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Akwongo CJ, Byaruhanga C. Epidemiology of Anaplasma species amongst cattle in Africa from 1970 to 2022: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Prev Vet Med 2024; 228:106214. [PMID: 38733736 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2024.106214] [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: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Tick-borne pathogens of the genus Anaplasma cause anaplasmosis in livestock and humans, impacting health and livelihoods, particularly in Africa. A comprehensive review on the epidemiology of Anaplasma species is important to guide further research and for implementation of control approaches. We reviewed observational studies concerning Anaplasma species amongst cattle in Africa. Peer-reviewed studies published in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science - from database inception to 2022 - were searched. The quality of individual studies was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tool and the pooled prevalences by diagnostic method were estimated using random-effects models. Heterogeneity across the studies was tested and quantified using the Cochran's Q statistic and the I2 statistic. Potential sources of heterogeneity were investigated by subgroup analysis. A total of 1117 records were retrieved and at the end of the screening, 149 records (155 studies) were eligible for this meta-analysis. The occurrence of Anaplasma species was reported in 31/54 countries in all regions. Seven recognised species (A. marginale, A. centrale, A. phagocytophilum, A. platys, A. capra, A. bovis, A. ovis) and nine uncharacterised genotypes (Anaplasma sp. Hadesa; Anaplasma sp. Saso; Anaplasma sp. Dedessa; Anaplasma sp. Mymensingh; Anaplasma sp. Lambwe-1; Candidatus Anaplasma africae; Anaplasma sp.; Candidatus Anaplasma boleense) were reported in African cattle. Anaplasma marginale was the most frequently reported (n=144/155 studies) and the most prevalent species (serology methods 56.1%, 45.9-66.1; direct detection methods 19.9%, 15.4-24.7), followed by A. centrale (n=26 studies) with a prevalence of 8.0% (95% CI: 4.8-11.9) and A. platys (n=19 studies) with prevalence of 9.7% (95% CI: 5.4-15.2). Anaplasma marginale, A. centrale and A. platys were reported in all Africa's regions, while A. ovis and A. capra were reported only in the northern and central regions. The uncharacterised Anaplasma taxa were mostly detected in the eastern and southern regions. Subgroup analysis showed that significant determinants for A. marginale exposure (serology) were geographical region (p=0.0219), and longitude (p=0.0336), while the technique employed influenced (p<0.0001) prevalence in direct detection approaches. Temperature was the only significant variable (p=0.0269) for A. centrale. These findings show that various Anaplasma species, including those that are zoonotic, circulate in African cattle. There is need for more genetic and genome data, especially for unrecognised species, to facilitate effective identification, improve livestock and minimise the health risk in human populations. Additional epidemiological data including pathogen occurrence, tick vectors and host range, as well as pathogenicity are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire Julie Akwongo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, Via Federico Delpino 1, Napoli 80137, Italy
| | - Charles Byaruhanga
- Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; National Agricultural Research Organisation, P.O. Box 259, Entebbe, Uganda
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Zapata CA, Morea EGO, Mora-Motta DA, Ojeda DMM, Quiceno-Mayo EJ, Toro DA, Ortiz-Morea FA. Characterization and Seasonal Dynamics of Tick Populations in Dairy Cattle Production Systems of Northwestern Colombian Amazon. Vet Sci 2024; 11:244. [PMID: 38921991 PMCID: PMC11209389 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11060244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2024] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Cattle ticks are a significant health concern in tropical livestock production due to their hematophagous behavior and potential as vectors for human and animal pathogens. In this study, we investigated the tick population present in dairy cattle production, calves, and grazing areas of livestock systems in the northwestern Colombian Amazon. Identification was based on taxonomic keys and molecular markers. Phylogenetic relationships were established using mitochondrial COX1 and 16S genes. Population structure analysis was performed considering age, racial type (B. indicus vs. B. taurus), and the influence of environmental factors and the geomorphological landscape on tick population dynamics. Our findings revealed the presence of a single tick species, with a unique haplotype identified for each mitochondrial gene assessed. Phylogenetic analysis classified the found species within Clade A of the Rhipicephalus microplus complex. Ticks were more prevalent during periods of low rainfall and high temperature, and B. taurus cows exhibited the highest tick abundance. Thus, these results provide insights into the population characteristics and distribution of the tick species present in dairy cattle production systems in the northwestern part of the Colombian Amazon. This information is fundamental for developing targeted strategies based on seasonal variation and host characteristics to mitigate tick infestation severity in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cesar A. Zapata
- Centro de Investigaciones Macagual CIMAZ-MACAGUAL, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 180002, Colombia; (C.A.Z.); (E.G.O.M.); (D.A.M.-M.); (D.M.M.O.); (E.J.Q.-M.); (D.A.T.)
- Ciencias Naturales y Desarrollo Sustentable, Facultad Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 180001, Colombia
| | - Edna G. O. Morea
- Centro de Investigaciones Macagual CIMAZ-MACAGUAL, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 180002, Colombia; (C.A.Z.); (E.G.O.M.); (D.A.M.-M.); (D.M.M.O.); (E.J.Q.-M.); (D.A.T.)
- El Centro de Investigaciones e Innovación Uninavarra, Fundación Universitaria Navarra UNINAVARRA, Facultad de Salud, Neiva 410010, Colombia
| | - Dúber A. Mora-Motta
- Centro de Investigaciones Macagual CIMAZ-MACAGUAL, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 180002, Colombia; (C.A.Z.); (E.G.O.M.); (D.A.M.-M.); (D.M.M.O.); (E.J.Q.-M.); (D.A.T.)
| | - Diana M. M. Ojeda
- Centro de Investigaciones Macagual CIMAZ-MACAGUAL, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 180002, Colombia; (C.A.Z.); (E.G.O.M.); (D.A.M.-M.); (D.M.M.O.); (E.J.Q.-M.); (D.A.T.)
| | - Esther J. Quiceno-Mayo
- Centro de Investigaciones Macagual CIMAZ-MACAGUAL, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 180002, Colombia; (C.A.Z.); (E.G.O.M.); (D.A.M.-M.); (D.M.M.O.); (E.J.Q.-M.); (D.A.T.)
| | - Diego A. Toro
- Centro de Investigaciones Macagual CIMAZ-MACAGUAL, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 180002, Colombia; (C.A.Z.); (E.G.O.M.); (D.A.M.-M.); (D.M.M.O.); (E.J.Q.-M.); (D.A.T.)
| | - Fausto A. Ortiz-Morea
- Centro de Investigaciones Macagual CIMAZ-MACAGUAL, Universidad de la Amazonia, Florencia 180002, Colombia; (C.A.Z.); (E.G.O.M.); (D.A.M.-M.); (D.M.M.O.); (E.J.Q.-M.); (D.A.T.)
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Heylen DJA, Labuschagne M, Meiring C, van der Mescht L, Klafke G, Costa Junior LM, Strydom T, Wentzel J, Shacklock C, Halos L, Maree F, Fourie J, Madder M, Evans A. Phenotypic and genotypic characterization of acaricide resistance in Rhipicephalus microplus field isolates from South Africa and Brazil. Int J Parasitol Drugs Drug Resist 2024; 24:100519. [PMID: 38168594 PMCID: PMC10797136 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpddr.2023.100519] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus is one of the most successful ticks infesting cattle around the world. This highly-invasive species transmits cattle parasites that cause cattle fever leading to a high socio-economic burden. Tick eradication programs have often failed, due to the development of acaricide resistance. Here we characterize acaricide resistance in a large number of tick isolates from regions in South Africa (KwaZulu Natal, Mpumalanga, Western & Eastern Cape provinces) and two Brazilian regions. By means of Larval Packet Tests (LPT's) acaricide resistance was evaluated against five commonly used acaricides (chlorfenvinphos, fipronil, deltamethrin, amitraz, and ivermectin). Furthermore, the coding region containing the knock down resistance (kdr) mutation, known to result in pyrethroid resistance, was sequenced. Resistance to at least one acaricide class was reported in each of the five regions, and a high proportion of tick isolates exhibited multi-resistance to at least two acaricide classes (range: 22.2-80.0%). Furthermore, resistance ratios (RR) showed high spatial variation (intercontinental, as well as regional) but low regional spatial autocorrelation. Previous and current acaricide use correlated with current RR, and several combinations of acaricide RR were positively correlated. Moreover, fipronil resistance tended to be higher in farms with more intense acaricide use. The kdr-mutations provided the ticks a fitness advantage under the selection pressure of synthetic pyrethroids based on population (kdr-allele frequency) and individual level data (genotypes). The data show the threat of acaricide (multi-)resistance is high in Brazil and South Africa, but acaricide specific levels need to be assessed locally. For this purpose, gathering complementary molecular information on mutations that underlie resistance can reduce costs and expedite necessary actions. In an era of human-caused habitat alterations, implementing molecular data-driven programs becomes essential in overcoming tick-induced socio-economic losses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieter J A Heylen
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium; Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and statistical Bioinformatics, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - Michel Labuschagne
- Clinomics, P.O. Box 11186, Universitas, Bloemfontein, 9321, Uitzich Road, Bainsvlei, Bloemfontein, 9338, South Africa; Clinglobal, B03/04, The Tamarin Commercial Hub, Jacaranda Avenue, Tamarin, 90903, Mauritius.
| | - Christina Meiring
- Clinomics, P.O. Box 11186, Universitas, Bloemfontein, 9321, Uitzich Road, Bainsvlei, Bloemfontein, 9338, South Africa; Clinglobal, B03/04, The Tamarin Commercial Hub, Jacaranda Avenue, Tamarin, 90903, Mauritius.
| | - Luther van der Mescht
- Clinvet International Pty (Ltd), Uitzich Road, Bainsvlei, Bloemfontein, 9338, South Africa; Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa.
| | - Guilherme Klafke
- Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor, Centro de Pesquisa em Saúde Animal, Estrada do Conde 6000, Eldorado do Sul, RS, 92990-000, Brazil.
| | | | - Tom Strydom
- MSD ANIMAL HEALTH, Private Bag X2026, Isando, 1600, South Africa.
| | - Jeanette Wentzel
- Hans Hoheisen Wildlife Research Station, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, South Africa.
| | | | - Lénaig Halos
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA.
| | - Francois Maree
- Clinomics, P.O. Box 11186, Universitas, Bloemfontein, 9321, Uitzich Road, Bainsvlei, Bloemfontein, 9338, South Africa.
| | - Josephus Fourie
- Clinvet International Pty (Ltd), 1479 Talmadge Hill South, Waverly, NY, 14892, USA.
| | - Maxime Madder
- Clinglobal, B03/04, The Tamarin Commercial Hub, Jacaranda Avenue, Tamarin, 90903, Mauritius.
| | - Alec Evans
- Clinglobal, B03/04, The Tamarin Commercial Hub, Jacaranda Avenue, Tamarin, 90903, Mauritius.
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Etiang P, Atim SA, Nkamwesiga J, Nalumenya D, Byaruhanga C, Odongo S, Vudriko P, Ademun AR, Biryomumaisho S, Erume J, Masembe C, Thomson EC, Muhanguzi D, Tweyongyere R. Identification and distribution of Rhipicephalus microplus in selected high-cattle density districts in Uganda: signaling future demand for novel tick control approaches. BMC Vet Res 2024; 20:119. [PMID: 38528496 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-024-03979-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: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Canestrini, 1888), the Asian blue tick, is a highly invasive and adaptable ectoparasite. This tick species has successfully established itself in most regions of the world, with movement of cattle being a major driver for its spread. In the recent past, R. microplus ticks have been reported in three districts of Uganda. Information on its spread and distribution are vital in deepening our understanding of the ecological scenarios that lead to tick persistence and in the formulation of control strategies. This is especially important in the cattle-dense districts. METHODS We randomly collected tick specimens from 1,461cattle spread across seven cattle dense districts located in the Central, Karamoja and West Nile regions of Uganda from January to September 2020. The ticks were identified using standard morpho-taxonomic keys and the R. microplus tick species identities were confirmed by sequencing of the ITS2 region, 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes and phylogenetic analyses. RESULTS Adult ticks (n = 13,019) were collected from 1,461 cattle. Seventeen tick species were identified based on morpho-taxonomic keys and the majority (47.4%; n=6184) of these were R. appendiculatus. In total, 257 R. microplus ticks were found infesting cattle in 18 study sites in the districts of Amudat, Kaabong, Napak (Karamoja region) and Arua (West Nile region). The identity of R. microplus was confirmed using molecular technics. No R. microplus tick was recorded in the districts of Lyantonde and Nakaseke (Central region). Arua district accounted for 82.1% (n=211) of the R. microplus ticks recorded followed by Napak district at 16.3% (n=42), while Amudat and Kaabong districts accounted for 1.5% (n=4). Rhipicephalus microplus and R. decoloratus co-existed in 6 of the 13 study sites in Arua district, while in another 6 study sites, no R. decoloratus was recorded. In the Karamoja region districts R. decoloratus co-existed with R.microplus. Of the total 618 ticks belonging to four species of the subgenus Boophilus recorded in this study, R. decoloratus accounted for 50.04% (n=334), followed by R. microplus at 41.58% (n=257), R. geigyi at 2.75% (n=17) and R. annulatus at 1.61% (n=10). In the districts of Amudat, Kaabong and Napak, R. decoloratus was more dominant (76.1%; n=179) of the three Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) tick species recorded, followed by R. microplus (19.5%; n=46) and R. geigyi (4.2%; n=10). Contrariwise, R. microplus was more dominant (84%; n=211) in Arua district followed by R. decoloratus (10.7%; n=27), R. annulatus (3.9%; n=10) and R. geigyi (1.1%; n=3). Phylogenetic analyses of the ITS2 region, 12S rRNA and 16S rRNA genes revealed subgrouping of the obtained sequences with the previously published R. microplus sequences from other parts of the world. CONCLUSION Rhipicephalus microplus ticks were found infesting cattle in four districts of Uganda. The inability to find R. decoloratus, an indigenous tick, from six sites in the district of Arua is suggestive of its replacement by R. microplus. Rhipicephalus microplus negatively affects livestock production, and therefore, there is a need to determine its distribution and to deepen the understanding of the ecological factors that lead to its spread and persistence in an area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Etiang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
- Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Busitema University, P.O. Box 236, Tororo, Uganda
| | - Stella A Atim
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
- Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, P.O. Box 102, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Joseph Nkamwesiga
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - David Nalumenya
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles Byaruhanga
- National Agricultural Research Organization, P.O. Box 259, Entebbe, Uganda
- Vectors and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Programme, Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X04, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - Steven Odongo
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Patrick Vudriko
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Anna Rose Ademun
- Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, P.O. Box 102, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Savino Biryomumaisho
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Joseph Erume
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Charles Masembe
- College of Natural Sciences (CONAS), Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Emma C Thomson
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research (CVR), Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Dennis Muhanguzi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Robert Tweyongyere
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Makerere University, P.O. Box 7062, Kampala, Uganda.
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Díaz-Sánchez S, Hernández-Triana LM, Labruna MB, Merino O, Mosqueda J, Nava S, Szabó M, Tarragona E, Venzal JM, de la Fuente J, Estrada-Peña A. Low Genetic Diversity of the Only Clade of the Tick Rhipicephalus microplus in the Neotropics. Pathogens 2023; 12:1344. [PMID: 38003808 PMCID: PMC10675012 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12111344] [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: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This study addresses the variability of the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) and 16S rDNA (16S), and nuclear internal transcriber spacer ITS2 (ITS2) genes in a set of field-collected samples of the cattle tick, Rhipicephalus microplus (Canestrini, 1888), and in geo-referenced sequences obtained from GenBank. Since the tick is currently considered to be a complex of cryptic taxa in several regions of the world, the main aims of the study are (i) to provide evidence of the clades of the tick present in the Neotropics, (ii) to explore if there is an effect of climate traits on the divergence rates of the target genes, and (iii) to check for a relationship between geographical and genetic distance among populations (the closest, the most similar, meaning for slow spread). We included published sequences of Rhipicephalus annulatus (Nearctic, Afrotropical, and Mediterranean) and R. microplus (Afrotropical, Indomalayan) to fully characterize the Neotropical populations (total: 74 16S, 44 COI, and 49 ITS2 sequences included in the analysis). Only the clade A of R. microplus spread in the Nearctic-Neotropics. Both the K and Lambda's statistics, two measures of phylogenetic signal, support low divergence rates of the tested genes in populations of R. microplus in the Neotropics. These tests demonstrate that genetic diversity of the continental populations does not correlate either with the geographic distance among samples or with environmental variables. The low variability of these genes may be due to a combination of factors like (i) the recent introduction of the tick in the Neotropics, (ii) a large, effective, and fast exchange of populations, and (iii) a low effect of climate on the evolution rates of the target genes. These results have implications for the ecological studies and control of cattle tick infestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Díaz-Sánchez
- SaBio, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC-CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo s/n, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain; (S.D.-S.); (J.d.l.F.)
| | | | | | - Octavio Merino
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Tamaulipas 87000, Mexico;
| | - Juan Mosqueda
- Laboratory for Research on Immunology and Vaccines, Facultad de Veterinaria, Querétaro 76230, Mexico;
| | - Santiago Nava
- IDICAL (INTA-CONICET), Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), E.E.A. Rafaela, Rafaela 2300, Santa Fe, Argentina; (S.N.); (E.T.)
| | - Matias Szabó
- Hospital Veterinário, Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Uberlândia 38405-314, MG, Brazil;
| | - Evelina Tarragona
- IDICAL (INTA-CONICET), Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), E.E.A. Rafaela, Rafaela 2300, Santa Fe, Argentina; (S.N.); (E.T.)
| | - José M. Venzal
- Departamento de Ciencias Biológicas, CENUR Litoral Norte, Universidad de la República, Salto 50000, Uruguay;
| | - José de la Fuente
- SaBio, Instituto de Investigación en Recursos Cinegéticos IREC-CSIC-UCLM-JCCM, Ronda de Toledo s/n, 13005 Ciudad Real, Spain; (S.D.-S.); (J.d.l.F.)
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
| | - Agustín Estrada-Peña
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Group of Research on Emerging Zoonoses, Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón (IA2), 50013 Zaragoza, Spain
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Heylen DJA, Kumsa B, Kimbita E, Frank MN, Muhanguzi D, Jongejan F, Adehan SB, Toure A, Aboagye-Antwi F, Ogo NI, Juleff N, Fourie J, Evans A, Byaruhanga J, Madder M. Tick communities of cattle in smallholder rural livestock production systems in sub-Saharan Africa. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:206. [PMID: 37337296 PMCID: PMC10280850 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05801-5] [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: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The majority of the African population lives in rural areas and depends on agriculture for their livelihoods. To increase the productivity and sustainability of their farms, they need access to affordable yield-enhancing inputs of which parasite control is of paramount importance. We therefore determined the status of current tick species with the highest economic impact on cattle by sampling representative numbers of animals in each of seven sub-Saharan countries. METHODS Data included tick species' half-body counts from approximately 120 cattle at each of two districts per country, collected four times in approximately 1 year (to include seasonality). Study sites were chosen in each country to include high cattle density and tick burden. RESULTS East Africa (Ethiopia, Uganda and Tanzania) showed overall a higher diversity and prevalence in tick infestations compared to West African countries (Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana and Nigeria). In East Africa, Amblyomma variegatum (vector of Ehrlichia ruminantium), Rhipicephalus microplus (Babesia bovis, B. bigemina, Anaplasma marginale), R. evertsi evertsi (A. marginale) and R. appendiculatus (Theileria parva) were the most prevalent tick species of economic importance. While the latter species was absent in West Africa, here both A. variegatum and R. microplus occurred in high numbers. Rhipicephalus microplus had spread to Uganda, infesting half of the cattle sampled. Rhipicephalus appendiculatus is known for its invasive behaviour and displacement of other blue tick species, as observed in other East and West African countries. Individual cattle with higher body weights, as well as males, were more likely to be infested. For six tick species, we found reduced infestation levels when hosts were treated with anti-parasiticides. CONCLUSIONS These baseline data allow the determination of possible changes in presence and prevalence of ticks in each of the countries targeted, which is of importance in the light of human-caused climate and habitat alterations or anthropogenic activities. As many of the ticks in this study are vectors of important pathogens, but also, as cattle may act as end hosts for ticks of importance to human health, our study will help a wide range of stakeholders to provide recommendations for tick infestation surveillance and prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieter J A Heylen
- Evolutionary Ecology Group, Department of Biology, University of Antwerp, Wilrijk, Belgium.
- Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - Bersissa Kumsa
- Department of Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Addis Ababa University, Bishoftu, Ethiopia
| | - Elikira Kimbita
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Parasitology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Sokoine University of Agriculture, 3019, Morogoro, Tanzania
| | - Mwiine Nobert Frank
- Department of Bio-molecular Resources and Bio-Laboratory Sciences (BBS), College of Veterinary Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Dennis Muhanguzi
- Department of Bio-molecular Resources and Bio-Laboratory Sciences (BBS), College of Veterinary Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Frans Jongejan
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, South Africa
| | - Safiou Bienvenu Adehan
- National Institute of Agricultural Research (INRAB), Zootechnical, Veterinary and Halieutic Research Laboratory (LRZVH), 01 BP 884, Cotonou, Benin
| | - Alassane Toure
- Université Nangui Abrogoua, UFR Sciences de la Nature, 02 Bp 801, Abidjan 02, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - Fred Aboagye-Antwi
- Department of Animal Biology and Conservation Science, School of Biological Sciences, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon-Accra, Ghana
| | - Ndudim Isaac Ogo
- National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria
| | - Nick Juleff
- Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Josephus Fourie
- Clinvet International Pty (Ltd), 1479 Talmadge Hill South, Waverly, NY, 14892, USA
| | - Alec Evans
- Clinglobal, B03/04, The Tamarin Commercial Hub, Jacaranda Avenue, Tamarin, 90903, Mauritius
| | - Joseph Byaruhanga
- Research Center for Tropical Diseases and Vector Control (RTC), Department of Veterinary Pharmacy, Clinics and Comparative Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Maxime Madder
- Clinglobal, B03/04, The Tamarin Commercial Hub, Jacaranda Avenue, Tamarin, 90903, Mauritius
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Ngnindji-Youdje Y, Diarra AZ, Lontsi-Demano M, Berenger JM, Tchuinkam T, Parola P. MALDI-TOF MS identification of cattle ticks from Cameroon. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2023; 14:102159. [PMID: 36907070 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2023.102159] [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: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
MALDI-TOF MS has recently been proposed as an accurate tool for arthropod identification, including ticks. In this study, we evaluate and confirm the ability of MALDI-TOF MS, to identify different tick species collected in Cameroon, considering other lines of evidence (morphology and molecular). A total of 1483 adult ticks were collected from cattle in five distinct sites in the Western Highland of Cameroon. Because of engorged status and/or absence of some morphological criteria, some Ixodes spp. and Rhipicephalus spp. were identified to the genus level only. Among those, 944 ticks (543 males and 401 females) were selected for the current work. They were classified into 5 genera and 11 species: Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (31.7%), Rhipicephalus lunulatus (26%), Amblyomma variegatum (23%), Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l. (4.8%), of Haemaphysalis leachi group (4.6%), Hyalomma truncatum (2.6%), Hyalomma rufipes (1.7%), Rhipicephalus muhsamae (1.1%), Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus (0.6%), Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) decoloratus (0.3%), Ixodes rasus (0.1%), Ixodes spp. (0.2%) and Rhipicephalus spp. (3.3%). Tick legs were subjected to MALDI-TOF MS analyzes, and the spectra of 929 (98.4%) specimens were of good quality. Analysis of these spectra provided intra-species reproducibility and interspecies specificity of MS profiles obtained from the different species. Our in-house MALDI-TOF MS arthropod database was upgraded with spectra from 44 specimens of 10 different tick species. Blind testing of good quality spectra revealed that 99% agreed with the morphological identification. Of these, 96.9% had log score values (LSVs) between 1.73 and 2.57. MALDI-TOF MS also allowed to correct the morphological misidentification of 7 ticks, and to identify 32 engorged ticks that were not morphologically identifiable to the species level. This study supports MALDI-TOF MS as a reliable tool for tick identification and provides new data on tick species identification in Cameroon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Ngnindji-Youdje
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille 13005, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille 13005, France; Vectors Borne Diseases Laboratory of the Research Unit for Biology and Applied Ecology (VBID-RUBAE), Faculty of Sciences of the University of Dschang, P.O. Box 067, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Adama Zan Diarra
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille 13005, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille 13005, France
| | - Michel Lontsi-Demano
- Vectors Borne Diseases Laboratory of the Research Unit for Biology and Applied Ecology (VBID-RUBAE), Faculty of Sciences of the University of Dschang, P.O. Box 067, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Jean-Michel Berenger
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille 13005, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille 13005, France
| | - Timoléon Tchuinkam
- Vectors Borne Diseases Laboratory of the Research Unit for Biology and Applied Ecology (VBID-RUBAE), Faculty of Sciences of the University of Dschang, P.O. Box 067, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Philippe Parola
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille 13005, France; IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, Marseille 13005, France.
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Ngnindji-Youdje Y, Diarra AZ, Lontsi-Demano M, Tchuinkam T, Parola P. Detection of Tick-Borne Pathogens in Ticks from Cattle in Western Highlands of Cameroon. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10101957. [PMID: 36296233 PMCID: PMC9609823 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10101957] [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: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to detect and identify microorganisms in ticks collected in the Western Highlands of Cameroon. Quantitative real-time and standard PCR assays, coupled with sequencing, were used. A total of 944 ticks collected from cattle in five distinct sites in Cameroon were selected for the analyses. They belonged to five genera (Amblyomma, Hyalomma, Rhipicephalus, Haemaphysalis, and Ixodes) and twelve species. Real-time PCR revealed that 23% (n = 218) of the ticks were positive for Rickettsia spp., 15% (n = 141) for bacteria of the Anaplasmataceae family, 3% (n = 29) for Piroplasmida, 0.5% (n = 5) for Coxiella burnetii, 0.4% (n = 4) for Borrelia spp., and 0.2% (n = 2) for Bartonella spp. The co-infection rate (3.4%, n = 32) involved mainly Rickettsia spp. and Anaplasmataceae. Of the Rickettsia spp. positive ticks, the targeted PCR and sequencing yielded Rickettsia africae (78.9%), Rickettsia aeschlimannii (6.4%), Rickettsia massiliae (7.8%), Candidatus Rickettsia barbariae (0.9%), and Rickettsia sp. (0.9%). Anaplasmataceae included Anaplasma marginale (4.3%), Anaplasma platys (1.4%), Anaplasma centrale (0.7%), Ehrlichia ruminantium (0.7%), Wolbachia sp., Candidatus Ehrlichia rustica (13.5%), Candidatus Ehrlichia urmitei (7%), and an uncultured Ehrlichia sp. (4.2%). Borrelia theileri was identified in one Rhipicephalus microplus tick. Unfortunately, Piroplasmida could not be identified to the species level. This study demonstrates that in Cameroon, ticks harbour a wide variety of microorganisms and present a risk of zoonotic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Ngnindji-Youdje
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France
- Vector-Borne Diseases Laboratory of the Applied Biology and Ecology Research Unit (VBID-URBEA), Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science of the University of Dschang, Dschang P.O. Box 067, Cameroon
| | - Adama Zan Diarra
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France
| | - Michel Lontsi-Demano
- Vector-Borne Diseases Laboratory of the Applied Biology and Ecology Research Unit (VBID-URBEA), Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science of the University of Dschang, Dschang P.O. Box 067, Cameroon
| | - Timoléon Tchuinkam
- Vector-Borne Diseases Laboratory of the Applied Biology and Ecology Research Unit (VBID-URBEA), Department of Animal Biology, Faculty of Science of the University of Dschang, Dschang P.O. Box 067, Cameroon
| | - Philippe Parola
- Aix Marseille Univ, IRD, AP-HM, SSA, VITROME, 13005 Marseille, France
- IHU-Méditerranée Infection, 19-21 Boulevard Jean Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-(0)-4-13-73-24-01; Fax: +33-(0)-4-13-73-24-02
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Sado Yousseu F, Simo Tchetgna H, Kamgang B, Djonabaye D, McCall PJ, Ndip RN, Wondji CS. Infestation rates, seasonal distribution, and genetic diversity of ixodid ticks from livestock of various origins in two markets of Yaoundé, Cameroon. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 36:283-300. [PMID: 35656818 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the impact of ticks on livestock and humans in Cameroon. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, seasonal variation, and genetic diversity of hard ticks in the country. Ticks were collected during a cross-sectional survey on domestic livestock in two markets of Yaoundé in 2019 and 2020 and identified using morphological keys, 16S ribosomal DNA, (16S rDNA), and the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (Cox1) genes. The infestation rates were 39.18%, 11.53%, and 2.74% in cattle, sheep, and goats respectively. Three genera of ticks were identified, Rhipicephalus, Amblyomma, and Hyalomma comprising eleven tick species. The main species were Rhipicephalus decoloratus (30.25%), R. microplus (24.43%), and Amblyomma variegatum (12.96%). Rhipicephalus spp. (81.31%) and Amblyomma variegatum (51.54%) were abundant during the rainy season, while Hyalomma spp. (83.86%) during the dry season (p-value <0.00001). Cox1 and 16S rDNA analysis showed a high level of genetic diversity among tick species with sequences close to those observed across Africa. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that our R. microplus belong to clade A and we identified R. sanguineus s.l. as R. linnea. This study shows a high tick infestation rate in cattle, while low in small ruminants with an extensive diversity of tick species, including several known vectors of important tick-borne diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francine Sado Yousseu
- Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Huguette Simo Tchetgna
- Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Basile Kamgang
- Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Doumani Djonabaye
- Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Department of Biochemistry, Laboratory of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Philip J McCall
- Vector Biology Department, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - Roland Ndip Ndip
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, Buea, Cameroon
| | - Charles S Wondji
- Microbiology and Parasitology Department, Centre for Research in Infectious Diseases, Yaounde, Cameroon
- Vector Biology Department, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
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Githaka NW, Bishop RP, Šlapeta J, Emery D, Nguu EK, Kanduma EG. Molecular survey of Babesia parasites in Kenya: first detailed report on occurrence of Babesia bovis in cattle. Parasit Vectors 2022; 15:161. [PMID: 35526030 PMCID: PMC9077973 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-022-05279-7] [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: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Among protozoan parasites in the genus Babesia, Babesia bigemina is endemic and widespread in the East African region while the status of the more pathogenic Babesia bovis remains unclear despite the presence of the tick vector, Rhipicephalus microplus, which transmits both species. Recent studies have confirmed the occurrence of R. microplus in coastal Kenya, and although B. bovis DNA has previously been detected in cattle blood in Kenya, no surveillance has been done to establish its prevalence. This study therefore investigated the occurrence of B. bovis in cattle in Kwale County, Kenya, where R. microplus is present in large numbers. METHODS A species-specific multiplex TaqMan real-time PCR assay targeting two Babesia bovis genes, 18S ribosomal RNA and mitochondrially-encoded cytochrome b and B. bigemina cytochrome b gene was used to screen 506 cattle blood DNA samples collected from Kwale County for presence of Babesia parasite DNA. A sub-set of 29 B. bovis real-time PCR-positive samples were further amplified using a B. bovis-specific spherical body protein-4 (SBP-4) nested PCR and the resulting products sequenced to confirm the presence of B. bovis. RESULTS A total of 131 animals (25.8%) were found to have bovine babesiosis based on real-time PCR. Twenty-four SBP4 nucleotide sequences obtained matched to B. bovis with a similarity of 97-100%. Of 131 infected animals, 87 (17.2%) were positive for B. bovis while 70 (13.8%) had B. bigemina and 26 (5.1%) were observed to be co-infected with both Babesia species. A total of 61 animals (12.1%) were found to be infected with B. bovis parasites only, while 44 animals (8.7%) had B. bigemina only. Babesia bovis and B. bigemina infections were detected in the three Kwale sub-counties. CONCLUSION These findings reveal high prevalence of pathogenic B. bovis in a Kenyan area cutting across a busy transboundary livestock trade route with neighbouring Tanzania. The Babesia multiplex real-time PCR assay used in this study is specific and can detect and differentiate the two Babesia species and should be used for routine B. bovis surveillance to monitor the spread and establishment of the pathogen in other African countries where B. bigemina is endemic. Moreover, these findings highlight the threat of fatal babesiosis caused by B. bovis, whose endemic status is yet to be established. GRAPHICAL ABTRACT.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jan Šlapeta
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - David Emery
- Sydney School of Veterinary Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia
| | - Edward K Nguu
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Esther G Kanduma
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
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11
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Zannou OM, Da Re D, Ouedraogo AS, Biguezoton AS, Abatih E, Yao KP, Farougou S, Lempereur L, Vanwambeke SO, Saegerman C. Modelling habitat suitability of the invasive tick Rhipicephalus microplus in West Africa. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:2938-2951. [PMID: 34985810 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ticks have medical and economic importance due to their ability to transmit pathogens to humans and animals. In tropical and sub-tropical countries, tick-borne diseases (TBD) are among the most important diseases affecting livestock and humans. The fast spread of ticks and TBD requires a quick development and application of efficient prevention and/or control programs. Therefore, prior investigations on TBD and related vectors epidemiology, for instance, through accurate epidemiological models, are mandatory. This study aims to develop models to forecast suitable habitat for Rhipicephalus microplus distribution in West Africa. Tick occurrences were assembled from 10 different studies carried out in six West African countries in the past decade. Six statistical models (maximum entropy in a single model and generalised linear model, generalised additive model, random forest, boosted regression tree and support vector machine model in an ensemble model) were applied and compared to predict the habitat suitability of R. microplus distribution in West Africa. Each model was evaluated with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), the true skill statistic (TSS) and the Boyce index (BI). The selected models had good performance according to their AUC (above .8), TSS (above .7) and BI (above .8). Temperature played a key role in MaxEnt model, whereas normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) was the most important variable in the ensemble model. The model predictions showed coastal countries of West Africa as more suitable for R. microplus. However, some Sahelian areas seems also favourable. We stress the importance of vector surveillance and control in countries that have not yet detected R. microplus but are in the areas predicted to host suitable habitat. Indeed, awareness-raising and training of different stakeholders must be reinforced for better prevention and control of this tick in these different countries according to their status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier M Zannou
- Research Unit in Epidemiology and Risk Analysis applied to veterinary sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liege, Belgium.,Vector-borne Diseases and Biodiversity Unit (UMaVeB), International Research and Development Center on Livestock in Sub-humid Areas (CIRDES), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Daniele Da Re
- Georges Lemaître Center for Earth and Climate Research, Earth and Life Institute, UCLouvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Achille S Ouedraogo
- Vector-borne Diseases and Biodiversity Unit (UMaVeB), International Research and Development Center on Livestock in Sub-humid Areas (CIRDES), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.,Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Abel S Biguezoton
- Vector-borne Diseases and Biodiversity Unit (UMaVeB), International Research and Development Center on Livestock in Sub-humid Areas (CIRDES), Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Emmanuel Abatih
- Department of Applied Mathematics, Computer Sciences and Statistics, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | | | - Souaïbou Farougou
- Communicable Diseases Research Unit (URMaT), Polytechnic School of Abomey-Calavi, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Republic of Benin
| | - Laetitia Lempereur
- Laboratory of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Sophie O Vanwambeke
- Georges Lemaître Center for Earth and Climate Research, Earth and Life Institute, UCLouvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Claude Saegerman
- Research Unit in Epidemiology and Risk Analysis applied to veterinary sciences (UREAR-ULiège), Fundamental and Applied Research for Animal and Health (FARAH) Center, Department of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Liège, Liege, Belgium
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Githaka NW, Kanduma EG, Wieland B, Darghouth MA, Bishop RP. Acaricide resistance in livestock ticks infesting cattle in Africa: Current status and potential mitigation strategies. CURRENT RESEARCH IN PARASITOLOGY & VECTOR-BORNE DISEASES 2022; 2:100090. [PMID: 35664895 PMCID: PMC9160480 DOI: 10.1016/j.crpvbd.2022.100090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Revised: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In many African countries, tick control has recently been the responsibility of resource-poor farmers rather than central government veterinary departments. This has led to an increase in acaricide resistance, threatening the welfare of livestock farmers in sub-Saharan Africa. Resistance has evolved to the three classes of acaricides used most extensively in the continent, namely fourth-generation synthetic pyrethroids (SP), organophosphates (OP) and amidines (AM), in virtually all countries in which they have been deployed across the globe. Most current data are derived from research in Australia and Latin America, with the majority of studies on acaricide resistance in Africa performed in South Africa. There is also limited recent research from West Africa and Uganda. These studies confirm that acaricide resistance in cattle ticks is a major problem in Africa. Resistance is most frequently directly assayed in ticks using the larval packet test (LPT) that is endorsed by FAO, but such tests require a specialist tick-rearing laboratory and are relatively time consuming. To date they have only been used on a limited scale in Africa and resistance is often still inferred from tick numbers on animals. Rapid tests for resistance in ticks, would be better than the LPT and are theoretically possible to develop. However, these are not yet available. Resistance can be mitigated through integrated control strategies, comprising a combination of methods, including acaricide class rotation or co-formulations, ethnoveterinary practices, vaccination against ticks and modified land management use by cattle, with the goal of minimising the number of acaricide applications required per year. There are data suggesting that small-scale farmers in Africa are often unaware of the chemical differences between different acaricide brands and use these products at concentrations other than those recommended by the manufacturers, or in incorrect rotations or combinations of the different classes of chemicals on the market. There is an urgent need for a more evidence-based approach to acaricide usage in small-scale livestock systems in Africa, including direct measurements of resistance levels, combined with better education of farmers regarding acaricide products and how they should be deployed for control of livestock ticks. Resistance to all fourth-generation acaricides is widespread in cattle ticks and is a major problem in Africa. Acaricide resistance monitoring through the larval packet tests is mostly absent. The integration of ethnoveterinary products with synthetic acaricides is a promising strategy. Strengthening laboratory testing and farmersʼ education can lead to rational acaricide use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naftaly W. Githaka
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), P.O. Box 30709-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
- Corresponding author. Twitter icon
| | - Esther G. Kanduma
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 30197-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Barbara Wieland
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), P.O. Box 30709-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mohamed A. Darghouth
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie, Ecole Nationale de Médecine Vétérinaire, Institution de la Recherche et de lʼEnseignement Supérieur Agricoles and La Manouba University, 2020, Sidi Thabet, Tunisia
| | - Richard P. Bishop
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
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Molecular survey of cattle ticks in Burundi: First report on the presence of the invasive Rhipicephalus microplus tick. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261218. [PMID: 34890445 PMCID: PMC8664164 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A recent research study on prevalence of tick-borne pathogens in Burundi reported high prevalence and endemicity of Theileria parva, Anaplasma marginale and Babesia bigemina infections in cattle. Detailed information about tick species infesting animals, their distribution and genetic diversity in Burundi is outdated and limited. This study therefore assessed the prevalence and genetic diversity of tick species infesting cattle across agroecological zones (AEZs) in Burundi. A cross-sectional study on the occurrence of tick species was conducted in 24 districts of Burundi between October and December 2017. Differential identification and characterization of ticks collected was conducted using tick morphological keys and molecular tools (cox1 and 12S rRNA gene). Chi-square test was used to test for association between agroecological zones and the prevalence of tick species. Phylogenetic relationships were inferred using bayesian and maximum likelihood algorithms. A total of 483 ticks were collected from the five AEZs sampled. Six tick species comprising of Rhipicephalus appendiculatus, R. sanguineus, R. evertsi evertsi, R. microplus, R. decoloratus and Amblyomma variegatum were observed. Rhipicephalus appendiculatus were the most prevalent ticks (~45%). A total of 138 specimens (28%) were found to be Rhipicephalus microplus, suggesting an emerging threat for cattle farmers. Twelve R. appendiculatus cox1 haplotypes were obtained from 106 specimens that were sequenced. Two cox1 haplotypes of R. microplus which clustered into previously reported Clade A were observed. Rhipicephalus sanguineus and R. evertsi evertsi ticks, the vectors of numerous zoonotic pathogens, were collected from cattle, which constitute a high risk for public health. These findings reveal an overlapping distribution of tick vectors in Burundi. The design of ticks and tick-borne diseases control strategies should consider the distribution of different vectors across the AEZs particularly the presence of the highly invasive R. microplus tick in Burundi and the potential risk of introducing the pathogenic Babesia bovis.
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Genetic Analyses and Genome-Wide Association Studies on Pathogen Resistance of Bos taurus and Bos indicus Cattle Breeds in Cameroon. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:genes12070976. [PMID: 34206759 PMCID: PMC8307268 DOI: 10.3390/genes12070976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Autochthonous taurine and later introduced zebu cattle from Cameroon differ considerably in their resistance to endemic pathogens with little to no reports of the underlying genetic make-up. Breed history and habitat variations are reported to contribute significantly to this diversity worldwide, presumably in Cameroon as well, where locations diverge in climate, pasture, and prevalence of infectious agents. In order to investigate the genetic background, the genotypes of 685 individuals of different Cameroonian breeds were analysed by using the BovineSNP50v3 BeadChip. The variance components including heritability were estimated and genome-wide association studies (GWAS) were performed. Phenotypes were obtained by parasitological screening and categorised in Tick-borne pathogens (TBP), gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), and onchocercosis (ONC). Estimated heritabilities were low for GIN and TBP (0.079 (se = 0.084) and 0.109 (se = 0.103) respectively) and moderate for ONC (0.216 (se = 0.094)). Further than revealing the quantitative nature of the traits, GWAS identified putative trait-associated genomic regions on five chromosomes, including the chromosomes 11 and 18 for GIN, 20 and 24 for TBP, and 12 for ONC. The results imply that breeding for resistant animals in the cattle population from Northern Cameroon might be possible for the studied pathogens; however, further research in this field using larger datasets will be required to improve the resistance towards pathogen infections, propose candidate genes or to infer biological pathways, as well as the genetic structures of African multi-breed populations.
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Bakkes DK, Ropiquet A, Chitimia-Dobler L, Matloa DE, Apanaskevich DA, Horak IG, Mans BJ, Matthee CA. Adaptive radiation and speciation in Rhipicephalus ticks: A medley of novel hosts, nested predator-prey food webs, off-host periods and dispersal along temperature variation gradients. Mol Phylogenet Evol 2021; 162:107178. [PMID: 33892098 DOI: 10.1016/j.ympev.2021.107178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2020] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Rhipicephalus are a species-diverse genus of ticks, mainly distributed in the Afrotropics with some species in the Palearctic and Oriental regions. Current taxonomic consensus comprise nine informal species groups/lineages based on immature morphology. This work integrates biogeographic, ecological and molecular lines of evidence to better understand Rhipicephalus evolution. Phylogenetic analysis based on four genes (12S, 16S, 28S-D2 and COI) recovered five distinct clades with nine descendant clades that are generally congruent with current taxonomy, with some exceptions. Historical biogeography is inferred from molecular divergence times, ancestral distribution areas, host-use and climate niches of four phylogenetically significant bioclimatic variables (isothermality, annual, seasonal and diurnal temperature range). Novel hosts enabled host-linked dispersal events into new environments, and ticks exploited new hosts through nested predator-prey connections in food webs. Diversification was further induced by climate niche partitioning along gradients in temperature range during off-host periods. Ancestral climate niche estimates corroborated dispersal events by indicating hypothetical ancestors moved into environments with different annual and seasonal temperature ranges along latitudinal gradients. Host size for immature and adult life stages was important for dispersal and subsequent diversification rates. Clades that utilise large, mobile hosts (ungulates and carnivores) early in development have wider geographic ranges but slower diversification rates, and those utilising small, less mobile hosts (rodents, lagomorphs and afroinsectivores) early in development have smaller ranges but higher diversification rates. These findings suggest diversification is driven by a complex set of factors linked to both host-associations (host size, ranges and mobility) and climate niche partitioning along annual and seasonal temperature range gradients that vary with latitude. Moreover, competitive interactions can reinforce these processes and drive speciation. Off-host periods facilitate adaptive radiation by enabling host switches along nested predator-prey connections in food webs, but at the cost of environmental exposure that partitions niches among dispersing progenitors, disrupting geneflow and driving diversification. As such, the evolution and ecological niches of Rhipicephalus are characterised by trade-offs between on- and off-host periods, and these trade-offs interact with nested predator-prey connections in food webs, host-use at different life stages, as well as gradients in annual and seasonal temperature ranges to drive adaptive radiation and speciation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deon K Bakkes
- Gertrud Theiler Tick Museum - Epidemiology, Parasites and Vectors, Agricultural Research Council - Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; Evolutionary Genomics Group, Department of Botany and Zoology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa.
| | - Anne Ropiquet
- Evolutionary Genomics Group, Department of Botany and Zoology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa; Middlesex University, Department of Natural Sciences- Faculty of Science and Technology, London NW4 4BT, United Kingdom
| | | | - Dikeledi E Matloa
- Gertrud Theiler Tick Museum - Epidemiology, Parasites and Vectors, Agricultural Research Council - Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Pretoria 0110, South Africa
| | - Dmitry A Apanaskevich
- United States National Tick Collection, the James H. Oliver, Jr. Institute for Coastal Plain Science, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA 30460-8042, USA; Biology Department, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, GA 30460, USA; Zoological Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia
| | - Ivan G Horak
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Ben J Mans
- Gertrud Theiler Tick Museum - Epidemiology, Parasites and Vectors, Agricultural Research Council - Onderstepoort Veterinary Research, Pretoria 0110, South Africa; Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa; Department of Life and Consumer Sciences, University of South Africa, South Africa
| | - Conrad A Matthee
- Evolutionary Genomics Group, Department of Botany and Zoology, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa
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Makenov MT, Toure AH, Korneev MG, Sacko N, Porshakov AM, Yakovlev SA, Radyuk EV, Zakharov KS, Shipovalov AV, Boumbaly S, Zhurenkova OB, Grigoreva YE, Morozkin ES, Fyodorova MV, Boiro MY, Karan LS. Rhipicephalus microplus and its vector-borne haemoparasites in Guinea: further species expansion in West Africa. Parasitol Res 2021; 120:1563-1570. [PMID: 33788020 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-021-07122-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Rhipicephalus microplus is an ixodid tick with a pantropical distribution that represents a serious threat to livestock. West Africa was free of this tick until 2007, when its introduction into Benin was reported. Shortly thereafter, further invasion of this tick species into other West African countries was identified. In this paper, we describe the first detection of R. microplus in Guinea and list the vector-borne haemoparasites that were detected in the invading and indigenous Boophilus species. In 2018, we conducted a small-scale survey of ticks infesting cattle in three administrative regions of Guinea: N`Zerekore, Faranah, and Kankan. The tick species were identified by examining their morphological characteristics and by sequencing their COI gene and ITS-2 gene fragments. R. microplus was found in each studied region. In the ticks, we found the DNA of Babesia bigemina, Anaplasma marginale, Anaplasma platys, and Ehrlichia sp. The results of this study indicate that R. microplus was introduced into Guinea in association with cows from Mali and/or the Ivory Coast.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Noumany Sacko
- Research Institute of Applied Biology of Guinea, Kindia, Guinea.,International Center for Research of Tropical Infections in Guinea, N`Zerekore, Guinea
| | | | | | | | | | - Andrey V Shipovalov
- State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology VECTOR, Kol'tsovo, Russia
| | - Sanaba Boumbaly
- Research Institute of Applied Biology of Guinea, Kindia, Guinea.,International Center for Research of Tropical Infections in Guinea, N`Zerekore, Guinea
| | | | | | | | | | - Mamadou Y Boiro
- Research Institute of Applied Biology of Guinea, Kindia, Guinea
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17
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Nyabongo L, Kanduma EG, Bishop RP, Machuka E, Njeri A, Bimenyimana AV, Nkundwanayo C, Odongo DO, Pelle R. Prevalence of tick-transmitted pathogens in cattle reveals that Theileria parva, Babesia bigemina and Anaplasma marginale are endemic in Burundi. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:6. [PMID: 33402225 PMCID: PMC7786990 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04531-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) constitute a major constraint for livestock development in sub-Saharan Africa, with East Coast fever (ECF) being the most devastating TBD of cattle. However, in Burundi, detailed information is lacking on the current prevalence of TBDs and on the associated economic losses from mortality and morbidity in cattle as well as the costs associated with TBD control and treatment. The aim of this study was, therefore, to assess the prevalence and spatial distribution of tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) in cattle across the major agro-ecological zones (AEZs) in Burundi. METHODS In a cross-sectional study conducted in ten communes spanning the five main AEZs in Burundi, blood samples were taken from 828 cattle from 305 farms between October and December 2017. Evidence of Theileria parva infection was assessed by antibody level, measured using a polymorphic immunodominant molecule (PIM) antigen-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and by a T. parva-specific p104 gene-based nested PCR. Antibodies against Theileria mutans infection were detected using the 32-kDa antigen-based indirect ELISA, while the 200-kDa antigen and the major surface protein 5 (MSP5)-based indirect ELISA were used to detect antibodies against Babesia bigemina and Anaplasma marginale, respectively. RESULTS The prevalence of T. parva across the ten communes sampled ranged from 77.5 to 93.1% and from 67.8 to 90.0% based on the ELISA and PCR analysis, respectively. A statistically significant difference in infection was observed between calves and adult cattle; however, T. parva infection levels were not significantly associated with sex and breed. The seroprevalence indicating exposure to T. mutans, B. bigemina and A. marginale ranged from 30 to 92.1%, 33.7 to 90% and 50 to 96.2%, respectively. Mixed infections of TBPs were detected in 82.91% of cattle sampled, with 11 different combinations of pathogen species detected . CONCLUSIONS The findings indicate that T. parva, A. marginale and B. bigemina infections are endemic in Burundi. Knowledge of the spatial distribution of TBPs will facilitate the design of effective targeted strategies to control these diseases. There is a need for further investigations of the distribution of tick vectors and the population structure of TBPs in order to identify the key epidemiological factors contributing to TBD outbreaks in Burundi.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lionel Nyabongo
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nairobi (UoN), Nairobi, Kenya. .,Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) Hub, P.O. Box 30709, Nairobi, Kenya. .,National Veterinary Laboratory, Bujumbura, Burundi.
| | - Esther G Kanduma
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Richard P Bishop
- Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology (VMP), Washington State University, 100 Dairy Road, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Eunice Machuka
- Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) Hub, P.O. Box 30709, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Alice Njeri
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), P.O. Box 30709, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Alain V Bimenyimana
- Programme National pour la Sécurité Alimentaire et le Développement Rural de l'Imbo et du Moso (PNSADR-IM), Bujumbura, Burundi
| | | | - David O Odongo
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nairobi (UoN), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Roger Pelle
- Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) Hub, P.O. Box 30709, Nairobi, Kenya
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18
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Molecular evidence confirms occurrence of Rhipicephalus microplus Clade A in Kenya and sub-Saharan Africa. Parasit Vectors 2020; 13:432. [PMID: 32854747 PMCID: PMC7453536 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-020-04266-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The tick vector Rhipicephalus microplus which transmits Babesia spp. and rickettsial pathogens has not been reported in Kenya since 1998. More recently, the pathogenic Babesia bovis has been detected in cattle blood DNA. The status of R. microplus in Kenya remains unknown. This study employed morphological and molecular tools to characterize R. microplus originating from Kenya and assess the genetic relationships between Kenyan and other African R. microplus genotypes. Methods Ticks were collected in south-eastern Kenya (Kwale County) from cattle and characterized to investigate the existence of R. microplus. Genetic and phylogenetic relationships between the Kenyan and other annotated R. microplus reference sequences was investigated by analysis of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene. To further characterize Kenyan ticks, we generated low coverage whole genome sequences of two R. microplus, one R. decoloratus and R. appendiculatus. A B. bovis specific TaqMan probe qPCR assay was used to detect B. bovis in gDNA from R. microplus ticks. Results Occurrence of R. microplus was confirmed in Kwale County, Kenya. The Kenyan R. microplus cox1 sequences showed very high pairwise identities (> 99%) and clustered very closely with reference African R. microplus sequences. We found a low genetic variation and lack of geographical sub-structuring among the African cox1 sequences of R. microplus. Four complete mitochondrial (mt) genomes for two R. microplus, one R. decoloratus and one R. appendiculatus were assembled from next generation sequence data. The mitochondrial genome sequences of the two Kenyan R. microplus ticks clustered closely with reference genome sequences from Brazil, USA, Cambodia and India forming R. microplus Clade A. No B. bovis was detected in the Kwale R. microplus DNA. Conclusions These findings confirm the presence of R. microplus in Kenya and suggest that R. microplus Clade A is prevalent in cattle in sub-Saharan Africa. These and other recent findings of widespread occurrence of R. microplus in Africa provide a strong justification for urgent surveillance to determine and monitor the spread of R. microplus and vector competence of Boophilus ticks for B. bovis in Africa, with the ultimate goal of strategic control.![]()
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19
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Silatsa BA, Simo G, Githaka N, Kamga R, Oumarou F, Keambou Tiambo C, Machuka E, Domelevo JB, Odongo D, Bishop R, Kuiate JR, Njiokou F, Djikeng A, Pelle R. First detection of Theileria parva in cattle from Cameroon in the absence of the main tick vector Rhipicephalus appendiculatus. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 67 Suppl 1:68-78. [PMID: 32174039 PMCID: PMC7216920 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
A major risk factor for the spread of livestock diseases and their vectors is the uncontrolled transboundary movement of live animals for trade and grazing. Such movements constrain effective control of tick-transmitted pathogens, including Theileria parva. Only limited studies have been undertaken to identify ticks and tick-borne diseases (TTBDs) affecting cattle in central African countries, including Cameroon. We hereby report the collection of baseline data on the prevalence of T. parva in Cameroon through a countrywide cross-sectional survey, conducted in 2016, involving collection of blood samples from cattle from 63 sites across the five agro-ecological zones (AEZs) of the country. ELISA-based surveillance of infected cattle was performed on 479 randomly selected samples and revealed specific antibodies to T. parva in 22.7% and T. mutans in 41.1% of cattle. Screening of 1,340 representative DNA samples for the presence of T. parva identified 25 (1.86%) positives using a p104 antigen gene-based nested PCR assay. The positives were distributed across agro-ecological zones I, II, III and V. None of the p104 positive cattle exhibited clinical symptoms of East Coast fever (ECF). Using reverse line blot (RLB), 58 (4.3%) and 1,139 (85%) of the samples reacted with the T. parva and T. mutans oligonucleotide probes, respectively. This represents the first report of T. parva from Cameroon. Surprisingly, no Rhipicephalus appendiculatus ticks, the main vector of T. parva, were identified in a parallel study involving comprehensive morphological and molecular survey of tick species present in the country. Only two of the 25 p104 positive cattle were PCR-positive for the CD8+ T-cell target schizont-expressed antigen gene Tp1. Cloning and sequencing of Tp1 amplicons revealed sequence identity with the reference T. parva Muguga. This new finding raises serious concerns of a potential spread of ECF into the central African region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barberine A Silatsa
- Biosciences Eastern and Central Africa - International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) Hub, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Gustave Simo
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Naftaly Githaka
- Department of Biosciences, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rolin Kamga
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Farikou Oumarou
- Special Mission for Eradication of Tsetse Flies, Regional tsetse Division of Adamawa, MINEPIA, Adamawa, Cameroon
| | - Christian Keambou Tiambo
- Biosciences Eastern and Central Africa - International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) Hub, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Eunice Machuka
- Biosciences Eastern and Central Africa - International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) Hub, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jean-Baka Domelevo
- Biosciences Eastern and Central Africa - International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) Hub, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David Odongo
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Richard Bishop
- Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology (VMP), Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Jules-Roger Kuiate
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Dschang, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Flobert Njiokou
- Laboratory of General Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaounde I, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Appolinaire Djikeng
- Biosciences Eastern and Central Africa - International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) Hub, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Roger Pelle
- Biosciences Eastern and Central Africa - International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) Hub, Nairobi, Kenya
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20
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Kamga RMN, Silatsa BA, Farikou O, Kuiate J, Simo G. Detection of Brucella antibodies in domestic animals of southern Cameroon: Implications for the control of brucellosis. Vet Med Sci 2020; 6:410-420. [PMID: 32243087 PMCID: PMC7397923 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Brucellosis is one of the world's most widespread bacterial zoonoses caused by Brucella. It leads to considerable economic losses as a result of low productivity of infected animals and the long debilitating illness in humans. Despite its impact on human and animal health, little attention has been paid on Brucella infections in domestic animals. It is in this light that the prevalence of Brucella antibodies was determined in domestic animals with the overarching goal of improving our knowledge on brucellosis in southern Cameroon. During cross-sectional studies conducted from December 2016 to August 2018 in five sites of southern Cameroon, blood samples were collected in cattle, sheep, goat, pig and dog. Plasma was obtained from each blood sample and Brucella antibodies were detected using the Rose Bengal test and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). From 1873 animals that were sampled, the overall prevalence of Brucella antibodies using Indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (i-ELISA) was 6.35% (118/1873): 9.12% (78/855) in cattle; 8.04% (30/373) in sheep; 6.06% (2/33) in dog, 1.87% (3/160) in pig and 1.1% (5/452) in goat. Between animal species (p-value < .0001, x2 = 33.63) as well as sampling sites (p-value = .0001, x2 = 18.97), significant differences were observed in the prevalence of Brucella antibodies. Yoko and Noun localities have shown the highest prevalence of 8.6% (30/348) and 7.2% (78/1070), respectively. This prevalence was significantly higher (p = .03, x2 = 1.25) in female than male cattle. Between adult (16.923%) and young cattle (7.8%), significant difference (p = .04, x2 = 6.42) was observed in the prevalence of Brucella antibodies. This study shows that the prevalence of Brucella antibodies varies between animal species and localities. It also shows several domestic animals of southern Cameroon that have been in contact with Brucella. It enabled to identify villages where investigations on the transmission dynamic must be focused for the final goal of developing control measures for this neglected zoonotic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolin M. N. Kamga
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology UnitDepartment of BiochemistryFaculty of ScienceUniversity of DschangDschangCameroon
| | - Barberine A. Silatsa
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology UnitDepartment of BiochemistryFaculty of ScienceUniversity of DschangDschangCameroon
| | - Oumarou Farikou
- Special Mission for Eradication of Tsetse fliesRegional tsetse Division of AdamawaMINEPIANgaoundereCameroon
| | - Jules‐Roger Kuiate
- Department of BiochemistryFaculty of ScienceUniversity of DschangDschangCameroon
| | - Gustave Simo
- Molecular Parasitology and Entomology UnitDepartment of BiochemistryFaculty of ScienceUniversity of DschangDschangCameroon
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Parizi LF, Rangel CK, Sabadin GA, Saggin BF, Kiio I, Xavier MA, da Silva Matos R, Camargo-Mathias MI, Seixas A, Konnai S, Ohashi K, Githaka NW, da Silva Vaz I. Rhipicephalus microplus cystatin as a potential cross-protective tick vaccine against Rhipicephalus appendiculatus. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 11:101378. [PMID: 31982372 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 01/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Rhipicephalus appendiculatus, the brown ear tick, is an important disease vector of livestock in eastern, central and southern Africa. Rhipicephalus appendiculatus acaricide resistance requires the search for alternative methods for its control. Cystatins constitute a superfamily of cysteine peptidase inhibitors vital for tick blood feeding and development. These inhibitors were proposed as antigens in anti-tick vaccines. In this work, we applied structural and biochemical approaches to characterize a new cystatin named R. appendiculatus cystatin 2a (Racys2a). Structural modeling showed that this new protein possesses characteristic type 2 cystatin motifs, besides conservation of other structural patterns along the protein. Peptidase inhibitory assays with recombinant Racys2a showed modulation of tick and host cathepsins involved in blood digestion and immune system responses, respectively. A heterologous tick challenge with R. appendiculatus in rabbits immunized with recombinant Rhipicephalus microplus cystatin 2c (rBmcys2c) was performed to determine cross-reactivity. Histological staining showed that rBmcys2c vaccination caused damage to the gut, salivary gland and ovary tissues in R. appendiculatus. Furthermore, cystatin vaccine reduced the number of fully engorged adult females in 11.5 %. Consequently, strategies to increase the protection rate are necessary, including the selection of two or more antigens to compose a vaccine cocktail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luís Fernando Parizi
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves, 9500, Porto Alegre 91501-970, RS, Brazil
| | - Carolina Konrdörfer Rangel
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves, 9500, Porto Alegre 91501-970, RS, Brazil
| | - Gabriela Alves Sabadin
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves, 9500, Porto Alegre 91501-970, RS, Brazil
| | - Bianca Fagundes Saggin
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves, 9500, Porto Alegre 91501-970, RS, Brazil
| | - Irene Kiio
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), PO Box 30709-00100, Nairobi, Kenya; Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, University of Nairobi, P.O. Box 30197-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Marina Amaral Xavier
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves, 9500, Porto Alegre 91501-970, RS, Brazil
| | - Renata da Silva Matos
- Departamento de Biologia, Instituto de Biociências, UNESP-Universidade Estadual Paulista, Rio Claro, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Adriana Seixas
- Departamento de Farmacociências, Universidade Federal de Ciências da Saúde de Porto Alegre, Rua Sarmento Leite, 245, Porto Alegre, RS 90050-170, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Brazil
| | - Satoru Konnai
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, 060-0818, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Ohashi
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Department of Disease Control, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, 060-0818, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Itabajara da Silva Vaz
- Centro de Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves, 9500, Porto Alegre 91501-970, RS, Brazil; Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves, 9090, Porto Alegre 91540-000, RS, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Ciência e Tecnologia em Entomologia Molecular, Brazil.
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22
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Silatsa BA, Simo G, Githaka N, Mwaura S, Kamga RM, Oumarou F, Keambou C, Bishop RP, Djikeng A, Kuiate JR, Njiokou F, Pelle R. A comprehensive survey of the prevalence and spatial distribution of ticks infesting cattle in different agro-ecological zones of Cameroon. Parasit Vectors 2019; 12:489. [PMID: 31623642 PMCID: PMC6796472 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-019-3738-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ticks and tick-borne diseases are a major impediment to livestock production worldwide. Cattle trade and transnational transhumance create risks for the spread of ticks and tick-borne diseases and threaten cattle production in the absence of an effective tick control program. Few studies have been undertaken on cattle ticks in the Central African region; therefore, the need to assess the occurrence and the spatial distribution of tick vectors with the aim of establishing a baseline for monitoring future spread of tick borne-diseases in the region is urgent. Results A total of 7091 ixodid ticks were collected during a countrywide cross-sectional field survey and identified using morphological criteria. Of these, 4210 (59.4%) ticks were Amblyomma variegatum, 1112 (15.6%) Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus, 708 (10.0%) Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) decoloratus, 28 (0.4%) Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus, 210 (3.0%) Hyalomma rufipes, 768 (10.8%) Hyalomma truncatum, and 19 (0.3%) Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Three ticks of the genus Hyalomma spp. and 33 of the genus Rhipicephalus spp. were not identified to the species level. Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene sequencing supported the data from morphological examination and led to identification of three additional species, namely Hyalomma dromedarii, Rhipicephalus sulcatus and Rhipicephalus pusillus. The finding of the invasive tick species R. microplus in such large numbers and the apparent displacement of the indigenous R. decoloratus is highly significant since R. microplus is a highly efficient vector of Babesia bovis. Conclusions This study reports the occurrence and current geographical distribution of important tick vectors associated with cattle in Cameroon. It appears that R. microplus is now well established and may be displacing native Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) species, such as R. decoloratus. This calls for an urgent response to safeguard the livestock sector in western central Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barberine A Silatsa
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon. .,Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon. .,Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) hub, P.O. Box 30709-00100, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Gustave Simo
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon.,Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Naftaly Githaka
- Bioscience, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), P.O. Box 30709-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Stephen Mwaura
- Bioscience, International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), P.O. Box 30709-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rolin M Kamga
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon.,Molecular Parasitology and Entomology Unit, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Farikou Oumarou
- Special Mission for Eradication of Tsetse Flies, Regional Tsetse Division of Adamawa, B.P 263, Ngaoundere, Cameroon
| | - Christian Keambou
- Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) hub, P.O. Box 30709-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Richard P Bishop
- Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology (VMP), Washington State University, 100 Dairy Road, Pullman, WA, 99164, USA
| | - Appolinaire Djikeng
- Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health, The Roslin Institute & Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH25 9RG, UK
| | - Jules-Roger Kuiate
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University of Dschang, P.O. Box 67, Dschang, Cameroon
| | - Flobert Njiokou
- Laboratory of General Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Yaounde I, P.O. Box 812, Yaounde, Cameroon
| | - Roger Pelle
- Biosciences eastern and central Africa-International Livestock Research Institute (BecA-ILRI) hub, P.O. Box 30709-00100, Nairobi, Kenya.
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