caused persistent seroconversion in some animals. However, the highest concentration of parasites in the semen of naturally infected bulls was estimated, using quantitative PCR, as 10 tachyzoites. Thus it appears that, whether used for natural or artificial insemination, the semen of bulls naturally infected with N. caninum, does not contain the necessary intrauterine dose of tachyzoites to cause persistent seroconversion in a heifer or cow. Thus, based on the available evidence, the venereal transmission of N. caninum via bull semen is extremely unlikely. Nevertheless, neosporosis in bulls may influence semen quality and production. Epididymal semen concentration, viability, and motility appeared "to be" significantly decreased in N. caninum-seropositive bulls compared to seronegative bulls. Furthermore, semen production could be altered if neosporosis affects the thyroid gland. The thyroid hormones such as triiodothyronine and thyroxine (T4) may affect testicular development. Significantly lower concentrations of T4 were observed in the blood of N. caninum-seropositive, compared with those of seronegative bulls. Longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the long-term effect and significance of neosporosis on semen quality and thyroid hormone concentrations in bulls.
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Serrano-Martínez ME, Cisterna CAB, Romero RCE, Huacho MAQ, Bermabé AM, Albornoz LAL. Evaluation of abortions spontaneously induced by Neospora caninum and risk factors in dairy cattle from Lima, Peru. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 28:215-220. [PMID: 31215607 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612019026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Our objective was to identify the direct and indirect presence of Neospora caninum in dairy cattle and their aborted fetuses from Lima, Peru. A total 219 blood samples obtained from dairy cattle with records of spontaneous abortion were collected to detect antibodies against N. caninum in serum with indirect ELISA and search for risk-factor associations. 68 fetal aborted tissue samples of these cows were analyzed by PCR, indirect ELISA and histopathology assay to detect N. caninum presence. The prevalence ratio (PR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated. Univariate analysis was performed using the chi-squared test. Among the 68 aborted fetuses collected, 10 (15%) were positive in at least two diagnostic tests. Among 219 serum samples, 46.6% (95% CI: 40.0%-53.3%) were positive. Cows with 4 years or older (PR: 7.10; 95% CI: 4.89-10.67) and multiparous (PR: 1.76; 95% CI: 1.11-2.80) were found to be more likely to possess N. caninum antibodies. This study detects presence of N. caninum in dairy cattle and their aborted fetus from Lima valley, suggesting biosecurity management improve to neosporosis control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Enrique Serrano-Martínez
- Grupo SANIVET: Sanidad Vaterinaria, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia - UPCH, Lima, Peru
| | - Cesar Abel Burga Cisterna
- Grupo SANIVET: Sanidad Vaterinaria, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia - UPCH, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Marco Antonio Quispe Huacho
- Grupo SANIVET: Sanidad Vaterinaria, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia - UPCH, Lima, Peru
| | - Alessandra Matienzo Bermabé
- Grupo SANIVET: Sanidad Vaterinaria, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia - UPCH, Lima, Peru
| | - Luis Antonio Llanco Albornoz
- Grupo SANIVET: Sanidad Vaterinaria, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia - UPCH, Lima, Peru
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Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to review scientific evidence concerning pathogens that could potentially be transmitted via bovine semen. As a result of a careful analysis of the characteristics of infections that may cause transmission of disease through semen, effective control procedures can be identified that provide minimal constraint to the introduction of new bulls into herds for natural breeding and importation of valuable novel genetics through artificial insemination. The potential for transmission through bovine semen and corresponding effective control procedures are described for bovine herpesvirus 1, bovine viral diarrhea virus, bovine leukemia virus, lumpy skin disease virus, bluetongue virus, foot-and-mouth disease virus, and Schmallenberg virus. Brief consideration is also provided regarding the potential for transmission via semen of Tritrichomonas foetus, Campylobacter fetus venerealis, Brucella abortus, Leptospira spp., Histophilus somni, Ureaplasma diversum, Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis, Chlamydiaceae, Mycobacterium bovis, Coxiella burnetii, Mycoplasma mycoides ssp. mycoides and Neospora caninum. Thoughtful and systematic control procedures can ensure the safety of introducing new bulls and cryopreserved semen into cattle production systems.
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Abdulai-Saiku S, Tong WH, Vyas A. Sexual Transmission of Cyst-Forming Coccidian Parasites with Complex Life Cycles. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-017-0133-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Da Silva AS, Radavelli WM, Moura AB, Duarte T, Duarte MM, Stefani LM. Horses Seropositive for Neospora spp.: Immunoglobulins, Cytokines, and C-Reactive Protein Levels. J Equine Vet Sci 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2014.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Experimental ruminant models for bovine neosporosis: what is known and what is needed. Parasitology 2014; 141:1471-88. [PMID: 24926962 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182014000638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
At present, bovine neosporosis is an important worldwide concern because of its wide geographic distribution and economic impact. Abortion is the main clinical sign of bovine neosporosis in both dairy and beef cattle. Ruminant challenge models are critical to evaluate potential vaccine candidates to help tackle bovine neosporosis and to study pathogenesis and host responses to infection. Several research groups have developed ruminant models of Neospora caninum infection independently of others, resulting in a high degree of variability due to the use of different species of animals, breeds, strains/isolates of N. caninum, doses, routes and times of inoculation. Standardization is greatly needed to advance research in a more collaborative, timely and efficient manner. In the absence of widely accepted international guidelines, this manuscript serves to summarize and discuss the different models and parameters currently in use. Parameters essential for the development of non-pregnant and pregnant ruminant models are outlined and the main knowledge gaps are identified. This information could act as the basis to develop a consensus for international standard guidelines for ruminant models of neosporosis that would be helpful for researchers in this field worldwide.
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Syed-Hussain S, Howe L, Pomroy W, West D, Smith S, Williamson N. Detection of Neospora caninum DNA in semen of experimental infected rams with no evidence of horizontal transmission in ewes. Vet Parasitol 2013; 197:534-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2013.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2012] [Revised: 05/28/2013] [Accepted: 06/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Almería S. Neospora caninum and Wildlife. ISRN PARASITOLOGY 2013; 2013:947347. [PMID: 27335866 PMCID: PMC4890850 DOI: 10.5402/2013/947347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2013] [Accepted: 04/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Bovine neosporosis caused by Neospora caninum is among the main causes of abortion in cattle nowadays. At present there is no effective treatment or vaccine. Serological evidence in domestic, wild, and zoo animals indicates that many species have been exposed to this parasite. However, many aspects of the life cycle of N. caninum are unknown and the role of wildlife in the life cycle of N. caninum is still not completely elucidated. In North America, there are data consistent with a sylvatic cycle involving white tailed-deer and canids and in Australia a plausible sylvatic cycle could be occurring between wild dogs and their macropod preys. In Europe, a similar sylvatic cycle has not been established but is very likely. The present review is a comprehensive and up to date summary of the current knowledge on the sylvatic cycle of N. caninum, species affected and their geographical distribution. These findings could have important implications in both sylvatic and domestic cycles since infected wildlife may influence the prevalence of infection in cattle farms in the same areas. Wildlife will need to be taken into account in the control measures to reduce the economical losses associated with this important disease in cattle farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Almería
- Departament de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals and Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CreSA), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
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Almería S, López-Gatius F. Bovine neosporosis: clinical and practical aspects. Res Vet Sci 2013; 95:303-9. [PMID: 23659742 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2013.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2013] [Revised: 03/30/2013] [Accepted: 04/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Neospora caninum is a protozoan parasite with a wide host range but with a preference for cattle and dogs. Since the description of N. caninum as a new genus and species in 1988, bovine neosporosis has become a disease of international concern as it is among the main causes of abortion in cattle. At present there is no effective treatment or vaccine. This review focuses on the epidemiology of the disease and on prospects for its control in cattle. Finally, based on the implications of clinical findings reported to date, a set of recommendations is provided for veterinarians and cattle farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Almería
- Departament de Sanitat i Anatomia Animals and Centre de Recerca en Sanitat Animal (CreSA), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona-IRTA, Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain.
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Neospora caninum in Estonian dairy herds in relation to herd size, reproduction parameters, bovine virus diarrhoea virus, and bovine herpes virus 1. Vet Parasitol 2012; 190:43-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2012] [Revised: 05/17/2012] [Accepted: 05/18/2012] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Natural breeding with bulls experimentally infected with Neospora caninum failed to induce seroconversion in dams. Theriogenology 2009; 71:639-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2008] [Revised: 09/02/2008] [Accepted: 09/11/2008] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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